cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous Penetration Modifiers and Formulation Effects: Thermal and Spectral Analyses

The study investigated the formulation effects of laurocapram and iminosulfurane derived penetration modifiers on human stratum corneum using thermal and spectral analyses. Firstly, formulations of penetration modifiers were assessed as enhancers/retardants using the model permeant, diethyl-m-toluamide followed by investigation of their mechanisms of action using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infra-red spectroscopy. The penetration modifiers investigated were laurocapram, 3-dodecanoyloxazolidin-2-one (N-0915), S,S-dimethyl-N-(4-bromobenzoyl) iminosulfurane (DMBIS), S,S-dimethyl-N-(2-methoxycarbonylbenzenesulfonyl) iminosulfurane (DMMCBI) and tert-butyl 1-dodecyl-2-oxoazepan-3-yl-carbamate (TBDOC) that were formulated in either water, propylene glycol (PG), ethanol or polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400). The results explain the mechanism for the first time why an enhancer can become a retardant or vice versa depending upon the vehicle in which it is applied to the skin. DSC indicated that penetration modifier formulations enhanced permeation of active mainly by disruption and fluidization of the stratum corneum lipid bilayers while IR data indicated characteristic blue shifts with decreases in peak intensity. On the other hand, DSC of penetration modifier formulations showing retardation depicted elevated T m2 with a strengthening of lipid–protein complex while IR results indicated formation of multiple peaks around 1,738 cm−1 transition in stratum corneum spectra suggesting retardation may be caused by organization of SC lipids by increased H-bonding.
Role of albumin as a fatty acid carrier for biosynthesis of lens lipids.

Abstract Although serum albumin is the major protein component of the aqueous humor and vitreous humor, its possible physiological role(s) in lens metabolism has not yet been determined. BODIPY fatty acid, a fluorescent analogue of a C12 long chain fatty acid, was bound to serum albumin, then incubated with lenses in culture. After various times of incubation, the lenses were homogenized, lipids extracted, and the extracted lipids resolved by thin layer chromatography. Fluorescence analyses demonstrated that the BODIPY fatty acid—albumin complex was translocated into the lens, where the BODIPY fatty acid was incorporated in a time dependent manner into numerous lipids, including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and sphingomyelin. Together, the results strongly suggest that serum albumin in the aqueous humor and/or vitreous humor facilitates the translocation of long chain fatty acids into the lens, where they are used for the biosynthesis of lens lipids.
Design and Performance Evaluation of a Minimally Invasive Telerobotic Platform for Transurethral Surveillance and Intervention

Bladder cancer, a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, presents a unique opportunity for aggressive treatment due to the ease of transurethral accessibility. While the location affords advantages, transurethral resection of bladder tumors can pose a difficult challenge for surgeons encumbered by current instrumentation or difficult anatomic tumor locations. This paper presents the design and evaluation of a telerobotic system for transurethral surveillance and surgical intervention. The implementation seeks to improve current procedures and enable development of new surgical techniques by providing a platform for intravesicular dexterity and integration of novel imaging and interventional instrumentation. The system includes a dexterous continuum robot with access channels for the parallel deployment of multiple visualization and surgical instruments. This paper first presents the clinical conditions imposed by transurethral access and the limitations of the current state-of-the-art instrumentation. Motivated by the clinical requirements, the design considerations for this system are discussed and the prototype system is presented. Telemanipulation evaluation demonstrates submillimetric RMS positioning accuracy and intravesicular dexterity suitable for improving transurethral surveillance and intervention.
Measurement of stimulus-specific anxiety.

Summary.-284 Ss were administered an experimental scale which attempts to measure the anxiety-arousing properties of specific stimulus situations. Three concepts, preselected for assumed differences in stimulus properties, were discriminated. It was concluded that the scale may be used to explore the prediction of avoidance behaviors in individuals. The Concept-specific Anxiety Scale (CAS) was developed to allow for the prediction of avoidance behaviors in clearly-defined stimulus simations. It was not intended to discriminate among individuals in terms of a more-or-less constant "trait" but rather to discriminate among concepts and simations in terms of their stimulus properties along an affective continuum (Cole & Oening, 1968). The CAS consists of a set of 15 bipolar adjective pairs cast in a 7-interval semantic differential format. Each scale was selected on the basis of its stability in an orthogonally rotated factor matrix on two tesc occasions and because of in appearance in both sex groups as a contributor to a replicated factor. The CAS may be scored for a Physiological Response factor (seven scales) and a Mood factor (four scales) as well as for total score. S is instructed to respond to each scale item with reference to a specific concept (e.g., the way I feel when I think about Myself) or with reference to a concept-sirnation (e.g., rhe way I feel when I am talking about Myself). Ss response is somewhat complex since each scale has its own concept. Thus, each imagined situation must be responded to in terms of a set of conceposcale pairs: how does Today seem to S when he is taking an Examdntltion-clear or hazy? When he thinks of Me in such simations, does he feel helpless or secure? The assumption underlying the CAS is that concept meaning is learned, that what is learned involves emotional and cognitive elements whose precise nature is a function of S's stimulus history, and thar affective responses to representational verbal stimuli are indicators of behavior in subsequeat situations. The CAS measures the anxiety component which may be presenr as part of the meaning of any specific concept; therefore, the initial step in validation would be to demonstrate the effectiveness of the CAS in discriminating, among a set of concepts which have been selected for their presumed ability to elicit differential responses. Method.-The CAS was administered to 284 Ss enrolled in sections of introductory psychology. Male and female Ss were equally represented. All Ss were presented with three concept-situations: the way I feel when I am playing with a puppy, the way I feel when I am handling a spider, and the way I feel when I think about gojey. These stimulus concepts were selected in order to provide mean comparisons at highly positive, highly negative, and neutral points. The term gojey was selected from Noble's (1952) list of lowassociate dysyllables. It was assumed that the majority of Ss would respond to these stimuli in similar ways and rhat they would elicit fewer idiosyncratic response tendencies than
Identification of Potential Small Molecule Allosteric Modulator Sites on IL-1R1 Ectodomain Using Accelerated Conformational Sampling Method

The interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R) is the founding member of the interleukin 1 receptor family which activates innate immune response by its binding to cytokines. Reports showed dysregulation of cytokine production leads to aberrant immune cells activation which contributes to auto-inflammatory disorders and diseases. Current therapeutic strategies focus on utilizing antibodies or chimeric cytokine biologics. The large protein-protein interaction interface between cytokine receptor and cytokine poses a challenge in identifying binding sites for small molecule inhibitor development. Based on the significant conformational change of IL-1R type 1 (IL-1R1) ectodomain upon binding to different ligands observed in crystal structures, we hypothesized that transient small molecule binding sites may exist when IL-1R1 undergoes conformational transition and thus suitable for inhibitor development. Here, we employed accelerated molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to efficiently sample conformational space of IL-1R1 ectodomain. Representative IL-1R1 ectodomain conformations determined from the hierarchy cluster analysis were analyzed by the SiteMap program which leads to identify small molecule binding sites at the protein-protein interaction interface and allosteric modulator locations. The cosolvent mapping analysis using phenol as the probe molecule further confirms the allosteric modulator site as a binding hotspot. Eight highest ranked fragment molecules identified from in silico screening at the modulator site were evaluated by MD simulations. Four of them restricted the IL-1R1 dynamical motion to inactive conformational space. The strategy from this study, subject to in vitro experimental validation, can be useful to identify small molecule compounds targeting the allosteric modulator sites of IL-1R and prevent IL-1R from binding to cytokine by trapping IL-1R in inactive conformations.
Analysis of human CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 genes and their shared bidirectional promoter in eight world populations.

The human CYP1A1_CYP1A2 locus comprises the CYP1A1 (5,988 bp) and CYP1A2 (7,759 bp) transcribed regions, oriented head-to-head, sharing a bidirectional promoter of 23,306 bp. The older CYP1A1 gene appears more conserved and responsible for critical life function(s), whereas the younger CYP1A2 gene might have evolved more rapidly due to environmental (dietary) pressures. A population genetics study might confirm this premise. We combined 60 CYP1A1_CYP1A2 SNPs found in the present study (eight New Guinea Highlanders, eight Samoans, four Dogrib, four Teribe, four Pehuenche, and one Caucasian) with those found in a previous study (six West Africans, four Han Chinese, six Germans, four Samoans, and four Dogrib), yielding a total of 106 SNPs in 106 chromosomes. Resequencing of Oceanians plus Amerindians in the present study yielded 21 New World SNPs (∼20%), of which 17 are not previously reported in any SNP database. Various tests revealed selective pressures for both genes and both haploblocks; unfortunately, differences in rates of evolution between the two genes were undetectable. Fay & Wu's H test revealed a “hitchhiking event” centered around four SNPs in the CYP1A1 3′-UTR; a study in silico identified different microRNA-binding patterns in the hitchhiked region, when the mutations were present compared with the mutations absent. Hum Mutat 30:1–14, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
NITROGEN-SPARING EFFECT OF ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS (EAA) IN A-NEPHRIC RATS

This study undertook to determine the nutritional factors influencing urea nitrogen production (UrP) and net protein synthesis (PrS) in protein-depleted anephric rats. Young growing rats were protein-depleted from 3-14 days by providing them a protein-free diet. They were then binephrectomized and an infusion begun. UrP was measured as gain in body urea pool derived from BUN and body water over the succeeding 24 hrs. PrS was either positive or negative, depending upon whether nitrogen intake exceeded or was less than UrP. All animals received 7 ml fluid/100 g BW/24 hrs IV in .07M NaCl to avoid hyponatremia, and insulin when appropriate to avoid hyperglycemia. Solutions were compared and expressed per 100 g BW/day: By analysis of variance the differences between each group were significant at 5% for UrP; for PrS the differences were not significant except between group 3 and 2, These data suggest that UrP is curtailed by glucose administration and more by adding EAA. Adding non-EAA increased UrP but did not affect PrS compared with glucose alone.
Cross-species septohippocampal transplants: ultrastructure of Thy-1.2-labeled donor fibers into the dentate gyrus.

A naturally occurring species-specific membrane marker was used to identify unambiguously transplanted septal cells and their fibers which have grown into host tissue. Cell suspensions of the septum/basal forebrain region of C57B1/6 mouse embryos were transplanted into the dentate gyrus of Sprague-Dawley rats that had received a fornix lesion. The membranes of the mouse contained Thy-1.2, while the membranes of the rat contained Thy-1.1. An antibody to Thy-1.2 clearly identified the donor tissue and did not react with the Thy-1.1 of the host's membranes. The ultrastructure of the immunoreactively labeled tissue confirmed previous biochemical findings on the distribution of Thy-1 and showed Thy-1.2 immunoreactivity on axons and dendrites, microtubules, some mitochondrial membranes, and the surface membranes of cell bodies. Within the transplant, a few glial profiles showed immunoreactive fibrils, but most glial profiles within the transplant and all glial profiles outside the transplant were not immunoreactive. Astrocyte fibers enclosed the outgrowing labeled fibers to form fascicles, but did not penetrate the fascicle. There was no other distinctive association of astrocytic profiles with immunoreactive fibers. Dendrites grew for long distances into the host's molecular layer. Many immunoreactive dendritic profiles formed synapses with unlabeled terminal profiles from the host. The host synapses on the long dendrites of the transplanted neurons may form an important source of input for the initiation of physiological activity in the new circuits established by the transplant. A few labeled (donor) synaptic terminals were observed in the molecular layer, but Thy-1.2-labeled dendritic profiles were much more prominent than labeled axonal profiles.
Evaluating the role of IL-12 based therapies in ovarian cancer: a review of the literature

Introduction: Immunotherapy, in its entirety, represents a promising field at the forefront of cancer. Treatment with potent cytokine IL-12 has provided science with many challenges, but has also d...
Who Is the Subject of Atrocities Prevention

This essay poses the question, who is the subject of atrocities prevention? Borrowing a rhetorical and argumentative model from Jacques Ranciere’s work on the subject of human of rights, the essay explores the conceptual frameworks for the subjects of atrocities and queries their relevance to the specific context of prevention. The concepts that dominate work on mass atrocities were articulated in relation to atrocities that were underway or had concluded; they are a poor fit for prevention. New work on prevention, like that on ‘factors of restraint’ or resilience,’ suggest revisions to the concepts and cases that currently dominate study of mass atrocities. Crucial amongst these concepts that require adjustment are how we address the subject of atrocities prevention.
Secure online banking on untrusted computers

Frauds and attacks for online banking are increasing quickly. The major platform for current online banking, personal computer, has become untrusted especially under malware attacks. In this study, we design a smart card-based solution called secure online banking companion (SOBC) to address this problem. Portability and cost are also highly considered in the design. We have implemented a prototype of the solution on a Java Card simulator, which shows the solution can be implemented easily using current smart card technologies.
First Report of Grapevine fleck virus in Idaho Grapevines.

Idaho has a growing viticulture industry, with nearly 1,600 acres of wine grapes (Vitis vinifera L.). Production is largely concentrated in two locations, the Snake River valley, which includes Canyon County in the southwest, and the Clearwater River valley, primarily Nez Perce County in the northwest. Grapevine fleck virus (GFkV) belongs to the genus Maculavirus, family Tymoviridae, comprising positive-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses with ca. 7.6-kb genome (3). It is one of five non-mechanically transmitted viruses associated with the fleck disease complex and has been previously documented to occur in the neighboring state of Washington (2). Main sources of wine grape nursery material imported to Idaho reside in Washington or in California, and it is important to monitor virus status of the planting material brought to the state. However, no information was available on the occurrence and prevalence of GFkV in wine grapes in Idaho. During three growing seasons in 2009 through 2011, random grapevine s...
Eosinophilic esophagitis: Allergic contribution, testing, and management

Both basic science and clinical data indicate a strong role for allergy as a cause of eosinophilic esophagitis. As a result, one of the desired goals of therapy is identification and elimination of food antigens that trigger the allergic inflammatory pathway. Traditional methods for identification of causative food antigens include induction of symptoms with exposure to the antigen, demonstration of serum IgE antibodies against antigens and induction of immediate (IgE) or delayed (Th2) reactions against dermal instillation of antigens. Although some data support the use of these tests in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, they are limited in this disease. This limitation results from an inability to provoke recognizable symptoms and a lack of concordance between allergies identified in the skin and the blood with the antigens that trigger esophageal disease. As a result, allergy therapy in eosinophilic esophagitis consists of global elimination of food antigens with an elemental diet or exclusion of the most common antigens. As compliance is difficult with these strategies, the mainstay of allergy therapy in eosinophilic esophagitis has become the use of medications that blunt the allergic pathway such as steroids with a future aimed toward more specific inhibitors of this pathway in eosinophilic esophagitis specifically.
Differences in Metabolite-Mediated Toxicity of Tamoxifen in Rodents versus Humans Elucidated with DNA/Microsome Electro-Optical Arrays and Nanoreactors

Tamoxifen, a therapeutic and chemopreventive breast cancer drug, was chosen as a model compound because of acknowledged species specific toxicity differences. Emerging approaches utilizing electro-optical arrays and nanoreactors based on DNA/microsome films were used to compare metabolite-mediated toxicity differences of tamoxifen in rodents versus humans. Hits triggered by liver enzyme metabolism were first provided by arrays utilizing a DNA damage end point. The arrays feature thin-film spots containing an electrochemiluminescent (ECL) ruthenium polymer ([Ru(bpy)2PVP10]2+; PVP, polyvinylpyridine), DNA, and liver microsomes. When DNA damage resulted from reactions with tamoxifen metabolites, it was detected by an increase in light from the oxidation of the damaged DNA by the ECL metallopolymer. The slope of ECL generation versus enzyme reaction time correlated with the rate of DNA damage. An approximate 2-fold greater ECL turnover rate was observed for spots with rat liver microsomes compared to that wit...
From Average to Local Structure: A Rietveld and an Atomic Pair Distribution Function (PDF) Study of Selenium Clusters in Zeolite-NdY

The structure of Se particles in the approximately 13 A diameter alpha-cages of zeolite NdY has been determined by Rietveld refinement and pair distribution function (PDF) analysis of X-ray data. With the diffuse scattering subtracted an average structure comprised of an undistorted framework containing nanoclusters of 20 Se atoms is observed. The intracluster correlations and the cluster-framework correlations which give rise to diffuse scattering were modeled by using PDF analysis.
Reflex testing of resected stage I through III lung adenocarcinomas for EGFR and KRAS mutation: report on initial experience and clinical utility at a single center.

Objective The genes KRAS and EGFR have emerged as potential targets for therapy in lung adenocarcinoma; mutations in these genes can be found in almost half of patients. In anticipation of the clinical importance of molecularly defined adenocarcinoma subgroups for the treatment of patients with resected stages I through III lung adenocarcinoma, the Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) Departments of Surgery and Pathology have collaborated since 2006 to conduct reflex testing of tumor specimens for EGFR and KRAS mutations. Methods Using established methods, the identification of EGFR exon 19 deletions and exon 21 L858R mutations was performed. In samples lacking these 2 sensitizing EGFR mutations, KRAS analysis was done. Results We studied a total of 1831 patients who had stage I through IV lung adenocarcinomas and detected 448 KRAS and 364 EGFR mutations. Of these patients, a subset of 855 (78%) patients with stages I through III adenocarcinoma of the lung who underwent curative surgical resection at MSKCC were tested. In patients with early stage disease, 158 EGFR mutations and 207 KRAS mutations were detected. Conclusions The results of the first 3 years of reflex testing at MSKCC reported here demonstrate the feasibility, clinical utility, and potential of this approach. This information allowed for enrollment of patients into clinical trials to explore mutation-specific, directed therapy and led to retrospective studies related to patient outcome. In addition, it may inform selection of chemotherapy for recurrent disease and may help to distinguish multiple primary tumors from metastatic disease.
Solubility and diffusivity of solvents and nonsolvents in polysulfone and polyetherimide

The inverse gas chromatography method was used for the investigation of the partition and diffusion coefficients of polysulfone and polyetherimide with NMP, γ-butyrolactone, DMSO, acetic acid, propionic acid, THF, and water over a range of temperature from 200 to 270 °C. The weight-fraction infinite-dilution activity coefficients for the solvents, the Flory−Huggins interaction parameters, and the solubility parameters of the polymers are reported.
High affinity binding of 125I-neurotensin to dispersed cells from chicken liver and brain.

Abstract Mitra, S. P. and R. E. Carraway. High affinity binding of 125 I-neurotensin to dispersed cells from chicken liver and brain Peptides 18(4) 521–525, 1997.—Dispersed cells from chicken brain and liver were found to possess cell surface binding sites for 125 I-neurotensin ( 125 I-NT). Scatchard analyses indicated the presence of high affinity ( K d , 25–80 pM) and low affinity ( K d , 250–450 pM) components in adult tissues. Binding capacity was reduced 25–40% by incubation with pertussis toxin. Ontogenetic studies indicated that NT receptor capacity increased ∼20-fold from the embryonic stage to adult. Cross-linking of 125 I-NT to intact cells labeled one major band (52 kDa, ≥90%) and two minor bands (40 and 90 kDa, ≤10%) which could represent distinct NT-receptors or one receptor partly degraded or cross-linked to G-protein(s). The binding of 125 I-NT to dispersed cells was enhanced by reduction with dithoithreitol and suppressed by alkylation with N-ethyl-maleimide (NEM), maleimidocaproic acid (MCA) and p-chloromercuribenzenesulfonate (PCMBS). Since MCA and PCMBS do not permeate cells, this suggests that the sulfhydryl group(s) critical to binding are located within the NT receptor itself. Preincubation of cells with NT prior to treatment with NEM diminished its inhibitory effect, suggesting that the critical SH-group(s) were within the NT binding pocket or were protected by an allosteric effect. These results suggest that one or more of the nine cysteine residues in the NT receptor is involved in the NT binding reaction.
Pediatric single-port-access nephrectomy for a multicystic, dysplastic kidney

Major urologic surgery via a single port has emerged as the latest progression in laparoscopy and robotics. While current literature highlights the single-port approach to the surgical treatment of cholecystitis, appendicitis and varicoceles, this technique has never been employed to perform a nephrectomy on a child. We herein report a case of a pediatric patient who underwent nephrectomy via single-port-access.
Using computer-assisted perception to determine the characteristics of missed and reported breast cancers

Early detection of breast cancer is the desired goal in breast cancer screening. Nonetheless it has been reported in the literature that 10-30% of all breast cancers are missed by the radiologist, albeit most of these are deemed visible in retrospect on the mammogram. In this work we have studied the underlying structure of the areas that attracted the radiologist's visual attention and either yield or do not yield a response. We have shown that the spatial frequency profile of areas where a lesion is detected (TP) is significantly different from the one where a lesion is missed (FN), where a lesion is incorrectly placed (FP) or of lesion-free areas that are correctly identified (TN). Furthermore, we have shown that the spatial frequency profile alone can be used by an artificial neural network to predict decision outcome in that area of the image.
A spectral method for the solution of transonic potential flow about an arbitrary two-dimensional airfoil

The application of a spectral method to the computation of transonic potential flow about an arbitrary lifting airfoil is discussed. An iterative solution algorithm is described, which was found to be robust, fairly efficient, and fit well in a multigrid coontext. Details of the application to the transonic potential flow problem are given. Results from the spectral technique for both subcritical flow and supercritical flow with shocks are given and compared with results from state-of-the-art finite-difference airfoil codes.
Thermoelectric power factor enhancement of AZO/In-AZO quantum well multilayer structures as compared to bulk films

Abstract This study investigates and demonstrates the enhancement in thermoelectric power factor for n-type AlZnO/InAlZnO multilayer quantum wells as compared to their counterpart bulk films. A 10–20% improvement is observed for operating temperatures
Synthesis and characterization of a series of diphenyldipyrazolylmethane complexes with zinc(II)

Abstract The zinc(II) coordination chemistry of a series of diphenyldipyrazolylmethane ligands was explored using 1H NMR and single crystal X-ray diffraction. Unsubstituted diphenyldipyrazolylmethane (dpdpm), diphenylbis(3-methylpyrazolyl)methane (dpdp′m), and diphenylbis(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)methane (dpdp″m) were reacted with Zn(NO3)2 to afford Zn(dpdpm)(NO3)2, Zn(dpdp′m)(NO3)2 and Zn(Pz″)2(NO3)2 where Pz″ = 3,5-dimethylpyrazole, respectively. All attempts to isolate Zn(dpdp″m)(NO3)2 with the intact dpdp″m ligand were unsuccessful due to decomposition of the ligand. These bidentate ligands support the formation of 1:1 ligand to metal complexes and structurally model the two histidine coordination mode common in zinc proteins.
A radioimmunoassay for measurement of serum thymidine.

Abstract A simple and sensitive radioimmunoassay for the measurement of serum thymidine has been developed based on the competition between thymidine and an analog (125IUdR) for sites on anti-thymidine antibody. Antibody-bound 125IUdR was measured in ammonium sulfate precipitates. None of the structurally related compounds that are normal body metabolites showed thymidine's ability to displace the label except at 200-fold higher concentration. A thymidine concentration of slightly greater than 10−6 m has been measured in mouse blood serum. The rate of disappcarance of a thymidine load from the bloodstream has been followed after intravenous administration. The sensitivity and specificity of the technique have been discussed, and applications in radiotherapy and chemotherapy depending on altered DNA synthesis or cell death have been suggested.
OIL VERSUS OTHER HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

ABSTRACT The Water Quality improvement Act of 1970 requires that pollution by oil and hazardous substances other than oil be addressed by the Federal Government. By satisfying the several provisions of the Law an overlap occurs when dealing with establishing the difference between oil and hazardous substances. To satisfy in part the provisions of sections 11 and 12 of the Law, regulations are to be promulgated for oil and hazardous substances. A rationale is presented in this paper which, when combined with the regulations, should allow industry and government to proceed in this area without detailed lists of materials being required. The rationale is based upon a material being petroleum derived or extractable or having defined chemical structure.
Panoramic radiographs do not accurately detect curvature of or close association with the mandibular canal of mandibular third molar roots

Abstract Original Article Bell GW, Rodgers JM, Grime RJ, Edwards KL, Hahn MR, Dorman ML, et al. The accuracy of dental panoramic tomographs in determining the root morphology of mandibular third molar teeth before surgery. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2003;95(1):119–25. Level of Evidence 2b Purpose To evaluate how accurately panoramic radiography portrays root curvature, root fusion, or close root proximity to the mandibular canal of mandibular third molars? Source of Funding North Cumbria Research and Development Committee Type of Study/Design Cohort study
Hepatitis C, Innate Immunity and Alcohol: Friends or Foes?

Hepatitis C and alcohol are the most widespread causes of liver disease worldwide. Approximately 80% of patients with a history of hepatitis C and alcohol abuse develop chronic liver injury. Alcohol consumption in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients exacerbates liver disease leading to rapid progression of fibrosis, cirrhosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatocytes are the main sites of HCV-infection and ethanol metabolism, both of which generate oxidative stress. Oxidative stress levels affect HCV replication and innate immunity, resulting in a greater susceptibility for HCV-infection and virus spread in the alcoholic patients. In this review paper, we analyze the effects of ethanol metabolism and other factors on HCV replication. In addition, we illustrate the mechanisms of how HCV hijacks innate immunity and how ethanol exposure regulates this process. We also clarify the effects of HCV and ethanol metabolism on interferon signaling—a crucial point for activation of anti-viral genes to protect cells from virus—and the role that HCV- and ethanol-induced impairments play in adaptive immunity which is necessary for recognition of virally-infected hepatocytes. In conclusion, ethanol exposure potentiates the suppressive effects of HCV on innate immunity, which activates viral spread in the liver and finally, leads to impairments in adaptive immunity. The dysregulation of immune response results in impaired elimination of HCV-infected cells, viral persistence, progressive liver damage and establishment of chronic infection that worsens the outcomes of chronic hepatitis C in alcoholic patients.
Fish Propagation in Mountain Areas

(1937). Fish Propagation in Mountain Areas. The Progressive Fish-Culturist: Vol. 4, No. 28, pp. 25-26.
Steady-State and Transient-Stability Analysis of Series Capacitors in Long Transmission Lines

IN long-distance large-block power transmission, where is reactance compensation applicable? The complete answer to this question involves the weighing of compensated line performance against its costs, tempered with engineering judgment. This paper presents the results of an analysis made to determine basic performance data of compensated lines under steady-state and transient conditions. The data presented therefore allow the question to be partly answered and, it is believed, to a sufficient degree to permit certain general conclusions to be drawn. The system designer is thus provided with the fundamentally necessary data permitting him to proceed with an economic analysis for his particular case, where the cost factors are available. It is felt that in this field lies the value of these data. The costs of the various factors for a particular case can be weighed with the performance obtained by the same factors. The best design must necessarily be one where per cent line compensation, number of parallel circuits, generator short-circuit ratio, and number of intermediate switching stations are all used to their optimum degree for a given reliability of service. The number of factors which may be varied obviously depends upon whether compensation is to be used for increasing the power limits of a system already in operation or to be used as a factor in the design of a projected system.
Endotoxin and muramyl dipeptide modulate surface receptor expression on human mononuclear cells

Endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 100 ng/ml) and muramyl dipeptide (MDP 100 ng/ml), two immunomodulatory bacterial cell wall products, were incubated with human whole blood, and the expression of receptors involved in antigen presentation, costimulation, and cell activation was investigated by use of flow cytometry. On monocytes, LPS and MDP increased surface expression of human leukocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR), CD18, CD54 (intercellular adhesion molecule-1, ICAM-1), and CD86 (B7-2). On lymphocytes, LPS but not MDP increased HLA-DR expression after 18 h. The expression of CD28, CD49d/CD29, and CD106 (vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, VCAM-1) remained unchanged on both monocytes and lymphocytes. The early increase (1-6 h) of CD18 and ICAM-1 expression led us to hypothesize that CD18-dependent costimulatory signals were involved in the later (6 h) increase of monocyte HLA-DR expression. However, blocking studies using monoclonal antibodies against CD18 (IB4, 15 microg/ml) demonstrated that the LPS- and MDP-induced increase of HLA-DR and ICAM-1 expression on monocytes was not mediated through CD18. LPS induced the expression of the early activation marker CD69 by a CD14-dependent but CD18-independent mechanism, whereas MDP did not induce CD69 expression. Analysis of leukocyte subsets demonstrated that CD4(+) T-cells, CD8(+) T-cell, CD19(+) B-cells, CD56(+) natural killer (NK)-cells, and CD14(+) monocytes increased the expression of CD69 after stimulation with LPS. Collectively, these data demonstrate a stronger immunomodulatory effect of LPS compared with MDP which may, in part, explain the established difference of toxicity between these two bacterial cell wall products.
Insulin augments GnRH-stimulated LHβ gene expression by Egr-1

Previous studies have shown that insulin augments GnRH-stimulated LH synthesis and release from primary gonadotrophs. In this study, regulation of LHβ gene expression by GnRH and insulin was examined in LβT2 cells. Endogenous LHβ mRNA is stimulated 2.4-fold by insulin alone, 2.6-fold by GnRH alone, and 4.7-fold by insulin together with GnRH. This effect of insulin, like GnRH, mapped to sequences −140 to +1 in the mouse LHβ gene. Insulin together with GnRH stimulates activity of an LHβ-reporter gene 7.1-fold; whereas, GnRH alone or insulin alone stimulates the reporter activity 2.8- and 3.1-fold, respectively. Blocking the binding of Egr-1 to sequences −51 to −42 in the LHβ gene inhibits effects of insulin and GnRH. Insulin together with GnRH increases Egr-1 mRNA levels and total Egr-1 binding to LHβ DNA. These findings indicate that insulin may impact regulation of the reproductive axis at the level of the pituitary.
The New MCAT: An Incentive for Reform or a Lost Opportunity?

The upcoming revised Medical College Admissions Test, based on the recommendations in the HHMI–AAMC report, could be an opportunity to reflect on and revise our curricula, not only for those students who are aiming for a career in the health sciences, but for all students. Unfortunately, the proposed chemistry learning objectives do not seem to provide a coherent framework with which to work. Rather, these objectives are fragments, disconnected ideas, and facts that are clearly parts of existing traditional curricula. If we rely on this report to redesign our courses, it is unlikely that redesign would produce students who understand the core concepts of chemistry. An alternate approach is to use the research on teaching and learning in chemistry to provide us with the evidence and learning theories on which to base curricular redesigns. Learning materials that are designed with an understanding that meaningful learning builds upon and connects to students’ prior knowledge, and that difficult concepts are...
Spirorchid and serpulid polychaetes are candidates as invertebrate hosts for myxozoa.

While, in recent years, it has been routine to elucidate the life cycles of freshwater myxozoans, which have oligochaetes and bryozoans as invertebrate alternate hosts (Kent M.L., Andree K.B., Bartholomew J.L., El-Matbouli M., Desser S.S., Devlin R.H., Feist S.W., Hedrick R.P., Hoffmann R.W., Khattra J., Hallett S.L., Lester R.J.G., Longshaw M., Palenzeula O., Siddall M.E., Xiao C. 2001: J. Eukaryot. Microbiol. 48: 395-413), nobody has yet unravelled the life cycle of any of the numerous species which occur in marine fish (Lom J., Dykova I. 1992: Protozoan Parasites of Fishes. Elsevier, Amsterdam, 315 pp). Even though actinosporeans have been found in marine oligochaetes (Hallett S.L., Lester R.J.G. 1999: Int. J. Parasitol. 29: 419-427; Hallett S.L., Erseus C., Lester R.J.G. 1999: Syst. Parasitol. 44: 49-57) it is expected that non-oligochaete invertebrates, especially polychaetes, may act as invertebrate hosts for several of the marine species of the Myxozoa. The only known examples of marine non-oligochaete, invertebrate myxozoan hosts are the sipunculid worm Nephasoma minuta (Keferstein) (syn.: Petalostoma minutum) from the Channel, England (Ikeda I. 1912: Arch. Protistenkd. 25: 240-272) and the polychaete Nereis diversicolor O.F. Muller (Nereidae) from a Danish locality (Koie 2000: J. Parasitol. 86: 871-872). Studies of marine polychaetes have shown that Spirorbis spirorbis (Linnaeus) (syn.: S. borealis Borg) (Spirorbidae) and Hydroides norvegica Gunnerus (Serpulidae) from Danish waters are infected with actinosporeans of unknown myxozoans. In the northern Oresund, Denmark, the regularly coiled, calcareous tubes of S. spirorbis mostly occur on algae of the genera Fucus and Laminaria, whereas the larger, irregularly coiled, calcareous tubes of H. norvegica mostly are attached to the shells of live scallops. Spirorbis spirorbis exhibits a restricted breeding season during the warm months, whereas H. norvegica apparently breeds throughout most of the year. Algae with S. spirorbis and bivalves with H. norvegica were dredged at depths of about 15 m and 26-28 m, respectively. The infections were not followed throughout the year, but S. spirorbis was found infected with actinosporean stages from March throughout the summer to September. Hydroides norvegica was found Fig. 1. Ventral view of a live flattened, slightly infected specimen of Spirorbis spirorbis removed from the calcareous tube. The pansporocysts occur in segments with the testes (t) posterior to the ovaries. The eggs (e), stomach (s) and contents of the intestine (i) appear dark in transmitted light. Scale bar = 0.5 mm.
Comparative study of the Yang-Monti channel and appendix for continent diversion in the Mitrofanoff and Malone principles.

ABSTRACT Purpose: Continent conduits for Mitrofanoff and Malone procedures are widely used for incontinence management. Because the appendix is not always suitable or available, Monti proposed a transversely retubularized short segment of ileum. We present our experience and compare outcomes according to the type of conduit. Materials and Methods: In a retrospective study from 1988 to 2003 case notes were reviewed specifying conduit characteristics, underlying disease, overall surgical management of incontinence and subsequent complications. Comparison was based on followup, details of complications and treatments. Results: In 32 men and 14 women with a total of 65 conduits (Mitrofanoff in 41 and Malone procedure in 24) the condition was spina bifida in 29, bladder exstrophy in 5 and sacral agenesia in 3. Other cases included various origins. Mean age at operation was 14.2 years (range 1 to 31). Mean followup was 5.3 years (range 1 to 14.7). Appendix was used in 23 cases and a Yang-Monti channel was performed in 18 (ileum in 7 and sigmoid in 11) for urinary diversion. The Malone procedure was performed using appendix in 11 cases and a Yang-Monti tube in 13. At followup 61 conduits (93.8%) were in use and 4 (6.2%) were abandoned. Complications were cutaneous stenosis, kink blockage and stomal leakage. No significant differences were observed between the types and purposes of the conduit. Conclusions: With constant availability and various possibilities of construction the Yang-Monti channel is recommended for continent diversion creation when appendix does not look suitable or is already in use or absent.
Some thoughts on the freezing and melting of sea ice and their effects on the ocean

The high-latitude freezing and melting cycle can variously result in haline convection, freshwater capping or freshwater injection into the interior ocean. An example of the latter process is a secondary salinity minimum near 800 m-depth within the Arctic Ocean that results from the transformation on the Barents Sea shelf of Atlantic water from the Norwegian Sea and its subsequent intrusion into the Arctic Ocean. About one-third of the freshening on the shelf of that initially saline water appears to result from ice melt, although the actual sea ice flux is small, only about 0.005 Sv. A curious feature of this process is that water distilled at the surface of the Arctic Ocean by freezing ends up at mid-depth in the same ocean. This is a consequence of the ice being exported southward onto the shelf, melted, and then entrained into the northward Barents Sea throughflow that subsequently sinks into the Arctic Ocean. Prolonged reduction in sea ice in the region and in the concomitant freshwater injection would likely result in a warmer and more saline interior Arctic Ocean below 800 m.
MODELING BIVARIABLE-DEPENDEIUT MATERIAL PROPERTIES USING AN EXPLICIT BICUBIC SPLINE

A compact and efficient algorithm is developed for generating and evaluating a bicubic spline interpolating function. The method is useful for the numerical solution of heat transfer and fluid flow problems when the properties are a function of two variables. The explicit formulation allows a one-time calculation of sets of bicubic coefficients, which provide an interpolation of the dependent property over the domain of the independent variables. The method provides continuous first and second derivatives in both variables far the iterative solution of nonlinear problems.
State regulation of railroads

Abstract The scope of state authority to regulate railroads tends to be broader in states with relatively concentrated populations and in states where economic sectors likely to ship by rail, especially mining, are relatively small. Regulatory scope is generally not related to the size of the railroad industry, number of railroads, or ideological-cultural factors.
Re)defining stem cells.

Summary Stem-cell nomenclature is in a muddle! So-called stem cells may be self-renewing or emergent, oligopotent (uniand multipotent) or pluri- and totipotent, cells with perpetual embryonic features or cells that have changed irreversibly. Ambiguity probably seeped into stem cells from common usage, flukes in biology’s history beginning with Weismann’s divide between germ and soma and Haeckel’s biogenic law and ending with contemporary issues over the therapeutic efficacy of adult versus embryonic cells. Confusion centers on tissue dynamics, whether stem cells are properly members of emerging or steady-state populations. Clarity might yet be achieved by codifying differences between cells in emergent populations, including embryonic stem and embryonic germ (ES and EG) cells in tissue culture as opposed to self-renewing (SR) cells in steady-state populations. BioEssays 28:301–308, 2006. 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Relationship of Pupil Control Ideology and Innovative Classroom Practices.

Pupil control has been described as the major problem facing our schools. Teachers have been described as reluctant to adopt innovative practices in the classroom for fear of being charged as soft on discipline. This paper reports on research designed to test the relationship of biology teachers' pupil control and their classroom practices. A sample of 68 biology teachers was selected by a stratified randomized process for the study. Two groups of teachers were compared on the variables of the Biology Classroom Activity Checklist. Analysis of the results permitted the authors to conclude that those teachers who have a more humanistic pupil control ideology may be preferred to work with the BSCS programs than those teachers who have a more custodial pupil control ideology.
Lox, Stocks, and Backstage Broadway: Iconic Trades of New York City

Reviewed Medium: book Authors: Nancy Groce Year: 2010 Pages: 272 Publisher: Smithsonian Institution Scholarly Press ISBN: 978-0978846046 (hard cover). Prices: $29.95 USD(hard cover).
Religious Coping, Stress, and Depressive Symptoms Among Adolescents: A Prospective Study

This study examined prospective associations between religious coping, stress, and depressive symptoms in a community sample of 111 adolescents (80 female). We hypothesized that religious coping would moderate the relationship between stress and depressive symptoms, with negative religious coping exacerbating the effects of stress on depressive symptoms and positive religious coping buffering the effects of stress on depressive symptoms. We further expected that the moderating effects of religious coping on outcomes would be strongest for youth with high personal religious commitment. Study hypotheses were tested in a prospective 12-week study. Youth selfreported their use of positive and negative religious coping strategies and personal religious commitment at baseline and then reported stressors and depressive symptoms weekly for eight weeks with an additional assessment at 12 weeks. Data were analyzed using hierarchical linear modeling. Results indicated that, as expected, negative religious coping significantly moderated the effects of stress on depressive symptoms across the 12-week study, with depressive symptoms being highest among youth with high stress exposure and high negative religious coping. The exacerbating effects of negative religious coping on the stress-depression relationship were strongest for youth with high personal religious commitment. Positive religious coping only marginally buffered the effects of stress on depressive symptoms. The results confirm and extend previous findings on the association between religious coping strategies and stress in predicting depressive symptoms.
Doxpicomine in postoperative pain.

In a single-dose study the analgesic activity of 400 mg doxpicomine was compared with 4 and 8 mg morphine administered intramuscularly. Our subjects were 43 men with moderate or severe postsurgical pain on the first postoperative day. Results of a double-blind trial indicate the analgesic activity of 400 mg intramuscular doxpicomine to be within the range of 8 mg morphine. There was no statistical significance between the effects of 400 mg doxpicomine and 8 mg morphine with the exception of half-hour data where doxpicomine was more effective than morphine. Doxpicomine has a rapid onset of analgesic action, the duration of which is equivalent to that of 8 mg morphine. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1981) 29, 771–775; doi:10.1038/clpt.1981.109