cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Total Dose Iron Dextran Infusion in Cancer Patients: Is it SaFe2+?

The feasibility of the large, single-dose intravenous iron repletion method, which is known today as total dose infusion (TDI), has been demonstrated over decades. However, this method of iron repletion was chiefly developed for patients with large iron deficits, such as those with pregnancy-induced anemia, chronic bleeding disorders, and absolute iron-deficiency anemia (serum ferritin < 30 ng/mL, transferrin saturation < 15%) who were unable to receive frequent small doses of intravenous iron. Today, 50 years after the advent of TDI, more is known about iron metabolism and storage, but the optimal dosing strategy for intravenous iron in patients with cancer is still not well defined. The proinflammatory state of cancer, or its treatment, may influence the response to intravenous iron therapy. Additionally, the long-term adverse effects of large single doses or smaller more frequent doses have yet to be studied in the oncology population. Historically, safety concerns surrounding the administration of intravenous iron have centered on anaphylaxis. Newer concerns are being raised, such as oxidative stress, iron overload, venous thromboembolism, infection risk, and tumor growth. Therefore, with the original premise of TDI assuming low levels of inflammation, coupled with the recent data surrounding the adverse effects of blood transfusions and erythropoietic-stimulating agents, this article reviews the risks and benefits of TDI administration specifically for patients with cancer.
Common dorsal stream substrates for the mapping of surface texture to object parts and visual spatial processing

Everyday objects are often composed of multiple parts, each with a unique surface texture. The neural substrates mediating the integration of surface features on different object parts are not fully understood, and potential contributions by both the ventral and dorsal visual pathways are possible. To explore these substrates, we collected fMRI data while human participants performed a difference detection task on two objects with textured parts. The objects could either differ in the assignment of the same texture to different object parts "texture-location" or the types of texture "texture-type". In the ventral stream, comparable BOLD activation levels were observed in response to texture-location and texture-type differences. In contrast, in a priori localized spatial processing regions of the dorsal stream, activation was greater for texture-location than texture-type differences, and the magnitude of the activation correlated with behavioral performance. We confirmed the reliance of surface texture to object part mapping on spatial processing mechanisms in subsequent psychophysical experiments, in which participants detected a difference in the spatial distance of an object relative to a reference line. In this task, distracter objects occasionally appeared, which differed in either texture-location or texture-type. Distracter texture-location differences slowed detection of spatial distance differences, but texture-type differences did not. More importantly, the distracter effects were only observed when texture-location differences were presented within whole shapes and not between separated shape parts at distinct spatial locations. We conclude that both the mapping of texture features to object parts and the representation of object spatial position are mediated by common neural substrates within the dorsal visual pathway.
Purification and Analysis of Bilirubin

Pure crystalline bilirubin was isolated from human, calf, hog, and dog gallbladder bile and compared with commercially-available materials. All may be purified by recrystallization from pyridine. The extinction coefficient in chloroform is 60,000-61,000 at 450-453 mµ. Standardization of the analytical "azobilirubin" (van den Bergh) reaction may be based on aqueous alkaline solutions of bilirubin. Paper chromatography of azobilirubins derived from various sources of bilirubin showed identical patterns.
Multiframe restoration with a likelihood-based method

We achieve the reconstruction of a high-resolution object from multiple blurred, noisy, and shifted low-resolution images using the likelihood-based 2D4 algorithm. We demonstrate the performance benefits of 2D4 over a non-linear and optimal linear method.
Lung cancer risk of low-level exposures to alpha emitters: critical reappraisal and experiments based on a new cytodynamic model

Ecologic U.S. county data suggest negative associations between residential radon exposure and lung cancer mortality (LCM)-inconsistent with clearly positive associations revealed by occupational data on individual miners, but perhaps explained by competing effects of cell killing vs. mutations in alpha-exposed bronchial epithelium. To assess the latter possibility, a biologically based �cytodynamic 2-stage� (CD2) cancer-risk model was fit to combined 1950-54 age- specific person-year data on lung cancer mortality (LCM) in white females of age 40+ y in 2,821 U.S. counties (-90% never-smokers), and in 5 cohorts of underground miners who never smoked. New estimates of household annual average radon exposure in U.S. counties were used, which were found to have a significant negative ecologic association with 1950-54 LCM in U.S. white females, adjusted for age and all subsets of two among 21 socioeconomic, climatic and other factors considered. A good CD2 fit was obtained to the combined residential/miner data, using biologically plausible parameter values. Without further optimization, the fit also predicted independent inverse dose-rate effects shown (for the first time) to occur in nonsmoking miners. Using the same U.S. county-level LCM data, a separate study revealed a positive ecologic association between LCM and bituminous coal use in the U.S., in agreement with epidemiological data on LCM in women in China. The modeling results obtained are consistent with the CD2-based hypothesis that residential radon exposure has a nonlinear U-shaped relation to LCM risk, and that current linear no-threshold extrapolation models substantially overestimate such risk. A U-shaped dose-response corresponds to a CD2-model prediction that alpha radiation kills more premalignant cells than it generates at low exposure levels, but not at higher levels. To test this hypothesis, groups of Japanese medaka (ricefish minnows) were exposed for 10 to 14 weeks to different concentrations of aqueous radon; histological and quantitative-morphometry analysis of proliferative (premalignant) foci in livers from these fish are currently being completed.
Intelligence, but not emotional intelligence, predicts Iowa Gambling Task performance

Abstract The Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) is a famous and frequently-used neuropsychological task that is thought to reflect real-world decision-making. There has been some debate, however, about the degree to which the IGT involves cold (cognitive) versus hot (emotional) processing. The present study incorporated 68 healthy individuals and used measures of cognitive intelligence (IQ) and emotional intelligence (EIQ) to predict IGT performance. Higher IQ scores significantly predicted better IGT performance, whereas no EIQ–IGT relationship was observed. The implications of this research on clinical and experimental use of the IGT are outlined.
Cell interactions in the developing epidermis of the leech Helobdella triserialis

In embryonic development of the leech Helobdella triserialis, each of the four paired ectodermal teloblasts contributes some progeny to a characteristic dorsal or ventral territory of the epidermis. To ascertain the relative roles of cell lineage and cell interactions in generating the highly regular epidermal distribution pattern of the various ectodermal cell lines, a series of experiments was carried out in which the ablation of particular teloblasts was combined with the intracellular injection of cell lineage tracers. The results showed that, after the ablation of an OP proteloblast, or of an O, P, or Q teloblast, the epidermal progeny of the remaining ipsilateral and contralateral teloblasts spread into the territory normally occupied by the epidermal progeny of the ablated teloblast. In this spreading process, cells may cross the ventral midline but not the dorsal midline. The spread of epidermal progeny of one teloblast in response to ablation of another teloblast is contrasted with the failure of the neuronal progeny of one teloblast to replace any missing neural tissue. It appears, therefore, that all epidermal cell lines are of equal developmental potential, regardless of their teloblast of origin, with the eventual location of any epidermal cell in the body wall being governed by interactions between cells within the developing epidermis.
Balancing an insurance portfolio by class of business

Abstract The paper considers the benefits to be gained from diversification of an insurance operation into a number of classes of business. This is formulated mathematically. It is assumed that the insurer's objective is to maximize increase in utility of wealth over the period up to his planning horizon (Section 2). Several forms of solution of this problem are considered (Section 3). In particular, it is found that there is no benefit in diversification if the parameters characterizing the stochastic properties of the claims of each class of business are known with certainty. In these circumstances, utility is maximized by underwriting all premium in that class of business projected to produce the greatest profitability. It is also seen that, unless the concept of the insurer's risk aversion is incorporated somehow, for example by means of a utility function, no benefits from diversification appear (Section 5.2). The benefits of diversification arise from uncertainty concerning the basic parameters of the claims process in the various classes of business. A parallel with the concepts of diversifiable and undiversifiable risk from Modern Portfolio Theory is pointed out (Section 4). A measure of the balance achieved within a portfolio is constructed. A somewhat simplified version of the problem is considered in Section 5, and an explicit algebraic solution obtained. Of the total budgeted premium to be underwritten in a particular year, the solution prescribes the percentages to be underwritten in the various classes of business. The solution depends upon the projected profitability and the parameters underlying the claims process in each of the classes. Some verbal interpretation of the algebraic solution is provided. That solution is applied to a realistic numerical example (Section 6). The apportionment of total budget premium by class of business arrived at in the numerical example is compared with the actual budget of a particular insurer. A number of qualifying remarks concerning the application of the results of the paper are made in Section 7.
Dissolution kinetics of dolomite: Effects of lithology and fluid flow velocity

Abstract The dissolution kinetics of three stoichiometric dolomite specimens (hydrothermal single crystal, microcrystalline sedimentary rock, coarse-grained marble) were studied in aqueous carbonate solutions. Hydrodynamic conditions were controlled through use of a rotating dolomite disk in which one face was exposed to solution and fluid flow regime was defined by spinning rate. The resulting mass transfer properties were uniform across the disk surface. The dissolution experiments were begun at an initially undersaturated condition set by CO2 at ~ 1 atm dissolved in deionized water. The reaction was followed by measuring concentrations of Ca2+, Mg2+, HCO3−, and pH over time in a free-drift type of experiment at 0, 15, and 25°C. Dissolution rates for all three samples were similar in form and value; grain size effects were insignificant. Ca/Mg was constant throughout each run at 0.81–0.96. From initial conditions, the dissolution rate decreased as the solution became more saturated. At solution conditions still far from equilibrium (ion activity product = 10−19), rate dropped off sharply to a very low value. Surface morphology, determined by SEM, showed deep narrow holes in the single crystal, while the rocks dissolved along grain boundaries. These features suggested preferential dissolution of energetically favored sites and surface reaction rate control. Initial rates were used to calculate an apparent activation energy of 32 kJ mol−1 (sedimentary dolomite) and 27 kJ mol−1 (single crystal). Initial dissolution rates at 25°C and pH ~ 4 for all samples varied with spinning speed and ranged from 1–3 μmol m−2 s−1 for laminar flow conditions to almost 3–6 μmol m−2 s−1 as the transition to turbulence began. At lower temperatures, the rate was lower, and increasing spinning velocity had less effect. The strongest spinning rate dependence occurred far from equilibrium, and it became a less important factor as the saturation state increased.
Two Models of the Two Truths: Ontological and Phenomenological Approaches

Mipam (‘ju mi pham rgya mtsho, 1846–1912), an architect of the Nyingma (rnying ma) tradition of Tibet in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, articulates two distinct models of the two truths that are respectively reflected in Madhyamaka and Yogācāra Buddhist traditions. The way he positions these two models sheds light on how levels of description are at play in his integration of these traditions. Mipam positions one kind of two-truth model as the product of an ontological analysis while another model can be seen as resulting from a phenomenological reduction. He accommodates both models into his systematic interpretation, and for him, each one has an important role to play in coming to understand the nature of the Buddhist truths of emptiness and Buddha-nature. Since each model reflects a different style of analysis, or a different perspective on truth, his presentation reveals how neither model alone has the last word on the nature of what is and how it is experienced. This paper analyzes the means by which he lays out these two models of the two truths, and explores the implications of their integration in his philosophical works. A primary concern for Mipam, and a factor that guides his attempt to integrate these two approaches to truth, is his aim to both induce authentic experience and true knowledge on the one hand, and represent reality and the experience of it on the other. These competing and complimentary objectives are a central focus around which both styles of critical reflection, and both models of the two truths, revolve.
Expression cloning of a novel farnesylated protein, RDJ2, encoding a DnaJ protein homologue.

Abstract The CAAX farnesyltransferase is a heterodimeric enzyme that attaches a farnesyl group to a single cysteine in cellular proteins which terminate in the sequence CAAX, where C is cysteine, A is an aliphatic amino acid, and X is most often methionine or serine. Substrates include the p21 ras proteins, nuclear lamins, and a series of retinal proteins. To date, a limited number of substrates for the farnesyltransferase have been identified, predominantly by demonstration of the attachment of a farnesyl group to previously identified cDNA clones which encode proteins containing an appropriate carboxyl-terminal tetrapeptide. We describe here the use of a cDNA fusion protein expression library, together with enzymatic in vitro [ 3 H]farnesyl radiolabeling, as a means of identifying novel farnesylated proteins. One candidate cDNA was fully cloned and found to be a homologue of the Escherichia coli heat shock gene dnaJ. The predicted amino acid sequence of this protein was found to terminate with the tetrapeptide Cys-Ala-His-Gln, which conforms to the consensus sequence for recognition by farnesyltransferase, and was shown to undergo in vivo farnesylation. This farnesylated protein, designated RDJ2 (rat DnaJ homologue 2), is a novel and ubiquitously expressed DnaJ homologue and is the newest member of the subfamily of DnaJ-related proteins which are posttranslationally modified by protein farnesylation.
Comparison of turnover in the olfactory organ of early juvenile stage and adult Caribbean spiny lobsters

Proliferation and turnover of neurons occurs in the olfactory systems of many animals. In this study, we examined developmental changes in turnover in the olfactory organ of the Caribbean spiny lobster Panulirus argus by examining two life-history stages-early juveniles and young adults. Turnover was compared using external morphology of the olfactory organ before and after molting to determine addition and loss of aesthetascs and other chemosensilla, and BrdU labeling to identify newly proliferated cells. The number of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) innervating each aesthetasc increased only slightly over development, but there was a net increase of olfactory sensory units (i.e. aesthetascs and their ORNs) at each molt. This increase was similar in early juveniles and young adults when expressed as absolute number of ORNs neurons but greater in early juveniles when expressed as a proportion of existing ORNs. The net increase in olfactory sensory units in early juveniles is due solely to addition, since virtually no aesthetascs are lost. In contrast, the net increase in olfactory sensory units in adults reflects addition of new units accompanied by considerable loss of old units. These developmental changes result in expansive enlargement of the olfactory organ without turnover in early juveniles, and a more modest growth combined with continuous turnover and replenishment of ORNs in adults.
Propaganda and rush Limbaugh: Is the label the last word?

A content analysis measured the performance of much‐labeled talk show host Rush Limbaugh against traditional and modem standards of propaganda. A month of Limbaugh's syndicated radio program was recorded off air. The tapes were randomly sampled for topic segments defined as the units of analysis. Trained coders working in pairs rated each sampled segment on 40 questions, grouped to test seven hypotheses about Rush Limbaugh's performance, and t‐tests were used to test the variance of scores from the neutral median. Although Limbaugh was not found to use the majority of traditional and modem propaganda techniques or to conceal the source and purpose of the ideas he presented, he was found to have a political agenda, to espouse that agenda openly, and to employ a minority of propaganda techniques. The findings support the notion that analysis of the message source, individual techniques of presentation, and the totality of the message may be more important to effective understanding than the assigning of labels.
Biomimetic Total Synthesis of Bisorbicillinol, Bisorbibutenolide, Trichodimerol, and Designed Analogues of the Bisorbicillinoids

The bisorbicillinoids are a growing class of novel natural products endowed with unique biological activity and are associated with fascinating hypotheses for their biosynthesis. A full account of our biomimetic explorations toward the bisorbicillinoids including the total syntheses of bisorbicillinol (1), bisorbibutenolide (2), and trichodimerol (4) from sorbicillin (3) is disclosed. Utilizing the novel dimerization reactions discovered and fine-tuned en route to 1 and 4, several analogues of these natural products have been synthesized. Furthermore, studies on the scope of these novel cycloaddition reactions and the isolation of a number of unexpected products along with proposed mechanisms for their formation are reported. These findings add to our knowledge of the largely unexplored chemistry of o-quinols and related aromatic systems.
Histamine Augments Leukocyte Adenosine 3',5'-Monophosphate and Blocks Antigenic Histamine Release

Extracellular histamine stimulates accumulation of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate in human leukocytes and prevents antigenic release of histamine from cells of allergic donors. Both effects occur at histamine concentrations that can be achieved by antigenic release of the amine in vitro.
Leveraging architectural models to inject trust into software systems

Existing software systems have become increasingly durable and their lifetimes have significantly lengthened. They are increasingly distributed and decentralized. Our dependence on them has grown tremendously. As such, the issues of trustworthiness and security have become prime concerns in designing, constructing, and evolving software systems. However, the exact meanings of these concepts are not universally agreed upon, nor is their role in the different phases of the software development lifecycle. In this paper, we argue that trustworthiness is a more broadly encompassing term than security, and that the two are often interdependent. We then identify a set of dimensions of trustworthiness. Finally, we analyze how the key elements of a software system's architecture can be leveraged in support of those trustworthiness dimensions. Our ultimate goal is to apply these ideas in the context of a concrete software architecture project. The goal of this paper is more modest: to understand the problem area and its relation to software architecture.
An old friendship revisited: plastic surgery and transplantation.

Plastic surgery has a rich history in the development of the field of transplantation. Many prominent plastic surgeons, while undertaking experimental as well as clinical efforts, pioneered and assisted in the establishment of journals and societies devoted exclusively to the field of transplantation. Much of this work was initiated during World War 11, a time when transplantation was viewed with suspicion by both scientists and clinicians. While work in this area has undergone a quiescence among members of our specialty, advances in microsurgery and immunology have rekindled interest among plastic surgeons.
Laser-assisted anastomosis of dog uterine horn: a preliminary study

To evaluate the feasibility of using laser energy in fallopian tube reconstruction, laser assisted anastomosis of dog uterine horn was performed under general anesthesia and compared to conventional suture technique on the contralateral side. Similar degrees of external tissue adhesion were found. However, on the laser sides smoother scars, uniform mucosal surfaces, and significantly less stricture were noted. Histological evaluation also demonstrated the superiority of laser assisted anastomosis as compared to the conventional suture technique. These results suggest that laser assisted anastomosis with a thermal activated binding compound would be a superior method for fallopian tube reconstruction providing better healing of the mucosal surface and significantly less tubal stricture.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effect of bromination on the thermal properties of poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide)

The thermal behavior of poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenyiene oxide) (PPO R resin), poly(3-bromo-2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide), and a series of their statistical copolymers with identical average molecular lengths has been characterized by thermogravimetry and computer-interfaced differential scanning calorimetry. The heat capacities are found to be additive with respect to the concentrations of the two components. The change in heat capacity at the glass transition (Δ Cp) is independent of composition for bromination of up to 75% of the repeat units. At higher bromine levelsΔ Cp decreases abruptly. This behavior is attributed to the temperature dependence ofΔ Cp for the two components. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the copolymers varies nearly linearly with composition. A comparison of the experimental values ofTg is made with various equations derived for statistical copolymers and homogeneous polymer blends. A modification of the Couchman equation is presented taking into account the temperature dependence ofΔCp.
Kidney disease associated with plasma cell dyscrasias

Plasma cell dyscrasias are frequently encountered malignancies often associated with kidney disease through the production of monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig). Paraproteins can cause a remarkably diverse set of pathologic patterns in the kidney and recent progress has been made in explaining the molecular mechanisms of paraprotein-mediated kidney injury. Other recent advances in the field include the introduction of an assay for free light chains and the use of novel antiplasma cell agents that can reverse renal failure in some cases. The role of stem cell transplantation, plasma exchange, and kidney transplantation in the management of patients with paraprotein-related kidney disease continues to evolve.
Missense Mutation in the USH2A Gene: Association with Recessive Retinitis Pigmentosa without Hearing Loss

Microdeletions Glu767(1-bp del), Thr967(1-bp del), and Leu1446(2-bp del) in the human USH2A gene have been reported to cause Usher syndrome type II, a disorder characterized by retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and mild-to-severe hearing loss. Each of these three frameshift mutations is predicted to lead to an unstable mRNA transcript that, if translated, would result in a truncated protein lacking the carboxy terminus. Here, we report Cys759Phe, a novel missense mutation in this gene that changes an amino-acid residue within the fifth laminin–epidermal growth factor–like domain of the USH2A gene and that is associated with recessive RP without hearing loss. This single mutation was found in 4.5% of 224 patients with recessive RP, suggesting that USH2A could cause more cases of nonsyndromic recessive RP than does any other gene identified to date.
SILICON-BASED HALF-METAL: METAL-ENCAPSULATED SILICON NANOTUBE

We performed first-principles calculation to show that a host–guest silicon nanostructure can exhibit half-metallic properties, wherein the host is a single-walled hexagonal silicon nanotube while the guest is a hybrid atomic chain of Mn and Co (encapsulated in the host nanotube). The calculated electronic band structures indicate that the Fermi level intersects only in the spin-up band, whereas the spin-down band exhibits semiconducting characteristics.
The detection of four molecular forms of human transferrin during the iron binding process

Abstract Human transferrin has been separated into four molecular forms by electrophoresis in a medium containing 6 M urea and a Tris/borate/EDTA, pH 8.4, buffer. The separation of these forms correlates directly with the amount of iron bound by the transferrin: iron free transferrin, iron bound only to site A of transferrin, iron bound only to site B of transferrin and iron bound to both iron binding sites of transferrin. The molecular basis for the electrophoretic separation of human transferrin into four molecular forms is complex and incompletely defined at this time. However, this separation appears to be related to two phenomena observed in this work and by other investigators: (1) the increase in protein stability as iron is bound to transferrin and (2) the assymetrical distribution of amino acids in the transferrin molecule. Whatever the exact reason, the observed phenomenon has potential use in further evaluation of both the physicochemical and physiological processes in which transferrin participates.
Bridging the gap between Maxwell and Boltzmann theories for light migration in model biomedia

We investigate the validity of the Boltzmann equation by directly comparing its solution with the ensemble averaged Maxwell solution for a system of randomly arranged plane parallel dielectric layers. We show how the calculation of the usual Boltzmann scattering coefficient from microscopic parameters can be improved to permit a better agreement with the exact Maxwell data.
The location of active site opening and closing events in the prehydride transfer phase of the oxidative deamination reaction catalyzed by bovine liver glutamate dehydrogenase using a novel pH jump approach

A pH jump approach has been developed and used to locate the opening and closing events occurring in the time course of the beef liver glutamate dehydrogenase catalyzed reaction. A comparison of the pH jump results, the resolved component time courses, and the 340 nm fluorescence signal suggests the existence and location on the reaction time course of a previously unreported prehydride transfer complex.
Comparison of quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics dimerization energy landscapes for pairs of ring-containing amino acids in proteins

A promising approach to developing improved potential functions for modeling macromolecular interactions consists of combining protein structural analysis, quantum mechanical calculations on small molecule models, and molecular mechanics potential decomposition. Here we apply this approach to the interactions of pairs of ring-containing amino acids in proteins. We find reasonable qualitative agreement between molecular mechanics and quantum chemistry calculations, both over one-dimensional projections of the binding free energy landscape for amino acid homodimers and over a set of homodimers and heterodimers from experimentally observed protein crystal structures. The molecular mechanics landscapes are a sum of charge−charge and Lennard−Jones contributions; short-range quantum mechanical effects such as charge transfer appear not to be significant in ring side chain interactions. We also find a reasonable degree of correlation between the molecular mechanics energy landscapes and the distributions of dime...
The effect of pre-ECLS ventilation time on survival and respiratory morbidity in the neonatal population.

Abstract Although mechanical ventilation for more than 7 to 10 days has been considered a contraindication to the application of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in neonates, the outcome and respiratory morbidity for newborns placed on ECLS after more than 7 days of ventilation have not been well characterized. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of pre-ECLS ventilation time on the rate of survival, the likelihood of the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and the need for supplemental oxygen at the time of discharge. Examination of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) Registry showed that 6,110 neonates were treated for respiratory failure with a pre-ECLS ventilation time of less than 14 days between January 1990 and May 1995. Gestational age (GA), birth weight (BW), indication for ECLS, and diagnosis were compared with the rate of survival, the discharge diagnosis of BPD, and the need for home oxygen. The GA and BW of neonates placed on ECLS during the first week of life (n = 5,888) did not differ significantly from those of neonates whose ECLS was begun in the second week of life (n = 222). The neonates were divided into two groups (early, ventilation time of 3 to 6 days; late, ventilation time of 7 to 10 days) to determine the odds ratios for survival, BPD, and home oxygen. Logistic regression analysis was used to develop a model to predict the rate of survival, the risk for the development of BPD, and the need for home oxygen given the length of pre-ECLS ventilation time. The late group was less likely to survive (odds ratio, 1.8; 95% confidence interval [Cl], 1.21 to 2.68). The late group also had approximately twice the risk for the development of BPD (odds ratio, 1.9; 95% Cl, 1.2 to 3.04) and a trend toward an increased incidence of home oxygen use (odds ratio, 1.55; 95% Cl, 0.92 to 2.60). The authors conclude that (1) there is a greater risk of mortality and BPD and a trend toward an increased need for home oxygen with increased time on the ventilator before ECLS; (2) at 14 days the predicted probability of survival is still 53% (95% Cl, 31% to 74%); (3) at 14 days the predicted probability of BPD is 54% (95% Cl, 28% to 78%); and (4) based on these data, it is reasonable to consider application of ECLS to patients who have had mechanical ventilation for up to 14 days.
The IUE Spectra of the O VI Sequence Planetary Nebulae NGC 2452, NGC 7026, M3-30, and Lo 4

We present emission-line fluxes for NGC 2452, NGC 7026, M3-30, and Lo 4 from IUE low-dispersion spectra that have been processed by the New Spectral Image Processing System (NEWSIPS). For NGC 2452, a terminal wind velocity of -4200 ± 300 km s-1 was determined from the C IV λ1549 P Cygni profile, while that of NGC 7026 is -4600 ± 300 km s-1, and -4800 ± 400 km s-1 for M3-30. The spectrum of Lo 4 is a stellar continuum with some absorptions and a questionable C IV λ1549 feature.
K-6 Bilingual Programs in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area

Abstract This article describes three programs currently in place in an elementary school which is located in a large urban school district in the southwest. This elementary school, which is located in a predominantly Latino working-class neighborhood, serves 1375 students, 65 percent (900) of whom are limited English proficient. Each of the following three programs are described: (1) Full Bilingual, (2) Modified Bilingual, and (3) English Language Development. The article further describes aspects of each of these programs including instructional strategies (e.g. sheltered instruction, ESL methods and techniques, and whole language approaches). A new experimental configuration, the bilingual ungraded K-4 instruction, is also discussed in this article together with information regarding the role of parents and teachers' backgrounds. The report concludes with a discussion of the successes of the bilingual programs together with some comments and recommendations for future improvements.
Requirement of TCTG(G/C) Direct Repeats and Overlapping GATA Site for Maintaining the Cardiac-Specific Expression of Cardiac troponin T in Developing and Adult Mice

The cardiac-specific -497 bp promoter of rat cardiac troponin T (cTnT) contains two similar modules, D and F, each of which possesses TCTG(G/C) direct repeats and A/T-rich sites. To identify cis-elements critical for cardiac specificity, a -249 bp promoter containing only module F and its site-directed mutations were used to generate transgenic mice. Transgene expression of the -249 bp promoter remained cardiac-specific, despite low and nonuniform expression. The nonuniform expression pattern of the transgene coincided with differential expression of HMGB1, which appeared to be the predominant form of HMGB family proteins in the heart. The HMGB1 binds to the A/T-rich/MEF2-like sites of the cTnT promoter, as determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Mice carrying the -249 bp promoter with point mutations disrupting the direct repeats expressed transgene at lower levels in the heart and ectopically in the brain. Ectopic expression of transgene was also observed in developing limbs and head. These results suggest an important role for the direct repeat in determining the cardiac specificity. Furthermore, mice carrying a mutant promoter simultaneously disrupting the direct repeats and overlapping GATA site failed to express the transgene in any tissues tested. Therefore, the direct repeat and overlapping GATA site are critical for the expression level and cardiac specificity. The F module controls one level of cardiac specificity. For a uniform and high level of cardiac-specific expression, the upstream element (-497 to -250 bp) is further required, possibly through the D enhancer module and the combination of Nkx2.5 and GATA sites.
The cigarette smoke component acrolein inhibits expression of the innate immune components IL-8 and human beta-defensin 2 by sinonasal epithelial cells.

Background Tobacco use is associated with poorer outcomes of medical and surgical therapy for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), although the underlying mechanism is unknown. Acrolein (AC) is a major component of cigarette smoke that has been shown to suppress innate immune gene expression by human bronchial epithelial cells and murine macrophages. In this study, we explore whether exposure of human sinonasal epithelial cells (HSNECs) to AC similarly reduces their innate immune gene expression. Methods Primary HSNECs from CRS patients were grown in culture, either differentiated or submerged. HSNECs were treated for 30 minutes with 0-50 microM of AC and were subsequently analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and ELISA to determine IL-8 and human beta-defensin (HBD) 2 expression. Total glutathione was measured to see the oxidative stress within the treatment range. Results In primary HSNEC, IL-8 mRNA levels decreased dose dependently in the range of 10-50 microM of AC with an eightfold decrease at 50 microM. In addition, a 125-fold decrease at 50 microM for IL-8 protein was observed. HBD-2 mRNA decreased twofold and HBD-2 protein decreased fourfold at 50 microM of AC in primary HSNEC. However, differentiated HSNEC showed a marginal decrease in a dose-dependent manner for both IL-8 and HBD-2 within the range of 10-50 microM of AC. There was no oxidative stress observed over this range of AC concentration. Conclusion The tobacco smoke component AC has the capacity to suppress the inflammatory and innate immune function of sinonasal epithelial cells. Whether this effect contributes to the negative clinical impact of smoking on CRS outcomes merits additional investigation.
Use of a Mixed-Mode Packing and Voltage Tuning for Peptide Mixture Separation in Pressurized Capillary Electrochromatography with an Ion Trap Storage/Reflectron Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer Detector

A mixed-mode (reversed-phase/anion-exchange) stationary phase has been used as the capillary column packing for investigation of the separation of peptide mixtures in pressurized capillary electrochromatography (pCEC). This stationary phase contains both octadecylsilanes and dialkylamines. The amine groups of the stationary phase determine the charge density on the surface of the packing and can produce a strong and constant electroosmotic flow (EOF) at low pH. A comparison was made in terms of the capability of separating tryptic digests between the mixed-mode phase and C18 reversed phase. In addition, the constant EOF enabled the tuning of the retention and the selectivity of the separation by adjusting the mobile phase pH from 2 to 5. Furthermore, the magnitude and the polarity of the electric voltage were demonstrated to greatly influence the elution profiles of the peptides in pCEC. An ion trap storage/reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer was used as an on-line detector in these experiments due to its ability to provide rapid and accurate mass detection of the sample components eluting from the separation column.
Toward single-cycle pulse generation in single-crystal diamond

We generate a broad band of frequency sidebands by focusing two infrared beams non-collinearly into diamond. We use a pulse shaper to adjust phases across the spectrum of 3 sidebands and obtain 13 fs pulses.
Opercular cyst formation in trout infected with Myxosoma cerebralis.

External opercular cysts were observed in cutthroat trout, Salmo clarki henshawii affected with whirling disease. Microscopic examination of the cysts revealed numerous spores of Myxosoma cerebralis in their lumen and walls. Rupture of these cysts may provide a method of whirling disease transmission from live infected fish.
Effects of nitrogen fertilization on growth and yield of cassava in Hawaii: II dry matter production and efficiency of partitioning

Abstract A field experiment was conducted in 1987 on a Vertic Haplustoll on the Island of Oahu (Hawaii) to study dry matter production and efficiency of dry matter partitioning of cassava grown under increasing rates of applied nitrogen (N) (0, 50, 100, and 150 kg N/ha). A series of biomass harvests were collected throughout the growing season to examine the effects of differential N regimes on top and root growth. Although plant growth was partially stunted by waterlogging, N fertilization increased significantly top and total plant dry matter production but decreased the proportion of dry matter allocated to roots. The maximum dry matter partitioning ratio for roots (root dry weight/total dry weight) was 0.28 for the 150 kg N rate vs. 0.44 for the control (0 kg N). The sink capacity of branches was enhanced greatly by N fertilization; at the high N rates the proportion of dry matter allocated to branches increased almost linearly over time. The maximum dry matter partitioning ratio for branches (branch ...
Myeloid IKKβ Promotes Antitumor Immunity by Modulating CCL11 and the Innate Immune Response

Myeloid cells are capable of promoting or eradicating tumor cells and the nodal functions that contribute to their different roles are still obscure. Here, we show that mice with myeloid-specific genetic loss of the NF-κB pathway regulatory kinase IKKβ exhibit more rapid growth of cutaneous and lung melanoma tumors. In a BRAF(V600E/PTEN(-/-)) allograft model, IKKβ loss in macrophages reduced recruitment of myeloid cells into the tumor, lowered expression of MHC class II molecules, and enhanced production of the chemokine CCL11, thereby negatively regulating dendritic-cell maturation. Elevated serum and tissue levels of CCL11 mediated suppression of dendritic-cell differentiation/maturation within the tumor microenvironment, skewing it toward a Th2 immune response and impairing CD8(+) T cell-mediated tumor cell lysis. Depleting macrophages or CD8(+) T cells in mice with wild-type IKKβ myeloid cells enhanced tumor growth, where the myeloid cell response was used to mediate antitumor immunity against melanoma tumors (with less dependency on a CD8(+) T-cell response). In contrast, myeloid cells deficient in IKKβ were compromised in tumor cell lysis, based on their reduced ability to phagocytize and digest tumor cells. Thus, mice with continuous IKKβ signaling in myeloid-lineage cells (IKKβ(CA)) exhibited enhanced antitumor immunity and reduced melanoma outgrowth. Collectively, our results illuminate new mechanisms through which NF-κB signaling in myeloid cells promotes innate tumor surveillance.
A multilayered neural net controller using direct learning algorithm

Abstract This paper describes a recent study on the application of neural networks to dynamic system control. We consider two learning algorithms: the error backpropagation algorithm and the parallel recursive prediction error algorithm. The proposed method is an on-line approach of a multilayered neural network controller which does not require any information about the system dynamics. Lengthy training of the controller might be eliminated using the proposed approach. The implementation aspects of the proposed approaches to dynamic system control are discussed by case studies.
Modification of galactose and N -acetylgalactosamine residues by oxidation of C-6 hydroxyls to the aldehydes followed by reductive amination: Model systems and antifreeze glycoproteins

Amino acids and peptides have been attached to the C-6 hydroxyls of the galactose and the N-acetylgalactosamine by first oxidizing the C-6 hydroxyls to the aldehydes by galactose oxidase in the presence of small amounts of catalase, followed by reductive amination (alpha-amino group) in the presence of cyanoborohydride. The activity of oxidized antifreeze glycoprotein was greater than 70% of the original, and considerable activity has been retained with some substitutions on reductive amination using cyanoborohydride. The following were some activities retained (as compared with the oxidized antifreeze glycoprotein): Gly, 64; (Gly)2, 88; (Gly)3, 82; (Gly)4, 70; Gly-Gly-NH2, 44; Gly-Glu, 13; Gly-Leu, 40; Gly-Tyr, 57; Gly-Gly-Leu, 50; Gly-Gly-Phe, 30; and Gly-Gly-Val, 35. On amino acid analysis of acid hydrolysates, some release of the amino acid attached by amination occurred; e.g., Gly-Tyr gave 0.26 Gly and 0.49 Tyr per disaccharide.
Offshore Installation of Welded Pipe: Local Buckling Evaluation

Up to the present, most of the pipes used in offshore applications installed with methods introducing plastic deformation have been seamless pipes; however, welded pipes can also be used. Welded pipes offers benefits over seamless pipe in terms of improved lead times, lower project costs, tighter dimensional tolerance and good control of mechanical properties and chemistry resulting in excellent weldability. During installation of welded pipes, failure by fracture, plastic collapse and local buckling may occur. In this work, the occurrence of the local buckling phenomenon, produced during the installation method, was evaluated. Numerical models were developed to study the effect of materials and geometrical parameters on the local bucking of pipes subjected to bending. Specifically, the loads and strains at which the plastic instability occurs were determined for each particular condition. In addition, the influence of longitudinal and girth welds on the local bucking occurrence was assessed.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Radiotherapy for histiocytic sarcoma: a case report

BackgroundHistiocystic sarcoma is a rare, but aggressive tumour that often involves extranodal sites. Histiocystic sarcoma is recognised by the World Health Organization as one of six subtypes of dendritic cell neoplasms. Diagnosis is difficult due to overlapping immunohistochemistry with other dendritic cell neoplasms. The optimal roles for chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery in the treatment of histiocytic sarcoma remain unknown.MethodsWe report a case of a patient with histiocytic sarcoma diagnosed after excisional biopsy and immunohistochemistry testing.ResultsThe patient underwent external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). After 18 Gray (Gy), the 8 cm lesion had regressed to ~5 cm in diameter. The treatments were continued to a total dose of 45 Gy with the lesion regressing to less than a centimeter by the end of treatment. Local control was maintained but the patient died of acute myelogenous leukemia 5 months after her treatment.ConclusionsThis case suggests that histicytic sarcomas can be controlled locally with EBRT.
ADMET Synthesis of Polyolefins Targeted for Biological Applications

A series of “N-terminus” amino acid and peptide branched, chiral polyolefins, termed bio-olefins, have been prepared using acyclic diene metathesis (ADMET) polycondensation chemistry, using a minim...
Patterns and Dynamics of SVZ Cell Migration in the Postnatal Forebrain: Monitoring Living Progenitors in Slice Preparations

Glial progenitors colonize the CNS widely in the perinatal period, but the pathways and mechanisms of migration are not well understood. We investigated the migration of progenitors from the neonatal rat forebrain subventricular zone (SVZ) by labeling them in vivo with a retrovirus encoding green fluorescent protein and visualizing movements by time lapse microscopy in slices. Cells within the dorsolateral SVZ moved in an undirected fashion but migrated radially and tangentially after emigration into white matter, cortex, and striatum. Cells in the striatal SVZ migrated parallel to the ventricular surface. During migration, elongation of the leading process and nuclear translocation were independent or linked. Orthogonal turning involved either cessation of cell body movement and formation of a new leading process or continuous cell body movement and bending of the leading process.
Immunopathology of Schistosoma japonicum infection in athymic mice

Summary Athymic (nu/nu) mice and heterozgous littermate controls (nu/+) were examined 7 and 10 weeks after infection with 10 cercariae of Schistosoma japonicum. Schistosome infection developed normally in both groups of mice and eggs were produced in normal numbers. Nu/nu mice developed small circumoval granulomas with minimal fibrosis while nu/+ mice developed large fibrotic granulomas. Unlike the mononuclear responses to S. mansoni eggs at 7 weeks, those to S. japonicum often were abscess like with narrow rims of liver cell necrosis or microvesicular fatty change. However, evolving granulomas in nu/+ mice were enriched with eosinophils, epithelioid macrophages, immature granulocytes and plasma cells, all scarce in the corresponding nu/nu lesions as were fibroblasts and collagen fibres, thus accounting for their smaller mean size and better healing. Our aggregate evidence shows that normal granuloma formation and cellularity in S. japonicum infection is controlled by T-cells as is the case for S. mansoni, and not by antibodies or immune complexes.