cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are inhaled corticosteroids effective for acute exacerbations of asthma in children

Abstract If started early and at high doses, the acute use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) provides modest benefit in patients with mild exacerbations of asthma. In more severe exacerbations, oral corticosteroids are significantly more effective in preventing hospitalizations and improving lung function. We conclude that ICS should not be used routinely to treat acute exacerbations. (J Pediatr 2003;142:S26-S33)
The human mast cell: functions in physiology and disease.

Mast cells are multifunctional, tissue-dwelling cells capable of secreting a wide variety of mediators. They develop from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells, primed with stem cell factor (SCF), which mediates its actions by interacting with the SCF receptor or c-kit on the cell surface. Mast cells continue their maturation and differentiation in peripheral tissue, developing into two well described subsets of cells, MCT and MCTC cells, varying in content of tryptase and chymase as well as in immunobiology. Mast cells are activated by numerous stimuli, including antigen (acting via the high affinity IgE receptor, Fc?RI), superoxides, complement proteins, neuropeptides and lipoproteins resulting in activation and degranulation. Following activation, these cells express mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes and prostanoids, as well as proteases, and many cytokines and chemokines, pivotal to the genesis of an inflammatory response. Recent data suggests that mast cells may play an active role in such diverse diseases as atherosclerosis, malignancy, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis and arthritis. Mast cells directly interact with bacteria and appear to play a vital role in host defense against pathogens. Drugs, such as glucocorticoids, cyclosporine and cromolyn have been demonstrated to have inhibitory effects on mast cell degranulation or mediator release.
Developmental neuroscience: Hox and Fox.

A network of Hox factors specifies the identity of motor neurons in the spinal cord. Studies of an essential Fox-class accessory factor illuminate the developmental and evolutionary subtlety of the process.
Outcomes of simultaneous laparoscopic cholecystectomy and ventral hernia repair compared to that of laparoscopic cholecystectomy alone.

Background Although incidental hernias frequently are found and repaired during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), the outcomes of simultaneous LC and laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) have not been scrutinized. In this study we evaluated short-term outcome data comparing simultaneous LC and LVHR against LC alone.
Agreement of Language Intervention Triage Profiles

Eligibility for specific language intervention services is often based on the relation between a child's cognitive assessment and language assessment. The cognitive referencing model, applied in most states, requires that a child's cognitive performance be developed above language ability for the child to receive services by a speech-language pathologist. If cognition and language are equally delayed, the child is predicted to be a poor candidate for language intervention based on the theory that cognitive skills set the upper limit for language development. This study examined agreement of cognitive/language profiles from a variety of measures. We administered a battery of cognitive and language measures to 37 preschoolers with language delay and examined the agreement of the profiles in determining eligibility for language intervention services. Eligibility ranged from 0% to 40% depending on the test profiles used.
DIFFERENTIAL TOXICITY OF CHLOROFORM IN THE MOUSE

This study helps to reaffirm that all individuals in a population do not respond similarly to environmental stimuli. Studies on individual differences in chloroform toxicity in mice have been reviewed, and these reports indicate that inbred strain-related differences within a species may help to point out the types of variability in response that one might encounter in studies on a genetically heterogeneous organism, like man. Statistics like median lethal or toxic dose in randomly bred animals may only serve to conceal the genetic variability that may exist. Two genetic variations in chloroform toxicity were described. In one, animals more sensitive to chloroform-induced death were shown to be more susceptible to renal toxicity; in the other, sensitive animals were unable to repair damaged renal tubules. Many other examples of genetic variation in response to foreign compounds have been reported. An absolute sex-related difference in regard to kidney damage, but not liver damage, that occurs on chloroform administration has been reviewed. Androgens play an integral role in modulating the sex-related difference and, possibly, the strain-related difference in sensitivity to kidney damage. It is interesting that tumors have been produced in experimental animals after long-term exposure to chloroform in the same organs that more » are affected by single doses of chloroform: hepatic tumors have been produced in mice, and renal tubular tumors have been found in male rats. The effects of long-term, low-level exposure to chloroform in man are largely unknown. However, occupational exposures as low as 10 parts per million in air have resulted in derangements in liver function; in rats, repeated maternal exposures to 30 parts per million chloroform in air have resulted in fetal growth retardation. Both of these effects occurred at exposures lower than the present occupational standard for humans. « less
Effect of Crystal Orientation on the Mechanical Behavior of Magnesium Oxide at High Temperatures

The high-temperature deformation of magnesia single crystals with a [110] tensile axis is described and related to previous observations on [001] crystals. The [110] tensile axis favors slip on systems with oblique vectors (i.e. at 120°). Two main modes of deformation are identified and distinguished by the interpenetrability of oblique slip: (1) Between 1400° and 1700°C interpenetration does not occur. The crystal becomes subdivided into distinct blocks slipping on different systems. These blocks are separated by sharp kink boundaries which act as barriers to further slip. Voids form in the kink interfaces and lead to brittle fracture. (2) Above 1700°C slip on all systems interpenetrates and a stable substructure develops throughout the gage section. At high strains the single crystal recrystallizes. The specimen work hardens and elongates 100% before necking down to completely ductile fracture. This behavior is discussed in terms of dislocation interactions.
The advanced encryption standard

In this paper, we describe the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which has been approved after an international competition by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Comment on “Catastrophic ice shelf breakup as the source of Heinrich event icebergs” by C. L. Hulbe et al.

] Hulbe et al. [2004] argue that the original binge-purge model of their coauthor MacAyeal [1993a, 1993b]is not appropriate for Heinrich events but that a new ice-shelf-collapse mechanism may work. We believe that thenew collapse mechanism disagrees with important dataand that MacAyeal’s original model remains viable afterappropriate modifications. We have enjoyed a fascinatingdiscussion with Hulbe et al. on this topic, which isstimulating our thinking and research, and we presentsome of the arguments here for a wider audience.[
Thyrotropin-releasing hormone induces rhythmic bursting in neurons of the nucleus tractus solitarius

The nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) contains neurons that are part of the central neuronal network controlling rhythmic breathing movements in mammals. Nerve terminals within the NTS show immunoreactivity to thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), a neuropeptide that has potent stimulatory effects on respiration. By means of a brainstem slice preparation in vitro, TRH induced rhythmic bursting in neurons in the respiratory division of the NTS. The frequency of bursting was voltage-dependent and could be reset by short depolarizing current pulses. In the presence of tetrodotoxin, TRH produced rhythmic oscillations in membrane potential whose frequency was also voltage-dependent. These observations suggest that TRH modulates the membrane excitability of NTS neurons and allows them to express endogenous bursting activity.
IGF-1 Partially Restores Chemotherapy-Induced Reductions in Neural Cell Proliferation in Adult C57BL/6 Mice

Chemotherapeutic agents produce persistent difficulties in memory through an unknown mechanism. We tested the hypothesis that chemotherapeutic agents readily able to cross the blood–brain barrier (cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil), as opposed to those not known to readily cross the barrier (paclitaxel and doxorubicin), reduce neural cell proliferation following chemotherapy. We found that 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine labeling following chemotherapy given to C57BL/6 mice revealed a similar reduction in neural cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus for all four agents. Insulin-like growth factor 1, a molecule implicated in promoting neurogenesis, counteracted the effects of high doses of chemotherapy on neural cell proliferation.
A chronic implant for recording of cochlear potentials in primates

A new technique for the continuous recording of peripheral bioelectrical activity in the auditory system of primates is described. Because of basic differences in the anatomy of the temporal bone, the approach to the round window of the cochlea is more difficult in most primates than in lower animals. A relatively simple surgical approach, which made possible the placement of an electrode into the perilymph of the inner ear via the well-demarcated horizontal semicircular canal was therefore developed and is described in detail. The bared tip of a Teflon-coated wire was cemented into the canal opening with carboxylate cement, and the wire attached to a permanent electrical connector on the skull. Cochlear microphonic and action potentials of 50 to 100 μV amplitude were thus recorded on a continuing basis at the same time that behavioral studies of primate auditory acuity were conducted.
Accumulation of the phytoalexin, glyceollin, in root nodules of soybean formed by effective and ineffective strains of Bradyrhizobium japonicum

Nitrogen fixation in root nodules formed by strain 2143 ofBradyrhizobium japonicum andGlycine max (L.) Merr. cv Williams 82 reaches a maximum at 21 to 28 days postinoculation and then begins to decline. The phytoalexin, glyceollin, accumulates in nodules coincident with the decline in nitrogen fixation. Nodules formed by strain 3122, which are unable to fix nitrogen, accumulate even higher levels of glyceollin and do so beginning 21 days postinoculation even though these nodules contain no recoverable bacteria. The typical phytoalexin response occurs within days of infection. The mechanism by which this response in theBradyrhizobium japonicum-soybean combination is delayed 2 to 3 weeks after infection is presently unknown but phytoalexin accumulation could contribute to the inability of the soybean-Bradyrhizobium japonicum combination to maintain high levels of nitrogen fixation throughout the growing season.
Knowledge trees in complex knowledge bases

Abstract We extend the use of knowledge trees as a means for questioning knowledge bases with linguistic information. Using Zadeh's theory of approximate reasoning as a tool we provide means for questioning large knowledge bases which have relational, implicational and data type information. We provide a means for answering questions of truth as well as questions of value.
Volume and Turnover of Body Water in Dipodomys deserti with Tritiated Water.

Mean exchangeable body water content, as measured by the tritium water dilution method. was 62.37 plus or minus 2.16% of the body weight for 20 Kangaroo rats (D. deserti). When maintained on a diet of pearled barley only, 2 groups of animals showed mean turnover times for exchangeable body water of 13.9 and 22.1 days. This is much longer than that found in the ordinary white rat and in other mammals and presents an adaptation to a xeric environment. (auth)
BRIDGE DESIGN WITH RESERVE AND RESIDUAL RELIABILITY CONSTRAINTS

Abstract System reliability is evolving as an important design method for selecting components and topology. It should be used to investigate the original intact structure behavior as well as providing sufficient reserve capacity under likely accident and damage scenarios. Highway bridges are an area of special concern since effort to optimize the cost of construction may not provide adequate redundant capacity. The paper describes an example in which a typical girder bridge structure is optimized (both size and girder spacing) to achieve target system performance. System reliability constraints are imposed on the behavior of the intact structure under highway loads. Also, residual system reliability constraints are imposed to control safety under specified accident scenarios corresponding to damage and “lost” members due to corrosion, fatigue, fire or accidental collisions. An optimal design framework for controlling safety under all these life cycle situations is thus provided.
Biotin sulfoxide reductase. Heterologous expression and characterization of a functional molybdopterin guanine dinucleotide-containing enzyme.

Abstract Rhodobacter sphaeroides f. sp. denitrificans biotin sulfoxide reductase has been heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli as a functional 106-kDa glutathione S-transferase fusion protein. Following cleavage with Factor Xa and purification to homogeneity, the soluble 83-kDa enzyme retained biotin sulfoxide reductase activity using reduced methyl viologen or reduced benzyl viologen as artificial electron donors. Initial rate kinetics indicated a specific activity at pH 8.0 of 0.9 μmol of biotin sulfoxide reduced per min/nmol of enzyme and Km values of 29 and 15 μM for reduced methyl viologen and biotin sulfoxide reductase, respectively. Biotin sulfoxide reductase was also capable of reducing nicotinamide N-oxide, methionine sulfoxide, trimethylamine-N-oxide, and dimethyl sulfoxide, although with varying efficiencies, and could directly utilize NADPH as a reducing agent, both for the reduction of biotin sulfoxide and ferricyanide. The enzyme contained the prosthetic group, molybdopterin guanine dinucleotide, and did not require any accessory proteins for functionality. These results represent the first successful heterologous expression and characterization of a functional molybdopterin guanine dinucleotide-containing enzyme and the demonstration of reduced pyridine nucleotide-dependent biotin sulfoxide reductase activity.
Neuronal differentiation: proneural genes inhibit gliogenesis.

Abstract Proneural basic helix–loop–helix transcription factors such as Neurogenin are activators of neuronal gene expression. Recent studies show they reinforce neuronal differentiation by also inhibiting the expression of glial genes, and are required in vivo to prevent premature and excessive gliogenesis.
BEHAVIORAL CORRELATES OF LEAST PREFERRED CO-WORKER SCORE

The data referred to in this note came from a larger study of leadership behavior involving 357 undergraduate and graduate business students who participated in a simulated business planning activity (Arnett, 1978). Students who were in the bottom third of the Least Preferred Co-worker score (Fiedler, 1967) distribution were classified as low scorers; those in the top third were classified as high scorers. During the initial phase of the planning activity, students who rook the role of manager were encouraged to use their natural leadership style. Among those students who took rhe role of subordinates in the planning activity, low scorers expressed greater liking for low-scoring managers than chey did for high-scoring managers; high-scoring subordinates expressed greater liking for high-scoring managers than they did for low-scoring managers. Results were significant (p < .05). This finding is consistent with a leadership style interpretation of Least Preferred Co-worker score: subordinates prefer managers whose leadership style is similar to their own inclination toward style. The finding is also consistent with a more general attitudinal interpretation of Least Preferred Co-worker score: persons of similar attitudes are more attracted to one another than are persons with dissimilar attitudes. During a later phase of the planning activity, studenrs who took the role of manager were instructed to criticize several aspects of the work of their subordinates. Low- and high-scoring managers did not differ in the severity of the criticism which chey expressed to their subordinates. In response to chis criticism low-scoring subordinates expressed greater loss of liking for their managers than did high-scoring subordinates irrespective of whether the manager ranked low or high in Least Preferred Co-worker score. Results were ,significant (p < .02). These findings suggest that Least Preferred Co-worker score may be primarily associated with a tendency by low scorers to express greater negative evaluation of disliked behavior than do high scorers.
The effect of pressure on the resistance and lattice parameters of cadmium and zinc

Abstract The electrical resistance of cadmium and zinc have been measured to 500 kbars. Lattice parameters have been obtained for cadmium to 300 kbars and for zinc to about 160 kbars. Cadmium has a minimum in resistance near 150–155 kbars and a maximum above 200 kbars. For zinc, the minimum and maximum are at somewhat lower pressures. For both substances, the a axis is quite incompressible at low pressure. The compressibility increases and then decreases again at still higher density. The c axis compressibility exhibits a distinct irregularity at intermediate density. c / a decreases rapidly at low density, levels or increases slightly and then falls again. It does not seem possible to explain the results satisfactorily in terms of the simpler pictures involving electron stresses which are used to explain alloying effects.
Bis-phosphatidic acid plasmalogen in brain of Amia calva and its correlation with the infarct plasmalogen and the cardiolipin (diphosphatidyl glycerol) series of phosphatides

Abstract (1) A bis-phosphatidic acid plasmalogen present in brain of Amia calva is described from data obtained by paper and column chromatography and compared with the similar material observed in the ischemic portion of infarcted dog heart. (2) The alk-1-enyl content of these substances was examined by chromatography of their Vitride reduction products. Their response to lecithinase A 2 and HgCl 2 , and to alkaline hydrolysis for the dog heart substance, were described. (3) A similar description was made for the cardiolipin plasmalogen of Clostridium butyricum . (4) The behavior of the cardiolipin lipids to cytochrome c complexing is briefly described.
A long-pulse method of determining thermal diffusivity

Abstract The solution of the one-dimensional heat-flow equation for an infinite insulated slab, heated by a long thermal-radiation pulse, showed that the thermal diffusivity of the slab could be determined from its thickness and the time necessary for the rear surface to attain one-half the maximum temperature. The Army Natick Laboratories solar furnace provided the thermal flux, and the rear surface temperature function of the 1100-F (99 percent pure) aluminum sample was measured with a Barnes radiometer. The thermal diffusivity values of four samples, 1, 2, 3, and 4 cm thick are 0.747, 0.773, 0.714 and 0.759 sq cm per sec with standard deviations of 0.006, 0.020, 0.019, and 0.024 respectively. The overall average thermal diffusivity is 0.75 sq cm per sec, which is within the range of values found by other investigators for similar materials. The individual sample measurements varied from their mean only about two percent. Heat loss from the sample under these conditions is negligible.
Genome-Wide Methylation Analysis of Prostate Tissues Reveals Global Methylation Patterns of Prostate Cancer

Altered genome methylation is a hallmark of human malignancies. In this study, high-throughput analyses of concordant gene methylation and expression events were performed for 91 human prostate specimens, including prostate tumor (T), matched normal adjacent to tumor (AT), and organ donor (OD). Methylated DNA in genomic DNA was immunoprecipitated with anti-methylcytidine antibodies and detected by Affymetrix human whole genome SNP 6.0 chips. Among the methylated CpG islands, 11,481 islands were found located in the promoter and exon 1 regions of 9295 genes. Genes (7641) were methylated frequently across OD, AT, and T samples, whereas 239 genes were differentially methylated in only T and 785 genes in both AT and T but not OD. Genes with promoter methylation and concordantly suppressed expression were identified. Pathway analysis suggested that many of the methylated genes in T and AT are involved in cell growth and mitogenesis. Classification analysis of the differentially methylated genes in T or OD produced a specificity of 89.4% and a sensitivity of 85.7%. The T and AT groups, however, were only slightly separated by the prediction analysis, indicating a strong field effect. A gene methylation prediction model was shown to predict prostate cancer relapse with sensitivity of 80.0% and specificity of 85.0%. These results suggest methylation patterns useful in predicting clinical outcomes of prostate cancer.
Hormesis: the new approach in risk assessment?

Hormesis is a dose–response phenomenon characterized by either a U-shaped or an inverted U-shaped dose response depending on the different end points measured. In a paper in this issue of the journ...
Vitamin D Deficiency: A Common Occurrence in Both High-and Low-energy Fractures

As a consequence of newly elevated standards for normal vitamin D levels, there is a renewed interest in vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency (<32 and <20 ng/ml, respectively) in the orthopedic patient population. This study tests the hypothesis that vitamin D insufficiency is comparably prevalent among both high- and low-energy fracture patients. A retrospective analysis of the medical records for 44 orthopedic trauma in-patients with non-vertebral fractures was conducted from June 1, 2006 to February 1, 2007. The obtained data included a 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, age, gender, and reason for admission; high-energy vs. low-energy fracture. Vitamin D insufficiency, 25(OH)D <32 ng/ml, was found in 59.1% of the patients. Significantly, more women (75%) than men (40%) were vitamin D insufficient among all fracture patients and specifically among high-energy fractures, 80% women insufficient vs. 25% men insufficient. In women, both high- and low-energy fractures present with vitamin D insufficiency (80% of high-energy fractures and 71.4% of low-energy fractures). In men, the mean vitamin D level was lower for low-energy fractures (16 ng/ml) compared to high-energy fractures (32 ng/ml). In addition, men with low-energy fractures were significantly older than men with high-energy fractures and women with low-energy fractures were also older. Statistically, more vitamin D insufficiency is seen in women and our results are consistent with the gender difference seen in the general population. Even among younger men who sustain a high-energy fracture, 25% are vitamin D insufficient. Women with fractures regardless of age or fracture energy level have low vitamin D levels. Levels of 25(OH)D should be measured in all orthopedic trauma patients and the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research and National Osteoporosis Foundation currently recommend that vitamin D levels should be corrected.
Blood serum proteins and the mineralization of bone ground substance.

Direct tracing experiments with fluorochrome-labeled homologous blood serum show that certain serum components are taken up by the bone substance of young and adult rats. These proteins are concentrated and incorporated into the organic matrix while it is being formed. They retain their fluorescent label for long periods of time and withstand histological fixation and decalcification. In experimental rickets, no labeled serum protein is seen to be incorporated into the uncalcified rachitic osteoid. Its uptake begins, however, concomitantly with the onset of mineralization during the healing period. The results of experiments are interpreted in terms of a calcium-carrying serum protein being complexed and precipitated by osteoblast products to form an essential component of apposition zones which, possibly, initiates nucleation and the subsequent steps of calcification. Fractionation experiments to define the serum component(s) involved in this process, will be continued. So far, they have resulted in a fraction containing albumin, α1-macroglobulin, transferrin, and haptoglobin.
A Cellular Automata Model of Proton Hopping Down a Channel

Proton hopping is the process where a H-atom on a hydronium ion forms a H-bond with the O-atom of a neighboring H(2)O molecule. There is then an exchange of bonding forces when that covalent bond of the H-atom in the hydronium ion changes to a H-bond, and the previous H-bond changes to a covalent bond with the neighboring O-atom. The neighboring molecule now becomes a hydronium (H(3)O(+)) ion. This process repeats itself very rapidly among neighboring hydronium and H(2)O molecules. There is a flow of protonic character through bulk H(2)O, referred to as proton hopping. This process carries information through living systems where H(2)O is present. A cellular automata model of proton hopping down a channel has been created and studied. Variations in the rate of proton entry into the channel and the effects of the polar character of the channel walls was studied using the model. The behavior of the models corresponds to experimental results.
Bioenergetics of young painted turtles, Chrysemys picta

Abstract 1. 1. Food intake, egestion and assimilation efficiency of young Chrysemys picta were studied at various ambient temperatures. 2. 2. The lowest rate of food intake was 1·25±S.D. l·02mg/g per day (6·97 ± S.D. 6·13 cal/g per day) at 20°C and the highest rate was 5·01 ± 1·35 mg/g per day (29·72 ± 7·98 cal/g per day) at 35°C. Mean values for food intake at Ta 25 and 30°C were similar (3·67 ± 1 ·74 and 3·68 ±1·35 mg/g per day, respectively). 3. 3. The pattern of fecal and urinary output resembled that of ingestion, although the caloric content of excreta (per unit weight) varied inversely with temperature. 4. 4. Assimilation efficiencies were 79·7, 85·3, 84·3 and 88·8 per cent at 20, 25, 30 and 35°C, respectively. 5. 5. A strong inverse relationship was noted at all temperatures between weight specific metabolism and body weight.
The epigenetic signature of CFTR expression is co-ordinated via chromatin acetylation through a complex intronic element

The CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) gene is a tightly regulated and differentially expressed transcript in many mucosal epithelial cell types. It appears that DNA sequence variations alone do not explain CFTR-related gastrointestinal disease patterns and that epigenetic modifiers influence CFTR expression. Our aim was to characterize the native chromatin environment in cultured cells for intestinal CFTR expression by determining the relationship between histone acetylation and occupation of CFTR by multiple transcription factors, through a common regulatory element. We used HDAC (histone deacetylase) inhibition and ChIP (chromatin immunoprecipitation) analyses to define regions associated with acute acetylation of histone at the CFTR locus. We identified a region within the first intron associated with acute acetylation of histone H4 as an epigenetic signature corresponding to an intestine-specific enhancer element for CFTR. DHS (DNase I-hypersensitivity) assays and ChIP were used to specify control elements and occupation by regulatory factors. Quantitative ChIP procedures indicate that HNF1alpha (hepatic nuclear factor 1alpha) and Cdx2 (caudal homeobox protein 2) occupy and regulate through a novel intronic enhancer element of CFTR and that Tcf4 (T-cell factor 4) overlaps the same DNA element. RNAi (RNA interference) of Tcf4 and HNF1alpha decreased intestinal cell CFTR expression, identifying these as positive regulatory factors and CFTR as a target for Wnt signalling. We have linked the acetylation signature of nucleosomal histones to active intestinal CFTR expression and occupation by transcription factors HNF1alpha, Cdx2 and Tcf4 which converge to modify chromatin architecture. These studies suggest the therapeutic potential of histone modification strategies, such as inhibition of HDAC activity, to treat CFTR-associated disease by selectively enhancing CFTR expression.
Analogue Measures of Religion: Experimental Psychology of Religion Revisited

There has been at the scarcity of laboratory-type methods in research on the psychology of religion. Many, if not most, empirical studies in the field have been cross-sectional investigations of how certain religious and other attitudinal or behavioural variables interrelate. The value of approaches utilizing experimental controls can be seen in the way in which the impact of independent variables on actual behaviours can be assessed. Often this type of research provides analogues or simulations of the way religion functions in everyday life. Several illustrations of these types of studies are reviewed. These include the Darley and Batson's (1973) “Good Samaritan” study, Spradlin's (1981) research on religious experience attributions, the study of the effect of mental set on self-denial by Raney (1984), and Forrnan and Malony's (1987) investigation of the effects of visualizing sinful acts on physiological responses. These studies illustrate the value of the experimental approach in the types of conclusio...
Superconducting transition temperature and other properties of thin metallic films

We point out that the results of (1) Shapoval, for the superconducting transition temperature of a thin film, (2) Nedorezov, for the surface contributions to the density of states, Fermi energy, and specific heat, and (3) Cooper and Hu, for the surface contribution to the density of states, are entirely unphysical because they are obtained from inconsistent models which violate the surface analog of the Friedel sum rule, = $pi$/4. (auth)
Relation between Indian Monsoon Variability and SST

Abstract The relation between the intraseasonal modes of the South Asian monsoon and the sea surface temperature (SST) in the tropical oceans on a daily time scale has been investigated. Long lead–lag relations of the daily SST anomalies with the dominant monsoon modes obtained from a multichannel singular spectrum analysis (MSSA) of the daily outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) over the South Asian monsoon region are presented. The dominant MSSA monsoon modes, consisting of two oscillatory modes (at 45- and 28-day time scales) and two seasonally persistent modes, are found to have varying degrees of lead–lag relation with the SSTs in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. While the 45-day oscillatory mode has weak correlations with the SSTs in the Pacific and Indian Ocean, it also reveals a possible 45-day oscillation in the SST in the northwestern Pacific and northern Indian Ocean. The 28-day oscillatory mode has negligible correlation with the tropical SST. One of the persistent monsoon modes has a very strong r...
Fertility inhibition gene of plasmid R100.

Abstract The fin0 gene of R100 was isolated from the Fin0+ transducing phage VA lambda 57. The limits of the gene were determined by BAL31 digestions and by analysis of deletion mutations derived from an internal restriction site. The DNA sequence contained an open reading frame of 558 nucleotides that would encode a protein of 21,268 daltons. Synthesis of such a protein was observed only when the fragment was cloned in front of the TAC promoter. Deletions entering the large open reading frame from either end were Fin0-, while internal frame shift mutations retained high Fin0 activity. One such strain had a 13 bp internal deletion that would produce a protein of 63 amino acid residues of which 21 were basic. We were consequently unable to rigorously establish that the 558 base orf encoded a fin0 product. The strand opposite the large open reading frame contained several transcription termination signals, and it is possible that the active gene product is one or two small RNAs from this strand.
Hypocalcemic, Hypophosphatemic Rickets in Rat Pups Sucklinjg Vitamin D-Deprived Mothers

The effects of maternal vitamin D deprivation on rat pups were examined in terms of serum levels of Ca, phosphorus (P), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (250HD), ash content, and histological appearance of long bones. In each of 10 experiments, litters of 8--10 young were examined at 2 or 3 different ages within the range of 5--57 days. Pregnant mothers were fed a diet containing 0.4% Ca, and 0.4% P and either no vitamin D(--D) or 5 IU D3/g diet (+D). Mothers fed the --D diet developed marked hypocalcemia (4--5 mg/dl) during lactation, but no change in milk Ca or P. The earliest changes in pups suckled by mothers on --D diets compared to pups suckled by mothers on +D diets were significant reductions at 8 days in serum P (6--12% in 3 of 5 experiments) and in serum 250HD3. By the 15th day, serum 250HD3 was undetectable, body weight was reduced by 26%, serum Ca was reduced by 9%, and serum P was reduced by 15%. During the following 10 days, when gradual weaning took place, serum Ca decreased progressively, serum P returned to normal, serum Mg became elevated, bone ash (as percent of dry weight of tibia) was decreased, and decalcified sections of the proximal end of the tibia revealed irregularity and widening (1.5- to 3-fold) of the hypertrophic cartilage layer and the metaphyseal trabeculae. All of these changes were also prominent in 8-week-old --D rats. The results indicate that rat pups suckling vitamin D-deprived mothers can develop biochemical evidence (including hypophosphatemia) as well as histological evidence of vitamin D deficiency similar to that of human vitamin D deficiency rickets. This is in contrast to rats deprived of vitamin D after weaning, who do not develop hypophosphatemia or characteristic histological evidence of rickets unless deprived of P as well as vitamin D.
Infections in patients with abnormal granulocyte chemotaxis

Abnormalities in host defense mechanisms are often identified by thorough laboratory investigation of patients with unusual susceptibility or response to microbial infections. Patients with phagocytic cell dysfunction, for example, frequently suffer recurrent severe disease from microbial species which are usually considered to have little virulence. In addition, these patients may not respond to what is adequate antimicrobial therapy in persons with normal host defense mechanisms. Laboratory investigation of phagocytic cell function has become essential for evaluation of patients with suspected abnormal host defense. Several specific functional defects of phagocytic cell function have been identified by investigation of in vitro phagocytic cell function, including microbicidal activity and chemotaxis, the subject of this review.
Symbiohealth - Need of the hour.

A symbiotic relationship between Allopathy (Modern medicine) and Ayurveda is fundamental in creating a health care system that is : (a) more effective than either system used alone, (b) less expensive, (c) less toxic and (d) more likely to create a healthier society. The fundamental basis of Allopathy is offense thinking, corresponding to Newton's physics, which makes it an excellent disease management system; on the other hand, Ayurveda is based upon defense thinking and corresponds to Quantum physics, and is an excellent system for prevention of disease and for protection and rejuvenation of health. A judicious use of the two systems in group practice will provide better care to the masses.
Lowell Observatory instrumentation system (LOIS): a modular control system for astronomical instrumentation

The Lowell Observatory Instrumentation System is the control system for a series of new instruments at Lowell, including the SOFIA first light instrument, HOPI. Sine these instruments will incorporate various detector systems and will be used with several telescopes, the concept of a loadable modulator based design was developed. The fundamental idea is to view the telescope, camera, and other instrument components as separate, interchangeable entities.
Anatomy and biomechanics of the knee

Abstract Successful treatment of the injured knee depends on a fundamental understanding of the anatomy andbiomechanical function of the structures that comprise the knee. The major structures of the knee are presented anatomically, followed by a brief review of the biomechanics of each. Normal function, as well as the expected result of injury is presented. This review is intended to assist in clinical diagnosis, as well as treatment planning for the injured knee.
Reporting Incidental Findings in Clinical Whole Exome Sequencing: Incorporation of the 2013 ACMG Recommendations into Current Practices of Genetic Counseling

The purpose of this study was to investigate how the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) March 2013 recommendations for reporting incidental findings (IFs) have influenced current practices of genetic counselors involved in utilizing whole exome sequencing (WES) for clinical diagnosis. An online survey was sent to all members of the National Society of Genetic Counselors; members were eligible to participate if they currently offered WES for clinical diagnosis. Forty-six respondents completed the survey of whom 34 were in practice prior to the March 2013 ACMG recommendations. Half of respondents (N = 19, 54.9 %) in practice prior to March 2013 reported that the ACMG recommendations have had a significant impact on the content of their counseling sessions. Approximately half of respondents (N = 21, 45.5 %) report all IFs, regardless of patient age, while one third (N = 14, 30.4 %) consider factors such as age and parent preference in reporting IFs. Approximately 40 % (N = 18) of respondents reported that the testing laboratory’s policy for returning IFs has an influence on their choice of laboratory; of those, 72.2 % (N = 13) reported that the option to opt out of receiving reports of IFs has a significant influence on their choice of laboratory. A majority of respondents (N = 43, 93.5 %) found that most patients want to receive reports of IFs. However, respondents report there are patients who wish to decline receiving this information. This study querying genetic counselors identified benefits and challenges that the 2013 ACMG recommendations elicited. Some challenges, such as not having the option to opt out of IFs, have been addressed by the ACMG’s most recent updates to their recommendations. Further investigation into larger and more inclusive provider populations as well as patient populations will be valuable for the ongoing discussion surrounding IFs in WES.
Embedded Knowledge in Transportation Engineering: Comparisons between Engineers and Instructors

AbstractSubstantial research in a diversity of fields suggests that being successful in a skilled profession requires ways of thinking that are unique to the context of that profession and present in practitioners of that field. The purpose of this study is to characterize embedded knowledge of sight distance and stopping sight distance in instructors and engineers and similarly examine course materials. Individual interviews were conducted with 29 transportation engineers and 19 transportation instructors. Course notes from a selection of instructors and three commonly used textbooks were also analyzed. Although instructors and practitioners expressed similar content knowledge, there were significant differences in the context in which it was embedded. Engineering practitioners used and referred to software, manuals, and specific experiences, while instructors primarily spoke in a more abstract context or referred to textbooks. Also, engineers discussed methods of mitigating for the inability to meet min...
Classification of Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure

Despite low inpatient mortality and effective symptomatic management, patients hospitalized for heart failure (HHF) experience high postdischarge mortality and rehospitalization rates. HHF represents a widely heterogeneous population with distinct clinical subsets that may require tailored management approaches. Despite this, however, HHF patients are almost uniformly managed with intravenous diuretics, with low uptake of new therapies during hospitalization. This article proposes a practical approach to classifying HHF patients that is focused on guiding individualized inpatient and postdischarge management. HHF is not a single disease but a manifestation of several cardiac and noncardiac processes and thus should be approached as such.
Complications of mandibular condyle fractures.

Whether they are treated surgically or nonsurgically, complications occur after the treatment of condylar fractures. Because most of the literature concerns the nonsurgical treatment of condylar fractures, our knowledge of complications for these cases is much greater than our knowledge of the complications that accompany the surgical treatment of condyle fractures. I would "like to begin this presentation with the statement by MACLENNA2,14 in 1952: "Regardless of the mode of treatment adopted, complications arising from fractures of the mandibular condyle are conspicuous by their absence." This statement is interesting because today we are trying to decide the most appropriate treatment for condyle fractures when, in MacLennan's view, even though complications occur, they are not bothersome to the patient. I f complications are not common or bothersome, it may therefore matter little how such fractures are treated. However, the clinician is probably more conscious of complications than patients may be. We perhaps have a more objective eye for discerning complications, and find complications of which the patient is unaware. Whether we choose to call these complications or not is another matter entirely, but I would like to categorize the complications that have been reported into malocclusions, hypomobility, asymmetry, dysfunction/ degeneration, and iatrogenic injuries.
PTENMutations in Endometrial Cancers with 10q LOH: Additional Evidence for the Involvement of Multiple Tumor Suppressors☆

Abstract Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the involvement of PTEN and other putative 10q tumor suppressors in endometrioid-type adenocarcinomas characterized by loss of 10q sequences. Methods. PCR-based single-stranded conformational variant analysis and sequencing of individual PTEN exons in 34 tumor specimens and their corresponding normal DNA were used. Results. Thirteen of the 34 tumors (38%) revealed a PTEN mutation: 2 frameshift, 3 nonsense, 3 missense, 3 splice site alterations, and 2 homozygous deletions. Conclusion. The observation that greater than 60% of endometrial cancers with 10q LOH lack PTEN mutations, in addition to previously reported LOH data, provides evidence for the existence of other tumor suppressors on 10q. Consideration of PTEN mutation status may prove important in deletion mapping studies to locate additional tumor suppressors on the long arm of chromosome 10.
Superconductivity in the series La3Ba3CaxCu6+xOy, 0≤x≤3, an oxygen deficient tetragonal triple perovskite structure

Abstract The system La 3 Ba 3 Ca x Cu 6+ x O y was chosen for a study as a system on high temperature superconductors. The system retains its tetragonal triple layer perovskite structure over the range 0≤ x ≤3. The transition temperature ( T c ) defined by the onset of the transition in the out of phase component of the AC susceptibility rises with x to 80 K for x =1. T c remains fixed at approximately 80 K through x =3. The unit cell size is also strongly dependent on calcium content for x x > 1 it is fairly constant. There is a strong correlation between the size of the unit cell and T c .
Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus infection in the hand

Background:Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has become an increasingly common cause of skin and soft-issue infections. The purpose of this study was to review and summarize the most recent literature on methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections of the hand.Methods:The English-language li
Abraham Jacobi, MD, respectable rebel.

Abraham Jacobi was an outspoken rebel who was a vigorous advocate for better health care of children, but he was a responsible one who worked through professional organizations, using data and analysis to achieve his goals. His life is a model well worth emulating today when children's services are under attack (Table1). Born in a small town in precentralized Germany, his parents, who lived a very modest existence, were advised not to spend much money on him because he was so sickly. He probably had rickets, and his adult small stature was attributed to early malnutrition. His head, large in comparison to his body, was often described as leonine (Figure). His mother gave him the best education she could, however, and after attending several medical schools, as was the peripatetic custom then in Germany, he graduated in 1851 from the University of Bonn. Immediately he joined the Democratic revolution sweeping Germany and was jailed for “high treason” for 2 years. Clearly the rebel in him was dominant at this stage of his life. In discussing his role in the revolution of 1848 in Germany that led to his arrest, he said that as students they were galvanized to action by reading the forbidden literature of Schiller's William Tell , the story of a patriot willing to die for freedom. His actual imprisonment was not so romantic. He had befriended Carl Schurtz, who enlisted Jacobi to be a go-between for an illicit revolutionary activity. Schurtz's mission was to rescue a professor Kinkel from the prison fortress Spandau outside of Berlin. When Jacobi went to Berlin to take his Doctor of Medicine (MD) exams, he was recognized as a friend of Schurtz and arrested. His 2 years in jail were often spent in chains or in solitary confinement, but here he …
Lithium isotopic composition in some stone meteorites

The isotopic composition of lithium has been determined in two achondrites and seven chondrites (including two carbonaceous chondrites). No significant variations in the 7 Li/ 6 Li at the 1% level were found. Our results set upper limits of 1 × 10 19 or 3 × 10 20 protons/cm 2 with E p > 5MeV, depending on the model, for the excess irradiations possibly suffered by these meteorites (including Allende) compared to earth.
Deep Hypothermia in Infant Cardiac Surgery

The value of infant cardiac surgery using deep hypothermia remains a debate. A steady number of cardiac centers have consented to this approach in spite of some filibuster. Physiologists are frightened, anesthetists may find it cumbersome, but surgeons using it enjoy the ease of correction in a bloodless and relaxed heart. The cardiologists may document acceptable results, but we also need the alert feedback from the provider of long-term health care-the pediatrician-to document possible flaws of this pristine modality. This article is intended to familiarize the pediatrician with the method of deep hypothermia: its origin, application, and appeal for consumer protection.