cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quantitative analysis and process monitoring of site-specific glycosylation microheterogeneity in recombinant human interferon-γ from Chinese hamster ovary cell culture by hydrophilic interaction chromatography

Abstract A chromatographic method was developed for quantitative analysis of site-specific microheterogeneity of the two N-linked glycosylation sites in recombinant human interferon-γ produced from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell culture. After the interferon-γ was harvested by affinity chromatography, the tryptic digestion was carried out. The two glycopeptide pools, isolated from reversed-phase chromatography of tryptic digestion of interferon-γ, were subjected to further separation by hydrophilic interaction chromatography. Each peak in the chromatograms was identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI–TOF–MS). The overall elution order of the glycopeptides was the following: neutral glycopeptides, monosialylated glycopeptides, bisialylated glycopeptides, trisialylated glycopeptide and tetrasialylated glycopeptides. Based on the integrated peak area for each compound in the chromatograms, the percentage for each glycan was utilized to quantify the glycosylation pattern of the interferon-γ. Finally, sialylation and antennarity structure percentages at the two glycosylation sites were chosen as the quality indicators in process monitoring of interferon-γ production from a serum-free suspension-batch CHO culture.
Quenching of triplet states of diazines by H-atom donors. Formation of azyl radicals

Abstract The laser flash photolysis of pyrazine in water and in organic solvents has been examined. The 3 (n, π * ) state in water has absorption bands at 230, ≈ 260, ≈ 295, ≈ 640, 700 and 810 nm, and decays with k = 2.2 × 10 5 sec −1 . It is quenched by oxygen with k q = 3.2 × 10 9 M −1 sec −1 and by various H-atom donors, e.g., k q = 1.3 × 10 8 M −1 sec −1 for isopropyl alcohol. On reaction with H-atom donors, the chemistry of 3 (n, π * ) pyrazine produces the neutral pyrazyl-radical and the dihydro radical cation, whose characteristic absorption spectra have been identified. These results are discussed by comparison with 3 (π, π * ) diazines and with 3 (n, π * ) aromatic carbonyl compounds.
Correlation of bow shock plasma wave turbulence with solar wind parameters

The r.m.s. field strengths of electrostatic and electromagnetic turbulence in the earth's bow shock, measured in the frequency range 20 Hz to 200 kHz with IMP-6 satellite, are found to correlate with specific solar wind parameters measured upstream of the bow shock.
Role of mixed-function oxidases and non-protein sulfhydryl content in [14C]-2-chloro-4-acetotoluidide binding to liver and kidney in starlings.

The compound 2-chloro-4-acetotoluidide (CAT) is highly toxic to many avian species, including the starling. In our earlier work, we demonstrated the covalent binding of radioactivity from [14C]-CAT to liver and kidneys of the starling. In the present study, the effects of inducers of mixed-function oxidase (MFO) and non-protein sulfhydryl (NPSH) depletor on the total and covalent binding of [14C]-CAT radioactivity to liver and kidney of the starling were examined. The total and covalently bound radioactivity from [14C]-CAT to liver and kidney were decreased significantly in the starling pretreated with the MFO inducer, 3-methylcholanthrene. However, pretreatment with phenobarbitaf, another inducer of MFO, had no effect. Pretreatment with the inhibitor of MFO, SKF 525-A, reduced the covalent binding of [14C]-CAT radioactivity to liver but not to kidney. There was no reduction in the NPSH content of liver or kidney following intravenous administration of CAT (3.5 mg kg−1). Reduction of NPSH levels in the liver or kidney following treatment with diethyl maleate caused a significant increase, in the covaient binding of [14C]-CAT to kidney but not to liver.
Approach to steady-state current in ratchets

Abstract We have studied the approach to the steady state in thermal ratchets looking for signs of the future development of a non-zero current. We have concentrated on the evolution of the statistical root mean square fluctuations of the position of the walker as well as its temporal correlations. We find oscillations and abrupt slope variations in the fluctuations in the position of the ratchet particle and the temporal correlation functions. These effects are due to the fact that the flipping time of the potential is the same order of magnitude as the adiabatic adjustment time for the barrier. We find no oscillations when the flipping time is too low or too high compared with the adiabatic adjustment time.
Surgical Management of Congenital (Non-Ebstein) Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation

Congenital tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) is a relatively uncommon condition that includes a heterogeneous group of lesions with a unique management strategy. There are wide anatomic variations that lead to congenital TR in patients without Ebstein malformation. Possible etiologies may include primary valve abnormalities (eg, congenital absence of chordae) or other forms of tricuspid valve dysplasia as in congenitally unguarded tricuspid valve, and patients with pulmonary atresia and intact ventricular septum, which can be similar to Ebstein's valves or secondary regurgitation in association with other anomalies as in atrioventricular septal defects, right ventricular outflow tract obstructive lesions (pulmonary stenosis or atresia with ventricular septal defect [VSD]), tricuspid valve annular dilatation in association with right ventricular volume overload lesions as in congenital coronary arterial fistula with secondary right ventricular enlargement, and Uhl's anomaly. Iatrogenic etiologies in the congenital population include TR secondary to previous VSD closure (chordal or leaflet injury), pacemaker or internal cardiac defibrillator lead-induced TR, and traumatic TR (ruptured chordae). Presentation depends on the severity of the disease and may be apparent in infancy, childhood, or adulthood.
Challenging pancreatic cancer-prone pedigrees: a nosologic dilemma

Abstract OBJECTIVES: Our objective is to describe 11 pancreatic cancer (PC)-prone families, none of which are consonant with known hereditary cancer syndromes, in an attempt to portray familial aggregations of this disease that might be encountered in a clinical practice setting. METHODS: We selected 11 families containing two or more first- and/or second-degree relatives affected with PC from a registry of 200 PC-prone kindreds. Each proband and/or key relative(s) was interviewed and completed a detailed family history questionnaire (after providing informed consent) that allowed us to extend the pedigree as far as possible with retrieval of primary medical and pathology documents, whenever available. RESULTS: All of the 11 families show PC features that merit clinical attention and raise questions as to whether this familial clustering could be due to “chance” alone, exposure to certain common environmental factors, such as cigarette smoking, and/or polygenic, multifactorial, or Mendelian inherited factors. CONCLUSIONS: It is estimated that about 5% of PC may have a primary hereditary etiology. Because of early death, reduced penetrance, and often profuse phenotypic and genotypic heterogeneity, particularly with respect to variable age of onset and association with diverse patterns of cancer at different anatomic sites, the pedigrees require extension for ultimate diagnosis. Physician knowledge about PC’s natural history and syndrome delineation should ultimately foster earlier diagnoses and possibly prevention of this disease. These high-risk patients may provide a source of DNA for formal linkage analysis in the search for culprit cancer-prone susceptibility loci.
Interference effect of two closely-spaced shallow strip foundations on geogrid-reinforced sand

Geotextiles and geogrids are now being used extensively in many civil engineering construction works. This study presents some laboratory model test results for the ultimate bearing capacity of an isolated, and two closely-spaced, strip foundations resting on unreinforced sand, and sand reinforced with layers of geogrid. Based on the model test results, the variation of the group efficiency with the centre-to-centre spacing of the foundation has been determined.
Effects of zinc deficiency on immune functions

Nutritional deficiency of zinc is widespread throughout the developing world. Zinc deficient subjects experience increased susceptibility to a variety of infections. Zinc deficiency in an experimental human model caused an imbalance between Th1 and Th2 functions. Production of IFN-γ and IL-2 (products of TH1) were decreased, whereas production of IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 (products of Th2) were not affected due to zinc deficiency. Zinc deficiency decreased NK cell lytic activity and percentage of precursors of cytolytic T cells. In HUT-78, a Th0 cell line, zinc deficiency decreased gene expression of deoxythymidine kinase (TK), delayed cell cycle and decreased cell growth. Gene expression of IL-2 and IL-2 receptors (both α and β) and binding of NF-kB to DNA were decreased by zinc deficiency in HUT-78. In HL-60, a monocytic-macrophage cell line, zinc deficiency increased production and gene expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-8. These cytotoxic cytokines are known to produce increased free radicals. Thus zinc may function as an important anti-oxidant. In conclusion, decreased production of IL-2 in zinc deficiency may be due to decreased activation of NF-kB and subsequent decreased gene expression of IL-2 and IL-2 receptor α. Our studies show that zinc deficiency affects cell-mediated immunity and leads to activation of monocytes-macrophages and may play an important role as an antioxidant. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 13:1–20, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Conical-scanning active/passive microwave remote sensor computer simulation

ABSTRACT This paper presents the details of an advanced satellite radar scatterometer end-to-end simulation, known as the Conically Scanning Active/Passive Sensor Simulation (CAPSS) used for hardware development trade studies. This simulation is a collection of customized software tools that permits design engineers to vary the instrument parameters and configurations to assess the resulting instrument performance under realistic on-orbit scenarios. Atmospheric and oceanic environmental parameters and sate llite to earth geometry are us ed to simulate active and passive microwave measurements. Afterwards, these microwave observables are used in a geophysical retrieval algorithm to infer physical parameters such as ocean wind speed and direction. This simulation software provides an efficient method to perform engineering trade studies to optimize the sensor instrument design for a desired level of geophysical measurement performance. An example of a simulation of NASAs SeaWinds scatterometer on QuikSCAT is presented and compared to actual SeaWinds measurements. Keywords: active/passive microwave sensors, simulation, microwave remote sensing
L N S C3: A proposed classification system for female urethral diverticula

No descriptive criteria for the preoperative classification of female urethral diverticula have been proposed. Consequently, alternative therapies and different treatment series are not easily compared. Since 1982 the authors have evaluated 61 women with urethral diverticula and have identified those preoperative factors critical to an organized surgical approach to urethral diverticula. From this experience, a simple, comprehensive classification system for female urethral diverticula is proposed. The classification system is called L/N/S/C3. Each letter of the system represents a different characteristic of urethral diverticula. L = Location, the site of the diverticulum, i.e., distal, mid, or proximal urethra, with or without extension beneath the bladder neck. N = Number, whether single or multiple diverticula are present. S = Size, expressed in centimeters (cm). C3 = Configuration, Communication, and Continence Configuration (C1) describes whether the diverticulum is single, multiloculated, or saddle shaped. Communication (C2) indicates the site of communication with the urethral lumen, i.e., distal, mid, or proximal urethra. Continence (C3) is the presence of genuine stress urinary incontinence. Adhering to this format provides the surgeon a systematic means of approaching a urethral diverticulum and thus may minimize postoperative complications. Finally, the authors encourage other surgeons reporting series of urethral diverticula to adopt this system so that standard terminology may allow accurate comparison of surgical results.
Dextran's regulatory effect on immunoglobulin synthesis is mediated through T cells.

Abstract Administering dextran 2 hr before giving antigen (sheep red blood cells) to X-irradiated mice repopulated with B and T cells caused alterations in antibody synthesis. Besides a slight increase in the number of cells making IgM antibodies, cells producing IgG antibodies were detected at a time when none are usually present in untreated control animals. Repopulating X-irradiated mice with B cells treated with dextran either in vivo or in vitro and immunizing with sheep red blood cells resulted in twice the background number of sheep red blood cell-specific IgM-plaque-forming cells at 4.5 days of immunization as well as a small number of IgG-plaque-forming cells at 8.5 days. At these times, control animals given only B cells and sheep red blood cells possessed a background number of IgM-plaque forming cells and no IgG plaque-forming cells. Incubating B cells with θ-specific antiserum and complement to remove residual T cells prior to transplantation obliterated dextran's stimulus. Dextran's alterations of immunological responses towards unrelated antigens therefore appears to be manifested through T cells. The latter must be in company with B cells at the time of exposure to dextran. Thus, T cells upon contact with dextran apparently release B cell stimulatory factor (s) responsible for increasing the number of IgM-forming cells and for triggering IgG-forming cells.
Virtual Shapes in Supersonic Flow Control with Energy Addition

This paper presents a short selective review of theoretical and experimental studies conducted by the authors and their collaborators during the past few years in areas related to supersonic and hypersonic flow regimes with applications such as drug reduction, inlet and effective vehicle geometry control in off-design flight regimes, and steering and sonic boom mitigation. Their results suggest a principal possibility to enable transitions between the propulsion modes and ramjet startup and to minimize the need for the traditional isolator stage, as well as to increase the inlet mass capture at Mach numbers below the design value, using active control based on virtual shapes created by energy addition upstream of the inlet throat. A common feature of all these substantially different applications and processes is a power deposition into a supersonic flow which results in the creating of virtual shapes, modifying flowlike solid obstacles immersed in it. The virtual shapes can be created by microwave plasma heating, magnetohydrodynamic forces, electron beams, and localized plasma-assisted surface combustion. The power necessary to operate plasmas can come either from the turbine at mode transition, from an auxiliary power unit, or, as suggested in a new bypass concept, from a magnetohydrodynamic generator either placed downstream of the combustor or collocated with it.
Applications of Achievement Goal Theory to Physical Education: Implications for Enhancing Motivation

Given the widespread concern regarding the motivation of students, the paucity of research in education on motivation enhancement is surprising (Arnes, 1992a; Maehr & Midgley, 1991). Recent research from an achievement goal perspective, however, has begun to address this issue. The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the basic tenets of achievement goal theory and to analyze the research that has been conducted in physical education that focuses extensively on instructional practices and strategies that may improve the quality of school-age children's motivation. The paper will conclude by commenting on the potential utility of adopting an achievement goal approach to understanding and enhancing motivation in the physical education context.
Medical technologies for the diagnosis of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is an extremely prevalent problem, especially in our aging population. The prostate-specific antigen test has revolutionized prostate cancer screening. Significant advances have been made in the usage of prostate-specific antigen and its derivatives, biomarkers, diagnostic imaging techniques, biopsy strategy, biopsy needle design and anesthetic agents. Further improvement in prostate cancer detection hinges on the development of an imaging technique that is tumor specific and sensitive to biological aggressiveness.
Prevalence of diastolic dysfunction in normotensive, asymptomatic patients with well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus

To evaluate the prevalence of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus free of cardiovascular disease, we studied 86 normotensive men and women (mean age 46 +/- 6 years) with Doppler echocardiography. All subjects were asymptomatic for ischemic heart disease or heart failure. The traditional transmitral filling patterns were used to characterize diastolic physiology. The Valsalva maneuver was used to differentiate normal from pseudonormal LV filling pattern. All patients had a normal electrocardiogram at rest and a negative result on exercise echocardiography for inducible wall motion abnormalities. Global LV systolic function was normal (mean LV ejection fraction 58%, range 53% to 76%). Diastolic dysfunction was found in 41 subjects (47%) of which 26 (30%) had impaired relaxation and 15 (17%) had a pseudonormal filling pattern. The mean LV mass index was 101 g/m2 (range 86 to 122). All patients with a normal-filling physiology had gender-adjusted normal LV mass index (mean 93 +/- 11 g/m2), whereas 62% of those with either abnormal relaxation (mean 103 +/- 12 g/m2, p <0.001) or a pseudonormal pattern (mean 110 +/- 12 g/m2, p <0.001) had increased LV mass index. No subject in this cohort had restrictive diastolic physiology. In conclusion, diastolic dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients is often found despite adequate metabolic control and freedom from clinically detectable heart disease. The Valsalva maneuver can unmask an additional 17% of patients with subclinical abnormal LV filling pattern, who otherwise would be classified as having a normal diastolic physiology. Increased LV mass index is closely associated with abnormal LV filling characteristics.
Thermodynamic analysis of an RNA combinatorial library contained in a short hairpin

Prediction of nucleic acid structure from sequence requires thermodynamic parameters for a variety of motifs, many of which are complex and consist of a large number of possible sequence combinations. Here we report an experimental approach for identifying the stable and unstable members of an RNA combinatorial library. Short model RNA hairpins consisting of 13 base pairs (bp) flanked by primer binding sites are constructed and separated according to their relative thermodynamic stabilities using temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE). Partially denaturing TGGE is carried out with potassium chloride, sodium chloride, or magnesium chloride salts in the gel. The TMs of model hairpins can be tuned by adjusting the concentration of urea in the gel while maintaining the correct order of stabilities for the hairpins. Mixtures of RNAs differing by a single Watson−Crick base pair are resolved according to their relative thermodynamic stabilities, as are mixtures of GC or AU base pair transversions differ...
Thermal Radiation from the Atmosphere

The influence of ground level temperature and humidity on the intensity and spectral distribution of the thermal radiation reaching ground level from the clear sky has been investigated in the spectral region between 4μ and 15μ. The influence of the thickness of the emitting layer or atmospheric path viewed by the detector has also been studied by making measurements of the sky radiation from various zenith distances. Empirical relationships between the intensity of the atmospheric emission spectrum in various spectral intervals and the ground-level conditions of temperature and humidity are developed and presented in graphical form.
The multiple pathways for itch and their interactions with pain

Multiple neural pathways and molecular mechanisms responsible for producing the sensation of itch have recently been identified, including histamine-independent pathways. Physiological, molecular, behavioral and brain imaging studies are converging on a description of these pathways and their close association with pain processing. Some conflicting results have arisen and the precise relationship between itch and pain remains controversial. A better understanding of the generation of itch and of the intrinsic mechanisms that inhibit itch after scratching should facilitate the search for new methods to alleviate clinical pruritus (itch). In this review we describe the current understanding of the production and inhibition of itch. A model of itch processing within the CNS is proposed.
Giving masculinity a history: some contributions from the historiography of colonial India.

Contemporary historiography, especially in North American, European and Australian history, now includes a fairly respectable body of literature on men and masculinity. While this literature has produced important contributions to the usefulness of gender as a category of historical analysis, there has also been some wariness within feminist scholarship on the grounds that the issue of the gendered organisation may be evaded. Reflecting on the question ‘what is involved in writing a history of masculinity?’, this article considers the potential contribution that the historiography of colonial India offers to the study of masculinity
The Breeding Season and Age Structure of Feral House Mouse Populations near San Francisco Bay, California

Five feral populations of Mus musculus in the salt marshes and adjacent areas of San Francisco Bay, California, were studied. Age of specimens was determined by comparing toothwear with that found in feral Mus stock reared in the laboratory under simulated field conditions. Young mice first appeared in the trapped samples commencing with the 16 May–15 June sample and during subsequent samples increased in proportion to over-wintering mice, resulting in polygraph figures resembling those of expanding populations. The polygraph figures continued to resemble those of expansion up to the 16 November–15 December sample period at which time a figure resembling a stationary condition became apparent. The population figures appeared to contract from 16 November through 15 April. Males contained sperm in all sample periods. During fall and winter, the proportion of males containing sperm was low. During the latter portion of the breeding season and the early portion of the non-breeding season, many males did not contain sperm even though old enough chronologically for breeding. Females showed no pregnancies from 16 December through 15 April. Females with uterine scars were apparent in the population at all times with a slightly lower proportion during the non-breeding season.
Mitotic disturbances caused by chloranil

IN THE COURSE of a cytological and cytochemical analysis of changes induced in meristematic tissues of various plants by alkaloids, phenols, and heterocyclic compounds, marked mitotic disturbances were observed in sections of untreated root tips of Vicia Jaba L. being used as controls. The root tips had been cut from seedlings germinated in a moist chamber at room temperature. From recent studies on the injurious action of certain herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides (Sass, 1937, 1938, 1951; Carey and McDonough, 1943; Ennis, 1948), it seemed possible that the mitotic disturbances observed in Vicia seedlings were due to treatment of the seeds with such agents before they reached this laboratory. At the time of purchase the seeds were coated with a fine, yellowish powder, and inquiry revealed that they had been dusted with a commercial fungicide whose active ingredient is chloranil (tetrachloro-p-benzoquinone). The study reported here was undertaken to determine the effect of this compound on mitotic processes. Since it was not pos-sible to purchase seeds of Vicia faba with assurance that they had not been inadvertently exposed to this or some other fungicide, root tips of onion (Allium cepa L.) were used in the experimeilts described. The effects of both this fungicide and chloranil (from Eastman Kodak Co.) were determined by cytological and cytochemical studies of sectioned tissues. The cvtochemical approach involved treatment with nucleases and subsequent staining in basic dyes or by the Feulgen reaction. Similar observations on sections of roots grown from the dusted Vicia seeds afforded material for a comparative study of the effect of the commercial preparation on mitotic processes in two different species of plants. MATERIALS AND METHODS.-The seeds of Vicia were germinated on moist filter paper in Petri dishes after thorough washing and removal of the seed coats. On the fourth day of growth the root tip and plumule were removed and fixed in acetic acidalcohol (1 part of glacial acetic acid and 3 parts of absolute alcohol). Fixation continued for 12 hr. The material was transferred to 70 per cent
The Economy of the Gift: Paul Ricoeur's Poetic Redescription of Reality

This essay takes Paul Ricoeur's use of the phrase "economy of the gift" as an opportunity to explore the relationship between theology, ethics, and poetic redescription. A primay focus is Ricoeur's juxtaposition of the golden mle and the love command, the manner in which these two are poetically related by biblical discourse, and what this means for theological ethics. This focus offers the opportunity to explore some of the more radical implications of Ricoeur's claims about the poetic, redescriptive function of religious discourse, implications that were not adequately addressed by Ricoeur himself. In One of his occasional articles on a topic of theological interest, Paul Ricoeur wrote: It is this commandment [to love one's enemies], not the golden rule, that seems to constitute the expression closest, on the ethical plane, to what I have called the economy of the gift. This expression approximating the economy of the gift can be placed under the title of a logic of superabundance, which is opposed as an opposite pole to the logic of equivalence that governs everyday morality.... Detached from the golden rule, the commandment to love one's enemies is not ethical but supraethical, as is the whole economy of the gift to which it belongs. If it is not to swerve over to the nonmoral, or even the immoral, the commandment to love must reinterpret the golden rule and, in so doing, be itself reinterpreted by this rule.1 In this passage, Ricoeur offers the reader a number of enigmatic expressions, but the most enigmatic of all, and the one about which he is centrally concerned here, is the notion of an 'economy of the gift'.2 What could Ricoeur have meant by economy of the gift? At the level of general reflection, it is at least difficult to think the ideas of 'economy' and 'gift' together. In a passage that has now become iconic, Adam Smith explained economic Literature & Theology © The Author 2006. Published by Oxford University Press 2006; all rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: joumals.permissions@oxfordjoumals.org The Author 2006. This content downloaded from 207.46.13.124 on Wed, 22 Jun 2016 05:33:34 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms
Acquaintance and the Problem of the Speckled Hen

This paper responds to Ernest Sosa’s recent criticism of Richard Fumerton’s acquaintance theory. Sosa argues that Fumerton’s account of non-inferential justification falls prey to the problem of the speckled hen. I argue that Sosa’s criticisms are both illuminating and interesting but that Fumerton’s theory can escape the problem of the speckled hen. More generally, the paper shows that an internalist account of non-inferential justification can survive the powerful objections of the Sellarsian dilemma and the problem of the speckled hen.
Are Local Economic Development Incentives Effective in an Urban Area

Economic development incentives are offered by local governments in the United States to retain or attract manufacturing and/or commercial enterprises. We are concerned with "first wave" incentives that began in the United States in the 1970s and continue until today. These include: manufacturing or commercial property tax abatements, tax increment finance authorities, downtown development authorities, and industrial development bonds. The reason that local governments offer these incentives is the perceived benefits that non-residential enterprises bring to a jurisdiction. State governments have an appropriate interest in the creation of local incentive programs if such incentives are effective at retaining and redirecting economic activity to places where there is a public benefit to the state arising from the creation of jobs there, as compared to elsewhere. So the natural question to ask is, given the way that they are currently structured, what are the effects of local incentive use in a metropolitan area? Do they have an impact on local property values, employment, and poverty rates that offer a public benefit to the entire metropolitan area, or are they simply giveaways to business that could be better accomplished through direct cuts in business taxation? The purpose of this paper is to answer these questions by summarizing some of the findings from our forthcoming book, "Bidding for Business: The Efficacy of Local Incentives in a Metropolitan Area" (Upjohn Institute, 2000). In this paper we offer tabular and regression-based simulation evidence that leads to public policy suggestions regarding the future use of local incentives in U.S. metropolitan areas.
Generation of superoxide in cardiomyocytes during ischemia before reperfusion.

Although a burst of oxidants has been well described with reperfusion, less is known about the oxidants generated by the highly reduced redox state and low O2 of ischemia. This study aimed to furth...
The Relationship Between Vocational Rehabilitation Client Outcomes and Rehabilitation Counselor Multicultural Counseling Competencies

Multicultural issues in rehabilitation counseling continue to be a focus of practice and research because of the rapidly changing racial and ethnic profiles of persons with disabilities seeking services in the United States. This study investigated the relationship between vocational rehabilitation client outcomes and the rehabilitation counselor multicultural counseling competencies of 118 rehabilitation counselors working in a large midwestern vocational rehabilitation agency. The results of this study, which used hierarchical linear modeling (HLM), suggest that the characteristics the client brings to the counseling relationship are the primary variables in explaining differences in client outcomes. Counselor multicultural competencies were not found to be significant in explaining differences in client outcomes. The findings of this study are discussed in relation to previous studies and implications for future research.
A SIMULATION OF THE EFFECTS OF ALTERNATIVE RULE SYSTEMS FOR JAI ALAI

The inequities of the present system of rules in jai alai are documented on the basis of empirical information and theoretical results from a Monte Carlo simulation model. Some suggestions are made for changing the rules in order to make the game more equitable for both players and bettors. The simulation model is used to compare the effectiveness of the suggested rules with that of the present rules.
Monitoring cell adhesion and characterizing cell viscoelasticity by using thickness shear mode (TSM) resonate sensor

Cell adhesion and mechanical properties are critical to physiological and pathological processes. Regulation of cell adhesion states is involved in tissue remodeling during morphogenesis and wound healing, cellular metaplasia, cell proliferation and tumor cell metastasis. Cell mechanical properties play an essential role in cell deformation under mechanical forces and other cell functions such as locomotion and cytokinesis. Because of the dominance of the cytoskeleton in cell structure and properties, measurement of the cell viscoelastic properties provides an effective approach to look into cytoskeleton, which plays an important role in cell growth, gene expression, protein synthesis, differentiation, migration and apoptosis. In this study, a functional biosensor system, which consists of acoustic wave biosensor array, cell culture, a mini-incubator, an impedance analyzer and a computer, was established to monitor cell adhesion and viscoelastic properties under controlled biological conditions. A multilayer acoustic wave sensor model that includes the thickness shear mode quartz resonator substrate, a cell-substrate interfacial layer and a cell layer in cell culture medium was constructed based on the state of cell adhesion to the substrate, which can be applied to predict the relationship between the resonant frequency and resistance change of the biosensor and physical properties of the interfacial layer and the cell layer. Experimentally, the dynamic processes of cell adhesion as function of cell seeding densities have been investigated. Using the theoretical model, the viscoelastic properties of cell layer are extracted by fitting the theoretical values of the resonator admittance near resonance with the measured spectrum. The results agree very well with the data obtained by other techniques.
Nanoscale interfacial gradients formed by the reactive uptake of OH radicals onto viscous aerosol surfaces

A key but poorly understood chemical process is how gas phase uptake is governed by the relative mobility of molecules at an interface of an atmospheric aerosol. Citric acid (CA), a model system for oxygenated organic aerosol, is used to examine how changes in viscosity, due to changing water content, govern the reactive uptake of gas phase hydroxyl radicals (OH). By comparing the reaction kinetics measured when probing the outer aerosol surface layers with measurements of the bulk particle composition, the effective OH reaction probability is observed to be a complex and non-linear function of the relative humidity (RH). At RH 50%, the aerosol becomes aqueous and well-mixed on the timescale of the heterogeneous reaction. These results imply that in the atmosphere, the formation and dissipation of interfacial chemical gradients could be significant in viscous and semisolid aerosol and play important roles altering gas-particle partitioning and aging mechanisms (i.e. bulk vs. interface).
Identity in the Ottoman Prison Surveys of 1912 and 1914

Population surveys and census records, in addition to providing valuable human statistical information, have enormous potential to act as luminary tools for identity construction and conceptualization. How governmental agencies identify a population can also provide insights into a regime's motives, rationale, and ideology. The tables presented here are taken from the annual prison survey conducted by the Ottoman Prison Administration from 1912 to 1918 and shed light on the Committee of Union and Progress (CUP) or CUP's conceptualizations of difference. CUP was the main ruling organization in the Ottoman Empire during this period.
Does the outcome justify an oral-first treatment strategy for management of pulmonary arterial hypertension?

Background Guidelines for the treatment of World Health Organization (WHO) functional class (FC) III pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) provide for oral (PO) therapy or parenteral prostacyclins at the discretion of expert physicians. The objective of this study was to assess the appropriateness of PO-first treatment in patients with WHO FC III PAH. Methods This study was a retrospective analysis of 79 treatment-naive adult patients with idiopathic, familial, or anorexigen-associated PAH, referred to a single pulmonary hypertension center. Forty-eight received either PO therapy with an endothelin receptor antagonist, calcium channel blocker, or phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PO group) and 31 an IV or subcutaneous (SC) prostacyclin (IV/SC group). Results Patients in the IV/SC group had a significantly worse baseline hemodynamic profile; however, on univariate analysis, there was no association between hemodynamics and mortality. Initial treatment with PO vs IV/SC therapy was associated with a lower overall mortality (20.8% vs 45.2%, P = .02) and a lower 5-year mortality (14.6% vs 32.3%, P = .062). Based on the National Institutes of Health equation, actual survival for patients who received PO therapy was greater than predicted at 5 years. Finally, there were similar improvements between groups in 6-min walk distance ( P = .38) at 6 to 12 months after initiation of treatment. Conclusions For WHO FC III PAH that is idiopathic, familial, or anorexigen associated, the clinical decision for treatment with a PO-first strategy is associated with a high survival rate when patients are appropriately risk stratified prior to initiation of therapy. The more potent prostacyclins can be reserved for high-risk patients, those with evidence of disease progression, or those with treatment failure.
MicroRNA-155 expression is independently predictive of outcome in chordoma

// Eiji Osaka 1, 2 , Andrew D. Kelly 3 , Dimitrios Spentzos 4 , Edwin Choy 1 , Xiaoqian Yang 1 , Jacson K. Shen 1 , Pei Yang 1 , Henry J. Mankin 1 , Francis J. Hornicek 1 , Zhenfeng Duan 1 1 Sarcoma Biology Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA 2 Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173–8610, Japan 3 Fels Institute for Cancer Research & Molecular Biology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA 4 Division of Hematology/Oncology, Sarcoma Program, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA Correspondence to: Zhenfeng Duan, e-mail: zduan@mgh.harvard.edu Keywords: miRNA-155 (miR-155), chordoma, prognosis, miRNA microarray assay, RT-PCR Received: November 19, 2014 Accepted: February 07, 2015 Published: March 16, 2015 ABSTRACT Background: Chordoma pathogenesis remains poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationships between microRNA-155 (miR-155) expression and the clinicopathological features of chordoma patients, and to evaluate the functional role of miR-155 in chordoma. Methods: The miRNA expression profiles were analyzed using miRNA microarray assays. Regulatory activity of miR-155 was assessed using bioinformatic tools. miR-155 expression levels were validated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The relationships between miR-155 expression and the clinicopathological features of chordoma patients were analyzed. Proliferative, migratory and invasive activities were assessed by MTT, wound healing, and Matrigel invasion assays, respectively. Results: The miRNA microarray assay revealed miR-155 to be highly expressed and biologically active in chordoma. miR-155 expression in chordoma tissues was significantly elevated, and this expression correlated significantly with disease stage ( p = 0.036) and the presence of metastasis ( p = 0.035). miR-155 expression also correlated significantly with poor outcomes for chordoma patients (hazard ratio, 5.32; p = 0.045). Inhibition of miR-155 expression suppressed proliferation, and the migratory and invasive activities of chordoma cells. Conclusions: We have shown miR-155 expression to independently affect prognosis in chordoma. These results collectively indicate that miR-155 expression may serve not only as a prognostic marker, but also as a potential therapeutic target in chordoma.
Physical Activity and 10.5 Year Mortality in the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT)

The effect of habitual leisure time physical activity (LTPA) on the 10.5-year total and cause-specific mortality rates was studied in 12,138 middle-aged men at high risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) who participated in the MRFIT. The level of LTPA as determined by the Minnesota questionnaire was inversely related to rate of death from cardiovascular (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD), and all-causes, but was unrelated to the cancer death rate. The least active men (LTPA tertile 1) had excess mortality rates of 22%, 27%, and 15% for CVD, CHD, all-causes, respectively, as compared to more active men in the middle third (tertile 2). Additional LTPA (tertile 3) was not associated with further attenuation of mortality rates. Proportional hazards regression analysis only slightly weakened risk differentials. This study supports previous observations that regular LTPA is associated with a reduced rate of CVD mortality, independent of other risk factor levels.
Yeast formin Bni1p has multiple localization regions that function in polarized growth and spindle orientation.

There are four distinct localization domains in formin Bni1p of budding yeast. Analysis of the functions of the domains in the actin cytoskeleton and in spindle orientation reveals unexpected compl...
Low-dose fentanyl and midazolam in outpatient surgical abortion up to 18 weeks of gestation.

Abstract Background We investigated the safety of a conscious sedation protocol using intravenous fentanyl and midazolam by direct venous injection in women who underwent outpatient surgical abortion up to 18 weeks of gestation. Study Design This retrospective cohort study evaluated 1433 abortion procedures performed on women who received intravenous conscious sedation between April 1, 2001, and December 31, 2006. Women were allowed oral intake before the procedure. De-identified data were abstracted from charts using a standardized extraction form. Primary outcomes evaluated were need for reversal agents, need to obtain emergency intravenous access, pulmonary aspiration, need for oxygen supplementation and hospitalization for any reason. Results Of the 1433 procedures, 410 women received sedation with continuous intravenous access, and 1023 women received sedation by direct venous injection. More than 95% of women received fentanyl 100 mcg combined with 1–2 mg of midazolam. We identified four (0.3%) instances of adverse events, none of which occurred as a result of oversedation. No women experienced oral content aspiration. Conclusions Intravenous conscious sedation with fentanyl and midazolam is safe for outpatient surgical abortion in women without cardiovascular compromise up to 18 weeks of gestation. The risk of aspiration or oversedation requiring reversal agents is rare and does not warrant universal direct venous access or restriction of oral intake.
Aggrenox: A Fixed-Dose Combination of Aspirin and Dipyridamole

OBJECTIVE:To describe the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of a fixed-dose combination of aspirin and extended-release (ER) dipyridamole indicated for the secondary prevention of stroke.DATA SOURCES:Published articles and abstracts were identified from a MEDLINE search (1966–December 1999) using the search terms dipyridamole, aspirin, antiplatelet, antiaggregation, and stroke prevention. Pertinent articles written in English were considered for review. Additional articles were identified from the references of retrieved literature.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:Studies including a combination of aspirin/dipyridamole in human subjects were evaluated. Emphasis was placed on randomized, controlled trials.DATA SYNTHESIS:Aspirin is a platelet inhibitor that works by inhibiting platelet cyclooxygenase, which reduces the production of thromboxane A2. Dipyridamole is a platelet inhibitor that is thought to work in part by inhibiting platelet cyclic-3',5'-adenosine monophosphate and cyclic...
High versus low online price discounts: effects on customers’ perception of risks

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the signaling effects of high versus low price discounts by integrating extant literature on price discounts, perceived risks and purchase intentions for products sold online. The study examines the influence of price discounts on perceived risks, and the subsequent influence of these risk perceptions on online purchase intentions. Design/methodology/approach – This study used an experimental design. The manipulated factor was price discount (10, 30, 50, 70 and 90 per cent). Responses were collected via online surveys. Nonlinear regression analysis with the MEDCURVE macro was used for the analysis. Findings – The results show that the discount size increases customers’ perceived risks, and that these perceived risks mediate the relationship between price discount and purchase intentions. Practical implications – This study provides a better understanding of customers’ risk perceptions for online price discounts, which enables retailers to decide appropriat...
Bruno de Finetti and Mean-Variance Portfolio Selection

Bruno de Finetti is generally regarded as the finest Italian mathematician of the 20th century. Among his many achievements, economists are familiar with his work on the axiomatization of subjective probability. To the surprise of many, a treasure-trove of other results in economics has recently come to light which until now has never been translated into English. Foremost among these is his paper, The Problem of Full-Risk Insurances, which anticipates much of Markowitz's mean-variance portfolio theory by over a decade. This issue of the Journal includes Luca Barone's translation of de Finetti's first chapter on this subject and a review by Harry Markowitz.