cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nomenclature of Vasculitic Syndromes: A Historical Perspective

Since the original description of periarteritis nodosa (PAN) in 1866, the number of recognized forms of so-called idiopathic vasculitis has risen to about a dozen. Their relation to each other and their nature remain unclear, although the recent discovery of antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA) promises a clue to the origin of at least some of them, particularly Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) and perhaps also Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS). On the other hand, PAN appears to be a nonspecific syndrome of various etiologies.
Gravity, topography, and crustal evolution of Venus

A method for estimating radial gravity anomalies from line-of-sight acceleration data, their interpolation, and the use of iteration for improved radial anomaly estimates is outlined. Results based on spherical harmonic coefficients for Venus' gravitational field are first discussed, and the procedure is then presented for determining radial acceleration estimates from the line-of-sight vectors and for interpolating the results at preselected locations using the method of objective mapping. A preliminary gravity anomaly map of much of the surface of Venus based on the first estimation step of this technique is presented, and the results are discussed.
Glucose as a hormone: receptor-mediated glucose sensing in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Because glucose is the principal carbon and energy source for most cells, most organisms have evolved numerous and sophisticated mechanisms for sensing glucose and responding to it appropriately. This is especially apparent in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae , where these regulatory mechanisms determine the distinctive fermentative metabolism of yeast, a lifestyle it shares with many kinds of tumour cells. Because energy generation by fermentation of glucose is inefficient, yeast cells must vigorously metabolize glucose. They do this, in part, by carefully regulating the first, rate-limiting step of glucose utilization: its transport. Yeast cells have learned how to sense the amount of glucose that is available and respond by expressing the most appropriate of its 17 glucose transporters. They do this through a signal transduction pathway that begins at the cell surface with the Snf3 and Rgt2 glucose sensors and ends in the nucleus with the Rgt1 transcription factor that regulates expression of genes encoding glucose transporters. We explain this glucose signal transduction pathway, and describe how it fits into a highly interconnected regulatory network of glucose sensing pathways that probably evolved to ensure rapid and sensitive response of the cell to changing levels of glucose. Abbreviations: Hif1, hypoxia-induced transcription factor; YckI, casein kinase I
Status of the NASA's Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) Long-Duration Test After 30,352 Hours of Operation

The NASA s Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) program is tasked with significantly improving and extending the capabilities of current state-of-the-art NSTAR thruster. The service life capability of the NEXT ion thruster is being assessed by thruster wear test and life-modeling of critical thruster components, such as the ion optics and cathodes. The NEXT Long-Duration Test (LDT) was initiated to validate and qualify the NEXT thruster propellant throughput capability. The NEXT thruster completed the primary goal of the LDT; namely to demonstrate the project qualification throughput of 450 kg by the end of calendar year 2009. The NEXT LDT has demonstrated 30,352 hr of operation and processed 490 kg of xenon throughput--surpassing the NSTAR Extended Life Test hours demonstrated and more than double the throughput demonstrated by the NSTAR flight-spare. Thruster performance changes have been consistent with a priori predictions. Thruster erosion has been minimal and consistent with the thruster service life assessment, which predicts the first failure mode at greater than 750 kg throughput. The life-limiting failure mode for NEXT is predicted to be loss of structural integrity of the accelerator grid due to erosion by charge-exchange ions.
Dehydration of nitric acid using perfluoro carboxylate ionomer membranes

Abstract Investigations determined the feasibility of using perfluoro carboxylate ionomer films for the dehydration of nitric acid. Motivation for this effort was the speculation of improved water selectivity (nitrate rejection) for the carboxylate film when compared to the dehydration using perfluoro sulfonate or sulfonate/carboxylate composite films. The methodology used was to generate solution cast perfluoro carboxylate ionomer films, characterize the film and to assess the film's aqueous transport performance. Experimental results suggest that the cast films had a reduction in ion-exchange capacities when compared to “as received” films by as much as 56% due to the generation of an ester form of the ionomer during the dissolution/casting process. Nitric acid pervaporation experiments showed that permeate fluxes were two orders of magnitude smaller for the cast films when compared to ionomer sulfonate films of similar thickness (sulfonated Nafion™ 111). Water separation efficiencies ( α ) were demonstrated to be one order of magnitude higher for the carboxylate cast films when compared to sulfonated Nafion™ 111.
Genetic Heterozygosity and Gene Flow in Coleomegilla maculata De Geer (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Abstract Coleomegilla maculata, an abundant, widely distributed, North American polyphagous beetle, is a predator of soft-bodied insects including aphids. Gene diversity and breeding structure of 12 C. maculata populations was investigated by using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Thirty-five of 44 putative loci were polymorphic (79.5%). Genic heterozygosity was estimated at 28 polymorphic loci. Average heterozygosity among the 37 scorable loci was 18.3 ± 3.5% and was 24.2 ± 5.0% among only polymorphic loci. The average number of alleles was 4.00 ± 3.01 and the effective number of alleles was 1.61 ± 1.65 among the 37 loci. No null alleles were recognized. Forty-five putative alleles segregating at 7 presumptive loci were used to study breeding structure. A significant deficiency of heterozygotes was detected within populations; this deficiency was a result our failure to identify heterozygotes for alleles of similar mobilities. No significant differentiation was found among populations within fields, among populations within states, or among states. Gene frequencies did not significantly differ between beetles sampled in autumn nor among their progeny the next spring. There were no significant departures from random mating among populations.
Does astrocytic glycogen benefit axon function and survival in CNS white matter during glucose deprivation

Axons, the functional elements in CNS white matter, are frequently injured by ischemia, especially in the context of stroke. The pathophysiology of axonal injury induced by energy deprivation has been analyzed in the rat optic nerve and involves excessive calcium influx by way of reverse Na+/Ca2+ exchange and Ca2+ channels. Evidence is presented that CNS axonal function can be supported in the absence of glucose by intrinsic energy reserves provided through the breakdown of astrocytic glycogen. It is argued that energy is transferred from astrocytes to axons in the form of lactate, which is able to maintain axonal function when substituted for glucose. These observations complement the increasingly convincing hypothesis that astrocytes and neurons interact metabolically, both in the course of normal activity and under pathological conditions such as ischemia. The emerging picture would be no surprise to Camillo Golgi, who predicted a close facsimile of this glial-neuronal interaction more than a century ago.
Clinical Experience with Ranolazine in a Veteran Population with Chronic Stable Angina

BACKGROUND:Efficacy of ranolazine in the treatment of chronic stable angina (CSA) has been established; however, pivotal trials did not require the optimization of conventional antianginal drug therapy (CADT) prior to use in a veteran population.OBJECTIVE:To determine whether ranolazine, when added to optimized doses of CADT, improves angina in a veteran population with CSA and refractory symptoms.METHODS:In an observational retrospective study, 35 patients prescribed ranolazine and having a baseline Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) administered at a Veterans Affairs medical center in Gainesville, FL, were evaluated. Patients who were prescribed ranolazine by a provider from outside the institution and did not obtain a baseline SAQ were excluded. The primary outcome measure was the change in SAQ scores from baseline to 1 and 3 months after initiation of ranolazine treatment. Secondary measures included clinically significant QTc interval prolongation (>500 msec or an increase of at least 60 msec from ba...
The aquisition of semantic restrictions in children

Children in nursery school through fourth grade were tested for their acquisition of three different kinds of semantic restrictions: Animate Subject, Animate Object, and Special Restrictions. Using the children's ability to judge accurately the nonreversible character of sentences containing such restrictions, it was found that acquisition of these restrictions continued well into primary school. Animate Subject restrictions were acquired first, Animate Object restrictions last, with Special Restrictions being intermediate. Finally, lower socioeconomic status children were found to acquire these restrictions later than children of middle-class status. The results were interpreted relative to McNeill's “horizontal development” hypothesis.
Regulation of methionine biosynthesis in Neurospora crassa

Abstract The regulation of serine hydroxymethyltransferase, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, and methyltetrahydropteroylpolyglutamate:homocysteine methyltransferase was investigated in Neurospora crassa . Adding choline to the medium decreased the specific activity of these enzymes. Methionine potentiated the choline effect, but, when added alone, was without effect. Neither choline, methionine, nor S -adenosylmethionine appears to be the immediate corepressor of synthesis of these enzymes. Several nonallelic mutants were examined for the enzymes of methionine methyl group synthesis. The formate-requiring mutant for lacks serine hydroxymethyltransferase. The methionine-requiring mutants me -1 and me -8 lack, respectively, the reductase and the methyltransferase. The methionine-requiring mutants me -1, me -6 (folate polyglutamate synthetase deficient) and me -8 were found to have significantly higher serine hydroxymethyltransferase specific activities than did the wild-type strain.
The Use of Educational Technology in Biology: A Case Study

Evaluation of a technologically mediated college-level biology course has been done objectively as well as subjectively. Comparison is made with data accumulated from a traditionally taught biology course. Comparison reveals grade improvement through the use of educational technology. The learning environment is superior and student acceptance of technology is overwhelmingly favorable. The multimedia program has had a positive effect on the teaching-learning process. The challenge is to develop and use systems more effectively.
Crustal recycling and the Aleutian arc

Two types of crustal recycling transfer continental crust back into its mantle source. The first of these, upper crustal recycling, involves elements that have been fractionated by the hydrosphere-sediment system, and are subducted as a part of the oceanic crust. The subduction process (S-process) then fractionates these elements, and those not removed at shallow tectonic levels and as “excess” components of arc magmas are returned to the mantle. Newly determined trace element compositions of Pacific oceanic sediments are variable and mixing is necessary during the S-process, if sediment is to provide “excess” elements in the ratios observed in Aleutian arc magmas. Only a small fraction of the total sediment subducted at the Aleutian trench is required to furnish the “excess” elements in Aleutian arc magmas. Ba and 10Be data indicate that this small fraction includes a contribution from the youngest subducted sediment. The second type of recycling, lower crustal recycling, involves crystal cumulates of both arc and oceanic crustal origin, and residues from crustal melting within arc crust. Unlike the silicic sediments, recycled lower crust is mafic to ultramafic in composition. Trace element analyses of xenoliths representing Aleutian arc lower crust are presented. Recycling by delamination of lower crust and attached mantle lithosphere may occur following basalt eclogite phase transformations that are facilitated by terrane suturing events that weld oceanic island arcs to the continents. The relative importance of upper and lower crustal recycling exerts a primary control on continental crustal composition.
Power and sample size of two-stage extreme phenotype sequencing design for next generation sequencing studies

Background Next-generation sequencing technology is changing the genomic research due to its huge sequencing capacity which is used to identify rare susceptibility variants that affect complex diseases. Because of its high cost, a twostage extreme phenotype sequencing (TS-EPS) design is an alternative approach [1] in which the genetic variants are discovered by whole-genome or whole-exome sequencing individuals with extreme phenotypes in stage I and the association variants are detected by sequencing a large number of individuals on the discovered variants in stage II. TS-EPS can efficiently discover more than half of the causal variants using about 0.2% of all individuals [2] and can therefore have higher power than random sampling given the sample size and effect sizes of the causal variants [2,3]. Using simulated data for unrelated individuals, we further explore the efficiency of TS-ESP in term of different sample sizes and varying effect sizes.
Perceptions of Postdrinking Female Sexuality: Effects of Gender, Beverage Choice, and Drink Payment1

To examine the postulate that the drinking woman is viewed differently than her nondrinking counterpart, two experiments were conducted. In Study 1, 174 subjects completed an alcohol expectancy questionnaire that was modified to assess expected alcohol effects on another person: young man or young woman. The woman was perceived as being more sexual after drinking than was the man. These perceptions were also influenced by expected alcohol dosage, subjects' gender, and drinking experience. In Study 2, 176 subjects read a vignette depicting a woman having drinks with a man. To manipulate the stimulus woman's consumption and the drink payment arrangement, 8 versions of the vignette were employed: The woman was described as drinking cola or alcohol (beer, wine or whiskey) and as paying for her own drinks or allowing the man to “pick up the tab”. Subjects rated the drinking woman as significantly more aggressive, impaired, sexually available, and as significantly more likely to engage in foreplay and intercourse. Perceptions of her sexual disinhibition and likelihood of sex play were significantly enhanced if the man bought the drinks. Compared to their own perceptions of her, subjects estimated that her date would see her as significantly more disinhibited and socially skilled and as less impaired. The alcohol-drinking woman was also seen as less attractive than her cola-drinking counterpart. Practical implications regarding stereotypes about cross-gender drinking situations and theoretical implications regarding alcohol expectancy research are discussed.
Direct tensor expression for natural strain and fast, accurate approximation

Abstract A direct tensor expression for natural strain ln V is developed using the fact that dilatation and distortion strain additively decouple into the spherical and deviatoric parts of ln V , respectively. Upon separating the dilatation and the distortion, our direct expression for the deviator of ln V has scalar coefficients that depend on, at most, two invariants derived from B. By using simple functions for these scalar coefficients, a fast and accurate approximation for the deviatoric part of ln V is obtained. The error in using this approximation diminishes as the strain decreases. For isochoric deformation, the percent error is about 0.2% for uniaxial extension of stretch 2 or for equibiaxial extension with stretches of 1.4. For pure shear, our approximation for ln V is exact. As for any dilatation superimposed on isochoric deformation, the deviator of ln V is unaffected, whereas the spherical part of ln V is obtained exactly and quickly with tr ( ln V )= ln (J) . Similar results for ln U (Lagrangian log-strain) follow directly from those herein for ln V .
Neuroprotection by estrogen in animal models of ischemia and Parkinson's disease

Estrogen has been demonstrated to protect against brain injury, neurodegeneration, and cognitive decline. Furthermore, estrogen seems to specifically protect cortical and hippocampal neurons from ischemic injury. Here, the neuroprotective affects of estrogens, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), and estrogen receptor α- and β- (ERα and ERβ) selective ligands in animal models of focal and global ischemia are reviewed. In rats and mice, the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model has been used as a model representing cerebrovascular stroke, while in gerbils the two-vessel occlusion model, representing acute heart attack, has been used. Using focal ischemia in ovariectomized ERαKO, ERβKO, and wild type mice, it has been clearly established that the ERα subtype is critical for mediating neuroprotection in this model. The gerbil global ischemia model was used to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of estrogen, SERMs, and ERα- and ERβ-selective compounds in the hippocampus. Analysis of neurogranin mRNA, a marker of viability of hippocampal neurons, with in situ hybridization, revealed that estrogen treatment resulted in complete protection in the dorsal CA1 regions, not only when administered before, but also when given 1 h after occlusion. The neuroprotection conferred by estrogen in an animal model of Parkinson's disease is also discussed. In the model of Parkinson's disease, although estrogen prevented the loss of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in the striatum following 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) treatment, the lesion and/or the estrogen treatment did not induce the expression of ERs in the striatum or substantia nigra, indicating a non-ER-mediating effect of estrogen. Drug Dev. Res. 66:172–181, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Concanavalin A Distinguishes Among Diseases of Altered Epidermal Differentiation

Mannose-containing glycoproteins from lesional tissue of several diseases of aberrant epidermal differentiation (palmar-plantar keratoderma, pachyonychia congenita, psoriasis, and epidermolytic hyperkeratosis) were analyzed by overlaying iodinated concanavalin A onto molecules separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Gel autoradiograms showed that biopsy samples from patients with the same disease were very similar. The radioactivity profiles were different for each disease and were distinguishable from each other and from normal epidermis and callus. The resolution and sensitivity of this technique may be of diagnostic significance.
Correlation testing for nuclear density functional theory

Correlation testing provides a quick method of discriminating amongst potential terms to include in a nuclear mass formula or functional and is a necessary tool for further nuclear mass models; however a firm mathematical foundation of the method has not been previously set forth. Here, the necessary justification for correlation testing is developed and more detail of the motivation behind its use is given. Examples are provided to clarify the method analytically and for computational benchmarking. We provide a quantitative demonstration of the method’s performance and short-comings, highlighting also potential issues a user may encounter. In concluding we suggest some possible future developments to improve the limitations of the method.
Some robust approaches to testing and estimation in spatial econometrics

Abstract Some robust approaches are outlined that form a basis for a more realistic statistical inference in spatial econometric models. Three specific issues are addressed: significance tests on coefficients in the spatial expansion method that are robust to the presence of heteroskedasticity of unknown form; heteroskedasticity-robust specification tests for spatial dependence; and boot-strap estimation in spatial autoregressive models. The techniques are presented in formal terms and their application to spatial analysis is illustrated in a number of simple empirical examples.
Loss of p53 function in uterine papillary serous carcinoma

In contrast to endometrioid carcinoma, uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC) is an aggressive type of endometrial cancer. Loss of p53 function is critical for the molecular pathogenesis of UPSC. Both UPSC and its putative precursor, endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma (EIC), show abnormal p53 overexpression in most tumors. To further assess the nature of p53 alterations in UPSC, we systematically reevaluated a subset of our previous cohort of UPSC patients. In the current study, we correlate mutations of the p53 gene as detected by direct sequencing of exons 5 through 8 with p53 accumulation and expression of Waf-1 in 32 UPSC tumors. Waf-1 is a downstream effector of p53-mediated G1 arrest after DNA damage and, thus, an indicator of p53 functionality. Although 78% of tumors exhibited strong nuclear p53 immunoreactivity in 100% of tumor cells, we were able to detect p53 mutations in 53%. As expected, all p53 mutant tumors (17 cases) exhibited p53 overexpression. Seventy percent of those (12 tumors) showed concomitant lack of Waf-1 expression consistent with transcriptionally inactive p53, whereas the other five tumors showed Waf-1 staining in only a minor fraction of tumor cells consistent with p53-independent Waf-1 expression. In contrast, 47% (15 cases) of tumors failed to exhibit p53 mutations; interestingly, more than half of those (eight cases) showed strong nuclear p53 accumulation in all tumor cells but lacked concomitant Waf-1 expression. These findings are consistent with a mutation-dependent and -independent type of p53 inactivation in UPSC that are both associated with nuclear overexpression. Our findings suggest that the combined immunocytochemical analysis of p53 and Waf-1 is a valuable means of assessing the functional status of p53. In summary, p53 alterations are common in UPSC and probably responsible for its aggressive biological behavior.
Interference of thiosulfate with potentiometric analysis of cyanide in blood and its elimination.

Abstract Studies with cyanide in combination with various antidotal regimens indicated that sodium thiosulfate interfered with the potentiometric determination of cyanide. The basis for this interference is ascribed to an enhanced biotransformation of thiosulfate in the presence of blood. A microdiffusion technique, coupled with a silver/sulfide ion-specific electrode, caused falsely elevated cyanide levels when samples contained thiosulfate. The contaminant causing the falsely elevated cyanide level is believed to be sulfide anion. This sulfide contaminant can be removed by oxidation with hydrogen peroxide, and the excess hydrogen peroxide subsequently can be eliminated with sodium sulfite. The toxicologic implication of the potentiometric determination of cyanide in the presence of sodium thiosulfate is important because sodium thiosulfate is employed widely as an antidote in cyanide poisoning.
Identification of Novel Inhibitors of Nonreplicating Mycobacterium tuberculosis Using a Carbon Starvation Model

During Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, a population of bacteria is thought to exist in a nonreplicating state, refractory to antibiotics, which may contribute to the need for prolonged antibiotic therapy. The identification of inhibitors of the nonreplicating state provides tools that can be used to probe this hypothesis and the physiology of this state. The development of such inhibitors also has the potential to shorten the duration of antibiotic therapy required. Here we describe the development of a novel nonreplicating assay amenable to high-throughput chemical screening coupled with secondary assays that use carbon starvation as the in vitro model. Together these assays identify compounds with activity against replicating and nonreplicating M. tuberculosis as well as compounds that inhibit the transition from nonreplicating to replicating stages of growth. Using these assays we successfully screened over 300,000 compounds and identified 786 inhibitors of nonreplicating M. tuberculosis In order...
Validity and reproducibility of a new computerized dietary assessment method : effects of gender and educational level

Abstract Validity and reproducibility of the Nutrition Evaluation Scale System (NESSy), a computerized quantitative dietary method, was examined when used by young men and women with varying levels of education. Twelve male and 9 female volunteers, aged 23–36 years, recorded their food intake for 14 days with NESSy under controlled conditions. Systematic bias was examined by an independent validity check using the gold standard of dietary methodology (i.e. surreptitious weighing of dietary intake by trained dietary staff), and reproducibility was assessed by measuring NESSy's ability to provide the same intake estimate for an individual across two similar time periods. Neither educational level nor gender was found to be a biasing factor, nor was the mean of the differences significantly different between the two methods for energy and most nutrients. Intraclass correlations (r 1 ) between NESSy and the reference method for the mean of 14 d for each subject, ranged between 0.912 to 0.999 for energy and all nutrients except vitamin C. Reproducibility calculated on a mean of 7d basis showed little difference between NESSy and the reference method; both being highly reproducible with a r 1 of >0.9 for energy and nearly all nutrients. The results suggest that NESSy is an accurate dietary assessment tool which has sufficiently simplified the food weighing and recording process to enable use by women and men with varying educational levels.
Reduction of dopaminergic supersensitivity by a single dose of amphetamine

Chronic administration of haloperidol in rats resulted in a supersensitivity to apomorphine-induced stereotypy. This behavioral supersensitivity was reduced by a single administration of d-amphetamine given 2 days after the termination of haloperidol injections. The reduction of haloperidol-induced supersensitivity by amphetamine lasted for at least 3 days after amphetamine injection.
Chronic Tissue Expansion

BACKGROUND. Chronic tissue expansion is an extremely useful addition to the dermatologic surgeon's skills. OBJECTIVE. To review chronic tissue expansion. METHODS. The relavent literature is summarized. Two case histories are presented as examples of the utility of chronic tissue expansion. RESULTS. The history of tissue expansion is briefly reviewed. Indications pertinent to the practice of dermatologic surgery are discussed. The devices themselves are described, as well as new experimental advances. The general procedure for utilizing tissue expanders is outlined, as well as relevant histologic changes that occur in expanded skin. Both common and rare complications are covered, with attention to prevention. CONCLUSION. Chronic tissue expansion provides an excellent means for obtaining extra tissue for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
An integrated pore-pressure model and its application to hydrocarbon exploration: A case study from the Mahanadi Basin, east coast of India

AbstractAn integrated pore-pressure modeling approach was adopted to understand the basin architecture from a pressure perspective and its inference toward possible hydrocarbon occurrence. Kriging-based 3D pore-pressure modeling was used with offset well data and seismic velocities to establish the pressure stratigraphy of the northeast coast (NEC) field (southern part) in the Mahanadi Basin. Late Pliocene sediment is moderately pressured (10.4–11.8 MPa/km), whereas early Pliocene sediment is normally pressured (9.6 MPa/km) and compacted, representing a regional seal for this part of the basin. Miocene represents the onset window for major undercompaction and associated high pressures (12.7–15.7 MPa/km) in conformance with the regional pressure trend. Overpressure distribution and its mechanisms in the late Miocene level across the NEC field shows distinct patterns with highly elevated pressures (>19.7 MPa/km) in the northern part resulting from a hybrid unloading mechanism, whereas moderate to high p...
Study of butter fat content in milk on the inactivation of Listeria innocua ATCC 51742 by thermo-sonication

Abstract Ultrasound combined with heat treatment has yielded favorable results in the inactivation of microorganisms; however, the composition of food influences the rate of microbial inactivation. The objective of this research was to study the effect of butter fat content in milk on the inactivation of Listeria innocua and compositional parameters after thermo-sonication. Four butter fat contents in milk were evaluated at 63 °C for 30 min of sonication (Hielscher® UP400S, 400 W, 24 kHz, 120 μm amplitude). Results showed that inactivation of Listeria cells occurs first in fat free milk, and that the rate of inactivation decreases with increasing fat content. No degradation of protein content or color variation was observed after the treatments. The pH dropped to 6.22, and lactic acid content showed an increase of 0.015% after the treatment; solids-non-fat, density and freezing point decreased. During storage life, growth of mesophiles was retarded with sonication. Industrial relevance Ultrasound is an emerging technology that has shown positive effects in milk processing. Listeria monocytogenes represent one of the main foodborne pathogenic microorganisms in the food industry. Results of this research show that thermo-sonication is a viable technology capable of inactivating Listeria cells in milk and extending shelf-life without significant nutritional or physicochemical changes.
Treatment strategies for infectious diarrhea in HIV-infected patients

While highly active antiretroviral therapy has led to substantial decreases in morbidity and mortality, diarrhea remains a common problem in HIV-infected individuals. Patients with low CD4 cell counts (less than 200/ mL) have a higher risk of developing chronic, infectious diarrhea. The diagnosis of infectious diarrhea is usually made by obtaining the appropriate tests. Therapy should be pathogen directed if the offending agent is identified, or aimed at symptomatic improvement if a specific pathogen is not detected.
Endogenous opioid peptide system in male brown bullhead catfish, Ictalurus nebulosus lesueur: Characterization of naloxone binding and the response to naloxone during the annual reproductive cycle

The endogenous opioid peptide system was investigated in male brown bullhead catfish. 3H-naloxone binding was assessed in 20,000g membrane preparations from catfish brains. 3H-naloxone bound to a high-affinity, low-capacity receptor (Kd = 0.27nM; Bmax = 119.52 fmol/mg protein) and a low-affinity, high-capacity receptor (Kd = 5.77 nM; Bmax = 323.06 fmol/mg protein). Binding was ligand and tissue specific. 3H-naloxone binding was regionally distributed, with highest levels in telencephalon:preoptic area, and lower levels in remaining diencephalon, mesencephalon, and cerebellum:brain stem. A seasonal cycle in receptor number was observed, with highest numbers occurring during testicular recrudescence in association with elevated plasma androgens. In vivo naloxone treatment resulted in decreased levels of testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone during testicular recrudescence but had no effect during the resting phase. These data indicate the presence of an endogenous opioid peptide system in brown bullhead catfish which is involved in the regulation of reproductive function in this species.
Iron overload is a determinant of morbidity and mortality in adult patients with sickle cell disease

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) often require blood transfusion starting in early childhood. Multiple blood transfusions on a chronic basis lead to excessive accumulation of iron, especially in adults with sickle cell anemia (SS) that is progressively increasing in size. Blood exchange transfusion and the use of iron chelation therapy may prevent or delay the onset of iron overload. The majority of adults with SS, however, require episodic blood transfusions on a chronic basis and, hence, are at risk to develop iron overload. Recent reports suggest an association between iron overload and organ failure in chronically transfused patients. Patients with SCD and iron overload may thus be at increased risk to develop organ failure compared to those with normal iron stores. In order to clarify this issue we have prospectively collected the following data on our adult patients with SCD between 1978 and 1998: (1) the amount of blood transfused; and (2) the status of iron stores determined with serum ferritin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), and percent transferrin saturation (% Sat). Between 1987 and 1998, 247 adult patients with SS were regularly followed in our sickle cell center. Of these, 152 (62%) were transfused with 4,875 units of red blood cells (RBCs). Transfused patients received an average of 10 units of RBCs per year, which is equivalent to about 2.0 g of iron per year. This does not include transfusions at other institutions or before 1987. About one third of the adult patients with SS had % Sat greater than 50 in the steady state, suggesting iron overload. During painful episodes serum ferritin increased significantly in paired observations. Serum iron and TIBC decreased during painful episode disproportionately so that there was a significant net decrease in % Sat in paired observations. Patients with low values of serum ferritin and % Sat had lower incidence of acute painful episodes (38% v 64%) and organ failure (19% v 71%) than those who had iron overload, respectively. Mortality was significantly higher in the iron overload group: 64% versus 5%, respectively. Taken together, the data indicate that (1) the status of iron stores in adults with SS is best determined by keeping accurate records of the amount of blood transfused and serial determinations of ferritin levels in the steady state; (2) a significant number of adults with SS have iron overload; and (3) iron overload seems to be a predisposing factor of disease severity.
Studies related to the mechanism of 3-BHA-induced neoplasia of the rat forestomach

Abstract The major objective of this investigation has been to determine the mechanism by which 3-BHA induces forestomach tumours in rodents. In vitro studies of liver microsomal metabolism of [ 14 C]-3-BHA show binding of metabolites to microsomal protein which could be markedly decreased by addition of l -cysteine. p -Toluenesulphonic acid hydrolysis of the labelled microsomes showed a radioactive peak that co-chromatographed with the major product of the reaction of tert -butylquinone ( tert -BuQ) and l -cysteine. In vivo binding of metabolites of [ 14 C]-3-BHA to microsomal protein of the forestomach, glandular stomach and liver was determined. Forestomach microsomal protein contained 14 times as much bound radioactivity as glandular stomach and 12 times as much as liver. HPLC studies showed marked qualitative differences in the distribution of labelled compounds in hydrolysates of microsomes from the three tissues. The forestomach contained peaks not present in the other two tissues. In other studies it was shown that the 3- tert -butyl-5-methoxy-1,2-benzoquinone reacted rapidly with NADPH and NADH. tert -BuQ did so more slowly. Current data suggest that two factors may be of importance for 3-BHA carcinogenesis. The first is thiol depletion resulting from direct binding of quinone metabolites of 3-BHA to tissue thiols. Secondary reactions due to the presence of the quinones could also deplete — SH groups. Such thiol depletion could account for the threshold level existing for 3-BHA carcinogenesis. The second factor is an attack on tissue constituents from reactive metabolites of 3-BHA, as is evident from protein binding, and possibly also from oxygen radicals produced as a result of redox cycling of quinone and hydroquinone metabolites of 3-BHA.
Reconnection scaling experiment: A new device for three-dimensional magnetic reconnection studies

The reconnection scaling experiment (RSX), a linear device for studying three-dimensional magnetic reconnection in both collisional and collisionless laboratory plasmas, has been constructed at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Advanced experimental features of the RSX that lead to scientific advantages include the use of simple technology (commercial plasma guns) to create plasma and current channels. Physics motivations, design and construction features of the RSX, are presented. Basic plasma parameters that characterize the RSX are shown together with preliminary measurements of visible light emission during the merging of two parallel current channels.
Information technology security system engineering methodology

Absii-act-A methodology is described for system engineering security into large information technology systems under development. The methodology is an integration of a risk management process and a generic system development life cycle process. The methodology is to be used by Security System Engineers to effectively engineer and integrate information technology security into a target system as it progresses through the development life cycle. The methodology can also be used to re-engineer security into a legacy system.
Re)examining the attitudes of comic book store patrons

As digital comic book consumption continues to rise in popularity, the comic book community appears conflicted over the effects that digital scans have on the meaning of collecting and reading comic books. Historically, comic ownership served as the locus of comic fan social capital; will digital scans hold the same cultural capital as printed books? And does postpurchased digital scan dissemination primarily hurt copyright holders through lost sales, or does it help through social promotion? Building on an analysis of fan attitudes toward digital comic book texts, we seek to account for the limitations of locality by surveying the attitudes of comic book store patrons concerning their attitudes toward physical and digital comic book texts.
Binge ethanol treatment causes greater brain damage in alcohol-preferring P rats than in alcohol-nonpreferring NP rats

Background: Genetics is a known risk factor for alcoholism, and human alcoholics are known to suffer from a loss of brain function and mass. A 4 day rat binge drinking model is known to cause brain region-specific damage. To investigate the role of genetics in binge-drinking-induced brain damage, we studied bidirectionally selected rat lines, the alcohol-preferring P and the alcohol-nonpreferring NP rat lines. Method: P and NP rats were treated with a 4 day binge ethanol protocol. Animals were killed, transcardially perfused, and fixed, and their brains were removed, sectioned, and stained by using the amino cupric silver stain of de Olmos or by using immunohistochemistry for phospho-extracellular signal regulated kinases and other antigens. Results: Significant brain damage was found in the olfactory bulbs, posterior perirhinal cortex, and entorhinal cortex in both P and NP rats. P rats were found to have significantly greater brain damage, compared with NP rats, in the posterior perirhinal and posterior entorhinal cortexes, 239%± 50% (p < 0.02) and 219%± 46% (p < 0.01), respectively. Phospho-extracellular signal regulated kinase immunohistochemistry stained prominently in damaged brain areas. Conclusions: The P rat line, a genetic model of alcoholism, shows greater region-specific brain damage due to binge ethanol treatment than its genetic counterpart, the NP rat line. These findings suggest that genetics contribute to susceptibility for binge-induced brain damage.
Why the block is the block : Reinforcing community through casual conversation

This study combines Discourse Dynamics (Cameron, 2007) with Perceptual Simulation Theory (Barsalou, 2007; Gibbs, 2006), to analyze a sample of talk among residents of an urban neighborhood about topics related to community safety and the quality of life in their community. The results demonstrate the role of casual conversation in structuring complex social relationships, and the usefulness of close attention to metaphors, story-telling, and humor. By their use, re-use, and development of metaphors and stories the participants in this conversation express and reinforce the patterns of sociability and mutual watchfulness that contribute to a feeling of safety and comfort in their neighborhood, resolve contradictions inherent in life in a diverse community, and cultivate mutual commitment to maintaining the neighborhood as a pleasant community in which to live and raise children.
Optimal Control of Multi-Dimensional, Hybrid Ice-Skater Model

In this paper, we study hybrid models that not only undergo mode transitions, but also experience changes in dimensions of the state and input spaces. An algorithmic framework for the optimal control of such multi-mode, multi-dimension (or M3 D) systems is presented. We moreover derive a detailed M3 D model for an ice-skater, and demonstrate the use of the developed framework on the ice-skater model.
Down in the DOS, out in the OS X

This PDF file contains the editorial “Down in the DOS, out in the OS X” for OE Vol. 41 Issue 08
Regulation of heat shock protein 70 synthesis by heat shock in the preimplantation murine embryo.

Induced thermotolerance in murine embryos occurs at the a-cell stage when embryos are maintained in vitro but not until the blastocyst stage if development proceeds in vivo. Present results indicate that ability of embryos to undergo induced thermotolerance is not limited by heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) synthesis. Exposure of a-cell embryos to 40°C enhanced synthesis of 2 constitutive HSP70 proteins (HSC70 and HSC72) and induced another protein, HSP68; exposure of 43°C was required to induce similar responses in expanded blastocysts. Unlike induced thermotolerance, increased synthesis of HSP70 molecules did not depend on whether embryos were cultured or developed in vivo. Thus, other biochemical mechanisms in addition to HSP70 confer thermotolerance in the preimplantation-stage murine embryo. The observation that the temperature threshold for induction of HSP70 synthesis increased from the a-cell to the blastocyst stage is indicative of these other biochemical processes.
Ambulating With Pulmonary Artery or Femoral Catheters in Place

Is it safe for patients with pulmonary artery catheters inserted via the jugular or subclavian vein to stand up? Do you have any information on ambulating patients with femoral arterial catheters? Some of our patients have femoral arterial catheters after open heart surgery, and the surgeon says to ambulate them with the catheters in place. Although this makes me uncomfortable, I cannot find literature to support or not support this. I do not see any available standards or articles related to safety of ambulation with small-gauge (20 gauge) “soft” femoral catheters. It seems that most institutions have no policy. I refuse to get my patient out of bed with a femoral arterial catheter but often have patients with orders to do so. My concern is related to fibrin clots that may form around the catheter, especially because of its length (usually 20 cm). Valid or not?
Early Holocene Paleoindian deposits at Nall Playa, Oklahoma Panhandle, U.S.A.

Fieldwork conducted at the Nall North locale and the adjacent playa documents buried Paleoindian deposits and a stratigraphic sequence dating back to the late Pleistocene. Cultural debris recovered from the surface of Nall North includes bone, tools, and lithic flake debris. Two buried paleosols at the locale date to the early Holocene and hold high potential for Paleoindian materials. The Baker paleosol, a stabilized surface above the shoreline of the adjacent playa lake, dated between ca. 6870 and 7740 yr B.P., contains a rich cultural component of tools, flakes, and bone, and represents a potential surface for Angostura and Allen/Frederick artifacts. Located below the Baker soil is the Nall soil (dated to ca. 9650 yr B.P.) that probably represents a marsh facies of the playa fill. The Nall soil represents a potential surface for Plainview/Goshen-age artifacts, although excavations thus far have recovered no cultural debris. In the playa adjacent to the Nall North locality, a sequence dating between ca. 12,960 and 5310 yr B.P. documents localized spring flow into the playa during the late Pleistocene, followed by several thousand years of playa muds during the early Holocene, and the eventual drying of the playa in the middle Holocene. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incorporation of bioinformatics exercises into the undergraduate biochemistry curriculum

The field of bioinformatics is developing faster than most biochemistry textbooks can adapt. Supplementing the undergraduate biochemistry curriculum with data-mining exercises is an ideal way to expose the students to the common databases and tools that take advantage of this vast repository of biochemical information. An integrated collection of exercises based on pet proteins has been assembled. The exercises described are applicable to either a lecture or laboratory format and require only basic desktop computers, an Internet connection, a current web browser, and the free Chime plug-in module. In an open-ended, inquiry-based format, the assignments ask students to explore concepts such as the relative information content of the different biopolymers, the relationship between primary sequence and tertiary structure, and how sequence conservation can be used to find an enzyme active site.
Inflammatory Blockade Restores Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis

Cranial radiation therapy causes a progressive decline in cognitive function that is linked to impaired neurogenesis. Chronic inflammation accompanies radiation injury, suggesting that inflammatory processes may contribute to neural stem cell dysfunction. Here, we show that neuroinflammation alone inhibits neurogenesis and that inflammatory blockade with indomethacin, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, restores neurogenesis after endotoxin-induced inflammation and augments neurogenesis after cranial irradiation.
Genetic dissection of vertebrate processes in the zebrafish: a comparison of uniparental and two-generation screens

Genetic dissection is used to identify important genes in biological processes and is accomplished through the generation and study of mutations in model organisms. In diploid organisms, recessive mutations must be rendered hemizygous or homozygous for the mutant phenotype to be detected. In zebrafish (Danio rerio), this can be accomplished in two ways: (i) crosses between siblings who are potential carriers (in two-generation screens) and (ii) the generation of uniparental progeny. Two-generation screens have been the most productive to date but require substantial resources. However, uniparental screens involving haploids and half-tetrads (products of meiosis I) have also been productive, and require more modest resources. In genetic screens, the fraction of an average genome that is heterozygous (heterozygosity index) is inversely proportional to the likelihood that separate recessive mutations will be homozygous at the same time. Heterozygosity indices for haploid, half-tetrad, and two-generation scre...