cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Environmental contaminants in the food chain

Both terrestrial and aquatic food chains are capable of accumulating certain environmental contaminants to toxic concentrations. This article focuses on the aquatic food chain because we have less control over contaminant entry into this chain than we have for the terrestrial chain. In general, at least three special properties are required for a contaminant to bioaccumulate in an aquatic food chain: 1) a high octanol-water partition coefficient, 2) chemical and metabolic stability in water and in organisms in the food chain, and 3) a low toxicity to organisms in the chain so that the chain is not broken by loss of an intermediate species. Few of the thousands of chemicals produced by human industry meet these requirements. In terms of organic chemicals, the best known examples of bioaccumulation in aquatic food chains are the polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and organochlorine pesticides such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT. Few examples exist of bioaccumulation of metal compounds. Methylmercury is arguably the most dramatic and best documented example of high bioaccumulation
Improvement of inertial surveys through post-mission network adjustment and self-calibration

Present day inertial surveys are limited to single traverse runs in which the number of unknown system parameters to be determined are few, depending on the number of control points available along the traverse. Further, conventional inertial surveys are generally restricted to the determination of coordinates with no possibility for a rigorous post-mission adjustment of the observations. The consequence is the continued presence of systematic trends in the residuals, even after the use of error models such as those proposed by Ball, Gregerson or Kouba. Future work aiming at higher accuracies obviously requires more comprehensive models and rigorous adjustment procedures. These can be accomplished by the development of such error models and by the use of “area surveys”, instead of the single traverses, together with rigorous adjustment procedures suitable for the network of criss-crossing lines inertially surveyed. In such a network the cross-over points serve as constraints for the geodetic parameters (latitude, longitude, height, gravity anomaly, deflection components) and allow the addition of hardware and software related error parameters. Thus an opportunity is provided to effectively self-calibrate the system—a concept successfully used, for example, in photogrammetry or in satellite tracking. The number and the strength of such parameters depend on the number of control and cross-over points. The adjustment, of course, also provides the necessary statistical information on the adjusted parameters, such as their precision and the correlation between them.
Consistency of Wilsonian effective actions

Wilsonian effective actions are interpreted as free energies in ensembles with prescribed field expectation values and prescribed connected two-point functions. Since such free energies are directly obtained from two-particle-irreducible functionals, it follows that Wilsonian effective actions satisfy elementary perturbative consistency conditions, and non-perturbative convexity conditions. In particular, the exact determination of a Wilsonian action by other means (e.g. supersymmetry) allows one to extract restrictions on the particular cutoff scheme and field reparametrization that would lead to such a Wilsonian action from an underlying microscopic action.
Intestine-specific transcription factor Cdx2 induces E-cadherin function by enhancing the trafficking of E-cadherin to the cell membrane

Cdx2 is an intestine-specific transcription factor required for normal intestinal epithelium development. Cdx2 regulates the expression of intestine-specific genes and induces cell adhesion and columnar morphogenesis. Cdx2 also has tumor-suppressor properties, including the reduction of colon cancer cell proliferation and cell invasion, the latter due to its effects on cell adhesion. E-cadherin is a cell adhesion protein required for adherens junction formation and the establishment of intestinal cell polarity. The objective of this study was to elucidate the mechanism by which Cdx2 regulates E-cadherin function. Two colon cancer cell lines were identified in which Cdx2 expression was associated with increased cell-cell adhesion and diminished cell migration. In both cell lines, Cdx2 did not directly alter E-cadherin levels but increased its trafficking to the cell membrane compartment. Cdx2 enhanced this trafficking by altering receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) activity. Cdx2 expression diminished phosphorylated Abl and phosphorylated Rac levels, which are downstream effectors of RTKs. Specific chemical inhibition or short interfering RNA (shRNA) knockdown of c-Abl kinase phenocopied Cdx2's cell-cell adhesion effects. In Colo 205 cells, Cdx2 reduced PDGF receptor and IGF-I receptor activation. This was mediated by caveolin-1, which was induced by Cdx2. Targeted shRNA knockdown of caveolin-1 restored PDGF receptor and reversed E-cadherin membrane trafficking, despite Cdx2 expression. We conclude that Cdx2 regulates E-cadherin function indirectly by disrupting RTK activity and enhancing E-cadherin trafficking to the cell membrane compartment. This novel mechanism advances Cdx2's prodifferentiation and antitumor properties and suggests that Cdx2 may broadly regulate RTK activity in normal intestinal epithelium by modulating membrane trafficking of proteins.
Nuclear spin relaxation phenomena in amorphous semiconductors

Abstract Recent nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements of nuclear spin relaxation phenomena in amorphous semiconductors are discussed using examples from several amorphous systems. Studies of nuclear spin-lattice relaxation times (T 1 ) and spin-spin relaxation times (T 2 ) are useful probes of several important phenomena in amorphous semiconductors. For example, the anomalous temperature dependences (approximately T β , 1 ⩽ β ⩽ 2) of the spin-lattice relaxation rates in several chalcogenide glasses have been attributed to the presence of disorder modes in these amorphous solids. In some cases the dominant contributions to T 1 are made by defects or impurities, such as trapped molecular hydrogen or “dangling bonds” in a-Si:H. Other localized electronic states can also play important roles in spin lattice relaxation processes. Such states include optically induced ESR centers or optically excited band tail states. Spin-spin relaxation rates are useful probes of dipolar interactions in amorphous semiconductors. From these measurements one can infer such structural details as clustering of hydrogen in a-Si:H and intermediate-range ordering in As 2 S 3 and As 3 Se 3 .
Discrete models for vertical vibrations of surface and embedded foundations

A five-parameter discrete model that approximates the dynamic force4isplacement relationship for rigid foundations undergoing vertical vibrations on a uniform elastic half-space is presented. The model involves a combination of two springs, two viscous dampers and a mass. Values of the parameters for circular, square and rectangular foundations placed on the surface or embedded in an elastic half-space are listed. The parameters are obtained by minimizing the discrepancy between the force4isplacement relation for the model and that obtained by solution of the mixed boundary-value problem of the rigid foundation on an elastic half-space. The definition of an appropriate input motion to represent wave excitation is also discussed. The input motion to the discrete model differs from the input motion that should be used in a continuum model.
Peri-operative comparison between daVinci-assisted radical prostatectomy and open radical prostatectomy in obese patients

Introduction: While the effects of increasing body mass index on prostate cancer epidemiology and surgical approach have recently been studied, its effects on surgical outcomes are less clear. We studied the perioperative outcomes of obese (BMI >= 30) men treated with daVinci-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (DLP) and compared them to those treated with open radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) in a contemporary time frame. Method: After Institutional Review Board approval, we used the Mayo Clinic Radical Prostatectomy database to identify patients who had undergone DLP by a single surgeon and those who had undergone open RRP by a single surgeon between December 2002 and March 2005. Baseline demographics, peri- and post-operative courses, and complications were collected by retrospective chart review, and variables from the two cohorts compared using chi-square method and least-squares method of linear regression where appropriate. Results: 59 patients who had DLP and 76 undergoing RRP were available for study. Baseline demographics were not statistically different between the two cohorts. Although DLP had a significantly lower clinical stage than RRP (p=0.02), pathological stage was not statistically different (p=0.10). Transfusion rates, hospital stay, overall complications, and pathological Gleason were also not significantly different, nor were PSA progression, positive margin rate, or continence at 1 year. After bilateral nerve-sparing, erections suitable for intercourse with or without therapy at 1 year was 88.5% (23/26) for DLP and 61.2% (30/49) for RRP (p=0.01). Follow-up time was similar. Conclusion: For obese patients, DLP appears to have similar perioperative, as well as short-term oncologic and functional outcomes when compared to open RRP.
Long term assessment of blood pressure transducer drift in rhesus monkeys chronically instrumented with telemetry implants.

Abstract Introduction The accurate assessment of blood pressure is often a key component of preclinical cardiovascular disease/efficacy models and of screening models used to determine the effects of test agents on cardiovascular physiology. Of the many methods utilized in large animals, telemetry is becoming more widely used throughout preclinical testing, and non-human primates are playing an ever increasing role as a large animal model to evaluate the cardiovascular effect of novel test agents. Therefore, we sought to characterize pressure transducer drift of a telemetry implant in primates over an extended duration. Methods: We instrumented ten rhesus monkeys with a Konigsberg T27F implant and a chronic indwelling arterial catheter and cross calibrated the diastolic pressure recorded by the implant to the diastolic pressure that was simultaneously recorded through the arterial catheter using a calibrated external transducer/amplifier system. Results: While all implanted pressure transducers experienced drift to some degree, magnitude of drift varied across animals (range of average drift 0.7–20.5 mmHg/month). Specifically, we found that all implants could be calibrated within the voltage range of the instrument up to 6 months after implantation despite the drift observed. Between 6 and 12 months, 3 of the 10 implants studied drifted outside the defined voltage range and were unusable, two more drifted off scale within 2 years, while the remainder remained within the operating voltage range. Discussion: Given that pressure transducer drift was not consistent across implants or time, these data suggest careful assessment and quantitative correction for in vivo drift of telemetry blood pressure transducers implanted for extended duration should be considered.
Generation of continuous-wave radiation near 243 nm by sum-frequency mixing in an external ring cavity

We have generated up to 1 mW of single-mode cw ultraviolet radiation between 243 and 247 nm by mixing the outputs of an ultraviolet argon-ion laser at 363.8 nm and a red LD700 dye laser in ammonium dihydrogen phosphate. The dye-laser intensity within the crystal is enhanced by using an actively locked passive ring cavity. Wavelengths near 243.1 nm are of particular interest for the high-resolution two-photon spectroscopy of atomic hydrogen.
Men and women as interest groups in the abortion debate in the United States.

Abstract The abortion issue is defined here as a gender conflict of rights, and the research question is formulated within an interest group framework. Using data from a U.S. national opinion survey the merits of the formulation that opinions on abortion should reflect conflicting gender interests are explored. Although no gender polarization on abortion opinions is found, values regarding gender equality for women and conservatism for men reflect the impact of self-interest. The most powerful predictors of opposition to abortion are different for American women and men: high religiosity (for women) and low education (for men). The implications of these findings for a gender-equalitarian future are discussed. While support for a solution based on increased education is noncontroversial, sacrificing religiosity to gender equality is a more problematic proposition.
Leaving our children in debt

Abstract The bumper sticker on the grand recreational vehicle reads, “We're spending our children's inheritance.” After a lifetime of labor the elderly couple navigate their motor home toward a peaceful retirement. On the other side, the bumper sticker reads, “Cut taxes 15%.” Both messages are the same. In 1980, Ronald Reagan ushered in a new economic era with a call for major tax cuts and a commitment to economic growth. He achieved his tax cuts but did not reduce government spending. The result was increased government borrowing to make up for revenue lost to tax cuts. The logic behind the tax cuts was that they would ignite increased economic activity that would, over time, produce additional taxes that would make up for the money lost to tax cuts.
Quality Polyp Resection in Colonoscopy: Are We Achieving Polyp Clearance?

Background and Study Aim Currently colonoscopy quality indicators emphasize our ability to improve polyp detection (e.g., preparation quality, withdrawal times of ≥6 min). The completeness of a polyp resection may also be an important determinant of quality and efficient colonoscopy. The primary aim of this study was to determine the incidence of an incomplete polyp resection despite a perceived complete polypectomy.
Role of intergrowths in the properties of the naturally layered manganites

Abstract The structural and magnetic properties of the two-layered Ruddlesden–Popper phase SrO(La 1− x Sr x MnO 3 ) 2 with x =0.3 and x =0.4 are investigated. These naturally layered manganites exhibit a colossal magnetoresistance, a magnetic anisotropy which is strongly composition-dependent, almost no remanence, and a non-vanishing magnetization in a extended temperature range above the Curie temperature ( T C ). The magnetization in this temperature range is not intrinsic to the crystal, but is attributed to intergrowths. These two-dimensional (2D) lattice imperfections consist of additional or missing SrO layers and have been observed in transmission electron micrographs. The magnetic properties of the intergrowths differ from the bulk crystal which results in unusual magnetic behavior.
Introduction: Integrating self‐help into psychotherapy

This brief article introduces the In Session issue devoted to integrating self-help into psychotherapy. The utility of self-help in psychotherapy is discussed, including the potential for enhancing the effectiveness of psychotherapy. Brief descriptions of the seven articles comprising this special issue are provided. These include articles on bibliotherapy, autobiography, films and psychotherapy, Internet self-help resources, focused expressive writing, and a review of the research on self-administered treatments. These articles give practitioners a number of ideas about how to augment their treatments with self-help approaches. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol/In Session 59: 175–176, 2003.
RockJIT: Securing Just-In-Time Compilation Using Modular Control-Flow Integrity

Managed languages such as JavaScript are popular. For performance, modern implementations of managed languages adopt Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation. The danger to a JIT compiler is that an attacker can often control the input program and use it to trigger a vulnerability in the JIT compiler to launch code injection or JIT spraying attacks. In this paper, we propose a general approach called RockJIT to securing JIT compilers through Control-Flow Integrity (CFI). RockJIT builds a fine-grained control-flow graph from the source code of the JIT compiler and dynamically updates the control-flow policy when new code is generated on the fly. Through evaluation on Google's V8 JavaScript engine, we demonstrate that RockJIT can enforce strong security on a JIT compiler, while incurring only modest performance overhead (14.6% on V8) and requiring a small amount of changes to V8's code. Key contributions of RockJIT are a general architecture for securing JIT compilers and a method for generating fine-grained control-flow graphs from C++ code.
Familial osteosarcoma associated with 13;14 chromosomal rearrangement

Two prepubertal sisters of American Indian origin developed osteosarcoma at 8 and 12 years of age. This familial occurrence, tumor onset prior to puberty, unusual tumor location in one who also had short stature, and ethnic background all suggest an inborn predisposition to bone cancer rather than a chance occurrence. Rearrangements involving chromosomes #13 and #14 were found in both the surviving proband and mother. Comparison of the arm ratio and prometaphase G-banding patterns of the rearranged chromosomes suggests either deletion of band 14q11.2 or pericentric inversion (with breakpoints at 13q12 and 14q11.2) in the proband's rearranged chromosome, but not in her mother's. Her mother, who had no malignancy, had a typical Robertsonian translocation [t(13;14)(p11;q11)]. Three previously reported children with chromosomal abnormalities developed osteosarcoma at unusually young ages, younger even than in reported sibships with osteosarcoma. The most frequently detected cytogenetic abnormalities in sarcoma tumor cells involve chromosomes #13 and #14. In addition, some cases of bilateral retinoblastoma and familial unilateral retinoblastoma, which are known to be at increased risk for osteosarcoma, are associated with tiny deletions on chromosome #13. Thus, there may be a causal relationship between constitutional loss or rearrangement of genetic material at these breakpoints on chromosomes #13 or #14 and development of osteosarcoma in this family that is similar to that seen in patients with small constitutional chromosomal deletions who develop Wilms' tumor and retinoblastoma.
Elucidating the Aging Process Through Poetry: An Elderly Woman's Life

The purpose of this case study was to explicate the life story and gain deeper understanding of the aging experience of an elderly woman. Through poetry, this woman transformed challenging life experiences. Data analysis revealed themes of determination, spiritual strength, and creatively aging. The findings support knowledge development about how older women age and express their lives. Most of the participant's poetry was in the sonnet form, which can convey deep and universal insights. Thus, the aging experience was seen from an extraordinary perspective. The study led to a deeper understanding of a dynamic holistic perspective of aging.
MassCode Liquid Arrays as a Tool for Multiplexed High-Throughput Genetic Profiling

Multiplexed detection assays that analyze a modest number of nucleic acid targets over large sample sets are emerging as the preferred testing approach in such applications as routine pathogen typing, outbreak monitoring, and diagnostics. However, very few DNA testing platforms have proven to offer a solution for mid-plexed analysis that is high-throughput, sensitive, and with a low cost per test. In this work, an enhanced genotyping method based on MassCode technology was devised and integrated as part of a high-throughput mid-plexing analytical system that facilitates robust qualitative differential detection of DNA targets. Samples are first analyzed using MassCode PCR (MC-PCR) performed with an array of primer sets encoded with unique mass tags. Lambda exonuclease and an array of MassCode probes are then contacted with MC-PCR products for further interrogation and target sequences are specifically identified. Primer and probe hybridizations occur in homogeneous solution, a clear advantage over micro- or nanoparticle suspension arrays. The two cognate tags coupled to resultant MassCode hybrids are detected in an automated process using a benchtop single quadrupole mass spectrometer. The prospective value of using MassCode probe arrays for multiplexed bioanalysis was demonstrated after developing a 14plex proof of concept assay designed to subtype a select panel of Salmonella enterica serogroups and serovars. This MassCode system is very flexible and test panels can be customized to include more, less, or different markers.
SU‐FF‐J‐53: Experience and Comparison of Two Image Guidance Methods for SBRT Treatment: 4D CT and ExacTrac Respiratory‐Triggered Imaging

Purpose: For Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy(SBRT)treatment of lung and liver, we quantified the differences between two image guidance methods: 4D CT and ExacTrac respiratory triggered images.Method and Materials: 5 liver lesions and 1 lung lesion for a total of 21 fractions were studied. For the 4D CT method, a manual registration method was used between the 4D CTimage sets from initial simulation and treatment day. 4D CT derived image guidance shifts were ascertained from comparison to the same breathing phase at simulation. We also used ExacTrac respiratory triggered imaging to verify the target positioning and calculated the differences in image guidance shifts for the two methods. Results: The mean of the observed differences in image guided shifts between 4D CTimage guidance and ExacTrac respiratory triggered image guidance was x = 1.6 mm, y = 1.9 mm, z = 2.8 mm, with no difference larger than 5.0 mm noted in any given direction for any individual case. As expected, the largest error occurred in S/I direction, with a mean of 2.8 mm for the six patients. This is expected because respiratory motion and the resulting uncertainties are most pronounced in this S/I direction. The ExacTrac images triggered at two extreme breathing phase, e.g., full exhale vs. inhale, agreed well (< 2.0mm) with each other. Conclusion: The two very promising image guidance methods of 4D CT and ExacTrac respiratory triggered imaging have been presented and compared for SBRT of lung and liver. The mean differences in image guided shifts between the two methods were less than 3 mm, with no individual direction difference greater than 5 mm for the six SBRT patients, 21 delivered fractions evaluated in this study. Potential contributing factors to the disagreement were presented and will be studied further in future work.
Directed differentiation of embryonic stem cells into dorsal interneurons

During neural development caudalization and dorsoventral patterning of the neural tube is directed by several inductive factors including retinoic acid, sonic hedgehog (Shh), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and Wnt signaling. The purpose of the current study was to investigate whether dorsal interneurons specific for the spinal cord can be generated from mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells using known inductive signals. Here we show that specific combination of developmental signaling molecules including all trans-retinoic acid, Shh, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), and Wnt3A can direct differentiation of ES cells into dorsal interneurons possessing appropriate neuronal markers, synaptic proteins and functional neurotransmitter machineries. We introduce a concept that Wnt3A morphogenic action relies on crosstalk with both Shh and BMP2 signaling pathways.
Spinal anaesthesia: local anaesthetics and adjuncts in the ambulatory setting.

Abstract Intrathecal lidocaine remains a popular choice for ambulatory spinal anaesthesia due to its reliability, rapid onset and predictable rapid recovery profile. However, concerns with transient neurological symptoms (TNS) and their significant association with lidocaine have generated interest in alternative local anaesthetic agents to provide adequate spinal anaesthesia with the briefest possible recovery period. This chapter updates current data on drug dose–response relationships for local anaesthetics and the increasing use of intrathecal adjuncts to improve the anaesthetic and recovery profile for ambulatory spinal anaesthesia. Newer spinal anaesthetic techniques for common ambulatory procedures highlight the success of combining subclinical doses of local anaesthetics and intrathecal adjuncts. Controversies regarding the possible lower risk of TNS with newer spinal anaesthetic techniques and new discharge criteria are reviewed. The final section provides technical pearls to optimize ambulatory spinal anaesthestic outcomes.
THE DOMAIN OF AGREEMENT

In certain types of infinitival complementation constructions in three quite dissimilar languages (German, Japanese, and Itelmen) expected interpretations curiously, but systematically, fail to arise. The missing interpretations are precisely those that would be expected if Agree – the establishment of licensing relations without movement – were possible; this is shown by comparison to minimally different constructions that establish both the existence of the Agree operation and the independent possibility of the interpretations in question. The account we are led to suggests that locality domains are not absolute but are relativized in two ways: firstly, Agree and A-movement respect different (if overlapping) locality conditions, and secondly, whether or not a given projection constitutes a domain boundary depends partly on its syntactic context. At the core of the paper is the proposed generalization that A-movement is forced, and cannot reconstruct, exactly when a DP originates in a lower agreement domain than its licensor.
Suppressor activity in the spleen of neonatal mice.

Abstract Helper cells of T-cell origin are required for the in vitro proliferation of low numbers of adult mouse thymus cells in response to allogeneic spleen cells. These helper cells are present in the adult mouse spleen. We have demonstrated that neonatal mouse spleen cells lack the helper activity present in adult spleen cells. We have also shown that this lack of helper activity is the result of active suppression. The suppression is due to a suppressor cell which is present in high quantities in the neonatal spleen and can be eliminated by treatment with anti-θ serum and complement.
THE EXTRA-RENAL ACTION OF DESOXYCORTICOSTERONE: SURVIVAL AND WATER INTOXICATION STUDIES

The experiments reported here were undertaken with two aspects of the problem of the extra-renal effects of desoxycorticosterone acetate (DCA)in mind; first, the general one of whether the substance has important actions other than those mediated through the kidney, since there has been disagreement on the point; secondly, an attempt was made to test directly previous suggestions that the protective action of DCA in water intoxication is due in part to factors other than the stimulation of diuresis, i.e., to extra-renal influences. It is now well established that the 11-oxygenated adrenal steroids have important sites of action in organs other than the kidney. Most of the well-known actions of DCA, however, are onthe kidney (Swingle & Remington, 1944). Selye (1940) and Selye and Nielsen (1941) on the otherhand, claimed that DCA shows life-extending as well as other effects in nephrectomized rats and mice.
Critical Variables in the Formation and Maintenance of Consensus in School Districts

A comparative case study methodology was employed to investigate the formation and maintenance of consensus in school district governance and administration in six central New York school districts. Based on these case studies, eight critical variables were identified as affecting consensus. These variables include: the environmental constraints which the district operates under; the degree of mobilization of community interest groups; the unity of the school board; the degree and breadth of administrative expertise; the unity of the administrative realm; the leadership ability of the superinten dent, specifically the strategies and tactics employed; the coalition behavior of teachers; and the stability of the profile of critical variable values. The implications of these variables for research, practice, and theory are discussed.
Urine IL-18, NGAL, IL-8 and serum IL-8 are biomarkers of acute kidney injury following liver transplantation

AKI is common following liver transplantation and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Biomarkers of AKI have not been well established in this setting but are needed to help guide patient care and facilitate development of novel therapeutics. Serum creatinine, cystatin C, IL-6, and IL-8 and urine IL-18, NGAL, IL-6, and IL-8 were measured before and within 24 hours after liver transplantation in 40 patients. AKI was defined as a ≥50% sustained increase in creatinine above pre-operative values occurring within 24 hours of transplantation and persisting for at least 24 hours. Seven patients met criteria for AKI (17.5%), with mean creatinines of 0.81 mg/dL pre-operatively and 1.75 mg/dL post-operatively. While pre-operative biomarker levels in patients with AKI were similar to those in patients without AKI, differences were seen between the groups with regard to median post-operative serum IL-8 (pg/mL) (242.48 vs. 82.37, p = 0.0463) and urine NGAL (ng/mL) (386.86 vs. 24.31, p = 0.0039), IL-6 (pg/mL) (52 vs. 7.29, p=0.0532), IL-8 (pg/mL) (14.3 vs. 0, p = 0.0224), and IL-18 (pg/mL) (883.09 vs. 0, p = 0.0449). The areas under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were 0.749 for urine IL-18, 0.833 for urine NGAL, 0.745 for urine IL-6, 0.682 for serum IL-6, 0.773 for urine IL-8, and 0.742 for serum IL-8. Post-operative cystatin C was not significantly different between AKI and no AKI groups. Serum IL-8 and urine IL-18, NGAL, IL-6, and IL-8 are elevated in AKI within the first 24 hours following liver transplantation.
Gustatory thalamus lesions in the rat: III. Simultaneous contrast and autoshaping.

Abstract Reilly, S. and T. C. Pritchard. Gustatory thalamus lesions in the rat: III. Simultaneous contrast and autoshaping. PHYSIOL BEHAV 62(6) 1355–1363, 1997.—The performance of rats with electrophysiologically guided electrolytic lesions of the gustatory thalamus (GT) was compared to that of control subjects in two experiments. In Experiment 1, the lesioned rats showed normal simultaneous contrast effects (both positive and negative) during brief, alternating access to 0.15% saccharin and 1.0 M sucrose. There was, however, a substantial lesion-induced impairment in the level of conditioned stimulus-directed maintenance responding on the autoshaping procedure of Experiment 2. These findings are discussed with respect to the anticipatory contrast deficit recently reported in GT-lesioned rats.
Photo-induced crosslinking of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) by buckminsterfullerene

An EPDM (ethylene-propylene ethylidene norbornene terpolymer) rubber has been dissolved in o-dichlorobenzene with 5 phr of C60. A cast film which is kept in the dark remains soluble, while exposure to light results in a crosslinked film.
Influence of carbon on the properties of sulfamate nickel electrodeposits

Abstract Poisson's ratio and a number of mechanical properties were obtained for sulfamate nickel deposits plated in three solutions. The data showed the deposits from any given solution were isotropic. However, a wide variation was noted when the properties from the various solutions were compared. It appeared that perhaps carbon content in the deposit was the influencing factor. Additional experiments confirmed this hypothesis.
A tandem 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition/electrophilic cyclization sequence: γ,δ-Unsaturated isoxazolines as precursors to ring-fused ethers

Abstract A tandem 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition/electrophilic cyclization sequence affords cis-fused octahydrobenzo-and hexahydro-2H-cyclopenta[b]furans via the intermediacy of γ,δ-unsaturated isoxazolines.
The Effects of Fiscal Policy in Korea

This paper investigates whether a neoclassical model can explain output and investment in Korea. The model disaggregates government purchases into defense purchases, nondefense consumption purchases and government investment and splits each of these into a permanent component and a transitory component. Although the regressions reported in this paper do fit well, their implications have no consistent neoclassical interpretation and have unreasonable policy implications. If one ignores how unreasonable these implications are, one can conclude that government purchases affect the Korean economy in much different ways according to what type they are and whether they are permanent or tranistory. [320]
Improving health care through the evaluation and integration of complementary medicine

Abstract The need for health care reform in the USA is abundantly clear to consumers, providers, third parties and policy makers alike. This paper present a rationale for the evaluation and integration of complementary approaches into the mainstream of modern medicine as a way of both decreasing costs and increasing the quality of care. A project aimed at building the necessary scientific basis for this is described. The ultimate goal of the project and this paper is to stimulate new thinking about health and illness, toward encouraging models of health care which attend as much to the person and their experience of ‘illness’ as to their symptoms and ‘disease’.
Natural parthenogenesis in the gekkonid lizardLepidodactylus lugubris

The original hypothesis thatLepidodactylus lugubris is parthenogenetic is strongly supported by the following data: disparate sex ratio (only 4 individuals with mae characteristics among a total of 673 examined), absence of courtship in reproductively mature females, and acceptance of skin homografts. The chromosome number ofL. lugubris is about 44, and very likely a diploid complement. It seems very unlikely that gynogenesis is the mode of parthenogenesis inL. lugubris owing to the absence of congeners and even species in closely related genera throughout much of its geographic range. The meiotic mechanism and the origin of the males is being further investigated by us.
Support vector regression scoring of receptor-ligand complexes for rank-ordering and virtual screening of chemical libraries.

The community structure–activity resource (CSAR) data sets are used to develop and test a support vector machine-based scoring function in regression mode (SVR). Two scoring functions (SVR-KB and SVR-EP) are derived with the objective of reproducing the trend of the experimental binding affinities provided within the two CSAR data sets. The features used to train SVR-KB are knowledge-based pairwise potentials, while SVR-EP is based on physicochemical properties. SVR-KB and SVR-EP were compared to seven other widely used scoring functions, including Glide, X-score, GoldScore, ChemScore, Vina, Dock, and PMF. Results showed that SVR-KB trained with features obtained from three-dimensional complexes of the PDBbind data set outperformed all other scoring functions, including best performing X-score, by nearly 0.1 using three correlation coefficients, namely Pearson, Spearman, and Kendall. It was interesting that higher performance in rank ordering did not translate into greater enrichment in virtual screening ...
The New Structuralism in Organization Theory

Over the past decade, a new structuralism has begun to emerge in organizational theory. This exciting new research program draws inspiration from the social structural tradition in sociology, but extends that tradition by more broadly conceptualizing social structure as comprised of broader cultural rules and meaning systems as well as material resources—revealing the subtleties of both overt and covert power. Building on the insights of Bourdieu and related work in social theory and cultural sociology, new structuralist empirical research focuses on concrete manifestations of culture in everyday practice and has pioneered the measurement of cultural aspects of social structure using a variety of relational methods. In this essay, we revisit mid-century social structural approaches to organizations, review the development of organization theory as a management subfield that increasingly focused on instrumental exchange, highlight key aspects of the new structuralism in organizational theory, and discuss promising new research directions.
Transosseous air contrast CT-Guided needle biopsy of a cystic neoplasm

CT-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy of a metastasis from an ovarian cystadenocarcinoma was performed using air contrast and a transosseous approach. Air contrast allowed identification of a papillary projection within the cyst, and the transosseous approach permitted direct and easy access to the lesion.
9α- and 9β-Hydroxyphenylmorphans

Platinum-oxide hydrogenation of 5-m-methoxyphenyl-2-methyl-9-oxomorphan (I) gave the 9α-hydroxy racemate (II) whose phenolic analogue (III) is a strong antinociceptive agent, fully supportive of morphine dependence in rhesus monkeys. The di-O-acetyl derivative (VI) of III was similar to III in its profile of activity. The diastereoisomer of III (VII), obtained by hydrogenation of the methobromide of I (IV), extrusion of methyl bromide, and O-demethylation of the resultant free base (VIII), was almost inactive antinociceptively and did not suppress withdrawal symptoms in morphine-dependent monkeys. The orientation of the C-9 hydroxyl groups was deduced from spectral data and by analogy.
Corticotropin therapy in patients with myasthenia gravis: Steroid metabolism, and histology of skeletal muscle and thymus

Abstract During 19 courses of corticotropin therapy in 10 patients with myasthenia gravis, urinary excretion of 17-hydroxycorticoids increased 2–8 fold and of 17-ketosteroids 2–6 fold. This increase began on the 1st day and reached the maximum after the 5th day, coinciding with the maximum decrease in muscle strength. After termination of corticotropin administration, steroid values returned promptly to control levels without correlation with the increase in muscle strength. Plasma 17-hydroxycorticoid levels responded similarly to urinary 17-hydroxycorticoids. In 6 febrile episodes in 3 patients, urinary excretion of steroids increased but was much less pronounced. The control value and the response to corticotropin or fever in myasthenic patients are in accord with the results in normal individuals. These findings indicate that the pituitary-adrenocortical function is normal in myasthenic patients. In the present 12 patients and in 13 patients reported in the literature, corticotropin therapy was effective in 58% of corticotropin courses in patients with hyperplastic thymus, in 76% of patients with thymoma, and in 95% of patients with normal or involuted thymus. In patients with hyperplastic thymus or thymoma, corticotropin therapy was more effective after thymectomy than before. There was no relationship between histologic findings in skeletal muscle and effectiveness of corticotropin therapy. Striation-binding globulin decreased during the course of corticotropin, indicating that the globulin is not the cause of neuromuscular block in patients with myasthenia gravis.
The geographic distribution of physicians in the United States and the contribution of international medical graduates.

Many agree that the United States is headed for a physician surplus. Policy makers have concentrated on limiting residency training positions, particularly those filled by international medical graduates (IMGs), as a means of shrinking the future workforce. Some criticize this policy as counterproductive since it is commonly thought that many IMGs practice in areas shunned by U.S.-trained physicians. This study applies the GINI index of concentration to assess the geographic distribution of physicians and the contribution of IMGs to improving or exacerbating the distribution. 7he authors find that physician growth has not produced dividends in geographic distribution and that IMGs generally worsen these distributions.
Genomic library screens for genes involved in n-butanol tolerance in Escherichia coli.

Background n-Butanol is a promising emerging biofuel, and recent metabolic engineering efforts have demonstrated the use of several microbial hosts for its production. However, most organisms have very low tolerance to n-butanol (up to 2% (v/v)), limiting the economic viability of this biofuel. The rational engineering of more robust n-butanol production hosts relies upon understanding the mechanisms involved in tolerance. However, the existing knowledge of genes involved in n-butanol tolerance is limited. The goal of this study is therefore to identify E. coli genes that are involved in n-butanol tolerance. Methodology/Principal Findings Using a genomic library enrichment strategy, we identified approximately 270 genes that were enriched or depleted in n-butanol challenge. The effects of these candidate genes on n-butanol tolerance were experimentally determined using overexpression or deletion libraries. Among the 55 enriched genes tested, 11 were experimentally shown to confer enhanced tolerance to n-butanol when overexpressed compared to the wild-type. Among the 84 depleted genes tested, three conferred increased n-butanol resistance when deleted. The overexpressed genes that conferred the largest increase in n-butanol tolerance were related to iron transport and metabolism, entC and feoA, which increased the n-butanol tolerance by 32.8±4.0% and 49.1±3.3%, respectively. The deleted gene that resulted in the largest increase in resistance to n-butanol was astE, which enhanced n-butanol tolerance by 48.7±6.3%. Conclusions/Significance We identified and experimentally verified 14 genes that decreased the inhibitory effect of n-butanol tolerance on E. coli. From the data, we were able to expand the current knowledge on the genes involved in n-butanol tolerance; the results suggest that an increased iron transport and metabolism and decreased acid resistance may enhance n-butanol tolerance. The genes and mechanisms identified in this study will be helpful in the rational engineering of more robust biofuel producers.
Standard molar enthalpies of formation of Y2O3, Ho2O3, and Er2O3 at the temperature 298.15 K

Abstract Samples of Y2O3, Ho2O3, and Er2O3 that were crystalline, but dissolved relatively rapidly, were synthesized by careful decomposition of the corresponding nitrates. Enthalpies of solution of high-purity samples of Y2O3, and Er2O3 were measured in hydrochloric acid of various concentrations using an existing calorimeter interfaced with a computer and an interactive set of computer written in LabVIEW (a Macintosh instrument software system) so that data-acquisition and interpretation for slow reactions could be carried out with the computer. The following molar enthalpies of formation ΔfHom at the temperature 298.15 K were calculated: Y2O3, -(1932.8±5.2) kJ·mol-1; Ho2O3, -(1887.3±13.7) kJ·mol-1; and Er2O3 -(1904.2±3.4) kJ·mol-1.
Space Flight and Bone Formation

Major physiological changes which occur during spaceflight include bone loss, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular and immune response alterations. When trying to determine the reason why bone loss occurs during spaceflight, one must remember that all these other changes in physiology and metabolism may also have impact on the skeletal system. For bone, however, the role of normal weight bearing is a major concern and we have found no adequate substitute for weight bearing which can prevent bone loss. During the study of this problem, we have learned a great deal about bone physiology and increased our knowledge about how normal bone is formed and maintained. Presently, we do not have adequate ground based models which can mimic the tissue loss that occurs in spaceflight but this condition closely resembles the bone loss seen with osteoporosis. Although a normal bone structure will respond to application of mechanical force and weight bearing by forming new bone, a weakened osteoporotic bone may have a tendency to fracture. The study of the skeletal system during weightless conditions will eventually produce preventative measures and form a basis for protecting the crew during long term space flight. The added benefit from these studies will be methods to treat bone loss conditions which occur here on earth.
Alteration of microvascular permeability in acute kidney injury

Functional and structural abnormalities in the renal microvasculature are important processes contributing to the pathophysiology of ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI). Renewed interest in the complex interplay between tubular injury, inflammation and microvascular alterations has emerged in order to gain a better understanding of acute kidney injury syndromes. This review examines alterations of the renal microvasculature as they relate to ischemic and septic AKI with an emphasis on the mechanisms involved in altered microvascular permeability.
The end of the message: multiple protein–RNA interactions define the mRNA polyadenylation site

The key RNA sequence elements and protein factors necessary for 3' processing of polyadenylated mRNA precursors are well known. Recent studies, however, have significantly reshaped current models for the protein-RNA interactions involved in poly(A) site recognition, painting a picture more complex than previously envisioned and also providing new insights into regulation of this important step in gene expression. Here we review the recent advances in this area and provide a perspective for future studies.
Magnetic and structural characterization of Dy‐Y superlattices

Single‐crystal superlattices of dysprosium and yttrium with bilayer thickness ranging from 70 to 105 A have been grown using molecular‐beam epitaxy techniques. Detailed x‐ray analysis of these samples shows them to be coherent structures with abrupt interfaces between the alternating layers. These superlattices differ magnetically from pure Dy with properties that show distinct dependence on the thickness of the intervening Y.
Relative receptor affinity comparisons among inhaled/intranasal corticosteroids: perspectives on clinical relevance.

Pharmacokinetic properties, dosing regimen, and potency at the site of action are among the factors that influence activity of a corticosteroid. The potency of a corticosteroid at the site of action is determined significantly by its affinity to the glucocorticoid receptor. Recent literature on topical corticosteroids reveals an increasing emphasis on comparative relative receptor affinity values as a key method of differentiating among various corticosteroid compounds, particularly with regard to clinical efficacy. A response was formulated to: Valotis A, Hogger P: Human receptor kinetics and lung tissue retention of the enhanced-affinity glucocorticoid fluticasone furoate. Respir Res 2007, 8:54. Relative receptor binding affinities, while often showing significant variability across different laboratories, are a valid parameter when a comparison of the pharmacological activity of various glucocorticoids at the site of action is desired. Unfortunately within this context, scientific literature including the article from Valotis and Hogger, confuse differences in potency (concentration or dose necessary to achieve a certain effect) with differences in efficacy (a quantitative difference in the overall maximum effect, even if all the receptors are occupied). All glucocorticoids will show the same efficacy as long as the selected dose will occupy the same number of receptors. While relative receptor affinities are useful for comparing in vitro potencies of corticosteroids, these data are not representative of physiologic conditions and should not be used as a basis for comparing the presumed effectiveness of compounds in a clinical situation.
Mondor's disease in the breast

Mondor's disease is thrombophlebitis of a vein on the anterolateral thoracoabdominal wall. When it involves the breast it may cause undue apprehension. The characteristic appearance is described and illustrated. A mammogram is shown.