cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular cloning of gefiltin (ON1): serial expression of two new neurofilament mRNAs during optic nerve regeneration.

Abstract The goldfish visual pathway displays a remarkable capacity for continued development and plasticity. The intermediate filament proteins of this pathway do not match the intermediate filament protein composition of adult higher vertebrate neurons, which lack the capacity for growth and development. Using a goldfish retina lambda gt10 library we isolated cDNA clones representing the predominant goldfish optic nerve neurofilament protein, ON1. The mRNA for this protein is abundant in retinal ganglion cells, and its level increases slowly during optic nerve regeneration. The rate of ON1 mRNA accumulation after optic nerve crush was compared with that of plasticin, a previously described novel type III neurofilament from goldfish retinal ganglion cells. Plasticin mRNA is normally expressed at low steady state levels, but accumulates dramatically and rapidly, preceding gefiltin mRNA, in response to optic nerve crush. The predicted amino acid sequence for ON1 indicates that it is a novel intermediate filament protein. We have named it gefiltin, for goldfish eye intermediate filament protein. The serial expression of plasticin and gefiltin is discussed with respect to the diversity of neurofilament proteins during neurogenesis.
Radioligands targeting purinergic P2X7 receptor

The purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is an adenosine triphosphate (ATP) ligand-gated cationic channel receptor. P2X7R is closely associated with various inflammatory, immune, cancer, neurological, musculoskeletal and cardiovascular disorders. P2X7R is an interesting therapeutic target as well as molecular imaging target. This brief digest highlights the radioligands targeting P2X7R recently developed in drug discovery and molecular imaging agent development.
Application of SARIMA-RBF combination model in fitting and predicting the incidence of hand, foot, and mouth disease

Objective To explore the application effect of SARIMA-RBF combination model in fitting and predicting the incidence of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). Methods The SARIMA model was established using the monthly incidences of HFMD from January, 2009 to June, 2015 in China. The fitted value based on the SARIMA model was taken as the input vector, and the actual value was used as the output vector. Two SARIMA-RBF combination models were established according to whether the time factor was used as the input vector (the model with the time factor was named as combination model A, the model without the time factor was named as combination model B). The predicted incidences of HFMD from July to December, 2015 by SARIMA model and the two combination models were compared with actual values, so as to evaluate the results of fitting and prediction by the models. Results The SARIMA (1, 0, 1) (0, 1, 1)12 model was the most appropriate one. In the fitting phase, the MAPE, MER, MSE and MAE fitted by the SARIMA model, combination model A and the combination model B were 19.985%, 16.177%, 8.608, 2.029; 16.661%, 11.940%, 3.741, 1.502 and 21.487%, 15.998%, 7.590, 2.013, respectively. The MAPE, MER, MSE and MAE predicted by the SARIMA model, combination model A and the combination model B were 9.119%, 8.988%, 1.874, 1.107; 6.536%, 7.395%, 1.926, 0.911 and 12.016%, 11.140%, 2.370, 1.372, respectively. Conclusions The SARIMA-RBF combination model with the time factor was superior to the SARIMA model in fitting and prediction, and could be used for short-term prediction of HFMD. Key words: SARIMA; RBF neural network; Combined model; Hand, foot, and mouth disease
Diagnostic Approach to Evaluating Superficial Masses on Ultrasound

The goal of this review is to give clinicians a guide of how to approach the diagnosis of superficial masses using ultrasound. This was separated into neoplastic and non-neoplastic etiologies, with key imaging features given to help distinguish between the two. Latest diagnostic findings in the evaluation of superficial masses include assessing for vascularity, evaluating the echogenicity, measuring size, and analyzing the borders and location of the mass. More specific guidelines are given in the evaluation of thyroid nodules using TI-RADS, a radiologic risk stratification system developed by the American College of Radiology used to assess the malignant potential of a thyroid nodule. By having a systematic approach to evaluating superficial masses, one can readily and accurately evaluate lesions using ultrasound. Additionally, using the TI-RADS risk stratification scoring system, thyroid nodules can be accurately assessed while limiting unnecessary biopsies.
Defective INPP5E distribution in NPHP1-related Senior-Loken syndrome.

Background Senior-Loken syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that presents with nephronophthisis and retinal degeneration, leading to end-stage renal disease and progressive blindness. The most frequent cause of juvenile nephronophthisis is a mutation in the nephronophthisis type 1 (NPHP1) gene. NPHP1 encodes the protein nephrocystin-1, which functions at the transition zone (TZ) of primary cilia. Methods We report a 9-year-old Senior-Loken syndrome boy with NPHP1 deletion, who presents with bilateral vision decrease and cystic renal disease. Renal function deteriorated to require bilateral nephrectomy and renal transplant. We performed immunohistochemistry, H&E staining, and electron microscopy on the renal sample to determine the subcellular distribution of ciliary proteins in the absence of NPHP1. Results Immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy of the resected kidney showed disorganized cystic structures with loss of cilia in renal tubules. Phosphoinositides have been recently recognized as critical components of the ciliary membrane and immunostaining of kidney sections for phosphoinositide 5-phosphatase, INPP5E, showed loss of staining compared to healthy control. Ophthalmic examination showed decreased electroretinogram consistent with early retinal degeneration. Conclusion The decreased expression of INPP5E specifically in the primary cilium, coupled with disorganized cilia morphology, suggests a novel role of NPHP1 that it is involved in regulating ciliary phosphoinositide composition in the ciliary membrane of renal tubular cells.
Nematode Genome Announcement: Draft Genome of Meloidogyne chitwoodi, an Economically Important Pest of Potato in the Pacific Northwest

Meloidogyne chitwoodi is one of the most devastating pests of potato in the U.S. Pacific Northwest (PNW). Nematode-infected tubers develop external as well as internal defects, making the potato tu...
Art in Imaging

Abstract This article will describe the use of medical imaging to create art. Examples of X-rays, computed tomography, and ultrasound are shown as tools for creating beauty rather than their conventional role as methods for exposing disease and injury.
Untangling a cat’s cradle: Diphacinone, acetaminophen, trauma, and multiple deaths in a Kentucky cat colony

Abstract This manuscript describes an animal cruelty investigation in which several cats from a feral colony were suspected of having been poisoned. Three of the cats were submitted for complete postmortem examination by a qualified veterinary pathologist, and appropriate toxicologic analyses were selected and interpreted by a qualified veterinary toxicologist. Diagnosis in poisoning cases requires communication and collaboration between the pathologists and the toxicologist. A truly definitive diagnosis is not always possible in poisoning cases, particularly in a forensic investigation – a court of law requires a higher standard to establish a cause of death than do routine diagnostic cases. This case series illustrates the importance of a thorough diagnostic workup in forensic animal death investigations.
Improving Newborn Care in Ethiopia: Evaluation of a Quality Improvement Workshop

Introduction: Almost 3 million neonates die annually, making up nearly 50% of under-5 mortality, with 98% of these deaths occurring in low and lower-middle income countries (LMICs). With the goal of reducing neonatal mortality, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) developed Helping Babies Survive (HBS), an educational program to teach evidence-based newborn practices in low-resource settings. While HBS has been widely disseminated in LMICs, barriers to implementation often challenge translation of this knowledge into practice. To address these barriers, the AAP and partners developed a simplified guide, …
CHAPTER 73 – Dicamba

Dicamba is soluble in water and is resistant to hydrolysis and oxidation under normal environmental conditions. Dicamba is a benzoic acid herbicide that acts by mimicking the effects of auxins (that is , natural plant growth hormones), causing enhanced but uncontrolled growth rates, alterations in plant function homeostasis, and death. Liquid, pellet, and granule formulations are available that contain either the acid or one of several salts. A primary agricultural use is weed reduction in grain/cereal crops. Industrial/commercial applications include maintenance of pastures, forestlands, fence rows, and transportation and utility rights-of-way. Dicamba has a low mammalian toxicity. Evaluation of the specific adverse effects of dicamba in humans has been confounded by the relatively small amount of data available from exposures exclusively to dicamba. Dicamba is readily absorbed following ingestion, but only minimal absorption occurs after dermal exposure. Following ingestion, dicamba appears to be rapidly and nonselectively distributed to most organ systems.
The Veterans’ Judicial Review Act Twenty Years Later: Confronting the New Complexities of Veterans Benefits System

When judicial review was introduced to the veterans benefits system twenty years ago, there was great concern that it would push the informal, “claimant friendly” process towards a much more adversarial model. Although judicial review has improved the system in many ways, the system continues to suffer from serious problems. Much of the discussion about the current problems facing the VA adjudication system accept the false premise that the system is struggling to find balance between a paternalistic charitable model and an adversarial entitlement model. This has obscured the true conflict within the system. In reality, the VA system has been rooted in a hybrid paternalistic entitlement model since before judicial review was introduced. By making the promises of the hybrid paternalistic entitlement model enforceable, judicial review has illuminated the central tension inherent in it. The model attempts to be both complex (in order to comprehensively cover all deserving claimants) and informal (to avoid denying claims on procedural grounds). Twenty years of judicial review and corresponding congressional and agency reactions have simultaneously pushed the system towards more complexity and more informality. However, none of stakeholders have acknowledged the difficulties inherent in trying to operate a complex administrative system in a highly informal manner. Only by refocusing the debate upon this emerging reality will those involved be able to address and remedy the problems currently plaguing the system.
On the Teager-Kaiser energy operator "low frequency error"

We investigate frequency-dependent frequency estimation errors in the DESA-2 energy separation algorithm associated with the discrete Teager-Kaiser energy operator (TKEO). The TKEO and DESA-2 algorithm associate instantaneous amplitude and frequency functions to a real-valued discrete-time signal. It has been observed informally that there seems to be a frequency dependent error in the instantaneous frequency estimates delivered by the approach, where the error is more pronounced at lower frequencies. By studying quadratic phase signals, we demonstrate that this TKEO "low frequency error" does in fact exist and is related to both the magnitude frequency and the signal chirp rate.
The atmospheres of mars, venus and jupiter

Mars, venus and jupiter atmospheres covering data on surface pressures, temperatures and composition
Evaluating Quantitative Variation in the Genome of ZEA MAYS

Genomic diversity within the species Zea mays has been examined by measuring the variation in the repetitive component of the nuclear genome among North American inbred lines and varieties. This was done by preparing a set of clones of repetitive maize sequences that differ in function, molecular arrangement and multiplicity and then using these as probes for quantitative hybridization to DNA from various maize genotypes. The comparison showed that the majority of repeated sequences are markedly variable in copy number among the ten maize strains tested.—The clone sample contained the rDNA and 5S genes, the major repeat of the chromosome knobs, sequences functioning as origins of DNA replication in yeast (ARS sequences) and randomly cloned sequences of unknown function and chromosomal location. The sequences ranged in reiteration frequency from 200 to greater than 105 copies and included both tandemly arrayed and dispersed repeats. The copy numbers were measured by hybridizing labeled cloned sequences to aliquots of high molecular weight genomic DNA that were applied to nitrocellulose filters through a slotted template (slot blotting). The hybridization signal on an autoradiogram occurred in a narrow band that could be scored reliably with a densitometer. This provided a rapid method of determining the abundance of particular repeated sequences in individual plants and plant populations. Using this technique, we found that the copy number of repeated sequences of all types generally varied among the strains by two- to threefold, although at least one sequence showed no detectable variation.—In contrast to the variability found between strains, individuals within an inbred line or variety were found to be indistinguishable in terms of specific sequence multiplicity. Each genotype has a different pattern of copy numbers for the set of repeated sequence clones, and this pattern is characteristic of all individuals of a particular genotype. The data also show that the copy number of each sequence varies independently. No strains had uniformly high or low copy numbers for the entire set of probes.
Deep digital flexor tendonopathy in the foot

Summary Tendonopathy of the distal portion of the deep digital flexor tendon is a newly recognised, important cause of foot lameness in horses. Although the pathological morphology of lesions has been well described, the aetiopathogenesis remains uncertain. A conclusive diagnosis can only be made with magnetic resonance imaging, but the results of a thorough clinical examination, including regional analgesia and other imaging modalities may lead to a strong suspicion of deep digital flexor tendonopathy in the foot. The prognosis for return to soundness is guarded but new treatment modalities are currently being investigated for an improved outcome.
Adolescent Witnesses to a Peer Suicide

Abstract Objective This case-control study attempts to evaluate the psychological impact of witnessing a suicide on high school students. Method Twenty-eight high school students witnessed a firearms suicide and the serious injury of another student while riding a school bus. They were assessed 2 months after the event, and their responses were compared with 28 demographically similar adolescents from another community who had not been exposed to suicide. Results The exposed students, when compared with the controls, had higher rates of new-onset anxiety disorder and a trend for increased rates of new-onset post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Within the exposed group, measures of the closeness of the relationship to both the suicide victim and the student who was injured were correlated with the severity of PTSD symptomatology. Within the exposed group, other factors that predisposed to new-onset disorder included family history of affective illness, family history of suicide attempt, and stressful life events occurring in the year before exposure. Conclusions In combination with the extant literature, this study demonstrates that adolescents who witness a traumatic suicidal death are at risk for the development of psychopathology, specifically, anxiety disorders and PTSD. J. Am. Acad. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry, 1993, 32, 6:1184–1188.
Training school administrators to use information systems: A review of research

Abstract Much attention and research has been focused on administrator preparation and school information systems as separate topics. However, very little attention has been focused on training school leaders to use these systems as decision making tools. While research findings signify the importance of this training, scarcely any research has been focused on the effectiveness of training models or other training issues. Therefore, to provide a foundation for further study, the purpose of this chapter is to summarize the extant research on training administrators to use information systems.
The Association Between Medicaid Coverage for Children and Parents Persists: 2002–2010

To assess the association between a child’s and their parent’s public health insurance status during a time when children had access to coverage independent of policies that impacted adults’ access. Secondary data from the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) [Oregon’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Programs] for families with at least one parent and one child with OHP coverage at any time during the study period (2002–2010). We linked children to their parents in the OHP data set and examined longitudinal associations between the coverage patterns for children and their parents, controlling for several demographic and economic confounders. We tested for differences in the strength of associations in monthly coverage status in five time periods throughout the nine-year study period. The odds of a child being insured by the OHP in months in which at least one parent had OHP coverage were significantly higher than among children whose parents were not enrolled at that time. Children with at least one parent who maintained or gained OHP coverage in a given month had a much higher probability of being enrolled in the OHP in that month, compared to children who had no covered parents in the given month or the month prior. Despite implementation of policies that differentially affected eligibility requirements for children and adults, strong associations persisted between coverage continuity for parents and children enrolled in Oregon public health insurance programs.
Some factors modulating neural activities in peripheral auditory centers

Summary Some central and peripheral factors modulating sound-evoked neural activities, as measured by the frequency following response (FFR), were investigated in peripheral levels of the central auditory pathway in cat. It was shown that middle ear muscle activity modulates FFR, and that these modulations closely parallel those observed in the cochlear microphonic. In the absence of ear muscle activity (tenotomy, Flaxedil) we were unable to demonstrate any modulation of sound-evoked responses of the cochlea (microphonic) or of the central auditory relays (cochlear nucleas, trapezoid body, and medial accessory olivary nucleus). This suggests that, if central efferent influences act upon afferent activities at these levels of the auditory pathway, they exert their effects in forms not evident in the neural FFR. Some implications of these results are discussed.
An empirical test of experiential shopping in food retailing

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the influence of shopping experience on consumer satisfaction shown in non‐food retail sectors has a similar effect in food retailing, specifically with large‐scale grocery retailers. The paper also investigates differences in shopping experience and its effect across different retail settings.Design/methodology/approach – An empirical study of a customer satisfaction database combining satisfaction with store attributes across several large‐scale grocery retailers in the specialty, traditional, and discount sectors. Hierarchal regression is used to meaure the effect of a composite shopping experience index on overall satisfaction, after controlling for basic economic factors of food shopping such as product quality, assortment, availability, and prices.Findings – There was support for three hypotheses, suggesting that: food shopping experience effects overall consumer satisfaction for grocery retailers; shopping experience varies across differ...
Fleet deployment optimization models. Part 1

The problem of minimum-cost operation of a fleet of ships that has to carry a specific amount of cargo between two ports in a given time period for a specific, fixed contract price is studied. Detailed and realistic operating cost functions are developed. Sensitivity analyses are performed to study the effects of small or large changes in one or more cost components on the total costs. A realistic model for the annual transport capacity as a function of speed is also used, in contrast with the linear relation most often used in the literature. The full load and ballast speeds for those ships of the fleet that we operate are selected to minimize the total fleet operating costs including lay-up costs for unused vessels, using nonlinear optimization algorithms.
Compact high power klystrons for the CoReH20 earth explorer candidate core mission

The design and test of an Extended Interaction Klystron operating at 17.2 GHz is presented. The program goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of meeting the technical requirements of the proposed CoReH20 mission. The device will provide over 3.5kW of peak RF power and 20% duty cycle in a conduction cooled configuration weighing less than 9 kg.
Adult testicular sarcoma: presentation, evaluation, and treatment.

A 54-year-old man with schizophrenia presented with a 4-month history of an enlarged left hemiscrotum. He complained of intermittent, painless scrotal bleeding and denied abdominal or back pain. No history of recent weight loss, scrotal trauma, prior urinary tract infections, or genitourinary surgery was elicited. The physical examination showed a large, left hemiscrotal mass with anterior wall ulceration, a normal right testis, no inguinal adenopathy, and a normal abdomen without masses or tenderness (Fig. 1). The laboratory evaluation revealed a leukocytosis of 16.5 10 white blood cells/ L, with a hematocrit of 35%, creatinine 1.0 mg/dL, and normal liver function tests. Alpha-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin were normal. Scrotal ultrasonography revealed poor visualization of the right testis with a left hemiscrotal mass consistent with a hematoma. Computed tomography of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis showed a large mass in the left hemiscrotum with an associated left inguinal hernia (Fig. 2). The chest and abdominal computed tomography scans were normal with no retroperitoneal or inguinal adenopathy. He underwent inguinal orchiectomy with scrotoplasty and resection of a 21 29 15-cm tumor. The right testis was normal on exploration. The pathologic evaluation showed high-grade, poorly differentiated, liposarcoma with rhabdomyosarcomatous elements and involvement of the associated hernia sack (Fig. 3). He underwent adjuvant chemotherapy consisting of adriamycin and ifosfamide and was without evidence of metastatic disease or local recurrence at the termination of the chemotherapy.
Discovery of allosteric potentiators for the metabotropic glutamate 2 receptor: synthesis and subtype selectivity of N-(4-(2-methoxyphenoxy)phenyl)-N-(2,2,2- trifluoroethylsulfonyl)pyrid-3-ylmethylamine.

This report describes recently discovered novel allosteric modulators of metabotropic glutamate2 (mGlu2) receptors. These pyridylmethylsulfonamides (e.g., 3) potentiate glutamate, shifting agonist potency by 2-fold. This effect was specific for mGlu2 (vs mGlu1,3-8 receptors). Also, 3 failed to potentiate a chimeric mGlu2/1 receptor, demonstrating the mGlu2 transmembrane region's critical involvement. In a fear-potentiated startle model, 3 showed anxiolytic activity that was prevented by mGlu2/3 antagonist pretreatment. Thus, these pyridylmethylsulfonamides represent the first mGlu2 receptor potentiators discovered.
An improved spectrophotometric assay for superoxide dismutase based on epinephrine autoxidation.

Abstract Superoxide dismutase activity was assayed in terms of its ability to inhibit the radical-mediated chain-propagating autoxidation of epinephrine. The enzyme assay based on adrenochrome absorption at 480 nm has been improved by measuring the absorption change at 320 nm. This alternative procedure was found to be 6 to 10 times more sensitive and more consistent than that measured at 480 nm.
Evolutionary Ecology of Human Pair-Bonds Cross-Cultural Tests of Alternative Hypotheses

Human pair-bonds may have multiple evolved functions. One long-standing hypothesis suggests that pair-bonds evolved for male provisioning. Alternatively pair-bonds may occur as a response to male mating competition when benefits of staying with a current mate outweigh costs of seeking new mates. A third hypothesis suggests that pair-bonds function to protect against infanticide by aggressive males. Tests of these hypotheses used data from the Standard Cross-Cultural Sample on divorce, alloparenting, polygyny, male contribution to subsistence, and male aggression. Results were not consistent with the infanticide and/or male aggression hypothesis; however, parental investment and male mating competition accounted for significant cross-cultural variance in conjugal stability, suggesting that human pairing has multiple functions. Pair-bonds tended to be stable when men and women contributed equally to subsistence, and unstable when either sex contributed the majority to subsistence. The authors use the ethnog...
Incompressible laminar axisymmetric near wake behind a very slender cylinder in axial flow.

Abstract : An attempt is made to solve the near wake problem behind a very slender cylinder in axisymmetric incompressible laminar flow by a series expansion method. Although the solution thus found applies only up to a very limited distance downstream of the base, it exhibits important differences with the corresponding two-dimensional problem of the wake behind a flat plate, which are characteristic of the axisymmetry of the flow. This series expansion and an asymptotic expansion for the far wake region are compared with a simple solution obtained by linearizing the momentum equation. (Author)
Coal liquefaction catalysis: Iron pyrite and hydrogen sulphide

An unreactive hvC bituminous coal has been hydrogenated in a batch-stirred reactor using pyrite, hydrogen sulphide, and pyrite+hydrogen sulphide as catalysts. The data indicate that H2S is an active homogeneous catalyst for coal liquefaction, and suggest that pyrite may be acting indirectly as a catalytic agent via H2S release.
A long-known new species of gecko allied to Pachydactylus bicolor (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from the central Namibian coast

Abstract A new species of the ‘northwestern clade’ of Pachydactylus is described from the coast of central Namibia. It has long been considered a population of the widespread species Pachydactylus bicolor, from which it differs in body proportions, in having at least six adhesive lamellae on some digits and in having juxtaposed to subimbricate, rather than strongly imbricate, scales on the original tail. Additionally, the new species is unique in maintaining, as an adult, a more-or-less uniform colour pattern of white flecks on a dark brown background, with no evident underlying banded pattern. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of all species of the ‘northwestern clade’ of Pachydactylus, using RAG1 and ND2 nucleotide sequences, confirm the placement of the new species as the closest relative of P. bicolor, with genetic distances between P. bicolor and the new species similar to those observed between other pairs of species in Pachydactylus. Phylogenetic relationships of the new species and P. bicolor to oth...
Analysis of serum haptoglobin fucosylation in hepatocellular carcinoma and liver cirrhosis of different etiologies.

We have developed herein a quantitative mass spectrometry-based approach to analyze the etiology-related alterations in fucosylation degree of serum haptoglobin in patients with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The three most common etiologies, including infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV), infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV), and heavy alcohol consumption (ALC), were investigated. Only 10 μL of serum was used in this assay in which haptoglobin was immunoprecipitated using a monoclonal antibody. The N-glycans of haptoglobin were released with PNGase F, desialylated, and permethylated prior to MALDI-QIT-TOF MS analysis. In total, N-glycan profiles derived from 104 individual patient samples were quantified (14 healthy controls, 40 cirrhosis, and 50 HCCs). A unique pattern of bifucosylated tetra-antennary glycan, with both core and antennary fucosylation, was identified in HCC patients. Quantitative analysis indicated that the increased fucosylation degree was highly associated with...
The Edwards SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve for Calcific Aortic Stenosis: A Review of the Valve, Procedure, and Current Literature

The Edwards SAPIEN™ transcatheter heart valve (Edwards Lifesciences LLC, Irvine, CA, USA) is approved by the US Food and drug administration for use in the aortic position in patients with severe aortic stenosis who are not surgical candidates. This approval was backed by data from the Placement of AoRTic TraNscathetER Valve (PARTNER) I clinical trial, which showed the valve to be superior to standard medical therapy in high-risk nonoperative patients in cohort B of the trial. Although insertion of the valve is considered to be very safe, stroke, major vascular complications, and conduction abnormalities are the most frequent procedural complications. A dedicated team of physicians trained in structural cardiac interventions, including two interventional cardiologists, an echocardiographer, and a cardiac surgeon, are involved in every case. Improvements in valve design and streamlining of the delivery system, as well as favorable long-term outcomes, will hopefully pave the way for wider patient use in the future.
Free radicals in tobacco smoke.

THE presence of free radicals in cigarette smoke was demonstrated by Lyons et al.1,2, who trapped cigarette smoke condensate at low temperatures and examined it for unpaired electrons using electron spin resonance (ESR) techniques.
More than half of yeast U1 snRNA is dispensable for growth.

Abstract Yeast U1 snRNA (568 nucleotides) is 3.5-fold larger than its mammalian counterpart (164 nucleotides) and contains apparent sequence homology only at the 5' and 3' ends. We have used deletion analysis to determine whether the yeast-specific U1 sequences play essential roles in vivo. Yeast cells carrying a deletion of more than 60% (355 nucleotides) of the single-copy U1 gene are viable, though slow-growing, while a deletion of 316 nucleotides allows essentially wild-type growth. The boundaries of the viable deletions define a dispensable internal domain which comprises sequences unique to yeast. In contrast, the essential 5' and 3' terminal domains correspond to phylogenetically conserved sequences and/or structures previously implicated in RNA:RNA and RNA:protein interactions. The minimal essential sequences of yeast U1 can be drawn in a secondary structure which resembles metazoan U1 in four of seven structural domains.
Protection by nicotine from behavioral disruption caused by reticular formation stimulation in the rat.

Abstract Male Sprague-Dawley rats prepared with chronic electrodes in the mesencephalic reticular formation were trained to perform on a visual attention task. Short trains of electric current delivered to the reticular formation effectively blocked performance in a reversible and reproducible fashion. Subcutaneoous administration of 100 μg/kg nicotine (as the base) served to attenuate the behavioral disruption caused by reticular stimulation. The suggestion that it is a nicotine-induced limbic system activation which antagonizes the behavioral disruption caused by electrically-induced reticular over-activation, is discussed.
Radionuclide Imaging in Cardiac Amyloidosis: Are Nuclear Bone Tracers a Foreseeable Future?

Amyloidosis is an infiltrative disease caused by the extracellular deposition of misfolded proteins in organs and tissues resulting in progressive functional and structural impairment. Cardiac amyloidosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in primary light-chain amyloid (AL) and transthyretin-related cardiac amyloid (ATTR) and results in a restrictive cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and death. With the emergence of new subtype-specific pharmacological therapies targeting misfolded amyloid fibrils, the need for early recognition of a cardiac amyloid subtype is of major therapeutic and prognostic importance. Recently, nuclear scintigraphy with radioactive bone-seeking tracers has shown promising results in distinguishing ATTR amyloidosis from AL amyloidosis and may potentially be useful in following disease burden. This review begins with an overview of cardiac amyloidosis and then focuses on the current radioactive tracers involved in cardiac amyloid detection and concludes with future outlook.
Die recovery technique

A separating disk is used to make proximal cuts and cuts on the underside surface of the cast. The dies can be recovered without damage to the margins.
The application of the pulse-ratio test to efficiency in performing on gymnasium apparatus

The following conclusions are justified from the data presented in this investigation. 1. In order to obtain a pulse-ratio of 2.5 a trained subject requires eight trials of exercise 1, nine trials of exercise 2, eight trials of exercise 3, nine trials of exercise 4, and seven trials of exercise 5. 2. A survey of men in physical education classes, who receive the regular class instruction, shows that the group is heterogeneous, containing good, medium and poor performers on the parallel bars. For the most part these students are far inferior to those who specialize in this activity, although a few are equally as good. 3. The pulse-ratio test definitely points out differences in efficiency in performing on the parallel bars. It is reliable for picking out those who are proficient as well as indicating those who are inefficient.
Comparing technical efficiency between import-substitution-oriented and export-oriented foreign firms in a developing economy

Abstract This paper investigates the relative technical efficiency of firms operating under different competitive pressures. Using observations from multational firms in Taiwan's electronics industry, we find that firms are constrained to export all their products and thus to compete in the world markets (namely, the export-oriented) tend to be more efficient than those allowed to sell their products in the protected local markets (namely, the import-substitution-oriented). Depending on the model specification, the export-oriented firms are 6% to 11% closer to the production frontier than the import-substitution-oriented firms.
Development of a novel dual time-of-flight imaging mass spectrometer: principal, realization, and optimal performance

A novel dual time-of-flight imaging analyzer has been developed for studies of gas phase reactions and the scattering or desorption of ions and molecules from surfaces. The analyzer is capable of experimentally selecting a two-dimensional slice of particles from a three-dimensional flux without the necessity for deconvolution of the resulting velocity images by the Abel transform. The analyzer operates through ionization of the scattered species and their subsequent flight through a field-free region. This initial flight allows a dispersion according to the species natural velocity distribution. The second time of flight deflects the ions through a right angle and through a flight tube allowing dispersion according to mass or charge before detection. The analyzer offers two modes of operation — the first of these produces a mass spectrum of the desorbing species, the second produces a two-dimensional velocity map of the desorbing species. Trial results using an effusive beam source and acetone as a test gas have demonstrated the operation of the analyzer. The operation of the analyzer has been simulated and optimized to reduce ion flight aberrations. A set of orthogonal two-dimensional polynomial functions have been derived to reduce residual aberrations across a broad range of operating conditions. An upper limit to the temporal resolution of the analyzer has been established and a set of working parameters for low distortion electron beam ionization have been presented.
Micro method for determination of blocked NH2-terminal amino acids of protein: Application to identification of acetylserine of phosphoglycerate kinase and pyroglutamic acid of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase

Abstract A micro method for determination of blocked NH 2 -terminal acidic or neutral amino acids of proteine is described. The method consists of the following procedures: ( 1 ) Digestion of a protein by Streptomyces griseus protease; ( 2 ) separation of an acidic peptide (or peptides) on a Dowex 50 column; ( 3 ) subsequent digestion of the acidic peptide by carboxypeptidase A and B; ( 4 ) separation of the NH 2 -blocked amino acid on a Dowex 50 column; and ( 5 ) identification of the acidic amino acid derivative by high-voltage electrophoresis and amino acid analysis. With this method, acetylserine at the NH 2 -terminal of human phosphoglycerate kinase and pyroglutamic acid at the NH 2 -terminal of human glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase were identified using less than 0.1 μmole of these enzymes. The presence of pyroglutamic acid at the NH 2 -terminal of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase was confirmed by digestion with pyrrolidonyl peptidase.
Far-infrared spectroscopy of halogen-bridged mixed-valence platinum-chain solids: Isotope-substitution studies.

Far-infrared transmittance measurements are performed on a series of isotopically labeled samples of the quasi-one-dimensional solids [Pt(en)[sub 2]][Pt(en)[sub 2][ital X2]][ClO[sub 4]][sub 4], (en)=ethylenediamine and [ital X]=Cl, Br, or I. Pronounced shifts upon deuteration of the (en) ligands reveal that several absorption features previously attributed to localized vibrational modes of chain defects are in fact (en) ligand modes. Recognition of these ligand modes resolves the previous ambiguity over the assignment of the infrared-active chain phonons, permitting the unambiguous assignment of the 238.7-cm[sup [minus]1] feature in the bromide material to the asymmetric stretch ([nu][sub 2]) chain phonon, and strongly suggesting the 184.2-cm[sup [minus]1] feature in the iodide is the [nu][sub 2] phonon of that material. A high-resolution examination of the chloride, prepared with both natural Cl isotopic abundance and with nearly pure [sup 35]Cl, reveals a Cl isotopic fine structure that allows conclusive identification of the 359.1-cm[sup [minus]1] feature as the [nu][sub 2] chain phonon. Lattice-dynamics calculations using a harmonic-linear-chain model with randomly distributed Cl isotopes yield good agreement with experiment and reveal that isotopic disorder leads to pronounced vibrational localization in PtCl, with the observed fine structure arising from modes residing on a few distinct sequences of isotopes occurring with highmore » probability. The radical difference between the infrared fine structure of PtCl and that previously reported for the Raman-active chain mode is found to result from differences in the dispersion curves for the two phonon branches, and allows indirect determination of these dispersion curves.« less
Ez-Channel

There is a significant interest in new wireless multiple access protocols that adaptively split a wide frequency channel into multiple sub-channels-perhaps of varying widths-and assign these sub-channels to competing transmissions. Existing protocols suffer from various limitations such as considerable protocol overhead, dependence on a centralized controller, and use of fixed-size channels. We introduce Ez-Channel, a novel MAC protocol that parsimoniously utilizes the OFDM sub-carriers to perform channelization and assignment of sub-channels to competing links. In addition to circumventing hidden and exposed terminal problems, Ez-Channel adapts channel assignments to the network topology. To eliminate the need for a centralized controller and to avoid an overwhelming amount of information exchange, the protocol uses a randomization technique enabling provably efficient localized decision making. Our extensive analytical and simulation studies show that Ez-Channel yields significant throughput improvements as compared to the state-of-the-art protocols.
Lipid Injectable Emulsions: 2006

Lipid injectable emulsions are an essential source of fatty acids, as well as a daily source of calories. They have been used in the clinical setting for almost 40 years, but despite this, there are no established official standards governing pharmaceutical quality. After 15 years of development, the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), which writes such standards for all FDA-approved pharmaceuticals, is poised to adopt an official monograph for lipid injectable emulsions that sets pharmaceutical requirements on all manufacturers placing limits on pH, free fatty acid concentrations and globule size (both mean droplet size and the population of large fat globules larger than 5 micrometers). Recent animal data has shown pathophysiologic changes in vital organs for lipids that fall outside the USP-proposed globule size limits. From a clinical perspective, newer lipid injectable emulsions show great promise in certain patient settings, most notably in the intensive care unit in both adults and infants. The clinical use of alternative oils, such as medium-chain triglycerides, fish oil and olive oil show benefits over conventional soybean oil formulations. In adults, for example, the administration of omega-fatty acids via soybean oil-based lipids produces a heightened inflammatory response via production of 2-series prostaglandins, whereas substitution of a portion of the lipid with omega-3 fatty acids via fish oil can favorably dampen the inflammatory response. In infants, for example, substitution of soybean oil with fish oil has recently been shown to reverse parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease. These advances should lead to safer infusion therapy in patients receiving lipid injectable emulsions.
The effect of dye concentration on the viscosity of water in a scanning capillary-tube viscometer

Abstract A scanning capillary-tube viscometer (SCTV) determines the viscosity of an opaque liquid by measuring the changes in liquid level in two riser tubes. The current SCTV utilizes an optical sensor (i.e. charge-coupled device (CCD)) to measure the changes in the liquid level, where the liquid blocks the path of the light to the optical sensor. For a transparent liquid, one can use dye to make the liquid opaque. Hence, the present study investigated whether or not the addition of dye altered the viscosity of a transparent liquid such as distilled water. In this study, six different concentrations (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7 vol.%) of dye were used. The present results demonstrated that the dye effect on the viscosity of dye–water solution was negligibly small as long as the dye concentration was less than 2 vol.%.
Muṣḥaf and the Material Boundaries of the Qur’an

Mushaf is what Muslims call the physical body of the Qur'an, its pages, binding, and print. Scholars traditionally focused on the textual analysis of the Qur'ân as theological, political, historical or literary productions, favoring a semantic dimension of the text and detaching it from its materiality. In this article, I propose to shift our attention from the understanding of the Qur'ân exclusively as message to its material existence as mushaf in the hands of its manufacturers and users in order to highlight the process through which the status of the Qur'ân as a sacred message is negotiated.
Supramolecular Assemblies from Amphiphilic Dendrons for Sensing Metalloproteins through Pattern Generation

Biaryl dendritic micelles have been used for generating fluorescence response patterns that are used for sensing metalloproteins. By varying the generation of the dendrimer and the encapsulated dye molecules, the differential receptors for four different metalloproteins have been created. The pattern obtained from these dendritic micelles indeed confirms that the combination of dendrimer generation and electronic energy levels of the fluorescent transducers can be used for generating analyte-specific patterns.
Streaming energetic electrons in earth's magnetotail - Evidence for substorm-associated magnetic reconnection

This letter reports the results of a systematic study of streaming > 200 keV electrons observed in the magnetotail with the Caltech Electron/Isotope Spectrometers aboard IMP-7 and IMP-8. A clear statistical association of streaming events with southward magnetic fields, often of steep inclination, and with substorms as evidenced by the AE index is demonstrated. These results support the interpretation that streaming energetic electrons are indicative of substorm-associated magnetic reconnection in the near-earth plasma sheet.
Effec ts of Cognitive Status on Life Participation of Cancer Survivors

The purposes of this study were to identify the cognitive status of cancer survivors, determine the effect of cognitive status on function and participation in daily activities, and explore how cancer survivors perceive changes in their cognition. The study used a quantitative nonexperimental cross-sectional design. The participants included 35 cancer survivors from two different sites. Instruments included the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Reintegration to Normal Index-Postal Version (RNLI-P) in the measurement of cognitive impairment and functional performance respectively. Data were also collected with a supplemental questionnaire to explore participants’ perspectives on their cognitive difficulties and current function. The participant scores on the MoCA indicated cognitive impairment (μ= 25) and their scores on the RNLI-P demonstrated subpar reintegration (μ=9.64). Twenty-one participants answered the supplemental questionnaire. In content analysis of questionnaire responses, 17/21 participants reported some level of cognitive change related to cancer and cancer treatment. Data from an open-ended question were organized into four categories: decreased participation, more selective in activities, balance in activities, and cognitive changes. Study results indicate a large percentage of cancer survivors demonstrate mild cognitive impairment as well as changes in participation in instrumental activities of daily living.
Disaster and Preparedness: Lessons from Hurricane Rita

This paper investigates the lessons learned and preparedness behaviours of businesses in the southeast Texas region affected by Hurricane Rita. The data were collected through an e-mail survey sent to businesses in the southeast Texas region affected by Hurricane Rita. Findings from the study indicate that the majority of businesses took only ‘few’ or ‘some’ preparedness measures before the hurricane. However, those businesses that experienced impacts and losses due to Hurricane Rita report that they are now taking greater preparedness measures. This study identifies specific areas that should be addressed in a disaster preparedness plan based on information gathered from organizations that went through a major disaster first-hand.