cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of left ventricular dysfunction and viral load on risk of sudden cardiac death in patients with human immunodeficiency virus.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected patients are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Whether left ventricular (LV) dysfunction predicts SCD in those with HIV is unknown. We sought to determine the impact of LV dysfunction on SCD in patients with HIV. We previously characterized all SCDs and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) deaths in 2,860 consecutive patients in a public HIV clinic from 2000 to 2009. Transthoracic echocardiograms (TTEs) performed during the study period were identified. The effect of ejection fraction (EF), diastolic dysfunction, pulmonary artery pressure, and LV mass on SCD and AIDS death were evaluated: 423 patients had at least 1 TTE; 13 SCDs and 55 AIDS deaths had at least 1 TTE. In the propensity-adjusted analysis, EF 30% to 39% and EF
Diffraction properties of substrate guided-wave holograms

Substrate guided-wave (SGW) holograms, recorded and reconstructed using light waves guided through optical substrates, are currently being incorporated into visual displays, optical integrated circuits, and nondestructive testing systems. In this paper, a coupled wave approach is used to analyze the diffraction properties of SGW holograms. The expressions obtained allow SGW holograms to be compared with conventional transmission and reflection holograms. The analysis is restricted to cases in which holograms are recorded and reconstructed using plane waves. The object beam is also assumed to be at normal incidence to the hologram. Results are presented for holograms recorded on a silver halide emulsion and illuminated using a krypton laser. The study shows that SGW holograms have higher diffraction efficiencies under the Bragg condition, higher angular selectivities, and more moderate wavelength selectivities than holograms recorded using conventional means.
Memory effect on thermally activated escape rates

Non-Markovian thermal Brownian motion of a particle over a barrier is studied using thermal noise with a small but finite bath-memory correlation time. Starting from the corresponding non-Markovian Smoluchowski master equation, valid in the over-damped limit, the rate of escape $\ensuremath{\lambda}$ is evaluated, and it is shown that a renormalization of the bare damping occurs. The modeling of the rate $\ensuremath{\lambda}$ for a special class of bistable, driven non-Markovian nonequilibrium systems is sketched.
Cytogenetic features of acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia in 73 children and adolescents

We examined the leukemia cells of 81 consecutively admitted children and adolescents with acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL) to determine the frequency and specificity of chromosomal abnormalities. Karyotypes were obtained for 73 (90%) of the 81 children, and 36 (49%) were abnormal. The modal karyotypes for the cases were tightly clustered in the diploid range; only 5 (7%) were hypodiploid, with 45 chromosomes each, and only 2 (3%) had greater than 50 chromosomes. Specific chromosomal abnormalities in the abnormal karyotypes were compared to morphologic subgroups of ANLL. An 8;21 translocation was found in 6 of 9 cases with M2 morphology but was also found in 1 case with M1 morphology. One of 4 with M3 (progranulocytic) morphology had a 15;17 translocation, and another had a 17q deletion. A structural abnormality in 11q was found in 3 of 7 patients with M5 (monoblastic) morphology, 2 of whom had a 9;11 translocation. The only case of M6 had a 22q-or Philadelphia chromosome in addition to other abnormalities. Statistical analysis of 27 abnormal karyotypes showed preferential structural rearrangement of 8q and 21q. We conclude that, in children as well as adults, specific structural abnormalities are correlated with certain morphologic subgroups of ANLL. However, other chromosomal changes associated with prior mutagenic exposure of adult ANLL were uncommon in children, which may suggest a difference in pathogenesis.
Fabrication and evaluation of nanofibrous membranes with photo-induced chemical and biological decontamination functions

Hydrophilic nanofibrous membranes with photo-induced self-cleaning functionality were successfully prepared by covalently incorporating a photo-active anthraquinone derivative onto the surfaces of poly(vinyl alcohol-co-ethylene) (PVA-co-PE) nanofibrous membranes. The presence of ester bonds between anthraquinone structures and nanofiber surfaces, as evident from ATR-FTIR results, confirmed the desired surface functionalization. SEM images revealed that the prepared membranes possessed uniform nanofibers and ultrafine porous structures that remained intact after surface functionalization. Under UVA irradiation, these photo-active compound-modified nanofibrous membranes are able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), to which are attributed the observed self-decontamination functions. The generation of ROS was evaluated via quantitative determination of hydrogen peroxide on the membrane surfaces by using an iodometric titration method. The prepared hydrophilic nanofibrous membranes exhibited powerful photo-induced chemical and biological decontamination functions, including over 99.999% reduction against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and a total decontamination of aldicarb, a carbamate pesticide, under light irradiation within a short contact time.
Generating interest, generating power: commercializing photovoltaics in the utility sector

Conventional views of the innovation adoption process promote knowledge, and technical knowledge in particular, as a key precursor to generating interest among potential adopters. “The more you know, the better” serves as a generic rule of thumb. In commercializing photovoltaics (PVs) in the utility sector, this approach deserves serious questioning. This research provides a parallel study of utility adopters of PVs (N=65) and non-adopters (N=317) to demonstrate how different the two groups are. The statistical analysis demonstrates strong support for the hypothesis that familiarity is a critical link in predicting interest toward photovoltaics for the non-adopter group, while technical knowledge figures much more prominently for the adopters. Photovoltaics have been heralded widely as the future of electricity generation, and commercialization efforts to date have over-emphasized factors that affect early adopters while ignoring softer influences that may incite non-adopters to invest. By invoking programs that promote small scale experiments and risk reduction by following the lead of other successful trials, the chances of long term success are much improved.
Anaphylaxis due to local anesthesia hypersensitivity: report of case.

Anaphylaxis is possible in certain patients: Dentists should be aware of how to deal with patients in anaphylactic shock. A 12-year-old boy went into anaphylactic shock (a major medical emergency) after an injection of mepivacaine HCI 3%. A careful medical history can indicate susceptible patients. Dentists should know how to treat their patients in such a contingency.
Effect of base on the C-13 NMR spectra of model phenolic acids related to humic acids and lignins

Abstract Addition of base to neutral solutions of a number of model phenolic acids causes shifts in the C‐13 NMR absorbance peaks. Some of these shifts appear to be diagnostic for certain structural moieties and functional groups in natural phenolic macromolecules, such as lignin and fulvic acid.
The nature of hypnotic analgesia: neurophysiological foundation and evidence

This paper reviews neurophysiological research (EEG, event-related potential, regional cerebral blood flow, neurochemical) that supports the proposal that hypnotic analgesia is an active inhibitory process involving several brain systems mediating attentional and nociceptive processes. Even though the processes of hypnotic analgesia may be dissociated from conscious awareness and appear to be out of volitional control, it is proposed that hypnotic analgesia depends on the activation of a supervisory, attention control system – involving the anterior frontal cortex – which then participates with other cortical and subcortical systems in the allocation of thalamocortical activities. Hypnotic analgesia affects the active allocation of attention and disattention associated with the anterior frontal region, as well as spatio-temporal aspects of pain perception associated with the posterior cortical systems. Copyright © 1998 British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis
DESCRIBING URBAN STRUCTURE: A Factor Analysis of Los Angeles*

Our practical knowledge of cities is based on an implicit understanding of how socio-economic attributes and land use activities are bundled up into characteristic “places.” Despite this practical imperative, the regional science literature does poorly in describing, yet alone explaining, the spatial structure of large, complex metropolitan areas. It is argued that concise descriptive tools are a prerequisite for evaluating or assessing competing urban theories. Factor analysis is applied to Los Angeles data and its general usefulness as a descriptive tool is assessed. As a descriptive tool factor analysis offers several attractive features; it is quantitative yet qualitative, interpretive yet empirical, numerical yet visual.
Audiogenic seizure susceptibility of C57BL/6 ↔ DBA/2 allophenic mice

Abstract Allophenic mice composed of cells from a strain (DBA/2) susceptible to sound-induced seizures and cells from a strain (C57BL/6) resistant to them were produced by embryo aggregation techniques. Twenty-eight allophenic mice were tested for audiogenic seizure susceptibility. The results were compared with the genotypic composition of the coat melanocytes. For those animals with a predominance of one genotype or the other in the coat, their seizure phenotype was the same as that of the strain most represented in the coat. In contrast, those animals with major contributions ofboth genotypes in the coat demonstrated the entire spectrum of susceptibility phenotypes. Such results are likely to be a manifestation of a relatively small target tissue for the genes influencing the development of audiogenic seizure susceptibility.
The Nygren Corpus: Annotations to the Major Works of Anders Nygren of Lund

The published works of Anders Nygren -for 50 years or more one of Europe's leading theologians and undoubtedly Scandinavia's best known theologian in the twentieth century-form an impressive literary corpus of some 370 items. Among them are some seventeen monographs and collections of essays published in book form, representing the core of Nygren's works, and therefore indispensable to the analysis of his thought. Many of these works are unavailable except in the Swedish language, and most are now out of print as well. The purpose of the present essay is to provide a quick overview of these seventeen books, with annotations designed to help the reader orient himself to the major contributions in Nygren's works and the leading ideas in Nygren's thought. The approach is reportorial rather than analytical or critical. No attempt is made to enter into the debate among Nygren's interpreters, and only in one or two instances do we relate to the secondary literature, now increasing both in volume and quality. The essay is organized around the following four periods in Nygren's career: the early period, marked by extensive philosophical and methodological endeavors; the period of mature theological scholarship, marked by historical-critical "motif research" and biblical theology; the period of his episcopacy, marked by a turn toward more churchly theological concerns; and his retirement, marked by a return to philosophical and methodological interests. Thor Hall, Ph.D., Duke University, is Distinguished Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He is the author of A Framework for Faith (1970), Anders Nygren in the series "Makers of the Modern Theological Mind" (1978), A Theology of Christian Devotion (1969), The Future Shape of Preaching (1971), Whatever Happened to the Gospel (1973), and Systematic Theology Today, Part I1(1978b). This content downloaded from 157.55.39.104 on Sun, 19 Jun 2016 06:50:35 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms
The occurrence of intradermal mites, Hannemania spp. (Acarina: Trombiculidae), in anurans in New Mexico with a histological description of the tissue capsule

Abstract All specimens of true toad (Bufo), spadefoot toad (Scaphiopus), tree frog (Hyla), and barking frog (Eleutherodactylus) which are part of the herpetology collection, Museum of Southwestern Biology, The University of New Mexico, were examined for the presence of ectoparasites. We found 240 of 2919 (8·2%) specimens examined to be infested with species of Hannemania. These included 9 of 13 host species with the following infestation rates: B. cognatus, 3% (11 of 399); B. debilis, 9% (4 of 45); B. microscaphus, 21% (9 of 43); B. punctatus, 60% (83 of 138); B. speciosus, 3% (1 of 31); B. woodhousei, 1% (11 of 887); H. arenicolor, 67% (92 of 137); S. bombifrons, 2% (5 of 324); and S. hammondi, 3% (24 of 759). The rate of infestation appears to be correlated with several factors; among these are altitude, habitat, and hybridization of the hosts. Infestation rates vary widely in both time and space. The histology of the host-formed capsule which surrounds the chigger is described from paraffin-embedded (7 μm) and plasticembedded (1 μm) sections.
Identification of the True Product of the Urate Oxidase Reaction

The O2-dependent oxidation of urate catalyzed by urate oxidase has been examined in order to identify the immediate product of the enzymatic reaction. Specifically labeled [13C]urates were utilized as substrates, and the time courses were monitored by 13C NMR. On the basis of chemical shift values and 18O labeling, the product of the reaction was identified as 5-hydroxyisourate. This identification was substantiated by calculation of the 13C NMR spectrum of 5-hydroxyisourate using ab initio density functional theory methods. The predominant tautomers of urate and allantoin in aqueous solution were identified from 13C NMR titration data; the ionization behavior of urate and 5-hydroxyisourate were also examined by computational methods. The nonenzymatic pathway for production of allantoin from 5-hydroxyisourate was delineated; the reaction proceeds by the hydrolysis of the N1−C6 bond, followed by an unusual 1,2-carboxylate shift and decarboxylation to form allantoin.
Automated metadata, provenance cataloging and navigable interfaces: Ensuring the usefulness of extreme-scale data

Abstract For scientific research, it is not the mere existence of experimental or simulation data that is important, but the ability to make use of it. This paper presents the results of research to create a data model, infrastructure, and a set of tools that support data tracking, cataloging, and integration across a broad scientific domain. The system is intended to document workflow and data provenance in the widest sense. Combining research on integrated metadata, provenance, and ontology information with research on user interfaces has allowed the construction of early prototype. While using fusion science as a test bed, the system's framework and data model is quite general.
Mild hypophosphatasia mimicking severe osteogenesis imperfecta in utero: bent but not broken.

We describe a fifth instance of hypophosphatasia presenting with prenatal findings suggestive of a very severe bone dysplasia but with a subsequently benign course. Spontaneous improvement of long-bone angulation began prenatally. The postnatal course has been encouraging. This sixth clinical form of hypophosphatasia, which we suggest should be called the benign prenatal form of hypophosphatasia, should be added to the differential diagnostic possibilities considered when angulation or bowing of long bones is discovered prenatally.
The Influence of Extended Posthatch Holding Time and Placement Density on Broiler Performance

Abstract Extended posthatch holding (in the hatcher) has been reported to dehydrate chicks, reduce broiler performance, and depress immune response. Nevertheless, some commercial hatcheries are increasing incubation time in an attempt to minimize possible bacterial contamination of incompletely healed navels. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of posthatch holding on broiler performance and the effects of bird density and additive stress on performance and immune response. Twelve hundred broiler eggs (58 to 70 g) were incubated. Chicks were removed from the hatcher after 528 h of incubation, banded, and weighed. Half of the chicks were returned to the hatcher for an additional 24 h (HELD). Both hatcher treatments were placed at two densities (.07 and .12 m2 per bird). Individual BW were taken at 21 and 43 d of placement and 43 d of age. The HELD chicks weighed significantly less than controls at time of placement. At 21 d postplacement the HELD broilers were significantly heavier than controls, but were similar by 43 d. Total feed conversion was not affected in the HELD treatment, but birds in the .07 m2 per bird density were less efficient in terms of total feed conversion. Chick holding time and density seemed to affect antibody titers at 5 wk. Although holding chicks in the hatcher for 24 h did not clinically dehydrate chicks or affect performance, it decreased immune response. In addition to less efficient growth, birds in the more crowded pens had depressed immune response.
The lunar atmosphere: History, status, current problems, and context

After decades of speculation and fruitless searches, the lunar atmosphere was first observed by Apollo surface and orbital instruments between 1970 and 1972. With the demise of Apollo in 1972, and the termination of funding for Apollo lunar ground station studies in 1977, the field withered for many years, but has recently enjoyed a renaissance. This reflowering has been driven by the discovery and exploration of sodium and potassium in the lunar exosphere by groundbased observers, the detection of metal ions derived from the Moon in interplanetary space, the possible discoveries of H2O ice at the poles of the Moon and Mercury, and the detections of tenuous atmospheres around more remote sites in the solar system, including Mercury and the Galilean satellites. In this review we summarize the present state of knowledge about the lunar atmosphere, describe the important physical processes taking place within it, and then discuss related topics including a comparison of the lunar atmosphere to other surface boundary exospheres in the solar system.
Bismuth activities in a lead-doped bismut-2223 superconductor

Abstract Observations are reported on the thermal decomposition of a Pb doped Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O y (Bi-2223) sample. Experimental methods include differential thermal analysis (DTA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) using a vacuum balance, and vapor-pressure measurements by Knudsen effusion using (1) mass spectrometry, (2) a vacuum balance, and (3) an external balance for mass transport detection. DTA performed under N 2 showed endothermic peaks at 722°C and 864°C. TGA under vacuum showed mass loss beginning at 700°C with a peak at 750°C. Mass spectrometry showed that O 2 (g) was lost from the sample at temperatures between ca. 650°C and 675°C. It was concluded that the DTA peak at 722°C, the mass loss in TGA, and the O 2 loss by mass spectrometry were all associated with a change in oxidation state of Cu from +2 to +1. Vapor pressures of Bi(g) from the Bi-2223 superconductor samples yielded the activity of Bi in the Bi-2223 phase as 0.073 ± 0.016 and the relative chemical potential of Bi in the Bi-2223 phase of −17.4 ± 1.4 kJ/mol at 800 K.
High-pressure oxidation of ruthenium as probed by surface-enhanced Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies

Abstract Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has been utilized to study the oxidation of ruthenium at ambient pressure (1 atm) and elevated temperatures (25–300°C). The SERS probe provides in-situ vibrational information regarding surface oxide bonding. While the XPS probe necessarily involves ex-situ measurements (i.e., transfer to and from ultrahigh vacuum), it provides valuable complementary information on the metal and oxygen electronic states. Ruthenium surfaces were prepared by electrodepositing ultrathin films (about three monolayers) onto electrochemically roughened (i.e., SERS-active) gold substrates. Insight into the in-situ oxidation process was obtained by probing the changes of surface speciation by SERS upon heating Ru in flowing O 2 . A pair of SERS bands at 470 and 670 cm −1 appear in the spectrum acquired for a freshly electrodeposited film, which are assigned to different stretching modes of hydrated RuO 2 formed during sample transfer to the gas-phase reactor. However, a fully reduced Ru surface (i.e., devoid of oxide features) could be formed by adsorbing a protective CO adlayer in an electrochemical cell followed by heating to 200°C in vacuum so to thermally desorb the CO. While the initially oxidized (i.e., RuO 2 ) surface was stable to further oxidation upon heating in O 2 , adsorbed atomic oxygen was detected at 200°C from the appearance of a SERS band at 600 cm −1 and a XPS O(1 s ) peak at 531.7 eV. In contrast, the higher oxides RuO 4 and possibly RuO 3 were produced only upon thermal oxidation of the fully reduced Ru surface. Evidence for RuO 3 formation includes the appearance of a 800 cm −1 SERS band at 200°C which correlates with the advent of a Ru(3 d 5/2 ) peak at 282.6 eV. The surface was further oxidized to RuO 4 at 250°C, as deduced from the formation of a 875 cm −1 band and a Ru(3 d 5/2 ) peak at 283.3 eV. While RuO 3 and RuO 4 were exclusively formed at temperatures higher than 250°C, RuO 2 was produced upon cooling to room temperature, possibly via the decomposition of RuO 4 .
Controlling SEI Formation on SnSb-Porous Carbon Nanofibers for Improved Na Ion Storage

Porous carbon nanofiber (CNF)-supported tin-antimony (SnSb) alloys are synthesized and applied as a sodium-ion battery anode. The chemistry and morphology of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film and its correlation with the electrode performance are studied. The addition of fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) in the electrolyte significantly reduces electrolyte decomposition and creates a very thin and uniform SEI layer on the cycled electrode surface, which an promote the kinetics of Na-ion migration/transportation, leading to excellent electrochemical performance.
The Effect of Placebo-Induced Changes in Expectancies on Maximal Force Production in College Students

This study used false information about a placebo (milk-sugar tablet) to induce expectancies regarding force production. Forty-two college students were assigned to a placebo/placebo (PP), placebo/no-placebo (PN), or control group, and underwent baseline testing and two trials assessing one-repetition maximum (1 RM) strength on a bench press and seated leg press. The PP and PN groups improved significantly compared to the control at Trial 1 for the bench press (p ≤ .01) and leg press (p ≤ .01). Disclosure of the true nature of the placebo resulted in force production declines in the PN group to levels approximating controls on the bench press (p > .05) and seated leg press (p > .05). The results suggest that placebo-associated expectancy effects played a significant part in the observed changes. Implications include information for coaches, teachers, and fitness enthusiasts about the importance of psychological factors in successful performance.
Toll like receptors and viruses

Toll like receptors (TLRs) are 'pattern recognition proteins' that discriminate between self and non-self. They interact with products of infectious agents to activate cells of the innate immune system and also stimulate the adaptive immune system. Intracellular and extracellular TLRs recognise a wide range of viruses leading to the production of different cytokines. In this paper, we summarise the types of TLRs that recognise viruses, the cytokines produced, the specific cell types involved and the activation pathways that have been characterised. We also provide an overview of the viruses demonstrated to interact with TLRs. A greater understanding of relationships between viruses or viral products and TLRs should improve understanding of pathogenesis and lead to the development of new anti-viral therapies.
Reversibility of the activation of soluble phospholipase A2 on lipid bilayers : implications for the activation mechanism

Abstract The time-courses of hydrolysis of large vesicles of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine were compared using four species of phospholipase A2 (Agkistrodon piscivorus piscivorus, Crotalus adamanteus and Naja naja venoms and porcine pancreatic). In all four cases, the hydrolysis rate suddenly increases 10 to 100-fold at the time (τ) when a specific mole fraction of reaction products has accumulated. The intrinsic fluorescence emission of the three venom enzymes also increases suddenly at time τ. Both the activation and the fluorescence change are reversible with a half-time of about 50 s for the activity and 2 to 6 s for the fluorescence. These reversal rates and the vesicle concentration dependence of τ are considered for monomer and dimer enzyme activation models. Apparently, at least three states of the enzyme exist beyond the initial unbound state: (1) inactive and bound, (2) inactive with high fluorescence and (3) active. The dimer model already contains the necessary number of states but requires that the activation rate be much lower than the reversal rate to account for the vesicle concentration dependence of τ. Success of the monomer model requires an enzyme state additional to those proposed previously. Although these results do not exclude either the monomer or dimer models conclusively, they do impose important constraints on each model.
The Socio-Cultural Function of Media in Nineteenth-Century Latin America

In her article, "The Socio-Cultural Function of Media in Nineteenth-Century Latin America," Annette Paatz explores the function of the review genre in the context of Latin American nation building. Paatz focuses, on the one hand, on the genre's nationalist purposes and, on the other, on the appropriateness for intercultural communication. Drawing on the concept of mediated communication as social practice in the context of media cultural studies, Paatz analyses the reviews as representations of nineteenth-century Latin America's negotiations of transatlantic and thus intercultural relationships. She highlights the pragmatic ways in which Latin America utilized European media products in order to increase the flow of information and to sustain a Latin American pan-subcontinental communication. This fact suggests that the often noted importance of Paris as the cultural center of the Western world throughout the nineteenth century can be described in terms of the medial support it offered to Latin American nations in their claim for and building of cultural identity. By considering the conditions of production as well as reception, Paatz pays attention to cultural biases inherent in media communication between Europe and Latin America. Annette Paatz, "The Socio-Cultural Function of Media in Nineteenth-Century Latin America" page 2 of 9 CLCWeb: Comparative Literature and Culture 3.2 (2000):
Learning to live online: acceptance and usage of the internet as an innovative medium

This article focuses on how perceived internet utility and internet usage motivation are related to levels of involvement in internet usage. Questions concerning the digital divide controversy also are explored. The results show that perceived internet utility is positively related to internet involvement. There were no significant gender differences in most of the measures. The results indicate that when people are led to believe in the utility of the internet as a learning tool, they will become more involved. Innovative ways to introduce this new medium to all populations for effective learning need to be developed.
Effect of exercise training on central aortic pressure wave reflection in coronary artery disease.

Abstract Background Arterial stiffness is an important factor for cardiovascular performance and a predictor of cardiovascular risk. We investigated the effect of exercise training on arterial stiffness in coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods Arterial stiffness was assessed before and after 12 weeks of either exercise training or standard care in CAD patients. Arterial stiffness was evaluated by aortic augmentation index and time delay of the reflected wave (Δt) using the SphygmoCor system. Results The augmentation index decreased (30% v 26%, P Conclusion These results suggest that endurance exercise training improves systemic arterial stiffness in individuals with CAD.
Magnetic field penetration into the high temperature superconductor YBa2Cu3O7−x

The penetration depth of a magnetic field into a superconducting YBa2Cu3O7−x film was measured by polarized neutron reflection. The sample comprised an epitaxial film with the c-axis of its orthorhombic structure perpendicular to the film's surface. Measurements at 14 K showed that a magnetic field (parallel to the surface) penetrates into the surface over a depth of 1400 A.
Immunological studies of transferrin and transferrin receptors of human placental trophoblast.

Summary In primate pregnancy, fetal iron is derived from maternal transferrin; however, the mechanisms by which iron is taken up by the human placenta have not yet been established. In the present study, transferrin was demonstrated on the microvillous surface of human trophoblast in immunohistological studies of 130 mature and immature placentae from both normal and abnormal pregnancies. Similar results were found for baboon placentae. Upon short-term culture of placental tissue, the amount of trophoblast transferrin decreased and no incorporation of 14 C lysine into transferrin could be detected by radioimmunoelectrophoresis. Thus, this transferrin apparently was not synthesized by the placenta. When transferrin was removed from cryostat sections of placenta by treatment with chaotropic agents, subsequently added transferrin bound in an identical distribution. The specificity of this reaction was confirmed by the lack of binding of other serum proteins and by displacement procedures in which trophoblast transferrin was shown to be dislodged by transferrin added in vitro. These findings suggest that placental iron transport is predicated by binding of transferrin to specific receptors on trophoblast.
Utility of PCA3 in patients undergoing repeat biopsy for prostate cancer

Men with persistently elevated and/or rising PSA levels after negative prostate biopsy often undergo multiple repeat biopsies. Prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3) has emerged as a predictor of prostate cancer. We sought to define the utility of PCA3 in combination with other clinical data in predicting the risk of prostate cancer on repeat biopsy. We retrospectively obtained PCA3, PSA, PSA density (PSAD), digital rectal examination (DRE) and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) findings from 103 patients at a single institution who had at least one prior negative prostate biopsy. The sensitivity and specificity of PCA3 in detecting prostate cancer was determined. Receiver operating characteristics curves were produced for each variable individually and in multivariable analysis, controlling for PCA3, PSAD, TRUS, PSA and DRE. A nomogram was created, internally validated and compared to another recently published nomogram. Of the 103 patients, 37 (31%) had prostate cancer on repeat biopsy. The sensitivity and specificity of PCA3 (using a cut point of 25) was 0.67 and 0.64, respectively. In multivariable analyses, PCA3 was independently associated with prostate cancer (odds ratio: 1.02, 95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.04), with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.64. A multivariable model containing PCA3, PSAD, PSA, DRE and TRUS findings showed the most diagnostic accuracy (AUC: 0.82). In the setting of prior negative biopsies, PCA3 was independently associated with prostate cancer in a multivariable model. In combination with other clinical data, PCA3 is a valuable tool in assessing the risk of prostate cancer on repeat biopsy.
The effects of power plant passage on zooplankton mortalities: Eight years of study at the Donald C. Cook nuclear plant

Zooplankton mortalities resulting from passage through the Donald C. Cook Nuclear Plant (southeastern Lake Michigan) were studied over an 8-year (1975-1982) period. The power plant operated at a low AT (< 12°C) and discharge water temperatures did not exceed 35°C (except September 1978). While zooplankton mortalities were significantly greater in discharge than intake waters, differences were small, averaging < 3%. There was no evidence of additional delayed effects on zooplankton mortality following plant passage. Calanoid copepods (Diaptomus spp, Eurytemora affinis and Limnocalanus macrurus) were most sensitive to plant passage, cyclopoid copepods least sensitive, while cladocerans (Daphnia spp, Eubosmina coregoni) were intermediate in sensitivity. There was no relationship between zooplankton mortalities and temperature (AT, discharge water temperature), suggesting that thermal stresses were not the major source of mortality. The single exception was September 1978 when discharge water temperatures exceeded 35°C and there were large differences between intake and discharge water zooplankton mortalities (net mortality differences of 14-22% for the two units). Mechanical stresses appeared to be the major cause of zooplankton mortality. However, there was only a weak relationship between mortality as a result of plant passage and zooplankton size. Based on our long-term preoperational (1970-1974) and operational (1975-1982) ecological studies in the vicinity of the power plant, we hypothesize that fish predation, rather than power plant operation, probably was the major source of zooplankton mortality in inshore waters during much of the year.
Cross validation of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in community dwelling older adults residing in the Southeastern US

Objective Cross validation study of the MoCA for the detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) in a community-based cohort residing in the Southeastern United States. Methods One hundred and eighteen English-speaking older adults, who underwent diagnostic evaluation as part of an on-going prospective study, were administered the MoCA and MMSE. Twenty were diagnosed with AD, 24 met criteria for amnestic MCI and 74 were considered cognitively normal. Sensitivities and specificities were calculated using the recommended cut-off scores and ROC curve analyses were performed to determine optimal sensitivity and specificity. The influence of age, education and gender on MoCA score was also examined. Results Using a cut-off score of 24 or below, the MMSE was insensitive to cognitive impairment. Using the recommended cut-off score of 26, the MoCA detected 97% of those with cognitive impairment but specificity was fair (35%). Using a lower cut-off score of 23, the MoCA exhibited excellent sensitivity (96%) and specificity (95%). Conclusion The MoCA appears to have utility as a cognitive screen for early detection of AD and for MCI and warrants further investigation regarding its applicability in primary care settings, varying ethnic groups, and younger at-risk individuals. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
False positive stress-test in a patient with pericardial effusion

We report a case of false positive stress test in a patient with cardiac tamponade. After the drainage of pericardial effusion, reversible defect on a stress test resolved. Cardiac catheterization revealed normal coronary arteries.
Post-transcriptional regulation of methionine content in maize kernels.

Message levels for a methionine-rich 10 kDa zein were determined in three inbred lines of maize and their reciprocal crosses at various stages during endosperm development. Inbred line BSSS-53, which overexpresses the 10 kDa protein in mature kernels, was shown to have higher mRNA levels in developing endosperm, as compared to inbred lines W23 and W64A. Differences in mRNA levels could not be explained by differences in transcription rate of the 10 kDa zein gene, indicating differential post-transcriptional regulation of this storage protein in the different inbred lines analyzed. Among progeny segregating for the BSSS-53 allele of the 10 kDa zein structural gene Zps10l(22), mRNA levels are independent of Zps10/(22) segregation, indicating that post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA levels takes place via a trans-acting mechanism. In the same progeny, mRNA levels are also independent of allelic segregation of the regulatory locus Zpr10/(22). Thus, the trans-acting factor encoded by Zpr10/(22) determines accumulation of 10 kDa zein at a translational or post-translational step. Multiple trans-acting factors are therefore involved in post-transcriptional regulation of the methionine-rich 10 kDa zein.
Accountability In A ‘Reinvented’ Government

Whether ‘reinvented’ government implies worker empowerment, increased managerial discretion, or decentralization, it is widely thought to mean diminished accountability. A two-dimensional typology (based on clarity of goals and certainty of cause-effect knowledge) of decision-making processes and their associated organizational structures is compared to Romzek and Dubnick’s typology of accountability relations. The article argues that accountability mechanisms can be matched to public problems and agency structures and that changes in perceptions concerning the nature of public problems is at the root of contemporary enthusiasm for non-hierarchical modes of organizing.
Effects of polychlormated biphenyls on dopamine release from PC 12 cells

In PC12 cells, Aroclor 1254 produced a concentration-dependent decrease in basal and K(+)-evoked dopamine (DA) release, and cellular DA levels. Aroclor 1254 did not alter the fraction of cellular DA released, suggesting that the decreased release of DA was solely due to decreased cellular levels of DA, and not to decreased packaging of DA or inhibition of neurotransmitter release. The coplanar congener 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl decreased cellular DA levels and release of DA at levels that produced cytotoxicity. Absent of any apparent cytotoxicity, the ortho-substituted PCB congeners 2,2',5,5'-tetrachlorobiphenyl, 2,2',3,3',4,4'-hexachlorobiphenyl, 2,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl, and 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl were effective in decreasing the amount of DA released from PC12 cells. These results suggest that ortho-chlorinated PCBs can cause decreased K(+)-evoked DA release through non-Ah receptor-mediated mechanisms. Furthermore, the PCB-mediated decrease in DA release was not due to impairment of DA packaging or release, but only due to decreased cellular DA levels.
Comparison of optical scattering experiments and the quasi-crystalline approximation for dense media

The fractional volume dependence of the extinction rate in dense media is studied. Results from optical scattering experiments are compared with the theoretical extinction rate calculated by independent-scattering theory and the quasi-crystalline approximation (QCA). QCA takes into account the coherent interaction among scatterers in the vicinity of each other, as weighted by a pair distribution function. QCA is shown to be in good agreement with experimental data.
Mitochondria: Ignition Chamber for Apoptosis

Apoptosis occurs in a wide variety of tissues in esponse to both physiologic triggers and pathologic nsults. Despite the wide range of inducing signals, here are some common features of the cell death rogram which have been the subject of intensive nvestigation and which are now becoming better nderstood. Three events that are recognized to ocur during most cases of apoptosis are cytolasmic acidification, mitochondrial dysfunction, nd caspase activation. Cytoplasmic acidification has been recognized to ccur during apoptosis in a variety of cell types and n response to a variety of stimuli (1). However, it is till unclear whether the acidification is due to inreased proton production or decreased proton elimnation. Nevertheless, cytoplasmic acidification may lay an important role in events regulating mitohondrial dysfunction as well as caspase activation, hus explaining its central position in Fig. 1. aspases are capable of undergoing autoprocessing t low pH, and Bax insertion into membranes deends upon low pH. The currently accepted model of the death mahinery is depicted in Fig. 1, in which two pathways ead to mitochondrial dysfunction and caspase actiation. In the first pathway, receptor-mediated sigals, such as Fas ligation or TNF binding to its eceptor, result in recruitment of adapter molecules hat share a death domain (2). The adapter moleules then recruit caspase 8 or 10, leading to proxs a d t 1 This work was supported in part by NIH R01 AG13501 and L61518. 2 Fax: (858) 784-7981. E-mail: robbieg@scripps.edu.
Overcoming the memory wall in packet processing: hammers or ladders?

Overhead of memory accesses limits the performance of packet processing applications. To overcome this bottleneck, today's network processors can utilize a wide-range of mechanisms - such as multi-level memory hierarchy, wide-word accesses, special-purpose result-caches, asynchronous memory, and hardware multi-threading. However, supporting all of these mechanisms complicates programmability and hardware design, and wastes system resources. In this paper, we address the following fundamental question: what minimal set of hardware mechanisms must a network processor support to achieve the twin goals of simplified programmability and high packet throughput? We show that no single mechanism sufficies; the minimal set must include data-caches and multi-threading. Data-caches and multi-threading are complementary; whereas data- caches exploit locality to reduce the number of context-switches and the off-chip memory bandwidth requirement, multi-threading exploits parallelism to hide long cache-miss latencies.
Malaria-Associated l-Arginine Deficiency Induces Mast Cell-Associated Disruption to Intestinal Barrier Defenses against Nontyphoidal Salmonella Bacteremia

ABSTRACT Coinfection with malaria and nontyphoidal Salmonella serotypes (NTS) can cause life-threatening bacteremia in humans. Coinfection with malaria is a recognized risk factor for invasive NTS, suggesting that malaria impairs intestinal barrier function. Here, we investigated mechanisms and strategies for prevention of coinfection pathology in a mouse model. Our findings reveal that malarial-parasite-infected mice, like humans, develop l-arginine deficiency, which is associated with intestinal mastocytosis, elevated levels of histamine, and enhanced intestinal permeability. Prevention or reversal of l-arginine deficiency blunts mastocytosis in ileal villi as well as bacterial translocation, measured as numbers of mesenteric lymph node CFU of noninvasive Escherichia coli Nissle and Salmonella enterica serotype Typhimurium, the latter of which is naturally invasive in mice. Dietary supplementation of malarial-parasite-infected mice with l-arginine or l-citrulline reduced levels of ileal transcripts encoding interleukin-4 (IL-4), a key mediator of intestinal mastocytosis and macromolecular permeability. Supplementation with l-citrulline also enhanced epithelial adherens and tight junctions in the ilea of coinfected mice. These data suggest that increasing l-arginine bioavailability via oral supplementation can ameliorate malaria-induced intestinal pathology, providing a basis for testing nutritional interventions to reduce malaria-associated mortality in humans.
Rattlesnake eggs and the passing of a torch in Winona County, Minnesota

Although rattlesnakes give birth to living young, the belief that they lay eggs persisted in the midwestern United States until the end of the nineteenth century. This is illustrated by the writings of two prominent chroniclers of natural history in early Winona, a Mississippi River town in southeastern Minnesota. Lafayette Bunnell's accounts of a massacre of timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) included statements that a large number of their eggs were also destroyed. The college professor John Holzinger, however, dissected a female rattlesnake to reveal late-term embryos and suggested that the eggs found in the vicinity of rattlesnakes were laid by other species of snakes that share their dens.
Seasonal variability of CO in the terrestrial mesosphere

Measurements were made of the J = 1 - 2 rotational transition of terrestrial mesospheric CO both in emission and in absorption against the moon on January 25-26, 1982. A CO mixing profile was obtained from the high signal-to-noise ratio emission spectrum. With the inclusion of these most recent spectra and spectra measured by Kunzi and Carlson (1982), further evidence is found suggesting seasonal variation of mesospheric CO as originally reported by Clancy et al. (1982). This seasonal variation may be the consequence of hemispheric circulation in the upper atmosphere.
Academic Careers and Gender Equity: Lessons Learned from MIT1

This article describes the experience at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology after the publication of its report A Study on the Status of Women Faculty in Science at MIT. It starts by describing aspects of the academic career that make it difficult for women, or anyone with responsibilities outside of their academic work. It then outlines three definitions of gender equity based on equality, fairness, and integration, and probes the reasons behind persisting inequities. The MIT results fit well into the first two definitions of gender equity, but fall short on the last. Finally, the article analyses the factors that came together at MIT to produce the outcome described and indicates the lessons learned and those still to be learned.
Laminin-5 Induces Osteogenic Gene Expression in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells through an ERK-dependent Pathway

The laminin family of proteins is critical for managing a variety of cellular activities including migration, adhesion, and differentiation. In bone, the roles of laminins in controlling osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) are unknown. We report here that laminin-5 is found in bone and expressed by hMSC. hMSC isolated from bone synthesize laminin-5 and adhere to exogenous laminin-5 through α3β1 integrin. Adhesion to laminin-5 activates extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) within 30 min and leads to phosphorylation of the osteogenic transcription factor Runx2/CBFA-1 within 8 d. Cells plated on laminin-5 for 16 d express increased levels of osteogenic marker genes, and those plated for 21 d deposit a mineralized matrix, indicative of osteogenic differentiation. Addition of the ERK inhibitor PD98059 mitigates these effects. We conclude that contact with laminin-5 is sufficient to activate ERK and to stimulate osteogenic differentiation in hMSC.
Schottky Junction Transistors for micropower RFICs

Results are presented from measurements and numerical simulations of Schottky Junction Transistors, a new type of micropower device capable of operating at GHz frequencies in the sub-threshold regime. Detailed measurements of the d.c. characteristics of a 2 /spl mu/m gate length device agree well with numerical simulations. Measurements of transconductance and gate capacitance suggest that this relatively long gate length device will have a cut-off frequency of 126 MHz, which is again consistent with the numerical simulations. When projected to gate lengths of 0.1 /spl mu/m cut-off frequencies in excess of 10 GHz are predicted for drain currents of less than 1 /spl mu/A//spl mu/m.