cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incidental testicular irradiation from prostate IMRT: it all adds up.

Purpose To identify the technical aspects of image-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for localized prostate cancer that could result in a clinically meaningful incidental dose to the testes. Methods and Materials We examined three sources that contribute incidental dose to the testes, namely, from internal photon scattering from IMRT small field and large pelvic nodal fields with 6 or 15 MV, from neutrons when >10-MV photons are used, and from daily image-guided fiducial-based portal imaging. Using clinical data from 10 patients who received IMRT for prostate cancer, and thermo-luminescent dosimeter measurements in phantom, we estimated the dose to the testes from each of these sources. Results A mean testicular dose of 172 and 220 cGy results from internal photon scatter for pelvic nodal fields and 68 and 93 cGy for prostate-only fields, for 6- and 15-MV energies, respectively. For 15-MV photon energies, the mean testicular dose from neutrons is 60 cGy for pelvic fields and 31 cGy for prostate-only fields. From daily portal MV image guidance, the testes-in-field mean dose is 350 cGy, whereas the testes-out-of-field scatter dose is 16 cGy. Dosimetric comparisons between IMRT using 6-MV and 15-MV photon energies are not significantly different. Worst-case scenarios can potentially deliver cumulative incidental mean testicular doses of 630 cGy, whereas best-case scenarios can deliver only 84 cGy. Conclusions Incidental dose to the testes from prostate IMRT can be minimized by opting to restrict the use of elective pelvic nodal fields, by choosing photon energies
Lecythis pisonis Camb. nuts: oil characterization, fatty acids and minerals

Abstract The lipid content, the acid value, refractive and iodine indexes, the oil fatty acids profile as well as the concentration of inorganic elements contained in the Lecythis pisonis Camb. (Lecythidaceae) nuts were determined. The samples came from four different regions in Sao Paulo State, Brazil. The samples showed a high lipid content (34.2 to 61.3%) that presented a fatty acid profile, an iodine value and an index of refraction equivalent to the corn oils. Among the macronutrients, high levels of P (5.2 to 6.2 mg g−1) and Sn (69.1 to 77.0 μg g−1) were observed in all the nuts. High levels of Pb (3.3 to 3.8 μg g−1), Cu (2.9 to 3.3 μg g−1), Zn (2.6 to 3.8 μg g−1) and Mn (4.0 to 11.6 μg g−1) were found. It is evidence of a possible toxicity and it could compromise the use of the L. pisonis nuts for human consumption. ©
Death by Deamination: A Novel Host Restriction System for HIV-1

A human gene with potent antiretroviral activity has recently been found to encode a new member of the family of cytidine deaminases, previously known to be involved in mRNA editing, immunoglobulin gene class switching, and immunoglobulin gene hypermutation. The enzyme attacks viral DNA as it is synthesized in infected cells and prevents the formation of functional proviruses. The Vif gene of HIV-1 blocks this host restriction and so allows virus replication.
Optical second harmonic generation from surface segregants and adsorbed oxygen on an Fe-18Cr-3Mo (110) surface

Optical second harmonic generation is a new surface diagnostic applicable both in ultra-high vacuum and ambient environments and capable of examining gas-solid, liquid-solid and solid-solid interfaces. Studies of surface segregation of chromium and nitrogen on Fe-18Cr-3Mo(110) single crystal surfaces in ultra-high vacuum are described. Major increases in second harmonic intensity generated by 700 nm excitation at the surface are seen upon heating to temperatures at which chromium and nitrogen cosegregate. Adsorption of oxygen has also been studied on this surface. Second harmonic generation shows promise in providing structural and electronic information for surfaces and interfaces in a wide variety of environments.
Transitional flow in concentric annuli

A general means is proposed for predicting transitional velocity patterns in concentric annuli and between parallel plates from behavior in tubes. As in laminar and turbulent flow, transformations of space coordinates yield identical profiles under specific conditions of comparison. Predictions are confirmed by published data and can be related to recent theoretical proposals.
Toxigenicity of Trichothecium roseum Link: isolation and partial characterization of a toxic metabolite.

A toxic fraction (TR-1) was obtained from rice culture extracts of an isolate (MC-156) ofTrichothecium roseum from moldy corn. This toxic fraction was purified primarily by column and thin-layer chromatography and was chromatographically pure as evidenced by a single charred spot on an analytical thin-layer plate. The toxic fraction TR-1 possessed approximately 12.9 % nitrogen and an ethanol solution of this fraction possessed no ultraviolet absorbance in the range from 210 to 320 mµ. The infrared absorption spectrum exhibited strong absorption bands at 1180, 1380, 1445, 1630, 1670, 1730, 2930, 2960, and 3380 cm−1; moderate absorption bands occurred at 775, 1230, 1410, 1515, 1540, and 2870 cm−1. The dry residue from this fraction was readily soluble in ether, chloroform, ethanol and methanol.
Preliminary Results of Recurrent Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treated With Neurolysis and Porcine Extracellular Matrix Nerve Wrap

Purpose To evaluate the clinical results of revision neurolysis and wrapping with porcine extracellular matrix (AxoGuard Nerve Protector, AxoGen Inc., Alachua, FL) for cubital tunnel syndrome after one previous surgical decompression. Methods Twelve patients with recurrent cubital tunnel syndrome were treated with decompression, porcine extracellular matrix nerve wrap, and minimal medial epicondylectomy (if not previously performed). The average follow-up period was 41 months (range, 24–61 mo). All patients had recurrent symptoms after having previously undergone one surgical decompression. The mean patient age was 45 years (range, 30–58 y). All patients were evaluated subjectively and objectively (pain, satisfaction, static 2-point discrimination, grip strength, and pinch strength). Results A significant improvement was demonstrated in postoperative pain levels (from 8.5 to 1.7), grip strength (from 41% to 86% of the unaffected side), and pinch strength (from 64% to 83% of the unaffected side). Static 2-point discrimination improved from an average 10.4 mm preoperatively to 7.6 mm postoperatively. Eleven of 12 patients demonstrated 2 mm or more improvement in 2-point discrimination postoperatively. There were no complications related to the use of the porcine extracellular matrix for nerve wrapping. Conclusions This study found that secondary decompression combined with porcine extracellular matrix nerve wrapping was an effective and safe treatment for patients with recurrent cubital tunnel syndrome. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
Chemical character and origin of organic acids in streams and seepage lakes of central Maine

Organic acids and inorganic chemistry were examined in seventeen seepage lakes, seven streams, and one seep in central Maine. The objectives of this analysis were to determine the quantity and quality of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and to assess the relationship between organic and inorganic surface water chemistry. Lakes and streams sampled were dilute (average conductivity of 20.3 μS cm−1) with a wide range of DOC (125–2593 μmol C L−1). Organic acids in DOC were evaluated by: DOC fractionation (hydrophobic acids and neutrals, and hydrophilic acids, bases, and neutrals); DOC isolation followed by FT-IR, base titration, and chemical analyses; adsorption on solid phase extraction columns; and charge balance studies.
Global risk in a changing world: New paradigms and practice

Consider the following scenarios. On April 14, 2010, a cloud of volcano ash spread from Iceland across western and northern Europe, resulting in thousands of cancelled flights and millions of dollars in losses and the complete disruption of movement of goods and people. Last year, the earthquake and tsunami in Japan resulted in factory closures that created supply chain disruptions in the electronics and automobile industries around the world that lasted for months. Cyber attacks have become fairly common; hackers have successfully accessed the computers of many financial institutions and even the Pentagon. The political and financial consequences of such attacks are yet to be fully understood. Each of these scenarios powerfully illustrates the interconnected nature of the world we live in today. From a risk perspective, such interconnectedness amplifies the scope and magnitude of the effects of what might initially appear to be isolated incidents. The recent collapse of the housing and credit markets, as well as the subprime crisis in the U.S., and the subsequent financial meltdown in many Euro-zone countries have exposed huge deficiencies in the global financial system. One of the thorniest issues facing bankers and policy makers is the fundamental problem of how to price assets and evaluate risk. The financial crisis has a direct impact on both multinational enterprises (MNEs) and domestic firms in terms of liquidity and availability of capital. One of the fundamental tasks of top executives in multinational enterprises facing a turbulent and changing world is managing risk. Therefore, identifying risk becomes critical to the future wellbeing of MNEs. However, many executives have difficulty understanding and identifying risk. In a survey of corporate directors, McKinsey found that 36 percent admitted they did not fully understand the risk faced by their companies. The risk and uncertainty literatures have been criticized for concentrating on a particular aspect of risk or uncertainty rather than a multidimensional treatment of risk. Much of the international business literature on risk focuses
Salt and water homeostasis : Uroguanylin is a circulating peptide hormone with natriuretic activity

Guanylin and uroguanylin are small, heat-stable peptides that were initially isolated from rat jejunum and opossum urine, respectively. Both peptides bind to and activate a common set of apical membrane receptors that contain a guanylate cyclase catalytic domain within the receptor molecule. The guanylin/uroguanylin receptors are found on the luminal surface of epithelial cells lining the intestinal tract and renal proximal tubules as well as in other organs. Activation of receptor-guanylate cyclase signaling molecules by uroguanylin or guanylin elicits large increases in guanosine cyclic 3'-5' monophosphate (cGMP) production. Intracellular accumulation of this second messenger in target cells leads to the stimulation of intestinal chloride secretion, culminating in the enhancement of salt and water secretion into the intestinal lumen as well as increases in urinary sodium, potassium, and water excretion by actions of cGMP in the renal tubules. Uroguanylin and guanylin are produced throughout the intestinal mucosa and, surprisingly, uroguanylin messenger RNA (mRNA) is also expressed in both atria and ventricles of the heart. Both proguanylin and prouroguanylin are inactive polypeptides, and activation is accomplished by cleavage and release of the COOH-terminal peptides, guanylin and uroguanylin. Uroguanylin is postulated to function as an intestinal natriuretic hormone because: (1) prouroguanylin and uroguanylin both circulate in the plasma of normal animals; (2) uroguanylin is the predominant peptide agonist appearing in the filtrate and, thus, in urine; (3) the receptors for uroguanylin are localized to the apical membranes of renal tubular cells; (4) uroguanylin is substantially more potent than guanylin in eliciting a natriuresis; and (5) uroguanylin is expressed in the duodenum and myocardium, which are appropriate sites in the body for the production and release of a hormone that acts as a natriuretic agonist in vivo. The hypothesis that uroguanylin links the intestine with the kidney in an endocrine axis also predicts that the secretion of uroguanylin from the intestinal mucosa will be influenced by dietary levels of salt. Accordingly, plasma levels of uroguanylin or prouroguanylin should be influenced by oral salt loads. Future investigations will focus on the basic endocrinology of uroguanylin to provide answers to this intriguing question. In conclusion, uroguanylin is a candidate for a physiological role as an intestinal natriuretic hormone. Key features of the biology of uroguanylin provide a putative explanation for the substantial natriuresis that occurs in human subjects and experimental animals after an oral salt load. Moreover, uroguanylin and guanylin participate cooperatively in an intrinsic pathway for regulation of intestinal salt and water transport, thus providing another means of influencing salt and water homeostasis in addition to the renal actions of uroguanylin.
A protein released by DNAase I digestion of drosophila nuclei is preferentially associated with puffs

Antisera have been produced against five molecular weight subfractions of the Drosophila proteins readily extracted from nuclei following limited DNAase I digestion. Immunofluorescence staining techniques were used to assess the distributions of these proteins in the polytene chromosomes of Drosophila. In three cases, the antigens were widely distributed; in one case, the antigens appeared to be slightly more concentrated at active loci; and in one case, the antigens were strongly concentrated at a defined set of loci, including puffs and most of the loci which are active (puffed) at some time during third instar larval and prepupal development. The latter distribution pattern differs from that of RNA polymerase. Nonhistone chromosomal proteins of this type may have a key role in establishing and/or maintaining the altered chromatin structure characteristic of the active state.
High-accuracy edge detection with Blurred Edge Model

A high-accuracy edge detection algorithm at sub-pixel level is proposed in this work. A blurred edge model is adopted here, and a least-squared-error based solution is derived. Its applications to both synthetic and real images are presented for evaluation. It is compared with two other sub-pixel edge detectors. One uses a moment-based approach, and the other an interpolation-based approach. The comparison shows higher accuracy of the proposed algorithm, even for image data with significant noise. An application of the proposed algorithm in engineering is also introduced herein.
Theory with a Capital T: Cultural Studies' Assault on Popular Art.

Those whose knowledge of the study of popular culture is based on what has come out of the American academy in recent decades may be pardoned for assuming that any intellectually respectable consideration of a work of popular culture must have a single-minded focus on its political impact and a corresponding refusal to consider its artistic quality. The error may be pardonable, but the assumption is still wrong. Before and despite the contemporary institutionalization of popular culture studies in the university, usually under the aegis of “culture studies,” many writers and critics, including some now classified as irremediably elitist, have believed that popular art at its best could both “delight and teach,” in Horace’s famous phrase. Insisting on looking at popular art first as art rather than as sociological data, they have found that works of popular culture at their best made their impact by the same sort of “selection and concentration,” to use T. S. Eliot’s words praising the music hall performer Marie Lloyd, that is a hallmark of fine art. It was because Marie Lloyd’s act was “all a matter of selection and concentration” that Eliot paid tribute to her as “the greatest music-hall artist of her time in England.” Unlike lesser performers she did not need to depend on “the grotesque” or “exaggeration” for humor. Eliot’s essay on Marie Acad. Quest. (2010) 23:469–480 DOI 10.1007/s12129-010-9194-7
Rock Vibe: Rock Band® computer games for people with no or limited vision

This paper reports Rock Vibe, a modification performed on Rock Band® computer game to represent visual information using haptic and audio feedback to allow people with no or limited vision to enjoy the game. We modified the drumming activity of Rock Band® by providing users with vibrations on upper and lower arms to represent the drumhead cues and on ankle to represent the kick drum cue. Auditory information is used to provide feedback on correct and timely hit (with various drumming sounds) or errors (with a click sound). Computer's standard speech synthesizer is used to read the menu, song title, instruction and score. A series of evaluations with people with various levels of visual impairment were performed at different stages of the system development. We found that users were able to master the system almost immediately, with some users making no error halfway through the first song.
Chromosomes and causation of human cancer and leukemia XXX. Banding studies of primary intestinal tumors

The chromosomes of 15 primary intestinal tumors were analyzed with a banding technique. Of the 15 tumors, 12 had some chromosomal abnormalities (8 with numerical changes and 4 with both numerical and structural abnormalities) and in the remaining three no karyotypic abnormalities were found. No common marker chromosomes were seen among the various tumors and no two tumors with chromosomal changes and identical karyotypes, though some chromosomes were involved more often than others. Excessive chromosomes in the primary tumors were usually due to extra chromosomes in the following groups (numbers of tumors involved are shown in parenthesis): No. 8 (7), No. 13 (4), No. 15 (4), No. 17 (6) and No. 21 (6). On the other hand, chromosomes losses, though much less frequent, involved chromosomes No. 5, No. 6, No. 7, No. 10 and No. 16. Most of the tumor cells with chromosomal changes were hyperdiploid and usually contained less than 60 chromosomes. Only one tumor contained hypodiploid cells. The cytogenetic data presented on primary intestinal tumors indicate that they consist primarily of numerical changes, relative infrequency (when compared to metastases) and small number (1-4) of markers.
Enhanced heat transfer in a flat rectangular duct with streamwise-periodic disturbances at one principal wall

Etude experimentale du transfert de chaleur et de la perte de charge dans une conduite rectangulaire aplatie munie de barres transversales adjacentes a une paroi a repartition periodique
Relationship of social role quality to psychological well-being in women with rheumatoid arthritis.

The purpose of this study was to examine the mediating and moderating effects of women's social role quality on the psychological well-being of women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). One hundred and fifty-six women with a diagnosis of RA (M age = 59, SD = 11) completed self-report measures of arthritis history, physical health, psychological well-being, and role quality. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses indicated that role quality mediated the effects of physical health on depression and purpose in life, moderated the effects of health on depression, and moderated the effects of pain on purpose in life. Women in poor health with high role quality were significantly less depressed than women in poor health with poor role quality. Women with high levels of pain and high role quality had more purpose in life than women with high levels of pain and low role quality. Despite difficulties with their physical health, women who had high role quality had higher levels of psychological well-being. Findings from this study may aid in the development of meaningful interventions to help women with RA manage their daily lives to optimize well-being.
Molecular barriers to biomaterial thrombosis by modification of surface proteins with polyethylene glycol

For cardiovascular biomaterials, thrombosis, thromboembolism and vascular graft occlusion are believed to be precipitated by the adsorption of proteins containing adhesive ligands for platelets. Polyethylene-glycol-diisocyanate(PEG-diisocyanate, 3400 MW) may potentially react with protein amines to form molecular barriers on adsorbed proteins on biomaterials, thereby masking adhesive ligands and preventing acute surface thrombosis. To test this notion, PE, PTFE, and glass microconduits were pre-adsorbed with fibrinogen and treated with PEG-diisocyanate, non-reactive PEG-dihydroxyl, or remained untreated. Following perfusion of 111In-labeled platelets in whole human blood for 1 min (wall shear rate = 312 s(-1)), PEG-diisocyanate treated surfaces experienced 96%(PE), 97%(PTFE) and 94% (glass) less platelet deposition than untreated surfaces. Similar reductions were seen for PEG-diisocyanate versus PEG-dihydroxyl treatment. Low shear perfusions of plasma for one hour prior to blood contact did not reduce the inhibitory effect of PEG-diisocyanate. Platelet adhesion onto collagen coated glass coverslips and platelet deposition onto preclotted Dacron was also reduced by treatment with PEG-diisocyanate (93 and 91%, respectively). Protein-reactive PEG may thus have utility in forming molecular barriers on surface associated proteins to inhibit acute thrombosis on cardiovascular biomaterials.
The ictal bradycardia syndrome

Summary : Purpose: Episodic loss of consciousness presents a diagnostic challenge to the neurologist. A perhaps under-recognized cause of episodic loss of consciousness, which we call the ictal bradycardia syndrome, occurs when epileptic discharges profoundly disrupt normal cardiac rhythm, resulting in cardiogenic syncope during the ictal event. We attempt to determine whether the presence of the ictal bradycardia syndrome provides localizing information regarding the site of seizure onset and to describe the demographics of patients with this syndrome. We also discuss difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. Methods: We review 23 cases of the ictal bradycardia syndrome from the literature and present four additional cases. Brief histories are provided for the four previously unreported cases. Where data are available, cases are analyzed with respect to age, sex, and site of seizure onset. Results: Patients with the ictal bradycardia syndrome ranged from 4 months to 72 years (mean 39 years). There was an approximately 5:1 ratio of males to females. Twenty of the 23 patients (87%) whose site of ictal onset could be localized had temporal lobe epilepsy, although no clear lateralizing predominance was apparent. Conclusions: The ictal bradycardia syndrome should be considered in patients with unusual or refractory episodes of syncope, or in patients with a history suggestive of both epilepsy and syncope. It suggests seizure onset in temporal lobe, and is more commonly diagnosed in males. Diagnosis may be aided by ambulatory EEGECG monitoring. Cardiac pacemaker implantation along with antiepileptic drug therapy may be necessary to minimize the possibility of death.
Binding of oxidized and reduced cytochrome c2 to photosynthetic reaction centers: plasmon-waveguide resonance spectroscopy.

The dissociation constants for the binding of oxidized and reduced wild-type cytochrome c2 from Rhodobacter capsulatus and the lysine 93 to proline mutant of cytochrome c2 to photosynthetic reaction centers (Rhodobacter sphaeroides) has been measured to high precision using plasmon-waveguide resonance spectroscopy. For the studies reported, detergent-solubilized photosynthetic reaction center was exchanged into a phosphatidylcholine lipid bilayer to approximate the physiological environment. At physiologically relevant ionic strengths (∼100 mM), we found two binding sites for the reduced wild-type cytochrome (KD = 10 and 150 nM), with affinities that decrease with decreasing ionic strength (2−5-fold). These results implicate nonpolar interactions as an important factor in determining the dissociation constants. Taking advantage of the ability of plasmon-waveguide resonance spectroscopy to reslove the contribution of changes in mass and of structural anisotropy to cytochrome binding, we can demonstrate ver...
Properties of ion implanted Ti-6Al-4V processed using beamline and PSII techniques

The surface of Ti-6Al-4V (Ti64) alloy has been modified using beamline implantation of boron. In separate experiments, Ti64 has been implanted with nitrogen using a plasma source ion implantation (PSII) technique utilizing either ammonia (NH{sub 3}), nitrogen (N{sub 2}), or their combinations as the source of nitrogen ions. Beamline experiments have shown the hardness of the N-implanted surface saturates at a dose level of {approximately} 4 {times} 10{sup 17} at/cm{sup 2} at {approximately} 10 GPa. The present work makes comparisons of hardness and tribological tests of (1) B implantation using beamline techniques, and (2) N implanted samples using ammonia and/or nitrogen gas in a PSII process. The results show that PSII using N{sub 2} or NH{sub 3} gives similar hardness as N implantation using a beamline process. The presence of H in the Ti alloy surface does not affect the hardness of the implanted surface. Boron implantation increased the surface hardness by as much as 2.5x at the highest dose level. Wear testing by a pin-on-disk method indicated that nitrogen implantation reduced the wear rate by as much as 120x, and boron implantation reduced the wear rate by 6.5x. Increased wear resistance was accompanied by a decreased coefficient of friction.
Progress in thermodynamic perturbation theory and self-consistent Ornstein–Zernike approach relevant to structural-arrest problems

We discuss the derivation and use of a key feature of a new version of thermodynamic perturbation theory (TPT) that Ben-Amotz and Stell have developed recently—the choice of a hard-core diameter to be used in modelling soft-core systems. We go on to show the way the new version of TPT can be used as input for the self-consistent Ornstein–Zernike approach (SCOZA) of Hoye and Stell to obtain highly accurate static structure factors and thermodynamics for fluids and glasses. In obtaining quantitatively useful results for the structural arrest and other dynamic features in colloidal systems with pair potentials that include strong short-range attraction, accurate structure factors are a necessity.
Development of the rat pineal #x003B1;1-adrenoceptor

Abstract Pineal α1-adrenoceptors in rats from 19 days of gestation until 11 months of age were studied using [125I]iodo-2-[β-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethylaminomethyl]tetralone ([125I]HEAT). The number of specific [125I]HEAT binding sites increased markedly between 18 days of gestation (101.7 ± 13.1fmol/mg protein) and 10 days of age (336.2 ± 34.3fmol/mg protein). A significant decline occurred after 1 month of age. A saturation study showed similar change in receptor density with age (Bmax; 20 days of gestation, 130.5 fmol/mg protein; 35 days old, 288.1 fmol/mg protein) but no difference in Kd(58.4pM at both− 1and+ 35days). The developmental appearance of the pineal α1-adrenoceptor and the decline in its density with age are remarkably similar to changes reported for pineal β-adrenoceptors.
Influence of annealing conditions on the optical and structural properties of spin-coated As_2S_3 chalcogenide glass thin films

Spin-coating of chalcogenide glass is a low-cost, scalable method to create optical grade thin films, which are ideal for visible and infrared applications. In this paper, we study the influence of annealing on optical parameters of As_2S_3 films by examining UV-visible and infrared spectroscopy and correlating the results to changes in the physical properties associated with solvent removal. Evaporation of excess solvent results in a more highly coordinated, denser glass network with higher index and lower absorption. Depending on the annealing temperature and time, index values ranging from n = 2.1 to the bulk value (n = 2.4) can be obtained, enabling a pathway to materials optimization.
Photochemical cleavage of leader peptides

We report a photolabile linker compatible with Fmoc solid phase peptide synthesis and Cu(I)-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition that allows photochemical cleavage to afford a C-terminal peptide fragment with a native amino terminus.
Marine Oxygen-Deficient Zones Harbor Depauperate Denitrifying Communities Compared to Novel Genetic Diversity in Coastal Sediments

Denitrification is a critically important biogeochemical pathway that removes fixed nitrogen from ecosystems and thus ultimately controls the rate of primary production in nitrogen-limited systems. We examined the community structure of bacteria containing the nirS gene, a signature gene in the denitrification pathway, from estuarine and salt marsh sediments and from the water column of two of the world’s largest marine oxygen-deficient zones (ODZs). We generated over 125,000 nirS gene sequences, revealing a large degree of genetic diversity including 1,815 unique taxa, the vast majority of which formed clades that contain no cultured representatives. These results underscore how little we know about the genetic diversity of metabolisms underlying this critical biogeochemical pathway. Marine sediments yielded 1,776 unique taxa when clustered at 95 % sequence identity, and there was no single nirS denitrifier that was a competitive dominant; different samples had different highly abundant taxa. By contrast, there were only 39 unique taxa identified in samples from the two ODZs, and 99 % of the sequences belonged to 5 or fewer taxa. The ODZ samples were often dominated by nirS sequences that shared a 92 % sequence identity to a nirS found in the anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing (anammox) genus Scalindua. This sequence was abundant in both ODZs, accounting for 38 and 59 % of all sequences, but it was virtually absent in marine sediments. Our data indicate that ODZs are remarkably depauperate in nirS genes compared to the remarkable genetic richness found in coastal sediments.
After the Deconstruction of Christendom

In this article Craig L. Nessan of Wartburg Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa, USA reflects on five elements of a "new paradigm" of Christianity in our postmodern, post-Christendom world: First, the new paradigm will be based on interreligious dialogue and on consensus "from below"--i.e. from those who suffer. Second, it will include "admiration" of those who are different (religiously, in gender, in race, etc.). Third, the new paradigm of Christianity will include care for the earth as the home that humans share with a complex web of other created realities. Fourth, it will include care for the basic physical needs of all people, most fundamentally by providing food for those who are hungry. Finally, Christianity as it is emerging will include nonviolence as the norm for human relationships and for addressing conflict.
Optical spectra and exciton coherence

Abstract The overlap of donor emission and acceptor absorption spectra has long been known as a determining factor in the rate of excitation transfer. Memory functions capable of providing short time information can be obtained in an equally direct way from spectra. We present several examples derived from both real and model systems to illustrate the effect of spectral linewidth and splitting on the coherence of excitation undergoing transfer.
Tariffs and aggregate economic activity: Lessons from the Great Depression

Abstract We argue against the prevailing view that the macroeconomic role of tariffs during the Great Depression was small. To understand the economic channels through which tariffs could have large effects we build a multi-sector dynamic equilibrium trade model that captures key features of trade in the 1930s: A substantial share of trade was in material inputs, and the persistence of the tariff increases had the potential for significant effects on capital accumulation. Both of these features are important in generating the conclusion that, even when trade only represents a small share of output, tariffs can have a significant impact on GDP. Simulation of the model suggests that the global escalation of the tariff war precipitated the collapse of world trade, along with declines of several percent in international output and investment.
Phosphoinositide profiling in complex lipid mixtures using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

Phosphoinositides (phosphorylated derivatives of phosphatidylinositol, PI) are versatile intracellular signaling lipids whose occurrence in low concentrations complicates direct mass measurements. Here we present a sensitive method to detect, identify and quantify phosphatidylinositol phosphate (PIP) and phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP(2)) with different fatty acid compositions (phosphoinositide profiles) in total lipid extracts by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). Using this method, we detected elevated concentrations of PIP2 in human fibroblasts from patients with Lowe syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects phosphoinositide metabolism. Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells deficient in enzymes involved in PIP metabolism--Sac1p, a phosphoinositide phosphatase, and Vps34p and Pik1p, a PI 3-kinase and PI 4-kinase, respectively--showed not only different PIP concentrations but also differential changes in PIP profiles indicating metabolic and/or subcellular pooling. Mass spectrometric analysis of phosphoinositides offers unique advantages over existing approaches and may represent a powerful diagnostic tool for human diseases that involve defective phosphoinositide metabolism.
Exhaust emissions and energy release rates from a controlled spark ignition engine using ethanol blends

Although alcohols have been considered and used as fuels for internal combustion engines for decades, their use in automotive transportation systems has been rather limited. In the past few years, ethanol has received varying amounts of attention in the United States owing to the increasing cost of gasoline fuel and legislative mandates in some states requiring the sale of alcohol-blended gasoline for light-duty vehicles. This may, in the end, help the agricultural economy in the United States. If alcohol blends are to be used in spark ignition (SI) engines designed to operate on gasoline, then it is important that engines be tuned for the fuel that is being utilized at that instant. This requires knowledge of the combustion characteristics of alcohol blends so that the engine control system can make appropriate changes according to the quality of the blend. The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the combustion and exhaust emissions characteristics of ethanol-gasoline blends in a two-valve automotive SI engine. Ethanol blends improved the specific energy consumption relative to pure gasoline fuel. At stoichiometric air-fuel ratio, the alcohol blends improved exhaust CO emissions marginally. However, there were consistent reductions in NO x levels, particularly with the E-85 blend. The use of E-85 in the engine also resulted in a reduction in HC levels relative to neat gasoline, but E-85 produced significantly higher levels of acetaldehydes by comparison with neat gasoline and lower ethanol blends, particularly at lighter engine loads. The E-85 blend required a longer time to develop and set up the flame in the combustion chamber relative to neat gasoline. This was particularly true at lower engine loads, probably owing to cooling effects of the inducted charge. However, the rapid combustion duration did not exhibit much difference between the blends and gasoline.
Dysphoria and Anhedonia as Risk factors for Disability or Death in Older Persons: Implications for the Assessment of Geriatric Depression

Objectives Either dysphoria (sadness) or anhedonia (loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities) is required for a diagnosis of major depression. Although major depression is a known risk factor for disability in older persons, few studies have examined the relationship between the two core symptoms of major depression and disability or mortality. Our objective was to examine the relationship between these two core symptoms and time to disability or death. Methods In a longitudinal cohort study, we used the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study to examine this relationship in 11,353 persons older than 62 years (mean: 73 years) followed for up to 13 years. Dysphoria and anhedonia were assessed with the Short Form Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Our outcome measure was time to either death or increased disability, defined as the new need for help in a basic activity of daily living. We adjusted for a validated disability risk index and other confounders. Results Compared with subjects without either dysphoria or anhedonia, the risk for disability or death was not elevated in elders with dysphoria without anhedonia (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91–1.36). The risk was elevated in those with anhedonia without dysphoria (HR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.06–1.60) and those with both anhedonia and dysphoria (HR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.13–1.46). Conclusion Our results highlight the need for clinicians to learn whether patients have lost interest in usually pleasurable activities, even if they deny sadness.
Prevention of postoperative pneumothorax in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Abstract Background: Postoperative pneumothorax is a potentially fatal complication occurring in approximately 1.4% of patients after cardiac surgical procedures. Prevention of this complication could save lives, morbidity, and money in this large patient population. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of a very simple technique to prevent this complication. Methods: One thousand three hundred and ninety-seven consecutive adult patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures performed by the author were evaluated. In each patient a 3-cm opening in the mediastinal pleura of any unopened hemithorax was performed to allow communication of the pleural space with the mediastinum. When a hemithorax had been opened for internal mammary harvesting, the usual pleural drain was inserted. A standard, straight mediastinal tube was then placed in routine fashion without any additional tube placement or unusual positioning. The essence of the approach was the establishment of communication of both pleural spaces with the mediastinum in such a way that any air exiting the lung would be able to evacuate through the mediastinal tube. Results: One patient with obstructive lung disease developed a loculated basilar pneumothorax that was treated with chest tube placement. Two patients required maintenance of mediastinal tube drainage for persistent air leak for 7 and 9 days, respectively. No other patients required chest tube placement for pneumothorax. No patient experienced any complication that could be attributed to the small opening in the pleural space. Conclusions: The technique herein described is a safe and effective method for prevention of postoperative pneumothorax. It adds nothing to the cost of the surgical procedure. The author would recommend that this technique be adopted as a surgical routine.
The Santa Barbara Basin is a symbiosis oasis

It is generally agreed that the origin and initial diversification of Eucarya occurred in the late Archaean or Proterozoic Eons when atmospheric oxygen levels were low and the risk of DNA damage due to ultraviolet radiation was high. Because deep water provides refuge against ultraviolet radiation and early eukaryotes may have been aerotolerant anaerobes, deep-water dysoxic environments are likely settings for primeval eukaryotic diversification. Fossil evidence shows that deep-sea microbial mats, possibly of sulphur bacteria similar to Beggiatoa, existed during that time. Here we report on the eukaryotic community of a modern analogue, the Santa Barbara Basin (California, USA). The Beggiatoa mats of these severely dysoxic and sulphidic sediments support a surprisingly abundant protistan and metazoan meiofaunal community, most members of which harbour prokaryotic symbionts. Many of these taxa are new to science, and both microaerophilic and anaerobic taxa appear to be represented. Compared with nearby aerated sites, the Santa Barbara Basin is a 'symbiosis oasis' offering a new source of organisms for testing symbiosis hypotheses of eukaryogenesis.
Prehospital Pediatric Airway Management

The approach to pediatric airway management in the prehospital setting has become controversial since the publication of a study in 2000 showing the equivalence of bag-mask ventilation and intubation on survival and neurological outcome. This article describes the indications for advanced airway management and the steps taken. This review includes the unique problems identified in training and in maintaining intubation skills in prehospital care providers, risks and benefits of field rapid sequence induction, caring for children with special needs, and providing advanced airway care in the rural setting.
Recent Concepts in Missions to Mars: Extraterrestrial Processes

This paper presents some recent concepts in Mars Sample Return (MSR) missions that utilize extraterrestrial resources. The concepts examined include the power and energy needs of this mission. It is shown that solar energy is not especially attractive. Radioisotopic power generator and a Rankine cycle use are seen to be viable options. Quantitative estimates, taking into consideration state-of-the-art and projected technologies indicate that the power/energy per se is not critical to the mission - but reliability is. Hence, various modern options for the components of the power generation and utilization are discussed. The dramatic savings in Shuttle (or other) vehicle launches are quantitatively plotted. The basic system that is discussed here is the production of hydrocarbon (methane) fuel and oxygen from Martian atmosphere. For the simplest mission, it is seen that earth-carried methane burned with oxygen produced on site provides the best system.
Implementing the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP): Teaching Assessment Techniques

The Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) is an assessment tool used with individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and other language delays (Sundberg 2008). The milestones assessment section of the VB-MAPP is used to determine an individual’s current skill level. The results of the milestones assessment can be used to identify instructional goals and objectives. The current study examined the effects of behavioral skills training (BST) on the administration of the milestones assessment by two educational professionals. The BST intervention resulted in immediate increases in performance for both participants.
Elementary School Girls and Heteronormativity: The Girl Project

This article examines preadolescent girls in a group setting as they coconstructed heteronormativity. The authors contend that heteronormativity is not the product of a coming-of-age transformation but instead an everyday part of life, even for very young social actors. It emerges from the gender divide between boys and girls but is also reproduced by and for girls themselves. In the Girl Project, the authors sought to understand younger girls’ interests, skills, and concerns. They conducted nine focus groups with 43 elementary school girls, most of whom were age nine or younger. They observed these girls as they defined “girls’ interests” as boy centered and as they performed heteronormativity for other girls. This article contributes to filling the gap in research on gender and sexuality from children’s own points of view.
The academy, spirituality, and the search for truth

The spiritual identity of the academy is historically based, and changes in that identity pose special problems for the search for truth in contemporary times.
Interspecies comparison of human and murine scleroderma reveals IL-13 and CCL2 as disease subset-specific targets.

Development of personalized treatment regimens is hampered by lack of insight into how individual animal models reflect subsets of human disease, and autoimmune and inflammatory conditions have proven resistant to such efforts. Scleroderma is a lethal autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis, with no effective therapy. Comparative gene expression profiling showed that murine sclerodermatous graft-versus-host disease (sclGVHD) approximates an inflammatory subset of scleroderma estimated at 17% to 36% of patients analyzed with diffuse, 28% with limited, and 100% with localized scleroderma. Both sclGVHD and the inflammatory subset demonstrated IL-13 cytokine pathway activation. Host dermal myeloid cells and graft T cells were identified as sources of IL-13 in the model, and genetic deficiency of either IL-13 or IL-4Rα, an IL-13 signal transducer, protected the host from disease. To identify therapeutic targets, we explored the intersection of genes coordinately up-regulated in sclGVHD, the human inflammatory subset, and IL-13–treated fibroblasts; we identified chemokine CCL2 as a potential target. Treatment with anti-CCL2 antibodies prevented sclGVHD. Last, we showed that IL-13 pathway activation in scleroderma patients correlated with clinical skin scores, a marker of disease severity. Thus, an inflammatory subset of scleroderma is driven by IL-13 and may benefit from IL-13 or CCL2 blockade. This approach serves as a model for personalized translational medicine, in which well-characterized animal models are matched to molecularly stratified patient subsets.
Tuberculosis Pathogenesis and Immunity

Despite the development of potentially curative chemotherapy, tuberculosis (TB) continues to cause increasing worldwide morbidity and is a leading cause of human mortality in the developing world. Recent advances in bacterial molecular genetics, immunology, and human genetics have yielded insight into the molecular determinants of virulence, the immune responses that are essential for restricting progressive disease, and the determinants of immunopathology in TB. Despite these advances, a large knowledge gap still exists that limits the development and testing of new interventions, including novel drugs and efficacious vaccines. This review focuses on our current knowledge of TB pathogenesis and immunity that has been derived from in vitro and in vivo studies. In addition, it highlights topics that need to be better understood to provide improved means of controlling TB worldwide.
Iodine concentration in commercial cat foods from three regions of the USA, 2008–2009

Fluctuations in iodine concentration in food have been suggested as one risk factor for the development of feline hyperthyroidism, an epidemic disease first described in 1979. Three international studies have examined iodine concentrations of commercial cat foods. The iodine concentration of 112 commercial cat foods from across the USA was measured, and the daily iodine intake by hypothetical 4.5 kg adult cats or 1.4 kg kittens calculated in this descriptive epidemiologic study to examine differences in feline iodine intake due to (i) geographical source of foods, (ii) packaging type, (iii) brand-to-brand variation, (iv) form of iodine supplementation, (v) types and numbers of seafood ingredients and (vi) kitten and 'therapeutic' diets. Dramatic variation among canned foods (resulting in ingestion of approximately 49-9639 μg iodine/day) suggests that the disparity in iodine concentrations may lead to development of nodular hyperplasia and, later, clinical hyperthyroidism, if cats consume diets that are at first iodine-deficient and later contain excessive iodine. Manufacturers are encouraged to ensure adequate iodine supplementation across all products and areas of the USA.
Dye leaching from a doped sol–gel is eliminated by conjugation to a dendrimer

Abstract The extent of leaching of dye molecules following encapsulation into sol–gel glasses was investigated. Covalent attachment of erythrosin isothiocyanate (EITC) to a polyamidoamine generation 4 (PAMAM) dendrimer, having a molecular weight of 14,215 Da, eliminated all detectable leaching from hydrated monoliths prepared from tetramethylorthosilicate (TMOS). In contrast, a prior study showed that significant leaching takes place when the dye is conjugated to 70 kDa dextran. To eliminate dye leaching via attachment to a macromolecular carrier, an inherently globular macromolecule having an organized secondary structure is therefore required.