cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distribution of reducible 4-hydroxynonenal adduct immunoreactivity in Alzheimer disease is associated with APOE genotype

Two major risk factors for late-onset familial and sporadic Alzheimer disease (AD), a leading cause of dementia worldwide, are increasing age and inheritance of the e4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE4). Several isoform-specific effects of apoE have been proposed; however, the mechanisms by which apoE isoforms influence the pathogenesis of AD are unknown. Also associated with AD is increased lipid peroxidation in the regions of the brain most damaged by disease. 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), the most potent neurotoxic product of lipid peroxidation, is thought to be deleterious to cells through reactions with protein nucleophiles. We tested the hypothesis that accumulation of the most common forms of HNE-protein adducts, borohydride-reducible adducts, is associated with AD and examined whether there was a relationship to APOE. Our results demonstrated that reducible HNE adducts were increased in the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and temporal cortex of patients with AD. Furthermore, our data showed that the pattern of reducible HNE adduct accumulation was related to APOE genotype; AD patients homozygous for APOE4 had pyramidal neuron cytoplasmic accumulation of reducible HNE adducts, while AD APOE3 homozygotes had both pyramidal neuron and astrocyte accumulation of reducible HNE adducts. This is in contrast to our previous observations that a distinct HNE protein adduct, the pyrrole adduct, accumulates on neurofibrillary tangles in AD patients. We conclude that APOE genotype influences the cellular distribution of increased reducible HNE adduct accumulation in AD.
Polymicrobial bacteremia associated with pharyngotonsillitis

TIlE REPORTED INCIDENCE of polymicrobial bacteremia among patients with septicemia is generally quoted as 6 to 10%. 1-~ The overwhelming majority of these patients have severe underlying disease, nlost commonly hematologic malignancy or gastrointestinal disorders, or have been receiving immunosuppressiv e therapy." :" " ~ The occurrence of polymicrobial bacteremia in an otherwise healthy patient is a highly unusual event. The subject of this report is a previously healthy adolescent who, during an episode of acute exudative pharyngitis, had seven microorganisms isolated from a single blood sample. CASE REPORT q-he patient, a 15-year-old boy, was in good health until one week prior to hospitalization, ',,,'hen he presented with fever, sore throat, and anorexia. Physical examination at that time revealed bilaterally enlarged palatine tonsils covered with thick, white mucopurulent exudate, and tender, 2 cm anterior cervical nodes. Tliroat culture was negative for group A beta hemolytic streptococcus; heterophil antibody titers were also negative. The patient was treated with fluids and aspirin and was next seen two days later with persistent fever and shaking chills. Examination was unchanged. Repeat throat culture grew no pathogens. Hemoglobin was 14 gm/dl and the white blood count was 4,900/mm 3, with 75% neutrophils, 10% band cells, and occasional atypical lymphocytes; chest radiograph was normal. The presumptive diagnosis remained severe viral pharyngitis, and no antibiotics were administered. Over the next three days the patient's sore throat slowly improved, but he continue to have spiking fevers, myalgia, and shaking chills, and was hospitalized for further evaluation. Physical examination revealed an acutely ill-appearing boy. Temperature was 39~ heart rate 104/minute~ and blood pressure 110/70 mm Hg. A thick, yellow membrane coated the tongue. The tonsils remained mildly enlarged and hyperemic, but the exudate had largely dis'appeared; there ',,,'as no evidence of peritonsillar or retropharyngeal abscess. No other abnormalities were found. Multiple cultures of blood, urine, stool, sputum, and upper respiratory tract was obtained at admission. On the next day, the
Inductive influence of 4′-terpyridyl substituents on redox and spin state properties of iron(II) and cobalt(II) bis-terpyridyl complexes

Abstract A series of iron and cobalt bis-terpyridine (terpy) complexes were prepared with the general formula [M(R-terpy) 2 ](PF 6 ) 2 , where M represents Co(II) and Fe(II), and R is the following terpyridine substituents in order of increasing electron-withdrawing behavior [(C 4 H 8 )N, (C 4 H 9 )NH, HO, CH 3 O, CH 3 -phenyl, H, Cl, CH 3 SO, CH 3 SO 2 ]. The complexes were prepared to investigate the extent of redox and spin state control that is attainable by simply varying the electron donating/withdrawing influence using a single substituent site on the terpyridine ligand. Cyclic voltammetry was used to assess the substituents influence on the M(III/II) redox couple. A plot of the M(III/II) redox potential ( E 1/2 ) versus the electron donating/withdrawing nature of the substituents (Hammett constants), shows a strong linear trend for both metals; however, the substituents were observed to have a stronger influence on the Fe(III/II) couple. Solution magnetic susceptibility measurements at room temperature were carried out using standard NMR methodology (modified Evans method) where all of the Fe(II) complexes exhibited a diamagnetic, low spin ( S = 0) behavior. In the cobalt series where R = H for [Co(R-terpy) 2 ] 2+ , the complex is known to be near the spin cross-over where the room temperature effective magnetic moment ( μ eff ) in solution is ≈3.1 Bohr magnetons; however, in this study the μ eff is observed to vary between 2.7 and 4.1 Bohr magnetons depending on the R-substituent.
New developments in clinical laboratory molecular assays

The new technological advances influencing the clinical laboratory are discussed with immediate and future areas of new clinical laboratory tests. The new technological advances include 1) monoclonal and designer antibodies, 2) solid phase and homogeneous automated immunochemical assays, 3) DNA/RNA nucleotide tests, 4) synthetic peptides, and 5) biosensors. The major factors which influence the need for future laboratory tests are 1) technology, 2) advances in therapeutic agents, 3) governmental regulations, and 4) health care economics.
Treatment of chronic wounds by local delivery of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in patients with neutrophil dysfunction.

Chronic wounds are associated with considerable morbidity and prolonged hospitalizations. The availability of recombinant growth factors and cytokines provides a new modality for treatment of recalcitrant wounds. Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), a growth protein for hematopietic cells, also enhances neutrophil and monocyte function and promotes keratinocyte proliferation. In three patients with inherited disorders associated with leukocyte dysfunction and non-healing wounds, topical application of GM-CSF resulted in complete wound closure within 1 to 4 weeks. A subcutaneous (s.c.) infusion pump for the local s.c. delivery of GM-CSF was also found to enhance healing. Local application of GM-CSF may thus promote wound closure in patients with impaired wound healing.
Organogenesis and embryogenesis in callus cultures of garlic (Allium sativum L.)

Abstract Callus cultures were initiated from stem tips, bulb leaf discs and stem segments of garlic cloves on AZ medium supplemented with 10 μM p-chlorophenoxy acetic acid (p-CPA), 2 μM 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) and 0.5 μM kinetin. The callus cultures survived subculturing into AZ medium ammonium nitrogen and 40 μM nitrate nitrogen and was supplemented with occurred as shoot formation on modified AZ medium containing 18 μM ammonium nitrogen and 40 μM nitrate nitrogen and was supplemented with 10 μM kinetin and 10 μM IAA. In vitro organogenesis was induced in callus cells cultured on modified AZ medium supplemented with 20 μM kinetin and 10 μM IAA. Filamentous virus particles were found in callus cultures, but not in differentiated shoots or embryoids.
Preferences for Salty and Sweet Tastes Are Elevated and Related to Each Other during Childhood

Background: The present study aimed to determine if salty and sweet taste preferences in children are related to each other, to markers of growth, and to genetic differences. Methods: We conducted a 2-day, single-blind experimental study using the Monell two-series, forced-choice, pairedcomparison tracking method to determine taste preferences. The volunteer sample consisted of a racially/ethnically diverse group of children, 5-10 years of age (n = 108), and their mothers (n = 83). After excluding those mothers who did not meet eligibility and children who did not understand or comply with study procedures, the final sample was 101 children and 76 adults. The main outcome measures were most preferred concentration of salt in broth and crackers; most preferred concentration of sucrose in water and jelly; reported dietary intake of salty and sweet foods; levels of a bone growth marker; anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, and percent body fat; and TAS1R3 (sweet taste receptor) genotype. Results: Children preferred higher concentrations of salt in broth and sucrose in water than did adults, and for both groups, salty and sweet taste preferences were significantly and positively correlated. In children, preference measures were related to reported intake of sodium but not of added sugars. Children who were tall for their age preferred sweeter solutions than did those that were shorter and percent body fat was correlated with salt preference. In mothers but not in children, sweet preference correlated with TAS1R3 genotype. Conclusions and Relevance: For children, sweet and salty taste preferences were positively correlated and related to some aspects of real-world food intake. Complying with recommendations to reduce added sugars and salt may be more difficult for some children, which emphasizes the need for new strategies to improve children's diets. Copyright:
Wavelength stability with an injection-locked excimer laser

Linewidth and wavelength measurements have been made on the emission from an injection-locked KrF laser to address questions which have been raised about the suitability of this device for UV resonance Raman measurements. To the extent that any wavelength jitter occurs, it is less than 0.004 A. We conclude that the KrF excimer laser is a relatively robust source of UV radiation for Raman measurements.
Suppression of Acquired Docetaxel Resistance in Prostate Cancer through Depletion of Notch- and Hedgehog-Dependent Tumor-Initiating Cells

Acquired resistance to Docetaxel precedes fatality in hormone-refractory prostate cancer (HRPC). However, strategies that target Docetaxel resistant cells remain elusive. Using in vitro and in vivo models, we identified a subpopulation of cells that survive Docetaxel exposure. This subpopulation lacks differentiation markers and HLA class I (HLAI) antigens, while overexpressing the Notch and Hedgehog signaling pathways. These cells were found in prostate cancer tissues and were related to tumor aggressiveness and poor patient prognosis. Notably, targeting Notch and Hedgehog signaling depleted this population through inhibition of the survival molecules AKT and Bcl-2, suggesting a therapeutic strategy for abrogating Docetaxel resistance in HRPC. Finally, these cells exhibited potent tumor-initiating capacity, establishing a link between chemotherapy resistance and tumor progression.
Global solar radiation: Multiple on-site assessments in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Renewable energy technology and in particular solar energy is being considered worldwide due to the fluctuations in oil prices, global warming and the growing demand for energy supply. This paper investigates the climate conditions available in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in particular Abu Dhabi to implement Photovoltaic (PV) technology. Measured solar radiation was analyzed for five different geographical locations to ensure the suitability of this region. Hourly, daily and monthly global horizontal irradiation (GHI) were collected and processed. Statistical methods were used to evaluate the computed GHI and showed high values especially during the summer period. Moreover, clearness index was calculated to investigate the frequency of cloudy sky days and results have shown a high percentage of clear days during the year. This paper highlights a promising future for Abu Dhabi in the solar energy sector and in particular Photovoltaic (PV) technology.
Complementary and alternative veterinary medicine and urologic conditions

l' nterest in complementary and alternative approaches to the • treatment of urologic conditions is present in both human and veterinary medicine. Fair 1 recently reviewed the role of nutrients (including dietary fat intake, vitamin E, lycopene, and selenium), exercise therapy, stress reduction, group support and spirituality, acupuncture, herbs, and aromatherapy in the treatment of urologic diseases, mainly cancer. In addition, a search of Medline returned citations (number) for Urinary and Alternative (2,256), Complementary (481), and Extract (592). Although many of the alternative and complementary citations did not refer to the meaning of these terms in the present context, many did. The term "extract" was used in an attempt to identify citations referring to herbal extracts. This review is primarily intended to stimulate interest and debate in this area of veterinary medicine, and to suggest some of the issues and problems related to the study of complementary and alternative veterinary medical (CAVM). The ideas and conclusions result from an unsystematic review of some of the relevant literature, and my own experience in studying two such approaches. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive review of the topic in veterinary or human medicine. I will first present my and others' experience with Choreito (Fig 1), a Kampo (Japanese herbal) preparation used for the treatment of urinary stone disease, and with polysulfated glycosaminoglycan, an extract of birch bark, for the treatment of interstitial cystitis (IC) in humans and cats.
The sensitized photocatalysis of azo dyes in a solid system: a feasibility study

Abstract The degradation of 4-hydroxyazobenzene and Solvent Red 1 on various oxide particles (SiO2, Al2O3 and TiO2) was monitored using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Adsorption of the dye onto the support material can facilitate photolytic degradation by affecting its bonding. Analysis of the absorption spectra throughout the degradation process indicates that the C1bN bond in these azo dyes is the site for oxidative attack. The dependence of degradation rate on surface coverage indicates that direct interaction between the dye molecule and the TiO2 particles is necessary for sensitized photocatalysis to be an effective method of degradation.
Characterization of Pregnancy-Specific β1-Glycoprotein Synthesized by Human Placental Fibroblasts

We have previously demonstrated that human placental fibroblasts produce a pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein (PS beta G) immunologically indistinguishable from placental PS beta G. This was confirmed by the immunocytochemical localization of PS beta G in these fibroblasts. In addition, placental fibroblasts contain all three PS beta G mRNAs of 2.3, 2.2, and 1.7 kilobases which hybridize with the three PS beta G cDNAs (PSG16, PSG93, and PSG95) identified, although at 1.4-2.5% of the levels in human term placenta. The major PS beta G species synthesized by placental fibroblasts is a 62K glycopolypeptide formed from a 58K intracellular precursor polypeptide. However, the PS beta G species found in human placenta are one major glycoprotein of 72K and two minor ones of 64K and 54K. Poly(A)+ RNA from placental fibroblasts directed the synthesis of two polypeptides of 48K and 46K (major), whereas, poly(A)+ RNA from human placenta directed the synthesis of higher levels of four polypeptides of 50 K, 48 K (major), 46 K, and 36 K. Thus, the major PS beta G species found in fibroblasts and human placenta differ. The carbohydrate side-chains are essential for the stability of fibroblast PS beta G, because PS beta G synthesis in these fibroblasts could not be detected in the presence of tunicamycin, a protein glycosylation inhibitor which did not affect PS beta G mRNA expression. Our finding that a variant PS beta G species is produced in placental fibroblasts raises the possibility that the authentic placental PS beta G species may have different functions.
Derivative-explicit differential equations for RLC graphs☆

Abstract A method of formulating a system of first derivative-explicit differential equations for RLC graphs containing voltage and current sources is given. It is shown that for any connected RLC graph G containing no circuits of voltage sources and no segs (or cut sets) of current sources, there exists a tree T such that all voltage sources and as many C-elements as possible are branches of T and all current sources and as many L-elements as possible are chords of T. The method of formulation is based on properties of the f-circuit, f-seg (or cut set) and element equations of the graph G and tree T. By combining the algebraic-differential system of equations of G (f-circuit, f-seg and element equations), a detailed expression of the first derivative-explicit system of differential equations is obtained. The number of equations is equal to the number of C-elements in the tree T plus the number of L-elements in the complement of T. Detailed expressions for the initial conditions (t = 0 +) for the first derivative explicit system of differential equations for G in terms of the arbitrarily specified t = 0 − values of the variables are also given.
Exact tests of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and homogeneity of disequilibrium across strata.

Detecting departures from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) of marker-genotype frequencies is a crucial first step in almost all human genetic analyses. When a sample is stratified by multiple ethnic groups, it is important to allow the marker-allele frequencies to differ over the strata. In this situation, it is common to test for HWE by using an exact test within each stratum and then using the minimum P value as a global test. This approach does not account for multiple testing, and, because it does not combine information over strata, it does not have optimal power. Several approximate methods to combine information over strata have been proposed, but most of them sum over strata a measure of departure from HWE; if the departures are in different directions, then summing can diminish the overall evidence of departure from HWE. An exact stratified test is more appealing because it uses the probability of genotype configurations across the strata as evidence for global departures from HWE. We developed an exact stratified test for HWE for diallelic markers, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and an exact test for homogeneity of Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium. By applying our methods to data from Perlegen and HapMap—a combined total of more than five million SNP genotypes, with three to four strata and strata sizes ranging from 23 to 60 subjects—we illustrate that the exact stratified test provides more-robust and more-powerful results than those obtained by either the minimum of exact test P values over strata or approximate stratified tests that sum measures of departure from HWE. Hence, our new methods should be useful for samples composed of multiple ethnic groups.
The effects of cytochalasin B on the events of fertilization in the surf clam, Spisula solidissima. I. Polar body formation.

Investigations, employing the drug cytochalasin B (CB), have been carried out in an effort to determine the mechanisms underlying the processes involved in polar body formation and their possible relation to cytokinesis of mitosis. Fertilized eggs of the surf clam, Spisula were treated with 1 or 10 μg/ml CB and prepared for light and electron microscopy. Germinal vesicle breakdown and formation of the first meiotic spindle are similar in CB treated zygotes and in controls. At anaphase I a cytoplasmic protrusion develops at the site of the peripheral aster and contains dyad chromosomes. Although the inner aspect of the plasma membrane of this projection in CB treated zygotes is lined with a discontinuous layer of fine textured material, a cleavage furrow fails to form and the cytoplasmic bleb gradually regresses in size. The failure of the presumptive first polar body to cleave results in the presence of two groups of dyads within the zygote. These become aligned on separate or shared meiotic spindles in preparation for the second meiotic division. At anaphase II a protrusion, structurally similar to the first, is formed which also fails to separate from the zygote via a cleavage furrow. Due to the absence of polar body formation, four groups of maternally derived chromatin may be observed at the animal hemisphere of the zygote. These groups are organized into female pronuclei (usually 4) which may not be of equal ploidy. Failure of the cleavage furrow to develop during polar body formation in CB treated zygotes suggests that the filamentous material associated with the leading edge of the furrow of control specimens may function in a manner proposed for the contractile ring of mitotic cells.
Stability of continuous time dynamical systems with m-feedback nonlinearities.

In this paper a matrix version of the Kalman Yacubovich lemma and a modified Lur'e Lyapunov function introduced recently by the authors are applied to derive sufficient conditions for the absolute stability of continuous time dynamical systems with m-first and third quadrant, monotone increasing, and odd monotone increasing feedback nonlinearities. These frequency domain stability criteria provide a direct, systematic method for the generation of explicit Lyapunov functions. Numerous examples are presented to illustrate the application of the theoretical results. In particular, results obtained by N. N. Krasovskii for second-order systems with two nonlinearities are obtained in a straightforward manner using the frequency domain stability criteria derived in this paper.
Pineal gland, perennial puzzle.

Abstract Since antiquity this tiny intracranial appendicular organ has aroused sexual connotations and denials. Controversial and enigmatic, it played a significant part in the development of endocrinology and even neurosurgery. What was its histology, what was its role as a gland so intimately attached to the brain? What did comparative anatomists make of it in the light of its function as a ‘third eye?’ Mysticism and the famous Cartesian apothegm placed it in the center of Eastern and Western approaches to the mind‐body problem and to mental disorders. The latter were connected with the common calcifications, so helpful in the radiological diagnosis of brain shifts due to mass lesions. Undefeated, even spurred by continuing uncertainties, researchers keep looking into this ‘photo‐neuro‐endocrine transducer.’
Dark matter and cosmology: CDM with a cosmological constant (ACDM) vs. CDM with hot dark matter (CHDM)

The fact that the simplest modern cosmological theory, standard Cold Dark Matter (sCDM), almost fits all available data has encouraged the search for variants of CDM that can do better. Here we discuss what are perhaps the two most popular variants of CDM that might agree with the data: ACDM and CHDM. While the predictions of COBE-normalized ACDM and CHDM both agree well with the available data on scales of ~ 10 to 100 h−1 Mpc, each has potential virtues and defects. ACDM with Ω0 ~ 0.3 has the possible virtue of allowing a higher expansion rate H0 for a given cosmic age t0, but the defect of predicting too much fluctuation power on small scales. CHDM has less power on small scales, so its predictions appear to be in good agreement with data on the galaxy distribution, but it remains to be seen whether it predicts early enough galaxy formation to be compatible with the latest high-redshift data. Also, several sorts of data suggest that neutrinos have nonzero mass. And two very recent observational results favor high cosmic density, and thus favor Ω = 1 models such as CHDM over ACDM — (1) the positive deceleration parameter q0 > 0 measured using high-redshift Type Ia supernovae, and (2) the low primordial deuterium/hydrogen ratio measured in two different quasar absorption spectra. If confirmed, (1) rules out a cosmological constant large enough to help significantly with the H0-t0 problem; while (2) suggests that the baryonic cosmological density is at the upper end of the range allowed by Big Bang Nucleosynthesis, perhaps high enough to resolve the “cluster baryon crisis” for Ω = 1 models. We try to identify “best” variants of both ACDM and CHDM, and discuss critical observational tests for both models.
Molecular and endocrine characterization of a mutation involving a recombination between the steroid 21-hydroxylase functional gene and pseudogene.

Abstract The gene encoding steroid 21-hydroxylase activity, P450c21B, is located in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class III region, in close proximity to a highly homologous pseudogene, P450c21A. Recombinations between P450c21B and P450c21A have been shown to result in deficiency of 21-hydroxylase activity, the usual cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). A mutant P450c21 gene from a patient with simple virilizing CAH was identified and shown to be consistent with a recombination between P450c21A and P450c21B. Sequence analysis of the mutant gene showed the recombination site to be located between the first exon and the second intron. The mutant gene encodes a leucine instead of the normal proline at codon 31. This mutation resides on a chromosome bearing the HLA-B44 serotype. A comparison of mutation associated with HLA-B44 and that normally found with the HLA-Bw47 serotype suggests that the HLA-B44 mutations are of more ancient origin. The patient's homologous chromosome has a deletion of P450c21B. Endocrinological testing therefore allows for testing of the mutant gene in genetic isolation. Such testing demonstrated that the patient was capable of producing aldosterone and retaining sodium in response to a low-sodium diet, indicating that the mutant gene encodes an enzyme with partial 21-hydroxylase activity.
Two-dimensional shape and size characterization of polygonally symmetric particles

Abstract A simple mathematical expression with four variable parameters is introduced for the purpose of generating two-dimensional polygonally symmetric shapes. The motivation of the implementation of this expression is to improve the methods of characterization of particle shapes and sizes. Previous methods include the purely size classification, which does not carry information about the shape, and the orthogonal polynomial method, which involves too many parameters and therefore is too complicated. It is demonstrated that the simple equation introduced here is capable of simulating many shapes such as quasi-spherical particles and near-exact polygons. Values of the parameters for generating near-exact polygons are included. A sample of simulated particles is generated by this equation with a predetermined distribution of parameters to show the diversity of the shapes and sizes of particles represented by the equation. Since each parameter has a clear physical meaning ( a , amplitude parameter; b , width parameter; c , center size parameter; and n , polygonality parameter), it may be possible to explain the physical processes involved by examining the distributions of each parameter.
Mullerian Inhibiting Substance Promotes Interferon γ-induced Gene Expression and Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cells *

This report demonstrates that in addition to interferons and cytokines, members of the TGFβ superfamily such as Mullerian inhibiting substance (MIS) and activin A also regulate IRF-1 expression. MIS induced IRF-1 expression in the mammary glands of mice in vivo and in breast cancer cells in vitro and stimulation of IRF-1 by MIS was dependent on activation of the NFκB pathway. In the rat mammary gland, IRF-1 expression gradually decreased during pregnancy and lactation but increased at involution. In breast cancer, the IRF-1 protein was absent in 13% of tumors tested compared with matched normal glands. Consistent with its growth suppressive activity, expression of IRF-1 in breast cancer cells induced apoptosis. Treatment of breast cancer cells with MIS and interferon γ (IFN-γ) co-stimulated IRF-1 and CEACAM1 expression and synergistic induction of CEACAM1 by a combination of MIS and IFN-γ was impaired by antisense IRF-1 expression. Furthermore, a combination of IFN-γ and MIS inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells to a greater extent than either one alone. Both reagents alone significantly decreased the fraction of cells in the S-phase of the cell cycle, an effect not enhanced when they were used in combination. However, MIS promoted IFN-γ-induced apoptosis demonstrating a functional interaction between these two classes of signaling molecules in regulation of breast cancer cell growth.
Interaction of mouse prolactin with mouse hepatic receptors.

Abstract Lactogenic receptors are usually studied in heterologous systems where prolactin is derived from one species and receptors prepared from another. In such systems the foreign prolactin could be seen as a growth hormone by the host tissue. We have therefore developed a homologous radioreceptor assay using secreted mouse prolactin (smPRL) and mouse hepatic receptors. In this system, monovalent anions augment the smPRL-receptor interaction in the order F − > Cl − > Br − > I − . Divalent cations (Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ , Sr 2+ ), phosphate and acetate also increase smPRL binding. Temperature and pH optima are at 8°C and pH 8.3, respectively. Under optimum conditions, the percent total, specific and nonspecific binding are 55%, 45% and 10%, respectively. At infinite receptor concentration the maximum specific bindability of labeled smPRL is 50%. The effects of ions on binding of smPRL to the receptor show that hydrophobic forces participate in smPRL-receptor coupling. The biphasic dissociation kinetics show initial and final rate constants of 1.56 × 10 −4 /s and 7.62 × 10 −6 /s, respectively. The lactogenic receptor does not bind mouse growth hormone; however, it binds both mouse placental lactogen (mPL) and smPRL with equilibrium association constants of 3.90 × 10 8 M −1 and 2.25 × 10 8 M −1 , respectively, suggesting that smPRL and mPL share biological roles by acting through the same receptor.
GENETIC CONTROL OF NEAR‐UV (300–400nm) SENSITIVITY INDEPENDENT OF THE recA GENE IN STRAINS OF ESCHERICHIA COLI K12

— Stationary cells of isogenic pairs of Escherichia coli K12 strains presumably differing only in the recA function have been inactivated with near-UV (300–400 nm) radiation. Based on near-UV inactivation kinetics, the strains can be divided into two discrete categories in which near-UV sensitivity does not necessarily correlate with far-UV sensitivity conferred by two different recA alleles. Lack of overlap between near-UV and far-UV (recA) sensitivity can be explained hy assuming that a different chromosomal gene (nur) controls near-UV sensitivity. Support for this hypothesis comes from a mating experiment in which four selected recombinants, isogenic with respect to auxotrophic markers, were identified exhibiting all four possible combinations of far-UV (recA1 vs recA +) and near-UV sensitivity (nur vs nur+). Transduction with phase P1 has shown that introduction of the recA1 allele into a recA+ recipient does not affect the near-UV sensitivity of the recipient. Additional matings together with transduction experiments suggest that the nur gene is located at a position on the E. coli linkage map clearly separable from recA (minute 58).
Enhancing Erns Data To Better Promote Effective Environmental Protection

ABSTRACT The Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS) is a database of notifications of releases of oil and hazardous substances reported to the National Response Center or EPA regional office...
Laparoscopic suture rectopexy for full-thickness anorectal prolapse in children: an effective outpatient procedure.

Abstract Background/Purpose Our approach to full-thickness anorectal prolapse has transitioned to laparoscopic suture rectopexy (LSRP). The purpose of this study was to describe the indications, technique, and postoperative outcomes for LSRP. Methods Rectopexy was performed using 3 or 4 laparoscopic ports. Redundant rectum was retracted from the pelvis, and the posterior rectal wall was secured to the sacral promontory using 3 permanent sutures. Results Nineteen children (7 girls) underwent LSRP from March 2003 to January 2008. Mean age was 6.2 ± 3.6 years. Three patients had prior perineal operations: 2 sacrococcygeal teratoma resections and 1 pull-through for Hirschsprung disease. One patient had cystic fibrosis, and another had Prader-Willi syndrome. The remaining children had either chronic constipation or idiopathic prolapse. All patients were treated preoperatively with laxatives. Two patients received antegrade continent enemas. Length of stay was 1 ± 0.8 days, with only the first 5 patients admitted to the hospital. The patient with Prader-Willi syndrome had a full-thickness recurrence (5%) owing to obsessive-compulsive behavior. Partial mucosal prolapse occurred in 2 patients. There were no other complications. Conclusions Laparoscopic suture rectopexy is an effective minimally invasive method to treat full-thickness rectal prolapse in children from various etiologies. It can be performed as an outpatient procedure with minimal morbidity and low recurrence rate (5%).
Programmed Myocyte Cell Death Affects the Viable Myocardium after Infarction in Rats

Abstract To determine whether apoptotic and necrotic myocyte cell death occur acutely and chronically after infarction, the formation of DNA strand breaks and the localization of myosin monoclonal antibody labeling were analyzed in the surviving myocardium from 20 min to 1 month. DNA strand breaks in myocyte nuclei were detected as early as 3 h following coronary artery occlusion and were still present at 1 month. This cellular process was characterized biochemically by internucleosomal DNA fragmentation which produced DNA laddering on agarose gel electrophoresis. Quantitatively, 155 myocyte nuclei per 106cells exhibited DNA strand breaks in the portion adjacent to the infarcted tissue at 3–12 h. This parameter increased to 704 at 1–2 days and subsequently decreased to 364 at 7 days, 188 at 14 days, and 204 at 1 month. In the remote myocardium, the number of myocyte nuclei with DNA strand breaks was 84 per 106at 3–12 h and remained essentially constant up to 1 month. Programmed myocyte cell death was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of bcl-2 and an increase in the expression of bax. The changes in the expression of these genes were present at 1 and 7 days after coronary artery occlusion. In conclusion, the mechanical load produced by myocardial infarction and ventricular failure may affect the regulation of bcl-2 and bax in the viable myocytes, triggering programmed cell death and the remodeling of the ventricular wall.
Endoscopic tunneling of HeartMate II left ventricular assist device driveline.

FIGURE 1. The endoscope is introduced into the inferior pump pocket (1) and then tunneled through the muscular abdominal wall (2) to the counterincision (3). After placing the umbilical tape, the endoscope is then placed into the counterincision, and tunneled across the abdomen (4), either below or above the umbilicus, to the driveline exit site (5), which is situated well above the beltline. Current generation ventricular assist devices require a driveline to connect the intracorporeal device to the extracorporeal controller and batteries. Recent experience has suggested anecdotally that a longer subdermal driveline tunnel without any external velour may reduce driveline infections. To accomplish this, a long, sharp C-shaped tunneler traverses the abdominal wall blindly from the right upper quadrant to an exit site on the left upper quadrant. We recently placed a driveline that entered the peritoneal cavity inadvertently while using the standard tunneling technique. As indications for placement of these devices expand to include sick and elderly patients, more patients will have had previous abdominal incisions and/or cachexia with little preperitoneal or subdermal adipose tissue. These factors can make blind placement of drivelines more hazardous. Therefore, we developed a simple, cost-effective technique using our current endoscopic saphenous vein harvesting system that allows direct visualization and safe placement of the driveline. We report this experience after receiving approval from the Cleveland Clinic’s institutional review board.
Deconstructing Demons: The Case of Geoffrey

Research in late life mental health has not kept pace with the rapidly aging population of the U.S. Older adults (over age 65), more specifically the “baby boomer” cohort, are likely to pose unique challenges to mental health care providers. This report describes the case of Geoffrey, a 66-year-old African American male who presented with a complex range of psychiatric conditions (e.g., major depressive disorder, social anxiety disorder, and a history of polysubstance dependence), and challenging life circumstances (e.g., limited financial and social resources, and poorly controlled medical illness). Because Geoffrey also evidenced impairment in several cognitive domains (attention, memory, executive functions), a combined intervention of executive skills training (Sohlberg, Johnson, Paule, Raskin, & Mateer, 2001) and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) was selected. Furthermore, because time for conducting therapy was limited (fourteen, 90-minute sessions over a ten-week period), a “transdiagnostic” approach was taken to maximize efficiency. Results suggest the utility of augmented, transdiagnostic therapies to achieve optimal response with older clients. Although Geoffrey’s intervention progressed well, an event occurring late in treatment changed the course of therapy and led to an unexpected outcome. Several noteworthy aspects of the intervention, including the relevance of Geoffrey’s case to the current aging trend in the U.S., the use of a combined transdiagnostic intervention, and aspects of the therapy process are discussed throughout.
New efficient reaction media for SET‐LRP produced from binary mixtures of organic solvents and H2O

SET-LRP is mediated by a combination of solvent and ligand that promotes disproportionation of Cu(I)X into Cu(0) and Cu(II)X 2 . Therefore, the diversity of solvents suitable for SET-LRP is limited. SET-LRP of MA in a library of solvents with different equilibrium constants for disproportionation of Cu(I)X such as DMSO, DMF, DMAC, EC, PC, EtOH, MeOH, methoxyethanol, NMP, acetone and in their binary mixtures with H 2 O was examined. H 2 O exhibits the highest equilibrium constant for disproportionation of Cu(I)X. The apparent rate constant of the polymerization exhibits a linear increase with the addition of H 2 O. This is consistent with higher equilibrium constants for disproportionation generated by addition of H 2 O to organic solvents. Furthermore, with the exception of alcohols and carbonates, the rate constant of polymerization in binary mixtures could be correlated with the Dimroth-Reichardt solvent polarity parameter. This is consistent with the single-electron transfer mechanism proposed for SET-LRP that involves a polar transition state. These experiments demonstrate that the use of binary mixtures of solvents with H 2 O provides a new, simple and efficient method for the elaboration of a large diversity of reaction media that are suitable for SET-LRP even when one of the two solvents does not mediate disproportionation of Cu(I)X.
Simulation libraries for system-level design

Raising the level of design abstraction to achieve a system synthesis capability requires electronic design automation (EDA) tools for design capture, analysis and verification at the new level of abstraction, as well as tools for synthesis at the next lower level of abstraction. It is essential that simulation libraries exist that support the new toolset. In system synthesis, elements of the desired product functionality will be specified as combinations of functional primitives in a high-order language or as flowgraph representations. Implementation trade offs will require the designer to simulate the performance of these functions when implemented in ASICs, FPGAs, or software. Simulation will require extensive libraries of primitives and their performance characteristics on a wide variety of hardware and software implementations. The paper considers system synthesis and some problems in system-level simulation. >
Reply: Specific Reasons to Favor Maize in the U.S.

Bush and Leach are champions for rice, which is, of course, a key crop in many countries. The rice research and consumer communities are located mainly outside the U.S. Thus, in the international arena, there are many compelling reasons for exploring both the suitability of rice by-products as
Deliverance, demonic possession, and mental illness: some considerations for mental health professionals

This paper outlines an unconventional treatment for mental illness, the exorcism or deliverance ritual used by Pentecostals and some other charismatic Christians. Deliverance beliefs and practices are based on the assumption that both mental and physical ills result from possession of the sufferer by demons, and are to be treated by the expulsion of those demons. Deliverance practitioners claim to treat schizophrenia, ADHD, and Reactive Attachment Disorder, and believe that these problems are related to sins either of the person in treatment or of an ancestor. Clinicians and counsellors dealing with clients who partially or completely espouse deliverance beliefs may need to understand their worldviews and to discuss their belief system before managing to engage them in conventional mental health treatments. Unusual ethical problems may also be met in the course of such work.
Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy

Abstract Meniscal tears are among the most common problems surgically addressed in the practice of knee surgery. Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy has become the standard in managing meniscal damage not suitable for repair or allograft replacement. Current techniques involve low morbidity, rapid rehabilitation, and early return to functional activities. However, recent studies suggest that the optimistic early results of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy may deteriorate over time.
THE LYSIS OF GROUP A HEMOLYTIC STREPTOCOCCI BY EXTRACELLULAR ENZYMES OF STREPTOMYCES ALBUS : I. PRODUCTION AND FRACTIONATION OF THE LYTIC ENZYMES

The lysis of group A hemolytic streptococci by extracellular enzymes of Streptomyces albus has been studied. The most favorable material for fractionation of the lytic enzymes was obtained by surface growth on shallow layers of liquid medium containing an acid hydrolysate of casein, glucose, and salts. The results of fractionation experiments show that the potent proetolytic enzyme of Streptomyces albus is not able to lyse group A streptococci, and that the initiation of lysis is dependent upon the action of a second, non-proteolytic enzyme. The nature of the non-proteolytic enzyme has not been determined. It does not appear to be a ribonuclease or a lysozyme-like enzyme.
Optimizing renal replacement therapy in older adults: a framework for making individualized decisions

It is often difficult to synthesize information about the risks and benefits of recommended management strategies in older patients with end-stage renal disease since they may have more comorbidity and lower life expectancy than patients described in clinical trials or practice guidelines. In this review, we outline a framework for individualizing end-stage renal disease management decisions in older patients. The framework considers three factors: life expectancy, the risks and benefits of competing treatment strategies, and patient preferences. We illustrate the use of this framework by applying it to three key end-stage renal disease decisions in older patients with varying life expectancy: choice of dialysis modality, choice of vascular access for hemodialysis, and referral for kidney transplantation. In several instances, this approach might provide support for treatment decisions that directly contradict available practice guidelines, illustrating circumstances when strict application of guidelines may be inappropriate for certain patients. By combining quantitative estimates of benefits and harms with qualitative assessments of patient preferences, clinicians may be better able to tailor treatment recommendations to individual older patients, thereby improving the overall quality of end-stage renal disease care.
Preliminary analysis of observations of the Pinatubo volcanic plume with a polarization‐sensitive lidar

A dual-polarization lidar aboard the NASA Electra aircraft was used in July 1991 to survey the stratospheric plume from the recent Mt. Pinatubo eruption. Both depolarizing and non-depolarizing volcanic layers were observed, ranging from 17 to 26 km in altitude. Differences in the depolarization signatures of the layers indicates differences in the composition or physical state of the particles in the layers.
Dick and Jane in 1989.

This study is a replication of the 1972 study Dick and Jane as Victims done by Women on Words and Images. The original study examined 134 children's readers, and found sex stereotyping in both number of times males and females appeared, and the activities in which they were shown. The replication is a content analysis of 62 children's readers in use in 1989 to determine if males and females were still shown in sex-stereotyped roles. It was found that although there are still differences in the rate of portrayal for males and females, and in the variety of roles assigned to each, the differences are not as pronounced as they were in 1972.
Interaction of highly nonlinear solitary waves with thin plates

We investigate the reflection of highly nonlinear solitary waves in one-dimensional granular crystals interacting with large plates. We observe significant changes in the reflected waves’ properties in terms of wave amplitude and time of flight in association with the intrinsic inelasticity of large plates, which are governed by the plate thickness and the size of the granular constituents. We also study the effects of fixed plate boundaries in the formation of reflected waves, and find the existence of a critical distance, within which the interaction between the granular chain and plate is strongly modified. We explain the effects of intrinsic inelasticity and of boundaries in the large plates by using plate theory and the contact mechanics between a plate and a spherical striker. We find that experimental results are in excellent agreement with the analytical predictions and numerical simulations based on the combined discrete element and spectral element models. The findings in this study can be useful for the nondestructive evaluation of plate structures using granular crystals, which can improve the resolution of in-situ, portable measurement instruments leveraging high acoustic energy and sensitivity of solitary waves.
Flow visualization in a pebble bed reactor experiment using PIV and refractive index matching techniques

In the advanced gas-cooled pebble bed reactors for nuclear power generation, the fuel is spherical coated particles. The energy transfer phenomenon requires detailed understanding of the flow and temperature fields around the spherical fuel pebbles. Detailed information of the complex flow structure within the bed is needed. Generally, for computing the flow through a packed bed reactor or column, the porous media approach is usually used with lumped parameters for hydrodynamic calculations and heat transfer. While this approach can be reasonable for calculating integral flow quantities, it may not provide all the detailed information of the heat transfer and complex flow structure within the bed. The present experimental study presents the full velocity field using particle image velocimetry technique (PIV) in a conjunction with matched refractive index fluid with the pebbles to achieve optical access. Velocity field measurements are presented delineating the complex flow structure.