cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Maintenance of cerebral blood flow and metabolism during pharmacological hypotension in aged hypertensive rats

Abstract —Cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral oxygen metabolism (CMRO 2 ) were measured in aged (24 month) spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) during sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and nitroglycerin induced hypotension. Both CBF and CMRO 2 were decreased in SHR during hypotension induced with SNP. Significant decrements in CMRO 2 were observed in aged SHR during even moderate hypotension (80–90 torr). Cerebral autoregulatory responses during nitroglycerin infusion in aged SHR were similar to SNP treated WKY and CMRO 2 was maintained at control levels under all hypotensive test conditions. These results indicate that aged SHR are susceptible to cerebral ischemia during SNP induced hypotension, probably due to the combined effects of aging and hypertension on the cerebral vasculature. NTG moderated the decreases in CBF and CMRO 2 seen during hypotensive challenges and may decrease the risk of stroke during hypotensive anesthesia.
Self-Efficacy, Perceptions of Success, and Intrinsic Motivation for Exercise1

A number of investigators have attempted to identify the determinants of continued participation in exercise regimens. Within a social cognitive framework, the present study examined the relationships among self-efficacy cognitions, perceptions of success, and multidimensional intrinsic motivation in the exercise domain. Multivariate analyses of variance indicated that highly efficacious individuals were more intrinsically motivated toward aerobic dance than were their less efficacious counterparts. However, multiple regression analyses revealed both perceptions of success and self-efficacy to account for significant variance in intrinsic motivation at both the composite and dimensional levels. Moreover, perceptions of success were considerably stronger predictors than were efficacy cognitions. The results are discussed in terms of the need for multiple measures of perceived success, the employment of longitudinal designs to determine the direction of causality among these variables, and possible implications for adherence issues.
The determinants of salesperson performance: A meta-analysis.

The authors use meta-analysis techniques to investigate the evidence that has been gathered on the determinants of salespeople's performance. A search of the published and unpublished literature un...
Packaging Support for Low‐Income Families: Policy Variation across the United States

This paper addresses a gap in state-level comparative social policy research by analyzing policies that support low-income families with children. Variation in state policy “packages” is measured by considering three characteristics of 11 social programs. Individual measures of policy are found to be weakly and inconsistently inter-correlated at the state level, but when cluster analysis is used to analyze multiple dimensions simultaneously, five clusters or regime types are identified that have distinctive policy approaches. These range from the most minimal provisions, to conservative approaches emphasizing private responsibility, to integrated approaches that combine generous direct assistance with employment support and policies that enforce family responsibility. A comparison of a subset of programs at two points in time (1994 and 1998) suggests that states made substantial changes in cash assistance and taxation policies after the 1996 federal welfare reforms. The magnitude and direction of these changes remained consistent with the state clusters identified in 1994. © 2001 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Isolation and identification of erythroascorbic acid in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lypomyces starkeyi

The acid-soluble extract from Lypomyces starkeyi contains an unknown acidic, electrochemically-reactive compound with the retention time relative to ascorbic acid of 0.87 when separated by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on an ion exchange column (Leung and Loewus, Plant Sci., 38 (1985) 65). Incubation of L. starkeyi under anaerobic conditions results in loss of this unknown retention time relative to l-ascorbic acid using HPLC (RAA)0.87 component and accumulation of a new acidic, electrochemically-reactive compound, RAA1.15, identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) as erythroascorbic acid. Erythroascorbic acid, but not the unknown compound RAA0.87, is also found in acid-soluble extracts from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, strain G-25 and a commercial baker's yeast.
An Evaluation of the Energy Absorption of Laminated Composite Plates

The energy absorption characteristics of continuous fibre reinforced laminated plates made from three material systems: APC-2 (graphite/PEEK), AS4/3502 (graphite/epoxy), and a hybrid AS4/Kevlar-49/3502 composite, have been investigated. The effects of geometric scaling of specimen size, ply-level and sublaminate-level scaling of the stacking sequence, and trigger mechanism on the energy absorption capability in edgewise compression were evaluated. Scaling method and matrix material were found to influence the preferred crushing mode and energy absorption efficiency of the composite plates. Energy absorption and crushing modes where found to be similar to that of composite tubes.
Mxi1 Is a Repressor of the c-myc Promoter and Reverses Activation by USF

The basic region/helix-loop-helix/leucine zipper (B-HLH-LZ) oncoprotein c-Myc is abundant in proliferating cells and forms heterodimers with Max protein that bind to E-box sites in DNA and stimulate genes required for proliferation. A second B-HLH-LZ protein, Mxi1, is induced during terminal differentiation, and forms heterodimers with Max that also bind E-boxes but tether the mSin3 transcriptional repressor protein along with histone deacetylase thereby antagonizing Myc-dependent activation. We show that Mxi1 also antagonizes Myc by a second pathway, repression of transcription from the major c-myc promoter, P2. Repression was independent of Mxi1 binding to mSin3 but dependent on the Mxi1 LZ and COOH-terminal sequences, including putative casein kinase II phosphorylation sites. Repression targeted elements of themyc P2 promoter core (−35/+10), where it reversed transactivation by the constitutive transcription factor, USF. We show that Zn2+ induction of a stably transfected, metallothionein promoter-regulated mxi1 gene blocked the ability of serum to induce transcription of the endogenous c-myc gene and cell entry into S phase. Thus, induction of Mxi1 in terminally differentiating cells may block Myc function by repressing the c-myc gene P2 promoter, as well as by antagonizing Myc-dependent transactivation through E-boxes.
A Review of Inside the Outbreaks: The Elite Medical Detectives of the Epidemic Intelligence Service

Review of : Inside the Outbreaks: The Elite Medical Detectives of the Epidemic Intelligence Serivce ; Mark Pendergrast; (2010). Hough-ton Mifflin Harcourt. Boston. 432 pages.
A new method for imaging perfusion and contrast extraction fraction: input functions derived from reference tissues.

This study describes a new method for analysis of dynamic MR contrast data that greatly increases the time available for data acquisition. The capillary input function, CB(t), is estimated from the rate of contrast agent uptake in a reference tissue such as muscle, based on literature values for perfusion rate, extraction fraction, and extracellular volume. The rate constant for contrast uptake (the product of perfusion rate, F, and extraction fraction, E; F-E) is then determined in each image pixel using CB(t), extracellular volume (relative to the reference tissue) measured from MR and the tissue concentration of contrast media as a function of time calculated from the MR data. The “reference tissue method” was tested using rats with mammary (n = 10) or prostate (n = 15) tumors implanted in the hindlimb. Dynamic MR images at 4.7 T were acquired before and after Gd-DTPA intravenous bolus injections to determine F·EGd-DTPA. Acquisition parameters were optimized for detection of the first pass of the contrast agent bolus, so that “first-pass analysis” could be used as the “gold standard” for determination of F·E. The accuracy of values of F·E determined using the reference tissue method was determined based on comparison with first-pass analysis. In some cases, deuterated water (D2O) was injected IV immediately after Gd-DTPA measurements, and the reference tissue method was used to calculate F, based on the rate of uptake of D2O. Comparison of rate constants for Gd-DTPA uptake and D2O uptake allowed calculation of EGd-DTPA. Values for F·EGd-DTPA, F, and EGd.DTPA were determined for selected regions and on a pixel-by-pixel basis. Values for F·E and EGd.DTPA measured using the reference tissue method correlated well (P = .90 with a standard error of ±.016, n = 15) with values determined based on first-pass contrast media uptake. The reference tissue method has important advantages: (a) A large volume of reference tissue can be used to determine the contrast agent input function with high precision. (b) Data obtained for 20 minutes after injection are used to calculate F or F·E. The greatly increased acquisition time can be used to increase the spatial resolution, field of view or SNR of measurements. The reference tissue method is most useful when the volume of tissue that must be imaged and/or the spatial resolution required precludes use of traditional first-pass methods.
Dispersing nanotubes with surfactants : A microscopic statistical mechanical analysis

A first theoretical study of surfactant-stabilized carbon nanotube dispersions is presented. Density functional theory is used to compute potential of mean force between nanotubes in an aqueous solution of cationic surfactant n-decyltrimethylammonium chloride. In agreement with experimental results, it is found that stable dispersions can be prepared for surfactant bulk concentrations below the critical micelle concentration. Computed density profiles of head and tail segments indicate that surfactants adsorb on nanotube surfaces in a random fashion rather than form cylindrical micelles, which is also in agreement with recent small-angle neutron scattering measurements.
Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe constraints on non-Gaussianity

Abstract The Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe ( WMAP ) has made it possible to test Gaussianity of fluctuations in the cosmic microwave background with unprecedented sensitivity, thanks to its careful instrumental design minimizing systematic errors. Constraints on the CMB non-Gaussianity offer a fundamental test of inflation and general relativistic perturbation theory. On the other hand, extragalactic radio sources produce significant non-Gaussian signals, making physical interpretations of the measured non-Gaussianity complex. Applying to the WMAP 1-year data a statistical tool we have developed for separately measuring the primordial and the source non-Gaussianities, we find: (1) CMB is consistent with Gaussian fluctuations, as predicted by inflation. The r.m.s. contribution from a second order (non-linear) term is smaller than 2 × 10 −5 of the leading term. Note that the second-order perturbation theory predicts 10–100 times smaller value. (2) We have detected the source contribution at 41 GHz (Q band); thus, the WMAP map in Q band is weakly non-Gaussian at small angular scales because of the sources! This measurement has been used to determine the source contribution to the power spectrum in Q band. Our method can be applied to the Planck experiment, for which there is a chance to detect non-Gaussianity predicted by the second-order perturbation theory.
Polarization of light scattered by particles on silicon wafers

Bidirectional ellipsometry has been developed as a technique for distinguishing among various scattering features near surfaces. Employing incident light with fixed polarization, the technique measures the principal angle of polarization and the degree of linear polarization of light scattered into directions out of the plane of incidence. This technique has been previously shown to be successful at distinguishing between subsurface defects and microroughness. Theoretical models have predicted that the polarization of light scattered by particles should also be different than that scattered by subsurface defects and microroughness. In this paper, experimental results will be presented which show good agreement with these models for a range of sizes of polystyrene latex spheres on silicon wafers. The results demonstrate that the polarization of light scattered by particles can be used to determine the size of particulate contaminants on silicon wafers and other smooth surfaces. The model calculations, based on different degrees of approximation, demonstrate that the mean distance of a particle from the surface is the primary determinant of the scattered light polarization for small scattering angles.
Effects of diet and time of the day on serum and CSF leptin levels in Osborne-Mendel and S5B/Pl rats.

Objective: To characterize the effects of dietary fat on the diurnal variation in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leptin levels in Osborne-Mendel (OM) and S5B/Pl rats and quantitate the dose response to lower doses of leptin administered into the third cerebral ventricle. Research Methods and Procedures: Rats were fitted with implanted vascular ports or third ventricular cannulas and fed either laboratory chow or one of two semipurified high-fat or low-fat diets. Leptin and insulin were measured by immunoassay. Results: Serum leptin and insulin levels were positively correlated and had similar patterns of diurnal change. CSF leptin and insulin also had diurnal rhythms, with a peak at 7:00 am, but the diurnal oscillations of leptin and insulin were significantly lower in the S5B/Pl rats than the OM rats. Thus, the ratio of CSF to serum leptin was significantly higher in the S5B/Pl rats than in the OM rats. Dietary fat had no effect on these diurnal patterns. There was a right shift in the dose response to leptin in the OM rats compared with the S5B/P1 rats. S5B/P1 rats treated with leptin had higher signal transduction and translation (STAT-3) mRNA levels compared with pair-fed or saline injected S5B/P1 rats. Hypothalamic suppressors of cytokine signaling mRNA levels were not statistically different between the groups. Discussion: The higher CSF-to-serum leptin ratio in the S5B/P1 rats, the enhanced suppression of food intake and body weight with leptin injections, and the higher STAT-3 activity in these animals suggest that S5B/P1 rats are more sensitive to leptin than OM rats.
Lateral scaling of Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 thin films for piezoelectric logic applications

The dielectric and piezoelectric behavior of 70Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-30PbTiO3 (70PMN-30PT) thin films was studied as a function of lateral scaling. Dense PMN-PT films 300–360 nm in thickness were prepared by chemical solution deposition using a 2-methoxyethanol solvent. These phase pure and strongly {001} oriented films exhibited dielectric constants exceeding 1400 and loss tangents of approximately 0.01. The films showed slim hysteresis loops with remanent polarizations of about 8 μC/cm2 and breakdown fields over 1500 kV/cm. Fully clamped films exhibited large signal strains of 1%, with a d33,f coefficient of 90 pm/V. PMN-PT films were patterned down to 200 nm in spatial scale with nearly vertical sidewalls via reactive ion etching. Upon lateral scaling, which produced partially declamped films, there was an increase in both small and large signal dielectric properties, including a doubling of the relative permittivity in structures with width-to-thickness aspect ratios of 0.7. In addition, declamping resulted in a counterclockwise rotation of the hysteresis loops, increasing the remanent polarization to 13.5 μC/cm2. Rayleigh analysis, Preisach modeling, and the relative permittivity as a function of temperature were also measured and further indicated changes in the domain wall mobility and intrinsic response of the laterally scaled PMN-PT.
Enhancement of Separation Efficiency in Capillary Electrophoresis by Electrostacking without Liquid Contact

Quantitative reproducibility and separation efficiency in high-performance capillary electrophoresis is often limited by the reproducibility and the nature of the sample introduction procedure. This is particularly true where electrostacking is involved, whether such is deliberately carried out or happens automatically with the choice of ionic strength of the running electrolyte. Extraneous dispersion frequently originates in the act of sample introduction, for example, from the shock of the capillary entering a sample vial or a sample-filled capillary entering the carrier electrolyte source vial. A method based on the stacking of the sample constituents, before the capillary actually contacts the liquid in a vial, can reduce this problem. This technique can be utilized for the preconcentration of sample constituents and to improve separation efficiency by reducing dispersion. In favorable cases, plate counts can increase by as much as 160%, approaching theoretical diffusion-limited efficiencies.
In/sub 0.52/Al/sub 0.48/As/In/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/As (0.53<or=x<or=0.70) lattice-matched and strained heterostructure insulated-gate FETs

The DC and microwave properties of In/sub 0.52/Al/sub 0.48/Al/In/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/As (0.53 >
Simulation-Its Place in System Design

The place of simulation in system design is developed in relation to all other steps in the design process. From this, the relation of simulation to both the analytical attack, on the one hand, and to a final operational system, on the other, is developed. This leads naturally to the program to be followed in a simulation setup. In this discussion the pitfalls to be avoided are emphasized. Then simulation of a human link in a system is discussed. Finally, a critique of simulation is given with relation to cost, time, difficulty of execution, treatment of nonlinearities, and noisy inputs.
Effects of Multiple Listenings on Error-Detection Acuity in Multivoice, Multitimbral Musical Examples

This study is an investigation of the effects of multiple listenings on error-detection identification and labeling accuracy among brass and woodwind instrumentalists. Examples derived from band music used balanced four-voice incipits performed with differing timbres, and errors that occurred in one or multiple voices. Response rates for correct and incorrect identification and labeling of errors were greatest during the first listening, less for the second, and least for the third. Identification mistakes outnumbered correct responses in the last two listenings. Error-labeling mistakes outnumbered correct responses in all listenings. Most correct responses in the first listening were made in the top two lines. During all listenings, the fewest correct identification and labeling responses occurred in the bottommost voice. Data suggest that multiple listenings and a correct aural referent may not help error-detection acuity in multitimbral, multivoice settings. These data may be useful in informing practi...
Haploidy in Cultivated Wheats: Induction and Utility in Basic and Applied Research

The usefulness of haploid plants in basic research in cytogenetics, genetics, evolution, and practical plant breeding is well known. Haploid plants provide an effi cient research tool for studies on induced mutagenesis and genetic transformation. They also help elucidate the genetic control of chromosome pairing inherently present in allopolyploids such as bread wheat, durum wheat, and oats. Genetic control of chromosome pairing in haploid nuclei has helped in assessing intergenomic relationships. By analyzing the degree and specifi city of chromosome pairing in the Ph1- and ph1b-euhaploids (2n = 3x = 21; ABD), we demonstrated that the A and D genomes of wheat are more closely related to each other than either one is to the B genome. It is signifi cant that the totipotent nature of a haploid cell is being exploited in several facets of biological research. In addition to its numerous applications in basic research, the haploidy approach provides an effi cient means of producing truly homozygous lines, thereby accelerating the breeding process. Wheat cultivars developed from doubled haploids (DHs) have been released for cultivation in Canada, China, Europe, and Brazil. General characteristics and classifi cation of haploids derived from diploid and polyploid species are provided in this article. Methods of extracting haploids of polyploid wheats are described, and applications of haploidy in basic and applied research are discussed.
Minimaximal paths in disjunctive graphs by direct search

The problem of finding a minimaximal path in a disjunctive network is stated in terms of both graph theory and linear programming with mixed-integer variables. It is solved in both formulations using a "direct search" scheme with additional dynamic features, which seems to be a more efficient algorithm than those based on other methods. Although it yields an optimal solution, the algorithm can be used as such or with very few changes to find suboptimal solutions for larger problems. Computational experience on the general machine scheduling problem is described.
Formation of isoaspartate 99 in bovine and porcine somatotropins

Asparagine 99 in bovine (BST) and porcine somatotropins (PST) was converted to an isoaspartate residue during incubation at neutral or alkalinepH. Isoaspartate 99 BST or isoaspartate 99 PST was resolved from the normal somatotropin by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The altered peptide of residues 96–108 which contains isoaspartate 99 was detected by tryptic peptide mapping of the modified BST or PST. Amino acid sequencing, amino acid analysis, mass spectrometry, and co-elution with a chemically synthesized peptide containing isoaspartate 99 were used to demonstrate the existence of isoaspartate in the modified peptides. Peptide bond cleavage between Asn 99 and Ser 100 also occurred during incubation of BST and PST at neutral or alkalinepH. This chemically cleaved product was resolved on reversed-phase HPLC from both the isoaspartate 99 and normal somatotropin molecules.
DIFFERENTIAL CORTICAL HABITUATION WITH STIMULATION OF CENTRAL AND PERIPHERAL RETINA.

A digital computer extracted and quantified cortical evoked potentials recorded from the scalp of man in response to repetitive light stimulation. The habituation of potentials from stimulation of the central retina was compared with habituation of potentials from stimulation of two peripheral retinal areas. Habituation was more rapid to peripheral stimulation and also significantly greater.
Application of Risk and Uncertainty Analysis Techniques to a Heavy Metal Speciation Model

ABSTRACT Fontaine, T.D., III, 1984. Application of risk and uncertainty analysis techniques to a heavy metal speciation model. Ecol. Modelling, 22: 101–108. In every model there is a degree of uncertainty associated with every coefficient that controls the flow of material from one state variable to another. Because of this source of uncertainty, many simulations, each with different (but reasonable) estimates of coefficient settings should be made so as to approximate the probable behavior space of the system of interest. Deterministic models do not account for variability in output response caused by uncertain estimates of coefficients. This can cause their predictions to be of limited value in certain instances. One such instance occurs when trying to simulate the potential risk to the environment that might be incurred as a result of toxic metal inputs. If the uncertainty in coefficients that govern the kinetics of metal sorption and cation exchange reactions with particulate and dissolved substrates is accounted for, a range of values for endpoint concentrations of unbound (toxic) metal species would be expected. Each individual endpoint concentration from the range of simulated values can be tested against a pre-specified threshold concentration level that if exceeded is said to constitute a risk to the environment. If the threshold concentration is not exceeded, then no risk can be said to have occurred. By noting the number of times out of the total number of simulations that a risk threshold level is exceeded, the probability of risk can be calculated. Conversely, making an assessment of risk based on one endpoint concentration from a deterministic model gives little insight into the probability of a risk occurring. The degree of risk should be expected to change as our certainty in coefficient estimates increases or decreases. Risk and uncertainty analyses are a much needed component of modeling activities whose goal is predicting the fate, transport and effects of potentially toxic compounds released into the environment. Clearly, environmental situations that we purport to model are stochastic. Therefore, predictions of the fate and effects of toxic materials by deterministic models should be viewed with close scrutiny. In most cases the results from these models should not be used as a basis for calculating environmental risks because they have the potential for ignoring much possible system behavior. In this paper I use a Monte Carlo algorithm to account for uncertainties in model parameter estimates. Based on these parameter uncertainties, probabilistic behavior spaces are computed within which real world behavior of metal species in acid, flowing waters might be expected to occur. The probability of an environmental risk occurring is then calculated based upon these behavior spaces.
Vigabatrin-associated visual field loss: past, present and future

Although a highly effective medication for treatment of infantile spasms and refractory complex partial seizures, vigabatrin (VGB) (Sabril) has been limited in its use because of reports of bilaterally constricted visual fields and one report of decreased central visual acuity. The incidence, prevalence, onset and prognosis of these visual deficits remain unknown. Despite this potentially serious visual issue, VGB was approved by the US FDA contingent upon careful monitoring with a risk evaluation mitigation strategy program. The risk evaluation mitigation strategy program has functioned well, enrolling patients in the USA who are eligible for treatment. The baseline data has yielded the new and surprising finding that 23% of 928 patients who were able to perform reliable visual testing at baseline demonstrated abnormalities. This finding was considered ‘surprising’ since there was a tacit assumption that patients eligible for VGB therapy had a normal visual system as a baseline. Also, somewhat perplexing...
Time-frequency transforms: a new approach to first heart sound frequency dynamics

The binomial joint time-frequency transform is used to test the hypothesis that first heart sound frequency rises during the isovolumic contraction period. Cardiac vibrations were recorded from eight open-chest dogs using an ultralight accelerometer cemented directly to the epicardium of the anterior left ventricle. Three characteristic time-frequency spectral patterns were evident in the animals investigated: (1) a frequency component that rose from approximately 40-140 Hz in a 30-50-ms interval immediately following the ECG R-wave, (2) a slowly varying or static frequency of 60-100 Hz beginning midway through the isovolumic contraction period, and (3) broadband peaks occurring at the time of the Ia and Ib high frequency components. The binomial transform provided much better resolution than the spectrograph or spectrogram. By revealing the onset and dynamics of first heart sound frequencies, time-frequency transforms may allow mechanical assessment of individual cardiac structures. >
Combining bibliometrics, information retrieval, and relevance theory, Part 2: Some implications for information science

When bibliometric data are converted to term frequency (tf) and inverse document frequency (idf) values, plotted as pennant diagrams, and interpreted according to Sperber and Wilson’s relevance theory (RT), the results evoke major variables of information science (IS). These include topicality, in the sense of intercohesion and intercoherence among texts; cognitive effects of texts in response to people’s questions; people’s levels of expertise as a precondition for cognitive effects; processing effort as textual or other messages are received; specificity of terms as it affects processing effort; relevance, defined in RT as the effects/effort ratio; and authority of texts and their authors. While such concerns figure automatically in dialogues between people, they become problematic when people create or use or judge literature-based information systems. The difficulty of achieving worthwhile cognitive effects and acceptable processing effort in human-system dialogues explains why relevance is the central concern of IS. Moreover, since relevant communication with both systems and unfamiliar people is uncertain, speakers tend to seek cognitive effects that cost them the least effort. Yet hearers need greater effort, often greater specificity, from speakers if their responses are to be highly relevant in their turn. This theme of mismatch manifests itself in vague reference questions, underdeveloped online searches, uncreative judging in retrieval evaluation trials, and perfunctory indexing. Another effect of least effort is a bias toward topical relevance over other kinds. RT can explain these outcomes as well as more adaptive ones. Pennant diagrams, applied here to a literature search and a Bradford-style journal analysis, can model them. Given RT and the right context, bibliometrics may predict psychometrics.
EUS-guided tumor ablation with heat, cold, microwave, or radiofrequency : will there be a winner?

1. Appreciate the possibility of EUS-guided tissue ablation. 2. Understand the technique of EUS-guided photodynamic therapy. 3. Learn to select the appropriate patients for EUS therapy. EUS is in a state of evolution, because the widespread introduction of linear EUS has made it possible to guide FNA. The ability to place small-diameter devices into a broad spectrum of organs, lesions, and vascular structures will form the basis of therapeutic approaches for the management of GI malignancies. In its simplest form, EUS-guided therapy consists of injection of ablative agents into cystic cavities or ganglia to ablate a premalignant epithelium or produce neurolysis. More advanced techniques will include the use of photodynamic therapy, brachytherapy, and radiofrequency ablation. Many of these techniques will be used to ablate or control pancreatic malignancies. Brachytherapy has been demonstrated to decrease the abdominal pain associated with pancreatic cancer. In the future, a variety of antitumor therapy will be directed to the control of primary pancreatic malignancies.
B Cells Behaving Badly: A Better Basis to Behold Belligerence in B-Cell Lymphomas

A plethora of genetic abnormalities has been described in B-cell lymphomas, some of which arise when physiologic mechanisms involved in the generation of immunologic diversity go awry. Several different lymphoma types, such as follicular lymphoma (FL), mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), and Burkitt lymphoma (BL), are associated with hallmark translocations that occur as a consequence of these errors (t(14;18)(q32;q21), t(11;14)(q13;q32), and t(8;14)(q24;q32), respectively); however, none of these associations is absolute and none is completely diagnostically specific or sensitive. The advantages and limitations of a variety of different testing strategies in the 2 most common lymphomas, FL and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), are reviewed herein, including an evaluation of the role of PCR-based approaches, FISH, and more nascent genomic technologies. The use of immunophenotypic strategies that may potentially provide, albeit imperfectly, more user-friendly surrogates for underlying genetic aberrations and cell-of-origin designations derived from gene-expression profiling analyses are also discussed. Finally, a newly designated category of lymphoma with features intermediate between DLBCL and BL is appraised, highlighting the central role of genetic analysis in this diagnostic gray zone.
Modeling of spatially controlled biomolecules in three-dimensional porous alginate structures

This paper presents a computer-aided design (CAD) of 3D porous tissue scaffolds with spatial control of encapsulated biomolecule distributions. A localized control of encapsulated biomolecule distribution over 3D structures is proposed to control release kinetics spatially for tissue engineering and drug release. Imaging techniques are applied to explore distribution of microspheres over porous structures. Using microspheres in this study represents a framework for modeling the distribution characteristics of encapsulated proteins, growth factors, cells, and drugs. A quantification study is then performed to assure microsphere variation over various structures under imaging analysis. The obtained distribution characteristics are mimicked by the developed stochastic modeling study of microsphere distribution over 3D engineered freeform structures. Based on the stochastic approach, 3D porous structures are modeled and designed in CAD. Modeling of microsphere and encapsulating biomaterial distribution in this work helps develop comprehensive modeling of biomolecule release kinetics for further research. A novel multichamber single nozzle solid freeform fabrication technique is utilized to fabricate sample structures. The presented methods are implemented and illustrative examples are presented in this paper.
Technical Note: Evaluation of the WRF-Chem "aerosol chemical to aerosol optical properties" module using data from the MILAGRO campaign

Abstract. A comparison between observed aerosol optical properties from the MILAGRO field campaign, which took place in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA) during March 2006, and values simulated by the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-Chem) model, reveals large differences. To help identify the source of the discrepancies, data from the MILAGRO campaign are used to evaluate the "aerosol chemical to aerosol optical properties" module implemented in the full chemistry version of the WRF-Chem model. The evaluation uses measurements of aerosol size distributions and chemical properties obtained at the MILAGRO T1 site. These observations are fed to the module, which makes predictions of various aerosol optical properties, including the scattering coefficient, Bscat; the absorption coefficient, Babs; and the single-scattering albedo, ϖ0; all as a function of time. Values simulated by the module are compared with independent measurements obtained from a photoacoustic spectrometer (PAS) at a wavelength of 870 nm. Because of line losses and other factors, only "fine mode" aerosols with aerodynamic diameters less than 2.5 μm are considered here. Over a 10-day period, the simulations of hour-by-hour variations of Bscat are not satisfactory, but simulations of Babs and ϖ0 are considerably better. When averaged over the 10-day period, the computed and observed optical properties agree within the uncertainty limits of the measurements and simulations. Specifically, the observed and calculated values are, respectively: (1) Bscat, 34.1±5.1 Mm−1 versus 30.4±3.4 Mm−1; (2) Babs, 9.7±1.0 Mm−1 versus 11.7±1.2 Mm−1; and (3) ϖ0, 0.78±0.05 and 0.74±0.03. The discrepancies in values of ϖ0 simulated by the full WRF-Chem model thus cannot be attributed to the "aerosol chemistry to optics" module. The discrepancy is more likely due, in part, to poor characterization of emissions near the T1 site, particularly black carbon emissions.
Exploring the Relationship of Patient and Informal Caregiver Characteristics with Heart Failure Self-Care Using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model: Implications for Outpatient Palliative Care

Abstract Background: The convergence of prevalence, cost, symptom experience, community setting, and informal caregiving in heart failure (HF) has profound implications for outpatient palliative care. The majority of HF patients depend on informal caregiver's assistance. Dyadic (patients and caregiver) characteristics can complicate this assistance. Yet relatively little is known concerning dyadic characteristics' impact on self-care. HF self-care involves routine, daily treatment adherence and symptom monitoring (self-care maintenance), and symptom response (self-care management). Objective: Describe the dyadic characteristics of mood and perception of the relationship in HF patients and caregivers, then explore the relationship of the characteristics with self-care. Design: Prospective, cross sectional study of hospitalized HF patients in mixed dyads (spousal/adult child/relative) analyzed using Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) techniques. Measurements: Mood was measured by the Brief Symptom I...
Immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography of proteins on IDA‐Fe3+

Several proteins, selected for their varied isoelectric points within pH range ca. 4 to ca. ll, bind to immobilized (chelated to iminodiacetate) ferric ion, IDA-Fe3+, when applied in a 50 mM buffer, pH 6.0. These proteins can be displaced from IDA-Fe3+ columns by an increase of pH from 6 to 8, an increase of sodium chloride from 0 to 1 Malar and, in particular, by both. Apotransferrins, in contrast to other proteins, are able to scavenge Fe3+ ion from IDA-Fe3+. Interestingly, two proteins, both quite acidic, behave quite differently on IDA-Fe3+: α1-acid glycoprotein (sialic acid) does not bind, whereas phosvitin (phosphate 1) binds avidly. IDA-Fe3+ sorbent, due to its unusual sorptive properties, represents a new addition of particular significance to the family of chromatographic sorbents available for protein purification.
Unparticle Example in 2D

We discuss what can be learned about unparticle physics by studying simple quantum field theories in one space and one time dimension. We argue that the exactly soluble 2D theory of a massless fermion coupled to a massive vector boson, the Sommerfield model, is an interesting analog of a Banks-Zaks model, approaching a free theory at high energies and a scale-invariant theory with nontrivial anomalous dimensions at low energies. We construct a toy standard model coupling to the fermions in the Sommerfield model and study how the transition from unparticle behavior at low energies to free particle behavior at high energies manifests itself in interactions with the toy standard model particles.
Harvest and dynamics of duck populations

The role of harvest in the dynamics of waterfowl populations continues to be debated among scientists and managers. Our perception is that interested members of the public and some managers believe that harvest influences North American duck populations based on calls for more conservative harvest regulations. A recent review of harvest and population dynamics of North American mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) populations (Poysa et al. 2004) reached similar conclusions. Because of the importance of this issue, we reviewed the evidence for an impact of harvest on duck populations. Our understanding of the effects of harvest is limited because harvest effects are typically confounded with those of population density; regulations are typically most liberal when populations are greatest. This problem also exists in the current Adaptive Harvest Management Program (Conn and Kendall 2004). Consequently, even where harvest appears additive to other mortality, this may be an artifact of ignoring effects of population density. Overall, we found no compelling evidence for strong additive effects of harvest on survival in duck populations that could not be explained by other factors. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Antioxidative effect of Maillard reaction products added to turkey meat during heating by addition of honey

Antioxidative effect of honey-lysine Maillard reaction products (MRPs) was verified in a linoleic acid emulsion and a separate study was conducted comparing the antioxidative effects of direct honey addition to addition of preformed MRPs to meat. Antioxidative effects were measured using the TBA analysis and hexanal content in turkey. Antioxidative effects increased with increasing levels of MRP or honey addition to meat. Addition of honey to meat had a greater antioxidative effect than adding synthesized MRP to turkey. It is possible that meat with honey added had a greater antioxidative effect compared to MRP addition due to a better dispersion or solubility of the MRP formed in meat during heating.
Laparoscopic-assisted splenectomy in a horse with splenomegaly

Summary This reports describes the surgical management of a horse evaluated for recurrent colic. These frequent colic episodes were attributed by exclusion to an abnormally enlarged spleen (idiopathic splenomegaly). Splenectomy was elected and performed with a laparoscopic assisted technique. The advantages observed by using this surgical approach were a clear view of the visceral aspect of the spleen and consequently an accurate dissection of the hilus of the spleen and associated vasculature. Ultimately the laparoscopic technique allowed the surgeons to reduce the size of the laparotomy incision required to remove the spleen and the overall invasiveness of the procedure. The horse recovered well from the procedure and ultimately returned to the previous level of competitiveness.
Multiresidue pesticide analysis by ion‐trap technology: A clean‐up approach for mass spectral analysis

Previous studies using the ion trap as a potential replacement for an array of element-sensitive detectors indicated that only semi-quantitative results at the 50–100 ppb range could be obtained for 245 pesticides because of interfering endogenous sample matrix compounds. The development of a new clean-up procedure for a wide range of fruits and vegetables, specifically for use in an ion trap, has been undertaken to improve recoveries at the low ppm level to within analytically acceptable ranges (80–120%). This clean-up involved the use of three solid-phase extractions. The use of a C-18 SepPak column removed the majority of hydrocarbon-like molecules while the anion-exchange column (QMA) removed all colored compounds and flavors, and finally the use of an aminopropyl column removed all sugars. Preliminary results from this study using 24 selected pesticides in four different sample matrices have indicated an acceptable improvement over previous results.
Use multi-dimensional ellipsoid to monitor dynamic behavior of power systems based on PMU measurement

The paper discusses a new idea of the multi-dimensional characteristic ellipsoid (CELL) approach to monitor dynamic behavior of an interconnected power system using phasor measurement unit (PMU) measurement. The multi-dimensional minimum volume enclosing ellipsoid (MVEE) is extracted based on phasor measurements to represent the feature of dynamic behavior of power systems. The orientation matrix of MVE describes the shape and orientation of the CELL. Extreme events can be identified by tracking the volume change of the CELL with respect to time. Some feature indexes that can be used to determine the disturbance are also proposed to interpret the dynamic behavior of the power system, and to determine the decision trees for extreme event identification procedure. This method will be a useful tool for providing wide-area situational awareness for grid operators, identification of system disturbances and detection of system stresses and their locations.
Manganese enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of normal and ischemic canine heart.

The ability of MnCl2 to enhance canine myocardium and to delineate ischemic areas is demonstrated. A dose–response curve was measured using T1 weighted images in 11 dogs. MnCl2 (36, 113, 360, and 3600 mol) was infused over a period of 3 min. Signal intensity increased linearly with MnCl2 dose. At 113 mol (10 mol/kg) the steady-state increase in intensity averaged 212 34%. No significant physiologic effects due to the infused MnCl2 were detected except at the highest dose where there was a cardiac depressive effect. Ischemia was induced by occluding the left anterior descending coronary artery in 5 dogs. At an infused dose of 113 mol, MnCl2 clearly demarcated the ischemic zone during coronary occlusion. Contrast enhancement in the ischemic zone was less than 30% compared with normal tissue (P < 0.03). In conclusion, the intracellular contrast agent MnCl2 enhances the canine heart and shows promise in detecting ischemia at doses that do not cause adverse cardiac effects. Magn Reson Med 54:196 –200, 2005. Published 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. †
"A Milena" (Un ensayo de Medicina Narrativa)

Narrative medicine is becoming an increasingly popular way of communicating medical problems. This a letter that the author sends to a recently deceased patient. He describes his apprehensions on the use of invasive forms of diagnosis or treatments and the use of repeated hospital admissions in the context of a chronic and progressive disease. He also discusses the use of methods to "accelerate" death in suffering patients. He finally describes the dignity of his patient to face a chronic and debilitating condition (Rev Med Chile 2001; 129: 685-7)
The Road to Lake Wobegon

Etude de la conception pacifique (peacemaking) de l'activite philosophique developpee par J. Sterba dans son ouvrage intitule «Justice for Here and Now» (1998), ou il offre une justification de la morale comme compromis entre l'egoisme et l'altruisme extremes. Proposant une reconciliation pratique de l'ethique environnementale anthropocentrique et non anthropocentrique, Sterba developpe un ideal de justice feministe qui defend un modele de societe androgyne. L'A. presente un modele feministe separatiste qui reste compatible avec la position de Sterba
Assembly of CENP-A into Centromeric Chromatin Requires a Cooperative Array of Nucleosomal DNA Contact Sites

We investigated the requirements for targeting the centromeric histone H3 homologue CENP-A for assembly at centromeres in human cells by transfection of epitope-tagged CENP-A derivatives into HeLa cells. Centromeric targeting is driven solely by the conserved histone fold domain of CENP-A. Using the crystal structure of histone H3 as a guide, a series of CENPA/histone H3 chimeras was constructed to test the role of discrete structural elements of the histone fold domain. Three elements were identified that are necessary for efficient targeting to centromeres. Two correspond to contact sites between histone H3 and nucleosomal DNA. The third maps to a homotypic H3–H3 interaction site important for assembly of the (H3/H4)2 heterotetramer. Immunoprecipitation confirms that CENP-A self-associates in vivo. In addition, targeting requires that CENP-A expression is uncoupled from histone H3 synthesis during S phase. CENP-A mRNA accumulates later in the cell cycle than histone H3, peaking in G2. Isolation of the gene for human CENP-A revealed a regulatory motif in the promoter region that directs the late S/G2 expression of other cell cycle–dependent transcripts such as cdc2, cdc25C, and cyclin A. Our data suggest a mechanism for molecular recognition of centromeric DNA at the nucleosomal level mediated by a cooperative series of differentiated CENP-A–DNA contact sites arrayed across the surface of a CENP-A nucleosome and a distinctive assembly pathway occurring late in the cell cycle.