cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Injury-related spinal cord astrocytes are immunoglobulin-positive (IgM and/or IgG) at different time periods in the regenerative process.

IgG-positive astrocytes have been reported in scrapie-induced and Alzheimer's cortical plaques, multiple sclerosis, and CNS tissue around abcesses, metastatic tumors and primary tumors of glial origin. The present experiments ascertain if this immunoglobulin positivity is specific for these cases or a function of astrocytes around any site of injury in the CNS. The spinal cords of 30, 300-g Sprague-Dawley male rats were lesioned by passing a 26 gauge needle through the cord at T 6 . After periods as long as 9 months, the spinal cords were processed for paraffin immunohistochemistry with antisera to IgM, IgG or double labeled for these immunoglobulins and GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) a specific cytoplasmic marker for astrocytes. From 1 through 7 days after lesioning double labeled astrocytes in and around the site of injury are both IgM- and IgG-positive. From 14 days through 9 months postlesion, double labeled astrocytes surrounding the lesion are only positive for IgG. These data indicate a relationship between immunoglobulin availability, continued blood-brain barrier perturbation to immunoglobulins and the ability of reactive astrocytes to sequestor immunoglobulins. IgM is an early determinant for reactive astrocytes and IgG positivity is determinant for reactive astrocytes at any time period.
Reactivity and stability of supported Pd nanoparticles during the liquid-phase and gas-phase decarbonylation of heptanoic acid

Abstract The liquid-phase and gas-phase decarbonylation of heptanoic acid over carbon- and silica-supported Pd nanoparticles was studied in a continuous-flow fixed-bed reactor at 573 K. The liquid-phase turnover frequency (TOF) under steady state conditions (>20 h) was very low at ≈0.00070 s−1, presumably because of deposition of carbonaceous species and in some cases sintering of the metal particles, as revealed by H2 chemisorption, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. The steady state rate was independent of the support composition, synthesis method, Pd loading (1–20 wt%), and acid concentration (0.1–6.6 M). Although the gas-phase reaction also led to deactivation of the supported Pd catalysts, extrapolation of the rate to initial time gave a TOF of ≈0.035 s−1 at 573 K. The liquid- and gas-phase reactions at low conversion levels were selective towards the formation of decarbonylation products such as CO and hexenes. Higher conversion levels resulted in the subsequent conversion of the primary decarbonylation products. Post mortem analysis of the catalysts revealed that concentrated, liquid-phase heptanoic acid at 573 K severely sintered the Pd nanoparticles supported on carbon but not those supported on silica. The Pd nanoparticles were able to maintain the high dispersion on carbon when exposed to low concentrations of liquid-phase heptanoic acid or gaseous heptanoic acid at 573 K.
Transfusion-associated falciparum malaria successfully treated with red blood cell exchange transfusion.

ABSTRACT Falciparum malaria is frequently associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The use of exchange transfusion as a therapeutic modality for severe cases of malaria has been described previously. We describe a case of a 49 year-old African American gentleman with a history of hemoglobin-SC disease who presented with a severe case of Plasmodium falciparum malaria 3 weeks after having received an infected blood transfusion. His peripheral smear showed the presence of numerous intraerythrocytic ring forms and “banana-shaped” gametocytes with a high-grade parasitemia, estimated at 18%. He was treated with antimalarial chemotherapy and also underwent a 12-unit red blood cell exchange transfusion, decreasing his parasite load to
SENSORY AND COOKING PROPERTIES OF GROUND BEEF PREPARED FROM HOT AND CHILLED BEEF CARCASSES

Hot processed ground beef was prepared by one of the following three grinding methods: (1) initial break with kidney plate followed by 0.3 cm final grind; (2) initial break with kidney plate, followed by 1.3 cm grind and 0.3 cm final; and (3) same as No. 2 except that the formulation contained no chilled U.S. Choice plates. Chilled beef (control) was ground through a 1.3 cm plate followed by a 0.3 cm final grind. At 3-hr postmortem, the semimembranosus and longissimus muscles were removed from one side of each hot carcass, while at 24-hr postmortem, the same muscles were removed from the opposite chilled sides. The remainder of the meat from the carcass was used for ground beef fabrication. U.S. Choice plates (conventionally chilled) were added (30% of the formulation) to the formulation in order to bring the final fat content to 21 × 2%. Total cooking loss was significantly less in the hot processed patties when compared to the chilled patties. Patties from hot-boned beef were more tender and juicy than patties from chilled beef. Method of grinding had no significant effect on any palatability trait except flavor intensity. Hot processed patties had significantly (P < 0.05) less configuration change during cooking than chilled patties. Percent diameter change was significantly less in hot processed patties as compared to chilled.
Kidney function after partial nephrectomy: current thinking.

Purpose of reviewWith clinical guidelines recommending partial nephrectomy for small renal masses, it is essential to understand the benefits of partial nephrectomy in regards to renal function. Our objective was to review current evidence and highlight emerging issues for partial nephrectomy and re
APPLICATION OF THE “GENERALIZATION MAP” TO A SELF‐CONTROL INTERVENTION WITH SCHOOL‐AGED CHILDREN

The assessment of generalization has become a priority of applied behavior analysis. This study provided a thorough assessment of the generality of a comprehensive self-control intervention. This intervention incorporated a number of self-management skills and was designed to increase the math performance of an underachieving student in a regular elementary school classroom. All possible classes of generalization as outlined by Drabman, Hammer, and Rosenbaum (1979) were assessed. An ABAB design with follow-up was used to determine the effectiveness of the intervention for the treated student's math performance in the school setting as well as the degree of generalization across the following untreated dimensions: behavior (disruptiveness); setting (home); subject (classmate); and time period (follow-up). The effective intervention produced: subject, behavior, subject-behavior, setting, subject-setting, behavior-setting, subject-behavior-setting, time, subject-time, setting-time, subject-setting-time, and subject-behavior-setting-time generalization. Generalization was not obtained for behavior-time, subject-behavior-time, and behavior-setting-time generalization. Features of this intervention which may have promoted generalization are discussed.
Distribution of Androgen Receptor‐Like Immunoreactivity in the Brains of Cynomolgus Monkeys

A polyclonal antibody, PA1, raised in a rabbit against fusion proteins containing fragments of the human prostatic androgen receptor (AR) was used to map the distribution of AR-like immunoreactivity in the brains of adult male and female cynomolgus monkeys. PA1 AR-immunoreactive (ARir) labeling occurred in the cell nuclei and, more weakly, in the cytoplasm of brain cells. The PA1 ARir labeling occurred primarily in brain regions previously shown on the basis of gonadal steroid autoradiography to contain androgen receptors. However, the distribution of PA1 ARir staining was substantially more restricted than that of autoradiographic labeling using 3H-androgens. The pattern of PA1 ARir labeling was closely similar between animals and occurred in the lateral septum, medial preoptic area, bed nucleus of stria terminalis, anterior, cortical, accessory basal and medial amygdala, several hypothalamic nuclei including the supraoptic, anterior, paraventricular, ventromedial and arcuate nuclei, and the premammillary nucleus. No significant sex differences were observed. With the exception of the supraoptic nucleus, reported not to be labeled by autoradiography, earlier autoradiographic findings and the current immunocytochemical results, although not congruent, have noteworthy similarities.
Successful cardioversion of atrial fibrillation using 360-Joules biphasic shock.

1. Alt E, Schmitt C, Ammer R, Coenen M, Fotuhi P, Karch M, Blasini R. Initial experience with intracardiac atrial defibrillation in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation. PACE 1994;17:1067–1078. 2. Levy S, Ricard P, Gueunoun M, Yapo F, Trigano J, Mansouri C, Paganelli F. Low energy cardioversion of spontaneous atrial fibrillation. Immediate and longterm results. Circulation 1997;96:253–259. 3. Santini M, Pandozi C, Toscano S, Castro A, Altamura G, Jesi AP, Gentilucci G, Villani M, Scianaro MC. Low energy intracardiac cardioversion of persistent atrial fibrillation. PACE 1998;21:2641–2650. 4. Alt E, Ammer R, Lehman G, Schmitt C, Pasquantonio J, Schomig A. Efficacy of new balloon catheter for internal cardioversion for chronic atrial fibrillation without anaesthesia. Heart 1998;79:119–127. 5. Schmeider S, Schneider MAE, Karch MR, Schmitt C. Internal low energy cardioversion of atrial fibrillation using a single lead system: comparison of a left and right pulmonary artery catheter approach. PACE 2001;24:1108– 1112.
Vitamin D and bone

Abstract The discovery of vitamin D came about as a result of the study of the pathogenesis of clinical and experimental rickets. Hence, from the moment of its discovery attention has been focused on the relationship between vitamin D action and bone physiology. With the recent elucidation of vitamin D metabolism (DeLuca, 1974) this interest has been further stimulated. Newly discovered, biologically active vitamin D metabolites are being widely tested as possible therapeutic agents in a variety of metabolic bone diseases ranging from hypoparathyroidism and osteoporosis to renal osteodystrophy.
Sorting and Expansion of Murine Embryonic Stem Cell Colonies using Micropallet Arrays

Isolation of cell colonies is an essential task in most stem cell studies. Conventional techniques for colony selection and isolation require significant time, labor, and consumption of expensive reagents. New microengineered technologies hold the promise for improving colony manipulation by reducing the required manpower and reagent consumption. Murine embryonic stem cells were cultured on arrays composed of releasable elements termed micropallets created from a biocompatible photoresist. Micropallets containing undifferentiated colonies were released using a laser-based technique followed by cell collection and expansion in culture. The micropallet arrays provided a biocompatible substrate for maintaining undifferentiated murine stem cells in culture. A surface coating of 0.025% gelatin was shown to be optimal for cell culture and collection. Arrays composed of surface-roughened micropallets provided further improvements in culture and isolation. Colonies of viable stem cells were efficiently isolated and collected. Colonies sorted in this manner were shown to remain undifferentiated even after collection and further expansion in culture. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of sorting, collection efficiency, and cell viability after release and expansion of stem cell colonies demonstrated that the micropallet array technology is a promising alternative to conventional sorting methods for stem cell applications.
Show and prove: investigating differences in the self-beliefs of Black and White honor students

While there is great deal of research that tracks self-regulatory academic beliefs and behaviors of students, relatively few efforts examine the specific self-beliefs of high achieving African American students. This study compared the intelligence-related beliefs, efficacy beliefs and academic goal orientations of 257 African American (N = 196) and White (N = 61) sophomore and senior students from among honors-level language arts classes in three large midwestern high schools. The results of this study suggest that while African American students and their White peers do not significantly differ with respect to efficacy beliefs or goal orientation, African American students expressed more strongly-held beliefs that were consistent with an entity view of intelligence than did White students. The implications of these results are discussed, as well as a practical means of application for academic settings.
Two-hit rat model of short bowel syndrome and sepsis: independent of total parenteral nutrition, short bowel syndrome is proinflammatory and injurious to the liver.

Abstract Introduction Infants with short bowel syndrome (SBS) are at a high risk for infectious complications and liver failure. We hypothesized that SBS, independent of total parenteral nutrition, is a proinflammatory state that is magnified by sepsis. Methods Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 2 groups: sham laparotomy (SH, n=10) or 75% small bowel resection (n = 10). After 14 days, each group underwent a second sham laparotomy (SH/SH and SBS/SH) or cecal ligation and puncture, followed 16 hours later by cecal excision and peritoneal washout (SH/sepsis and SBS/sepsis). Animals were killed 56 hours later. Results The SBS rats had higher serum levels of interleukin (IL) 6 vs SH (355 ± 99 vs 104 ± 71 pg/mL, P P α (5.65 FC) were elevated in SBS vs SH rats; and IL-6 (114 FC), tumor necrosis factor α (3.87 FC), and Toll-like receptor 4 (7.65 FC) were increased in SBS/sepsis compared with SH/sepsis animals. Conclusion Our results suggest that SBS, independent of total parenteral nutrition, is a proinflammatory state and that sepsis induces an exaggerated proinflammatory cytokine response that may play an important role in liver damage and may be mediated by Toll-like receptor 4.
Hindsight and confirmation biases in an exercise in telepathy.

Belief in the paranormal or claims of paranormal experiences may be, at least in part, associated with systematic cognitive biases. 48 undergraduate college students engaged in an exercise in telepathy in which the color of cards was ‘sent’ to them by the experimenter under two conditions. In a Hindsight-possible condition, participants recorded whether their choice was correct following the revelation of the color. In the Control condition participants committed to a particular response by writing it down before receiving feedback, thus eliminating ability to alter retrospectively what ‘was known all along’. Consistent with a hindsight bias, participants performed significantly better under the Hindsight-possible condition. Moreover, a statistically significant correlation was found between paranormal belief assessed on Tobacyk's 1988 Revised Paranormal Belief Scale in the Hindsight-possible but not in the Control condition, suggesting a confirmation bias. Results are discussed in terms of interactions b...
The resequencing imperative

The possibility of deep population resequencing of genes has generated excitement over its potentially promising role in understanding complex human traits. A new study has now demonstrated the utility of this approach, reporting the resequencing of a lipid metabolism gene in a large multiethnic population and definitively showing that coding variants in the gene are associated with plasma triglyceride levels.
Evaluating system design features

Numerous recent studies have utilized perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use measures to predict the user acceptance of information technologies. This study presents the results of an experiment in which subjects assess the usefulness and ease of use of qualitatively distinct user interface features. Using structural equation modeling, the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the user interface are empirically linked to observed measures of task accuracy and task latency, and to self-reported measures of user confidence in decision quality. Findings indicate that perceived ease of use contributes significantly to enhanced levels of user confidence in decision quality. Moreover, user interfaces perceived as easy to use are associated with faster and more accurate decisions. However, interfaces that are perceived as more useful in accomplishing the task paradoxically result in users taking longer to make decisions that are no more accurate. Furthermore, user confidence in decision quality is not promoted by interfaces that are perceived as more useful.
Interaction of light and atmospheric photochemical products ('smog') within plants.

Damage to plants from ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate, two photochemically formed components of smog, has been described. However, variations in symptom expression and the degree of damage caused by a given concentration of these components, whether of synthetic or natural origin, have complicated development of an adequate biological assay method for these materials. These observed variations in symptomatology have implicated stomatal action, inorganic nutrition temperature, genetics, ascorbic acid content, physiological age of tissue and photoperiod. Plants grown under artificial illumination differ in their response to the photochemically formed pollutants as compared with plants grown in the greenhouse. Interactions between light and oxidants from the polluted atmosphere within plants, as reported here, might well explain some of the variabilities in symptomatology observed in earlier controlled experiments as well as the unexplained natural variability observed in the Los Angeles area. The results presented also emphasize the importance of standardizing plant growth conditions for future work of this nature. 10 references.
MR enterography in Crohn’s disease: current consensus on optimal imaging technique and future advances from the SAR Crohn’s disease-focused panel

MR enterography is a powerful tool for the non-invasive evaluation of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) without ionizing radiation. The following paper describes the current consensus on optimal imaging technique, interpretation, and future advances from the Society of Abdominal Radiology CD-focused panel.
Parameters and the periphery: reflections on Syntactic nuts

L'A. presente un compte rendu critique de l'ouvrage de P.W. Culicover, Syntactic nuts : hard cases, syntactic theory, and language acquisition (1999). Dans ce travail, Culicover developpe une theorie originale concernant le rapport entre grammaires des langues naturelles et acquisition du langage. Il montre que les irregularites et exceptions qui abondent dans le langage interviennent directement sur la maniere dont le noyau grammatical doit etre decrit dans une theorie linguistique ainsi que la maniere dont est modelisee l'acquisition du langage. Le theme majeur du livre est que les grammaires des langues naturelles sont structurees en termes de correspondances entre structure syntaxique et structure conceptuelle (cf. Jackendoff) et remet en question les fondements de la grammaire universelle. L'A. revient particulierement sur l'argumentation que developpe Culicover visant a relier les faits linguistiques aux mecanismes d'apprentissage de la langue
Sweetener Effects on Flaked Millet Breakfast Cereals

White proso and foxtail millets were used in the formulation of a flaked whole grain ready-to-eat (RTE) breakfast cereal where the effects of dried honey or molasses as secondary sweeteners were evaluated. Some sensory attributes were affected by type of millet and by secondary sweetener. Crispness was affected by sweetener type after 4 min hydration. Sweetness scores and color were inversely related, whether evaluated by sensory or instrumental means. The use of 100% millet in RTE breakfast cereals is feasible and the type of sweetener used affects the cereal color, flavor and crispness in milk.
Nuclear cataract: do statins reduce risk?

JAMA Statin Use and Incident Nuclear Cataract Context: Statins are widely prescribed for their lipid-lowering effects but also have putative antioxidant properties. Oxidative stress is believed to play a role in the development of nuclear cataract, but little is known regarding the relationship of statin use and cataract incidence. Objective: To evaluate the relationship of use of statins and incident cataract in adults in a midwestern community in the United States. Design, Setting, and Participants: The Beaver Dam Eye Study, an observational, longitudinal, population-based study of age-related eye disease in Beaver Dam, Wis. There were 1299 persons who were seen at the third examination in 1998-2000, had gradable photographs in both eyes, and were deemed to be at risk of developing nuclear cataract within 5 years. Main Outcome Measure: Five-year incidence of cataract with respect to statin use. Cataracts were graded from photographs taken through the participant's dilated pupil. Results: A total of 210 persons developed incident nuclear cataract in the interval from 1998-2000 to 2003-2005. Five-year incidence of nuclear cataract was 12.2% in statin users compared with 17.2% in nonusers (odds ratio [OR], 0.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.36-0.84), controlling for age. When only never smokers without diabetes were assessed, the age-, lipid level–, and sex-adjusted OR was 0.40 (95% CI, 0.18-0.90). Five-year incidence of cortical cataract was 9.9% in statin users and 7.5% in nonusers (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.79-2.08); posterior subcapsular cataract occurred in 3.0% of statin users and 3.4% of nonusers (OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.39-1.71). Conclusion: Statin use in a general population appears to be associated with lower risk of nuclear cataract, the most common type of age-related cataract.
GATA and FOG2 transcription factors differentially regulate the promoter for Kv4.2 K+ channel gene in cardiac myocytes and PC12 cells

Objective: Kv4.2 subunits are major components of transient outward K+ channels in cardiac myocytes and somatodendritic A-type channels in neurons. To identify molecular mechanisms underlying transcriptional regulation of Kv4.2 gene, we have isolated and characterized the promoter for the rat Kv4.2 gene. Methods: PCR-based amplification of cDNA end (5′RACE) and RNase protection assays were used to determine transcription start sites. Transient transfection of Kv4.2 promoter-luciferase reporter constructs into neonatal cardiac myocytes and PC12 cells was employed to measure activity of the Kv4.2 promoter. Cotransfection of expression vectors for the transcription factors, GATA and/or FOG2, was performed to determine the effects of these transcription factors on the Kv4.2 promoter. Results: Transcription of the gene initiates at 552 bp upstream from the translation initiation site in the brain and heart. Deletion analysis revealed that the ∼200-bp fragment encompassing this start site drives significant transcription in neonatal cardiac myocytes and PC12 cells. The transcription factors GATA4 and 6 differentially enhance activity of the minimum promoter in the two cell types: GATA4 produces a larger increase than GATA6 in cardiac myocytes, whereas the latter results in a more substantial enhancement in PC12 cells. Furthermore, the coregulator of GATA, FOG2, markedly suppresses the GATA-induced increase in myocytes, but enhances it in PC12 cells. The use of GATA mutants that are incapable of forming complexes with FOG2 indicates that the formation of GATA–FOG complexes is required for the FOG2-induced suppression in myocytes, but not for the FOG2-mediated enhancement in PC12 cells. Conclusion: These results indicate that GATA and FOG2 transcription factors use distinct mechanisms to control the expression of Kv4.2 gene in cardiac myocytes and PC12 cells. The lack of a GATA-binding consensus sequence in the Kv4.2 minimum promoter suggests that these transcription factors indirectly influence the channel gene transcription.
The ring puckering potential of oxetane: local correlation results

Abstract The ring puckering potential of oxetane has been determined by the local correlation treatment of Saebo and Pulay and different many-body theories (Moller-Plesset theory and the Chiles-Dykstra ACCD method). The results show that dispersion forces between non-bonded atoms contribute significantly to the observed double-minimum potential; vibrational modulation effects are also significant. Our best results still underestimate the barrier height significantly.
Multiple comparisons for relative risk regression: extension of the kappa-ratio method.

We propose a k-ratio method for multiple comparisons among disjoint groups in survival analysis, specifically among relative risk estimates from a proportional hazards regression analysis. The new method relates the magnitude of critical values to an overall measure of group heterogeneity. That is, large critical values result from small values of a chi-square statistic for testing between-groups homogeneity. Conversely, large values of the overall statistic lead to small critical values for individual comparisons, even if there are many groups. The adaptivity of the k-ratio method contrasts sharply with the conservatism of competing methods.
Two-dimensional position-sensing PVDF dust detectors for measurement of dust particle trajectory, velocity, and mass☆

Abstract We have extended our development of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) dust detectors to include the capability for determination of the x , y coordinates of particle entry into the PVDF detector. The two-dimensional position-sensing PVDF dust detectors ( x , y detectors) we have developed employ resistive charge division, and have a set of conducting strips on the front surface and an orthogonal set on the back surface. Our earlier measurements on PVDF x , y detectors made use of a laser to simulate dust particle impacts. These measurements have recently been extended to include impacts from accelerated dust particles. Two 6 μm thick 58 cm 2 PVDF x , y detectors were placed in a telescope arrangement for measurement of particle time-of-flight, trajectory and fragmentation. We present the dust particle results and show that dust particle impact coordinates are measured by the PVDF x , y detectors with typical errors of −1−3 mm for x and y (over most of the detector sensitive area), confirming the results obtained with the laser. We also show that the model we developed earlier to describe signal pulse generation and the occurrence of anomalous currents (i.e., polarity reversal with time) in Si x , y detectors responding to energetic charged nuclei also applies to PVDF x , y detectors responding to hypervelocity dust particles. Finally, we show that even if particle fragmentation occurs upon penetration of the first x , y detector, particle trajectory is still measured, but with a larger position error (∼ 4–6 mm) in the second x , y detector due to the spread of fragment impact positions on the second x , y detector.
The pathogenesis of necrotic proliferative colitis in swine is linked to whipworm induced suppression of mucosal immunity to resident bacteria

Abstract Mucohemorrhagic enteritis syndrome in swine has a complex etiology with largely unknown pathogenesis. We have observed that inoculation of pigs with swine whipworm, Trichuris suis , initiates an interaction with resident bacterial flora to induce mucohemorrhagic enteritis. The role of bacteria in this mixed infection was demonstrated using 4 treatment groups. One group of pigs was inoculated with 2500 embryonated T. suis eggs alone, while a second group received T. suis eggs along with broad spectrum antibiotic treatment. Two other control groups of pigs were uninoculated and were either treated with antibiotic or untreated. Pigs inoculated with T. suis eggs exhibited diarrhea, mucosal edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, bacterial accumulation at the site of worm attachment in the proximal colon, and intestinal adenomatosis associated with the intracellular Ileal symbiont intracellularis bacteria. In addition, enlarged lymphoglandular complexes (LGCs) containing numerous extracellular bacteria, eosinophils, lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils were observed in the distal colon. The other group of pigs that was inoculated with T. suis but treated with antibiotics had lesions localized to the site of worm attachment and histologically normal LGCs with no invasive bacteria in the distal colon. The groups of uninoculated pigs, with or without antibiotic treatment, exhibited no pathology or bacterial invasion. It appears that the complex pathogenesis of necrotic proliferative colitis in pigs may be linked to worm induced suppression of mucosal immunity to resident bacteria. Further, the association between bacteria, lymphocytes and macrophages in the LGCs of pigs infected with T. suis suggests an antigen-processing role for these structures in the colon. Further, the complex pathogenesis of necrotic proliferative colitis in pigs may be linked to worm induced suppression of mucosal immunity to resident bacteria.
Mo1460 Quality Assurance in ERCP: Results of a Prospective Follow up of Selective Prophylactic PD Stent Placement in a Tertiary Center Endoscopy Unit

pancreatitis OR 1,1. ERCP diagnosis of SOD was more prevalant in elderly with post ERCP pancreatitis compared to without pancreatitis (14,3% vs 3,8% respectively, p 0,05) When prognosis of patients evaluated patients with post ERCP pancreatitis at 7th decade had higher Ranson (median 2) and APACHE II scores (median 6) then other decades. However the post ERCP pancreatitis related complications and mortality ratio were similar in patients 65 or younger. Conclusions: This is one of the largest series evaluating the rate and risk factors for post ERCP pancreatitis in elderly. We found that risk of post ERCP pancreatitis does not increase with age. Female gender is the most important risk factor for post ERCP pancreatitis in elderly. JPD and SOD also slightly increases the risk of post ERCP pancreatitis in elderly. Altough risk of post ERCP pancreatitis does not increase with age, its severity detected with Ranson and APACHE II scores were higher in elderly.
Scrapie as a model for neuroaxonal dystrophy: ultrastructural studies.

Abstract Neuritic degeneration is a prominent ultrastructural feature of scrapie in hamsters. To investigate the morphogenesis of neuritic degeneration, we examined brain tissues from hamsters infected with the 263K strain of scrapie virus and from age-matched controls at varying intervals following intracerebral inoculation. Dystrophic neurites—defined as dendrites, axonal preterminals, and myelinated axons containing mitochondria and pleomorphic, electron-dense inclusion bodies—were found as early as 2 weeks postinoculation. Their numbers increased with the incubation period, and their highest density was observed at the terminal stage of disease. Occasionally, small clusters of these structures formed neuritic plaques. Such dystrophic neurites were only rarely seen in brains of uninfected hamsters. Experimental scrapie thus provides an animal model for human neuroaxonal dystrophies. In addition, since this model allows predictable formation of brain amyloid, it may serve as a model for the study of neuronal aging and Alzheimer's disease.
Pathological considerations of laser-tissue interactions: light microscopic assessment of thermal damage of skin

A variety of fixatives and stains were examined for the ability to differentially stain the extracellular matrix components of thermal damage to the skin in an attempt to provide methods for examining the extent of thermal effects. This information is important in comparing different lasers and laser parameters. Four zones of thermal damage were identified including char and three zones of less extensive damage. The lower bounds of the damage with steady state conditions for these zones were 64 - 66 degree(s)C, 80 - 85 degree(s)C, and > 100 degree(s)C. The best choices based on this study include the following: fixative: Bouin's, overall stain: H & E, inner zone stain: Pinkus' acid orcein giemsa, middle zone stain: Movat's pentachrome, and outer zone stain: the modified elastic stain presented in the appendix of this paper.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
An application of the theory of the complex variable to the mapping of some potential functions.

Abstract Using the theory of the logarithmic potential and the methods of intersecting circles and radii, plots are obtained for the lines of flow and equipotentials for eight cases of two sources, two sinks, or a source and a sink of varying strengths. A detailed analysis of the equilibrium equipotentials is included. The problem of three unit sources placed at the vertices of an equilateral triangle is investigated; and the general expression of the equilibrium equipotential for n similar unit sources (or sinks) placed at the vertices of a regular n -sided polygon is developed.
A numerical solution of laminar developing flow in eccentric annular ducts

Abstract Laminar incompressible flow in straight ducts of eccentric annular cross section is analyzed. Numerical methods are used to solve an approximate hydrodynamic model, which was developed from the bipolar coordinate representation of the Navier-Stokes equations. Solutions obtained for the proposed model compare favorably with those of two alternative models and with published solutions for the concentric annulus and the circular tube. Results are presented for five different geometries.
Abstract 3141: Hyperglycemia modulates the Wnt /b-catenin signaling pathway in breast cancer

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Hyperglycemia represents one of the early events in the development of diabetes type 2. Susceptibility to this disease has been linked to Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway that also controls breast cancer progression. We had previously analyzed the effects of hyperglycemia on gene expression profile (GEP) by Affimetrix analysis in breast cancer derived MDA-MB-231 cells (Turturro F. et al., BMC Cancer 2007, 7:96). Wnt/βcatenin signaling pathway had emerged as one of the most prominent signaling pathway regulated by increased glucose in culture media (5 mM versus 20 mM). The aim of the present study was to validate the GEP data by assessing the mRNA levels of both GSK-3b and Wnt1 by RT-PCR in response to hyperglycemia as previously described. We analyzed the levels of RT-PCR products of the target genes relative to the control mRNA of β-actin in MDA-MB-231 cells, cultured in the same conditions as previously illustrated (Turturro F. et al., BMC Cancer 2007, 7:96). The values were expressed as densitometric readings. Relative levels of GSK-3b mRNA raised from 0.14 + 0.053 for 5 mM glucose to 0.308 + 0.0476 for 5/20 shift (p< 0.05 at 5 vs. 5/20 mM) and to 0.432 + 0.0321 for 20 mM (p< 0.05 at 5 vs. 20 mM) resulting in an overall 3 fold increase. We also examined the effect of hyperglycemia on gene expression of Wnt-1 which inhibits the expression and activity of GSK-3b. The relative levels of mRNA of Wnt-1 assessed by RT-PCR, were decreased from 0.163 + 0.0322 for 5 mM glucose to 0.068 + 0.001 for 20 mM glucose, with an overall 2.7 fold reduction (p<.05 at 5 vs. 20 mM). These data confirmed the GEP results in terms of relationship between hyperglycemia and gene expression of the Wnt signaling pathway in this particular breast cancer cell line. Our study supports further investigation in the area of diabetes and breast cancer invasiveness and progression. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3141.
Characterization of Cyclic AMP‐Dependent Phosphorylation of Neuronal Membrane Proteins

We examined the patterns of cyclic AMP-dependent protein phosphorylation in membranes prepared from rat cortical synaptosomes following gel electrophoresis and autoradiography. We determined the optimum pH (6.2), time (20 s), Mg2+ concentration (10 mM) and cyclic AMP concentration (5 microM) for the reaction. We also found that the detergents Triton X-100 and gramicidin S enhanced cyclic AMP-dependent protein phosphorylation. Inhibitors of the Na+, K+ ATPase (ouabain, NaF, vanadate) enhanced protein phosphorylation. This effect occurred in the presence but not in the absence of detergent. The addition of purified bovine brain cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit enhanced membrane protein phosphorylation. The addition of homogeneous neural (bovine brain) and non-neural (bovine skeletal muscle) cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase type II regulatory subunit partially inhibited protein phosphorylation. Both neural and non-neural regulatory subunits behaved similarly. In addition to cyclic AMP-dependent phosphorylation, the alpha-subunit of pyruvate dehydrogenase (Mr = 41,000) is phosphorylated in a cyclic AMP-independent fashion. We also examined the phosphorylation pattern of membranes prepared from rat heart and found that the number of acceptor substrates was much less than that from the nervous system.
How Can We Communicate About Vaccines With Adolescents and Their Parents

Objective: To describe parents’ and adolescents’ perceptions about vaccination. Methods: Qualitative interviews of 22 mothers/grandmothers and 25 10- to 14-year-olds. Results: Themes emerged in 3 focus areas. (a) Understanding: Both adults and adolescents had difficulty understanding concepts of risks, benefits, prevention, and vaccination. (b) Decision making: Adults saw vaccination as an opportunity to help their adolescent develop skills for transition to adulthood. Adolescents worried about being lied to (reinforced by being told “it won’t hurt”), physical pain, and cleanliness. ( c) Preventing sexually transmitted infections: Adults were divided between those who felt their child would not need such a vaccine and those who wanted to “be safe” to protect their child in the future. Conclusions: At the same time that even basic concepts about vaccination should be explained to both adults and adolescents, adolescence represents a time for learning about responsible decision making. Discussion regarding ...
Leaching potential and forms of phosphorus in deep row applied biosolids underlying hybrid poplar

Abstract Biosolids deep row incorporation (DRI) offers an alternative recycling approach for bioenergy crop production, but phosphorus additions in excess of the vegetation requirements can potentially impair water quality. The effects of DRI of anaerobically digested (AD) and lime-stabilized (LS) biosolids at four rates (213, 426 Mg ha −1 for AD and 328, 656 Mg ha −1 for LS) and a single rate of conventional P fertilizer on leaching of PO 4 –P, and TKP were investigated in a hybrid poplar plantation in a coastal plain heavy mineral mine reclamation site. The effects of AD and LS biosolids aging on the transformations and losses of P applied with the biosolids were also studied. Zero tension lysimeters were installed at the site to collect leachate. Samples were collected at least monthly for 30 months between July 2006 and December 2008. We also analyzed biosolids P (labile P, Al-, Fe-bound-P, Ca-bound-P, total P, Mehlich 1 P) fractions. The loss of P was determined and P binding constituents were described via regression analysis. Orthophosphate and TKP from the DRI biosolids leached in negligible amounts, and were similar to leaching from conventional P fertilization. Most of the P was Al- and Fe-bound in the AD biosolids and Ca-bound in the LS biosolids. Labile P decreased with decrease in organic C, which indicated that P leaching potential from the DRI biosolids decreased with aging. Our results indicated that P mobility from biosolids of the type used should not pose a water quality risk.
MICROWAVE PHOTON ASSISTED TUNNELING IN Sn-I-Sn SUPERCONDUCTING TUNNEL JUNCTIONS

We have made an experimental study of comparatively low-frequency (3.93 GHz) microwave-photon-assisted quasiparticle tunneling in superconducting Sn-I-Sn tunnel junctions. The junctions were situated in a perpendicular rf electric field of frequency $\ensuremath{\omega}$, with microwave voltages ${V}_{\mathrm{rf}}$ satisfying the condition $\frac{e{V}_{\mathrm{rf}}}{\ensuremath{\hbar}\ensuremath{\omega}}\ensuremath{\lesssim}18$. Excellent agreement with the rf power dependence predicted by the theory of Tien and Gordon has been obtained for junctions with normal resistances $\ensuremath{\gtrsim}1 \ensuremath{\Omega}$, although the calculated junction cavity fields remain an order of magnitude below field values needed to fit the data. As the junction resistance is decreased, agreement remains good at high rf power levels, but systematic discrepancies between theory and experiment occur at lower power levels. The interaction of microwave radiation with the zero-voltage Josephson current has also been studied on the same junctions, and the response compared to the theoretical predictions of Werthamer. In this case quantitative agreement with the theory is generally poor and does not appear to be correlated with sample resistance.
Trajectories of Substance Use Disorders in Youth: Identifying and Predicting Group Memberships.

This study used latent class regression to identify latent trajectory classes based on individuals' diagnostic course of substance use disorders (SUDs) from late adolescence to early adulthood as well as to examine whether several psychosocial risk factors predicted the trajectory class membership. The study sample consisted of 310 individuals originally recruited as children in a long-term prospective study. Diagnoses of alcohol or cannabis use disorders (abuse or dependence) were assessed when individuals were 18 (T1), 20 (T2), and 22 (T3) years old. The results showed that two trajectory classes were identified for both alcohol and cannabis use disorder cases and that the trajectory class membership was predicted by being male, dropping out of high school, receiving a diagnosis of CD or ODD in childhood, having an early age of onset of alcohol or cannabis use, previously using illicit drugs other than cannabis, and the number of risk factors an individual is exposed to. Prevention work should focus on ...
A non-lethal approach to estimate whole-body 13C and 15N stable isotope ratios of freshwater amphipods using walking legs

To analyze the stable isotope ratios of small-bodied invertebrates, the entire animal is typically sacrificed and processed, which is problematic for threatened or endangered species. Appendages which are regenerated could be used to infer whole-body isotope ratios, but differences in turnover rates and isotopic signatures among tissues may confound such an approach. We tested the hypothesis that the δ13C and δ15N of whole-body tissue for freshwater amphipods could be predicted from the δ13C and δ15N of walking legs, with the goal of estimating body δ13C and δ15N of Gammarus acherondytes, a United States federally endangered species. To test this, we analyzed the δ13C and δ15N of walking legs and bodies of five species of amphipods from geographically distant areas (Idaho, Illinois, and Washington) in the United States. The general relationships of whole-body isotope ratios of C and N as a function of leg isotope ratios were linear and had slopes of one. In the range of the data, leg δ13C was slightly lower than body δ13C, indicating some tissue-specific fractionation, while δ15N was similar for legs and bodies. Our data suggest that legs can be used to predict body isotope ratios in freshwater amphipods. This approach provides an additional tool to help researchers understand the biology of small, endangered invertebrates without sacrificing individuals. This is especially useful in cave ecosystems where populations are naturally sparse.
Abacavir/lamivudine combination in the treatment of HIV: a review

Abacavir has been at the center of research and clinical interest in the last two years. The frequency of the associated abacavir hypersensitivity syndrome has decreased substantially since the introduction of routine testing for the HLA-B*5701 allele; the activity of the drug in HIV-infected persons with HIV RNA values more than 100,000 copies/mL has been questioned; the possible increased risk of myocardial infarction after recent exposure to abacavir has been debated; and the drug has been moved from the "recommended" category to the "alternative" category in several guidelines. Still, the drug remains a useful agent in combination with other drugs, including lamivudine, for the treatment of HIV infection. This review will focus on the pharmacokinetics, activity, side effects, and resistance profile of both abacavir and lamivudine, including a thorough review of all of the recent studies relevant to both drugs.
Rhodium supported on thermally enhanced zeolite as catalysts for fuel reformation of jet fuels

Abstract Autothermal reformation of military jet fuel (1096 ppmw sulfur) was investigated with rhodium supported on thermally stabilized Y zeolite catalysts. The zeolite catalysts were thermally stabilized by ion exchanging with nitrate solutions of rare-earth metals (La, Ce, Sm, Gd, Dy and Er). Surface area analyses indicated that the exchanged zeolite could maintain its porous structure as high as 950 °C instead of 800 °C for a commercial NaY zeolite. The structure of the exchanged zeolite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Rh-SmNaY zeolite reforming catalysts were prepared by incipient wetness and organometallic synthesis. The JP8 reforming experiments were performed in a short contact time adiabatic reactor with a monolithic catalyst with the addition of air and steam at a temperature below 920 °C. The effects of steam and fuel-to-air ratio (C/O ratio) were studied. Hydrogen and carbon monoxide were produced as the main products. Durability tests were performed with Rh/SmNaY-zeolite catalysts. This work shows that zeolite based catalysts can convert transportation fuels such as high sulfur jet fuel (over 1000 ppmw S) to syngas for solid oxide fuel cell applications.
Retaining analog intuition in a digital world with bond graphs

Abstract Although digital computers have supplanted analog computers for the simulation of physical systems, and digital signal processors have largely replaced analog devices in control systems, most engineers still think about mechatronic systems in analog terms. Skilled circuit designers and many others can use their intuition to solve dynamic problems by modifying components or inserting new elements into a system. This intuition is based not only on experience with physical systems, but also on simulation of continuous signal mathematical models. Digital computers allow the construction of extremely complex mathematical models by the combination of a variety of submodels, but it often happens that an intuitive understanding of the assumptions inherent throughout the system is nearly impossible, so that if the simulation is difficult or the predicted performance is poor, the remedy is far from obvious. Bond graph-based models allow a system analyst to think in physical terms about system components and to appreciate the mathematical and computational aspects of changes in subsystem elements or parameters. Bond graph processors and programs containing libraries of submodels make the process of translation from a physically-based model, to a mathematical model, and then to a computational simulation scheme nearly automatic. In this way, the system designer’s intuition can be brought to bear in solving dynamic problems in mechatronic systems.