cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Charged residue alterations in the inner‐core domain and carboxy‐terminus of α‐tropomyosin differentially affect mouse cardiac muscle contractility

Two important charge differences between the α- and β-tropomyosin (TM) isoforms are the exchange of a serine residue in the inner-core region at position 229, and a histidine residue at the carboxy-terminal end at position 276, with glutamic acid and asparagine, respectively. We have recently shown that altering these two residues in α-TM to their β-TM counterparts in transgenic (TG) mouse hearts causes a depression in both +dP/dt and −dP/dt and a decrease in calcium sensitivity. In this study, we address whether independent charge changes at these two residues in α-TM modulate cardiac function differentially. To test this hypothesis we generated two TG lines: α-TMSer229Glu and α-TMHis276Asn. Molecular analyses show that 98% of native α-TM is replaced by mutated protein in α-TM229 hearts whereas α-TM276 hearts show 82% replacement with the mutated protein. Isolated working heart data show that α-TM229 TG hearts exhibit a significant decrease in both +dP/dt (7%) and −dP/dt (8%) compared with nontransgenics (NTGs) and time to peak pressure (TPP) is also reduced in α-TM229 hearts. α-TM276 hearts show a decrease only in −dP/dt (14%) and TPP is increased. pCa2+–tension relationships in skinned fibre preparations indicate decreased calcium sensitivity in α-TM229 but no change in α-TM276 preparations. Force–[Ca2+]IC measurements from intact papillary fibres indicate that α-TM276 fibres produce more force per given [Ca2+]IC when compared to NTG fibres, while α-TM229 fibres produce less force per given [Ca2+]IC. These data demonstrate that changing charged residues at either the inner-core domain or the carboxyl end of TM alters sarcomeric performance differently, suggesting that the function of TM is compartmentalized along its length.
On component level ESD testing

The ESD test method proposed involves the use of a transverse electromagnetic (TEM) cell and fiber-optic links to eliminate the unwanted electrostatic discharge (ESD) disturbances to the supportive instrumentation. This limits the ESD transient effects to stress only the common subassembly or component under test and therefore produces the proper susceptibility level for use in predicting the final product ESD performance. >
Non-mammalian fat-1 gene prevents neoplasia when introduced to a mouse hepatocarcinogenesis model: Omega-3 fatty acids prevent liver neoplasia.

We investigated the effect of a non-mammalian omega-3 desaturase in a mouse hepatocarcinogenesis model. Mice containing double mutations (DM) in c-myc and TGF-α (transforming growth factor-α), leading to liver neoplasia, were crossed with mice containing omega-3 desaturase. MRI analysis of triple mutant (TM) mice showed the absence of neoplasia at all time points for 92% of mice in the study. Pathological changes of TM (TGFα/c-myc/fat-1) mouse liver tissue was similar to control mouse liver tissue. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) measurements of unsaturated fatty acids found a significant difference (p<0.005) between DM and TM transgenic (Tg) mice at 34 and 40 weeks of age. HPLC analysis of mouse liver tissue revealed markedly decreased levels of omega-6 fatty acids in TM mice when compared to DM (TGFα/c-myc) and control (CD1) mice. Mass spectrometry (MS) analysis indicated significantly decreased 16:0/20:4 and 18:1/20:4 and elevated 16:0/22:6 fatty acyl groups in both GPCho and GPEtn, and elevated 16:0/20:5, 18:0/18:2, 18:0/18:1 and 18:0/22:6 in GPCho, within TM mice compared to DM mice. Total fatty acid analysis indicated a significant decrease in 18:1n9 in TM mice compared to DM mice. Western blot analysis of liver tissue showed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in NF-κB (nuclear factor- κB) levels at 40 weeks of age in TM mice compared to DM mice. Microarray analysis of TM versus DM mice livers at 40 weeks revealed alterations in genes involved in cell cycle regulation, cell-to-cell signaling, p53 signaling, and arachidonic acid (20:4) metabolism. Endogenous omega-3 fatty acids were found to prevent HCC development in mice.
Regulation of polyribosome formation and protein synthesis in the uterus. Effect of ovariectomy and administration of oestradiol-17β on the amino acid-incorporation activity in vitro and the cytoplasmic concentration in vivo of polyribosomal preparation

Abstract 1. The hormonal regulation of cytoplasmic protein synthesis in the uterus is described. Polyribosomal preparation from uteri of normal or ovariectomized rats was isolated by procedure 3 and assayed for [14C]leucine-incorporation activity in the cell-free system, as described by Teng & Hamilton (1967). 2. Ovariectomy of normal animals caused, 3 weeks after surgery, a 50–60% increase in the amino acid-incorporation activity in vitro of uterine polyribosomal preparation, but a 90–95% decrease in the cytoplasmic concentration in vivo of the preparation. 3. Administration of 10μg. of oestradiol-17β to ovariectomized rats at zero time caused, 10–12hr. later, a 100% stimulation in amino acid-incorporation activity in vitro of the uterine polyribosomal preparation. From 12hr. to 36hr. after hormone administration, the activity in vitro of the preparation decreased. If a second dose of hormone was administered at 36hr., the activity in vitro of the preparation continued to decrease, and approached at 48hr. and 72hr. the lower activity observed for the preparation from normal animals. The cytoplasmic concentration of polyribosomal preparation increased by 600–700% under these experimental conditions. If a second dose of oestradiol-17β was not administered at 36hr., the initially elevated cytoplasmic concentration of the preparation decreased by 50% from 36hr. to 72hr., and the activity in vitro of the preparation was not fully depressed to the `normal' value. 4. Pretreatment of ovariectomized animals with actinomycin D or cycloheximide abolished 80–90% of the stimulatory effects of hormone treatment on the amino acid-incorporation activity in vitro and cytoplasmic concentration in vivo of uterine polyribosomal preparation. 5. Two major conclusions are drawn from the results reported: that during early oestrogen action new polyribosomes having amino acid-incorporation properties different from those of the old ones appear and accumulate in the cytoplasm of the uterus; and that the regulation of cytoplasmic protein synthesis in the organ by oestrogen is of an indirect nature, with dual effects of the hormone on genetic transcription resulting in turn in a regulation of the rate and amount of genetic translation.
Recurrent Somatic Mutations in Regulatory Regions of Human Cancer Genomes

Aberrant regulation of gene expression in cancer can promote survival and proliferation of cancer cells. Here we integrate whole-genome sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) for 436 patients from 8 cancer subtypes with ENCODE and other regulatory annotations to identify point mutations in regulatory regions. We find evidence for positive selection of mutations in transcription factor binding sites, consistent with these sites regulating important cancer cell functions. Using a new method that adjusts for sample- and genomic locus-specific mutation rates, we identify recurrently mutated sites across individuals with cancer. Mutated regulatory sites include known sites in the TERT promoter and many new sites, including a subset in proximity to cancer-related genes. In reporter assays, two new sites display decreased enhancer activity upon mutation. These data demonstrate that many regulatory regions contain mutations under selective pressure and suggest a greater role for regulatory mutations in cancer than previously appreciated.
The lateral inframammary fold incision for nipple-sparing mastectomy: outcomes from over 50 immediate implant-based breast reconstructions.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) as a therapeutic or prophylactic procedure for breast cancer is rapidly gaining popularity as the literature continues to support it safety. The lateral inframammary fold (IMF) approach provides adequate exposure and eliminates visible scars on the anterior surface of the breast, making this incision cosmetically superior to radial or periareolar approaches. We reviewed 55 consecutive NSMs performed through a lateral IMF incision with immediate implant-based reconstruction, with or without tissue expansion, between June 2008 and June 2011. Prior to incision, breasts were lightly infiltrated with dilute anesthetic solution with epinephrine. Sharp dissection, rather than electrocautery, was used as much as possible to minimize thermal injury to the mastectomy flap. When indicated, acellular dermal matrix was placed as an inferolateral sling. Subsequent fat grafting to correct contour deformities was performed in select patients. Three-dimensional (3D) photographs assessed changes in volume, antero-posterior projection, and ptosis. Mean patient age was 46 years, and mean follow-up time was 12 months. Twelve mastectomies (22%) were therapeutic, and the remaining 43 (78%) were prophylactic. Seven of the nine sentinel lymph node biopsies (including one axillary dissection) (78%) were performed through the lateral IMF incision without the need for a counter-incision. Acellular dermal matrix was used in 34 (62%) breasts. Average permanent implant volume was 416 cc (range 176–750 cc), and average fat grafting volume was 86 cc (range 10–177 cc). In one patient a positive intraoperative subareolar biopsy necessitated resection of the nipple-areola complex (NAC), and in two other patients NAC resection was performed at a subsequent procedure based on the final pathology report. Mastectomy flap necrosis, requiring operative debridement, occurred in two breasts (4%), both in the same patient. One of these breasts required a salvage latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap to complete the reconstruction. Three nipples (6%) required office debridement for partial necrosis and operative reconstruction later. No patient had complete nipple necrosis. No statistically significant differences existed between therapeutic and prophylactic mastectomies for developing partial skin and/or nipple necrosis (p = 0.35). Three episodes (5%) of cellulitis occurred, which responded to antibiotics without the need for explantation. Morphological outcomes using 3D scan measurements showed reconstructed breasts were larger, more projected, and less ptotic than the preoperative breasts (196 versus 248 cc, 80 versus 90 mm, 146 versus 134 mm, p < 0.01 for each parameter). Excellent results can be achieved with immediate implant-based reconstruction of NSM through a lateral IMF incision. NAC survival is reliable, and complication rates are low. blechmanplasticsurgery.com
Clinical implications of genitourinary embryology.

Purpose of review This review focuses on recent advances in molecular embryology of the upper and lower urinary tract with an emphasis on clinical correlation in order to gain a better understanding for the mechanism of congenital anomalies. Recent findings Normal morphogenesis of the kidney, ureteral bud differentiation, ureteropelvic junction formation, and bladder and trigone development are regulated by complex epithelial-mesenchymal signaling events. Failure of these signaling events to occur at specified times results in developmental anomalies. Immunohistochemical staining using animal and human tissues provides insights into the timing of various signaling events during development. Murine knockout models examine the role of various signaling molecules in genitourinary organogenesis. Lineage studies map the fate of cells in developing genitourinary tissues. Some of the most important findings include the role of bone morphogenetic protein-4 in morphogenesis of the kidney, the importance of the mesenchyme associated with the proximal and distal segments of the ureter in directing differentiation, the role of bone morphogenetic protein-4 signaling in smooth muscle formation at the ureteropelvic junction, and the predominant contribution of bladder smooth muscle in forming the trigone. Summary Recent studies have begun to unravel the complex molecular and cellular mechanisms for many common congenital anomalies of the genitourinary tract. A more precise understanding of these developmental events may provide insights into normal and abnormal development.
Keep up the heat on IL-1

In this issue of Blood , Capitano et al report an unexpected but clinically relevant finding that mild heating of mice enhances the postradiation recovery of neutrophils via an IL-1, IL-17, and G-CSF mechanism.[1][1] Interleukin-1 is a master cytokine regulating inflammatory and immune responses.
The role of endogenous sensitization in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia: Implications from recent brain imaging studies

Long-term sensitization is a process whereby exposure to a given stimulus such as a drug or a stressor results in an enhanced response at subsequent exposures. Sensitization of mesolimbic dopamine systems has been postulated by several authors to underlie the development of dopaminergic abnormalities associated with schizophrenia. In this review, core features of stimulant-induced sensitization of dopamine systems in rodents are briefly reviewed, as well as the behavioral and clinical evidence suggesting the relevance of this process to drug-induced psychosis and schizophrenia. Results of recent brain imaging studies relevant to the question of sensitization in schizophrenia are then discussed. These studies indicate that schizophrenia is associated with increased amphetamine-induced dopamine release. This exaggerated response was detected in patients experiencing an episode of clinical deterioration but not in clinically stable patients. Since increased stimulant-induced dopamine release is a hallmark of sensitization, these results support the view that schizophrenia is associated with a process of endogenous sensitization. Based on the preclinical evidence that dopamine projection to the prefrontal cortex acts as a buffer that oppose the development of sensitization in subcortical dopamine projections, we propose that, in schizophrenia, neurodevelopmental abnormalities of prefrontal dopaminergic systems might result in a state of enhanced vulnerability to sensitization during late adolescence and early adulthood. It is also proposed that D(2) receptor blockade, if sustained, might allow for an extinction of this sensitization process, with possible re-emergence upon treatment discontinuation. A better understanding of the neurocircuitry associated with endogenous sensitization and its consequence in schizophrenia might be important for the development of better treatment and relapse prevention strategies.
Reaction of 3- (Chloroalkyl) -2-benzoxazolinones with Amines: Formation of 3- (Aminoalkyl) -2-benzoxazolinones and 5-Substituted-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-l,5-benzoxazepines

Abstract The reactions of 3-(chloroalkyl)-2-benzoxazolinones with various bases are described.
Clinical research 101: Why should you care?

In this issue’s Clinical Research Capsule, we ask the fundamental question: “Why care about research?” Clinicians sometimes have a distanced attitude towards research. The reasons for this are many: conducting research is difficult; it is only for those who are statistically minded; it means having NIH or equivalent funding; finally, it does not pertain to them as research is separate from patient care. The notion that research is separate and without impact on patient care could not be more erroneous. Why care about clinical research?  Our practice is our laboratory  Some nuances of human disease not translatable from animal models (social admit reasons, “look sicker”, )  Clinical research allows us to continually refine patient care Let’s look at a few examples: You are evaluating a patient with an acute ankle injury. Do you recognize the following questions?
A Critical Period for Conversion of Ectodermal Cells to a Neural Crest Fate

Previously, we found that interactions between neural and nonneural ectoderm can generate neural crest cells, with both the ectodermal and the neuroepithelial cells contributing to induced population (M. A. J. Selleck and M. Bronner-Fraser, 1995, Development 121, 525–538). To further characterize the ability of ectodermal cells to form neural crest, we have challenged their normal fate by transplanting them into the neural tube. To ensure that the ectoderm was from nonneural regions, we utilized extraembryonic ectoderm (the proamnion) and transplanted it into the presumptive midbrain of 1.5-day-old chick embryos. We observed that the grafted ectoderm has the capacity to adopt a neural crest fate, responding within a few hours of surgery by turning on neural crest markers HNK-1 and Slug. However, the competence of the ectoderm to respond to neural crest-inducing signals is time limited, declining rapidly in donors older than the 10-somite stage. Similarly, the inductive capacity of the host midbrain declines in a time-dependent fashion. Our results show that extraembryonic ectoderm has the capacity to form neural crest cells given proper inducing signals, expressing both morphological and molecular markers characteristic of neural crest cells.
Q‐ball imaging

Magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) provides a powerful tool for mapping neural histoarchitecture in vivo. However, DTI can only resolve a single fiber orientation within each imaging voxel due to the constraints of the tensor model. For example, DTI cannot resolve fibers crossing, bending, or twisting within an individual voxel. Intravoxel fiber crossing can be resolved using q-space diffusion imaging, but q-space imaging requires large pulsed field gradients and time-intensive sampling. It is also possible to resolve intravoxel fiber crossing using mixture model decomposition of the high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) signal, but mixture modeling requires a model of the underlying diffusion process. Recently, it has been shown that the HARDI signal can be reconstructed model-independently using a spherical tomographic inversion called the Funk–Radon transform, also known as the spherical Radon transform. The resulting imaging method, termed q-ball imaging, can resolve multiple intravoxel fiber orientations and does not require any assumptions on the diffusion process such as Gaussianity or multi-Gaussianity. The present paper reviews the theory of q-ball imaging and describes a simple linear matrix formulation for the q-ball reconstruction based on spherical radial basis function interpolation. Open aspects of the q-ball reconstruction algorithm are discussed. Magn Reson Med 52:1358–1372, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of a diverticular abscess as an adjunct to surgical therapy

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of a diverticular abscess as an adjunct to surgical therapy
Calculated performance of broadband secondary x-ray imaging (SXI) based on fourth generation sources and optics and its potential application to human angiography

A calculation was carried out to evaluate the capabilities of Secondary X-ray Imaging (SXI), applied to human angiography. A primary photon pencil beam is rastered through the human heart, in two directions perpendicular to the primary photon beam. The signal is generated by fluorescent photons from a contrast agent, registered by a wide angle detector. One result is clearer images and a reduction of shadowing by obstructions inside the body. Sharp imaging is compatible with locally quantitative measurements, and also with pixel by pixel elemental analysis. The detector need not be position sensitive. Most of the primary beam will be scattered before they reach the target, but unscattered primary beam remains well focused. To discriminate against scattered background, the photons have to pass through a position/momentum selector, a W - Hf absorber shield, and a time window. The calcualation gives the approximate energy spectrum for the scattered photons, for the photons passing through the position/momentum selector, and for those at thefar side of the absorber shield. The last two are evaluated for time windows between 1000 and 167 ps. The surviving background causes relative image intensity fluctuations of the order of a percent. The primary beam intensity required for SXI is comparable or less than the intensity needed for Iodine K-edge subtraction (KES) imaging, but for SXI the primary photon energy spread may be one or two orders higher than what is needed for KES. Therefore, the requirements on the primary photon source an be relaxed. With an undulator as source, monochromatization may not be needed. That would further reduce the cost of the photon source, which may be a small low energy electron ring.
Vitamin C requirements of the shrimp Penaeus vannamei

Two experiments were conducted to investigate vitamin C requirements of the shrimp Penaeus vannamei using L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (APP) in semi-purified diets. Shrimp survival but not growth was significantly (P<0.05) reduced by feeding vitamin C-deficient diets. Whole-body ascorbic acid (WBAA) content in shrimp increased as dietary vitamin C increased. After shrimp were fed a vitamin C-free diet for 3 weeks, the depletion levels for WBAA of shrimp were found to be 2.6 and 4.8 μg/g for shrimp with an initial weight of 0.1 and 0.5 g, respectively. Minimum dietary vitamin C levels required for normal survival of P. vannamei were estimated to be 120 mg ascorbic acid-equivalent (AAE)/kg diet for shrimp with an initial weight of 0.1 g and 41 mg AAE/kg diet for shrimp with an initial weight of 0.5 g. Dietary vitamin C levels of 120 and 90 mg AAE/kg were required for maintaining a normal WBAA content in shrimp with an initial weight of 0.1 and 0.5 g, respectively. These data indicated that dietary vitamin C requirement of P. vannamei decreased with increased size.
Grain-boundary structures in hexagonal materials: Coincident and near coincident grain boundaries

Embedded atom method (EAM) simulations of the structure of grain boundaries in hexagonal metals are presented. The simulations use recently developed interatomic potentials for Ti and Co. Structures were calculated for various symmetrical tilt boundaries with the [1¯100] tilt axis. The structures obtained for both metals are very similar. The energies for the Co boundaries are higher than those for Ti by a factor of 2. The structural unit model was applied to the computed grain-boundary structures in these hexagonal materials. As in cubic materials, the structural unit model can describe a series of symmetrical tilt coincident boundaries. In addition, when the coincidence ratio in the grain-boundary plane varies with thec/a ratio, a structural unit-type model can describe the variation of grain-boundary structure withc/a ratio. This model is adequate for describing series of symmetrical tilt boundaries with the grain-boundary plane oriented perpendicular to a fixed crystallographic direction and varyingc/a ratios. For the structures of the so-called near coincident boundaries that appear in these materials, it was concluded that near coincident boundaries behave similarly to exact coincidence boundaries if there is a coincident periodic structure in the grain-boundary plane. This may occur even without a three-dimensional (3-D) coincident site lattice.
Improvement of Weyl’s Inequality

Consider the construction of an operator from the sum of two component operators. Weyl’s inequality gives a lower bound to an eigenvalue of the constructed operator using a single eigenvalue from each of the component operators. Using such minimal information gives a poor bound, however, and when the eigenvectors that correspond to the said eigenvalues of the component operators are known, Weyl’s inequality can be significantly improved by considering the overlap of the two eigenvectors. This improvement can sometimes be further improved when several eigenvectors of each component operator are known so that the overlap of sub-eigenspaces are considered instead. The improvement is best when there is minimal overlap and Weyl’s inequality returns when the overlap is complete. An example with the hydrogen molecular ion is presented which illustrates the superiority over Weyl’s inequality when eigenvector or sub-eigenspace information is utilized.
Photonic crystal superlattices in electro-optic slab waveguides

A tunable two-dimensional photonic crystal (2D-PC) design is proposed in which the background medium is composed of an electro-optic material such as lead lanthanum zirconate titanate. The lattice structure is based upon the 2D triangular lattice of holes in a dielectric background; however, holes of two different radii are used and arranged in such a way to create a superlattice structure. The optical properties of this structure are modified by applying an electrical bias so that the dielectric constant is changed from 6.2 to 6.75. Numerical calculations show the band structure of the superlattice is highly modified in comparison to the triangular lattice. In particular, the first full photonic band gap decreases in width and band splitting occurs at high symmetry points of the lattice. From the analysis of the equifrequency contours resulting from the dispersion surface, the angle of refraction of an incident beam was calculated. By changing the biasing conditions on the structure, the refracted beam can be tuned >55° at an incident angle of 14°. This represents an increase of functionality over the regular triangular lattice which is tunable over 5-10° for a 1.36 change in dielectric constant.
Effect of fenoprofen calcium on acute gouty arthritis.

Twenty-seven patients with thirty-six joints affected with acute gouty arthritis were treated with fenoprofen calcium for a duration not exceeding 8 days and with a variable dose not exceeding 3.2 g daily. The results indicate that fenoprofen calcium was an effective drug in these patients. Side effects were modest.
Overcoming Barriers: Adult Refugee Trauma Survivors in a Learning Community

In 2007, approximately 48,000 refugees resettled in the United States, more than half of whom were over 18 years of age (Jefferys 8c Martin, 2008). Due to denigration and, in many cases, torture, refugees have either experienced interrupted education or have never received a formal education in their home country. Shortly after arrival in the United States, many non-English-speaking adult refugees enroll in low cost community-based English as a second language (ESL) classes in order to bridge the gap in their education and to build the language skills necessary to secure employment. ESL classes provide a welcoming community within which this marginalized population can actively participate in language learning as they adjust to a new environment. Yet participation in ESL classes is not always feasible, even in New York City, the most populous city in the United States with one of the largest immigrant populations. In 2006, the number of individuals in need of adult ESL courses in New York City was estimated to be 1 million, yet far fewer were able to enroll in these courses because of the lack of availability and wait times ranging from several months to 2 years (Tucker, 2006). In light of the lengthy wait time to enroll in citywide ESL classes, refugee resettlement agencies, which provide ESL instruction primarily for their clients, become an invaluable resource. For refugees who are trauma survivors, there are few ESL programs in the United States designed specifically for them; however, the Urban
On the quantum-channel capacity for orbital angular momentum-based free-space optical communications

Inspired by recent demonstrations of orbital angular momentum-(OAM)-based single-photon communications, we propose two quantum-channel models: (i) the multidimensional quantum-key distribution model and (ii) the quantum teleportation model. Both models employ operator-sum representation for Kraus operators derived from OAM eigenkets transition probabilities. These models are highly important for future development of quantum-error correction schemes to extend the transmission distance and improve date rates of OAM quantum communications. By using these models, we calculate corresponding quantum-channel capacities in the presence of atmospheric turbulence.
The calcium signal and neutrophil activation.

The cytosolic free calcium concentration, [Ca2+]i in phagocytic cells (e.g. neutrophils, human leukemic cell line HL-60) is an important determinant of cellular activity. In resting phagocytes [Ca2+]i is low (approximately 100 nM), but in response to occupation of cell surface receptors, it rises to micromolar levels, thereby activating a variety of cellular functions. The increases in [Ca2+]i consist of two components: an immediate that is independent of extracellular Ca2+, and a more delayed that is abolished by the removal of extracellular Ca2+. These two components reflect the involvement of two subcellular structures in intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis: an intracellular Ca2+ store, referred to as the calciosome; and the plasma membrane. The function of the intracellular Ca2(+)-store depends on a Ca2(+)-pump, functionally and immunologically related to the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2(+)-ATPase, a Ca2(+)-storage protein, similar to muscle calsequestrin, and a Ca2(+)-release channel, which is sensitive to inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate. The Ca2(+)-regulatory function of the plasma membrane depends on a Ca2+ pump, similar to the erythrocyte-type Ca2(+)-ATPase, and a Ca2+ channel; the activity of the Ca2+ channel is closely coupled to phosphatidylinositol turnover.
An experimental light and electron microscopic study of cerebellorubral projections in the opossum, Didelphis marsupialis virginiana

Abstract The origin, course and distribution of cerebellorubral fibers was studied in the opossum by employing the Fink-Heimer technique. Many of the cerebellorubral fibers may be collaterals of an axon which continues to the thalamus. The majority of cerebellorubral fibers arise in the nucleus interpositus and distribute throughout the red nucleus, but they are most numerous in the caudal one-third. The interpositorubral fibers appear to be topographically organized. The only other cerebellar input to the red nucleus takes origin within the lateral cerebellar nucleus and distributes exclusively to a small dorsal rostral portion. Electron microscopic analysis of the red nucleus following either cerebellectomy, hemicerebellectomy or stereotaxic lesions in nucleus interpositus and nucleus lateralis, reveals that axon terminals of cerebellorubral fibers mainly contact the somata and proximal dendrites of giant and large-medium nerve cells. Many of the terminals on the somata and proximal dendrites reside in depressions of the plasma membrane. In addition to direct axosomatic contacts, these large boutons also synaptically contact small appendages which arise from the cell body. The majority of the terminals are large and ovoid (2–4 μm × 5–10 μm) or elongate (1 μm × 10–12 μ) and, after lesions that encroach upon the interpositus nucleus, undergo a filamentous type of degeneration followed by electron dense degeneration and glial investment. Lesions restricted to the lateral nucleus result in electron dense degeneration of small (1–3 μm) axon terminals which primarily contact the somata and proximal dendrites of large-medium neurons.
Use of Confidex to Control Perioperative Bleeding in Pediatric Heart Surgery: Prospective Cohort Study

Bleeding during and after cardiac surgery is a major issue in pediatric patients. A prospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the effect of a commercially available prothrombin complex (Confidex) administered in cardiac surgery after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass of infants with nonsurgical bleeding. In this study, 14 patients younger than 1 year received a Confidex bolus and were matched with 11 patients of a similar age who did not receive the drug. The preoperative coagulation profile was similar in the two groups. No side effects, including anaphylaxis or thrombotic events, were observed. The numbers of units of packed red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma administered both intra- and postoperatively were similar. The postoperative coagulation examination results and thromboelastographic parameters did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, the Confidex patients bled significantly less than the control subjects during the first 24 postoperative hours. The median volume of drained blood was 0.0 ml/kg h (range 0–1.9 ml/kg h) compared with 1.9 ml/kg h (range 1–3 ml/kg h) (p = 0.009). At least one unit of packed red blood cells in the postoperative phase was required by 2 patients (14 %) in the Confidex group and six patients (54 %) in the control group (odds ratio [OR], 0.13; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 0.02–0.9; p = 0.03). The median duration of mechanical ventilation was 3 days (range 2–4 days) in the Confidex group and 4 days (range 0–8 days) in the control group (p = 0.66). The median stay in the intensive care unit was 6 days (range 5–9 days) in the Confidex group and 7 days (range 4–12 days) in the control group (p = 0.88). The use of Confidex for infants undergoing cardiac surgery was safe and effective. It reduced postoperative bleeding and allowed fewer units of packed red blood cells to be infused in the postoperative phase without major side effects.
Complimentary sequential antifertility effects of chlormadinone and norethindrone in the rabbit: implications in progestin only fertility control.

Abstract The antifertility activity of chlormadinone and norethindrone, administered preovulatory, postovulatory or continuously was examined in the rabbit. Chlormadinone was considerably more potent than norethindrone by preovulatory treatment. With each compound a specific dose was found to be active by preovulatory treatment, but inactive when the dose was given continuously. Postovulatory treatment revealed a striking separation of action in that norethindrone inhibited fertility, while chlormadinone was totally inactive. When chlormadinone was given preovulatory, and norethindrone postovulatory, at doses that alone were inactive, a significant inhibition of fertility was observed. Sequential administration of these progestins appeared to enhance specificity, and broaden the total spectrum of antifertility influence.
Saralasin bolus test: Rapid screening procedure for renin-mediated hypertension

Summary The angiotensin-blocking agent, saralasin, was given by rapid intravenous (bolus) injection to 21 hypertensive patients. A marked depressor response (average blood-pressure decrease of 30 mm Hg systolic and 20 mm Hg diastolic at 10 minutes after injection) was noted in 13 patients, of whom 11 had renovascular hypertension and 2 had high-renin essential hypertension. No change from prebolus blood-pressure was apparent at 10 minutes in 8 control patients with essential hypertension and normal or low peripheral plasma-renin activity. In all patients, blood-pressure response to saralasin bolus (10 mg) correlated with blood-pressure response to subsequent infusion of saralasin (10 μg/kg/min). Blood-pressure response to rapid intravenous injection of saralasin—the "saralasin bolus test"—has many characteristics of an ideal screening procedure for renin-mediated hypertension.
Pulmonary embolism-experience at a single children's hospital.

Abstract Introduction Pulmonary embolism in children is a rare, potentially life threatening condition. The clinical characteristics of pediatric pulmonary embolism have not been well studied and the exact incidence in children is not known. We report a case series of fourteen patients with pulmonary embolism and describe their clinical characteristics. Materials and methods Inpatient and outpatient clinic charts of patients with proven pulmonary embolism (PE) followed at the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Center at Children's Hospital of Michigan were reviewed for relevant clinical and laboratory information. Results All patients with PE were symptomatic but accurate diagnosis of PE was often delayed in the outpatient setting. Screening testing with D-dimer was normal in 40% of patients. Acquired risk factors and lower extremity clots were more common in patients analyzed. Treatment regimens differed but most patients had resolution of pulmonary emboli on follow-up. Conclusions A high index of suspicion is needed for the diagnosis of pediatric PE. D-Dimer may be normal in some children with PE. Pediatric multicenter trials are needed to evaluate clinical characteristics, risk factors, long-term outcome and effects of PE on pulmonary and cardiac function.
Ion transport through sand by convective diffusion

Experiments were conducted to show the applicability of convective diffusion theory to ion transport in sand. At low flow rates net transport is composed of convection and diffusion (based on a molecular diffusion coefficient). It was shown that a condition of dynamic equilibrium may be established in which convection and diffusion just balance (zero net transport). It was also shown that the relevant flow parameter was the Peclet number, based upon the molecular diffusion coefficient.
Detection of minor drug-resistant populations by parallel allele-specific sequencing

We developed a highly sensitive parallel allele-specific sequencing (PASS) assay to simultaneously analyze a large number of viral genomes and detect minor drug-resistant populations at ∼0.1–0.01% levels. Using this assay on samples from individuals infected with human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV), we successfully detected and quantified minor populations of drug-resistant viruses and performed linkage analysis of multiple-drug resistance mutations. This assay may serve as a useful tool to study drug resistance in HIV and other infectious agents. NOTE: In the supplementary information initially published online to accompany this article, the image for patient 200371 in Supplementary Figure 6 was incorrect. This panel was replaced. The error has been corrected online.
Transmission-based detection of nuclides with nuclear resonance fluorescence using a quasimonoenergetic photon source

We provide a detailed experimental validation of the concept of transmission-based isotope detection. The dominant background processes in this class of systems were measured by studying the detection of U238 with a quasimonochromatic (ΔE∕E∼3%) photon beam. A notch develops in the spectrum transmitted through our test objects due to the preferential attenuation of photons with an energy that resonantly excites a bound nuclear state in U238 near 2 MeV. The notch was measured downstream of our test objects by means of resonant photon scattering from a secondary U238 target. The dominant backgrounds measured in the notch detector due to radioactive decay and elastic scattering of the transmitted beam are presented. Processes that refill the notch with off-resonance photons will obscure the signal and result in a higher probability of false negatives. A measurement of the refill process produced a null result, and we report an upper limit on the magnitude of the notch fill factor.
Identification of simulated microcalcifications in white noise and mammographic backgrounds.

This work investigates human performance in discriminating between differently shaped simulated microcalcifications embedded in white noise or mammographic backgrounds. Human performance was determined through two alternative forced-choice (2-AFC) experiments. The signals used were computer-generated simple shapes that were designed such that they had equal signal energy. This assured equal detectability. For experiments involving mammographic backgrounds, signals were blurred to account for the imaging system modulation transfer function(MTF).White noise backgrounds were computer generated; anatomic background patches were extracted from normal mammograms. We compared human performance levels as a function of signal energy in the expected difference template. In the discrimination task, the expected difference template is the difference between the two signals shown. In white noise backgrounds, human performance in the discrimination task was degraded compared to the detection task. In mammographic backgrounds, human performance in the discrimination task exceeded that of the detection task. This indicates that human observers do not follow the optimum decision strategy of correlating the expected signal template with the image. Human observer performance was qualitatively reproduced by non-prewhitening with eye filter (NPWE) model observer calculations, in which spatial uncertainty was explicitly included by shifting the locations of the expected difference templates. The results indicate that human strategy in the discrimination task may be to match individual signal templates with the image individually, rather than to perform template matching between the expected difference template and the image.
Analysis of optical fibers with arbitrary refractive index profiles: accuracy, convergence, and effects of finite cladding

Abstract We have formulated a matrix eigenvalue problem for cylindrical optical fibers from a set of finite difference equations. Numerical solution of this problem yields the propagation constants for propagating modes. The method can be used for arbitrary index profiles, does not require the explicit evaluation of Bessel or modified Bessel functions, and does not use iterative methods to search for the propagation constants as was the case in earlier proposed methods using finite differences. The method is accurate, fast, and simple. We have established the convergence and stability of this method, and explored the effects of finite cladding width on the dispersion characteristics.
Classroom note: Another intuitive approach to Stirling's formula

An intuitive derivation of Stirling's formula is presented, together with a modification that greatly improves its accuracy. The derivation is based on the closed form evaluation of the gamma function at an integer plus one-half. The modification is easily implemented on a hand-held calculator and often triples the number of significant digits calculated. While the modification is not new, it does not seem to have the exposure it deserves.
Emergency department treatment of viral gastritis using intravenous ondansetron or dexamethasone in children.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the efficacy of intravenous ondansetron or dexamethasone compared with intravenous fluid therapy alone in children presenting to the emergency department with refractory vomiting from viral gastritis who had failed attempts at oral hydration. METHODS: This double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was performed in a tertiary care pediatric emergency department. Children aged 6 months to 12 years presenting with more than three episodes of vomiting in the past 24 hours, mild/moderate dehydration, and failed oral hydration were included. Patients with other medical causes were excluded. Subjects were randomized to dexamethasone 1 mg/kg (15 mg maximum), ondansetron 0.15 mg/kg, or placebo (normal saline [NS], 10 mL). All subjects also received intravenous NS at 10-20 mL/kg/hr. Oral fluid tolerance was evaluated at two and four hours. Those not tolerating oral fluids at four hours were admitted. Discharged patients were evaluated at 24 and 72 hours for vomiting and repeat health care visits. The primary study outcome was hospitalization rates between the groups. Data were analyzed using chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Mantel-Haenszel test, and analysis of variance, with p < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: A total of 166 subjects were enrolled; data for analysis were available for 44 NS-treated patients, 46 ondansetron-treated patients, and 47 dexamethasone-treated patients. Hospital admission occurred in nine patients (20.5%) receiving placebo (NS alone), two patients (4.4%) receiving ondansetron, and seven patients (14.9%) receiving dexamethasone, with ondansetron significantly different from placebo (p = 0.02). Similarly, at two hours, more ondansetron-treated patients (39 [86.6%]) tolerated oral hydration than NS-treated patients (29 [67.4%]; relative risk, 1.28; 95% confidence interval = 1.02 to 1.68). There were no differences in number of mean episodes of vomiting or repeat visits to health care at 24 and 72 hours in the ondansetron, dexamethasone, or NS groups. CONCLUSIONS: In children with dehydration secondary to vomiting from acute viral gastritis, ondansetron with intravenous rehydration improves tolerance of oral fluids after two hours and reduces the hospital admission rate when compared with intravenous rehydration with or without dexamethasone.
Employment Location and Wage Rates of Poverty-Area Residents.

Abstract This paper tests a crucial assumption in the debate between those who advocate ghetto development and those who advocate ghetto dispersal: that the suburban jobs held by urban poverty-area residents are economically superior to the jobs held by those who both live and work in the poverty area. The motivations of poverty-area residents for commuting to a suburban job are analyzed and tested using microeconomic data from the 1970 Census Employment Survey. The analysis finds no empirical support for the hypothesis and implied policies that suburban jobs provide superior pecuniary advantages for poverty-area residents.
Inhibiting the differentiation of myocardiocytes by hyaluronic acid.

Background. In vitro experimentation found that wounded midgestation fetal mouse hearts heal scarlessly. Scarless repair occurs in an environment enriched in hyaluronic acid (HA), while in the absence of HA and the inclusion of hyaluronidase (HAdase), repair by scarring occurs. Excess HA downregulates the expression of the specific HA receptor, RHAMM (receptor for HA-mediated motility). The expression of RHAMM and the migration of cardiac cells from fetal heart explants were investigated in the presence of excess HA and added HAdase, Method. Hearts from Gestational Day 15 fetal mice (term = 20) were cut into four fragments, established as explant cultures, and assigned to one of three treatment groups: 400 μg/ml HA, 50 U/ml HAdase, or saline. Cellular outgrowth was recorded at Day 7. The character of the migrating cells (fibroblast-like or myocardiocyte) was determined by immunostaining for filamentous actin (f-actin, microfilaments) or desmin (intermediate filaments). The expression of RHAMM was documented also. Results. The inclusions of HA stimulated cell migration and proliferation, perpetuated cells as immature myocardiocytes, and blocked the expression of RHAMM. The inclusion of HAdase limited cell migration and proliferation, promoted the differentiation of cells into myocardiocytes, and increased the number of cells expressing RHAMM. Conclusion, Increased concentrations of HA promoted the proliferation and migration of an immature population of myocardiocytes. On the other hand the inclusion of HAdase inhibits the migration and proliferation of cells and promotes the appearance of myocardiocytes with a fibroblast-like morphology. The speculation is that excess HA may promote proliferation and migration of immature myocardiocytes into a heart defect, leading to replacement of lost myocardium with contractile tissue rather than dysfunctional scar.
Hospital Dissemination of Information Resources on Intimate Partner Violence: Statewide Analysis of Texas Emergency Room Staff

The U.S. health care costs of Intimate partner violence (IPV) account for over $4 million each year, although only 600,000 of the 5 million estimated female IPV survivors seek medical treatment for their injuries. IPV survivors face a range of physical and mental health consequences while emergency department staff face difficult challenges providing information in situations fraught with tensions. This study is the first statewide examination of IPV information dissemination by hospital emergency staff. Analysis of the types, utility, and formats of IPV information, augmented by emergency staff suggestions, suggest that hospital librarians could play an important role in the support of both staff and patients.