cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 5027: MicroRNA profiling of diagnostic fine needle aspirates of pancreatic cancer preserved as formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded cell blocks

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL MicroRNA (miRNA) expression profiling and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) from fine needle aspirates (FNA) of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded cell blocks (FFPE) could be a major improvement for prognosis and predicting treatment response in inoperable tumors of pancreatic cancer (PC). MicroRNA (miRNA) profiling provides a more comprehensive molecular interrogation of tumors. In the present study, miRNA expression profiling was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded cell blocks (FFPE) from FNA of suspicious pancreatic masses. Subjects were retrospectively studied and included those who had a pathological diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma and others with no histological proof of any cancer. We compared the expression profile of miRNAs in the pooled samples of FNA blocks from patients diagnosed with PC (n=29) with normal controls (n=15). MicroRNA profiling confirmed the deregulation of over 228 miRNAs of which, the top seven were validated by qRT-PCR. The expression of let-7c, let-7f, and miR-200c were significantly lower in almost all of the 29 patients compared to normal samples. On the contrary, the expression level of miR-486-5p, and miR-451 were significantly higher in all PC samples. Interestingly, two of the miRNAs, let-7d and miR-423-5p, that showed significant down-regulation or up-regulation in pooled sample showed a differential expression between the samples with individual qRT-PCR. These results suggest that identifying seven-miRNA signatures for PC in FNA cell blocks and validating with qRT-PCR can provide a strategy for improving the diagnosis of PC by using minimally invasive procedures. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5027. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-5027
The X-ray absorption spectrum of 4U 1700-37 and its implications for the stellar wind of the companion HD 153919

The first high resolution non-dispersive 2-60 KeV X-ray spectra of 4U1700-37 is presented. The continuum is typical of that found from X-ray pulsars; that is a flat power law between 2 and 10 keV and, beyond 10 keV, an exponential decay of characteristic energy varying between 10 and 20 keV. No X-ray pulsations were detected between 160 ms and 6 min with an amplitude greater than approximately 2%. The absorption measured at binary phases approximately 0.72 is comparable to that expected from the stellar wind of the primary. The gravitational capture of material in the wind is found to be more than enough to power the X-ray source. The increase in the average absorption after phi o approximately 0.5 is confirmed. The minimum level of adsorption is a factor of 2 or 3 lower than that reported by previous observers, which may be related to a factor of approximately 10 decline in the average X-ray luminosity over the same interval. Short term approximately 50% variations in adsorption are seen for the first time which appear to be loosely correlated with approximately 10 min flickering activity in the X-ray flux. These most likely originate from inhomogeneities in the stellar wind of the primary.
“Downhill” Esophageal Varices due to Dialysis Catheter-Induced Superior Vena Caval Occlusion: A Rare Cause of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

“Downhill” varices are a rare cause of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Rarely these varices are reported in patients receiving hemodialysis as a complication of chronic dialysis vascular access. We present a case of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding in an individual with end-stage renal disease receiving hemodialysis. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed “downhill” varices in the upper third of the esophagus without any active bleeding at the time of the procedure. An angiogram was performed disclosing superior vena caval occlusion, which was treated with balloon angioplasty. Gastroenterologists should have a high index of suspicion for these rare “downhill” varices when dealing with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients receiving hemodialysis and manage it appropriately using endoscopic, radiological, and surgical interventions.
Adolescent depression: description, causes, and interventions.

Depression is one of the most prevalent of the psychiatric disorders and is common among individuals with epilepsy. Depression often begins in adolescence. The present review focuses on adolescent depression. In particular, this review first summarizes the definition, description, and classification of adolescent depression. Next, potential causes of adolescent depression are reviewed from a vulnerability–stress perspective. This part of the review focuses on the role of stressors and how stressors interact with genetic, biological, cognitive, personality, and interpersonal vulnerabilities to predict adolescent depression. Last, clinical aspects of adolescent depression are reviewed, including treatment and prevention of depression and the relation to epileptic disorders in adolescence. In sum, a substantial percentage of youth with epilepsy and seizures exhibit depression, and many are not diagnosed or treated in a timely manner. The present review shows that there are valid, empirically based assessments, treatments, and preventions for depression in adolescence that hold promise for reducing the significant burden associated with depression.
Fluctuations in epeiric sea carbonate production during Silurian positive carbon isotope excursions: A review of proposed paleoceanographic models

Positive excursions in the carbon isotopic ratio of marine carbonates (δ13Ccarb) are commonly attributed to an increase in the burial ratio of organic versus carbonate carbon in the global oceans. Regardless of whether this increased deposition of organic carbon was oceanographically or biologically induced, the fact that high carbon isotope values are most often attributed to the sequestration and burial of organic carbon remains. The notion that high δ13Ccarb values should be the result of organic rich deposition in epeiric sea settings is not surprising considering that the overwhelming majority of organic carbon burial in the modern oceans occurs in continental shelf and margin settings. What is surprising is that major positive carbon isotope excursions during the Silurian are recorded in clean carbonate successions with little to no appreciable black shale deposition in epeiric seas. In fact, Silurian δ13Ccarb excursions occurred during intervals of prolific reef development and an overall expansion of carbonate platform environments globally. This discrepancy has sparked considerable debate among Silurian carbon isotope specialists but has offered a valuable opportunity to re-examine the intricate connections among nutrients, primary productivity, carbonate sedimentology, and the global carbon cycle in the lower Paleozoic. Here, we consider several sedimentological and geochemical features of one of these Silurian positive carbon isotope (δ13Ccarb) excursions and discuss the broader implications of current Silurian δ13Ccarb models to the interpretation of lower Paleozoic carbonate sequences.
2012 Urban Geography Plenary Lecture Topological City

The purpose of this paper is to explore the idea of the topological city, both by sharing some observations about the use of topology in critical human geography today and also by demonstrating how different modes of topological analyses of the city may work. This paper suggests that while topology is not new to the social sciences in general or geography in particular, an uptick in interest in topology in the past decade is likely due to its role in the work of Deleuze and Agamben. Topology, I suggest, can help geographers think in creative ways about spatial ontology, thereby offering some insights into the relationship between the subject and the city. I build this argument by discussing the topological workings of three cinematic cities: The Adjustment Bureau (2011), Midnight in Paris (2011), and Inception (2010). [Key words: topology, film, Lacan, subject, spatial theory.]
Angiotensin II type 2 receptor blockade inhibits fatty acid synthase production through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase in pancreatic cancer cells

Background The lipogenesis-promoting enzyme fatty acid synthase is highly expressed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Angiotensin II, which is the principal hormone of the renin angiotensin system, is generated actively in the pancreas and has been shown to increase the expression of fatty acid synthase. The angiotensin II type 2 receptor has been proposed to play an important role in lipogenesis and fat deposition. In this study, we explored the potential role of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor in fatty acid synthase regulation in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells, and we evaluated the mechanisms involved. Methods Fatty acid synthase messenger RNA and protein in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cell lines treated with or without angiotensin II (10 −6 to 10 −8 mol/L) in the presence or absence of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor blocker PD123319 (10 −4 to 10 −6 mol/L) were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. The total-AMP-activated protein kinase and phospho-AMP-activated protein kinase, total-acetyl CoA carboxylase and phospho-acetyl CoA carboxylase, and LKB1/STK11 were analyzed by Western immunoblotting. The tissue localization of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor was examined by immunohistochemistry in invasive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma lesions and matching normal tissue. Results Angiotensin II type 2 receptor treatment increased fatty acid synthase expression and promoter activity in significantly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells; these effects were blocked significantly in the presence of PD123319. Interestingly, angiotensin II also induced angiotensin II type 2 receptor expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells. PD123319, C75, and AICAR decreased fatty acid synthase protein levels, but only PD123319 increased LKB1/STK11 levels. All 3 agents activated AMP-activated protein kinase differentially and inhibited acetyl CoA carboxylase. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor messenger RNA levels were upregulated significantly in 20 of the 25 neoplastic tissues examined (80%) when compared with matching controls. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor protein was localized in the malignant ducts and in the stromal cells. Conclusion Our data demonstrate a previously unknown involvement of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cell fatty acid synthesis and suggest that its blockade has potential as a novel chemopreventive and antilipogenic mechanism for human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma through the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase, which could have detrimental effects on cancer cell survival.
Approximately Optimal Continuous Stopping Boundaries in a One-Sided Standard Sequential Test

In clinical trials, continuous monitoring is required when a large but nonsignificant test statistic is observed at an interim analysis. We consider a power family of continuous stopping boundaries that are optimal in the sense that they minimize the average stopping time for the given overall Type I error rate and power. The problem is formulated as a constrained optimization problem and is solved numerically using the differential evolution algorithm. The main results are the ready-to-use approximately optimal continuous stopping boundaries for a wide range of values of power and the most commonly used overall levels of significance.
Some factors affecting the preservation of salmonid spermatozoa

Abstract The effects of various factors involved in the storage and cyopreservation of fish spermatozoa on fertility were examined using semen from chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tschawytscha), rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri), brown trout (Salmo trutta fario) and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). Semen extended with the diluent described by Erdahl and Graham (1980) at a ratio of 1:2 (1 part semen to 2 parts extender) produced an increase in fertility. The fertility of semen stored at 5°C decreased with time. Semen extended at a ratio of 1:10 or above produced an accelerated decline of fertility during a 48-h period. Of the cryoprotective agents examined [dimethyl sulfoxide, (Me2SO), ethylene glycol and glycerol], fertility was highest in semen containing Me2SO. With the semen of all the species investigated, the addition of Me2SO at a concentration of 7% or less (vol/vol) resulted in fertility approximating diluted semen without the cryoprotective agent. Frozen semen of brown trout and brook trout diluted 1:2 with 7% Me2SO as the cryoprotective agent resulted in an average fertility of 54% (range = 3–98%). Semen frozen in 0.25-ml straws resulted in fertility averaging 66% compared to semen frozen in 0.10-ml pellets which averaged 10% fertile eggs. Frozen semen stored at −79°C and −196°C showed no significant differences in fertility after 1 h storage.
Dynamic vascular factors in the genesis of myocardial ischemia

While fixed atherosclerotic and thrombotic lesions have long been known to cause myocardial ischemia and cardiac pain, the various transient or dynamic events that may also cause ischemia and pain have become better understood in the past 15 years. These can be classified into two broad categories: those that cause a dynamic reduction in the caliber of the coronary arteries and those that reduce the coronary vasodilatory reserve capacity. In the first group are myocardial compression or "bridging" of an artery; coronary vasoconstriction due to frank spasm or generalized arterial hypertonus, particularly at the site of atherosclerotic lesions; reduced arterial distending pressure and platelet aggregation which may transiently occlude a diseased arterial segment. The causes of inadequate coronary vascular reserve flow capacity can be either anatomic or functional. Among the former, the increased muscle mass to blood vessel ratio occurring in myocardial hypertrophy is most important. The functional causes of limited coronary vascular reserve include diastolic transmural compression and coronary "steal," both of hemodynamic origin. In addition, arteriolar "unresponsiveness" or dysregulation caused by smoking, drugs or other unknown conditions may adversely affect coronary vascular reserve. Hence, myocardial ischemia may result from conditions that limit potential for increase in flow or from conditions that reduce flow from a preexisting level. These conditions, which are transient and dynamic in nature, may modify the threshold for ischemia, particularly in patients with fixed coronary obstructive disease.
A novel xylB-based positive selection vector

Abstract Expression of a plasmid-borne Escherichia coli xylulokinase gene ( xylB ) under the control of the lac promoter yields constitutively high levels of xylulokinase activity. When a plasmid containing this lac - xylB fusion (pLEK100) is transformed into a xylB − mutant the Xyl + phenotype is restored on xylose-containing media. When the same transformants are plated on xylitol medium, growth inhibition is observed. Positive selection is achieved by cloning DNA into the unique restriction sites of pLEK100, to disrupt xylB expression, transforming E. coli , and then plating transformants on xylitol medium. With this protocol only transformants with insert containing plasmids will be obtained. This results in a considerable reduction in the time and effort needed to construct genomic libraries or perform routine DNA cloning experiments. Three unique sites are available which are suitable for positive selection of DNA fragments, via the disruption of translation ( Bg /II) or transcription ( Hin dIII, Sal I, and Bgl II) of the xylB gene.
The mechanism of pause-induced torsade de pointes in long QT syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Torsade de pointes (TdP), is often preceded by a short-long cycle length sequence. However, the causal relationship between the pause associated with a short-long cycle length sequence and TdP is not completely understood. This study tests the hypothesis that a pause enhances both dispersion of repolarization and EAD formation; however, EADs that form where APD is longest will be less likely to initiate TdP. METHODS AND RESULTS: We used optical mapping to measure transmural action potentials from the canine left ventricular wedge preparation. D-sotalol and ATX-II were used to mimic LQT2 and LQT3, respectively. The pause significantly enhanced mean APD (from 356 +/- 20 to 381 +/- 25 msec in LQT2, P < 0.05; from 609 +/- 92 to 675 +/- 98 msec in LQT3, P < 0.05) and transmural dispersion (from 35 +/- 9 to 46 +/- 11 msec in LQT2, P < 0.05; from 121 +/- 85 to 171 +/- 98 msec in LQT3, P < 0.05) compared to steady state pacing. Under LQT3 condition EADs, EAD-induced triggered activity, and TdP were more likely to occur following a pause. Interestingly, the triggered beat following a pause always broke through at the region of maximum local repolarization gradient. CONCLUSION: These data suggest that a pause accentuates transmural repolarization gradients and facilitates the formation of EADs and EAD-induced triggered activity. In contrast to our hypothesis, the findings of this study support the concept that M-cells (where APD is longest) can play an important role in both the origination of EAD-induced triggered activity and unidirectional block associated with TdP.
Regional Distribution of Retinal Degeneration in Patients with the Proline to Histidine Mutation in Codon 23 of the Rhodopsion Gene

Mutations in the rhodopsin gene are associated with as many as one quarter of all cases of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (RP). A number of different rhodopsin mutations have been reported but only the proline to histidine mutation in codon 23 (Pro-23-His) has been well characterized clinically. One recent report described a "sectoral" distribution of the retinal degeneration associated with this mutation, while another reported only that pigment was present in all four quadrants in 13 of 17 patients. This asymmetric distribution of pigmentation and visual field loss may prove to be an important clinical sign of a type of RP with a relatively good visual prognosis. The authors present a family with Pro-23-His rhodopsin-associated RP in which all six affected individuals had a regional distribution of the retinal degeneration in which the inferior hemisphere of the retina was most severely affected.
Peer collaboration: conflict, cooperation, or both?

The present study sought to characterize the mechanism of cognitive change during peer interaction. Forty-eight focal subjects (8-year-old females) were paired with either their mother or their best friend for dyadic discussion of two socio-moral dilemmas. The focal subjects were pretested and posttested to assess any change in their socio-moral reasoning. The hypothesis tested was that subjects cooperatively co-construct solutions to dilemmas; therefore, the discussions regarding solutions they eventually accept, as opposed to those they reject, will be positively related to posttest performance. Contrary to expectations, it was discovered that only the discussion of rejected solutions has a significant relation to cognitive outcome. Close analysis revealed that the consequence of a rejected solution discussion often is the focal's proposal of a more acceptable solution, and this also has a strong relation to outcome. A new conceptualization of collaboration is proposed, one that focuses on the importance of dyadic consideration of multiple perspectives. The consequence of such consideration is both critical analysis of ideas (socio-cognitive conflict) and co-construction of new understanding (cooperation).
Where renewable electricity is concerned, how costly is “too costly”?

Present day electricity is a bargain. It frees mankind from a host of dirty, debilitating occupations—epitomized by the now endangered occupation of legger. Correctly applied, electricity would make a most excellent paramount energy carrier for a post-carbon world. It is, however, only an energy carrier and not a source of energy, the preeminent source for its generation being bargain-priced fossil carbon. But when, in less than a century, that is gone, electricity is a good bet to cost markedly more while being still a bargain. This paper once again shows that mankind's energy needs can be met by (i) renewable solar generation of electricity buffered by (ii) massive electricity storage and (iii) a robust distribution grid. The time available for making this switch from fossil carbon to solar is at best a century and possibly as little as fifty years.
Effect of idoxuridine on the uptake of tritium-labeled thymidine in the rabbit cornea infected with herpes simplex

Dendritic ulceration of the cornea, followed by severe discriform keratoconjunctivitis, resulted from infection of the rabbit cornea with the RE strain of the herpes simplex virus. The progress of the viral infection was determined by measuring the changes in the synthesis of DNA by the corneal epithelial cells through the use of autoradiographic film techniques after intraocular injection of [3H]thymidine. Application of idoxuridine solution to the cornea every 2 hr for 1 day stopped the uptake of [3H]thymidine by the virus. Cessation of the drug therapy resulted in renewed uptake of the [3H]thymidine by the virus and the development of dendritic ulcers. The resulting clinical condition was mild, and disciform keratoconjunctivitis did not occur. The application of idoxuridine to normal or wounded, but not infected, corneas for as long as 5 days, did not influence the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into the DNA of the basal epithelial cells nor the subsequent migration of these cells. These results indicate that idoxuridine has a selective action of inhibiting the multiplication of the DNA virus herpes simplex without inhibiting the DNA synthesis of the multiplying corneal epithelial cells.
A distributed process management system for collaborative building design

This paper presents a research study conducted for evaluating the effectiveness of a conceptual model of a distributed process management environment in the establishment of a collaborative building design. At the highest level, the conceptual model of the distributed process management environment have the following features: (a) enables description of a plan of a design process, (b) enables enactment of a process according to its plan, and (c) enables control and management of the enactment of a design process. The paper also presents the findings of a verification and validation (V & V) study conducted for evaluating the fit between the needs and expectations of collaborating design groups and the solution provided by the conceptual model of the distributed process management environment.
Universal and culturally specific criteria for evaluating early-childhood-education programs

An issue of international concern in early-childhood education is the question: To what extent should criteria or standards for evaluating the success of early-childhood education-programs be universal #opapplicable to programs any place at any time#cp and to what extent should criteria be culture specific #opsuitable for some societies but not for others#cp? This paper suggests an answer by means of a scheme for categorizing criteria on two tiers. Universal criteria form the upper tier. Then on the lower tier each universal criterion is altered in a manner that adapts it to particular cultural settings. The scheme is traced through the steps of: #op1#cp identifying universal standards and their supporting rationales #op2#cp proposing a process for generating culture-specific criteria under each universal standard, and #op3#cp suggesting aproaches to evaluation that utilize the criteria.
Efficient gene transfer into human CD34 + cells by an adenovirus type 35 vector

Efficient gene transfer into human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is the most important requirement for gene therapy of hematopoietic disorders and for study of the hematopoietic system. An adenovirus (Ad) vector based on the Ad serotype 5 (Ad5) is known to transduce HSCs, including CD34+ cells, with very low efficiency because of low-level expression of its primary receptor, coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR). In the present study, we developed a recombinant Ad vector composed of the whole Ad serotype 35 (Ad35), which recognizes an unidentified receptor different from CAR for its infection. A transduction study showed that the Ad35-based vectors exhibit a higher transduction efficiency in human CD34+ cells than the conventional Ad5 vectors and the Ad5F35 vectors, which are fiber-substituted Ad5 vectors containing Ad35 fiber proteins. The mean of fluorescence intensity in the CD34+ cells transduced with the Ad35 vectors was 12–76 and 1.4–3 times higher than that in the cells transduced with the Ad5 and Ad5F35 vectors, respectively. The percentages of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-positive CD34+ cells by transduction with Ad35, Ad5, and Ad5F35 vectors expressing GFP at 300 PFU/cell were 53%, 5%, and 52%, respectively, suggesting that Ad35 vectors mediate a more efficient gene transfer into human CD34+ cells than Ad5 and Ad5F35 vectors, although the percentage of transduced cells was similar between Ad35 and Ad5F35 vectors. The Ad vector based on Ad35 could be very useful in gene therapy for blood disorders and gene transfer experiments using HSCs.
Preterm infant thermal responses to caregiving differ by incubator control mode.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the influence of caregiving on preterm infant and incubator temperature and to investigate incubator control mode in thermal responses to caregiving. STUDY DESIGN: The intensive within-subject design involved continuous recording of infant and incubator temperature and videotaping throughout a 24-hour period in 40 hospitalized preterm infants. Temperature at care onset was compared with care offset, and 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes following care offset using ANOVA-RM. RESULTS: Following caregiving, infant and incubator temperature differed significantly over time by incubator control mode. In air servo-control, infant temperature tended to decrease after caregiving, while in skin servo-control infant temperature remained relatively stable. With caregiving, incubator temperature remained consistent in air servo-control and increased in skin servo-control. CONCLUSIONS: The temperature effects of caregiving should be considered relative to maintenance of thermoneutrality and unintentional thermal stimulation.
Voltage-Sensor Relaxation in Hv1 Proton Channels

Hv1 is a voltage-gated and proton-selective channel composed of four helical transmembrane segments (S1-S4) that adopt a voltage-sensor (VS) domain fold that is common to voltage-dependent ion channels and voltage-sensitive phosphatases (VSPs). Unlike other voltage-gated channels, the Hv1 VS also functions as a sensor for the transmembrane pH gradient and contains a water-wire for H+ conduction. However, despite exhibiting biophysical properties that are specific to its proton channel function, the Hv1 VS appears to share significant structural and functional homology with other VS domains. VS relaxation is manifested by a negative shift in the voltage dependence of sensing charge (Q) movement in response to prolonged depolarization. Previous studies on ciVSP led to the hypothesis that depolarization-induced movement of S4 leads to a rapid distortion of the VS structure. A compensatory voltage-independent conformational transition termed relaxation allows the VS to adopt a more thermodynamically stable state, and is revealed by a negative shift in the Q-V relation. We postulated that because relaxation is likely to represent an intrinsic feature of VS domain function, Hv1 VS would also enter a relaxed state after sustained depolarization. In order to test this hypothesis, we elicited Hv1 opening by applying voltage steps to positive potentials for varying durations and then measured the voltage dependence of channel closure (V0.5). As predicted, depolarizing pre-pulses caused V0.5 to shift toward negative potentials. The magnitude of the shift in V0.5 was observed to depend on the duration of the prepulse over the range of 0.1-5.0 s. These observations demonstrate that Hv1 manifests VS relaxation and suggest that relaxation occurs concomitantly with proton channel opening.
Effects of noise and attack on aggression and physiological arousal

Sixty male subjects were first given either 10 shocks or 2 shocks by an experimental confederate. Two-thirds were then stimulated with loud and aversive noise while the other one-third were not so stimulated. In one of the noise-stimulated conditions, the subject was free to terminate the noise. In the other condition, the subject had no control over the noise. Subjects in all conditions were then given an opportunity to aggress against the confederate. Measures of skin conductance, pulse rate, and blood pressure were made after the subject had been shocked and again after the noise had been given. Subjects who had been given 10 shocks followed by uncontrollable noise gave shocks of longer duration than subjects in any other condition. Subjects given uncontrollable noise also showed evidence of being more physiologically aroused than those given controllable noise or no noise.
13C NMR spectra for IPR isomers of fullerene C86

Abstract Structures of all the 19 isolated-pentagon-rule abiding isomers of fullerene C 86 have been optimized using density functional theory at the B3LYP/6-31G level of theory. Isomers 16 and 17 have low total energies and large HOMO–LUMO gaps. 13 C NMR chemical shieldings are obtained employing the gauge-independent atomic orbital method. The good agreement between the predicted and the measured NMR spectra allows us to conclusively assign the observed C 2 isomer as isomer 17 and the C s isomer as isomer 16 . Quantum mechanically predicted NMR chemical shifts of other isomers are also presented for future reference.
Mechanisms of resistance to imatinib and sunitinib in gastrointestinal stromal tumor

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the GI tract and one of the most common sarcomas, is dependent on the expression of the mutated KIT or platelet-derived growth factor receptor in most cases. Imatinib mesylate potently abrogates the effects of KIT signaling by directly binding into the ATP-binding pocket of the kinase. It is becoming increasingly apparent that the binding affinity of imatinib for the receptor is dependent on the type and location of mutation. Within KIT, patients whose tumor has an exon 9 mutation are treated by many clinicians with higher doses of imatinib than those patients with mutations within exon 11. Additionally, there are over 400 unique mutations within exon 11 that may have distinctly different binding affinity for imatinib as well as other kinases. Secondary KIT mutations generally occur at a codon where imatinib binds resulting in KIT reactivation and resistance. Sunitinib malate, a second-generation KIT inhibitor is active in imatinib-resistant disease and is FDA-approved for use in this setting. In this review, we describe the biology of the genes and gene mutations responsible for GIST and discuss known and potential clinical implications.
Multispectral detection of dim slightly extended targets in heavy clutter

The spectral signature of a target is typically unknown apriori because of its dependence upon environmental conditions (e.g., sun angle, atmospheric attenuation and scattering), factors effecting the reflectivity and emissivity of the target's surface (dirt, dust, water, paint, etc) and recent operating history (hot or cold engine, exhaust parts, wheels or tracks, etc.). Because of the high variability of the spectral signature of a target, multispectral detection typically detects spectral anomalies. For example, the canopy of a helicopter hovering in front of tree clutter may glint in the midwave infrared band while the reststrahlen spectral feature of the fuselage paint occurs in the longwave infrared band. Both of these are spectral anomalies relative to the tree clutter. If the target is slightly extended so that it subtends more than one pixel, the spectral anomalies by which the target may be detected will not be spatially collocated. This effectively lowers the ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve of the detection process. This paper derives the ROC curves for several alternative solutions to this problem. One solution considers all possible spectral n-tuples within a small region. One of these n-tuples would likely contain all of the spectral anomalies of the target. Another solution is to apply a spatial maximum operator to each spectral band prior to the anomaly detector. This also combines all the spectral anomalies form the target into a single n-tuple. These methods have the potential to increase PD but an increase in PFA will also occur. The ROC curves of these solutions to the problem of detecting slightly extended targets are derived and compared to establish relative levels of performance.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Social monitoring in a primate group: the relationship between visual attention and hierarchical ranks

Social monitoring has been hypothesized to be an important component of primate social behavior. If the gaze direction of one animal can redirect the gaze of another, visual scanning of conspecifics can provide a more efficient means of locating food or predators than directly scanning the entire nonsocial environment. Social monitoring also allows distance regulation between members of a group, reducing the likelihood of agonistic encounters. Although assessment of gaze direction in freely moving primates is problematic, we were successful in assessing amounts of visual scanning among adult females of a captive, socially housed group of patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas) using a focal sampling technique with on-the-dot recording (5-s sampling intervals). In study 1, relative amounts of scanning were assessed as subjects gazed at any other member of the group. Percentages of agreement between observers ranged from 80% to 92%, with corresponding κ values ranging from 0.74 to 0.92. In study 2, relative amounts of visual scanning were assessed so that specific targets of gaze were identified. The resultant data supported a long-standing prediction about the role of social monitoring in primate group dynamics. Lower-ranking animals gazed toward higher-ranking animals more often than vice versa. Although the specific cues eliciting social monitoring remain to be determined, visual attention in this social primate group appeared to be systematically related to hierarchical ranks, assessed by displacements. Minimally, these results suggest that patas monkeys structure their visual attention based on previous encounters with other members of their social group. While simple discrimination learning could account for these results, the demonstration of a systematic relationship between visual attention and primate social dynamics is relevant to current discussions of a primate’s understanding of conspecific gaze direction.
Wnt5a signaling directly affects cell motility and invasion of metastatic melanoma.

Abstract Gene expression profiling identified human melanoma cells demonstrating increased cell motility and invasiveness. The gene WNT5A best determined in vitro invasive behavior. Melanoma cells were transfected with vectors constitutively overexpressing Wnt5a. Consistent changes included actin reorganization and increased cell adhesion. No increase in β-catenin expression or nuclear translocation was observed. There was, however, a dramatic increase in activated PKC. In direct correlation with Wnt5a expression and PKC activation, there was an increase in melanoma cell invasion. Blocking this pathway using antibodies to Frizzled-5, the receptor for Wnt5a, inhibited PKC activity and cellular invasion. Furthermore, Wnt5a expression in human melanoma biopsies directly correlated to increasing tumor grade. These observations support a role for Wnt5a in human melanoma progression.
ANGULAR DISTRIBUTIONS OF PHOTOELECTRONS AND NON-THERMAL PHOTOIONS FROM ATOMS AND MOLECULES

During the last ten years, photoelectron angular distributions have been used extensively to study the dynamics of the photoionization process in atoms and molecules. Some major advances in this body of work are reviewed with special emphasis on results emerging since the last Conference on VUV Radiation Physics three years ago. By far the greatest progress has occurred for atoms, where interest is focussed on improving zero-order (Hartree-Slater, Cooper-Zare) understanding of the asymmetry parameter β(ϵ), by considering electron correlations, relativistic effects, and anisotropic final-state interactions. The study of the rare gases has benefitted from extensive coordination between experiment and theory, whereas work on nonspherical atoms has been mainly theoretical, with the only measurements being performed very recently on atomic oxygen. Angular distribution studies on molecules are in a much earlier stage of development. Progress has been impeded by the lack of practical, realistic theoretical methods and wavelength-dependent measurements, both of which are becoming available only now. This recent work, together with selected topics from earlier resonance-line work on molecules will be reviewed. In addition, a new class of angular-dependent studies of molecules will be discussed--the angular distribution of nonthermal ions formed by dissociative photoionization--which provides information complementary to the relatedmore » measurements on photoelectrons.« less
Evolutionary trees with minimum nucleotide replacements from amino acid sequences.

The problem of determining the minimum number of nucleotide substitutions required to account for the descent of a set of amino acid sequences given their ancestral relationships (phylogeny) has been studied. A method expanding upon the earlier work of Fitch (1971) for a set of nucleotide sequences is presented and its merits compared to the method of Mooreet al. (1973).
From Partnership to Profits: The Role of Cowriting with Recording Artists as a Strategic Plan for Copyright Exploitation

(2003). From Partnership to Profits: The Role of Cowriting with Recording Artists as a Strategic Plan for Copyright Exploitation. Popular Music and Society: Vol. 26, No. 2, pp. 169-181.
The Hydrogen Atom with a Spinning Electron in Wave Mechanics.

In this paper it is shown that the Schrodinger wave mechanics, plus the Uhlenbeck-Goudsmit spinning electron, completely represents the fine structure of hydrogen-like spectra.
Feed network for dual beam reflector antennas

A primary feed network for doubly curved shaped-beam reflector antennas is described which allows simultaneous signal reception on two distinct elevation plane patterns such that the underside falloff separation between a fixed lower beam and a higher beam can be substantially varied in a lossless manner. A three-element feed array is employed wherein two elements of the array are interconnected by means of a sum-difference hybrid. The sum port generates the fixed low beam while the difference port generates an orthogonal beam pattern suitable for RF combining with an independent high beam generated by the third array element. Adjustment of the combining amplitude and phase relationships permits the variation of the underside falloff separation. The fixed low beam is, of course, also used for transmission at high power. Design parameters for a typical surveillance radar application axe discussed for a linearly polarized case. Calculated antenna patterns and free-space coverage diagrams are presented. The complexities of extending the feed network concept to handle switchable linear/circular polarization cases and an integral directional beacon pattern for L band systems are indicated.
Variability in /s/ production in children and adults: evidence from dynamic measures of spectral mean.

Previous research has found developmental decreases in temporal variability in speech. Relatively less work has examined spectral variability, and, in particular, variability in consonant spectra. ...
Pathologist performed fine needle aspirations & implementation of JCAHO Universal Protocol and "Time out"

The adherence to the principles of the Universal Protocol for preventing wrong site, wrong procedure and wrong person surgical or invasive procedures is a requirement for all Joint Commission accredited organizations. Fine needle aspirations are considered invasive procedures, and cytopathologists performing this procedure need to be cognizant and compliant with the requirements of this Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) Protocol. This article gives background perspective on the development of the Universal Protocol. It also elaborates the JCAHO National Patients Safety Goals regarding the performance of fine needle aspirations. The compliance with the Universal Protocol for performance of fine needle aspirations is now mandated for all cytopathologists who perform fine needle aspirations and this present paper provides a guideline for fulfilling the requirements of the Universal Protocol for practicing cytopathologists.
Moulting in the tarantula,Dugesiella hentzi

1. Peak months for ecdysis are April and September (Fig. 1). Mean intermoult period of 371±118 days is reduced 56% by removal of 4–6 legs during 2 successive moulting seasons. Legs are replaced at ecdysis occurring 42 days after removal. Ecdysis occurs 84±21 days after egg laying. Laying is not a yearly event since only 40% of newly captured females laid. Eating ceases 22–34 days before ecdysis, the dorsal abdominal region darkens at 12 days, movement decreases, and a moulting bed is spun the day before ecdysis. 2. Obvious respiratory movements occur during ecdysis. Splitting of the old cuticle is due to muscular contraction and pressure from all tissues. Legs are withdrawn by muscular activity, and blood, shifted by rhythmical contractions of abdominal muscles, expands the anterior region. The abdomen which serves as a reservoir for fluid (Fig. 6), exhibits a 25% decrease in volume as a result of the shift. 3. Weights, as % of the reference weight 1 day before ecdysis, increase transiently as increased water intake and retention begin 2 months before ecdysis (Fig. 2b). Individual maximum weights of 116±3% at 33±8 days are accompanied by increases in blood volume and total water from the normal 18.8% and 73.4%, respectively, to 26.9% and 76.6%, respectively, of body weight (Fig. 7). Subsequent loss of fluid returns weights to 100% and blood and water toward normal levels by ecdysis. Weights average 91% after ecdysis. Blood volume increases transiently to 23.6% during the 10 days after ecdysis, due to loss of old cuticle and absorption of imbibed water. 4. Resorption of old cuticle reaches 61%, is greater the smaller the animal, and begins 12 days before ecdysis. New cuticle begins forming 30–40 days before ecdysis, reaches 50% of normal weight by 1 day after edysis, and 100% by 16–20 days (Fig. 8). Total blood glucose and non-glucose anthrone reactive material increase when cuticle deposition begins. Maximum concentrations, 17.3 and 16.5 mg%, respectively, occur during the 10 days before and after ecdysis, and by 20–128 days, concentrations are 2.5 and 3.3 mg%, respectively (Fig. 9). Evaporative loss of weight increases as cuticle resorption begins, reaches 50x normal during ecdysis, and is significantly above normal until 9 days afterward (Fig. 4a). 5. O2 consumption averages 0.0124 ml/g·h at 22 °C in non-moulting animals, begins to increase 30–39 days before ecdysis reaching 31/2x normal during 3 days periods before and after ecdysis, and returns to normal by 50–60 days afterward (Fig. 11). Rates increase to 9x normal during ecdysis (Fig. 13).
Evaluation of nanoparticulate fillers for development of shape memory polyurethane nanocomposites

The effects of nano-size fillers on shape memory (SM) properties of polyurethane (PU) nanocomposites were evaluated. Organoclay, carbon nanofiber (CNF), silicon carbide (SiC), and carbon black (CB) were selected as the fillers in an attempt to reinforce the PU and to obtain significantly increased shape recovery stress. The shape memory PU was synthesized from diphenylmethane diisocyanate, 1,4-butanediol, and poly(caprolactone)diol, the latter with a molecular weight of 4000 g/mol. The composites were prepared by melt mixing of extended chain PU with the fillers. The shape memory behavior was triggered by heating the specimen above the melting point of the crystalline soft segment. Our results indicate that exfoliated organoclay significantly augments SM performance, while CNF and SiC diminish it by interfering with crystallization of the soft segment. CB destroys the shape memory properties beyond a certain loading. Better SM performance with organoclay can be attributed to mechanical reinforcement without much interference with the soft segment crystallinity. The reduction of soft segment crystallinity in the presence of CNF and SiC was analyzed. It was found that the extent of crystallinity, as well as the crystallization temperature, was significantly reduced in the presence of these fillers.
Occurrence of butyltin compounds in beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas)

Fifty-two beluga whale samples (Six liver samples, and 46 blubber samples including ones from different depths of the fat layer) from the St Lawrence River, Canada, were analyzed for butyltin compounds (mono-, di-, and tri-butyltin) with a view to investigating the occurrence and contamination of butyltin in these animals. A special procedure was also developed for the determination of butyltin compounds in blubber samples with high lipid content (up to 95%). Total-butyltin concentrations in liver samples were found to be much higher than those in the blubber samples. The concentrations of butyltin compounds in blubber samples were observed to be related to their lipid content. Concentration levels of butyltin species in beluga whale were compared with those in other marine vertebrates in other parts of the world. The presence of butyltin compounds in liver and blubber samples suggests the accumulation of these toxicants by beluga whale. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bilateral Adrenal Myelolipomas in a Woman With Chronic Anticoagulation, Postmenopausal Uterine Bleeding, Primary Hyperparathyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

Adrenal myelolipomas are rare, usually benign unilateral tumors. Their management has controversially been discussed. The authors here present a 53-year-old African American female Jehovah's witness with postmenopausal uterine bleeding on chronic anticoagulation and episodic right flank pain who was found to have bilateral myelolipomas in addition to primary hyperparathyroidism. In collaboration with gynecology, midline laparotomy was performed to remove uterus and both ovaries in addition to the right adrenal gland for a 62 × 79 mm myelolipoma. An open biopsy of the left adrenal mass measuring 42 × 43 mm revealed myelolipoma and ruled out malignancy. Pathology confirmed bilateral myelolipomas, endometrial polyps, and leiomyomata uteri. After an uneventful recovery, the patient then underwent a right inferior parathyroidectomy for parathyroid adenoma. This case illustrates the challenges in deciding when to surgically intervene for bilateral adrenal myelolipoma and, for the first time, associates various other endocrinopathies, although no known endocrine neoplasia syndrome variant was present.