cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Soluble Factor(s) Released from Neutrophils Activates Endothelial Cell Matrix Metalloproteinase-2

Abstract Objective. Polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) infiltration and microvascular injury are hallmarks of the tissue remodeling associated with multiple organ failure. These processes require the concerted action of various proteolytic enzymes, including serine and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) plays an important role in the turnover of various ECM components, including type IV collagen, fibronectin, and gelatins. Like all MMPs, MMP-2 is secreted as an inactive zymogen (proMMP-2) and activated extracellularly by limited proteolytic cleavage. The physiologic mechanism(s) of proMMP-2 activation remains unclear. This study was designed to characterize the effect of PMNs on the activation of proMMP-2 produced by endothelial cells. Methods. PMNs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were grown either separately or together for 2–16 h. To evaluate the role of cell–cell contact, cocultures were also established in which the two cell types were separated by a semipermeable polycarbonate membrane. Alternatively, PMN-conditioned medium was added to HUVEC cultures with or without various proteinase inhibitors (aprotinin, 1,10-phenanthroline, Batimastat, E-64, eglin c peptide, or pepstatin A). After incubation, the culture supernatants were analyzed by gelatin zymography to characterize the gelatinases. Results. HUVECs produce MMP-2 in its inactive (72 kDa) form. PMNs produce high levels of MMP-9 (gelatinase B, 92 kDa) but no MMP-2. Coculture of PMNs with or addition of PMN-conditioned medium to HUVECs results in the production of active (62 kDa) MMP-2. ProMMP-2 activation by PMN-conditioned medium is not blocked by inhibitors of plasmin, cysteine-, acid-, or metalloproteinases. Conclusion. PMNs release a soluble factor that activates endothelial cell MMP-2 through a novel mechanism independent of cell–cell contact and not attributable to the activities of plasmin, cysteine-, acid-, or metalloproteinases. These findings may provide insight into the tissue remodeling that accompanies PMN-mediated microvascular injury.
An adaptive accuracy-based a posteriori error estimator

Abstract A von Mises stress based finite element error estimator with a new concept of adaptive accuracy and mesh optimality is presented. The h -based adaptivity algorithm is based on a modified Zienkiewicz and Zhu a posteriori finite element error estimator. Contrary to the mathematical view that an optimal mesh is one in which the error in the solution as measured by element norms is uniform over the entire model, it is proposed that the accuracy requirement should be adapted according to the behaviour of the relative stress field distribution across the domain. In this approach a greater accuracy is required at highly stressed regions of the domain, while less accurate solutions are permitted at understressed regions. This concept along with a modified a posteriori finite element error estimator is presented and the results compared with the Zienkiewicz and Zhu stress-based error and adaptivity algorithm. Results indicate that the adaptive accuracy approach yields optimal meshes from an engineering viewpoint. The h -based adaptive meshes were more accurate in the highly stressed regions of the domain with substantially reduced degrees of freedom compared to the adaptive meshes obtained by the Zienkiewicz and Zhu adaptivity algorithm based on a uniform accuracy criterion.
Oblateness of the Sun in 1983 and relativity

Measurements of the solar oblateness obtained during 1983 from Mount Wilson, California, yield a value with an upper bound only half of that observed in 1966. This difference may support the conjecture that the solar quadrupole moment slowly oscillates. A knowledge of the character of such an oscillation, if it occurs, would be needed to test Einstein's relativity theory using Mercury's orbital motion.
Causal Understanding and Expression in the Preschool Years

Stages of development in causal reasoning and causative expression in children are outlined with the goal of providing a baseline against which development in preschool handicapped children may be compared. The notion of causality is defined, and approaches to ways of characterizing causal knowledge and the expression of that knowledge in English are discussed. The three stages described within the preschool age range are defined in terms of changes in children's causal schemes, their field of centration, and their experimental attitude and skills. Suggestions for assessment and special education are made.
Visual Art in the Neurologic Career of Jean-Martin Charcot

• Jean-Martin Charcot, the world's first chaired professor of neurology, incorporated visual art into his daily practice of neurology. Art served as scientific documentation and was a pivotal tool in the development and dissemination of Charcot's clinicoanatomic method. Although Charcot drew extensively in clinical and laboratory studies, very few of these visual documents have ever been published or are currently available for public study. Charcot was central to the incorporation of medical photographs into the study of neurologic disease and relied heavily on visual material in his capacity as an international teacher. Art also misguided Charcot's career when he relied heavily on artwork in his attempt to convince critics that disorders seen at the Salpetriere Hospital, Paris, France, were independent of his suggestive influence.
Attractant for a Beneficial Insect and Its Parasitoids: Pheromone of the Predatory Spined Soldier Bug, Podisus maculiventris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)

A mixture of ( E )-2-hexenal, α-terpineol, linalool, terpinen-4-ol, and benzyl alcohol attracts adults of the predaceous spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris (Say). The male-produced pheromone contains (+)-α-terpineol; however, (−)-α-terpineol is not inhibitory to the bug, so artificial pheromone can be made with racemic α-terpineol. Four parasitic species use the pheromone as a kairomone and two of these parasitoids are partially inhibited by (−)-α-terpineol. This is the first artificial long-range pheromone for a member of the true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) and the first such pheromone for a nonsocial predaceous insect.
The effects of unilateral and bilateral medial thalamic lesions on discrimination learning in the rat

Rats with bilateral medial thalamic lesions, unilateral medial thalamic lesions, and sham operations were tested on acquisition of a visual-tactile, compound stimulus, maze discrimination task. The animals with bilateral lesions were found to be deficient relative to the animals with either unilateral lesions or sham operations, while the latter two groups were not found to differ from each other.
Multiplication Operators Between the Lipschitz Space and the Space of Bounded Functions on a Tree

In this paper, we characterize the bounded and the compact multiplication operators between the space of bounded functions on the set of vertices of a rooted infinite tree T and the Banach space of complex-valued Lipschitz functions on T. We also determine the operator norm and the essential norm for the bounded multiplication operators between these spaces and show that there are no isometries among such operators.
Accuracy of endorectal magnetic resonance/transrectal ultrasound fusion for detection of prostate cancer during brachytherapy.

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of 3 Tesla endorectal magnetic resonance imaging (erMRI) with fusion to real-time transrectal ultrasound to detect a dominant cancer focus within the prostate gland. Materials and Methods The safety and effectiveness of identifying suspicious lesions using erMRI was assessed in men undergoing brachytherapy perineal implants. Suspicious lesions identified on erMRI fused to real-time transrectal ultrasound were biopsied at brachytherapy seed placement. In addition, a biopsy was also obtained from an area identified as negative for cancer. This prospective study was performed for 30 patients who had previously provided consent for brachytherapy. Eligible patients had to have a lesion on erMRI that was ≥1.0 cm × 1.0 cm. Their mean prostate-specific antigen level was 7.3 ng/mL, mean Gleason score 6.75, and mean percentage of positive diagnostic core biopsies was 29%. Results Cancer was detected in a suspicious area in 53% of the patients. In 9 of these patients, the cancer was Gleason score 3 + 3, in 6, Gleason score 3 + 4, and in 1, Gleason score 4 + 3. Cancer was detected in unsuspected areas in 10% of patients; all Gleason score 3 + 3 in Conclusion Although biopsy of lesions identified by erMRI is safe and more effective than would be expected by blind biopsy, a significant “miss” rate was still found. However, the negative predictive (10%) value of this technique might be useful for determining which regions of the gland might not need treatment in the setting of focal therapy.
Molecular beacon biosensors for DNA/RNA analysis

We have developed a variety of novel DNA biosensors using a new class of oligonucleotide probe, molecular beacon (MB). MB has the fluorescence signal transduction mechanism built within the molecules. It can report the presence of specific nucleic acids with high sensitivity and excellent selectivity. Biotinylated MBs have been designed and synthesized for immobilization onto silica surface through avidin-biotin binding. The effect of the avidin-biotin bridge on the MB hybridization has been studied. Our result shows that using streptavidin has less effect than using avidin in MB hybridization. Two kinds of fiber optical DNA sensors have been prepared and characterized: a fiber optic evanescent wave sensor and a submicrometer optical fiber sensor. The sensors are rapid,stable, highly selective, reproducible and regenerable. They have been applied to detect specific DNA and mRNA sequences and to the study of the DNA hybridization kinetics. Silica nanoparticles have also been used for MB immobilization in order to prepare a large quantity of nanometer sized DNA/RNA biosensors.
Optimizing Nutrition for Exercise and Sport

The primary factors that affect exercise performance capacity include an individual’s genetic endowment, the quality of training, and effective coaching (see Fig. 19.1). Beyond these factors, nutrition plays a critical role in optimizing performance capacity. In order for athletes to perform well, their training and diet must be optimal. If athletes do not train enough or have an inadequate diet, their performance may be decreased [1]. On the other hand, if athletes train too much, without a sufficient diet, they may be susceptible to becoming overtrained (see Fig. 19.2).
Modeling analysis of the indentation-derived yield properties of metallic multilayered composites

Abstract The determination of overall mechanical properties of small-scale composite structures, such as multilayered thin films, frequently relies on the indentation technique. In this study, finite element modeling is employed to examine the relationship between indentation hardness and overall yield strength of multilayered materials. For simplicity, the laminated composite is taken to consist of alternating layers of two elastic–perfectly plastic materials. The overall yield strength under uniform far-field loading is first quantified. Indentation loading of the layered structure is then simulated to cover a wide range of indentation depth well into multiple layers. The systematic hardness values thus obtained are converted to corresponding flow stresses using the numerically established relationship for homogeneous materials. It is found that the indentation-derived strength consistently underestimates the composite yield strength, within the scope of the present continuum-based approach. Friction at the contact surface is also found to play a significant role. Relevant issues on applying indentation techniques to probe overall mechanical properties of metallic multilayers are discussed.
High‐speed X‐ray images of triggered lightning dart leaders

[1] We present the first high-time resolution two-dimensional images of X-ray emissions from lightning. The images were recorded at a rate of 10 million per second using a new pinhole-type camera, located 44 m from rocket-and-wire-triggered lightning. We report observations of two dart leaders, one in each of two lightning flashes triggered during the summer of 2010 in north-central Florida. In both events, as the dart leader approached the ground, the X-ray source was also seen to descend along the previous lightning channel. For the second event, the X-ray source exhibited a downward speed of 4.5 × 107 m/s, in agreement with independent dE/dt time-of-arrival (TOA) measurements of the speed of the dart leader front, demonstrating that the dart leader front was the source of the X-ray emission. The camera also recorded bursts of MeV gamma rays originating from the dart leader and/or the ground attachment process of the leader. Overall, these results provide new insight into the production of energetic radiation and the propagation and attachment of lightning, all of which remain poorly understood.
The tax structure and trade liberalization of the middle east and north africa region

There has been an unprecedented trade liberalization which started in the mid-1980s in a wide spectrum of developing countries. In the same period, there have also been considerable changes in the tax structures of countries. This paper uses panel data on 65 countries, including 16 Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries, for the period 1980–1997 to examine how tax structures responded to trade liberalization. It is found that, unlike other non-OECD countries, the MENA countries did not increase their reliance on domestic consumption taxes in response to trade liberalization. Trade liberalization did not seem to have a strong impact on major revenue sources of the MENA countries.
Nitric oxide and Nitrogen dioxide Concentrations During In Vitro High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation † 1970

Nitric oxide and Nitrogen dioxide Concentrations During In Vitro High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation † 1970
Implications of the learned nonuse formulation for measuring rehabilitation outcomes : Lessons from Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy

Objective: Research on monkeys with a forelimb from which sensation is surgically abolished demonstrates that such animals do not use their deafferented limb even though they possess sufficient motor ability to do so, a phenomenon labeled learned nonuse. This dissociation also occurs after neurological injury in humans. Instruments that measure these 2 aspects of motor function are discussed, and the implications of this work for cognitive assessment are explored. Study Design: Literature review. Results and Conclusions: The effects of a neurological injury may differ widely in regard to motor ability assessed on a laboratory performance test in which movements are requested and actual spontaneous use of an extremity in real-world settings, indicating that these parameters need to be evaluated separately. The methods used in Constraint-Induced Movement therapy research to independently assess these 2 domains are reliable and valid. An extensive program of research conducted by Edward Taub with monkeys from whose forelimbs somatic sensation had been surgically abolished has shown that when injury to the nervous system takes place, there is potential for chronic disuse of a body part or function to occur that is in excess of what is warranted by damage to the physiological substrate (summarized in Taub, 1977). Experiments in this line of work designed to rule out alternate mechanisms (e.g., interlimb inhibition of movement) indicated that establishment of such an excess motor deficit is supported by the following conditions: (a) organic damage that results in an initial inability to use a body part so that an animal is punished (by failure) for attempts to use that part of the body and rewarded for use of other parts of the body and (b) slow recovery from or healing of the organic damage so that the animal recovers the physical ability to use that body part, but the conditioned suppression of use that developed in the acute phase remains in force. Other experiments demonstrated that this type of motor deficit, termed learned nonuse (Taub, 1977), could be overcome by repetitive practice in using the impaired body part or function; this procedure counterconditions the behavior learned in the acute phase. These findings have significant relevance for treatment and measurement of motor impairment in humans after central nervous system (CNS) damage and other injuries (Taub, 1980; Taub & Uswatte, 2000). Among the implications for the treatment of motor impairments
Methane conversion via photocatalytic reactions

Abstract Research on the conversion of natural gas (methane) has been an ongoing effort at the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) for over 20 years. A long-term goal of our research team is to explore novel pathways for the direct conversion of methane to liquid fuels, chemicals, and intermediates. One of our current areas of research is the conversion of methane to methanol, under mild conditions, using light, water, and a semiconductor photocatalyst. The use of three relatively abundant and inexpensive reactants—light, water, and methane—to produce methanol is an attractive process option. The main advantage of using a photocatalyst to promote the photoconversion of methane to methanol is that the presence of the catalyst, in conjunction with an electron-transfer agent, allows reaction to occur with visible light instead of with ultraviolet. This greatly simplifies reactor design and will permit flexibility in the selection of the light source. The products of the reaction of interest, methanol and hydrogen, are both commercially desirable as fuels or chemical intermediates. Reactions were conducted at 1.0 and 10.1 MPa along with methane contained within gas hydrates.
Nurses’ Perceptions of Family Presence during Resuscitation

BACKGROUND Although strong evidence indicates that the presence of a patient's family during resuscitation has a positive effect on the family, the practice is still controversial and is not consistently implemented. OBJECTIVES To explore nurses' experience with resuscitation, perceptions of the benefits and risks of having a patient's family members present, and self-confidence in having family presence at their workplace. Differences in demographic characteristics and relationships between nurses' perceptions of self-confidence and perceived risks and benefits of family presence were evaluated. METHODS The study was descriptive, with a cross-sectional survey design. A convenience sample of 154 nurses working in inpatient and outpatient units at an urban hospital were surveyed. The 63-item survey included 2 previously validated scales, demographic questions, and opinion questions. RESULTS Nurses' self-confidence and perceived benefit of family presence were significantly related (r = 0.54; P < .001). Self-confidence was significantly greater in nurses who had completed training in Advanced Cardiac Life Support, had experienced 10 or more resuscitation events, were specialty certified, or were members of nurses' professional organizations. Barriers to family presence included fear of interference by the patient's family, lack of space, lack of support for the family members, fear of trauma to family members, and performance anxiety. CONCLUSIONS Changing the practice of family presence will require strengthening current policy, identifying a team member to attend to the patient's family during resuscitation, and requiring nurses to complete education on evidence that supports family presence and changes in clinical practice.
Remarkably Simple Relationship Connecting the Calculated Geometries of Isomolecular States of Three Different Multiplicities

We argue that for a large class of molecules, M, there exists an unexpectedly simple relationship among the calculated values of bond lengths in M0 (its ground singlet state), MT (its first excited triplet state), M•- (the ground-state doublet of its radical anion), and M•+ (the ground-state doublet of the related radical cation). An estimate of the equilibrium bond length R for given bond in MT may be obtained as follows: R(MT) = R(M•-) + R(M•+) − R(M0). The accuracy of the R(MT) so calculated is usually 0.01−0.03 A, less than 10% of whole range of distances for the species considered. The error is usually larger for small basis sets and for semiempirical parametrizations but is almost basis-set-independent for medium (D95, 3-21G) and large basis sets (6-31G, 6-31G*, 6-31G**, 6-311G**). The above equation may be qualitatively understood recognizing the “paired” properties of HOMO and LUMO in alternant hydrocarbons. We approach a quantitative rationalization of the relation from a general perspectiv...
CDC Recommendations: Good Laboratory Practices for Biochemical Genetic Testing and Newborn Screening for Inherited Metabolic Disorders

On April 6, 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published recommendations for good laboratory practices that address the quality-management needs of biochemical genetic testing and newborn screening (1). The CDC recommendations were developed on the basis of the recommendations and input of 3 federal advisory committees (the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Advisory Committee; the Secretary's Advisory Committee on Genetics, Health, and Society; and …
Pseudospectral double excitation configuration interaction

We present a pseudospectral formulation of the single reference, closed shell double excitation configuration interaction method using a generator state self‐consistent electron pair approach. The method scales as O(n2N3), compared to the conventional scaling of O(n2N4+n3N3). In no case tested does the pseudospectral energy differ by more than 0.35 mhartree from the conventional result.
Synergizing vaccinations with therapeutics for measles eradication.

Introduction: The measles virus is a major human pathogen responsible for approximately 150,000 deaths annually. The disease is vaccine preventable and eradication of the virus is considered feasible, in principle. However, a herd immunity exceeding 95% is required to prevent sporadic viral outbreaks in a population. Declining disease prevalence, combined with public anxiety over the vaccination's safety, has led to increased vaccine refusal, especially in Europe. This has led to the resurgence of measles in some areas. Areas covered: This article discusses whether synergizing effective measles therapeutics with the measles vaccination could contribute to finally eradicating measles. The authors identify key elements in a desirable drug profile and review current disease management strategies and the state of experimental inhibitor candidates. The authors also evaluate the risk associated with viral escape from inhibition, and consider the potential of measles therapeutics in the management of persistent ...
Mapping Heat Exchange in an Allosteric Protein

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) are synaptic ion channels that spontaneously isomerize (i.e., gate) between resting and active conformations. We used single-molecule electrophysiology to measure the temperature dependencies of mouse neuromuscular AChR gating rate and equilibrium constants. From these we estimated free energy, enthalpy, and entropy changes caused by mutations of amino acids located between the transmitter binding sites and the middle of the membrane domain. The range of equilibrium enthalpy change (13.4 kcal/mol) was larger than for free energy change (5.5 kcal/mol at 25°C). For two residues, the slope of the rate-equilibrium free energy relationship (Φ) was approximately constant with temperature. Mutant cycle analysis showed that both free energies and enthalpies are additive for energetically independent mutations. We hypothesize that changes in energy associated with changes in structure mainly occur close to the site of the mutation, and, hence, that it is possible to make a residue-by-residue map of heat exchange in the AChR gating isomerization. The structural correlates of enthalpy changes are discussed for 12 different mutations in the protein.
Biochemical characterization of mammalian translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3). Molecular cloning reveals that p110 subunit is the mammalian homologue of Saccharomyces cerevisiae protein Prt1.

Abstract Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3), which plays an essential role in initiation of protein synthesis, was purified from rabbit reticulocyte lysates using an assay that specifically measures its ability to stimulate the binding of Met-tRNAf (as a Met-tRNAf·eIF2·GTP ternary complex) to 40 S ribosomal subunits. Purified eIF3 consisted of six major polypeptides of molecular masses 110, 67, 42, 40, 36, and 35 kDa but lacked the 170-kDa polypeptide reported to be a constituent of other eIF3 preparations. Characterization of purified eIF3 lacking the 170-kDa polypeptide showed that the eIF3-mediated 40 S initiation complex formed in the presence of AUG codon efficiently joined 60 S ribosomal subunits in an eIF5-dependent reaction to form a functional 80 S initiation complex. eIF3, which was originally bound to the 40 S initiation complex, was released from the 40 S subunit during the subunit joining reaction. Additionally, chicken antibodies raised against rabbit reticulocyte eIF3 were used to immunochemically characterize eIF3 subunits and to isolate a 3.1-kilobase pair human cDNA that encodes the p110 subunit of mammalian eIF3. The derived amino acid sequence (calculated M r 95,214) shows that the p110 subunit is the mammalian homologue ofSaccharomyces cerevisiae protein Prt1p, a subunit of yeast eIF3.
Sprout inhibition of table stock potatoes with CIPC-treated paper bags

The effectiveness of CIPC-treated paper bags in inhibiting the sprouting and shrinkage of Red Pontiac table stock potatoes in simulated marketing channels was studied. Treatments included all possible combinations of four sets of variables: [a] condition of potatoes: washed and unwashed, [b] type of bag: solid-wall and mesh-window, [c] size of bag: 10-lb and 25-lb, and [d] treatment of bag: 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 grams CIPC per 60 lb ubers.
GaP/Si wire array solar cells

Si wire arrays have recently demonstrated their potential as photovoltaic devices [1–3]. Using these arrays as a base, we consider a next generation, multijunction wire array architecture consisting of Si wire arrays with a conformal GaN x P 1−x−y As y coating. Optical absorption and device physics simulations provide insight into the design of such devices. In particular, the simulations show that much of the solar spectrum can be absorbed as the angle of illumination is varied and that an appropriate choice of coating thickness and composition will lead to current matching conditions and hence provide a realistic path to high efficiencies. We have previously demonstrated high fidelity, high aspect ratio Si wire arrays grown by vapor-liquid-solid techniques, and we have now successfully grown conformal GaP coatings on these wires as a precursor to considering quaternary compound growth. Structural, optical, and electrical characterization of these GaP/Si wire array heterostructures, including x-ray diffraction, Hall measurements, and optical absorption of polymer-embedded wire arrays using an integrating sphere were performed. The GaP epilayers have high structural and electrical quality and the ability to absorb a significant amount of the solar spectrum, making them promising for future multijunction wire array solar cells.
Assessing mothers' and fathers' violence toward children as a function of their involuntary participation in family work

This study examines the association between parents' violence toward children and their involuntary participation in family work. Involuntary participation in family work is conceptualized as a form of role strain measured by the disparity between the amount of responsibility husbands and wives would prefer to assume in the home and the amount of family work they actually perform. The prediction guiding this research is that differences of this kind are more associated with mothers' violence than fathers'. Regression analysis with a national sample of parents supports this hypothesis. Nonetheless, the association between such role strain and violence is quite weak, suggesting that additional research is required in formulating and measuring this relationship.
Report of centimeter‐sized tektites in Pima County, Arizona, cannot be verified

Glassy objects reportedly found in Pima County, Arizona, have been identified as tektites. A field survey of the area where they were said to occur, however, did not produce any other tektites, nor did it reveal any other geologic features that might indicate a nearby impact crater. The major-, minor-, and trace-element composition of one specimen is similar to those measured in indochinites, which suggests the objects reportedly from Pima County were instead transported to southern Arizona from Indochina by people.
Further insights into the reaction Be 14 ( CH 2 , X ) He 10

A previously published measurement of the reaction of a 59 MeV/nucleon $^{14}\mathrm{Be}$ beam on a deuterated polyethylene target was further analyzed to search for $^{12}\mathrm{He}$ as well as initial state effects in the population of the $^{10}\mathrm{He}$ ground state. No evidence for either was found. A lower limit of about 1 MeV was determined for a possible resonance in $^{12}\mathrm{He}$. In addition, the three-body decay energy spectrum of $^{10}\mathrm{He}$ could not be described by a reaction mechanism calculation based on the halo structure of the initial $^{14}\mathrm{Be}$ assuming a direct $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particle removal reaction.
Pancreatic duct replication is increased with obesity and type 2 diabetes in humans

Aims/hypothesis In a high-fat-fed rat model of type 2 diabetes we noted increased exocrine duct replication. This is a predisposing factor for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer, both of which are more common in type 2 diabetes. The aim of the study reported here was to establish if obesity and/or type 2 diabetes are associated with increased pancreatic ductal replication in humans. Methods We obtained pancreas at autopsy from 45 humans, divided into four groups: lean (BMI 27 kg/m 2 ); non-diabetic; and with type 2 diabetes. Pancreases were evaluated after immunostaining for the duct cell marker cytokeratin and Ki67 for replication. Results We show for the first time that both obesity and type 2 diabetes in humans are associated with increased pancreatic ductal replication. Specifically, we report that (1) replication of pancreatic duct cells is increased tenfold by obesity, and (2) lean subjects with type 2 diabetes demonstrate a fourfold increase in replication of pancreatic duct cells compared with their lean non-diabetic controls. Conclusions/interpretation Pancreatic duct cell replication is increased in humans in response to both obesity and type 2 diabetes, potentially providing a mechanism for the increased risk of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer in those with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes.
SU‐FF‐I‐09: Quantitative Image Quality Assessment of High‐Dose CT Images Simulated by Averaging Multiple Low‐Dose CT Images for Prospective CT Dose Reduction Studies

Purpose: To quantify image quality differences between the average of n low‐dose images and a single high‐dose image of equivalent effective dose. Method and Materials: An electron density phantom (CIRS) was scanned on a 16‐slice CT scanner 25 times each at 12, 24, 48, 72, and 144 mAs (130 kVp, 5 mm slices, standard‐body filter). Low‐mAs scans were averaged to simulate 25 realizations of 9 high‐mAs scans: 24mAs=2×12mAs, 48mAs=2×24mAs=4×12mAs, 72mAs=3×24mAs=6×12mAs, 144mAs=2×72mAs=3×48mAs=6×24mAs=12×12mAs. Mean and standard deviation (SD) were calculated for 18 ROIs over a range of materials (−790 to 235 HU) on matched pairs of simulated and acquired images. The Welch's t‐test was used to evaluate differences in mean and SD between images. Similar experiments were performed on a Catphan® and anthropomorphic‐body phantom (ATOM, CIRS). Catphan images were visually scored for spatial and low‐contrast resolution. Profiles through selected ATOM images from the head, shoulder, and thorax were compared. Results: For every simulation, the average (range) difference in mean CT number between simulated and acquired images over all ROIs was <1 HU (−0.1±0.4 to 0.7±1.1 HU); no statistically significant difference was observed for any one material (p⩾0.27). For every simulation, the average (range) relative difference in SD over all ROIs was ⩽4% (−4.0% ±4.9% to 3.6%±3.1%); no statistically significant difference was observed for any one material (p⩾0.56). Spatial resolution of simulated images was ± 1 lp/cm of acquired images and low‐contrast resolution was ± 1 disc at all contrast levels. ATOM images profiles showed excellent agreement in all slices. Conclusion:Image quality of the average of n low‐mAs CTimages is equivalent to a high‐mAs (nxlow‐mAs) image for the dose range studied; suggesting prospective CT dose‐reduction studies may be feasible using multiple low‐dose CTimage acquisitions in place of the single high‐dose diagnostic scan.
Die polaritätsinduktion bei der equisetumspore durch polarisiertes licht und partielle belichtung

Previous studies showed that in all cells, and only in those cells, whose growth could be oriented by unilateral unpolarized light, growth could also be controlled by the plane of polarized light. It was inferred that both reactions are mediated by dichroic photoreceptor molecules oriented with respect to the cell surface; they differ only in the spatial pattern of light absorption in the cell. The results in this paper agree with these general conclusions: spores of Equisetum arvense which are known to germinate away from unilateral blue light, germinate parallel to the vibration plane of polarized blue light and, if partially illuminated, out of the shaded part of the cell. The intensity effect curves for both reactions are very similar. The results suggest strongly that both effects are mediated by the same pigment molecules oriented parallel to the cell wall.
Les nouveaux phénotypes de l’asthme du nourrisson et de l’enfant

Resume L’asthme est une maladie multiforme avec des phenotypes multiples differents en fonction de l’âge. Des analyses statistiques sans hypothese a priori ou encore appelees, analyses non supervisees en cluster, ont permis de decrire de nouveaux phenotypes de l’asthme du nourrisson et de l’enfant. Chez les nourrissons, on distingue les asthmes viro-induit legers, les asthmes severes infectieux corticoresistants et les asthmes allergiques exacerbateurs et corticosensibles. Chez l’enfant, les mono-allergiques legers, les pluri-allergiques severes et exacerbateurs, et les obstructifs corticoresistants peu allergiques. Ces nouveaux phenotypes sont concordants avec les donnees de la litterature qui sont discutees dans cet article. Definir les phenotypes de l’asthme de l’enfant sera dans l’avenir la base d’une medecine personnalisee avec des therapeutiques ciblees en fonction des phenotypes.
Investigating cellular metabolic function using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy

Fluorescence methods are being investigated for non-invasive tissue diagnostics. Here, we describe how fluorescence lifetime imaging can probe metabolic function in individual living cells, using both endogenous and exogenous fluorophore lifetimes for contrast.
Anthocyanin Pigments of Royal Okanogan Huckleberry Juice

Juice processed from Royal Okanogan Huckleberries had an intense purple color, (CIE L*a*b*= L*, 22.66, a*, −0.06, b*, −0.46) and high anthocyanin pigment content, (>5 g/L). The anthocyanins were separated by HPLC and characterized from retention times and UV-visible spectra of purified pigments and their hydrolysis products. The major pigment (>70%) was petunidin 3-(p-coumaroyl-rutinoside)-5-glucoside. Eleven additional anthocyanins were identified as petunidin, delphinidin, and malvidin with the same glycosidic substitution pattern as the major pigment, and varying degrees of acylation with p-coumaric, ferulic, and caffeic acids. It was concluded from comparative pigment analyses and berry morphology that Royal Okanogan Huckleberries had identical characteristics to the Garden Huckleberry, Solanaceae melanocerasum (renamed S. scabrum).
A three-dimensional plot for the display of transverse pore gradient gel electrophoresis data: Application to a kinetoplast DNA fragment of planar circular conformation

A 219 bp fragment of kinetoplast DNA from Crithidia fasciculata has previously been shown to exhibit a gel concentration dependent, anomalously low migration rate in 3-10% polyacrylamide transverse pore gradient gels relative to that of straight standards. The anomaly was interpreted in accordance with previous results of Marini et al. [1] as being due to the planar circular conformation of the fragment. The transverse pore gradient gel pattern is displayed here as a three-dimensional plot of migration distance vs. gel concentration and DNA length for the kinetoplast fragment and straight DNA standards. The plot yields a smooth surface for the standards clearly separated from the curve of the kinetoplast DNA fragment. Thus, transverse gradient gel electrophoresis in conjunction with the three-dimensional plot provides a unique method for the recognition of abnormal conformational features of DNA on the basis of electrophoretic mobility in a pore-size gradient.
Bifurcation and stability analysis of a temperature-dependent mite predator-prey interaction model incorporating a prey refuge.

The non-linear behavior of a differential equations-based predator-prey model, incorporating a spatial refuge protecting a consant proportion of prey and with temperature-dependent parameters chosen appropriately for a mite interaction on fruit trees, is examined using the numerical bifurcation code AUTO 86. The most significant result of this analysis is the existence of a temperature interval in which increasing the amount of refuge dynamically destabilizes the system; and on part of this interval the interaction is less likely to persist in that predator and prey minimum population densities are lower than when no refuge is available. It is also shown that increasing the amount of refuge can lead to population outbreaks due to the presence of multiple stable states. The ecological implications of a refuge are discussed with respect to the biological control of mite pests.
Middle fossa vestibular neurectomy: A simplified technique

Vestibular neurectomy is the gold standard by which treatment of vertigo with hearing preservation is compared. Middle fossa vestibular neurectomy has a high rate of success for control of vertigo; however, because of technical difficulties, it is rarely performed today. In some cases it may be an acceptable, or even preferred, alternative in the treatment of vertigo. A simplified technique of dividing the superior vestibular nerve and singular nerve is presented. It appears to carry similar success and potentially lower rates of complications than total nerve section.
A comparison of maximum cystometric bladder capacity with maximum environmental voided volumes

The aim of the study was, to determine whether maximum cystometric capacity accurately reflects the maximum functional bladder volume in women with urinary incontinence. We performed a retrospective chart review involving 85 women between the ages of 22 and 89 with primary complaints of urinary incontinence. The maximum cystometric capacity as determined by cystometry was compared with the maximum environmental voided volumes as recorded in a 24-hour voiding diary, using Pearson's correlation coefficients and pairedt-tests. Patients diagnosed as having a small bladder capacity (<300 ml maximum volume) based on cystometry were also examined with contingency table analysis to determine whether the bladder volumes in the voiding diaries supported the diagnosis of a small bladder. In 85 subjects the average maximum cystometric capacity was 14.7% less than the maximum volume recorded in the voiding diary. The correlation between the maximum cystometric capacity and maximum functional bladder volume wasr=0.473 (P<0.001). However, there was a statistically significant difference between the two volumes by pairedt-test analysis (P=0.006). Using cystometry to diagnose small bladder capacity showed a sensitivity of 62.9% and a specificity of 71.2% when using voiding diary volumes as the criterion standard. The positive predictive value was 51.4% and the negative predictive value was 84.0%. These results suggest that whereas the maximum bladder capacity measured by cystometry correlates with maximum environmental bladder capacity as determined by 24-hour voiding diaries, there is a statistically significant difference. The diagnosis of a small bladder should not be based on office cystometry alone.
Comparison between the clot-protecting activity of a mutant plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 with a very long half-life and 6-aminocaproic acid.

Plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 is a serpin glycoprotein that can stabilize blood clots by inhibiting fibrinolysis. However, wild-type PAI-1 has the disadvantage of a short half-life of ~2 h. A very long half-life (VLHL) PAI-1 mutant was developed previously with an active-form half-life of >700 h, making it a possible candidate for use in hemorrhagic therapy. Current treatments for mitigating hemorrhage, other than inducers of blood clotting, are limited to lysine analog antifibrinolytics, including 6-aminocaproic acid and tranexamic acid. VLHL PAI-1 has been previously demonstrated to limit bleeding; however, the efficacy of this protein compared with lysine analog antifibrinolytics has not been investigated. The aim of the current study was to compare the clot stabilizing properties of the novel antifibrinolytic VLHL PAI-1 with those of 6-aminocaproic acid in reference plasma. Using thromboelastographic analysis, VLHL PAI-1 exhibited an IC50 (half maximal inhibitory concentration) of 8.8×10−8 mol/l, while 6-aminocaproic acid showed an IC50 of 1.6×10−4 mol/l. However, at doses of >9.0×10−7 mol/l, VLHL PAI-1 exhibited a delay in the onset of clot formation, which may be attributed to thrombin inhibition by excess PAI-1. The inhibition of tissue plasminogen activator by VLHL PAI-1 demonstrated improved efficacy over 6-aminocaproic acid in mitigating hemorrhage. In addition, patients with a PAI-1 deficiency, which causes blood clots to lyse rapidly resulting in profuse bleeding, may benefit from the application of VLHL PAI-1 as an antihemorrhagic therapy.
Surgical outcome in 'death-minded' patients.

Abstract This retrospective study examined the records of 80 patients, referred to a consultation-liaison service, to ascertain the outcome with those persons who had expressed fear of impending death during forthcoming surgery. Five of six patients with a premonition of death and who had all taken action in that regard, such as making funeral arrangements, were alive over one year later. Of five other patients who did die, only one had actively mentioned the possibility of death. Only one of seven patients referred for a high level of anxiety died, and that was after refusal of recommended surgery. “Death-minded” or fearful patients thus did not do poorly in surgery.
D2T: Doubly Distributed Transactions for High Performance and Distributed Computing

Current exascale computing projections suggest rather than a monolithic simulation running for the majority of the machine, a collection of components comprising the scientific discovery process will be employed in an online workflow. This move to an online workflow scenario requires knowledge that inter-step operations are completed and correct before the next phase begins. Further, dynamic load balancing or fault tolerance techniques may dynamically deploy or redeploy resources for optimal use of computing resources. These newly configured resources should only be used if they are successfully deployed. Our D2T system offers a mechanism to support these kinds of operations by providing database-like transactions with distributed servers and clients. Ultimately, with adequate hardware support, full ACID compliance is possible for the transactions. To prove the viability of this approach, we show that the D2T protocol has less than 1.2 seconds of overhead using 4096 clients and 32 servers with good scaling characteristics using this initial prototype implementation.
The acceptance and completion of mammography by older Black women

We assessed the relation of patient characteristics, knowledge and beliefs to the utilization of mammography in an inner-city setting by 187 Black women over the age of 50. Thirty per cent of those who were offered mammography initially declined the offer and 40 per cent were subsequently unable to complete the procedure. Patient interviews were used to derive 27 potential knowledge and health belief predictor scales. In multiple regression analysis, two health belief scales and two knowledge scales accounted for 15 per cent of the observed variance in the model of acceptance. The strongest predictor of subsequent completion was initial acceptance. The presence of breast symptoms and two health belief scales together with initial acceptance accounted for 26 per cent of variance in the model of completion. These results suggest that the successful accomplishment of mammography requires coordinated efforts at the level of the provider, patient, and setting. Health beliefs may influence the patient's behavio...
Seismic reflection profiling in the Boulder batholith, Montana

Seismic reflection profiling combined with gravity data allows more exact determination of the geometry of the controversial Boulder batholith of Montana, reveals laminated structure of the lower crust beneath the batholith, and identifies the Moho at a depth of 38 km. The batholith has inward-dipping contacts, the dip being about 50° on the west side, on the basis of seismic data; and the depth to the batholith floor is constrained between 12 and 18 km, indicating a great volume for the batholith. The Boulder batholith was emplaced between 80 and 70 Ma during an eastward thrusting in the fold-and-thrust belt. A presumed basal decollement of the thrust system might coincide with the batholith floor and may correspond to the top of the lower-crustal layering at a depth of 18 km.
Predictors of Diastolic-To-Wedge Gradient in Patients Evaluated for Pulmonary Hypertension

Background Differentiation of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary venous hypertension (PVH) often requires right heart catheterization (RHC). We sought to determine whether a combination of clinical and echocardiographic variables could predict the pulmonary diastolic to wedge (PAd-PWP) gradient and thus differentiate patients with PAH and PVH. Methods We prospectively enrolled 108 patients presenting for PH evaluation. We developed a multivariate model to predict PAd-PWP gradient and validated this model using bootstrapping technique. Results PAH patients had worse hemodynamics and were more likely to have evidence of right ventricular dilation and dysfunction whereas patients with PVH were older and more likely to have features of the metabolic syndrome. PAd-PWP gradient of ≥ 6mmHg accurately discriminated patients with PAH compared to PVH. Our model including clinical and echocardiographic variables was highly accurate for the prediction of PAd-PWP gradient with a slope 0.89 (slope of 1 represents perfect prediction). Conclusions In this prospective study of patients referred for PH evaluation, a model of readily available clinical parameters and simple echocardiographic measurements accurately predicted the PAd-PWP gradient, allowing discrimination of patients with PAH and PVH. This model requires validation in a larger cohort, but may afford clinicians more parsimony with referral for invasive testing in the evaluation of PH.