cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical drug development for dementia with Lewy bodies: past and present

Introduction: Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is an under-researched area despite being the second most common type of degenerative dementia after Alzheimer's disease. It is an area of unmet need with no approved symptomatic or disease-modifying therapies. The pharmacological management of DLB is complex and challenging because early trials of drugs for DLB have resulted in no demonstrable efficacy. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the DLB population have only recently been initiated. Understanding results from previous and current clinical trials in DLB can provide insights for future research and development.Areas covered: We provide an overview of the DLB drug development landscape and the current treatment strategies. We reviewed ClinicalTrials.gov to identify all clinical trials for the treatment of DLB.Expert opinion: DLB drug development has significantly improved in recent years with eight agents now in clinical trials. However, more rigorous RCTs are urgently needed. Diagnostic criteria must be optimized to accurately diagnose patients for clinical trials and care. New biomarker strategies are necessary to improve diagnostic capabilities and trial designs, and novel drug targets should be identified to develop DLB specific disease-modifying therapies. Evaluating the current drug development landscape can provide insight into how best to optimize development practices.
Examining the use of multiple writing and discourse tasks in 5th grade mathematics

AbstractThe purpose of this study is to examine how fifth grade students were impacted by the infusion of multiple writing tasks in mathematics. In this study, writing tasks provided opportunities ...
Impact of an Onsite Endobronchial Ultrasound Program on the Time to Treatment of Cancer in Veterans.

Background Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is commonly employed in the diagnostic evaluation of pulmonary nodules and for mediastinal staging of lung cancer. We hypothesized that the establishment of an onsite EBUS program would decrease the time to the diagnosis and treatment of detected malignancy in veterans seen in a dedicated pulmonary nodule clinic. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients seen at the Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center (BVAMC) pulmonary nodule clinic and required diagnostic evaluation. One hundred and fifty consecutive patients before and after implementation of an onsite EBUS program were screened. Results Forty-nine patients from the pre-intervention group and 41 patients from the post-intervention group underwent diagnostic evaluation and were included in study analyses. There was no significant difference in the median number of days between CT chest and initial visit to the BVAMC Lung Mass Clinic (22 vs. 14 days, P = 0.06), CT chest to diagnostic procedure (47.5 vs. 37 days, P = 0.33), and CT chest to initial treatment of detected malignancy (103 vs. 88 days, P = 0.15). There was no significant difference in the lung cancer stages or 1-year mortality between groups. A total of 76 barriers to care were identified among the 90 patients. Conclusions There was a trend towards improving the time from the initial CT chest to the treatment of cancer with onsite availability of EBUS. More efforts need to be done to decrease the modifiable barriers to treatment to improve the overall lung cancer care for veterans.
Towards artificial intelligence for clinical stroke care.

Artificial intelligence algorithms are well suited to the fast decision making needed in the management of large vessel occlusive stroke. In a new study, a fully automated CT angiography algorithm identified large vessel occlusions with impressive sensitivity, but the work highlights the need for high reporting standards to maximize translatability.
Cancer symptom awareness in the US: Sociodemographic differences in a population-based survey of adults.

Abstract Symptom awareness may improve cancer outcomes by prompting timely help-seeking and diagnosis. Research in the UK has shown lower symptom awareness among sociodemographic groups at higher risk of poor cancer outcomes; however, no population-based surveys in the US have assessed whether cancer symptom awareness varies across sociodemographic groups. We therefore examined associations between sociodemographic factors and recognition of 11 cancer symptoms using a novel population-based survey of US adults. We conducted telephone interviews in 2014 with a population-representative sample of English-speaking adults (aged 50 and older) in the US (N = 1425) using an adapted Awareness and Beliefs about Cancer (ABC) survey. Socioeconomic status (SES) was indexed by education. Additional sociodemographic factors included gender, age, marital status, and race. We used multivariable logistic regression models to examine the association between sociodemographic factors and recognition of each symptom, adjusting for cancer experience. Participants recognized an average of 8.43 symptoms as potential signs of cancer. In multivariable analyses, less education consistently predicted lower recognition across the symptoms. As socioeconomic inequalities in cancer mortality widen, it is increasingly important to understand factors that may contribute to these disparities. Our results suggest that US adults of lower SES have lower cancer symptom awareness across symptoms, findings that echo results from other developed countries. With low rates of cancer screening, another approach to reducing cancer burden and disparities may be through greater symptom awareness for symptoms with lower awareness, though additional work is needed to identify mechanisms through which awareness may have its effects on cancer outcomes.
Integrating fundamental cause theory and Bourdieu to explain pathways between socioeconomic status and health: the case of health insurance denials for genetic testing

Fundamental cause theory (FCT) is among the most widely recognised and accepted social science frameworks used to examine the processes driving health inequalities. Despite the wide influence of the theory, it remains largely underutilised in practical and applied research on health disparities. This paper proposes that Pierre Bourdieu's theories of capital and symbolic power can be integrated with FCT to address limitations in the latter theory, making it more useful in health disparities research. Using a case study of U.S. health insurance claim denials for genetic testing among women with a breast cancer diagnosis, this work illustrates how the theoretical constructs of FCT and Bourdieu's work articulate, and consequently deepens our appreciation for the durable relationship between socioeconomic status and health. Study results reveal the multiple and complex mechanisms that play a role in access to healthcare services, which has significant implications for how we think about the role of health policy in addressing health disparities.
Use of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Neurocognitive Symptoms Associated With Concussion in Military Populations.

Background Since the year 2000, over 342 000 military service members have experienced a concussion, often associated with chronic neuropsychiatric and neurocognitive symptoms. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) protocols have been developed for many of these symptoms in the general population. Objective To conduct a scoping review of the literature on rTMS for neuropsychological and neurocognitive symptoms following concussion. Methods PubMed and Google Scholar search engines identified 9 articles, written in English, corresponding to the search terms TBI or concussion; and TMS or rTMS; and depression, PTSD, or cognition. Studies that were not therapeutic trials or case reports, did not have neuropsychiatric or neurocognitive primary outcome measures, or described samples where 80% or more of the cohort did not have a TBI were excluded. Results There were no reports of seizures nor difference in the frequency or quality of other adverse events as compared with the broader rTMS literature, supporting the safety of rTMS in this population. Support for the efficacy of rTMS for the treatment of neuropsychiatric and neurocognitive symptoms, in this population, is limited. Conclusions Large-scale, innovative, neuroscience-informed protocols are recommended to elucidate the potential utility of rTMS for the complex neuropsychiatric and neurocognitive symptoms associated with military concussions.
Sabotajes musicales y cinematográficos en la poesía juvenil de Pere Gimferrer

Aquest assaig s'inspira en la critica com a sabotatge de Manuel Asensi per a analitzar les col·leccions de poemes La muerte en Beverly Hills i De “Extrana Fruta” y otros poemas de Pere Gimferrer. La seua poesia juvenil anticipa una pletora d'obres literaries i filmiques espanyoles que recorren a un art tecnicament reproduit (en termes de Walter Benjamin) –especificament els discos del jazz i el cinema negre classic– per a modelizar subjectes i accions antitetics a les tendencies feixistes de la historia. La modelitzacio de nous subjectes s'aconsegueix gracies a una identificacio afectiva (el que Asensi crida afepto) facilitada per una experiencia no cronologica del temps associada amb el cinema. Aquesta poesia transmet un model del mon preocupat amb el subaltern historic lluitant per trobar la seua veu.
Cephalopod Retinal Development Shows Vertebrate-like Mechanisms of Neurogenesis

Neurogenesis, the regulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation in the developing nervous system, is the process that underlies the diversity of size and cell type found in animal nervous systems. Our understanding of how this process has evolved is limited because of the lack of high resolution data and live-imaging methods across species. The retina is a classic model for the study of neurogenesis in vertebrates and live-imaging of the retina has shown that during development, progenitor cells are organized in a pseudostratified neuroepithelium and nuclei migrate in coordination with the cell cycle along the apicobasal axis of the cell, a process called interkinetic nuclear migration. Eventually cells delaminate and differentiate within the boundaries of the epithelium. This process has been considered unique to vertebrates and thought to be important in maintaining organization during the development of a complex nervous system. Coleoid cephalopods, including squid, cuttlefish and octopus, have the largest nervous system of any invertebrate and convergently-evolved camera-type eyes, making them a compelling comparative system to vertebrates. Here we have pioneered live-imaging techniques to show that the squid, Doryteuthis pealeii, displays cellular mechanisms during cephalopod retinal neurogenesis that are hallmarks of vertebrate processes. We find that retinal progenitor cells in the squid undergo interkinetic nuclear migration until they exit the cell cycle, we identify retinal organization corresponding to progenitor, post-mitotic and differentiated cells, and we find that Notch signaling regulates this process. With cephalopods and vertebrates having diverged 550 million years ago, these results suggest that mechanisms thought to be unique to vertebrates may be common to highly proliferative neurogenic primordia contributing to a large nervous system.
Approaches to Adaptive Strategic Management

As suggested, adaptive strategic planning/positioning technologies are intended to serve as either complements to or substitutes for either the structured or dynamic contingency planning platforms we discussed in the two previous chapters. Both these approaches, recall, rested on planning constructs intelligible as Discrete-Bipartite model-base structures. Therefore, our need here is to be as explicit as possible about the conditions under which discrete-bipartite contingency planning technology may fail to provide an organization with an adequate level of strategic readiness.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Targeting the Systemic Manifestations of COPD

Optimal clinical management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requires a comprehensive, integrated approach encompassing both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an interdisciplinary, patient-centered approach to patient care that complements pharmacological therapy. It has emerged as a standard component of treatment of COPD, and as such, has a prominent place in all its current guidelines.
Potency trends of delta9-THC and other cannabinoids in confiscated marijuana from 1980-1997.

The analysis of 35,312 cannabis preparations confiscated in the USA over a period of 18 years for delta-9-tetrahy-drocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and other major cannabinoids is reported. Samples were identified as cannabis, hashish, or hash oil. Cannabis samples were further subdivided into marijuana (loose material, kilobricks and buds), sinsemilla, Thai sticks and ditchweed. The data showed that more than 82% of all confiscated samples were in the marijuana category for every year except 1980 (61%) and 1981 (75%). The potency (concentration of Δ9-THC) of marijuana samples rose from less than 1.5% in 1980 to approximately 3.3% in 1983 and 1984, then fluctuated around 3% till 1992. Since 1992, the potency of confiscated marijuana samples has continuously risen, going from 3.1% in 1992 to 4.2% in 1997. The average concentration of Δ9-THC in all cannabis samples showed a gradual rise from 3% in 1991 to 4.47% in 1997. Hashish and hash oil, on the other hand, showed no specific potency trends. Other major cannabinoids [cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC)] showed no significant change in their concentration over the years.
Problem Solving and Reasoning: Case-based

Case-based reasoning (CBR) is a paradigm of artificial intelligence and stance for cognitive science research. CBR models the reasoning process as primarily memory based, taking retrieved prior cases as a starting point for solving new problems and interpreting new situations. Fundamental problems include how to guide retrieval of relevant cases and how to adapt them to new needs. The CBR perspective is shaped by studies of human cognition, but the resulting approach has proved effective for developing applied intelligent systems in a wide range of domains. New directions include efforts to harness experiential knowledge on the Internet.
Infrared photochemistry of FBrCO. An experimental and theoretical study

An experimental and theoretical study has been performed on dissociation pathways of the FBrCO molecule. Experimentally, the infrared multiphoton dissociation technique has been used to dissociate FBrCO molecules and the products analysed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The threshold intensity for the multiphoton dissociation of FBrCO has been determined to be 143·4 ± 15 MW cm-2. Theoretically, ab initio molecular orbital theory calculations at the second order Moller-Plesset level of theory have been performed to estimate the energetics of the dissociation pathways of FBrCO. Both experimental and theoretical results suggest that the most favourable dissociation pathway on the ground state potential energy surface is the Br-C bond fission process to yield Br + FCO.
Inhibition of glucagon effects in perfused rat liver by (+)decanoylcarnitine.

Abstract In perfused livers from fasted rats, glucagon (2 x 10-9 m) caused a 75% increase of glucose formation from lactate, a 3-fold increase of urea production, and a 50% increase of ketogenesis. However, urea formation could account for only about 10% of the glucose formation. Subsequent addition of oleate caused a further 50% stimulation of gluconeogenesis and a 6-fold rise of ketone body formation. The effects of glucagon and oleate on gluconeogenesis were not additive, since glucagon addition in the presence of oleate had no further effect. The stimulation of gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis produced by oleate was almost completely abolished by (+)decanoylcarnitine, an inhibitor of palmitylcarnitine transferase. The effects of glucagon, however, were only partially inhibited by (+)decanoylcarnitine. Glucagon, either in the absence or presence of oleate, increased the ratios of lactate to pyruvate and β-hydroxybutyrate to acetoacetate in the perfusion fluid and in the liver, indicating a more reduced state of the NAD systems in both mitochondrial and cytosolic spaces. Direct measurements of oxidation-reduction changes by surface fluorometry showed that glucagon caused rapid reduction of flavin and pyridine nucleotides. These changes were diminished by prior addition of (+)decanoylcarnitine. Changes in the tissue contents of intermediates showed two control sites after glucagon addition, one between pyruvate and oxalacetate, and the other between fructose-1, 6-di-P and fructose-6-P. Similar changes were observed when oleate was added at the same time as glucagon. In previous publications it has been shown that interactions at these sites produced by oleate were consistent with observed increases in the tissue contents of acetyl coenzyme A and citrate, which presumably caused an activation of pyruvate carboxylase and an inhibition of phosphofructokinase, respectively. However, in the present experiments, neither acetyl-CoA nor citrate contents were significantly increased by glucagon. These results are interpreted as indicating that either other modulators, not measured in the present experiments, affect the activity of these enzymes, or that the concentrations of acetyl-CoA and citrate increased specifically in the mitochondrial and cytosolic compartments, respectively, without appreciably affecting the total tissue contents. The data are discussed in relation to the hypothesis that the gluconeogenic effect of glucagon is mediated by activation of a cyclic 3',5'-AMP-sensitive lipase in the liver which gradually releases fatty acids of different chain lengths. It is proposed that these fatty acids are oxidized partially by carnitine-dependent and partially by carnitine-independent pathways. The results are compatible with the suggestion that the stimulation of gluconeogenesis is secondary to effects produced by enhanced fatty acid oxidation.
DHEA protects against visceral obesity and muscle insulin resistance in rats fed a high-fat diet

Visceral obesity is frequently associated with muscle insulin resistance. Rats fed a high-fat diet rapidly develop obesity and insulin resistance. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has been reported to...
X-RAY PROPERTIES OF LOW-MASS PRE-MAIN SEQUENCE STARS IN THE ORION TRAPEZIUM CLUSTER

The Chandra HETG Orion Legacy Project (HOLP) is the first comprehensive set of observations of a very young massive stellar cluster that provides high-resolution X-ray spectra of very young stars over a wide mass range (0.7–2.3 M). In this paper, we focus on the six brightest X-ray sources with T Tauri stellar counterparts that are well-characterized at optical and infrared wavelengths. All stars show column densities which are substantially smaller than expected from optical extinction, indicating that the sources are located on the near side of the cluster with respect to the observer as well as that these stars are embedded in more dusty environments. Stellar X-ray luminosities are well above 10 31 erg s −1 , in some cases exceeding 10 32 erg s −1 for a substantial amount of time. The stars during these observations show no flares but are persistently bright. The spectra can be well fit with two temperature plasma components of 10 MK and 40 MK, of which the latter dominates the flux by a ratio 6:1 on average. The total emission measures range between 3–8 × 10 54 cm −3 and are comparable to active coronal sources. The fits to the Ne IXHe-Like K-shell lines indicate forbidden to inter-combination line ratios consistent with the low-density limit. Observed abundances compare well with active coronal sources underlying the coronal nature of these sources. The surface flux in this sample of 0.6–2.3 M classical T Tauri stars shows that coronal activity increases significantly between ages 0.1 and 10 Myr. The results demonstrate the power of X-ray line diagnostics to study coronal properties of T Tauri stars in young stellar clusters.
A short circulating peptide nanofiber as a carrier for tumoral delivery

Abstract The cellular interactions and in vivo distribution of the nanomaterials are known to be strongly influenced by their physiochemical properties. Here, we investigated and compared the biocompatibility, pharmacokinetics, and biodistribution of previously reported peptide-based nanofiber (NFP), with commercially available nanomaterials. The NFP was a 2-dimensional (2D) structure with an extremely narrow width (4nm) and a controllable length (50 to 400nm). NFP was found to be non-toxic, hemocompatible, and with a minimum uptake by macrophages. In vivo studies further demonstrated that NFP could be delivered to the tumor site more effectively, and within a very shorter period of time, than spherical nanoparticles. Importantly, the undelivered NFP was rapidly eliminated by renal clearance and, thus, avoiding its accumulation in the spleen or liver. Overall, our data suggested a new paradigm in drug delivery via using a short circulating NFP, rather than a long circulating 3D nanoparticle, as a delivery cargo. From the Clinical Editor In this study, the role of small peptide-based nanocarriers is investigated for tumor-specific delivery, reporting excellent targeting properties and a favorable toxicity profile.
Monte Carlo simulations of surface morphologies during mineral dissolution

Abstract The interdependence of surface morphology and the dissolution kinetics of minerals is studied by means of Monte Carlo simulations. A square lattice without dislocations is used. The standard kinetic Ising model is compared critically to facts and concepts from the coordination chemistry of oxide dissolution. Activated complex theory provides a link between the reversible Ising model and irreversible weathering reactions. Two sets of parameters, the surface roughness and the mol fractions of different sites (like steps and kinks), are used to quantify surface morphologies. These parameters are monitored in the simulations for a wide range of dissolution rates. The results indicate that steady-state surface morphologies are formed after a few lattice layers have been dissolved. The Monte Carlo data follow simple equations which link the kinetics of the model with the resulting surface morphologies. A partition function governs the mol fractions of sites in the steady state. On the basis of this result rigorous expressions for the Monte Carlo rate law are presented.
Scanning-tunneling-microscopy analysis of the charge-density-wave structure in NbSe3.

$^{93}\mathrm{Nb}$ NMR and scanning-tunneling-microscopy (STM) studies lead to different conclusions on the question of which chains are involved in the formation of the two charge-density waves (CDW's) in ${\mathrm{NbSe}}_{3}$. To resolve this conflict, we calculated the STM images of a single ${\mathrm{NbSe}}_{3}$ layer and analyzed the local densities of states (LDOS) of Nb and Se atoms in the vicinity of the Fermi level. The conflict arises from the fact that $^{93}\mathrm{Nb}$ NMR and STM measurements probe the LDOS of different atoms (Nb and Se atoms, respectively) at the Fermi level. Concerning the question of which chains are responsible for the CDW formation in ${\mathrm{NbSe}}_{3}$, however, the conclusion of the $^{93}\mathrm{Nb}$ NMR studies is appropriate because the major character of the electrons at the Fermi level is the Nb atoms of type-I and -III chains.
Measurements of turbulent flow in a channel at low Reynolds numbers

Normal and streamwise components of the velocity fields of turbulent flow in a channel at low Reynolds numbers have been measured with laser-Doppler techniques. The experiments duplicate the conditions used in current direct numerical simulations of channel flow, and good, but not exact, agreement is found for single-point moments through fourth order. In order to eliminate LDV velocity bias and to measure velocity spectra, the mean time interval between LDV signals was adjusted to be much smaller than the smallest turbulence time scale. Spectra of the streamwise and normal components of velocity at locations spanning the channel are presented.
Why do RNA viruses recombine

Recombination occurs in many RNA viruses and can be of major evolutionary significance. However, rates of recombination vary dramatically among RNA viruses, which can range from clonal to highly recombinogenic. Here, we review the factors that might explain this variation in recombination frequency and show that there is little evidence that recombination is favoured by natural selection to create advantageous genotypes or purge deleterious mutations, as predicted if recombination functions as a form of sexual reproduction. Rather, recombination rates seemingly reflect larger-scale patterns of viral genome organization, such that recombination may be a mechanistic by-product of the evolutionary pressures acting on other aspects of virus biology.
Adults with Autism: Outcomes, Family Effects, and the Multi-Family Group Psychoeducation Model

Although an increasing number of individuals with autism spectrum disorders are entering adulthood, currently there are few evidence-based programs for individuals later in the life course. In this paper we present an overview of recent research on outcomes for adolescents and adults with ASD and highlight the role of the family for individuals with ASD during the transition to adulthood. We also discuss multi-family group psychoeducation as a promising model for use with individuals with ASD who are transitioning to adulthood.
808-4 The Presence and Duration of an Excitable Gap During Ventricular Fibrillation in a Canine Model of Myocardial Infarction

An excitable gap (EG) occupying 50% of the cycle length has been reported in a non-infarcted canine model of ventricular fibrillation (VF). To evaluate the presence and duration of an EG in VF post infarction, we studied 9 mongrel dogs at 5 days (n = 5) and 8 weeks (n = 4) post LAO ligation. VF induced by programmed stimulation was recorded using an 8 by 14 electrode array (2.5 mm interelectrode distance) over the infarcted area. The mean VF cycle length (VFCL) was determined at each site. EG was determined by a wavefront analysis propagation method. Sites at which both conduction and block occurred on different cycles were analyzed. At each, the interval from each activation to the subsequent blocked (R-B) or conducted (R-C) impulse was recorded, along with the R-C interval immediately preceding. The recovery period at each site was estimated as the range bounded by the maximal R-B and minimal R-C. The EG was determined by the difference of the recovery period and the mean R-C at each site Results Fifty eight sites were suitable for analysis. Results of analysis (Mean or mean ± standard deviation): Group Mean R-C Max R-B Min R-C EG Mean EG as %CL 5 Day 154 ± 29 ms 104 ± 31 ms 124 ± 35 ms 29–49 ms 22–31% 8 Week 132 ± 23 ms 97 ± 21 ms 101 ± 25 ms 30–35 ms 23–30% p = 0.002 p = 0.28 p = 0.008 The mean R-C at these sites was longer than the mean VFCL for all sites in the 5 day group (mean VFCL 133 ± 22 ms at 5 days, 130 ± 15 ms at 8 weeks). A trend toward a longer upper limit of EG was seen in the 5 day group (p = 0.08). In 29% of all sites (36% at 5 days, 20% at 8 weeks) a significant EG (≥ 10 ms) was not present. Conclusions An excitable gap exists at most sites during VF in a canine model of myocardial infarction, but is absent in a minority of sites. The gap may be shorter in absolute duration in chronic infarction (8 weeks) than in subacute infarction (5 days). although the proportion of cycle length occupied by the EG is similar in both groups. The site to site heterogeneity in the magnitude and presence of EG in infarcted myocardium has implications for the use of pacing techniques to modulate VE
Yin and yang of mediator function revealed by human mutants

Mediator is an ∼30-subunit multiprotein complex approximately twice the size of the 12-subunit RNA polymerase (i.e., RNA polymerase II [Pol II]) that transcribes most human genes. Mediator functions as a molecular bridge between Pol II bound at transcription start sites (TSSs) and activation and repression domains of regulatory sequence-specific DNA binding transcription factors (TFs) bound to enhancers and promoter proximal transcription control sequences (1⇓⇓⇓–5) (Fig. 1). In PNAS, Zhou et al. (6) report a significant advance in understanding how mutations in one Mediator subunit, MED12, result in two types of X-linked intellectual disability known as FG and Lujan syndromes. Studies of the mutant Mediators reveal how MED12 interactions with different components of the transcriptional machine produce opposing activating and inhibitory influences necessary for the proper level of transcription required for normal development.
Relation between Melting and Textural Properties of Process Cheddar Cheese

Meltability and textural characteristics were evaluated in 48 batches of process Cheddar cheese prepared in pilot plant equipment. Correlation between melting spread at 139°C and cohesiveness at 21°C was positive and large. Prolongation of cooking up to 15 min at 74°C lowered meltability and cohesiveness. Within the range of weighted average ages of cheese (3 to 5.8 mo), no relation between melting spread or cohesiveness and age was consistent.
Screening for Latent Coronary Artery Disease by Fluoroscopic Detection of Calcium in the Coronary Arteries

Abstract In a population comprised of patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD), it has been shown that the sensitivity and specificity of conventional fluoroscopy for detection of stenosis is good when age and extent of calcium are considered. 1 However, because coronary angiography is difficult to justify in the absence of active CAD, only the predictive value of a positive fluoroscopic test has been reported in asymptomatic subjects. 2,3 Moreover, the influence of gender, age, and number of arteries calcified has not been examined in this group. To clarify the potential of fluoroscopy for detecting latent CAD and to assess the effect of age, sex and severity of calcium on its diagnostic efficacy, we studied patients undergoing coronary arteriography for nonischemic heart disease who had no evidence of concomitant CAD.
Chronic effects of prepubertal ethanol administration on steroidogenic acute regulatory protein in the rat ovary.

Background: A mitochondrial protein, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), plays an essential role in steroidogenesis by facilitating delivery of cholesterol across the mitochondrial membrane. Because ethanol (EtOH) causes suppressed estradiol (E2) secretion in prepubertal female rats and rhesus monkeys, we evaluated the effects of chronic EtOH administration on prepubertal ovarian StAR. Methods: Rats were implanted with a gastric cannula on day 24 and began receiving control or EtOH diets on day 28. At 0800 hr on day 33, the experimental groups were subdivided. Half of the EtOH-treated animals received a subcutaneous injection of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG; 15 IU), and the other half received an injection of saline. The chow-fed and liquid-diet control groups were also subdivided, with half receiving the PMSG and the other half receiving saline. Eight hours after the respective injections, the animals were killed, and their ovaries and blood were collected. Results: The ovaries from EtOH-treated rats showed decreased basal expression of both the 3.8-kb (p < 0.05) and 1.7-kb (p < 0.01) StAR transcripts. PMSG-stimulated animals not exposed to EtOH showed a more than 2-fold increase (p < 0.01) in the ovarian levels of both transcripts. Western blot analysis revealed that EtOH exposure decreased (p < 0.001) the basal expression of StAR protein, which paralleled the decrease in basal StAR messenger RNA. PMSG induced an increase (p < 0.001) in the levels of StAR protein, and this effect was blunted (p < 0.01) by EtOH. These changes observed in ovarian StAR protein were paralleled by decreases in serum pregnenolone and E2. Conclusions: These results demonstrate for the first time that ovarian StAR is a target for the chronic action of EtOH to alter prepubertal steroidogenesis, resulting in suppressed serum E2 secretion during a critical time of development.
A clearing technique for histochemical location of GUS activity in pollen tubes and ovules ofLycopersicon

We describe a protocol to locate GUS activity, remove browning due to polyphenolics and clear floral tissue fromLycopersicon species. Suggestions are given to adapt this protocol for samples from other species.
Dishabituation of the head-shake response in the rat.

The effects of presenting a vibratory-auditory extraneous stimulus during habituation of the head-shake response in the rat were studied. In the Within-Trial condition the dishabituatory stimulus was presented during habituation trials, while in the Between-Trial condition it was presented during intertrial intervals. The results revealed that the extraneous stimulus produced a brief period (2–3 sec) of increased responding, followed by a 15- to 20-sec period of response reduction. No evidence for retardation of across-trial habituation was found. The excitatory effect increased across trials and across sessions (i.e., habituation of dishabituation failed to occur). While the results support the interpretation of dishabituation as a temporary, superimposed process of sensitization, they also suggest that dishabituatory phenomena may be more complex than generally thought.
Charmian's “lass unparallel'd”

At the close of Antony and Cleopatra, Cleopatra's death is followed by Charmian's moving valediction: So fare thee well! Now boast thee, death, in thy possession lies A lass unparallel'd. Downy win...
New suspension culture system (Mini‐AR)

A new suspension culture system (Mini-AR) based on the Stoke's drag law for suspended particles is described. This apparatus can be utilized for the maintenance of mammalian kidney cells in both short- and long-term cultures.
Environmental performance of photopolymer holographic optical elements

A variety of environmental exposure tests were conducted on holographic optical elements. Previous reports from our lab have largely been confined to studies on simple mirror holograms in unconverted format. This study was expanded to include slant-fringe diffuse reflectors as well as normal- incidence simple mirrors converted into commercially practical formats with adhesives and different types of support substrates. Holograms were characterized using reflectance as well as transmission spectroscopy. Films were subjected to 30 cycles of 80 degree(s)C to -30 degree(s)C air-to- air temperature cycling, 14 day 70 degree(s)C/95% RH hold, 14 day 100 degree(s)C dry heat hold, 540 hour continuous ultraviolet exposure, and 14 day cycled fluorescent roomlight exposure. Playback wavelength and diffraction efficiency was stable under all conditions. As reported earlier, exposure to intense ultraviolet light increases yellowness of the photopolymer holograms, but this can be prevented by laminating a UV-absorbing layer atop the film.
RPA stabilizes the XPA-damaged DNA complex through protein-protein interaction.

The xeroderma pigmentosum group A complementing protein (XPA) and eukaryotic replication protein A (RPA) are among the major damage-recognition proteins involved in the early stage of nucleotide excision repair (NER). XPA and RPA are able to bind damaged DNA independently, although RPA interaction stimulates XPA binding to damaged DNA [Li, L., Lu, X., Peterson, C. A., and Legerski, R. J. (1995) Mol. Cell. Biol. 15, 5396−5402 (1); Stigger, E., Drissi, R., and Lee, S.-H. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 9337−9343 (2)]. In this study, we used surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis to investigate the interaction of XPA and RPA with two major types of UV-damaged DNA: the (6-4) photoproduct and the cis-syn cyclobutane dimer of thymidine. Both XPA and RPA preferentially bind to (6-4) photoproduct-containing duplex DNA over cis-syn cyclobutane dimer-containing DNA. The binding of XPA to (6-4) photoproduct was weak (KD = 2.13 × 10-8 M), whereas RPA showed a very stable interaction with (6-4) photoproduct (KD = 2.02 ×...
Comparison of agarose and dextran-grafted agarose strong ion exchangers for the separation of protein aggregates

The control of aggregate levels in recombinant protein based drugs is a primary concern during process development and manufacture. In recent years, a novel class of dextran-grafted ion exchange matrices has gained popularity for process scale protein purification due to increased mass transfer rates and higher dynamic binding capacity compared to conventional matrices. Using bovine serum albumin and a monoclonal antibody as model proteins, we studied Sepharose FF and Sepharose XL ion exchangers for the separation of protein aggregates. Experimental results comparing linear gradient elution, stepwise elution, and flow-through chromatography for aggregate separation are described. Differences in performance for the various ion exchangers are discussed and modeled. Strategies for the optimization of protein aggregate separation are provided.
Knowledge-based spatial decision support systems: An assessment of environmental adaptability of crops

The development of knowledge-based decision support systems for environmental planning requires the management of complex geospatial information, the integration of expert judgment with decision models, and the dynamic visualization of geographic terrain. This paper describes the design and implementation of a knowledge-based interactive spatial decision support system for identifying the adaptability of crops at a given agro-ecological zone. The system (Eco-SDSS) illustrates the integration of an expert database ECOCROP 1, developed by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to offer a flexible interface to identify tolerant plant species for a defined use and descriptions. The use of such tools offers increasing efficiency for potential extension and research in crop management and land use planning.
A hot spot for hydrogen peroxide-induced damage in the human hypoxia-inducible factor 1 binding site of the PGK 1 gene

Using ligation-mediated polymerase chain reaction to separately map the distribution of induced oxidized bases and strand breaks along the human PGK1 promoter at nucleotide resolution, we previously described the pattern of oxidative DNA damage induced in vitro by Cu(II)/ascorbate/H2O2 [J. Biol. Chem. 270, 17633-17640 (1995)]. Here we report that the pattern of in vivo base damage caused by H2O2 is almost identical to that of the previously used in vitro system with the exception of transcription factor-associated footprints. An unusually strong positive footprint for both strand breaks and oxidized bases is associated with binding of the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1. Base damage at this footprint was 52-91% repaired in 24 h, which was similar to the global base damage repair rate. However, strand breaks at this footprint were only 39-55% repaired in 24 h or approximately 100-fold slower than the global strand break repair rate.
Absence of immunopathology associated with repeated IV administration of bovine Hb-based oxygen carrier in dogs.

BACKGROUND: A Hb-based oxygen carrier, HBOC-301, is licensed by the FDA for use as a single-dose product to treat anemia in canines. The objective of this study was to investigate the immunopathologic consequences of multiple doses of HBOC-301. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: HBOC-301 was administered intravenously at 1.3 g per kg (10 mL/kg) nine times over 50 weeks to each of eight splenectomized beagles. During interim weeks, HBOC-301-specific IgG antibody was quantified in serum by immunoassay. Immunofluorescence studies were performed on thin sections of control and test dog livers and kidneys to detect any IgG, IgM, IgA, or C3 deposition. Physiology (p50) studies evaluated the capacity of circulating HBOC-301-specific IgG antibody to competitively block the binding of oxygen to HBOC-301. RESULTS: HBOC-301-specific IgG antibody was detected in seven of eight HBOC-301-treated dogs by Week 6. Peak antibody levels occurred by Week 10 (after the third dose). Immunofluorescence studies detected comparable IgG, IgA, IgM, or C3 deposition patterns in the kidneys and livers of both control and test dogs, which indicated no selective antibody-mediated deposition from multiple HBOC-301 administrations. Moreover, HBOC-301-specific IgG antibody in serum was unable to inhibit oxygen binding to the HBOC-301 in vitro, which indicated that circulating antibody did not diminish the oxygen-binding capacity of HBOC-301. CONCLUSION: The immunologic, histologic, and physiologic data support the safety of multidose administration of HBOC-301 in canines.
An equivariant higher index theory and nonpositively curved manifolds

In this paper, we define an equivariant higher index map from K∗Γ(X) to K∗(C∗(X)Γ) if a torsion-free discrete group Γ acts on a manifold X properly, where C∗(X)Γ is the norm closure of all locally compact, Γ-invariant operators with finite propagation. When Γ acts on X properly and cocompactly, this equivariant higher index map coincides with the Baum–Connes map [P. Baum, A. Connes, K-theory for discrete groups, in: D. Evens, M. Takesaki (Eds.), Operator Algebras and Applications, Cambridge Univ. Press, Cambridge, 1989, pp. 1–20; P. Baum, A. Connes, N. Higson, Classifying space for proper actions and K-theory of group C∗-algebras, in: C∗-Algebras: 1943–1993, San Antonio, TX, 1993, in: Contemp. Math., vol. 167, Amer. Math. Soc., Providence, RI, 1994, pp. 240–291]. When Γ is trivial, this equivariant higher index map is the coarse Baum–Connes map [J. Roe, Coarse cohomology and index theory on complete Riemannian manifolds, Mem. Amer. Math. Soc. 104 (497) (1993); J. Roe, Index Theory, Coarse Geometry, and the Topology of Manifolds, CBMS Reg. Conf. Ser. Math., vol. 90, Amer. Math. Soc., Providence, RI, 1996]. If X is a simply-connected complete Riemannian manifold with nonpositive sectional curvature and Γ is a torsion-free discrete group acting on X properly and isometrically, we prove that the equivariant higher index map is injective.
Intercultural adjustment and friendship dialectics in international students: A qualitative study

Abstract Despite the accelerating increase of international students on American campus, there is still a lack of in-depth understanding of how these individuals make sense of their adjustment journey or how they construct meaning concerning their friendship development experience. Existing adjustment research tended to focus primarily on the motivational goals of adjustment or the type of friendship network patterns (e.g., host national network, co-national network, or multi-national network) but did not probe deeper into the narratives of international students’ identity-change adjustment processes or the quality of their friendship networks. Using identity negotiation theory as a guide, this study utilized an interpretive methodology to examine the adjustment narratives and friendship stories of 20 international students. The findings revealed three themes: a variety of intercultural adjustment patterns and with a predominant upward trend or M-shaped adjustment trend, the role of cultural expectancy and personal time sense in intercultural friendship development, and identity shock issues and friendship dialectics. The findings have implications for the study of intercultural adjustment process and friendship development pattern especially concerning the intercultural friendship dialectics of feeling visible versus invisible, communication openness versus closedness, and feeling like a guest versus feeling like an alien.
Gas and vapor exposure assessment methods.

Developing methods for making exposure assessment measurements for gases and vapors is a well-developed, active research field. Industry, academia, and government agencies have worked in this field for several decades, resulting in many sampling and analytical methods for gases and vapors for use in occupational, environmental, and indoor air applications. Consensus groups such as the International Standards Organization (ISO) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) have contributed to the standard (methods) bank as well. There is much being done and much remaining to be done in methods development for gases and vapors. Additionally, consideration is now being given to issues like exposure to mixtures (noise and solvent vapors), mixed exposures (asphalt, diesel exhaust), and ethical acceptability - areas that before were, for a variety of reasons, largely ignored. This presentation focuses on method availability for exposure assessment, on research opportunities relative to gas and vapor...
Cytogenetic and Molecular Characterization of Hybrids between 6x, 4x, and 2x Ploidy Levels in Crested Wheatgrass

The crested wheatgrass cultivar 'Hycrest,' which consists of germplasm from an induced tetraploid of Agropuron cristatum (2n = 4x = 28) (L.) Gaertn. and a natural tetraploid (2n = 4x = 28) of A. desertorum (Fisch. Ex Link) Schultes, was hybridized with a promising broadleaf hexaploid (6x-BL; 2n = 6x = 42) accession of A. cristatum from the USSR. The goal was to combine the wide leaf characteristic and green color retention from the 6x-BL parent into a common gene pool. The crossability between Hycrest (4r) and 6x-BL (6x) was excellent; however, chromosome pairing was irregular and chromosome numbers ranged from 2n = 27 to 41. Leaf morphology in Hycrest/ 6r-BL hybrids was intermediate to that of the parents. Selected F 1 pentaploid progenies (2n = 5x = 35), with leaf widths approaching that of the 6x-BL parent, were backcrossed to Hycrest (Hycrest*2/ 6x-BL), and then crossed among themselves (Hycrest*2/6x-BL// Hycrest*2/6x-BL). In the backcross hybrid, chromosome numbers ranged from 2n = 28 to 39. Meiotically, 28 chromosome backcross hybrid plants were more stable than aneuploid backcross hybrids. The broadleaf character was readily detected in the backcross progeny. In Hycrest/6x-BL//Hycrest/6x-BL hybrids, chromosome numbers ranged from 2n = 33 to 45. Despite the hybrid origin, all aneuploid hybrids had an increased number of univalents and chromosome associations that involved more than four chromosomes. AFLP analysis reflected genetic introgression from the 6x-BL parent beyond that observed in Hycrest. Results support earlier conclusions that the crested wheatgrass complex should be treated as a common gene pool.
A numerical simulation of the appearance of chaos in finite-length Taylor Couette flow

Abstract Taylor-Couette flow, the shear-driven flow between concentric cylinders, exhibits a wide variety of instabilities and modal changes, especially for the case of finite length to gap ratio. The numerical simulations presented here capture many of the experimentally observed features, including the moderately high Reynolds number regime in which temporally aperiodic behavior is seen. The exponential decay of the temporal frequency spectrum of these modes in the simulations indicate such flows possess a low-order chaotic character. In this paper, the spectral collocation methods used in this study are described, select axisymmetric simulations are reviewed, and initial results from three-dimensional unsteady simulations are presented.