cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Telomerase Biology Associations Offer Keys to Cancer and Aging Therapeutics

Background Although telomerase has potential for age-related disease intervention, the overexpression of telomerase in about 90% of cancers, and in HIV virus reservoirs, cautions against se in anti-aging telomerase therapeutics. While multiple reviews document the canonical function of telomerase for maintenance of telomeres, as well as an increasing numbers of reviews that reveal new non-canonical functions of telomerase, there was no systematic review that focuses on the array of associates of the subunit of Telomerase Reverse transcriptase protein (TERT) as pieces of the puzzle to assemble a picture of the how specific TERT complexes uniquely impact aging and age-related diseases and more can be expected. Methods A structured search of bibliographic data on TERT complexes was undertaken using databases from the National Center for Biotechnology Information Pubmed with extensive access to biomedical and genomic information in order to obtain a unique documented and cited overview of TERT complexes that may uniquely impact aging and age-related diseases. Results The TERT associations include proper folding, intracellular TERT transport, metabolism, mitochondrial ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) regulation, inflammation, cell division, cell death, and gene expression, in addition to the well-known telomere maintenance. While increase of cell cycle inhibitors promote aging, in cancer, the cell cycle check-point regulators are ambushed in favor of cell proliferation, while cytoplasmic TERT protects a cell cycle inhibitor in oxidative stress. The oncogene cMyc regulates gene expression for overexpression of TERT, and reduction of cell cycle inhibitors-the perfect storm for cancer promotion. TERT binds with the oncogene RMRP RNA, and TERT-RMRP function can regulate levels of that oncogene RNA, and TERT in a TBN complex can regulate heterochromatin. Telomerase benefit and novel function in neurology and cardiology studies open new anti- aging hope. GV1001, a 16 amino acid peptide of TERT that associates with Heat Shock Proteins (HSP's), bypasses the cell membrane with remarkable anti disease potential. Conclusions TERT "associates" are anti-cancer targets for downregulation, but upregulation in antiaging therapy. The overview revealed that unique TERT associations that impact all seven pillars of aging identified by the Trans-NIH Geroscience Initiative that influence aging and urge research for appropriate targeted telomerase supplements/ stimulation, and inclusion in National Institute on Aging Intervention Testing Program. The preference for use of available "smart drugs", targeted to only cancer, not off-target anti- aging telomerase is implied by the multiplicity of TERT associates functions.
Scaling Features of Selected Observables at RHIC

We discuss several observables measured by PHOBOS that show common scaling features in Cu+Cu and Au+Au collisions at RHIC energies. In particular, we examine the centrality and energy dependence of the charged particle multiplicity, as well as the centrality dependence of the elliptic flow at mid-rapidity. The discrepancy between Cu+Cu and Au+Au of the final state azimuthal asymmetry (elliptic flow), relative to the initial state geometry of the collision, can be resolved by accounting for fluctuations in the description of the initial geometry.
47. DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SCALABLE TOLERATING AMBIGUITY/UNCERTAINTY TOOL UTILIZING SIMULATION (STATUS) TO ASSESS THE PROF6 PEDIATRIC MILESTONE SUB-COMPETENCY: A PILOT STUDY

Background Uncertainty and ambiguity permeate the health care field. The Pediatrics Milestone Project identifies a sub-competency under the “Personal and Professional Development” competency stating residents must, “recognize that ambiguity is part of clinical medicine and respond by utilizing appropriate resources in dealing with uncertainty” (PROF6). A survey of pediatric program directors and simulation experts conducted by Mallory et al., ranked PROF6 as the most difficult sub-competency to assess using traditional methods. Objective Proof-of-concept assessment tool pilot to evaluate PROF6 in simulation. Methods STATUS is comprised of an “Instructors” assessment focused on direct observation of predefined skills, and a “Learners” self-assessment focused on subjective feelings towards ambiguity in practice. STATUS features items from the “Physician's Reactions to Uncertainty” scale developed by Gerrity et al., the “Pearson Risk Attitue” index developed by Pearson et al., and novel items derived from the Pediatrics Milestone Project Domains. Pediatric interns at an urban tertiary care medical center participated in a simulation scenario where there is substantial practice variation in managing a febrile infant. A trained standardized parent actor utilized scripted lines to elicit the interns’ position on the uncertain outcome of their child's condition. Results 36/40 pediatric interns participated in our study. Interrater-reliability between the two instructors was calculated for our initial tool using a 5-point Likert scale (kappa = 0.705 [95% CI, 0.572-0.838]), and for modified versions of our tool using a 3-point scale (kappa=0.982 [95% CI, 0.957-1]). Conclusion STATUS reliably assessed pediatric resident responses to ambiguity in an uncertain clinical situation. Next steps will be to incorporate the learner and instructor assessments to generate a combined appraisal of a resident's performance in PROF6. A multi-center study is planned to further validate and evaluate these assessments.
Water Balance: Abstaining from Obtaining While Retaining

Summary Animals tightly regulate blood volume and solute concentrations. Water balance is usually achieved by a combination of managing intake and excretion but sometimes both drinking and urination are inconvenient. Hibernators have perfected internal mechanisms to maintain water balance without either.
Chapter 230 – Scorpions

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the scorpian, an arthropod. Their highly segmented body plan is uniquely subdivided into a leg-bearing prosoma, a broad seven-segmented preabdomen (mesosoma), and a narrow fi ve-segmented postabdomen (metasoma) that terminates in a bulbous stinging organ, the telson. The fossil record indicates that scorpions were the fi rst arthropods to occupy the terrestrial environment. An important member of the class Arachnida, scorpions survived periods of mass extinctions and today occupy a prominent position in arthropod communities. This gives them the distinction of being the oldest surviving group of terrestrial arthropods. Scorpions demonstrate basically the same organ systems characteristic of most arachnids. These systems refl ect adaptations that support their successful lifestyle as opportunistic ambush predators. The digestive system begins with a tiny mouth located below the base of the chelicerae. Its small diameter allows intake of food only in fluid form. Preoral enzymes are secreted by salivary glands directly into the body of the prey, and the liquefied, preorally digested tissues are ingested through a sucking action. This is facilitated by a pressing or grinding action of the gnathobases at the inner bases of the pedipalps. Scorpions are easily kept in captivity and require minimal care. They may be housed in any closed container, such as a terrarium, plastic box, jar, or plastic bag. If soil is provided, a rock or other surface cover should be added for shelter because scorpions are thigmotactic and seek close-fitting shelters
Effects of N-Terminal Residues on the Assembly of Constrained β-Hairpin Peptides Derived from Aβ

This paper describes the synthesis, solution-phase biophysical studies, and X-ray crystallographic structures of hexamers formed by macrocyclic β-hairpin peptides derived from the central and C-terminal regions of Aβ, which bear "tails" derived from the N-terminus of Aβ. Soluble oligomers of the β-amyloid peptide, Aβ, are thought to be the synaptotoxic species responsible for neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Over the last 20 years, evidence has accumulated that implicates the N-terminus of Aβ as a region that may initiate the formation of damaging oligomeric species. We previously studied, in our laboratory, macrocyclic β-hairpin peptides derived from Aβ16-22 and Aβ30-36, capable of forming hexamers that can be observed by X-ray crystallography and SDS-PAGE. To better mimic oligomers of full length Aβ, we use an orthogonal protecting group strategy during the synthesis to append residues from Aβ1-14 to the parent macrocyclic β-hairpin peptide 1, which comprises Aβ16-22 and Aβ30-36. The N-terminally extended peptides N+1, N+2, N+4, N+6, N+8, N+10, N+12, and N+14 assemble to form dimers, trimers, and hexamers in solution-phase studies. X-ray crystallography reveals that peptide N+1 assembles to form a hexamer that is composed of dimers and trimers. These observations are consistent with a model in which the assembly of Aβ oligomers is driven by hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic packing of the residues from the central and C-terminal regions, with the N-terminus of Aβ accommodated by the oligomers as an unstructured tail.
Spontaneous Rupture of Mesenteric Vasculature Associated with Fibromuscular Dysplasia in a 28-Year-Old Male

Spontaneous rupture of mesenteric vasculature associated with fibromuscular dysplasia is an unreported phenomenon. We describe a case in a 28-year-old male with a history of chronic abdominal pain who presented to our facility in hemorrhagic shock secondary to a ruptured transverse mesocolon middle colic aneurysm status postemergent transverse colectomy. He was found to have chronic vertebral, renovisceral, and iliac aneurysms as well as acute superior and inferior mesenteric artery dissection and chronic bilateral vertebral artery dissections. He subsequently developed disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, resulting in saddle pulmonary embolus as well as right renal artery and splenic artery thrombosis. Ultimately, the patient expired.
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity Among Children Enrolled in Head Start, 2012-2018.

Purpose:Determine prevalence of overweight and obesity as reported in Head Start Program Information Reports.Design:Serial cross-sectional census reports from 2012–2018.Setting:Head Start programs ...
Positively Charged Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) Membrane: A Potential Alternative for Absorbent Paper Points in Endodontics.

Introduction This study compared the absorbency capacity of paper points (PPs) to positively charged and non-charged Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) membranes (PVDFMs) and investigated the ability of PPs and PVDFMs to bind and remove endotoxin. Methods Three commercially available PPs were compared to PVDFM (Millipore Sigma, Burlington, MA, USA) prototype points. We recorded the initial dry weight for each PP and PVDFM using a digital balance to ±0.0001 precision for the absorbency. PPs and PVDFMs were then immersed in deionized water and weighed to obtain the wet weight. The absorbency was calculated with the formula: Percent increase = [(wet weight – dry weight)/dry weight] x 100. For endotoxin removal, we first quantified endotoxin remaining in wells after immersing PPs and PVDFMs in a 24 well-plate containing 10 endotoxin units/mL (EU/ml) of E. coli O55:B5 (Lonza, MD). We then extracted and quantified endotoxin from PPs and PVDFMs. Endotoxin was quantified using the KQCL test. Results The absorbencies for the positively charged and non-charged PVDFMs were higher than the PPs (p .05). The positively charged PVDFMs bound and removed endotoxin than non-charged PVDFMs and the PPs (p Conclusions PVDFM prototype points are more absorbent than PPs. Moreover, the positively charged PVDFM points are more effective in binding and removing endotoxin than non-charged PVDFMs and PPs. This study suggests that positively charged PVDFMs with 0.22 μm pore size could potentially replace PPs used in endodontics.
Febrile infection-related epilepsy syndromes and their treatment

Acute encephalopathy with inflammation-mediated status epilepticus, followed by the development of medically refractory epilepsy is a spectrum of disorders being increasingly reported in children. Febrile infection-related epilepsy syn- drome (FIRES) occurring in school age children and hemiconvulsions, hemiplegia and epilepsy (HHE) syndrome occurring in younger children are the two most commonly recognized entities. The majority of the affected patients develop medically refractory epilepsy and neurocognitive sequelae. We present two illustrative cases and discuss the difficulties faced in their diag- nosis and treatment. No specific etiology has been identified and the diagnosis is often made by exclusion. Ketogenic diet has been shown to be effective in controlling the seizures associated with FIRES. Immunomodulating therapies have shown mixed results. Children with HHE developing refractory epilepsy are potential candidates for epilepsy surgery. Urgent research is needed for identifying novel biomarkers as well as for developing therapies targeted at the inflammatory cascade.
Fibrinolytic therapy for intraventricular hemorrhage in adults.

BACKGROUND Spontaneous or secondary intraventricular hemorrhage is a marker of poor prognosis for hemorrhagic stroke. It can cause hydrocephalus and require ventricular shunt placement, result in permanent neurological deficits or death. Fibrinolytic agents injected into the ventricular system could dissolve blood clots, increase the clearance of blood from the ventricles and hence improve outcome. OBJECTIVES To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of thrombolytic agents administered intraventricularly in the management of intraventricular hemorrhage in adults. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched February 2002). In addition, we searched the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Current Contents, and International Pharmacy Abstracts to 2001. We handsearched several neurosurgery journals and the references list of articles identified. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised unconfounded studies comparing intraventricular fibrinolytic therapy to placebo or open control for the management of intraventricular hemorrhage in adults. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently assessed all identified trials. Clinically significant information related to patient population, efficacy and safety were extracted and summarized. MAIN RESULTS A total of ten studies were identified by our search strategy. Eight of them were excluded because of case series designs or retrospective control group. One quasi-randomised trial used alternate allocation and was excluded. Only one report met the review criteria for randomization. The randomised trial reported good outcome but has important design flaws resulting in a biased control group and therefore was excluded. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS There is anecdotal evidence suggesting that the intraventricular administration of fibrinolytic agents in intraventricular hemorrhage maybe of therapeutic value and safe. Thus far, there are no randomised trials of sufficient size and quality to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this treatment modality.
Reforming the Oversight of Multi-Site Clinical Research: A Review of Two Possible Solutions

The current system for the ethical oversight of clinical research suffers from structural, procedural, and performance assessment problems. Initially conceived primarily to handle local investigator-initiated single-site studies, the system of institutionally-based committee review has become progressively more inefficient given the increased prevalence of commercially or federally sponsored multi-center trials. To date, proposed solutions do not adequately address these problems. Beginning with a review of these structural, procedural, and performance assessment problems, this article will then consider two proposals for addressing these deficiencies: (a) regional ethics organizations; and (b) IRBNet™, a newly developed web-based program for cooperative IRB review. The strengths and weaknesses of these two approaches will be evaluated in light of recent experience with centralized review. The proposal to establish a system of regional ethics organizations presents a comprehensive approach to many of the ...
An RRAM-based Oscillatory Neural Network

Oscillatory Neural Networks (ONNs) are an intriguing brain-inspired paradigm for massively parallel computing, but implementations in CMOS fail to produce competitive architecture performance. While representing each artificial neuron with a CMOS oscillator does not scale well in terms of power and area, we have recently demonstrated the design and fabrication of low-power, small-area voltage controlled oscillators based on metal-oxide resistive devices (RRAMs). The same RRAM materials have also been demonstrated as programmable nonvolatile resistors for use as artificial synapses [1]. In this paper, we propose a RRAM-based ONN that is based on the coupling of oscillatory “neurons” through weighted “synapses.” A few CMOS logic gates per neuron are required for the phase detection that is used to initialize the input pattern and lock to the correct stored pattern. Using measurement data for RRAM-based oscillators and synapses, compact models were derived and characterized for use in simulating an eight neuron proof-of-concept network.
Design of a high power x-band frequency tripler using a AlGaN/GaN HEMT device

An active microwave frequency tripler using an AlGaN/GaN HEMT device is developed. This is the first reported frequency tripler implemented in GaN technology. Design of the frequency tripler is performed using a high-accuracy, multi-harmonic, wideband model which predicts the effects of self-heating and charge-trapping. A method of determining the optimal load and source networks using harmonic load-/source-pull simulations and synthesizing using harmonic reflectors is described. The tripler upconverts fo=3.33GHz to 10GHz to achieve a maximum power of +30.0dBm (1.0W). As such, it provides multiplied powers which are approximately 50 times greater than those previously reported.
Subgrid variability of snow water equivalent at operational snow stations in the western USA

The spatial distribution of snow water equivalent (SWE) is a key variable in many regional-scale land surface models. Currently, the assimilation of point-scale snow sensor data into these models is commonly performed without consideration of the spatial representativeness of the point data with respect to the model grid-scale SWE. To improve the understanding of the relationship between point-scale snow measurements and surrounding areas, we characterized the spatial distribution of snow depth and SWE within 1-, 4- and 16-km2 grids surrounding 15 snow stations (snowpack telemetry and California snow sensors) in California, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and Oregon during the 2008 and 2009 snow seasons. More than 30 000 field observations of snowpack properties were used with binary regression tree models to relate SWE at the sensor site to the surrounding area SWE to evaluate the sensor representativeness of larger-scale conditions. Unlike previous research, we did not find consistent high biases in snow sensor depth values as biases over all sites ranged from 74% overestimates to 77% underestimates. Of the 53 assessments, 27 surveys indicated snow station biases of less than 10% of the surrounding mean observed snow depth. Depth biases were largely dictated by the physiographic relationship between the snow sensor locations and the mean characteristics of the surrounding grid, in particular, elevation, solar radiation index and vegetation density. These scaling relationships may improve snow sensor data assimilation; an example application is illustrated for the National Operational Hydrologic Remote Sensing Center National Snow Analysis SWE product. The snow sensor bias information indicated that the assimilation of point data into the National Operational Hydrologic Remote Sensing Center model was often unnecessary and reduced model accuracy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Keynote speech: industrializing software development

The objective of the talk is to discuss economic, organizational, and technological aspects of software industrialization. While it is impossible to predict exactly when the industrial revolution in software will occur, it is clear that when it happens it will cause a dramatic redistribution of wealth and a decline of the software monopolies. There is the economic reason why software components as an industry (predicted in the late sixties by Doug McIlroy) never materialized: it is the emergence of the software industry, whose very existence is based on unspecified, irregular and extremely complex interfaces. Organizationally, there is no division of labor, a very low level of professionalism, and a reward system that is based on number of features, rather than on the level of reliability, correctness, and security. Finally, technologically we still have to learn to produce comprehensive, well-organized catalogs of highly generic, reliable components with precise time and space performance characteristics.
Initial Observations of Kleptoplasty in the Foraminifera of Coastal South Carolina

Abstract Kleptoplasty is a mixotrophic condition acquired by a heterotrophic grazer that ingests photosynthetic eukaryotic cells, wherein the plastids are not digested but rather are retained in the heterotrophic cell or organism in a photosynthetically active state. This phenomenon has been described in select foraminiferal taxa inhabiting nearshore and salt-marsh coastal habitats. We applied molecular and microscopic techniques to living foraminifera collected from South Carolina salt marshes (Waties Island and North Inlet) to determine if we could detect kleptoplasty. Sequence and confocal-imaging data recovered from 2 foraminiferal genera (Elphidium and Haynesina) indicated the functional retention of diatom plastids within these taxa.
Design of nearly optimum power-of-two coefficient cascaded filters

A design technique is developed for powers-of-two coefficient FIR filters that use two complementary filters in cascade. The two filters are designed to cancel out each other's errors in the frequency domain. Since the cascaded design results in a convolution of the individual filter's power-of-two coefficients, the combined filter's coefficients are much closer to the optimum real coefficients thus yielding a near optimum frequency response. The powers-of-two coefficients for the first filter are obtained by simple rounding from an optimal real coefficient design, and a localized search scheme is used for its cascaded complement. The design technique allows the desired frequency response to be approximated in the least square or the minimax sense. >
XML-based information mediation for digital libraries

We demonstrate a prototype distributed architecture for a digital library, using technology being developed under the MIX Project at the San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC) and the University of California, San Diego. The architecture is based on XML-based modeling of metadata; use of an XML query language, and associated mediator middleware, to query distributed metadata sources; and the use of a storage system middleware to access distributed, archived data sets.
Situational analysis of coping in substance-abusing patients ☆

A recently revised version of the Situational Competency Test (SCTDR), a tape-recorded role-play assessment procedure, was used to evaluate situational specificity of coping in hospitalized substance-abusing patients (N = 24). Responses to six types of high-risk situations were scored according to coping method used (active cognitive, active behavioral, avoidance, help-seeking) and objective response parameters (latency, duration, specification, compliance). Additionally, patterns of past drug use and self-efficacy were evaluated for situational variability and association with coping response measures. Findings revealed that the situational profiles for each of the four coping methods were distinct, and that each coping method was used differentially across high-risk situations. Objective scoring dimensions demonstrated patterns of situational specificity, for example, subjects' responses in situations involving unpleasant emotions were more delayed, shorter, and less specific than in other types of high-risk situations. Heavy past drug use and low self-efficacy were significantly related to latency in responding. These findings are consistent with previous studies in which substance abusers' coping was shown to be at least partially dependent on situational parameters.
Additive growth-inhibitory effects of DL-α-difluoromethylornithine and antiestrogens on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line

Summary We studied the growth inhibitory effects of DL-α-difluoromethylornithine, and antiestrogens (tamoxifen, 4-hydroxytamoxifen, trioxifene, keoxifene, and LY117018) as single agents and in combinations on the proliferation of a breast cancer cell line, MCF-7. At 0.1 mM difluoromethylornithine, the proliferation of MCF-7 cells was inhibited to 75 ± 6% of the controls. Treatment of the cells with 0.1 μM 4-hydroxytamoxifen reduced cell growth to 72 ± 4%. Combination of 0.1 mM difluoromethylornithine and 0.1 μM 4-hydroxytamoxifen reduced cell growth to 38 ± 5%, indicating additive growth inhibitory effects. Similar additive effects were observed with all 5 antiestrogens in combination with difluoromethylornithine.
Fine-needle aspiration of metastatic lesions and regional lymph nodes in genitourinary cancer

Abstract A percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy of metastatic tumor and/or retroperitoneal, pelvic, or abdominal lymph nodes was accomplished in 101 patients. A diagnosis of metastatic disease was confirmed by this method in 49 patients. In 26 patients, surgical excisional biopsy or exploratory laparotomy was avoided. An unknown pelvic mass causation was diagnosed in 3 patients. In 15 of 57 patients with localized bladder, prostate, or testis cancer, involvement of regional lymph nodes was confirmed by transabdominal fine-needle aspiration. All 57 transabdominal aspirations were performed without complications. The method is inexpensive, safe, and can have a high accuracy in diagnosing a local tumor spread or distant metastases.
Stimulation by central command of locomotion, respiration and circulation during exercise.

We studied the relationships between exercise (locomotion) and respiratory and circulatory responses in 19 cats that walked or ran normally on a treadmill, and in 16 paralyzed animals during fictive locomotion, i.e., locomotory activity in motor nerves to the legs. Preparations included anesthetized cats with intact brains and unanesthetized decorticate (hypothalamic) and decerebrate (mesencephalic) animals. Spontaneous actual locomotion and fictive locomotion occurred in all preparations except the mesencephalic cats. Electrical stimulation or injection of a GABA antagonist (picrotoxin) into the hypothalamic locomotor region caused locomotion to develop. In all cases when locomotion occurred, respiration and arterial pressure increased in proportion to the level of locomotor activity despite control or ablation of respiratory feedback mechanisms. Respiration and arterial pressure increased similarly during fictive locomotion despite the absence of muscular contraction or limb movement and the lack of change of metabolic rate. We conclude that the study provides experimental support for the feed-forward, or command signal, hypothesis for the genesis of proportional changes of respiration and circulation that occur during exercise. Feedback mechanisms are not required for its operation. We suggest that command signals emanating from the hypothalamus provide the primary drive for changes of respiration and circulation during exercise.
THE INFLUENCE OF SUCCINYLSULFATHIAZOLE (SULFASUXIDINE) UPON THE RESPONSE OF CANINE SMALL INTESTINE TO IRRADIATION

A study was carried out to determine whether the injury attending intense segmental intestinal irradiation could be reduced by diminishing and altering the intestinal bacterial flora. Sulfasuxidine administration for 3 days before and 6 weeks after irradiation of isolated segments of canine ileum with 4000 r significantly reduced the lethality attending the irradiation of 15- cm lengths of ileum and reduced the inflammatory cell infiltration and edema and increased the vascularity of the granulation tissue internally lining the mucosally denuded areas of 5-cm lengths of ileum. Following the rapid complete loss of mucosa attending irradiational injuries of 4000 r, the size of the mucosally denuded area was reduced by exponential longitudinal shortening by the absorption of the irradiated muscle and connective tissue. An almost complete spontaneous anastomosis of proximal and distal nonirradiated intestine was effected 8 months after the irradiation of 5-cm lengths of ileum. The administration of Sulfasuxidine did not influence this rate of absorption. The mechanisms of the obstruction of the irradiated intestines are discussed. (M.C.G.)
Metastatic renal cell carcinoma with concurrent inferior vena caval invasion: long-term survival after combination therapy with radical nephrectomy, vena caval thrombectomy and postoperative immunotherapy.

AbstractPurpose: We report our experience using aggressive multimodal therapy in a high risk group of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma and concurrent inferior vena caval extension.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients in our kidney cancer database who had metastatic renal cell carcinoma and tumor thrombus extension into the inferior vena cava at the initial diagnosis. Patients were included in the study if they underwent radical nephrectomy and inferior venal caval thrombectomy, and immunotherapy was planned for the postoperative period. Tumor size and grade, metastatic sites, level of vena caval extension, surgical complications and overall survival were obtained from the medical records. The primary end point analyzed was overall survival.Results: We identified 31 cases of metastatic renal cell cancer with extensive disease and vena caval extension. Of the patients 23% had an isolated lung metastasis, and 53% had metastasis in the lung and at other s...
Retinoblastoma. Fifty Years of Progress. The LXXI Edward Jackson Memorial Lecture

Purpose To review the progress made in understanding the genetic basis, molecular pathology, and treatment of retinoblastoma since the previous Jackson lecture on the topic was published 50 years ago. Design Perspective based on personal experience and the literature. Methods The literature regarding retinoblastoma was reviewed since 1963. Advances in understanding the biology and treatment of retinoblastoma provided context through the author's clinical, pathologic, and research experiences. Results Retinoblastoma was first identified in the 1500s and defined as a unique clinicopathologic entity in 1809. Until the mid-1900s, knowledge advanced sporadically, with technological developments of ophthalmoscopy and light microscopy, and with the introduction of surgical enucleation, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. During the last 50 years, research and treatment have progressed at an unprecedented rate owing to innovations in molecular biology and the development of targeted therapies. During this time period, the retinoblastoma gene was discovered; techniques for genetic testing for retinoblastoma were developed; and plaque brachytherapy, chemoreduction, intra-arterial chemotherapy, and intraocular injections of chemotherapeutic agents were successfully introduced. Conclusions Nearly all patients with retinoblastoma in developed countries can now be cured of their primary cancer—a remarkable achievement for a childhood cancer that once was uniformly fatal. Much of this success is owed to deciphering the role of the Rb gene, and the benefits of targeted therapies, such as chemoreduction with consolidation as well as intra-arterial and intravitreal chemotherapies. Going forward, the main challenge will be ensuring that access to care is available for all children, particularly those in developing countries.
Expression of prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-1 in a baculovirus system

Summary A cDNA coding for ovine prostaglandin endoperoxide (PGH) synthase-1 was used to construct a recombinant baculovirus which was expressed in Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) insect cells. Two proteins reactive with anti-PGH synthase antibody were produced. A larger protein (Mr = 72,000) coelectrophoresed with native enzyme; a smaller, more abundant protein (Mr = 66,000) was unglycosylated enzyme. About 90% of both the immunoreactivity and the cyclooxygenase activity were present in a low speed (10 5 g × min) pellet; variable but low peroxidase activities were observed in this fraction. The specific cyclooxygenase activity of solubilized PGH synthase-1 from Sf9 cells was 56 units/mg versus 112 units/mg for the same cDNA expressed in cos -1 cells. The baculovirus—insect cell system is not ideal for generating large amounts of active PGH synthase-1 apparently because of inefficient N-glycosylation.
COMBINED VARIABLE-PHASE--R-MATRIX APPROACH TO SCATTERING PROBLEMS.

A procedure which combines the methods of variable-phase and $R$-matrix theory is formulated for multichannel scattering processes. $R$-matrix theory is used to obtain the logarithmic derivative of the scattering functions at a radius $a$, beyond which all exchange potentials are negligible. Variable-phase theory is used to construct a radially dependent reaction matrix which is integrated from $a$ to infinity. The method is applied to a two-channel model which has some of the features of the low-energy electron-hydrogen problem. Essentially exact results are obtained with as few as 40 $R$-matrix states (20 per channel).
Influence of low temperature on phosphatase in roots of Verbascum thapsus, a biennial weed.

Abstract The temperature peak (15 °C) of acid and alkaline phosphatase in this study coincides with a peak in alpha-amylase as seen in an earlier study of roots of Verbascum thapsus . It is speculated that one of the results of higher phosphatase activities may be increased amount of orthophosphate which can be utilized in phosphorylation of soluble carbohydrates which in turn are in greater supply due to the higher activities of the starch-degrading enzymes. A second peak in activities of acid and alkaline phosphatase was seen in plants which were returned to the greenhouse following cold treatment. This increase in enzymatic activities is also similar to increases in activities of three starch degrading enzymes studied earlier. Alkaline phosphatase showed greater activities than did acid phosphatase at lower temperatures (10 and 4 °C) and under greenhouse conditions following cold treatment.
A brief dive into .NET

This tutorial presents an overview of the Microsoft .NET platform. Both the .NET Framework and .NET Compact Framework are discussed, as well as several Document Object Models used to access XML and Microsoft Office files. The family of Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) under Visual Studio 2005 is discussed as well as the software-intensive systems engineering mindset behind the development of Microsoft .NET and its IDEs. A review of the "Systems Engineering Resource Guide for Educators and Practitioners" (to be handed out to the attendees) concludes this tutorial.
Genomic structure of the human gene for spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) on chromosome 12q24.1.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is a member of a group of neurodegenerative diseases that are caused by instability of a DNA CAG repeat. We report the genomic structure of the SCA2 gene. Its 25 exons, encompassing approximately 130 kb of genomic DNA, were mapped onto the physical map of the region. Exonic sizes varied from 37 to 890 bp, and intronic sizes ranged from 323 bp to more than 15 kb. The CAG repeat was contained in the 5' coding region of the gene in exon 1. Determination of the splice junction sequences indicated the presence of only one deviation from the GT-AG rule at the donor splice site of intron 9, which contained a GC instead of a GT dinucleotide. Exon 10, immediately downstream from this rare splice donor site, was alternatively spliced. Alternative splicing does not affect the reading frame and is predicted to encode an isoform containing 70 amino acids less.
Physiological characteristics and food‐web dynamics of Synechococcus in Lakes Huron and Michigan

Single Synechococcus cells accounted for an average of 10% (range 1–26%) of surface mixed-layer primary production in Lakes Huron and Michigan in 1986–1988. Maximal photosynthetic rates (Pmax) were relatively low (range = 1.9–6.0 fg C cell−1 h−1) and no significant photoinhibition was found at irradiances as high as 3.0 Einst m−2 h−1. Synechococcus growth rates estimated by four techniques (ampicillin, 14C uptake, dilution, and small inocula) ranged from 0.1 to 0.9 d−1 with a mean of 0.37. Although substantial variability was noted among techniques on any one date, on average all estimates were in reasonable agreement with the exception of the dilution estimates which were significantly lower (P < 0.01). Three techniques for estimating grazing loss rates (ampicillin, dilution, and 14C-labeling of Synechococcus) provided similar estimates ranging from 0.1 to 0.7 d−1. On specific dates, grazing loss rates were 33–120% of growth rates, suggesting that grazing was the major loss for Synechococcus populations in these lakes. Most of the grazing loss (68%) was attributable to small (4–10 µm), heterotrophic flagellates and ciliates. Crustaceans and rotifers accounted for only a small percentage of total grazing loss (5–21%) even when Daphnia accounted for 40% of crustacean biomass.
A study of high-valent manganese in aqueous H3PO4: Disproportionation of [MnIIIMnIV(μ-O)2(bpy)4] 3+

The mixed-valence dimer [Mn III Mn IV (μ-O) 2 (bpy)) 4 ] 3+ (1; bpy=2,2'-dipyridyl) has been shown to disproportionate in aqueous H 3 PO 4 . One product, [Mn IV 2 (μ-O) 2 (μ 2 -HPO 4 )(bpy) 2 (H 2 PO 4 ) 2 ] (2), was isolated and characterized earlier (Inorg. Chem. 1991, 30, 2833). Here a manganese(III) product has been characterized crystallographically as [Mn III (bpy)(HPO 4 )(H 2 PO 4 )] x
Does accounting for preference heterogeneity improve the forecasting of a random utility model? A case study

Abstract This paper examines the out-of-sample forecasting performance of several random utility models of recreation behavior. The application is salmon fishing on Lake Michigan in 1996 and 1997, with the quality of fishing (as measured by catch rates) better in 1997 than in 1996. The models examined are a logit model, two random parameters logit (RPL) models, and a latent class logit (LCL) model. Results indicate that the RPL and LCL models forecast equally well, and by at least one measure the logit model outperforms them both. Results also raise the possibility that recreational fishing decisions have a dynamic component.
Female Sexual Dysfunction Management After Pubovaginal/Midurethral Sling Surgery

The complexity of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in women with stress urinary incontinence makes the diagnosis and treatment difficult. While the prevalence is high for both conditions, they are often underreported. Although the impact of sling surgery on sexual outcomes remains controversial, this type of procedure is known to cause sexual dysfunction in a subset of women. In this article, we review the prevalence of FSD, its intricate relationship with incontinence, the pathophysiology linking sling placement to sexual dysfunction, and the outcomes of treatment directed at FSD arising from sling surgery.
Carbon dioxide gas as a venous contrast agent to guide upper-arm insertion of central venous catheters

Purpose Evaluate in a prospective randomized study carbon dioxide (CO2) gas compared to iodinated contrast agent for image-guided placement of peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs).
Protein Markers of Ischemic Insult in Brain Endothelial Cells Identified Using 2D Gel Electrophoresis and ICAT-Based Quantitative Proteomics

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is formed by endothelial cells of cerebral microvessels sealed by tight junctions. Ischemic brain injury is known to initiate a series of biochemical and molecular processes that lead to the disruption of the BBB, development of vascular inflammation, and subsequent neurovascular remodeling including angiogenesis. Molecular effectors of these changes are multiple and are regulated in a dynamic fashion. The current study was designed to analyze changes in cellular and secreted proteins in rat brain endothelial cells (BEC) exposed to ischemic insult in vitro using two complementary quantitative proteomic approaches: two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) and isotope-coded affinity tag (ICAT)-based proteomics. We show a comprehensive qualitative and quantitative comparison between the two proteomic methods applied to the same experimental system with respect to their reproducibility, specificity, and the type of proteins identified. In total, >160 proteins showed differential expression in response to the ischemic insult, with 38 identified by 2DE and 138 by ICAT. Only 15 proteins were commonly identified. ICAT showed superior reproducibility over 2DE and was more suitable for detecting small, large, basic, hydrophobic, and secreted proteins than 2DE. However, positive identification of proteins by MS/MS was more reliably done using a 2DE-based method compared to ICAT. Changes in proteins involved in nucleic acid, protein, and carbohydrate metabolism, signal transduction, cell structure, adhesion and motility, immunity and defense, cell cycle, and apoptosis were observed. The functional significance of observed protein changes was evaluated through a multifaceted protein classification and validation process, which included literature mining and comparative evaluation of protein changes in analogous in vitro and in vivo ischemia models. The comparative analyses of protein changes between the in vitro and in vivo models demonstrated a significant correlative relationship, emphasizing the 'translational' value of in vitro endothelial models in neurovascular research.
The Preparation of Human Spermatozoal RNA for Clinical Analysis

The recent identification of RNA as a component of mature spermatozoa necessitated the development of a reliable isolation protocol capable of yielding a high-quality substrate. In addition to the inherent difficulties associated with isolating RNA, the procedure as applied to sperm must overcome the resilient nature and reduced RNA content found within this cell type. Further, the protocol must be suited to the clinical setting. A reliable RNA isolation procedure optimized for this unique cell type is described. Ejaculate is collected, contaminating somatic cells lysed then spermatozoal RNA released by homogenization in a chaotrope. RNA is then purified from the homogenate by chromatography using a commercially available resin. The quality of isolated samples is assessed by PCR and RT-PCR. Once purity is established samples are suitable for numerous applications including amplification and probe synthesis. The reliable and consistent isolation of high-quality RNA from mature spermatozoa will aid in the d...
An Equilibrium Model of Incentive Contracts in the Presence ofInformation Manipulation

This paper develops an agency model in which stock-based compensation is a double-edged sword, inducing managers to exert productive effort but also inducing managers to divert valuable firm resources to misrepresent performance. We examine how the potential for manipulation affects the equilibrium level of pay-for-performance sensitivity and derive several new crosssectional implications that are consistent with recent empirical studies. In addition, we analyze the impact of recent regulatory changes contained in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and show that in some cases policies intended to increase firm value by reducing misrepresentation may actually reduce firm value or increase the upward bias in manipulated disclosures.
The versatile midforehead browlift.

• Ptosis of the brow is a significant and often unrecognized portion of aging of the upper face. It contributes to both cosmetic and functional aging. Correction is often mandatory prior to blepharoplasty in that functional problems may be worsened without elevating the brow. Direct and coronal browlifts are the most common approach to the problem. Midforehead browlifts have been reserved for men with receding hairlines. We have, for the past three years, performed midforehead browlifts on all our patients needing ptotic brow correction. Our review of 72 patients treated in this way, including 52 women, shows excellent and long-lasting cosmetic and functional improvement. There have been few complications, and the resultant incisional scars have been very well accepted. Therefore, we feel that the midforehead browlift, performed as we describe, is the ideal surgical correction for the ptotic brow. ( Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1989;115:163-168)
Determinants of the benefit for consistent spatial mappings in dual-task performance of three-choice tasks.

Performance of pairs of three-choice tasks shows a consistency benefit for which reaction times are shorter when the stimulus-response mappings for each task are consistent (both corresponding or both mirrored) than when they are inconsistent. In the present study, we examined whether this consistency benefit is reduced at long stimulus onset asynchronies, as it is for pairs of two-choice tasks, or is relatively unaffected, as it is for pairs of four-choice tasks. The consistency benefit was evident for both corresponding and mirrored mappings, at all intervals. For consistent mirrored mappings, the benefit was found for the side stimulus positions (for which responses are crossed) but not for the center position, whereas for consistent corresponding mappings, a benefit was evident for the center position as well. The results for both mappings are in agreement with an emergent mapping-choice account. The consistent corresponding mapping also benefits from subjects’ ability to apply a respond-corresponding rule across tasks. An emergent perceptual-feature process that contributes to the consistency benefit for two-choice tasks does not seem to play a role in tasks with three or more choices.
Chemotactic factors activate differentiable permeation pathways for sodium and calcium in rabbit neutrophils. Effect of amiloride.

Abstract The effects of the potassium-sparing diuretic amiloride on the chemotactic factor stimulated Na+ and Ca2+ fluxes in rabbit peritoneal neutrophils were investigated. Amiloride inhibits in a dose-dependent fashion the f-Met-Leu-Phe stimulated Na+ uptake (IC50:1.1 × 10−6 M) but did not affect the stimulated rate of Na+ efflux from preloaded cells. Amiloride did not inhibit the f-Met-Leu-Phe stimulated Ca2+ uptake. These results allow, for the first time, the differentiation between the Na+ and the Ca2+ permeation pathways and the investigation into the functional role of the stimulated Na+ uptake.
An evaluation of lead contamination in plastic toys collected from day care centers in the Las Vegas Valley, Nevada, USA.

Childhood exposure to environmental lead continues to be a major health concern. This study examined lead content within the plastic of children’s toys collected from licensed day care centers in the Las Vegas valley, Nevada. It was hypothesized that the use of lead as a plastics stabilizer would result in elevated lead (≥600 ppm) in polyvinyl chloride plastics (PVC) compared to non-PVC plastics. It was also hypothesized that, due to the use of lead chromate as a coloring agent, yellow toys would contain higher concentrations of lead (≥600 ppm) than toys of other colors. Toy samples were limited to those found in day care centers in Las Vegas, Nevada. 10 day care centers were visited and approximately 50 toy samples were taken from each center. Of the 535 toys tested, 29 contained lead in excess of 600 parts per million (ppm). Of those 29 toys, 20 were PVC and 17 were yellow. Both of the two hypotheses were strongly supported by the data.