cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Femtomole immunodetection of synthetic and endogenous amyloid-β oligomers and its application to Alzheimer’s disease drug candidate screening

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a fatal, progressive dementia for which there is no cure and for which a molecular basis has yet to be established. However, considerable evidence suggests that AD is linked to neurotoxic assemblies of the 42-amino-acid peptide amyloid β (Aβ). There is now a clear body of evidence that shows this neurotoxicity resides not only in insoluble fibrils of Aβ but also in soluble Aβ ADDLs (Aβ-derived diffusible ligands) and larger protofibrils. Further, anti-Aβ antibodies have been reported to reverse memory failure in human amyloid precursor protein (hAPP)-expressed transgenic mice in a manner that suggests symptom reversal is attributable to targeting of ADDLs. Clearly, a search for drugs targeting the assembly of these soluble Aβ species represents a new and potentially important approach to the treatment of AD. In this work we describe the development of a dot-blot immunoassay to measure ADDL at the femtomole level, its use in defining the time course of ADDL formation, and its use in determining the presence of ADDLs in the hAPP transgenic mouse brain. Discussion of a protocol to screen agents for inhibition of neurotoxic ADDL formation both in vivo and in vitro is also presented. The methods are suitable for screening combinatorial libraries and, importantly, provide the potential for simultaneous information on candidate transport across the blood-brain barrier.
Reasoning using particulate nature of matter: An example of a sociochemical norm in a university-level physical chemistry class

In college level chemistry courses, reasoning using molecular and particulate descriptions of matter becomes central to understanding physical and chemical properties. In this study, we used a qualitative approach to analyzing classroom discourse derived from Toulmin's model of argumentation in order to describe the ways in which students develop particulate-level justifications for claims about thermodynamic properties. Our analysis extends the construct of sociomathematical norms to a chemistry context in order to describe disciplinary criteria for reasoning and justification, which we refer to as sociochemical norms. By examining how whole class and small group discussions shape norms related to reasoning, we provide suggestions for teaching practices in inquiry-oriented settings.
Observation of a dose-control relationship for lung and liver tumors after stereotactic body radiation therapy.

Purpose To determine prognostic factors for local control of primary or metastatic tumors within the lung or liver treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) within a single institution. Methods and Materials The records of 141 consecutive patients with 246 lesions treated with three-fraction SBRT from Oct 1999 through Aug 2005 were reviewed. Local control was assessed radiographically. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the influence of the following factors on local control: total dose, expressed as either nominal prescription dose or equivalent uniform dose (EUD); gross tumor volume; primary site; treatment site (lung vs. other); histologic characteristics (adenocarcinoma vs. other); gender; age; and primary vs. metastatic tumor. Results On univariate analysis, increased dose (either nominal or EUD) and smaller gross tumor volume were significant predictors of higher local control. Lesions treated to a nominal dose of 54 Gy or greater had a 3-year actuarial local control rate of 89.3% compared with 59.0% and 8.1% for those treated to 36–53.9 Gy and less than 36 Gy. On multivariate analysis, only increased nominal dose and EUD retained statistical significance. Treatment was well tolerated; 5.7% of patients experienced Grade 3 or higher toxicity. Conclusions This large single-institution series suggests a dose–control relationship within the range of SBRT doses applied. Excellent local control rates are achieved with a nominal dose of 54 Gy or greater, corresponding to an EUD greater than 65.3 Gy. These results support the use of aggressive SBRT regimens when durable tumor control is the primary objective.
TRUST: in cyberspace and beyond

There is an alarming increase in the number of virus and worm attacks, phishing emails, identity theft both on the internet and physical infrastructures. Indeed, cyberspace has several features of lawlessness which make it difficult for us to mirror societal trust relationships into cyberspace. A cursory examination of the issues involved in an issue like phishing or electronic voting reveals that the problems that we are confronting have both a technology and a policy component. Further, with our increase dependency on computing and communication to instrument physical infrastructures, such as electric power, water, gas, etc. we find that they are vulnerable to information attack as well. To address these grand challenge societal problem, in June 2005, the NSF has established a Science and Technology Center entitled "TRUST: Team for Research in Ubiquitous Secure Technologies" between Berkeley (lead), CMU, Cornell, Stanford and Vanderbilt with outreach partners at San Jose State, Mills and Smith College. In this talk, I will give you a snap shot of the kinds of research, education, technology transfer, privacy and policy work that we have underway. Rather than present a smorgasbord of work at the Center I will give a selected few examples of the work, technology transfer and impact that the Center has already had in the area of network embedded systems:
Long term understanding of study information in research participants with Parkinson's disease.

Context Little is known about research participants' understanding of consent information over the course of a clinical study and the relationship of this information with participant behavior.
The craft of writing: a physician-writer's workshop for resident physicians.

INTRODUCTION: How can residency programs help trainees address conflicting emotions about their professional roles and cultivate a curiosity about their patients’ lives beyond their diseases? We drew on the medical humanities to address these challenges by creating an intensive writing workshop for internal medicine residents. AIM: To help participants become better physicians by reflecting on their experiences and on what gives meaning to work and life. This paper describes the workshop and how residents were affected by the focus on the craft of writing. SETTING: A group of 15 residents from 3 training programs affiliated with 1 institution. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: We engaged the expertise of physician-writer Abraham Verghese in planning and facilitating the 2 and one-half day workshop. Residents’ submissions were discussed with a focus on the effectiveness of the writing. We also conducted a focus group with participants to evaluate the workshop. PROGRAM EVALUATION: Themes in the writing included dysphoria, impotence of the physician, and the healing power of compassion. Our focus group data suggested that this workshop served as a creative outlet from the rigors of medicine, created a sense of community among participants, enhanced both self-awareness and awareness of their patients’ lives, and increased intra-institutional and extra-institutional interest in writing and the residency program. DISCUSSION: Teaching creative writing to residents in an intensive workshop may deepen interactions with peers and patients, improve writing skills, and increase interest in writing and the residency program.
Quantitative controls on submarine slope failure morphology

Abstract The concept of the steady‐state of deformation can be applied to predicting the ultimate form a landslide will take. The steady‐state condition, defined by a line in void ratio‐effective stress space, exists at large levels of strain and remolding. Conceptually, if sediment initially exists with void ratio‐effective stress conditions above the steady‐state line, the sediment shear strength will decrease during a transient loading event, such as an earthquake or storm. If the reduced shear strength existing at the steady state is less than the downslope shear stress induced by gravity, then large‐scale internal deformation, disintegration, and flow will occur. If sediment exists at a state that is on or below the steady‐state line, disintegration and flow will typically not occur. Confirming these concepts, studies of subaerial landslides show an association between disintegrative flows and void ratio‐effective stress states above the steady‐state line. Nondisintegrative landslides are associated ...
Performance of dairy goats fed isonitrogenous diets containing soybean meal or hydrolyzed feather meal during early lactation.

Abstract Lactating dairy goats were utilized in a 105-day continuous feeding experiment to compare hydrolyzed feather meal with soybean meal as a protein supplement for milk production. Treatments were isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets containing soybean meal or hydrolyzed feather meal. Fifty percent of total dietary nitrogen was provided by test proteins. Ruminal ammonia nitrogen (16.1 vs. 4.7 mg/dl) and total volatile fatty acids (79.5 vs. 69.6 mM) were lower in goats fed hydrolyzed feather meal. Dry matter intake (2.90 vs. 2.52 kg/day), live body weight (48.1 vs. 47.7 kg) and milk yield (3.20 vs. 3.16 kg/day) were similar between treatments. Milk protein content and yield, true protein N, and casein N were lower in goats fed hydrolyzed feather meal. Serum total protein and urea N were lower in goats fed hydrolyzed feather meal while plasma glucose was similar between treatments. Feed efficiency (kg 4% fat-corrected milk/kg dry matter) was slightly higher in goats fed hydrolyzed feather meal and no differences were observed in energy and protein efficiencies. Limitation in microbial protein synthesis due to suboptimal NH 3 -N concentration in the rumen and quality of protein available for intestinal absorption may be important in the utilization of hydrolyzed feather meal for milk production.
Enhanced lexical processing of smoking stimuli during smoking abstinence.

In a group of heavy smokers, overnight abstinence from smoking facilitated the perception of briefly presented smoking words. Subjects in the nicotineabstinent condition accurately identified significantly more smoking-related words than food-related or neutral words. However, a group tested in a non-abstinent condition showed no significant differences in ability to identify the three different word types. Smokers deprived of cigarettes were also significantly better able to categorize smoking words than non-abstinent subjects. These results demonstrate an abstinence-based facilitation of processing smoking-related stimuli at the semantic level, consistent with the hypothesis that smoking-related concepts are activated, or primed, during deprivation from nicotine.
Myosin isoforms and functional diversity in vertebrate smooth muscle.

Abstract The expression of fast and slow myosin isoforms in individual cells is associated with differences in shortening velocities and power output in fully differentiated vertebrate striated muscle. This paradigm in which shortening velocity is determined by the myosin isoform (and load) is inappropriate for smooth muscle. Smooth muscle tissues express multiple myosin heavy and light chain isoforms, and it is not currently possible to separate and identify chemically distinct native myosin hexamers (i.e., isoforms). It is not known if different isoforms are localized in subpopulations of cells or in specific cellular domains nor whether they combine preferentially to form a small number of native myosin hexamer isoforms. Potentially, thick filaments are aggregates of many different combinations of heavy and light chain isoforms that may or may not exhibit different kinetics. Shortening velocities in smooth muscle are regulated by Ca++-dependent crossbridge phosphorylation of the myosin regulatory light chains. Much of the observed diversity in power output in smooth muscle may be attributed to regulatory mechanisms modulating crossbridge cycling rates rather than contractile protein isoform expression.
Limitations of Creatinine in Quantifying the Severity of Cyclosporine-Induced Chronic Nephropathy

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR), as measured by the clearance of inulin, was depressed severely in 34 heart transplant recipients receiving cyclosporine (CsA) for 12 months or longer. The clearance of 99m Tc-DTPA, a filtration marker similar in size to creatinine, was identical to that of the larger inulin molecule. In contrast, the clearance of creatinine was enhanced ( P r = 0.36, P 99m DTPA and inulin are unrestricted by the glomerular capillary wall and behave as true filtration markers, (2) creatinine is progressively hypersecreted by renal tubules as the nephropathy worsens, and (3) the ensuing enhancement of creatinine clearance over GFR blunts the expected rise in serum creatinine levels as GFR falls. As a result, serum creatinine in chronic CsA-induced glomerulopathy exceeds 2 mg/dL consistently, only after true GFR has become depressed below normal values by two thirds or more.
The rat ovarian phospholipase A2 system: Gene expression, cellular localization, activity characterization, and interleukin-1 dependence

We have previously demonstrated that interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), a putative intermediary in the ovulatory process, is a potent stimulator of ovarian PG biosynthesis. In this communication, we examine the possibility that this IL-1 effect reflects in part the induction of arachidonic acid mobilization by phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Molecular probing of whole ovarian material revealed the immature rat ovary to be a site of modest secretory PLA2 (sPLA2) gene expression. However, no change in ovarian sPLA2 gene expression was noted during the periovulatory period. Comparable probing for cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2) failed to disclose a quantifiable signal. However, in situ hybridization localized both sPLA2 and cPLA2 (sPLA2 > cPLA2) transcripts to the granulosa cell layer of the ovarian follicle. Treatment of cultured whole ovarian dispersates with IL-1 beta produced significant (P < 0.01) increments in the steady state levels of transcripts corresponding to both sPLA2 (1.7-fold increase) and cPLA2 (5-fold increase), an effect reversed by an IL-1 receptor antagonist, suggesting mediation via a specific IL-1 receptor. Treatment with cycloheximide, a protein synthesis inhibitor, resulted in significant attenuation of the ability of IL-1 beta to up-regulate sPLA2 and cPLA2 gene expression as well as medium PLA2 activity. Treatment with aminoguanidine, an inhibitor of inducible nitric oxide synthase, led to augmentation of the ability of IL-1 beta to up-regulate sPLA2 and cPLA2 gene expression as well as medium PLA2 activity. Total cellular PLA2 activity proved time, cell density, and calcium dependent, with an optimal pH of 8.0-9.0 and K(m) values in the low micromolar range (2-5 microM). Our observations 1) establish the rat ovary as a site of sPLA2 and cPLA2 gene expression, 2) localize the corresponding transcripts to the granulosa cell layer, and 3) establish IL-1 beta as an up-regulatory agent for ovarian sPLA2 and cPLA2 gene expression as well as for ovarian PLA2 activity. These findings also indicate that the IL-1 effect is 1) receptor mediated, 2) contingent in part upon de novo protein biosynthesis, and 3) inhibited by nitric oxide. These observations support the proposition that PLA2 may be a key component in the IL-1-stimulated biosynthesis of ovarian PGs.
Signal flow graphs for electroacoustic transducers (or modeling made easy)

The simulation of an electroacoustic transducer such as a loudspeaker system requires a mathematical model that can serve as the basis for building a computer model. We have three kinds of elements in a loud speaker : electrical, mechanical, and acoustical. Understanding the model and the results of the simu lation suggests that we not follow the traditional path of converting the mechanical and acoustical eZe ments to equivalent electrical elements to form an electrical network as the model to study. Instead, we have found it easier to follow a scheme originally suggested by Larrowe1,3and form a model based on stating all physical laws in an integral formulation. In modern notation, this is simply accomplished by drawing a signal flow graph as a mathematical model of the system. The resulting signal flow graph (if we use the "right" technique) has an optimum set of state variables in the sense that all quantities are of clear physical significance in the system. For a loudspeaker system, the state variab...
In vitro binding of bile acids by blueberries (Vaccinium spp.), plums (Prunus spp.), prunes (Prunus spp.), strawberries (Fragaria X ananassa), cherries (Malpighia punicifolia), cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) and apples (Malus sylvestris) ☆

Abstract The in vitro binding of bile acids by blueberries ( Vaccinium spp.), plums ( Prunus spp.), prunes ( Prunus spp.), strawberries ( Fragaria X ananassa ), cherries (Malpighia punicifolia ) cranberries ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ) and apples ( Malus sylvestris ) was determined using a mixture of bile acids secreted in human bile at a duodenal physiological pH of 6.3. Six treatments and two blank incubations were conducted to testing various fresh raw fruits on an equal dry matter basis. Considering cholestyramine (bile acid binding, cholesterol lowering drug) as 100% bound, the relative in vitro bile acid binding on dry matter (DM), total dietary fiber (TDF) and total polysaccharides (PCH) basis was for blueberries 7%, 47% and 25%; plums 6%, 53% and 50%; prunes 5%, 50% and 14%; strawberries 5%, 23% and 15%; cherries 5%, 37% and 5%; cranberries 4%, 12% and 7%; and apple 1%, 7% and 5%, respectively. Bile acid binding on DM basis for blueberries was significantly ( P ⩽ 0.05) higher than all the fruits tested. The bile acid binding for plums was similar to that for prunes and strawberries and significantly higher than cherries, cranberries and apples. Binding values for cherries and cranberries were significantly higher than those for apples. These results point to the relative health promoting potential of blueberries > plums = prunes = strawberries = cherries = cranberries > apples as indicated by their bile acid binding on DM basis. The variability in bile acid binding between the fruits tested maybe related to their phytonutrients (antioxidants, polyphenols, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, flavonols, proanthocyanidins, catechins), structure, hydrophobicity of undigested fractions, anionic or cationic nature of the metabolites produced during digestion or their interaction with active binding sites. Inclusion of blueberries, plums, prunes, strawberries, cherries and cranberries in our daily diet as health promoting fruits should be encouraged. Animal studies are planned to validate in vitro bile acid binding of fruits observed herein to their potential of atherosclerosis amelioration (lipid and lipoprotein lowering) and cancer prevention (excretion of toxic metabolites).
China's Floating Population: Definitions, Data and Recent Findings:

Among migrants in China, one of the most difficult groups to define and measure is that referred to as the floating population (liudong renkou ), a rapidly growing population concentrated largely i...
Neutronics and thermal effects of graphite foams in the performance of nuclear energy systems

Abstract Procedures to produce light graphite foam (∼0.5 g/cm 3 ) that exhibits heat conductivities similar to full density graphite have been developed at ORNL. The consequent substantial reduction in the thermal inertia might have a significant impact in standard designs of graphite system and it could make possible new concepts. We discuss two possible applications: (a) a modular, zero burnup reactivity swing, reactor and (b) the pebble bed accelerator-driven transmutator.
The separation of amino acids on ion-exchange resins by elution with water and aqueous ethanol.

Abstract The elution pattern of amino acids from columns of ion-exchange resins in various forms has been studied. A sulfonic acid resin in the sodium form, a carboxylic acid resin in the acid form, and quaternary ammonium resin in the chloride form give the most useful separations. Water and 25% alcohol were the solvents employed. Acidic, basic, and neutral non-alpha amino acids were most highly purified. Partial resolution of neutral α-amino acids, β-alanine, and γ-aminobutyric acid and the basic amino acids were obtained on Dowex 1 in the chloride form. These procedures are characterized by relatively high capacity under mild conditions and have been useful in isolation of three nitrogen compounds from plants.
Physiological and foliar symptom response in the crowns of Prunus serotina, Fraxinus americana, and Acer rubrum canopy trees to ambient ozone under forest conditions

Abstract The crowns of five canopy dominant black cherry ( Prunus serotina Ehrh.), five white ash ( Fraxinus americana L.), and six red maple ( Acer rubrum L.) trees on naturally differing environmental conditions were accessed with scaffold towers within a mixed hardwood forest stand in central Pennsylvania. Ambient ozone concentrations, meteorological parameters, leaf gas exchange and leaf water potential were measured at the sites during the growing seasons of 1998 and 1999. Visible ozone-induced foliar injury was assessed on leaves within the upper and lower crown branches of each tree. Ambient ozone exposures were sufficient to induce typical symptoms on cherry (0–5% total affected leaf area, LAA), whereas foliar injury was not observed on ash or maple. There was a positive correlation between increasing cumulative ozone uptake ( U ) and increasing percent of LAA for cherry grown under drier site conditions. The lower crown leaves of cherry showed more severe foliar injury than the upper crown leaves. No significant differences in predawn leaf water potential ( ψ L ) were detected for all three species indicating no differing soil moisture conditions across the sites. Significant variation in stomatal conductance for water vapor ( g wv ) was found among species, soil moisture, time of day and sample date. When comparing cumulative ozone uptake and decreased photosynthetic activity ( P n ), red maple was the only species to show higher gas exchange under mesic vs. drier soil conditions ( P g wv and P n demonstrate the strong influence of heterogeneous environmental conditions within forest canopies.
Interpersonal Looking as a Function of Status, Self-Esteem, and Sex:

The incidence of looking at peers and at a figure in authority was recorded in unisex dyads of 20 men and 22 women. Differential looking at the authority (female experimenter) vs looking at peers was a positive function of self-esteem for men but not for women. These results do not support the notion that looking connotes a lack of self-esteem, while confirming other sex differences previously reported.
Transient transport in central-valley-dominated ternary III–V alloys

Abstract This paper describes results of an ensemble Monte Carlo study of ballistic transport and velocity overshoot in Al 0.25 In 0.75 As and Ga 0.4 In 0.6 As. Velocity overshoot in these materials is limited primarily by transport properties of the central valley. The transfer of carriers into higher-lying energy valleys occurs only after velocity overshoot has subsided. Instantaneous conduction-band occupancies, carrier positions, and carrier velocities are given as functions of time for electric field intensities of 10 and 40 kV/cm. These curves show that transient velocities exceed steady-state values by as much as 27 to one, that these transients persist over distances ranging from 0.22 to 0.79 μm, and that average velocities during velocity overshoot are as large as 5.6 × 10 7 cm/sec. These results have important implications for submicron-device applications of these materials.
The presence of a second, specific estrogen binding site in human breast cancer

Abstract Cytosol from human breast cancer was used in saturation analysis over a wide range of [3H]-estradiol concentrations. Hydroxylapatite was used to measure specific ligand binding. This type of saturation analysis demonstrated the presence of a second, specific estrogen binding site, named type II estrogen binding site, in human breast cancer cytosol. Type II estrogen binding sites have a low affinity (Kd = 80 nM vs 0.31 nM) but a higher concentration (200 fmol/mg cytosol protein vs 30.3fmol/mg cytosol protein) than the classical cytoplasmic estrogen receptor. The presence of type II estrogen binding site in human breast cancer cytosol was confirmed by a “post-labeled” sucrose gradient method. Type II estrogen binding site was shown to bind only to estrogens and was found only in estrogen target tissue. Individual tumors were examined for the presence of type II estrogen binding sites and 23 25 (92%) contained significant amounts of these sites, including six which lacked estrogen receptor. The concentration of type II estrogen binding site was strongly correlated to the concentration of cytoplasmic estrogen receptor. We conclude that human breast cancer cytosol contains a specific, secondary estrogen binding site, similar to that previously described in the rat uterus. Knowledge about this type II estrogen binding site may provide us with additional information on the mechanisms of hormonally-dependent growth in breast cancer.
Laser raman spectroscopy of a complementary base pair in the Hoogsteen configuration.

Abstract Cocrystallization of m 9 Ade and m 1 Thy from water yielded crystals of the Hoogsteen base pair, m 9 Ade · m 1 Thy, as demonstrated by X-ray diffraction data. The Raman spectrum of the Hoogsteen base pair in the crystalline state was obtained and compared to the crystals of the individual monomers. Frequency changes between the heterobase dimer and both m 9 Ade and m 1 Thy are indicative of the base pairing interaction. Utilizing previously reported vibrational analyses for m 9 Ade, the frequency changes are clearly associated with modes involving the internal coordinates most sensitive to a Hoogsteen hydrogen bonding interaction. The spectrum of an equimolar mixture of e 9 Ade and ch 1 Ura in CHCl 3 was also compared to the spectrum of the separate monomers in solution. The numerous frequency shifts and band intensity changes observed in the mixture from that of the individual monomers suggest a cyclic dimer is formed although the nature of the base pairing interaction is not clear.
Embolization therapy for traumatic splenic lacerations.

Purpose This study was designed to evaluate the clinical success, complications, and transfusion requirements based on the location of and agents used for splenic artery embolization in patients with splenic trauma.
Suppression of AMPK Activation via S485 Phosphorylation by IGF-I during Hyperglycemia Is Mediated by AKT Activation in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

As a metabolic sensor, the serine/threonine protein kinase AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) promotes the adaptation of cells to signals arising from nutrients, hormones, and growth factors. The ability of IGF-I to stimulate protein synthesis is suppressed by AMPK, therefore, these studies were undertaken to determine whether IGF-I modulates AMPK activity. IGF-I dose-dependently suppressed phosphorylation of AMPK T172, and it stimulated AMPK S485 phosphorylation in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). To determine whether stimulation of AMPK S485 phosphorylation was mediating this response, VSMC were transduced with a mutant AMPKα (AMPK S485A). Expression of this altered form inhibited the ability of IGF-I to suppress AMPK T172 activation, which resulted in inhibition of IGF-I-stimulated phosphorylation of P70S6 kinase. In contrast, expression of an AMPK S485D mutant resulted in constitutive suppression of AMPK activity and was associated with increased IGF-I-stimulated P70S6K phosphorylation and protein synthesis. The addition of a specific AKT inhibitor or expression of an AKT1 short hairpin RNA inhibited AMPK S485 phosphorylation, and it attenuated the IGF-I-induced decrease in AMPK T172 phosphorylation. Exposure to high glucose concentrations suppressed AMPK activity and stimulated S485 phosphorylation, and IGF-I stimulated a further increase in S485 phosphorylation and AMPK T172 suppression. We conclude that AMPK S485 phosphorylation negatively regulates AMPK activity by modulating the T172 phosphorylation response to high glucose and IGF-I. IGF-I stimulates S485 phosphorylation through AKT1. The results suggest that AMPK plays an inhibitory role in modulating IGF-I-stimulated protein synthesis and that IGF-I must down-regulate AMPK activity to induce an optimal anabolic response.
Colonofiberscopic management of colonic polyps.

Endoscopic removal of 343 colonic polyps more than 0.5 cm in size, located from the cecum to the sigmoid colon and beyond the reach of rigid sigmoidoscopes, is reported. Diagnostic colonofiberscopy is a valuable procedure permitting direct visual examination of the entire colon with a high degree of safety. More than 1,800diagnostic colonofiberscopies have been performed in our unit without a single complication. The polypectomy procedures via the colonofiberscope were done without mortality and with only a single immediate complication, which responded to conservative measures. Endoscopic removal of colonic polyps is proposed as a safe, practical alternative to either laparotomy and colotomy or repeated barium-enema studies in the management of the patient with a colonic polyp. The endoscopic approach allows differentiation of malignant from nonmalignant polyps by complete excision, thus permitting definitive cancer therapy measures to be undertaken promptly and with assurance. Endoscopic removal of colonic polyps is not advised for endoscopists who have not first achieved considerable experience and dexterity in diagnostic colonoscopy. Endoscopic removal of colonic polyps is best accomplished by an experienced endoscopist supported by the full spectrum of general hospital resources, after the patient has been thoroughly evaluated medically. It should be carried out on an inpatient basis. When a patient has a colonic polyp, an alert should be maintained for unsuspected colonic cancer unrelated to the polyp, lest the less serious lesion monopolize the clinical situation.
Effect of arabinosyl-6-mercaptopurine on the blastogenic responses in vitro of human lymphocytes to mitogenic agents.

The effects of arabinosyl-6-mercaptopurine (Ara-6-MP) on lymphocyte blastogenic responses in vitro to mitogens were studied. Ara-6-MP was not degraded in the cultures until after 5 days of incubation. Levels of drug of 30 μg/ml or greater significantly inhibited blastogenic responses to phytohemagglutinin, streptolysin O and allogeneic leukocytes as measured by [3H]thymidine incorporation (greater than 50 per cent reduction). Levels over 100–200 μgml inhibited thymidine incorporation over 90 per cent, but complete inhibition was not achieved at any dose up to 300 μgml. Morphological examination of parallel replicate cultures revealed that blastogenesis characterized by cell enlargement and the development of cytoplasmic basophilia was not significantly inhibited by the drug. Inhibition, at least at higher drug levels, began within 2 hr after exposure of the cells to the drug. Inhibition was completely reversible if the drug was washed from the cultures after 48 hr of continuous exposure and partially reversible when washed from the cultures after up to 96 hr of continuous exposure. In contrast to thymidine incorporation, uridine and leucine incorporation were only slightly inhibited by Ara-6-MP. These studies suggest that Ara-6-MP is a potent reversible and incomplete specific inhibitor of DNA synthesis among mitogen-stimulated, cultured leukocytes in vitro and that it might be an inhibitor of the proliferative phase of the specific immune response in vitro. In addition, these studies indicate that the morphological events associated with lymphocyte transformation can proceed in the virtual absence of DNA synthesis.
Detecting foreign bodies in a head laceration.

Open wounds represent a potential area of medicolegal risk if foreign bodies are not identified prior to wound closure. The importance of imaging of lacerations was underscored by a recent case where a 20-year-old male collided with a friend’s mouth on a trampoline sustaining a simple, superficial scalp laceration. The wound was evaluated in typical fashion including irrigation and local exploration and was prepared for closure. The friend was then evaluated and noted to have multiple extensive dental fractures. An increased index of suspicion generated further evaluation of the first patient’s wound. Plain radiography obtained of the first patient’s skull was noted to have bony foreign bodies consistent with teeth, which were then removed after further exploration. Superficial wounds are common and complications arising from retained foreign bodies are a potential source of substantial morbidity and consequently medical litigation. This case serves as a reminder to be vigilant and maintain a high index of suspicion regarding the potential for foreign body.
Fitting of kinetic parameters of NO reduction by CO in fibrous media using a genetic algorithm

An empirical model is fitted to the performance of NO reduction by CO gas on an alumina fibrous catalyst support media. The model is highly non-linear and contains 13 fitted parameters. To fit the reaction kinetic parameters in the model to the experimental results, a genetic algorithm was applied to search for the best fit parameter values. The fitted model and experimental results for Pd, Pt and Rh catalysts are in good agreement. The effects of NO decomposition by varying fiber diameter, media depth, and catalyst particle size on rhodium catalyst can be calculated from the model. The model results show the temperature of complete NO decomposition decreases with greater media depth, higher fractional area of coverage by the catalyst particles, and with smaller catalyst particle size.
Production line simulation using STPN for maintenance scheduling

As the complexity of manufacturing systems keeps escalating, the maintenance decision making becomes increasingly challenging. Simulation has become an effective way to avoid costly decisions through what-if analysis of different maintenance policies, and maintenance schedules before their actual implementation. In this paper, a new modularized simulation package for manufacturing production systems has been developed using standard Stochastic Timed Petri-Nets (STPNs). By utilizing the basic functional modules, we can quickly build production lines with different configurations and maintenance policies. A maintenance decision support tool has also been developed in this paper, together with the simulation package, to provide offline and online maintenance decision support. Copyright © 2007 IFAC.
Metal homoepitaxial growth at very low temperatures: Lattice-gas models with restricted downward funneling

We develop and analyze 1+1- and 2+1-dimensional (d) models for multilayer homoepitaxial growth of metal films at low temperatures (T), where intralayer terrace diffusion is inoperative. This work is motivated by recent variable-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy studies of Ag/Ag(100) homoepitaxy down to 50 K. Adsorption sites are bridge sites in our 1+1d models, and fourfold hollow sites in our 2+1d models for fcc(100) or bcc(100) surfaces. For growth at 0 K, we introduce a 'restricted downward funneling' model, wherein deposited atoms can be trapped on the sides of steep nanoprotrusions rather than always funneling down to lower adsorption sites. This leads to the formation of overhangs and internal defects (or voids), and associated 'rough' growth. Upon increasing T, we propose that a series of interlayer diffusion processes become operative, with activation barriers below that for terrace diffusion. This leads to 'smooth' growth of the film for higher T (but still within the regime where terrace diffusion is absent), similar to that observed in models incorporating 'complete downward funneling.'
Pharmacokinetic strategies for treatment of drug overdose and addiction

The pharmacokinetic treatment strategy targets the drug molecule itself, aiming to reduce drug concentration at the site of action, thereby minimizing any pharmacodynamic effect. This approach might be useful in the treatment of acute drug toxicity/overdose and in the long-term treatment of addiction. Phase IIa controlled clinical trials with anticocaine and antinicotine vaccines have shown good tolerability and some efficacy, but Phase IIb and III trials have been disappointing because of the failure to generate adequate antibody titers in most participants. Monoclonal antibodies against cocaine, methamphetamine and phencyclidine have shown promise in animal studies, as has enhancing cocaine metabolism with genetic variants of human butyrylcholinesterase, with a bacterial esterase, and with catalytic monoclonal antibodies. Pharmacokinetic treatments offer potential advantages in terms of patient adherence, absence of medication interactions and benefit for patients who cannot take standard medications.
A rapid method for detecting malformations in rat fetuses.

A rapid method for examining rat fetuses is presented. The technique consists of fixing the fetuses in Bouin's solution, serially sectioning the head, neck and lower trunk with a razor blade and doing sagittal sections of the heart after opening the thoracic cavity. Examples of sections from normal 20 day rat fetuses are given as well as some with the following abnormalities: cleft palate produced by chlorcyclizine and eye and heart malformations resulting from anti-adult rat kidney serum.
Patterns of regional hydroclimatic shifts: An analysis of changing hydrologic regimes

Temporal shifts in precipitation and runoff regime curves appear throughout the continental United States, but differ from region to region. This paper explores these regime shifts by building upon a hydroclimatic classification system that partitions the United States into clusters of similarly behaved catchments using four simple hydroclimatic indicators. Hydroclimate data from over four hundred catchments over a 55 year period (belonging to the MOPEX data set) are analyzed to reveal how the indicators have shifted before and after 1970, before and after 1975, and before and after 1980. Statistically significant hydroclimatic changes in these indicators are explored qualitatively, suggesting which catchments today might resemble other catchments tomorrow. Thus, a preview of current locations in one class under future conditions is provided by observing existing locations of another class. The classification system structure enables organization of these data, allowing patterns of regime change to emerge without highly specified models at each individual site. Regional analyses explore changes in mean seasonal precipitation/runoff regimes, including shifts in the daily variability of precipitation and runoff. Additionally, changes in regime curves of minimum and maximum precipitation/runoff observations are analyzed and discussed. Results indicate that after 1980, classifications typically found in the southeastern quarter of the United States have expanded northward and westward. Regionally, the Midwest and Rocky Mountains seem to demonstrate more frequent, but less intense storms after 1980, while southeastern catchments receive much less water in the form of precipitation and runoff than in previous years.
909 COMPARATIVE ACTIVITY OF ADENOSINE DEAMINASE (ADA) AND OROTIDINE DECARBOXYLASE (ODC) IN RED BLOOD CELLS (RBC) FROM PATIENTS WITH DIAMOND-BLACKFAN SYNDROME (DBS)

909 COMPARATIVE ACTIVITY OF ADENOSINE DEAMINASE (ADA) AND OROTIDINE DECARBOXYLASE (ODC) IN RED BLOOD CELLS (RBC) FROM PATIENTS WITH DIAMOND-BLACKFAN SYNDROME (DBS)
Stakeholder Marketing 2.0

Abstract As more companies pursue “open innovation” and adopt social networking and Web 2.0 tools, there is an emerging opportunity for them to connect with a diverse body of stakeholders and incorporate their interests and ideas. However, this also introduces many new challenges. The author identifies key properties that such networking mechanisms must satisfy if they are to succeed. He introduces a simple framework based on two dimensions of choices for designing such mechanisms: how the stakeholders are motivated to participate and how the company uses their inputs and makes decisions. For any choice, there are trade-offs to be considered. The author concludes by identifying the design that is most likely to succeed in fundamentally advancing the state-of-the-art of stakeholder marketing. Examples of many pioneering companies, such as Starbucks, Dell, Staples, Muji, and several others, are included in the discussion to illustrate the key propositions presented.
Deoxynucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) synthesis and destruction regulate the replication of both cell and virus genomes

Biochemical reactions, even those as complex as replicating the DNA genome of cells, follow the principle that the process is regulated by both the substrate concentration and by the enzymes that mediate the process. Deoxynucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs), the substrates for DNA polymerizing enzymes, have long been known to be limited in their concentration in cells because the enzyme that synthesizes deoxynucleotides from ribonucleotides, ribonucleotide reductase (RNR), is synthesized and enzymatically activated as cells enter the S phase (1, 2). RNR, discovered by Peter Reichard 52 y ago (3), converts all four ribonucleotide diphosphates (rNDPs) to the respective deoxynucleoside disposphates (dNDPs), which are then rapidly converted to dNTP. Low levels and activity of RNR provide sufficient dNTPs for mitochondrial DNA synthesis and for DNA repair in noncycling cells and during the G1 phase of the cell-division cycle in proliferating cells, but RNR levels and activity are hugely increased as cells commit to replicate DNA during the S phase of the cell-division cycle or following extensive DNA repair (4). Indeed, RNR is one of the most highly regulated enzymes known. The mammalian enzyme synthesizes all four dNDPs in a cycle, is allosterically activated by dATP, dTTP, and dGTP to balance the relative levels of the four dNTPs (dCTP, dTTP, dGTP and dATP), and is feed-back–inhibited by dATP, because dATP is the last dNTP to be made in the cycle of synthesizing all four dNTPs by a single RNR enzyme (1). Specific inhibitory proteins (in yeasts) also control RNR activity and RNR subunit levels are regulated by cell cycle-dependent transcription of the genes encoding the subunits and by subunit protein stability (4, 5). On the basis of these observations, one might expect that dNTP synthesis by RNR should be sufficient to control how and when genome DNA replication occurs because RNR is only maximally active during the S phase. However, recent studies, including those emerging from far-afield studies of how HIV replication is restricted to certain cell types (6, 7), have uncovered a new control of dNTP levels, dNTP destruction. The sterile alpha motif and HD-domain containing protein 1 (SAMHD1) protein is a deoxynucleoside triphosphohydrolase that cleaves dNTPs to the respective deoxynucleoside and a triphosphate (8). In PNAS, Franzolin et al. (9) show that dNTP destruction by SAMHD1 also contributes to dNTP concentration control during the cell-division cycle of proliferating cells, thereby affecting both DNA replication and cell-cycle progression.
Holocene avulsion styles and sedimentation patterns of the Saskatchewan River, Cumberland Marshes, Canada

Abstract This paper describes the styles and sedimentation patterns of Holocene avulsions of the Saskatchewan River at the Cumberland Marshes predating the most recent (1870's) avulsion. Holocene avulsions involved two major styles: (1) progradation of lacustrine deltas and splay complexes, and (2) local reoccupation or appropriation of preavulsive channels. Most avulsions were progradational and occurred in floodplain lakes occupying floodbasin areas between elevated alluvial ridges. The two most recent avulsions (Old Channel and 1870's) diverted mainly into inundated peatland. Progradational avulsions were accompanied by deposition of avulsion-belt sediments associated with multiple channel networks. The characteristics of avulsion-belt deposits include: (1) sediments dominated by poorly sorted silt and very fine sand, (2) lateral continuity in transverse and longitudinal directions with subhorizontal upper and lower boundaries, (3) predominantly nonerosional contacts with underlying sediments, (4) coarsening-upward successions, (5) consistent radiocarbon dates for the tops of preavulsive substrates, and (6) occurrence beneath levee and overbank deposits of the associated major channel belt, indicating that avulsion-belt deposition occurs prior to the development of a new master channel. The width of ancient avulsion belts reaches 18 km, with typical thicknesses of 2–3 m. Avulsion belt deposition accompanied by many small channels was followed by flow reversion to a few larger channels and, eventually, to one single channel, accompanied by deposition of levee and channel deposits. Reoccupational avulsions were not accompanied by deposition of widespread avulsion-belt sediments and led mainly to the modification of pre-existing channel belts. The sedimentation patterns of Holocene avulsions of the Saskatchewan River reveal that avulsion-belt sediments represent major components of the floodplain deposits, supporting the model developed from observations of the 1870's avulsion.
Elementary Derivation of Nonlinear Transport Equations from Statistical Mechanics

Exact closed nonlinear transport equations for a set of macroscopic variablesa are derived from classical statistical mechanics. The derivation involves only simple manipulations of the Liouville equation, and makes no use of projection operators or graphical expansions. It is based on the Chapman-Enskog idea of separating the distribution function into a constrained equilibrium part, obtained from information theory, and a small remainder. The resulting exact transport equations involve time convolutions over the past history of botha(t) anda(t). However, if the variablesa provide a complete macroscopic description, the equations may be simplified. This is accomplished by a systematic expansion procedure of Chapman-Enskog type, in which the small parameter is the natural parameter of slowness relevant to the problem. When carried out to second order, this expansion leads to approximate nonlinear transport equations that are local in time. These equations are valid far from equilibrium. They contain nonlinear (i.e., state-dependent) transport coefficients given by integrals of time correlation functions in the constrained equilibrium ensemble. Earlier results are recovered when the equations are linearized about equilibrium. As an illustrative application of the formalism, an expression is derived for the nonlinear (i.e., velocity-dependent) friction coefficient for a heavy particle in a bath of light particles.
Large deviations in testing fractional Ornstein–Uhlenbeck models

Abstract The paper obtains the explicit form of fine large deviation theorems for the log-likelihood ratio in testing models with fractional Ornstein–Uhlenbeck processes with Hurst parameter bigger than half and obtains the explicit rates of decrease of the error probabilities of Neyman–Pearson, Bayes and minimax tests.
The Hahn-Mazurkiewicz theorem for rim-finite continua

Abstract It is proved that if X is a rim-finite (Hausdorff) continuum then there exists a (generalized) arc L and a continuous mapping f(L) = X.