cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Activation of a metabotropic glutamate receptor increases intracellular calcium concentrations in neurons of the avian cochlear nucleus.

Metabotropic glutamate receptors have been shown to stimulate phosphatidylinositol metabolism, and subsequently liberate Ca2+ from intracellular stores, in a variety of tissue and cell types. We previously demonstrated that glutamate could stimulate phosphatidylinositol metabolism, generating inositol-1,4,5- trisphosphate (IP3), in isolated cochlear nucleus tissue from the chick. Using the calcium indicator dye fura-2 and ratiometric fluorescent imaging, this study examined the ability of glutamate and its analogs to liberate Ca2+ from intracellular stores of neurons of the avian cochlear nucleus, and qualitatively characterized the pharmacological profile of such an action. In normal, Ca(2+)-containing medium, glutamate, kainate (KA), alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl- isoxazole-4-propionate (AMPA), NMDA, quisqualate (QUIS), and (+/-)- aminocyclopentane-trans-dicarboxylate (ACPD) elicited increases in intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i). In the absence of external Ca2+, glutamate, quisqualate, and ACPD evoked increases in [Ca2+]i. In normal medium, the ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonist 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) and the NMDA receptor antagonist 2-amino-5-phosphonovalerate (APV) attenuated but did not abolish the glutamate-evoked response and had no effect on the ACPD- evoked response. The putative metabotropic glutamate receptor antagonist 2-amino-3-phosphonopropionate (AP3) was without effect on the glutamate- and ACPD-evoked increases in [Ca2+]i in Ca(2+)-free medium. We conclude that a metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) is present on cochlear nucleus neurons and is able to stimulate the phosphatidylinositol metabolism--Ca2+ signal transduction cascade.
Stability of cefazolin sodium, cefoxitin sodium, ceftazidime, and penicillin G sodium in portable pump reservoirs

The stability of cefazolin sodium, cefoxitin sodium, ceftazidime, and penicillin G sodium in prefilled drug reservoirs that were stored at -20 degrees C for 30 days, thawed at 5 degrees C for four days, and pumped at 37 degrees C for one day was studied. Each antimicrobial agent was diluted with sterile water for injection to a concentration representative of the most common dosage when administered via a portable infusion pump. Ten milliliters of each drug solution was placed in individual glass vials to serve as controls, and volumes appropriate to deliver the designated dosages were loaded into the drug reservoirs. Triplicate reservoirs were prepared for each drug. One-milliliter samples from all containers were taken on days 0, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 34.5, and 35. All solutions were observed for color change and precipitation. Drug concentrations were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. Leaching of the plasticizer diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) was analyzed by packed-column gas chromatography on days 0 and 35. No color change or precipitation was observed. No DEHP concentrations above 1 ppm were detected. More than 90% of the initial concentrations of each drug remained, except penicillin G sodium, which had a mean concentration of 83.9 +/- 0.5% at the end of the study. Cefazolin sodium, cefoxitin sodium, and ceftazidime in admixtures with sterile water for injection are stable under the conditions of this study. Penicillin G sodium should not be administered for more than 12 hours after such a cycle of freezing and thawing.
Experimental focal segmental glomerulosclerosis: correlation with protein excretion, glomerular filtration rate, and renal plasma flow.

Experimental Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis: Correlation with Protein Excretion, Glomerular Filtration Rate, and Renal Plasma Flow
Tunable Optical Enhancement from a Mems-Integrated TiO 2 Nanosword Plasmonic Antenna

In this work, we present the fabrication and testing of a MEMS-integrated, variable-gap titanium dioxide nanosword plasmonic antenna. Two-photon photoluminescence (TPPL) testing was performed, and enhancements as large as 251-fold were observed at the sharp, tapered nanosword tip. The tunable nanosword antenna successfully and repeatedly demonstrated increases in the TPPL intensity as the gap was reduced below 50nm. Dark-field scattering experiments were performed at the tip to quantify the shape-dependent plasmonic resonance of the gold-coated nanosword tip. It is believed that this device, with further improvements to the enhancement, may enable previously unattainable functionality for surface-enhance Raman scattering (SERS) analysis.
Hardware Description System Development

Hardware description languages (HDLs) are becoming the primary formal descriptive media for hardware designers. The motivation is to provide a common, unified language for communicating all aspects of hardware design. This communication provides a media for the specification and documentation of the hardware design. If this language were an industrial standard it could be the formal media for exchange of design information within and between companies. Current hardware design complexities require accurate interpretation and simulation. Hence, simulation is a natural adjunct to a hardware description language which provides the user with a model of the hardware. This paper describes a language overview for two implementations of Texas Instrument's Hardware Description Language: that which is part of the Design Utility System being produced by Texas Instruments under the VHSIC contract and that which is part of the internal Texas Instruments Integrated Circuit Design System. Limitations of these systems are discussed and recommendations for their improvement are presented.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Target‐detection and location system

6. In a target-detection and location system adaptable for the navigation of an acoustic torpedo, having a first and a second alternating voltage signal emanating from the acoustic detection portion of said torpedo, the combination comprising: a phase-shifter adapted to delay the phase of said incoming first voltage signal 90 degrees; a phase-inverter driven by said phase-shifter the output of said phase-inverter being two voltages, one in-phase with and the other out-of-phase with the signal from said phase-shifter; a potentiometer having a variable arm electrically connected therewith, said potentiometer being connected across the output of said phase-inverter; means for combining the voltage at said variable arm with said second voltage signal; a first and a second limiting amplifier adapted to maintain a constant power output, said second voltage signal and the voltage present at said variable arm being applied to said second limiting amplifier, and said in-phase voltage from said phase-inverter being applied to said first limiting amplifier; a phase-sensitive detector connected to said first and second limiting amplifiers adapted to compare signals of said limiting amplifiers, the polarity of the output signal of said phase-sensitive detector being dependent on the phase-relationship of the output signal of said limiting amplifiers; and a servo motor system operationally associated with said potentiometer arm, the direction of rotation of said motor being controlled by the output of said phase-sensitive detector whereby said potentiometer arm is so oriented as to result in a zero signal input to said limiting amplifier, the orientation of said potentiometer arm being respectively proportional to the magnitude of said second voltage and indicative of its polarity.
Secure query-processing strategies

Strategies for secure query processing multilevel-security database management systems are proposed. They are carried out by query modification, a technique that has been used for enforcing integrity constraints and providing view mechanisms. The technique consists of replacing the query the user presents with one that, when evaluated, will perform the desired function. In the case of a view mechanism, the names of views referenced in the query are replaced by the definitions of the views in terms of base relations. The basic strategy and two variants-adding environmental information and using graphs-are described. The performance of the strategies is examined. >
Selective blockade of transport via SERCA inhibition: the answer for oncogenic forms of Notch?

NOTCH1, which is frequently mutated in T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, has been an elusive therapeutic target. In this issue of Cancer Cell , Roti and colleagues demonstrate that inhibiting SERCA calcium pumps preferentially impairs the maturation of the most common class of oncogenic Notch1 mutants, thus uncovering a potential therapeutic avenue.
Instigating and Influencing Patient Engagement: A Hospital Library’s Contributions to Patient Health and Organizational Success

Creatively blending their skills with patient education service delivery can enhance librarians’ value and make them indispensable. Two projects aligned a midwestern library with patient care, organizational efficiency, and improved financial gains: (1) influencing a new hospital’s interactive patient care system selection, through crafting and organizing health-literate content, to bedside staff training for improved patient experience; and (2) integrating librarians in prenatal education for the increasingly “wired” patients of a busy obstetrics clinic. With measurable improvements expected for patients and the bottom line, this example should encourage other librarians to explore similar synergies with their medical counterparts.
Factors influencing the numbers of branches and inflorescences of Potamogeton richardsonii (A. Benn.) Rydb.

Abstract Potamogeton richardsonii (A. Benn) Rydb., a submerged rooted aquatic plant, is common in small temperate lakes. In some regions of a Minnesota lake, P. richardsonii plants rarely branched and had few inflorescences, while in other areas of the same lake P. richardsonii plants typically had many branches and inflorescences. To identify factors affecting branch and flower number, three experiments were carried out in the two lake regions: reciprocal transplants, nutrient addition and clipping. The results from transplants of cloned material suggested that the morphological differences had neither genetic nor substrate bases. Nutrient additions were added by implanting fertilizer stakes in lake sediments. There was no significant response to nutrient addition. There was a response to clipping. When the apical meristem was removed, the numbers of leaves, branches and flowers increased significantly. Since there are both natural and anthropogenic sources of apex removal, a number of agents, including herbivores, may increase P. richardsonii reproductive potential.
Enhancing the application of experiential marketing in the arts

While experiential marketing has become a cornerstone of recent advances in retailing, branding and events marketing, there is potential for its application in arts marketing to be extended and improved. The two main goals of this paper are to introduce and explain the Pine and Gilmore experiential marketing framework[Pine, II, B. J. and Gilmore, J. H. (1999) ‘The Experience Economy’, Harvard Business School Press, Boston.] and its relevance to arts marketing; and to discuss the implications of Pine and Gilmore's work for two specific areas of arts marketing: the unique dimensions of the arts experience, and the strategic and tactical steps involved in staging an experience. Copyright © 2004 Henry Stewart Publications
Pathogenic missense MAPT mutations differentially modulate tau aggregation propensity at nucleation and extension steps

Mutations in the MAPT gene encoding tau protein lead to neurofibrillary lesion formation, neurodegeneration, and cognitive decline associated with frontotemporal lobar degeneration. While some pathogenic mutations affect MAPT introns, resulting in abnormal splicing patterns, the majority occur in the tau coding sequence leading to single amino acid changes in tau primary structure. Depending on their location within the polypeptide chain, tau missense mutations have been reported to augment aggregation propensity. To determine the mechanisms underlying mutation-associated changes in aggregation behavior, the fibrillization of recombinant pathogenic mutants R5L, G272V, P301L, V337M, and R406W prepared in a full-length four-repeat human tau background was examined in vitro as a function of time and submicromolar tau concentrations using electron microscopy assay methods. Kinetic constants for nucleation and extension phases of aggregation were then estimated by direct measurement and mathematical simulation. Results indicated that the mutants differ from each other and from wild-type tau in their aggregation propensity. G272V and P301L mutations increased the rates of both filament nucleation and extension reactions, whereas R5L and V337M increased only the nucleation phase. R406W did not differ from wild-type in any kinetic parameter. The results show that missense mutations can directly promote tau filament formation at different stages of the aggregation pathway.
Hand schema in children

When a young child, eyes closed, localizes a finger which has been tactually stimulated, he uses a visual schema of the hand. When this image conflicts with the then inverted posture of the hand, localization worsens. It improves again, except for the congenitally blind, on trials when the hand is returned to its original position.
The influence of age on steroidogenic enzyme activities of the rat adrenal gland: enhanced expression of cholesterol side-chain cleavage activity.

The ability of isolated adrenocortical cells to secrete corticosterone in response to ACTH challenge declines as rats age, but the site or mechanism(s) of this impairment is still unknown. To test the functionality of steroidogenic capacity per se, we measured the key enzyme activities involved in corticosterone biosynthesis. We also measured the mitochondrial cytochrome P-450 content and nonsteroidogenic enzymes specific for subcellular fractions. Mitochondria and microsomal fractions were isolated from the adrenals of 2-, 12-, and 18- month-old animals and used for various enzyme measurements. Mitochondrial side-chain cleavage enzyme activity (nanomoles per min mg protein-1) increased from a mean of 0.43 ± 0.06 in 2-month-old rats to 1.26 ± 0.11 and 1.51 ± 0.06 in 12- and 18-month old rats, respectively. After incubation with 5- cholesten-3j8,25-diol (25-hydroxycholesterol; 25 μg/ml) sidechain cleave activity rose to 5.0 ± 0.6, 12.4 ± 1.2, and 16 ± 1.4 nmol min-1 mg protein-1 in adrenal mitochondrial fr...
Botulinum toxin A therapy for medial rectus injury during endoscopic sinus surgery.

BackgroundAlthough the use of endoscopes and image guidance provide some safeguards, motility complications from orbital injury during endoscopic sinus surgery still pose a significant concern and ...
Comparison of Peel and Lap Shear Bond Strengths for Elastic Joints With and Without Residual Stresses

Abstract Debonding energies have been calculated from peel and lap shear experiments on rubber strips bonded together with a pressure-sensitive acrylic adhesive layer. In some cases, one strip was held stretched during bonding, to create joints with built-in stresses. Good agreement was obtained in all cases, provided that elastic strain energy was taken into account, the work of debonding being about 180 J/m2. For thick rubber strips, about 3–4 mm or greater, the strain induced by peel or shear forces was rather small and the assumption of linear elastic behavior was found to be satisfactory. Good agreement was then obtained with the relations derived by Kendall.1,2
Using the Communities of Practice Framework to Examine an After-School Environmental Education Program for Hispanic Youth.

Environmental education researchers have called for a greater analysis of ‘learning’ in environmental education in relation to contemporary theories and explanatory frameworks of learning. Situated learning, as a prominent example, is a sociocultural theory that contends that learning is a social process that occurs as individuals participate in ‘communities of practice’. This study aims to enhance our understanding of the usefulness and applicability of the communities of practice framework to the analysis of learning in environmental education, focusing on the learning in after‐school environmental education programs for Hispanic youth. Results suggest that the framework can be applied to identify some environmental education programs as communities of practice, characterized by the development of joint enterprise, mutual engagement, and shared repertoire. The framework was also found to be useful in identifying and describing learning as bringing about changes in identity formation as a result of parti...
On the electro-mechanical reliability of NEMFET as an analog/digital switch

In this article, we identify and evaluate the major reliability issues (Negative Bias Temperature Instability, Hot Carrier Injection, and Creep) of Nano-Electro-Mechanical Field Effect Transistor (NEMFET) when used as an analog or digital switch. We use Euler-Bernoulli equation to model the static and dynamic behavior of NEMFET and couple it with classical theories of NBTI, HCI and creep to predict the associated lifetime of the device. Since NBTI and HCI are regularly observed in classical Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET), we compare NBTI and HCI induced degradation in NEMFET with that of a MOSFET. We find that, NBTI time-evolution in NEMFET is comparable to that of a MOSFET. In spite of this similarity, while NBTI causes only parametric degradation in MOSFET, it changes the pull-in/pull-out voltage of NEMFET that could lead to catastrophic failure due to stiction. Next, we study HCI, which is a persistent reliability concern for MOSFET, and find that NEMFET may be immune to HCI degradation due to NEMFET's intrinsic pull-in and release dynamics. Finally, we study time dependent mechanical creep in NEMFET for below pull-in operation and find that a time dependent increase in the off-state capacitance and power consumption may negate one of the major advantages of NEMFET as a replacement for MOSFET.
Adolescent coping and support across multiple social environments.

This paper considers how research on stress, coping, and social support in adolescence may be informed by a social ecological perspective. Two case studies are presented which examine contrasting strategies by which adolescents at risk may cope successfully. One strategy focuses on the use of a strongpeersocial network, the other on the use of school involvements. In both cases, the analyses emphasize coping and social network processes across multiple social environments. Preventive social-community interventions are suggested to circumvent potential trouble spots associated with the use of these strategies. Research on stress, coping, and social support is beginning to emerge as an important vehicle for examining adolescent health. This interest has evolved more slowly than in the adult arena, reflecting both the underdeveloped state of adolescent research in general, as well as more specific difficulties
Effect of a Naturally Occurring Outbreak of Newcastle Disease on Egg Quality and Production

Abstract INTRODUCTION FIVE investigations reporting losses in egg quality due to Newcastle disease (ND) have been published: Lorenz and Newlon (1944); Berg, Bearse and Hamilton (1947); Parnell (1950); Dearstyne, Lucas, Glazener and Blow (1950); and Pomeroy and Brandly (1953). A preliminary report on the effect of ND on egg quality was made by Quinn (1950). The purpose of this paper is to report observations on egg quality, egg production and mortality from October 1, 1948 to October 18, 1949, in a flock of White Leghorn pullets selected and bred for eggs having superior albumen quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS A naturally occurring outbreak of ND was observed at Beltsville in April, 1949, in a flock of early hatched White Leghorn pullets used in egg quality investigations, and kept in a conventional laying house. At 600 to 700 yards from the laying house were several colony houses which contained later hatched White Leghorn …
Extending the Stay: Using Community-Based Research and Service Learning to Enhance Short-Term Study Abroad

Short-term study abroad (STSA) is an important alternative for students not likely to participate in semester-long or yearlong international study abroad programs. The authors present an assessment...
Mechanisms for allocation of environmental control cost : Empirical tests of acceptability and stability

Abstract This paper evaluates schemes for allocation of joint environmental control cost among polluters using, as an example, the drainage pollution problem of the San Joaquin Valley of California. The analysis is conducted by comparing cost allocation schemes» performance in a regional context. Different schemes (proportional allocation, Nash–Harsanyi, allocation according to marginal cost, Shapley, the nucleolus and the Separable Cost Remaining Benefit principle) are used to allocate regional joint environmental control costs under two extreme states of nature scenarios, resulting in different pollution flows. The results provide clear empirical evidence that regional arrangements may vary with state of nature. Another important result is that the different allocation schemes have different outcomes in terms of their acceptability to the players, and in terms of their derived stability, as measured by the Shapley–Shubik Power Index, and by the Propensity to Disrupt. Therefore, implementation of environmental policy should also be examined based on its long-term sustainability, and taking into consideration only the cost recovery aspect.
Novel catalytic dehydrogenative polymerization for polyquinoline synthesis

Quinoline oligomers can be prepared by a novel one-step dehydrogenative polymerization of tetrahydroquinoline using rhenium sulphide as a catalyst.
Incompressible Quantum Fluids of Ideal Anyons in a Strong Magnetic Field

Ideal anyons with statistics ν in a strong magnetic field are studied by means of a similarity transformation. The ground state exhibits "integer" quantum Hall effect at filling factor 1/ν with quasiparticle excitations of charge q/ν and statistics -1/ν. Certain electron FQH states can be considered as realization of this, for example, the sequence 2/5, 3/7, … hierarchy of the 1/3 state. This may explain the observed quasiparticle-quasihole asymmetry in the fractional quantum Hall hierarchy.
Milton and the Nightingale

La symbolique temporelle du papillon dans les sonnets lyriques de Milton renvoie a la propre autorite du poete
Ecology of a saline stream: community responses to spatial gradients of environmental conditions

Spatial changes in structural and functional characteristics of fish and macroinvertebrate communities in eastern Kentucky were investigated in a drainage system chronically exposed to high levels of chloride salts from nearby oilfield operations. Salinity levels at biological monitoring stations ranged from 0.12–31.3‰. Lotic regions with salinities greater than 10‰ were dominated by larvae of the dipterans Ephydra and Culicoides. In regions with salinities less than 10‰ species richness increased more or less linearly with decreasing levels of chloride salts. Ephemeropterans appeared to be one of the major invertebrate groups least tolerant of elevated NaCl levels and were absent in regions with salinities greater than 2‰ Availability of food resources, such as periphyton and particulate organic matter, did not appear to be grossly altered in disturbed regions, and it is suggested that the observed distribution of macroinvertebrate fauna was largely in response to taxonomic differences in salt tolerance. Fish seemed to be more tolerant of highly saline conditions, and several species were observed in regions experiencing salinities as high as 15‰. Accordingly, assemblages of fish taxa along the salinity gradient may have been influenced by trophic factors, such as spatial limitations in availability of invertebrate prey.
Understanding key assay parameters that affect measurements of trastuzumab-mediated ADCC against Her2 positive breast cancer cells

Use of the antibody trastuzumab to kill HER2+ breast cancer cells is an attractive therapy because of its specificity and minimal adverse effects. However, a large fraction of HER2+ positive patients are or will become resistant to this treatment. No other markers are used to determine sensitivity to trastuzumab other than HER2 status.Using the xCELLigence platform and flow cytometry, we have compared the ability of mononuclear cells (MNCs) from normal and breast cancer patients to kill different breast cancer cell lines in the presence (i.e., ADCC) or absence of trastuzumab. Image analysis and cell separation procedures were used to determine the differential contribution of immune cell subsets to ADCC activity. The assay demonstrated that ADCC activity is dependent on the presence of trastuzumab, the level of HER2 expression on the target, and the ratio of MNCs to tumor cells. There is a wide range of ADCC activity among normal individuals and breast cancer patients for high and low HER2-expressing tumor targets. Fresh MNCs display higher ADCC levels compared with cryopreserved cells. Natural killer cells display the highest ADCC followed by monocytes. T cells and B cells were ineffective in killing. A major mechanism of killing of tumor cells involves insertion of granzyme B and caspase enzymes via the antibody attached MNCs.
Like Night and Day — Shedding Light on Off-Hours Care

Dr. David Shulkin has begun making late-night administrative rounds at the hospital where he is president and chief executive officer. These visits are part of an initiative intended to address the stark discrepancy in quality between daytime and nighttime inpatient services.
Abstract 5485: mTOR inhibition promotes autophagy that reduces chemosensitivity and is partially restored by chloroquine

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL BACKGROUND. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase forms two multiprotein complexes, mTORC1 and mTORC2, which regulate cell growth, cell survival, and autophagy. We determined whether mTOR inhibition can induce cytoprotective autophagy resulting in anti-cancer drug resistance, and whether inhibition of autophagy using the lysomotrophic agent, chloroquine, can restore chemosensitivity. EXPERIMENTAL METHODS. Inhibition of mTOR was accomplished in human colon cancer cells (HT-29, DLD1) using lentiviral shRNA or by AZD8055, a TORC1 and TORC2 kinase inhibitor. These cells were then incubated with 5-FU (0-100 µM) or CPT-11 (0-20 µM) alone and in combination with chloroquine. LC3I/II expression, phospho-histone H2A.X (a DNA damage marker), and caspase cleavage were analyzed by Western blotting using highly specific antibodies, and clonogenic survival assays were also performed. RESULTS. AZD8055 was shown to attenuate caspase-3 and -9 cleavage and to suppress the expression of phospho-histone H2A.X induced by 5-FU or CPT-11 in colon cancer cells. AZD8055 was also found to antagonize the ability of 5-FU to inhibit clonogenic survival. Similarly, shRNA knockdown of mTOR attenuated 5-FU-induced caspase cleavage and phospho-histone H2A.X expression. Inhibition of mTOR by AZD8055 or shRNA enhanced the conversion of the autophagosome-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3) from a cytosolic (LC3I) to a membrane-bound (LC3II) form, consistent with induction of autophagy. Inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine was shown to attenuate the ability of AZD8055 to suppress 5-FU-induced caspase cleavage. Consistent with this result, chloroquine sensitized DLD1 cells to AZD8055 and 5-FU in a clonogenic survival assay. CONCLUSION. Inhibition of mTOR can protect colon cancer cells from DNA damage induced by cytotoxic chemotherapy. This cytoprotection was due, in part, to induction of pro-survival autophagy since chloroquine was able to partially restore chemosensitivity. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5485. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-5485
Fast half-loop maneuvers for a high alpha fighter aircraft using a singular perturbation feedback control law

Singular perturbation analysis is used to derive an outer layer feedback control law for a high alpha fighter aircraft to perform the half-loop maneuver. Pitch rate and angle of attack are treated as fast variables in the derivation. Bang-bang controls are derived to transfer the aircraft state from trim to the outer layer and from the outer layer to specified final half-loop values. The pitch rate is treated as a varibale faster than the angle of attack in the transfer of the state to and from the outer layer. A simulation of the derived control law is conducted at Mach 0.6 and 15,000 feet altitude. The half-loop was performed in 13.12 seconds. It is compared with a NASA pilot simulated half-loop maneuver which took 22.42 seconds for the same initial conditions.
Detection of SYT-SSX Rearrangements in Synovial Sarcomas by Real-Time One-Step RT-PCR:

Synovial sarcomas are aggressive tumors of adolescent and young adults that account for up to 10% of soft tissue sarcomas. Cytogenetically, they are characterized by translocation t(X;18), which is found in more than 95% of tumors. In most cases, it results in fusion of the SYT gene with the SSX1 or SSX2 gene, thus creating SYT-SSX1 or SYT-SSX2 rearrangement. The 2 types of gene fusion have been correlated with histologic variants and prognosis of synovial sarcomas. In this study, we developed a simple and rapid method for the simultaneous detection of SYT-SSX1 and SYT-SSX2 rearrangements by using a LightCycler real-time one-step reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technology (Roche). Oligonucleotide probes were designed so that the donor probe would span a fusion point and the acceptor probe would be complementary to the SSX1 sequence but have 2 nucleotide mismatches with SSX2 sequence. Such a design allows simultaneous amplification of 2 types of rearrangement in the same reaction but distinguishes them based on differences in melting temperature detected by melting curve analysis after PCR. With this method, 27 tumors (9 synovial sarcomas and 18 nonsynovial sarcomas) were studied and showed SYT-SSX1 rearrangement in 6 cases and SYT-SSX2 in 3 cases. These results had complete correlation with the finding of conventional RT-PCR and direct sequencing. In conclusion, we have developed a fast, accurate, and simple method for the detection of 2 major types of SYT-SSX rearrangement by using LightCycler RT-PCR and melting curve analysis.
Subseries and category

Abstract If a series of measurable functions diverges a.e., then the set of its subseries which diverge a.e. is residual in the set of all its subseries.
Canalicular stenosis secondary to weekly versus every-3-weeks docetaxel in patients with metastatic breast cancer

Abstract Purpose To compare the frequency of canalicular stenosis as a side effect of weekly versus every-3-weeks docetaxel in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Design Retrospective nonrandomized comparative trial. Patients and methods Eighteen patients enrolled in a phase II study of weekly docetaxel plus trastuzumab and 18 patients enrolled in a phase II study of every-3-weeks docetaxel plus doxorubicin were evaluated. Each patient underwent a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination, probing and irrigation of the nasolacrimal duct, and, in some instances, a nuclear lacrimal scan. Main outcome measures If epiphora (excessive tearing) was reported by the patient, its time of onset was documented. In patients with epiphora, presence or absence of canalicular stenosis was evaluated on the basis of the findings on probing and irrigation. The duration of treatment with docetaxel, the dose frequency, and the cumulative dose of docetaxel were recorded in each case. Results Fourteen patients (77%) receiving weekly docetaxel plus trastuzumab had epiphora. Nine of these patients had significant anatomic narrowing of the canaliculi. Bicanalicular silicone intubation or dacryocystorhinostomy was recommended in all nine patients. Eight patients underwent surgery and experienced complete or near complete resolution of epiphora. Although two patients (11%) receiving every-3-weeks docetaxel plus doxorubicin reported transient symptoms of epiphora, neither patient was found to have narrowing of the canaliculi, and the epiphora was not severe enough to justify surgical intervention. The mean duration of docetaxel therapy for the patients in this study was 19 weeks. The mean cumulative dose of docetaxel was higher in patients with canalicular stenosis than in patients without this side effect. Conclusions Canalicular stenosis was more common in patients receiving weekly docetaxel than in those receiving every-3-weeks docetaxel for metastatic breast cancer. Bicanalicular silicone intubation early in the course of weekly docetaxel therapy should be considered, because this intervention can prevent complete closure of the canaliculi. Once complete or near complete stenosis of the canaliculi occurs, placement of a permanent Pyrex glass tube may become necessary to overcome the blockage of tear outflow.
Dopaminergic Control of Circadian and Pulsatile Pituitary Thyrotropin Release in Women

Dopamine (DA) inhibits pituitary TSH release, but its role as a regulator of circadian and pulsatile TSH secretion is not clear. Accordingly, we studied the 24-h TSH secretory patterns in seven normal women in the early follicular phase of their cycles before and during DA receptor blockade by metoclopramide (MCP). Serum TSH was measured by a highly sensitive (0.05 mU/L) RIA at 15-min intervals for 48 h during sequential 24-h saline and 24-h MCP infusions (30 μg/kg·h). Sleep was confirmed by electroencephalogram between 2300–0700 h. All women had a nocturnal rise of TSH, independent of sleep, which began in the late afternoon and reached a peak (acrophase) after midnight during the saline infusion. This circadian periodicity was composed of a series of TSH pulses with greater magnitude and frequency during nocturnal hours. Infusion of MCP had no effect on pulse frequency, but the pulse amplitude increased (P < 0.05), especially at night. As a consequence, the circadian excursion of TSH, as assessed by cos...
A Graph-Based Framework for Early Assessment of Functional Failures in Complex Systems

In this paper, the Functional Failure Identification and Propagation (FFIP) framework is introduced as a novel approach for evaluating and assessing functional failure risk of physical systems during conceptual design. The task of FFIP is to estimate potential faults and their propagation paths under critical event scenarios. The framework is based on combining hierarchical system models of functionality and configuration, with behavioral simulation and qualitative reasoning. The main advantage of the method is that it allows the analysis of functional failures and fault propagation at a highly abstract system concept level before any potentially high-cost design commitments are made. As a result, it provides the designers and system engineers with a means of designing out functional failures where possible and designing in the capability to detect and mitigate failures early on in the design process. Application of the presented method to a fluidic system example demonstrates these capabilities.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Osteopontin mediates hypoxia-induced proliferation of cultured mesangial cells: Role of PKC and p38 MAPK

Osteopontin mediates hypoxia-induced proliferation of cultured mesangial cells: Role of PKC and p38 MAPK. Background We previously reported that hypoxia induces the proliferation of cultured mesangial cells mediated by the stimulation of intracellular calcium and the activation of protein kinase C (PKC). In the present study, we examined the roles of mesangial cell specific growth factors (platelet-derived growth factor and endothelin-1) and osteopontin (OPN) in hypoxia-induced proliferation of mesangial cells. In addition, we determined the effect of hypoxia on p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase activity and the roles of both PKC and p38 MAP kinase in hypoxia-induced alterations in OPN and mesangial cell growth. Methods Quiescent cultures of mesangial cells were exposed to hypoxia (3% O 2 ) or normoxia (18% O 2 ) in a serum-free medium, and [ 3 H]-thymidine incorporation, OPN protein and mRNA expression, and p38 MAP kinase activity were assessed. Results Hypoxic-conditioned medium mimicked the effect of hypoxia on thymidine incorporation, suggesting the release of diffusable growth promoting factor(s) by hypoxia. Neither anti–endothelin-1 nor anti–platelet-derived growth factor-neutralizing antibodies had an effect on increased thymidine incorporation induced by hypoxia. However, blocking the effects of OPN either with anti-OPN antibody or its β3 integrin receptor antibody completely prevented the hypoxia-induced increase in thymidine incorporation. Hypoxia also stimulated OPN protein and mRNA levels. Hypoxia caused an acute activation of p38 MAP kinase, which was inhibited by both verapamil and an inhibitor of PKC (calph C). PKC inhibitor and an inhibitor of p38 MAP kinase (SB203580) reduced the hypoxia-induced stimulation of both OPN and cell growth. Conclusions These studies provide, to our knowledge, the first evidence demonstrating the role of OPN in hypoxia-induced proliferation of mesangial cells. In addition, hypoxia causes an activation of p38 MAP kinase in a calcium- and PKC-dependent manner, and the activation of PKC and p38 MAP kinase appears to be involved in the stimulation of both OPN and mesangial cell proliferation induced by hypoxia.
Multiple jejunal diverticulosis and small bowel volvulus

Abstract A case of diverticulosis of the jejunum with volvulus of the small intestine is reported. A brief discussion of the common clinical features and the principles of treatment is given. A review of twelve cases of jejunal diverticulosis with small bowel volvulus is presented.
Spectroscopic Observations of the 1982 Eclipse of 31 Cygni

The zeta Auriage binary system 31 Cygni (K4Ib + B4V, period = 10.4 years) was observed during egress from chromospheric eclipse in 1982 with 11.3 A/mm coude spectroscopy. A rich chromospheric absorption spectrum was observed, decreasing in strength at the egress progressed. Chromospheric line strengths are consistent with those observed during previous eclipses, indicating no changes in size in the K-star chromosphere. Radial velocities of chromospheric lines were also measured, and are consistent with or a few km/sec more negative than the K-star velocity, also consistent with observations made during previous eclipses.
Associations of lifetime abstention and past and current alcohol use with late-life mental health: A propensity score analysis

Abstract Background Compared to the extensive research on the effects of alcohol intake on physical health, little research has been done on the effects of alcohol use/nonuse patterns on mental disorders in late life. This study examined associations between mental disorders and alcohol use/nonuse patterns among individuals aged 65+ years. Methods Data came from the public use files of the 2008 to 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Alcohol use/nonuse groups were lifetime abstainers, ex-drinkers, bingers, and nonbingers. Mental health problems were lifetime major depressive episode (MDE) and anxiety disorder, past-year MDE and anxiety disorder, and past-year serious suicidal ideation. To minimize selection biases resulting from a complex array of covariates, we implemented a generalized boosted model to generate propensity score weights on covariates. Then we employed logistic regression models with mental health outcomes as the dependent variables. Results The four alcohol use/nonuse groups did not differ in past-year MDE. However, odds ratios show that, relative to non-binge drinking, lifetime abstention decreased the odds of lifetime MDE by more than 60% (OR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.23–0.68, p = .001) and the odds of lifetime anxiety disorder by almost half (OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.38–0.79, p = .002). Ex-drinkers were more likely than nonbingers to report past-year serious suicidal thoughts (OR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.45–3.62, p Conclusions While lifetime abstainers had significantly better lifetime mental health histories than nonbingers, ex-drinkers had worse past-year mental health status. Since lifetime abstainers and ex-drinkers have significantly different characteristics, researchers should distinguish between these groups.
Methods of Applying Insecticides for Contorlling Western Corn Rootworm Larvae

Methods of application, insecticidal formulations, and rates of application were investigated during 1968 and 1969 to determine their effectiveness in controlling Diabratira virgifera LeConte. Granular and liquid formulations of organophosphate and carbamate insecticides were applied as broadcast treatments before planting, band treatments at planting, fertilizer-insecticide treatments at planting, and postplanting treatments at cultivation. Results indicated that application rates cannot be reduced by half the recommended rates without sacrificing a significant degree of corn rootworm control. Of the methods of application evaluated, postplanting treatments applied at cultivation time consistently provided outstanding control of western corn root worm larvae. There was a different response between the methods of application and insecticidal formulations. Granular formulations applied as broadcast, hand, and postplanting treatments resulted in better rootworm control than did liquid formulations applied by these methods. When insecticides were applied as fertilizer-insecticide combinations, however, liquid formulations gave better control than did granular formulations.
Medicine Ward Patients in a Large Teaching Hospital: A High-Risk Population for Catheter-Associated Bloodstream Infections?

Abstract BACKGROUND: Infection control surveillance for catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CA-BSIs) is often focused in intensive care units (ICUs), where national benchmark data is available. Limited data on CA-BSI rates are available for non-ICU areas. Increasing acuity among non-ICU patients with central venous catheters (CVCs) raised the need to evaluate these areas. OBJECTIVE: To determine the CA-BSI rate in selected non-ICU medical wards over a 13-month period. METHODS: An infection control specialist performed active surveillance for CA-BSIs on four medical wards (A, B, C, D) from April 2002 to April 2003. CA-BSI was defined using NNIS definitions. CVC days were obtained from an electronic report based on nurses' CVC charting. Type of CVC and CA-BSI microbiology was documented. RESULTS: The general medicine wards each average 5–10 admissions/day. Each ward has separate nursing staff. A medical director, nurse manager, and interns/residents are shared between wards A & B and between wards C & D. The mean monthly CVC days for the 13-month period was 141 (range 77-215) per ward. Device utilization ratios for the four wards were 0.21, 0.25, 0.19, 0.24, respectively. Forty-two episodes of CA-BSI were identified. The mean CA-BSI rate in Ward A was 5.3/1000 CVC days (n=9); Ward B: 8.0/1000 CVC days (n=16); Ward C: 4.3/1000 CVC days (n=7); and Ward D: 4.9/1000 CVC days (n=10). CA-BSI organisms were: polymicrobial, 12% (n=5); Enterococcus spp., 24% (n=10); Coagulase-negative staphylococci, 24% (n=10); Staphylococcus aureus, 7% (n=3); other gram-positive, 2% (n=1); Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 2% (n=1); Escherichia coli, 2% (n=1); Proteus mirabilis, 2% (n=1); other gram-negative, 10% (n=4); Candida albicans, 12% (n=5), and other Candida, 2% (n=1). Patients with CA-BSI had the following catheters: tunneled, 5% (n=2); non-tunneled, 83% (n=35); and implanted port, 7% (n=3). Two patients had more than one type of CVC. CONCLUSION: Non-ICU medical wards in our study had device utilization ratios that were considerably lower than medical ICUs, but CA-BSI rates were comparable to medical ICUs nationally. Studies of catheter utilization rates and knowledge of CVC care and insertion on medical wards should be performed. Interventions usually focused on ICU personnel may be indicated to prevent CA-BSI on medical wards.
Structural classification of multi-input nonlinear systems

We present new structural classification and parameter estimation results that are applicable to multi-input nonlinear systems. The mathematical relationships between the self- and cross-(Volterra and Wiener) kernels are derived for a basic two-input nonlinear structure (Fig. 1a). These results are then used to develop classification methods for more complicated two-input structures. Algorithms for estimating the parameters (linear and nonlinear subsystems) of these structures are also presented.
Studies on dihydrofolate reductase from normal and neoplastic mouse tissue, II. Effects of some organic solvents on the enzyme

Abstract 1. 1. Dihydrofolate reductase has been partially purified from mouse liver, mouse intestine, and the Ehrlich ascites tumour. 2. 2. A comparison of the K m values for dihydrofolate and TPNH and the three enzyme preparations has shown that the three dihydrofolate reductases have very similar affinities for both substrate and cofactor. 3. 3. The tumour enzyme reduced folic acid at a rate one-fifth that of the liver and intestine enzymes. 4. 4. Mouse dihydrofolate reductase is activated by urea and a number of salts.
Precautions When Using Opioid Agonists for Induction of Anesthesia

Opioids produce unpredictable anesthesia that is associated with poor muscle relaxation, prolonged onset, and relatively difficult intubation. They often induce bradycardia, which must be countered with atropine or glycopyrrolate, and hypoventilation, which requires ventilatory support. Return to consciousness is often delayed, making postoperative assessment of the patient's condition difficult. Finally opioid induction is relatively expensive compared with other anesthetic induction regimens.