cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cationic carrier peptide enhances cerebrovascular targeting of nanoparticles in Alzheimer's disease brain.

Abstract Accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides in the cerebral vasculature, referred to as cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), is widely observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain and was shown to accelerate cognitive decline. There is no effective method for detecting cerebrovascular amyloid (CVA) and treat CAA. The targeted nanoparticles developed in this study effectively migrated from the blood flow to the vascular endothelium as determined by using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) technology. We also improved the stability, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) transcytosis of targeted nanoparticles by coating them with a cationic BBB penetrating peptide (K16ApoE). The K16ApoE-Targeted nanoparticles demonstrated specific targeting of vasculotropic DutchAβ40 peptide accumulated in the cerebral vasculature. Moreover, K16ApoE-Targeted nanoparticles demonstrated significantly greater uptake into brain and provided specific MRI contrast to detect brain amyloid plaques.
Step-by-step protocols for rice gamete isolation

A detailed, step-by-step protocol for isolation of rice gametes for transcriptional profiling, with a general workflow that includes controls for RNA contamination from surrounding cells and tissues is presented. Characterization of the transcriptome and other -omics studies of flowering plant gametes are challenging as a consequence of the small sizes and relative inaccessibility of these cells. Collecting such poorly represented cells is also complicated by potential contamination from surrounding sporophytic, adjacent gametophytic tissues and difficulties in extracting high-quality intact cells. Here we present detailed, step-by-step procedures for collecting intact, unfixed rice (Oryza sativa) egg cells and sperm cells without enzymatic treatments. In addition, we also present a general workflow for assessing sample purity by RT-PCR, using primers specific for marker genes preferentially expressed in surrounding cells and tissues. These protocols should facilitate future studies of genome-scale characterization of gametes in this important model crop.
Epigenetic dynamics during flowering plant reproduction: evidence for reprogramming?

Over the last 10 yr there have been major advances in documenting and understanding dynamic changes to DNA methylation, small RNAs, chromatin modifications and chromatin structure that accompany reproductive development in flowering plants, from germline specification to seed maturation. Here I highlight recent advances in the field, mostly made possible by microscopic analysis of epigenetic states or by the ability to isolate specific cell types or tissues and apply omics approaches. I consider in which contexts there is potentially reprogramming vs maintenance or reinforcement of epigenetic states.
Examining breast cancer disparities in African Americans with suggestions for policy

Breast cancer is a commonly diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among American women today. The literature suggests that African American Women (AAW) are more likely to die from the disease each year compared to their White counterparts. A biological basis for this disparity exists-early age of onset, more advanced stage of the disease, more aggressive histological changes, and worse survival. Even though mechanisms underlying these disparities are poorly understood, recent studies suggest that the poorer breast cancer outcome observed in AAW may, in part, result from underlying molecular factors. The present review was undertaken to investigate if AAW do, in fact, develop a more aggressive form of breast cancer compared to other racial groups based on molecular level differences and social determinants. This review also addresses health policy changes that may be implemented to aid in eliminating this disparity.
Subspecialty Training: Hospice and Palliative Medicine.

ABSTRACT Physiatrists care for patients and families with complex medical needs, and primary palliative care is an important part of the comprehensive rehabilitation care plan. Palliative care improves patient and family quality of life and reduces healthcare costs. Clinical care guidelines for several physiatry patient populations now include the provision of palliative care.Current Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education physiatry residency program requirements include foundational palliative care skills. Similarly, current clinical palliative care practice guidelines enumerate standards that apply to the rehabilitation setting. However, there is a dearth of literature on the current state of palliative care training within physiatry programs, and hospice and palliative medicine remains one of the least subscribed physiatry subspecialties.In this article, we describe palliative care, highlight existing literature on palliative care needs within physiatry patient populations, and identify a core physiatry-palliative care skillset. We look both within physiatry and across other specialties to guide recommendations for palliative care education within physiatry residency programs. We also describe opportunities for post-residency fellowship training in hospice and palliative medicine.
Effect of legacy on hydric forest structure in a subtropical urban watershed

Hydric forest communities within the Tampa Bay Watershed were inventoried to assess the effect of urbanization on these systems. Based on aerial photography and site visits, 85 hydric plots were assigned a legacy class—remnant (forest, pre-1948), emergent (forest, post 1948), and managed (actively managed grass on plot). On each plot, diameter at breast height (dbh) and canopy width and species were recorded for trees ≥2.5 cm dbh. A hierarchical agglomerative cluster analysis identified community types within a legacy class and one-way AOV (α = .05) was used to compare structural features within and among legacy classes. Remnant plots (43 plots) were composed of six, natural community types as recognized by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory and no novel communities. Emergent plots (23 plots) were composed of four natural community types and one novel community. Managed plots (19 plots) contained only novel communities. Remnants had the highest species richness (41 species) and only one non-native species. Managed had the lowest species richness (33 species) but highest richness of non-native species (17). Remnant and emergent plots had similar densities for trees ≤32 cm dbh, (803 and 820 stems/ha, respectively), whereas managed plots had only 119 stems/ha. For trees >32 cm dbh, remnant plots had a significantly higher density (196 stems/ha) than emergent (99 stems/ha) and managed (40 stems/ha). These results suggest that legacy did not play a key role in differentiating between emergent and remnant plots but did play a key role in identifying managed plots.
Paving the path to inpatient printing

3D bioprinting in situ in various tissues in a live animal enables in vivo confined cell delivery.
Proficiency and pragmatic production in L2 Chinese study abroad

Abstract This study documented the development of pragmatic production and proficiency of L2 Chinese learners in a study abroad context and explored the relationship between proficiency and L2 pragmatic development. The participants were 129 learners of Chinese who attended a 15-week study abroad program in China. At the beginning and end of their program study, all participants completed a Chinese proficiency test and a Chinese simulated oral proficiency interview. The results showed that the learners’ pragmatic production and proficiency both improved from the pretest to posttest, but the pragmatic improvement did not relate to their proficiency development in study abroad. The findings might be explained by varying levels of development in learners’ proficiency and pragmatic production during study abroad.
Using the BEVI to Assess Individual Experience to Enhance International Programming

Success in diverse educational and work environments requires intercultural competence, positive attitudes towards difference, and willingness to interact across cultures. Consequently, study abroad participation has increased as universities aim to internationalize; yet, we lack clear evidence of study abroad providing students with skills and attitudes the programs intend to develop. This case study (n=11) documents the implementation of intercultural learning activities throughout a semester long course and a 9-day trip to Vietnam. Researchers anticipated positive development in critical thinking, openness, and environmental concern measured by the Beliefs, Events, and Values Inventory. Overall the average group scores did not increase; however, in a more detailed analysis interesting patterns emerged within the data in regard to unintended learning outcomes, impact of individual differences in identity, and preparedness for learning. The data suggest potential curriculum changes and additional resources to support student needs.
Multi-domain simulation and dynamic analysis of the 3D loading and micromotion of continuous-contact helical gear pumps

Abstract This paper presents a multi-domain dynamic simulation model for continuous-contact helical gear pumps, which is an unconventional hydraulic pump design that is capable of canceling its kinematic flowrate variation. In this model, the fluid dynamics (in its lumped-element representation) are fully coupled in a closed feedback loop with other physical domains, including critical tribological interfaces, 3D dynamic loadings on the solid parts, dynamics, and micro-vibrations of the rotors. The model is compared to the analytical derivation and experimental measurements to prove its validity. The model can be used to provide predictive simulations for existing designs, or as a tool to optimize the design to provide better hydrostatic balancing for future iterations of hydraulic pump designs.
Fungicide Physical Mode of Action: Impacts on Suppression of Hop Powdery Mildew.

Understanding of the physical mode of action of fungicides allows for more efficient and effective application of fungicides and can improve disease control. Greenhouse and field studies were condu...
Job Characteristics and Organizational Predictors of Psychological Empowerment Among Paraprofessionals Within Human Service Organizations

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to explore whether and to what extent job characteristics, including role ambiguity, role overload, participation, supervisor-supervisee relationships, and peer support, predict empowerment among paraprofessionals. One-hundred-sixty paraprofessionals in public and private human service organizations completed confidential questionnaires on all key variables. When entered into a multiple regression, job dimensions predicted nearly one-half of the variance in empowerment. When other socio-demographic predictors, such as participant's age and gender, organizational unit size, and time in position were entered into the regression equation, theoretically defined variables predicted significant additional amounts of variance in empowerment. The potential to influence paraprofessional staff's sense of empowerment through structuring role assignment, promoting opportunities for participation in decision-making, fostering positive relationships between supervisors and their s...
Histogram analysis as a method for determining the line tension of a three-phase contact region by Monte Carlo simulations

A method is proposed for determining the line tension, which is the main physical characteristic of a three-phase contact region, by Monte Carlo (MC) simulations. The key idea of the proposed method is that if a three-phase equilibrium involves a three-phase contact region, the probability distribution of states of a system as a function of two order parameters depends not only on the surface tension, but also on the line tension. This probability distribution can be obtained as a normalized histogram by appropriate MC simulations, so one can use the combination of histogram analysis and finite-size scaling to study the properties of a three phase contact region. Every histogram and results extracted therefrom will depend on the size of the simulated system. Carrying out MC simulations for a series of system sizes and extrapolating the results, obtained from the corresponding series of histograms, to infinite size, one can determine the line tension of the three phase contact region and the interfacial tensions of all three interfaces (and hence the contact angles) in an infinite system. To illustrate the proposed method, it is applied to the three-dimensional ternary fluid mixture, in which molecular pairs of like species do not interact whereas those of unlike species interact as hard spheres. The simulated results are in agreement with expectations.
Three Computer Cultures: Computer Technology, Computer Mathematics, and Computer Science

Publisher Summary As scientific and technological tools, computers have proved so useful that computer science is widely regarded as a technological discipline whose purpose is to create problem-solving tools for other disciplines. Within computer science there is a group of theoreticians who build mathematical models of computational processes. Yet computer science is neither a branch of technology nor a branch of mathematics. It involves a new way of thinking about computational schemes that is partly technological and partly mathematical but contains a unique ingredient that differs qualitatively from those of traditional disciplines. This chapter illustrates the special quality that distinguishes computer science from technology and mathematics by the means of examples from the emerging theory of programming languages. The computer revolution is comparable to the industrial revolution. Just as machines have reduced the physical drudgery of man, computers are reducing his mental drudgery. The central role played by “energy” in the industrial revolution is replaced in the computer revolution by “information.” This chapter focuses on technological and scientific programming languages and mathematical models related to computers.
Modelling sorption in zeoite NaA with molecular density functional theory

Summary We have used molecular theory and simulation techniques to help elucidate the fundamental physics of adsorption of xenon in zeolite NaA. We have used the simulations to guide development of an approximate density functional theory of this system.
Genetic deletion of S100A9 fails to abrogate psoriasiform inflammation in the KC-Tie2 mouse model due to IL-12/23 compensation. (CAM5P.237)

The proinflammatory proteins S100A8/9 are purported to play a pathogenic role in psoriasis. A recent report showed genetic deletion of S100A9 strongly attenuated ear skin inflammation in the K5-JunB:Jun mouse and imiquimod skin inflammation models. We previously reported increased expression of S100A8/9 (>135-fold; P
EVOLUTION, NOT REVOLUTION: SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS’ CHANGING PRACTICES IN DETERMINING SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITIES

The profession of school psychology has been impacted by the response to intervention (RTI) model in various ways. RTI data are being used to make decisions regarding academic and behavioral interventions and to make eligibility determinations in comprehensive evaluations conducted by multidisciplinary teams. A survey of almost 400 school psychologist practitioners reveals a changing landscape in terms of school psychologists’ methods of determining eligibility for specific learning disabilities (SLD) in RTI site and non-RTI site schools. The survey also brings to light differences between numbers of initial evaluations and levels of challenge and job satisfaction. Implications of these changes and future directions for research are discussed.
The PduL Phosphotransacylase Is Used To Recycle Coenzyme A within the Pdu Microcompartment

ABSTRACT In Salmonella enterica, 1,2-propanediol (1,2-PD) utilization (Pdu) is mediated by a bacterial microcompartment (MCP). The Pdu MCP consists of a multiprotein shell that encapsulates enzymes and cofactors for 1,2-PD catabolism, and its role is to sequester a reactive intermediate (propionaldehyde) to minimize cellular toxicity and DNA damage. For the Pdu MCP to function, the enzymes encapsulated within must be provided with a steady supply of substrates and cofactors. In the present study, Western blotting assays were used to demonstrate that the PduL phosphotransacylase is a component of the Pdu MCP. We also show that the N-terminal 20-residue-long peptide of PduL is necessary and sufficient for targeting PduL and enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) to the lumen of the Pdu MCP. We present the results of genetic tests that indicate that PduL plays a role in the recycling of coenzyme A internally within the Pdu MCP. However, the results indicate that some coenzyme A recycling occurs externally to the Pdu MCP. Hence, our results support a model in which a steady supply of coenzyme A is provided to MCP lumen enzymes by internal recycling by PduL as well as by the movement of coenzyme A across the shell by an unknown mechanism. These studies expand our understanding of the Pdu MCP, which has been linked to enteric pathogenesis and which provides a possible basis for the development of intracellular bioreactors for use in biotechnology. IMPORTANCE Bacterial MCPs are widespread organelles that play important roles in pathogenesis and global carbon fixation. Here we show that the PduL phosphotransacylase is a component of the Pdu MCP. We also show that PduL plays a key role in cofactor homeostasis by recycling coenzyme A internally within the Pdu MCP. Further, we identify a potential N-terminal targeting sequence using a bioinformatic approach and show that this short sequence extension is necessary and sufficient for directing PduL as well as heterologous proteins to the lumen of the Pdu MCP. These findings expand our general understanding of bacterial MCP assembly and cofactor homeostasis.
Measuring Freeze and Thaw Damage in Mortars Containing Deicing Salt Using a Low-Temperature Longitudinal Guarded Comparative Calorimeter and Acoustic Emission

Deicing salts are often applied to the surface of pavements and bridge decks in the winter to melt ice, thereby improving safety for the traveling public. In this paper, the influence of NaCl deicing salt on freezing and thawing temperatures of pore solution and corresponding damage of mortar specimens were investigated. A low-temperature longitudinal guarded comparative calorimeter (LGCC) was developed to cool down a mortar sample at a rate of 2°C/h and to re-heat the mortar at a rate of 4°C/h. Heat flux during freezing and thawing cycles was monitored, and the temperatures at which freezing and thawing events occurred were detected. During cooling and heating, acoustic emission (AE) activity was measured to quantify the damage (cracking) caused by aggregate/paste thermal mismatch and/or phase changes. The results show that NaCl solution in a mortar sample freezes at a lower temperature than the value expected from its bulk phase diagram because of under-cooling. Conversely, the frozen solution in mortar melts at the same melting temperature as the bulk frozen NaCl solution. As the salt concentration increases, the freezing temperature is lowered. For samples containing more highly concentrated solutions, an additional exothermic event is observed whose corresponding temperature is greater than the aqueous NaCl liquidus line in the phase diagram. Damage also begins to occur at this temperature. For mortar samples saturated by solutions with 5 % and 15 % NaCl by mass, greater freeze/thaw damage is observed. The AE calorimeter developed herein is applicable for investigating damage behavior during freezing and thawing of different phases in pore solution (in mortars).
The role of neural networks in telerehabilitation

Delivery of rehabilitative health care at remote distances becomes feasible with neural net-assisted automation. Using neural nets trained to recognize characteristics of extensive/reflective responses, a series of rules can be invoked to guide functional restoration for individuals with neurological disorders of movement. The key to reeducation follows from sensory feedback substitution.
Dwell adaptive fragmentation: how to cope with short dwells required by multimedia wireless LANs

This paper studies the impact on CSMA/CA traffic of a reduction of the dwell size, a fundamental parameter of some wireless LANs. First, we explain why we want to reduce the dwell size and what are the consequences. Then, we present some ways to overcome the overhead of short dwell, mostly based on fragmentation. We finish by some exhaustive simulations of the short dwell size impact and variations, and the way those fragmentation schemes improve the network performance.
Heavy‐ion dominance near Cluster perigees

Time periods in which heavy ions dominate over H+ in the energy range of 1–40 keV were observed by the Cluster Ion Spectrometry (CIS)/COmposition DIstribution Function (CODIF) instrument onboard Cluster Spacecraft 4 at L values less than 4. The characteristic feature is a narrow flux peak at around 10 keV that extends into low L values, with He+ and/or O+ dominating. In the present work we perform a statistical study of these events and examine their temporal occurrence and spatial distribution. The observed features, both the narrow energy range and the heavy-ion dominance, can be interpreted using a model of ion drift from the plasma sheet, subject to charge exchange losses. The narrow energy range corresponds to the only energy range that has direct drift access from the plasma sheet during quiet times. The drift time to these locations from the plasma sheet is > 30 h, so that charge exchange has a significant impact on the population. We show that a simple drift/loss model can explain the dependence on L shell and MLT of these heavy-ion-dominant time periods.
Immunoablative high-dose cyclophosphamide without stem cell rescue in pemphigus foliaceus.

Background There is growing evidence that immunoablative high-dose cyclophosphamide without stem cell rescue is effective and safe in patients with refractory autoimmune diseases such as paraneoplastic pemphigus, systemic lupus erythematosus, aplastic anemia, and more recently pemphigus vulgaris. Methods We report a 51-year-old patient with severe pemphigus foliaceus, which was recalcitrant to multiple medical regimes. The patient presented with multiple thick hyperpigmented and scaly, ill-defined plaques on the face. In addition, she had multiple superficial erosions and crusts on her scalp, thorax, upper and lower extremities. The patient also had a few discrete intact flaccid bullae. A skin biopsy and direct immunofluorescence was consistent with pemphigus foliaceus. The patient's circulating pemphigus autoantibodies were present at a titer of 1 : 2560. The patient received immunoablative high-dose cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg/day) for 4 consecutive days, and tolerated the regime well. Results Approximately 3 months after therapy, the skin lesions had healed and her prednisone, which had been as high as 80 mg daily, was tapered to 30 mg daily. In addition, her circulating autoantibodies decreased after treatment. Nearly 10 months after treatment, the patient did relapse. However, her disease was less severe and more easily managed with lower doses of immunosuppressive therapy. Conclusion This case contributes to the growing evidence of high-dose cyclophosphamide's efficacy without stem cell rescue in recalcitrant autoimmune diseases, including pemphigus foliaceus.
The impact of intestinal inflammation on the nutritional environment of the gut microbiota

The intestinal epithelium is a single cell barrier separating a sterile mucosal tissue from a large microbial community dominated by obligate anaerobic bacteria, which inhabit the gut lumen. To maintain mucosal integrity, any breach in the epithelial barrier needs to be met with an inflammatory host response designed to repel microbial intruders from the tissue, protect the mucosal surface and repair injuries to the epithelium. In addition, inflammation induces mechanisms of nutritional immunity, which limit the availability of metals in the intestinal lumen, thereby imposing new selective forces on microbial growth. However, the inflammatory host response also has important side effects. A by-product of producing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species aimed at eradicating microbial intruders is the luminal generation of exogenous electron acceptors. The presence of these electron acceptors creates a new metabolic niche that is filled by facultative anaerobic bacteria. Here we review the changes in microbial nutrient utilization that accompany intestinal inflammation and the consequent changes in the composition of gut-associated microbial communities.
A Framework for Finite Element Mesh Quality Improvement and Visualization in Orthopaedic Biomechanics

The finite element method (FEM) is an invaluable tool in the numerical simulation of biological processes. FEM entails discretization of the structure of interest into elements. This discretization process is termed finite element meshing. The validity of the solution obtained is highly dependent on the quality of the mesh used. Mesh quality can decrease with increased complexity of the structure of interest, as is often evident when meshing biologic structures. This necessitated the development/implementation of generalized mesh quality improvement algorithms.© 2009 ASME
Surface Raman spectroscopy of the interface of tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum with Mg.

Surface Raman spectroscopy in ultrahigh vacuum is used to interrogate interfaces formed between tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (Alq3) and vapor-deposited Mg. The Raman spectral results for deposition of Mg mass thicknesses between 5 and 20 A indicate formation of a complex interfacial region composed primarily of Mg−Alq3 adducts and small-grained amorphous or nanocrystalline graphite, the presence of which may have a significant effect on the electronic properties of this metal−organic interface. The observed shifts in νring, ν(C−N), ν(Al−N), and ν(Al−O) modes along with the appearance of ν(Mg−C) and ν(Mg−O) modes suggest a structure for the Mg−Alq3 adduct in which Mg is bound to the O and C atoms of Alq3. In addition, several intense, broad modes are observed that are consistent with partial graphitization of the Alq3 film.
Relations of Maternal Socialization and Toddlers' Effortful Control to Children's Adjustment and Social Competence

The authors examined the relations of maternal supportive parenting to effortful control and internalizing problems (i.e., separation distress, inhibition to novelty), externalizing problems, and social competence when toddlers were 18 months old (n = 256) and a year later (n = 230). Mothers completed the Coping With Toddlers' Negative Emotions Scale, and their sensitivity and warmth were observed. Toddlers' effortful control was measured with a delay task and adults' reports (Early Childhood Behavior Questionnaire). Toddlers' social functioning was assessed with the Infant/Toddler Social and Emotional Assessment. Within each age, children's regulation significantly mediated the relation between supportive parenting and low levels of externalizing problems and separation distress, and high social competence. When using stronger tests of mediation, controlling for stability over time, the authors found only partial evidence for mediation. The findings suggest these relations may be set at an early age.
Mental Health Approaches to Child Victims of Acts of Terrorism

It has long been recognized that human beings exposed to severe stress may develop psychological symptoms. With recent terrorist acts around the world including the New York City World Trade Center September 11, 2001 atrocity, there has been a growing interest in the specific impact of terrorist acts on the victims and witnesses. One area that has received less study is the specific impact on children. This paper reviews some of the general effects of traumatic stress on children and the history of the research in this area including a specific discussion of post-traumatic stress disorder in children. This is followed by a review of how children might react to the trauma of a terrorist attack differentiating between three different subgroups of children (preschool age children, school-age children, and adolescents). Then there is a review of what a comprehensive evaluation of childhood victims of terrorism should entail. Finally, treatment modalities that have been shown to be effective are reviewed.
INTERTEMPORAL ASSET PRICING WITHOUT CONSUMPTION DATA: EMPIRICAL TESTS

In this paper I conduct tests of an intertemporal asset pricing model using variables that forecast stock returns as the risk factors. I document that the forecasting variables are priced so that expected excess returns are related to their conditional covariances with the forecasting variables. The variability in the covariance risk fails to explain the cross-sectional and time-series variation in expected stock returns. Evidence rejects restrictions on the prices of covariance risk imposed by the model with constant volatilities. I also find that an extended model that allows time-varying conditional volatilities is misspecified.
Transcranial nasoethmoidal dermoids: A review and rationale for approach

Nasal dermoid cysts are a common congenital midline nasal lesion. Surgical removal may require cranial exposure, a nasal approach, or a combination of the two, and is dictated by the location and extent of disease. Here, we review common presentations of nasal dermoids and illustrate extirpation by each of these three potential approaches. In this series, a 4 year-old female, a 6 year-old female, and a 3 year-old male underwent a transcranial, open rhinoplasty, and combined transcranial and open nasal approach, respectively, without complications. This series reviews the presentation and surgical treatment of nasal dermoids with transcranial extension and illustrates 3 commonly employed approaches for the removal of nasal dermoids.
Effects of dietary arginine on endocrine growth factors of channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus

Abstract Thyroid (TH) and growth (GH) hormones, and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) are anabolic regulators in fish and responsive to nutrient intake. A study was conducted to determine if previously reported growth effects of dietary arginine (ARG) in channel catfish were related to the activation of endocrine axes. In a first experiment, catfish were fed incremental levels of ARG (0.5 – 4% of diet) for 6 weeks and sampled at 2-week intervals. In a second experiment, fasted (48 h) fish were fed a single ration of ARG (0.5 or 4% of diet) and sampled at various intervals (0 to 72 h postprandial, PP). Experiment 1 did not reveal any influence of ARG on circulating TH, GH, or IGF-I despite the significantly increased growth of fish fed ARG-enriched diets. In experiment 2, feeding the 4% ARG diet significantly increased the amplitude of pulsatile plasma GH levels and also significantly increased IGF-I mRNA in liver and muscle, (at 2 h PP) and plasma IGF-I levels (at 6 h PP). Although relatively infrequent sampling failed to reveal alterations in TH or GH levels in response to ARG-induced growth activation, PP high frequency sampling unveiled high amplitude pulsatile GH secretions and may be important in activating IGF production in target tissues. Additionally, expressed and secreted IGF-I exhibited discernible patterns which closely correlate with ARG-induced growth effects in catfish.
Inhibition of cytopathic action of Salisbury virus by antiviral agent 1758.

SummaryIt has been found that an antiviral agent called 1758, and somewhat similar to agent 8450 in antiviral action in mice, exhibits demonstrable inhibition of the cytopathic action of Salisbury virus H.G.P. This antiviral agent is of penicillium origin, and virus H.G.P. is one of several strains reported of common cold origin.Addendum: See report of 1758 as Statolon in Probst, G. W. and Kleinschmidt, W. J., Federation Proceedings, 1961, v20, 441.
Recombinant toxin DAB389EGF is cytotoxic to human pancreatic cancer cells

Few malignancies have frustrated the persistent efforts of the oncologist like pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is usually unresectable at the time of diagnosis because of metastasis or local extension. Despite the aggressive nature of this deadly disease, systemic treatment options are limited. Even the recent introduction of the deoxycytidine analogue gemcitabine does not extend median survival of responders beyond a year. Clearly, alternative, more effective regimens are needed for treating pancreatic carcinoma. In pancreatic cancer, there is overexpression of growth factors and growth factor receptors, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Targeted toxins consist of a targeting polypeptide covalently linked to a peptide toxin. DAB(389)EGF is a fusion protein composed of the catalytic and translocation domains of diphtheria toxin fused via a His-Ala linker to human epidermal growth factor (EGF). The authors have previously shown that DAB(389)EGF is selectively toxic to EGFR-overexpressing cells, including human brain tumour and lung carcinoma cell lines. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma should be responsive to this fusion protein based on its EGFR overexpression. However, the cytotoxic effect of DAB(389)EGF on human pancreatic carcinoma cell lines has yet to be explored. The authors describe preliminary data showing the potent cytotoxicity of DAB(389)EGF to human pancreatic carcinoma cell lines. Because of the nonspecific toxicity to liver and kidney (which possess EGFR) of systemic administration, they also propose a potential novel drug delivery system for direct toxin implantation into pancreatic tumours using endoscopic ultrasound guided fine-needle injection (EUS-FNI). Hopefully, the use of these targeted therapeutic approaches in combination with other modalities may further extend survival and quality of life in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Constrained Geometry Chromium Catalysts for Olefin Polymerization

Chromium(III) alkyls featuring an amido ligand tethered to a permethylcyclopentadienyl ring (i.e. [η5-Me4C5SiMe2-η1-NtBu]CrR) have been prepared and structurally characterized. They catalyze the po...
Analysis of model polyurethane thermolysis products by direct mass spectrometer sampling

The results obtained using a molecular beam direct sampling mass spectrometer system to determine the thermolysis products and investigate the decomposition kinetics of two model linear polyurethanes are reported. The polyurethanes are shown to degrade in this system strictly to the polycondensation reactants. These results conflict with previous research which indicated that the model polymers degraded by different mechanisms and yielded different degradation products. Kinetic analysis of results obtained from rapid thermolysis of the polymer in the ion source chamber of the pyrolysis mass spectrometer using the activation energy and frequency factor parameters deduced from thermogravimetric analysis of the same polymers reproduced the experimental data on decomposition as a function of time and temperature quite satisfactorily.
Decreased ouabain binding in cystic fibrosis fibroblasts in potassium-free medium.

We have previously demonstrated that cystic fibrosis (CF) cells show increased survival compared to normal cells when exposed to ouabain in medium lacking potassium. In this report, we show that the CF cells bind significantly less ouabain than the normal cells in potassium-deficient medium. Using age-matched normal and CF skin fibroblast strains, we show that (1) at ouabain concentrations <20 × 10−9 M binding for both normal and CF cells is linear with time for 1 h and reaches equilibrium after 4 h; (2) at ouabain concentrations between 2 and 20 × 10-9 M, the initial rate of binding for CF cells is approx. 70% of the normal cells; (3) under equilibrium-binding conditions, Scatchard analysis reveals that three different CF strains have 12, 16, and 44% fewer ouabain-binding sites than their matched normal controls. In addition, studies in potassium-free medium of the inhibition of 86Rb flux (a K+ analogue) into the cell by ouabain show no differences between CF and normal cells. We have also previously shown that in a low glucose, potassium-deficient medium the CF cells survived ouabain exposure no better than normal cells. In this report, equilibrium-binding studies with [3H]ouabain clearly show that CF cells bind less ouabain under these conditions than normal cells. These results indicate that ouabain resistance in CF cells is not solely a function of differences in ouabain binding. Furthermore, the differential ouabain killing may not be due to ion transport differences, but rather to as yet unknown mechanisms. CF cells thus appear to be unlike previously characterized ouabain-resistant mutants.
Autotransplantation as an Effective Therapy for the Loin Pain-Hematuria Syndrome: Case Reports and a Review of the Literature

AbstractPurpose: The loin pain-hematuria syndrome is a well recognized but poorly understood clinical condition in which patients have progressive loin pain accompanied by hematuria but they maintain stable renal function. We present 2 cases effectively treated with renal autotransplantation, as well as a review of the literature, and a coherent algorithm for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.Materials and Methods: The medical literature concerning the loin pain-hematuria syndrome was reviewed. In 1994 we performed renal autotransplantation on 2 patients with the loin pain-hematuria syndrome at our institution.Results: Extensive urological evaluation revealed no obvious underlying abnormalities in patients with the loin pain-hematuria syndrome. Theories for the pathogenesis of this condition range from thrombotic phenomena to autoimmune processes. Treatment efforts have been directed primarily towards pain management. Narcotic dependence becomes progressive as the pain becomes debilitating. In...
Enteric neural modulation of slow-wave activity in cat colon.

These studies test the hypothesis that the generation of colonic slow waves can be modulated by stimulation of intrinsic enteric nerves and attempt to identify a neurotransmitter that may be responsible for this change in slow-wave activity. Isolated segments from the mid-colon of the cat generated regular, continuous slow waves at 6.5±1.1 cpm. Activation of the intrinsic nerves by electrical field stimulation transiently reduced the rate of slow-wave generation to 4.7±0.7 cpm (P<0.001). The response to electrical stimulation was blocked by tetrodotoxin and α-chymotrypsin. The following antagonists were not effective in blocking the response: atropine, hexamethonium, phenoxybenzamine, propranolol, methysergide, naloxone, or imidazole. Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (5×10−7 M) decreased slow wave frequency to 4.5±0.4 cpm. Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) fragment 10-28 inhibited the effect of electrical field stimulation but also decreased the slow-wave frequency. VIP-immunoreactive nerves were much more abundant in the plexus submucosus extremus than in the circular muscle of the muscularis externa. Thus, pacemakers for colonic slow waves may be modulated by intrinsic colonic nerves, and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide may be the neurotransmitter responsible for this modulation.
A protracted hospital-associated outbreak of salmonellosis due to a multiple-antibiotic-resistant strain of Salmonella indiana

Three separate but related episodes of nosocomial infection with a multiple-antibiotic-resistant Salmonella indiana were investigated on a pediatric ward of a large municipal hospital. Enforcement of isolation techniques as well as other measures designed to reduce person-to-person spread of infection halted each episode. Prior antimicrobial therapy with antibiotics to which the organism was resistant probably contributed to the ease with which the organism was transmitted.
Continent Urinary Diversion: The Children's Hospital Experience

ABSTRACTPurpose: Continent urinary diversion has become increasingly important for treating childhood urinary tract pathology that cannot be managed by direct reconstructive techniques. We review our 9-year experience with continent diversion.Materials and Methods: Since 1986 continent diversions were created in 74 patients 3 to 38 years old (mean age 13.7). The underlying pathological condition was the exstrophy/epispadias complex in 34 patients, neurological disorders in 23, malignancy in 13 and other congenital anomalies in 4. Followup averaged 5.2 years after the last procedure. Nonbladder reservoirs in 39 patients (53%) were fashioned from ileocolic (17), colic (7), gastrocolic (6), sigmoid (3), gastrosigmoid (2), ileosigmoid (2), ileal (1) and gastroileac (1) segments. When possible, the native bladder was incorporated into the reconstructive strategy. A total of 26 patients underwent bladder augmentation with intestine or stomach, including ileal (11), gastric (8), sigmoid (3), gastroileac (2) and ...
Hypertrophic Subaortic Stenosis Complicated by High Degree Heart Block: Successful Treatment with an Atrial Synchronous Ventricular Pacemaker

The development of high degree atrioventricular block in a patient with hypertrophic subaortic stenosis underscores the importance of a properly timed atrial contraction in this disorder. Atrial synchronous ventricular pacing therapy, by providing reliably timed atrial systole and increased left ventricular end-diastolic volume, has an important role in this patient and in similar cases.
Reply to Letter to the Editor: The Withdrawn ASR™ THA and Hip Resurfacing Systems: How Have Our Patients Fared Over 1 to 6 Years?

We thank Drs. Amstutz and Le Duff for their thoughtful letter regarding our study [1]. Specifically, they take issue with our Discussion section and the statement regarding the performance of metal-on-metal (MOM) devices as a class. I suspect they would agree that when taken as a class and grouped together as MOM devices they do not perform as favorably as the metal-on-polymer devices in the registry data. Their point is well taken that it likely is not fair to group all of the MOM devices in this fashion as the different devices have varied results reported in the literature. Some devices have fared better and functioned well in many patients. However, we believe the articular surface replacement (ASR™) device is not the only one with failure issues and therefore this class of devices needs further scrutiny and followup. The unanticipated mechanisms of failure in metal devices related to unintended edge loading and corrosion are real and the class of devices needs to be monitored. We also recognize that resurfacing is different than large-head total hip replacement and success rates vary from center to center and among patients. Drs. Amstutz and Le Duff reference some formidable results in their letter yet we continue to be confronted with registry results that question MOM devices as a class. Smith et al. recently reported on the National Joint Registry for England and Wales and found that hip resurfacing as a class did not perform as well as contemporary THAs [2, 3]. This particularly was the case for female patients and only male patients with large heads had results that were similar to THA results. Their studies grouped MOM resurfacing and did not separate device performance and we suspect Drs. Amstutz and Le Duff would take issue with that.
Desynchronization of epileptiform activity by extracellular current pulses in rat hippocampal slices

1. A single cathodic current pulse applied in the somatic CA1 region of the hippocampus was found to induce a large decrease in the amplitude of the population spike. 2. Intracellular recordings showed intense cellular firing suggesting the amplitude decrease could not be attributed to a decrease in neuronal firing. 3. Simultaneous intracellular and extracellular potentials were recorded to analyse the synchronization of neuronal firing in the CA1 region. Action potentials were synchronized with the first population spike but this synchronization decreased with subsequent spikes. Histograms of the phase of the action potentials displayed a normal distribution. 4. Histograms of the phases of the action potentials following the application of the 'singular stimulus' (one producing a singular response) revealed a uniform distribution of the phases suggesting that the neuronal population was desynchronized. 5. This desynchronization effect of the singular stimulus was verified by double intracellular recordings. The simultaneous firing of two neurons could be desynchronized by the application of the singular stimulus. 6. These findings indicate that it is possible to desynchronize a neuronal pool with the application of a single current pulse. In addition, the results show that it is possible for a neuronal population to fire a large number of action potentials with no resulting evoked potentials in the extracellular space.
Enantioselective preparation of the C1-C11 fragment of apoptolidin.

A novel approach toward the synthesis of the triene portion of the biologically active polyketide apoptolidin is described. The use of an iterative thionyl chloride rearrangement/oxidation sequence to construct trisubstituted olefins is explored.
Compositional zonation in garnets in peridotite xenoliths

Garnets in 42 peridotite xenoliths, most from southern Africa, have been analyzed by electron probe to seek correlations between compositional zonation and rock history. Xenoliths have been placed into the following 6 groups, based primarily upon zonation in garnet: I (12 rocks)-zonation dominated by enrichment of Ti and other incompatible elements in garnet rims; II (10 rocks)-garnet nearly homogeneous; III (8 rocks)-rims depleted in Cr, with little or no related zonation of Ti; IV (3 rocks)-slight Ti zonation sympathetic to that of Cr; V (3 rocks)-garnet rims depleted or enriched in Cr, and chromite included in garnet; VI (6 rocks)-garnets with other characteristics. Element partitioning between olivine, pyroxene, and garnet rims generally is consistent with the assumption of equilibrium before eruption. Although one analyzed rock contains olivine and pyroxene that may have non-equilibrated oxygen isotopes, no corresponding departures from chemical equilibrium were noted. Causes of zoning include melt infiltration and changes in temperature and pressure. Zonation was caused or heavily influenced by melt infiltration in garnets of Group I. In Groups III, IV, and V, most compositional gradients in garnets are attributed to changes in temperature, pressure, or both, and gradients of Cr are characteristic. There are no simple relationships among wt% Cr2O3 in garnet, calculated temperature, and the presence of compositional gradients. Rather, garnets nearly homogeneous in Cr are present in rocks with calculated equilibration temperatures that span the range 800–1500 °C. Although the most prominent Cr gradients are found in relatively Cr-rich garnets of rocks for which calculated temperatures are below 1050 °C, gradients are well-defined in a Group IV rock with T≈1300 °C. The variety of Cr gradients in garnets erupted from a range of temperatures indicates that the zonations record diverse histories. Petrologic histories have been investigated by simulated cooling of model rock compositions in the system CaO−MgO−Al2O3−SiO2−Cr2O3. Proportions and compositions of pyroxene and garnet were calculated as functions of P and T. The most common pattern of zonation in Groups III and IV, a decrease of less than 1 wt% Cr2O3 core-to-rim, can be simulated by cooling of less than 200 °C or pressure decreases of less than 1 GPa. The preservation of growth zonation in garnets with calculated temperatures near 1300 °C implies that these garnets grew within a geologically short time before eruption, probably in response to fast cooling after crystallization of a small intrusion nearby. Progress in interpreting garnet zonations in part will depend upon determinations of diffusion rates for Cr. Zonation formed by diffusion within garnet cannot always be distinguished from that formed by growth, but Ca−Cr correlations unlike those typical of peridotite suite garnets may document diffusion.