cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Left heart lesions in patients with Ebstein anomaly.

OBJECTIVE To identify the incidence of left heart abnormalities in patients with Ebstein anomaly, recognizing that left-sided lesions in this patient group have been overlooked. PATIENTS AND METHODS According to the echocardiography database at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn, 106 consecutive patients with Ebstein anomaly underwent echocardiography between July 1, 2001, and February 28, 2003. Clinical data as well as electrocardiographic and echocardiographic reports and images were reviewed. RESULTS Ebstein anomaly was severe in 76 patients (72%). Previous tricuspid valve surgery was reported in 46 patients (43%), and previous closure of an atrial septal defect or patent foramen ovale was reported in 34 patients (32%). Left ventricular (LV) myocardial changes resembling noncompaction occurred in 19 patients (17.9%), LV systolic dysfunction in 7 patients (7%), LV diastolic dysfunction in 34 (36%) of 95 patients, and LV dilatation in 4 patients (4%). Additional left-sided cardiac lesions included mitral valve prolapse in 16 patients (15%), bicuspid aortic valve in 8 (8%), mitral valve dysplasia in 4 (4%), and ventricular septal defect in 8 (8%). Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome occurred in 22 patients (21%). The QRS axis tended to be different in LV noncompaction with a mean ± SD axis of 12° ± 74° vs 36° ± 66° overall ( P =.08). Otherwise, there were no differences in clinical or surgical data between the groups with normal and abnormal LV myocardium. CONCLUSIONS In patients with Ebstein anomaly, left heart abnormalities involving the myocardium or valves were observed in 39% of patients. Ebstein anomaly should not be regarded as a disease confined to the right side of the heart.
Characterization of receptors for ciliary neurotrophic factor on rat hippocampal astrocytes.

Abstract We have identified by Scatchard analysis both high (124 pM, 14.4 ×106 sites/μg protein, 7600 sites/cell) and low (1.6 nM, 7.7×106 sites/μg protein, 4100 sites/cell) affinity receptors for [ 125 I ]-rat ciliary neurotrophic factor (rCNTF) on astrocytes. Ligand competition studies showed that the binding of [ 125 I ]-rCNTF was effectively competed by rCNTF and human CNTF, but not by hLIF, mIL-6 or mIL-1B. Three proteins specifically crossed-linked to [ 125 I ]-rCNTF, with the molecular weights of 190, 100, and 43 kDa, were immunoprecipitated by anti-rCNTF antibodies. Anti-LIFR or anti-gp130 antibodies immunoprecipitated the 100 and the 190 kDa proteins. CNTF induced the tyrosine phosphorylation of LIFR and gp130, as well as of proteins with the molecular weights of 88/91 and 42 kDa. The phosphorylation of the 88/91 kDa protein(s) was inhibited by pretreating the cells with staurosporine, 12-myristate 13-acetate phorbol (PMA), W7, chlorpromazine, or the intracellular Ca+2 chelator BAPTA/AM. In contrast, CNTF and PMA acted synergistically to induce the phosphorylation of two proteins with the molecular weights of 42 and 44 kDa. At later time points following CNTF treatment, c-fos messenger RNA and protein levels were increased. Collectively, these data indicate that hippocampal astrocytes express high-affinity, biologically functional receptor complexes for CNTF.
On the Structure of Tilt Grain Boundaries in Cubic Metals I. Symmetrical Tilt Boundaries

The results of the study of symmetrical tilt boundaries, reported in the preceding part I, are generalized to asymmetrical tilt boundaries. A classification of tilt boundaries in cubic crystals is developed that reveals which boundaries to choose in order to study equilibrium faceting or intrinsic grain boundary dislocations (g.b.ds) accommodating a misorientation. Two series of atomistic studies of asymmetrical tilt boundary structures are presented based on this classification. The first is a study of long-period (27 ^ 97) [110] asymmetrical tilt boundaries in aluminium. The aims of this study are to investigate whether these boundaries are composed of fundamental structural elements, in the same way as was found in part I for symmetrical tilt boundaries, and to see if localized, distinct stress fields of edge g.b.ds exist throughout the misorientation range. With use of the results of this study, and the principle of continuity of boundary structure enunciated in part I, the boundary unit representation of a 27 — 1193 asymmetrical tilt boundary is derived as an example. It is generally found that the Burgers vectors of intrinsic secondary g.b.ds in tilt boundaries, based on favoured boundary reference structures, are non-primitive d.s.c. vectors. The reason for this is given and a simple formula is presented to derive the Burgers vectors of such dislocations for any favoured tilt boundary reference structure. It is pointed out that, in general, very low angle {0
The partial amino acid sequence of human erythrocyte catalase

Abstract More than 95% of the sequence of human erythrocyte catalase (HEC) has been determined. There are at least 41 differences in sequence between it and that of bovine liver and erythrocyte catalases (BLC and BEC). Although the normal subunit length of BLC is 506 residues, BEC has at least 517 and HEC 520 residues. Most differences between HEC and BLC or BEC are conservative substitutions. If the heme-protein contacts as determined by X-ray crystallography are examined, only one of 39 residues in contact with the heme group differs between HEC and BLC or BEC.
Musings on the Future of the Catalog

Progress in development of on-line catalogs is rapid and impressive. Much of this progress is due to financial pressures: on-line catalogs may be able to provide improved services at diminished costs. Computerized catalogs will enable other, more significant changes in libraries and their operations than are usually perceived, including finally, efficient use of cooperative networks among all types of libraries. This essay reviews some of the pressures leading to the rapid development of on-line catalogs and projects some of the possible changes which will result.
Eyelid Retraction Treated by Levator Marginal Myotomy

Upper eyelid retraction in patients with ophthalmic Graves' disease may be due to: (1) overaction of Muller's muscle; (2) overaction of the levator muscle; (3) contraction of the levator; and (4) subcutaneous adhesions anterior to the levator. A new operation is described to lengthen the levator by performing partial width (marginal) myotomies. If present, subcutaneous adhesions can also be divided during this operation. Histologic features of levators and Muller's muscles from patients with upper eyelid retraction are discussed.
The lindlar‐catalyzed reduction of methyl santalbate: a facile preparation of methyl 9‐cis,11‐trans‐Octadecadienoate‐9,10‐d2

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) has been associated with the reduction of chemically induced cancers in mice and rats and the suppression of atherosclerosis in rats. We have found seed oils to be a valuable source of precursors for the rapid preparation of gram quantities of deuterium-labeled fats. Methyl santalbate (methyl 11-trans-octadecen-9-ynoate), obtained from Santalum album (Linn.) seed, was reduced with Lindlar catalyst, quinoline, and deuterium gas to produce, in yields of 65–75%, the gram quantities of methyl 9-cis,11-trans-octadecadienoate-9,10-d2 (CLA-d2) we required for metabolism and oxidation studies. Unlike monoacetylenic and methylene-interrupted polyacetylenic fatty acid methyl esters, the conjugated system was reduced with no noticeable break in the rate of deuterium uptake. The quantity of poison (quinoline) present did influence the amount of CLA-d2 produced, but the production of overreduced fatty acid methyl esters (perhaps because of the conjugated system) could not be prevented. Fractionation of the reaction mixture by silver resin chromatography resulted in the isolation of >99% chemically pure CLA-d2 in yields of 60–70%.
A novel histone deacetylase pathway regulates mitosis by modulating Aurora B kinase activity

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors perturb the cell cycle and have great potential as anti-cancer agents, but their mechanism of action is not well established. HDACs classically function as repressors of gene expression, tethered to sequence-specific transcription factors. Here we report that HDAC3 is a critical, transcription-independent regulator of mitosis. HDAC3 forms a complex with A-Kinase-Anchoring Proteins AKAP95 and HA95, which are targeted to mitotic chromosomes. Deacetylation of H3 in mitosis requires AKAP95/HA95 and HDAC3 and provides a hypoacetylated H3 tail that is the preferred substrate for Aurora B kinase. Phosphorylation of H3S10 by Aurora B leads to dissociation of HP1 proteins from methylated H3K9 residues on mitotic heterochromatin. This transcription-independent pathway, involving interdependent changes in histone modification and protein association, is required for normal progression through mitosis and is an unexpected target of HDAC inhibitors, a class of drugs currently in clinical trials for treating cancer.
Addition of buffers to high quality alfalfa hay-based diets for dairy cows in early lactation.

Beginning 4 wk postpartum, 14 Holstein cows were paired according to expected calving date and lactation number and assigned randomly to one of two treatments in a single reversal experiment designed to study the effects of added buffers to high quality alfalfa hay-based diets. Cows were offered daily 14.5 kg of concentrate containing 0 or 2% sodium bicarbonate and .5% magnesium oxide (as fed), plus free choice high quality alfalfa hay in a ratio of forage:grain approaching 50:50 (dry matter). No differences were in milk production, milk fat percentage, fat-corrected milk, or dry matter intake. Dry matter intake of grain was decreased with addition of buffers. Kilograms fat-corrected milk per kilogram of dry matter intake were 1.41 and 1.45 for control and buffered diets. No differences were significant for rumen pH, ammonia concentration, molar proportions of acetate and propionate, or ratio of acetate: propionate. Concentrations of total volatile fatty acids were higher for cows fed the buffered diet. No differences were in blood acid-base status or in various serum metabolites. Urine pH was 8.11 and 8.20 for control and buffered diets. Fractional urinary excretion of magnesium and sodium was greater when cows consumed the buffered diet. Diet digestibilities and rate of passage were not affected by dietary buffers. Addition of sodium bicarbonate plus magnesium oxide did not improve performance of early lactation cows fed high quality alfalfa hay as the sole forage.
Inhibitory activity of the new adamantane derivative N,N'-bis(ethylene)-P(1-adamantyl)-phosphonic diamide against Rous sarcoma virus.

Abstract A new adamantane derivative N , N ′-bis (ethylene) P (1-adamantyl)-phosphonis diamide, was found to inhibit Rous sarcoma virus replication in much the same manner as reported for the parent compound, 1-adamantanamine hydrochloride.
Lower bounds to error probability for coding on discrete memoryless channels. II

Lower bounds to minimum error probability for block coding on noisy discrete memoryless channels
Synthesis and heating effect of iron/iron oxide composite and iron oxide nanoparticles

Fe/Fe oxide nanoparticles, in which the core consists of metallic Fe and the shell is composed of Fe oxides, were obtained by reduction of an aqueous solution of FeCl3 within a NaBH4 solution, or, using a water-in-oil micro-emulsion with CTAB as the surfactant. The reduction was performed either in an inert atmosphere or in air, and passivation with air was performed to produce the Fe/Fe3O4 core/shell composite. Phase identification and particle size were determined by X-ray diffraction and TEM. Thermal analysis was performed using a differential scanning calorimeter. The quasistatic magnetic properties were measured using a VSM, and the specific absorption rates (SARs) of both Fe oxide and Fe/Fe3O4 composite nanoparticles either dispersed in methanol or in an epoxy resin were measured by Luxtron fiber temperature sensors in an alternating magnetic field of 150 Oe at 250 kHz. It was found that the preparation conditions, including the concentrations of solutions, the mixing procedure and the heat treatment, influence the particle size, the crystal structure and consequently the magnetic properties of the particles. Compared with Fe oxides, the saturation magnetization (MS ) of Fe/Fe3O4 particles (100-190 emu/g) can be twice as high, and the coercivity (HC ) can be tunable from several Oe to several hundred Oe. Hence, the SAR of Fe/Fe3O4 composite nanoparticles can be much higher than that of Fe oxides, with a maximum SAR of 345 W/g. The heating behavior is related to the magnetic behavior of the nanoparticles.
Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis Infection: Challenges and Prospects

This article reviews the treatment of latent tuberculosis infection in HIV-seropositive and HIV-seronegative persons.
Nitric oxide release: Part III. Measurement and reporting

Nitric oxide's expansive physiological and regulatory roles have driven the development of therapies for human disease that would benefit from exogenous NO administration. Already a number of therapies utilizing gaseous NO or NO donors capable of storing and delivering NO have been proposed and designed to exploit NO's influence on the cardiovascular system, cancer biology, the immune response, and wound healing. As described in Nitric oxide release: Part I. Macromolecular scaffolds and Part II. Therapeutic applications, the preparation of new NO-release strategies/formulations and the study of their therapeutic utility are increasing rapidly. However, comparison of such studies remains difficult due to the diversity of scaffolds, NO measurement strategies, and reporting methods employed across disciplines. This tutorial review highlights useful analytical techniques for the detection and measurement of NO. We also stress the importance of reporting NO delivery characteristics to allow appropriate comparison of NO between studies as a function of material and intended application.
Gene-expression differences in peripheral blood between lithium responders and non-responders in the Lithium Treatment-Moderate dose Use Study (LiTMUS)

Gene-expression differences in peripheral blood between lithium responders and non-responders in the Lithium Treatment-Moderate dose Use Study (LiTMUS)
N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl) retinamide potentiated paclitaxel for cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in glioblastoma C6 and RG2 cells.

Abstract Glioblastoma grows aggressively due to its ability to maintain abnormally high potentials for cell proliferation. The present study examines the synergistic actions of N-(4-hdroxyphenyl) retinamide (4-HPR) and paclitaxel (PTX) to control the growth of rat glioblastoma C6 and RG2 cell lines. 4-HPR induced astrocytic differentiation that was accompanied by increased expression of the tight junction protein e-cadherin and sustained down regulation of Id2 (member of inhibitor of differentiation family), catalytic subunit of rat telomerase reverse transcriptase (rTERT), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Flow cytometric analysis showed that the microtubule stabilizer PTX caused cell cycle deregulation due to G2/M arrest. This in turn could alter the fate of kinetochore–spindle tube dynamics thereby halting cell cycle progression. An interesting observation was the induction of G1/S arrest by a combination of 4-HPR and PTX, altering the G2/M arrest induced by PTX alone. This was further ratified by the upregulation of tumor suppressor protein retinoblastoma, which repressed the expression of the key signaling moieties to induce G1/S arrest. Collectively, the combination of 4-HPR and PTX diminished the survival factors (e.g., rTERT, PCNA, and Bcl-2) to make glioblastoma cells highly prone to apoptosis with activation of cysteine proteases (e.g., calpain, cathepsins, caspase-8, caspase-3). Hence, the combination of 4-HPR and PTX can be considered as an effective therapeutic strategy for controlling the growth of heterogeneous glioblastoma cell populations.
The state of the medical geneticist workforce: findings of the 2003 survey of American Board of Medical Genetics certified geneticists.

The state of the medical geneticist workforce: Findings of the 2003 survey of American Board of Medical Genetics certified geneticists
Androstenedione aromatization as a cause of gynecomastia in 11beta-hydroxylase and 21-hydroxylase deficiencies.

ABSTRACT Objective To report two cases of gynecomastia that occurred in boys with 11β-hydroxylase and 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Methods We describe the physical findings and summarize the laboratory evaluation and treatment of two cases encountered in our medical practice. Results Both of our patients (a 4-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy) had extreme virilization and gynecomastia; on laboratory assessment, androstenedione and estrogen levels were high. Treatment with hydrocortisone was recommended. Conclusion Peripheral conversion of adrenal androgen to estrogen likely caused the feminizing syndrome in these patients. (Endocr Pract. 1996; 2:90-93)
Psychosocial factors and congestive heart failure

The incidence and prevalence of congestive heart failure (CHF) are increasing, even after adjustment for an aging population. Because coverage of psychosocial factors in CHF has been insufficient, we reviewed the literature in this area. Four major themes emerged in our review as we examined relations between psychosocial factors and CHF: psychiatric comorbidity, psychosocial precipitation and exacerbation of CHF, psychosocial consequences of CHF, and physiological mechanisms linking psychosocial factors and the course of CHF. There is a surprising paucity of studies in these areas. We tabulate the studies and discuss representative studies with an eye to directions for future research.
Neurocognitive impairment in children and adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disease, in which neuropsychiatric manifestations are a common cause of significant morbidity. The American College of Rheumatology has identified 19 distinct neuropsychiatric syndromes associated with SLE, although the 1982 American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for SLE recognize only two: seizures and psychosis. Neurocognitive impairment (NCI) is one of the most common and clinically challenging manifestations of SLE, but its pathophysiology remains poorly understood. This Review examines the epidemiology and pathophysiology of NCI in children and adolescents with SLE, as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that are available for these patients. As few published studies specifically address NCI in pediatric SLE, new directions for research are also discussed.
An intermediate conductance calcium-activated potassium channel in rat visceral sensory afferent neurons

Abstract Whole-cell and single channel recordings were used to characterize an intermediate conductance calcium-activated potassium (KCa) channel in sensory neurons of the nodose ganglion. From a −80 mV holding potential, the total outward current in these neurons was increased when extracellular calcium was raised from 0.02 to 5 mM. This calcium-evoked outward current was not blocked by either charybdotoxin (50 nM) or apamine (40 nM). In the inside-out patch configuration, the current-voltage relationship for this channel was linear between −60 and +60 mV in symmetrical 145 mM potassium aspartate (KAsp) and possessed a conductance of approximately 60 picosiemens (pS). Increasing [Ca 2+ ] i from 0.01 μM to 1.0 μM markedly increased the cumulative open probability of this channel and the effect of increasing [Ca 2+ ] i on these channels was not voltage dependent. In the outside-out patch configuration, neither tetraethylammonioum (TEA), (1 mM), apamine (40 nM) or charybdotoxin (ChTx) (50 nM) had any effect on the activity of this channel. These results provide new evidence for the existence of pharmacologically distinct intermediate conductance KCa channel in sensory afferent neurons.
Vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC).

This review of vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) focuses on practical issues that will be useful for the physician in training and the obstetrician in clinical practice. Although VBAC has long been a common practice in many European nations, the same has not been true in North America. As recently as 1970 essentially all hospitals in the United States maintained a policy that women with a history of previous caesarean delivery would undergo repeat caesarean operations for any and all subsequent births. Although VBAC rates in many nations increased dramatically in the 1980s and 1990s, many aspects of trial of labour (also known as trial of scar) remain controversial at the dawn of the 21st century.
Endogenous digoxin-like immunoreactivity in blood is increased during prolonged strenuous exercise.

Digoxin-like immunoreactive factors (DLIFs) in serum may represent endogenous cardiotropic agents. We determined if blood levels of these endogenous factors changed during prolonged strenuous exercise. Total and loosely protein-bound (LPB) DLIF were measured by radioimmunoassay in the serum of nine healthy subjects during prolonged exercise to exhaustion. Mean total and LPB serum levels of DLIF increased by 72% (580 to 945 pg/mL) and 63% (53 to 91 pg/mL) over baseline values in digoxin equivalents (p<0.01), respectively, after three hours of exercise at 70% of VO2max. The prevalent serum nonesterified fatty acids (arachidonic, linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids) as well as hydrocortisone did not account for the observed elevations in DLIF. Percent left ventricular fractional shortening (%FS) and mean velocity of left ventricular circumferential fiber shortening (mVCF) measured echocardiographically were lower (−18.0% and −16.4%, respectively, p<0.05) after exercise as compared to prior to exercise. Cardiac left ventricular dysfunction as measured by %FS did correlate with blood levels of DLIF (r=−0.680, p<0.02). These observations may suggest a relationship between serum levels of DLIF and cardiac fatigue.
Spinning embryos enhance diffusion through gelatinous egg masses

Abstract Heat transfer rate was used as an analog in determining the effect of embryonic movement on diffusion rates through gelatinous egg masses of the opisthobranch mollusc Haminoea sp. Egg masses containing spinning embryos had thermal conductivities (and, by analogy, diffusion rates) at least 7.6% greater than egg masses containing non-spinning embryos. Spinning may thus provide a mechanism that increases the rates of diffusion-limited processes in the developing embryo.
The West African Sahel: A Review of Recent Studies on the Rainfall Regime and Its Interannual Variability

The West African Sahel is well known for the severe droughts that ravaged the region in the 1970s and 1980s. Meteorological research on the region has flourished during the last decade as a result of several major field experiments. This paper provides an overview of the results that have ensued. A major focus has been on the West African monsoon, a phenomenon that links all of West Africa. The characteristics and revised picture of the West African monsoon are emphasized. Other topics include the interannual variability of rainfall, the atmospheric circulation systems that govern interannual variability, characteristics of precipitation and convection, wave activity, large-scale factors in variability (including sea-surface temperatures), and land-atmosphere relationships. New paradigms for the monsoon and associated ITCZ and for interannual variability have emerged. These emphasize features in the upper atmosphere, as well as the Saharan Heat Low. Feedback mechanisms have also been emphasized, especially the coupling of convection with atmospheric dynamics and with land surface characteristics. New results also include the contrast between the premonsoon and peak monsoon seasons, two preferred modes of interannual variability (a latitudinal displacement of the tropical rainbelt versus changes in its intensity), and the critical importance of the Tropical Easterly Jet.
On the optimality of clustering properties of space filling curves

Space filling curves have for long been used in the design of data structures for multidimensional data. A fundamental quality metric of a space filling curve is its "clustering number" with respect to a class of queries, which is the average number of contiguous segments on the space filling curve that a query region can be partitioned into. We present a characterization of the clustering number of a general class of space filling curves, as well as the first non-trivial lower bounds on the clustering number for any space filling curve. Our results also answer an open problem that was posed by Jagadish in 1997.
Low dose interleukin‐2 following intensification therapy with high dose cytarabine for acute myelogenous leukemia in first complete remission

The most important problem in the therapy of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is relapse after intensive therapy. We sought to determine if interleukin-2 (low-dose with intermittent boluses) administration could be feasibly administered after standard therapy to potentiate anti-tumor immunity in a fashion analogous to the post-allogeneic stem cell transplant "graft-vs-leukemic" effect. Adults with de novo AML received daunorubicin and cytosine arabinoside induction therapy. Patients achieving complete remission received high dose ara-C (HIDAC) for three courses followed by low dose rIL-2 (Amgen), administered by continuous infusion (450,000 U/m(2)/day) for 10 weeks with intermittent boluses (500,000/U/m(2) over 2 hr) given in weekly intervals starting on Week 4. Of the 32 enrolled patients, 27 achieved CR; 8/11 who received rIL-2 completed therapy. 6/11 are long term survivors (median follow-up, 139 months). rIL-2 was well tolerated and associated with a 5-fold increase in circulating NK-lymphocytes and a 3-fold increase in circulating T-cells. Mononuclear cells from patients receiving rIL-2 exhibited enhanced cytolytic activity in vitro against cryopreserved autologous leukemia cells. This study supports further investigation of immunotherapy in the post-intensive chemotherapy setting in the management of patients with AML.
The electromotive force of MnAs nanoparticles

Arising from P. N. Hai, S. Ohya, M. Tanaka, S. E. Barnes & S. Maekawa. , 489–492 (2009)10.1038/nature07879 Magnetic tunnel junctions can produce large magnetoresistance effects that are of use in a variety of applications. Hai et al.1 recently published a very interesting paper in which the application of a large static magnetic field to a tunnel junction containing superparamagnetic MnAs nanoparticles resulted in the generation of an electromotive force. The authors attributed this phenomenon to a conversion of the nanoparticles’ magnetic energy to electrical energy by way of quantum tunnelling. Here I point out that the electrical energy output measured by Hai et al.1 was more than 1,000 times greater than the maximum amount of magnetic energy that could be induced in their MnAs nanoparticles by the applied magnetic field. Therefore the induced magnetic energy cannot be the source for the observed electromotive force, as was asserted by Hai et al.1.
A structured implicit abstraction method to evaluate whether content of counseling before prostate cancer screening is consistent with recommendations by experts.

Abstract Objective To assess the content of counseling about prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening. Guidelines recommend informed consent before screening because of concerns about benefits versus risks. As part of the professional practice standard for informed consent, clinicians should include content customarily provided by experts. Methods 40 transcripts of conversations between medicine residents and standardized patients were abstracted using an instrument derived from an expert Delphi panel that ranked 10 “facts that experts believe men ought to know.” Results Transcripts contained definite criteria for an average of 1.7 facts, and either definite or partial criteria for 5.1 facts. Second- and third-year residents presented more facts than interns (p = 0.01). The most common facts were “false positive PSA tests can occur” and “use of the PSA test as a screening test is controversial.” There was an r = 0.88 correlation between inclusion by residents and the experts’ ranking. Conclusion Counseling varied but most transcripts included some expert-recommended facts. The absence of other facts could be a quality deficit or an effort to prioritize messages and lessen cognitive demands on the patient. Practice implications Clinicians should adapt counseling for each patient, but our abstraction approach may help to assess the quality of informed consent over larger populations.
Slow exponential growth of Escherichia coli in presence of p-fluorophenylalanine. Effect of the analog on aromatic biosynthesis

Abstract 1. 1. A new growth phase of Escherichia coli B in the presence of p -fluorophenylalanine is described. This is a slow exponential growth phase which follows the linear growth induced by the analog, and which continues for several generations until supplanted by a resistant mutant. A graphic analysis of the complete growth cycle is given. 2. 2. The p -fluorophenylalanine is incorporated exponentially during the slow exponential growth, without alteration, as a partial substitute for phenylalanine. 3. 3. Extensive filamentation of the organisms occurs during linear growth. Cell division is resumed in the slow exponential phase. 4. 4. The phenomena of inhibition of mass increase and inhibition of cell division are shown to be separable. Cell-division inhibition appears dependent on tyrosine deprivation or interference with tyrosine metabolism. It is postulated that dl -p- fluorophenylalanine interferes with aromatic biosynthesis by inhibiting enzymes early in the pathway and by partially repressing the synthesis of these enzymes. 5. 5. A new interpretation is made of the nature of the resistant mutant.
The Evolution of Clinical Significance

During the evolution of the concept of clinical significance, there has been a continuing dialog about and refinement of the construct. In this issue Sheldrick, Kendall, and Heimberg apply Kendall, Marrs-Carcia, and Sheldrick's method of equivalency testing and normative comparisons to treatments for conduct disorders. This method has important advantages over traditional meta-analytic approaches. However, analyzing results at the level of group means rather than the individual level loses significant information and can be misleading. Problems in reporting practices and inadequate attention to measurement issues continue to make efforts to assess the clinical importance of studies difficult. We renew a call for the assessment of clinical significance at the individual level of analysis, suggesting it is necessary to guide to selection of empirical supported treatments and in advancing theoretically driven programs of psychotherapy outcome research.
Blood capillaries of the heart and other organs.

The article is a review of work recently carried out on blood capillaries by the author in collaboration with Drs. M. G. Farquhar, G. Majno, and S. L. Wissig. It reviews the morphology of these vessels at the electron-microscope level and confirms the existence of at least 3 distinct types of blood capillaries in small laboratory mammals. It shows that the capillary wall consists of 3 concentric layers (endothelium, basement membrane, and adventitia), and indicates that the basement membrane forms a continuous layer in all capillaries so far studied. Experiments in which colloidal gold particles were used as a tracer have shown that, in capillaries with a continuous endothelium (muscle capillaries), the particles are transported across it by "pinocytic" vesicles. At the end of this step they must still transverse the basement membrane. Experiments on glomerular capillaries, which typically have a discontinuous s endothelium, were carried out on normal and nephrotic rats using ferritin as a tracer. By its ...
Implementation of an energy-based stiffened plate formulation for lateral load distribution characteristics of girder-type bridges

Although the calculation of lateral load distribution behavior of girder type bridges is widely discussed in AASHTO LRFD based on semi-empirical formulations, the range of applicability is still considered as a restriction for applying the corresponding equations to complex bridge superstructures. In this study, an analytical approach is presented for determining lateral load distribution characteristics of beam-slab type bridges, using classical plate theory. In addition, finite element simulations along with field investigation of three different bridges were implemented to examine the accuracy and validity of the proposed methodology. While the classical plate model is capable enough of predicting the load sharing behavior of the bridge system, it often yields more flexible response of the system in comparison to the upper bound of finite element (FE) results. Moreover, the use of the proposed approach allows for the evaluation of bridge systems outside of the current limits of applicability, such as new composite systems or non-conventional designs, without significant deviations from current practice.
Rootstock Scion Interaction and Effects on Vine Vigor, Phenology, and Cold Hardiness of Interspecific Hybrid Grape Cultivars (Vitis spp.)

Scion-rootstock interactions were analyzed to test the interaction between environment and above-ground vine phenology. The experiment employed ‘Marechal Foch’ and ‘Vidal Blanc’ as reciprocally grafted, own-rooted, and self-grafted vines. Results suggest that genetically complex phenological factors were under the control of the scion cultivar. The effect of the scion on fruit composition was related to differences in yield between the cultivars. Other effects are secondary in nature as a result of vine vigor and shoot density. Factors potentially under specific root influence, (e.g., fruit-set, water status, nutrition, soil pH, salinity, or root pests) were not limiting in this experiment.
The relationship of adsorbed species observed by infrared spectroscopy to the mechanism of ethylene oxidation over silver

Abstract A combined infrared and kinetic investigation was performed on the oxidation of ethylene over a silver catalyst. Based upon the surface structures deduced from the spectra and additional information taken from the literature, a mechanism was developed to interpret both the epoxidation and combustion processes. The proposed mechanism explains qualitatively the kinetics observed in the present investigation and the variations in selectivity as a function of reactant and product concentrations reported in the literature by previous investigators.
Adipose tissue macrophages in the development of obesity-induced inflammation, insulin resistance and type 2 Diabetes

It has been increasingly accepted that chronic subacute inflammation plays an important role in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 Diabetes in animals and humans. Particularly supporting this is that suppression of systemic inflammation in type 2 Diabetes improves glycemic control; this also points to a new potential therapeutic target for the treatment of type 2 Diabetes. Recent studies strongly suggest that obesity-induced inflammation is mainly mediated by tissue resident immune cells, with particular attention being focused on adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs). This review delineates the current progress made in understanding obesity-induced inflammation and the roles ATMs play in this process.
Tetrahydrocannabinols and serum prolactin levels in man

Abstract δ 9 -THC, 11-OH-δ 9 -THC or placebo was administered to casual marihuana smokers in a double-blind, crossover study. δ 9 -THC and 11-OH-δ 9 -THC produced marked pharmacologic and psychologic effects (tachycardia, increased symptom score and psychologic high). In contrast to effects produced by many other centrally acting drugs, the acute administration of these cannabinoids was devoid of any significant effect on prolactin secretion as determined by monitoring changes in serum prolactin levels.
Guest editorial: hybrid systems, part II

We consider it a great privilege to introduce this two-part issue on Hybrid Systems to Discrete Event Dynamic Systems: Theory and Applications. Hybrid dynamical systems constitute an abstract modeling framework for systems with bi-layer dynamics: time-driven dynamics at the lower layer, and discrete-event dynamics at the upper layer. This framework provides useful analysis techniques and simulation tools for planning and control of systems in several application areas such as mobile robotics, automotive powertrains, switching circuits, manufacturing, and telecommunications. Consequently, hybrid systems have been extensively investigated by our research community, with emphases on the problems of stability, observability, control, and optimization. The hybrid-systems framework is diverse and includes linear and nonlinear models, deterministic and stochastic systems, and centralized systems as well as distributed networks. One of their unifying themes is the bi-level structure of their dynamics, and the exploration of the interactions between their time-driven dynamics and discrete-event dynamics has been a focus of extensive research. The purpose of this special issue is to bring together papers representing some of the main standing problems in the area of hybrid systems. The contributions comprising the first part of the special issue are summarized in the following paragraphs. The first paper in this issue, On Fluidization of Discrete Event Models: Observation and Control of Continuous Petri Nets, by M. Silva, J. Julvez, C. Mahulea, and C.R. Vazquez, provides a survey of hybrid Petri networks. It starts with a tutorial on the broad topic of fluidization of discrete event dynamic systems and its use in circumventing the problem of the state-space explosion. It then considers Petri networks in detail, where it describes how fluid and hybrid models can be used in
Clustering in light nuclei studied with multi-particle—γ-ray correlations

The experimental study of clustering in light nuclei has advanced significantly in the past decade, due in part to the advent of devices such as high-resolution segmented silicon detectors. We present the results of two measurements conducted with a combination of segmented silicon strip detectors and the high-resolution gamma-ray detector array GAMMASPHERE, a determination of spins of unbound states in 24Mg, and a measurement of particle—particle—gamma-ray angular correlations to study spin alignment and resonance behavior in the 12C(12C, 12C[0 2 + ])12C[2+] inelastic scattering reaction.
MicroRNA-29a Regulates Intestinal Membrane Permeability in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Background The molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are poorly understood. One mechanism may involve increased intestinal permeability that is reversed with glutamine supplementation. Our goal was to evaluate the expression of glutamine synthetase and its complementary miRNA in blood microvesicles and gut tissues of IBS patients with increased intestinal membrane permeability. Methods We evaluated 19 diarrhoea-predominant IBS patients and 10 controls for intestinal membrane permeability using the lactulose/mannitol method. miRNA expression was evaluated in blood microvesicles and gut tissue. To further confirm the relationship between miRNA and glutamine synthetase expression, cell culture experiments were conducted. Glutamine synthetase was also evaluated in the gut tissues of patients. Results A subset of patients with IBS (8/19, 42%) had increased intestinal membrane permeability and decreased glutamine synthetase expression compared to patients with IBS normal membrane permeability, and to controls. Expression of miR-29a was increased in blood microvesicles, small bowel and colon tissues of IBS patients with increased intestinal membrane permeability. Increased intestinal permeability was modulated by miR-29a which has a complementary site in the 3′-UTR of the GLUL gene. Conclusions The results support the conclusion that GLUL regulates intestinal membrane permeability and miR-29a regulates both GLUL and intestinal membrane permeability. The data suggests that miR-29a effects on intestinal membrane permeability may be due to its regulation of GLUL. Targeting this signalling pathway could lead to a new therapeutic approach to the treatment of patients with IBS, especially because small molecules that mimic or inhibit miRNA-based mechanisms are readily available.
Determining Maximum Likelihood Body Wave Focal Plane Solutions

Summary Earthquake focal plane solutions are computed using P wave first motion, S wave polarization angles, and combinations of the two. The method used is based on a maximum-likelihood argument implemented by the generation of a score surface on a discrete grid. The combined score is of the form a(P-score)+b(S-score). For the P-solution and S-solution, the computer system also produces contoured fiducial regions about the poles of the focal planes. This permits an evaluation of the quality of the solutions and makes possible the comparison of solutions for different earthquakes. These contoured limits have a probabilistic interpretation as 95 per cent fiducial regions, a term explained by Pope. A new graphical method for P wave solutions makes possible the construction of exact boundaries of the regions. The Aleutian earthquake of 1969 May 14, is analysed, and the solution shows good agreement between the observed P wave first motions and the S polarization angles.
Book-Tax Differences, Uncertainty about Fundamentals and Information Quality, and Cost of Capital

Prior research suggests that differences between book and taxable incomes reflect firms' underlying economic fundamentals and their earnings management activities. We investigate the extent to which book-tax differences (BTDs) explain differences in cost of equity capital across firms. Our analysis spans the 1982-2006 period. The results indicate that variability in BTDs estimated over five or six years is positively and significantly related to cost of equity capital (estimated in various ways), whereas other BTD variables generally are not. These findings are consistent with variability in BTDs over time capturing information regarding uncertainty about firms' economic fundamentals and uncertainty about the quality of their earnings. If we assume that only a relatively short time-series of data is available, then we find that the absolute value of BTDs is positive and significantly related to cost of capital.
Influence of Impurities on Electrical Conductivity of Rutile

Electrical conductivity can be produced in rutile (1) by replacing an occasional Ti4+ ion with another cation having a positive charge higher than four or (2) by incorporating small cations, such as the Be2+ ion, into interstitial positions in the crystal lattice. This excess positive charge must be balanced by “available electrons,” which then form a constituent of such an impure rutile crystal. The insulating properties of such a contaminated rutile crystal can be partly restored by incorporating into its lattice cations of a lower valency, such as trivalent aluminum and yttrium. Under these conditions a couple, Nb5+Al3+, takes the place of two Ti4+ ions and the crystal does not need to retain extra electrons that are available for conductivity.
Enhanced Personal Contact With HIV Patients Improves Retention in Primary Care: A Randomized Trial in 6 US HIV Clinics

For human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected patients to experience the maximal benefits of antiretroviral therapy (ART), they must remain engaged in medical care [1, 2]. Timely initial and continuing engagement in care are critical to allow uninterrupted access to ART and sustained viral suppression, with implications for individual health outcomes and prevention of HIV transmission [3–5]. Despite an increased focus on retention in care by researchers, clinical providers, and policy administrators, many HIV-infected patients fail to maintain effective engagement in care. A recent meta-analysis indicated that for assessment periods of <3 years, 62% of HIV-infected patients were retained in care [6]. Another analysis from data collected in 12 HIV clinics found that 49%–68% of patients were retained in care across 2 years [7]. Other research found that 31% of new patients failed to attend their first scheduled appointment, and a multisite study found that new patients attended a significantly lower percentage of all scheduled primary care visits than established patients [8, 9]. Due to these challenges, the National HIV/AIDS Strategy called for an increase in the percentage of patients in continuous care to 80% by 2015 [10]. No interventions have been shown to improve retention in HIV care in published randomized controlled trials [11]. We examined 2 questions: (1) whether enhanced personal contact between HIV-infected patients and trained project staff improves retention in care compared to clinics' existing standard of care practices, and (2) whether giving patients brief training in behavioral skills relevant to retention (organization, problem solving, and communication with providers) improves retention over and above the effect of enhanced contact. Our target population was patients at historically higher risk for inadequate retention, including established patients with a history of missed visits and patients new to care. This report presents retention-in-care outcomes during the 12-month intervention period.
Chemical and morphological changes on platinum microelectrode surfaces in AC and DC fields with biological buffer solutions

Platinum is widely considered a noncorrodible and inert microelectrode material for many electrokinetic microdevice applications. However, platinum reactions are well documented in the literature. Reproducibility of cellular electrokinetic microdevice responses were inconsistent and suggested a dependance on platinum microelectrode function with exposure time in electric fields. Chemical and morphological changes on the surface of platinum microelectrodes in 1 Vpp/175 µm and 6 Vpp/175 µm AC and ±3 V/175 µm DC electric fields in the presence of five biological buffer solutions were investigated. Platinum dissolution, platinum redeposition, chloride formation and oxide formation on platinum microelectrode surfaces were observed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy under ordinary microdevice conditions and verified by cyclic voltammetry studies. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed the presence of oxygen and oxidation of platinum on microelectrode surfaces. Changes were more severe in a 6 Vpp/175 µm AC field than in a 1 Vpp/175 µm AC field, and more severe in ±3 V/175 µm DC fields than in a 6 Vpp/175 µm AC field.
Crystal chemistry of interfaces formed between two different non-metallic, inorganic structures

Abstract Epitaxial relations are often described by the mismatch of lattice parameters between the two materials. When the structures forming the epitaxial interface are dissimilar, the lattice mismatch is often less meaningful because of the different geometrical arrangement of atoms in the two structures. In a previous paper, it was shown that two rules of crystal chemistry, widely known as Pauling's rules, namely cation/anion coordination and charge balance, could be applied to understand the epitaxy of (0001) ZnO (wurtzite) on (111) MgAl2O4 (spinel) substrates. It was then shown that the same rules could be applied to predict and confirm the epitaxy of (101) SiO2 (cristobalite) on (0001) Al2O3 (sapphire). Here, the same rules are applied to explain the epitaxy of four other dissimilar structures that have been previously published by others, including SrTiO3 on Ni c(2 × 2) S, TiO2 (anatase) on LaAlO3, TiO2 (rutile) on r-plane Al2O3, and Zr1−x (Yx)O2 on (0001) Al2O3.
Design, Modeling and Control of an Optical Pointing Sensor for the Formation Control Testbed (FCT)

In this paper the design and modeling of a sensor system that gives relative position measurements is described. The position is provided in the form of bearing and range to a retro target placed on a far field target.