cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sustained Modeling‐Based Bone Formation During Adulthood in Cynomolgus Monkeys May Contribute to Continuous BMD Gains With Denosumab

Denosumab (DMAb) administration to postmenopausal women with osteoporosis is associated with continued bone mineral density (BMD) increases and low fracture incidence through 8 years, despite persistently reduced bone turnover markers and limited fluorochrome labeling in iliac crest bone biopsies. BMD increases were hypothesized to result from additional accrual of bone matrix via modeling-based bone formation—a hypothesis that was tested by examining fluorochrome labeling patterns in sections from ovariectomized (OVX) cynomolgus monkeys (cynos) treated with DMAb for 16 months. Mature OVX or Sham cynos were treated monthly with vehicle for 16 months, whereas other OVX cynos received monthly 25 or 50 mg/kg DMAb. DMAb groups exhibited very low serum bone resorption and formation biomarkers and near-absent fluorochrome labeling in proximal femur cancellous bone. Despite these reductions, femoral neck dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) BMD continued to rise in DMAb-treated cynos, from a 4.6% increase at month 6 to 9.8% above baseline at month 16. Further examination of cortical bone in the proximal femur demonstrated consistent and prominent labeling on the superior endocortex and the inferior periosteal surface, typically containing multiple superimposed labels from month 6 to 16 over smooth cement lines, consistent with continuous modeling-based bone formation. These findings were evident in all groups. Quantitative analysis at another modeling site, the ninth rib, demonstrated that DMAb did not alter the surface extent of modeling-based labels, or the cortical area bound by them, relative to OVX controls, while significantly reducing remodeling-based bone formation and eroded surface. This conservation of modeling-based formation occurred concomitantly with increased femoral neck strength and, when coupled with a reduction in remodeling-based bone loss, is likely to contribute to increases in bone mass with DMAb treatment. Thus, this study provides preclinical evidence for a potential mechanism that could contribute to the clinical observations of continued BMD increases and low fracture rates with long-term DMAb administration. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Computerized early feed restriction programs for various strains of broilers

Abstract Two trials were conducted with broiler chickens in a nested design of two feeding programs [ad libitum (AL) or restriction (R)] and two strains of chicks. The Trial 1 R program was 50% AL rate from 6 to 14 days of age fed to Strains A and B. The trial 2 R program was 65% AL rate from 8 to 14 days of age fed to Strain B and C. A computer-controlled feeding system was used to regulate the R program in each trial. Broilers on R programs exhibited compensatory growth at 21, 35, and 45 days of age equivalent to that of AL programs in both trials. Feed efficiency was not affected in Trial 1 by broilers fed R (1.68) versus AL (1.73) at 42 days but was significantly affected at 63 days (R = 2.15 and AL = 1.93). Trial 2 showed no significant effect of R (1.89) versus AL (2.01) on feed efficiency. Strain effects on carcass yield was determined only at 42 days in Trial 1. Feeding program did not affect percentage carcass fat (Trial 1) or abdominal fat pad size (Trial 2). Feed restriction did significantly improve percentage bone ash in Trial 2.
Social Isolation of Disadvantage and Advantage: The Reproduction of Inequality in Urban Space

In this article, we extend research on neighborhood social isolation by (1) examining residents of disadvantaged and advantaged communities and (2) considering the character of neighborhoods where people conduct routine activities away from home. We contend that social isolation is experienced by residents of both highly disadvantaged and highly advantaged neighborhoods because the two groups spend time in largely nonoverlapping parts of the city. Individual and neighborhood race-ethnic dynamics exacerbate such social isolation. Data from the Los Angeles Family and Neighborhood Survey show that social isolation is experienced by residents of all areas of the city, whether highly disadvantaged or advantaged. African Americans, Latinos and residents of areas with many Latinos suffer additional penalties in the social isolation of disadvantage in where they conduct routine activities.
On the variational characterization and convergence of bivariate splines

It is shown that bivariate interpolatory splines defined on a rectangleR can be characterized as being unique solutions to certain variational problems. This variational property is used to prove the uniform convergence of bivariate polynomial splines interpolating moderately smooth functions at data which includes interpolation to values on a rectangular grid. These results are then extended to bivariate splines defined on anL-shaped region.
Natural hydrocarbons, urbanization, and urban ozone

The combined effects of emission control and urbanization, with its concomitant intensification of the urban heat island, on urban ozone concentrations are studied. The effect of temperature on ozone is considered, and attention is given to the temperature effect on ozone photochemistry. Model calculations suggest that ozone concentration enhancements are caused by the effect of temperature on the atmospheric chemistry of peroxyacetyl nitrate, as well as the temperature dependence of natural and anthropogenic hydrocarbon emissions. It is pointed out that, because of the sensitivity of urban ozone to local climatic conditions and the ability of trees to moderate summertime temperatures, the inadvertent removal of trees from urbanization can have an adverse effect on urban ozone concentration, while a temperature increase in the urban heat island caused by urbanization can essentially cancel out the ozone-reducing benefits obtained from a 50-percent reduction in anthropogenic hydrocarbon emissions.
Clean high-energy density renewable power generation systems with soft-switching sliding mode control laws

This paper reports the design, analysis, evaluation and characterization of closed-loop clean renewable power generation systems. For the aforementioned multi-input/multi-output systems, we design proportional-integral and soft-switching sliding mode control laws to guarantee: (1) Efficient mechanical-to-electrical, electrical-to-electrical and electrical-to-chemical energy conversions; (2) Enabling windor hydro-energy harvesting capabilities; (3) Optimal dynamics, robustness and stability. The prototypes of portable high-energy-density power systems were tested, characterized and evaluated. We advanced energy sources, enabled electric machinery, and improved power electronics solutions. Linear and nonlinear control algorithms were designed, implemented, and verified. The developed closed-loop clean power generation systems were tested in enhanced operating envelopes. These scalable systems can be used as mini-scale, light- and medium-duty auxiliary, portable and self-sustained power systems in various applications, such as, aerospace, automotive, biotechnology, biomedical, communication, marine, robotics, etc.
Phase Transfer Catalysis: Reaction of 4-Bromopyridine with Cyclic Secondary Amines

Abstract Our interest in the acylation of alcohols lead us to investigate the use of substituted amino-pyridines as catalyst1 for the acylation reaction. Since a literature search2–5 revealed that the available procedures required the use of expensive starting materials, high temperatures, and long reaction times to obtain moderate yields of product, we investigated the applicability of phase transfer catalysis to the alkylation of several cyclic secondary amines with halopyridines. Although the alkylation of hydroxyl, thiol and amino groups using phase transfer catalyst6 is not unique, there are few examples available of the alkylation of amino groups by halogenated aromatics. We report here the alkylation of several secondary cyclic amines with 4-bromopyridine hydrochloride employing benzyltriethylammonium bromide as the phase transfer catalyst. The resulting crystalline products are powerful catalyst for the acylation of cholesterol and of
Effects of Post-Mortem Wing Restraint on the Development of Rigor and Tenderness of Broiler Breast Meat

Abstract Treatments of wing restraint (WR) were applied to broiler carcasses immediately after picking in an attempt to increase tension in the pectoralis (p.) major and restrict muscle shortening during rigor development. In the course of the study, the time allowed for aging prior to deboning of the breast meat was decreased from 4 h to 2 h post-mortem, and the effect on tenderness was determined. Results of deboning at 4 h indicated significantly longer sarcomere lengths for the p. major of wing-restrained carcasses, but shear values of the meat were not decreased. A second experiment tested a modification of the WR, combining a 3-h tie with a “release” interval of 1 h. This treatment combination resulted in higher lactate contents at 4 h, longer sarcomeres, and lower shear values than those of earlydeboned muscles without WR. A modified-WR in abbreviated schemes of deboning at 3 h and 2 h, respectively, resulted in a slight acceleration of post-mortem metabolism in p. major muscles of the WR treatment, a significant increase in sarcomere lengths, and a reduction in the meat toughening associated with early post-mortem deboning. In all of the experiments, WR resulted in significantly reduced sarcomere lengths and toughened meat in the p. minor muscle, consistent with the expected effect of treatment on opposing muscle.
Fibronectin-Binding Domain of P.gingivalis Fimbriae

P. gingivalis fimbriae play an important role in attachment of bacteria to various salivary components as well as to host cells and matrix proteins including fibronectin. In the present study, we investigated the binding domain of P. gingivalis fimbriae to fibronectin using synthetic peptides. A series of 20 mer fimbrillin peptides were used. Binding of fibronectin to purified fimbriae and synthetic peptides was assayed using polyclonal fibronectin antibodies as well as iodinated fibronectin. Purified fimbriae and peptide 126-146 (RMAFTEIKVQMSAAYDNIYTF) showed high levels of binding to fibronectin, while peptide 318-337(HLNVQCTVAEWVLVGQNATW) showed low but statistically significant binding. Our results suggest V-Q-X-X-X-A or V-X-X-X A common domain/domains present in both peptides might be involved in protein-protein interaction between P. gingivalis fimbriae and fibronectin.
Secondary Education Systemic Issues: Addressing Possible Contributors to a Leak in the Science Education Pipeline and Potential Solutions

To maintain the legacy of cutting edge scientific innovation in the United States our country must address the many pressing issues facing science education today. One of the most important issues relating to science education is the under-representation of African Americans and Hispanics in the science, technology, and engineering workforce. Foreshadowing such under-representation in the workforce are the disproportionately low rates of African American and Hispanic students attaining college degrees in science and related fields. Evidence suggests disparate systemic factors in secondary science education are contributing to disproportionately low numbers of African American and Hispanic students in the science education pipeline. The present paper embarks on a critical analysis of the issue by elucidating some of the systemic factors within secondary education that contribute to the leak in the science education pipeline. In addition, this review offers a synthesis and explication of some of the policies and programs being implemented to address disparate systemic factors in secondary schools. Finally, recommendations are offered regarding potential mechanisms by which disparities may be alleviated.
Novel heavy flavour suppression mechanisms in the QGP

We revisit the question of the measured, unexpectedly large, heavy flavour suppression, RAA(pT) 1, in nucleus?nucleus collisions at RHIC and compare two new theoretical approaches to the D- and B-meson quenching. In the first model, radiative energy loss, collisional energy loss and heavy quark?resonance interactions are combined to evaluate the drag and diffusion coefficients in the quark?gluon plasma and the mixed phase. These are applied in a relativistic Fokker?Planck equation to simulate the heavy c- and b-quark suppression rate and elliptic flow v2(pT). In the second model, the fragmentation probability for heavy quarks and the medium-induced decay probability for heavy hadrons are derived. These are implemented in a set of coupled rate equations that describe the attenuation of the observable spectra from the collisional dissociation of heavy mesons in the QGP. An improved description of the non-photonic electron RAA(pT) at RHIC can be obtained. In contrast to previous results, the latter approach predicts suppression of B-mesons comparable to that of D-mesons at transverse momenta as low as pT ~ 10 GeV.
Bibliographic challenges in historical context: looking back to 1982

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to reflect on the state of bibliographic access.Design/methodology/approach – The article contrasts today's bibliographic challenges with those of 25 years ago.Findings – The article suggests many of the inadequacies that existed in the past will persist into the future.Originality/value – The article provides a means of viewing today's bibliographic environment in historical context.
Distance-Dependent Metal-Enhanced Intrinsic Fluorescence of Proteins Using Polyelectrolyte Layer-by-Layer Assembly and Aluminum Nanoparticles

Previously reported studies indicate that aluminum nanostructured substrates can potentially find widespread use in metal-enhanced fluorescence (MEF) applications particularly in the UV or near-UV spectral region toward label-free detection of biomolecules. MEF largely depends on several factors, such as chemical nature, size, shape of the nanostructure and its distance from the fluorophore. A detailed understanding of the MEF and its distance-dependence are important for its potential application in biomedical sensing. Our goal is to utilize intrinsic protein fluorescence for label-free binding assays. This is made possible by the use of metallic nanostructures which provide localized excitation and enhanced fluorescence of UV fluorophores and will also provide a way to separate the surface-bound proteins from the bulk samples. We evaluated varied probe distances from plasmonic nanostructures by the well-established layer-by-layer (LbL) technique. The investigated proteins were adsorbed on different numb...
Ketoconazole-induced fulminant hepatitis necessitating liver transplantation

The most serious side effect of ketoconazole is hepatitis, which has proved fatal in seven reported cases. We present a case of fuhninant hepatic failure in a 45-year-old Oriental woman that probably would have been fatal except for a successful liver transplant, A review of the literature of fatalities associated with ketoconazole is presented.
Recent climate cycles on Mars: Stratigraphic relationships between multiple generations of gullies and the latitude dependent mantle

Reconstructions of the orbital parameters of Mars spanning the last ∼20 Myr, combined with global circulation models, predict multiple cycles of accumulation and degradation of an ice-rich mantle in the mid-latitudes, driven primarily by insolation at the poles during periods when obliquity was more than ten degrees greater than it is today (i.e., >∼35°). While evidence of an ice-rich “latitude dependent mantle” (LDM) consistent with these predictions is abundant, features indicative of cycles of emplacement and degradation of this unit are isolated and rare. In addition, fundamental physical properties of the LDM, such as paleo-thickness maxima, have not been determined. Gullies, which are sinuous channels found on steep slopes in mid- and high-latitudes, interact with the LDM and provide a stratigraphic feature useful for documenting both cyclical emplacement/removal and thickness estimates in past climate regimes. In the southern hemisphere, where gullies are most common, we present extensive evidence of (1) cyclical degradation and removal of gullies in the lower mid-latitudes (30–40°S), and (2) burial and exhumation of inverted gully channels in the transitional latitude band between dissected and preserved LDM (40–50°S), which can only be accounted for if an additional tens of meters of LDM were present at these locations during channel formation. These relationships support a model in which end-to-end gully evolution is controlled by the behavior of the LDM: at lower latitudes, gullies incise an ice-rich substrate and are removed when that ice becomes unstable, and at higher latitudes gullies are buried by successive emplacement of LDM where ice remains stable near the surface. Further, the presence of dormant buried gullies implies that present-day activity within gullies, likely to be controlled by the behavior of CO_2 frost, is insufficient to explain the entire gully population, and that conditions conducive to increased gully activity preceded the most recent phase of LDM emplacement.
Stability of Sex Role and Play Interests from Preschool to Elementary School

Thirty-six children who had participated in two separate preschool studies of play interests were given an interest questionnaire when in elementary school. Sex differences in interests were studied with both age groups, with both sexes showing more varied interests in elementary school than they had in preschool. There was a significant correlation between preschool and elementary school masculinity-feminity scores for boys but not for girls. The implications of the broadening of interest patterns for both sexes and the lack of significant sex role correlations for girls were discussed in terms of changing sex role standards.
Impaired Proliferative Response to B-Lymphocyte Activators in Common Variable Immunodeficiency

The cell-mediated immune responses of 39 patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVI) were studied in vitro, using Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli prepared as whole cells and Candida albicans extract. These microbial activators wee found to require intact B-lymphocyte function for normal proliferative response. The patient group was observed to have significantly depressed lymphocyte responses compared wit those of controls studied in parallel (P less than 0.01). Negative lymphocyte response to one activator and strongly positive response to another were found in individual patients. Examination of patients' lymphocyte response to S. aureus and E. coli in association with serum IgG levels demonstrated that a rough correlation could be drawn, showing that patients with serum IgG less than 125 mg/dl had markedly lower (P less than 0.01) lymphocyte responses than those with serum IgG greater than 300 mg/dl. No similar correlation with phytohaemagglutinin activation was observed. Since depressed lymphocyte responses did not correlate with reduced B-cell number in these patients, intrinsic B-lymphocyte deficiency was indicated. These preparations of microbial activators are potentially useful tools in exploring lymphocyte subpopulation functions in primary immunodeficiency diseases.
Synthesis, spectroscopic, and structural investigation of ytterbium potassium hexacyanoferrate (II), YbKFe(CN)6 · 3.5H2O

Single crystals of the title compound are prepared by the U-tube slow diffusion method. The orthorhombic form of YbKFe(CN){sub 6} {center dot} 3.5H{sub 2}O crystallizes in space group Cmcm No. 63, D{sub 2h}{sup 17} with a = 7.186(3), b = 12.544(2), c = 13.433(3) {angstrom}, Z = 4, D{sub m} = 2.6(1) Mg m{sup {minus}3}, and D{sub x} = 2.67 Mg m{sup {minus}3}. The lattice constants were obtained from powder diffraction data, F(34) = 24(0.013, 106) and M20 = 22.0. The final least-squares full-matrix refinement based on 1,316 unique reflections has yielded R = 0.041 and R{sub w} = 0.046. Cyanide bridges link the nine-coordinated (TTP) YbN{sub 6}(H{sub 2}O){sub 3} groups to the octahedral FeC{sub 6} groups. Cavities within the structure are occupied by uncoordinated zeolitic water molecules and potassium ions. Important mean bond lengths are: Yb-N = 2.337; Yb-O = 2.467; Fe-C = 1.891; and C{triple bond}N = 1.155 {angstrom}.
Transplantation of porcine umbilical cord matrix cells into the rat brain

Immune rejection of transplanted material is a potential complication of organ donation. In response to tissue transplantation, immune rejection has two components: a host defense directed against the grafted tissue and an immune response from the grafted tissue against the host (graft vs host disease). To treat immune rejection, transplant recipients are typically put on immunosuppression therapy. Complications may arise from immune suppression or from secondary effects of immunosuppression drugs. Our preliminary work indicated that stem cells may be xenotransplanted without immunosuppression therapy. Here, we investigated the survival of pig stem cells derived from umbilical cord mucous connective tissue (UCM) after transplantation into rats. Our data demonstrate that UCM cells survive at least 6 weeks without immune suppression of the host animals after transplantation into either the brain or the periphery. In the first experiment, UCM cells were transplanted into the rat brain and recovered in that tissue 2-6 weeks posttransplantation. At 4 weeks posttransplantation, the UCM cells engrafted into the brain along the injection tract. The cells were small and roughly spherical. The transplanted cells were positively immunostained using a pig-specific antibody for neuronal filament 70 (NF70). In contrast, 6 weeks posttransplantation, about 10% of the UCM cells that were recovered had migrated away from the injection site into the region just ventral to the corpus callosum; these cells also stained positively for NF70. In our second experiment, UCM cells that were engineered to constitutively express enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) were transplanted. These cells were recovered 2-4 weeks after brain transplantation. Engrafted cells expressing eGFP and positively staining for NF70 were recovered. This finding indicates a potential for gene therapy. In the third experiment, to determine whether depositing the graft into the brain protected UCM cells from immune detection/clearance, UCM cells were injected into the tail vein and/or the semitendinosis muscle in a group of animals. UCM cells were recovered from the muscle or within the kidney 3 weeks posttransplantation. In control experiments, rat brains were injected with PKH 26-labeled UCM cells that had been lysed by repeated sonic disruption. One and 2 weeks following injection, no PKH 26-labeled neurons or glia were observed. Taken together, these data indicate that UCM cells can survive xenotransplantation and that a subset of the UCM cells respond to local signals to differentiate along a neural lineage.
Behavior Therapy for Chronically Depressed Patients: A Clinical Report:

Two depressed subjects from the treatment group of a study reported elsewhere are described. The rationale for a comprehensive, behaviorally-oriented treatment approach to depression is discussed. Background information, details of the treatment program, and response to treatment are presented for the two representative subjects, one who improved and one who did not. Differential responses to treatment by the two subjects are discussed. Length of treatment, therapist's competence at implementing the treatment program and maintenance, and generalization issues are considered.
A Graphical Introduction to Survey Adjustment

It is important that cartographers, and others who use geographic information, understand the procedures used to adjust empirical measurements made for the purpose of specifying locations. Two new graphical interpretations of reconciling distance or directional observations are presented in this paper. These graphics are consistent with standard practice, but treat the problems in a somewhat more general, non-mathematical manner, facilitating understanding. An example is given using driving distances to obtain a map configuration for points in the United States. Une introduction graphique a la compensation des leves Il est important que les cartographes et tout autre usager d'information geographique comprennent les procedures utilisees pour compenser les mesures empiriques effectuees pour determiner des positions. Cet article presente deux nouvelles interpretations graphiques pour reconcilier les observations de distances et de directions. Ces graphiques respectent la pratique courante mais traitent les ...
HIGHER EDUCATION AND CRIMINAL OFFENDING OVER THE LIFE COURSE

Educational attainment and school bonding are established predictors of delinquent behavior. In spite of an abundance of research on the relationship between education and delinquency, there is little research that examines the impact of education on stability and change in criminal offending over the life course. This dearth of research is surprising given the increasing significance of post-secondary education in contemporary society and the prominence of the life course approach in the study of crime. The current study uses seven waves of data from the National Youth Survey to examine the impact of higher education on criminal offending over the life course. Findings indicate that college attendance and investment in higher education are negatively associated with criminal offending in adulthood. In addition, the protective effect of higher education is stronger for individuals who were more delinquent during adolescence. Study limitations and future research needs are discussed.
Cutaneous manifestations in patients with essential thrombocythemia

Abstract In a retrospective study of 268 patients with essential thrombocythemia, related cutaneous manifestations were found in 58 (22%). In 27 cases ( 10%) the related skin lesions were present at the time of the primary diagnosis of essential thrombocythemia. Hematomas, ecchymoses, petechiae, or purpura occurred in 24 (41%) of the 58 patients. Fifteen patients (26%) had erythromelalgia, in 11 of whom it was the initial complaint. Livedo reticularis, recurrent superficial thrombophlebitis, ischemic complications with gangrene, leg ulcers, or ulcers on the toes were other manifestations. Urticaria occurred in two patients, and Raynauďs phenomenon and necrotizing vasculitis were each observed in one patient. Platelet function may be abnormal, and this was found in 13 of 19 patients studied, 9 of whom had spontaneous platelet aggregation. Knowledge of the cutaneous manifestations in essential thrombocythemia may lead to its earlier detection. Prompt diagnosis of essential thrombocythemia is important because treatment may prevent severe hemorrhagic or thrombotic events.
Toxoplasma gondii: Purine synthesis and salvage in mutant host cells and parasites

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii , growing exponentially in heavily infected mutant Chinese hamster ovary cells that had a defined defect in purine biosynthesis, did not incorporate [U- 14 C]glucose or [ 14 C]formate into the guanine or adenine of nucleic acids. Intracellular parasites therefore must be incapable of synthesizing purines and depend on their host cells for them. Extracellular parasites, which are capable of limited DNA and RNA synthesis, efficiently incorporated adenosine nucleotides, adenosine, inosine, and hypoxanthine into their nucleic acids; adenosine 5′-monophosphate was the best utilized precursor. Extracellular parasites incubated with ATP labeled with 3 H in the purine base and 32 P in the α-phosphate incorporated the purine ring 50-fold more efficiently than they did the α-phosphate. Thus, ATP is largely degraded to adenosine before it can be used by T. gondii for nucleic acid synthesis. Two pathways for the conversion of adenosine to nucleotides appear to exist, one involving adenosine kinase, the other hypoxanthine—guanine phosphoribosyl transferase. In adenosine kinase-less mutant parasites, the efficiency of incorporation of ATP or adenosine was reduced by 75%, which indicates the adenosine kinase pathway was predominant. Extracellular parasites incorporated ATP into both the adenine and the guanine of their nucleic acids, so ATP from the host cell could supply the entire purine requirement of T. gondii . However, ATP generated by oxidative phosphorylation in the host cell is not essential for parasites because they grew normally in a cell mutant that was deficient in aerobic respiration and almost completely dependent upon glycolysis.
Collector-base junction avalanche effects in advanced double-poly self-aligned bipolar transistors

Observation of base-current reversal induced by avalanche multiplication is reported in advanced self-aligned bipolar devices at a collector junction reverse bias less than 3 V. Temperature measurements were carried out to verify the avalanche mechanism, and the dependence on the collector doping profile and high-level injection effects was investigated both experimentally and by numerical simulations. The avalanche effect, which is expected to aggravate with scaling, will eventually threaten normal circuit operation if certain criteria for base-collector reverse bias cannot be maintained. >
Papillectomy for ampullary neoplasm: results of a single referral center over a 10-year period

Background Tumors arising from the duodenal papilla account for approximately 5% of GI neoplasms, but are increasingly identified. Objective To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes in a large single-center experience with patients referred for ampullary lesions. Design A retrospective review of the Virginia Mason Medical Center endoscopy and hospital service database. Setting Tertiary referral center. Patients One hundred ninety-three patients referred for ampullary lesions from 1997 to 2007. Interventions Endoscopic management of ampullary lesions. Main Outcome Measurements The relationship of demographic and clinical data with endoscopic treatment and clinical outcomes in these patients. Results One hundred ninety-three patients underwent endoscopy for ampullary lesions. Fifteen juxta-ampullary lesions and 10 normal variants were excluded. Among 168 patients, there were 112 (67%) adenomas, 38 (23%) adenocarcinomas, and 18 (10%) nonadenomatous lesions. There were 88 men and 80 women, with a mean age of 64 years. Clinical presentation included cholestasis/cholangitis (72 patients), abdominal pain (54 patients), incidental/asymptomatic (51 patients), pancreatitis (9 patients), and bleeding (7 patients). Of the 57 patients referred to surgery, 42 were sent directly without papillectomy, and 16 were sent after papillectomy. Papillectomies were performed in 102 patients with adenomatous lesions. The mean tumor size was 2.4 cm (range 0.5-6 cm). The papillectomy complication rate was 21%: mild pancreatitis in 10 (10%) patients, cholangitis in 1, retroperitoneal perforation in 1 (adenocarcinoma), intraperitoneal perforation in 1 (lateral extension), bleeding in 5 (lateral extension in 2 of these 5), and delayed papillary stenosis in 3. Recurrences were seen in 8%. The endoscopic success rate was 84%. Factors affecting success were a smaller adenoma size and the absence of dilated ducts. Conclusions Most ampullary adenomas are amenable to endoscopy. Underlying malignancy and lateral extension may be risk factors for bleeding and perforation. Smaller lesion size and the absence of dilated ducts are factors favorably affecting success.
Information Theory and Dynamical System Predictability

Predicting the future state of a turbulent dynamical system such as the atmosphere has been recognized for several decades to be an essentially statistical undertaking. Uncertainties from a variety of sources are magnified by dynamical mechanisms and given sufficient time, compromise any prediction. In the last decade or so this process of uncertainty evolution has been studied using a variety of tools from information theory. These provide both a conceptually general view of the problem as well as a way of probing its non-linearity. Here we review these advances from both a theoretical and practical perspective. Connections with other theoretical areas such as statistical mechanics are emphasized. The importance of obtaining practical results for prediction also guides the development presented.
The “missing link” in autoimmunity and autism: Extracellular mitochondrial components secreted from activated live mast cells

Autoimmune diseases continue to increase, but the reason(s) remain obscure and infections have not proven to be major contributors. Mast cells are tissue immune cells responsible for allergies, but have been increasingly shown to be involved in innate and acquired immunity, as well as inflammation. This involvement is possible because of their ability to release multiple mediators in response to a great variety of triggers. We recently published that activation of mast cells is accompanied by mitochondrial fission and translocation to the cell surface from where they secrete at least ATP and DNA outside the cell without cell damage. These extracellular mitochondrial components are misconstrued by the body as "innate pathogens" leading to powerful autocrine and paracrine auto-immune/auto-inflammatory responses. We also showed that mitochondrial DNA is increased in the serum of young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a condition that could involve "focal brain allergy/encephalitits". Blocking the secretion of extracellular mitochondrial components could present unique possibilities for the therapy of ASD and other autoimmune diseases. Unique formulation of the flavonoid luteolin offers unique advantages.
Decreased IH in hippocampal area CA1 pyramidal neurons after perinatal seizure-inducing hypoxia.

Summary: Purpose: The hyperpolarization-activated cation current (IH) has been proposed to play a role in some forms of epileptogenesis, as it critically regulates synaptic integration and intrinsic excitability of principal limbic neurons and can be pathologically altered after experimentally induced seizures. In hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, IH is functionally decreased after kainate-induced status epilepticus in adult rats but is increased after hyperthermia-induced seizures in immature rat pups. This study aimed to determine whether and how IH may be altered in CA1 pyramidal neurons after seizure-inducing global hypoxia in the neonatal brain. Methods: Seizures were induced in rat pups on postnatal day 10 by 14- to 16-min exposure to 5–7% O2. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were obtained from hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons in slices 30 min to 3 days after hypoxia treatment, and from control age-matched littermates. IH was isolated under voltage-clamp by subtracting current responses to hyperpolarizing voltage steps before and during application of the IH blocker ZD 7288 (100 μM). Results: IH was significantly decreased in pyramidal neurons from the hypoxia-treated group compared with controls (p < 0.001; 19 controls; 15 hypoxia). Analyses of tail currents and activation kinetics indicated no statistically significant differences between groups in the voltage dependence or time constants of activation. Conclusions: These data indicate that a single episode of neonatal hypoxia that induces seizures can persistently decrease IH in CA1 pyramidal neurons, raising this as a potential contributing mechanism to epileptogenesis in this setting. Our findings further indicate that the consequences of seizures for IH may depend more on seizure etiology than on maturational stage.
Virulence of select entomopathogenic fungi to the brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae).

The brown marmorated stink bug. Halyomorpha halys, (BMSB) is an exotic pest causing damage to fruits and vegetables. They also transmit diseases. Integrated pest management strategies are lacking for this invasive. For the first time, information is presented on the virulence of several entomopathogenic fungi against BMSB. Three Beauveria bassiana and two Metarhizium anispoliae isolates were bioassayed against adult BMSB. One B. bassiana isolate was the active ingredient in BotaniGard® which produced 85 and 100% mortality in 9 and 12 days post treatment, respectively. Experimental isolates ERL 1170 and ERL 1540 were also efficacious. Metarhizium anispoliae isolates produced lower mortalities than the B. bassiana isolates. Data presented showed the potential for management of BMSB with entomopathogenic fungi. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Photographs of Fertilization in Trichonympha grandis

SYNOPSIS. The gametes of Trichonympha grandis fuse quite differently from those of all the other species of Trichonympha in Cryptocercus; fusion is partial and temporary instead of complete and permanent as in other species. In this species, as in the others, fusion brings about the disintegration of all the extranuclear organelles of the male gamete, but none of those of the female; these persist to become the organelles of the zygote. Gametic union accomplishes two things: loss of extranuclear organelles of male and fusion of pronuclei. Unlike that of the other species of Trichonympha, the cytoplasm of the male gamete of T. grandis contributes slightly, if at all, to the formation of the zygote.
Stress-like adrenocorticotropin responses to caffeine in young healthy men

The effects of oral caffeine (3.3 mg/kg, equivalent to 2-3 cups of coffee) on plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and cortisol (CORT) were tested in 47 healthy young men at rest in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Following caffeine, ACTH was significantly elevated at all times from 30 min to 180 min, and CORT was elevated from 60 min to 120 min (Fs > or = 8.4, ps < 0.01). Peak increases relative to placebo were: ACTH, 33% (+5.2 pg/ml) and CORT, 30% (+2.7 micrograms/dl) at 60 min postcaffeine. The results suggest that caffeine can activate important components of the pituitary-adrenocortical response in humans during the resting state. Caffeine's known ability to increase CORT production appears at least partly due to an increase in ACTH release at the pituitary.
Mononeuropathies in pregnancy.

Abstract While signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may appear to be similar among all patients, further evaluation both at the bedside and beyond demonstrate distinct differences in the pattern of certain neuropathies. A working knowledge of these differences and of the available tools to distinguish them is quite useful to the clinician. This chapter provides an overview of the distinction among various neuropathy profiles. Focal neuropathies may occur from compression or from entrapment. Neurologic examination aids in anatomic localization, which further refines and directs electrodiagnostic and ultrasound testing. Subsequent therapeutic approaches vary depending on the location of the focal neuropathy. Focal neuropathy may occur outside of pregnancy but the outcome is more predictable in this situation.
Ultrasound demonstration of vascularity changes with changes in pain perception in a stump neuroma.

Background Pain in the residual limb after an amputation has posed many challenges in treatment. Ultrasound (US) imaging has helped in the visualization of neuroma and its selective targeting for interventions. Objective A 58-year-old man presented to the pain clinic with chronic stump pain after a below knee amputation during the Vietnam war. After multiple similar steroid injections around the area of pain in the following months, we decided to use the US to better target the stump neuroma. Color flow Doppler showed extensive vascularity around the posterior aspect of the neuroma where there was scar tissue. During a follow-up visit for intra-articular steroid injection to the L5-S1 left lumbar facet for coincidental lumbar facet arthropathy, an US scan of the stump neuroma with color flow Doppler was performed out of curiosity. Multiple US views of the neuroma with color flow Doppler was performed and all showed a significant decrease in vascularity. Similar absence of vascularity was noted after a spinal cord stimulator placement. Conclusion This is a case report of US demonstration of increased vascularity in a stump neuroma coinciding with the patient's pain. This serendipitous demonstration makes the need for US visualization useful in the evaluation of neuroma. It is also useful to use US guidance to avoid the vascular structures when testing the beneficial response to various medications. Larger randomized controlled studies are needed to further correlate the US demonstration of vascularity and neuroma pain.
An assimilated dataset for Earth science applications

The Data Assimilation Office at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center is currently producing a multiyear gridded global atmospheric dataset for use in climate research, including tropospheric chemistry applications. The data, which are being made available to the scientific community, are well suited for climate research since they are produced by a fixed assimilation system designed to minimize the spinup in the hydrological cycle. By using a nonvarying system, the variability due to algorithm change is eliminated and geophysical variability can be more confidently isolated. The analysis incorporates rawinsonde reports, satellite retrievals of geopotential thickness, cloud-motion winds, and aircraft, ship, and rocketsonde reports. At the lower boundary, the assimilating atmospheric general circulation model is constrained by the observed sea surface temperature and soil moisture derived from observed surface air temperature and precipitation fields. The available output data include all prognostic variables...
Positron reemission brightness enhancement method

Numerical results are presented for a one-dimensional diffusion model for freely diffusing positrons in thin films with an initial exponential positron profile. The results are for two boundary conditions which are experimentally realizable. Since thermalized positrons generally obey this diffusion model, it should be possible to extract the bulk diffusion constant by fitting experimental measurements to the model's predictions. Recently, a scheme has been proposed for the brightness enhancement of slow positron beams. We discuss experimental methods for implementing this scheme and the various problems that may arise.
Extremal vectors and rectifiability

The concept of extremal vectors of a linear operator with a dense range but not onto on a Hilbert space was introduced by P. Enflo in 1996 as a new approach to study invariant subspaces. Following this, there were several studies on analytic and geometric properties of backward minimal vectors and their applications to construction of invariant subspaces. In this paper, we consider one other property: rectifiability . We show that in general curves that map numbers to backward minimal vectors are not rectifiable. Quaestiones Mathematicae 34(2011), 119-123
LETHAL ALLELES NEAR LOCUS T IN HOUSE MOUSE POPULATIONS ON THE JUTLAND PENINSULA, DENMARK.

Polymorphism for lethal or semi-lethal alleles near locus T (linkage group IX) appears to be the rule in North American populations of Mus musculus (Dunn, 1964). Since American populations of this commensal species are presumably descended from migrants from Europe, it is of interest to inquire concerning the state of the Tregion in European populations. Through the kindness of Professor Robert K. Selander we have been able to test some members of each of several Danish populations of Mus. These came from the populations which Selander et al. (1969) had found to be polymorphic for a number of different proteins. After their protein determinations had been made they sent to us (February 5, 1970) some 150 living specimens or descendants of mice captured in 1968 on farms in the Jutland peninsula and nearby islands. For details of the location and description of the Jutland Mus populations the publication of Selander et al. (1969) should be consulted. We were able to observe progenies from 41 males in test matings with females of our Brachy (T/?) stock. The results are shown in Table 1. Seven males produced tailless offspring in addition to the Brachy and normal offspring expected from matings of T/+ x +/+. These males each transmitted an allele interacting with T to produce a tailless phenotype. Such alleles (like the talleles in North American Mus populations) were transmitted by each male in high ratios rangingo from 0.81 to 1.00, with the
Identification of low-level point radioactive sources using a sensor network

Identification of a low-level point radioactive source amidst background radiation is achieved by a network of radiation sensors using a two-step approach. Based on measurements from three or more sensors, a geometric difference triangulation method or an N-sensor localization method is used to estimate the location and strength of the source. Then a sequential probability ratio test based on current measurements and estimated parameters is employed to finally decide: (1) the presence of a source with the estimated parameters, or (2) the absence of the source, or (3) the insufficiency of measurements to make a decision. This method achieves specified levels of false alarm and missed detection probabilities, while ensuring a close-to-minimal number of measurements for reaching a decision. This method minimizes the ghost-source problem of current estimation methods, and achieves a lower false alarm rate compared with current detection methods. This method is tested and demonstrated using: (1) simulations, and (2) a test-bed that utilizes the scaling properties of point radioactive sources to emulate high intensity ones that cannot be easily and safely handled in laboratory experiments.