cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neuropeptide signaling remodels chemosensory circuit composition in Caenorhabditis elegans.

The authors describe a sensory context–dependent switch in a salt sensory circuit in C. elegans. In response to large changes in salt concentration, the ASE sensory neuron releases insulin-like peptides that switch the AWC olfactory sensory neuron into an interneuron in the salt circuit. Disrupting insulin signaling interferes with attraction to high concentrations of salt.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation: pregnant women are different.

Although cardiopulmonary arrest rarely occurs in the pregnant woman, it is important that the health care team know the appropriate actions to take in such an event to promate positive outcomes for both mother and fetus. Specific techniques, personnel, and equipment are required to manage this grave
Atrial natriuretic peptide and blood pressure in a population-based sample.

Objective To assess the relationship of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels with blood pressure levels and the occurrence of hypertension in a large population-based sample. Design We performed a cross-sectional study of the relationship between ANP levels and blood pressure levels, diagnosis of hypertension, and family history of hypertension in Caucasians from Rochester, Minnesota. Material and Methods Plasma ANP and blood pressure levels were measured in 1,338 Caucasian subjects who were members of 301 three-generation families from the population of Rochester. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or more or diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or more. Each subject in the parental generation was categorized as having zero, one, or two parents with hypertension. Analyses were done separately for each generation and gender stratum. Results Within gender and generation strata, we noted no consistent pattern of positive or negative correlation of plasma ANP levels with systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, or heart rate. Within the grandparental generation, mean plasma ANP levels did not differ between those with normal blood pressure and those with hypertension. In the parental generation, mean plasma ANP levels did not differ between subjects with zero, one, or two parents with hypertension. Conclusion In Caucasians, interindividual differences in plasma ANP levels are not associated with interindividual differences in blood pressure levels, the diagnosis of hypertension, or family history of hypertension.
Pheochromocytoma: 1926–1993

Pheochromocytoma is a tumor frequently sought and rarely found. It is associated with spectacular cardiovascular disturbances and, when correctly diagnosed and properly treated, it is curable; when undiagnosed or improperly treated, it can be fatal. Catecholamine-producing tumors that arise from chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla and sympathetic ganglia are termed pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, respectively. However, the term pheochromocytoma has become the generic name for all catecholamine-producing tumors. The biochemical diagnosis is straightforward. The localization of pheochromocytoma has been greatly facilitated by advances in computerized imaging and meta-iodobenzylguanidine scanning. Treatment with preoperative alpha- and beta-adrenergic blockade followed by surgical excision of the pheochromocytoma are associated with very low morbidity and mortality.
Crystallization of Defect-Free Polyethylene within Block Copolymer Mesophases

We report the morphology and orientation of the crystals which form within the microdomain structures of diblock copolymers of linear polyethylene and glassy poly(vinylcyclohexane), LPE/PVCH, acros...
The mass of the top quark in SU(5)

Abstract Assuming that the masses of a fermion family in SU(5) are described by a single mass parameter at the unifying mass scale, we predict the mass of the t-quark to be 18.8 ± 1.0 GeV.
In vitro release of nicotinic acid alkyl esters from poloxamer vehicles

Abstract Poloxamers are poly(oxyethylene)poly(oxypropylene) block copolymers. Aqueuous solutions of these polyols show reverse thermal gelation, low toxicity and good solubilization capacity. As such, they appear to be useful as components of topical drug delivery systems. The objectives of this study were to systematically investigate the effects of (1) poloxamer lipophilicity, (2) poloxamer concentration and (3) temperature on the in vitro release rate of drug from formulations containing hexyl nicotinate. Studies were conducted in a membrane-less model using isopropylmyristate as the receptor phase; for some studies, a series of n -alkyl nicotinates (methyl, ethyl, butyl and hexyl) were used as model compounds. Results indicated that the diffusion coefficients decreased with increasing poloxamer concentration and increased with increasing temperature. Results with different poloxamers indicated that the release rate increased with increasing poloxamer hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB). The order of release rate for alkyl nicotinates was methyl > ethyl > butyl > hexyl. The markedly lower release rate for hexyl nicotinate was explained by a stronger interaction between drug and poloxamer.
A 77GHz 4-Element Phased Array Receiver with On-Chip Dipole Antennas in Silicon

On-chip antennas are used in a fully integrated phased-array receiver at 77GHz. The complete down-conversion, power-combining, and phase-generation functions are integrated in silicon with no external mm-wave electrical connections. Each of the 4 receiver elements has 41dB of gain with a NF of 8dB with a system BW of 3GHz
On Sobolev orthogonal polynomials with coherent pairs: the Jacobi case

Abstract When we investigate the asymptotic properties of orthogonal polynomials with Sobolev inner product f,g = ∫ a b f(x)g(x)dμ(x) + λ ∫ a b f′(x)g′(x) dv(x) we need to know the relations between Pn and Qn where Pn(x) and Qn(x) are the nth monic orthogonal polynomials with respect to dμ and dv, respectively. The pair dμ, dv is called a coherent pair if there exist nonzero constant Dn such that Q n (x) = P′ n+1 (x) n+1 + D n P′(x) n , n⩽1 . One can divide the coherent pairs into two cases: the Jacobi case and the Laguerre case. We consider the limit of Q n (x) P n (x) under the Jacobi case. We prove that limn→∞ Dn exists and calculate the limit as well for the Jacobi case.
Children’s Exposure to Violence Exploring Developmental Pathways to Diverse Outcomes

Identifying mechanisms that explain the children's differential vulnerability to violence exposure is an important research focus. Developmentally sensitive theories and methods are recommended to better understand children's risk and resilience to violence exposure. Examples are provided of promising research that links violence exposure to subtle deviations in children's emotional, cognitive, and physiological functioning, and to disruptions in the family environment.
Effect of DG and induction motor load power rating on Microgrid transient behavior

This paper presents an analysis of the effect of power rating on the dynamic characteristics of a Microgrid. The purpose of such analysis is to permit the results of experimentation and simulation to be compared over Microgrids with varying rating. It is shown that nominal power and the parameters of the Distributed Generators (DG) and Induction Motor (IM) loads can be characterized by a nonlinear but tractable relationship. Then, a small signal analysis is used to observe the natural frequencies of the system for nominal power ranging from 1kVA to 1MVA. Results show that the natural frequencies of most DGs and IM loads decrease their damping coefficient as power increases. This has implications on the ability of the Microgrid to recover voltage after a fault triggered islanding and on the speed at which the control loops of the DGs have to be implemented. A non-linear model of the complete system is built in MATLAB/Simulink to observe the combined effect of varying all parameters with power rating. The results show that increase in per unit inertia of machines leads to a slower recovery after a fault.
A technique for laparoendoscopic resection of posterior fundic gastric GISTs without need for a gastrotomy.

Background The majority of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are located in the stomach. With greater experience in minimally invasive oncologic surgery, gastric GISTs are being increasingly approached laparoscopically. Posterior proximally located endophytic gastric GISTs can be challenging to approach laparoscopically and excise with an adequate margin without an anterior or posterior gastrotomy, or intragastric ports.
VHF Collar Integrated Antenna for Ground Link of GPS Based Location System

This paper presents the design of a low-profile collar-integrated antenna operating at 154.5 MHz for use as a ground link in a GPS-based location system for wildlife tracking. The antenna is a conformal zigzag wire antenna that can be easily integrated into the collar. The power reduction caused by lower gain is overcome by improving the return loss. Input impedance matching at 154.5 MHz, which is the most important factor for return loss improvement, is done by changing the size of the antenna and by using a T-matching method that uses a shorting pin. The antenna efficiency is measured by Wheeler cap method. The design details and comparison of simulation and measurement results are presented.
Astigmatism in unilateral coronal synostosis: incidence and laterality.

Purpose Unilateral coronal synostosis alters orbital development and can be associated with strabismus, oblique muscle dysfunction, astigmatism, and amblyopia. While the ocular effects are most dramatic on the side of the fusion, the shape of the contralateral orbit is also abnormal and the effect of these changes on bilateral visual development has not been fully described. The purpose of this study was to analyze the incidence and laterality of astigmatism in children with unilateral coronal synostosis. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 39 consecutive patients with unilateral coronal synostosis. Recorded data included the following: patient demographics, visual acuity, cycloplegic refraction, ocular motility, procedures for craniofacial and strabismus correction, and presence and treatment of amblyopia at each visit. Results Twenty-one of 39 patients (54%) had 1.00 D or more astigmatism in at least one eye at their last recorded refraction. Sixteen of the 21 (76%) had aniso-astigmatism of 1.00 D or more. Of the 16, 14 (88%) had the greater degree of astigmatism in the contralateral eye. Fifteen of the 39 studied (38%) had amblyopia and, in 12 of these 15 patients (80%), the amblyopic eye was contralateral to the synostosis. Nineteen of 39 patients (49%) had greater ipsilateral fundus excyclotorsion, whereas only 1 of 39 (3%) had greater contralateral excyclotorsion. Conclusions Patients with unilateral coronal synostosis are at risk for developing a greater degree of astigmatism in the eye contralateral to the synostosis. Ocular disturbances in the contralateral eye, especially anisometropic amblyopia, must be considered when treating patients with this type of craniosynostosis.
Process for CO2 Capture from High-Pressure and Moderate-Temperature Gas Streams

A novel CO2 capture process was developed using a Mg(OH)2-based sorbent suitable for warm gas CO2 removal from high-pressure coal gasification gas streams. The purpose of this study is to perform a preliminary energy study and develop a method to implement this sorbent in a power plant. The proposed CO2 removal process involves sorption of CO2 at 200–300 °C and regeneration at 385 °C. The operational temperature is ideal for CO2 capture downstream to the water–gas shift reactor in an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plant but is applicable to other warm gas cleanup processes as well. This technology offers the ability to fully utilize the potential efficiency increases associated with warm gas clean up. Additionally, the sorbent is able to operate in the presence of steam, which distinguishes it from other technologies that require an energy-intensive drying step prior to CO2 separation. Regeneration is carried out at 280 psi and 400 °C, resulting in a high-pressure CO2 product stream, ...
On the equivalence between dissipativity and optimality of nonlinear controllers for discontinuous dynamical systems

In this paper, we derive guaranteed gain, sector, and disk margins for nonlinear optimal and inverse optimal discontinuous regulators that minimize a nonlinear-nonquadratic performance functional. Furthermore, we develop a return difference inequality to provide connections between dissipativity and optimality of nonlinear controllers for discontinuous dynamical systems. Specifically, we show that optimal controllers for discontinuous systems satisfy a return difference inequality if and only if the controller is dissipative with respect to a quadratic supply rate map.
Towards the design of a hypermedia journal

Project Envision, an early attempt to build a digital library of Computer Science literature underlined the importance of the provision of "task-oriented access to electronic archives" as an important digital library principle (Fox et al, 1993). Specifically, the pre-development user study found that among the features desired in a new system was the "ability to do domain-oriented tasks" (such as embed code for testing, access to analytical tools, access to source code in a choice of languages). Other digital library projects such as CORE which attempted to build a chemist's workstation (Lesk, 1991) and Georgetown University's implementation of the Integrated Advanced Information Management System (IAIMS) which designed different kinds of workstations based on user groups such as scholars, practitioners, researcher, faculty, student (Broering, 1993) have implicitly recognized that both the nature of work and the subject domain are important factors in the design of digital libraries that support work. This research proposes to study the work of professionals in a subject domain as a prelude to the re-design of an existing print document into an electronic document that can be used in support of their work.
Launch site integration for mixed fleet operations

Launch site impacts and integration planning issues are presented to support launch operations for a mixed vehicle fleet (manned and cargo). Proposed ground systems and launch site configurations are described. Prelaunch processing scenarios and schedules are developed for candidate launch vehicles. Earth-to-orbit (ETO) vehicle architectures are presented to meet future launch requirements, including the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI). Flight vehicle design recommendations to enhance launch processing are discussed. The significance of operational designs for future launch vehicles is shown to be a critical factor in planning for mixed fleet launch site operations.
Fitting semiparametric regressions for panel count survival data with an R package spef

Abstract: Observing recurrent event processes at discrete, possibly random times produces panel count data. Modeling panel count data is challenging because the event process may be associated with the observation pattern and censoring time. Various methods have been proposed to fit flexible semiparametric regression models, but no software is available to practitioners. We develop an R package spef that fits semiparametric regression models for panel count data. Existing methods in the literature are implemented as well as our recently developed estimating equations approach. Some of the implemented methods allow informative observation and censoring scheme. The package usage is illustrated with a well-known bladder tumor data set.
Bullous mastocytosis: diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis with extensive blisters mimicking scalded skin syndrome or erythema multiforme.

Abstract: Bullous mastocytosis (diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis) is a rare form of mast cell disease that begins during the first month of life and causes extensive blisters that mimic scalded skin syndrome or bullous erythema multiforme. Discrete pigmented macules, papules, and nodules arc absent and the characteristic leathery induration of skin may not develop until 6 months of age. Skin biopsy shows a subepidermal blister with mast cells at the base. The most serious complications are gastrointestinal hemorrhage and shock. The symptoms of bullous mastocytosis may be modified by a number of new therapeutic agents.
Ligand-specific regulation of proteasome-mediated proteolysis of estrogen receptor-α

Proteasome-mediated proteolysis modulates the cellular concentration of estrogen receptor-α (ERα) and is induced by treatment of cells with 17β-estradiol. Herein, we show that multiple receptor ago...
The effect of a “safer sex” film as mediated by erotophobia and gender on attitudes toward condoms

This experiment tested the hypothesis that viewing an erotic demonstration of condom placement would affect a positive change in attitudes toward condoms and willingness to use them. It was expected that the effect would be mediated by erotophobia and gender. Subjects were classified as erotophobic or erotophilic and viewed a film that demonstrated either sex with condom use, sex without condom‐use, condom information without sex, or neutral subject material. Subjects were pre‐and post‐tested on the Attitude Toward Condoms Scale (Brown, 1984) and on willingness to use condoms. The results showed that those who viewed sex with condom‐use demonstrated a change in attitudes, regardless of gender or erotophobia classification. The discussion includes suggestions for increasing willingness to use condoms in men and the application of erotophobia to contraceptive attitudes and behavior.
Purification and properties of swine kidney phosphoprotein phosphatase

Phosphoprotein phosphatase was purified from swine kidney by chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex A-50, Sephacryl S-200 and Sepharose 413 columns containing covalently bound hexanediamine and polylysine. The enzyme was purified more than 20 000-fold and the homogeneous preparation had a specific activity of 2.8 μmol per min per mg of protein with saturating concentrations of 32P-histone as the substrate. The phosphatase showed only a single protein band when examined by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and a single protein peak containing all of the enzymatic activity was observed during chromatography on Sephadex G-100 column. The molecular weight of the purified enzyme was determined to be 70 000±5 000 by exclusion chromatography on a calibrated Sephadex G-100 column. Similar values were obtained by sucrose density centrifugation, 70 000 ± 5000, and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate, 70 000 ± 3 000.
Hypothermia blunts acetylcholine increase in CSF of traumatically brain injured rats

Activation of muscarinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptors contributes to the pathophysiological consequences of moderate experimental traumatic brain injury (TBI). Hypothermia (30°C) provides protection in experimental TBI. We measured ACh levels in CSF and plasma 5 min after moderate fluid percussion TBI under normothermic or hypothermic conditions, because ACh in the CSF has been correlated with the severity of behavioral deficits after TBI. Three groups were examined: TBI with hypothermic brain (30°C), TBI with normothermic brain (37°C), or sham TBI with normothermic brain (37°C). ACh concentrations in CSF were significantly higher in 37°C TBI rats, but not in 30°C TBI rats compared to shams. ACh concentratons in plasma did not differ between groups. These results suggest that a contributing factor to the neuroprotective effects of moderate hypothermia in TBI may be related to the reduction of excessive ACh levels in the central nervous system following injury.
Gill Histopathologies Following Exposure to Nanosilver or Silver Nitrate

Fish gill is the site for many crucial physiological functions. It is among the first sites of xenobiotic exposure, and gill histopathological alterations may be detected soon after toxicant exposure. Silver (Ag) is one of the most toxic metals to aquatic organisms mainly due to its ability to disrupt ionic regulation. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of ionic and nanoscale Ag on fathead minnow gills by examining gill histology and Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase immunoreactivity. Fathead minnows were exposed to two measured concentrations of silver nitrate (AgNO3: 1.3 or 3.7 μg/L as Ag(+)), citrate silver nanoparticles (citrate-AgNP: 15 or 39 μg/L), and polyvinylpyrrolidone-AgNP (PVP-AgNP) (AgNP: 11 or 50 μg/L). Circulatory disturbances were the most prevalent gill alterations detected and were significantly increased in all Ag treatment groups compared to control. AgNO3 (1.3 μg/L) was the only treatment that significantly elevated the number of total mucous goblet cells present. In all other Ag treatments, the percent of degenerated goblet cells was significantly increased compared to control. When the sum of all histopathological abnormalities (weighted index) was calculated, all Ag groups displayed a significantly higher index, with citrate-AgNP having the highest toxicity (index of 10 ± 0.32 versus 2.4 ± 0.6 in controls). Gill Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase immunoreactivity was decreased by Ag. These results indicated that both AgNO3 and AgNP created similar disruptions in gill structure and ionic regulation, possibly due to the ionic Ag portion of each treatment.
Neural pattern formation via a competitive Hebbian mechanism

In this contribution we investigate a simple pattern formation process [9,10] based on Hebbian learning and competitive interactions within cortex. This process generates spatial representations of afferent (sensory) information which strongly resemble patterns of response properties of neurons commonly called brain maps. For one of the most thoroughly studied phenomena in cortical development, the formation of topographic maps, orientation and ocular dominance columns in macaque striate cortex, the process, for example, generates the observed patterns of receptive field properties including the recently described correlations between orientation preference and ocular dominance. Competitive Hebbian learning has not only proven to be a useful concept in the understanding of development and plasticity in several brain areas, but the underlying principles have have been successfully applied to problems in machine learning [22]. The model's universality, simplicity, predictive power, and usefulness warrants a closer investigation.
Differential refractive susceptibility to sustained nearwork.

Abstract Purpose: A possible role for nearwork-induced transient myopia (NITM) (i.e. transient myopia at distance following sustained nearwork) in the development and/or progression of permanent myopia has been suggested. If certain refractive groups are more susceptible to NITM than others, then measures may be implemented to prevent or retard the occurrence of myopia in these individuals. In a recent study (Ciuffreda and Wallis, 1998), it was found that young-adult late-onset myopes (LOM) and early-onset myopes (EOM) were highly susceptible to this NITM accommodative after-effect, while emmetropes (EMMs) were only moderately susceptible, and hyperopes (HYP) were particularly insusceptible, following short periods (10 min) of sustained nearwork at a very close distance (20 cm, 5 D). In the current study, this was extended to encompass a much longer period of nearwork under more naturalistic conditions. Methods: Young-adult subjects (n = 16) performed a reading task for a continuous period of 4 h at their habitual working distance under naturalistic conditions, i.e. binocular viewing with blur-related visual feedback present. Distance refractive state (binocular viewing) was assessed objectively using a Canon R-1 autorefractor immediately before (pre-task), every hour during the task, and immediately after (post-task) to assess NITM and its subsequent decay to pre-task refractive levels. Subjects were divided into the four refractive subgroups as above, which were each of equal size (n = 4). Results: The NITM was induced in all subjects, except for the hyperopes in which there was a hyperopic refractive shift. The LOMs (0.12 D) and EOMs (0.13 D) were highly susceptible, while the HYPs were especially insusceptible (0.44 D hyperopia), and the EMMs were only moderately susceptible (0.09 D). Conclusions: The present study extended our earlier investigation by demonstrating the differential refractive susceptibility over a longer period of sustained nearwork, which may be the result of reduced sympathetic activation. It has been speculated that NITM may be a factor in myopigenesis, with a possible mechanism being time-integrated increased retinal defocus from NITM at both distance and near, in conjunction with the normal lag of accommodation during sustained nearwork, thereby causing axial elongation. Hence, a future longitudinal investigation specifically targeting this retinal defocus hypothesis is warranted.
Factors Influencing Cost‐Related Nonadherence to Medication in Older Adults: A Conceptually Based Approach

Abstract Objective Although multiple noncost factors likely influence a patient's propensity to forego treatment in the face of cost pressures, little is known about how patients' sociodemographic characteristics, physical and behavioral health comorbidities, and prescription regimens influence cost-related nonadherence (CRN) to medications. We sought to determine both financial and nonfinancial factors associated with CRN in a nationally representative sample of older adults. Methods We used a conceptual model developed by Piette and colleagues that describes financial and nonfinancial factors that could increase someone's risk of CRN, including income, comorbidities, and medication regimen complexity. We used data from the 2004 wave of the Health and Retirement Study and the 2005 HRS Prescription Drug Study to examine the influence of factors within each of these domains on measures of CRN (including not filling, stopping, or skipping doses) in a nationally representative sample of Americans age 65+ in 2005. Results Of the 3071 respondents who met study criteria, 20% reported some form of CRN in 2005. As in prior studies, indicators of financial stress such as higher out-of-pocket payments for medications and lower net worth were significantly associated with CRN in multivariable analyses. Controlling for these economic pressures, relatively younger respondents (ages 65–74) and depressive symptoms were consistent independent risk factors for CRN. Conclusions Noncost factors influenced patients' propensity to forego treatment even in the context of cost concerns. Future research encompassing clinician and health system factors should identify additional determinants of CRN beyond patients' cost pressures.
Tragedy and the art of questioning in depth psychotherapy

Abstract This essay examines how the art of questioning is central to depth psychotherapy. Conceiving of depth psychotherapy as a tragic art suggests the kind of inquiry unique to psychotherapy is that oriented to pathos. To explicate the art of pathic inquiry, this essay draws upon Nietzsche's depiction of Greek tragedy as structured by the relations between the artistic deities Apollo and Dionysus. As a tragic art, the structure of pathic questioning is formed by the principles these gods embody: reason and passion. Their intertwining within a psychotherapeutic discourse stimulates a liberative self‐knowledge, exemplified here by the differing approaches of Eugene Gendlin and James Hillman.
Autophagy: a crucial moderator of redox balance, inflammation, and apoptosis in lung disease.

Significance: Autophagy is a fundamental cellular process that functions in the turnover of subcellular organelles and protein. Activation of autophagy may represent a cellular defense against oxidative stress, or related conditions that cause accumulation of damaged proteins or organelles. Selective forms of autophagy can maintain organelle populations or remove aggregated proteins. Autophagy can increase survival during nutrient deficiency and play a multifunctional role in host defense, by promoting pathogen clearance and modulating innate and adaptive immune responses. Recent Advances: Autophagy has been described as an inducible response to oxidative stress. Once believed to represent a random process, recent studies have defined selective mechanisms for cargo assimilation into autophagosomes. Such mechanisms may provide for protein aggregate detoxification and mitochondrial homeostasis during oxidative stress. Although long studied as a cellular phenomenon, recent advances implicate autophagy as a component of human diseases. Altered autophagy phenotypes have been observed in various human diseases, including lung diseases such as chronic obstructive lung disease, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Critical Issues: Although autophagy can represent a pro-survival process, in particular, during nutrient starvation, its role in disease pathogenesis may be multifunctional and complex. The relationship of autophagy to programmed cell death pathways is incompletely defined and varies with model system. Future Directions: Activation or inhibition of autophagy may be used to alter the progression of human diseases. Further resolution of the mechanisms by which autophagy impacts the initiation and progression of diseases may lead to the development of therapeutics specifically targeting this pathway. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 20, 474–494.
Confidence interval estimators for heritability for several mating and experiment designs

Confidence interval estimators have not been described for several heritability (H) estimators relevant to recurrent family selection. Previously described H interval estimators do not apply to onefactor mating designs in split-plot in time experiment designs in one or more locations, one-factor mating designs for several experiment designs in two or more locations and years, and two-factor mating designs for several experiment designs in two or more locations or years. Our objective was to derive H interval estimators for these cases. H reduced to a function of constants and a single expected mean square ratio in every case; H=1−E(M′)/E(M″) where E(M′) is a linear function of expected mean squares and E(M″) is a single expected mean square. It was shown that F′=[M″/E(M″)]/[M′/E(M′)] has an approximate F-distribution with df″ and df′ degrees of freedom, respectively, where M′ and M″ are mean squares corresponding to E(M′) and E(M″), respectively. H is a function of F′, therefore, we used F′ to define an approximate (1−α) interval estimator for H.
Conservation of genome content and virulence determinants among clinical and environmental isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a ubiquitous environmental bacterium capable of causing a variety of life-threatening human infections. The genetic basis for preferential infection of certain immunocompromised patients or individuals with cystic fibrosis by P. aeruginosa is not understood. To establish whether variation in the genomic repertoire of P. aeruginosa strains can be associated with a particular type of infection, we used a whole-genome DNA microarray to determine the genome content of 18 strains isolated from the most common human infections and environmental sources. A remarkable conservation of genes including those encoding nearly all known virulence factors was observed. Phylogenetic analysis of strain-specific genes revealed no correlation between genome content and infection type. Clusters of strain-specific genes in the P. aeruginosa genome, termed variable segments, appear to be preferential sites for the integration of novel genetic material. A specialized cloning vector was developed for capture and analysis of these genomic segments. With this capture system a site associated with the strain-specific ExoU cytotoxin-encoding gene was interrogated and an 80-kb genomic island carrying exoU was identified. These studies demonstrate that P. aeruginosa strains possess a highly conserved genome that encodes genes important for survival in numerous environments and allows it to cause a variety of human infections. The acquisition of novel genetic material, such as the exoU genomic island, through horizontal gene transfer may enhance colonization and survival in different host environments.
Reactive sulfur species: kinetics and mechanism of the oxidation of cystine by hypochlorous acid to give N,N'-dichlorocystine.

Cystine and HOCl (a neutrophil-derived oxidant) react to form an intermediate that has a half-life of ca. 5 min at pH 7.5. The intermediate subsequently decomposes to eventually yield a mixture of cystine, higher oxides of Cys, and other uncharacterized species. Spectral titrations, transitory 1H NMR and UV−vis spectra, and the reaction properties of the intermediate are consistent with a formulation of N,N‘-dichlorocystine {NDC = [−SCH2CH(NHCl)(CO2H)]2}. The reaction of equimolar amounts of HOCl with cystine at pH 11.3 does not yield N-chlorocystine [NCC = (-O2C)(H3N+)CHCH2SSCH2CH(NHCl)(CO2H)] but rather a 1:1 mixture of NDC and cystine. This result could be explained by two mechanisms: rapid disproportionation of NCC to produce NDC and cystine or a faster reaction of the second equivalent of HOCl with NCC than the first equivalent of HOCl reacts with cystine. The latter mechanism is favored because of our observation by NMR spectroscopy that NDC decomposes via a species that we have assigned as NCC. Th...
Continental Collisions in the Appalachian-Caledonian Orogenic Belt: Variations Related to Complete and Incomplete Suturing

Certain oceans, whose obliteration during Paleozoic time led to climactic deformation of the Appalachian-Caledonian orogenic belt, closed at different times along the belt. Irregularity of the continental margins that collided during Late Silurian, Early Devonian, and Middle Devonian times caused great variations in structural style and igneous and metamorphic associations. The impingement of projections caused intense deformation leading to cryptic sutures and, in places, basement reactivation. Wider zones of less intense deformation are believed to represent embayments in the colliding margins. Late granite and associated high-grade metamorphic aureole rocks, are more common in the narrower, more intensely deformed regions; we suggest that they represent partial melts from lower parts of a thickened continental crust in these areas. “Granite” in embayments, floored by deformed oceanic basement, is suggested to represent the partial melting of that basement and (or) the covering sediment. In both cases, the magmatism reflects depression of crustal material to a depth below a particular critical isotherm and does not necessitate any abnormal heat input from below the crust.
CARDIAC SULFONYLUREA RECEPTOR SHORT FORM-BASED CHANNELS CONFER A GLIBENCLAMIDE-INSENSITIVE KATP ACTIVITY

The cardiac sarcolemmal ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP) consists of a Kir6.2 pore and a SUR2 regulatory subunit, which is an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter. KATP channels have been proposed to play protective roles during ischemic preconditioning. A SUR2 mutant mouse was previously generated by disrupting the first nucleotide-binding domain (NBD1), where a glibenclamide action site was located. In the mutant ventricular myocytes, a non-conventional glibenclamide-insensitive (10 μM), ATP-sensitive current (IKATPn) was detected in 33% of single-channel recordings with an average amplitude of 12.3±5.4 pA per patch, an IC50 to ATP inhibition at 10 μM, and a mean burst duration at 20.6±1.8 ms. Newly designed SUR2-isoform or variant-specific antibodies identified novel SUR2 short forms in the sizes of 28 and 68 kDa in addition to a 150-kDa long form in the sarcolemmal membrane of wild-type (WT) heart. We hypothesized that channels constituted by these short forms that lack NBD1, confer IKATPn. The absence of the long form in the mutant corresponded to loss of the conventional glibenclamide-sensitive KATP currents (IKATP) in isolated cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells but the SUR2 short forms remained intact. Nested exonic RT-PCR in the mutant indicated that the short forms lacked NBD1 but contained NBD2. The SUR2 short forms co-immunoprecipitated with Kir6.1 or Kir6.2 suggesting that the short forms may function as hemi-transporters reported in other eukaryotic ABC transporter subgroups. Our results indicate that different KATP compositions may co-exist in cardiac sarcolemmal membrane.
Syntheses of Puromycin from Adenosine and 7-Deazapuromycin from Tubercidin, and Biological Comparisons of the 7-Aza/Deaza Pair1

Protection (O5‘) of 2‘,3‘-anhydroadenosine with tert-butyldiphenylsilyl chloride and epoxide opening with dimethylboron bromide gave the 3‘-bromo-3‘-deoxy xylo isomer which was treated with benzylisocyanate to give the 2‘-O-(N-benzylcarbamoyl) derivative. Ring closure gave the oxazolidinone, and successive deprotection concluded an efficient route to 3‘-amino-3‘-deoxyadenosine. Analogous treatment of the antibiotic tubercidin {7-deazaadenosine; 4-amino-7-(β-d-ribofuranosyl)pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine} gave 3‘-amino-3‘-deoxytubercidin. Trifluoroacetylation of the 3‘-amino function, elaboration of the heterocyclic amino group into a (1,2,4-triazol-4-yl) ring with N,N‘-bis[(dimethylamino)methylene]hydrazine, and nucleophilic aromatic substitution with dimethylamine gave puromycin aminonucleoside [9-(3-amino-3-deoxy-β-d-ribofuranosyl)-6-(dimethylamino)purine] and its 7-deaza analogue. Aminoacylation [BOC-(4-methoxy-l-phenylalanine)] and deprotection gave puromycin and 7-deazapuromycin. Most reactions gave high y...
Finite Carrier Confinement and Biexcitonic Complexes in Self-Assembled Inas Quantum Dots

The luminescence properties of a single InAs self-assembled quantum dot (QD) are studied by confocal scanning optical microscopy at low temperature. The observation of single QDs has been accomplished by epitaxial growth of QDs samples with low QD density (less than one QD per µm2) required by the diffraction limited spatial resolution of the microscope. In thick QDs with large confinement energies biexciton binding energies of up to 5.0 meV are found, while in thin and more weakly confined QDs the electron wavefunction penetrates into the surrounding barriers causing reduced biexciton binding energies of less than 2.0 meV. This result can be understood in terms of theoretical calculations of biexcitonic complexes in QDs with finite potential barriers.
Longitudinal and multi-echo transverse relaxation times of normal breast tissue at 3 Tesla.

Purpose To measure longitudinal (T1) and multi-echo transverse (T2) relaxation times of healthy breast tissue at 3 Tesla (T).
Internal wave shocks in continuously stratified flows with velocity shear

Abstract The eigenvalue problem for momentum-conserving internal jumps in a stratified shear flow is developed, and solutions for several classes of flows are considered. It is shown that the presence of velocity shear significantly enhances the parameter range within which energetically-permissible shock solutions exist, and that the maximum allowable amplitude is increased when the ambient state possesses a baroclinic shear. It is also shown that the presence of steep regions in the stratification allow a class of larger-amplitude solutions compared to the case with smooth density gradients.
METABOLIC CONSEQUENCES AND LONG-TERM COMPLICATIONS OF ENTEROCYSTOPLASTY IN CHILDREN: A REVIEW

ABSTRACTPurpose: We summarize important metabolic consequences and long-term complications associated with enterocystoplasty with particular emphasis on the pediatric patient with genitourinary abn...
Clinical efficacy of desmopressin acetate for hemostatic control in patients with primary platelet disorders undergoing surgery.

Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) is efficacious in patients with von Willebrand's disease. It additionally appears to have value in patients with uremic or aspirininduced platelet dysfunction. We report here three patients with primary platelet defects who had previously experienced grossly inadequate hemostasis to whom we administered DDAVP. Each successfully underwent surgical procedures with DDAVP as the only hemostatic agent. Although the mechanism of these salutary effects is unclear, DDAVP may exert an influence directly on the endothelium independent of correcting abnormalities of the factor VIII: von Willebrand complex associated with von Willebrand's disease.
Electron heating experiments below the spin glass resistance maximum

We report electron heating measurements below the resistance maximum associated with the spin-glass freezing transition. The differential resistance showed features under the application of a dc electric field which cannot be readily interpreted in a simple electron heating picture. We demonstrate that these anomalies are resolved after computation of the resistance by integration of the differential results at various currents. An experiment was designed and carried out to test this procedure through the use of an applied magnetic field. The integration process is applicable to transport measurements carried out under combinations of ac and dc electric fields.
Risk Status Related to Knowledge of Osteoporosis in Older Women

ABSTRACT Background: The objectives of this study were to: (1) identify common risk factors for osteoporosis, (2) relate risk factors to knowledge of osteoporosis, and (3) teach prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for women at risk. Methods: A descriptive exploratory design was used to assess the osteoporosis risk factors of 211 women age 60 and over living in the community in a large city in a southwestern state. Participants in 15 different sites completed a demographic data form, an osteoporosis Risk Factor Card, and a pre-test about osteoporosis. After participating in a 30-min-ute educational program, they completed a post-test. Results: The mean score on the Risk Factor Card was 3.00 out of a total possible score of 11. The most frequent risk factors identified were race, small frame, and early menopause. Using a two-tailed Pearson correlation, there was no significant correlation between being at risk and a person's knowledge of osteoporosis prior to or after the educational program. Us...
On the synthesis of antibody protein.

Abstract 1. 1. On the basis of the relative isotope concentrations of serum globulin and antibody under different experimental conditions it is concluded that serum globulin is not a direct precursor of serum antibody. It appears that antibody is synthesized de novo from amino acids. 2. 2. When amino acid incorporation is used as a criterion of antibody protein synthesis it is concluded that antibody release does not immediately follow the synthesis. At least one-third of the antibody protein was synthesized before antibody was detectable in the circulating blood.
A laboratory study on biochemical degradation and microbial utilization of organic matter comprising a marine diatom, land grass, and salt marsh plant in estuarine ecosystems

We studied the biochemical degradation of organic matter comprising marine diatom, land grass, and salt marsh plant in estuarine ecosystems in two laboratory microcosms consisting of estuarine sediments and coastal seawater. The materials were incubated separately and together under controlled oxic and anoxic conditions to test effects of co-metabolism and redox on overall degradation of organic matter. We followed variations of bulk parameters [total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), C/N ratio, δ13CTOC, and δ15NTN], fatty acid concentrations, and compound-specific δ13C values over 3 months. Coexistence of marine diatom (relatively labile) with land grass/salt marsh plant (relatively refractory) in the microcosms yielded a negative co-metabolism effect (retardation rather than acceleration) on the overall degradation of organic matter. The ratios of oxic to anoxic degradation rate constants (k ox/k an) of TOC and most fatty acids were in a range of 1.1–1.7, implying that redox conditions per se had a limited influence on degradation of fresh organic materials in estuarine ecosystems. Variations of two bacteria-specific fatty acids (iso- and anteiso-15:0) and their δ13C values indicated that bacterial metabolism could use organic carbon (OC) from any available material when only one single-source material was dominant in the ecosystems. However, bacteria probably utilized OC preferentially from labile marine diatom when multiple-source materials were almost equally present in the ecosystems.
EPA Looks at "Fugitive Emissions".

The various aspects of two similar but indeed different air pollution problems are discussed. Both fugitive emissions (industrial) and fugitive dust emissions represent problems affecting attainment of national standards. Both are difficult to quantify so as to determine the relative magnitude of the problem. Both have been generally overlooked in the past in relation to developing an effective and widespread air pollution control program. Both problems will generally require the use of non-conventional air pollution control measures. Both are also becoming the subject of more intensive investigation as more knowledge is being gathered to implicate such emissions as significant air pollution problems.
A review of the current published spinal literature regarding bone morphogenetic protein-2: an insight into potential bias

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is a potent biologic agent that carries both osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties. Its potential as an autologous bone graft substitute in spine surgery led to its approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002 following a series of industry-sponsored trials. Although approved for a single level anterior lumbar interbody fusion from L4-S1 with a proprietary cage, the off-label use of rhBMP-2 rapidly escalated. Soon thereafter, reports of serious and potentially life-threatening complications associated with rhBMP-2 began emerging, which sparked concerns with regards to potential bias in the original FDA trials. Ultimately, an independent review of all published and unpublished data on the safety and effectiveness of rhBMP-2 by the Yale University Open Data Access (YODA) Project determined that while rhBMP-2 is as effective as iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) in potentiating spinal fusion, there was significant bias and conflicts of interests that resulted in an underreporting of complications in the original industry-sponsored trials.
Highly Excited Nuclear Matter

It is suggested that very hot and dense nuclear matter may be formed in a transient state in "head-on" collisions of very energetic heavy ions with medium and heavy nuclei. A study of the particles emitted in these collisions should give clues as to the nature of dense hot nuclear matter. Some simple models regarding the effects of meson and ${N}^{*}$ production on the properties of dense hot nuclear matter are discussed.
The role of limited echocardiography in screening athletes.

Abstract Preliminary studies suggest that limited echocardiography might be a useful addition to the pre-participation cardiovascular evaluation of athletes. Ten percent of the athletes we screened had findings that merited medical follow-up.