cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamic coronary MR angiography and first-pass perfusion with intracoronary administration of contrast agent.

Purpose To evaluate whether dynamic imaging of the coronary arteries can be performed with intracoronary infusion of low-dose gadolinium (Gd)-based contrast agent and assess the effect of long duration and multiple infusions on the image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Materials and Methods Dynamic coronary magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (130 msec/image) and contrast agent first pass myocardial perfusion studies were performed with intracoronary infusions of low-dose Gd-based MR contrast agent on dogs (N = 4) using a fast multislice gradient recalled echo (GRE) sequence. Results Contrast-enhanced coronary arteries were clearly imaged during infusion periods as long as 2.3 minutes. The SNR and CNR of the contrast-enhanced coronary arteries remained essentially unchanged over multiple consecutive angiographic sessions. In addition, we demonstrated that first pass studies performed with intracoronary injection of MR contrast agent can be used as a means of assessing regional myocardial perfusion. Conclusion These studies demonstrated that, using intracoronary infusion of Gd, coronary magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can be performed with high temporal resolution, and multiple low-dose slow infusions of Gd-based MR contrast agent can be performed without compromise of the vessel SNR and CNR. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2002;16:311–319. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
DNA polymerase as a requirement for the maintenance of the bacterial plasmid colicinogenic factor E1.

Abstract The extrachromosomal elements Col V, Col I, F ′14, R1 , and R 64 can be transferred by conjugation into and maintained in Escherichia coli cells carrying the pol A1 mutation. The Col E2 factor can be transferred into pol A1 cells but is poorly maintained. The Col E2 cells show a segregation to Col − at a rate of about 50% per generation. The Col E1 factor cannot be transferred into pol A1 cells and is lost when the pol A1 mutation is tranduced into Col E1 containing cells. Evidence is provided that DNA polymerase is essential to the maintenance of the Col E1 factor.
Argon plasma coagulation and electrosurgery for benign endobronchial tumors

Background Benign endobronchial tumors are a rare entity capable of causing significant symptoms. Endobronchial tumor destruction has the potential for relieving symptoms while sparing the patient from invasive surgical resection. Although Nd:YAG laser has been successfully used, other less costly approaches such as argon plasma coagulation (APC) and electrocautery, may be effective alternatives for the bronchoscopic treatment of benign endobronchial tumors. Methods A retrospective medical chart review was conducted at a single academic center in the United States from the period of January 2005 through December 2011 to collect a minimum of 10 cases for review. Eligibility criteria included diagnosis of a benign endobronchial tumor and age over 18 years. Our institution's pathology database was searched by specific benign tumor and the results were further refined based on an endobronchial location. The bronchoscopic procedure log was also searched and identified procedures were cross referenced with the medical record to confirm eligibility. Results Ten patients with pathologically confirmed benign endobronchial tumors were identified. All patients achieved tumor regression with APC in combination with electrocautery or cryotherapy. Majority of the procedures (75%) were performed with flexible bronchoscopy and 55% were performed under moderate sedation. Conclusions APC is an effective method for tumor devitalization and reduction in tumor size, making it a viable and less costly therapeutic option for the treatment of benign endobronchial tumors.
Development of a Supervisory Control System Concept for Advanced Small Modular Reactors

Small modular reactors (SMRs) can provide the United States with a safe, sustainable, and carbon-neutral energy source. Because of their small size and, in many cases, simplified nuclear island configurations, it is expected that capital costs will be less for SMRs compared to that of large, Generation III+ light-water reactors. Advanced SMRs (AdvSMRs), which use coolants other than water as the primary heat transport medium, introduce several passive safety concepts and controls features that further reduce the complexity of primary system designs by eliminating redundant components and systems.Under U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), the Supervisory Control of Multi-Modular SMR Plants project was established to enable innovative control strategies and methods to supervise multi-unit plants, accommodate shared systems, identify opportunities to increase the level of automation, define economic metrics based on the relationship between control and staffing levels, and permit flexible co-generation operational regimes.This paper documents current findings from the Supervisory Control project. Specifically, it defines and documents strategies, functional elements, and an architectural structure for supervisory control of a representative generic AdvSMR plant. More specifically, this research advances the state-of-the art by incorporating decision making into the supervisory control system architectural layers through the introduction of tiered taxonomy of plant systems and subsystems.The proposed architecture has the features of planning and scheduling, analyzing plant status, diagnosing problems as they develop and predicting potential future problems, making decisions based on these features, and generating validated commands to lower control layers in the architecture.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
The annealing and thermal analysis of poly(butylene terephthalate)

When poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) is annealed, a second endotherm is often displayed in a subsequent scanning thermal analysis at a temperature below that of the original endotherm, and this new endotherm appears to grow with annealing at the expense of the original. This growth is not due to chemical changes, because the thermogram obtained before annealing is recovered after complete melting. But a physical change would also seem unlikely because the transformation of higher-melting into lower-melting crystals is generally prohibited by thermodynamics. Two hypotheses to explain the result were tested. The first is that higher-melting crystals are not transformed into lower-melting crystals. Instead, because of recrystallization during thermal analysis, the single endotherm that results without annealing overestimates the population of high-melting crystals present before the analysis. This hypothesis was tested by extending to annealing a mathematical analysis previously used to describe the thermal scanning behavior of specimens crystallized at different cooling rates. Though most features of the thermograms obtained after annealing were able to be described, the decrease in the higher-temperature endotherm concomitant with growth of the lower endotherm was not. The second hypothesis is that the transformation of higher-melting to lower-melting crystals during annealing is allowed because it is coupled to the crystallization of formerly amorphous material. The amount of such crystallization observed for PBT was found to be sufficient to satisfy thermodynamic requirements, suggesting that this hypothesis is correct. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
External fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures

External fixation is rarely employed in the treatment of hand fractures, and few reports describing this technique have been published. This is a report on 26 patients with 30 hand fractures (19 metacarpal and 11 phalangeal) treated by closed reduction and external fixation. The fixation consisted of percutaneous and transversely applied Kirschner wires that were fixed externally with methylmethacrylate rods. Active range of motion exercises were started 1 week after reduction with the external fixator in place. Percentage return of total range of motion in phalangeal fractures varied from 66% to 98% (mean, 84%), and in metacarpal fractures it varied from 77% to 100% (mean, 96%).
On the self-perception explanation of the overjustification effect: The role of the salience of initial attitude

Abstract An experiment was conducted to examine the proposition, derived from self-perception theory, that the “overjustification” effect would be mitigated if initial attitudes toward the task were made salient. Children engaged in a target activity with or without the promise of reward for doing so. Half the children were shown a photograph of themselves freely engaging in the target activity in an earlier session so as to remind them of their intrinsic interest in the task. The other children were not shown such a photograph. Consistent with the predictions. expected reward decreased subsequent intrinsic interest only when initial attitudes were relatively nonsalient. The findings demonstrate the relevance of self-perception processes to the “overjustification” effect.
AXIAL VECTOR ANOMALIES AND THE SCALING PROPERTY OF FIELD THEORY

A proof of the Adler-Bardeen theorem is given with the aid of the Callan-Symanzik equation.
Electrocatalytic Activity of Ordered Intermetallic PtPb Nanoparticles Prepared by Borohydride Reduction toward Formic Acid Oxidation

The electrocatalytic activity of nanoparticles of the ordered intermetallic compound PtPb toward the oxidation of formic acid (FA) for potential fuel cell applications has been studied using cyclic voltammetry, rotating disk electrode voltammetry, and chrono-amperometry. The PtPb nanoparticles were prepared by dissolving Pt and Pb precursors in anhydrous methanol, and co-reducing with sodium borohydride (NaBH 4 ). When the activity of PtPb nanoparticles was compared to that of commercially available Pt, Pd, and Pt-Ru/Vulcan alloy nanoparticles for the oxidation of FA, the PtPb nanoparticles exhibited superior electrocatalytic activity in terms of oxidation onset potential (-0.18 V vs Ag/AgCl) and mass activity (0.13 mA μg -1 at + 0.2 V) in 0.5 M FAand 0.1 M sulfuric acid (H 2 SO 4 ) solution. In addition, the PtPb nanoparticles exhibited larger heterogeneous charge-transfer rate constants and significantly enhanced tolerance to poisoning by carbon monoxide (CO) and sulfur-containing compounds. At low applied potential (E = 0.0 V), a stable oxidation current for FA oxidation could be observed for 9 h, compared to a large decrease in oxidation current, ostensibly due to CO poisoning, on Pt, Pd, and Pt-Ru/Vulcan alloy nanoparticles.
Long-Term Changes in Resource Conditions on Backcountry Campsites in Prince William Sound, Alaska, USA

Abstract Campsites in Prince William Sound, Alaska USA were monitored over a period of thirteen years for changes in resource conditions. We used standard campsite assessment protocols to determine changes in vegetation cover loss, campsite size, condition class and several other measures of resource conditions. The most recent data indicates that impacts such as multiple trailing, tree and shrub damage and large sites remain prevalent in the study area. The intensity and extent of impact tend to vary by environment type, with campsites on soil substrates in upland forests exhibiting less vegetation cover loss, mineral soil exposure and total area of impact than campsites found on cobble substrates with beach grass vegetation. Comparative analyses of resource conditions over time suggest increases in areal extent of impact, including the development of new sites, but decreases in impact intensity. These findings suggest that over the long term in Prince William Sound, the at-large camping strategy may not...
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and other nucleotides stimulate the hydrolysis of phosphatidylethanolamine in intact fibroblasts.

Addition of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to [14C]ethanolamine-prelabeled NIH 3T3 fibroblasts resulted in rapid formation of [14C]ethanolamine from the prelabeled cellular phosphatidylethanolamine (PtdEtn) pool. After 2-min exposure, 10 μM ATP had near maximal effects on PtdEtn hydrolysis. Several other nucleotides, including UTP, ITP, and the stable ATP analog adenosine 5′-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (ATPγS), also had stimulatory effects on PtdEtn hydrolysis with a potency comparable to that observed with ATP. The same nucleotides which acted on PtdEtn hydrolysis also had similar stimulatory effects on the hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho) in [14C]choline-labeled cells. In isolated membranes, Mg2+ greatly enhanced the stimulatory effects of ATP and ATPγS, but not of other nucleotides, on the hydrolysis of PtdEtn and PtdCho. Results indicate that in isolated membranes, both ATP and ATPγS stimulate phospholipid hydrolysis by two different mechanisms, but in intact cells only one of these mechanisms appears to be responsive to externally added nucleotides.
Characterization of the mnp2 gene encoding manganese peroxidase isozyme 2 from the basidiomycete Phanerochaete chrysosporium.

Abstract The nucleotide (nt) sequence of a gene (mnp2) encoding manganese peroxidase isozyme 2 (MnP-2) from Phanerochaete chrysosporium was determined. The sequence of 3297 bp includes 1287 bp of 5'-flanking sequence and 490 bp 3' to the stop codon. Comparison of cDNA and genomic sequences indicates seven introns varying in size from 50–55 bp. The 5' upstream region of the mnp2 gene contains a TATAA element, three inverted CCAAT elements (ATTGG), six putative heat-shock elements (HSE) and three putative metal response elements (MRE) (TGCRCNC), all located within 1100-bp upstream from the start codon. The positions of the putative HSE and MRE in the promoter region of mnp2 are compared with the corresponding sequences in the mnp1 gene promoter. A Northern blot probed with a fragment specific for the mnp2 gene suggests that the transcription of mnp2 is regulated by Mn ions.
Dielectric Response Spectrum of a Damped One- Dimensional Double-Well Oscillator

Le comportement de cette fonction reponse, en dessous de la temperature de transition T c , peut etre simulee par l'introduction d'un couplage de champ moyen lineaire qui detruit la symetrie du puits. Les potentiels deduits des parametres physiquement reels resultent en reponses dielectriques dont l'ordre de grandeur concorde avec les valeurs experimentales
Induction of cyclooxygenase II in human synovial microvessel endothelial cells by interleukin-1. Inhibition by glucocorticoids.

Conclusion. IL-1 treatment of HSE cells induces COX II, as demonstrated by both Northern blotting and immunoprecipitation. The induction of COX II expression provides, at least in part, a mechanism for the pronounced increase in prostanoid synthesis observed in HSE cells following incubation with IL-1. The selective up-regulation of HSE COX II by inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1 suggests that development of specific pharmaceutical inhibitors for this novel isozyme may provide significant new therapeutic advantages in the treatment of RA. Objective. To characterize the effects of inter-leukin-1α (IL-1) on prostanoid biosynthesis by human rheumatoid synovium microvessel endothelium (HSE). Methods. HSE cells were treated with cytokines, metabolic inhibitors, and steroids under various conditions, and prostaglandin biosynthesis was determined by radioimmunoassay. Newly synthesized cyclooxygenase (COX) was quantitated by immunoprecipitation of metabolically labeled HSE cell lysates. The effects of IL-1 on levels of messenger RNA (mRNA) for COX II were also determined. Results. IL-1 induced an increase in COX activity (as assessed by prostaglandin E2 release) that was dose-and time-dependent and was blocked by cycloheximide, actinomycin D, and dexamethasone. IL-1 induced a selective increase in COX II mRNA and biosynthesis of COX II protein that was blocked by dexamethasone. Conclusion. Mortality rates are increased at least 2-fold in RA, and are linked to clinical severity.
Malaria parasites adopt host cell superoxide dismutase

Aerobic organisms depend on superoxide dismutase to suppress the formation of dangerous species of activated oxygen. Intraerythrocytic stages of the malaria parasite exist within a highly aerobic environment and cause the generation of increased amounts of activated oxygen. Plasmodium berghei in mice was found to derive a substantial amount of superoxide dismutase activity from the host cell cytoplasm. Plasmodia isolated from mouse red cells contained mouse superoxide dismutase, whereas rat-derived parasites contained the rat enzyme. This is believed to be the first example of the acquisition of a host cell enzyme by an intracellular parasite.
Bovine factor B: cloning, expression, and characterization.

Abstract Bovine factor B, a polypeptide required for the coupled activity of the mitochondrial ATP synthase complex, was cloned. A novel expression system for overproducing the recombinant bovine factor B was developed, which yielded the recombinant polypeptide at a level of 12–15 mg of protein per liter of bacterial culture. Reconstitution of the recombinant polypeptide with factor B-depleted ammonia, EDTA-treated submitochondrial particles (AE-SMP) restored the formation of substrate-driven ΔpH gradient across vesicular membranes, presumably by blocking a proton leak. The proton leak in the AE-SMP could also be blocked by the F 0 inhibitors oligomycin and dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, but not the F 1 -ATPase inhibitors efrapeptin and aurovertin B. The six factor B thiols titrated rapidly with Ellman’s reagent, and two of these, presumably Cys92 and Cys94, gained protection following treatment of factor B with a vicinal dithiol-specific reagent phenylarsine oxide (PAO). Similarly, Cd 2+ , whose binding to factor B is believed to also involve a vicinal dithiol, and PAO, protected ∼2 Cys residues against labeling with sulfhydryl-specific fluorescent reagent fluorescein-5′-maleimide. The circular dichroism spectra showed that binding of Cd 2+ and Zn 2+ , but not Ca 2+ to bovine factor B caused small but reproducible changes in the secondary structure elements of the polypeptide.
A naturalistic assessment of the relationship between personality, daily life events, leisure-time exercise, and mood

Abstract Objectives : To assess within-subject associations between daily life events, positive and negative mood states, and exercise and the moderating role of personality for the exercise/mood relationship. Design : Within-subjects daily repeated measures. Methods : College students ( n =106) completed the NEO-FFI ( The NEO-PI-R Personality Inventory: Professional Manual ) and daily assessments of mood, exercise, and appraisals of daily events for eight consecutive days. Results : Results confirmed the hypotheses that increased levels of exercise would result in significant increases in positive mood states and reductions in negative mood. Even when positive and negative daily life events were controlled, significant associations between exercise and positive mood were observed. Also observed were significant reductions in negative mood when participants exercised more. However, these associations were not significant when daily events were controlled. Finally, aspects of personality were found to moderate the exercise/mood relationship, but these associations were generally small.
Differential Effects of Betamethasone and Dexamethasone Fetal Administration of Parturition in Sheep

We tested the hypothesis that betamethasone is more potent than dexamethasone in inducing the essential mechanisms of parturition in sheep. Twenty-one sheep were instrumented under general anesthesia with maternal and fetal arterial and venous catheters and myometrial electromyogram electrodes at 117 days’ gestation (dGA). At 125 dGA at 12:00 PM, after 2 days of baseline recording, either saline (n = 7, control group), betamethasone (n = 7), or dexamethasone (n = 7) was administered into the fetal jugular vein at a rate of 10 μg/hour. A total dose of 0.48 mg was given over the next 48 hours. The animals underwent autopsy 3 days after the end of the infusion period (130 dGA), or earlier if labor resulted from the glucocorticoid administration. Daily maternal and fetal arterial blood samples (4 mL) for hormone measurement were taken at 10:00 am throughout the study period. Additional arterial blood samples were taken if the animal developed labor. Maternal plasma progesterone and fetal ACTH and Cortisol concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay, and corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) binding capacity was determined by saturation analysis. Myometrial activity was monitored continuously throughout the experimental protocol. All seven betamethasone-treated animals developed labor after the glucocorticoid infusion regimen. In contrast, only two of seven dexamethasone-treated animals developed labor. Fetal treatment with betamethasone produced a greater and earlier fall in maternal plasma progesterone than fetal treatment with dexamethasone. Both betamethasone and dexamethasone treatments elevated fetal plasma CBG to similar binding capacities. Elevated fetal plasma ACTH and Cortisol concentrations at the end of the infusion period in both betamethasone- and dexamethasone-treated animals were not related to the development of labor-type contractions. These data support the hypothesis that betamethasone is more potent than dexamethasone in inducing the essential mechanisms of parturition in sheep.
Outer-Sphere Electron Transfer in Methylene Chloride: Concentration, Salt, and Temperature Dependences of the Oxidation of beta-Re(2)X(4)(cis-1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethylene)(2) (X = Cl, Br) by [Co(dimethylglyoximate)(3)(BF)(2)]BF(4) and the Oxidation of Re(2)Br(4)(PMe(2)Ph)(4) by [Co(1,2-cyclohexanedione dioximate)(3)(BBu)(2)]BF(4).

The kinetics of the oxidation of β-Re2X4(cis-1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethylene)2 (X = Cl, Br) by the cobalt clathrochelate [Co(dimethylglyoximate)3(BF)2]BF4 and the oxidation of Re2Br4(PMe2Ph)4 by the cobalt clathrochelate [Co(1,2-cyclohexanedione dioximate)3(BBu)2]BF4 have been studied by the stopped-flow method as a function of temperature (−85 to −19 °C), added Bu4NBF4 (0−0.100 M), and reactant concentration in the low dielectric solvent methylene chloride. For each reaction, ∼100 different conditions were studied. The observed rate constants were well fit by a mechanism involving separate paths for free ion and the ion-paired Co(III) oxidant. The analysis yielded values for ΔH⧧ and ΔS⧧ for each path of each reaction and consistent ΔH° and ΔS° values for the ion-pairing of the cationic reactant and the electrolyte. In addition, temperature-dependent electrochemical measurements in 0.10 M Bu4NBF4 yielded ΔH° and ΔS° for the electron transfer process. This is the first measurement of the homogeneous ele...
Analytic expressions for integrals of products of spherical Bessel functions

Integrals of several spherical Bessel functions occur frequently in nuclear physics. They are difficult to evaluate using standard numerical techniques, because of their slowly decreasing oscillatory form. The authors derive an analytic expression for the infinite integral of three spherical Bessel functions. They then use this result, together with the closure relation for spherical Bessel functions, to show how in principle one can derive an analytic expression for the integral of any number of spherical Bessel functions. They demonstrate this by deriving an analytic expression for the integral of four spherical Bessel functions. As with all of these analytic formulae, the results require that all angular momenta corresponding to the spherical Bessel functions can be coupled together to give an overall scalar quantity and conserve parity. The authors discuss the numerical accuracy and stability of this procedure.
Explicit counteraction algorithms in higher dimensions

Abstract Using the background field method we construct algorithms for the one-loop counterterms of a field theory in a space-time of dimension 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10. From the d = 6 algorithm we demonstrate the one-loop finiteness of N = 2 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theories and also N = 1 Yang-Mills theory. All other N = 1 Yang-Mills theories + N = 1 matter theories in d = 6 are shown to have a divergent one-loop S-matrix. We also present partial results for two- and three-loop algorithms in d = 6 and d = 4 respectively.
Characterization of individual ag nanoparticles and their chemical environment.

Silver nanoparticles (NPs) of ∼5 nm diameter deposited in a single layer on glycine were examined with cluster secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) in the event-by-event bombardment-detection mod...
Some methodological considerations in the design and implementation of behavior therapy research

The design variables of control group, base line, follow-up, systematic variation of treatment, unbiased observer, adequate sampling and assignment, and multiple treatment confounding were discussed for their relevance to behavior modification research. The effect that each variable had was determined both by the type of design used to study the problem and the nature of the questions being asked in the study. Recommendations for increasing methodological, precision when using each of these design variables were also made. It was concluded that a particular type of methodology may be more or less appropriate to a content area of study, depending on the level of observation and induction already existing in that area.
Comparison of Fourier and Bayesian Analysis of NMR Signals. II. Examination of Truncated Free Induction Decay NMR Data

Abstract In a recent report [J, J. Kotyk et al., J. Magn. Reson, 98, 483 (1992)], estimates of NMR frequency and amplitude parameters obtained from Bayesian probability theory were shown to be more precise and more accurate than those obtained from the discrete Fourier transform (DFT). This previous study examined the effects of varying signal-to-noise ratio and did not address the performance of either probability theory or the DFT as a function of acquisition time, i.e., truncation. Herein, a quantitative comparison between probability theory and the DFT is presented and discussed in terms of the accuracy and precision they provide in estimating the frequency and amplitude from truncated free induction decay data. For simplicity, data containing only a single frequency are examined. For frequency estimation, Bayesian probability theory gives either more precise and accurate estimates or exactly the same estimates as the DFT. This latter result only occurs when the theory indicates that the Bayesian procedure is functionally identical to the DFT. For amplitude estimation, the results presented herein are consistent with those cited in previous work. Even for the best DFT procedure, probability theory outperforms the DFT by a factor of two or more depending on the signal-to-noise ratio and the prior information supplied in the analysis. The amplitude estimates from probability theory are more precise and/or more accurate than the DFT results for all levels of truncation. Additionally, the only time the DFT amplitude estimates are more precise (less uncertain) are when they are inaccurate (give an incorrect answer). Thus, the use of probability theory offers significant improvement over the use of DFT in highly truncated NMR free induction decay data.
RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) analysis based intervarietal genetic relationships among hexaploid wheats

Abstract The main objective of this study was to assess the extent of genetic diversity detected by RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) technique among 15 varieties of common bread wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.). The slow development of genetic linkage maps of wheat using conventional molecular marker strategies is attributed to the limited number of RFLPs (restriction fragment length polymorphisms) between wheat genotypes. Recently, RAPDs have been observed between closely related genotypes in several other species. We have used a set of 40 single arbitrary primers (10-mers) for the PCR (polymerase chain reaction) -mediated amplification of random genomic DNA fragments from wheats. Eighty percent of the primers yielded distinct electrophoretic profiles which could be scored. Out of 109 amplified fragments, 71 (65%) were polymorphic in these wheat cultivars. These results have assisted in the development of a dendrogram suggesting genetic relationships among these genotypes. Moreover, most of the spring and winter wheats were clustered together in this dendrogram based on Jaccard's coefficients. These results will be useful in the identification of suitable parents for the development of a mapping population for tagging agronomically important traits in wheat.
Attentional misguidance in visual search

Previous research has shown that a task-irrelevant sudden onset of an object will capture an observer’s visual attention or draw it to that object (e.g., Yantis & Jonides, 1984). However, further research has demonstrated the apparent inability of an object with a task-irrelevant but unique color or luminance to capture attention (Jonides & Yantis, 1988). In the experiments reported here, we reexplore the question of whether task-irrelevant properties other than sudden onset may capture attention. Our results suggest that uniquely colored or luminous objects, as well as salient though irrelevant boundaries, do not appear to capture attention. However, these irrelevant features do appear to serve as landmarks for a top-down search strategy which becomes increasingly likely with larger display set sizes. These findings are described in terms of stimulus-driven and goal-directed aspects of attentional control.
A Comparison of Phagocytosis by the Retinal Pigment Epithelium in Normal and Delayed Amelanotic Chickens

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) performs a critical role in maintaining the integrity and renewal of the retinal system by clearing the shed photoreceptor outer segment debris through the process of phagocytosis. If phagocytosis is impaired, accumulation of the debris occurs leading to the degeneration of the retina. Phagocytosis, measured by polyvinyl toluene bead uptake is a normal cell activity exhibited by the embryonic retinal pigment epithelium even before complete differentiation of the neuronal layers. It is significant that embryonic pigment epithelium from either normal or delayed amelanotic (DAM) strain is competent in the process of non-specific particle uptake. In normal chickens non-specific phagocytic activity is observable as early as embryonic day 9 and continues through the rest of the developmental period and throughout adult life. The retinal pigment epithelium in DAM chickens exhibits early phagocytic activity at embryonic day 9 and then through day 16, but by day 19 this function is lost. This loss of phagocytic capacity in RPE of the DAM strain precedes and may be instrumental in the gradual retinal degeneration exhibited by these animals. Specific phagocytosis of rod outer segments (ROS) was examined in 4-week-old post-hatch normal and DAM RPE. Phagocytosis of ROS was greatly reduced in DAM RPE implying that the defect in the DAM is expressed in non-specific and specific phagocytosis. This study indicates that the DAM retinal system can now serve as an alternative and comparative model for studying different aspects of retinal degeneration.
2-[2-(5-Bromopyridyl)azo]-5-dimethylaminophenol; a new sensitive reagent for cadmium

Abstract Cadmium(II) reacts with 2-[2-(5-bromopyridyl)azo]-5-dimethyl-aminophenol (5-Br-DMPAP) in aqueous solution; the complex can be extracted with organic solvents such as chloroform, 3-methyl-l-butanol and methyl isobutyl ketone at pH 8–10.5 to give a red solution which absorbs at 525–555 nm. The absorbance in organic solvents is stable and the system conforms to Beer's law; the optimal range in 3-methyl-1-butanol for measurement in 1.00-cm cells is 0.01–l p.p.m. cadmium. Moderate amounts of many cations and anions do not interfere, and interfering cations such as zinc, copper, manganese and nickel can be separated by extraction with dithizone. The 5-Br-DMPAP method is one of the most sensitive procedures available for the determination of cadmium; the molar absorptivity in a 3-methyl-1-butanol extract is 1.41·105 1 mol−1 cm−1 at 555 nm.
Role of paraoxonase-1 in bone anabolic effects of parathyroid hormone in hyperlipidemic mice

Highlights: ► Anabolic effects of PTH were tested in hyperlipidemic mice overexpressing PON1. ► Expression of antioxidant regulatory genes was induced in PON1 overexpression. ► Bone resorptive activity was reduced in PON1 overexpressing hyperlipidemic mice. ► PON1 restored responsiveness to intermittent PTH in bones of hyperlipidemic mice. -- Abstract: Hyperlipidemia blunts anabolic effects of intermittent parathyroid hormone (PTH) on cortical bone, and the responsiveness to PTH are restored in part by oral administration of the antioxidant ApoA-I mimetic peptide, D-4F. To evaluate the mechanism of this rescue, hyperlipidemic mice overexpressing the high-density lipoprotein-associated antioxidant enzyme, paraoxonase 1 (Ldlr{sup −/−}PON1{sup tg}) were generated, and daily PTH injections were administered to Ldlr{sup −/−}PON1{sup tg} and to littermate Ldlr{sup −/−} mice. Expression of bone regulatory genes was determined by realtime RT-qPCR, and cortical bone parameters of the femoral bones by micro-computed tomographic analyses. PTH-treated Ldlr{sup −/−}PON1{sup tg} mice had significantly greater expression of PTH receptor (PTH1R), activating transcription factor-4 (ATF4), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in femoral cortical bone, as well as significantly greater cortical bone mineral content, thickness, and area in femoral diaphyses compared with untreated Ldlr{sup −/−}PON1{sup tg} mice. In contrast, in control mice (Ldlr{sup −/−}) without PON1 overexpression, PTH treatment did notmore » induce these markers. Calvarial bone of PTH-treated Ldlr{sup −/−}PON1{sup tg} mice also had significantly greater expression of osteoblastic differentiation marker genes as well as BMP-2-target and Wnt-target genes. Untreated Ldlr{sup −/−}PON1{sup tg} mice had significantly greater expression of PTHR1 than untreated Ldlr{sup −/−} mice, whereas sclerostin expression was reduced. In femoral cortical bones, expression levels of transcription factors, FoxO1 and ATF4, were also elevated in the untreated, control Ldlr{sup −/−}PON1{sup tg} mice, suggesting enhancement of cellular protection against oxidants. These findings suggest that PON1 restores responsiveness to PTH through effects on oxidant stress, PTH receptor expression, and/or Wnt signaling.« less
Dehydroepiandrosterone supplements: bringing sense to sensational claims.

ABSTRACT Objective To summarize the current information about dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal cortex. Methods The biochemical and physiologic features of DHEA and its purported effects on overall age-related decline and on various disorders are reviewed. In addition, the potential side effects from administration of DHEA are discussed. Results During the normal life cycle, levels of DHEA fluctuate, beginning with production of large quantities in the fetus, stopping at birth, resuming during ages 5 to 7 years, and increasing throughout puberty to maximal production in the 20s. Thereafter, DHEA levels progressively decline. This age-related decline in physiologic levels of DHEA has prompted speculation about a relationship between relative “DHEA deficiency” in older age and diseases of aging as well as the possibility of deriving benefits from administration of DHEA. Certain studies in animals (primarily rodents) have suggested anticancer effects of DHEA in pharmacologic doses and improvement in metabolism. In various studies in animals and humans, discrepant results have been found in the assessment of the association between DHEA levels and coronary artery disease. Likewise, the clinical significance of changes in immune function with DHEA treatment is unknown. Because DHEA is classified as a “nutritional supplement,” it is not subjected to government regulation, and a potential exists for inaccurate dosage and impurities. Conclusion Studies have shown that DHEA influences multiple systems and disease processes in animals and humans; some of these effects could be considered beneficial and others detrimental. To date, no long-term health benefits from DHEA in “replacement” doses have been demonstrated. (Endocr Pract. 1998;4:106-111)
Proposed rectal dose constraints for patients undergoing definitive whole pelvic radiotherapy for clinically localized prostate cancer.

Purpose Although several institutions have reported rectal dose constraints according to threshold toxicity, the plethora of trials has resulted in multiple, confusing dose–volume histogram recommendations. A set of standardized, literature-based constraints for patients undergoing whole pelvic radiotherapy (RT) for prostate cancer would help guide the practice of prostate RT. The purpose of this study was to develop these constraints, demonstrate that they are achievable, and assess the corresponding rectal toxicity. Methods and Materials An extensive literature search identified eight key studies relating dose–volume histogram data to rectal toxicity. A correction factor was developed to address differences in the anatomic definition of the rectum across studies. The dose–volume histogram constraints recommended by each study were combined to generate the constraints. The data from all patients treated with definitive intensity-modulated RT were then compared against these constraints. Acute rectal toxicity was assessed. Results A continuous, proposed rectal dose-constraint curve was generated. Intensity-modulated RT not only met this constraint curve, but also was able to achieve at least 30–40% lower dose to the rectum. The preliminary clinical results were also positive: 50% of patients reported no acute bowel toxicity, 33% reported Grade 1 toxicity, and 17% reported Grade 2 toxicity. No patients reported Grade 3-4 acute rectal toxicity. Conclusions In this study, we developed a set of proposed rectal dose constraints. This allowed for volumetric assessment of the dose–volume relationship compared with single dose–volume histogram points. Additional research will be performed to validate this threshold as a class solution for rectal dose constraints.
Differentiation between senescence (M1) and crisis (M2) in human fibroblast cultures

Normal human fibroblasts undergo only a limited number of divisions in culture and eventually enter a nonreplicative state designated senescence or mortality stage 1 (M1). Expression of certain viral oncogenes, such as the SV40 large T antigen (SV40 T-Ag), can elicit a significant extension of replicative life span, but these cultures eventually also cease dividing. This proliferative decline has been designated crisis or mortality stage 2 (M2). BrdU incorporation assays are commonly used to distinguish between senescence ( 30% labeling index). It has not been possible, however, to ascertain whether the high labeling index, indicative of ongoing DNA replication, was caused by the presence of T-Ag. We used gene targeting to knock out both copies of the p21(CIP1/WAF1) gene in presenescent human fibroblasts. p21 -/- cells displayed an extended life span but eventually entered a nonproliferative state. In their terminally nonproliferative state both p21 +/+ and p21 -/- cultures were positive for the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-beta-gal) activity; in contrast, the labeling index of p21 +/+ cells was low ( 30%). The observation that p21 -/- and SV40 T-Ag-expressing cells behave identically with respect to life span extension as well as the high labeling index in the terminally nonproliferative state indicates that crisis is not a phenomenon induced solely by viral oncogenes, but a physiological state resulting from the bypass of normal senescence mechanisms. The widely used biomarker for senescence, SA-beta-gal, cannot distinguish between senescence and crisis. We propose that all SA-beta-gal-positive cultures should be further examined for their BrdU labeling index.
Management of complex pelvic masses using a multivariate index assay: A decision analysis

Abstract Objective To develop a cost-minimization analysis of a multivariate index assay (MIA) used for women with complex pelvic masses. Methods A decision analysis model was used to evaluate 81,000 hypothetical patients with a complex pelvic mass requiring surgery. Three strategies were evaluated: (1) referral to a gynecologic oncologist (GO) based on clinical assessment including physical exam, ultrasonography, and CA125 (CLINICAL); (2) utilization of a multivariate index assay (MIA); or (3) referral of all patients to a GO (REFER ALL). Various reoperation rates were evaluated with sensitivity analyses. Actual payer costs were compared between each strategy. Results The CLINICAL strategy cost $933.9million (M) and resulted in 72% of patients receiving appropriate initial surgical staging. The REFER ALL strategy cost $939.7M and all patients were appropriately staged. The MIA strategy cost $976.7M and resulted in 91% of patients having appropriate initial staging. Using conservative reoperation rates (10–20%), 461 patients required reoperation using CLINICAL strategy compared to 142 patients in MIA strategy. Using aggressive reoperation rates (40–50%), 1715 patients required reoperation using CLINICAL strategy resulting in an incremental cost of $15.2M compared to 529 patients at $4.7M in MIA strategy. The increased costs associated with an aggressive reoperation rate resulted in the REFER ALL strategy being the least expensive alternative, with the highest rates of appropriate initial surgery. Conclusions Utilizing an MIA resulted in more ovarian cancer patients receiving appropriate initial surgery, but at increased costs. Referring all patients with complex masses avoids the most reoperations at reduced cost compared to using an MIA.
Characterization of the plasma membrane localization and orientation of HPV16 E5 for cell-cell fusion.

Abstract Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a non-enveloped DNA virus with an ∼ 8000 base pair genome. Infection with certain types of HPV is associated with cervical cancer, although the molecular mechanism by which HPV induces carcinogenesis is poorly understood. Three genes encoded by HPV16 are regarded as oncogenic — E5, E6, and E7. The role of E5 has been controversial. Expression of HPV16 E5 causes cell–cell fusion, an event that can lead to increased chromosomal instability, particularly in the presence of cell cycle checkpoint inhibitors like HPV16 E6 and E7. Using biochemical and cell biological assays to better understand HPV16 E5, we find that HPV16 E5 localizes to the plasma membrane with an intracellular amino terminus and an extracellular carboxyl-terminus. Further, HPV16 E5 must be expressed on both cells for cell fusion to occur. When the extracellular epitope of HPV16 E5 is targeted with an antibody, the number of bi-nucleated cells decreases.
Using Bayesian inference for parameter estimation when the system response and experimental conditions are measured with error and some variables are considered as nuisance variables

Parameter estimation is generally based upon the maximum likelihood approach and often involves regularization. Typically it is desired that the results be unbiased and of minimum variance. However, it is often better to accept biased estimates that have minimum mean square error. Bayesian inference is an attractive approach that achieves this goal and incorporates regularization automatically. More importantly, it permits us to analyse experiments in which both the system response and the independent variables (time, sensor position, experimental conditions, etc) are corrupted by noise and in which the model includes nuisance variables. This paper describes the use of Bayesian inference for an apparently simple experiment which is, in fact, fundamentally difficult and is compounded by a nuisance variable. By presenting this analysis we hope that members of the inverse community will see the value of applying Bayesian inference.
Chemoattraction of anaerobic ruminai fungi zoospores to selected phenolic acids

Abstract Three phenolic acids, p -coumaric acid, ferulic acid and syringic acid, were evaluated as chemoattractants for zoospores of two monocentric and two polycentric isolates of anaerobic, zoosporic ruminai fungi. Attraction of fungal zoospores to the acids was determined by a modification of the Palleroni method and fungal thallus forming units were counted after incubating capillary tubes in a chemotaxis chamber. Chemotactic response was expressed as relative taxis response (RTR), which is the ratio of accumulation of zoospores in test capillaries to that in control capillaries. Monocentric isolates had greater RTR values then did the polycentric isolates. The order of chemoattraction for the uniflagellate isolates was p -coumaric acid > ferulic acid > syringic acid. The order of attraction was different between the two isolates with multiflagellate zoospores. Ferulic acid and p -coumaric acid were better chemoattractants than syringic acid. Peak response for the monocentric isolates was 1.0 μmol 1 -1 while that for the polycentric isolates was 0.1 mmol 1 -1 .
Motion of apical and laminal /s/ in normal and post-glossectomy speakers

There are two ways to produce an `s' in English: apical and laminal. They are almost identical perceptually and the reason for choosing one type is not well understood. This study questions whether one type is preferred in certain conditions, such as high vs low palate height or in post surgical tongue adaptation. This study examines palate height, and motion of critical and non-critical tongue regions in 8 normal speakers and 8 post-glossectomy patients who have had surgical resection of squamous cell carcinomas of the tongue. Speech was recorded with tagged-MRI and processed to track displacement and velocity of 2-D midsagittal tongue tissue points in the tongue tip and body during the utterance of the word “a souk”. Results indicate that subject category had a greater effect on s motion than palate height. Both critical and non-critical articulators in subjects with apical s used higher velocity and displacement on average than subjects with laminal s. Compared to patients with larger resections, patients with smaller resections had larger velocities and displacements in both tongue areas suggesting less debility. The single patient with flap reconstruction showed the highest velocity and greatest displacement, suggesting a different type of articulatory compensation. This research was supported in part by NIH R01 CA133015
The characteristics of cyclical and non-cyclical mastalgia: a prospective study using a modified McGill Pain Questionnaire.

Breast pain (mastalgia) is a common condition (usually classified as cyclical or non-cyclical) the characteristics of which have never been studied using a standardized pain instrument. We have modified the short form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) for the measurement of mastalgia, and have administered it to 271 women with breast pain and without breast cancer. The mean pain-rating index (sum of 15 descriptors of SF-MPQ) was similar between cyclical and non-cyclical pain, and was 12.0 (of 45) for the entire group. When compared to similar studies of pain at other sites, this falls in the same range as chronic cancer pain, and just below the pain of rheumatoid arthritis. Mean %VAS (visual analog scale) was 45.12 and mean %PPI (present pain index) was 39.9. Most women described their pain as ‘heavy, aching and tender,’ and these descriptors were given significantly higher ratings by women with cyclical pain. In women with non-cyclical mastalgia, the overall pain severity was related to the size of the painful area, and the steadiness of the pain, and the affective components were more prominent than in women with cyclical mastalgia. Thus, cyclical and non-cyclical mastalgia show some differences in their characteristics with substantial overlap. The total breast pain score was most efficiently estimated by a combination of the VAS, the PPI, and the quality of life questions (R 2 = 0.96). Studies of breast pain should include both groups to better understand and characterize these differences, particularly with regard to a possible connection with breast cancer risk.