cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and biological evaluation of purine derivatives incorporating metal chelating ligands as HIV integrase inhibitors

Abstract Because of its essential role in HIV replication and lack of human counterpart, HIV integrase is an attractive target for the development of novel anti-AIDS agents. Among the recently developed integrase inhibitors, only the α,γ-diketo acid (DKA) compounds were biologically validated as potent and selective integrase inhibitors. The general structure of DKAs contains a diketo acid moiety as the Mg2+ chelating pharmacophore, and an adjacent aryl group to provide selectivity. Numerous structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies on DKAs have been conducted, which generally involved substituting the carboxylate group or the aryl group. Our objective was to investigate the SARs of the DKA molecule by incorporating a purine ring in the aryl moiety and replacing the labile diketo acid moiety with other divalent metal (Me2+) chelating ligands. A series of amide substituted purine derivatives were synthesized via palladium-catalyzed amidation reactions, and their biological activities against HIV integrase were evaluated. These purine derivatives showed anti-integrase activity at low micromolar range. The biological results indicated that the type of Me2+ ligands, two-point ligand picolinamide or three-point ligand 8-hydroxy-quinoline-7-carboxamide, affected inhibitory potency depending on the substitution position of the para-fluorobenzyl group. The C6-,C8-dipicolinamide substituted purine (32) exhibited the best potency among this series.
A Novel Cache Sharing Scheme and Implementation in Multi-Core Real-Time Linux System

Memory allocation and management of real-time task and sub real-time task have been becoming the hot problem that people concern all the time. Page coloring technology is a kind of practical method which can realize isolation of cache space. This article aimed at the problem of cache resource competition caused by shared memory on multi-core real-time system, to solve the collision of cache visit, put forward the scheme of cache space isolation based on page coloring technology and the realization method. The problem that data collide with the visit on cache can be finally avoided, by dividing the shared cache space.
Monte-Carlo simulation study of the self-organization of nanometric amorphous precipitates in regular arrays during ion irradiation

High-dose ion implantation of materials that undergo drastic density change upon amorphization at certain implantation conditions results in periodically arranged, self-organized, nanometric configurations of the amorphous phase. A simple model explaining the phenomenon is introduced and implemented in a Monte-Carlo simulation code. Through simulation conditions for observing lamellar precipitates are specified and additional information about the compositional and structural state during the ordering process is gained.
Toward an Understanding of Blues and Beyond an Essentialist Reading of Cultural Texts

(1995). Toward an Understanding of Blues and Beyond an Essentialist Reading of Cultural Texts. Discourse: Studies in the Cultural Politics of Education: Vol. 16, No. 3, pp. 347-363.
Plasminogen-enriched pulse-spray thrombolysis with tPA: further developments.

PURPOSE To further improve methods for pulsed plasminogenenriched thrombolysis and to compare results with the best obtainable with use of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) alone. MATERIALS AND METHODS Parameters of plasminogen-enriched pulse-spray thrombolysis were manipulated in groups of rabbits with inferior vena cava thrombosis, and weights of 1-hour residual thrombus were compared. Variables evaluated were (i) tPA pulse frequency, (ii) amount of plasminogen used for enrichment, (iii) tPA concentration and amount, (iv) pulsed versus infused tPA, and (v) admixture versus separation of plasminogen and tPA. RESULTS With use of 3 mg of tPA and ≈0.9 mg plasminogen enrichment, efficacy varied directly with pulse frequency over a pulse range of every 15 minutes to every 30 seconds. With use of 30-second pulses of tPA at a concentration 0.125 mg/mL, efficacy also correlated directly with increasing plasminogen enrichment up to, but not beyond, ≈1.8 mg per 1.24 g of clot. Optimized methodology yielded 89% lysis in 1 hour, as compared to 74% lysis previously reported with use of optimized low-concentration (≈0.01 mg/ mL) tPA alone. Plasminogen enrichment in conjunction with low concentrations of tPA, admixture of tPA and plasminogen, and fractionation of the plasminogen enrichment all proved to be non-productive or counterproductive. CONCLUSION Optimized in vivo postthrombotic plasminogen enrichment significantly accelerated thrombolysis of experimental clots compared to use of optimized tPA alone.
Solubilization of gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor protein from mammalian brain.

Abstract Radioactive gamma-aminobutyric acid and muscimol bind to two classes of sites in fractions of bovine brain, with KD values for gamma-aminobutyric acid of 28 nM and 150 nM and for muscimol of 3 nM and 21 nM; the maximum binding was 0.6 and 1.1 pmol/mg protein respectively for both ligands. Binding activity was solubilized by deoxycholate detergent, with 20–30% yield, assayed by rapid mini-gel filtration columns. Soluble muscimol binding had an apparent KD of 41 nM and capacity of 0.6 pmol/mg, and was inhibited competitively by gamma-aminobutyric acid (KI = 68 nM) and by other receptor-specific ligands. Gel filtration revealed a major peak of binding activity with apparent molecular weight of 900,000.
Room fires as a design determinant

Potential fire intensity and fire spread are acknowledged to be important considerations in designing buildings. Most investigations in this area have attempted to relate fire intensity to fuel load. The author submits that room geometry and influence fire intensity and that architectural layouts around room openings may influence fire spread by means of convestion.
The Use of Stress by Language-Impaired Children.

This investigation was conducted to identify the stressing patterns of language-impaired children in the early stages of language acquisition. Based on Wieman's (1976) work with children who were acquiring language normally, it had been expected that the subjects of this study would tend to stress the new information in two-word utterances. Only one of the five preschool language-impaired children used such a pattern. Three subjects tended to stress words in the final position and one of the subjects' preference was unclear. The results, although preliminary, provide support for the contention that language-impaired children may differ from normal children in their use of stress.
Net working capital investment and capital budgeting analysis: Some pedagogical insights

Abstract Net working capital (NWC) investment, as a factor in discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, receives little attention in the capital budgeting literature and accounting textbooks. The purpose of this paper is to explore the ways in which this important component of the analysis can be intregrated into the classroom and thus add to the student's overall understanding of capital budgeting. Four areas are discussed: (1) the significance of NWC investment in capital budgeting analysis, (2) the opportunity cost nature of the NWC investment, (3)measurement of the components of the NWC investment, and (4) use of the NWC investment to help restore the bottom line in DCF analysis to a pure cash flow basis. Integration of the fourth point into the topic of capital budgeting is found to be a convenient way to reinforce the student's understanding of the statement of cash flows.
The role of a radiographer counsellor in a large centre for cancer treatment: a discussion paper based on an audit of the work of a radiographer counsellor

It is widely accepted that cancer patients have unmet psychosocial needs. There are as yet few guidelines on the appropriate role of a counsellor in centres for cancer treatment. In this study the activities of a radiographer counsellor were audited to try to identify the proportion of patients who would benefit from seeing a counsellor, to estimate the cost of such a service, and to obtain indications of how the effects of counselling could be evaluated. The study suggested that 44% of patients attending for routine radiotherapy have abnormally high levels of anxiety and might benefit from counselling. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) is proposed as an objective measure of benefit. Costing and resource allocation are discussed.
The role of public purchasing departments in acquisition processes for consulting services

This paper describes in detail the type of value that can be associated with meaningfully involving public purchasing departments in acquisition processes for consulting services. Where this value occurred throughout the various stages of the acquisition processes examined is also described. Data were collected at five Canadian municipalities and involved a detailed examination of ten cases where the purchasing department was meaningfully involved in the acquisition process. Case study informants included five purchasing managers, ten purchasing agents, nine client department managers and a consultant. This work addresses the problem of low involvement of the public purchasing department involvement in these important purchase decisions and some significant gaps in the public procurement literature.
Measuring and Modeling the NRCS of the Sea for Backscatter

Recent ship-based measurements using a calibrated, coherent, dual-polarized, X-band radar illuminated the behavior of the normalized radar cross section of the sea, NRCS or s0, at incidence angles of 88deg to 89deg. For wind seas s0(VV) at these incidence angles behaves much like those at lower incidence angles while s0(HH) behaves very differently, being largest looking upwind and smallest looking downwind. Fits of a multiscale scattering model to these data and data at lower incidence angles show that over the range of incidence angles from 0deg to 89deg, s0(VV) is adequately explained by the model while s0(HH) is generally higher than the model predicts at incidence angles above about 45deg. Thus scattering phenomena exist on the ocean that affect HH backscatter very strongly at high incidence angles while impacting VV backscatter only slightly. We show that when the ocean surface is disturbed by currents s0(HH) can exceed s0(VV) by as much as 15 dB for long periods of time and over large spatial areas. We examine phenomena that might account for this behavior and how they might affect the wind sea case.
Effectiveness of oral dexamethasone in the treatment of moderate to severe pharyngitis in children.

Objective To determine the effectiveness of a single dose of oral dexamethasone in reducing the pain associated with moderate to severe pharyngitis in pediatric patients. Design Prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Setting Large, urban pediatric emergency department between March 2002 and November 2003. Patients Children aged 5 to 18 years with moderate to severe pharyngitis (odynophagia or dysphagia, moderate to severe pharyngeal erythema or swelling, and a McGrath Facial Affective Scale score of 0.75 or higher [scale 0.0-1.0]). Interventions Study patients were randomly assigned to receive 1 dose of either oral dexamethasone suspension (0.6 mg/kg with a maximum of 10 mg) or placebo of the same volume. All participants were tested for group A β-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis and treated accordingly. Daily telephone follow-up was conducted until complete resolution of sore throat. Main Outcome Measures Primary outcome variables included hours to initial relief of sore throat and time to the complete resolution of pain. Secondary outcome variables included changes in the McGrath Facial Affective Scale score at 24 and 48 hours, persistence of associated symptoms, use of anti-inflammatory or antipyretic medication, and subsequent use of medical resources for dehydration or pain. Results A convenience sample of 150 patients was randomized to receive either dexamethasone (n = 75) or placebo (n = 75). Twenty-five patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 125 patients available for data analysis; 57 received dexamethasone and 68 received placebo. Patients who received dexamethasone reported earlier onset of pain relief (9.2 vs 18.2 hours; P P = .04), and larger changes in the McGrath Facial Affective Scale score in the first 24 hours (−0.58 vs −0.43; P = .002). Children who tested negative for group A β-hemolytic streptococci had greater pain relief with dexamethasone compared with placebo (onset of pain relief, 8.7 vs 24 hours; P = .001), less time to complete resolution of sore throat (37.9 vs 70.8 hours; P = .006), and greater changes in the McGrath Facial Affective Scale score in the first 24 hours (−0.50 vs −0.21; P Conclusion Children with moderate to severe pharyngitis had earlier onset of pain relief and shorter duration of sore throat when given oral dexamethasone.
Antibody Response of the Newborn After Herpes Simplex Virus Infection

Antibody responses to herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, as determined by enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA), neutralization, and immunoblot, were assessed in sera from newborns with documented HSV infections. The antibody response of the newborns was defined by disease duration and correlated with disease classification and outcome. Three unique observations were made. First, the quantity of total antibodies at presentation, as determined by ELISA and neutralization, was not predictive of disease classification or outcome. Second, the frequency and intensity of antibody responses to immunologically recognized HSV polypeptides in newborns with central nervous system and disseminated infections were greater than those in newborns with infections localized to the skin, eye, and mouth. Third, the long-term outcome in HSV-infected newborns could be predicted by the quantity of antibodies to the immediate-early infected cell polypeptide ICP 4. These data provide insight into host response to individual polypeptides and their potential value in predicting long-term prognosis.
Optimized quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics strategies for nitrile vibrational probes: acetonitrile and para-tolunitrile in water and tetrahydrofuran.

The nitrile (C≡N) group is a powerful probe of structure and dynamics because its vibrational frequency is extraordinarily sensitive to the electrostatic and chemical characteristics of its local environment. For example, site-specific nitrile labels are useful indicators of protein structure because their infrared (IR) absorption spectra can clearly distinguish between solvent-exposed residues and residues buried in the hydrophobic core of a protein. In this work, three variants of the optimized quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (OQM/MM) technique for computing C≡N vibrational frequencies were developed and assessed for acetonitrile in water. For the most robust variant, the transferability of the OQM/MM methodology to different solutes and solvents was evaluated by simulating the IR absorption spectra of para-tolunitrile in water and tetrahydrofuran and comparing to experiment and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The OQM/MM frequencies compared favorably to DFT for para-tolunitrile/wate...
Regional patterns and local variations of sediment distribution in the Hudson River Estuary

Abstract The Hudson River Benthic Mapping Project, funded by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, resulted in a comprehensive data set consisting of high-resolution multibeam bathymetry, sidescan sonar, and sub-bottom data, as well as over 400 sediment cores and 600 grab samples. This detailed data set made it possible to study the regional pattern and the local variations of the sediment distribution in the Hudson River Estuary. Based on these data we describe the distribution of sediment texture and process-related sedimentary environments for the whole 240-km long estuary together with along-river variations of depth, cross-sectional area, and grain size distribution. We compare these parameters with changes in surrounding geology and tributary input and, as a result, divide the Hudson River Estuary in eight sections with distinct combinations of channel morphology, bedrock type, sediment texture, and sediment dynamics. The regional sediment distribution consists of marine sand-dominated sediments near the ocean end of the estuary, a large, mud-dominated central section, and fluvial sand-dominated sediments in the freshwater section of the Hudson River Estuary. This regional trend is highly modified by small-scale variations in the sediment distribution. These local variations are controlled by changes in morphology, bedrock, and tributary input, as well as by anthropogenic modifications of the estuary. In some areas these local variations are larger than the overall trend in sediment distribution and control the actual sediment type, as well as the condition of erosion and deposition in the estuary.
Effect of an antagonist of pteroylglutamic acid on the leukemia of Ak mice.

SummaryThe transplanted leukemia of Ak mice can be partially controlled either by a pteroylglutamic acid-free diet, combined with succinylsulfathiazole and a crude antagonist of pteroylglutamic acid, or by the addition of large amounts of the crude antagonist to an unpurified “normal mouse diet.” Life is prolonged and the severity of the disease is reduced.
An experimental study of the surface composition effect on two-phase flow in a glass capillary tube

Abstract The pressure drop for water and cyclohexane separated by a meniscus while flowing in a 0.00526 inch radius Pyrex glass capillary tube was measured for menscus velocities of 0.1 to 1.7 cm/sec. The interfacial contact angles calculated were dependent on velocity. The glass capillary was pretreated to control qualitatively the surface concentration of cyclohexane before the meniscus passed through the tube. The contact angle, measured through the water phase, increased very significantly as the cyclohexane surface concentration increased. The meniscus velocity had the largest effect on contact angle for the case of highest initial cyclohexane surface concentration. This is believed to result from an interaction of the rate of cyclohexane desorption from the wall with the meniscus velocity.
Enhancing systematic motion in molecular dynamics simulation

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is an important approach for conformational search. The conformational searching efficiency in MD simulation is greatly limited by the systematic conformational change or motion. We developed a new MD simulation method to enhance the conformational search efficiency through accelerating the systematic motion. In this work, we describe the theoretical basis and the simulation algorithm of this method for atomic systems. In this method, systematic motion is accelerated by a guiding force derived from a local free-energy surface defined for a system. Under certain approximations, the guiding forces can be estimated from the force information the system experienced in the past through a memory function, and these forces are used to guide the current motion in the same simulation. Therefore, this guiding force is called the self-guiding force and this kind of simulation is called the self-guided molecular dynamics (SGMD) simulation. We have performed detailed analysis of the characteristics of the SGMD in terms of energetic, structural, and dynamic properties with a Lennard-Jones argon system. In addition, we demonstrated the enhanced conformational search efficiency of the SGMD method through the ergodic measure and the crystallization of liquid argon.
Churg-strauss syndrome presenting with salivary gland enlargement and respiratory distress

The full expression of Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) is characterized by eosinophilia, a necrotizing vasculitis of small to medium blood vessels, and extravascular granuloma formation. The development of CSS typically occurs on a background of asthma, allergic rhinitis, or nasal polyps (1). A number of allergic, infectious, neoplastic, and idiopathic diseases may present with blood as well as tissue eosinophilia, sharing patterns of organ involvement and clinical features that are similar to those of CSS (2). Prompt distinction of CSS from these other entities is essential to the timely institution of appropriate treatment and the prevention of the potentially devastating complications of this disorder: congestive heart failure, severe gastrointestinal ischemia, central nervous system involvement, crippling vasculitic neuropathy (i.e., mononeuritis multiplex), glomerulonephritis, and others (3). In CSS, allergic manifestations and upper respiratory tract symptoms may occur anywhere frommonths to many years before the onset of systemic vasculitis. Empiric glucocorticoid treatment of the atopic features that characterize the disease’s early phase may suppress the emergence of vasculitis, at least temporarily. Conversely, the introduction of more effective inhaled agents for the management of asthma (e.g., the leukotriene inhibitors) is believed to unmask latent CSS in many patients by permitting reductions in the systemic glucocorticoids used to treat reactive airway disease (4). In the absence of pathologic evidence of destructive inflammation within blood vessel walls, distinguishing early CSS from other forms of eosinophilia is challenging. The pathologic diagnosis of CSS has traditionally been linked to the detection of necrotizing vasculitis accompanied by presence of eosinophilic granulomas (1). All of the patients described in 1951 by Churg and Strauss died from their conditions. Consequently, the clinical and pathologic features of the cases described in the original report of the disease were advanced. Moreover, complete postmortem examinations were available on all patients. In the current era, when awareness of CSS is higher, diagnostic testing is more facile, and the availability of effective therapy is widespread, the diagnosis of CSS is more likely to be suspected in the clinic than at postmortem. The authors describe a case of CSS in a patient with long-standing asthma and rhinitis who developed enlarged salivary glands, lymphadenopathy, pulmonary infiltrates, and respiratory distress. Identification of nonvasculitic eosinophilic tissue infiltrates within the salivary glands and skin in the context of the patient’s overall clinical picture led to the diagnosis of CSS at an early stage, the prompt institution of therapy, and a good outcome.
Modification of allelopathic effects ofp-coumaric acid on morning-glory seedling biomass by glucose, methionine, and nitrate.

Studies of allelopathy have emphasized primarily the identification and quantification of phytotoxins in soils, with only limited attention directed toward how organic (carbon) and inorganic constituents (nutrients) in the soil may modify the action of such phytotoxins. In the present study, increasing carbon (C) levels (up to 108μg C/g soil) supplied as glucose, phenylalanine, orp-hydroxybenzoic acid did not alter morning-glory biomass, but similar C levels supplied as leucine, methionine, orp-coumaric acid were inversely related to morning-glory biomass. Similar joint action and multiplicative analyses were used to describe morning-glory biomass response to various C sources and to generate dose isolines for combinations ofp-coumaric acid and methionine at two NO3-N levels and for combinations ofp-coumaric acid and glucose at one NO3-N level. Methionine, glucose, and NO3-N treatments influenced the inhibitory action ofp-coumaric acid on biomass production of morning-glory seedlings. For example, results from the multiplicative analysis indicated that a 10% inhibition of morning-glory biomass required 7.5μgp-coumaric acid/g soil, while the presence of 3.68μg methionine/g soil thep-coumaric acid concentration required for 10% inhibition was only 3.75μg/ g soil. Similar response trends were obtained forp-coumaric acid and glucose. The higher NO3-N (14 vs. 3.5μg/g) treatments lowered the methionine and increased thep-coumaric acid concentrations required for 10% inhibition of morning-glory biomass. These results suggested that allelopathic interactions in soil environments can be a function of interacting neutral substances (e.g., glucose), promoters (e.g., NO3-N), and/or inhibitors (e.g., methionine andp-coumaric acid) of plant growth.
Intraoperative pancreatoscopy: a valuable tool for pancreatic surgeons?

Effective treatment of pancreatic pathology relies on both preoperative and intraoperative decision making. Traditionally, the use of preoperative imaging and endoscopic modalities, in combination with intraoperative findings and pathologic evaluation, has guided the surgeons to perform the correct operative procedure. We hypothesize that the intraoperative use of pancreatoscopy (fiberoptic endoscopy of the pancreatic duct) is a valuable adjunct in selected cases to facilitate the performance of the appropriate definitive surgical treatment. We queried our IRB-approved, prospectively maintained the pancreatic surgery database identifying the uses of intraoperative pancreatoscopy in all pancreatic resections at our institution from 2005–2012. Operative notes, pathology reports, and perioperative outcomes were evaluated. During the study period, 1,016 pancreatic resections were performed at our institution. Twenty-three cases during this period included the use of intraoperative pancreatoscopy. Eighteen (78 %) of these operations were performed for presumed main duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. In five cases (22 %), the surgical resection was extended secondary to the intraoperative pancreatoscopy findings. Appropriate surgical treatment of the pancreatic lesions can be challenging in the face of preoperative imaging limitations. The selective use of intraoperative fiberoptic endoscopy to evaluate the pancreatic duct appears to help to enable the surgeon to better perform the appropriate resection and optimal treatment.
Trifluoperazine inhibition of calmodulin-sensitive Ca2+-ATPase and calmodulin insensitive (Na+ + K+)- and Mg2+-ATPase activities of human and rat red blood cells

Abstract Trifluoperazine dihydrochloride-induced inhibition of calmodulin-activated Ca2+-ATPase and calmodulin-insensitive (Na+ + K+)- and Mg2+-ATPase activities of rat and human red cell lysates and their isolated membranes was studied. Trifluoperazine inhibited both calmodulin-sensitive and calmodulin-insensitive ATPase activities in these systems. The concentration of trifluoperazine required to produce 50% inhibition of calmodulin-sensitive Ca2+-ATPase was found to be slightly lower than that required to produce the same level of inhibition of other ATPase activities. Drug concentrations which inhibited calmodulin-sensitive ATPase completely, produced significant reduction in calmodulin-insensitive ATPases as well. The data presented in this report suggest that trifluoperazine is slightly selective towards calmodulin-sensitive Ca2+-ATPase but that it is also capable of inhibiting calmodulin-insensitive (Na+ + K+)-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase activities of red cells at relatively low concentrations. Thus the action of the drug is not due entirely to its interaction with calmodulin-mediated processes, and trifluoperazine cannot be assumed to be a selective inhibitor of calmodulin interactions under all circumstances.
An axiomatic approach to the integral

(1993). An Axiomatic Approach to the Integral. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 100, No. 1, pp. 16-25.
Network mechanical properties of amine-cured epoxies

The technique of Impulse Viscoelasticity was used to characterize the network mechanical properties of amine-cured epoxies during cure. The effects of amine molecular weight, functionality and stoichiometry were investigated. Among the properties which were obtained were the equilibrium tensile modulus, gelation time, cure and thermal stresses, volumetric changes during cure, glass transition temperature, thermal expansion coefficient, and molecular weight between cress-links. It was found that these networks cured elastically and agreed closely with the predictions of rubber elasticity theory over a wide range of crosslink densities.
Value of the tricuspid valve echogram for estimating right ventricular end-diastolic pressure during vasodilator therapy

To evaluate the potential usefulness of the tricuspid valve echogram for assessing right ventricular end-diastolic pressure, 9 patients with right heart failure and 10 normal subjects were studied. In the nine patients, the initial P-R interval of 184 ± 26 (±1 standard deviation) ms did not differ significantly from the normal subjects' value of 170 ± 17 ms; however, the A-C Interval of 162 ± 23 ms was significantly longer (p < 0.001) and the PR-AC interval of 21 ± 16 ms was shorter (p < 0.001) when compared with corresponding control measurements. Nitroprusside infusion significantly decreased the right ventricular end-diastolic pressure from 15 ± 4 to 8 ± 4 mm Hg in the nine patients (p < 0.001). Additionally, it decreased the average A-C interval to 137 ± 25 ms (p < 0.001) and the mean PR-AC interval to 46 ± 18 ms (p < 0.05). However, the PR-AC interval did not correlate closely with the right ventricular end-diastolic pressure. Furthermore, it did not separate elevated right ventricular end-diastolic pressures from normal pressures. However, a qualitative assessment of the morphologic appearance of tricuspid valve closure motion during the A-C segment was predictive of right ventricular enddiastolic pressure over the wide range produced by nitroprusside infusion. In addition, it reliably identified patients with elevated end-diastolic pressures. All nine patients had a B plateau or hump in the initial resting tricuspid valve echogram when the right ventricular end-diastolic pressure was 9 mm Hg or greater. Therefore, an analysis of morphologic changes in the tricuspid valve closure motion provides a valuable noninvasive tool for assessing right ventricular end-diastolic pressure at rest and during acute vasodilator therapy in patients with right heart failure.
Effect of Dietary n-3 and n-6 Oils with and without Food Restriction on Activity of Antioxidant Enzymes and Lipid Peroxidation in Livers of Cyclophosphamide Treated Autoimmune-Prone NZB/W Female Mice

Objective: Cyclophosphamide (CTX), an alkylating agent, is extensively used in the treatment of lupus nephritis, but its administration has been associated with free radical mediated oxidative stress. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of dietary corn oil (CO), fish oil (FO) and food restriction (FR) on the activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes, fatty acid composition and lipid peroxidation following CTX administration in autoimmune-prone NZB/W female mice.Methods: Autoimmune-prone NZB/W female mice were fed either ad libitum (AL) or food restricted (60% of AL intake), semipurified diets containing 5% CO or 5% FO supplemented with equal levels of antioxidants and injected with either phosphate buffered saline (PBS), or CTX (50 mg/kg body weight) every 10 days. Proteinuria was measured biweekly. The treatment was stopped at 10 months and diets were continued until the mice were killed at 12 months. Fatty acid composition, activity of antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation were...
Mechanical analysis of percutaneous sacroplasty using CT image based finite element models

Sacral insufficiency fractures are an under-diagnosed source of acute lower back pain. A polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement injection procedure called sacroplasty has recently been utilized as a treatment for sacral insufficiency fractures. It is believed that injection of cement reduces fracture micromotion, thus relieving pain. In this study, finite element models were used to examine the mechanical effects of sacroplasty. Finite element models were constructed from CT images of two cadavers on which sacroplasties were performed. The images were used to create the mesh geometry, and to apply non-homogeneous material properties to the models. Models were created representing the case with and without cement, thus simulating the pre- and post-sacroplasty situation. The results indicate that the sacrum has a 3D multi-axial state of strain. While compressive strains were the largest, tensile and shear strains were significant as well. Cement in the sacrum reduced strains 40-60% locally around the cement. However, overall model stiffness only increased 1-4%. This indicates that the effects of sacroplasty are primarily local.
EXACT SOLITON SOLUTIONS IN A PERIODICALLY TWISTED BIREFRINGENT FIBER

We have obtained exact soliton solutions for a more general case of birefringent couplers. To our knowledge this represents the most general solution to date of this kind. In addition, we describe aspects of their interesting physical behavior.
Faster Algorithms Via Approximation Theory

This monograph presents techniques to approximate real functions such as xs; x—1 and e—x by simpler functions and shows how these results can be used for the design of fast algorithms. The key lies in the fact that such results imply faster ways to approximate primitives such as Asv; A—1v and exp(—A)v, and to compute matrix eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Indeed, many fast algorithms reduce to the computation of such primitives, which have proved useful for speeding up several fundamental computations such as random walk simulation, graph partitioning and solving linear systems of equations.
Reconstructive approach for patients with augmentation mammaplasty undergoing nipple-sparing mastectomy.

Background: Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is a recent advance in the therapeutic and prophylactic management of breast cancer; however, the procedure is associated with increased reconstructive complications. Data on NSM after previous breast augmentation are limited. Objectives: The authors compared reconstructive complications after NSM between patients with previously augmented breasts and a larger cohort that had not undergone prior augmentation. An approach to NSM that involves 2-stage reconstruction in augmented patients is also described. Methods: Medical records of NSMs performed at New York University Langone Medical Center from 2006 to 2013 were reviewed. Data points evaluated included patient characteristics, comorbidities, breast implant plane, and reconstructive complications. Fisher’s exact and t tests were used for the comparisons. Results: During the study period, NSMs were performed in 17 augmented breasts at this institution. After NSM, 15 of these breasts underwent implant-based reconstruction and 2 breasts underwent microvascular free flaps. Reconstructive complications included 1 hematoma managed nonoperatively (5.9%) and 1 partial necrosis of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) (5.9%). Compared with the larger nonaugmented cohort (n = 332), patients with previously augmented breasts had fewer complications, and there were no statistically significant differences in the rates of mastectomy flap necrosis, partial NAC necrosis, complete NAC necrosis, hematoma, capsular contracture, explantation, implant displacement, seroma, or breast cellulitis. Conclusions: The results indicate that NSM reconstruction is associated with minimal complications in patients with previous augmentation mammaplasty. Level of Evidence: 4 ![Graphic][1] [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif
Golgi Apparatus Mediated Polysaccharide Secretion by Outer Root Cap Cells of Zea mays. III. Control by Exogenous Sugars

Sugars supplied to germinating seedlings of maize (Zea mays L.) regulate the secretion of polysaccharides by the outer cells of the root cap. The polysaccharide secreted by these cells adheres to the root tip as a droplet and the size of the droplet was used to quantitate polysaccharide secretion. The polysaccharide contains glucose, galacrose, and galacturonic acid residues with smaller quantities of mannose, arabinose, xylose, fucose and rhamnose. These sugars supplied to maize seedlings had marked effects on the rate of polysaccharide secretion by root tips. The effects on secretion were independent of the growth rates of the roots. Glucose, fucose and xylose increased droplet size 1.5–2 fold (as did sucrose, maltose, lacrose, fructose and ribose) whereas galactose, arabinose and galacturonic acid were inhibitory. Mannose increased dropler size 5–7 fold. The marked effect of mannose on polysaccharide secretion was due to an increased rate of secretion combined with a longer phase of extrusion of polysaccharide into the forming droplet. The effect of mannose was partially reversed by inorganic phosphate and other sugars (except for fucose which had no effect or promoted secretion in the presence of mannose). In contrast to sucrose, mannose stimulated secretion in a maize variety having a high sugar endosperm (high endogenous sugar). The results suggest that regulation of secretion by mannose is due to an alteration of normal sugar metabolism; whereas stimulation of secretion by sucrose and other sugars may be due to an increased availability of sugars for metabolism.
Single-layer graphene oxide reinforced metal matrix composites by laser sintering: Microstructure and mechanical property enhancement

Abstract This study investigates the integration of single-layer graphene oxide (GO) powders with iron matrix by laser sintering and its effects on mechanical strength and fatigue life. A laser-based additive manufacturing process is used to sinter GO and iron powders, and form GO–Fe nanocomposite materials. The aggregation of GO powders was prevented by the fast laser heating and cooling process. In addition, the evaporation of polyvinyl alcohol, which acted as a dispersing agent, from the cross-section helps align the GOs vertically in the cross-section. An energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy map from cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy images and Raman patterns together demonstrate the reduction of GOs after laser sintering. The GO–matrix interfacial structure was investigated by transmission electron microscopy. GOs were found to be stretched due to the rapid heating and cooling process during laser irradiation. Strengthening mechanisms of tensile strength and Young’s modulus were developed based on the laser sintering results. Surface microhardness was increased by 93.5% by laser sintering of 2 wt.% GO. The improvement in the fatigue life after laser sintering of GO-reinforced iron matrix nanocomposites was also investigated.
Beam deflection and isolation in laser amplifiers

Abstract A new beam deflection and collimation technique is described which utilizes transverse gain variations in laser amplifiers. This method may be used to achieve beam mixing or optical isolation between the stages of an amplifier chain. Results with a CO2 amplifier are decribed.
Remote sensing of land-cover change and landscape context of the National Parks: A case study of the Northeast Temperate Network

National park units and protected areas face critical management challenges because of changing land-cover types and variability of landscape contexts within and adjacent the park boundaries. In this study we developed and implemented a multi-scale protocol for detecting and monitoring land-cover change in and adjacent to National Parks and ten segments of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT) in the northeastern United States. We used Landsat imagery from 1970 to 2002 and recent ground-based photography to evaluate changes within park boundaries and within 0.5, 1, and 5 km buffers. The study concluded that all of the studied park units, except one segment of AT in Maine, experienced increases of urban land and declines of forest cover in the immediately adjacent areas and extended buffer zones. Over 30 years and across all parks and trail segments, urban land increased 172% and 181% within 0.5 and 1 km, respectively, of the park boundary or trail centerline. Over the same time period, forested area decreased by 5% and 6% within 0.5 and 1 km, respectively, of the park boundary or trail centerline, with more loss of forest near the parks (18%) than the trail segments (2%). This study provided baseline data demonstrating land-cover alteration over the past three decades and a foundation for a land-cover change and landscape context protocol suitable for monitoring future changes of National Parks and protected areas.
ALSFRS and appel ALS scores: Discordance with disease progression

Progression of disease and effectiveness of therapy in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are determined by both questionnaire- and examination-based measures. To determine whether both types of measurement tools are equally predictive at all stages of disease, we compared questionnaire-based ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS) scores to the examination-based Appel ALS (AALS) scores at different stages of disease. Same-day scores were obtained during 174 visits in 62 patients with definite or probable ALS. Using normalized scores, correlation between the scales and predictability were best in mildly affected patients. Predictions of ALSFRS based on AALS scores were less than half as precise in the later stages of disease. Both scales showed significant change with disease progression, but ALSFRS consistently underestimated disease severity defined by AALS (P < 0.001). Questionnaire-based measurements should be compared against objective scales at all stages of disease severity before they are accepted as primary endpoint measures.
Isolation, tentative identification, and synthesis studies of the volatile components of the hairpencil secretion of the monarch butterfly

Abstract The major volatile components of the hairpencil secretion of the male monarch butterfly have been identified as benzyl caproate and either 1, 5, 5, 9-tetramethyl-10-oxabicyclo[4.4.0]-3- decen-2-one(1), or 2, 2, 6, 8-tetramethyl-7-oxabicyclo[4.4.0]-4-decen-3-one(2). One sequence designed to synthesize 1 yielded two isomeric products of structure 1 whose spectra are very similar to each other but distinctly different from those of the natural product; this sequence also yielded a tricyclic ketal (9). A second sequence gave two epimeric spiro compounds (12) and a third sequence gave a [4.3.0] ring system (14).
Time of embryo transport through the mare oviduct

The objectives of this study were 1) to determine the time of embryo transport through the mare oviduct, 2) to determine whether equine embryos increase in diameter prior to the time of oviductal transport, and 3) to assess the stage of equine embryonic development at the time of oviductal transport. The time of oviductal transport (interval from ovulation to uterine entry) was estimated by collecting embryos from the mare oviduct or uterus at 2-hour intervals from 120 to 168 h postovulation. The time of oviductal transport was 130 to 142 h, since 9 9 embryos were located in the oviduct from 120 to 128 h; 7 14 embryos were in the oviduct and 7 14 embryos were in the uterus from 130 to 142 h; and 13 14 embryos were in the uterus from 144 to 168 h postovulation. Embryos collected during the period of oviductal transport (130 h to 142 h) were not significantly larger (P>0.1) in diameter than embryos collected prior to the period of oviductal transport (162.5+/-3.7 vs 156.7+/-3.1 mum, respectively). During the period of oviductal transport, embryos collected from the uterus were not significantly larger (P>0.1) in diameter than embryos collected from the oviduct (160.7+/-3.2 vs 164.3+/-7.0 mum, respectively). During this same period 12 14 embryos were compact morulae, and 2 14 embryos were blastocysts.
Epiretinal membrane removal in eyes with good visual acuities.

Purpose: To evaluate the results of vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane in eyes with a preoperative visual acuity of 20/50 or better. Methods: The visual results and complications of vitrectomy for epiretinal membranes were analyzed in a retrospective, consecutive case series of 40 eyes of 40 patients treated by a single surgeon. Results: The mean preoperative visual acuity was 20/50 + 2 (range 20/30 + 1 to 20/50 –3). The mean visual acuity improved to 20/40 + 2 (P = 0.02) by the final examination at a mean of 2.4 years following surgery. The status of the lens at the final examination was correlated with the visual results of surgery. Twenty-one eyes were phakic preoperatively and 14 of these eyes had cataracts removed by the final examination. The mean preoperative visual acuity in 7 eyes which were still phakic at the final examination was 20/50 and this decreased to 20/50 –2 (P = 0.82). The mean preoperative visual acuity was 20/50 + 2 in 33 eyes which were pseudophakic by the final examination and this improved to 20/32 –2 (P = 0.005). There were no other serious complications such as retinal detachment or infectious endophthalmitis. Conclusions: Vitrectomy for epiretinal membranes is safe in eyes with relatively good preoperative visual acuities but cataract surgery is necessary in phakic eyes to achieve long-term visual acuity improvement.
Estimated Limits of Dose Escalation for Localized Prostate Cancer Using Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy, Varied Planning Target Volume Margins and Established Dose Constraints: Correlation with Prostate Size and Target Volume Overlap with the Rectum

the discrepancies between the optimized and sequenced maps, the new algorithm also reduced the number of segments from 149, 133, and 169 to 70, 72, and 84 providing an average segment reduction of 50%. The plan comparisons revealed that the plan generated with our new leaf-sequencer provided a more uniform PTV coverage with nearly identical sparing of organs at risk. For the three cases, the standard deviation of the PTV dose distribution for a single fraction decreased from 13.6, 5.4 and 12.1 cGy to 12.3, 4.4 and 6.1 cGy. We also have applied this sequencer to IMAT arc sequencing. We tested the algorithm on three prostate patients planned using 36 equispaced beams. The results demonstrated that highly conformal prostate plans are created using between 5 and 9 IMAT arcs with the rms error between the optimized and sequenced fluence maps maintained below 0.4.
Institutional Arrangements and State and Local Financial Forecasting

Abstract The articles in this symposium present various consequences that effectively result in changes from adopted budgets during the implementation phase, which derive from institutional structure. The institutional structures referred to include such attributes as internal policy, procedural methodology, longevity in office, and reward and incentive systems related to performance outcomes For local governments, structural influences studied include changes in leadership in the executive and legislative branches, longevity in office of budget administrators, and differences related to mayor-council vs. council-manager forms of government. Internal policies reported on cover methodology used to forecast revenues such as quantitative methods versus informed judgment, budgetary controls and spending policy related to mandated spending beyond local government control, and procedures for benchmarking within the agency as well as with peer groups and professional standards. Consortia of governments are refer...
3D amplitude and phase imaging using flow-scanning tomography

We combine a microfluidic channel and hybrid space-angle measurement to observe live biomaterial in motion. We experimentally demonstrate the technique by co-registering 3D absorption and 3D differential-phase-contrast images on live, freely swimming C.elegans nematodes.