cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Outcomes After Prehospital Endotracheal Intubation in Suburban/Rural Pediatric Trauma.

Abstract Background Trauma is the leading cause of death in pediatric patients over 1 y of age. Controversy exists regarding prehospital airway management for these patients, with some studies suggesting that endotracheal intubation in the field or at a referring hospital is associated with increased mortality and complication rate. These studies were largely performed at urban centers, and it is unclear whether the results apply to suburban/rural networks with longer transport times and more stops at referring hospitals. The purpose of this study is to evaluate differential outcomes in pediatric trauma patients who underwent endotracheal intubation at the scene of injury, referring hospital, or pediatric trauma center in a predominantly rural/suburban setting. Materials and methods A retrospective review was performed evaluating trauma patients age 18 y or younger at a single institution over 10 y (2004-2014). Patients were selected who underwent endotracheal intubation and were classified based on location of intubation (scene, referring hospital, or trauma center). Fischer's exact test and t-tests were performed for comparison. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed. Results 288 patients were identified. 155 (53.8%) were intubated at the scene of injury, 55 (19.1%) at a referring hospital, and 72 (25%) at the trauma center. Overall mortality was 21.9%, which was highest in the scene intubation group (29.7%) compared with the referring hospital (20%) and trauma center (5.6%) groups (P Conclusions Mortality and duration of intubation were lowest in trauma patients intubated at a pediatric trauma center. However, location of intubation was not a significant independent predictor of mortality or complications on multivariate analysis, suggesting that age, injury severity, and neurologic status are the main indicators of prognosis in severe pediatric trauma.
Structure of the human clamp loader bound to the sliding clamp: a further twist on AAA+ mechanism [preprint]

DNA replication requires the sliding clamp, a ring-shaped protein complex that encircles DNA, where it acts as an essential cofactor for DNA polymerases and other proteins. The sliding clamp needs to be actively opened and installed onto DNA by a clamp loader ATPase of the AAA+ family. The human clamp loader Replication Factor C (RFC) and sliding clamp PCNA are both essential and play critical roles in several diseases. Despite decades of study, no structure of human RFC has been resolved. Here, we report the structure of human RFC bound to PCNA by cryo-EM to an overall resolution of ~3.4 A. The active sites of RFC are fully bound to ATP analogs, which is expected to induce opening of the sliding clamp. However, we observe the complex in a conformation prior to PCNA opening, with the clamp loader ATPase modules forming an over-twisted spiral that is incapable of binding DNA or hydrolyzing ATP. The autoinhibited conformation observed here has many similarities to a previous yeast RFC:PCNA crystal structure, suggesting that eukaryotic clamp loaders adopt a similar autoinhibited state early on in clamp loading. Our results point to a 9Limited Change/Induced Fit9 mechanism in which the clamp first opens, followed by DNA binding inducing opening of the loader to release auto-inhibition. The proposed change from an over-twisted to an active conformation reveals a novel regulatory mechanism for AAA+ ATPases. Finally, our structural analysis of disease mutations leads to a mechanistic explanation for the role of RFC in human health.
Hybrid Fan-out Package for Vertical Heterogeneous Integration

A new ultra-thin high-density hybrid package that combines fan-out RDL with a backside laminated interposer is developed for mobile applications. The package features up to six fan-out RDL layers for chiplet integration and two to four routing layers in a backside interposer for a high pin-count module stacking architecture. The laminated interposer is placed conformally to the SOC to create a base package as thin as 250 um. An integration challenge in the CTE mismatch between fan-out RDL and laminated interposer is successfully resolved. For a 14x14 mm2 package, a low package warpage is achieved at RT and HT, measured at 37um and -46um, respectively. The twist index is also controlled within 30um. Despite its thinness, the new hybrid package shows enhanced mechanical strength by incorporating the laminated interposer. It is successfully demonstrated that memory and RF modules can be stacked on this thin base package using the standard production flow. The thin packages pass stringent component and board level reliability tests. The new hybrid package combines the electrical and thermal advantages of fan-out packages and the mechanical advantage of laminated interposers. This hybrid fan-out package has a very high interconnect density, which provides excellent design flexibility for advanced vertical heterogeneous integrations.
Prolonged Beneficial Effect of Brief Erythropoietin Peptide JM4 Therapy on Chronic Relapsing EAE

Potent beneficial immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of whole-molecule erythropoietin have been demonstrated in a variety of animal disease models including experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE); however, excessive hematopoiesis limits its use in clinical applications. Our group previously generated an Epo-derived small peptide JM4 that is side-effect free and has strong neuroprotective activity without hematologic effects. Here, we investigated the long-term clinical effects of brief treatment with JM4 in chronic relapsing EAE using bioluminescence imaging (BLI) in transgenic mice containing the luciferase gene driven by the murine GFAP promoter. EAE mice treated with JM4 exhibited marked improvement in clinical scores and showed fewer disease flareups than control animals. JM4 therapy concomitantly led to markedly decreased GFAP bioluminescence in the brain and spinal cord in both acute and chronic relapsing EAE mouse models. We found a marker for toxic A1 astrocytes, complement component C3, that is upregulated in the brain and cord of EAE mice and sharply reduced in JM4-treated animals. In addition, an abnormally leaky neurovascular unit permeability was rapidly normalized within 5 days by JM4 therapy. The prolonged therapeutic benefit seen following brief JM4 treatment in EAE mice closely resemble that recently described in humans receiving pulsed immune reconstitution therapy with the disease-modifying compounds, alemtuzumab and cladribine. Our study suggests that JM4 therapy may have widespread clinical applicability for long-term treatment of inflammatory demyelinating diseases and that BLI is a useful noninvasive means of monitoring murine disease activity of the central nervous system.
HACIA UN INSTITUCIONALISMO SALVAJE

This work interrogates the destituent condition of the Chilean revolts and their “paradoxical” call for a new Constitution, in relation to the general crisis of contemporary neoliberal governability, and, in relations to the exhaustion of the juristocratic model that has limited Chilean democracy since the instauration of the 1980 Constitution. The article proposes the necessity of a savage institutionalism based on a prosthetic and supplementary conception of the law and the institutions, oriented towards a radical historicity of the being-in-common able to desecrate the sovereign fiction and to deactivate the fetishist narrative about the exemplary Chilean transition to democracy. Finally, the article problematizes the emergence of a new Constitutionalism in the country, namely a spiritual one, and disputes with it the reference to the “people”.
Psychological measures of patient’s decision-making for prenatal genetic testing

To use a questionnaire to determine the levels of maternal decision-related distress, clarity of the pros and cons, and certainty when considering prenatal genetic diagnostic testing; and to assess...
Catheter directed embolectomy of right atrial clot in transit-A case series

In the previous literature, the prevalence of right atrial (RA) clot-in-transit associated with pulmonary embolism is around 4-18% with an associated mortality of 80-100% in untreated cases. Surgical thrombo-embolectomy has been the mainstay of treatment for stable patients but the data for percutaneous thrombo-embolectomy is lacking in the literature. We present a series of three cases of right atrium clot-in-transit treated with catheter-based therapies with Inari FlowTriever® (Inari Medical, Irvine, CA). Our three patients had different clinical profiles and presentations of right atrial clot-in-transit. All of the subjects had contraindications to surgical thrombo-embolectomy and thrombolytic therapy. Catheter based embolectomy using Inari FlowTriever® was successfully performed in all the patients. As the data on this intervention is sparse, our case series highlights successful catheter based thrombo-embolectomies in high-risk individuals with right atrial clot in-transit with or without pulmonary embolism.
Estrategias comunitarias de resolución de problemas matemáticos en una comunidad maya en Yucatán

This paper draws from a six-month study in a Yucatan Maya community in Mexico. The research explores the extent to which mathematics education capitalizes upon community approaches to problem solving. In this Maya village, math scores are low, and dropout rates are high. Still, local approaches to problem solving provide clues for teaching math, engineering, and maker skills in Mexico, the US, and other communities with little access to formal education. In our findings, we illustrate the tension between community and school mathematics knowledge; contribute to the expanding definition of what counts as legitimate mathematics knowledge, and illuminate two community approaches to problem solving involving autonomy and improvisational mindset.
Financial Terms in License Agreements

This chapter in the forthcoming casebook Intellectual Property Licensing and Transactions: Theory and Practice (2020, forthcoming), discusses the financial terms of IP licensing agreements including fixed payments, running royalties, sublicensing income, milestone payments, equity compensation and cost reimbursement, as well as most-favored and audit clauses. Numerous areas of recent controversy are addressed including the establishment of royalty rates through the entire market value rule (EMVR) versus the smallest salable patent practicing unit (SSPPU) rule, royalties for bundled rights, rules of thumb discredited by the courts, royalty escalation clauses and more. Examples are drawn primarily from biotechnology, high-tech and copyright licensing practice.
Applying the Effects Doctrine in Tech Markets

Over the last fifty years, antitrust has developed into a coherent, principled, and workable body of law that contributes positively not only to American competitiveness and societal well-being, but also helps to export the culture of market competition around the world. However, with the advent of ecommerce and the rapid growth in the technology sector, questions have been raised regarding market concentration and a dearth of enforcement actions being brought in these spaces. Critics have questioned the well settled Chicago School of thought, claiming that the consumer welfare standard is diminishing- benefiting neither the consumer nor competition. Proponents of the Chicago School argue that efforts to abandon the consumer welfare standard are a misguided throwback to the incoherent antitrust regime of the mid-twentieth century. They caution against allowing economic populism to turn the focus of the antitrust regime away from economic efficiency. My research will examine whether a socialistic reversal of the antitrust regime would truly benefit the American economy through the thought process that is gaining traction now, or would it cause it to suffer based on chilled innovation and over-regulation.
Intratesticular adenomatoid tumor: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract Adenomatoid tumors (ATs) are rare benign neoplasms that typically occur in the male and female genital tract. In men, the most common site of ATs is the epididymis and other paratesticular locations (tunica albuginea, spermatic cord, and ejaculatory ducts). However, intratesticular AT is exceedingly rare and may mimic a malignant neoplasm. We report a case of an AT occurring in a 27-year-old man with no prior medical, urologic or trauma history, who presented with right-sided scrotal pain of a few days' duration. Physical examination showed no skin change in the scrotum, a normal-sized, nontender left testis and an enlarged, tender right testis. Ultrasound images of the scrotum showed an eccentric, predominantly hypoechoic vascular mass in the posterior aspect of the right testis measuring 2.2×2.1×2.1cm. Tumor markers were within normal limits. His workup was negative for metastatic disease. A right radical orchiectomy was performed. Histological examination and immunohistochemical stains confirmed the diagnosis of adenomatoid tumor confined to the right testis. We report this rare, benign neoplasm of mesothelial origin that more often occurs in a paratesticular location, but rarely has been shown to involve the testicular parenchyma.
A facile enzymatic technique for the estimation of nanomolar concentrations of N-phosphonacetyl-l-aspartic acid in plasma

Abstract A sensitive radiometric enzyme-inhibition assay is described for the determination of N- phosphonacetyl- l acid (PALA, NSC-224,131) in plasma. The assay is based on the inhibition by PALA, at low concentrations of the competitive co-substrate carbamyl phosphate, of L -aspartate transcarbamylase prepared from mouse spleen. The assay responds with good reproducibility and in proportional way to concentrations of PALA over the range of 2–20 nM; as such, it represents a 100-fold increase in sensitivity over existing methodologies. The applicability and pertinence of this assay to long-term pharmacokinetic studies with PALA is demonstrated by the one month persistence of nanomolar concentrations of PALA in the plasma of mice treated with a single dose of the drug.
How Picture Books Work: A Semiotically Framed Theory of Text-Picture Relationships

Lawrence R. Sipe is an assistant professor in the reading/writing/ literacy program at the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of education, where he teaches courses in literature for children and adolescents. After working for nineteen years in schools and school systems in both the United States and Canada, he completed a Ph.D. in children's literature, emergent literacy, and literary criticism at the Ohio State University. His research focuses on children's responses to literature, the development of literary understanding, and the ways in which literature both reinscribes and challenges existing sociocultural practices. Lawrence R. Sipe
Adaptive level-crossing sampling and reconstruction

We propose an adaptive level crossing approach for the sampling and reconstruction of signals for applications where clock-free and low-power data gathering are required. Due to the lack of a priori information on the signal statistics, uniform levels are typically chosen in level-crossing (LC) sampling. Our approach uses as reference levels the local means obtained from an asynchronous sigma delta modulator (ASDM). This signal-dependent sampling constitutes non-uniform sampling with local means and their times of occurrence. The local means can be seen as optimal signal estimators in a mean-square sense. The reconstruction of the original signal is approached using Prolate Spheroidal Wave functions which performs well when the signal is time-limited and essentially band-limited. The optimality of the levels can be illustrated when comparing our procedure with uniform LC sampling and reconstruction. The proposed procedure is especially suited for applications where the signal occurs in bursts, and data gathering is done under clock-free, low-power and low-transmission conditions.
Inside the Boardroom: A Proposal to Delaware's Good Faith Jurisprudence to Improve Board Passivity

This Note has two goals. First, it seeks to explain why boards of directors at large corporations tend to stay passive in performing their monitoring role. Second, this Note argues that Delaware corporate law fails to take into consideration the factors that lead to board passivity because Delaware courts currently adopt a transaction-focused approach by only examining facts surrounding the transaction that is the subject of litigation. This Note proposes that the Delaware court looks beyond the transaction in dispute and adopts an expansive good faith evaluation for overall board operations.
Eight Bits About Digital Communication

This writing manages to synthesize in eight steps, or bits, what is most important in terms of digital communication, they are called bits, which is exactly what digital communication involves. He starts defending because eight ends up being the best number in different matters of life, then he reaches the middle is massage, he goes through the digital age and comes to the technique of cutting, copying and pasting. It also crosses the time in cyberspace that occupy 2 bits, also comments on the magic 8 ball to conclude the bits in the error check, to complement this number, which is digital communication.
Antennas for Medical Applications

Rapid advances in technology have been accompanied by an increasing application of technology to health care. More and more interaction of scientists and engineers with medical people has resulted in significant developments in improved health care using highly sophisticated equipment. Correspondingly, the use of antennas of one kind or another in the practice of medicine has increased. Most of the medical applications of antennas involve coupling electromagnetic energy into the human body or into other biological systems, such as animals used in experimental measurements.
Invoking Digital Reference: Creation and Implementation.

Abstract In response to the changing educational landscape of the community college, reference librarians must adapt their service to fit the information needs of their patrons. One such update is synchronous digital reference, which applies instant messaging technology to library service. Todd Library at Waubonsee Community College (Sugar Grove, Illinois) introduced this type of reference service in order to fulfill certain goals as outlined in its mission statement and to satisfy the accreditation requirements of AQIP. Although the technological challenge has been met, follow-up will be necessary to gauge the overall effectiveness of this service.
Optimization of explicit finite-difference simulation of electrochemical phenomena utilizing an exponentially expanded space grid

Digital simulation of electrochemical phenomena using an exponentially expanding space grid, as suggested by Joslin and Pletcher [1], can offer significantly more rapid computation for a given analysis than can be obtained with the conventional uniform space grid. (In a uniform grid the thicknesses of the volume elements, xi, are the same; in the exponentially expanding space grid xi+1/xi is a constant, greater than unity and as large as e0.5.) Unfortunately, the Joslin-Pletcher algorithms introduce some small errors (≈1%) into the flux computations. In the present work, it will be shown that a slightly different analysis leads to algorithms that are considerably more accurate (<0.1% error) yet do not compromise the simplicity of the explicit finite-difference method or the enhanced speed of the Joslin-Pletcher approach.
Carcinoma of the stomach appearing after previous gastric surgery for benign ulcer disease.

Summary Eight cases have been presented in which carcinoma appeared in the stomach a number of years after gastric surgery had been performed for benign disease. The difficulties in arriving at an accurate diagnosis have been described, and the need for a careful and complete workup of any patient who presents gastrointestinal symptoms a long time after previous gastroenterostomy or gastric resection is emphasized
Photoelectric occultation observations of Regulus and the Pleiades.

The dual channel photometer is mounted on the tailpiece of the 32-in.f/16 reflector at McCormick Observatory’s Fan Mountain Station. A 50-50 beam splitting mirror distributes the light to two EMI 6256 S/A photomultipliers. A focal plane diaphragm admits an area of sky of 100 sec2 of arc, and UBV or narrow-band filters are used to isolate spectral regions. The photoelectrons are fed through preamplifiers and amplifiers to a specially designed integrated-circuit photon counting instrument. The preamplifiers are attached as closely as possible to the photomultiplier anodes, while the remaining circuits are housed separately. A Sony TC-200 stereo tape recorder is used to record the output signal from the counter, and an oscilloscope is used for real-time monitoring of the counter operation during occultations.
A Phylogenetic Estimator of Effective Population Size or Mutation Rate

A new estimator of the essential parameter theta = 4Ne mu from DNA polymorphism data is developed under the neutral Wright-Fisher model without recombination and population subdivision, where Ne is the effective population size and mu is the mutation rate per locus per generation. The new estimator has a variance only slightly larger than the minimum variance of all possible unbiased estimators of the parameter and is substantially smaller than that of any existing estimator. The high efficiency of the new estimator is achieved by making full use of phylogenetic information in a sample of DNA sequences from a population. An example of estimating theta by the new method is presented using the mitochondrial sequences from an American Indian population.
Surface hopping, transition state theory, and decoherence. II. Thermal rate constants and detailed balance

We investigate a simple approach to compute a non-adiabatic thermal rate constant using the fewest switches surface hopping (FSSH) dynamics. We study the effects of both decoherence (using our augmented-FSSH (A-FSSH) algorithm) and forbidden hops over a large range of parameters, including high and low friction regimes, and weak and strong electronic coupling regimes. Furthermore, when possible, we benchmark our results against exact hierarchy equations of motion results, where we usually find a maximum error of roughly a factor of two (at reasonably large temperatures). In agreement with Hammes-Schiffer and Tully, we find that a merger of transition state theory and surface hopping can be both accurate and efficient when performed correctly. We further show that detailed balance is followed approximately by A-FSSH dynamics.
A local collision probability approximation for predicting momentum transfer cross sections

The local collision probability approximation (LCPA) method is introduced to compute molecular momentum transfer cross sections for comparison to ion mobility experiments. The LCPA replaces the (non-local) scattering trajectory used in the trajectory method to describe the collision process by a (local) collision probability function. This momentum transfer probability is computed using the exact same analyte–buffer interaction potential as used in the trajectory method. Subsequently, the momentum transfer cross section ΩLCPA(T) is calculated in a projection-type manner (corrected for shape effects through a shape factor). Benchmark calculations on a set of 208 carbon clusters with a range of molecular size and degree of concavity demonstrate that LCPA and trajectory calculations agree closely with one another. The results discussed here indicate that the LCPA is suitable to efficiently calculate momentum transfer cross sections for use in ion mobility spectrometry in conjunction with different buffer gases.
The storage of energy in some activated alkali halide phosphors

Abstract The phosphorescent emission of thallium activated NaCl and KCl has been investigated at 25° C., using as primary excitants alpha particles and ultraviolet light. The energy storage properties of X-ray irradiated NaClTl, KCITI, NaClAg, and KClAg have been compared, and the photostimulated ultraviolet emission of NaClAg has been determined as a function of the silver concentration. Some dosimetric aspects of the data are discussed.
Leakage of blood-retinal barrier due to damaging effect of protamine sulfate on the endothelium.

The effect of the polycations, protamine sulfate and poly-l-lysine, on the blood-retinal barrier of rat retinal vessels were studied by retrograde perfusion through the aorta or by intracarotid perfusion of the polycation followed by the protein tracer, hemoglobin. Protamine sulfate induced swelling of cytoplasmic organelles and diffuse staining of many endothelial cells by tracer molecules which subsequently entered the subendothelial and perivascular areas. Polylysine caused some diffuse staining but no leakage of tracer through the endothelial cell. Occasionally, tracer was found in the interendothelial junction after protamine perfusion. The results indicate that surface charge is important for maintaining membrane integrity of the endothelial cells and that breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier may be due to the cytotoxic effect of protamine on the endothelial cell.
Photophysics of Laser Dye-Doped Polymer Membranes for Laser-Induced Fluorescence Photogrammetry

Laser-induced fluorescence target generation in dye-doped polymer films has recently been introduced as a promising alternative to more traditional photogrammetric targeting techniques for surface profiling of highly transparent or reflective membrane structures. We investigate the photophysics of these dye-doped polymers to help determine their long-term durability and suitability for laser-induced fluorescence photogrammetric targeting. These investigations included experimental analysis of the fluorescence emission pattern, spectral content, temporal lifetime, linearity, and half-life. Results are presented that reveal an emission pattern wider than normal Lambertian diffuse surface scatter, a fluorescence time constant of 6.6 ns, a pump saturation level of approximately 20 micro J/mm(exp 2), and a useful lifetime of more than 300,000 measurements. Furthermore, two demonstrations of photogrammetric measurements by laser-induced fluorescence targeting are presented, showing agreement between photogrammetric and physically measured dimensions within the measurement scatter of 100 micron.
The Need for Spray and Aerosol Benchmark Databases

This paper describes a benchmark case suitable for validation of multiphase combustion models and submodels. The benchmark includes a reference spray combustor to provide well-defined input and boundary conditions, enabling measurements to characterize the fuel spray, combustion air, wall temperatures, exhaust gas temperatures and species concentrations. The characteristics (i.e., size, velocity, volume flux, etc.) of the methanol spray were determined using phase Doppler interferometry. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to measure species concentrations in the reactor exhaust and the conversion of methanol. The inlet combustion air was characterized using particle image velocimetry and a five-hole pitot probe. The measurements constitute a database sufficiently complete for code validation; subsequently, several research groups have carried out simulations of the facility to varying degrees of success. This paper describes the salient features of the database, and some of the modeling issues and needs.
Modified Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score to risk stratify patients in the emergency department with possible acute coronary syndrome

Objective To assess the prognostic utility of the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score in patients in the emergency department (ED) evaluated for possible acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
Flows Induced by the Impingement of a Two-Dimensional Thermal on a Density Interface

Abstract Laboratory experiments were carried out to investigate the fluid motions resulting from the impingement of a descending thermal on a sharp density interface with the hope of gaining insight into lead-induced convection in polar oceans. Before the impingement, the thermal behaves as in an unstratified fluid and descends as a vortex pair. The evolution after the impingement, however, showed a strong dependence on the Richardson number of the density interface RiRi = lDΔb/wD2, where lD and wD, are the length and velocity scales of the thermal just prior to the impingement and Δb is the buoyancy jump at the interface. When Ri > 10, upon impingement, the thermal splits into two separate vortices without deforming the density interface significantly. Subsequently, a sharp-nosed front propagating on the density interface emerges from each vortex as a consequence of the gravitational collapse. When Ri < 5, the thermal penetrates deep into the density interface and bounces back owing to the baroclinic for...
The association between smoking and aphthous ulcers.

T he results of a preliminary study of the association between smoking and aphthous ulcers indicated potential inhibitory effects of smoking on the occurrence of such oral lesions.1 Bookman and Dorsey3 have documented case histories which discuss the positive therapeutic effects of smoking in the symptomatic alleviation of aphthous ulcerations. Our initial study1 dealt primarily with confirmed lesions, and smoking histories were then documented by interview. The object of that investigation was solely to determine whether smoking habits could be suggested as a potential variable in the incidence of aphthous ulcerations.8-10 Considering the high degree to which nonsmoking was present in those subjects, an additional study to validate the suggestion that smoking might be positively associated with decreased aphthous ulceration activity was conducted.
Bionanoelectronics: Getting close to the action

Two independent groups have demonstrated that nanoscale electrodes can record action potentials in neurons and cardiac muscle cells, and a third group has shown that nanowire field-effect transistors can make electrical measurements on biological materials with unprecedented spatial resolution.
Mast cells and metabolic syndrome

Mast cells are critical effectors in the development of allergic diseases and in many immunoglobulin E-mediated immune responses. These cells exert their physiological and pathological activities by releasing granules containing histamine, cytokines, chemokines, and proteases, including mast cell-specific chymase and tryptase. Like macrophages and T lymphocytes, mast cells are inflammatory cells, and they participate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases such as cardiovascular complications and metabolic disorders. Recent observations suggested that mast cells are involved in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Data from animal models proved the direct participation of mast cells in diet-induced obesity and diabetes. Although the mechanisms by which mast cells participate in these metabolic diseases are not fully understood, established mast cell pathobiology in cardiovascular diseases and effective mast cell inhibitor medications used in pre-formed obesity and diabetes in experimental models offer hope to patients with these common chronic inflammatory diseases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Mast cells in inflammation.
Intelligibility of bone-conducted speech at different locations compared to air-conducted speech

Bone-conduction transducers offer a unique advantage for radio communication systems, allowing sound transmission while the ear canals remain open for access to environmental sounds, or plugged for blocking of environmental sounds. This study compared the intelligibility of noise-degraded speech presented through bone-conduction hearing administered at different locations, and through air-conduction. Speech intelligibility was assessed using the Diagnostic Rhyme Test. Speech intelligibility was reduced for all of the bone-conduction hearing locations, relative to air-conduction hearing. There were also differences in performance for the various bone conduction locations. These results suggest that given noise-degraded speech, the performance decrement from using bone conduction will have to be weighed against the benefits of being able to dynamically block the ear canal, or leave it open, as situations require. Further, the choice of bone conduction transducer location would need to weigh possible perform...
The identification of lysosomal enzymes in bovine lens epithelium

Biochemical studies are described for the isolation of lysosomes (identified as such by the activities of their enzymes) in the cells of the bovine lens epithelium. The various fractions assayed for lysosomal enzymes showed contamination of mitochondrial and soluble cytoplasmic material in the two isolation procedures employed.
A finite difference scheme for a class of first-order elliptic partial differential equations☆

Abstract We describe a compact finite difference scheme to solve div v − q 2 u = 0, v = ϱ grad u , which does not depend upon first eliminating v , so as to obtain a single, higher-order equation. The finite difference equations can be efficiently solved by standard iterative methods, however, by first algebraically eliminating the flux components from the compact form. Energy estimates show that u is approximated to second-order accuracy.
Cytochemistry of brain amyloid in adult dementia

A cytochemical study of 14 cases of adult dementia revealed the presence of gamma globulin in the amyloid of three cases of congophilic angiopathy by means of immunofluorescence microscopy. In these cases, the additional identification of human albumin is regarded to indicate a non-specific macromolecular leak in the blood-brain barrier. Both reactions are inhibited by prior absorption with the appropriate serum protein. Twelve of the 14 cases had congophilic amyloid deposits which were not affected by permanganate pre-treatment, so that immunoglobulin content remains a possiblity, despite the negative immune reaction. Alcianophilia was studied at a varying pH and electrolyte concentration, but these findings do not appear to have nosologic significance. The three positive cases are characterized by a rapid terminal decline. The heterogeneity of amyloid and the significance of immunoamyloid in the pathogenesis of adult dementia is discussed.
Molecular phylogenetics and the evolution of labral spines among eastern Pacific ocenebrine gastropods.

Abstract Labral spines are sharp projections of the apertural lip found in some marine gastropods that are used to penetrate hard-shelled prey. The majority of gastropod genera that contain labral spine-bearing species are found in the subfamily Ocenebrinae (Gastropoda: Muricidae). To reconstruct the evolutionary history of labral spine-bearing and labral spine-lacking gastropods in the eastern Pacific (EP) Ocean, partial sequences of two mitochondrial genes (cytochrome oxidase I and 12S rRNA) were obtained from representative taxa. Despite high nucleotide bias, a variety of phylogenetic reconstruction methods produced the same tree topology. The traditional taxonomic view that all “Nucella-like” spine-bearing taxa in the EP belong to a monophyletic “Acanthina” is rejected due to nonmonophyly of this group. The more recently recognized “Acanthinucella” is also not monophyletic, and we therefore propose the new genus Mexacanthina for two Mexican species formerly assigned to Acanthinucella. The genus Ocinebrina, which first appears in the middle Eocene, is not a stem EP ocenebrine lineage and may also not be a monophyletic clade. Tracing the evolutionary history of labral spines among extant lineages indicates that the absence of a labral spine is ancestral for all EP ocenebrines. Ancestral conditions could not be resolved unambiguously for all nodes of the phylogeny based on extant taxa. However, by jointly considering both molecular phylogenetic relationships and the phylogenetic affinities of several extinct taxa, all remaining character state transformation can be inferred unambiguously. Based on this analysis, a labral spine likely evolved independently in at least four lineages of EP ocenebrines. Although homoplasy appears to characterize labral spine evolution among ocenebrine gastropods, the structural position of a labral spine was evolutionarily altered in one lineage, indicating that different types of labral spines do not necessarily reflect convergent evolution.
Impact of Mean Arterial Blood Pressure During the First Seven Days Post Spinal Cord Injury

Purpose: To examine neurological outcomes in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in relation to mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) during the first 7 days post injury. Method: The charts of individuals with complete tetraplegia (N = 17) admitted directly to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center from 2000 to 2006 were reviewed for MAP values and clinical results, including ASIA motor scores.Results: The percent of time spent with a MAP of 75 mm Hg. Conclusion: MAP values of 75 mm Hg. This suggests that the current recommendation of maintaining MAP at 85–90 mm Hg for the first 7 days following acute SCI may not be appropriate given the lack of evidence of correlation with outcome. Future studies should be conducted to determine the optimal blood pressure to maximize neurological outcomes
Randomized trial comparing single dose versus fractionated irradiation for prevention of heterotopic bone: a preliminary report.

Abstract Radiation therapy has been shown to prevent heterotopic bone formation in high risk patients undergoing total hip replacement. A number of doses have been used without a randomized trial comparing one dose regimen against another. A prospective randomized trial was undertaken comparing 10 Gy in 5 fractions versus 8 Gy in 1 fraction. Forty-seven patients have been randomized at the time of this evaluation with 37 patients eligible for analysis. The pre-operative, immediate post-operative and 2 month post-operative radiographs were graded. At the time of this analysis, 17 patients were randomized to the 8 Gy arm with 20 patients in the 10 Gy arm. Patients were treated with limited fields so as to only cover the area at risk for development of heterotopic bone to prevent adverse effects on biologic fixation of uncemented implants. When comparing the pre-operative, operative, and 2 mouth post-operative radiographs, only four patients (1 patient in the 8 Gy arm and 3 patients in the 10 Gy arm), had an increase in the score. No patient had an increase in score to a clinically significant level, usually grade 3 or 4. These preliminary results appear to show that 8 Gy in a single fraction can be as effective as 10 Gy in 5 fractions in preventing heterotopic bone in susceptible individuals. Further follow-up of the remaining patients may confirm this.
Absence of PKC-Alpha Attenuates Lithium-Induced Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus

Lithium, an effective antipsychotic, induces nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) in ∼40% of patients. The decreased capacity to concentrate urine is likely due to lithium acutely disrupting the cAMP pathway and chronically reducing urea transporter (UT-A1) and water channel (AQP2) expression in the inner medulla. Targeting an alternative signaling pathway, such as PKC-mediated signaling, may be an effective method of treating lithium-induced polyuria. PKC-alpha null mice (PKCα KO) and strain-matched wild type (WT) controls were treated with lithium for 0, 3 or 5 days. WT mice had increased urine output and lowered urine osmolality after 3 and 5 days of treatment whereas PKCα KO mice had no change in urine output or concentration. Western blot analysis revealed that AQP2 expression in medullary tissues was lowered after 3 and 5 days in WT mice; however, AQP2 was unchanged in PKCα KO. Similar results were observed with UT-A1 expression. Animals were also treated with lithium for 6 weeks. Lithium-treated WT mice had 19-fold increased urine output whereas treated PKCα KO animals had a 4-fold increase in output. AQP2 and UT-A1 expression was lowered in 6 week lithium-treated WT animals whereas in treated PKCα KO mice, AQP2 was only reduced by 2-fold and UT-A1 expression was unaffected. Urinary sodium, potassium and calcium were elevated in lithium-fed WT but not in lithium-fed PKCα KO mice. Our data show that ablation of PKCα preserves AQP2 and UT-A1 protein expression and localization in lithium-induced NDI, and prevents the development of the severe polyuria associated with lithium therapy.
Managing risk in offshore systems development

The benefit of low-cost labor must be weighed against the risk of missed deadlines, dissatisfied users, and failure to reduce development costs.
Purification and reconstitution of the methyl-accepting chemotaxis proteins from Bacillus subtilis

Abstract The methyl-accepting chemotaxis proteins (MCPs) from Bacillus subtilis , designated as H1, H2, and H3, have been purified to near homogeneity. These purified MCPs were reconstituted into proteoliposomes vesicles using a detergent dilution procedure. The ability of the reconstituted MCPs to be methylated in vitro strongly suggests that they are in a functionally active conformation. The MCPs of B. subtilis are considerably larger than those of Escherichia coli , with molecular weights of the purified proteins being 76, 86, and 97 kDa for H3, H2, and H1, respectively. Two-dimensional electrophoresis demonstrates that the isoelectric point of H1 and H2 is 5.1, while H3 is slightly more basic, having an isoelectric point of 5.3. Immunoblot analysis using the cross reacting E. coli anti-Trg antibody reveals that maximal MCP expression occurs approx. 4 h after the onset of stationary phase, and remains relatively stable thereafter. However, the ability of the MCPs to be methylated in vivo is significantly reduced.
Uncoordinate synthesis of histone H1 in cells arrested in the G1 phase

Abstract It has been known for several years that DNA replication and histone synthesis occur concomitantly in cultured mammalian cells. Normally all five classes of histones are synthesized coordinately. However, mouse myeloma cells, synchronized by starvation for isoleucine, synthesize increased amounts of histone H1 relative to the four nucleosomal core histones. This unscheduled synthesis of histone H1 is reduced within 1 h after refeeding isoleucine, and is not a normal component of G1. The synthesis of H1 increases coordinately again with other histones during the S phase. The DNA synthesis inhibitors, cytosine arabinoside and hydroxyurea, block all histone synthesis in S-phase cells. The levels of histone H1 mRNA, relative to the other histone mRNAs, is increased in isoeleucine-starved cells and decreases rapidly after refeeding isoleucine. The increased incorporation of histone H1 is at least partially due to the low isoleucine content of histone H1. Starvation of cells for lysine resulted in a decrease in H1 synthesis relative to core histones. Again the ratio was altered on refeeding the amino acid. 3T3 cells starved for serum also incorporated only H1 histones into chromatin. The ratio of different H1 proteins also changed. The synthesis of the H1 0 protein was predominant in G 0 cells, and reduced in S-phase cells. These data indicate the metabolism of H1 is independent of the other histones when cell growth is arrested.
p-type doped channel FETs using strained and lattice matched InAlAs/InGaAs heterostructures

Lattice matched (x=0.53) and strained (x=0.65) In/sub 0.52/Al/sub 0.48/As/In/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/As p-doped dual-channel FETs were fabricated and investigated experimentally. This material system offers a high carrier velocity and large bandgap discontinuity as required for high-speed operation. The design and the DC and high-frequency characteristics of the FETs are reported. The strained design enhances the intrinsic transconductance from 23 mS/mm to 46.5 mS/mm using 1.0- mu m-long gates. The cutoff frequency also improves from 1.0 GHz to 1.5 GHz. >
Glutathione peroxidase and the destruction of hydrogen peroxide in animal tissues.

Abstract Rat liver contains a very active glutathione peroxidase, and lung, heart, and kidney of the rat also show a significant activity. Experiments have been carried out to show that reduction of hydrogen peroxide in the presence of glutathione and glutathione peroxidase may be coupled to oxidation of glucose 6-phosphate. The significance of this mechanism in the physiological destruction of hydrogen peroxide is discussed.
The paternal genome in mouse zygotes is less sensitive to ENU mutagenesis than the maternal genome

Abstract The two parental genomes lie separate within the zygote and may be differentially affected by environmental influences. We have shown earlier (Russell et al., 1988) tha the maternal genome within the mouse zygote is exquisitely sensitive to the induction of point mutatinos by N -ethyl- N -nitrosourea (ENU), and the the initial lesion probably occurs in one strand of the DNA. The present experiment measured specific-locus mutation induction in the paternal genome. Zygotes containing a multiple-recessive maternal genome ( a ; b ; p c ch ; d se ; s ) and the corresponding wild-type alleles in the paternal one were exposed to 50 mg ENU/kg in vivo at one of two stages: the presumed times of sperm entry and early pronuclear stage. At weaning age, the resulting mice were examined for mutations at the marked loci as well as for other mutations producing externally visible phenotypes. At the marked loci, one possible mosaic (for b ) was observed among 2113 classified offspring that has been treated with ENU as zygotes; this animal failed to transmit a mutation. By contrast, in the reciprocal cross (which tests the maternal genome) we had observed 8 specific-locus mutations (6 of them mosaics) among 1555 offspring that had received the same dose of ENU during sperm entry (and completion of oocyte meiosis II). In the present experiment, we also found on mutation at other loci (two at other loci in the reciprocal cross). The frequency of offspring with small white belly spots was significantly greater in the treated groups (3.5 and 1.9% at the earlier and later stage, respectively) than in the control. (1.0%), the excess being almost entirely due to daughters. Genetic tests of a large number of such offspring failed to find a genetic cause. Instead, it appears that this phenotype may be influenced by factors in the intrauterine environment. It is concluded that shortly after sperm entry, the paternal genome of the zygote is less sensitive than the maternal one to the induciton of mutations by ENU.
Polysplenia and Kartagener syndromes in a sibship: Association with abnormal respiratory cilia

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