cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Higher elasmobranch phylogeny and biostratigraphy

Living sharks, skates and rays share several derived skeletal characters that are absent in most extinct elasmobranchs, suggesting a monophyletic group of ‘higher’ elasmobranchs. Within this group opinions vary as to phylogenetic relationships, although three broad groups are generally recognized. Arguments for and against monophyly of these group (batoids; squalomorphs; galeomorphs) are examined. Many of their contained taxa are also of questionable validity. Cladistic analysis of living galeomorphs reveals a sequence of characters supporting monophyly of the group as whole, but not of its more generalized contained taxa. The temporal distribution of fossil galeomorphs corroborates the hypothesis of relationship suggested by neontological data; i.e. there is considerable stratigraphic harmony with Recent phylogenetic data.
Capturing disease-symptom relations using higher-order co-occurrence algorithms

The field of medical informatics has been thriving over the last decade. One critical task in medical informatics is whether computational algorithms allow for predicting diseases from symptoms and vice versa. A niche of algorithms that has not been explored extensively are computational linguistic in nature and focus on higher-order co-occurrences of language units, such as words and paragraphs. The current study explored whether disease-symptom relations can be captured using such higher-order co-occurrences. Results indicated that higher order co-occurrences allow for capturing the semantic relation between disease and symptom. Two algorithms were tested, one using latent semantic analysis (LSA), which typically ignores the role of negations in language, and a customized LSA algorithm that took negations into account. Both algorithms predicted the semantic relations between symptoms and diseases well above chance level, with the customized algorithm outperforming the original LSA algorithm.
Potential role of nuclear magnetic resonance for the evaluation of trabecular bone quality

This paper discusses two novel applications of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) as an investigational tool for the assessment of cancellous bone microarchitecture. It further outlines extensions of the method forin vivo clinical evaluation of bone strength in patients with skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis. The first method relies on the hypothesis that the presence of two phases of different magnetic permeability, i.e., bone and bone marrow, causes a spatial nonuniformity of the magnetic field across the measurement volume. The resulting spread in resonance frequency shortens the decay time constant (T2*) of the time domain proton signal in bone marrow or its substitute (water). Increased trabecular spacing, such as it occurs in osteoporosis, reduces the spatial field inhomogeneity and thus prolongs T2*, which has been shown bothin vitro andin vivo. Subjects with osteoporosis, characterized by either low bone mineral density and/or spine compression fractures, have T2* values that are significantly prolonged. The second method focuses on a direct measurement of micromorphometric parameters of cancellous bone, using the principles of proton NMR microscopy in conjunction with computer processing of the resulting digital images. Image contrast between the trabeculae and the intertrabecular space is based on the marrow protons providing a signal, as opposed to bone, which appears with background intensity. Once tissues have been classified (into bone and marrow), for example, by means of a histogram-based segmentation algorithm, bone area fraction, mean trabecular plate density (MTPD), and mean trabecular plate thickness (MTPT) can be computed without the need for further operator intervention. The most critical parameter for successful implementation is image slice thickness which determines the extent of partial volume blurring. At 400 MHz spectrometer frequency (9.4 T field strength), images of appropriate resolution can be obtained from a 1 cm3 specimen of vertebral cancellous bone in 1 hour or less. It is shown that for relatively isotropic cancellous bone such as the one found in the vertebrae, a slice thickness on the order of 200 μm is adequate, with an inplane resolution on the order of 50 × 50 μm2 As an illustration of the technique, the relationship among the different stereologic parameters in cadaver specimens of human lumbar vertebrae is reported, showing a strong association between the area fraction and both MTPD and MTPT. The chief benefit of the new technique is its nondestructive nature and its ability to provide histomorphometric images from multiple physical locations and in multiple planes, which is desirable because of the large spatial variations in the morphologic parameters within the bone. Finally, the technique is demonstrated to be potentially also noninvasive, as illustrated with images from the human finger, acquired on a modified 1.5 Tesla clinical magnetic resonance imaging system at a pixel size of 95 × 95 μm2
Solution nebulization of aqueous samples into the tubular-electrode torch capacitatively-coupled microwave plasma

Abstract This work shows the feasibility of using nebulization for introduction of aqueous samples into the tubular-torch capacitatively-coupled microwave plasma (CMP). Previously, solid electrodes were used with this type of plasma, in which analyte carrier and plasma support gases are premixed and swept around the electrode tip. With the new design, the analyte carrier gas passes through the centre of the hollow tubular electrode and mixes with the plasma support gas at the tip of the electrode where the plasma is formed. Sample solutions are nebulized with a Meinhard nebulizer and a laboratory-constructed spray chamber and desolvation system. The tubular torch is made of tantalum. Plasma gases investigated include argon, helium and nitrogen. Typical operating powers are 300–350 W. Elements studied include Ag, Al, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cs, Cu, K, Li, Na, Pb, Pd, Sr and Zn.
Understanding and accounting for relational context is critical for social neuroscience.

Scientists have increasingly turned to the brain and to neuroscience more generally to further an understanding of social and emotional judgments and behavior. Yet, many neuroscientists (certainly not all) do not consider the role of relational context. Moreover, most have not examined the impact of relational context in a manner that takes advantage of conceptual and empirical advances in relationship science. Here we emphasize that: (1) all social behavior takes place, by definition, within the context of a relationship (even if that relationship is a new one with a stranger), and (2) relational context shapes not only social thoughts, feelings and behaviors, but also some seemingly non-social thoughts, feelings and behaviors in profound ways. We define relational context and suggest that accounting for it in the design and interpretation of neuroscience research is essential to the development of a coherent, generalizable neuroscience of social behavior. We make our case in two ways: a) We describe some existing neuroscience research in three substantive areas (perceiving and reacting to others’ emotions, providing help and receiving help) that already has documented the powerful impact of relational context. b) We describe some other neuroscience research from these same areas that has not taken relational context into account. Then, using findings from social and personality psychology, we make a case that different results almost certainly would have been found had the research been conducted in a different relational context. We neither attempt to review all evidence that relational context shapes neuroscience findings nor to put forward a theoretical analysis of all the ways relational context ought to shape neuroscience findings. Our goal is simply to urge greater and more systematic consideration of relational context in neuroscientific research.
A technique for placement of a bioabsorbable prosthesis with fibrin glue fixation for reinforcement of the crural closure during hiatal hernia repair

Level 1 data suggest that mesh reinforcement of the crural closure for hiatal hernia repair decreases the recurrence of hernia. The fear of erosion of the prosthetic into the esophagus has kept the use of mesh for hiatal hernia repair from becoming routine. A recent study found several cases of esophageal stenosis/erosion from the use of a biologic mesh. For these reasons, we evaluated a new resorptive prosthetic and new method of fixation of the prosthetic for crural reinforcement during hiatal hernia repair. From February 2009 until December 2010, 70 patients underwent hiatal hernia repair using a synthetic bioabsorbable prosthetic made of polglycolide and teimethylene carbonate (Gore BioA Tissue Reinforcement™, Flagstaff, AZ). There were 48 patients with paraesophageal hiatal hernias and 22 with large sliding hiatal hernias. In this study, a square piece of mesh just the size to cover the crural closure only was utilized. Fibrin glue (Tisseel™) was applied over the suture closure of the crura, the mesh was then placed over the glue and held in place for several seconds, and then more fibrin glue was applied on top of the mesh. The new bioabsorbable polymer mesh was readily placed through a 10-mm trocar, had good handling characteristics laparoscopically, and no pre-operative preparation was required of the prosthetic. The material and the fibrin glue created a very substantial reinforcement of the crural closure, and the average time to place and fix the mesh was approximately 5 min. There were no short-term complications from the mesh, and no patient has had any significant post-operative sequelae. Crural closure reinforcement during hiatal hernia repair can be done readily with this new bioabsorbable polymer–based mesh. Fibrin glue fixation of this new prosthetic can be done quickly and it creates a strong, fixed barrier that may decrease the chance of erosion. Further studies will need to be done to evaluate long-term efficacy and complications associated with its use.
Assessing the Feasibility of a Multi-Program School-Based Intervention to Promote Physical Activity and Healthful Eating in Middle Schools Prior to Wide-Scale Implementation.

Abstract Background: University-community partnerships can support schools in implementing evidence-based responses to youth obesity trends. An interorganizational partnership was established to implement and evaluate the Healthy Choices Collaborative Intervention (HCCI). HCCI combines an interdisciplinary curriculum, before/after school activities, and the School Health Index to promote physical activity, reduce television viewing, and increase fruit and vegetable consumption among middle school youths. Purpose: A modified rapid assessment process was used to explore potential influences on feasibility of implementing and sustaining HCCI before wide-scale implementation. Methods: Twenty-one in-depth interviews were conducted with administrators, program coordinators, and teachers who had experience with one or more of the intervention components. Results: Respondents believed combining programs would be beneficial because of common behavioral goals. A key leader, an engaged, multidisciplinary team, and p...
Affective illness in family members and matched controls

As part of the US National Institute of Mental Health Collaborative Program on the Psychobiology of Depression study, a subset of 460 randomly chosen relatives of affectively ill probands were compared to a control group matched by the acquaintanceship method. The rate of major affective disorder in relatives was found to be 36%; the rate among controls was 28%. Relatives were also found to have significantly higher rates of bipolar II disorder, any Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) affective disorder and any RDC mental disorder. All of these rates were found to be significantly higher when female relatives were compared with their acquaintances, but only the rate of any RDC mental disorder was higher when this comparison was made in men. The acquaintanceship method enabled the selection of a control group that closely resembled the relatives, probably to the extent of "overmatching". When the match was evaluated to determine whether relatives tended to select comparably ill (or well) acquaintances, this was found to be the case only for alcoholic and never mentally ill relatives.
Assessing the Impact of Collaborative Research Projects on NWS Warning Performance

Abstract Since the inception of the Cooperative Program for Operational Meteorological Education and Training (COMET) Outreach Program in 1990, over 250 collaborative projects have been funded nationwide, involving approximately 90 National Weather Service (NWS) offices and over 70 different universities. However, until now there have not been any attempts to objectively assess the impact of these collaborative projects on NWS warning performance. A study was conducted to examine the impacts of COMET Cooperative and Partners collaborative research projects on NWS performance metrics for tornado, severe thunderstorm, flash flood, and winter storm warnings. The study evaluated relevant collaborative projects within the Eastern Region of the NWS completed between 1995 and 2001. In addition, the verification trends at the NWS Weather Forecast Office (WFO) in Raleigh, North Carolina, were examined to evaluate the influence of long-term collaborative activities on performance. WFO Raleigh has been continuously ...
Midterm experience with the endovascular treatment of isolated iliac aneurysms

Abstract Purpose: This report describes our 5-year experience with the endovascular repair of isolated iliac aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms. Methods: Between June 1993 and July 1998, 40 isolated iliac aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms were treated with endovascular grafts in 39 patients. Thirty-seven aneurysms were treated with endovascular grafts composed of polytetrafluoroethylene grafts and balloon expandable stents, and the other three underwent repair with a polycarbonate urethane endoluminal graft. Results: All the patients underwent initially successful endovascular treatment of isolated iliac aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms and were followed from 1 to 51 months (mean, 18 months). The 4-year primary patency rate was 94.5% ± 10%. The perioperative complications included one episode of distal embolization, an episode of colonic ischemia, five episodes of kinking or compression of the endovascular graft, and one early postoperative graft thrombosis. There was only one perioperative death in a patient whose aneurysm ruptured in the operating room just before endovascular repair. The median postoperative length of hospital stay was 3.0 ± 1.3 days in this group of patients at moderate and high risk. The long-term complications included one graft thrombosis and two endoleaks. One small endoleak was followed until the patient died of unrelated causes, and the other one led to aneurysm rupture in the only patient temporarily lost to follow-up examination. This patient successfully underwent treatment in the standard open surgical fashion. To date, all the other aneurysms have remained stable or have decreased in size during the follow-up examinations with duplex or contrast-enhanced computed tomographic scans. Conclusion: Endovascular repair of iliac aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms is a safe and effective technique with good midterm results in patients at standard and high risk. These grafts are particularly beneficial for patients with medical, surgical, or anatomic contraindications for open surgical repair. (J Vasc Surg 1999;30:907-14.)
Involvement or Isolation? The Social Networks of Children with Autism in Regular Classrooms

Including children with autism in regular classrooms has become prevalent; yet some evidence suggests such placements could increase the risk of isolation and rejection. In this study, we used social network methods to explore the involvement of chil- dren with autism in typical classrooms. Participants were 398 children (196 boys) in regular 2nd through 5th grade classes, including 17 children (14 boys) with high functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome. Children reported on friendship qualities, peer accep- tance, loneliness, and classroom social networks. De- spite involvement in networks, children with autism experienced lower centrality, acceptance, companion- ship, and reciprocity; yet they did not report greater loneliness. Future research is needed to help children with autism move from the periphery to more effective engagement with peers.
Study of the collision operator, ψ(z), for some exactly soluble models

The collision operator, ψ(z), introduced in the study of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics by Prigogine, Balescu, and Resibois is calculated exactly for some simple quantum-mechanical models. The calculations are done first for the discrete-energy spectrum case. Then, the behavior of the solutions is studies in the limit: l (extension of the system) → ∞, where continua appear in the spectra. It is found that the exact collision operators ψ(z, l) posses the property that limz→0 ψ (z, l) is either zero or underfined for finite l, while limz→10+ liml→∞ ψ (z, l) is a nonzero operator.
A 7–21 GHz Dual-Polarized Planar Ultrawideband Modular Antenna (PUMA) Array

The design, fabrication, and measurement of a 16 × 16 dual-polarized planar ultrawideband modular antenna (PUMA) array operating over 7-21 GHz (3:1 bandwidth) are presented. The array is comprised of tightly coupled dipoles printed on a grounded dielectric substrate and are excited by an unbalanced feeding scheme that eliminates external wideband baluns and feed organizers. The array can be assembled modularly, where each low-profile, fully planar, low-cost tile is fabricated using standard multilayer microwave PCB techniques. A unique solderless, modular interconnect mates the array to a dilation fixture that facilitates measurements using standard surface-mount assembly (SMA) connectors and terminations. After presenting the most critical design trends, simulation results of the final array in infinite, infinite × finite, and finite × finite models are compared with measurements. This prototype array exhibits a measured active VSWR <; 2.1 and close to ideal gain at broadside, and VSWR <; 2.8 with low cross-polarization out to θ = 45° in all planes, showing close agreement with simulations.
INDUCED AND SPONTANEOUS THYROID CANCER IN THE SYRIAN (GOLDEN) HAMSTER

Twenty-four or 12% of 204 hamsters fed an iodine deficient diet of rice and carrots developed thyroid cancer with metastases to lymph nodes or lungs. An additional 57 or 28% had probable cancer and 121 or 59% had thyroid hyperplasia. Histologically, the cancers were follicular adenocarcinomas. For the most part, they were so well differentiated as to preclude a definite diagnosis of cancer in the absence of metastases. The well differentiated, metastatic cancers are comparable to the “metastasizing struma” of man. The neoplastic changes in the thyroid gland were diffuse, suggesting TSH stimulation. The findings were confirmed in a second experiment using hamsters from a different source. However, metastatic thyroid cancer was found only in females of this experiment. This could be a result of fortuitous selection or a manifestation of genetic differences. In other experiments, spontaneous thyroid cancer was found in 8 or 1.5% of 523 hamsters surviving 181 days or longer on a diet of Purina Laboratory Chow...
Increases in cyclic GMP levels in brain and liver with sodium azide an activator of guanylate cyclase

SODIUM azide produces extrapyramidal symptoms with necrosis of the cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia. Toxicity with this metabolic inhibitor may also include hypotension, blindness and hepatic necrosis1–5. Many hormones and drugs mediate their effects by altering the intracellular levels of cyclic AMP and/or cyclic GMP6–10. We found that NaN3 increases cyclic GMP levels in incubations of slices from cerebral cortex, cerebellum or liver, and also stimulates guanylate cyclase activity. In contrast to other agents that can increase cyclic GMP accumulation in tissues the effect of NaN3 is observed in the absence of added calcium.
Short-form alternatives to the judgment of line orientation test

The Judgment of Line Orientation Test (JLO; Benton, Hamsher, Varney, & Spreen, 1983) is frequently used as a motor-free method of evaluating visuospatial processing but can be time-consuming to administer. We investigated the internal consistency, validity, and utility of two parallel JLO short forms in a mixed clinical sample of 386 patients. Mean scores were equivalent, and correlational analyses supported the internal consistency and validity of both short forms. When compared to the standard JLO, the odd- and even-item short forms demonstrated good sensitivity, specificity, overall hit rate and predicted positive and negative accuracy. We conclude that the JLO short forms possess sufficient internal consistency, validity, and utility for serial assessment in research studies. The JLO short forms may potentially be used in clinical screening situations by applying a single cut-off score to differentiate levels of performance. However, more detailed clinical use of these JLO short forms will necessitate collection of normative data in order to generate accurate percentile rankings.
Pancreatic cancer, blood glucose and beverage consumption

We studied the incidence of pancreatic cancer in 122,894 men and women who had previously reported amount and frequency of coffee, tea, and alcohol consumption; reporting was done at a multi-phasic health check-up (MHC) taken while subjects were members of a large prepaid health plan. We also tested the hypothesis that a pre-clinical effect of pancreatic cancer on glucose homeostasis leads to mild hyperglycemia and a generally increased thirst. If true, this could partially explain the increased consumption of beverages (particularly coffee) reported in association with pancreatic cancer in some case-control studies. However, in the 49 pancreatic cancer cases diagnosed during 6 years of follow-up, we found no evidence of increased risk associated with coffee, tea, or alcoholic beverages. We also found no evidence to support the increased-thirst hypothesis when we examined the 19 cases diagnosed within 12 months of having MHC. We did confirm a significantly increased risk among cigarette smokers (relative risk, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-4.7) which was progressive with increasing levels of cigarette use. In addition, risk of pancreatic cancer was greater for persons previously under treatment for diabetes mellitus (relative risk, 4.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-16.7). Our results add to the growing body of evidence against a causal role of coffee in pancreatic cancer.
Time and frequency domain scattering for the one-dimensional wave equation

We give a constructive method for extending time domain data for the inverse scattering problem for the one-dimensional wave equation. We show that a reflection operator on L2(-T,T) with T finite is essentially a Hankel operator and then modify the Nehari extension of the kernel of the reflection operator to obtain a reflection operator on L2() that is consistent with conservation of energy. This extension result allows frequency domain techniques to be used when the time domain data are only available for finite time, and we demonstrate this by using the frequency domain characterization of reflection coefficients to obtain a new proof of the characterization of reflection operators on L2(-T,T). We also give an a priori estimate for the operator norm of the reflection operator on L2(-T,T) and use the theory of Toeplitz operators to show how the singular values of these reflection operators are related to the reflection coefficient.
Suppressed clinical experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis in bm12 mice is linked to reduced intracellular calcium mobilization and IL-10 and IFN-γ release by acetylcholine receptor-specific T cells

Abstract Class II MHC mutant bm12 mice have an increased resistance to experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) compared to C57BL/6 mice. In vitro, this relative resistance was mainly associated with a reduced cytokine response to acetylcholine receptor (AChR) and its dominant pathogenic peptide α146–162, whereas the response to the epitope α111–126 remained intact. Calcium mobilization after stimulation of AChR-immune T cells with AChR or α146–162 peptide, but not α111–126 peptide, was decreased in bm12 compared to C57BL/6. Thus, the reduced incidence of clinical EAMG in bm12 is linked to lower IFN-γ and IL-10 release, and intracellular calcium mobilization by α146–162-specific T cells.
Geological Evolution of Venus: Rises, Plains, Plumes, and Plateaus

Crustal plateaus and volcanic rises, major physiographic features on Venus, both formed over mantle plumes. Crustal plateaus were produced by large degrees of plume melting beneath thin lithosphere. The oldest tectonic features in crustal plateaus are ribbon-like troughs indicating early uplift and tensile stretching; their shallow depths suggest that surface temperature there was higher in the past. Widespread volcanic plains, derived from the broad upwellings of internally heated mantle convection, were continually erupted during the time of crustal plateau formation. Discrete volcanic rises, younger than crustal plateaus, formed over a thicker lithosphere, with less plume partial melting. The presence of only one transitional form indicates that the lithosphere thickened rapidly. Thermal and magmatic models show that the formation of these major features can be tied to an expected change in mantle convective style about 1 billion years ago.
The Sound of One Hand Clapping: Counterintuitive Lessons Extracted from Paradoxes and Double Binds in Participative Organizations

This study examines a number of specific paradoxical situations found in participative organizations and compares them to the paradoxes found in select Zen stories or koans. Each set of stories or examples focuses on one or more aspects of empowerment. A narrative analysis of the juxtaposed organizational and Zen stories reveals counterintuitive ideas on how to understand and cope with organizational double binds. Some of the implications of this analysis include the following: (a) organizational paradoxes cannot be controlled by management in a rational and/or manipulative sense; (b) employee responses to empowerment dilemmas are often marked by inaction and exasperation; and (c) reframing strategies may help members to cope with organizational double binds.
End-to-end communication in the modulation of translation by mammalian RNA viruses

A 5'-3' end interaction leading to stimulation of translation has been described for many cellular and viral mRNAs. Enhancement of viral translational efficiency mediated by 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) has been shown to occur via RNA-RNA interactions or novel RNA-protein interactions. Mammalian RNA viruses make use of end-to-end communication in conjunction with both viral and cellular factors to regulate multiple processes including translation initiation and the switch between translation and RNA synthesis during the viral lifecycle.
Data traffic grooming/exchange of a single 10-Gbit/s TDM tributary channel between two pol-muxed 80-Gbit/s DPSK channels

We report tributary channel data traffic grooming/exchange of pol-muxed DPSK signal based on Kerr-induced nonlinear polarization rotation. 8 tributary channel data grooming between two pol-muxed 80-Gbit/s DPSK channels is demonstrated with a penalty of <4 dB.
6.1: Presentation session: History of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory: “Atoms in appalachia: Secret city and super science”

Biographical Sketch: Dr. Stephen Stow is former director of the American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE), which is operated by UT-Battelle in Oak Ridge. He holds a B.S. degree in geology from Vanderbilt University and M.S. and PhD degrees from Rice University in geochemistry. He has worked in many capacities since joining ORNL in 1980, serving as program manager for various environmental activities, Section Head for the Earth Sciences section, and an active participant in numerous environmental restoration projects associated with clean-up of the Oak Ridge Reservation, as well as projects associated with geologic disposal of nuclear high-level waste. He recently has served as the ORNL ombudsman and, during the late 1990's, as the ethics officer. His interest in ORNL (and Manhattan Project) history has led him to be one of the more knowledgeable individuals on these topics in the Oak Ridge area. From 2003 to his retirement in 2006, Dr. Stow served as Director of the AMSE in Oak Ridge. Prior to joining ORNL, Dr. Stow was a Professor of Geology at the University of Alabama and was employed by Continental Oil Company and the U.S. Bureau of Mines. He is the author or co-author of over 70 publications and numerous reports. He is active in professional organizations and is a fellow in the AAAS and the Geological Society of America he is an active participant in the American Chemical Society's Speakers Tour. Currently, he serves on the board of directors for the AMSE Foundation, the Oak Ridge Historic and Preservation Association (as vice-president), and the DOE-appointed Oak Ridge Site Specific Advisory Board.
In vitro lung slices: a powerful approach for assessment of lung pathophysiology

This review summarizes the existing literature on the use of in vitro lung slices to study pulmonary physiology, pharmacology, pathogenesis and toxicity. Since in vitro lung slices maintain cell-cell and cell-matrix relationships in a highly controllable and accessible setting, they offer many advantages over both in vivo and single-cell culture systems. With the advent of high-production slicers, lung slices can be rapidly and reproducibly generated, including from animals treated in vivo. Slices can then be treated in vitro and analyzed using high-throughput technology. Therefore, the lung-slice system offers broad, current and unrealized potential for the detection of toxicity and the delineation of pathophysiologic and therapeutic mechanisms.
CD and MCD studies of the non-heme ferrous active site in (4-hydroxyphenyl)pyruvate dioxygenase: Correlation between oxygen activation in the extradiol and α-KG-dependent dioxygenases

(4-Hydroxyphenyl)pyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) is an unusual alpha-keto acid-dependent non-heme iron dioxygenase as it incorporates both atoms of dioxygen into a single substrate, paralleling the extradiol dioxygenases. CD/MCD studies of the catalytically active ferrous site and its interaction with substrate reveal a geometic and electronic structure and mechanistic approach to oxygen activation which bridges those of the alpha-KG-dependent and the extradiol dioxygenases.
Nicotine increases in vivo blood-brain barrier permeability and alters cerebral microvascular tight junction protein distribution

Abstract The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is critical to the health of the central nervous system. The BBB is formed primarily by the presence of tight junctions (TJ) between cerebral microvessel endothelial cells. In light of the known effects of nicotine on endothelial cell biology, the specific effects of nicotine on the in vivo BBB were examined. Using in situ brain perfusion, it was found that continuous administration of nicotine (4.5 mg free base·kg−1·day−1) for 1 and 7 days led to increased permeability of the BBB to [14C]-sucrose without significant changes in its initial volume of distribution. The expression and distribution of the TJ-associated proteins actin, occludin, claudin-1, -3, and -5, and ZO-1 and -2 were analyzed by Western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy. Though no changes in total protein expression were observed, nicotine treatment was associated with altered cellular distribution of ZO-1 and diminished junctional immunoreactivity of claudin-3. It is proposed that nicotine leads to changes in BBB permeability via the modulation of TJ proteins.
Cystathioninuria: Nature of the Defect

A homogenate of liver obtained by biopsy from two patients with cystathioninuria, an inborn error of metabolism, cleaved radioactive cystathionine only slightly until an excess of pyridoxal phosphate was added. The apoenzyme failed to bind the coenzyme normally. Pyridoxine therapy of familial cystathioninuria thus has a sound basis.
The role of detection and recollection of change in list discrimination

In two experiments, we examined the importance of the detection and recollection of change for list discrimination. Two lists of pairs were presented, with the right-hand member being changed between lists for some pairs. Participants in Experiment 1 were instructed to explicitly indicate when they detected a change between pairs during the presentation of List 2, whereas participants in Experiment 2 were not instructed to do so. At the time of test, participants in both experiments were presented with a pair and asked whether it had been presented in List 2. Next, recollection of change was measured by asking whether the right-hand member of the pair was changed between the lists. The results from Experiment 1 revealed high correspondence between the detection of change during the presentation of List 2 and the recollection of change at the time of test. Consequently, change recollection at test can serve as a measure of earlier change detection, in combination with access to memory for change at the time of test. In both experiments, as compared to control conditions, proactive facilitation in list discrimination was observed when change was recollected, whereas proactive interference was observed when change was not recollected. These results were interpreted as showing that recursive reminding—bringing a List 1 pair to mind during the presentation of its changed List 2 pair—embeds memory for the earlier event into memory for the later event, and doing so preserves information about list membership.
Malpractice protection: Communication of diagnostic uncertainty

Malpractice claims against pathologists for misdiagnosis have been sharply rising, especially in the areas of breast fine-needle aspirations (BFNAs) and cervical (Pap) smears. The current state of medical malpractice law is reviewed as it relates to pathologists' anatomic reports. Communication is one of the best medical malpractice prevention tools. This article examines anatomic pathology reports in terms of the merits of communicating diagnostic error rates to the clinician/patient. In the areas of BFNAs and cervical smears, dissemination of diagnostic error rates in the cytology report is recommended. This would help safeguard against malpractice liability being imposed without showing a deviation by the cytopathologist from reasonable practice standards.
Building blocks: A novel metaphor for solving 3D puzzles

This paper presents our team's design and implementation of an innovative solution to solve the challenge proposed by the 3DUI Contest, which consisted of creating a 3DUI to solve simple 3D puzzles. Rather than using a direct manipulation technique to handle placement of the puzzle pieces, such as the virtual hand, we designed an innovative technique based on build. We aimed to provide a fun and intuitive way to solve puzzles that is not possible in the physical world. Rather than having to focus on specific pieces one at a time, users instead build pieces from individual building blocks, allowing them to focus on the structure of the puzzle space. The results of a user study showed that this system provides a fun and engaging experience for both novices and experts. We believe that performance was determined primarily by experience with games and 3D puzzles rather than by 3DUI design.
Microgeographical variation in thermal preference by an amphibian

Ectotherms use behaviour to buffer effects of temperature on growth, development and survival. While behavioural thermoregulation is widely reported, localized adaptation of thermal preference is poorly documented. Larval amphibians live in wetlands ranging from entirely open to heavily shaded by vegetation. We hypothesized that populations undergo localized selection leading to countergradient patterns of thermal preference behaviour. Specifically, we predicted that wood frog (Rana sylvatica) larvae from closed canopy ponds would be more strongly temperature selective and would prefer higher temperatures than conspecifics from populations found in open canopy ponds. In a study of six breeding ponds in north-eastern Connecticut, USA, these predictions were upheld. The countergradient, microgeographical variation in thermal preference documented here implies that wood frog populations may have diverged rapidly in the face of contrasting selection pressures. Rapid, behaviourally mediated responses to changing thermal environments have important implications for understanding population responses to climate change.
Role of angiotensin II in cardiovascular disease therapeutic implications of more than a century of research.

Keywords: Hypertension, Cardiovascular disease, Diabetes mellitus, Angiotensin II antagonists, ACE inhibitors, Stroke, Heart failure, Post myocardial infarction, Diabetic nephropathy Abstract More than a century of research on the renin- angiotensin system (RAS) has uncovered the widespread involvement of angiotensin II (Ang II) in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases. A number of outcomes-based mega trials utilising hard clinical endpoints have revealed beneficial effects of angiotensin receptor antagonists (AIIAs/ARBs) in patients with hypertension, heart failure, diabetic nephropathy, and post-myocardial infarction (MI). The results of these studies not only emphasise the importance of Ang II in the pathophysiology of these diseases but have provided the basis for an evidence-based approach for the use of AIIAs in clinical practice. It is hoped that the next 100 years of research into the RAS will uncover hitherto unimaginable therapeutic opportunities.
Cellular Players in Breast Cancer Bone Metastases

The current paradigm for bone metastasis is that there is a mutual interaction between osteoclasts and cancer cells, known as the tumor/bone vicious cycle. This model is based largely on findings in immune compromised animals showing amelioration of bone metastases by targeting the osteoclasts. Thus, osteoclast inhibitors are the standard of care in breast cancer bone metastasis. However, clinical studies demonstrate only a 28 % reduction in skeletal-related events in patients with bone metastases treated with bisphosphonates, and currently, there is limited evidence supporting anti-resorptive therapies in reducing the overall incidence of bone metastasis or extending survival. These data indicate that other cells, in addition to the osteoclasts, control tumor growth in bone. This review will discuss the role of the osteoclast, and then focus on additional cellular players, thus expanding the model of bone metastasis pathophysiology to include immune and stromal components.
Antivenin administration for Centruroides scorpion sting: Risks and benefits

Study objectives: To assess the clinical severity of envenomation by the Centruroides scorpion in young children; the potential benefit of antivenin administration with regard to time to resolution of symptoms, prevention of hospitalization, and prevention of invasive intervention; and the risk of acute and delayed hypersensitivity reaction. Design: Retrospective chart review with follow-up contact. Setting: Referral toxicology management center. Type of participants: Children less than 10 years of age experiencing severe Centruroides scorpion envenomation. Interventions: Administration of goat serum-derived anti- Centruroides antivenin. Measurements and main results: Stings in young children may be life threatening, resulting in extreme neuromuscular activity, tachycardia, and respiratory distress. Administration of anti- Centruroides antivenin resulted in rapid resolution of all symptoms without acute reaction in all 12 patients so treated; 58% of patients treated with antivenin had a delayed onset of rash or symptoms of serum sickness. Conclusion: The benefit of rapid resolution of life-threatening symptoms and potential for outpatient management of severe envenomation in young children may justify the risk of acute and delayed reaction associated with antivenin use in this group. The use of antivenin for the less severe envenomation common in older children and adults may subject them to unjustified risk.
Secretion of inhibin B during ovarian stimulation is decreased in infertile women with endometriosis.

Abstract Objective(s): To determine the levels and pattern of inhibin B secretion during ovarian stimulation in patients with endometriosis and to evaluate the correlation between inhibin B levels and variables of follicular and oocyte development. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: IVF center. Patient(s): Women with endometriosis (n = 20) and tubal factor (n = 10) as the only cause of infertility. Intervention(s): Inhibin B levels were measured during gonadotropin stimulation on day 1, days 8–11, day of hCG administration, and oocyte retrieval. Main Outcome Measure(s): Patterns and levels of inhibin B secretion were compared in the two groups. Other variables analyzed were age, days of gonadotropin stimulation and total ampules used, oocytes retrieved, and the fertilization and pregnancy rate. Result(s): Inhibin B levels and number of oocytes retrieved were significantly lower in patients with endometriosis than in the control group. Two patterns of inhibin B secretion were noted: It peaked in the midfollicular phase or on the day of hCG administration. In contrast, E 2 levels peaked on the day of hCG administration. Inhibin B in the midfollicular phase in both groups correlated positively with number of oocytes retrieved. In addition, E 2 and inhibin B levels in the midfollicular phase correlated positively. Conclusion(s): Decreased inhibin B secretion in patients with endometriosis suggests impaired granulosa cell function. Inhibin B may serve as an alternate marker to assess follicular development or to predict the number of oocytes retrieved.
Family Rituals Implications for Early Intervention

Family rituals are uniquely meaningful family interactions that transmit the family's beliefs and values and provide the family with a sense of stability, identity, and a means for socialization. E...
Compensating the distributed effect of counter-convection and diffusion in multi-input and multi-output LTI systems

Compensation of infinite-dimensional input or sensor dynamics in SISO, LTI systems is achieved using the backstepping method. For MIMO, LTI systems with distributed input or sensor dynamics, governed by diffusion with counter-convection, we develop a methodology for constructing control laws and observers that compensate the infinite-dimensional actuator or sensor dynamics. The explicit construction of the compensators are based on novel transformations, which can be considered of “backstepping-forwarding” type, of the finite-dimensional state of the plant and of the infinite-dimensional actuator or sensor states. Based on these transformations we construct explicit Lyapunov functionals which prove exponential stability of the closed-loop system, or convergence of the estimation error in the case of observer design. Finally, we illustrate the effectiveness of our controller with a numerical example.
Group Rekeying Schemes for Secure Group Communication in Wireless Sensor Networks

Wireless sensor networks are promising solutions for many applications. However, wireless sensor nodes suffer from many constraints such as low computation capability, small memory, limited energy resources, and so on. Grouping is an important technique to localize computation and reduce communication overhead in wireless sensor networks. In this paper, we use grouping to refer to the process of combining a set of sensor nodes with similar properties. We propose two centralized group rekeying (CGK) schemes for secure group communication in sensor networks. The lifetime of a group is divided into three phases, i.e., group formation, group maintenance, and group dissolution. We demonstrate how to set up the group and establish the group key in each phase. Our analysis shows that the proposed two schemes are computationally efficient and secure.
Restoration to Competency Practice Guidelines

Courts frequently adjudicate criminal defendants as incompetent to stand trial and order defendants to psychiatric hospitals for treatment and education designed to restore the defendant to competence. However, little information is available on effective restoration to competency techniques. This article summarizes the existing literature on restoration to competency programs, describes a competency restoration program at one Ohio hospital, and offers basic restoration to competency practice guidelines that may be applied to any facility performing competency restoration.
The role of sensory perception in the development and targeting of tobacco products.

Aims To examine tobacco industry research on smoking-related sensory effects, including differences in sensory perception across smoker groups, and to determine whether this research informed targeted product development and impacted the development of commercial tobacco products. Design We searched previously secret internal tobacco industry documents available online through document databases housed at Tobacco Documents Online, the British American Tobacco Document Archive and the Legacy Tobacco Documents Library. We identified relevant documents using a snowball sampling method to first search the databases using an initial set of key words and to then establish further search terms. Findings Sensory research is a priority within the tobacco industry directly impacting commercial markets both in the United States and internationally. Sensory factors contribute to smoker satisfaction and product acceptance, and play an important role in controlling puffing behavior. Cigarette manufacturers have capitalized on distinct sensory preferences across gender, age and ethnic groups by tailoring products for specific populations. Conclusions Regulation of tobacco products is needed to address product changes that are used to reinforce or contribute to tobacco dependence; for instance, the incorporation of additives that target attributes such as smoothness, harshness and aftertaste. Greater understanding of the role of sensory effects on smoking behavior may also help to inform the development of tobacco treatment options that support long-term tobacco abstinence.
DIRK VANDEWALLE, Libya Since Independence: Oil and State-Building (Ithaca, N.Y.: Cornell University Press, 1998). Pp. 245. $45 cloth, $16.95 paper.

Among Middle Eastern and North African states, Libya has been under-studied, especially in recent years, because of difficulties in doing fieldwork and because of Libya's isolation by the American-led international boycott in the wake of the Lockerbie incident. Vandewalle's book is not only a much needed and fresh look at the inner workings of Libya; it is also a very valuable contribution to an ongoing theoretical debate over rentier states, state-building, and etatism. It is the culmination of fourteen months of fieldwork that included interviews with many high officials and access to primary source material available only in Libya.
How persons with chronic hepatitis C in residential substance abuse treatment programs think about depression and interferon therapy.

OBJECTIVE: This secondary analysis of existing qualitative descriptive data is the first to specifically report on how persons undergoing residential treatment for substance abuse think about depre...