cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of a new liquid prednisolone formulation in comparison with two commercially available liquid prednisolone products

Abstract Background: Oral liquid corticosteroids are prescribed for children to treat inflammatory diseases such as asthma. The currently available corticosteroid formulations have to be taken in large volumes or have an objectionable taste, which may cause a lack of acceptance and hence decreased drug compliance. We developed a new liquid formulation of oral prednisolone sodium phosphate (OPSP) that has been shown to require less volume per dose and have better taste acceptance by children. Objective: The goal of this study was to determine the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profile of OPSP 3 mg/mL, and compare them with those of 2 other commercial liquid preparations, prednisolone syrup (PS) 3 mg/mL and prednisolone sodium phosphate solution (PSPS) 1 mg/mL. Methods: This was an open-label, randomized, single-dose, comparative, crossover study in 23 healthy adult volunteers under fasting conditions. Each subject received an oral dose of each drug (equivalent to 15 mg of prednisolone) at each period according to the randomization scheme. Blood samples were drawn specified time intervals and analyzed for plasma prednisolone concentrations by sensitive liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry methods, and pharmacokinetic parameters were determined for each study drug formulation. Appropriate statistical analyses were conducted to determine bioequivalence. Results: After oral administration, the new liquid OPSP formulation was absorbed rapidly from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak mean plasma concentration (C max ) of active prednisolone 358.5 ng/mL occurred within 47 minutes (t max ) with a mean plasma half-life of ∼2.9 hours. The mean concentration-versus-time curves for OPSP, PS, and PSPS were similar. The log-transformed areas under the curve (AUC 0−t and AUC 0−inf ) and C max as well as the untransformed t max , half-life, and terminal rate constant of OPSP were not significantly different from those of the 2 commercial formulations. The rate and extent of absorption of OPSP were comparable to those of the commercial formulations, and the AUC 0−t ratios of OPSP versus PS (98.6; 90% CI, 95.9%–101.4%) and OPSP versus PSPS (101.9; 90% CI, 99.2%–104.8%) as well as ratios for other important pharmacokinetic parameters fell within the guidelines for bioequivalence established by the US Food and Drug Administration. Conclusion: OPSP was bioequivalent to 2 other commercial liquid formulations of prednisolone when given at an equivalent dose.
Biopsychosocial factors associated with pain in veterans with the hepatitis C virus.

Little research has examined etiological factors associated with pain in patients with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between biopsychosocial factors and pain among patients with HCV. Patients with HCV and pain (n = 119) completed self-report measures of pain, mental health functioning, pain-specific psychosocial variables (pain catastrophizing, self-efficacy for managing pain, social support), prescription opioid use, and demographic characteristics. In multivariate models, biopsychosocial factors accounted for 37 % of the variance in pain severity and 56 % of the variance in pain interference. In adjusted models, factors associated with pain severity include pain catastrophizing and social support, whereas variables associated with pain interference were age, pain intensity, prescription opioid use, and chronic pain self-efficacy (all p values <0.05). The results provide empirical support for incorporating the biopsychosocial model in evaluating and treating chronic pain in patients with HCV.
Immune complex deposits in ANCA-associated crescentic glomerulonephritis: a study of 126 cases.

Immune complex deposits in ANCA-associated crescentic glomerulonephritis: A study of 126 cases. Background Necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis related to antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA) is typically referred to as "pauci-immune"; however, it is not unusual for renal biopsies in such cases to exhibit some immune complex deposition within glomeruli on immunofluorescence and/or electron microscopic study. The composition and intraglomerular localization of such deposits in ANCA-glomerulonephritis has not been widely studied, and their potential pathologic and clinical significance is not clear, although a possible synergistic effect between immune complexes and ANCA in producing more severe glomerulonephritis is suggested by some human and animal studies. Methods Electron micrographs from 126 renal biopsies showing necrotizing/crescentic glomerulonephritis characterized by positive ANCA serology [C-ANCA, anti-proteinase 3 (anti-PR3), or anti-myeloperoxidase (MPO)] or necrotizing arteritis in the absence of known ANCA results were examined for the presence, quantity, and location of electron-dense deposits. The presence or absence of such deposits was correlated with histologic findings (fraction of glomeruli with crescents and segmental necrotizing lesions, mesangial and endocapillary hypercellularity), immunofluorescence findings, and clinical data, including serum creatinine and 24-hour urine protein levels at the time of biopsy. Results Sixty-eight (54%) of these biopsies showed glomerular immune complex deposits on electron microscopy; 87% of the latter also showed positive immunofluorescence findings for at least one immunoglobulin or complement component, although staining was relatively mild in most instances (≤2+ on a 0 to 4+ scale in all but eight cases). Nearly half of biopsies negative for deposits by electron microscopy also showed positive immunofluorescence findings, though even more so than in cases with deposits on electron microscopy the intensity of immunofluorescence staining in these biopsies was typically very weak (trace or trace to 1+ in most cases, none >2+). Hypercellularity within the glomerular tuft was seen in 50% of biopsies with deposits on electron microscopy but only 14% of those without deposits; in each group this was usually mild and mesangial. Notably, the presence of deposits on electron microscopy was associated with a higher median level of proteinuria (3.2 versus 1.3g/24hours, P P = 0.06). Conclusion Immune complex deposits were found on electron microscopy in just over half of renal biopsies with crescentic glomerulonephritis associated with positive ANCA serology and/or necrotizing arteritis. Clinical correlations suggest that these immune complex deposits may somehow potentiate the effect of ANCA in producing glomerulonephritis.
Sequestration of Carbonate Shell Material in Coastal Dunes on the Gulf of California (Baja California Sur, Mexico)

Abstract Atmospheric and oceanographic conditions stimulate high productivity of marine organisms in the Gulf of California that are bulk producers of calcium carbonate. Due to prevailing winter winds, north-facing beaches receive vast amounts of shell debris derived from offshore clam banks above the 50-m isobath. As shells undergo mechanical abrasion, the smaller particles of carbonate material are transferred from beaches by the wind and sequestered in coastal dunes. This study reports on two dune fields from the midriff zone of the Gulf. Sieve analysis is used to describe the grain size and sorting characteristics of seven samples from dunes at Cerro El Gallo near Mulege and 12 samples from dunes farther south near San Nicolas. Dune sediments also were impregnated with epoxy to simulate rock samples from which thin sections were made to determine composition and relative abundances of constituent grains. The dunes at Cerro El Gallo are carbonate poor (5–15%) compared with those near San Nicolas (26–51...
Gels and jellies of aluminum dilaurate in cyclohexane and benzene examined by x-ray diffraction☆

Abstract Aluminum dilaurate, AlOH · L 2 , swells to a gel in cyclohexane without greatly disturbing the crystalline diffraction pattern of the soap. After heating and cooling the system, the lines of the pattern for the gel are less distinct but the spacings are the same as before. However, a jelly formed by heating a system of 40% aluminum dilaurate in benzene to 150°C. gives a pattern at room temperature that indicates the disappearance of the original crystallites of soap and the probable formation of micelles of oriented soap layers.
General medical and psychiatric comorbidity among HIV-infected veterans in the post-HAART era

We examined the prevalence of HIV, general medical, and psychiatric comorbidities by age based on a recent multisite cohort of HIV infected veterans receiving care: the Veterans with HIV/AIDS 3 Site Study (VACS 3). VACS 3 includes 881 adult patients with HIV infection enrolled between June 1999 and July 2000. Providers reported their patients' CDC-defined HIV comorbidities, general medical comorbidities (based on Duke and Charlson comorbidity scales), and psychiatric comorbidity. Mean age of participants was 49 years and 54% were African-American. The most common HIV comorbidities were oral candidiasis (21%), peripheral neuropathy (16%), and herpes zoster (16%). The most common general medical comorbidities included chemical hepatitis (53%), hypertension (24%), and hyperlipidemia (17%). The mean number of HIV and general medical comorbidities experienced by patients were respectively 1.1 and 1.4 (P or = 50 years) HIV-infected patients experienced a greater number of general medical comorbidities than those or = 10 on 10-item CES-D) and 21% reported at-risk drinking (> or = 8 on AUDIT). Providers reported 32% of patients had anxiety, 4% mania, 4% schizophrenia, and 11% cognitive impairment/dementia. General medical and psychiatric comorbidities constituted a higher disease burden for HIV-infected veterans than HIV comorbidities. Whether these comorbidities are due to antiretroviral drug toxicity or are age or lifestyle-associated conditions, the substantial prevalence of these "non-HIV" comorbidities suggest an important role for general medical and psychiatric management of HIV-infected patients.
Cropping Intensity Effects on Physical Properties of a No‐till Silt Loam

No-till cropping systems in the semiarid West have the potential to improve soil physical properties by increasing cropping intensity and crop diversity. An investigation at Akron, CO, compared soil conditions in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-summer fallow (WF) plots with soil conditions in wheat-corn (Zea mays L.)-fallow (WCF), wheat-corn-sunflower (Helianthus annus L.)-fallow (WCSF), wheat-corn-millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) (WCM), and a perennial grass/legume mix. The study began in 1990. Bulk density, pore size distribution, and saturated hydraulic conductivity were measured 7, 11, and 15 yr after inception. Bulk density in the grass plots decreased from 1.39 to 1.25 Mg m -3 in 15 yr. Bulk density in the annually cropped plots decreased from 1.38 to 1.30 Mg m -3 during the same time period. The pore size distribution became more uniform among the cropped treatments 15 yr after the start of the experiment. Saturated hydraulic conductivity increased in the grass plots from 27 mm h -1 to 98 mm h -1 in 15 yr. Saturated hydraulic conductivity in the annually cropped plots increased from about 14 to about 35 mm h -1 during the same period. The results from this study show that improving soil physical properties by cropping system alone may take many years. Perennial vegetation may be more effective than annually cropped systems at improving soil physical conditions because of less surface compaction from planting operations and the apparent ability of perennial root systems to create a more stable, continuous pore network.
The inertness of being organic

Abstract Organic matter protection, defined here as slowing of the oxidation of organic matter, is thought to result from a variety of mechanisms, which can be placed into two classes. Recalcitrant organic-organic linkages often account for protection on shorter time scales; biota intentionally create many of these linkages, leading to “selectively preserved” organic matter, and various humification reactions may produce others. On longer time scales, exclusion of biota or their digestive agents accounts for most protection, induced by factors such as clay mineral protection and anoxia. Longer term protection likely proceeds through a succession of different mechanisms, acting cooperatively. The papers of this session address kinetic and structural aspects of organic matter protection, in response to factors such as the hydrochemical cycle, organomineral aggregates, molecular aspects of nitrogen, and exposure to oxygen.
A procedure for analysis of densitometric spectra.

Computer-aided quantitative analysis of densitometric spectra is presented. The densitometric spectra are decomposed into component bands using the Powell and Marquardt minimizers. Several different functions for the component bands are utilized. It is shown that the densitometric spectra can be decomposed into component bands with high accuracy only if the proper shapes of the bands are chosen. The method described was used for quantitative analysis of densitometric spectra of DNA cleaved by neocarzinostatin. The procedure is general and can be applied to analyses of autoradiographic films and to direct scans of electrophoretic gels. It is shown that densitometric spectra which show highly overlapped bands are well approximated by asymmetric Cauchy and Gauss functions. Well separated densitometric bands which have substantial asymmetry can be fitted to more sophisticated shapes formed by combinations of symmetric and asymmetric Cauchy and Gauss functions. High accuracy fitting to asymmetric densitometric curves may only be achieved using the cosine function introduced by Mignot and Rondot, J. Appl. Cryst. 1976, 9, 460–465.
Integrated Trajectory Planning and Tracking Control of Underactuated Surface Vessels

A novel nonlinear trajectory tracking controller for underactuated unmanned surface vessels is presented. A comprehensive planar model of the vessel with two control inputs is considered such that the system is represented by the equations of motion comprised of two double integrators subject to a second-order nonholonomic constraint. Given a target trajectory, a transitional desired trajectory is generated that uniformly satisfies the nonholonomic constraint and actuator saturation constraints. The system error dynamics is then modeled using the equations of motion and the transitional desired trajectory. A finite time sliding mode control law is developed to stabilize the yaw rotation which is robust to model uncertainties and disturbances. Consequently, the resulting reduced-order system is asymptotically stabilized via the surge force. Examples are presented and demonstrate that the approach provides trajectories and tracking control inputs which are suitable for real world applications.
Geometric model for the critical-value problem of nucleation phenomena containing the size effect of nucleating agent

Nucleation is of great concern in many cases—for example, the production of artificial rainfall and the synthesis of advanced amorphous alloys. Although exact solutions have been well known to both homogeneous nucleation and heterogeneous nucleation occurring on a large flat container wall, yet in more general situations the actual nucleation takes place around finite-sized heterogeneous particles. The understanding of nucleation in such situations requires a more extended model which considers the size effect of nucleating agents. Partially motivated by our research on bulk metallic glasses, we construct such a geometric model. Also we derive an exact solution to the model and discuss briefly its physical implications. A previously presumed relation between the critical energy barrier (Ec) and the volumetric Gibbs free energy of the critical nucleus (Gc)—i.e., Ec=(1/2)Gc—is found to be not true for general cases, although it is correct for the limiting cases.
Measuring Faculty Competence: A Model

Abstract The article presents the results of a nationwide study that examined the written criteria that is currently being used by graduate schools of social work for the appointment, retention, and promotion of their faculties. A content analysis of the study is discussed, and a unique behavioral model for the evaluation of faculty competence is offered.
Decreased Rate of CSF Leakage Associated with Complete Reconstruction of Suboccipital Cranial Defects.

Background Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage represents a major source of morbidity following microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery. The objective of this study was to retrospectively assess whether complete versus incomplete reconstruction of the suboccipital cranial defect influences the incidence of CSF leakage following MVD. Methods We reviewed the charts of 100 patients who consecutively underwent MVD for trigeminal neuralgia by two attending neurosurgeons between July 2004 and April 2010. Operative variables including incomplete or complete calvarial reconstruction, primary dural closure or dural closure with adjunct, and use of lumbar drainage were recorded. The effect of complete calvarial reconstruction on the incidence of postoperative CSF leakage was examined using a multivariate logistic regression model. Results Of the 36 patients whose wound closure was reconstructed with a complete cranioplasty, 2 (5.6%) patients experienced a postoperative CSF leak. Of the 64 patients whose wound closure was augmented with an incomplete cranioplasty, 15 (23.4%) experienced a postoperative CSF leak. There was suggestive but inconclusive evidence that the risk of CSF leakage following MVD was smaller with complete reconstruction of calvarial defect than with incomplete reconstruction (two-sided p value = 0.059), after accounting for age, dural closure method, use of lumbar drainage, and previous MVD. Conclusion Complete reconstruction of the suboccipital cranial defect decreases the risk of CSF leakage.
Higher leptin is associated with hypertension: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis.

Adipokines are secreted from adipose tissue, influence energy homeostasis and may contribute to the association between obesity and hypertension. Among 1897 participants enrolled in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, we examined associations between blood pressure and leptin, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), resistin and total adiponectin. The mean age and body mass index (BMI) was 64.7 years and 28.1, respectively, and 50% were female. After adjustment for risk factors, a 1-s.d.-increment higher leptin level was significantly associated with higher systolic (5.0 mm Hg), diastolic (1.9), mean arterial (2.8) and pulse pressures (3.6), as well as a 34% higher odds for being hypertensive (P<0.01 for all). These associations were not materially different when the other adipokines, as well as BMI, waist circumference or waist-to-hip ratio, were additionally added to the model. Notably, the associations between leptin and hypertension were stronger in men, but were not different by race/ethnic group, BMI or smoking status. Adiponectin, resistin and TNFα were not independently associated with blood pressure or hypertension. Higher serum leptin, but not adiponectin, resistin or TNFα, is associated with higher levels of all measures of blood pressure, as well as a higher odds of hypertension, independent of risk factors, anthropometric measures and other selected adipokines.
Cholesterol rotation in phospholipid vesicles as observed by 13C-NMR

13C-NMR spectra of cholesterol 90% enriched at C-4 with 13C have been obtained in CHCl3 and in sonicated egg phosphatidylcholine vesicles. 13C spin-lattice relaxation times, nuclear Overhauser effects and spin-spin relaxation times have been measured for the C-4 carbon of cholesterol in phosphatidylcholine bilayers as a function of cholesterol content and temperature. All the data are consistent with a correlation time for axial rotation of about 10−10 s. This rotation is one or two orders of magnitude faster than axial rotation of the phospholipid molecule.
Drp1 phosphorylation and mitochondrial regulation.

A paper by Cribbs & Strack (2007) in a recent issue of EMBO Reports , as well as an earlier study published by our group (Chang & Blackstone, 2007), emphasize the important roles of protein phosphorylation by cAMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKA) in the regulation of the dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) GTPase and mitochondrial fission. However, the Literature Report (Jahani‐Asl & Slack, 2007) that accompanied the Cribbs & Strack article led to incorrect interpretations, which we would like to clarify here. Foremost among these, the Literature Report discusses cAMP‐dependent phosphorylation at Ser 637 in human Drp1 splice variant 1 (Chang & Blackstone, 2007) and Ser 656 in rat Drp1 splice variant 1 (Cribbs & Strack, 2007) as if they are distinct sites. However, both our study and that of Cribbs & Strack present sequence alignments that clearly indicate …
Thermodynamic evaluation of hydrogen production from methane

Abstract Exergetic and energetic analysis has been utilized to estimate the effect of process design and conditions on the hydrogen purity and yield, exergetic efficiencies and CO 2 avoided. Methane was chosen as a model compound for evaluating single stage separation. Simple steam reforming was considered as the base – case system. The other chemical processes that were considered were steam reforming with CO 2 capture with and without chemical looping of a reactive carbon dioxide removal agent, and steam gasification with both the Boudouard reaction catalyst and the reactive carbon dioxide removal agent with and without the solids regeneration. The information presented clearly demonstrates the differences in efficiencies between the various chemical looping processes for hydrogen generation. The incremental changes in efficiencies as a function of process parameters such as temperature, steam amount, chemical type and amount were estimated. Energy and exergy losses associated with generation of syngas, separation of hydrogen from CO x as well as exergetic loss associated with emissions are presented. The optimal conditions for each process by minimizing these losses are presented. The majority of the exergy destruction occurs due to the high irreversibility of chemical reactions. The results of this investigation demonstrate the utility of exergy analysis. The paper provides a procedure for the comparison of various technologies for the production of hydrogen from carbon based materials based on First and Second Law Analysis. In addition, two figures of merit, namely the comparative advantage factor and the sustainable advantage factor have been proposed to compare the various hydrogen production methods using carbonaceous fuels.
Peripherin/rds co-distributes with putative binding partners in basal rod outer segment disks

The retinal degeneration slow protein peripherin/rds, (a.k.a. RDS), encoded by the rds gene, is essential for the formation, organization and maintenance of outer segments (Arikawa et al., 1992; Connell et al., 1991; Connell and Molday, 1990; Kedzierski et al., 2001; Molday, 1998). In humans, any one of over 160 mutations within this gene results in a broad variety of late onset progressive retinal dystrophies characterized by abnormal photoreceptor structure (Dryja et al., 1997; Keen and Inglehearn, 1996; Kohl et al., 1998). The pathogenic mechanism(s) underlying peripherin/rds mediated retinal dystrophies are unknown, however new insight has been gained in our understanding of peripherin/rds function based upon recent structural studies identifying the C-terminal domain of this protein as homologous to structures called intrinsically disordered domains (IDD) (Dyson, 2005; Edrington, 2007b; Ritter, 2005). IDDs are unstructured domains that become structurally stabilized by interacting with one or with several binding partners (Uversky et al., 2008). Structural flexibility imparts multi-functionality to the protein and binding partners act as regulators of its function (Lakoucheva et al., 2002; Vucetic et al., 2007). In humans, numerous mutations in the rds C-terminus result in rod/cone or cone/rod dystrophies. In a murine model of retinitis pigmentosa, deletion of codon 307 in the rds gene results in severely dysmorphic outer segments (OSs) in mice (McNally et al., 2002). The rds 307 del mouse provides the first in vivo evidence for a correlation between intrinsic disorder and retinopathy. In these mice disruption of the peripherin/rds C-terminus results in a gene product with a more intrinsically ordered C-terminal domain characterized by an increase in α-helical content.
Relationships between Cognitive Diagnosis, CTT, and IRT Indices: An Empirical Investigation.

Cognitive diagnosis models (CDMs) continue to generate interest among researchers and practitioners because they can provide diagnostic information relevant to classroom instruction and student learning. However, its modeling component has outpaced its complementary component—test construction. Thus, most applications of cognitive diagnosis modeling involve retrofitting of CDMs to assessments constructed using classical test theory (CTT) or item response theory (IRT). This study explores the relationship between item statistics used in the CTT, IRT, and CDM frameworks using such an assessment, specifically a large-scale mathematics assessment. Furthermore, by highlighting differences between tests with varying levels of diagnosticity using a measure of item discrimination from a CDM approach, this study empirically uncovers some important CTT and IRT item characteristics. These results can be used to formulate practical guidelines in using IRT- or CTT-constructed assessments for cognitive diagnosis purposes.
Functional and Structural Analysis of the GABAA Receptor α1 Subunit during Channel Gating and Alcohol Modulation

Abstract The substituted cysteine accessibility method has proven useful for investigating structural changes of the γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptor during channel gating and allosteric modulation. In the present study, the surface accessibility and reaction rate of propyl- and hexyl-methanethiosulfonate to cysteine residues introduced into the third transmembrane segment of the GABAA receptor α1 subunit were examined. GABA-induced currents in Xenopus oocytes expressing wild type and cysteine mutant GABAA receptors were recorded before and after application of methanethiosulfonate (MTS) reagents in the resting, GABA- or alcohol-bound (ethanol or hexanol) states. Our results indicate that a water-filled cavity exists around the Ala291 and Tyr294 residues of the third transmembrane segment, in agreement with previous results. Furthermore, our data indicate that a conformational change produced by alcohols (200 mm ethanol or 0.5 mm hexanol) exposure induces the water cavity around the A291C and Y294C residues to extend deeper, causing the A295C and F296C residues to become accessible to the MTS reagents. In addition, exposure of the A291C, Y294C, F296C, and V297C mutants to MTS reagents in the presence of GABA had significant effects on their GABA-induced currents, indicating that the water cavity around A291C and Y294C residues expanded to F296C and V297C by a structural movement caused by GABA binding. Our data show that GABAA receptor is a dynamic protein during alcohol modulation and channel gating.
The neurocircuitry of illicit psychostimulant addiction: acute and chronic effects in humans

Illicit psychostimulant addiction remains a significant problem worldwide, despite decades of research into the neural underpinnings and various treatment approaches. The purpose of this review is to provide a succinct overview of the neurocircuitry involved in drug addiction, as well as the acute and chronic effects of cocaine and amphetamines within this circuitry in humans. Investigational pharmacological treatments for illicit psychostimulant addiction are also reviewed. Our current knowledge base clearly demonstrates that illicit psychostimulants produce lasting adaptive neural and behavioral changes that contribute to the progression and maintenance of addiction. However, attempts at generating pharmacological treatments for psychostimulant addiction have historically focused on intervening at the level of the acute effects of these drugs. The lack of approved pharmacological treatments for psychostimulant addiction highlights the need for new treatment strategies, especially those that prevent or ameliorate the adaptive neural, cognitive, and behavioral changes caused by chronic use of this class of illicit drugs.
Essentials of Frontline Work and Care in HIV/AIDS Service Provision

In the third decade of HIV/AIDS, frontline service workers continue the essential work of outreach, case management, care follow-up, and positive prevention. Care strategies remain important strate...
Minor triterpenoids of Fomes officinalis

Abstract The degraded triterpenoid, 3β,6β-dihydroxy-4,4,14α-trimethyl-Δ 8 -5α-pregnene-20-one (II) and 3-keto-dehydrosulfurenic acid (III), have been isolated from the extracts of Fomes officinalis and their structures determined.
Gevrey class regularity and approximate inertial manifolds for the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation

Abstract We present some results on the Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation, which models pattern formation on unstable flame fronts and thin hydrodynamic films. We show Gevrey class regularity of the solutions and decay of the orbits to small neighborhoods (exponentially small) of some simple manifolds (approximate inertial manifolds).
Effect of etiology and timing of respiratory tract infections on development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome.

Background Among the many potential risk factors influencing the development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS), acute cellular rejection is the most frequently identified. Despite the unique susceptibility of the lung allograft to pathogens, the association with respiratory tract infections remains unclear. In this study we analyze the role respiratory tract infections have on the development of BOS after lung transplantation. Methods Data from a single center were analyzed from 161 lung recipients transplanted from November 1990 to November 2005, and who survived >180 days. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed using BOS development and the time-scale was reported with hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs). Results Significant findings by univariate analysis per 100 patient-days prior to BOS onset included acute rejection, cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonitis, Gram-negative respiratory tract infections, Gram-positive respiratory tract infections and fungal pneumonias. Multivariate analysis indicated acute rejection, Gram-negative, Gram-positive and fungal pneumonias with HRs (CI) of 84 (23 to 309), 6.6 (1.2 to 37), 6,371 (84 to 485,000) and 314 (53 to 1,856) to be associated with BOS, respectively. Acute rejection, CMV pneumonitis, Gram-positive pneumonia and fungal pneumonitis in the first 100 days had HRs (CI) of 1.8 (1.1 to 3.2), 3.1 (1.3 to 6.9), 3.8 (1.5 to 9.4) and 2.1 (1.1 to 4.0), respectively, and acute rejection and fungal pneumonitis in the late post-operative period with HRs (CI) of 2.3 (1.2 to 4.4) and 1.5 (1.1 to 1.9), respectively. Conclusions In addition to acute rejection, pneumonias with GP, GN and fungal pathogens occurring prior to BOS are independent determinants of chronic allograft dysfunction. Early recognition and treatment of these pathogens in lung transplant recipients may improve long-term outcomes after transplantation.
Nuclear technoaesthetics: Sensory politics from Trinity to the virtual bomb in Los Alamos

In this article I investigate the politics of nuclear weapons production by examining how weapons scientists have experienced the exploding bomb at the level of sense perception through three experimental regimes: underground testing (1945–62), aboveground testing (1963–92), and stockpile stewardship (1995–2010). I argue that, for weapons scientists, a diminishing sensory experience of the exploding bomb has, over time, allowed nuclear weapon research to be increasingly depoliticized and normalized within the laboratory. The result is a post–Cold War nuclear project that assesses the atomic bomb not on its military potential as a weapon of mass destruction but, rather, on the aesthetic pleasure afforded by its computer simulations and material science.
Abstract 3281: Functional evaluation of response to targeted therapy in HER2 overexpressing inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) patients using positron emission mammography (PEM)

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Aim: We report the utility of PEM to evaluate response to single agent neoadjuvant lapatinib (a dual inhibitor of HER1/HER2) in HER2 amplified or overexpressing Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) patients. Methods: Patients with newly diagnosed HER2 amplified/overexpressing IBC were enrolled in a phase II neoadjuvant trial of lapatinib (Tykerb®) at 1500 mg PO QD for 14 days as a run-in period, followed by sequential chemotherapy (paclitaxel followed by FEC75, in combination with lapatinib). Baseline clinical tumor measurements, mammography, sonography, together with PEM and PET/CT scans, and serial biopsies were performed. PEM and biopsies were repeated after the 14 day run-in with single agent lapatinib, together with clinical tumor measurement. PEM uptake value (PUV) pre- and post lapatinib were compared, and correlated with tumor size, proliferation marker Ki67, and PET/CT standardized uptake value (SUV). Statistical analyses included summary statistics, paired t-test for comparing post- and pre-treatment PUV, and Spearman's correlation test to assess the associations between imaging and clinical endpoints. Results: A total of 9 patients (median age 57 years, range, 39-67) who were imaged with PEM, and had corresponding imaging and pathology results were included in this analysis. The median tumor size was 9 cm, (range 4-11.2 cm). Baseline PUV of the breast showed significant correlation with baseline tumor size (Spearman's r= 0.75, p = 0.035), and with PET/CT SUV (Spearman's r = 0.90, p=0.018). Median baseline PUV in the breast was 4.2 (range, 1.1-10.6), and was significantly decreased to a median PUV of 1.8 (range, 0.7-7.7, p=0.004) post-lapatinib therapy, without observed decrease in clinical tumor size. The absolute decrease in PUV of the breast was significantly correlated to baseline tumor size (Spearman's r = −0.73, p=0.037), but showed no significant correlation with baseline Ki67. Conclusion: This is the first clinical study to demonstrate that PUV is strongly correlated with tumor size, and with PET/CT SUV, a commonly utilized functional oncologic imaging modality. Significant early decrease in PUV, as a functional response to targeted therapy, is observed suggesting that this imaging modality can be used to evaluate early response to such therapies. Additional analysis evaluating correlations with changes in proliferation and other downstream markers of EGFR/HER2 inhibition, together with pathologic response will be included in the final results of 30 patients. Funding by Glaxo Smith Kline and State of Texas Rare and Aggressive Breast Cancer Research Program. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3281.
The influence of demand factors on dynamic competitive pricing strategy: An empirical study

This empirical paper investigates the relationship between the dynamic strategic interactions among competitors in a component market and demand factors in the market for the end product. The structure of competition in the US microprocessor (MPU) industry is analyzed using data on prices and sales in both the MPU market as well as the market for personal computers. The pattern of dynamic strategic interaction between competing firms in this market on a key decision variable, price is studied. Non-nested model comparison tests based on equilibrium solutions derived for specific differential games are applied to identify the mode of competitive strategy between pairs of competing brands. The empirical fit to the longitudinal and cross-sectional data, of alternative models of competition, independent (Bertrand–Nash), Stackelberg leader–follower, and Collusion, is used to determine which dynamic model best describes actual competitive behavior over the life of each MPU. Demand for the product market which is downstream from microprocessors, that for personal computers, is estimated using a generalized diffusion model with price effects. Data from the markets for desktop and laptop computers are analyzed at the level of computer vendor and internal microprocessor. Patterns are uncovered, linking downstream demand parameters with upstream competitive strategy. There is evidence to suggest that when there are strong diffusion effects driving sales of both the competing computer brands, there is a higher likelihood of Bertrand–Nash competition among MPU firms. However, when there are higher cross-price effects (substitutability) among personal computer brands there is a greater chance of Stackelberg leader–follower price competition. When self-price effects are relatively high, the likelihood of Bertrand–Nash competition among MPU firms increases. Furthermore, when the potential demand for the computer product category is high, there is a higher likelihood of Bertrand–Nash pricing in the MPU market.
Proteome Dynamics and Proteome Function of Cardiac 19S Proteasomes

Myocardial proteasomes are comprised of 20S core particles and 19S regulatory particles, which together carry out targeted degradation of cardiac proteins. The 19S complex is unique among the regulators of proteasomes in that it affects both the capacity and specificity of protein degradation. However, a comprehensive molecular characterization of cardiac 19S complexes is lacking. In this investigation, we tailored a multidimensional chromatography-based purification strategy to isolate structurally intact and functionally viable 19S complexes from murine hearts. Two distinct subpopulations of 19S complexes were isolated based upon (1) potency of activating 20S proteolytic activity, and (2) molecular composition using a combination of immuno-detection, two-dimensional-differential gel electrophoresis, and MS-based approaches. Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) was identified to be characteristic to 19S subpopulation I. The physical interaction of Hsp90 with 19S complexes was demonstrated via multiple approaches. Inhibition of Hsp90 activity using geldanamycin or BIIB021 potentiated the ability of subpopulation I to activate 20S proteasomes in the murine heart, thus demonstrating functional specificity of Hsp90 in subpopulation I. This investigation has advanced our understanding of the molecular heterogeneity of cardiac proteasomes by identifying molecularly and functionally distinct cardiac 19S complexes. The preferential association of Hsp90 with 19S subpopulation I unveils novel targets for designing proteasome-based therapeutic interventions for combating cardiac disease.
Pre-eclampsia: A hypothesis for its etiology

A hypothesis is presented according to which the etiology of pregnancy-induced hypertension can be attributed to increased number of active uterine and arteriolar alpha-adrenergic myometrial receptors from pre-eclamptic patients in comparison with the alpha-adrenergic myometrial and arteriolar receptors from non-pre-eclamptic patients. This condition could result in the increased uterine wall irritability and the decreased uteroplacental blood flow in pre-eclampsia. It is suggested that progesterone fails to induce a reduction in alpha 1-adrenergic receptors in the pre-eclamptic patient. This will require pre-eclamptic patients and matched controls to test the hypothesis.
Valor: efficient, software-only region conflict exceptions

Data races complicate programming language semantics, and a data race is often a bug. Existing techniques detect data races and define their semantics by detecting conflicts between synchronization-free regions (SFRs). However, such techniques either modify hardware or slow programs dramatically, preventing always-on use today. This paper describes Valor, a sound, precise, software-only region conflict detection analysis that achieves high performance by eliminating the costly analysis on each read operation that prior approaches require. Valor instead logs a region's reads and lazily detects conflicts for logged reads when the region ends. As a comparison, we have also developed FastRCD, a conflict detector that leverages the epoch optimization strategy of the FastTrack data race detector. We evaluate Valor, FastRCD, and FastTrack, showing that Valor dramatically outperforms FastRCD and FastTrack. Valor is the first region conflict detector to provide strong semantic guarantees for racy program executions with under 2X slowdown. Overall, Valor advances the state of the art in always-on support for strong behavioral guarantees for data races.
Database Vault: Enforcing Separation of Duties to Meet Regulatory Compliance Requirements

Summary form only given. Various regulatory or legal requirements - such as the payment card industry's PCI-DSS or the European Union's directive 95/46/EC on the protection of personal data - limit access to certain data only to those who have a need to know. This has implications for all current database systems as these systems are being administered by database administrators who traditionally have access to all data at all times. This presentation outlines how database vault - a new so-called option for the Oracle database - allows for the separation of duties within a database e.g. by separating data management from user management, by taking any critical data out of reach of the database administrator, or by tying the execution of SQL statements to flexible limitations such as the 4 eyes principle.
Myotoxic and neurotoxic activity of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis crystal toxin

Abstract The mechanism of the entomocidal action of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (BTI) in Periplaneta americana has been studied. Cockroaches treated with the alkali-solubilized BTI crystal gradually became sluggish and immobile. A physiological examination of poisoned cockroaches indicated that BTI possessed both myotoxic and neurotoxic activity. Following hemocoel or foregut administration of BTI, myotoxic effects were observed within 10–20 min whereas the onset of neurotoxic effects was considerably delayed. The results of this study suggest that the myotoxic action of BTI is probably important for the initial manifestation of its toxicity. The neurotoxic effects of BTI were ascribed to its ability to interfere with transmitter release. BTI exerted a dual action on transmitter release in the cockroach sixth abdominal ganglion. At lower doses (2–4 μg/ml) BTI was found to suppress transmitter release by interfering with calcium uptake. At higher concentrations (12 μg/ml or higher), however, BTI caused blockage of synaptic transmission which was preceded by massive transmitter release. In either case, the synapse blocking action of BTI was probably due to its effects upon presynaptic terminals. Postsynaptic membranes and axons in the ventral nerve cord apparently remained unaffected.
Degenerative changes in skeletal muscle of hens with tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate-induced delayed neurotoxicity: altered acetylcholinesterase molecular forms and increased plasma creatine phosphokinase activity.

Abstract Degenerative changes in skeletal muscle were studied in hens with a delayed neuropathy induced with TOCP (tri- ortho -cresyl phosphate) that was characterized by axonal fragmentation in the sciatic nerve and by paralysis of the legs. Mean muscle weight and fiber diameter were significantly decreased in the musculus gastrocnemius, a leg muscle innervated by a branch of the sciatic nerve. The muscle fibers also exhibited abnormal morphology and high extrajunctional AChE activity in the muscle fiber sarcoplasm. Biochemical studies showed that the conentrations of acetylcholinesterase (AChE, EC 3.1.1.7) and nonspecific cholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.8) activities were doubled in the gastrocnemius of hens with delayed neurotoxicity compared to control. Sedimentation of the AChE molecular forms on sucrose density gradients showed that the relative activity of the 7 S form more than doubled and that of the 20 S form was decreased by 57% compared to normal hens. Following the onset of delayed neurotoxicity, creatine phosphokinase (EC 2.7.3.2) activity in the plasma was four times normal, and it was decreased by 56% in the gastronemius. These changes were not observed in birds treated with parathion ( O,O -diethyl- p -nitrophenyl phosphorothioate), which suggested that the alterations were associated with the delayed neuropathy. Muscle atrophy occurred in the m. pectoralis major of birds treated with TOCP and parathion, but this finding may have been a secondary effect of both organophosphates.
Using positivity, transformational leadership and empowerment to combat employee negativity

– The purpose of this study is to hypothesize and test a conceptual model linking concepts of leadership and positive organizational behavior to a reduction in employee negativity, with empowerment as an important mediator in the causal relationships., – A heterogeneous sample of 341 working adults completed survey measures as two separate points in time. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to validate psychometric properties of instruments, and path analysis using structural equation modeling software was used to test hypotheses., – As hypothesized, both transformational leadership (β=0.27) and positive psychological capital (hope, efficacy, resilience and optimism) (β=0.61) were significantly related to feelings of empowerment. Empowerment was significantly related to intentions to quit (β=−0.38) but not employee cynicism. Empowerment also fully mediated the relationship between the independent variables and intentions to quit., – A convenience sampling method limited the generalizability of results. Causal and longitudinal research designs would extend findings discussed here. Implications for management are significant in terms of countering employee negativity using leadership processes, employee selection and development., – This study offers the first conceptual model integrating emerging concepts from positive organizational behavior, in the form of positive psychological capacities, with validated leadership models (transformational leadership). Both were suggested to influence negative outcomes, with empowerment as an effective mediator of these relationships. Findings generally support the hypotheses advanced herein.
Liberation theory — Eight, modern, usable theorems

Abstract Eight, simple theorems are derived for locked particles. For the locked particles: the volume or mass size distribution curve slope is steep — 1.6 to 2.0, the surface area is constant, the total volume is proportional to the fineness of grind, and the fraction of particles locked at a given size decreases with particle size.
Role of Individual Phospholipids as Antioxidantsa

SUMMARY Synthetic lecithin (phosphatidyl choline) and cephalin (phosphatidyl ethanolamine) are inactive as antioxidants for menhaden oil at 50°, but when present with added ethoxyquin are very effective synergists. Phosphatidyl inositide also has no antioxidant effect but is a much weaker synergist with ethoxyquin. Purified fish “lecithin” and “cephalin” fractions and a commercial soybean phosphatide preparation act like the synthetic phospholipids. It is concluded that most of the synergistic effects may be attributed to the nitrogenons moieties of lecithin and cephalin.