cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Call to action: empowering patients and families to initiate clinical ethics consultations.

Clinical ethics consultations exist to support patients, families and clinicians who are facing ethical or moral challenges related to patient care. They provide a forum for open communication, where all stakeholders are encouraged to express their concerns and articulate their viewpoints. Ethics consultations can be requested by patients, caregivers or members of a patient’s clinical or supportive team. Although patients and by extension their families (especially in cases of decisional incapacity) are the common denominators in most ethics consultations, these constituents are the least likely to request them. At many healthcare organisations in the USA, ethics consultations are overwhelmingly requested by physicians and other clinicians. We believe it is vital that healthcare institutions bridge the knowledge gaps and power imbalances over access to ethics consultation services through augmented policies, procedures and infrastructure. With enhanced education and support, patients and families may use ethics consultation to elevate their voices and prioritise their unique characteristics and preferences in the delivery of their healthcare. Empowering patients and families to request ethics consultation can only strengthen the patient/family–clinician relationship, enhance the shared decision-making model of care and ultimately lead to improved patient-centred care.
HER2 positive breast cancer cells develop an aggressive phenotype with prolonged exposure to herceptin

5027 HER2 amplification is found in 20-25% of breast cancers and is associated with a worse prognosis. Trastuzumab (Herceptin®) is a valuable therapy but patients do not always benefit and mechanisms of resistance are unclear. We have generated eight Herceptin resistant HER2 amplified breast cancer cell lines by serial passage through increasing Herceptin (10-100 μg/mL) over 3-6 months. All resistant cell lines are maintained in 100μg/mL Herceptin. Characterization of changes in growth, morphology and signaling pathways are presented. Methods: HER-2 amplified breast cancer cell lines (BT474, MDA-361, T47D, MD453, UACC812, UACC893 and SKBr3) were used. Cell proliferation for parent and Herceptin-resistant lines was measured by WST-1 cell proliferation assay (Promega). Akt/MAPK signaling was evaluated using commercially available antibodies and Proteome Profiler Array (Human Phospho-MAPK Array Kit, BD Biosciences, USA). Morphology was assessed by confocal microscopy. Results: HER2 amplified cell lines were divided into primary Herceptin-sensitive (SKBr3 and BT474) and de novo resistant lines (T47D, UACC812, UACC893, MD361, MD453) based on IC50. Proliferation studies demonsrate that cells that acquire Herceptin resistance grow 20-30% faster than parental counterparts. Interestingly, BT474, MD361 and T47D cells that were passaged in 100 ug/ml Herceptin have 10-25% increase in proliferation with increased Herceptin in media (150 to 750μg/mL). In addition, resistant cells exhibit distinct cell morphology and growth characteristics. Cell morphology changes include increased cell size and pseudopodia formation. BT474 resistant cells now grow as monolayer compared to clumped growth pattern in parental lines. Preliminary analysis using western blot and Proteome Profiler Array suggests increased pAKt and decrease in pErk1/Erk2 level in Herceptin resistant lines. Completed signaling pathway analysis will be presented. Conclusions: HER2 amplified Herceptin resistant cell lines develop a more aggressive phenotype whereby Herceptin appears to behave as an agonist.
Theoretical and Experimental Techniques Used to Explore Many-Body Physics in Cold Atoms, Especially Optical Lattices

The first stage of producing an ultracold atomic gas is to vaporize a solid (with an “oven” or other source) to create a hot gas, whose center of mass is then slowed sufficiently to be trapped. The slowing is frequently accomplished by a “Zeeman slower”: a series of current carrying coils that generate magnetic fields, and which decrease in intensity over the length of the slower, to create a magnetic field gradient. Atoms used in this technique possess an electron spin degree of freedom so that the internal energy of the atom depends on the applied magnetic field and thus the magnetic field gradient introduces a potential energy gradient that slows the atoms.
Physiologic Pigments and Dyes for Increased Absorption of Laser Energy

Early in the course of our experiments on the biomedical effects of laser, it was found that the pigmented tissues showed more necrosis from the laser than non-pigmented tissues. This was observed also by Rounds with his studies of laser radiation of tissue cultures and by many observers in laser radiation of animals. Since laser is light, it was expected that dark masses would absorb more laser energy and, as a result, suffer greater degrees of damage. In our studies, colored tissues show more extensive necrosis with ruby, neodymium and CW argon lasers.
Diet Information for Teens, 3rd ed. Kilmecki, Zachary, and Bellenir, Karen (Eds.)

Today's young people are exposed to instantaneously accessible information, much of it dubiously credible. Couple that with rising incidences of obesity and other diet-related disorders, and it bec...
Covalently functionalized nanotubes as nanometre- sized probes in chemistry and biology

Carbon nanotubes combine a range of properties that make them well suited for use as probe tips in applications such as atomic force microscopy (AFM)1,2,3. Their high aspect ratio, for example, opens up the possibility of probing the deep crevices4 that occur in microelectronic circuits, and the small effective radius of nanotube tips significantly improves the lateral resolution beyond what can be achieved using commercial silicon tips5. Another characteristic feature of nanotubes is their ability to buckle elastically4,6, which makes them very robust while limiting the maximum force that is applied to delicate organic and biological samples. Earlier investigations into the performance of nanotubes as scanning probe microscopy tips have focused on topographical imaging, but a potentially more significant issue is the question of whether nanotubes can be modified to create probes that can sense and manipulate matter at the molecular level7. Here we demonstrate that nanotube tips with the capability of chemical and biological discrimination can be created with acidic functionality and by coupling basic or hydrophobic functionalities or biomolecular probes to the carboxyl groups that are present at the open tip ends. We have used these modified nanotubes as AFM tips to titrate the acid and base groups, to image patterned samples based on molecular interactions, and to measure the binding force between single protein–ligand pairs. As carboxyl groups are readily derivatized by a variety of reactions8, the preparation of a wide range of functionalized nanotube tips should be possible, thus creating molecular probes with potential applications in many areas of chemistry and biology.
Using Web searches to track interest in synthetic cannabinoids (a/k/a 'herbal incense').

Introduction and Aims This article reports a content analysis of Internet websites related to an emerging designer drug, synthetic cannabinoids. The number of synthetic cannabinoids searchers in the USA has steadily increased from November 2008 to November 2011. Design and Methods To determine the information available on the Internet in relation to synthetic cannabinoids, sites were identified using the Google search engine and the search term ‘herbal incense’. The first 100 consecutive sites were visited and classified by two coders. The websites were evaluated for type of content (retail, information, news, other). US unique monthly visitor data were examined for the top 10 retail sites, and these sites were coded for the quality of information available regarding the legality of synthetic cannabinoids sale and use. Results The Google search yielded 2 730 000 sites for ‘herbal incense’ (for comparison of search terms: ‘synthetic marijuana’, 1 170 000; ‘K2 Spice’, 247 000; and ‘synthetic weed’, 122 000). Moreover, in the Google search, 87% of the sites were retail sites, 5% news, 4% informational and 4% non-synthetic cannabinoid sites. Discussion and Conclusions Many tools found within Google free services hold promise in providing a technique to identify emerging drug markets. We recommend continued surveillance of the Internet using the online tools presented in this brief report by both drug researchers and policy-makers to identify the emerging trends in synthetic drugs' availability and interest.[Curtis C, Alanis-Hirsch K, Kaynak O, Cacciola J, Meyers K, McLellan AT. Using Web searches to track interest in synthetic cannabinoids (aka ‘herbal incense’) Drug Alcohol Rev 2015;34:108–108]
New experimental observations on the anhydrous solidus for peridotite KLB‐1

[1] New multianvil experimental data are reported for the anhydrous solidus for peridotite KLB-1 at 5 to 9.7 GPa. The solidus is unaffected by variable experimental run durations, but it is lowered in temperature when rhenium capsules are replaced with graphite. Using data reported previously, the anhydrous solidus for KLB-1 can be described by T = 1086 − 5.7P + 390 ln P (±68°C 2σ) at pressures that range from 2.7 to 22.5 GPa. At lower pressures the effect of composition on the temperature of the spinel peridotite solidus is small and dominated by alkali abundances; variations in Mg number have almost no effect on solidus temperature.
Ontogenetic changes in intralimb proportions in a Romano-Christian period sample from the Dakhleh Oasis, Egypt.

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to document the appearance of adult patterns in intralimb indices during ontogeny in a skeletal sample from the Kellis 2 cemetery, Dakhleh Oasis, Egypt. In addition, this study explores evolvability in intralimb indices to understand relative differences in sensitivity to ecogeographic variables. Methods: Brachial and crural indices were compared across age cohorts with Welch's ANOVA tests and post-hoc Dunnett-Tukey-Kramer (DTK) pairwise multiple comparison tests. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients were used to examine developmental conservation and evolvability in intralimb proportions. Results: Brachial and crural indices are greatest in the fetus/perinate cohort as compared to all other cohorts, decrease during infancy and early childhood, and increase during middle/late childhood. The adult pattern in the brachial index is first evident in infancy, but is not maintained throughout development. Conversely, the adult pattern in the crural index appears during early childhood and is maintained throughout development. The brachial index shows a higher degree of evolvability than the crural index in utero. Conclusions: The shifting pattern in intralimb proportions during development in the Kellis 2 sample is similar to that previously reported from globally diverse samples, which likely reflects the differential growth acceleration of proxi- mal and distal intralimb skeletal elements during ontogeny. The brachial index may be more responsive to climatic condi- tions while the crural index may be more conserved due to functional demands. The data indicate that Kellis 2 juveniles were under strong selective pressures from climatic factors. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:221-228, 2014. V C 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Several studies have shown that ecogeographic varia- tion in adult human relative limb length generally follows Allen's rule where cold-adapted, high latitude populations
Robust object recognition in RGB-D egocentric videos based on Sparse Affine Hull Kernel

In this paper, we propose a novel kernel function for recognizing objects in RGB-D egocentric videos. In order to effectively exploit the varied object appearance in a video, we take a set-based recognition approach and represent the target object using the set of frames contained in the video. Our kernel function measures the similarity of two sets by the minimum distance between the sparse affine hulls of the two sets. Our kernel function also allows convenient integration of heterogeneous data modalities beyond RGB and depth. We extensively evaluate the proposed method on three benchmark datasets, including two RGB-D object datasets and one thermal/visible face dataset. All the results clearly show that the proposed method outperforms state-of-the-art methods.
Optical and Structural Investigation of AlN Grown on Sapphire with Reactive MBE Using RF Nitrogen or Ammonia

AlN epitaxial layers in a thickness range of 0.065 to 0.6 microns have been grown on double-side polished c-plane sapphire by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) using either RF nitrogen or ammonia as the nitrogen source. The samples were characterized by XRD, room temperature (RT) and low temperature (2K) optical absorption (transmission) measurements. The XRD (0002) peak FWHM diminishes from 380 arcsec to 84 arcsec when the thickness of the AlN films is increased from 65 nm towards 0.6 μm. All the samples grown with ammonia (NH3), representing N-rich conditions, exhibited optical bandgap exceeding 6 eV at RT. For samples grown with RF nitrogen source, we find that higher nitrogen flow (partial pressure of 8.3-9.4 × 10-5 Torr) results in optical bandgap values larger than 6.0 eV, regardless of the XRD results. The bandgap is found to be smaller than 6.0 eV for the samples grown with lower nitrogen partial pressure (1.0-3.5 x 10-5 Torr), regardless of sample thickness and the XRD data.
An efficient network architecture motivated by application-level QoS

We consider application-level quality of service (QoS) requirements in design of networks that provide delay and loss guarantees. Using this approach, we have designed a novel network architecture that in many aspects is more efficient than ones motivated exclusively by packet QoS. An overview of our work is presented in this paper. The centerpiece of our design is a traffic model that enables delivery of application specific information to the network. Based on the traffic model, we have developed (i) efficient network techniques for providing application-level delay guarantees, (ii) an admission control algorithm for a statistical service that bounds application data losses below a specified value, and (iii) network techniques for managing application data losses to achieve fairness and protection of high priority data units marked by applications (e.g., I frames of MPEG applications).
Prelude to the Atlantic Trade: New Perspectives on Southern Ghana's pre-Atlantic History (800-1500)

The Ghanaian forest was well settled by agricultural communities prior to the opening of the Atlantic trade in the late fifteenth century. The most prominent of these settlements were earthworks sites, construction of which began in the first millennium ce and continued until their abrupt abandonment prior to the mid-fifteenth century. In this article, previous archaeological data are evaluated in light of current research to provide a plausible alternative hypothesis for the history of the Akan, placing that history in a much broader and deeper context.
Chalky joint effusion

A patient with long-standing progressive systemic sclerosis developed calcification of the suprapatellar pouch. Chalky white synovial fluid from the knee joint contained many crystals that were characterized as apatite by X-ray diffraction. In this case massive amounts of crystals were presumably shed into the fluid from the heavily calcified synovium.
A Complete Radial Collateral Ligament Avulsion of the Small Finger Metacarpophalangeal Joint with Displacement through the Radial Sagittal Band

A displaced complete radial collateral ligament avulsion with associated injury to the sagittal band of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the small finger, if left untreated, may result in chronic pain, instability, weakness, and deformity. A case of a displaced radial collateral ligament that ruptured through the radial sagittal band of the small finger, with resultant injury to the extensor mechanism, is described and discussed with a review of the literature. Proper identification of this injury by physical exam and imaging studies along with surgical repair is associated with good outcome.
A Divergent Approach to the Myriaporones and Tedanolide: Completion of the Carbon Skeleton of Myriaporone 1

A linear but concise synthetic approach toward the structurally related natural products myriaporone and tedanolide is reported. The route is highlighted by a stereoselective homoallenylboration and a regio- and chemoselective nitrile oxide cycloaddition. Installation of the (Z)-olefin completed the carbon skeleton of myriaporone 1.
Two-stage EWMA-based H.264 SVC bandwidth adaptation

Proposed is a new scalable video coding (SVC) bandwidth (BW) adaptation method over a WIFI. To cope with the variable channel condition, a new channel prediction model is proposed based on the modified two-stage exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA); also, to provide fine grain BW adaptation of H.264 SVC, the slice group (SG)-based layer switching method is proposed based on the channel prediction model. In the experiments conducted, the average gain was 2.14 dB in PSNR.
Differentially closed fields: a model-theoretic tour

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses background model theoretic work in differential algebra and the notion of model completions. Model theory and its applications exhibit very specific and concrete results following in a natural way from logical and model theoretic properties of theories and very general principles. Abraham Robison, using Seidenberg's elimination theory, showed that the theory of differential fields possessed a model completion, and then making use of general properties of theories with model completions, he was able to give purely model theoretic proofs of certain results about differential fields. The theory of algebraically closed fields is the model completion of the theory of fields; the theory of real closed ordered fields is the model completion of the theory of ordered fields; the theory of Hensel fields is the model completion of the theory of valued fields; the theory of differentially closed fields is the model completion of the theory of differential fields. The chapter also highlights some properties of differential closures and some immediate consequences.
Evaluating the Use of Standardized Patients in Undergraduate Psychiatric Nursing Experiences

Abstract Background Standardized patients (SPs) in psychiatric nursing education provide a unique, instructional approach to assist student development in complex assessment skills. The purpose of this educational project was to develop and evaluate nursing students' satisfaction with an SP psychiatric clinical encounter in which students performed a mental status exam and suicidal risk assessment. Method Data were collected over 3 semesters from 112 nursing students through the use of a nine-item Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Survey. Means were calculated for 3 subscales: Satisfaction With Learning Through Standardized Patients (M = 4.60), Self-Confidence in Learning Through Standardized Patient Care Scenarios (M = 4.28), and Effect of Standardized Patient Care Scenarios on Critical Thinking (M = 4.56). Results/Conclusions Some 45% of students stated that standardized patient scenarios provided "practice for reality," and 20% noted they "received great feedback" from SPs; 23% of students described being anxious or nervous before SP interviews. Results suggest the SP interviews increased the overall perceived student self-confidence, critical thinking, and satisfaction with learning. Findings highlight strong and weak areas of perceived clinical skills in students and provide guidelines for teaching psychiatric nursing content.
Mathematical Explanation and the Theory of Why-Questions

Van Fraassen and others have urged that judgements of explanations are relative to why-questions ; explanations should be considered good in so far as they effectively answer why-questions. In this paper. I evaluate van Fraassen's theory with respect to mathematical explanation. I show that his theory cannot recognize any proofs as explanatory. I also present an example that contradicts the main thesis of the why-question approach-an explanation that appears explanatory despite its inability to answer the why-question that motivated it. This example shows how explanatory judgements can be context-dependent without being why-question-relative.
On the Constitutionability of Global Public Policy Networks

Global Public Policy Networks (GPPNs) are increasingly influential in the global policy-making process. According to the Global Public Policy Institute, GPPNs are cross-sectoral coalitions of actors from governments, international organizations, civil society, and private industry. In structure, these networks differ from traditional hierarchical organizations, but their primary functions—negotiation, coordination, rule-making, and implementation—pick up the classic tasks of formal international organizations and intergovernmental cooperation. The power and acceptance of these networks are based on the real or alleged expertise of their members, their former or current formal positions in national or international organizations or private industry, and their personal connections. Although these features nourish the assumption that GPPNs are efficient problemsolvers, there is no empirical proof of this belief. Potential sources of their legitimacy await grounding in a solid normative theory. Efficiency cannot be considered a ready substitute for the formal democratic legitimacy that these networks are lacking in either empirical or theoretical regard. The phenomenon of GPPNs, therefore, touches some core problems of the global constitutionalism project—the idea of subjecting transnational, non-state actors to the rule of a global constitutional agreement. As powerful actors in the transnational sphere, GPPNs must address three challenges relating to the future of constitutionalism. First, is it possible to put non-state political actors under a constitutional regime? Second, if it is possible, how does one do so? Third, in what ways can the project of constitutionalism be expanded beyond the frame of the nation-state, if at all? The answers to these questions must address the central problem of global constitutionalism: how the traditional bond between the nation-state and its constitution can be dissolved without abandoning the accomplishments that the project of the modern state constitution stands for—founding, legitimizing, and confining democratic governance.
2′(3′)-O-benzoyluridine 5′ linked to glass: an all-purpose support for solid phase synthesis of oligodeoxyribonucleotides

Abstract Porous glass containing 2′(3′)- O -benzoyluridine 5′-succinyl ligands serves as a universal support for construction of oligodeoxyribonucleotides of any sequence, using either the phosphotriester or the phosphite approach. At the conclusion of a synthesis, the released and deprotected oligomer bears a terminal uridine residue which can be readily removed as its 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate by treatment with Pb++ ion.
Recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma of the skin managed by microscopically controlled surgery (Mohs surgery).

. A patient with recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma of the skin managed by Mohs surgery is reported. The histopathologic features and differential diagnosis of this tumor are reviewed. Mohs surgery appears to be an ideal way to manage this neoplasm since recurrences after routine excision are common and metastases are uncommon.
Monitoring US agriculture: the US Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service, Cropland Data Layer Program

The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) produces the Cropland Data Layer (CDL) product, which is a raster-formatted, geo-referenced, crop-specific, land cover map. CDL program inputs include medium resolution satellite imagery, USDA collected ground truth and other ancillary data, such as the National Land Cover Data set. A decision tree-supervised classification method is used to generate the freely available state-level crop cover classifications and provide crop acreage estimates based upon the CDL and NASS June Agricultural Survey ground truth to the NASS Agricultural Statistics Board. This paper provides an overview of the NASS CDL program. It describes various input data, processing procedures, classification and validation, accuracy assessment, CDL product specifications, dissemination venues and the crop acreage estimation methodology. In general, total crop mapping accuracies for the 2009 CDLs ranged from 85% to 95% for the major crop categories.
A Soil Moisture Smart Sensor Web using Data Assimilation and Optimal Control: Formulation and First Laboratory Demonstration

We have developed a new concept for a smart sensor web technology for measurements of soil moisture that include spaceborne and in-situ assets. The objective of the technology is to enable a guided/adaptive sampling strategy for the in-situ sensor network to meet the measurement validation objectives of the spaceborne sensors with respect to resolution and accuracy. One potential application is the Soil Moisture Active/Passive (SMAP) mission. The science measurements considered are the surface-to-depth profiles of soil moisture estimated from satellite radars and radiometers, with calibration and validation using in-situ sensors. Installing an in-situ network to sample the field for all ranges of variability is impractical. However, a sparser but smarter network can provide the validation estimates by operating in a guided fashion with guidance from its own sparse measurements. The feedback and control take place in the context of a dynamic data assimilation system subject to energy and accuracy constraints. The overall design of the smart sensor web including the control architecture, assimilation framework, and actuation hardware are presented in this paper. We also present results of initial numerical and laboratory demonstrations of the sensor web concept, which includes a small number of soil moisture.
Superoxide activates synaptic particulate nitric oxide synthase: implications for superoxide signalling and neurotoxicity

Mounting evidence supports the view that nitric oxide may protect against superoxide-induced oxidative damage by mechanisms involving nitrosylation, direct scavenging of oxygen radicals including superoxide, and up-regulation of antioxidant enzymes. However, the ability of neurons to respond to superoxide by increasing nitric oxide synthesis is unknown. We report here that superoxide, added as potassium superoxide (KO2), produced a rapid activation (up to 12-fold) of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), measured by the conversion of [3H]arginine to [3H]citrulline, and nitrite production in a synaptic particulate fraction from rat brain cerebral cortex. Stimulation of NOS by KO2 required the presence of ATP, which by itself inhibited basal NOS activity. Decayed KO2 or authentic hydrogen peroxide did not increase NOS activity and, importantly, activation of NOS by KO2 was blocked by addition of superoxide dismutase. In addition, stimulation of NOS activity by KO2 was abolished by the NOS inhibitor N-monomethyl-l-arginine and EGTA but only partially reduced by the neuronal NOS inhibitor 7-nitroindazole. These findings are the first to demonstrate directly that superoxide activates a synaptic NOS isoform. The nature of the particulate fraction, the experimental conditions, and the low sensitivity to 7-nitroindazole strongly suggest that superoxide activated mitochondrial NOS (mtNOS). We propose that activation of the particulate NOS by superoxide reflects a novel mitochondrial response that may contribute to neuronal oxidant defenses although chronic activation of NOS under conditions of superoxide generation may produce toxic quantities of peroxynitrite and other reactive nitrogen oxides.
Effects of SCN− and NO3− on organic anion transport in rabbit kidney cortical slices

1. 1. The effects of replacement of CI− by either SCN− or NO3− on the accumulation of p-aminohippurate, the efflux of pre-accumulated p-aminohippurate and kinetics of p-aminohippurate uptake were investigated in the rabbit kidney cortical slice. 2. 2. The total replacement of CI− in the incubation medium with SCN− decreased the 60-min slice-to-medium concentration ratio (S/M) of p-aminohippurate by 75% and that with NO3− by 40%. 3. 3. The decrease in p-aminohippurate accumulation by the inorganic ions was found to be specific for organic anion transport since the uptake of the organic cation, tetraethylammonium, was not influenced by inorganic ions. 4. 4. The influence of NO3− on p-aminohippurate uptake was fully reversible: however, the effect of SCN− could only be partially reversed. 5. 5. Both SCN− and NO3− significantly increased the Km value but had no significant effect on the V value of the p-aminohippurate uptake process. 6. 6. These findings suggest that both SCN− and NO3− are competitive inhibitors of p-aminohippurate transport and, also, that SCN− appears to bind to a membrane component involved in the transport of p-aminohippurate.
Changes in Thyroid-Stimulating Immunoglobulins during Antithyroid Therapy*

Thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) activity was measured by radioreceptor assay in sera from patients with Graves' disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer. In untreated Graves' disease (47 cases), TSI index was significantly lower [76.7 +/- 1.4 (SE)] than the average of a normal control group (30 cases; 94.4 +/- 1.9). In untreated Hashimoto's thyroiditis (25 cases), it was also significantly lower (83.0 +/- 2.4). In patients with thyroid cancer (19 cases), there was no significant difference from normal controls. After 131I treatment, the TSI index in Graves' disease decreased during 2--4 months, then increased and reached normal levels in 1 yr. During propylthiouracil treatment, the TSI index increased and reached a normal level in 5--6 months without the decreasing phase seen after 131I treatment. Free T4 index values were gradually decreased by both treatments. There was no significant relationship between TSI index and thyroid antibodies (microsomal antibodies and thyroglobulin antibodies) in untreated Graves' disease or Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It is concluded that 1) in the sera of patients with Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, there are immunoglobulin Gs that can displace TSH binding to thyroid membranes; 2) these immunoglobulins Gs are different from the classic antithyroid antibodies; and 3) 131T treatment of Graves' disease may enhance TSI production during the first 1--2 months after therapy.
Independent effects of diet palatability and fat content on bout size and daily intake in rats.

Abstract Although considerable evidence attests to the hyperphagic effects of high-fat (HF) diets, the attribute(s) of these diets (e.g., palatability, caloric density, and postingestive effects) which promote overeating is still unclear. The present studies investigated the independent effects of diet palatability and macronutrient composition on intake using the self-regulated intragastric infusion paradigm. In Experiment 1, rats were infused with either HF or high-carbohydrate (HC) diet while drinking either saccharin (Sacc) or a more palatable saccharin–glucose (SaccGlu) test solution for 9 days. HF elicited greater daily intake than HC; lick pattern analysis revealed that HF produced larger but not more frequent bouts. Test solution was not related to intake, possibly due to the relatively modest palatability manipulation. Experiment 2 provided a more sensitive test: The palatability manipulation was strengthened and diet infusion made optional by provision of chow. HF again elicited larger bout size and total daily intake (diet+chow) than HC. Rats given the more palatable solution significantly increased intake (via larger bouts) and thus the amount of diet infused, but chow intake decreased such that total kilocalorie intake was not significantly related to solution palatability. The reliable observation that HF promoted larger bout size and greater total kilocalorie intake than HC provides additional evidence that fat sends weaker feedback signals relevant to controls of both satiation (suppression of ongoing eating, behaviorally manifest in meal size) and satiety (suppression of subsequent intake, reflected in total daily intake).
Enzymic preparations of radiolabeled (+)-l-5-methyltetrahydrofolate and (+)-l-5-formyltetrahydrofolate

Abstract Preparations of radiolabeled 5-methyl-THF and 5-formyl-THF are described which resulted in enzymically active diastereoisomers, mostly in yields of 25–30%. The radiochemical purity of the preparations was close to 99%.
Safety of abciximab administration during PCI of patients with previous stroke.

Objectives: To examine the frequency of cerebrovascular complications among patients receiving abciximab (AB) undergoing PCI with prior intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or recent ( 2 years) ischemic stroke, (n = 414)]. Results: The post-PCI stroke rate was significantly higher in patients with prior stroke (2.06% vs. 0.35%, p < 0.001 for all stroke; 0.38% vs. 0.03%, p = 0.023 for ICH). The incidence of ICH among the AB-treated group was 0.065%; a history of prior stroke did not increase the incidence of ICH in the AB-treated group (0.39% vs. 0.0%, p = ns). Moreover, the post-PCI stroke rate was similar between the prior ICH or recent ischemic stroke–group and remote ischemic stroke-group (2 vs. 1.9%; OR: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.21–4.90; p = ns for all strokes; 2% vs. 1.5%; OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 0.27–6.91; p = ns for ischemic stroke). Importantly, no ICH occurred in patients with recent ischemic or any prior ICH stroke. Conclusions: Abciximab, in addition to aspirin, heparin and ADP-inhibitors does not increase the risk of stroke in patients with prior stroke undergoing PCI.
Disordered allostery: lessons from glucocorticoid receptor

Allostery is a biological regulation mechanism of significant importance in cell signaling, metabolism, and disease. Although the ensemble basis of allostery has been known for years, only recently has emphasis shifted from interpreting allosteric mechanism in terms of discrete structural pathways to ones that focus on the statistical nature of the signal propagation process, providing a vehicle to unify allostery in structured, dynamic, and disordered systems. In particular, intrinsically disordered (ID) proteins (IDPs), which lack a unique, stable structure, have been directly demonstrated to exhibit allostery in numerous systems, a reality that challenges traditional structure-based models that focus on allosteric pathways. In this chapter, we will discuss the historical context of allostery and focus on studies from human glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a member of the steroid hormone receptor (SHR) family. The numerous translational isoforms of the disordered N-terminal domain of GR consist of coupled thermodynamic domains that contribute to the delicate balance of states in the ensemble and hence in vivo activity. The data are quantitatively interpreted using the ensemble allosteric model (EAM) that considers only the intrinsic and measurable energetics of allosteric systems. It is demonstrated that the EAM provides mechanistic insight into the distribution of states in solution and provides an interpretation for how certain translational isoforms of GR display enhanced and repressed transcriptional activities. The ensemble nature of allostery illuminated from these studies lends credence to the EAM and provides ground rules for allostery in all systems.
Harmonic Model Description of the Franck−Condon Density for a Betaine Dye Molecule

Franck−Condon (FC) factors and the FC density associated with an electron transfer reaction are calculated for a betaine molecule, pyridinium-N-phenoxide betaine (4-(1-pyridinio)phenolate) in its S1 excited state. FC factors and density functions for harmonic vibrational modes are computed first by modifying the three level-fixed binary tree algorithm (Ruhoff, P. T.; Ratner, M. A. Int. J. Quant. Chem. 2000, 1, 383), a sum-over-states method based on recursion relations. This modified method allows the calculation of FC factors for 60 vibrational modes and avoids memory problems due to the large number of modes. The effects on the FC density of frequency shifts and mode mixing (Duschinky rotation) are included. For comparison, the more efficient time-dependent alternative is also employed for the calculation of the FC density function for the harmonic motion. In all cases, for a torsional motion which cannot be described by a harmonic potential, the FC density function is computed through the time-dependen...
The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Restructured Form in the epilepsy monitoring unit

The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) is a restructuring of the MMPI-2 that has improved the psychometric characteristics of the test. The primary aim of this study was to provide diagnostic utility data on the MMPI-2-RF in an epilepsy monitoring unit population (N=429). Mean comparisons revealed group differences on Validity Scales Fs and FBS-r; Restructured Clinical Scales RC1 and RC3; and Somatic Scales MLS, GIC, HPC, and NUC. Diagnostic utility data are provided for those scales with the largest effect sizes: RC1, FBS-r, and NUC. On RC1, sensitivity was 76% and specificity was 60%, similar to values found when applying published decision rules to the MMPI-2. RC1 explains unique variance in diagnosis beyond that explained by demographic or medical history risk factors. We provide likelihood ratios for scores on RC1, FBS-r, and NUC that can be used by the clinician to calculate posttest odds and probability of nonepileptic seizures using the base rate of nonepileptic seizures in his/her population.
Thermal stress and microhabitat selection in territorial males of the Digger wasp Philanthus psyche (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae)

Abstract 1. 1.|In July and August males of the digger wasp Philanthus psyche Dunning establish matin territories during the middle of the day on the surface in sparsely vegetated sand dunes in northeastern Colorado, U.S.A. During their activity periods surface temperatures range as high as 50–60°C. 2. 2.|All males forced to remain on the sand surface, at surface temperatures above 40°C, died within 32 min. at 55°C, on above, males succumbed in less thna 22 s. 3. 3.|Males are able to remain on territories by adjusting the duration of perches on the surface and by switching to perching on plants later in the day. Body temperatures of models (i.e. dried specimens) placed on territories sugges that these simple behavioural adjustments allow males to remain within a tolerable range of temperatures.
Malignant transformation of hepatic adenoma with recurrence after resection.

The true incidence of malignant degeneration of hepatic adenoma is not known. A recent review documented only five confirmed cases of a pre-existing adenoma with malignant transformation to hepatocellular carcinoma 1. We report an unusual case of a male patient with no history of steroid use who developed a well-differentiated hepatocellular cancer arising within a pre-existing adenoma, which was diagnosed more than 10 years earlier. Despite complete resection of the malignant component, the tumour recurred nearly six years after resection with multifocal hepatoma at the resection margin. This case not only reinforces previous recommendations supporting routine resection of hepatic adenoma, but also suggests that complete pathological removal of the adenoma and continued long-term follow-up is essential. A review of the recent literature follows the case summary.
The development and evaluation of a clinical test of surgical resident proficiency

The two purposes of this study were to develop a clinical test of surgical resident proficiency and to compare this clinical test with currently applied methods of resident evaluation. Appendicitis is a common surgical disease, and its accurate diagnosis depends largely on clinical acumen. Ten third-year surgical residents prospectively evaluated 107 patients admitted because of suspected appendicitis. After taking a history, performing a physical examination, and reviewing laboratory data, these residents were asked to state, as a percentage, the likelihood that each patient had appendicitis. Sixty-three patients had appendicitis documented by pathologic inspection after appendectomy. Forty-four patients did not have appendicitis, as was determined by operation (17) or by in-house observation and resolution of abdominal pain (27). These outcomes were used to calculate a diagnostic ability score (DAS) for each resident. Residents were evaluated by standard methods including in-service examinations and monthly evaluations by the attending staff. Residents were also evaluated by nonstandard, but potentially useful, neuropsychologic and psychologic tests, including the trail making test, the Ravens progressive matrices test, the paced auditory serial addition test (PASAT), the grooved pegboard test of manual dexterity, and the profile of mood states (POMS) psychologic questionnaire. Cumulative scores were calculated and compared by multiple regression with coefficient variance analysis. The correlation (R2) of DAS with standard evaluation techniques was as follows: In-service (0.055), faculty (0.508), trails (-0.293), Ravens (0.028), PASAT (0.251), dexterity (0.432), POMS (0.381). We found that (1) the DAS is a discriminating clinical test; (2) the DAS correlates with subjective faculty evaluation; and (3) the DAS does not correlate with in-service examination scores. We conclude that faculty evaluation remains the best currently applied test of surgical resident clinical proficiency as measured by the DAS.
Regeneration in the severed spinal cord of chordate larvae of Petromyzon marinus

Abstract Regeneration of nerve processes in the severed spinal cord of the chordate larval lamprey occurs with remarkable speed and perfection sometimes resulting in recovery of function in less than 20 days. No dense fibrous scar tissue is formed. Excessive proliferation of ependymal cells sometimes hinders the regenerative process. Atrophy of cells is kept at a minimum by the structural relationship between the cord and the overlying vascular plexuses which apparently permits cells to obtain oxygen and nutrients by diffusion or active transport without serious interruption when the cord is transected.
Assembly of Binary Colloidal Structures via Specific Biological Adhesion

We present a novel approach to the fabrication of binary colloidal materials where specific biomolecular cross-linking drives the self-assembly of bidisperse colloidal suspensions. In particular, we have employed low-affinity immune system carbohydrate-selectin interactions to mediate the heterotypic assembly of binary colloidal structures. Using small (0.94 μm) and larger (5.5 μm) diameter particles coated with complementary chemistry, we show that a progressive series of structures, such as colloidal micelles (a large particle coated with smaller particles), colloidal clusters, rings, and elongated chains, can be made by decreasing the number fraction, NA/NB, of small (A) to large (B) particles (200 ≥ NA/NB ≥ 2) at low total volume fraction (φΤ = 10-4−10-3). The assembly is due to specific molecular interactions, as control experiments in which the molecules are blocked or eliminated do not lead to the assembly of these structures. The size of the structures can be modulated by time or total volume frac...
Secondary Organic Material Produced by the Dark Ozonolysis of α-Pinene Minimally Affects the Deliquescence and Efflorescence of Ammonium Sulfate

The hygroscopic phase transitions and growth factors of mixed particles having as components ammonium sulfate and secondary organic material (SOM) were measured. The SOM was generated by the dark ozonolysis of α-pinene, and organic particle mass concentrations of 1.63 and 12.2 μg m−3 were studied. The hygroscopic properties were investigated using a 1×3 tandem differential mobility analyzer (1×3-TDMA). The 1×3-TDMA takes advantage of the hysteresis between solid-to-aqueous and aqueous-to-solid phase transitions to determine the efflorescence and deliquescence relative humidities (ERH and DRH, respectively) of materials. Overall, the influence of the SOM produced by the dark ozonolysis of α-pinene on the ERH and DRH of ammonium sulfate was small, shifting for example the DRH from 80% for pure ammonium sulfate to 77% for organic volume fractions of 0.96. The ERH likewise shifted by only a small amount across this composition range, specifically from 31 to 29%. The SOM produced at the lower organic particle ...
Fabrication of fiber Bragg gratings of different center wavelengths using a single phase-mask

Several methods have been demonstrated for fabricating tunable fiber Bragg Gratings (FBG) such as mask image projection using imaging lens [1] and tilting the fiber at an angle respect to the phase-mask allowing a change in the grating period [2]. Center wavelength of FBG can also be tuned by applying strain to the fiber prior the fabrication so that, upon relaxation, a smaller Bragg wavelength is obtained [3]. Following this approach, center wavelength of FBG can be selected in a wide spectral range. During the fabrication process the index of refraction of the fiber core changes with the exposure time of the fiber to UV light, leading to a variation in the Bragg wavelength and reflectivity of the FBG. However, the dynamic of the writing process changes considerably as a variable strain is applied to the fiber. In this paper, we present a method for writing multiple FBG at different center wavelengths using a single phase-mask. Fabrication parameters such as applied strain and exposure time are chosen in order to obtain FBG with the center wavelength and reflectivity desired.
Evidence for preferential adhesion of ovarian epithelial carcinoma cells to type I collagen mediated by the αA2β1 integrin

Epithelial ovarian carcinoma, the leading cause of gynecologic cancer death, is characterized by widespread intra-abdominal metastases mediated primarily by surface shedding of tumor cells and peritoneal implantation. Whereas hematogenous metastasis is known to involve cellular adhesion, extracellular matrix proteolysis and cell migration, the role of these processes in the intraperitoneal dissemination of ovarian cancer remains unclear. To analyze further the role of adhesion and proteolysis in ovarian carcinoma dissemination, we have characterized the adhesive profiles of 4 primary cultures of ovarian carcinoma cells and 5 ovarian carcinoma cell lines. Our data demonstrate preferential adhesion of ovarian carcinoma cells to interstitial type I collagen. Analysis of adhesion molecule expression demonstrated the presence of the α2 and β1 integrin subunits by cell surface ELISA, immunoprecipitation and immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, antibodies directed against the α2 and β subunits inhibited adhesion of ovarian carcinoma cells to type 1 collagen by 56% and 95%, respectively. Plasminogen activator and matrix metalloproteinase production by adherent cells was not altered as a consequence of adhesion to individual extracellular matrix proteins; however, adhesion to an extracellular matrix comprised primarily of interstitial collagen increased plasminogen activator activity in 5 of 5 cell lines. Since the ovarian carcinoma micro-environment is rich in type 1 collagen, our data suggest that preferential adhesion to type 1 collagen followed by secretion of serine and metalloproteinases may represent a biochemical mechanism by which the intraperitoneal dissemination of ovarian carcinoma is mediated. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.