cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Review of Parasite Fate and Transport in Karstic Aquifers

Every year in the United States, cases of waterborne illness are generally characterized by gastrointestinal problems (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.). However, these same symptoms can be more serious and even fatal in certain groups, such as the young, elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Furthermore, viral pathogens found in groundwater are linked to chronic diseases such as adult onset diabetes and myocarditis. Recognizing that preventing contamination of water sources is the first step in the multiple barrier approach to drinking water protection, the Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (IESWTR) and the Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule (DBPR) were released in 1999. The two rules will provide additional protection of public water supplies and address microbiological contamination. The rules address the risks of the trade-offs between disinfection necessary for microbial inactivation and disinfection by-products. The requirements of 40 CFR 141.72(b) are consistent 99.99% removal and/or inactivation of viruses and 99% removal of Cryptosporidium oocysts. The code gives public water suppliers the option to demonstrate compliance through pilot plant studies or other means that combine filtration techniques with disinfection as in EPA 1999 Microbial and Disinfection Byproducts Rules Simultaneous Compliance as in Guidance Manual. Presently, only surface water systems and systems using groundwater under the direct influence of surface water are required to disinfect their water supplies. Though historically considered free of microbial contamination, most recent research has shown that aquifers can be readily contaminated by pathogens. To lessen the requirement for disinfection and to protect water resources, water suppliers have sought to use natural systems to treat Cryptosporidium. Thus, there is a critical need for information regarding the transport and fate of pathogens during water infiltration into subsurface systems. Keywords: gastrointestinal; viral pathogens; microbial inactivation; Cryptosporidium oocysts; disinfection
Outcomes of neonates with birth weight⩽500 g: a 20-year experience.

Top of pageAbstract Objective: Ethical dilemmas continue regarding resuscitation versus comfort care in extremely preterm infants. Counseling parents and making decisions regarding the care of these neonates should be based on reliable, unbiased and representative data drawn from geographically defined populations. We reviewed survival and morbidity data for our population at the edge of viability. Study Design: A retrospective review of our perinatal database was carried out to identify all infants born alive and admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with BW500 g between 1989 and 2009. Data from the initial hospital stay and follow-up at 24 months were collected. Result: Out of 22 672 NICU admissions, 273 were eligible: 212 neonates were reviewed after excluding infants with comfort care. BW ranged from 285 to 500 g (mean 448 g) and gestational age range 22 to 28 weeks (median 24 week). Sixty-one (28.8%) survived until discharge. Only 13.8% males survived compared with 39.2% females (P<0.05). Half (49%) were discharged with home oxygen/monitor. Fifty (82%) patients’ charts were available to review at the 24-month follow-up. Thirty-three percent of surviving infants had a normal neurodevelopmental assessment at 24 months. Forty-three percent had weight/head circumference<5th percentile at 24 months. Conclusion: About a third of neonates admitted to NICU with 500 g BW survived, with 33% of those surviving, demonstrating age-appropriate development at a 24-month follow-up visit.
High-resolution CT of airspace nodules in idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis

We describe the radiographic findings of idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis in a 20-year-old patient and compare high-resolution CT findings with conventional CT and radiography.
On the Daily Use of an Immersion Condenser

IN daily observations on the structure of chromosomes fixed and stained in iron-acetocarmine (see American Naturalist, 1921, pp. 573–574), where the limit of resolution in the microscope must be maintained, it has been determined that water is, on the whole, to be preferred to cedar oil as an immersion fluid for the condenser. The corrections necessary are readily made, (I) By centring a large enough meniscus lens from a photographic camera below the condenser (Hartridge); and varying the distance of the light source, and the thickness of the object slide, until the best image of a grating close to the light source is obtained. (2) By unscrewing sufficiently the top lens or lenses of the condenser. Slides can easily be selected of approximately the required thickness. The test for aplanatism is, of course, to diaphragm the source of light until its image is equal to or smaller than the field of view, and then observe the light circle at the back of the objective.
Correlates of depression in chronic dialysis patients: Morbidity and mortality

A group of 74 end-stage renal disease outpatients on dialysis completed on of seven forms of the Depression Adjective Check List (DACL) (Lubin, 1981) once a month over a 12-month period. Patient cooperation in filling out the DACL was 95%, indicating patient's acceptance of this fairly unobtrusive instrument. The distribution of usable DACL scores of 53 patients was trifurcated: high = one SD above the mean; medium +/- one SD from the mean; and low = more than one SD below the mean. A one-way ANOVA on the mean number hospitalizations during the 12-month period for each group was significant, F (2,50) = 8.11, p less than .01. The mean number of hospital admissions was highest for the high depression group and lowest for the low depression group. DACL scores of seven patients who died were significantly higher than for the 46 survivors, t (60) = 4.44, p less than .01.
A Solid-State Route to Molecular Clusters: Access to the Solution Chemistry of [Re6Q8]2+ (Q = S, Se) Core-Containing Clusters via Dimensional Reduction

A general method for accessing the solution chemistry of cluster constituents of solid phases exhibiting extended cluster frameworks is demonstrated. The approach is described in terms of simple metal−anion (M−X) frameworks and involves the formal incorporation of AX into a parent structure, resulting in termination of the X bridges between M centers while balancing the charge of the resulting framework with external cations A. The new structures obtained display frameworks of reduced connectedness and dimensionality. By replacing single metal centers with multinuclear cluster cores, this dimensional reduction approach is extended to cluster-containing frameworks. Its utility is demonstrated via application to the phases Re6Q8Cl2 (Q = S, Se), exhibiting three- and two-dimensional arrays of face-capped octahedral [Re6(μ3-Q)8]2+ cluster cores covalently linked through extremely tight Re2Q2 rhombic interactions of the type common to many intractable cluster frameworks (including the Chevrel phases). Stoichio...
High-Volume Single-Wafer Reactors for Silicon Epitaxy

A detailed three-dimensional simulation model has been used to explore new designs and operating conditions that will lead to high-volume production of single-crystal silicon wafers in horizontal single-wafer reactors. As the SiHCl3−H2 system is a widely used precursor for epitaxial silicon deposition in industrial applications, we have chosen to focus our model development on this system. Specifically, we have examined cases where the wafer is placed in the entrance laminar region of a developing turbulent flow and, in a fully developed turbulent flow. It has been shown that a short height and high flow rate reactor is the best design for high-volume production of quality wafers with minimum material usage. In addition, it has been demonstrated that short height and high flow rate reactors are ideal for production of large diameter wafers that operate at low wafer temperatures.
The risk and prevention of abscondence from an open psychiatric unit

Summary Eleven patients who absconded from open units of the Payne Whitney Clinic between July 1, 1960 and December 31, 1961 were studied intensively in an attempt to identify psychodynamic causes and to clarify the risks involved. Eight factors were found to be significantly related to abscondence. Three predisposing factors were: (1) previous absconding behavior; (2) poor impulse control leading to unpredictable behavior; and (3) a history of poor motivation in other areas of life, especially education and work. The five precipitating factors were: (1) paranoid projections involving the physician and the hospital; (2) hospitalization under duress; (3) psychotherapeutic stress; (4) pressure, direct or indirect, from relatives to leave the hospital; and (5) mistakes in medical judgment. Brief clinical descriptions of six cases are presented to illustrate the influence of these factors. Only one of the patients in this group attempted suicide but he is now permanently disabled. Even if serious consequences do not occur, abscondence must, in most cases, be considered a therapeutic failure, because, especially in disorders characterized by “acting out”, the opportunity for successful treatment may be lost. The implications of the problem for different hospital environments and different patient populations are discussed.
Behavioral interventions to promote adaptive eating behavior and lifestyle changes following surgery for obesity: Results of a two‐year outcome evaluation

Bariatric surgery for extreme obesity requires eating behavior and lifestyle changes that behavioral interventions may facilitate. Surgery patients were randomly assigned to a minimal intervention control group (n = 15) or a behavioral treatment group (n = 17), who participated in monthly behavioral consultations and received biweekly weight management materials for 6 months. Interviews assessed subjects' eating behavior, psychosocial functioning, and physical status for 6 months after surgery. Both groups showed significant weight loss during the first year after surgery, but the groups did not differ significantly. Subjects did not lose additional weight by 2 years following surgery. Treatment subjects reported higher postoperative psychosocial functioning and physical activity and consumed less fat and protein than did control subjects. These findings suggest that behavioral interventions enhance postoperative adjustment in behavioral and lifestyle variables, but do not add to the substantial weight losses produced by surgery alone.
HYALINE DROPLETS OF RENAL TUBULAR AND GLOMERULAR EPITHELIUM: OBSERVATIONS CONCERNING THEIR NATURE AND DERIVATION.

Abstract Some of the “hyaline droplets” of renal tubular and glomerular epithelium of kidneys from rats exhibiting proteinuria and the nephrotic syndrome induced with aminonucleoside or anti-rat kidney serum contain acid phosphatase activity, as demonstrated by a combined histochemical and electron microscopic technique. This enzymic activity, as well as their ultrastructural features, notably solitary limiting-membrane and matrix, signify their lysosomal nature. This information complements prevous observations concerning the identification of the “hyaline droplets” encountered following injections of heterologous proteins as lysosomes. The quantitative relationship of the renal epithelial lysosomes to proteinuria functionally implicates these structures in the cellular metabolism of protein overload. The failure of some droplets to exhibit acid phosphatase activity does not appear related to their development or structural characteristics, but may indicate the heterogeneity of enzymic activities exhibited by lysosomes. Although unequivocal evidence concerning the derivation of renal lysosomes has not been provided by this study, considerations consonant with their possible mitochondrial derivation are presented.
Fiber optic sensor technology: an overview

This work presents an overview of progress and developments in the field of fiber optic sensor technology, highlighting the major issues underpinning recent research and illustrating a number of important applications and key areas of effective fiber optic sensor development.
Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis in a Previously Asymptomatic Woman After Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy and Cardiac Arrest

This case report recounts the sequence of events of a previously healthy 39-year-old female who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) after presenting with cardiopulmonary arrest after ectopic pregnancy. Additionally, various pertinent aspects of this case are discussed here, both in regards to pregnancy and MS and with the radiological findings in asymptomatic individuals. MS is a chronic disease of the brain and spinal cord which is autoimmune in nature, although the full etiology is still unknown. The symptoms of the disease are numerous and varied including more commonly vision loss, numbness and weakness. The disease is often initially diagnosed between ages 20 and 40 years, but many patients first present with attacks earlier or later in life. Currently the diagnosis is based much on clinical attacks and MRI results. There is no cure at this time for MS; however, there are many current therapies which are available to decrease disease activity. J Neurol Res. 2014;4(4):110-116 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jnr286w
Circulating Membrane-Derived Microvesicles in Redox Biology

Microparticles or microvesicles (MVs) are subcellular membrane blebs shed from all cells in response to various stimuli. MVs carry a battery of signaling molecules, many of them related to redox-regulated processes. The role of MVs, either as a cause or as a result of cellular redox signaling, has been increasingly recognized over the past decade. This is in part due to advances in flow cytometry and its detection of MVs. Notably, recent studies have shown that circulating MVs from platelets and endothelial cells drive reactive species-dependent angiogenesis; circulating MVs in cancer alter the microenvironment and enhance invasion through horizontal transfer of mutated proteins and nucleic acids and harbor redox-regulated matrix metalloproteinases and procoagulative surface molecules; and circulating MVs from red blood cells and other cells modulate cell-cell interactions through scavenging or production of nitric oxide and other free radicals. Although our recognition of MVs in redox-related processes is growing, especially in the vascular biology field, much remains unknown regarding the various biologic and pathologic functions of MVs. Like reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, MVs were originally believed to have a solely pathological role in biology. And like our understanding of reactive species, it is now clear that MVs also play an important role in normal growth, development, and homeostasis. We are just beginning to understand how MVs are involved in various biological processes-developmental, homeostatic, and pathological-and the role of MVs in redox signaling is a rich and exciting area of investigation.
A sustained analysis of the behaviors of schooling

Educationally significant behaviors of students, teachers, and supervisors were directly assessed daily for a fiscal year in a residential school in which the results of behavior analysis research are applied to all levels of schooling. The variables assessed included those found to be concomitantly related to effective schooling as determined by the educational research literature, and functionally related to effective teaching as determined by the literature of behavior analysis. Weekly summaries of the following variables were analyzed for each of two daily shifts of teachers and supervisors: (a) number of trials presented and correct number of trials, (b) number of instructional sessions conducted, (c) number of learning objectives achieved, (d) percentage correct in each of three curricular areas, (e) weekly teacher observation scores, and (f) the total and rate per hour of supervisors' task accomplishments. There were strong positive correlations between: (a) instructional sessions and learning objectives, (b) teachers use of behavioral techniques in weekly observations by supervisors and students' achievement, (c) number of supervisor tasks completed and number of instructional sessions conducted by teachers, (d) number of teacher observations by supervisors and teachers' performance during observations, and (e) number of student objectives attained and number of tasks completed by supervisors. The assessment is the most comprehensive and sustained analysis of the daily behaviors of schooling. The relationships found between students and teacher behaviors replicate the effects of numerous experiments but do so in a total school setting. The relationships found between supervisor and student behavior have not been demonstrated in prior research. There is a need for similar school wide assessments in other types of schools to determine the generality of the relationships obtained in the present article.
Low-frequency oscillations of the large-scale stratospheric temperature field

Low-frequency analyses are reported for four years of three-day-mean satellite microwave and infrared data representative of temperatures in the stratosphere. In data representative of 30-150 mb temperatures, oscillations with 39-51 day periods are observed as a tropical dipole pattern in the Indonesia/central Pacific. In addition, the first evidence is presented for such oscillations in the southeast Pacific. Furthermore, significant 39-51 day oscillations are observed in the mid- and upper stratosphere, centered near 60 deg latitude.
Determination of trace metals in seawater by graphite furnace atomic absorption following on-line separation and preconcentration

Abstract A discontinuous microscale preconcentration system, based on the chelation of trace metals by a 20 μl column of silica-immobilized 8-hydroxyquinoline, was interfaced with a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer. Volume-based loading of 835-5000 μl sample loops, followed by elution of the sequestered elements directly into the furnace in 48 μl of acid, provided quantitative recovery of Fe, Cd, Zn, Cu, Ni, Mn and Pb from open ocean seawater with a frequency of 10–20 per hour. Absolute detection limits were 0.3, 6.9, 4.2, 1.8, 10.2, 5.7 and 1.8 pg for Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn, respectively. The sensitivity of the graphite furnace technique is enhanced up to 250-fold compared to a standard 20 μl injection volume. Results are presented for the analysis of these elements in NRCC seawater Reference Materials NASS-3 and CASS-2 using simple calibration curves for quantitation.
Interpersonal perception in cross-group interactions: Challenges and potential solutions

This review provides a framework for theorising about the processes that give rise to interpersonal perception during encounters between two individuals who belong to different groups. Consistent with a dyadic approach, interpersonal perception is considered a function of the unique and combined effects of the perceptions and behaviours of both partners involved in the interaction. A model is presented in which negative expectancies give rise to feelings of anxiety and behavioural displays of anxiety, both of which in turn influence interpersonal judgements. Factors that vary at the level of the perceiver, target, and the interaction are examined as moderators of interpersonal perception. Lastly, given that the study of interpersonal perception within cross-group dyadic encounters is relatively new, several strategies that show promise for improving interpersonal perception are discussed. Turning towards the future this article concludes by discussing how research and theory outside the domain of intergro...
Development of Vitamin A during Ripening of Tomatoes.

In the progress of an inquiry into the conditions under which vitamin A is developed in plants a comparison was made of the vitamin A content of tomatoes ripened under various conditions. The tomatoes were of the variety called San Jose Canner and were supplied us by J. T. Rosa of the University Farm, Davis, California. They were plucked from the vines when green but completely matured, and were divided into 6 lots. One lot, designated lot 1, was ground at once, placed in small air tight glass jars fitted with outlet and inlet glass tubes, the air from which was evacuated and released with carbon dioxide 4 or 5 times. The jars were then stored at 17 degrees below zero centigrade. This process of preparation and storage was used to ensure as much freedom from oxidation as possible during the testing period. The other lots of tomatoes were similarly treated after being ripened as follows: lot 2, ripened in diffused light; lot 3, ripened in the dark; lot 4, ripened in ethylene, 1:2000 parts for 1 week1; lot ...
Numerical Approach to the Optimization of Operating Conditions for Hydrogen Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells

An efficient and systematic approach for finding the optimal operating conditions of hydrogen polymer electrolyte fuel cells has been developed by combining an efficient optimization method and a validated multi-resolution fuel cell simulation tool. Four control parameters including cell temperature, cathode stoichiometry, cathode pressure and cathode relative humidity are used to build the optimization objective, which is defined as the maximum overall efficiency of the fuel cell system under ideal or realistic system assumptions. Through the design of experiment method, a set of sample simulations are first carried out using the fuel cell simulation tool. An analytic metamodel is then constructed using the radial basis function approach based on the simulation results. A feasible sequential quadratic programming scheme is then employed to optimize the metamodel to achieve the global optimal solutions. The study shows that different optimal solutions exist for different system assumptions, as well as different current loading levels, classified into small, medium and large current densities. The approach adopted in this study is generic and can be readily applied to more control parameters and further to the fuel cell design optimizations.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Impact of obstacles on dislocation patterning and stress correlations

By virtue of their long-ranged nature, elastic stresses due to dislocations may provide a mechanism for the spatial organization of alloys with misfitting constituents. Here, we first explore the connection between dislocation patterning and correlations in elastic stress fields associated with dislocations. Specifically, we examine the impact of obstacles, such as impurities and grain boundaries, on the pattern formation in a collection of mutually interacting dislocations. This is accomplished by characterizing the order in terms of various dislocation structure factors that reflect the tendency to form dislocation wall segments. We find that random stationary impurities frustrate wall formation without altering the characteristic length scale of the dislocation patterning, while grain boundaries promote wall formation via dislocation incorporation, and frustrate polygonization away from the boundaries. We then discuss the implication of the results of induced solute patterning in phase-separating alloys.
Numerical Modeling of Alternate Melting and Solidification

A finite-volume model is used to analyze alternate melting and solidification, which is the fundamental operational mode of latent thermal energy storage (LTES) systems. The simulated cases include: (1) melting of tin with natural convection, (2) alternate melting and solidification of sodium nitrate, and (3) cyclic phase change of gallium. For each case, temporal evolution of the heat transfer rate and liquid fraction is presented. In addition, snapshots of phase interface, temperature, pressure, and liquid velocity distributions are presented. The implications of the modeling results are discussed.
Identifying physiological origins of baroreflex dysfunction in salt-sensitive hypertension in the Dahl SS rat

Salt-sensitive hypertension is known to be associated with dysfunction of the baroreflex control system in the Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rat. However, neither the physiological mechanisms nor the ge...
Skeptical Homeopathy and Self-refutation

There are two time-honored cornerstones of anti-skeptical argumentation: (1) the charge that the skeptic cannot consistently 'live his skepticism' (hereafter, the 'WnQpata argument'), and (2) the charge that the claims and argumentative practices of the skeptic involve him in 'self-refutation'. ' One of the few brands of skepticism in the history of philosophy to deny the &nQatia argument but accept and even embrace the charge of selfrefutation is Pyrrhonism, especially as it is represented to us by our most
Nanostructure Formation in Polyelectrolyte−Surfactant Complexes

A phase transition to the collapsed state in slightly cross-linked positively charged gels of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMACl) interacting with n-alkyl sulfates (octyl (SOS), nonyl (SNS), decyl (SDCS), undecyl (SUS), and dodecyl (SDS) sulfates) in aqueous solution has been investigated. All studied polyelectrolyte−surfactant complexes (PSC) exhibited the formation of pronounced crystalline nanostructures. The poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) gel−SOS, −SNS, −SDCS, −SUS, and −SDS PSC's were studied at different temperatures. The gel−SOS complex, which does not otherwise exhibit crystallinity, was successfully crystallized at approximately −6 °C and formed the same type of cubic lattice as the gel−SNS and gel−SDCS complexes. Corresponding gel−SNS and gel−SDCS complexes, while crystalline at room temperatures, could be melted at higher temperatures (62 and ∼70 °C for gel−SDCS and gel−SNS complexes, respectively) and displayed a structure similar to that of the gel−SOS complex at room te...
The performance and workload effects of task re-location during automation

We report an experiment which investigated the performance and workload effects associated with the functional grouping of automated displays in a multi-task flight simulation. Eleven rated pilots performed tracking, systems monitoring, and target acquisition sub-tasks in manual conditions and when the targeting task was automated. In the latter condition, the target acquisition display was relocated either proximally, distally, or neutrally with respect to the functionally similar, systems monitoring display. It was hypothesized that an automated task display relocated near its functional equivalent (the proximal condition) would result in increased performance efficiency and lower perceived workload compared to the other relocation positions. An advantage for adaptive automation was confirmed with pilots exhibiting less tracking error, lower monitoring response times, lower target response times, and increased percentage of target responses during automated compared with manual conditions. Results did not confirm the hypothesized benefits for display location. However, when interpreted within the Proximity Compatibility Principle framework where both perceptual and processing proximity are recognized, results confirmed an advantage for the functional grouping layout of the display. Specifically, the proximal grouping condition was the only condition that resulted in both performance and workload benefits. Some observations on the implications for display design in systems using automation are provided.
Beta Blocker Inhibits Tricyclic Metabolism

ABSTRACT Significant inhibition of tricyclic antidepressant metabolism by β blockers has not often been cited in the literature and never in a clinical setting. We will describe two cases involving 9-year-old patients who experienced apparent inhibition of imipramine metabolism and near-toxic levels while receiving both propranolol and imipramine.
The Nuclear Import of RCC1 Requires a Specific Nuclear Localization Sequence Receptor, Karyopherin α3/Qip

RCC1 is the only known guanine nucleotide exchange factor for the small GTPase Ran and is normally found inside the nucleus bound to chromatin. In order to analyze in more detail the nuclear import of RCC1, we created a fusion construct in which four IgG binding domains of protein A were fused to the amino terminus of human RCC1 (pA-RCC1). Surprisingly, we found that neither Xenopusovarian cytosol nor a mixture of recombinant import factors (karyopherin α2, karyopherin β1, Ran, and p10/NTF2) were able to support the import of pA-RCC1 into the nuclei of digitonin-permeabilized cells. Both, in contrast, were capable of supporting the import of a construct containing another classical nuclear localization sequence (NLS), glutathioneS-transferase-green fluorescent protein-NLS. Subsequently, we found that only one of the NLS receptors, karyopherin α3 (Kapα3/Qip), would support significant nuclear import of pA-RCC1 in permeabilized cells, while members of the other two main classes, Kapα1 and Kapα2, would not. Accordingly, in vitrobinding studies revealed that only Kapα3 showed significant binding to RCC1 (unlike Kapα1 and Kapα2) and that this binding was dependent on the basic amino acids present in the RCC1 NLS. In addition to Kapα3, we found that the nuclear import of pA-RCC1 also required both karyopherin β1 and Ran.
Separation of R(+)-and S(-)-benzyl-3-tetrahydrofuroates using two different chiral columns

Abstract A chiral separation of N(+)-and S(-)-benzyl-3-tetrahydrofuroate (I) and p-nitrobenzyl-3-tetrahydrofuroate (II) using a Chiralcel OB© (cellulose tribenzoate) column with a hexane/2-propanol (60:40 v/v) mobile phase is described. Enantiomeric purity of R(+)-I was evaluated using the same chromatographic conditions. I was also separated using a Chiralspher© (polyamides bonded to silica gel) column with an ethanol/distilled water (50:50 v/v) mobile phase.
Measuring the Molecular Scale Dynamics of Protein Receptor Endocytic Trafficking in Neural Cells using Quantum Dot Bioconjguate Probes

Protein trafficking is critical in neurons since neurons must orchestrate the movement of a plethora of discrete intracellular signaling proteins from the cell body to the ends of their axons, over distances that may span up to several meters. A problem in studying protein trafficking has been a lack of tools to visualize the movement of discrete proteins inside live neurons, in real time. An integrated understanding of endocytic trafficking at the level of single or small numbers of receptor complexes inside live cells is currently hampered by technical limitations. Here, we develop and apply quantum dot QD bioconjugates for imaging discrete receptor endocytic events inside live neural cells. QD probes can bind with specific cognate receptors consequently cell signaling cascades to regulate neural sprouting. Furthermore, QD-receptor complexes are internalized by cells dynamically traffic discrete receptor bound QDs on their membrane surface as well as along vast distances along intracellular microtubule tracks of neural processes. Using single particle tracking and immuno-colocalization, we illustrate and validate the use of QD-receptor complexes for imaging receptor trafficking at synchronized time points after QD-receptor binding and internalization (t= 15-150 minutes). The unique value of these probes is illustrated by new dynamic observations: 1) that endocytosis proceeds at strikingly regulated fashion, and 2) that diffusive and active forms of transport inside cells are rapid and efficient. QDs are powerful intracellular probes that can provide investigators with new capabilities and fresh insight for studying endocytic receptor signaling events, in real time, and at the resolution of single or small numbers of receptors in live cells.
Deletion of Rab GAP AS160 modifies glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation in primary skeletal muscles and adipocytes and impairs glucose homeostasis

Tight control of glucose uptake in skeletal muscles and adipocytes is crucial to glucose homeostasis and is mediated by regulating glucose transporter GLUT4 subcellular distribution. In cultured cells, Rab GAP AS160 controls GLUT4 intracellular retention and release to the cell surface and consequently regulates glucose uptake into cells. To determine AS160 function in GLUT4 trafficking in primary skeletal muscles and adipocytes and investigate its role in glucose homeostasis, we characterized AS160 knockout (AS160(-/-)) mice. We observed increased and normal basal glucose uptake in isolated AS160(-/-) adipocytes and soleus, respectively, while insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was impaired and GLUT4 expression decreased in both. No such abnormalities were found in isolated AS160(-/-) extensor digitorum longus muscles. In plasma membranes isolated from AS160(-/-) adipose tissue and gastrocnemius/quadriceps, relative GLUT4 levels were increased under basal conditions and remained the same after insulin treatment. Concomitantly, relative levels of cell surface-exposed GLUT4, determined with a glucose transporter photoaffinity label, were increased in AS160(-/-) adipocytes and normal in AS160(-/-) soleus under basal conditions. Insulin augmented cell surface-exposed GLUT4 in both. These observations suggest that AS160 is essential for GLUT4 intracellular retention and regulation of glucose uptake in adipocytes and skeletal muscles in which it is normally expressed. In vivo studies revealed impaired insulin tolerance in the presence of normal (male) and impaired (female) glucose tolerance. Concurrently, insulin-elicited increases in glucose disposal were abolished in all AS160(-/-) skeletal muscles and liver but not in AS160(-/-) adipose tissues. This suggests AS160 as a target for differential manipulation of glucose homeostasis.
Calculation of effective electrophysical characteristics of moistened porous materials

Features of homogenization of a porous region are considered. Using the spatial averaging method with the local representation of parameters of a field, we introduce effective electrophysical characteristics of a porous moistened medium and write the equations of electrodynamics. A generalized technique for calculating dielectric losses in porous bodies of low conductance with different moisture contents is proposed.
The impact of Massachusetts health care reform on an orthopedic hand service.

Purpose The impact of Massachusetts health care reform on the burden of uninsured orthopedic care is unclear. We examined the patient population at an academic orthopedic hand surgery practice based in an inner city, level 1 trauma center as a model. We hypothesized that the percentage of overall encounters with uninsured patients would decrease and that the percentages of overall encounters with privately insured and MassHealth (Medicaid) patients would increase. Methods We retrospectively tallied the insurance type of all patient encounters from 2004 to 2011 for an academic orthopedic hand surgery practice. Charity care and self pay constituted the uninsured group. Insurance types that do not offer patients a choice in enrollment, such as Medicare and motor vehicle insurance, were excluded. Non-Massachusetts residents were excluded. July 1, 2007, was used as the reference date for the implementation of reform policies. Paired t -tests and change-point linear regressions were performed. Results The overall percentage of encounters with uninsured patients declined by approximately 2%, and the overall percentage of encounters with privately insured patients increased by approximately 3.5%, both significant changes. No significant change in MassHealth (Medicaid) was observed. Change-point linear regression revealed that privately insured encounters increased rapidly after reform but that levels have remained roughly the same since. The uninsured population was already decreasing slightly between 2004 and 2007, at a rate of approximately 0.08% per month, but it also leveled off after 2007. Conclusions We found that the burden of uninsured encounters on our service was reduced by a statistically significant decrease of approximately one-half. This was accompanied by a significant increase in encounters with privately insured patients. No significant change in the number of MassHealth encounters occurred. Type of study/level of evidence Economic/Decision Analysis IV.
The perceived impact of cancer on quality of life for post-treatment survivors of childhood cancer

To examine whether childhood cancer survivors’ perceptions of the impact of cancer are related to quality of life (QOL) and psychological distress. 621 survivors (aged 18–39 years) completed a mailed survey assessing distress and QOL. Hierarchical linear regression models analyzed the independent effects of perceived impacts of cancer on distress and QOL and the extent to which positive and negative perceptions attenuated the effects of covariates on outcomes. After accounting for perceptions of cancer’s impact on their lives, employment/occupation status, marital/relationship status, and health problems were observed to be significant predictors of QOL and distress. Psychological distress and the mental health component of QOL appeared to be less influenced by sociodemographic status and health problems and more a function of how survivors perceive cancer as impacting their lives. Results suggest that distress and QOL are partially a function of survivors’ perceptions of how cancer has affected them and continues to affect them in both positive and negative ways. Future research is needed to examine combinations of pharmacological, psychological and/or social interventions that are likely to result in better outcomes in this population.
Locally most powerful rank tests for multiple-censored data

A locally most powerful rank test is derived for multiple censored data in the context of a two-sample problem where the alternatives involve a single parameter. With independent random samples , from F and G respectively, let the combined sample order statistics be denoted by where N = m+n, We present results for the triple censoring scheme where two blocks of order statistics are observed in addition to recording the number of X's and Y’s among the censored values. These extend the derivation of optimal rank tests for single censored data to the multiple censored situation.
Surgical management of congenital obstruction of the left main coronary artery with supravalvular aortic stenosis

Abstract Objective: Stenosis of the left main coronary artery is a recognized complicating feature of supravalvular aortic stenosis. We have retrospectively identified three anatomic subtypes of left main coronary obstruction in patients with supravalvular aortic stenosis, each necessitating a distinct surgical approach. Methods: From 1991 to 1998, 9 patients underwent surgical repair of supravalvular aortic stenosis and left main coronary stenosis. Five patients (group 1) had obstruction from near-circumferential thickening of the left main ostium, 2 patients (group 2) had restricted coronary flow due to fusion of an aortic valve leaflet to the supravalvular ridge, and 2 patients (group 3) had diffuse narrowing of the left main coronary artery. Group 1 patients were treated with patch aortoplasty encompassing the left main ostium and supravalvular aortic stenosis. Group 2 patients were treated with excision of the fused leaflet from the aortic wall and patch aortoplasty. Group 3 patients were treated with bypass grafting and aortoplasty. Results: Surgical strategy was determined by coronary angiography and intraoperative assessment of coronary anatomy. There was 1 early death. All surviving patients underwent echocardiography with or without postoperative catheterization. The mean postoperative supravalvular gradient for 7 patients was 8 mm Hg (range 2-15 mm Hg). One patient required reoperation for a residual aortic gradient as a result of aortic arch involvement. No evidence of left main coronary artery stenosis was seen in groups 1 and 2; bypass grafts were patent in group 3 patients at a mean follow-up of 54.8 months. Conclusion: Three subtypes of left main coronary stenosis with supravalvular aortic stenosis are described. Each anatomic type mandates an individual surgical approach. Favorable surgical outcomes are achievable with each category. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2000;120:1040-6)
BRAFV600E mutation in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: a meta-analysis

The prognostic value of the BRAFV600E mutation, resulting in poor clinical outcomes of papillary thyroid carcinoma, has been generally confirmed. However, the association of BRAFV600E with aggressive clinical behaviors of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) has not been firmly established in individual studies. We performed this meta-analysis to examine the relationship between BRAFV600E mutation and the clinicopathological features of PTMC. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library for relevant studies. We selected all the studies that reported clinicopathological features of PTMC patients with information available on BRAFV600E mutation status. Nineteen studies involving a total of 3437 patients met these selection criteria and were included in the analyses. The average prevalence of the BRAFV600E mutation was 47.48%, with no significant difference with respect to patient sex (male versus female) and age (younger than 45 years versus 45 years or older). Compared with the WT BRAF gene, the BRAFV600E mutation was associated with tumor multifocality (odds ratio (OR) 1.38; 95% CI, 1.04-1.82), extrathyroidal extension (OR 3.09; 95% CI, 2.24-4.26), lymph node metastases (OR 2.43; 95% CI, 1.28-4.60), and advanced stage (OR 2.39; 95% CI, 1.38-4.15) of PTMC. Thus, our findings from this large meta-analysis definitively demonstrate that BRAFV600E-mutation-positive PTMC are more likely to manifest with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics. In appropriate clinical settings, testing for the BRAFV600E mutation is likely to be useful in assisting the risk stratification and management of PTMC.
Human alveolar basement membrane. Chemical and immunologic comparisons with glomerular basement membrane and trophoblast basement membrane

Abstract Human alveolar basement membrane (ABM) has been isolated and compared with human glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and trophoblast basement membrane (TBM). The three basement membranes (BMs) differed substantially in chemical composition. ABM had an intermediate hydroxyproline content but contained little hydroxylysine; elevated proline, alanine, and valine and the presence of desmosines indicated that elastin remained associated with this membrane. ABM contained less sialic acid and hexosamine than the other two membranes. Of the three BMs, ABM was the most difficult to solubilize; dilute alkali solubilized 12% of ABM; reduction and alkylation, 43%; plasmin digestion, 24%; collagenase digestion 42%, and elastase digestion, 78–83%. Soluble material from all these procedures gave reactions of identity among the three BMs in immunodiffusion gels with antisera raised against all three BMs. Since the anti-human BM antisera required absorption with human plasma, canine lung and kidney were perfused until blood-free; ABM and GBM were prepared from the perfused organs. Antisera raised against the canine ABM did not react with canine plasma; antigens unique to the lung (not present in kidney) were detected with this system. The canine ABM was also solubilized somewhat by alkali (13%) and plasmin (29%) and more completely by elastase (88%). Since plasmin digested BMs it may play a role in connective tissue remodeling.
Thyroid function studies in normal and cold-exposed rabbits using 125I.

Carlson, L. D., H. V. Roohk and O. Wilson. Thyroid function studies in normal and cold-exposed rabbits using 125I. Acta physiol. scand. 1973. 89. 359–373. Normal uptake and retention of 125I in thyroid was measured for 2–17 weeks in rabbits, and the effect of TSH, T4, acute and extended cold exposure was studied. There were marked interindividual variations in maximum uptake (mean 7 %, range 2.5–18 %), in time to peak (12–72 h), in the slope of the retention curve, and in changes in release rate. Repeated doses gave different maximum uptakes, but time to peak and form of retention curve remained essentially the same for each animal. The mean biological half-life for a 35-day period was 12 days for 8 rabbits; the initial half-life of around 9 days for the 1st week gradually increased to around 16 days during the last 3 weeks. This change suggests a shift of the labelled iodine into thyroidal compartments with slower turnover rates. Analysis of the multiexponential slope showed that the release phases for all rabbit were satisfactorily represented operationally by two exponentials. The mean values for these corresponded to biological half-lives of 6.4 and 21.1 days. Neither acute and more severe (-3o and 6o C for 50 h) nor moderate, extended cold (9–10o C for 7–16 days) had the slightest influence on the loss of radioiodine from the thyroid, which nevertheless responded to small doses of TSH.
Molecular phylogenetic relationships of nonpathogenic grass mycosymbionts and clavicipitaceous plant pathogens

Acremonium sect.Albo-lanosa (Fungi Imperfecti) includes beneficial, endophytic mycosymbionts of various grasses of the subfamilyPooideae, and also the anamorph of the grass choke pathogen,Epichloe typhina (Clavicipitaceae, Ascomycotina). These fungi are seed-disseminated, thus stably maintained for many host generations. To investigate the possibility of long-term coevolution, isolates ofE. typhina and anamorphs were obtained from eight grass species, sequences of their rRNA gene internal transcribed spacers were aligned with those from otherClavicipitaceae, and cladograms were generated by maximum parsimony. The results indicated that the nonpathogenic endophytes have not necessarily coevolved with their host species and that they arose fromE. typhina on multiple occasions.
Outward radial diffusion driven by losses at magnetopause

[1] Loss mechanisms responsible for the sudden depletions of the outer electron radiation belt are examined based on observations and radial diffusion modeling, with L*-derived boundary conditions. SAMPEX data for October–December 2003 indicate that depletions often occur when the magnetopause is compressed and geomagnetic activity is high, consistent with outward radial diffusion for L* > 4 driven by loss to the magnetopause. Multichannel Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) satellite observations show that depletions at higher L occur at energies as low as a few hundred keV, which excludes the possibility of the electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave-driven pitch angle scattering and loss to the atmosphere at L* > 4. We further examine the viability of the outward radial diffusion loss by comparing CRRES observations with radial diffusion model simulations. Model-data comparison shows that nonadiabatic flux dropouts near geosynchronous orbit can be effectively propagated by the outward radial diffusion to L* = 4 and can account for the main phase depletions of outer radiation belt electron fluxes.
Using Social Media in Research: New Ethics for a New Meme?

The case vignettes presented here highlight ethical issues surrounding the use of social media in clinical research. To date, investigators and institutional review boards (IRBs) have had little in...