cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cultivation in vitro of Schistosomatium douthitti (trematoda: Schistosomatidae)

Abstract Cultivation in vitro of Schistosomatium douthitti (Trematoda : Schistosomatidae). International Journal for Parasitology12: 541–545. We grew S. douthitti in vitro from the cercaria to pairing ovigerous adults, using methods and media previously reported for cultivation of Schistosoma mansoni. Growth of S. douthitti in vitro was much more rapid than that of S. mansoni, but the cultures achieved a similar stage of maximal development. Cultured S. douthitti worms were smaller than those from animals and eggs were inviable. We determined that females of this species, known to produce eggs in unisexual animal infections, will also do so in culture in the absence of males.
Identification of a critical amino acid in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor.

Abstract Two aryl hydrocarbon receptors (rtAHR2α and rtAHR2β) have been identified in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). These receptors share 98% amino acid identity, yet their functional properties differ. Both rtAHR2α and rtAHR2β bind 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), dimerize with rainbow trout ARNTb (rtARNTb), and recognize dioxin response elements in vitro. However, in a transient transfection assay the two proteins show differential ability to recognize enhancers, produce transactivation, and respond to TCDD. To identify the sequence differences that confer the functional differences between rtAHR2α and rtAHR2β, we constructed chimeric rtAHRs, in which segments of one receptor form was replaced with the corresponding part from the other isoform. This approach progressively narrowed the region being examined to a single residue, corresponding to position 111 in rtAHR2β. Altering this residue in rtAHR2β from the lysine to glutamate found in rtAHR2α produced an rtAHR2β with the properties of rtAHR2α. All other known AHRs resemble rtAHR2α and carry glutamate at this position, located at the N terminus of the PAS-A domain. We tested the effect of altering this glutamate in the human and zebrafish AHRs to lysine. This lysine substitution produced AHRs with transactivation properties that were similar to rtAHR2β. These results identify a critical residue in AHR proteins that has an important impact on transactivation, enhancer site recognition, and regulation by ligand.
Children's Pedestrian Route Selection: Efficacy of a Video and Internet Training Protocol.

Objective This randomized controlled trial examined one aspect of child pedestrian behavior, route selection across intersections, to evaluate whether a combination of widely-available videos and websites effectively train children in safe pedestrian route selection compared to active pedestrian safety control training and a no-contact control group.
Rear window redux: learning from the architecture in Hitchcock's film using 3D modeling and animation

In the Fall of 2006 upper level architecture students at Kansas State University used Alfred Hitchcock's film, Rear Window, to analyze the films' unique architectural sensibility through 3D modeling and animation and then apply that knowledge in their work. This paper will document that experience.
Two-step processes in the (3He, t) reaction to analog and anti-analog states in 56Co

Abstract The IAS and AAS transitions in the 56 Fe( 3 He, t) 56 Co reaction were studied at E 3 He = 38.2 MeV. The observed differential cross sections were compared in magnitude and shape to calculations that included a coherent sum of amplitudes of the two-step ( 3 He, α)(α, t) and the one-step charge-exchange processes. Excellent agreement was found for both shapes and magnitudes. The sensitivity of the calculations to optical model parameters was found to be small but the sensitivity to the binding energy of the transferred nucleons was found to be very important.
The application of prolate spheroidal wave functions to the detection and estimation of band-limited signals

A solution to the detection Fredholm equation for band-limited noise and signal is presented which makes use of the dual orthogonality and completeness of the prolate spheroidal wave functions. Although data are available only on a finite interval, the detector in principle achieves the same optimum performance as if the interval were infinite. This apparent anomaly is resolved in an example.
Data links for the EOS TPC

The authors report on the design and performance of high-speed data links and slower configuration control links used between the EOS TPC (Equation-of-State Time Projection Chamber) detector and the data processing electronics. Data rates of 5 Mb/s are maintained over 30 m with optical isolation. Pedestal subtraction, hit detection, and data reordering are performed online. >
Analysis of serotonin N-acetyltransferase regulation in vitro and in live cells using protein semisynthesis.

Melatonin is a key circadian rhythm hormone that is produced in a diurnal pattern, driven by changes in the level of the biosynthetic enzyme serotonin N-acetyltransferase [arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT)]1 (1, 2). The neuroendocrine network responsible for modulating AANAT levels has been intensively investigated, and some aspects of this regulation are now understood. Light detected by the retina results in neurotransmission through the suprachiasmatic nucleus that in turn induces a drop in norepinephrine stimulation to the pineal (1, 2). Norepinephrine activates the adrenergic receptor which in turn stimulates a protein kinase A (PKA) signaling cascade, which results in AANAT being phosphorylated on two sites by PKA (3–5). It is believed that AANAT phosphorylation at Thr31 and Ser205 enhances its interaction with 14-3-3ζ which appears to stabilize AANAT against degradation (3–6). Moreover, recruitment of 14-3-3ζ to AANAT has also been suggested to modulate its acetyltransferase activity (3–6). However, the precise details of how each phosphorylation site in AANAT contributes to 14-3-3ζ recruitment and affinity have not yet been settled. Although the stability of AANAT has been studied in fixed cell assays by immunocytochemistry (7, 8), it would be advantageous to demonstrate real-time sensitivity to proteolytic breakdown in live cells. In this study, we use protein semisynthesis employing the native chemical ligation reaction to investigate these questions. In this approach, peptides and/or proteins containing αthioesters are reacted with peptides and/or proteins bearing N-terminal Cys residues in a chemoselective reaction resulting in peptide bond formation (9–12) (Scheme 1). In previous applications of this semisynthetic method to AANAT, phosphorylated residues (pSer and pThr) or nonhydrolyzable mimics were installed at the two sites of phosphorylation of AANAT, and it was demonstrated that these modified proteins can resist intracellular breakdown after microinjection (13, 14). Here we use protein semisynthesis to prepare doubly phosphorylated (pThr31 and pSer205) AANAT and assess the effects on 14-3-3ζ binding and acetyltransferase activity. We have also applied protein semisynthesis to generate a fluorescently labeled 14-3-3ζ that has proven to be useful for quantitative binding analysis of mono- and diphosphorylated AANAT by anisotropy. Finally, we employ protein semisynthesis to make FRET active doubly fluorescently labeled AANAT. This dually labeled protein allows for real-time measurement of proteolytic breakdown both in vitro and in cell culture. Taken together, these studies have exploited recently developed protein chemical methods to gain greater insight into the biochemical regulation of AANAT. Scheme 1 Semisynthesis of AANAT
Midterm outcome after the distal revascularization and interval ligation (DRIL) procedure

Background The distal revascularization and interval ligation (DRIL) procedure has evolved as the optimal treatment for access-related hand ischemia despite concerns about its durability. This study was designed to review our institutional experience and objectively define its mid-term outcome. Methods A retrospective review of all patients undergoing the DRIL procedure was performed. The diagnosis of severe hand ischemia was made based primarily upon clinical presentation, but confirmed with noninvasive imaging in select cases. The DRIL conduit was selected based upon noninvasive imaging (vein conduit criteria: saphenous > arm; diameter ≥3 mm) and the proximal anastomosis was positioned ≥7 cm from the access anastomosis. The DRIL bypasses were followed in a graft surveillance protocol and remedial procedures performed as dictated by clinical or ultrasound scan findings. Results Sixty-four DRIL procedures were performed in 61 patients (age - 58 ± 13 standard deviation [SD], female – 62%, diabetic – 72%). The index access procedures included: autogenous brachiocephalic – 46%, autogenous brachiobasilic – 31%, autogenous brachioaxillary translocated femoral vein – 20%, other –3%. The precipitating symptoms were pain (25%), paresthesia (34%), motor dysfunction (24%), and tissue loss (17%); a pre-emptive DRIL was performed in 5 patients. The timing of the DRIL relative to the index access was dictated by the symptoms: 30 days – 44%. Perioperative mortality rate was 3% and the complication rate was 22% (wound – 14%). The DRIL procedure relieved the ischemic symptoms in 78% of the cases (residual symptoms: paresthesia – 13%; pain – 5%; tissue loss – 4%; motor – 2%). The DRIL also resulted in significant ( P Conclusion The DRIL procedure safely and effectively relieves the symptoms of severe access-related hand ischemia while preserving the access. The midterm results suggest that the DRIL bypasses are durable, although long-term graft surveillance may be justified given the observed failures.
Characteristics of Trametes villosa laccase adsorbed on aluminum hydroxide

Abstract The interaction of metal oxides with extracellular enzymes may influence humus formation and bioremediation processes. In this study, short-range ordered aluminum hydroxide exhibited a strong affinity for laccase from Trametes villosa (Xm = 6.18 μg mg−1) as evidenced by an H-type adsorption isotherm. Based on oxygen uptake measurements, free laccase had only slightly greater kinetic parameters (Km = 0.18 mM; Vmax = 14.35 mmol O2 min−1) than those of adsorbed laccase (Km = 0.15 mM; Vmax = 12.77 mmol O2 min−1). Free and adsorbed laccase showed similar activities under various pH conditions (from 3.8 to 7.8) and also showed similar activity loss over time (0–30 days). Adsorbed laccase was less resistant to thermal (4–100 °C) and proteolytic degradation, but also less sensitive to inhibition by humic acid than free laccase. Attenuated total reflectance infrared (ATR-IR) spectroscopy did not show significant changes in the secondary structure of laccase due to adsorption on aluminum hydroxide. These results indicate that laccase in soil may be found predominantly complexed with short-range ordered aluminum hydroxide, and laccase activity and stability is little affected by adsorption to the mineral. Consequently, use of immobilized enzymes such as laccase on aluminum hydroxide can be considered a practical tool for soil remediation.
A direct high-performance liquid chromatography assay of the enzymatic activity of enterokinase (enteropeptidase)

Bovine enterokinase (enteropeptidase) activates trypsinogen to trypsin at pH 8.0. In the presence of chicken ovomucoid, a stable complex of ovomucoid-trypsin is produced, inactivating trypsin and eliminating autoactivation of trypsinogen. The molecular size of trypsin (24,000 Da) is increased twofold on forming the ovomucoid-trypsin complex (52,000 Da). Size-exclusion chromatography on a Toya Soda TSK G2000SW column in an HPLC system and with computer-assisted analyses gives a direct quantitative determination of the amount of substrate (trypsinogen) and product (ovomucoid-trypsin). The rate of disappearance of substrate is equal to the rate of formation of product in agreement with kinetic theory. The simultaneous determination of both rates increases the reliability of the assay. The HPLC assay has an extended linear range for the velocity of the activation process as a function of enzyme concentration. The assay is reliable and accurate for highly purified preparations, samples at different steps in the purification scheme, and for a direct assay of the intestinal contents. The assay should be useful in clinical analyses.
A model for predicting solvent self-diffusion coefficients in nonglassy polymer/solvent solutions

Cohen-Turnbull diffusion theory is used to develop a model for predicting solvent self-diffusion coefficients D1 in nonglassy polymer/solvent solutions. Polymer molecules are envisioned as hindering solvent mobility by reducing the average free volume per unit mass in the system and through the lower mobility of polymer segments relative to solvent molecules. The concentration dependence of D1 predicted by the model is in reasonable agreement with data for the solvents heptane, hexadecane, benzene, cyclohexane, and decalin in polyisobutylene (PIB), and for toluene in polystyrene, poly(methyl mothacrylate), and PIB. Although none of the data is for high concentrations of polymer (volume fractions ϕ≥0.9) it is anticipated the model will be less representative in this regime where the assumptions in its development are unsure. The model also demonstrates the correct temperature and concentration dependence of the apparent activation energy for diffusion. The only experimental data needed to use the model are the viscosity and critical volume of the pure solvent, and the specific volume of both the solvent and mixture. No binary transport data are required.
A Molecular Dynamics Study of the Response of Lipid Bilayers and Monolayers to Trehalose

Surface tensions evaluated from molecular dynamics simulations of fully hydrated dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine bilayers and monolayers at surface areas/lipid of 54, 64, and 80 A2 are uniformly lowered 4–8 dyn/cm upon addition of trehalose in a 1:2 trehalose/lipid ratio. Constant surface tension simulations of bilayers yield the complementary result: an increase in surface area consistent with the surface pressure-surface area (π-A) isotherms. Hydrogen bonding by trehalose, replacement of waters in the headgroup region, and modulation of the dipole potential are all similar in bilayers and monolayers at the same surface area. These results strongly support the assumption that experimental measurements on the interactions of surface active components such as trehalose with monolayers can yield quantitative insight to their effects on bilayers. The simulations also indicate that the 20–30 dyn/cm difference in surface tension of the bilayer leaflet and monolayer arises from differences in the chain regions, not the headgroup/water interfaces.
Improving the brown-forsythe solution to the generalized behrens-fisher problem

Over two decades ago, Brown and Forsythe (B-F) (1974) proposed an innovative solution to the problem of comparing independent normal means under heteroscedasticity. Since then, their testing procedure has gained in popularity and authors have published various articles in which the B-F test has formed the basis of their research. The purpose of this paper is to point out, and correct, a flaw in the B-F testing procedure. Specifically, it is shown that the approximation proposed by B-F for the null distribution of their test statistic is inadequate. An improved approximation is provided and the small sample null properties of the modified B-F test are studied via simulation. The empirical findings support the theoretical result that the modified B-F test does a better job of preserving the test size compared to the original B-F test.
Methods of analysis of atmospheric aerosols from future spaceborne high spectral resolution lidar data

The limitations of single wavelength elastic scatter lidar with regard to retrieving various optical or microphysical properties of the observed aerosols are well known. Typical retrieval methodologies rely on elastic scatter information at at least two wavelengths, together with either temporally or geographically inferred estimates of the extinction-to-back-scatter ratio S a , or aerosol model parameters which constrain the solution in such a way as to be consistent with the optical properties of commonly observed aerosol types. High spectral resolution lidars (HSRL) now facilitate unambiguous, direct measurement of aerosol extinction and backscatter profiles, greatly augmenting the level of information available for determining aerosol type or other relevant parameters. In this paper, we explore a methodology for using HSRL data at one wavelength to facilitate retrievals from traditional elastic scatter data at other wavelengths. Further, we extend the scope of the technique to improving aerosol models used to constrain retrievals from multi-wavelength elastic scatter lidars. We explore this methodology in the context of currently available HSRL technology as well as anticipated future spaceborne HSRL systems.
A demonstration of undersea warfare technologies in a high fidelity simulation on the Defense Simulation Internet

The Advanced Research Projects Agency is sponsoring a maritime simulation demonstration which will occur from the 13th to the 17th of September 1993 on the Defense Simulation Internet. The objective of the demonstration is to show how various ARPA developed technologies can be used to increase the fidelity of simulations. Naval warfare relies on sensors and processing systems to detect, track, engage, and fire on hostile targets. These systems are unlike tank battles were visual contact with targets is needed to fire. The September demonstration will be the first distributed interactive demonstration to utilize sensor driven weapon systems. The demonstration will link the components of a carrier battle group with low frequency active search, and mine countermeasures capabilities into a realistic command and control environment. The demonstration will play out components of a major regional contingency and engage hostile undersea forces. For this demonstration, platforms and or command centers will be located at CINCPAC, CTF-12, The Pentagon, SPAWAR, NAVSEA, ARPA, JHU/APL, SAIC, Alliant Tech, Draper Laboratories, NAVOCEANO, Sandia National Labs, etc.
The role of the farnesyltransferase inhibitor lonafarnib in the treatment of Progeria

Introduction: Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (Progeria) is a rare autosomal dominant premature aging disease caused by the generation of progerin, a farnesylated, disease-generating counterpart to the nuclear protein lamin A. Areas covered: The farnesyltransferase inhibitor (FTI) lonafarnib (SCH66336) is thought to reduce the deleterious effects of progerin by inhibiting the transfer of the farnesyl group onto this abnormal pre-lamin A molecule. The results of the first prospective clinical trial of lonafarnib in children with Progeria have recently been reported. In this review, the biologic basis of Progeria and the rational use of the FTI lonafarnib in this disease will be discussed. The results of this trial will be considered both in the context of the areas where lonafarnib demonstrated activity and areas of lack of response, as well as the toxicity of this agent. Expert opinion: The FTI lonafarnib has demonstrated significant clinical activity in patients with Progeria. This approach will be ...
The nature of endochondral ossification in the mandibular condyle of the mouse

Through the application of histological and histochemical techniques, this study demonstrates that the ossification process of the mandibular condyle differs basically from that of other endochondral growth sites. In the epiphyseal plate of a typical long bone, the cartilage cells are known to undergo degenerative processes and death. In the mandibular condyle, however, the cartilage cells keep their vitality throughout the cartilage zones. In the lower border of the calcified cartilage, adjacent hypertrophic cartilage cells fuse after the dissolution of the intervening matrix to form multinuclear chondroclasts. These giant cells reveal marked positive reaction to mitochondrial and lysosomal enzymes. It is suggested that these enzymes are active in the resorption process of the calcified cartilage matrix, which is an integral phase of the ossification mechanism of the condylar growth center. It is believed that the mandibular condyle of the mouse demonstrates a specific type of endochondral ossification, in which the hypertrophic chondrocytes are not dying cells, but contribute actively to the process of bone formation.
Design considerations in developing a mobile application for scalable and decentralized publish/subscribe-based weather alert system

This paper describes our experience developing a mobile, cloud-based weather alert system, which was motivated by the need to overcome the limitations in an existing, centralized severe weather warning system at Vanderbilt University. We faced different design choices, integration challenges and a substantial learning curve in realizing a decentralized, scalable, and easy-to-use solution. In our solution, Android devices in the vicinity of the hazardous weather event can post timely data to a server, including the approximate location of the severe weather incident, and where the server, in turn, can distribute messages scalably to relevant Android devices. The use case for this research was severe weather alerting, however, we surmise that the basic patterns and design choices used in the mobile application design can be used in other related scenarios.
Thermal sensitivity across ages and during chronic fentanyl administration in rats.

Rationale Chronic pain is becoming a more common medical diagnosis and is especially prevalent in older individuals. As such, prescribed use of opioids is on the rise, even though the efficacy for pain management in older individuals is unclear.
Controlling normal incident optical waves with an integrated resonator

We show a diffraction-based coupling scheme that allows a micro-resonator to directly manipulate a free-space optical beam at normal incidence. We demonstrate a high-Q micro-gear resonator with a 1.57-um radius whose vertical transmission and reflection change 40% over a wavelength range of only 0.3 nm. Without the need to be attached to a waveguide, a dense 2D array of such resonators can be integrated on a chip for spatial light modulation and parallel bio-sensing.
Intangible Cultural Property, Semiotic Ideology, and the Vagaries of Ethnoculinary Recognition

Stephan Palmie My contribution to this special issue takes its origins in a footnote to an article on culinary metaphors in the modeling of African American cultural history that I published a few years ago (Palmie 2005). It was a long footnote on (what I think is) a fascinating instance of gastrographic revisionism very much apropos our common theme of “hybrid heritage” and even more interesting in light of current discussions about intangible cultural property. What I am concerned with in the following is, in principle at least, a well-known theme in the anthropology of food and cuisine, viz. the treatment of specific foods and preparations as emblematic markers of collective identities. Ever since Robertson Smith’s Lectures on the Religion of the Semites (1894), we have known that culinary practices can (and often do) serve as powerful vehicles for collective projections of a common history and future. Yet while much attention has been paid to the socializing function of commensality or patterned food avoidance, little attention (or so it seems to me) has been paid to the way in which culinary knowledge—shall we say “recipes”?— function to demarcate social boundaries, especially if and when they become objectified as intellectual property or intangible cultural heritage. This, however, is exactly what African American cookbook-writing advocates of conceptions of “culinary Pan-Africanism,” or even more radically, Afrocentric proponents of the idea of the willful denial of the African origins of much of the world’s high cuisines, have been arguing for some two decades. But let me establish a bit of context first. At least since the 1960s, US African American foodways—especially the culinary complex known as “soul food”—have been subject to explicit and often highly self-conscious politicization. As both the black writer and activist Leroi Jones/Amiri Baraka (1966) and the founder of the Nation of Islam, the honorable Elijah Muhammad (1967) clearly recognized in their own very different ways, there is a vexing arbitrariness to the culinary signifier: eating corn bread, collard greens, ham hocks, or chitterlings by itself does not constitute an assertion or rejection of certain identities, subject positions, or visions of collective history. What does is the symbolic act of situating these same foods within narratives about their significance for patterns of commensal affinity among the oppressed and excluded (in Baraka’s case), or about hybrid heritage
Fabrication of microtextured membranes for cardiac myocyte attachment and orientation.

To understand the role of tissue adaptation to altered physiological states, a more physiologically and dimensionally relevant in vitro model of cardiac myocyte organization has been developed. A microtextured polymeric membrane with micron range dimensions promotes myocyte adhesion through substrate/cell interlocking and, thus, provides a more suitable stretchable matrix for studying overlying cell populations. These microtextured membranes are created using photolithography and microfabrication techniques. Biologically, mechanically, and optically compatible interfaces with specified microarchitecture and surface chemistry have been designed, microfabricated, and characterized for this purpose. Cardiac myocytes plated on these membranes display greater attachment and cell height compared to conventional culture substrates. Advantages of the microtextured membranes include the high degree of reproducibility and the ability to create features on the micron and submicron size scale. Because of the flexibility of substrate material and the ease of creating micron size structures, this technique can be applied to many other physiological and biological systems.
Analysis of the hydromechanical behavior of a flat-lying fracture during a slug test

Slug tests dilate and contract fractures in aquifers. We developed a coupled hydromechanical analysis of an idealized fracture to evaluate effects of these deformations in fractured crystalline rock aquifers. The analysis shows the abrupt increase in pressure at the beginning of a slug test causes a slight opening of a fracture, but the fracture continues to open as the pressure falls in the wellbore. This happens because the pressure increases over an ever-widening area even though it decreases in the wellbore. Eventually decreasing pressure in the vicinity of the wellbore offsets the spreading pressure and the fracture starts to close, ultimately returning to its initial aperture when the pressure equilibrates. The displacement in the wellbore when the pressure head is rising is always smaller than when the head is falling, and this produces a loop-like, hysteresis when displacement is plotted as a function of pressure. A sensitivity analysis shows the displacement at the wellbore is sensitive to the magnitude and distribution of aquifer properties, suggesting that the displacement signal could be combined with pressure measurements to improve the interpretation of slug tests during aquifer characterization.
HISTONE H3 MODIFICATIONS IN RAT HEPATIC STELLATE CELLS BY ETHANOL

Aims: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play critical roles in the development of hepatic fibrosis caused by various agents including alcohol. Ethanol causes post-translational modification in histone. The goal of this study is to investigate whether ethanol affected acetylation and methylation of histone H3 in rat HSCs. Methods: We isolated and separated HSCs using collagenase perfusion of liver followed by Nycodenz density gradient centrifugation. HSCs were divided and treated with different concentrations of ethanol for various times. Histone was isolated using acid extraction method. Acetylation and methylation of histone H3 at Lys9 was analysed by both western blot and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) immunochemical stain. Acetylation of histone H3 at Lys9 (Ac-H3-lys9), Lys14 (Ac-H3-Lys14), Lys18 (Ac-H3-lys18), or Lys23 (Ac-H3-lys23) was checked by western blotting. Results: At lysine 9, ethanol caused dose-dependent increase of Ac-H3 up to 200 mM. Ac-H3-lys9 increased with a maximum of 86-fold at 72 h and 200 mM ethanol treatment, and decreased thereafter. This increase was confirmed by both western blotting and FITC stain. At high dose, ethanol increased acetylation of histone H3 at Lys23 (Ac-H3-lys23), but it had no effect on Ac-H3-lys14 or Ac-H3-lys18. The intensity of the FITC-labelled dimethyl-histone H3 at Lys9 (Me-H3-lys9) antibody appeared to decrease slightly with increasing dose of ethanol. But this did not appear to change when monitored by western blotting. Conclusions: Ethanol caused dose and time-dependent increase in acetylation of histone H3 at Lys9, but not at Lys14 or Lys18. Compared with hepatocytes the Ac-H3-lys9 in HSCs required longer ethanol exposure. Levels of Me-H3-lys9 seemed to remain unaltered. Thus increase in Ac-H3-lys9 represents a nuclear-chromatin modification event in HSCs exposed to ethanol. ( Received 10 March 2005; first review notifed 1 April 2005; in revised form 19 April 2005; accepted 28 April 2005 )
Plasma irisin in runners and nonrunners: no favorable metabolic associations in humans

Irisin is a hormone which mimics the favorable metabolic effects associated with regular exercise, by converting subcutaneous white fat into brownish fat, in rodents. Thirty‐three human subjects (16 runners, 17 nonrunners) were measured for: resting energy expenditure (REE), body composition, VO2 Peak test, [irisin]p, and plasma metabolic profile. Nine female nonrunners then participated in a 10‐week supervised 5 km training program and tested after the race. Two runners underwent 18F‐FDG‐PET scans to quantify brown fat. No gender or age (28 ± 10 years) differences noted between matched cohorts. Runners averaged 58 ± 26 miles/week for 13 ± 6 years and had lower bodyweight (63 vs. 88 kg; P 0.05). Neither runner selected for 18F‐FDG‐PET scans had brown fat. Runners demonstrated significantly healthier metabolic and body composition profiles compared with nonrunners. None of these favorable exercise effects were positively associated with [irisin]p..
Pentylenetetrazole induced changes in zebrafish behavior, neural activity and C-fos expression

Rodent seizure models have significantly contributed to our basic understanding of epilepsy. However, medically intractable forms of epilepsy persist and the fundamental mechanisms underlying this disease remain unclear. Here we show that seizures can be elicited in a simple vertebrate system e.g. zebrafish larvae (Danio rerio). Exposure to a common convulsant agent (pentylenetetrazole, PTZ) induced a stereotyped and concentration-dependent sequence of behavioral changes culminating in clonus-like convulsions. Extracellular recordings from fish optic tectum revealed ictal and interictal-like electrographic discharges after application of PTZ, which could be blocked by tetrodotoxin or glutamate receptor antagonists. Epileptiform discharges were suppressed by commonly used antiepileptic drugs, valproate and diazepam, in a concentration-dependent manner. Up-regulation of c-fos expression was also observed in CNS structures of zebrafish exposed to PTZ. Taken together, these results demonstrate that chemically-induced seizures in zebrafish exhibit behavioral, electrographic, and molecular changes that would be expected from a rodent seizure model. Therefore, zebrafish larvae represent a powerful new system to study the underlying basis of seizure generation, epilepsy and epileptogenesis.
Diffusion of ethyl acetate vapor in strained low density polyethylene

At a fixed vapor pressure p of the penetrant and constant temperature of the experiment, the sorption S = c/p or concentration c of the ethylacetate vapor in the uniaxially strained low density polyethylene (LDPE) increases most rapidly at low strains. If, however, on the basis of strain relaxation one separates the total strain ϵ into an elastic ϵe, and a plastic ϵpl, deformation, one obtains an almost linear increase of the concentration c or sorption S of the sorbate with elastic strain ϵe. The separation of ϵ = ϵe + ϵpl depends very much on the time th the sample is kept elongated and the vapor pressure p of the sorbate. The elastic component decreases and the complementary plastic fraction increases with th and p. An almost stationary state is reached after th of about 1/2 h. The calculation of the diffusion coefficient Ds1 from the first sorption immediately after the stretching is affected by this slow adjustment in the interval 0 ≤ th ≤ ½h and shows a pseudo maximum at a strain of ϵ∼ = 10 percent. The first desorption experiment and all the later sorptions and desorptions yield the same DD = DS < DS1 that is the correctly calculated diffusion coefficient D. The coefficient D decreases with the strain ϵ or ϵe in contrast with the expected increase of Da of the amorphous component. Such an increase of Da is expected as a consequence of the fractional free volume (FFV) increase caused by the elongation. According to the FFV concept, a decrease of the measured apparent diffusion coefficient D = ψDa requires that with increasing ϵ, the tortuosity factor ψ decreases faster than the increase in Da.
Distinct categories of microbial forms associated with periodontal disease.

The purpose of this study was to determine if a classification of subgingival plaque into distinct categories of microbial forms would be beneficial for detecting differences in the severity of periodontal disease. Three thousand and thirty-two subgingival plaque samples were collected and evaluated from three different populations having 284, 160, and 180 individuals. Plaque and gingival indices, probing depth, and attachment level were measured at each sampling site. Overall, the results indicated that mean plaque index, probing depth, and loss of attachment were successively higher at sites classified into four distinct microbial categories in the order (1) “Low Motile Organism - High Cocci,” (2) “Low Motile Organism - Low Cocci.” (3) “High Motile Organism - High Motile Rods,” and (4) “High Motile Organism - High Spirochetes.” The consistent pattern of differences in severity of periodontal disease between these microbial categories suggest that microscopic interpretation of plaque may be improved by this classification.
Design of a high-efficiency rectenna for 1.575 GHz wireless low power transmission

A 1.575 GHz rectenna has been developed for low input power operation. The rectenna incorporates a high efficiency, electrically small, metamaterial-inspired near field resonant parasitic antenna, and a Schottky diode that has a low built-in voltage, and a resistor as the load. The rectenna was analyzed with the Harmonic Balance method provided by the Advanced Design System (ADS). The measurement results show that the output efficiency of the rectenna with the resistive load is 34.1% and the voltage across the resistor is 0.73 V when the power delivered to the antenna is 1.0 mW (0.0 dBm). The predicted and measured results are in reasonable agreement.
Selective renal parenchymal clamping in robotic partial nephrectomy: initial experience.

OBJECTIVES To describe our early experience using a laparoscopic clamp to induce selective regional ischemia during robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy without hilar occlusion. The creation of a bloodless field during minimally invasive approaches to nephron-sparing surgery often requires complete warm ischemia with renal hilar clamping that can potentially result in subsequent renal damage. METHODS After transperitoneal renal mobilization and delineation of the renal tumor margin using laparoscopic ultrasound, the laparoscopic clamp is placed across the renal parenchyma 2-3 cm proximal to the resection line. After tumor excision, the renal defect is repaired robotically and hemostatic agents are used to aid in achieving compressive hemostasis. RESULTS Three patients with predominantly exophytic renal masses underwent this procedure for elective indications. Mean tumor diameter was 4.9 cm (range 1.2-7.0). Mean selective clamp time was 37 minutes (range 20-52). Estimated blood loss was minimal and no patients required renal hilar clamping. There were no perioperative complications. Mean change in preoperative and postoperative creatinine was 0.1 (±0.09). Final pathology revealed clear cell and papillary renal carcinomas with no positive margins on frozen or final evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Regional renal parenchymal clamping during robotic partial nephrectomy can be safely and effectively used to create a bloodless operative field in select patients with optimally located renal tumors. Our early experience with this technique allows for frozen pathologic evaluation of the tumor and margin status without concern for warm ischemia and represents another tool for surgeons performing minimally invasive nephron-sparing surgery.
Seed ecology of Lindera melissifolia (Lauraceae) as it relates to rarity of the species1

Abstract The seed ecology of the federally endangered shrub, Lindera melissifolia was investigated to determine if this aspect of the species life history contributes to the rarity of the species. Lindera melissifolia has the capacity to form a short-lived (two growing seasons) persistent soil seed bank if fruit pulp remains on seeds following dispersal and subsequent winter flooding occurs. Seeds, both with or without pulp (i.e., mesocarp and exocarp), exhibited tolerance to submergence, but were not hydrochorous. Following 6–12 weeks cold stratification (5° or 5/1° C) or submersion in cold water (5/1° C) for 12 weeks, ≥ 63% of seeds germinated when incubated in light and at temperatures of 35/20° and 30/20° C. When incubated in darkness, 100% of seeds germinated following 6 weeks of cold stratification. Giberrelic acid was moderately effective in breaking dormancy. Collectively, our results indicate that seeds of L. melissifolia have nondeep physiological dormancy. Aspects of the seed ecology of L. meli...
Diabetes Overtreatment in Elderly Individuals: Risky Business in Need of Better Management

as the last hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) measured in 2009 that was less than 6.0%, less than 6.5%, or less than 7.0%. The primary outcome measure was an HbA1c less than 7.0% in patients who were aged 75 years or older who had a serum creatinine value greater than 2.0 mg/dL or had a diagnosis of cognitive impairment or dementia. We also assessed the rates in patients with other significant medical, neurologic, or mental comorbid illness. Variation in rates of possible glycemic overtreatment was evaluated among 139 Veterans Health Administration facilities grouped within 21 Veteran Integrated Service Networks. RESULTS There were 652 378 patients who received insulin and/ or a sulfonylurea with an HbA1c test result. Fifty percent received sulfonylurea therapy without insulin; the remainder received insulin therapy. We identified 205 857 patients (31.5%) as the denominator for the primary outcome measure; 11.3% had a last HbA1c value less than 6.0%, 28.6% less than 6.5%, and 50.0% less than 7.0%. Variation in rates by Veterans Integrated Service Network facility ranged 8.5% to 14.3%, 24.7% to 32.7%, and 46.2% to 53.4% for HbA1c less than 6.0%, less than 6.5%, and less than 7.0%, respectively. The magnitude of variation by facility was larger, with overtreatment rates ranging from 6.1% to 23.0%, 20.4% to 45.9%, and 39.7% to 65.0% for HbA1c less than 6.0%, less than 6.5%, and less than 7.0%, respectively. The maximum rate was nearly 4-fold compared with the minimum rates for HbA1c less than 6.0%, followed by 2.25-fold for HbA1c less than 6.5% and less than 2-fold for HbA1c less than 7.0%. When comorbid conditions were included, 430 178 patients (65.9%) were identified as high risk. Rates of overtreatment were 10.1% for HbA1c less than 6.0%, 25.2% for less than 6.5%, and 44.3% for less than 7.0%.
Compatibility of Human Resource Management, Industrial Relations, and Engineering Under Mass Production and Lean Production: An Exploration

La “production limitee” (“lean production”) est une nouvelle approche de la production susceptible de modifier la gestion des ressources humaines, les relations industrielles et les processus de travail dans les entreprises americaines. Apparaissant apres une longue periode de stabilite reposant sur des regles relationelles et operationnelles basees sur la production de masse, la transition vers la production limitee est controversee et traumatisante. Le modele emergent suggere que la transition s'amorce avec des innovations qui mettent l'accent sur l'amelioration de la productivite et s'affirme avec le comanagement et la participation. En s'appuyant sur une revue de la litterature et sur une evaluation raisonnee des resultats disponibles, cet article propose un point de vue structure sur la nature des changements dans le processus productif et sur leurs consequences institutionelles. “Lean production” as a new production concept is believed to be transforming human resource management, industrial relations, and work processes in American firms. Coming after a long period of stability under operational and relational rules supported by mass production, the transition to lean production is controversial and traumatic. The emerging pattern suggests that transition begins with workplace innovations that emphasise productivity enhancement and develops to co-management or joint governance of the enterprise. On an extensive review of the literature and by selective weighting of findings and evidence, this paper develops an integrative perspective on the nature of changes in the mode of production and its institutional correlates.
IGF-1 mediated phosphorylation of specific IRS-1 serines in Ames dwarf fibroblasts is associated with longevity

Insulin/IGF-1 signaling involves phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of serine/threonine or tyrosine residues of the insulin receptor substrate (IRS) proteins and is associated with hormonal control of longevity determination of certain long-lived mice. The stimulation of serine phosphorylations by IGF-1 suggests there is insulin/IGF-1 crosstalk that involves the phosphorylation of the same serine residues. By this mechanism, insulin and IGF-1 mediated phosphorylation of specific IRS-1 serines could play a role in longevity determination.We used fibroblasts from WT and Ames dwarf mice to examine whether: (a) IGF-1 stimulates phosphorylation of IRS-1 serines targeted by insulin; (b) the levels of serine phosphorylation differ in WT vs. Ames fibroblasts; and (c) aging affects the levels of these serine phosphorylations which are altered in the Ames dwarf mutant. We have shown that IRS-1 is a substrate for IGF-1 induced phosphorylation of Ser307, Ser612, Ser636/639, and Ser1101; that the levels of phosphorylation of these serines are significantly lower in Ames vs. WT cells; that IGF-1 mediated phosphorylation of these serines increases with age in WT cells. We propose that insulin/IGF-1 cross talk and level of phosphorylation of specific IRS-1 serines may promote the Ames dwarf longevity phenotype.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance in the World of the Cardiac Electrophysiologist: The Road to Real-Time Cardiac Magnetic Resonance

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia ([1][1]) with significant morbidity and mortality ([2][2]). A significant milestone in the treatment of AF was achieved by introducing catheter-based ablation ([3–5][3]). For the last decade various approaches and technologies have
The Role of Electromyography in Clinical Laryngology

Laryngeal electromyography (EMG) has been used primarily as a research tool with only limited application to clinical practice. We have performed laryngeal EMG in a clinical research setting for over 2 years and have found it a valuable adjunct in selected situations. The electrophysiology and technique of laryngeal EMG are reviewed. Laryngeal EMG is the most accurate method of determining compromise of the superior laryngeal nerve. It is valuable in evaluating patients with mechanical fixation of the vocal cords. The eventual outcome of recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis may also be predicted in certain patients. Laryngeal EMG is safe, easy to perform, and should be considered when evaluating the patient with laryngeal dysfunction.
Predicting quality of life six months after traumatic injury.

Background: Many factors are known to impact quality of life (QoL) after injury, but predictors of diminished QoL and the time course of recovery remain incompletely understood. This study examines predictors and correlates of QoL measured by the Short Form-36 (SF-36) one and six months postinjury. Methods: Adults with nonneurologic blunt injury were prospectively enrolled. Demographic, injury, and socioeconomic data were collected. Patients were assessed with functional and psychologic measures. In all, 196 patients had 1-month data and 123 had 6-month data available. Scores were compared at each time point and also to population norms using t-tests. Multiple regression techniques were used to identify associations between the physical and mental component scores (PCS & MCS) of the SF-36 and patient characteristics. Results: PCS scores improved significantly (32.8 ± 0.9 versus 41.3 ± 1.0, p < 0.05) whereas MCS scores (47.5 ± 1.1 versus 47.2 ± 1.1, p = NS) did not. Both remained significantly below population norms. Functional Independence Measure (FIM) at one month was predictive of PCS at 6 months. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was predictive of lower MCS, and depression was associated with poor MCS. Injury Severity Score was not associated with PCS or MCS. Conclusions: Overall physical and mental QoL measured by the SF-36 remains significantly below population norms 6 months after traumatic injury. It is possible to identify patients at risk for diminished QoL early during recovery by screening for functional status, PTSD, social support, and depression. Interventions to address these areas should be further studied with respect to their impact on long-term QoL.
Proposed New Electrolytic Conductivity Primary Standards for KCl Solutions.

An absolute determination of aqueous electrolytic conductivity has been made for 0.01 molal (m) and 0.1 m potassium cliloride solutions, over the temperature range of 0 to 50 °C in 5 degree intervals. A cell with a removable center section of accurately known length and area was used for the measurements. Values were adjusted to be in conformity with the ITS-90 temperature scale. The overall uncertainty over the entire temperature range is estimated to be 0.03%. Values at 25 °C for 0.01 and 0.1 m are 0.00140823 and 0.0128246 S/cm, respectively. It is proposed that these values be adopted as primary standards for aqueous electrolytic conductivity, replacing the demal scale.
Computational Limitations of Dynamic Programming for Warehouse Location: A Comment

practice. Heuristic methods might be used to obtain good, but not necessarily optimal, solutions. Ballou has presented a new dynamic aspect of the warehouse location problem. However, his approach can not handle realistic problems computationally where a company has a reasonable number of warehouses whose locations are interdependent in terms of profitability during a time period. On the other hand, some static solution procedures such as Shycon and Maffei's [2] or Kuehn and Hamburger's [3] can reflect these interdependencies but do not consider the dynamic factors such as demand changes and moving costs. Combination of both approaches in a computationally feasible manner is still in the realm of further research.
Vacuum Dipping: A New Method of Administering Chemosterilants to the Boll Weevil

Sterility in both sexesof Anthonomus grandis Boheman resulted when adults were dipped for 5 sec in certain chemosterilant solutions at pressures of 175 mm/g or less. Effective compounds were tris (l-aziridinyl) phosphine sulfide (A13-24916, thiotepa) and P,P-bis(l-aziridinyl)-N-methylphosphinothioic amide (AI3-61585). The vacuum-dip technique could easily be scaled-up for a mass treatment program.