cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI in detecting renal scarring in a rat injury model

Purpose: To create a reliable rat model with small renal cortical scars and evaluate the accuracy and sensitivity of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI in detecting the kinds of lesions that are associated with reflux nephropathy. Materials and Methods: In 16 rats, three unilateral renal cortical lesions were created using either electrocautery or pure alcohol with the contralateral kidney serving as control. MRI on a 1.5 Tesla GE Signa was performed 10–14 days after surgery. After bolus injection of 0.2 mM/Kg Gd-DTPA, sequential MRI acquisitions were performed using a 4-inch quadrature birdcage coil. Renal and scar volumes and pathology were compared after scanning and killing. Results: Of the 48 points of injury, 40 (83%) in the 16 rats were detected grossly. Under microscopy, 36 injuries (75%) were detected on mid-kidney cross-sections. The average lesion was 4.2 mm3 corresponding to 0.5% of the kidney volume. Using pathological findings as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of scar detection using MRI was 69% and 93%, respectively. Conclusion: A rat model was created to demonstrate the sensitivity of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI for detecting renal scars. Alcohol and electrocautery created reliable renal scars that were confirmed pathologically. MRI detected these lesions that averaged 4.2 mm3 (0.5% total renal volume) with sensitivity and specificity of 69% and 93%, respectively. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;31:1132–1136. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Helical chirality in hexamethylene triperoxide diamine.

The primary explosive hexamethylenetriperoxide diamine has previously been found to exist in the solid state as a racemic mixture of helically chiral, threefold symmetric enantiomers; another enantiomeric pair of low-energy conformers has been predicted, but has never been observed. We show by solution 2D NMR at 14 T, in achiral solution and by addition of chiral shift reagents, that all four optically isomeric conformers coexist at slow equilibrium on the NMR timescale at room temperature, and can be observed. Calculations of the 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts using gauge-including atomic orbital methods are in excellent agreement with experiment; thermochemical calculation of the free energies in solution are in somewhat worse agreement, but correctly predict the relative stability of the conformers. Analysis of the effects of chiral shift reagents on the NMR spectra suggests that discrimination between chiral isomers is primarily around the molecular equator, around which the enantiomeric gauche OO linkages are arrayed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production of congenic mouse strains carrying NOD-derived diabetogenic genetic intervals: an approach for the genetic dissection of complex traits

Insulin-dependent (Type 1) diabetes (IDD) in the NOD mouse is inherited as a complex polygenic trait making the identification of susceptibility genes difficult. Currently none of the non-MHC IDD susceptibility genes in NOD have been identified. In this paper we describe the congenic mouse approach that we are using for the dissection of complex traits, such as IDD. We produced a series of six congenic strains carrying NOD-derived diabetogenic genomic intervals, which were previously identified by linkage analysis, on a resistant background. These congenic strains were produced for the purpose of characterizing the function of each of these genes, alone and in combinations, in IDD pathogenesis and to allow fine mapping of the NOD IDD susceptibility genes. Histological examination of pancreata from 6 to 8-month-old congenic mice reveals that intervals on Chromosomes (Chrs) 1 and 17, but not 3, 6, and 11, contain NOD-derived genes that can increase the trafficking of mononuclear cells into the pancreas. Insulitis was observed only very rarely, even in older congenic mice, indicating that multiple genes are required for this phenotype. These results demonstrate the utility of this congenic approach for the study of complex genetic traits.
Partial purification and characterization of the acid protease of sea nettle (Chrysaora quinquecirrha) Nematocyst venom

Abstract 1. 1. Sea nettle venom acid protease (SNAP) was purified 27.2-fold by sequential chromatography on CM and SP Sephadex. 2. 2. SNAP had a pH optimum of 3.5 and a temperature optimum of 59°C. 3. 3. SNAP activity was stimulated by Ca2+, Na+, EDTA and EGTA.
Anticipated obstacles to compliance: Predicting their presence and expression

This study examines obstacles preventing influence goal achievement by investigating the obstacles requesters anticipate will be present and/or expressed by targets. Findings indicate that requesters expect that obstacles based on the target's inability to provide the resource are more frequent in the discourse of refusals than are obstacles grounded in the target's unwillingness to assist. When the relationship between perceived intimacy and the type of obstacles present is examined, a greater number of inability obstacles are expected to be present as intimacy increases while fewer unwillingness obstacles are expected to be present as intimacy increases. These relationships do not hold for the types of obstacles expected to be expressed in refusals. The discussion explores how expressed and unexpressed obstacles may affect the creation of request discourse.
Laboratory Study of the Influence of Substrate Type and Temperature on the Exploratory Tunneling by Formosan Subterranean Termite

Using two-dimensional foraging arenas, laboratory tests were conducted to investigate the effect of soil type, soil moisture level and ambient temperature on the exploratory tunneling by Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki. In choice arenas consisting of two substrate types having two moisture levels each, and conducted at a constant temperature of 22 °C, a significantly greater proportion of termites aggregated in sand than in sandy loam. Similarly, the length of excavated tunnels was also increased in sand. In a given substrate, termite aggregation or tunnel length did not differ between 5% and 15% moisture levels. In no-choice tests, where three different substrates (sand, sandy loam and silt loam) were tested at two temperatures (22 °C and 28 °C), excavations were significantly greater in sand than either sandy loam or silt loam at 22 °C. Fewer primary tunnels were constructed in sandy loam than in sand and fewer branched tunnels than either in sand or silt loam. No significant difference in either tunnel length or number of primary or branched tunnels was found between these two temperatures.
Estimating Wheat Grain Protein Content Using Multi-Temporal Remote Sensing Data Based on Partial Least Squares Regression

Abstract Estimating wheat grain protein content by remote sensing is important for assessing wheat quality at maturity and making grains harvest and purchase policies. However, spatial variability of soil condition, temperature, and precipitation will affect grain protein contents and these factors usually cannot be monitored accurately by remote sensing data from single image. In this research, the relationships between wheat protein content at maturity and wheat agronomic parameters at different growing stages were analyzed and multi-temporal images of Landsat TM were used to estimate grain protein content by partial least squares regression. Experiment data were acquired in the suburb of Beijing during a 2-yr experiment in the period from 2003 to 2004. Determination coefficient, average deviation of self-modeling, and deviation of cross-validation were employed to assess the estimation accuracy of wheat grain protein content. Their values were 0.88, 1.30%, 3.81% and 0.72, 5.22%, 12.36% for 2003 and 2004, respectively. The research laid an agronomic foundation for GPC (grain protein content) estimation by multi-temporal remote sensing. The results showed that it is feasible to estimate GPC of wheat from multi-temporal remote sensing data in large area.
Competition and Habitat Partitioning By the Giant Freshwater Prawn Macrobrachium Rosenbergii (De Man) (Decapoda, Palaemonidae) 1)

Under certain predictable conditions Macrobrachium rosenbergii kill one another. Under other "field" conditions these prawns appear to segregate by molt state into different microhabitats. Experiments were conducted to determine if this segregation was the result of competition or a change in habitat selection associated with a change in molt state. Apparently segregation was the result of competition, and not the result of a change in habitat preference associated with a change in molt state. The process of segregation by molt state seemed to increase the chance that a prawn in a susceptible molt state would survive that period of vulnerability.
Convection over Tropical Africa and the East Atlantic during the West African Monsoon: Regional and Diurnal Variability

AbstractThe geographic and diurnal variability of moist convection over tropical Africa and the east Atlantic is examined using the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite and related to the variability of the convective environment. The stratiform rain fraction is highest within oceanic and continental regions just north of the equator. Both regions have high column relative humidity (CRH). In both monsoon and semiarid continental regions, stratiform rain fractions are significantly higher on days when the CRH is high, which suggests a relationship between these quantities. Large convective systems with high echo tops dominate the rainfall over the Sahel. The importance of CAPE and shear to the development of these types of systems is suggested by the fact these systems are especially common on days when the CAPE and shear are unusually high.Both deep convective and stratiform conditional rain rates increase with the size and echo-top height of convective systems. According to the TRMM Preci...
Needle core biopsy in the diagnosis of pediatric thyroid neoplasms: a single institution retrospective review.

Purpose Our institution routinely utilizes needle core biopsy (NCB), instead of fine needle aspiration, in the evaluation of pediatric thyroid nodules. This practice initially arose from limited cytopathology services in our hospital. Given the lack of information regarding the utility of NCB in diagnosing pediatric thyroid neoplasms, we set out to review our institution’s experience with this technique.
Usefulness of B-type Natriuretic Peptide Levels in Predicting Hemodynamic and Clinical Decompensation

Pulmonary congestion can be challenging to diagnose because of nonspecific symptoms and the blunt nature of physical examination and radiographic findings. Assessing for euvolemia following treatment of congestion also can be difficult but can improve both the inpatient and outpatient care of patients who have heart failure. Tools such as the natriuretic peptides are important adjuncts to the physical examination and chest radiographs and often obviate the need for invasive hemodynamic assessment.
Precious African American memories, post-racial dreams & the American nation.

This interdisciplinary essay explores a fundamental paradox at the heart of American race relations since the 1960s: “the changing same.” The more things change; the more they remain the same. Combining historical and social-scientific evidence with autobiographical reflections, this discussion critically probes the paradoxical decline and persistence of two dimensions of our enduring racial quagmire: racial inequality and white supremacy. The essay argues that these powerful and interrelated elements of America's continuing racial dilemma demand a massive democratic movement to alleviate both at once. This wide-ranging struggle to realize the promise of American democracy requires more than just a revitalized African American Freedom Struggle that is both intraracial and interracial. Progress toward resolving the seemingly intractable problem of racial inequality in the United States demands far more than intensified efforts to alleviate economic inequality; it requires alleviating white supremacy as well.
Emission Spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy Studies of Plasma Assisted Biofilm Inactivation

Summary form only given. The removal and disposal of biofilms is an expensive, time-consuming effort required in many industries (medical, and water purification, to name a few). Biofilms are microbial communities that coalesce in an exopolysaccharide matrix which enables them to adhere to different surfaces and make them more resistant to conventional sterilization techniques than free, mobile bacteria. Gas discharge plasmas are a novel approach to inactivating biofilms. They contain a mixture of charged particles, chemically reactive species, and UV radiation, all of which are well-established sterilization agents against free microorganisms. Four day-old single-species biofilms were grown in 96-well polystyrene microplates using Chromobacterium violaceum, a gram negative bacterium. The gas discharge plasma was produced with an Atomflo 250 plasma reactor (Surfx Technologies) in which discharge occurs in gas flowing through two narrowly spaced, perforated electrodes (one at ground, one at 100 MHz RF). A mixture of helium and a secondary gas, nitrogen, was used. Bacterial biofilms were exposed to it for various time periods. The spectroscopy data were obtained using an Ocean Optics HR-2000 spectrometer with 0.5 nm resolution. The microscopy data were obtained using a Quesant atomic force microscope (AFM) in air in intermittent contact mode. Our data show that after a 10-minute plasma treatment, almost 100% of the viable cells are removed. The kinetics show a rapid initial decline in CFU/mL followed by a much slower subsequent decline. Spectroscopy data show the presence of two different chemically reactive oxygen species: NO and OH. These reactive species interact with biomolecules in the bacterial cell membranes and walls. The microscopy data show that non culturable cells are still intact at short exposure times. The microscopy data also suggest that cells may undergo cell wall damage after longer plasma exposure periods. These results indicate the potential of plasma as an alternative way for biofilm inactivation.
Abstract IA08: Characterizing the exposome.

The exposome is defined as the totality of environmental exposures from conception onwards. It offers a conceptual leap towards understanding the environmental causes of human disease through comprehensive studies of the internal chemical environment using repeated blood and other biological samples taken during critical life stages (Rappaport, S.M. and M.T. Smith, Science , 2010. 330:460-1). It augments the chemical-by-chemical approach to finding causes of disease as it includes both endogenous and exogenous exposures. From a toxicological viewpoint it is the chemicals present in biological fluids, such as the plasma, that the body's cell and tissues encounter that then cause aberrant health conditions. Hence, it is the internal exposome that represents the total target dose of chemical agents in the body, no matter what their source or how they are derived. This includes chemicals arising from inflammation, oxidative stress and other endogenous sources. Several ‘omic’ technologies can be applied to characterize the exposome of specific diseases and may promote discovery of the key exposures responsible for chronic diseases. Characterizing the human exposome represents a challenge similar to the human genome project, which began when DNA sequencing was in its infancy and has generated by some accounts $140 for every $1 invested. Given the magnitude of the exposome challenge international participation is of paramount importance. Thus, we have formed the Exposome Alliance ( ) to promote investment in a human exposome project. The European Union recently took the first steps in this regard by funding a European Exposome initiative that will support several international projects. Citation Format: Martyn T. Smith. Characterizing the exposome. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Post-GWAS Horizons in Molecular Epidemiology: Digging Deeper into the Environment; 2012 Nov 11-14; Hollywood, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(11 Suppl):Abstract nr IA08.
Restricted Voting Stock, Acquisition Premiums, and the Market Value of Corporate Control

This paper examines the valuation and financial histories of 152 British firms that have two or more common share classes with differential voting rights outstanding at some time between 1955 and 1982. Over 16,000 monthly price pairs are examined, and on average, the superior voting (SV) shares market prices exceed those of the otherwise equivalent class of restricted voting (RV) shares by 13.3 percent. Liquidity factors, if anything, attenuate this result since RV shares trade much more frequently than SV shares. Forty-three of the sample companies are acquired while they have multiple share classes outstanding, and a higher price is paid for the SV share class than for the RV share class in 37 cases. The SV share price premium is found to be positively related to insider holdings of SV shares and negatively related to insider holding of RV shares. Copyright 1990 by MIT Press.
Potential Significance of Circulating E-Selectin

In the accompanying article, Belch and colleagues1 propose a model in which baseline levels of serum E-selectin (CD62E) are predictive of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Their data revealed significantly higher baseline serum E-selectin levels in patients who restenosed compared with those who did not. The source of the circulating soluble E-selectin in these patients was not revealed, but other studies have shown E-selectin to be expressed on luminal arterial endothelial cells, neovasculature, and adventitial vasa vasorum associated with atherosclerotic lesions.2 3 4 In these reports, the luminal E-selectin was increased in arterial segments with mononuclear cell infiltration. Extensive immunohistological examinations of a wide variety of tissues and inflammatory lesions have revealed two important features regarding E-selectin expression. It is generally absent in normal tissues,5 6 7 and E-selectin has not been seen on cells other than endothelium. While direct demonstration of endothelium as the source of circulating E-selectin has not been accomplished, in vitro studies have shown that human umbilical vein endothelial cells stimulated with interleukin-1β, tissue necrosis factor-α, or endotoxin will release E-selectin into the culture supernate,8 9 10 and this soluble E-selectin is 5 to 7 kD smaller than that obtained by detergent extraction of the stimulated endothelial cells. E-selectin found in human serum also has a lower apparent molecular weight and appears to lack the cytoplasmic domain.10 The most likely hypothesis is that plasma E-selectin results from proteolytic cleavage of endothelial E-selectin expressed after cytokine stimulation.11 Elevations of soluble E-selectin have been reported in a variety of systemic inflammatory conditions. Significantly increased plasma levels of E-selectin have been found …
A Comparative Review of the Newer Inhalational Anaesthetics

The physical and physiological characteristics and efficacy and adverse effects of sevoflurane and desflurane are reviewed. A lower blood-gas solubility of both drugs affords a greater degree of control of anaesthetic levels and a more rapid immediate recovery from anaesthesia than is achieved with older inhaled agents. However, this rapid recovery may result in emergence agitation for both agents, probably related to rapid awakening to postoperative pain. The cost efficacy of both agents will depend upon their ability to reduce the personnel and time costs of surgery through this rapid emergence, and this aspect needs to be studied further. Sevoflurane is currently in widespread clinical use in Japan and parts of Europe and the Americas. Compared with desflurane, it has the additional advantage of being nonirritating to the airway; inhalational induction of anaesthesia with sevoflurane is achieved rapidly and easily. The instability of sevoflurane with carbon dioxide absorbents and its in vivo biotransformation produce potentially toxic by-products. These by-products, including Compound A [pentafluoroisopropenyl fluoromethyl ether (PIFE)] and fluoride, have been extensively studied, and although there is a possibility of iatrogenic sequelae from sevoflurane, the likelihood of long term toxicity appears to be quite low. Phase IV studies are indicated to determine the safety of administering sevoflurane: (i) to renally impaired patients, and (ii) to any patient when fresh gas flows of <2 L/min are used. Sevoflurane is otherwise very well tolerated and appears to offer the advantage of rapid and smooth induction and emergence from general anaesthesia, with excellent haemodynamic characteristics. Desflurane is currently in widespread use in the US and does not possess the in vitro and in vivo stability concerns of sevoflurane, with the exception of carbon monoxide production from dry carbon dioxide absorbents. Because of its significant pungency, desflurane is not approved for use in inhalational inductions. In addition, its transient activation of the sympathetic nervous system produces hypertension and tachycardia, probably from stimulation of airway receptors. Desflurane is also otherwise well tolerated and provides very rapid emergence from general anaesthesia.
Allostery in trypsin-like proteases suggests new therapeutic strategies.

Trypsin-like proteases (TLPs) are a large family of enzymes responsible for digestion, blood coagulation, fibrinolysis, development, fertilization, apoptosis and immunity. A current paradigm posits that the irreversible transition from an inactive zymogen to the active protease form enables productive interaction with substrate and catalysis. Analysis of the entire structural database reveals two distinct conformations of the active site: one fully accessible to substrate (E) and the other occluded by the collapse of a specific segment (E*). The allosteric E*–E equilibrium provides a reversible mechanism for activity and regulation in addition to the irreversible zymogen to protease conversion and points to new therapeutic strategies aimed at inhibiting or activating the enzyme. In this review, we discuss relevant examples, with emphasis on the rational engineering of anticoagulant thrombin mutants.
Genome-Wide Quantitative Identification of DNA Differentially Methylated Sites in Arabidopsis Seedlings Growing at Different Water Potential

Background In eukaryotes, the combinatorial usage of cis-regulatory elements enables the assembly of composite genetic switches to integrate multifarious, convergent signals within a single promoter. Plants as sessile organisms, incapable of seeking for optimal conditions, rely on the use of this resource to adapt to changing environments. Emerging evidence suggests that the transcriptional responses of plants to stress are associated with epigenetic processes that govern chromatin accessibility. However, the extent at which specific chromatin modifications contribute to gene regulation has not been assessed. Methodology/Principal Findings In the present work, we combined methyl-sensitive-cut counting and RNA-seq to follow the transcriptional and epigenetic response of plants to simulated drought. Comprehensive genome wide evidence supports the notion that the methylome is widely reactive to water potential. The predominant changes in methylomes were loci in the promoters of genes encoding for proteins suited to cope with the environmental challenge. Conclusion/Significance These selective changes in the methylome with corresponding changes in gene transcription suggest drought sets in motion an instructive mechanism guiding epigenetic machinery toward specific effectors genes.
Studies of β-thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4, and fibrinopeptide a in erythrocytosis due to cyanotic congenital heart disease

Abstract Plasma and serum assays of β-thromboglobulin (BTG) and platelet factor 4 (PF4), and plasma fibrinopeptide A (FPA) were measured in adults with cyanotic congenital heart disease to characterize further the hemostatic disorder. Artifactual elevations of plasma BTG, PF4, and FPA appeared to occur occasionally when a 21 or 22 gauge needle was used to collect blood. The high packed red cell volume was probably the cause. Use of a larger caliber needle (20 gauge) appeared to lessen the problem. Normal plasma FPA levels (20 gauge needle) in 8 of 9 patients suggest that chronic intravascular coagulation is not common in these patients. Serum BTG and PF4, used to estimate total platelet content of these proteins, were normal to slightly increased. That levels were not reduced implies that platelets do not usually circulate in a “spent” state. Therapeutic phlebotomy in 8 patients was associated with small decreases in plasma BTG and PF4 of uncertain clinical significance. Five of 14 patients had elevated plasma BTG with normal to only minimally increased plasma PF4. However, 10 of 10 patients tested were found to have reduced creatinine clearance, and therefore the relative contributions of platelet secretion and reduced BTG catabolism in the kidney to elevated plasma BTG levels are unclear.
Creativity and chronic disease. Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827).

Beethoven began to lose his hearing at age 28. By age 44, his hearing loss was complete, most likely caused by compression of the eighth cranial nerve associated with Paget's disease of bone. Beethoven's head became large, and he had a prominent forehead, a large jaw, and a protruding chin (see picture)—features that are consistent with Paget's disease. Eventually, his hat and shoes did not fit because of bone enlargement.
How to measure the curvature of space-time

We propose a new method of measuring the curvature of space-time using test particles. We show that to determine the curvature of space-time in vacuum it is necessary to use at least four test particles and in general at least six.
A capacity planning model for the claims handling process

This paper develops a model of the claims handling process (CHP), one of the most essential and basic functions of an insurance company. The proposed CHP model captures the relationship between the capacity of the claims handling system, given by the number of claims representatives handling the claims, and the operating characteristics, such as the closing rate of claims and the level of pending claims of the system. As a tool that allows analysis and prediction of the operating characteristics, the CHP model is useful for both capacity planning and operational control of the claims handling process. After introducing a simplified fixed-input model, the paper develops a more general, variable-input CHP model. The solution procedure and the use of the CHP model are then illustrated through a numerical example.
Stereochemical origin of opposite orientations in DNA adducts derived from enantiomeric anti-benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxides with different tumorigenic potentials.

When covalently linked to DNA, enantiomeric pairs of mirror image aromatic diol epoxides with differing tumorigenic potencies adopt opposite orientations along the DNA helix. This phenomenon has been observed by high-resolution NMR solution studies in a number of systems. Preliminary modeling efforts [Geacintov et al. (1997) Chem. Res. Toxicol. 10, 111−146) had suggested that the origin of the opposite orientation effect may be manifested even at the level of the carcinogen-modified nucleoside due to primary steric hindrance effects between the aromatic moiety and the attached base and sugar. Such a small system can be computationally investigated extensively, since a very thorough survey of the potential energy surface is feasible. Consequently, in an effort to understand the underlying origins of the opposite orientations in (+)-trans and (−)-trans-anti adduct pairs, we have undertaken an extensive investigation of the paradigm 10S (+) and 10R (−)-trans-anti-[BP]-N2-dG mononucleoside adduct pair, derive...
Allantoic cyst and persistent urachal-allantoic communication: A rare umbilical anomaly

True cysts of the umbilical cord are distinctly rare. A cyst lined by uroepithelium is described in a newborn in whom the cyst communicated freely with a patent urachal system. It is assumed that this most likely represents a remnant cyst of the allantois--an anomaly not described previously.
Myocardial fibrosis identified by cardiac magnetic resonance late gadolinium enhancement is associated with adverse ventricular mechanics and ventricular tachycardia late after Fontan operation.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between myocardial fibrosis identified by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and ventricular performance and arrhythmias in patients late after the Fontan operation. Background Patients who have undergone the Fontan palliation may develop ventricular dysfunction and arrhythmias, but the mechanisms and risk factors are poorly defined. Methods All patients who have had a Fontan operation and a CMR study with the myocardial delayed-enhancement technique from January 2002 to November 2008 were retrospectively identified. Results Of 90 patients (mean age at study was 23.1 ± 10.9 years), 25 (28%) had positive late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in the ventricular myocardium. Patients with positive LGE had lower mean ejection fraction (45% vs. 56%; p < 0.001), increased median end-diastolic volume (100 ml/body surface area [BSA]1.3vs. 82 ml/BSA1.3; p = 0.004), increased median ventricular mass i (63 g/BSA1.3vs. 45 g/BSA1.3; p < 0.001), higher frequency of regional wall motion abnormalities (52% vs. 28%; p = 0.05), and higher frequency of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) (36% vs. 11%; p = 0.01). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that more extensive positive LGE, expressed as percent LGE of total myocardial mass, was associated with lower ejection fraction (p = 0.002), increased end-diastolic volume (p < 0.001), increased mass i (p < 0.001), and a higher frequency of NSVT (odds ratio 1.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.1 to 1.4; p = 0.006). Conclusions In this cohort of late Fontan survivors, myocardial fibrosis was common and associated with adverse ventricular mechanics and a higher prevalence of NSVT. Further studies are warranted to examine the utility of LGE for risk stratification and treatment of ventricular arrhythmia and dysfunction in Fontan patients.
Tissue K concentration in relation to the role of the kidney in hibernation and the cause of periodic arousal

Abstract In deep hibernation: 1. 1. Cerebral cortex and diaphragm of hamsters and ground squirrels, liver and erythrocytes of hamsters and ventricle of ground squirrels retain constant K content. 2. 2. Leg muscle of both species and erythrocytes of ground squirrels lose K. 3. 3. Kidney cortex of both species and liver of ground squirrels accumulate K. Upon arousal: 4. 4. The K content of kidney and of ground squirrel liver returns to normal. 5. 5. K uptake by kidney (and liver) may serve to compensate for loss due to cold in other tissues. Prolonged loss of K from excitable tissues may be a trigger for natural periodic arousal.
High-temperature infrared spectrum of HCN near 3300 cm -2

Abstract The infrared absorption of HCN near the fundamental band at 3311 cm −1 has been measured at temperatures up to 1200 K. Transitions involving high rotational states (up to J = 62) have been measured. These give an improved value for the sextic centrifugal distortion term H 0 . Many hot-band transitions have been observed and assigned to transitions originating in vibrationally excited states up to 4000 cm −1 above the ground state. These measurements give new data on vibrational states involving moderately high bending quantum numbers and indicate that new terms are needed to fit the ro-vibrational energy levels.
Nanostructures of zinc oxide

Abstract Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a unique material that exhibits semiconducting, piezoelectric, and pyroelectric multiple properties. Using a solid-vapor phase thermal sublimation technique, nanocombs, nanorings, nanohelixes/nanosprings, nanobows, nanobelts, nanowires, and nanocages of ZnO have been synthesized under specific growth conditions. These unique nanostructures unambiguously demonstrate that ZnO is probably the richest family of nanostructures among all materials, both in structures and properties. The nanostructures could have novel applications in optoelectronics, sensors, transducers, and biomedical science because it is bio-safe.
African dust deposition to Florida: How well do dust models perform?

Models, widely used to estimate dust deposition to the oceans, have not been adequately tested because of the dearth of long-term measurements of dust deposition rates. Here we present the results of a three year deposition program in a nine-station network distributed throughout the State of Florida which is impacted by African dust every year. The deposition rates of soil-related elements (Al, Fe, Mn) were strongly correlated and exhibited an extremely strong summer maximum that closely matched concurrently-measured dust concentrations in Miami. The deposition rates of Al, Fe and Mn at all sites were remarkably uniform. The deposition rates of dust, based on Fe measurements, were compared with those from nine AEROCOM models. Dust models correctly characterized the seasonal cycle of deposition but most grossly underestimated summer deposition and they tended to produce latitudinal gradients that were not observed in the network. There is a clear need to better understand the treatment of deposition processes in models.
Nericell: using mobile smartphones for rich monitoring of road and traffic conditions

We consider the problem of monitoring road and traffic conditions in a city. Prior work in this area has required the deployment of dedicated sensors on vehicles and/or on the roadside, or the tracking of mobile phones by service providers. Furthermore, prior work has largely focused on the developed world, with its relatively simple traffic flow patterns. In fact, traffic flow in cities of the developing regions, which comprise much of the world, tends to be much more complex owing to varied road conditions (e.g., potholed roads), chaotic traffic (e.g., a lot of braking and honking), and a heterogeneous mix of vehicles (2-wheelers, 3-wheelers, cars, buses, etc.).To monitor road and traffic conditions in such a setting, we present Nericell, a system that performs rich sensing by piggybacking on smartphones that users carry around with them. In this demo, we show the use of accelerometer to detect bumps and braking. We also use the microphone to enable honk detection. Nericell addresses several challenges including virtually reorienting the accelerometer on a phone that is at an arbitrary orientation, and performing honk detection and localization in an energy efficient manner.
Secretion of thyrocalcitonin in organ culture.

Thyroid glands from 19-day rat fetuses cultured in a chemically defined medium secrete an inhibitor of bone resorption which is presumably thyrocalcitonin (TCT). The amount of this TCT-like activity is directly proportional to the calcium concentration of the medium over the range of 1.0-2.5 mM calcium. The secretion increases progressively over a 48-hr culture period and the response is specific for thyroid tissue. No detectable increases in TCT-like activity were obtained when the magnesium concentration of the medium was varied over the range of 0.4–3.2 mM. Dibutyryl-cyclic AMP (DB-cAMP) stimulated secretion at 1O-5-1O-3M concentrations. The active material could be extracted with oxycellulose from media in which thyroids had been incubated at a high calcium concentration, and also isolated by column chromatography. Its behavior on Sephadex G-100 was similar to that of TCT extracted from rat thyroid glands. This system can be used as a model to study the mechanisms by which the secretion and possible s...
ROBERT J. GORDON'S CONCEPT OF CAPITAL

Estimates of capital stock normally equate different models of capital goods by their production costs at a base date (a concept known as method 1 or K), not by their current marginal products (method 3, or J). Some economists advocate that, instead, different models be equated by the base-date costs of providing characteristics of the goods, not of the goods themselves. The characteristics selected have, however, excluded the amounts of other inputs used in the production to which the good is devoted. Hence the method does not equate capital goods by their marginal products but instead by the gross products of the capital goods together with various amounts of associated inputs. Gordon recognizes this defect and believes he has remedied it empirically, but the steps he takes are too slight to support this view. It remains impractical to construct estimates that equate goods by their marginal products.
Entropic trapping and sieving of long DNA molecules in a nanofluidic channel

Entropic trapping of long DNA was demonstrated in an artificial channel, fabricated by silicon based lithography and etching techniques. This channel consisted of alternating thick and thin regions, where the thickness of the thin region was as small as 90 nm. The electrophoretic mobility of long DNA molecules in this channel was measured as a function of the applied electric field. Because the radius of gyration of DNA used was much larger than the thin gap, DNA molecules were trapped when they moved from the thick to the thin region. This trapping determined the mobility of DNA in the system. Surprisingly, longer DNA molecules moved faster than shorter DNA molecules in the channel. This may be due to the fact that a larger DNA molecule has a better chance of escaping entropic traps because of the larger contact area with the thin slit. This device could enable fast manipulation and separation of long polymers.
Energy analysis of diffuse ω-reflections in NbZr by Mössbauer X-ray scattering

Abstract When Nb is added to Zr the hexagonal phase of the latter is suppressed. The bcc alloy shows a strong instability towards the hexagonal ω-phase. The dynamic nature of this instability has recently been a subject of considerable experimental and theoretical effort. We have energy analyzed diffusely scattered Mossbauer gamma rays to estimate the dynamic nature of the instability. The central peak of the diffuse scattering at several hexagonal points in k-space shows no inelastic features to a resolution Δ E = ±3×10 −9 eV. Under the assumption that source and scatterer line shapes are Lorentzian, the diffuse scattering in both the 20% and 30% Nb samples is elastic to 3×10 −9 eV. It appears more appropriate at this point to describe the ω- phase scattering in terms of static incoherent precipitates.
Maximum‐likelihood estimation for discrete Boolean models using linear samples

An observation of a Boolean model consists of a set of covered points. In the one-dimensional discrete case, the likelihood function of an observation can be expressed via the lengths of sequences of covered points and points not covered, called black and white runlengths, respectively. The black and white runlengths are independent random variables whose respective distributions determine the one-dimensional discrete Boolean model completely. Under certain conditions, a two-dimensional discrete Boolean model induces a one-dimensional discrete Boolean model, thereby allowing the likelihood function of a one-dimensional observation to be expressed in terms of the parameters of the two-dimensional model. This relationship enables maximum likelihood estimation to be performed on the two-dimensional model using linear samples. Examples are given including an application involving micrographs of toner particles.
Obstetric outcomes in women with elevated maternal serum human chorionic gonadotropin

Objective This study was undertaken to assess outcomes in unselected women with maternal serum human chorionic gonadotropin (MShCG) 2.0 MoM or greater. Study design This is an observational cohort study of 309 women with MShCG 2 MoM or greater and 309 women of the same age and ethnicity with MShCG less than 2.0 MoM who were evaluated for preterm delivery (PTD), preeclampsia, stillbirth, birth weight 10% or less, and birth weight 90% or greater (larger for gestational age [LGA]). Confounding variables evaluated were nulliparity, prior PTD, chronic hypertension, diabetes, and maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein and estriol. Results There was no overall increase in adverse outcomes despite associations found with PTD for preeclampsia with MShCG 3.0 MoM or greater (odds ratio [OR] 5.9, CI 1.5-23.2) and PTD for fetal indications with MShCG 4.0 MoM or greater (OR 45.5, CI 4.1-509). There was an increase of LGA infants with MShCG 3.0-3.9 MoM (OR 2.5, CI 1.0-5.8). Conclusion Adverse pregnancy outcome is associated with MShCG 3.0 MoM or greater, thus increased surveillance is not warranted with lower values.
Abstract 4321: EGFR signaling in glioblastoma regulates the expression of a brain specific isoform ofalphaPIX/Arhgef6to promote invasion

The gene Arhgef6 encodes the protein alphaPIX/Cool-2, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor specific for the Rho GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42. AlphaPIX is a protein of 90 kDa predominantly expressed in haemopoietic cells where it has been shown to have a role in cytoskeletal reorganization. However, Arhgef6 is also expressed in the brain and mutations in Arhgef6 have been linked to intellectual disability (ID) in humans. AlphaPIX mRNA was reported to be upregulated in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most lethal form of brain cancer. We examined alphaPIX expression in several glioma cell lines and observed a smaller isoform migrating at 72 kDa. To characterize this isoform we performed 5′RACE from several glioma cell lines and show the smaller isoform is an amino-terminal truncated form of alphaPIX lacking the calponin homology (CH) domain. We demonstrate this isoform is expressed during post-natal brain development and its expression coincides with activation of mTOR. Examination of glioblastoma from both autopsy and biopsy clinical samples shows alphaPIX expression correlates with EGFR/PI3K/Akt/mTOR activation. EGF stimulation is shown to upregulate alphaPIX, and pharmacological inhibition of Akt inhibits alphaPIX expression. To examine the function of alphaPIX in glioblastoma we performed siRNA-mediated knockdown and demonstrate increased cell adhesion upon alphaPIX loss. In addition, knockdown of alphaPIX in glioma cells decreases invasive capacity and decreases the formation of invadopodia. These data demonstrate a previously uncharacterized isoform of alphaPIX is expressed during post-natal brain development, and is highly upregulated in GBM with activated EGFR signaling. A functional consequence of EGFR-mediated alphaPIX expression in glioma is increased invasion as a result of dysregulated cytoskeletal organization. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4321. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4321
EGCG inhibits mammary cancer cell migration through inhibition of nitric oxide synthase and guanylate cyclase.

Abstract Tumor cell migration is considered as a major event in the metastatic cascade. Here we examined the effect of (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on migration capacity and molecular mechanism using 4T1 murine mammary cancer cells as a model. Using an in vitro migration assay, we found that treatment of 4T1 cells with EGCG resulted in concentration-dependent inhibition of migration of these cells. The migration capacity of cells was reduced in presence of NG-nitro- l -arginine methyl ester ( l -NAME), an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. EGCG suppressed the elevated levels of endogenous NO/NOS in 4T1 cells and blocked the migration promoting capacity of l -arginine. Treatment with guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1-H-[1,2,4]oxadiaxolo[4,3-a]quinolalin-1-one (ODQ) reduced the migration of 4T1 cells. EGCG reduced the elevated levels of cGMP in cancer cells and blocked the migration restoring activity of 8-Br cGMP (cGMP analogue). These results indicate for the first time that EGCG inhibits mammary cancer cell migration through the inhibition of NO/NOS and guanylate cyclase.
Clinical use of blood flowmeters

The concept of an electromagnetic flowmeter was first described by Kolin in 1936. He demonstrated that with the flowmeter which required surgical exposure of the blood vessel for probe contact but not requiring cannulation, it was possible to follow rapid flow changes and that the deflection bore a linear relationship to flow. Twenty years later a greatly improved circuitry and design was described by Denison and Spencer. Soon thereafter, a number of investigators, notably Schenk and his colleagues utilizing the square wave electromagnetic flowmeter and Cannon and his colleagues with the sine wave electromagnetic flowmeter reported on a number of experimental and clinical studies on blood flow measurements. My introduction to blood flow measurements was through Ferguson who had had a flowmeter and flowmeter probes constructed according to the design of Denison and Spencer. Our first report on flow measurements in patients with peripheral arterial disease was made in 1960. Electromagnetic flowmeters and probes available today are a vast improvement in ease of use, reliability and accuracy, thus the pertinent question is whether or not the information that can be obtained with it would warrant its routine clinical use. We started with a flowmeter constructed by following a schematic diagram and hand winding our own probes, then to the purchase of Medicon 2000, then Medicon 4000, and to our present unit, the SP2204. The advancement in instrumentation has been truly remarkable. All intraoperative blood pressure measurements are made with direct arterial puncture with 23 size needle with the hub removed and needle tip fitted to polyethylene tube connected to a strain gauge.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
First manic episode associated with use of human chorionic gonadotropin for obesity: a case report.

Background Although highly controversial, the treatment of obesity with exogenous human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) remains popular in the USA. We report the case of a patient whose first manic episode was associated with the use of HCG for weight loss. Case report A 32-year-old female patient was admitted to our psychiatric inpatient unit due to a two-week history of manic symptoms. She had no previous history of manic or hypomanic episodes and had completed a 45-day course of sublingual HCG for weight loss immediately prior to the onset of the manic episode. The patient was treated with lithium carbonate and aripiprazole, and progressed with improvement in the symptoms. Conclusion While it is not possible to definitively link the HCG use to the development of mania, available evidence suggests that HCG may have a contributing role in triggering manic symptomatology.