cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Body composition techniques

Body composition is known to be associated with several diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancers, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Body composition measurements are useful in assessing the effectiveness of nutritional interventions and monitoring the changes associated with growth and disease conditions. Changes in body composition occur when there is a mismatch between nutrient intake and requirement. Altered body composition is observed in conditions such as wasting and stunting when the nutritional intake may be inadequate. Overnutrition on the other hand leads to obesity. Many techniques are available for body composition assessment, which range from simple indirect measures to more sophisticated direct volumetric measurements. Some of the methods that are used today include anthropometry, tracer dilution, densitometry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, air displacement plethysmography and bioelectrical impedance analysis. The methods vary in their precision and accuracy. Imaging techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography have become powerful tools due to their ability of visualizing and quantifying tissues, organs, or constituents such as muscle and adipose tissue. However, these methods are still considered to be research tools due to their cost and complexity of use. This review was aimed to describe the commonly used methods for body composition analysis and provide a brief introduction on the latest techniques available.
A Cryptic New Species of Anole (Squamata: Dactyloidae) from the Lenca Highlands of Honduras, Previously Referred to as Norops crassulus (Cope, 1864)

We describe a cryptic new species of Norops Wagler, 1830, Norops caceresae, from mixed transitional and broadleaf cloud forest formations in the Lenca Highlands of southwestern Honduras. This population was previously considered conspecific with Norops crassulus (Cope, 1864) of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Mexico, despite it being entirely disjunct (> 100 km) from any of those populations. Recent molecular work revealed consistent, deep mitochondrial and nuclear distinctiveness between this population and all other anoles of the N. crassulus species group, prompting a thorough morphological investigation of this population. This new species is most similar in external morphology to N. crassulus sensu stricto, but is readily distinguished by molecular distinctiveness, distribution, and morphology.
CYP3A5 genotype affects time to therapeutic tacrolimus level in pediatric kidney transplant recipients.

BACKGROUND Optimal management of immunosuppression in kidney transplantation requires a delicate balance of efficacy and toxicity. Tacrolimus (TAC) dose requirements are significantly impacted by genetic variation in CYP3A5 polymorphisms, however the impact that genotype has on clinical outcomes in the pediatric kidney transplant population remains unclear. METHODS We evaluated a retrospective cohort of 98 pediatric kidney transplant recipients. The primary exposure was CYP3A5 genotype, which classified each recipient into the expresser (at least one CYP3A5*1 allele) or non-expresser group (only CYP3A5*3 alleles). The primary outcome was time to achieve a steady therapeutic TAC concentration. Secondary outcomes include incidence of early allograft rejection and calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) nephrotoxicity during the first year post-transplant. RESULTS The study cohort included 55 (56%) expressers and 43 (44%) non-expressers of the CYP3A5*1 allele. Expressers had a significantly longer time to achieve a steady therapeutic TAC concentration than non-expressers (log rank, P = 0.03). Expressers had a trend for higher incidence of early allograft rejection (29.1% vs 16.3%, log rank, P = 0.16). Early biopsy-proven CNI nephrotoxicity was seen in 60% of recipients, with no differences in the rate between expressers and non-expressers. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric kidney transplant recipients with the CYP3A5*1 allele (expressers) take a longer time to achieve therapeutic TAC levels than those with the CYP3A5*3 allele (non-expressers). However, we observed no significant differences in acute rejection or CNI nephrotoxicity based on CYP3A5 genotype. Thus CYP3A5 genotype was not observed to have an immediate impact on early transplant outcomes.
Pulmonary Complications of Opioid Overdose Treated With Naloxone.

Study objective We aim to determine whether administration of higher doses of naloxone for the treatment of opioid overdose is associated with increased pulmonary complications. Methods This was a retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study of 1,831 patients treated with naloxone by the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Emergency Medical Services. Emergency medical services and hospital records were abstracted for data in regard to naloxone dosing, route of administration, and clinical outcomes, including the development of complications such as pulmonary edema, aspiration pneumonia, and aspiration pneumonitis. For the purposes of this investigation, we defined high-dose naloxone as total administration exceeding 4.4 mg. Multivariable analysis was used to attempt to account for confounders such as route of administration and pretreatment morbidity. Results Patients receiving out-of-hospital naloxone in doses exceeding 4.4 mg were 62% more likely to have a pulmonary complication after opioid overdose (42% versus 26% absolute risk; odds ratio 2.14; 95% confidence interval 1.44 to 3.18). This association remained statistically significant after multivariable analysis with logistic regression (odds ratio 1.85; 95% confidence interval 1.12 to 3.04). A secondary analysis showed an increased risk of 27% versus 13% (odds ratio 2.57; 95% confidence interval 1.45 to 4.54) when initial naloxone dosing exceeded 0.4 mg. Pulmonary edema occurred in 1.1% of patients. Conclusion Higher doses of naloxone in the out-of-hospital treatment of opioid overdose are associated with a higher rate of pulmonary complications. Furthermore, prospective study is needed to determine the causality of this relationship.
Scalable energy-efficient parallel sorting on a fine-grained many-core processor array

Abstract Three parallel sorting applications and two list output protocols for the first phase of an external sort execute on a fine-grained many-core processor array that contains no algorithm-specific hardware acting as a co-processor with a variety of array sizes. Results are generated using a cycle-accurate model based on measured data from a fabricated many-core chip, and simulated for different processor array sizes. The data shows most energy efficient first-phase many-core sort requires over 65 × lower energy than GNU C++ standard library sort performed on an Intel laptop-class processor and over 105 × lower energy than a radix sort running on an Nvidia GPU. In addition, the highest first-phase throughput many-core sort is over 9.8 × faster than the std::sort and over 14 × faster than the radix sort. Both phases of a 10 GB external sort require 6.2 × lower energy × time energy delay product than the std::sort and over 13 × lower energy × time than the radix sort.
Developing and Pilot Testing ASTHMAXcel, a Mobile App for Adults With Asthma

Objective: We sought to compare the impact of ASTHMAXcel, a novel, guideline-based, patient-facing mobile app to human-delivered asthma education.Methods: We conducted a focus group with asthma pat...
Importance of a standard unit dose for cannabis research.

Commentary: Recognizing the increasing diversity of cannabis products and their expanded use, Freeman & Lorenzetti propose a standard unit dose of 5 mg 9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to be used for all cannabis products, regardless of method of administration. They argue that a standard dose would help to guide consumers towards safer patterns of cannabis use. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) strongly supports the need for a standardized measure to facilitate research, and this was a key recommendation from NIDA's Cannabis Policy Research Council Workgroup....
The role of systemic and cranial 18Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG PET) in primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL)

1535 Background: The utility of body and brain FDG PET in staging and management of PCNSL is unknown. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of 166 PCNSL pts at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center between January 2000 and August 2005. Pts. who underwent PET imaging were identified using the electronic medical record. PET reports and clinical data were reviewed to determine the reason for the study and impact on management. Results: 61 (37%) pts had ≥1 PET scans. Of 93 studies, 58 were body scans and 35 were brain scans. 72% (42/58) of body PET were done for systemic staging at diagnosis and 28% (16/58) at relapse. 19% (8/42) of scans done for initial staging had suspicious systemic foci. Lymphoma was found in 3 (37.5%), adrenal adenoma in 1 (12.5%), duodenal adenocarcinoma in 1 (12.5%) and non-diagnostic tissue in 1 (12.5%); biopsy was not pursued in 2 (25%). 31% (5/16) of scans done at relapse were abnormal. In 3 (19%) of these, biopsy revealed lymphoma; in 2 (12.5%), biopsy was not pursued. In 8...
Facial nerve paralysis in 64 equids: Clinical variables, diagnosis, and outcome.

Background Facial nerve paralysis (FNP) in equids is not well described in the veterinary literature. Objective To investigate the causes of FNP and associations among clinical variables, diagnosis, and outcome. Animals Sixty-four equids presenting with FNP between July 2000 and April 2019. Cases of postanesthetic FNP were excluded. Methods Medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Variables were evaluated for associations with outcomes (diagnosis and case outcome) using logistic regression. Results The most common cause of FNP was trauma (n = 20). Additional diagnoses included central nervous system (CNS) disease (n = 16), idiopathic (n = 12, 4 of which had adequate diagnostic investigation and were considered "true" idiopathic, and 8 of which were considered "not investigated" idiopathic), temporohyoid osteoarthropathy (n = 10), otitis media-interna (n = 3), lymphoma (n = 1), iatrogenic as a consequence of infiltration of local anesthetic (n = 1), and clostridial myositis (n = 1). Follow-up was available for 55 (86%) cases. Twenty-nine (53%) equids had full resolution of FNP, 14 (25%) were euthanized, 6 (11%) partially improved, and 6 (11%) were unchanged or worse. Conclusions and clinical importance If FNP is the consequence of CNS disease, successful treatment of the primary disease likely leads to resolution of FNP. Most cases of FNP in equids are traumatic in origin. True idiopathic cases are uncommon.
Social development and the Sustainable Development Goals in South Asia: edited by Nitya Mohan Khemka and Suraj Kumar, London and New York, Routledge, 2020, xxix + 219 pp. (hardback), ISBN 978-1-138-49047-5

The outbreak of coronavirus as a global pandemic reminded us the level of vulnerability we face as a human civilisation, and the need for global cooperation. As with any development challenges, whe...
Globalization and the Language of Worship: Is the Spread of English a Boon or a Bane?

Modern missions has long emphasized the importance of the heart language of a people for the Church. In this age of globalization, English is often put forward as a Lingua Franca for much of the world. Likewise, in recent years, there has been a growing use by Evangelicals of English as a tool for outreach and ministry. While most of us in missions have benefited at some point by the widespread use of English, what impact does English usage have in peoples’ spiritual lives? Little has actually been done to explore how people are influenced spiritually by the use of English in the Church and in worship. This article is the result of study done in three contexts to begin to explore what impact if any the widespread use of English in the Church and missions has had in the life and thought of individual Christians. Is there a negative impact or crisis in the globalization of English in the Church?
Theory and Calculation of the Squirrel Cage Repulsion Motor

A brief history of the development of the squirrel cage repulsion motor and a physical explanation of the principles of its operation have been given in the preceding paper ``A New Type of Single Phase Motor'' by Mr. S. R. Bergman. It is the purpose of the present paper to give the results of an analytical study of the operation of the motor. The derivation of the method of calculation is outlined and some of the more interesting results are given.
aPC/PAR1 confers endothelial anti-apoptotic activity via a discrete β-arrestin-2 mediated SphK1-S1PR1-Akt signaling axis

Endothelial dysfunction is associated with multiple vascular diseases and lacks effective treatment options. Activated Protein C (aPC) is a promising biotherapeutic that signals via protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR1) to promote diverse cytoprotective responses, including endothelial barrier stabilization, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities, which require specific co-receptors. We show that aPC-activated PAR1 signals preferentially via {beta}-arrestin-2 ({beta}-arr2) and dishevelled-2 (Dvl-2) scaffolds rather than heterotrimeric G proteins. However, the mechanisms by which aPC/PAR1 elicits diverse cytoprotective responses are poorly defined. Here we define a novel {beta}-arrestin-2-mediated sphingosine kinase-1 (SphK1)-sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor-1 (S1PR1)-Akt signaling axis that confers aPC/PAR1-mediated protection against cell death. aPC stimulates the phosphorylation, translocation, and activation of SphK1 and is dependent on {beta}-arrestin-2 and not Dvl-2. Moreover, aPC/PAR1 markedly increases S1PR1-caveolin-1 co-association, although both receptors co-existed in caveolin-1 enriched microdomains before aPC stimulation. These studies reveal that aPC/PAR1 cytoprotective responses are mediated by discrete {beta}-arr2-driven signaling pathways modulated by co-receptors localized in caveolae.
A Vehicle Driving State Estimation Algorithm based on Elman Neural Network and Unscented Kalman Filter

Vehicle driving states in a dynamic vehicle model are with strong uncertainty and nonlinearity. Simply applying traditional Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) or Neural Network cannot meet the requirements of future vehicle driving state estimation, which may lead to a severe failure in the vehicle's electronic controlling system. This paper proposes an optimized algorithm based on Elman Neural Network (ENN) and UKF. Combining the superiority of ENN dealing with nonlinearity and the ability of UKF dealing with uncertainty, the proposed ENN-UKF significantly reduces the filtering error. Based on the nonlinear seven-degree-of-freedom vehicle model and Dugoff tire model, ENN-UKF is tested on standard Double Lane Change road conditions. The results demonstrate that our approach performs much better than traditional UKF with an improvement of at least 40%. This study indicates the feasibility of applying ENN-UKF in the vehicle driving state estimation.
Black Girls and the Beauty Salon: Fostering a Safe Space for Collective Self-Care:

Black girls regularly experience gendered, racial structural violence, not just from formal systems of law enforcement, but throughout their daily lives. School is one of the most central and poten...
Utilization of seafood-processing by-products for the development of value-added food products

Abstract The fishing industry uses offal, waste, and processing by-products interchangeably, although they are different. Offal and waste mainly impart a negative connotation for those materials that cannot be used for any application and should be discarded. However, processing by-products imply that there exist some valuable components that can be used if treated properly. Some of the seafood-processing by-products are directly used for human consumption, such as roe, liver, cleaned stomach, and fried fish milt. However, some other components require further processing, including isolation and preparation. If the processing by-products are not treated properly, landfill will be the only option. Landfill is one of the most expensive options of waste disposal for the seafood industry and most countries have a limit for landfill. As a result, seafood-processing by-products are both an environmental and economic burden for this sector. However, seafood-processing by-products are a great source of protein and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been widely studied. Isoelectric solubilization/precipitation and protein hydrolysis are the major recovery methods for seafood-processing by-products. The utilization of seafood-processing by-products is a profitable venture in the food industry, as it not only minimizes the hazardous environmental impact of discarded seafood-processing by-products, but also provides essential nutrients for all age groups. This chapter focuses on the main value-added food products derived from seafood-processing by-products.
In situ monitoring the internal of lithium ion batteries

The temperature evolution inside the lithium-ion battery would significantly influence its performance and safety. Currently, an in-situ technology that allows for monitoring and transmitting the internal temperature signal of the cylindrical battery has been developed, and whereby early safety alert of the abnormal cases inside the batteries could be envisaged.
Harnessing the Overconfidence of the Crowd: A Theory of SPACs

We provide a theory of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies, or SPACs. A sponsor raises financing for a new opportunity from a group of investors with differing ability to process information. We show that when all investors are rational, the sponsor prefers to issue straight equity. However, when sufficiently many investors are overconfident about their ability to process information, the sponsor prefers to issue units with redeemable shares and rights, because such investors overvalue the option to redeem shares. The model matches many empirical features, including the difference in returns for short-term and long-term investors and the overall underperformance of SPACs. We also evaluate the impact of policy interventions, such as greater mandatory disclosure and transparency, limiting investor access, and restricting the rights offered.
Comparison of Multiplex Real-Time PCR and Droplet Digital PCR for Detection of Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus DNA in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma.

Purpose/Objective(s) Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) DNA is an established biomarker for endemic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders. The ongoing NRG-HN001 randomized trial is testing one biomarker-directed treatment approach using real-time PCR (qPCR). Existing qPCR assays are limited by inter-laboratory imprecision secondary to external calibrators, and development of a standardized assay would facilitate reproducible quantitation. We hypothesized that droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) would have similar analytical sensitivity, precision, and accuracy relative to qPCR. Materials/Methods We designed a multiplex ddPCR assay to detect two single-copy EBV targets (EBNA-1, EBER), a variable-repeat EBV target (BamHI-W), and a human internal control (RNaseP) in plasma across two reactions. This was compared against the NRG-HN001 qPCR assay, which detects EBNA-1, BamHI-W, and an internal control across two reactions. Quantitation for the ddPCR assay was based on Poisson statistics and automated threshold determination without external calibrators. Quantitation for the qPCR assay was based on two external calibrators traceable to the WHO EBV standard. Assays were compared by measuring sensitivity, specificity, 95% lower limit of detection (LLOD), lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ), accuracy (difference from nominal concentration), and precision (reproducibility). The WHO EBV standard was used as control material. Clinical specimens sent for routine plasma EBV testing were collected from patients with EBV-associated neoplasms. For clinical specimens, a composite reference standard was defined as positivity by at least two targets. Results The 95% LLOD for BamHI-W, EBNA-1, and EBER ddPCR were 1.49, 13.26, and 9.77 international units (IU) per well, respectively. Analytical sensitivity was not significantly different than BamHI-W qPCR (1.75 IU/well, P = 0.99) or EBNA-1 qPCR (7.58 IU/well, P = 0.60). The LLOQ for both assays was 100 IU/mL. Across the range of prognostic cutoffs for plasma EBV DNA copy number (1,500-40,000 IU/mL), within-laboratory precision was highest with BamHI-W qPCR (0.04-0.06) and ddPCR (0.04-0.08) and lower with EBNA-1 qPCR (0.04-0.14). Across this range, ddPCR had modestly improved accuracy (absolute mean difference from nominal, BamHI-W: 1104 IU/mL; EBER: 1206 IU/mL) relative to qPCR (BamHI-W: 1565 IU/mL; EBNA-1: 1874 IU/mL, P = 0.77 across platforms). Sensitivity (100% vs. 95%, P = 0.50) and specificity (100% vs. 100%) were similar between BamHI-W ddPCR and BamHI-W qPCR for clinical specimens. Sensitivity was lower for all single-copy targets (80-85%). Conclusion A multiplex ddPCR amplifying single- and variable-copy EBV targets in plasma offers similar analytical performance as the existing NRG-HN001 qPCR assay without the need for external calibrators. Further research will inform whether inter-laboratory precision is superior with ddPCR, which may facilitate standardization of EBV DNA quantitation.
Changes in Pediatric Faculty Burnout During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and associated workflow changes, such as deployment on pediatric faculty burnout in an early epicenter of the pandemic. We hypothesized burnout would increase during the COVID-19 surge. METHODS: We conducted serial cross-sectional surveys of pediatric faculty at an academic, tertiary-care children's hospital that experienced a COVID-19 surge in the Northeastern United States. Surveys were administered pre-surge (February 2020), during the surge (April 2020), and postsurge (September 2020). The primary outcome was burnout prevalence. We also measured areas of worklife scores. We compared responses between all 3 survey periods. Continuous variables were analyzed by using Student's t or Mann-Whitney tests, and categorical variables were analyzed by using χ2 or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate. RESULTS: Our response rate was 89 of 223 (40%) presurge, 100 of 267 (37%) during the surge, and 113 of 275 (41%) postsurge. There were no differences in demographics, including sex, race, and academic rank between survey periods. Frequency of burnout was similar in all 3 periods (20% to 26%). The mean scores of emotional exhaustion improved during the surge (2.25 to 1.9; P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to our hypothesis, we found no changes in pediatric faculty burnout after a COVID-19 surge. Emotional exhaustion improved during the COVID-19 surge. However, these findings represent short-term responses to the COVID-19 surge. Longer-term monitoring of the impact of the COVID-19 surge on pediatric faculty burnout may be necessary for health care organizations to mitigate burnout.
Choosing the Right Tool for the Job: RNAi, TALEN or CRISPR

The most widely used approach for defining gene function is to reduce or completely disrupt its normal expression. For over a decade, RNAi has ruled the lab, offering a magic bullet to disrupt gene expression in many organisms. However, new biotechnological tools--specifically CRISPR-based technologies--have become available and are squeezing out RNAi dominance in mammalian cell studies. These seemingly competing technologies leave research investigators with the question: "Which technology should I use in my experiment?" This review offers a practical resource to compare and contrast these technologies, guiding the investigator when and where to use this fantastic array of powerful tools.
Capability Maturity Model software development using Cleanroom software engineering principles-results of an industry project

The Capability Maturity Model (CMM) for Software is a development framework that describes the key elements for an effective software process. Cleanroom software engineering (CSE) is a managerial and engineering process for the development of high quality software with certified reliability. The combination of CMM management and organizational capabilities and the judicious application of Cleanroom technical practices represents a powerful process improvement paradigm. Cleanroom principles are also compatible with the Systems Engineering Maturity model. This paper describes the results of a Cleanroom technology insertion effort into an industrial environment with a mature CMM process in place.
Linear polyester synthesized from furfural-based monomer by photoreaction in sunlight

A novel linear polyester was synthesized from furfural-based monomer through solvent-free polymerization using sunlight. Furfural was first converted to 2-furanacrylic acid as a key photoreactive building block. The desired monomer was then prepared by linking two 2-furanacrylic acid molecules with 1,5-pentanediol, which can also be produced from furfural. An important photoreactive crystalline assembly of the monomer was characterized by powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The new linear polyester that contains 100% components from biomass-derived chemicals was synthesized by sunlight photoreaction of the pre-organized monomer in the solid state in 24 hours. The solvent-free sunlight photoreaction process was monitored by FT-IR and a key intermediate was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Nanofiber of the linear polyester was observed under TEM. Similar to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) used in beverage bottles, the novel polyester contains alternating rigid and flexible moieties in the polymer chain.
Design and implementation of transactional constructs for C/C++

This paper presents a software transactional memory system that introduces first-class C++ language constructs for transactional programming. We describe new C++ language extensions, a production-quality optimizing C++ compiler that translates and optimizes these extensions, and a high-performance STM runtime library. The transactional language constructs support C++ language features including classes, inheritance, virtual functions, exception handling, and templates. The compiler automatically instruments the program for transactional execution and optimizes TM overheads. The runtime library implements multiple execution modes and implements a novel STM algorithm that supports both optimistic and pessimistic concurrency control. The runtime switches a transaction's execution mode dynamically to improve performance and to handle calls to precompiled functions and I/O libraries. We present experimental results on 8 cores (two quad-core CPUs) running a set of 20 non-trivial parallel programs. Our measurements show that our system scales well as the numbers of cores increases and that our compiler and runtime optimizations improve scalability.
T1 and proton density at 7 T in patients with multiple sclerosis: an initial study

Magnetic resonance imaging of cortical lesions due to multiple sclerosis (MS) has been hampered by the lesions' small size and low contrast to adjacent, normal-appearing tissue. Knowing cortical lesion T1 and proton density (PD) would be highly beneficial for the process of developing and optimizing dedicated magnetic resonance (MR) sequences through computer modeling of MR tissue responses. Eight patients and seven healthy control subjects were scanned at 7 T using a series of inversion recovery turbo field echo scans with varying inversion times. Regions of interest were drawn in white matter, gray matter, cortical lesions, white matter lesions and cerebrospinal fluid. White matter and gray matter T1s were significantly higher in MS patients than in controls. Cortical and white matter lesion T1 and PD are also presented for the first time. The advantages of ultrahigh field MR imaging will be important for future investigations in MS research and sequence optimization for the detection of cortical lesions.
Piezo- and thermo-optical properties of Bi 12 GeO 20 , II. Refractive index*

The dependence of the refractive index of Bi12GeO20 on pressure (0.001 to 14 kbar) and temperature (20 to 330°C) is reported at different wavelengths between 0.5 and 0.7 μm. We have analyzed our data in terms of Kettler, Sellmeier–Drude, and Lorentz–Lorenz dispersion formulas; however, in close parallel with the results of our study of the ORD, it is found that even with these data no unique choice can be made among the various models such that all the data would be described by it. In order to make this choice, all of the data obtained from both the refractive and ORD studies were then considered. It is then found that a Sellmeier–Drude formula describes our data on n(λ) and the Agranovich-type formula is favored, though not overwhelmingly, for the ORD data of Bi12GeO20.
Serum concentrations of melatonin in prepubertal gilts exposed to either constant or stepwise biweekly alteration in scotophase.

Abstract Melatonin (MEL), a hormone known to mediate photoperiodic cues, is secreted from the pineal gland in a circadian fashion in numerous species. The transduction of photoperiodic information into the secretion of MEL, however, remains controversial in the pig. To determine whether domestic pigs have a nocturnal increase in serum melatonin when exposed to equatorial photoperiods only, 24 prepubertal gilts (38.7 ± 0.7 kg; 104.5 ± 0.8 d) and 12 mature ewes, serving as positive controls, were assigned randomly to one of two environmentally regulated rooms. The light (L):dark (D) schedule in one room remained constant (10 L:14 D), while the other room scotophase (darkness duration) was decreased by 1 hr every 2 wk (Experiment 1). After a 2-wk acclimation to each new schedule, 6 ewes and 6 gilts in each room were bled by venipuncture at 2-hr intervals for 22 hr. Experiment 2 was conducted as described for Experiment 1, except that the LD schedule in one room remained constant (15L : 9D) while length of scotophase in the other room was increased by 1 hr every 2 wk. In gilts that were exposed to constant 10L:14D, scotophase MEL in serum averaged 103 ± 13 pg/ml as compared with 57 ± 13 pg/ml in the photophase. Using each gilt's initial photophase value as a statistical covariate, scotophase MEL in the constant 10L:14D schedule was higher (P
A Case Report of 17 Days Survival with an Implanted Artificial Heart in a Calf

We established a 17 days survival with an implanted total artificial heart in a calf. The blood contact surface was made of aldehyde treated bovine pericardium and the outer surface was reinforced with specially treated natural rubber. The artificial heart used could pump by pneumatical driving system more than 11L/min of water in vitro and around 10L/min of blood in the experimental animal and was able to maintain hemodynamics within normal ranges for 17 days without difficulty. Though to keep hematological and biochemical parameters within normal ranges was relatively difficult, thromboembolism and disseminated coagulopathy characterized by bleeding were not large troubles at all. The main cause of death was breakage of the heart terminated in air embolism in the cerebral arteries.
Sporadic hypothyroidism associated with goiter.

THE occasional association of goiter with hypothyroidism in nonendemic areas has been known for many years. However, it was not until 1943 that Hamilton, Soley, Reilly and Eichorn (1) first reported functional studies using radioactive iodine in 2 hypothyroid patients with goiter. In 1946 Lerman, Jones and Calkins (2) reported studies on 2 sporadic cretinous brothers with goiters. In 1950 appeared Stanbury and Hedge's (3) now classic studies on 3 of 4 goitrous cretins in a single family. Subsequently Stanbury and his associates (4–7) have contributed much to the understanding of the disturbance in thyroid synthesis in these patients. Hubble (8), McGirr and Hutchison (9, 10), Wilkins et al. (11), Jackson (12), Zondek et al. (13), Burrell and Gairdner (14), and Levy et al. (15) have also reported various clinical features and functional studies in patients with thyroid enlargement associated with hypothyroidism. It is now generally accepted that these patients have a defect in synthesis of thyroid hormone. ...
Plasmodium falciparum: analysis of protein-protein interactions of the 140/130/110-kDa rhoptry protein complex using antibody and mouse erythrocyte binding assays.

Abstract The high-molecular-weight rhoptry proteins of Plasmodium falciparum exist in a multiprotein complex consisting of proteins of 140, 130, and 110 kDa. The complex of rhoptry proteins binds to human and mouse erythrocyte membranes in association with a 120-kDa SERA protein. These proteins are believed to participate in the process of erythrocyte invasion. We have used six different antibodies (polyclonal and monoclonal) known to precipitate the high-molecular-weight rhoptry protein complex (HMWC) to analyze the structural relationship of proteins within the complex. Limited proteolysis of immune complexes (IC) immobilized on Sepharose beads (protein "footprinting") and binding of SV8 protease generated peptides to intact mouse erythrocytes was performed. The 140-kDa polypeptide was more susceptible to protease digestion followed by the 130- and 110-kDa polypeptides. The susceptibility of the 140-kDa polypeptide to protease digestion was independent of the type of precipitating antibody. We identified a 120-kDa protein as the major proteolytic fragment of the 140-kDa protein. SV8 protease generated peptide fragments derived from the 110- and 130-kDa proteins contained putative mouse erythrocyte binding domains. Immunoprecipitation of SV8-generated peptides gave peptide profiles similar to those obtained with protein "footprinting". Additional experiments performed to investigate the stability of the HMWC using chaotropic and lyotropic agents demonstrated that the HMWC was stable to perturbatory reagents known to disaggregate macromolecular complexes. Solubilization of schizonts with 6 M urea and 4 M MgCl2 followed by IC formation led to differential precipitation of the 110-kDa polypeptide, while solubilization with 3 M KCl resulted in the differential precipitation of the 140- and 130-kDa polypeptides, suggesting that both proteins may be in direct association. Treatment of immobilized IC with different perturbatory agents including 6 M urea, 3 M KCl, 4 M MgCl2, or 2% SDS from an insoluble matrix resulted in the elution of the intact complex. The mouse erythrocyte binding property of the HMWC is conserved among different geographical isolates of P. falciparum. The results provide insights concerning the mechanism of protein–protein interaction within the complex.
Acute oxidative stress and systemic Nrf2 activation by the ketogenic diet.

Abstract The mechanisms underlying the efficacy of the ketogenic diet (KD) remain unknown. Recently, we showed that the KD increased glutathione (GSH) biosynthesis. Since the NF E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription factor is a primary responder to cellular stress and can upregulate GSH biosynthesis, we asked whether the KD activates the Nrf2 pathway. Here we report that rats consuming a KD show acute production of H2O2 from hippocampal mitochondria, which decreases below control levels by 3 weeks, suggestive of an adaptive response. 4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), an electrophilic lipid peroxidation end product known to activate the Nrf2 detoxification pathway, was also acutely increased by the KD. Nrf2 nuclear accumulation was evident in both the hippocampus and liver, and the Nrf2 target, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1), exhibited increased activity in both the hippocampus and liver after 3 weeks. We also found chronic depletion of liver tissue GSH, while liver mitochondrial antioxidant capacity was preserved. These data suggest that the KD initially produces mild oxidative and electrophilic stress, which may systemically activate the Nrf2 pathway via redox signaling, leading to chronic cellular adaptation, induction of protective proteins, and improvement of the mitochondrial redox state.
The structure of the forward elastic cross section in (10–14) GeV range☆

Abstract The logarithmic slope of the differentical cross section for K ± p elastic scattering at 10 and 14 GeV, and for π ± p and p ± p at 10GeV has been measured. Rich structure is observed in the forward slope for all processes, which is well accounted for by the properties of a peripheral exchange amplitude for the nonexotic reactions, and by a peripheral component of the diffractive amplitude as clearly seen in the exotic processes, K ± p and pp.
Toward fully automated high performance computing drug discovery: a massively parallel virtual screening pipeline for docking and molecular mechanics/generalized Born surface area rescoring to improve enrichment.

In this work we announce and evaluate a high throughput virtual screening pipeline for in-silico screening of virtual compound databases using high performance computing (HPC). Notable features of this pipeline are an automated receptor preparation scheme with unsupervised binding site identification. The pipeline includes receptor/target preparation, ligand preparation, VinaLC docking calculation, and molecular mechanics/generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA) rescoring using the GB model by Onufriev and co-workers [J. Chem. Theory Comput. 2007, 3, 156–169]. Furthermore, we leverage HPC resources to perform an unprecedented, comprehensive evaluation of MM/GBSA rescoring when applied to the DUD-E data set (Directory of Useful Decoys: Enhanced), in which we selected 38 protein targets and a total of ∼0.7 million actives and decoys. The computer wall time for virtual screening has been reduced drastically on HPC machines, which increases the feasibility of extremely large ligand database screening with more...
Upper critical and irreversibility fields in selectively doped YBa2Cu3O7

The electrical resistivity of (Y1−xPrx)Ba2Cu3O7−gd and YBa2(Cu1−xZnx)3O7−δ thin films and (Y1−x. Tbx)Ba2Cu3O7−δ thin films and single crystals has been measured as a function of 0≤x≤xcrit, 2K≤T≤300K and OTH≤20T. The samples were oriented withc-axis parallel to applied fields. Upper critical field Hc2 and irreversibility field Hirr values have been determined from these measurements. Increased Tb doping appears to shift Hirr to higher temperatures. This coupled with observed twin peaks in magnetization measurements reflects an enhancement of flux pinning. Unlike Tb which does not appear to alterT c , Pr and Zn doping of this system tends to depress bothT c and the slope of the mean field normal phase-mixed phase boundary line (dH c2/dT).
t-Boc protected poly(p-hydroxystyrene-alt-carbon monoxide): a new class of deep-UV resists

An efficient synthetic route for the synthesis of t-Boc protected poly (p-hydroxy styrene-alt- carbon monoxide) utilizing a Pd(II) catalyst is reported. The polymer was deprotected by thermolysis or acidolysis of the tert-butoxycarbonyl protecting group to give the p- hydroxystyrene/CO copolymer. This material should lend itself well to lithographic applications because of our ability to control the molar mass of the material with a narrow molar mass distribution (which should lend to high development efficiencies). Preliminary lithographic evaluation of the copolymer is reported herein.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Metastatic hemangiopericytoma associated with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia: review and report of a case.

The hemangiopericytoma is an invasive tumor of vascular origin. No matter how benign the course and how circumscribed the mass, it must be considered a lesion with high malignant potential. In the case reported here, a hemangiopericytoma of the pancreas with metastasis to the liver was associated with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia in a 78-year old woman. The anemia may have been present before the onset of metastasis. If so, it could have been a major factor in the breakdown of host response and could have initiated the malignant dissemination. Under these circumstances it could be an indicator of metastasis in patients with previously diagnosed tumors. However, there are many cases of metastatic malignancy associated with this anemia in which the opposite situation holds. The anemia is usually of extracorpuscular origin. Apparently intravascular coagulation caused by injury from tumor-cell aggregates in small vessels induces erythrocyte fragmentation on fibrin strands. A vicious cycle of cell fragmentation, vascular injury and fibrin strand formation completes the course. Analysis of the findings should be based upon more than a strictly pathologic approach; it should also be related to the new discoveries in cancer research.
Help Wanted—Accountant: What the Classifieds Say about Employers' Expectations

Abstract In this study, information contained in classified ads was used to gain insight into the qualities employers demand most in accountants today and how the qualities differ from those sought 10 and 20 years ago. The results of the analysis indicate that employers seeking accountants today are placing more emphasis on computer literacy, professional certification, and good communication skills than they did 20 years ago. Results also show that employers continue to request accounting graduates to fill their accounting positions.
Theory of surface spin waves in alkali metals

The Landau-Silin equation for spin waves in the conduction electron Fermi liquid is shown to give rise to a surface mode if the normal component of spin current is assumed to vanish at the surface. The new mode has an interesting one-way characteristic for propagation perpendicular to a surface-directed dc magnetic field. An experiment is proposed which may permit direct observation of the surface modes. Standing surface waves are suggested to be the cause of the anomalous dependence of experimental CESR lineshapes on dc magnetic field orientation.
Groundwater flow, heat transport, and water table position within volcanic edifices: Implications for volcanic processes in the Cascade Range

[1] The position of the water table within a volcanic edifice has significant implications for volcano hazards, geothermal energy, and epithermal mineralization. We have modified the HYDROTHERM numerical simulator to allow for a free-surface (water table) upper boundary condition and a wide range of recharge rates, heat input rates, and thermodynamic conditions representative of continental volcano-hydrothermal systems. An extensive set of simulations was performed on a hypothetical stratovolcano system with unconfined groundwater flow. Simulation results suggest that the permeability structure of the volcanic edifice and underlying material is the dominant control on water table elevation and the distribution of pressures, temperatures, and fluid phases at depth. When permeabilities are isotropic, water table elevation decreases with increasing heat flux and increases with increasing recharge, but when permeabilities are anisotropic, these effects can be much less pronounced. Several conditions facilitate the ascent of a hydrothermal plume into a volcanic edifice: a sufficient source of heat and magmatic volatiles at depth, strong buoyancy forces, and a relatively weak topography-driven flow system. Further, the plume must be connected to a deep heat source through a pathway with a time-averaged effective permeability ≥1 × 10−16 m2, which may be maintained by frequent seismicity. Topography-driven flow may be retarded by low permeability in the edifice and/or the lack of precipitation recharge; in the latter case, the water table may be relatively deep. Simulation results were compared with observations from the Quaternary stratovolcanoes along the Cascade Range of the western United States to infer hydrothermal processes within the edifices. Extensive ice caps on many Cascade Range stratovolcanoes may restrict recharge on the summits and uppermost flanks. Both the simulation results and limited observational data allow for the possibility that the water table beneath the stratovolcanoes is relatively deep.
Application of Thermoelectric-Adsorption Cooler for Harsh Environment Electronics Under Varying Heat Load

Incorporation of a thermoelectric (TE) device for heat regeneration and recovery can help realize adsorption systems that would be compact enough to fit inside electronic enclosures. Such a cooling system can be miniaturized without loss of performance and will have very few moving parts, hence lower maintenance needs. These traits are preferred in systems desired to be used for cooling electronics in thermally harsh environments (such as oil well, military machinery, and vicinity of automobile engines) that are characterized by temperatures greater than 200°C and provide little or no room for maintenance activities during operation. However, ambient temperatures near 200°C place constraints on the temperature difference between hot and cold sides of a TE device across which it could pump heat with appreciable COP (>0.4). This leaves little room to change the operating parameters of a TE device and hence that of the adsorption heat pump; as a result, only a small range of cooling load may be thermally managed. In practice, such a system will be less desirable since heat dissipation from electronics can keep changing during operation. In this work, the options available to manage varying cooling load while satisfying the thermal constraints on a TE device have been investigated using a theoretical model. Varying the number of active TE devices in response to a changing cooling load has been suggested as the most promising solution.
Off-label uses of biologics in dermatology: Interferon and intravenous immunoglobulin (Part 1 of 2)

The introduction of a number of biologic therapies into the market has revolutionized the practice of dermatology. These therapies include interferons, intravenous immunoglobulin, infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept, efalizumab, alefacept, and rituximab. Most dermatologists are familiar with the Food and Drug Administration–approved indications of these medications. However, numerous off-label uses have evolved. As part 1 of a 2-part series, this article will review the literature regarding the off-label uses of the interferons and intravenous immunoglobulin in dermatology.
Single Molecule FRET Characterization of Structural Changes in Antibodies Induced by Enzymatic Deglycosylation

The deglycosylation of antibodies has been suggested as a potential treatment for some autoimmune disorders as this process leads to a diminished immune response. The reduction in immune response is thought to arise from weakened binding of the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies with effector molecules as a result of a conformational change in the Fc region. The nature of this structural alteration is uncertain due to conflicting results obtained from x-ray crystallography and small-angle x-ray scattering studies. To further examine the impact of deglycosylation on the structure of the Fc region, we have examined both glycosylated and enzymatically deglycosylated IgG antibodies using single molecule Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET). The FRET efficiency histograms obtained from studying freely-diffusing, dye-labeled antibodies suggest that the flexibility of the Fc region increases upon deglycosylation.