cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Alkbh2 protects against lethality and mutation in primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts.

Abstract Alkylating agents modify DNA and RNA forming adducts that disrupt replication and transcription, trigger cell cycle checkpoints and/or initiate apoptosis. If left unrepaired, some of the damage can be cytotoxic and/or mutagenic. In Escherichia coli, the alkylation repair protein B (AlkB) provides one form of resistance to alkylating agents by eliminating mainly 1-methyladenine and 3-methylcytosine, thereby increasing survival and preventing mutation. To examine the biological role of the mammalian AlkB homologs Alkbh2 and Alkbh3, which both have similar enzymatic activities to that of AlkB, we evaluated the survival and mutagenesis of primary Big Blue mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) that had targeted deletions in the Alkbh2 or Alkbh3 genes. Both Alkbh2- and Alkbh3-deficient MEFs were ∼2-fold more sensitive to methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) induced cytotoxicity compared to the wild type control cells. Spontaneous mutant frequencies were similar for the wild type, Alkbh2−/− and Alkbh3−/− MEFs (average – 1.3 × 10−5). However, despite the similar survival of the two mutant MEFs after MMS treatment, only the Alkbh2-deficient MEFs showed a statistically significant increase in mutant frequency compared to wild type MEFs after MMS treatment. Therefore, although both Alkbh2 and Alkbh3 can protect against MMS-induced cell death, only Alkbh2 shows statistically significant protection of MEF DNA against mutations following treatment with this exogenous methylating agent.
Running to the Store? The relationship between neighborhood environments and the risk of obesity ☆

We expand the search for modifiable features of neighborhood environments that alter obesity risk in two ways. First, we examine residents' access to neighborhood retail food options in combination with neighborhood features that facilitate physical activity. Second, we evaluate neighborhood features for both low income and non-low income neighborhoods (bottom quartile of median neighborhood income versus the top three quartiles). Our analyses use data from the Utah Population Database merged with U.S. Census data and Dun & Bradstreet business data for Salt Lake County, Utah. Linear regressions for BMI and logistic regressions for the likelihood of being obese are estimated using various measures of the individual's neighborhood food options and walkability features. As expected, walkability indicators of older neighborhoods and neighborhoods where a higher fraction of the population walks to work is related to a lower BMI/obesity risk, although the strength of the effects varies by neighborhood income. Surprisingly, the walkability indicator of neighborhoods with higher intersection density was linked to higher BMI/obesity risk. The expected inverse relationship between the walkability indicator of population density and BMI/obesity risk is found only in low income neighborhoods. We find a strong association between neighborhood retail food options and BMI/obesity risk with the magnitude of the effects again varying by neighborhood income. For individuals living in non-low income neighborhoods, having one or more convenience stores, full-service restaurants, or fast food restaurants is associated with reduced BMI/obesity risk, compared to having no neighborhood food outlets. The presence of at least one healthy grocery option in low income neighborhoods is also associated with a reduction in BMI/obesity risk relative to no food outlets. Finally, multiple food options within a neighborhood reduce BMI/obesity risk, relative to no food options, for individuals living in either low-income or non-low neighborhoods.
Cryogenic Vacuum Pumping at the LBL 88-Inch Cyclotron

A cryogenic vacuum pumping panel has been in operation at the 88-inch cyclotron since 1974. The nude pumping panel is located in the acceleration chamber. The pumping surface consists of tubing cooled to 20°K by a closed loop helium refrigeration system. The pumping surfaces are shielded from radiation heat loads and water vapor by liquid nitrogen cooled baffles. The panel was designed for an average pumping speed of 14,000 liters/sec. for air. This approximately tripled the total effective pumping on the acceleration chamber from the existing diffusion pumped system, significantly reducing charge exchange losses of heavy ions during acceleration. Design, installation and performance characteristics will be described.
Adolescents' Health Habits, Coping Styles and Self-Concept Are Predicted by Exposure to Interparental Conflict

Abstract We compared self-reported health habits, coping styles (CRI), and self-concept (MSCS) in late adolescents (17–19 year-olds) with high-and low-conflict family history. The data confirmed that high family conflict had a negative impact on a variety of health habits or related attitudes, including less sleep, and compromised well-being. Total self-concept scores were lower for high-conflict students as well as scores in the Family, Affective, and Competence subscales. High family conflict also fostered coping styles that were avoidant. The data lend support for biopsychosocial models that postulate family conflict produces stress which can, in turn, have a negative impact on health.
What Hope Is There: The Enthrallment of Empire Stories

In this article, I argue that many U.S. citizens are held captive by expansionist narratives and ideologies. Our enthrallment is explained, in part, by shared weak dissociation, rationalization, moralization, and denial. Theologically, I understand the ongoing presence of these narratives and ideologies in U.S. society as a manifestation of idolatry and a refusal to mourn. Furthermore, I argue that expansionist narratives signify the presence of fate and the distortion of hope, in particular, Christian hope.
Transient natural and surface-tension-driven convection in a two-layer gas-and-liquid enclosure with nonuniform radiative transfer

A numerical study has been made of transient heat transfer and fluid flow in a cylindrical enclosure containing a two-layer gas-and-liquid system. The geometric configuration and the boundary conditions of the problem are relevant to the analysis of the preignition processes during the fire accident situation involving a pool of liquid fuel in the vicinity of an ignition source. It is demonstrated that the effects of the natural and thermocapillary convection, radiative transfer, thermal inertia and conduction of the walls bounding the enclosure, as well as, the magnitude of the gravity field play important roles in the development of the temperature and velocity fields in the container.
Dynein Regulation: Going into Circles Can Set Things Straight

It has long been known that eukaryotic cilia and flagella are autonomous oscillators capable of generating a beat cycle independent of regulation by the parent cell (1). In cilia and flagella, the mechanism that regulates the dynein motor activity to generate the beat cycle has been a matter of speculation and controversy. As of this writing, there are three rather distinct hypotheses, each with fairly good experimental support.
Ultrasound-modulated optical microscopy for ex-vivo imaging of scattering biological tissue

Ultrasound-modulated optical microscopy (UOM) based on a long-cavity confocal Fabry-Perot interferometer (CFPI) [J.Biomed.Opt. 13(5), 0504046, (2008)] is used for real time detection of multiply scattered light modulated by high frequency (30 MHz) ultrasound pulses propagating in an optically strongly scattering medium. In this article, we use this microscope to study the dependence of ultrasound-modulated optical signals on the optical absorption of objects embedded about 3 mm deep in tissue mimicking phantoms. These results demonstrate that the dependence is nearly linear. Most importantly, we imaged blood vasculature and melanin in highly scattering tissue samples from a mouse and a rat. Thus UOM can be used to study the morphology of blood vasculature and blood-associated functional parameters, such as oxygen saturation.
Making Your Pre-Calls Count

relationship that develops between these departments and radiology can be beneficial, or toxic. This presentation will address the relationship between the interventional radiology department of a large teaching institution, and the ten dialysis centers that send their patients for treatment. Discussion topics include the explanation of the creation of a nurse liaison role, the incredible changes this has made both in improved patient care and outcomes, the improved staff satisfaction on both ends, and the keys for the creation of a successful relationship. Objectives are to describe the role of nurse liaison; discuss how a nurse liaison can facilitate changes in practice, policy, and procedure to improve daily practice; explain how a nurse liaison can improve patient outcomes within the radiology department; and to describe different tools that can be used to increase communication between departments.
Solvent extraction with immobilized interfaces in a microporous hydrophobic membrane

A new technique for solvent extraction with immobilized interfaces in a hydrophobic microporous membrane is described. No dispersion or coalescence is necessary. Extraction of acetic acid from aqueous solutions of different concentrations into either methyl isobutyl ketone or xylene through a fiat thin Celgard® 2400 microporous polypropylene film has been studied in a flow-type test cell primarily at an aqueous phase pressure 40 psi (2.75 x 105 Pa) greater than an essentially atmospheric organic phase pressure. Studies over a range of 20 to 60 psi (1.378 x 105 to 4.134 x 105 Pa) did not indicate any significant pressure effect for extraction with methyl isobutyl ketone. Extraction rates reported as an overall organic phase based mass transfer coefficient are influenced by the boundary layer resistances on the organic and aqueous sides. Boundary layer resistance free overall transfer coefficients have been used to obtain the intrinsic membrane transfer coefficient. A description of this intrinsic membrane transfer coefficient for acetic acid extraction using the notion of a simple unhindered diffusion of a solute through a solvent-filled tortuous porous medium of uniform pore size yields realistic estimates of the tortuosity factor of the membrane used. The potential of this new technique has been described and compared with conventional extraction techniques if hollow microporous hydrophobic fibers are utilized.
Prospects for Genuine Reform in Ukraine's Security Forces

Despite a steady increase in official rhetoric about genuine reform in Ukraine's security services, the president and high command of the MOD and non-MOD security forces still do not see a need for dramatic changes in the country's excessive military organization and are not ready for far-reaching reforms. During 2001, defense spending is expected to increase only modestly in absolute terms, once again covering barely 50 percent of the military's needs. Given the harsh economic realities facing the country, and President Kuchma's profound reluctance to press for deep reductions and far-reaching optimization of all security forces, Ukraine in 2005 will likely still have huge, redundant security forces and a poorly trained and equipped military. The military can expect a survivalnot reformbudget well beyond 2005, and personnel cuts beyond those scheduled for the end of 2005 seem inevitable.
A new method of angular correlation measurements

Abstract A new type of angular correlation apparatus is described, and a mathematical model of its statistics is given. The angular correlation of coincident nuclear radiations can be measured by detecting intensity correlations in the output of two counters. For prompt coincidences, the detector currents are mixed in a broadband circuit whose output is the product of the two inputs. The time-average output of the mixer is shown to be proportional to the rate of true coincidences, and therefore to the angular correlation function. Furthermore, the fluctuation of this output has the same ratio to the average current as the rate of random to true coincidences both for weak and strong sources. For delayed coincidences, other circuits give the time spectrum and the frequency spectrum of the perturbed correlation function. Possible applications are mentioned, and the relation to the Brown-Twiss interferometer is clarified.
Identification and germline transformation of the ribosomal protein rp21 gene of Drosophila: complementation analysis with the Minute QIII locus reveals nonidentity

Minute loci represent a class of about 50 different Drosophila genes that appear to be functionally related. These genes may code for components of the protein synthetic apparatus. While one Minute locus has been recently shown to code for a ribosomal protein, it is not yet known whether any of the other Minute loci also code for ribosomal proteins. We have addressed this question by a combined molecular and genetic approach. In this report, a cloned DNA encoding the ribosomal protein rp21 is partially characterized. The rp21 gene maps to the same region (region 80 of chromosome 3L) as the temperature-sensitive Minute QIII gene. Using P-element mediated transformation, the rp21 gene was transformed into the germline of Drosophila. RNA blot experiments revealed that the transformed gene is expressed in transgenic flies. However, genetic complementation analysis indicated that the QIII locus and the rp21 gene are not identical. Implications of these findings for the relationship between Minutes and ribosomal protein genes are discussed.
Long-term results of Thornell arytenoidectomy in the surgical treatment of bilateral vocal cord paralysis.

Unilateral or bilateral Thornell arytenoidectomy provided relief from laryngeal obstruction in 135 of 147 patients (92 percent). Twelve patients required contralateral arytenoidectomy an average of six and one-half years after an initially successful unilateral procedure. Voice preservation was excellent in all but six patients (4 percent). Complications in seven patients included the formation of granulation polyps (five) and webs (two); corrective procedures rehabilitated all seven.
Development of the system to detect and process Electromyogram signals

This paper is about the design of a system that can detect four channel electromyogram (EMG) signals. EMG signals can be acquired, transformed into electrical signals and input into computer through AD acquisition card. The computer then processes the data and the signal figures are displayed on the screen. In the signals processing system various methods integrated such as adaptive filtering, the methods in time domain, the methods for frequency analysis, and also some newly developed methods, e.g., wavelet transform. The nonlinear tools such as the recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) also has been introduced to analyze the surface EMG and has shown particularly promising for the detection of muscle statue changes. The basic construction of the system and the software analysis are introduced
The United States National Prospective Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Study: Microbiologic, Serologic, Clinical, and Epidemiologic Findings

The frequency of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) serotypes associated with postdiarrheal hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) cases among children and adults in the United States and the proportion with IgM or IgG lipopolysaccharide antibodies to E. coli O157 were determined by use of a nationwide sample from January 1987 through December 1991. Among 83 patients, STEC were isolated from 30 (43%) of 70 whose stool cultures yielded bacterial growth (25 E. coli O157 isolates and 5 non-O157 STEC isolates). Fifty-three (80%) of 66 patients with serum samples had positive O157 lipopolysaccharide antibody titers. Of the 83 patients, 60 (72%) had evidence of STEC infection, including 6 of 8 adults whose illnesses also met criteria for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Data from a subset of patients suggest that E. coli O157 was the cause of > or = 80% of the STEC infections. All 3 women who were postpartum had evidence of E. coli O157 infection. STEC infection should be considered the likely cause for all persons with postdiarrheal HUS.
Closure of Patellar Tendon Defect in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone Autograft: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Purpose This study aimed to systematically review the highest level of evidence on anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) autografts with patellar tendon defect closure versus no closure after surgery. Methods We performed a systematic review of multiple medical databases using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Level I and Level II randomized controlled trials comparing patellar tendon defect closure to no closure during ACL reconstruction with BPTB autografts were included. Two independent reviewers analyzed all studies. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Study methodological quality was analyzed using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS) and Jadad scale. Results Four studies with a combined 221 patients (154 male patients and 67 female patients) with an average age of 26.6 ± 2.4 years (range, 17 to 54 years) were included. All studies randomized patients before surgery into ACLR with BPTB autografts either with patellar tendon defect closure or without closure. There were no differences in clinical outcomes (Lysholm score, Tegner scale, International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC] classification, modified Larsen score, and Lauridsen rating) between groups. There were no significant differences in knee pain between groups. All studies reported imaging findings of the patellar tendon defect, with 2 studies showing no difference in appearance between groups, one study showing excessive scar formation with defect repair, and one study showing improved restoration of normal tendon appearance with defect repair. The overall quality of the studies was poor, with all studies scoring less than 46 (average, 40.5 ± 4.7) on the MCMS and scoring 1 on the Jadad scale. Conclusions Based on this systematic review of 4 randomized trials, there are no statistically significant or clinically relevant differences in outcomes between patients who have the patellar tendon defect closed and those who have it left open after ACLR with BPTB autografts. The methodology of the included studies limits the interpretation of the data, as evidenced by low MCMS and Jadad scores. Level of Evidence Level II, systematic review of Level I and Level II studies.
Correlation of carotid artery stump pressure and neurologic changes during 474 carotid endarterectomies performed in awake patients

Purpose A carotid artery stump pressure (SP) of Methods Between July 1, 1995, and December 31, 2004, SP was measured during 474 CEAs performed under CBA by inserting a 19-gauge butterfly needle into the common carotid artery. A saline-filled intravenous bag in the patient's contralateral hand was connected to pressure tubing to generate waveforms with hand squeezing that could be visualized on a monitor. Systemic pressure was maintained approximately 10 mm Hg higher than baseline. Accurate SPs were confirmed by the finding of flatline waveforms after internal carotid artery clamping. Selective shunting was performed when neurologic changes occurred (aphasia, inability to squeeze the contralateral hand, decreased consciousness), regardless of SP. During this same period, 142 patients underwent CEA using GA, and SP was also measured. Results Shunting was necessary because of neurologic changes in 7.2% (34/474) of all CEAs performed using CBA: 0.9% (3/335) with SPs ≥50 mm Hg systolic vs 1.0% (4/402) with SPs ≥40 mm Hg systolic, and 22% (31/139) with SPs 24 hours postoperatively and were unrelated to lack of shunting and ischemia. There was no significant difference in the percentage of patients with SPs ≥50 mm Hg who underwent CEA using CBA (70%, 335/474) vs GA (67%, 96/142) during this time period. At our hospital, charges for SPe measurement, including anesthesia charges and tubing, were $229 per case vs $3439 per case for EEG monitoring. Use of SP measurements in these 474 patients would have resulted in reduced charges of $1,521,540 compared with EEG monitoring if CEA had been performed under GA. Conclusion Using 40 mm Hg systolic as a threshold, the need for shunting (15%) and the false-negative rate (1.0%) for SP in our series were equivalent to the results of EEG monitoring during CEA reported in the literature. However, charges for SP measurements are dramatically lower compared with EEG monitoring. Our results suggest that a carotid artery SP ≥40 mm Hg systolic may be considered as an equally reliable but more cost-effective method to predict the need for carotid shunting during CEA under GA compared with EEG monitoring, but further investigation is warranted.
Relative Sensitivities of Mammalian Carnivores to Habitat Fragmentation

I examined the effects of habitat fragmentation on the distribution and abundance of mamma- lian carnivores in coastal southern California and tested the prediction that responses to fragmentation var- ied with the body size of carnivore species. I conducted track surveys for nine native and two exotic carnivore species in 29 urban habitat fragments and 10 control sites. Fragment area and isolation were the two stron- gest landscape descriptors of predator distribution and abundance. Six species were sensitive to fragmenta- tion, generally disappearing as habitat patches became smaller and more isolated; three species were en- hanced by fragmentation, with increased abundance in highly fragmented sites; and two species were tolerant of fragmentation, with little to no effect of landscape variables on their distribution and abundance. Within urban habitat fragments, the carnivore visitation rate increased at sites with more exotic cover and closer to the urban edge, a pattern driven largely by the increased abundance of fragmentation-enhanced carnivores at edge sites. Finally, body size, in conjunction with other ecological characteristics, partially ac- counted for the heterogeneity in responses to fragmentation among carnivore species. These differential sensi- tivities are useful criteria for choosing appropriate focal species for ecological research and conservation planning, a choice that depends on the scale of fragmentation in a region and the commensurate responses of carnivore populations at that scale.
The 1978 Civil Service Reform and Federal Equal Employment Opportunity

The issue of federal equal employment opportunity (EEO) is explored by examining employment trends for blacks and women in middle- and higher-level positions and looking for possible impacts of elements of the 1978 civil service reform designed to advance EEO. Using an interrupted time-series multiple-regression model, the rate of increase in black employment was found to decline slightly following the reform. For women, however, long-term employment trends in the middle-level grades that were examined appear unchanged, whereas the employment rate in higher grades increased following the 1978 reform.
NF1 transcriptional factor(s) is required for basal promoter activation of the human intestinal NaPi-IIb cotransporter gene.

The human intestinal type IIb Na+-Pi cotransporter (hNaPi-IIb) gene promoter lacks a TATA box and has a high GC content in the 5′-flanking region. To understand the mechanism of hNaPi-IIb gene tran...
Testing RF Components with Supply Current Signatures

We propose a technique for low-cost testing of radio-frequency components integrating current signatures and alternate test methodology. The technique is suitable for non-invasive built-in test as well as low-cost automated test equipment (ATE) applications. Main features of the technique are (1) minimum loading on signal path by sampling supply current, (2) flexible test stimulus generation based on system constraints, (3) test time reduction by using a single test stimulus and data acquisition, and (4) accurate prediction of all specification values from the single excitation. Two experiments using the proposed implementation demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the technique on both single-balanced and double-balanced mixers built with two different technologies.
Tailoring Light-Matter Interactions in Semiconductor Nanowires with Nanocavity Plasmons

Controlling the optical properties of semiconductors with an engineered surface plasmon nanocavity is of great importance for understanding the underlying physics and designing new nanoscale photonic devices including highly efficient photovoltaics. In this talk we will demonstrate highly enhanced absorption and also emission from single CdS-SiO 2 -Ag core-shell plasmonic nanowires, properties of which are different from simple photonic CdS nanowires. We will demonstrate that by fabricating a complete nanoplasmonic cavity, drastically enhanced absorption in comparison to metal nanoparticles attached to the nanowires is obtained due to the optical antenna effect, which can be tuned completely by controlling the nanowire size. Likewise, by tuning the plasmonic cavity size to match the whispering gallery mode resonances, an almost complete transition from thermalized excitonic to hot-excitonic emission can be achieved, which reflects exceptionally high radiative rate enhancement. Time-resolved measurements for the plasmonic nanowires showed the excited-state lifetime shortening by a factor of >1000, resulting in sub-picosecond lifetimes. Numerical calculations also confirms that the electromagnetic field enhancement by the whispering gallery plasmon nanocavity is as high as 5000 in these structures. In addition, we also demonstrate bright light emission from Si nanowires with large diameters (~100 nm) coupled to a plasmonic nanocavity due to hot carrier recombination with a quantum efficiency of ~1%. This represents many orders of magnitude radiative rate enhancement over their photonic counterparts, which can be useful for fabricating Si-based light emitting devices. Another example is the ~300X enhancement in second-harmonic generation signals from metal-coated semiconductor nanowires due to optimum mode confinement leading to very large optical fields. These observations indicate that the intrinsic optical properties of semiconductors can be engineered by their interaction with nanocavity plasmons and is important for understanding and designing nanoscale optoelectronic devices with tailored responses.
Crohn’s Disease of the Foregut

Crohn's disease of the foregut is more common than previously recognized, with up to 40% of patients with Crohn's disease in the distal intestine also having evidence of foregut disease. Esophageal disease is best managed medically with proton pump inhibition, steroids, thiopurines, methotrexate, and anti-tumor necrosis factor-α biologic medications. Esophageal strictures are dealt with using endoscopic dilation. Surgery is generally reserved of resistant strictures or esophageal fistulas. Patients with gastroduodenal disease more commonly come to surgery. The most commonly performed operations for gastroduodenal Crohn's disease are intestinal bypass or strictureplasty. The concomitant use of vagotomy remains controversial.
Glycolysis is necessary to preserve myocardial Ca2+ homeostasis during beta-adrenergic stimulation

Although ATP derived from glycolysis represents only a small fraction of total myocardial ATP production, metabolic compartmentation may result in preferential use of glycolytic ATP for certain membrane activities, including pumping of Ca2+ from the cytoplasm. We tested this hypothesis by looking for evidence of Ca2+ overload in normoxic perfused rabbit hearts given iodoacetate (IAA, 50 microM) to block glycolysis and isoproterenol (Iso, 0.05 microM) to stimulate Ca2+ entry. The hearts beat isovolumically and were perfused with 16 mM glucose and 5 or 10 mM pyruvate (to preserve oxidative metabolism) in a superconducting magnet for 31P-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements of high energy phosphates or 19F-NMR measurements of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). IAA by itself had no effect on left ventricular (LV) developed pressure, end-diastolic pressure, pressure-rate product, or tissue high-energy phosphates. During exposure to Iso, mean LV end-diastolic pressure increased from 10.7 to 49.3 mmHg in hearts pretreated with IAA (n = 7) but did not change in control hearts (n = 7). During Iso, there were substantial reductions in developed pressure, ATP, and phosphocreatine in IAA-treated hearts but not in control hearts. After exposure to IAA and Iso, a doubling of diastolic [Ca2+]i was observed with 19F-NMR. In IAA-treated hearts, reduction of perfusate Ca2+ concentration from 2.5 to 0.6 mM during Iso exposure (n = 6) prevented the mechanical dysfunction and decrease in high-energy phosphates. These findings suggest that glycolysis is necessary to preserve myocardial Ca2+ homeostasis during beta-adrenergic stimulation.
Emptying the Pool: Modular Insulin Secretion From the Pancreas.

The fundamental model of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion has remained essentially unchanged for decades. Rising blood glucose is transported into pancreatic β-cells, where it is metabolized to generate ATP. The change in the ATP/ADP ratio closes membrane potassium channels and eventually triggers the action potential that drives calcium influx and exocytosis. Secreted insulin typically comes from a very small portion of the available secretory granules (<1%) (1,2). This has led to much speculation concerning the vast majority of dormant secretory granules known as the “reserve pool.” Does it participate in phasic insulin secretion (3,4)? Is the number of reserve pool granules regulated (5)? And perhaps most importantly, what is the relationship between the reserve capacity and diabetes (6)? That this large unsecreted pool of granules is truly held in reserve has not been a commonly challenged idea and is in fact a part of a core assumption about islets isolated for ex vivo experimentation: Islets are all more or less functionally identical and respond similarly to the environmental changes that regulate secretion. The insulin that is secreted in response to rising blood glucose levels, it is therefore thought, arrives from all islets with each islet secreting a tiny bit of insulin from just a handful of secretory granules at a time. It is curious then that the β-cells are organized …
Culture of Leukocytes after Storage in Serum

SummaryCell lines were established from leukocytes stored in homologous serum for 2 weeks at 4°C. Similar viable cells may be present occasionally in serum used as a nutrient for tissue cultures and so may initiate mixed cultures. This can be prevented, however, by heating the serum for 15 minutes at 56°C to destroy any leukocytes present.
Microbiological activities of iodoorotic acid and iodouridine.

Summary1. 5-Iodoorotic acid and 5-iodouridine per se are not utilizable for the growth of S. faecalis or L. casei, while in media supplemented with thymine, thymidine or pteroylglutamic acid, the growth of these organisms is not inhibited by iodoorotic acid or iodouridine. 2. Although 5-iodoorotic acid appeared to support the maximal growth of L. bulgaricus 09, evidence was presented that this was attributable to the release of orotic acid from the iodinated derivative. 3. High concentrations of 5-iodoorotic acid inhibited the growth of L. bulgaricus 09, but this could not be reversed by orotic acid. This inhibition was attributed to the formation of iodide ion, since potassium iodide in similar concentrations produced a comparable inhibitory effect on the microorganism.
Bmp signaling mediates endoderm pouch morphogenesis by regulating Fgf signaling in zebrafish

The endodermal pouches are a series of reiterated structures that segment the pharyngeal arches and help pattern the vertebrate face. Multiple pathways regulate the complex process of endodermal development, including the Bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp) pathway. However, the role of Bmp signaling in pouch morphogenesis is poorly understood. Using genetic and chemical inhibitor approaches, we show that pouch morphogenesis requires Bmp signaling from 10-18 h post-fertilization, immediately following gastrulation. Blocking Bmp signaling during this window results in morphological defects to the pouches and craniofacial skeleton. Using genetic chimeras we show that Bmp signals directly to the endoderm for proper morphogenesis. Time-lapse imaging and analysis of reporter transgenics show that Bmp signaling is necessary for pouch outpocketing via the Fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) pathway. Double loss-of-function analyses demonstrate that Bmp and Fgf signaling interact synergistically in craniofacial development. Collectively, our analyses shed light on the tissue and signaling interactions that regulate development of the vertebrate face.
Characteristic lengths for three-carrier transport with spin-flip and electron-hole recombination

The exact solution of the linearized, steady-state transport equation for three-carrier systems, such as can occur for semiconductors and ionic conductors, is constructed starting from the near-equilibrium entropy-production requirements of irreversible thermodynamics. Three characteristic modes are found, one associated with electrostatic screening (which is often neglected), and two modes associated with diffusion and ``reactions.'' For a spintronics model with up and down electrons and unpolarized holes, the ``reactions'' are spin-flip and electron-hole recombination. We discuss how the variations in carrier density, diffusivity, recombination rate, and spin relaxation time affect the characteristic lengths. We apply these modes to study spin-polarized surface photoabsorption.
Analysis on characteristics of drug resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated in 2007-2009 in some areas of Henan

Objective:To understand drug resistant situation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Henan Province from 2007 to 2009.To analysis the drug resistant tendency and the correlation influence factor,to supply the gist for management and therapy on DR-TB and MDR-TB.Methods:Using the method which is selected continuously from 2007 to 2009 in 6 spots of Henan Province,culturing the sputum smear positive.To do drug susceptibility test(DST) on the first line anti-TB drugs by using proportion method which is recommended by WHO.Results:409 cases were selected from 2007 to 2009,among them,161cases were first treated,348 cases were retreated;139 cases were MDR-TB;The MDR-TB characteristic of age distributing showed 46 cases were 16～39 years;40 cases were 40～49 years;31cases were 50～59 years;22 cases were ≧60 years.The MDR-TB characteristic of gender distributing showed 101cases were female,38 cases were male.Conclusion: It is still serious of multidrug resistant of tuberculosis patients in Henan and we need to strengthen the TB surveillance and effective treatment.
Current management of epilepsy

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders. Global neurological knowledge is essential for differential diagnosis of epileptic syndromes due to the diversity of ictal semiology, causes and syndromes. Neurologists play an important role in planning the medical care for patients with epilepsy, as medication is the most fundamental therapeutic strategy. Some patients with early-onset epilepsy require joint care by pediatric neurologists, those with intractable epilepsy by neurosurgeons, and those with psychological comorbidity by psychiatrists, and neurologists should play a coordinating role. While there is a great need for neurologists to participate in epilepsy care, neurologists in Japan currently do not participate substantially in the epilepsy management system. It is necessary to train more neurologists who can provide epilepsy care and conduct basic and clinical research on epilepsy by providing continuous education on epilepsy for general neurologists as well as pre- and post-graduate medical students. Most of the patients who require long-term treatment experience many medical problems and social handicaps, such as adverse effects of medication, social stigma, educational disadvantages and difficulties in obtaining driver's license. To improve the quality of life of patients with epilepsy, it is desirable to build broad medical-social networks participated by patients, doctors, neurological nurses, psychologists, social workers, school teachers, managers of employment support facilities and care givers.
Determination of intracellular calcium in vivo via fluorine-19 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Fluorine-19-nuclear magnetic resonance (19F-NMR) spectroscopic detection of the NMR-active Ca2+ indicator 5-fluoro-1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (5F-BAPTA) is one method ...
A Dynamic, Mathematical Model for Quantitative Glycoprofiling Using Label-Free Lectin Microarrays

The emergence of label-free lectin microarrays promises rapid and efficient glycoprofiling of complex analyte mixtures. Lectins have limited selectivity for different carbohydrate motifs necessitating relatively large array sizes to discriminate between glycoforms. Microarray technologies able to transduce the dynamics, instead of only the extent of binding, can introduce additional orthogonality in the array and therefore reduce its size. In this work, we develop a mathematical model of glycan binding dynamics to a label-free lectin sensor array, linking the matrix of observed dissociation constants, kinetics of binding, and occupancy to distinct glycoforms for identification. We introduce a matrix algebra approach that formulates the observed array dynamics in terms of a glycosylation matrix containing identifiers for each glycan chain on each protein isoform in the mixture. This formulation allows for straightforward calculation of the minimum array size necessary to distinguish a given set of glycans....
Effect of Spatial Repellent Exposure on Dengue Vector Attraction to Oviposition Sites

Background Aedes aegypti is a primary vector of dengue virus (DENV), the causative agent of dengue fever, an arthropod-borne disease of global importance. Although a vaccine has been recommended for prevention, current dengue prevention strategies rely on vector control. Recently, volatile pyrethroids—spatial repellents—have received interest as a novel delivery system for adult Ae. aegypti control. Understanding the full range of behavioral effects spatial repellents elicit in mosquito species will be critical to understanding the overall impact these products have on vector populations and will guide expectations of efficacy against DENV transmission. Methodology/Principal Findings The current study quantified changes in attraction of gravid Ae. aegypti to experimental oviposition sites following exposure to the spatial repellent transfluthrin. Responses were measured with two-choice olfaction bioassays using ‘sticky-screens’ covering cups to prevent contact with the oviposition substrate. Two cups contained a bacterial attractant composed of four species of bacteria in calcium alginate beads in water and two cups contained only deionized water. Results from 40 replicates (n = 780 females total per treatment) indicated an estimated difference in attraction of 9.35% ± 0.18 (p ≤ 0.003), implying that the transfluthrin-exposed mosquitoes were more attracted to the experimental oviposition sites than the non-exposed mosquitoes. Conclusions/Significance Findings from this study will further characterize the role of spatial repellents to modify Ae. aegypti behavior related to dengue prevention specifically, and encourage innovation in vector control product development more broadly.
478 Injuries in children with autism spectrum disorder: study to explore early development (SEED)

Background Studies of injury risk in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have shown conflicting results. We examined medically-treated injuries in children with ASD vs. population (POP) controls. Methods The Study to Explore Early Development (SEED) is a multi-site ASD case-control study of children aged 30–68 months. ASD cases (n = 693) were determined using established ASD-specific diagnostic instruments. POP controls (n = 882) were ascertained from birth certificates. Each child’s primary caregiver reported if the child ever had a medically-treated injury and described each such injury. Injuries resulting in emergency department visit or hospitalisation were defined as “serious.” We describe the nature and cause of each child’s first reported injury. Associations between ASD and having at least one medically-treated injury and serious injury were examined using logistic regression, adjusted for child sex, age, and IQ; maternal race/ethnicity and education; and family income. Results Among children with ASD, 33% ever had a medically-treated injury and 25% ever had a serious injury; the most commonly specified injuries were laceration (41%), fracture (22%) and abrasion/contusion (12%). Among POP children, 30% had a medically-treated injury and 22% a serious injury; the most commonly specified injuries were laceration (46%), fracture (23%) and dislocation/sprain (12%). In both groups, the cause most often specified was a fall (56%). ASD cases and POP controls had similar odds of injury (crude odds ratio [cOR] = 1.1 [95% CI: 0.9, 1.4]; adjusted OR [aOR] = 1.2 [0.9, 1.7]) and serious injury (cOR = 1.1 [0.9, 1.4]; aOR = 1.2 [0.9, 1.6]). Conclusions Children with ASD and population control children had similar odds of any medically-treated injury and serious injury. Sociodemographic and IQ differences did not influence these results. We plan to further explore and compare specific injury types and causes, and additional injury outcomes, between the two groups.
Using human genetics to discover new therapeutic targets for plasma lipids

Genetic variation arises through multiple different alleles that vary in frequency and severity of effect. Mutations that give rise to Mendelian disorders, such as the LDL receptor (LDLR) mutations that result in familial hypercholesterolaemia, are efficiently winnowed from the population by purifying selection and are almost inevitably rare. Conversely, alleles that are common in the population (such that homozygotes for the minor allele are present even in modest sample sizes) typically have very modest phenotypic effects. Mutations in the gene for proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) represent an unusual but informative exception in that they are relatively common but have large effects on phenotype. Loss-of-function mutations in PCSK9 occur in ~2.5% of African Americans and are associated with large reductions in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. The development of agents to inhibit PCSK9 demonstrates the utility of translating genetics into clinical therapeutics. Attempts to identify genes responsible for hypercholesterolaemia have used traditional linkage analysis, which requires samples collected from multiple families with defects in the same gene, or genome-wide association, which requires thousands of samples from the population. More recently, whole-exome sequencing studies have revealed loss-of-function mutations in ANGPTL3 associated with pan-hypolipidemia, and in APOC3 that confer protection against CHD. The application of whole-exome sequencing to large populations or to carefully selected patients can streamline the discovery of causal genetic mutations.
Food choices of Air Force Academy cadets as reflected by the Food Choice Inventory.

The National Dairy Council and the University of Illinois developed the Food Choice Inventory (FCI), a list of 25 high-nutrient foods and 15 low-nutrient foods. On the basis of respondent selection patterns, it is possible to develop a profile of reported nutrition behavior. The FCI can be used to categorize food choices roughly, and it can be scored rapidly. The purpose of this study was to obtain FCI data from a sample of Air Force Academy cadets and to perform a preliminary analysis of their reported consumption patterns
Healthcare Finance Cases as a Pedagogy for Advancing a Competency Based Education

Both the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) and The Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) Revised Criteria for Undergraduate Certification require a competency based approach to healthcare education. A competency based approach requires clearly established learning outcomes, ability to assess master of outcomes, and flexibility with time and method of student involvement. Cases provide an opportunity to establish a learning environment which supports a competency based approach. Success with the case approach depends on the instructor appropriately tailoring the learning environment to the students and the specific educational program. This article extols the case approach as a pedagogy for advancing a competency based healthcare education. It discusses a variety of curriculum structure factors and teaching strategies for creating a successful learning environment. The article then compares various features of two healthcare accounting/finance casebooks, one a classic casebook originally authored by Louis C. Gapenski and the second a new casebook by the article author.
Abstract A090: Mitochondrial genetics in the regulation of tumorigenicity and metastatic potential

Current paradigms of carcinogenic risk suggest that genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors combine to influence an individual9s predilection for breast cancer and related metastatic tumor formation. The genetic component, in particular, has become the focus of emergent studies which have determined a role for nuclear genetic differences directing breast cancer susceptibility. Studies examining tumor latency and metastatic formation in mice have demonstrated clear differences between inbred strains. However, these studies fail to exclude the possibility that mitochondrial genetic inheritance is responsible for the observed changes in tumor onset and metastatic spread due to maternal inheritance of the mitochondrial genome. Although mitochondrial mutations within the tumor cell have recently been implicated as contributing to metastatic potential, studies have not directly addressed the effects of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) background of the host on disease susceptibility. This work hypothesizes that the pre-existent “normal” mitochondrial haplotype harbored by an individual conveys risk in determining tumor latency and metastatic susceptibility. Furthermore, these changes in susceptibility will be accompanied by altered mitochondrial functional characteristics that can be attributed to differences in mitochondrial haplotype. Analysis of the direct contribution of mitochondrial DNA on tumorigenicity is made possible through the use of mitochondrial-nuclear exchange (MNX) mice in which nuclei from normal FVB mice (the background strain of the tg: MMTV-PyMT) were transferred onto cytoplasms containing C57BL/6 or BALB/c mitochondria. Crossing male FVB:tg:MMTV:PyMT mice with FVB(nDNA)C57BL/6(mtDNA) or FBV(nDNA)BALB/c(mtDNA) females maintained nuclear FVB nDNA and takes advantage of maternal inheritance of mtDNA. Present data indicate primary tumor latency segregating by mitochondrial DNA as PyMT-FVB wild-type animals develop primary tumors in 57 days compared to PyMT-FVB(n)C57BL/6(mt) which develop primary tumors in 65 days. Bioenergetic analyses using the Seahorse XF-24 as well as electron transport complex enzymatic assays will be conducted to more precisely delineate the functional metabolic differences contributing to altered tumorigenicity. MNX crosses suggest that cross-talk between mtDNA and nDNA has a greater influence on metastasis than previously appreciated and that mtDNA may be used clinically to improve patient prognosis. Citation Format: Kyle P. Feeley, Alexander W. Bray, Jessica L. Fetterman, David G. Westbrook, Larry W. Johnson, Robert A. Kesterson, Danny R. Welch, Scott W. Ballinger. Mitochondrial genetics in the regulation of tumorigenicity and metastatic potential. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Breast Cancer Research: Genetics, Biology, and Clinical Applications; Oct 3-6, 2013; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2013;11(10 Suppl):Abstract nr A090.