cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Left atrial femoral bypass and cerebrospinal fluid drainage decreases neurologic complications in repair of descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.

This study was undertaken to evaluate the role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage and left atrial to femoral artery (LAFA) bypass in preventing postoperative neurologic complications for patients who had undergone descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair. LAFA bypass and CSF drainage were used as adjuncts in the treatment of 8 patients with descending and 13 patients with TAAAs (December 1999 to March 2000). LAFA bypass was established with the use of a centrifugal Biomedicus pump. Distal flows were maintained between 1.5 and 2.5 L/min during the procedures. Mean LAFA bypass time was 40 (range, 21 to 60 min). The CSF pressure was kept below 10–12 mmHg during the operations and for the first 72 hr postoperatively. All patients received heparin (1 mg/kg), which was reversed at the completion of the procedure. Passive hypothermia (rectal temperature: 32°–34°C) was used in all cases. All patent T8–L1 intercostal arteries were reattached to the graft. There were 13 men and 8 women. The median age was 56 years (range, 49 to 78). Chronic aortic dissection was the cause of the aneurysm in 9 patients (43%), trauma in 1 patient (5%), and medial degeneration in 11 patients (52%). There were four type I (19%), four type II (19%), and five type III (24%) TAAA. In eight patients (38%) the entire descending thoracic aorta was aneurysmal. Our results showed that the use of CSF drainage and LAFA bypass prevents paraplegia/paraparesis after repair of thoracoabdominal and descending thoracic aneurysms.
Fluorescence quenching by chlorophyll cations in photosystem II.

Although fluorescence is widely used to study photosynthetic systems, the mechanisms that affect the fluorescence in photosystem II (PSII) are not completely understood. The aim of this study is to define the low-temperature steady-state fluorescence quenching of redox-active centers that function on the electron donor side of PSII. The redox states of the electron donors and acceptors were systematically varied by using a combination of pretreatments and illumination to produce and trap, at low temperature, a specific charge-separated state. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and fluorescence intensity measurements were carried out on the same samples to obtain a correlation between the redox state and the fluorescence. It was found that illumination of PSII at temperatures between 85 and 260 K induced a fluorescence quenching state in two phases. At 85 K, where the fast phase was most prominent, only one electron-transfer pathway is active on the donor side of PSII. This pathway involves elect...
Deviation from hierarchical structure in recall: Is there an “optimal” structure?

Abstract Past research has suggested that proportionally more superordinate than sub-ordinate propositions are recalled from expository texts, following a hierarchical analysis of the text structure. Since free recall has typically followed this hierarchical pattern, several researchers have assumed that the related memory structures are isomorphic to the text structure. However, few of these studies have examined how individual differences and text structure interact to affect free recall. In two experiments, the assumption of hierarchical patterns of children's recall of expository text was tested. In Experiment 1, high- and average-ability fourth graders (9 years old) were asked to read and recall a passage. Experiment 2 was a replication and extension of Experiment 1. In this experiment, fourth and sixth graders (9 and 11 years old) read and recalled a different passage. The combined results of both experiments support the notion that there is probably no one optimal hierarchical structure for storage and retrieval of expository text.
Reproductive decisions after neonatal screening identifies cystic fibrosis

AIMS—To document the reproductive choices made by women in New South Wales, Australia, after neonatal screening has identified cystic fibrosis (CF). METHODS—A sample of women attending cystic fibrosis clinics in New South Wales who had a child (or children) diagnosed by neonatal screening between 1981 and 1996 were interviewed. RESULTS—Two thirds of the women chose to avoid having another child with CF. The uptake of prenatal diagnosis was 66% in women who had a subsequent pregnancy; of these 69% terminated or would have terminated an affected fetus. Fifty nine per cent of the women who decided against a further pregnancy made this decision in order to avoid having another child with CF. CONCLUSIONS—These data show that having a child with CF influenced subsequent reproductive choices. In addition to the medical advantages of an early diagnosis offered by neonatal screening, this also allows informed future reproductive decisions.
Does Research Ethics Rest on a Mistake? The Common Good, Reasonable Risk and Social Justice

In her critique of research ethics, Rosamond Rhodes identifies at least three aspects of the field that she believes require significant rethinking and reform (Rhodes 2005). Each is part of what Rh...
Optical manipulation of plasmonic nanoparticles, bubble formation and patterning of SERS aggregates.

We present an optical method for patterning SERS (surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy)—enhancing aggregates of gold nanoparticles, using a focused laser beam to optically trap the nanoparticles in suspension. At high laser powers, heat generated from the plasmonic excitation causes boiling of the aqueous suspension and the formation of gaseous bubbles of water vapor. By measuring the Raman peak of the hydroxyl bond of water, the temperature in the laser spot during the aggregation can be determined in situ. The hydrophilic nanoparticles are found to aggregate at the liquid–vapor interface. By allowing the suspension to dry, a ring of gold nanoparticles is deposited on the substrate, producing a highly SERS-active region. These aggregates are studied using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy.
Sorting out problems manifested by peritoneal irritation

Abstract Diseases causing inflammation of the peritoneum and abdominal contents in childhood include some of the most common causes of abdominal pain. Some require prompt surgical intervention, but all require timely diagnosis and treatment. This chapter will review the salient issues related to early recognition, stabilization, and management of appendicitis, pancreatitis, and peritonitis. Emphasis will be on sorting out the serious emergencies from the vast array of benign and self-limited causes of childhood abdominal pain.
Cloud Based Predictive Analytics: Text Classification, Recommender Systems and Decision Support

This paper presents a detailed study of technologies based on Hadoop and MapReduce available over the cloud for large-scale data mining and predictive analytics. Although some studies may have shown that cloud technologies relying on the MapReduce framework do not perform as well as parallel database management systems, e.g., with ad hoc queries and interactive applications, MapReduce has still been widely used by many organizations for big data storage and analytics. A number of MapReduce based tools are broadly available over the cloud. In this work we explore the Apache Hive data warehousing solution and particularly its Mahout data mining libraries for predictive analytics. We present results in the context of text classification, recommender systems and decision support. We develop prototype tools in these areas and discuss our outcomes from the study useful to researchers and other professionals in cloud computing and application domains. To the best of our knowledge, ours is among the first few in-depth studies on Mahout with application prototypes available for use.
Cannabis and cancer chemotherapy.

Excerpt To the editor: Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as marijuana, has been extensively mystified, mythologized, and politicized during the 20th century. The scientific review by Dr. ...
288 CHARACTERIZATION OF PORCINE ADIPOSE TISSUE-DERIVED ADULT STEM CELL SURFACE PROTEINS

Human adipose tissue-derived adult stem (ADAS) cells are a self-renewing population of cells with a multilineage plasticity similar to bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Human ADAS have promise for use in combination with various biomaterials for reconstructive tissue engineering. The phenotypic profile of human ADAS cell surface proteins has been partially characterized for stem cell-associated cluster differentiation molecules including CD29, CD44, and CD90. Porcine ADAS cells, an animal model for tissue engineering, also have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into multiple tissue lineages. However, the surface protein phenotype has not been described. Because porcine ADAS are isolated from fat depots likely different from human ADAS liposuction aspirates, it is important to characterize these cells. In this study, we have partially characterized the surface protein phenotype of undifferentiated porcine ADAS cells in comparison with the immunophenotype of undifferentiated human ADAS cells as reported in the literature. Flow cytometry and enhanced chemiluminescence Western blot analysis of early passage (passages 0–4) porcine ADAS cell populations demonstrated that the profiles are not similar to the human ADAS cell surface. Immunoblot detection paired with an enhanced chemiluminescence kit revealed a positive expression for CD44 and CD90 in human ADAS cells as indicated by bands present at the expected sizes and a negative expression for CD44 and CD90 in porcine ADAS cells. Flow cytometric analysis also indicated differences between human and early passage porcine ADAS cell surfaces with a relatively low expression of CD29 (5 cell lines with a mean percent positive of 4.5 ± 1.7 and a range of 2.5–7.2%) and CD44 (5 cell lines with a mean percent positive of 0.66 ± 0.67 and a range of 0.0–1.8%) compared with human ADAS values of 98 ± 1 and 60 ± 15, respectively (Gronthos et al. 2001). Other cell surface proteins analyzed at early passages include CD3 (3 cell lines; 0.07 ± 0.06% positive and 0.0–0.1 range), CD8 (3 cell lines; 0.10 ± 0.10% positive and 0–0.2 range), and CD90 [5 cell lines; 12.7 ± 11.9% positive and 2.4–33 range; human ADAS geometric mean 25.96% (Zuk et al. 2002)]. Analysis of late passage (passages 5–11) porcine ADAS cell populations revealed an increased expression of CD29 (3 cell lines; 26.4 ± 7.2% positive and 21.2–34.6 range). The expression level of CD90 at late passages were 21.3 and 26.9% positive for 2 cell lines and CD44 remained low (3 cell lines; 4.1 ± 3.5% positive and 0.2–7.0 range). Later passages were also analyzed for c-Kit (CD117), which was expressed at low levels (2 cell lines; 0.3 and 0.4% positive). The characterization of adipose tissue-derived adult stem cell surface proteins present at different stages of in vitro culture from a model animal, such as the pig, could have valuable impacts on tissue engineering research. These results suggest that care should be taken when interpreting results from animal models of somatic stem cells.
Comparison of HLA & MICA Allosensitization Patterns among Patients Supported by Ventricular Assist Devices (VAD) and Patients with No Devices

Purpose Ventricular assist device (VAD) is implicated in HLA-sensitization. We investigate the association between VAD and HLA & MICA sensitization. Methods and Materials Of VAD patients in our institute (00-09); 89 had pre-VAD antibody testing and another in 6 months post-VAD. The comparison group was no-VAD heart transplant candidates; 2 randomly selected/VAD patient matched for year of initial PRA. Results Follow-up was longer in the non-VADs to increase capturing non-VAD increases in PRA (53 vs. 28 days, p=0.001). The number of transfusions was higher in VADs (15 vs. 2), p Table 1 ). In patients with single antigen testing, VAD was associated with new HLA antibody specificities and increased cPRA (16 (0-41)% vs. 0%, p Figure 1 ). Conclusions VAD is associated with HLA sensitization independent of other risk factors. It was not significantly associated with differences in rejection or allograft survival, but may represent a barrier to transplant by limiting donors and lengthening of wait time. Table 1 VAD nonVAD p Class I Pk % 24 (7-72) 6 (2-26) Class I Diff 18 (3-52) 0 (0-1) Class II Pk % 4 (1-16) 2 (1-5) .04 Class II Diff 2 (0-13) 0 .0001
Comparison of Carbon and Metal Oxide Anode Materials For Rechargeable LI-ION Cells

The state of the art (SOA) Li-ion cells utilize carbon anodes. However, to improve specific energy, energy density, and safety of cells using carbon anodes, alternative anodes must be developed. Recently, Fuji Film Inc. has suggested the use of tin oxide based anodes in Li-ion cells. It is believed mat cells containing tin oxide based anodes have the potential to meet the need for NASA's future missions. As a result, we conducted an analysis to compare the performance of cells containing carbon anodes and cells containing tin oxide anodes. The comparison between these cells involved the following: 1) reaction mechanisms between Li and carbon and reaction mechanisms between Li and tin oxide, 2) half-cell and full-cell performance characteristics, 3) interactions between the anode materials and electrolyte types and compositions, and 4) the optimization of binder composition.
Experimental maternal hyperphenylalaninemia: biochemical effects and offspring development.

Subcutaneous injections of para-chloro-D, L-phenylalanine (pCl-Phe) and phenylalanine (Phe) over the last third of pregnancy were found to produce hyperphenylalaninemic states in maternal and fetal rats. The pCl-Phe, when administered to maternal animals alone or in conjunction with Phe, was associated with maternal muricide. The muricide was counteracted by the administration of 5-hydroxy-D, L-tryptophan prior to delivery. Prolonged treatment of maternal animals with pCl-Phe and Phe suppressed normal weight gain and resulted in smaller offspring. The elevated levels of maternal plasma Phe decreased with time, reflecting a lessening of pCl-Phe inhibition of maternal phenylalanine hydroxylase and normal Phe clearance. Fetal plasma Phe levels mirrored those of treated maternal animals. Similarly, fetal brain Phe reflected the increase in fetal plasma Phe.
An acoustic dropsonde—design, performance and evaluation

Abstract A freely-falling, acoustically self-positioning dropsonde is used to determine vertical profiles of horizontal ocean currents. The design of the instrument and techniques for acoustic navigation based on bottom moored transponders are discussed. The errors in the system are analyzed. Velocity estimates from the White Horse and those from moored current meters show averages over 25-m depth intervals are consistent to within 4 cm s−1. The uncertainty in the vertically averaged velocity from top to bottom is ±0.25 cm s−1. The internal consistency between down and up profiles and the external consistency with a second instrument of different configuration confirm these estimates of the overall accuracy of the observations.
Charting a revolution

DNA Science: A First Course in Recombinant DNA Technology. By David Micklos and Greg Freyer. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press: 1990. Pp.477. $29.95.
Constrictor responses of resistance arterioles during diabetes mellitus

Abstract While diabetes mellitus appears to alter nitric oxide synthase-dependent vasodilatation, the effect of diabetes on constrictor responses of resistance arterioles is not clear. Our goal was to examine the effect of diabetes on constrictor responses of cheek pouch arterioles. In vivo diameter of arterioles (∼50 μm) was measured in response to norepinephrine, the thromboxane analogue (U-46619) and endothelin-1 in nondiabetic and diabetic hamsters (4–6 weeks post streptozotocin). Norepinephrine (1.0 and 10 nM) and U-46619 (0.1 and 1.0 nM) produced similar dose-related vasoconstriction in nondiabetic and diabetic hamsters ( P >0.05). In contrast, vasoconstriction to endothelin-1 (0.1 and 1.0 pM) was greater in diabetic than nondiabetic hamsters ( P N G -monomethyl- l -arginine ( l -NMMA) (1.0, 10 and 100 μM) produced dose-related vasoconstriction in nondiabetic, but not diabetic hamsters. Further, l -NMMA did not alter vasoconstriction in response to endothelin-1 in nondiabetic and diabetic hamsters. These findings suggest that diabetes alters constriction of cheek pouch resistance arterioles to endothelin-1 which appears to be independent of the synthesis/release of nitric oxide. In addition, based upon findings using l -NMMA, it appears that there is a reduced influence of nitric oxide on basal diameter of resistance arterioles during diabetes.
Crystallization of electrons on the surface of liquid helium

Abstract A system of electrons on the surface of liquid helium is shown to fulfill the requirements for crystalline ordering.
Biophysical and biochemical alterations of renal cortical membranes in diabetic rat

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine whether streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus in the rat causes alterations in the lipid composition and fluidity of renal brush border membranes (BBM) and basolateral membranes (BLM). Compared to membranes of non-diabetic rats, BBM and BLM of diabetic rats contained 31% and 26%, respectively, less arachidonic acid and 36% and 46%, respectively, more linoleic acid esterfied in phospholipids. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in the average number of double bonds per mole of fatty acid, a measure of fatty acid unsaturation. In diabetic rats BLM had a higher total phospholipid/protein ratio (567 ± 20 vs. 482 ± 15 nmol/mg protein, P P
Early follow-up of lead performance in atrioventricular sequential systems.

Recent developments in pacemaker technology led us to report our initial and follow-up assessment of atrioventricular (A-V) sequential systems in 50 consecutive patients. Primary indications for pacing were sinus node dysfunction or A-V block. Leads were introduced through the subclavian vein. Atrial J-tined leads (27 silicone, 19 urethane) were positioned in the atrial appendage or stump in 46 patients, and coronary sinus or Bisping leads were placed in 4 patients; all 50 patients had tined ventricular leads. A Medtroric 5992 generator was placed in 35 patients and an Intermedics 259–01 generator in 15. Median implantation time was 105 minutes. Complications requiring reoperdtion in 409 patient-nnonths of follow-up included lead retraction (one patient), phrenic nerve stimulation (one), pseudofracture (one), and atrial lead-induced “cross talk” (one). Monthly telephone transmission confirmed atrial capture in 35 patients and loss of capturein 1; the remainder had no identifiable P wave. Ventricular capture was confirmed in all. Postimplant and follow-up checks showed good stability of lead positions. We conch de that these systems have a low incidence of problems in short-term followup. (PACE, Vol. 5, September-October, 1982)
Computed tomography appearance of bone metastases of leiomyosarcoma

Bone lesions in leiomyosarcoma are uncommon. When encountered, they are usually a late manifestation of disease seen in the setting of widespread systemic metastases. We present five cases of metastatic leiomyosarcoma, including one in which a bone lesion predated detection of a primary gastric leiomyosarcoma and one in which bone metastases signaled disease recurrence. Computed tomography in 14 of 16 osseous leiomyosarcomas demonstrated a lytic, non-expansile pattern.
National integration and foreign policy in multiethnic states

This article examines the relationship between international and national integration in multiethnic states. Focusing on issues of culture, identity and geography, it derives from the extant literature on national integration a set of interrelated hypotheses that describe how a state's foreign ties affect the degree of unity and solidarity among its constituent ethnic and regional groups. Foreign ties influence the cultural characteristics and ethnic consciousness of the people in a state, both symbolically and actually, and thus foreign policy becomes a key element in the construction of national identity and an object of political contestation between groups with different visions of that identity. The article summarizes the results of an empirical investigation of the hypotheses using the case of Ukraine, and suggests other avenues for testing the hypotheses.
Kinetic and thermodynamic origins of osmolyte-influenced nucleic acid folding.

The influential role of monovalent and divalent metal cations in facilitating conformational transitions in both RNA and DNA has been a target of intense biophysical research efforts. However, organic neutrally charged cosolutes can also significantly alter nucleic acid conformational transitions. For example, highly soluble small molecules such as trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and urea are occasionally utilized by organisms to regulate cellular osmotic pressure. Ensemble studies have revealed that these so-called osmolytes can substantially influence the thermodynamics of nucleic acid conformational transitions. In the present work, we exploit single-molecule FRET (smFRET) techniques to measure, for first time, the kinetic origins of these osmolyte-induced changes to the folding free energy. In particular, we focus on smFRET RNA and DNA constructs designed as model systems for secondary and tertiary structure formation. These findings reveal that TMAO preferentially stabilizes both secondary and tertiary...
Role of the laryngeal mask airway in the immobile cervical spine

Abstract Study Objective : To determine whether the laryngeal mask airway has a useful role in the airway management of patients whose cervical spines are immobilized in a rigid cervical collar. Design : A randomized study comparing the difficulty, rapidity, and success rate of ventilating patients with immobilized cervical spines using a laryngeal mask airway and an endotracheal tube. Setting : Medical center surgical unit. Patients : Twenty-eight ASA physical status I and II women scheduled to undergo elective gynecologic surgery requiring general anesthesia. Interventions : Tracheas of all anesthetized patients were sequentially intubated with an endotracheal tube and had a laryngeal mask inserted in random order. Measurements and Main Results : Mouth opening was measured, and a Mallampati classification was made in each subject both with and without a rigid Philadelphia collar in situ. The view at laryngoscopy was recorded. The time taken to insert both devices to allow for satisfactory ventilation and the degree of difficulty encountered were determined. With a cervical collar in situ, mouth opening was reduced up to 60%. The Mallampati assessment and laryngoscopic view were shifted to one suggestive of a more difficult intubation. The time taken to ventilate these patients and the difficulties encountered were significantly less when using the laryngeal mask ( p = 0.0001). A successful outcome was more likely following insertion of the laryngeal mask than when attempting intubation with an endotracheal tube. Conclusions : The laryngeal mask airway compared favorably with an endotracheal tube in success rate, difficulty of insertion, and time to position correctly in this patient population. Although the laryngeal mask does not reliably protect against aspiration, we believe it may play a useful role if more conventional methods of airway management fail. Further studies in the trauma scenario are indicated.
PGF2α facilitates the training of sexuality active boars for semen collection

Abstract The objective was to determine the effects of PGF 2α on the training of sexually active boars (i.e., boars experienced with natural mating) to mount an artificial sow for semen collection. Boars were moved to a semen collection pen twice weekly for 4 wk. After entering the pen, boars received im treatment with 10 mg PGF 2α (n = 7) or 2 mL deionized water (n = 7). Boars were classified as trained when after a successful collection, the animals mounted the artificial sow and allowed semen collection on the next scheduled day without first receiving an injection of PGF 2α or deionized water. The semen from 6 of 7 PGF 2α -treated boars and 2 of 7 control boars was collected during the first exposure to the artificial sow (P 2α -treated boars and 4 of 7 controls were successfully trained (P 2α -treated boars (.6 ± 1.0), compared to boars receiving deionized water (3.9 ± 1.0) or trained boars receiving no treatment (3.4 ± .7). Reaction time (elapsed time after entering collection pen until the start of ejaculation) was lower (P 2α -treated boars (267.4 ± 63.4 sec), compared to boars treated with deionized water (628.4 ± 98.3 sec) or boars receiving no treatment (440.4 ± 46.4 sec). In summary, use of PGF 2α facilitated the training of sexually active boars to mount an artificial sow for semen collection.
A method for applying approximately ideal lead connections to homogeneous volume conductors of irregular shape.

Abstract 1. 1. Approximately ideal lead connections may be applied to irregularly shaped, electrically homogeneous volume conductors on the basis of well-defined theoretical principles rather than by means of trial and error methods. 2. 2. These underlying principles were tested and amply confirmed by studies conducted on a series of laminar models. 3. 3. This study confirms both theoretically and experimentally the relationship that the electrical moment due to a number of sources and sinks within a homogeneous volume conductor is equivalent to a surface integral involving unit normals and surface potentials. 4. 4. The method of ideal lead connection proposed here would undoubtedly be cumbersome, but it might profitably be applied to scalar and vector electrocardiography at an investigative level.
Negotiations between animals and bacteria: the ‘diplomacy’ of the squid-vibrio symbiosis

A shared characteristic among animals is their propensity to form stable, beneficial relationships with prokaryotes. Usually these associations occur in the form of consortia, i.e. a diverse assemblage of bacteria interacting with a single animal host. These complex communities, while common, have been difficult to characterize. The two-partner symbiosis between the squid Euprymna scolopes and the marine luminous bacterium Vibrio fischeri offers the opportunity to study the interaction between animal and bacterial cells, because both partners can be cultured in the laboratory and the symbiosis can be manipulated experimentally. This system is being used to characterize the mechanisms by which animals establish, develop and maintain stable alliances with bacteria. This review summarizes the progress to date on the development of this model.
Context effects in lexical processing.

Abstract This article examines the extent to which word recognition is influenced by lexical, syntactic, and semantic contexts in order to contrast predictions made by modular and interactive theories of the architecture of the language comprehension system. We conclude that there is strong evidence for lexical context effects, mixed evidence for semantic context effects and little evidence for syntactic context effects. We suggest that top-down feedback effects in comprehension are primarily limited to situations in which there is a well-defined part-whole relationship between the two levels and the set of lower-level units that could receive feedback from a higher level is restricted.
ABC of D's in the folate transporter.

Consanguinity “loads the dice” for turning up matching pairs when it comes to Mendelian inheritance of autosomal recessive genes. Such is the case in a novel loss-of-function mutation involving PCFT in a female infant with megaloblastic anemia, seizures, and severe growth retardation described
The Frontiers of Loyalty: Do They Really Change?

Yossi Shain (ys@Georgetown.edu) is professor of government and diasporas politics at Georgetown University and professor of political science at Tel Aviv University. Ariel I. Ahram is a graduate student in the departments of government and Arab studies at Georgetown. This article is based on the introduction for the new edition of Shain’s The Frontier of Loyalty: Political Exiles in the Age of the Nation-State [1989] (University of Michigan Press, 2004).
Sirtuins deacetylate and activate mammalian acetyl-CoA synthetases.

Silent Information Regulator 2 (Sir2) enzymes (or sirtuins) are NAD+-dependent deacetylases that modulate gene silencing, aging and energy metabolism. Previous work has implicated several transcription factors as sirtuin targets. Here, we investigated whether mammalian sirtuins could directly control the activity of metabolic enzymes. We demonstrate that mammalian Acetyl-CoA synthetases (AceCSs) are regulated by reversible acetylation and that sirtuins activate AceCSs by deacetylation. Site-specific acetylation of mouse AceCS1 on Lys-661 was identified by using mass spectrometry and a specific anti-acetyl-AceCS antibody. SIRT1 was the only member of seven human Sir2 homologues capable of deacetylating AceCS1 in cellular coexpression experiments. SIRT1 expression also led to a pronounced increase in AceCS1-dependent fatty-acid synthesis from acetate. Using purified enzymes, only SIRT1 and SIRT3 exhibited high catalytic efficiency against acetylated AceCS1. In mammals, two AceCSs have been identified: cytoplasmic AceCS1 and mitochondrial AceCS2. Because SIRT3 is localized to the mitochondria, we investigated whether AceCS2 also might be regulated by acetylation, and specifically deacetylated by mitochondrial SIRT3. AceCS2 was completely inactivated upon acetylation and was rapidly reactivated by SIRT3 deacetylation. Lys-635 of mouse AceCS2 was identified as the targeted residue. Using reversible acetylation to modulate enzyme activity, we propose a model for the control of AceCS1 by SIRT1 and of AceCS2 by SIRT3.
Physical characteristics and mathematical modelling of the pulsed ultrasonic flowmeter.

A pulsed ultrasonic Doppler flowmeter for detailed measurements of velocity profiles in man is described. The device projects a beam of ultrasound in bursts of 0·4 μs duration, at 5 MHz, into the flow; the back-scattered signals are processed to produce a signal corresponding to the mean velocity over a small region of the flowing stream. The size and shape of this ‘sample volume’ determines the flowmeter sensitivity and accuracy. The velocity profile obtained from this instrument can be shown to be a weighted average of the ultrasonic intensity and the flowfield velocity over the sample volume, and is mathematically described by a convolution integral. A method of probing the ultrasonic beam and describing its characteristics in mathematical terms was developed. Using this model with a system whose velocity profile is parabolic, the pulsed ultrasonic Doppler-flowmeter output could be predicted via the convolution integral. Theoretical flowmeter-output curves were generated from the mathematical model by a digital-computer simulation and verified through experimental profiles in steady laminar flow. The modelling technique is sufficiently general for flowmeter output to be predicted for any general flow-velocity profile in steady or pulsetile flow.
FT-IR analysis of membranes of Rhodobacter sphaeroides 2.4.3 grown under microaerobic and denitrifying conditions.

Abstract Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis of CO binding proteins in Rhodobacter sphaeroides reveals the presence of a membrane-bound nitric oxide reductase (Nor). Nor has been clearly distinguished from the cytochrome oxidases by the temperature-dependence of relaxation following photodissociation of the CO complex at cryogenic temperatures. The center frequency and band shape, 1970 cm−1 and 20–30 cm−1 width at half-peak height, are similar to those reported for resonance Raman spectra of purified Paracoccus denitrificans Nor. Additional evidence is presented to indicate this enzyme is part of dissimilatory nitric oxide metabolism and that one of the genes in the nor operon required for production of an active Nor is not required for protein assembly or heme incorporation.
Sister Act VI: Venus and Serena Williams at Indian Wells: “Sincere Fictions” and White Racism

Venus and Serena Williams’ dominance of professional women’s tennis at the dawn of the 21st century may well signify progress in a sport that typically privileges Whiteness. What happened at Indian...
Incorporating a pharmacometric model-based meta-analysis into a health economic microsimulation model of COPD

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by chronically poor airflow that worsens over time and leads to exacerbations. • Severity of disease is often categorized into GOLD stages using thresholds of %FEV1, which is the percentage of normal FEV1, given body size, age, race and sex. • The natural progression of disease results in decreased %FEV1 over time. • Pharmacologic interventions may decrease exacerbations and slow FEV1 decline • The change observed for a given intervention may vary based on the exact nature of the clinical trial. • Pharmacoeconomic models are often used to combine disease characteristics with treatment effects to estimate outcomes. • Pharmacometric model-based meta-analysis (PMBMA) is a type of meta-regression which employs non-linear models estimated on trial-level data to relate patient and trial characteristics, dosing, surrogate markers, and outcomes effects of treatment.
Sliding MinPD

Motivation: Traditional phylogenetic methods assume tree-like evolutionary models and are likely to perform poorly when provided with sequence data from fast-evolving, recombining viruses. Furthermore, these methods assume that all the sequence data are from contemporaneous taxa, which is not valid for serially-sampled data. A more general approach is proposed here, referred to as the Sliding MinPD method, that reconstructs evolutionary networks for serially-sampled sequences in the presence of recombination. Results: Sliding MinPD combines distance-based phylogenetic methods with automated recombination detection based on the best-known sliding window approaches to reconstruct serial evolutionary networks. Its performance was evaluated through comprehensive simulation studies and was also applied to a set of serially-sampled HIV sequences from a single patient. The resulting network organizations reveal unique patterns of viral evolution and may help explain the emergence of disease-associated mutants and drug-resistant strains with implications for patient prognosis and treatment strategies. Availability: From website http://biorg.cis.fiu.edu/SlidingMinPD Contact: giri@cis.fiu.edu Supplementary information: http://biorg.cis.fiu.edu/SlidingMinPD
Synthesis and characterization of a combined fluorescence, phosphorescence, and electron paramagnetic resonance probe

A spin-labeled derivative of eosin was chemically synthesized from 5-aminoeosin and the nitroxide spin label 2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolin-1-oxyl-3-carboxylic acid. Following determination of the chemical identity of the spin-labeled eosin (5-SLE) by FAB mass spectroscopy, its optical and magnetic resonance spectroscopic properties were characterized in aqueous solution and compared to a diamagnetic eosin derivative, 5-acetamido eosin (5- AcE). The visible light absorption maximum of 5-SLE was 518 nm, the same as for 5-AcE. The fluorescence quantum yield of 5-SLE was only reduced by approximately 10% relative to 5-AcE, and the fluorescence lifetime was marginally reduced relative to 5-AcE. The phosphorescence lifetime and yield for 5-SLE were very similar to those for 5-AcE. The phosphorescence yield of 5-SLE bound noncovalently to BSA was reduced by approximately 60% relative to 5-AcE, and the phosphorescence lifetime reduced from approximately 2.4 msec (5-AcE) to 1.6 msec (5-SLE). Reduction of the nitroxide moiety of the 5-SLE with sodium ascorbate resulted in minimal changes in the fluorescence and phosphorescence quantum yields and lifetimes. This indicated that the unpaired electron of the nitroxide spin label did not seriously affect the optical spectroscopic characteristics of the spin-labeled eosin molecule. The quantum yields and lifetimes of 5-SLE were still quite acceptable for time- resolved fluorescence and phosphorescence studies. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum of 5-SLE in aqueous solution has a lineshape consistent with a molecule the size of 5-SLE undergoing rapid rotational reorientation. When bound to BSA, the EPR spectrum of 5-SLE was broadened to a near slow motion limit for EPR, as expected for the relatively slowly rotating protein-5-SLE complex. Time-resolved phosphorescence anisotropy and saturation transfer EPR (ST-EPR) experiments with samples of 5-SLE bound to BSA in solutions of varying glycerol concentrations at 2 degree(s)C demonstrated that this combined probe is suitable for monitoring rotational dynamics of macromolecular systems over the appropriate time ranges. These studies have shown that one combined optical and EPR probe, 5-SLE, can be employed in the full range of fluorescence, phosphorescence, EPR, and ST- EPR spectroscopies.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A structural analysis of the freshly extruded spermatophore from the lobster, Homarus americanus.

Freshly extruded spermatophores from the lobster, Homarus americanus, were examined using light microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The tubular spermatophore is trifoil in shape with two lobes tapered laterally from a third lobe situated ventrally. It is comprised of sperm surrounded by three acellular investments: (1) a primary spermatophore layer, (2) an intermediate layer, and (3) an outer bounding layer. The sperm are packed into a continuous tube contained largely within the ventral lobe and are embedded in a matrix of moderate electron density. The primary spermatophore layer is uniformly thick around the sperm mass and contains at its peripheral margins both ring structures and crystals in an amorphous matrix. The intermediate layer is thicker dorsally than ventrally. Dense granules dominate the ventral half of the intermediate layer while inclusions populate the dorsal half; both react positively to the periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) technique. The innermost portion of the outer bounding layer is composed of parallel fibrils; a flocculent material is present peripherally. This flocculent substance is presumed to impart stickiness to freshly extruded spermatophores. These observations provide a basis for the future understanding of the mechanisms involved in long-term storage of sperm in spermatophores.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 preserves coronary microvascular endothelial function after cardiac arrest and resuscitation: potential antioxidant effects

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has protective effects in the heart. We hypothesized that GLP-1 would mitigate coronary microvascular and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction if administered after car...
Kinesthetic Sensing for the EMG Controlled "Boston Arm"

The contribution of a novel cutaneous display of elbow angle to an amputee's ability to position an EMG-controlled externally powered elbow prosthesis was objectively evaluated. Comparisons were made between the amputee's positional control of his conventional mechanical cable-operated elbow and the EMG "Boston Arm"l elbow, with and without angle feedback, in REACHING tasks with vision occluded in all cases and with and without auditory occlusion. MATCHING tasks compared his ability to position the EMG limb to conform with the flexion of his normal (contralateral) elbow. Computer reduction of almost 9000 individual trials and analysis of variance indicated that for the EMG limb the tactile feedback with sound occluded reduced errors by 50 percent. Terminal device load did not significantly affect positioningperformance due to the force proprioception built into the Boston Arm. In comparison with the standard mechanical prosthesis, the EMG limb with feedback achieves virtually identical kinesthetic performance. The display is completely compatible with the EMG control, causes no discomfort to the wearer, and is not significantly degraded by the environmental conditions of the limb socket.
Holy Wars, Empires, and the Portability of the Past: The Modern Uses of Medieval Crusades

On 12 June 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte took control of the islands of Malta. The Knights Hospitaller surrendered with little fight, and the independently recognized polity of the Knights of St. John, the last bastion of the medieval chivalric orders, fell. Founded in the Middle Ages as a military order created both to carry the sword against Islam and provide shelter and medical care for pilgrims to the Holy Land, the Knights had by the end of the eighteenth century become an anachronism. The Ottoman Empire, the last of the great Muslim powers of the Mediterranean, had long been considered little more than a pawn in larger political struggles on the Continent. The practical application of crusading as church policy had long fallen out of favor. As a military force, the Order was no longer of any consequence. The Grand Council that directed the Order consisted for the most part of Maltese or Italian nobles of little formal training in the strategy and tactics of “modern” warfare. Historians of the late eighteenth century had come to the conclusion that the crusades of the Middle Ages were little more than the fanatical hate mongering of an unenlightened time. As Edward Gibbon wrote: “The principle of the crusades was a savage fanaticism; and the most important effects were analogous to the cause…. The belief of the Catholics was corrupted by new legends…. The active spirit of the Latins preyed on the vitals of their reason and religion…. The lives and labours of millions, which were buried in the East, would have been more profitably employed in the improvement of their native country….”
Prevalence and prognostic significance of incidental cardiac troponin T elevation in ambulatory patients with stable coronary artery disease: Data from The Heart and Soul Study

Background The significance of troponin elevation and clinical utility of troponin testing in ambulatory patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) have not been examined. We sought to investigate the prevalence and prognostic value of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) elevation in a population with stable CAD. Methods We studied 987 patients with stable CAD enrolled in the Heart & Soul study who had plasma cTnT measurements before performing exercise treadmill testing. Results Of the studied population, 58 patients or 6.2% had detectable cTnT levels, ≥0.01 ng/mL (0.01-0.72 ng/mL). During a mean follow-up period of 4.3 (0.1-6.5) years, 58.6% of participants with detectable cTnT had cardiovascular events compared with 22.5% of those without detectable cTnT (hazard ratio [HR] 3.8, 95% CI 2.6-5.4, P P = .002). However, after further adjustment for N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide and echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular function, cTnT elevation was not an independent predictor of cardiovascular events (HR 1.3, 95% CI, 0.8-2.3, P = .28). Conclusions In ambulatory patients with stable CAD, the prevalence of cTnT elevation was 6.2%. Cardiac troponin T elevation detected using the conventional troponin assay was associated with increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, but its prognostic value was not incremental over N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide and echocardiographic evidence of cardiac abnormalities.
PZT driven micromachined 2-D membrane arrays

We present a 2D micro-actuator array and its potential for programmable acoustic radiation forces. The actuator array is a hybrid stack that consists of VLSI die at the bottom, bulk PZT actuator array as the intermediate layer, and a MEMS die on top to enable controlled actuation of the surface of the top die. The PZT actuator is organized in a rectilinear array of PZT pillars flip-chip bonded to a VLSI die. They provide localized off-chip actuation of the MEMS die which can also have sensors to provide feedback to the VLSI die. This paper presents fabrication and electrical test results from a prototype, which implements metal routing to desired PZT pillars at the VLSI die level and membrane formation at the MEMS die level, in order to maximize displacement. The paper also presents driving schemes to achieve mode control of acoustic fields on the chip surface.
From nanogenerators to piezotronics—A decade-long study of ZnO nanostructures

Developing wireless nanodevices and nanosystems is critical for sensing, medical science, environmental/infrastructure monitoring, defense technology, and even personal electronics. It is highly desirable for wireless devices to be self-powered without using a battery. We have developed piezoelectric nanogenerators that can serve as self-sufficient power sources for micro-/nanosystems. For wurtzite structures that have non-central symmetry, such as ZnO, GaN, and InN, a piezoelectric potential (piezopotential) is created by applying a strain. The nanogenerator uses the piezopotential as the driving force, responding to dynamic straining of piezoelectric nanowires. A gentle strain can produce an output voltage of up to 20–40 V from an integrated nanogenerator. Furthermore, piezopotential in the wurtzite structure can serve as a “gate” voltage that can effectively tune/control charge transport across an interface/junction; electronics based on such a mechanism are referred to as piezotronics, with applications such as electronic devices that are triggered or controlled by force or pressure, sensors, logic units, and memory. By using the piezotronic effect, we show that optoelectronic devices fabricated using wurtzite materials can provide superior performance for solar cells, photon detectors, and light-emitting diodes. Piezotronic devices are likely to serve as “mediators” for directly interfacing biomechanical action with silicon-based technology. This article reviews our study of ZnO nanostructures over the last 12 years, with a focus on nanogenerators and piezotronics.
Clostridium difficile Infection: Clinical Challenges and Management Strategies

Clostridium difficile has become the leading cause of nosocomial diarrhea in adults. A substantial increase has occurred in morbidity and mortality associated with disease caused by C difficile and in the identification of new hypervirulent strains, warranting a high clinical index of suspicion for infections due to this organism. Prevention of infection requires a multidisciplinary approach, including early recognition of disease, effective contact isolation precautions, adherence to disinfectant policies, and judicious use of antibiotics. Current treatment approaches are based on the severity of illness. As hypervirulent strains evolve, unsuccessful treatments are more common. Complicated colitis caused by C difficile may benefit from surgical intervention. Subtotal colectomy and end ileostomy have been the procedures of choice, but are associated with a high mortality rate because of late surgical consultation and use of surgery as a salvage therapy. A promising surgical alternative is creation of a diverting loop ileostomy with colonic lavage.