cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quasi-free scattering of pions on 3, 4He

Abstract Differential cross sections for 3, 4 He(π, π') are presented for angles of 60° and 120° at 200 MeV and 120° at 295 MeV. The momentum spectra for the scattered pions are dominated by a peak attributed to quasi-free scattering from individual nucleons. There are significant differences between the scattering on 3 He and 4 He as well as between the scattering of π + and π − on 3 He. The data are compared to a simple model incorporating the free π + N scattering amplitudes. Modifications for the structure and dynamics of the target nucleus are discussed.
First- and second-order dynamic equations with impulse.

We present existence results for discontinuous first- and continuous second-order dynamic equations on a time scale subject to fixed-time impulses and nonlinear boundary conditions.
Antitrombinas orales y predicciones para el futuro antitrombótico

The coagulation cascade leads, via thrombin activation, to the formation of fibrin (from its precursor fibrinogen) and platelet thrombus. Several drugs are able to interfere with some of the enzymatic factors involved in thrombin activation, but thrombin inhibitors (heparin, hirudin and hirulog [bivalirudin]) are of particular interest because they disrupt the coagulation cascade by acting upon one of its final steps. Among the thrombin inhibitors, oral antithrombins (ximelagatran) appear to hold great promise for the control of thrombogenicity in a number of clinical contexts. Oral antithrombins do not require the participation of cofactors to exert their action, and in contrast to thrombin inhibitors administered parenterally, they bind specifically to the active site of thrombin without interfering with other portions of the molecule. Their specificity makes these drugs safe and obviates the need to monitor coagulability. Moreover, they show a low rate of interaction with other drugs or with foods, and the response to fixed doses is predictable. A number of clinical studies have investigated antithrombins for prophylaxis prior to orthopedic surgery, in the prevention of cerebrovascular accidents associated with atrial fibrillation, and in the control of coronary artery disease. These studies have shown that antithrombins are superior to other habitually used treatment options. Surprisingly, their use in long-term studies has not been associated with an increased rate of bleeding events. Their interesting molecular characteristics and considerable therapeutic efficacy and safety suggest that oral antithrombins will in the near future become a valuable therapeutic option.
Hi-Fi: collecting high-fidelity whole-system provenance

Data provenance---a record of the origin and evolution of data in a system---is a useful tool for forensic analysis. However, existing provenance collection mechanisms fail to achieve sufficient breadth or fidelity to provide a holistic view of a system's operation over time. We present Hi-Fi, a kernel-level provenance system which leverages the Linux Security Modules framework to collect high-fidelity whole-system provenance. We demonstrate that Hi-Fi is able to record a variety of malicious behavior within a compromised system. In addition, our benchmarks show the collection overhead from Hi-Fi to be less than 1% for most system calls and 3% in a representative workload, while simultaneously generating a system measurement that fully reflects system evolution. In this way, we show that we can collect broad, high-fidelity provenance data which is capable of supporting detailed forensic analysis.
Charge-Dependent Cavity Radii for an Accurate Dielectric Continuum Model of Solvation with Emphasis on Ions: Aqueous Solutes with Oxo, Hydroxo, Amino, Methyl, Chloro, Bromo, and Fluoro Functionalities

Dielectric continuum solvation models are widely used because they are a computationally efficacious way to simulate equilibrium properties of solutes. With advances that allow for molecular-shaped cavities, they have reached a high level of accuracy, in particular for neutral solutes. However, benchmark tests show that existing schemes for defining cavities are unable to consistently predict accurately the effects of solvation on ions, especially anions. This work involves the further development of a protocol put forth earlier for defining the cavities of aqueous solutes, with resulting advances that are most striking for anions. Molecular cavities are defined as interlocked spheres around atoms or groups of atoms in the solute, but the sphere radii are determined by simple empirically based expressions involving the effective atomic charges of the solute atoms (derived from molecular electrostatic potential) and base radii. Both of these terms are optimized for the different types of atoms or functiona...
Burgeoning Democracy or Threatening Security? The Ambiguous Voice of the American Press on Taiwan’s Independence:

This study is a framing analysis of the coverage of the issue of Taiwan independence by the leading US newspaper – the New York Times. The identified major themes and meaning system illustrate how a politically sensitive issue on foreign soil is culturally translated into the mainstream American press: American elite press coverage of Taiwan’s independence is packaged with the significant cultural symbols of democracy and freedom, marked by the threat from communism as well as surrounded by the rhetoric of social order and peace. The engendered ambiguity is argued to transcend partisan rifts, renew the dominant values and maintain the credibility of American politics.
Immediate dual path of insertion removable partial denture with a metal framework.

Abstract This article describes and illustrates an alternative procedure for making an immediate removable partial denture with a metal framework and a dual path of insertion. It has several advantages over the conventional method for making immediate removable partial dentures and some disadvantages. (J Prosthet Dent 1999;82:633-5.)
Elastic modelling of periodic composites with particle interactions

The mechanical properties of periodic composites containing identical spherical particles are investigated using the principles of micromechanics and homogenization procedures. The averaged strain and stress fields are derived in terms of an eight-particle interaction. The effective elasticity with the cubic symmetry tensor is explicitly obtained. If the interaction term is dropped, then one recovers the conventional Mori–Tanaka model. With further approximations, the dilute model and the self-consistent model can also be obtained within the proposed framework. It is observed that the particle interactions make no contribution to the effective bulk modulus, a result that is consistent with other models and experiments for composites with cubic lattices.
Pathologic classification of peripheral nerve tumors

Peripheral nerve tumors show an interesting histologic variety despite being composed ofa limited array of cellular constituents. As we learn more about the interplay between the Schwann cells, perineurial cells, and ganglion cells that comprise these tumors, it is likely that we will better understand the biologic behavior of these important tumors. Key issues for the pathologist include distinguishing schwannomas from neurofibromas, ganglioneuromas from neurofibromas involving ganglia, and MPNSTs from cellular schwannomas or neurofibromas. The association of each of these tumors with genetic tumor disorders provides a unique window into discovering basic mechanisms of cell regulation and tumorigenesis that may ultimately shed light on the biology of a much wider array of human disease.
Bioelectric Potentials of Tumor-Infected Plants

The circuit for measuring potentials was essentially a bridge network using an FP54 electrometer tube (5) in vacuo with an input resistance of 1.16 x 1011 ohms. With the voltages of the plants used the current was below 10~12 amperes. Contact with the plants was made by means of felt brushes moistened with a KCI solution flowing from test tubes into which were immersed Ag?AgCl electrodes. The sensitivity of the apparatus was about 0.1 mv./div. Tomato plants were chosen for this study because of their relative homogeneity. Two groups of 30 plants each were cultivated; one group in sixinch standard flower pots, the other in four-inch pots. Fifteen of the plants in the six-inch together with 10 of the plants in the four-inch pots were maintained as control. All plants were inoculated ; those in the experimental groups with a strain of Phytomonas tumefaciens which produces a hairy tumor, and those in the control groups with distilled water. The latter action was taken so that effects due to external injury would be the same for all plants. The injections were made with a hypodermic needle at a depth of about 1 mm. below the surface. Precautions were taken to be able to locate the exact spot of the inoculation. The plants were protected with bandages at the point of insertion of the needle to prevent further infection. The plants were approximately 50 cm. in height at the time of inoculation, and about 1 cm. in diameter.
Aggregation, expectations, and the explanation of technological change

Abstract Production with technological change is defined in terms of the stationarity properties of the stochastic process generating output. The aggregation analysis shows that the structures of microeconomic and aggregate production models are different. The process generating aggregate output depends on the information firms use to form expectations; the process generating each firm's output does not. This poses a problem for analysis of technological change with aggregate data, because the variables used to explain technological change may be in the firm's information set. Thus it may not be possible, without imposing further restrictions on the process generating aggregate output, to identify the aggregate model and measure technological change.
Colonic epithelial lymphocytosis and lymphocytic colitis: descriptive histopathology versus distinct clinicopathologic entities.

Lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis are clinicopathologic entities that are distinct from other forms of inflammatory bowel disease. However, some of their histologic features may be seen in other forms of colitis. Adherence to the diagnostic clinicopathologic criteria for lymphocytic and collagenous colitis will help separate them from other forms of inflammatory bowel disease.
Hepatology Pearls for the Practicing Physician

Cirrhosis A patient with cirrhosis has a significant surgical risk if the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG: free hepatic vein pressure minus wedged hepatic vein pressure) is greater than 10 mm Hg. Suspect occult cirrhosis on ultrasound if the spleen is greater than 10 cm and portal vein larger than 10 mm or if the patient has an unexplained low platelet count. Suspect significant portal hypertension (HVPG > 10 mm Hg) if the platelet count is less than 88,000, if the portal vein diameter is greater than 13 mm on ultrasound. The size of the spleen does not correlate with the degree of portal hypertension. HVPG values to remember:
Photophysical behavior of Ru(II) and Os(II) terpyridyl phenylene vinylene complexes: perturbation of MLCT state by intra-ligand charge-transfer state

The photophysical behavior of novel bimetallic Ru(II) and Os(II) complexes having a bridging ligand consisting of two terpyridyl moieties covalently linked in the 4′ position through a distyrylbenzene bridge (tp vp vpt) is reported. The Ru(II) complex has a unique red emission with an excited state lifetime nearly 2000-times longer than the parent complex, [Ru(mpt)2](PF6)2 (mpt=4′-(methylphenyl)-2,2′,6′,2″-terpyridine). Combined spectral data suggest the presence of an emissive intra-ligand charge-transfer (ILCT) state lower in energy than the metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) state. The Os(II) complex exhibits red emission that is similar to that of the parent complex [Os(mpt)2](PF6)2. However, the excited state absorption spectrum reveals a unique transient absorption in the far red that suggests perturbation of the MLCT state by the ILCT state.
Neocortical vasculature abnormalities in the Fragile X mental retardation syndrome

The Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading form of inherited mental retardation. To date, the most prominent neuronal phenotype associated with the syndrome is an abundance of long thin spines exhibiting an immature morphology. However, in addition to synaptic abnormalities, recent case studies have demonstrated that Fragile X (FX) patients also exhibit abnormal cerebral blood flow (CBF). To examine the role of the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) in altering CBF, we examined blood vessel density (BVD) in the visual cortex of Adult and Middle-aged FX mice. Analysis of Middle-aged FX mice demonstrated elevated BVD compared to wildtype controls, suggesting that FX mice exhibit a lack of age-induced BVD plasticity. However, Adult FX and wildtype mice did not exhibit consistent differences in BVD. These data demonstrate that FMRP is required for age-induced neocortical vasculature plasticity. Furthermore, these data suggest a new role for FMRP in blood vessel regulation that would have profound implications towards appropriately timed delivery of neuronal nutrients, thus contributing to or exacerbating FX cognitive and neuronal abnormalities.
A two-year longitudinal study of the periodontal health status of overdenture patients

Seven patients with a total of 12 roots were treated with overdentures (maxillary, mandibular, or both) and recalled at 6-month intervals for a period of 4 years. A periodontist evaluated the periodontal health status of the abutment roots after complete periodontal therapy, immediately prior to placement of the overdentures, and at all recall visits. The gingival tissues around all the abutments were slightly erythematous and edematous and bled on probing. There were no statistically significant changes in pocket depth or in apparent width of attached gingiva on an intra-arch basis. However, statistically significant changes were found on comparison between the maxillary and mandibular arches. Over the 4-year period 50% of the roots remained immobile, 25% of the roots that were initially mobile exhibited no mobility, and 25% of the roots decreased in mobility. Five of 14 roots in eight patients (35.7% of the abutment roots) developed dental caries. Periodic recalls to reinforce plaque control measures, to provide adjunctive periodontal therapy, and to correct and adjust the prostheses of patients treated with overdentures are important factors in the longterm success of this treatment modality. Biomechanically, treatment of patients with overdentures is a valid practical alternative to complete dentures.
On the nitration of 2‐pyrone

A 1:1 adducl of 2-pyrone and nitronium fluoroborate has been delected by nmr and is a possible precursor of 5-nitro-2-pyrone, a subsequently formed product. From comparison of the nmr spectra of the 1:1 adduct and 2-methoxypyrylium fluoroborate, the adduct is believed to be the pyrylium fluoroborate derived from nitration of the carbonyl oxygen of 2-pyrone.
Numerical modeling of the 1964 Alaska tsunami in western Passage Canal and Whittier, Alaska

Abstract. A numerical model of the wave dynamics in Passage Canal, Alaska during the Mw 9.2 megathrust earthquake is presented. During the earthquake, several types of waves were identified at the city of Whittier, located at the head of Passage Canal. The first wave is thought to have been a seiche, while the other two waves were probably triggered by submarine landslides. We model the seiche wave, landslide-generated tsunami, and tectonic tsunami in Passage Canal and compute inundation by each type of wave during the 1964 event. Modeled results are compared with eyewitness reports and an observed inundation line. Results of the numerical experiments let us identify where the submarine landslides might have occurred during the 1964 event. We identify regions at the head and along the northern shore of Passage Canal, where landslides triggered a wave that caused most of the damage in Whittier. An explanation of the fact that the 1964 tectonic tsunami in Whittier was unnoticed is presented as well. The simulated inundation by the seiche, landslide-generated tsunami, and tectonic tsunami can help to mitigate tsunami hazards and prepare Whittier for a potential tsunami.
Purification of cytochrome c and other hemoproteins from wheat germ

Abstract A large-scale method has been described for the extraction and purification of cytochrome c, as well as some other hemoproteins, from wheat germ in sufficient quantities for extensive physical and chemical studies. The conditions used in this method, butanol-water extraction and adsorption and elution from carboxymethyl cellulose at low temperature, appear to be milder than those employed previously. Gradient elution chromatography on IRC50 yielded wheat cytochrome c preparations of a minimal impurity index, R 278 550 (red.), of 1·00. The purified cytochrome did not combine with CO, was not autoxidizable, and had enzymic activity with beef-heart cytochrome oxidase equal to that of beef-heart cytochrome c. Most of the cytochrome c moved as a single band on IRC50. These results suggest that wheat cytochrome c was not appreciably modified by the conditions of isolation and purification. Absorbancy ratios measured in the visible region of the spectrum were nearly identical for wheat and horse-heart cytochrome c. However, the wheat cytochrome differed from horse cytochrome c in that (a) some of its absorbancy maxima were slightly different; (b) its absorbancy at 278 μ indicated a higher content of aromatic amino acids per molecule; (c) although basic it moved differently on IRC50; and (d) it was very unstable at low ionic strength at pH 7.
Tension-type headache.

Primary headaches involve biological disorders of the brain which present with headache without evidence of underlying structural lesions. Tension-type headache is the most common primary headache, with a lifetime prevalence of between 30% and 78%. Socioeconomic impact is substantial. Tension-type headache is characterized by recurrent episodes of relatively non-disabling headache with few, if any, associated features. Diagnosis requires exclusion of secondary headache disorders and migraine, both of which can present with tension-type headache phenotypes. Three subtypes are distinguished by headache frequency: infrequent episodic, frequent episodic, and chronic. Pericranial nerve and muscle abnormalities appear to contribute to the physiology of episodic tension-type headache, while central nervous system underpinnings appear responsible for the chronic subtype. Acute treatment with simple analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and caffeine-containing compounds is typically effective. Both non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapies may be helpful in reducing attack frequency. These headaches may recur over many years or even decades, but overall prognosis is generally favorable.
Human milk banking I. Effects of container upon immunologic factors in mature milk

Abstract The effects of the type of storage container and the duration of storage upon the concentrations of lactoferrin, lysozyme, secretory IgA (SIgA), total IgA, and SIgA antibodies to E.coli somatic antigens and upon the numbers and functions of macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes in mature human milk were examined. Milk samples collected during the fourth week of lactation from women aged 20–35 years were kept in pyrex and polypropylene or polyethylene containers at 4°C for 4 and 24 hours. The concentrations of lactoferrin and lysozyme fell by 30% and 40%, respectively, after storage for 24 hours in pyrex and polypropylene containers. The concentration of SIgA antibodies to E.coli O antigens did not change with time in samples stored in pyrex or polypropylene containers but fell by 60% in samples stored in polyethylene. The numbers of macrophages and neutrophils were similar in all containers after 4 hours of storage but increased after 24 hours, particularly after storage in pyrex containers. A similar pattern was found in respect to the number of lymphocytes. The uptake of 3 H-thymidine by phytohemagglutinin stimulated milk lymphocytes decreased significantly after 24 hours of storage. These findings indicate that the storage of mature milk at 4°C for comparatively brief periods induces significant changes in the concentrations and/or functions of key immunological components.
The ms1 mutation in soybean: involvement of gametes in crosses with tetraploid soybean

Previous studies indicated that ms1ms1 malesterile female-fertile soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) plants can produce seeds with different ploidy levels. The codominant chlorophyll-deficient mutant y11 was used in attempts to understand the embryo-endosperm relationship in seed production in ms1ms1 plants and to determine the mechanism of gamete formation in the ms1 mutation. Crosses were conducted between yellow-green male-sterile plants (ms1ms1Y11y11) and green fertile tetraploid cultivars (Ms1Ms1Ms1Ms1Y11Y11Y11Y11) in the greenhouse in the summers of 1987 and 1988. A total of 2,007 cross-pollinations were made. Thirty hybrid seeds were obtained, and plants were analyzed for chromosome number, fertility, and color. All the hybrid seedlings were tetraploid and fertile. No triploids were found. Among the 30 F1 plants, 7 were green (Y11Y11Y11Y11), 17 were green-yellow (Y11Y11Y11y11), and 6 were yellow-green (Y11Y11y11y11). The segregation ratio was close to the expected 1 green: 2 green-yellow: 1 yellow-green (X2 = 0.38; 0.90>p>0.75). From the results of this experiment, we conclude that: (1) triploids were not produced by crossing diploid ms1ms1 soybean plants with tetraploid plants; (2) tetraploid progeny can be produced from these crosses by the fusion of 2n ms1 eggs, or fusion of other 2n gametophyte cells in the embryo sac with a 2x sperm from tetraploid plants; (3) the megaspore mother cell of male-sterile plants undergoes meiotic division without cytokinesis after telophase II and forms more than the normal number of gametes, which can fuse with each other to generate tetraploid gametophyte cells.
Biology of Microgobius thalassinus (Pisces: Gobiidae), a Sponge-Inhabiting Goby of Chesapeake Bay, with Range Extensions of Two Goby Associates

M. thalassinus remained an obscure species until it was discovered that it is another goby that often associates with sponges. By season and depth,Microciona prolifera was found to be the selected habitat in the Patuxent River (Green Holly Bar), adjacent Chesapeake Bay, and seaside mud-oyster habitats. Past and present distributions are compared with the 141 specimens that were collected between 1958 and 1968. Additional comments are presented on body morphology and meristics, color, aquarium observations, food behavior, growth, larvae, gonad condition, and associated species. The ranges ofMicrogobius gulosus andGobiosoma robustum are extended to the Patuxent River, Maryland.
Interpopulation variation of a saurian malaria, Plasmodium sasai telford & ball, 1969, in three host species distributed within a range of 24° north latitude

Abstract Telford S. R., jr . 1982. Interpopulation variation of a saurian malaria. Plasmodium sasai Telford & Ball, 1969, in three host species distributed within a range of 24° north latitude. International Journal for Parasitology 12 : 17–22. The saurian parasite P. sasai has been found in four populations of three host species which range from Niigata Prefecture, Honshu to Bangkok, Thailand, a distance exceeding 4600 km and 24° north latitude. Variation of P. sasai within samples from the type population exceeds that found among samples from all three hosts, Takydromus tachydromoides (Honshu), T. smaragdinus (Amami Island, Ryukyus) and T. sexlineatus (Thailand). Plasmodium sasai was associated with Trypanosoma sp., Schellackia sp. and Pirhemocyton in two or more host species in ricefield-margin habitat bordered by shrub-like or heavier vegetation. This association possibly represents persistence of a host-parasite complex which evolved with an ancestral lacertid stock that later diversified into the present Takydromus species.
Two Thumbs Up: Using Popular Films in Introductory Aging Courses

Good teaching requires thoughtful planning and creative thinking, especially when trying to engage students in material that is unfamiliar to them or encumbered by stereotypes, like aging. Classic and contemporary media can provide unique teaching opportunities in gerontology classrooms. Popular films can have a powerful influence over viewers’ attitudes and perceptions, and spur in-depth discussions of aging-related topics common to introductory aging courses (e.g., ageism, abuse, inequality, caregiving, healthy aging, and intimate relationships). Additionally, films appeal to multiple learning styles, engaging a variety of learners. This article examines the value of using films in introductory aging courses, offers strategies for incorporating films in the gerontology classroom, suggests sample activities and assignments that pair popular films with aging course topics, identifies challenges of using film in various classrooms settings, and provides a detailed typology of films on each of the following...
Reaction of 2-hydroxy-5-nitrobenzylated carboxypeptidase a with 14C-1-Fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene

Summary Carboxypeptidase A was treated with dimethyl(2-hydroxy-5-nitrobenzyl)-sulfonium chloride, in 20 times its molar concentration, at pH 7.5. Hydroxy-nitrobenzylated enzyme was isolated from the reaction mixture and examined for modification of amino acid residues. Modification of tryptophan was evidenced both by diminished recoveries from a variety of acid hydrolysates, and from quenching of indole fluorescence of the modified protein in denaturing as well as non-denaturing solvents. N-Terminal amino group alkylation did not appear to have occurred, on the basis of essentially full recoveries of α -N-DNP-amino acids from acid hydrolysates following reaction of the enzyme with 14 C-fluorodinitrobenzene.
Posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorders treated with cyclophosphamide-doxorubicin-vincristine-prednisone chemotherapy.

Background. Posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorders after solid organ transplantation are a serious complication occurring in 1–10% of patients. Different therapies have been used, but the optimal treatment is unknown. There is relatively little information in the literature on the experience with cytotoxic chemotherapy. Methods. The disease stage of patients with biopsydocumented posttransplantation lymphoproliferative was determined with standard methods to establish the extent of the disease. Patients in whom the disease failed to regress after initial management, which included reduction in immunosuppression, were treated with a combination chemotherapy regimen consisting of six cycles of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP). Response to therapy was determined by following previously defined sites of disease with appropriate tests. Patients were maintained on a reduced dose of immunosuppressants. Results. In the four patients studied, lymphoproliferative disorders developed after heart (three cases) or lung (one case) transplantation, which did not regress after immunosuppression was reduced. All four experienced a complete remission with CHOP chemotherapy, which continued at 3, 13+, 20 and 30+ months after completion of treatment. One patient died of sepsis after completing therapy at a point when his leukocyte count was normal, and no evidence of posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder was found at autopsy. A second patient died of liver failure with no clinical evidence of lymphoproliferative disorder. Conclusion. Although this is a small series, it demonstrates that patients with posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorders may respond to cytotoxic chemotherapy. The duration of response is undetermined.
The epidemiology and geographic distribution of nontuberculous mycobacteria clinical isolates from sputum samples in the eastern region of China.

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) exist ubiquitously in the environment and cause many kinds of diseases including pulmonary infection. Despite this, NTM does not match compulsory report policy in many countries, such as China. Thus, the epidemiology of NTM is generally unknown. Furthermore, misdiagnosis of nontuberculous mycobacterium disease as multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) frequently occurs in clinical settings because of similar clinical manifestations. Therefore, elucidating the epidemiology and distribution of NTM species is important and may have a profound and lasting impact on the prevalence of pulmonary NTM disease. In our study, we enrolled smear-positive sputum samples during 2008 from Jiangsu province in the eastern region of China. Traditional biochemical tests and molecular biological methods were performed to distinguish NTM isolates to species/complex level. For the first time, we provide a snapshot of the epidemiology and geographic distribution of NTM in Jiangsu province. The proportion of NTM was 3.37% of all the Mycobacterium isolates and the species of NTM differed by area.
Smad4 loss in mice causes spontaneous head and neck cancer with increased genomic instability and inflammation

Smad4 is a central mediator of TGF-β signaling, and its expression is downregulated or lost at the malignant stage in several cancer types. In this study, we found that Smad4 was frequently downregulated not only in human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) malignant lesions, but also in grossly normal adjacent buccal mucosa. To gain insight into the importance of this observation, we generated mice in which Smad4 was deleted in head and neck epithelia (referred to herein as HN-Smad4–/– mice) and found that they developed spontaneous HNSCC. Interestingly, both normal head and neck tissue and HNSCC from HN-Smad4–/– mice exhibited increased genomic instability, which correlated with downregulated expression and function of genes encoding proteins in the Fanconi anemia/Brca (Fanc/Brca) DNA repair pathway linked to HNSCC susceptibility in humans. Consistent with this, further analysis revealed a correlation between downregulation of Smad4 protein and downregulation of the Brca1 and Rad51 proteins in human HNSCC. In addition to the above changes in tumor epithelia, both normal head and neck tissue and HNSCC from HN-Smad4–/– mice exhibited severe inflammation, which was associated with increased expression of TGF-β1 and activated Smad3. We present what we believe to be the first single gene–knockout model for HNSCC, in which both HNSCC formation and invasion occurred as a result of Smad4 deletion. Our results reveal an intriguing connection between Smad4 and the Fanc/Brca pathway and highlight the impact of epithelial Smad4 loss on inflammation.
Mechanisms for the adverse effects of late gestational increases in maternal cortisol on the heart revealed by transcriptomic analyses of the fetal septum

We have previously shown in sheep that 10 days of modest chronic increase in maternal cortisol resulting from maternal infusion of cortisol (1 mg/kg/day) caused fetal heart enlargement and Purkinje cell apoptosis. In subsequent studies we extended the cortisol infusion to term, finding a dramatic incidence of stillbirth in the pregnancies with chronically increased cortisol. To investigate effects of maternal cortisol on the heart, we performed transcriptomic analyses on the septa using ovine microarrays and Webgestalt and Cytoscape programs for pathway inference. Analyses of the transcriptomic effects of maternal cortisol infusion for 10 days (130 day cortisol vs 130 day control), or ∼25 days (140 day cortisol vs 140 day control) and of normal maturation (140 day control vs 130 day control) were performed. Gene ontology terms related to immune function and cytokine actions were significantly overrepresented as genes altered by both cortisol and maturation in the septa. After 10 days of cortisol, growth factor and muscle cell apoptosis pathways were significantly overrepresented, consistent with our previous histologic findings. In the term fetuses (∼25 days of cortisol) nutrient pathways were significantly overrepresented, consistent with altered metabolism and reduced mitochondria. Analysis of mitochondrial number by mitochondrial DNA expression confirmed a significant decrease in mitochondria. The metabolic pathways modeled as altered by cortisol treatment to term were different from those modeled during maturation of the heart to term, and thus changes in gene expression in these metabolic pathways may be indicative of the fetal heart pathophysiologies seen in pregnancies complicated by stillbirth, including gestational diabetes, Cushing's disease and chronic stress.
Stimulation of hydrogen photoproduction in algae by removal of oxygen by reagents that combine reversibly with oxygen.

Hydrogen photoproduction from water by Scenedesmus cells was achieved in the presence of reagents that combine reversibly with oxygen. The oxygen can be subsequently released, and H/sub 2/ and O/sub 2/ are obtained in the 2:1 ratio expected for H/sub 2/O photolysis. This was accomplished in an experimental design which facilitates rapid transfer of gases and the use of a variety of water-soluble and DMSO-soluble chelates of cobalt which combine reversibly with oxygen.
The Effects of Race, Ethnicity, and Mood/Anxiety Disorders on the Chronic Physical Health Conditions of Men From a National Sample:

Racial/ethnic differences in health are evident among men. Previous work suggests associations between mental and physical health but few studies have examined how mood/anxiety disorders and chronic physical health conditions covary by age, race, and ethnicity among men. Using data from 1,277 African American, 629 Caribbean Black, and 371 non-Hispanic White men from the National Survey of American Life, we examined associations between race/ethnicity and experiencing one or more chronic physical health conditions in logistic regression models stratified by age and 12-month mood/anxiety disorder status. Among men <45 years without mood/anxiety disorders, Caribbean Blacks had lower odds of chronic physical health conditions than Whites. Among men aged 45+ years with mood/anxiety disorders, African Americans had greater odds of chronic physical health conditions than Whites. Future studies should explore the underlying causes of such variation and how studying mental and chronic physical health problems together may help identify mechanisms that underlie racial disparities in life expectancy among men.
Strategic FRTU Deployment Considering Cybersecurity in Secondary Distribution Network

This paper is concerned about strategic deployment of feeder remote terminal unit (FRTU) in primary network by considering cybersecurity of distribution secondary network. First, detection of historical anomaly load profile in secondary network is assumed to be observable. These irregularities of historical energy usages can be determined from consumer billing centers using proposed cybersecurity metrics. While it is constrained by budget on the number of FRTUs that can be deployed, the proposed algorithm identifies pivotal locations of a distribution feeder to install the FRTUs in different time horizons. The simulation results show that the infrastructure enhancement using proposed multistage method improves investment planning for distribution systems.
Drug and alcohol use among adolescent blunt trauma patients: dying to get high?

Abstract Purpose We compared injury severity, hospital course, and outcomes between adolescent blunt trauma patients with and without positive toxicology screens. Methods Trauma registry data were used to identify adolescent blunt trauma victims between 2000 and 2005. Demographics, injury severity, hospital course, and outcomes were evaluated. Patients with and without positive toxicology results were compared. Results There were 9.3% that had positive toxicology results. The mean age of toxicology-positive patients was 17.2 years. The most commonly detected drugs were cannabinoids (40%), alcohol (30%), and polysubstances (23%). Toxicology-positive patients had significantly lower Glasgow Coma Scale (11.8 ± 4.6 vs 13.7 ± 3.3; P P P P P P Conclusions A significant number of adolescents had positive toxicology screens. Our data suggest that toxicology-positive patients were more severely injured, required more hospital care, and had worse outcomes than other adolescent blunt trauma victims.
Endothelin A and B receptors of preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells.

Endothelin A and B receptors of preglomerular vascular smooth muscle cells. Background The endothelin (ET) receptors are subclassified into ET A, which are purely vasoconstrictive, and ET B . The ET B receptors may cause either vasodilation by stimulating the release of nitric oxide from endothelial cells, or vasoconstriction of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). The relative contribution of ET A and ET B receptors to calcium signaling and vasoconstriction in the renal microcirculation is not clear. Our goal was to study the cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ) responses of fresh rat preglomerular VSMC and afferent arterioles to agonists and antagonists of ET A and ET B receptors in rats. Methods Fresh VSMC and afferent arterioles were isolated using the magnetized microsphere/sieving technique, followed by gentle collagenase digestion. [Ca 2+ ] i was measured with fura-2 ratiometric fluorescence. Results Afferent arterioles and VSMC responded to ET-1 stimulation with a rapid peak increase in [Ca 2+ ] i (Δ= 287 ± 81 and 342 ± 55nmol/L, respectively). The ET B receptor agonist IRL 1620 stimulated a rise in [Ca 2+ ] i in afferent arterioles (106 ± 35nmol/L); subsequent addition of ET-1 at the IRL 1620 nadir to stimulate ET A receptors caused a second peak that was twice as large (213 ± 44nmol/L). In VSMC, the ET B agonist peak increase was 99 ± 12nmol/L; addition of ET-1 then increased [Ca 2+ ] i by 294 ± 23nmol/L. The ET B inhibitor BQ-788 prevented stimulation of [Ca 2+ ] i by IRL 1620 in afferent arterioles and VSMC; subsequent stimulation of ET A receptors with ET-1 caused an increase in [Ca 2+ ] i (239 ± 17 and 248 ± 22nmol/L). Pretreatment with the selective ET A inhibitor PD 156707 attenuated but did not abolish the responses to ET-1, suggesting that the residual [Ca 2+ ] i response was caused by ET B stimulation. Conclusion These results indicate that fresh preglomerular VSMC as well as afferent arterioles have both ET A and ET B receptors, and that the rapid peak [Ca 2+ ] i responses to the ET B agonist IRL 1620 are less than half that of subsequent stimulation of ET A receptors with ET-1. The similarity of findings in isolated VSMC and afferent arterioles suggests that responses in VSMC in our arteriolar preparation overshadow any potential contribution of endothelial cells when reagents are administered abluminally.
General Anesthetics do not Alter Lipid Bilayer Properties at Clinically Relevant Concentrations

General anesthetics are a widely used class of drugs but, despite their clinical use for >160 years, their exact molecular mechanism(s) remain to be elucidated. A mechanism proposed early on was direct interaction with the lipid bilayer, in some unspecified manner to alter cellular function, which lead to the unitary lipid-based hypothesis of anesthetic action. More recent studies show that general anesthetics interact specifically with various proteins, in particular membrane-embedded ion channels. For example, the inhibition of voltage-gated sodium channels by volatile anesthetics leads to reduced neurotransmitter release in excitable cells. But, though a number of anesthetic targets have been identified, it remains unclear whether the bilayer per se may be involved as well. We therefore examined whether various general anesthetics (isoflurane, sevoflurane, halothane, desflurane, chloroform, diethyl ether, F3, cyclopropane, ketamine and etomidate) and related nonanesthetics (F6 and flurothyl) alter lipid bilayer properties at clinically relevant concentrations. The effects on lipid bilayer properties were tested using the gramicidin-based fluorescence assay (GBFA). The results show that none of the anesthetics or nonanesthetics tested altered lipid bilayer properties at the clinical concentration of 1 MAC (minimal alveolar concentration) with a membrane mole-fraction ranging from 1x10∧-3 (for F6) to 0.1 (for diethyl ether and sevoflurane). Even at two- to four-fold higher concentrations only minimal effects on the bilayer were observed; at much higher (supratherapeutic) concentrations, however, certain anesthetic agents did alter lipid bilayer properties. These results suggest that general anesthetics do not alter ion channel function by altering lipid bilayer properties in a manner that is sensed by a bilayer-spanning channel at clinically relevant concentrations.
Effect of floral display on reproductive success in terrestrial orchids

Almost one-third of all species in the familyOrchidaceae offer no reward to insect pollinators. In the absence of a reward, floral display (number of flowers), may be the most important component of insect attraction but the role of floral display in capsule production of both deceptive (nectarless) and rewarding (nectariferous) orchids has not yet been satisfactorily explored. Based on our theoretical considerations, we propose and test here the following hypotheses: (i) deceptive species flower earlier than rewarding ones, (ii) reproductive success in deceptive species is lower than that in rewarding ones, (iii) reproductive success is independent of the number of flowers in the inflorescence in both deceptive and rewarding orchids. Our data supported hypotheses (i) and (ii). In 9 out of our 12 populations of deceptive species and in 10 out of 12 populations of rewarding species we found support for our hypothesis (iii).
Assessing Leadership Potential with a Biographical Measure of Personality Traits

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of biographical inventories free of the limitations common to many current biographical measures by constructing and validating an inventory composed of homogeneous scales, with item content that is factual and fair, to assess personality traits predictive of leadership. The experimental inventory, with tentative scales for Dominance, Emotional Stability, Need for Achievement, Self-Confidence, and Sociability, was administered to incoming midshipmen at the US Naval Academy and item analyzed. The validity of the final scales was appraised against subsequent peer ratings of the traits and of leadership shortly after entering the Academy; military performance grades, and midshipman rank and leadership position at the Academy; and recommendations for promotion after graduating and serving as an officer. The Sociability, Dominance, and Need for Achievement scales demonstrated convergent and discriminant validity, and all of the scales except Self-Confidence correlated with the leadership criteria. The Sociability scale’s consistent correlations with several of the leadership criteria, including a nontrivial correlation (r = 0.28) with the leadership peer rating, implies that this measure may be useful in assessing leadership potential.
Oxygen diffusion and reaction kinetics in the photodynamic therapy of multicell tumour spheroids

Effects of oxygen diffusion and reaction kinetics in photodynamic therapy are considered in the context of a multicell tumour spheroid model. Steady-state measurements of oxygen made with a Clark-style microelectrode (4 mu m diameter tip) enable the authors to determine the rate of metabolic oxygen consumption and the oxygen diffusion coefficient in 500 mu m diameter EMT6/Ro spheroids. These values are 5.77 mu mol 1-1 s-1 and 1460 mu m2 s-1, respectively. Time-dependent electrode measurements of oxygen concentration during laser irradiation of individual Photofrin-sensitized spheroids are fitted to numerical solutions of a pair of diffusion-with-reaction equations. The analysis yields the rate of photodynamic oxygen consumption and a parameter that governs the oxygen sensitivity of photodynamic therapy. These experimentally derived quantities are used to calculate the temporal and spatial distributions of oxygen and the rate of oxygen consumption in a spheroid during irradiation at several fluence rates. The spatial distribution of photodynamic oxygen consumption is strongly fluence rate dependent. Using the experimental and theoretical results developed in this report, previously published survival data are analysed. The analysis indicates that the threshold dose of reacting singlet oxygen in the EMT6/Ro spheroid is 323+or-38 mu mol 1-1 (mean+or-SEM).
Registration of AR10SDS Soybean Germplasm Partially Resistant to Sudden Death Syndrome and Resistant to Soybean Cyst Nematode

Disease resistance is an important crop trait that protects yield and farmers’ incomes. The objective of the soybean breeding program for disease resistance at Iowa State University (ISU) is to develop germplasm lines for Iowa. AR10SDS (Reg. No. GP-391, PI 669816) is the first sudden death syndrome (SDS) partially resistant line released by ISU, Project nos. 4403 and 0159 (Agronomy and Plant Pathology departments), ISU Research Foundation (ISURF) Docket #03264. AR10SDS is partially resistant to Fusarium virguliforme which causes SDS, and resistant to soybean cyst nematode (SCN) phenotypic race 3 (HG types 0 and 7) caused by Heterodera glycines. AR10SDS is a bulk of 60 F 3:8 plants uniform in plant and seed traits. The parentage is ‘Ripley’ × ‘IA1008’. Ripley is resistant to SDS. IA1008 is resistant to SCN. The cross and generations advances were made in Puerto Rico beginning in 2000, ISU research site at the Isabela Substation, University of Puerto Rico, Isabela, PR. Yield was evaluated from 2003 to 2006 in Iowa and in the northern U.S. regions. From 2003 to 2011, SDS resistance was evaluated under greenhouse conditions and in SDS-infested field soil. Soybean cyst nematode screening was conducted in 2005 to 2006 under greenhouse conditions. Three SDS resistance quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were inherited from Ripley, and two SCN resistance QTLs from IA1008. Seed yield is similar to IA1008 and significantly ( P = 0.05) better than ‘Parker’ and ‘Freeborn’. It is of early- to mid-maturity group I and adapted from 40 to 42° N latitude. AR10SDS may serve breeding programs for its dual disease resistance.
Optimizing detection of microbial sepsis: A Comparison of Culture Systems Using Packaged Sets with Directions for Blood Collection☆

Detection of microbial sepsis is an important aspect of medical practice. To facilitate the recovery of bacteria and fungi we evaluated 10,933 complete blood culture sets integrating the automated ESP system (Difco) with a manual system using the Isolator (Wampole) and Thiol broth bottle (Difco). To improve compliance with the recommended procedure for submitting specimens, we packaged the three components as a unit that included brief instructional material. A three-component (one ESP bottle, one Thiol bottle, and one Isolator tube) package containing specific instructions was used. The aerobic ESP performance was compared with the Isolator, and the anaerobic ESP with the Thiol bottle. A hypothetical assessment involving all three components was also made. The cultures were processed under routine laboratory conditions. Charts were reviewed from specimens with discrepant results to ascertain true positives versus contaminant cultures in the discordant culture sets. There were 896 organisms recovered from 393 patients. Of these, 421 were in the aerobic compared with 475 in the anaerobic portion of the study. ESP enhanced the recovery of Streptococcus pneumoniae (P < .05). The Isolator was superior for the recovery of yeasts (.05 < P < .1). Using the packaged system, the compliance rate for complete three-component culture sets was 95.2%, with a 34.4% resultant increase in positive blood cultures from only a 5.7% increase in sets. Packaged culture media including instructions enhance appropriate collection of complete sets, increase the number of recovered organisms, and improve medical practice.