cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fly ash‐induced changes in hamster tracheal epithelium in vivo and in vitro

The effects of fly ash from a coal‐fired power plant on tracheal epithelium of CrRGH (SYR) Syrian golden hamsters were studied in organ cultures and after in vivo exposures. The tracheal epithelium of animals receiving 5–9 daily (5 d/wk) 3‐h exposures to 2 mg fly ash per cubic meter showed large areas of basal cell hyperplasia and stratification. Surface alterations characteristic of stratified metaplasia were observed. Exposure to 1 mg/m3 produced diffuse basal cell hyperplasia. Hamster tracheal ring cultures exposed in vitro to 50 μg/ml fly ash for 1 h/d or to 10 μg/ml for 3 h/d showed epithelial changes similar to those observed in vivo. Whole suckling hamster tracheas in organ culture exposed to fly ash at concentrations of 10 and 50 μg/ml for 1 or 3 h/d exhibited cornifying epidermoid metaplasia after 7 exposures. The most characteristic findings in surface cells were broad metaplastic areas with keratin formation.
The role of divalent cations in interactions between lymphokines and macrophages.

Abstract The divalent cation requirements of lymphokine-mediated alterations in macrophage function (activation and inhibition of migration) were examined. Normal rabbit alveolar macrophages exposed to incubation supernatants of antigen-stimulated sensitized lymphocytes (lymphokine) were activated, manifested by increased adherence and enhanced bactericidal activity, as compared with control cells. This lymphokine-mediated activation was dependent upon the presence of extracellular Mg 2+ (but not Ca 2+ ). Our data from both current and previous studies suggest that Mg 2+ influx is necessary for initiation or support of the macrophage activation process. The divalent cation requirements for lymphokine (MIF)-induced inhibition of macrophage migration differed from that of the activation phenomenon. Specifically, both Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ were required for expression of MIF activity. Adsorption experiments indicate that these cations are needed for binding of MIF to the macrophage surface.
Ionic polymer–conductor composites as biomimetic sensors, robotic actuators and artificial muscles—a review

This paper will first cover a brief summary of the fundamental properties and characteristics of ionic polymeric-conductor composites (IPCCs) as biomimetic sensors, robotic actuators and artificial muscles. It will then address such fundamentals in more details. In particular, it will discuss the manufacturing techniques including a comparison between chemical plating and physical loading of a conductor phase, the electronic and electromechanical characteristics of IPCCs, the phenomenological modeling of the underlying sensing and actuation mechanisms in IPCCs, some preliminary constitutive modeling of such complex electroactive materials, as well as some potential industrial and medical application areas for IPCCs, respectively. It will also briefly discuss the potential of IPCCs in developing distributed biomimetic micro- and nano sensors and actuators.
The Impact of Lifestyles on Management Strategies

Special interest groups have reached a societal critical mass. They no longer simply direct public attention toward a specific issue but encourage a way of life which demonstrates their members' convictions to a broader set of principles.
Effect of laminin and cytoskeletal agents on neurite formation by NG108-15 cells.

Laminin promotes attachment and process formation in the neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cell line NG108–15. As cells attached to laminin, they flattened and remained dispersed rather than associated in clumps. Process formation was observed within 1 hr after exposure to laminin and was dose dependent. Cycloheximide, an inhibitor of protein synthesis, did not block laminin-mediated attachment and neurite formation. Addition of drugs that depolymerize the cytoskeleton led to different behaviors for cells grown on plastic compared with those in the presence of laminin. Cells on plastic treated with either vinblastine or cytochalasin neither flattened nor grew processes. Cells plus laminin and vinblastine retracted processes, but remained flat, suggesting that laminin-induced processes can be destabilized by disrupting microtubules. Cells sequentially treated with laminin and cytochalasin produced processes that were thin and highly branched. Cells in high concentrations of cytochalasin on a laminin substrate formed aberrant processes even when their soma did not flatten. Since laminin counteracted the effect of cytochalasin on process outgrowth but did not alter the effect of cytochalasin on flattening of the cell body, different mechanisms mediated by microfilaments may be involved in cell flattening and in process formation.
Alkyne adducts of ditungsten tetrapivalate: [W2(κ2-O2CtBu)4(μ-RCCR')2], where R = R' = Me, Et, Ph and R = Me, R' = Ph

Aromatic hydrocarbon solutions of [W 2 (O 2 C t Bu) 4 ] react with alkynes RC≡CR' to give adducts of the formula [W 2 (κ 2 -O 2 C t Bu) 4 (μ-RCCR') 2 ], where R = R' = Me, Et, Ph and R = Me, R' = Ph, as orange to purple air-stable,hydrocarbon-soluble, crystalline solids which have been characterized by infrared, NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. The single-crystal X-ray structures have also been obtained for R = R' = Me and R = Me, R' = Ph. In both structures, there are a pair of perpendicularly bridged alkyne ligands with central C-C distances of ca. 1.34 A and a W-W bond of ca. 2.5 A. The crystallographically characterized molecules have virtual C 2 h symmetry, and in solution, the NMR data are consistent with the presence of this isomer and a second having D 2 symmetry. The two isomers can be related to meso and Δ/Λ isomers of an edge-bridged octahedral unit containing four chelates: [(chelate) 2 M(μ-X) 2 M(chelate) 2 ], where X represents the central position of the μ-perpendicular alkyne. The isomerization in solution was found to be intramolecular and solvent-assisted, with THF-d 8 > benzene-d 6 toluene-d 8 > CD 2 Cl 2 , and can be catalyzed by the addition of t BuCO 2 H. The electronic structure and bonding in these compounds have been investigated using density functional theory calculations on the model compounds D 2 and C 2 h [W 2 (κ 2 -O 2 -CH) 4 (μ-HCCH) 2 ]. These calculational results lend credence to the notion that there is a W-W bond of order 2.
T cell receptor VB repertoire diversity in patients with immune thrombocytopenia following splenectomy

In recent years, a pathophysiological role for T cells in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) has been established. We applied cDNA size distribution analysis of the T cell receptor (TCR) beta-variable (VB) complementarity-determining region 3 (CDR3) in order to investigate T cell repertoire diversity among immune thrombocytopenia patients who had either responded or not responded to splenectomy, and compared them to normal controls. ITP patients who had had a durable platelet response to splenectomy showed a mean 2.8 +/- 2.1 abnormal CDR3 size patterns per patient, similar to healthy volunteers (2.9 +/- 2.0 abnormal CDR3 size patterns). In contrast, patients unresponsive to splenectomy demonstrated evidence of significantly more clonal T cell expansions than patients who had responded to splenectomy or controls (11.3 +/- 3.3 abnormal CDR3 size patterns per patient; P < 0.001). Of the VB subfamilies analysed, VB3 and VB15 correlated with response or non-response to splenectomy, each demonstrating oligoclonality in non-responding patients (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that removal of the spleen may lead directly or indirectly to reductions in T cell clonal expansions in responders, or that the extent of T cell clonality impacts responsiveness to splenectomy in patients with ITP.
Hydrogen release from ammonia borane dissolved in an ionic liquid

Abstract Hydrogen release from ammonia borane (AB) dissolved in an ionic liquid (IL) is analyzed using batch, isothermal reaction data. It is found that an Avrami-Erofeyev type model, normally used in solid–gas systems, can be modified for this two-step reaction to describe the measured kinetics of hydrogen release and the observed double peaks in release rates. The kinetic model indicates that temperatures in excess of 200 °C are needed for complete conversion (release of 2.35 H2-equivalents) in a reasonably compact flow reactor with
In Support of Reading: Reading Outreach Programs at Academic Libraries

Encouraging pleasure reading is not traditionally seen as the role of academic libraries. Those students who take time for reading, however, are better poised to succeed in college. Declining rates in reading among young people are cause for alarm, and many libraries at academic institutions are developing programs to promote this pastime. This article will examine statistics on the state of reading in America, outline two reading outreach initiatives that New Mexico State University has engaged in, and suggest strategies for effectively reaching out to the community to encourage reading.
Melatonin decreases cell proliferation and transformation in a melatonin receptor-dependent manner

Abstract There are conflicting claims for the role of melatonin in oncogenesis. In addition, the mechanism(s) underlying melatonin's effects in oncogenic processes is (are) unknown. In this study, the effects of melatonin exposure on cell proliferation and transformation were assessed in NIH3T3 cells transfected with either the human mt 1 (NIH-mt1) or MT 2 (NIH-MT2) melatonin receptors. The effects of melatonin exposure on proliferation was assessed by direct cell counts and [ 3 H]thymidine uptake assays. The effect of chronic melatonin pretreatment on transformation was assessed by focus assays. In both NIH-mt1 and NIH-MT2 cells, melatonin pretreatment decreased cell proliferation and transformation. Control (NIH-neo) cells did not show this effect. However, as revealed by the [ 3 H]thymidine uptake assays, an increase in DNA synthesis occurred in NIH-mt1 cells, whereas no increase occurred in the NIH-MT2 or NIH-neo cells. Upon examination of melatonin receptors, a decrease in the function of both mt 1 and MT 2 receptors occurred. These data suggest that perhaps an attenuation of receptor-mediated processes are involved in the anti-proliferative and anti-transformation capabilities of melatonin in NIH3T3 cells. In addition, based on the [ 3 H]thymidine assays, receptor mediated signal transduction mechanisms may slow the growth of cells via actions on the cell cycle. The results from this study shed new insight on the putative mechanisms underlying melatonin's effects on cell proliferation and transformation and lends support for a protective role of melatonin in oncogenesis.
A novel ALK rearrangement in an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor in a neonate

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are uncommon lesions primarily affecting children and young adults. They have rarely been described in infants, with a very small number described in neonates. Structural rearrangements in the anaplastic large-cell lymphoma kinase gene ( ALK ) has contributed to our categorizing this lesion as a neoplasm. In addition, rearrangements of the ALK gene have been implicated in the pathogenicity of many other hematolymphoid and nonhematolymphoid tumors, typically involving 2p23 with different partners or with pericentric inversion. We report a previously undescribed cryptic deletion and intrachromosomal-insertional translocation of the 3′-region of the ALK gene from 2p23 to the 2q33-q35 in an IMT of a newborn patient with an apparently normal G-band karyotype of the tumor.
Seed Predation in Neotropical Pre-montane Pastures: Site, Distance, and Species Effects

Abstract We studied patterns of removal and predation on seeds of ten plant species over two years in four abandoned pastures adjacent to forest fragments in Costa Rica. We hypothesized that: (1) removal within pastures would be greater nearest forest fragments and decline at farther distances; (2) removal rates would be greater on smaller-seeded species; and (3) removal rates would differ among pastures. We placed seeds of two species in three pastures in 1997 and eight species in two pastures during 1998. In each pasture, removal was monitored at three distances from the forest edge. Rates of seed removal in 1997 and 1998 were significantly greater 1–5 m from the forest than at 20 m distances, but removal rates at the 40 m distance did not differ from the 1–5 m distance. Rates of removal for both species were low in 1997, although removal was significantly greater for the smaller-seeded species Sorocea trophoides than for the large seeds of Nectandra sp. Removal rates differed significantly among pastur...
Dynamic nuclear polarization with a cyclotron resonance maser at 5 T.

DNP (dynamic nuclear polarization) experiments at 5 T are reported, in which a cyclotron resonance maser (gyrotron) is utilized as a 20 W, 140 GHz microwave source to perform the polarization. MAS (magic angle spinning) NMR spectroscopy with DNP has been performed on samples of polystyrene doped with the free radical BDPA (α,γ-bisdiphenylene-β-phenylallyl) at room temperature. Maximal DNP enhancements of ∼10 for 1 H and ∼40 for 13 C are observed and are considerably larger than expected. The DNP and spin relaxation mechanisms that lead to these enhancements at 5 T are discussed
Metabolic changes during spermatogenesis and thoracic tissue maturation in Drosophila hydei

Abstract In vitro enzyme studies indicate that gametes depend upon carbohydrate oxidation by way of the pentose shunt cycle, glycolysis, and the Krebs cycle for energy early in spermatogenesis in Drosophila hydei. Enzymes associated with amino acid metabolism and fatty acid synthesis are also high in activity at these developmental stages. In late spermiogenesis gametic glycolytic and Krebs cycle enzyme activities increase greatly. Both carbohydrates and amino acids are likely energy sources for mature spermatozoa. Low lactate dehydrogenase and β-hydroxyacyl dehydrogenase activities suggest that gametes at all developmental stages have low capacities for lactic acid formation and fatty acid oxidation. Thoracic tissue development differs fundamentally from testis development in that the α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase-oxidase cycle becomes highly developed in thoracic tissue, whereas the low activity of α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase indicates that it is a minor factor in gamete metabolism. Furthermore, NADP-isocitrate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme become increasingly less active as thoracic tissue matures, with malate dehydrogenase and NAD-isocitrate dehydrogenase becoming more active. The NADP-dependent enzymes are very active at all stages of spermatozoan development. Glycolytic and Krebs cycle enzyme activities are much higher in thoracic tissue at all maturation stages than in the mature testis.
Regulatory T cells, tumour immunity and immunotherapy

Tumours express a range of antigens, including self-antigens. Regulatory T cells are crucial for maintaining T-cell tolerance to self-antigens. Regulatory T cells are thought to dampen T-cell immunity to tumour-associated antigens and to be the main obstacle tempering successful immunotherapy and active vaccination. In this Review, I consider the nature and characteristics of regulatory T cells in the tumour microenvironment and their potential multiple suppressive mechanisms. Strategies for therapeutic targeting of regulatory T cells and the effect of regulatory T cells on current immunotherapeutic and vaccine regimens are discussed.
6-Epicastanospermine, a novel indolizidine alkaloid that inhibits α-glucosidase

Abstract A second indolizidine alkaloid, epimeric with castanospermine, has been isolated from seeds of the Australian tree Castanospermum australe . The structure was established as 6-epicastanospermine by proton and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. 6-Epicastanospermine was found to be a potent inhibitor of amyloglucosidase, (an exo-1,4,-α-glucosidase), a weak inhibitor of β-galactosidase, and not to inhibit β-glucosidase and α-mannosidase. These results indicate that glycosidase inhibitory activity cannot be predicted by comparison of the structure and stereochemistry with the appropriate sugars, since 6-epicastanospermine is an analog of mannose and not of glucose. The inhibition of amyloglucosidase was found to be competitive and to be more effective at higher pH values. Castanospermine and 6-epicastanospermine differed in their effect upon the mung bean processing enzymes, glucosidase I and II, in that the former is a potent inhibitor whereas the latter is a very poor inhibitor. Subtle alterations in stereochemistry of these alkaloids can therefore produce significant changes in their biological activity.
Effect of hormone replacement therapy in matrix metalloproteinase expression and intimal hyperplasia development after vascular injury.

Background Postmenopausal women taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) require secondary intervention after vascular reconstruction more frequently than women not taking HRT, often due to increased development of intimal hyperplasia (IH). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a role in IH by degradation and remodeling of components of the vascular basement membrane. The MMP pathway is regulated by a balance between MMPs, membrane-type MMPs (MT-MMPs), and tissue inhibitor of MMPs (TIMPs). We have recently provided evidence for unbalanced regulation of the MT1-MMP/MMP-2 pathway in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) exposed to hormones in vitro. Herein we study the role of HRT in the development of IH in a postmenopausal rodent model of vascular injury and in the modulation of this MMP regulatory pathway in vivo. Methods Female rats were aged to 12 months. Animals were ovariectomized (OVX) and 4 weeks later hormones or placebo was delivered via a 90-day slow-release pellet. After 6 weeks of HRT each rat underwent balloon angioplasty of the left common carotid artery. At 14 days postinjury tissue samples were collected and stained with trichrome elastin and for isoform-specific MMPs. Results After vascular injury, the intima:media (I:M) ratio was decreased in OVX rats receiving placebos as compared with non-OVX controls ( P P P P Conclusions In this study we detected a statistically significant decrease in IH as a result of OVX. Subsequent HRT exposure resulted in increased I:M ratios compared with OVX animals given placebo, although significance was not reached with the doses given. Long-term exogenous exposure may have a more deleterious effect compared with acute exposure and should be examined further. We also demonstrated a significant reduction in MMP-2 and -9 and TIMP-2 in response to OVX. Subsequent hormone exposure resulted in the upregulation of MMP-2 and -9 without a counterregulatory increase in TIMP, indicating that HRT modulates the MMP regulatory pathway in vivo. The data suggest that the lack of hormones after OVX protects against pathologic remodeling in our aged model of disease and that exposure to both natural and exogenous hormones could be a negative risk factor resulting in an exaggerated vascular response to injury. Future studies should focus on in vivo manipulation of unbalanced MMP regulation for prevention of IH in response to HRT and in general. Furthermore, the age-associated difference in response to the presence of natural hormones in young vs aged models should be investigated.
Effects of a prospective antitumor agent, 1,4-bis(2'-chloroethyl)-1,4-diazabicyclo-[2.2.1] heptane diperchlorate, on cultured mammalian cells.

AbstractThe effects of 1,4-bis(2'-chloroethyl)-1,4-diazabicyclo-[2.2.1] heptane diperchlorate (CBH; NSC 57198) on cell viability, growth, progression through the cell cycle, survival, and differentiation were investigated in suspension cultures of murine lymphocytic leukemia (L1210) and erythroleukemic (FL) cells and normal human lymphocytes stimulated with phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and in adherent cultures of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. CBH was equally cytotoxic toward stationary and exponentially growing CHO cells. Cell viability was diminished by 50% following 24 hr exposure to approximately 50 μg CBH per ml. Treatment of quiescent human lymphocytes for 24 hr with up to 100 μg CBH per ml did not appreciably diminish cell viability though the subsequent stimulation of such lymphocytes with PHA was inhibited in a dose dependent fashion. L1210, FL cells, and PHA stimulated human lymphocytes were equally sensitive to CBH, 50% inhibition of growth was obtained following 24 hr treatment with 25 μg CBH ...
Surfactant enhanced remediation of subsurface chromium contamination

Abstract The objective of this research was identification of optimal surfactant systems for remediating chromate-contaminated subsurface environments. Batch and column studies were conducted utilizing chromium contaminated soil obtained from the U.S. Coast Guard Support Center, Elizabeth City, N.C. Results of the batch studies demonstrated that surfactants, when used alone, were able to enhance the extraction of chromate 2.0–2.5 times greater than water. When a complexing agent, diphenyl carbazide, was solubilized by aqueous micelles the system was able to enhance the chromate elution by 9.3 to 12.0 times greater than water (or 3.7–5.7 times greater than surfactant without the complexing agent). Column studies showed that when surfactants are used along with the complexing agent, 213% of Cr(VI) can be removed relative to D.I. water in less than 20 pore volumes, whereas D.I. water took 35 pore volumes to reach the baseline removal. The economics of surfactant enhanced subsurface remediation will be affected by surfactant losses (e.g. precipitation and sorption); batch and column studies were conducted to evaluate the losses of surfactants due to such phenomena. Results of these laboratory studies demonstrated that the surfactant system containing Dowfax 8390 and diphenyl carbazide was most effective in remediation of the chromium contaminated soil.
Modifiable factors associated with severe asthma exacerbations in urban patients

Abstract Background Rates of asthma morbidity, mortality, and resource use are highest among African American individuals residing in inner-city locations, yet factors associated with adverse outcomes are not well established. Objective To identify modifiable factors associated with asthma exacerbations. Methods A total of 104 adult patients who presented to an inner-city hospital or emergency department (ED) with an asthma exacerbation from October 1, 2009, through June 31, 2010, completed surveys of clinical status, acute events, sociodemographic characteristics, current asthma knowledge, self-efficacy, attitudes toward asthma self-management, and perceived barriers to asthma care questionnaires. Associations with asthma hospitalizations and ED visits were assessed. Results The mean age of the patients was 42 years, 91% were African American, 33% were insured, 57% were taking a controller medication, and 63% had an income level below the federal poverty line. On bivariate analysis, males, years of asthma, history of smoking, self-classification of asthma severity, history of admission to intensive care unit or intubation, use of peak flow meter or asthma action plan, controller medication use, and history of oral corticosteroid bursts were positively associated, whereas self-efficacy was negatively associated with number of ED visits or hospitalizations. No association was found for asthma knowledge, perceived barriers to care, or attitudes toward asthma management. On multivariate analysis, low self-efficacy remained associated with both asthma hospitalizations and ED visits. Conclusion Short-term use of health services for asthma is negatively associated with asthma self-efficacy. Self-management programs that enhance self-efficacy, rather than those that focus on knowledge or attitudes, may be effective in reducing adverse asthma outcomes for inner-city, predominantly African American populations.
Mesoprefrontal dopaminergic neurons: Can tyrosine availability influence their functions?

Abstract The dopamine (DA) neurons projecting to the prefrontal cortex (PFC) are thought to be involved in working memory, stress response, and the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. In this commentary, we review the current evidence supporting a precursor tyrosine dependence of these mesoprefrondal DN neurons. Several studies in rats employing different experimental paradigms [i.e. experimental diabetes and early-treated phenylketonuria (PKU) model]have shown that reduced tyrosine levels in brain can affect markedly the physiology and functions of these DA neurons. However, supplemental tyrosine is effective in enhancing functional transmitter outflow from mesoprefrontal DA neurons only under conditions where their physiological activity is enhanced and DA synthesis and release are uncoupled from intrinsic regulatory controls. Recent studies in Humans have also suggested that variations in brain tyrosine levels can affect significantly higher cortical functions subserved by the PFC. In early-treated PKU patients with mildly reduced tyrosine levels, marked impairments in cognitive functions dependent on the dorsolateral PFC could be detected. In drugtreated schizophrenic patients, supplemental tyrosine was shown to have a disruptive effects on the smoothpursuit eye movement performance task. Furthermore, tyrosine administration was effective in restoring impaired working memory in humans following a cold stress paradigm, as assessed by a computer-based delayed matchingto-sample memory task. These human studies, together with the current evidence obtained from animal experiments, suggest that the functions of the mesoprefrontal DA neurons can, under certain circumstances, be readily influenced by the availability of the precursor tyrosine.
Carbon monoxide fluxes of different soil layers in upland Canadian boreal forests

Dark or low-light carbon monoxide fluxes at upland Canadian boreal forest sites were measured on-site with static chambers and with a laboratory incubation technique using cores from different depths at the same sites. Three different upland black spruce sites, burned in 1987, 1992 and 1995 and a control site, were chosen to determine the effects of fire, temperature, soil structure and soil covers on CO fluxes. Three different surfaces were observed at the sites — bare mineral soil with little living moss cover; burned feather mosses 5–30 cm deep; and unburned, living, green feather mosses. The static chamber measurements indicated similar deposition velocities for the burned and unburned feather moss sites [(1.54 ± 0.64)· 10 −2 cm s −1 ; (1.83 ± 0.63).10 −2 cm s −1 ], but significantly lower rates for sites that had burned down to the mineral soil [(1.08 ± 0.53).10 −2 cm s −1 , excluding data with net CO emission]. This finding was confirmed by results from the incubation measurements and shows that fire intensities determine the long-term, post-fire effect on soil-atmosphere fluxes of CO. Temperature studies with the cores showed that CO consumption rates increased from (2 ± 1)% at − 15 °C to − 13 °C to (43 ± 20)% at 0 °C to 1.5 °C and (68 ± 15)% at 4 °C to 5 °C of the deposition velocity values obtained at 20 °C. This temperature dependence was consistent with results obtained from the static chamber measurements. The temperature range studied and the dark or low-light conditions were representative for the night-time of nearly the whole six snow-free months in the boreal ecosystem. In nearly all cases, deposition velocities determined for cores from the top 5 cm with the incubation technique were the same, within experimental errors, as those determined with the static chambers. Soil CO concentration profiles taken in situ, moreover, did not show any clear trend below 5 cm. Thus we conclude that the top 5 cm of soils are determining the dark soil-atmosphere CO fluxes at these sites. The top 5 cm of soil columns are most exposed to temperature (and probably moisture) variations and are most affected by fires as well. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0889.1998.t01-3-00003.x
Protein C pathway in sepsis.

The goals of this chapter are to provide a brief review of the biology of the protein C pathway and some of the features of the pathway that make it uniquely positioned to control microvascular coagulation and control the acute inflammatory response. Activated protein C works as an antithrombotic agent by inactivating factors Va and VIIIa. It is particularly effective at preventing microvascular thrombosis. Platelets may provide a margin of safety for activated protein C as an antithrombotic. Approximately 25% of the factor V/Va in plasma is contained within the platelet and hence resistant to time dependent inactivation by activated protein C. In addition, factor Va bound to the platelet surface is relatively resistant to inactivation by activated protein C. Activated protein C also facilitates clot lysis by inhibiting plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, a process that is accelerated markedly by vitronectin. Inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor &#102 (TNF &#102 ) and interleukin1 &#103 (IL-1 ...
Influence of strain and oxygen vacancies on the magnetoelectric properties of multiferroic bismuth ferrite

The dependencies on strain and oxygen vacancies of the ferroelectric polarization and the weak ferromagnetic magnetization in the multiferroic material bismuth ferrite, $\mathrm{Bi}\mathrm{Fe}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$, are investigated using first principles density functional theory calculations. The electric polarization is found to be rather independent of strain, in striking contrast to most conventional perovskite ferroelectrics. It is also not significantly affected by oxygen vacancies, or by the combined presence of strain and oxygen vacancies. The magnetization is also unaffected by strain, however, the incorporation of oxygen vacancies can alter the magnetization slightly, and also leads to the formation of ${\mathrm{Fe}}^{2+}$. These results are discussed in light of recent experiments on epitaxial films of $\mathrm{Bi}\mathrm{Fe}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$, which reported a strong thickness dependence of both magnetization and polarization.
Polymorphonuclear Neutrophils: An Effective Antimicrobial Force

The production and deployment of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) are under close regulation. PMNs interact through cytokines with a number of cell types, including macrophages, lymphocytes, and endothelial cells. PMNs are guided by bacterial products and cytokines to target sites, where microbes are recognized and killed. Killing occurs through oxygen-dependent and oxygen-independent mechanisms. The frequent and severe infections seen in patients with defects (either congenital or acquired) in PMN function demonstrate the importance of PMNs in host defense against infection. PMNs are potent inflammatory cells and can exacerbate disease states such as myocardial ischemia, gram-negative bacterial sepsis, and the adult respiratory distress syndrome.
A comparison of chest tubes versus bulb-suction drains in pediatric thoracic surgery

Abstract Background/Purpose Chest tubes are commonly used to evacuate the pleural space of air and fluid after thoracic surgery. The safety and efficacy of postoperative traditional chest tubes (CTs) versus soft bulb-suction drains (BDs) in the management of pediatric patients undergoing thoracic procedures were investigated. Methods An institutional review board–approved, retrospective review was performed on all patients who required noncardiac, nontraumatic thoracic operations from January 2000 to December 2005. Patient data included BD or CT drainage, age at operation, indication for surgery, open or thoracoscopic approach, days of postoperative drainage, the development of a postremoval pneumothorax, and complications. Statistical comparisons were made using t test and χ 2 test. Results During the study period, 186 patients with complete records underwent a thoracic operation. One hundred twenty (65%) received a CT, whereas 66 (35%) received a BD. Patients who received CT averaged 5.6 days of drainage compared with 4.4 days in the group that received BD. Postremoval pneumothorax developed in 5 (4%) patients with CT compared with 4 (6%) patients with BD. Two patients in the CT group required reinsertion of another CT. None of the BD patients required further intervention. Conclusion For thoracoscopic and open thoracic operations, BDs are as safe and efficacious as traditional CT.
Genetic associations of the interleukin locus at 1q32.1 with clinical outcomes of cutaneous melanoma

Background Due to high melanoma immunogenicity, germline genetic variants in immune pathways have been studied for association with melanoma prognosis. However, limited candidate selection, inadequate power, or lack of independent validation have hampered the reproducibility of these prior findings, preventing personalised clinical applicability in melanoma prognostication. Our objective was to assess the prognostic utility of genetic variants in immunomodulatory pathways for prediction of melanoma clinical outcomes. Methods We genotyped 72 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 44 immunomodulatory genes in a population sample of 1022 melanoma patients and performed Cox regression analysis to test the association between SNPs and melanoma recurrence-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS). We have further investigated the most significant associations using a fine mapping strategy and followed with functional analyses in CD4+ T cells in a subset of 75 melanoma patients. Results The most significant associations were found with melanoma OS for rs3024493 in IL10 at chromosome 1q32.1 (heterozygous HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.86; p=0.0006), a variant previously shown to be linked with autoimmune conditions. Multiple additional SNPs at 1q32.1 were also nominally associated with OS confirming at least two independent association signals in this locus. In addition, we found rs3024493 associated with the downregulation of interleukin 10 (IL10) secretion in CD4+ T cells. Conclusions We discovered novel associations of IL10 with melanoma survival at 1q32.1, suggesting this locus should be considered as a novel melanoma prognostic biomarker with potential for aiding melanoma patient management. Our findings also provide further support for an alternative role of IL10 in stimulation of antitumour immune response.
Pressure-Dependent Heterogeneity of Renal Cortical Blood Flow in Dogs

We determined the effect of perfusion pressure on the distribution of blood flow within the renal cortex of the anesthetized dog. Total blood flow to the denervated kidney was measured by an electromagnetic flowmeter and perfusion pressure was manipulated over the autoregulatory range (136 to 81 mm Hg) by an aortic clamp. Distribution of cortical blood flow was determined by the radioactive microsphere technique. Tissue perfusion rates of four cortical zones of equal thickness differed significantly from each other at normal arterial pressure. In sequence from superficial to deep, perfusion of the cortex zones averaged 4.18, 6.80, 3.07, and 1.68 ml . g -1 . min -1 . Aortic constriction significantly reduced perfusion of the outer cortical zone and augmented perfusion of the inner two cortex zones. Twelve percent of total renal blood flow was redistributed by pressure reduction. Atropine, 1 mg/kg, had no effect on cortical perfusion rates at either pressure. The influence of microsphere diameter and density on cortex perfusion rates was systematically studied and found to be minor. This observation implies that the microsphere method is valid for measuring distribution of blood flow within the renal cortex. We conclude that zones of the renal cortex are perfused at different rates and respond differently to changes in arterial pressure.
Molecular characterization of fibroblasts isolated from human peritoneum and adhesions.

Abstract Objective: To determine the response of adhesion and peritoneal fibroblasts to hypoxia. Design: Prospective experimental study. Setting: University medical center. Patient(s): Primary cultures of fibroblasts established from the peritoneal and adhesion tissues of the same patients (n = 2) to minimize genetic variations. Intervention(s): Hypoxia treatment of the primary cultured fibroblast. Main Outcome Measure(s): Analyze the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors, growth factors, and cytokines in adhesion and peritoneal fibroblasts under normal and hypoxic conditions by reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction analysis. Result(s): Compared to peritoneal fibroblasts, adhesion fibroblasts had a significant increase in the basal mRNA levels for collagen I, fibronectin, MMP-1, TIMP-1, TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and IL-10. Hypoxia resulted in a further increase in collagen 1, fibronectin, TIMP-1, TGF-β1, TGF-β2, IL-10, and IFN-γ mRNA levels in both peritoneal and adhesion fibroblasts. The increase was more profound in adhesion fibroblasts. Conclusion(s): Hypoxia induces molecular changes in both peritoneal and adhesion fibroblasts, creating a milieu that favors adhesion development. The effect of hypoxia was more profound on adhesion fibroblasts.
Mitochondrial functional changes during hepatic hyperplasia and azo dye carcinogenesis.

Abstract Resting and active-state respiratory velocities, respiratory control, high amplitude volume changes, and latent ATPase activities were examined in hepatic mitochondria from rats fed 3′-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene (3′MeDAB) for production of liver tumors and from rats in three phases of liver regeneration subsequent to subtotal hepatectomies. Tetrabutylammonium bromide, a lipophilic probe capable of selectively inhibiting phosphorylating oxidation or uncoupling oxidation from phosphorylation, was used to detect subtle alterations in lipophilicity characteristics of the organelles and it was concluded that mitochondria from pre-hyperplastic, hyperplastic, and neoplastic tissues had a higher than normal degree of membrane lipophilicity at specific functional sites. Control of respiration by ADP was markedly augmented in all experimental groups; this behavior, plus depressed sensitivity to swelling agents and energized contraction, were similar in mitochondria from hepatomas and from 3-day regenerating livers. These mitochondrial functions were even more pronounced, however, in cells in prehyperplastic states (6 and 16 h subsequent to partial hepatectomy). Many forms of liver damage result in mitochondrial alterations which elevate the capacity for oxidative phosphorylation. Such changes associated with induction of azo dye oncogenesis are mimicked by the degree of hyperplasia in the tissue following the first mitotic wave of regeneration; implications relevant to hepatocarcinogenesis are discussed.
Controlled generation of multiexciton states of various multiplicities by single photons in semiconductor nanocrystals

Comparative studies of carrier multiplication (CM) in nanocrystals of PbSe and CdSe, which are characterized by significant differences in electronic structures and carrier relaxation behaviors are performed
Propositional Logic Constraint Patterns and Their Use in UML-Based Conceptual Modeling and Analysis

An important conceptual modeling activity in the development of database, object-oriented and agent-oriented systems is the capture and expression of domain constraints governing underlying data and object states. UML is increasingly used for capturing conceptual models, as it supports conceptual modeling of arbitrary domains, and has extensible notation allowing capture of invariant constraints both in the class diagram notation and in the separately denoted OCL syntax. However, a need exists for increased formalism in constraint capture that does not sacrifice ease of use for the analyst. In this paper, we codify a set of invariant patterns formalized for capturing a rich category of propositional constraints on class diagrams. We use tools of Boolean logic to set out the distinction between these patterns, applying them in modeling by way of example. We use graph notation to systematically uncover constraints hidden in the diagrams. We present data collected from applications across different domains, supporting the importance of "pattern-finding" for n-variable propositional constraints using general graph theoretic methods. This approach enriches UML-based conceptual modeling for greater completeness, consistency, and correctness by formalizing the syntax and semantics of these constraint patterns, which has not been done in a comprehensive manner before now
The Henryville bed of the New Albany shale—II. Comparison of the nickel and vanadyl porphyrins in the bitumen with those generated from the kerogen during simulated catagenesis

Abstract The Ni(II) and VO(II) porphyrin distributions in the bitumen from the Henryville Bed of New Albany shale (Clark County, Indiana) are compared with those of porphyrins isolated from a single New Albany shale kerogen aliquot by five sequential pyrolyses (110–450°C). Both the bitumen and the pyrolysates contained Ni(II) and VO(II) complexes of at least three skeletal types: deoxophylloerythroetioporphyrin (DPEP), etioporphyrin (etio), and tetrahydrobenzo-DPEP (THBD). Ni(II) Benzo-DPEP and VO(II) benzo-DPEP and VO(II) benzo type porphyrins were detected in the pyrolysates but not in the bitumen. It was concluded from a comparison of porphyrin distributions in the pyrolysates that porphyrins were liberated from the kerogen by enhanced solubilization and/or desorption into the solvent rather than by kerogen-porphyrin carbon-carbon bond cleavages. Substantial amounts of organically combined nickel and vanadium remain in the kerogen after pyrolysis and may comprise porphyrin and non-porphyrin complexes. The similarity of the porphyrins in the bitumen and the pyrolysates indicates that porphyrins in the bitumen were released as a result of kerogen maturation. The similarity of the Ni(II) etio adn DPEP species to the corresponding VO(II) porphyrins indicates that both metal complexes had a common premetallation tetrapyrrole precursor and that this precursor may have been associated with the evolving kerogen.
Effects of nicardipine and labetalol on the acute hemodynamic response to electroconvulsive therapy

Abstract Study Objective: To examine the acute hemodynamic effects of intravenous (IV) nicardipine and its ability to attenuate the hyperdynamic response to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), when used alone or in combination with labetalol. Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blind, positive-control, clinical investigation. Setting: University hospital. Patients: 36 patients undergoing ECT. Interventions: In a series of three studies, the hemodynamic effects of nicardipine were assessed prior to, during, and after ECT. After administration of glycopyrrolate 0.1 mg IV, placebo (saline) or nicardipine was administered by rapid infusion (1, 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 mg) or bolus injection (1.25, 2.5, and 5 mg), either alone or in combination with labetalol 10 mg IV. Unconsciousness was induced with methohexital 1 mg/kg IV; succinylcholine 1.2 to 1.5 mg/kg IV was administered for muscle relaxation. A bilateral electrical stimulus was delivered and the durations of motor and electroencephalographic (EEG) seizures were noted. Measurements and Main Results: Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) values were recorded at 1- to 5-minute intervals throughout the study period. When administered as a rapid infusion, nicardipine 5 mg IV produced a significant decrease in MAP; however, nicardipine dosages of 10 to 15 mg IV did not produce a significantly greater decrease in MAP than 5 mg. Bolus administration of nicardipine 1.25 to 5 mg produced a rapid onset of its hemodynamic effects without exacerbating the cardiovascular depressant effects of methohexital. However, the decrease in MAP was accompanied by an increase in HR after administration of the 5 mg IV bolus dose. The acute hyperdynamic response to ECT was most effectively controlled by nicardipine 2.5 to 5 mg IV bolus, in combination with labetalol 10 mg IV. Seizure duration was not significantly altered by the use of nicardipine as part of the anesthetic regimen for ECT. Conclusion: Nicardipine 2.5 mg IV bolus in combination with labetalol 10 mg IV was the most effective pretreatment regimen for preventing the acute hyperdynamic response to ECT. However, this combination produced a 20% decrease in MAP immediately prior to ECT and a lower MAP at the time of discharge.
An application for treating semiconductor manufacturing industrial wastewater to environmental protection agency drinking water standards

To meet a semiconductor manufacturing facility's needs and ensure compliance with Arizona law, a unique water reduction and reclamation program was established between the City of Chandler and the manufacturer. Site water requirements were reduced from 5 million gallons per day to 1 million gallons per day through the use of reclaimed water, and recharge of treated wastewater into local aquifers.
First records of Gonatocerus dolichocerus Ashmead, Palaeoneura sp., Anagrus sp. (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), and Centrodora sp. (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) in French Polynesia, with notes on egg parasitism of the glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)

The glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar) [= H. coagulata (Say)] (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Proconiini), invaded Tahiti in 1999 and at the time of writing this pest was widespread in French Polynesia being extremely abundant in Tahiti and Moorea. Homalodisca vitripennis is a major threat for agriculture and biodiversity. In 2004, a classical biological control program against H. vitripennis was initiated with the goal of introducing and establishing the exotic egg parasitoid Gonatocerus ashmeadi Girault (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) in French Polynesia. As part of the preliminary studies for this program, a survey was conducted of existing natural enemies, in particular egg parasitoids of H. vitripennis. Pan trap surveys and monitoring parasitism of H. vitripennis egg masses was performed in Tahiti. The results of the pan trap surveys provide the first record of the presence of Gonatocerus dolichocerus Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) in French Polynesia, but surveys of H. vitripennis egg...
Comparison of Cefoxitin and Cephalothin Therapy of a Mixed Bacteroides fragilis and Fusobacterium necrophorum Infection in Mice

Abstract Cefoxitin, a β-lactamase-resistant cephalosporin, was found to be more effective than cephalothin against an experimental mixed infection containing Bacteroides fragilis and Fusobacterium necrophorum.
Keynote Speech: Avoiding the Memory Bottleneck through Structured Arrays

Basic to parallel program speedup is dealing with memory bandwidth requirements. One solution is an architectural arrangement to stream data across multiple processing elements before storing the result in memory. This MISD type of configuration provides multiple operations per data item fetched from memory. One realization of this streamed approach uses FPGAs. We'll discuss both the general memory problem and some results based on work at Maxeler using FPGAs for acceleration.