cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of solid tumor mutations under the targeted agent and profiling utilization registry (TAPUR) study: how do gynecologic cancers compare with others?

Objectives: Targetable somatic mutations in solid tumors have led to the incorporation of numerous biologic agents for gynecologic and other cancers, including BRCA with PARP inhibitors, ATM and POLE with immunotherapies, and PIK3CA with mTOR inhibitors. However, it is unclear how frequently these mutations are expressed in gynecologic and other cancers. We sought to evaluate the genomic expression of various cancers using a landmark cancer genomics program from the National Cancer Institute. Methods: Data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were extrapolated, including mutations in genes associated with ovarian, uterine, cervical, breast, colon, lung cancer and melanoma: BRCA1/2, POLE, ERBB2, PIK3CA, CDKN2A, ATM, BRAF, FGFR1,2,3. Chi-square analysis was used to compare genetic expression across different tumor types. Results: A total of 3,677 tumor specimens; of which 436 ovarian, 530 uterine, 289 cervical, 986 breast, 400 colon, 567 lung, and 469 melanoma were included in our analysis. Based on somatic mutations, BRCA1/2 were found on average in 13.58% of these solid tumors, POLE in 7.49%, PIK3CA in 22.53% and ERBB2 in 5.30%. BRCA1/2 mutations for which PARP inhibitors are used were expressed in 10% of ovarian, 28.49% uterine, 10.03% cervix, 5.88% breast, 14.25% colon, 11.46% lung, and 14.92% melanoma. POLE mutations for which immunotherapies are indicated were identified in 2.98% ovarian, 17.17% uterine, 4.5% cervical, 1.62% breast, 9% colon, 6.7% lung, and 10.45% melanoma. PIK3CA mutations for which mTOR inhibitors are effective were found in 3.67% ovarian, 51.13% uterine, 29.41% cervical, 34.38% breast, 31% colon, 4.94% lung, and 3.2% melanoma. ERBB2 mutations were observed in 1.83% ovarian, 3.45% breast, 5.88% cervical, 10.19% uterine, 6.50% colon, and 5.54% melanoma cases. Other actionable mutations including CDKN2A, ATM, BRAF, and ERBB3 that can be targeted by other biologic therapies were also evaluated in these various tumor types. Download : Download high-res image (280KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions: The expression of BRCA1/2, POLE, PIK3CA and other genomic markers appear to be prevalent in gynecologic and other cancers. These biomarkers with associated biologic therapies have guided our current trial enrollment and may have direct clinical implications toward personalized treatment for patients with solid tumors. Further research is warranted to understand the unique tumor microenvironments that cause varying efficacy of targetable therapies across different tumor subtypes.
Pre-breeding androgen and glucocorticoid profiles in the eastern hellbender salamander (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis).

Abstract Seasonally breeding species exhibit cyclical changes in circulating steroid hormone profiles that correspond with changes to their reproductive behavior and ecology. Such information is critical to the conservation of imperiled and data-deficient species, such as the eastern hellbender salamander (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis). We determined changes in plasma testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), 11-ketoandrostenedione (11-KA), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), cortisol, corticosterone, and progesterone (P4) during a four-month period preceding breeding in adult male and female eastern hellbenders. This pre-breeding period is characterized by increased diel movement and aggression by both sexes, follicular development and yolk production in females, and sperm production, territoriality, and nest site establishment in males. In both males and females, we observed a progressive increase in circulating T and DHT during the pre-reproductive season, both peaking in August (17 days before breeding), but concentrations of both hormones were higher in males. Conversely, 11-KT was higher in females, but did not vary significantly by date. These results suggest that T and DHT are the predominant androgens in eastern hellbenders and are likely important regulators of reproductive processes in both males and females. The detection of significant quantities of DHT and 11-KT in females is particularly interesting, considering that unlike T, neither of these androgens can be converted to estrogens. Therefore, it seems possible that aggression or some aspect of reproduction in the female eastern hellbender may be directly mediated by androgen signaling. Baseline cortisol did not vary throughout the pre-breeding period but was higher in females than males, and also became highly variable in females leading up to breeding. Progesterone, 11-KA, DHEA, and corticosterone were rarely or never detected, and thus, do not appear to be important during the pre-reproductive season. This study provides a physiological framework for future studies of hellbender reproductive biology, which could ultimately be important for their conservation.
Enhancing bioaccessibility of resveratrol by loading in natural porous starch microparticles.

Abstract Resveratrol (RSV) is a lipophilic polyphenol susceptible to photo- and thermal degradation, and strategies are to be studied to enable its distribution in food matrices, prevent its degradation during storage, and increase its bioaccessibility during digestion. In this study, the porous matrix of natural starch, in the form of milled freeze-dried potato microparticles (FDPMs), was studied as an absorbent to load RSV. The binary solvent of ethanol and polyethylene glycol 400 (40:60 v/v) was used to dissolve 30% w/v RSV for diffusion into FDPMs. After ethanol was evaporated, the loading capacity was 112 mg RSV/g FDPMs and was maintained at 104 mg RSV/g FDPMs (92.9% retention) after 110-day ambient storage. The RSV stability under UV irradiation at 253 nm was improved by 32% due to shielding effect of FDPMs, and the ferric reducing power was 25% higher than the pristine RSV. The release of RSV in FDPMs was significantly higher than pristine RSV during simulated gastric and intestinal digestions (82.3% vs 51.4% bioaccessibility). The increased reducing power and bioaccessibility were supported by the amorphous state of RSV in FDPMs. The present study illustrates the potential of porous vegetable microparticles as natural matrices to load lipophilic bioactive compounds in functional foods.
Following Bariatric Surgery: an Exploration of the Couples' Experience.

Bariatric surgery is the most effective intervention for morbid obesity, resulting in substantial weight loss and the resolution of co-morbid conditions. It is not clear what impact bariatric surgery and the subsequent life-style changes have on patients’ couple relationships. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to examine the lived experience of couples after one member of the couple underwent bariatric surgery. This study utilized a phenomenological approach of semi-structured interviews of the couples jointly (n = 10 couples). Colaizzi’s method of analysis for phenomenological studies was utilized to elucidate the central themes and distill the essence of the participants’ experience. All of the couples felt their post-operative success was due to a joint effort on both members of the couples’ part. The participant couples described the following five emerging thematic experiences: (a) changes in physical health, (b) changes in emotional health, (c) changes in eating habits, (d) greater intimacy in the relationship, and (e) the joint journey. This research provides greater insight into the experience of the couple than has been previously reported. The use of qualitative research techniques offer new approaches to examine the biopsychosocial outcomes and needs of bariatric surgery patients. Further research is warranted in order to develop culturally appropriate interventions to improve the patient’s surgical and biopsychosocial outcomes.
The utilization of employee wellness programs by government, business and industry: a strategic evaluation.

This study ascertains the extent of use of employee wellness programs by a cross section of organizations in the United States. Nearly one-thousand organizational personnel professionals responded to a mail survey asking if their organization provided specific wellness services within five areas: (1)incentive programs, (2) exercise and fitness programs, (3) health screening and prevention, (4) nutritional aid, and (5) educational programs. Organizations were then categorized using Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes. The results are strategically valuable to both users and providers of wellness products, providing bench-mark data which: (1) allows comparisons of wellness offerings among similar organizations and across organizational types, and (2) provides product development and segmentation guidance to hospitals and other providers of wellness products.
Chapter 3 Isolation of Yeast DNA

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a procedure for isolation of DNA from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This procedure is a modification of an earlier method for isolating DNA from bacteria and has general operations: (1) preparation of osmotically fragile spheroplasts by enzymatic digestion of the cell wall, (2) lysis of the spheroplasts and partial proteolysis of the lysate, (3) deproteinization and extraction of lipids from the lysate, and (4) enzymatic digestion of RNA and elimination of polysaccharides by centrifugation or digestion, followed by separation of the DNA from the digestion products by selective isopropanol precipitation. This procedure yields a preparation of total-yeast DNA including all three buoyant density species observed in neutral isopycnic cesium chloride gradients: nuclear, nuclear heavy satellite, and mitochondrial. If spheroplasting of the cells is adequate and lysis is complete, there are no preferential losses of any of the observed DNA species. Preparations free of DNA of mitochondrial density can be obtained from petite yeast strains that lack mitochondrial DNA. The various DNA species obtained from normal strains by this method may be separated and purified using cesium chloride gradients, cesium chloride–ethidium bromide gradients, cesium sulfate–mercury, or cesium sulfate–silver gradients, and hydroxyapatite chromatography.
Rapid Genetic Modification of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells by Inducible Cassette Exchange Recombination

Embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation is a useful means by which to produce large quantities of cells in vitro representing early stages of embryonic development. A conditional gene expression system allows interrogation of factors at specific time points in the differentiation of ES cells to defined cell types. We have developed a method for rapidly generating conditional inducible murine ES cells by targeting genes into an Inducible Cassette Exchange (ICE) locus. The ICE locus encodes a doxycycline-inducible floxed Cre, which replaces itself with an incoming floxed gene of interest. The derivative cell lines, selected in G418, thus bear doxycycline-inducible transgenes. We provide detailed methods for performing ICE recombination and generating derivative doxycycline-inducible cell lines.
Diamond Thin Films

The sections in this article are 1 Introduction 2 Carbon-13 3 Proton NMR 4 Fluorine-19 NMR 5 Spin–Lattice Relaxation 6 Biographical Sketch Related Articles
Did Mars once have martians

Pictures of Mars from the Viking and Mariner 9 missions provide evidence of liquid water in Mars' past, indicating a warmer climate. It is speculated that outflow channels and valley networks were formed 3.5 to 4 billions years ago, at the same time life was developing on Earth. Current theories suggest that chemical reactions in Mars' early atmosphere depleted the original amounts of carbon dioxide with no mechanism to recycle it back into the atmosphere. Ecosystems in the cold, dry Antarctic valleys provide models of Mars on Earth and indicate that if life evolved on Mars there may be organic or fossil evidence under the surface. Lake beds on Mars surface are considered to be the best place to hunt for fossils.
Monogenic resistance in tomato to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici race 3

Resistance to fusarium wilt, incited by Fusarium oxysporum (Schlecht.) f. sp. lycopersici (Sacc.) Snyder & Hansen race 3 in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) was discovered in LA 716, a L. pennellii accession. A resistant BC1F3 breeding line, E427, was developed from LA 716. E427 was crossed with the susceptible cv. Suncoast and F1, BCP1, BCP2 (to Fla 7155, a susceptible parent) F2, F3, and BCP2S1 seeds were obtained. Segregation for resistance following root dip inoculation over three experiments indicated a single dominant gene controlled resistance. Five of the 12 BCP1S1's segregated more susceptible plants, whereas one of the 12 segregated more resistant plants than expected (P<0.05). Three of 23 F3 lines segregated more susceptible plants than expected while 1 of the 23 had more resistant plants than expected (P<0.05). Segregation in all other lines fit expected ratios. Five of the 23 F3's were homozygous resistant which was an acceptable fit to expectations (P=0.1−0.5). The gene symbol I 3 is proposed for resistance to race 3 of the wilt pathogen. Deviations from expected ratios in data reported here and for other breeding lines indicate an effect of modifier genes and/or incomplete penetrance. Plant age at inoculation and seed dormancy did not affect results.
Comparison of cancer cell surfaces of the lower reproductive tract by scanning electron microscopy

The squamous cells of the cervix simulate those of the vagina and vulva both histologically and by scanning electron microscopy. However, in areas of the cervix undergoing active metaplasia, there are cells which share some of the characteristics demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy of both squamous and columnar epithelium. In these cells there is a wide range of characteristics of each cell type, suggesting a possible gradual transition from columnar to squamous epithelium. Furthermore, the cells of severe dysplasia and of intraepithelial and invasive squamous cancers of the cervix, though histologically similar to those of vaginal and vulvar cancers, are distinctly different when examined by scanning electron microscopy. These findings suggest that both metaplastic and neoplastic squamous cells are derived from the same progenitor columnar cells of the cervix, by orderly transition in the former and by atypical transformation in the latter. Second, the distinctiveness from the vaginal and vulvar cells indicates different embryonic stem cell lines.
Inhibition of Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase activity by antiserum to a subsequence peptide.

An antigenic 15-amino-acid peptide sequence (gtfB.1) from the glucosyltransferase B enzyme of the cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans GS-5 was identified previously from the genetic fusion of this sequence to the B subunit of cholera toxin. The resulting chimeric protein was used to raise antiserum in rabbits. This antiserum was shown to recognize the native glucosyltransferase enzyme and to inhibit its activity. The antiserum inhibited the synthesis of water-soluble glucan by approximately 40% and the synthesis of water-insoluble glucan by greater than 90%. The antiserum was shown to partially inhibit fructosyltransferase activity as well. The ability of this antipeptide antiserum to inhibit several enzymes from S. mutans suggests that these enzymes share an epitope related to enzymatic activity. Images
An exportable CGIF module from the CP environment: A pragmatic approach

We have upgraded the Conceptual Programming Environment (CP) from a single standalone application to a set of component modules to increase flexibility of the environment and to allow any one of the modules to be used by applications outside of the environment. This allows the CP modules, in particular CGIF, to be tested pragmaticly in real applications. The CGIF module is encapsulated as a component and has been given an API specification. This module implements the NMSU modified ICCS2001 version of the CGIF interchange format for Conceptual Graphs (CGs) that is part of the dpANS and is setup to link with applications written in C, C++, Java\(^{\textrm{TM}}\)and Visual Basic 6.0. Communication is possible to all these languages by designing the API of the module so that it can accept either standard C string or Unicode string within the function calls. Since modules are flexible units of code, the components of the CP Environment have been tested for use under most versions of Microsoft Windows and different flavors of Linux.
A True Authoritarian Type: How Fonts Can Facilitate Positive Opinions for Powerful Groups

Individuals often use a variety of typefaces (or fonts) in an attempt to convey authority. Professionals in the communications industries have found that repeated exposure to a message makes it more persuasive, and understand that different typefaces access particular networks of associations in people’s minds. Plus, studies have suggested people are more likely to believe statements when they are easier to read; in psychology this is known as cognitive fluency. In two experiments presented here, various typefaces were presented to determine individuals’ evaluations of groups that have more power in society, such as the army and the police; as well as support for actions taken by powerful groups, like illegal wiretapping by America’s F.B.I. (Federal Bureau of Investigation). Participants displayed more positive assessments for authoritarian groups and more likely supported their actions when the surveys used to measure their assessments were from documents with easier-to-read typefaces.
Systems Theory as the Foundation for Understanding Systems

As currently used, systems theory is lacking a universally agreed upon definition. The purpose of this paper is to offer a resolution by articulating a formal definition of systems theory. This definition is presented as a unified group of specific propositions which are brought together by way of an axiom set to form a system construct: systems theory. This construct affords systems practitioners and theoreticians with a prescriptive set of axioms by which a system must operate; conversely, any set of entities identified as a system may be characterized by this set of axioms. Given its multidisciplinary theoretical foundation and discipline-agnostic framework, systems theory, as it is presented here, is posited as a general approach to understanding system behavior. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 17:
Service System Barriers to Reunification

Programs to reunice children in state custody with their families and communities have not proliferated to the same extent as have programs designed to prevent placement. Although reunification is ...
CD1.1 Expression by Mouse Antigen-Presenting Cells and Marginal Zone B Cells

Mouse CD1.1 is an MHC class I-like, non-MHC-encoded, surface glycoprotein that can be recognized by T cells, in particular NK1.1+ T cells, a subset of alphabeta T cells with semiinvariant TCRs that promptly releases potent cytokines such as IL-4 and IFN-gamma upon stimulation. To gain insight into the function of CD1.1, a panel of nine mAbs was generated and used to biochemically characterize and monitor the surface expression of CD1.1 on different cell types. CD1.1 is a heavily glycosylated, beta2-microglobulin-associated surface protein. Its recognition by a panel of 12 V alpha14-positive and -negative CD1-specific alphabeta T cell hybridomas was blocked by two groups of mAbs that bound to adjacent clusters of epitopes, indicating that different alphabeta TCRs bind to the same region of CD1.1, presumably above the groove. Remarkably, CD1.1 was mainly expressed by dendritic cells, B cells, and macrophages, suggesting a function in Ag presentation to Th cells. Furthermore, the cell type that expressed the highest levels of CD1.1 was the splenic marginal zone B cell, a distinct subset of B cells that also expresses CD21 (the C3d receptor) and may be involved in natural responses to bacterial Ags. Altogether, the results support the idea that CD1.1 may function in recruiting a form of innate help from specialized cytokine producer alphabeta T cells to APCs, a role that might be important at the preadaptive phase of immune responses to some microbial pathogens.
Epitaxial MgO on Si(001) for Y‐Ba‐Cu‐O thin‐film growth by pulsed laser deposition

Epitaxial MgO thin films were grown on Si(001) by pulsed laser deposition. In spite of a large (−22.5%) lattice mismatch, epitaxy occurs with alignment of all crystallographic axes. Epitaxial quality and deposition rate are both sensitive to temperature and oxygen pressure. We believe this is the first demonstration of epitaxial MgO on Si. We employ MgO intermediate layers for superconducting epitaxial YBa2Cu3O7−δ/BaTiO3 thin films on Si with a critical current density of 6.7×105 A/cm2 at 77 K.
The Atmospheric Aerosol-Forming Potential of Whole Gasoline Vapor

A series of sunlight-irradiated, smog-chamber experiments confirmed that the atmospheric organic aerosol formation potential of whole gasoline vapor can be accounted for solely in terms of the aromatic fraction of the fuel. The total amount of secondary organic aerosol produced from the atmospheric oxidation of whole gasoline vapor can be represented as the sum of the contributions of the individual aromatic molecular constituents of the fuel. The urban atmospheric, anthropogenic hydrocarbon profile is approximated well by evaporated whole gasoline, and thus these results suggest that it is possible to model atmospheric secondary organic aerosol formation.
Sequestering perrhenate with a borate-based coordination polymer: a model for pertechnetate separation.

Crystals of the layered metal organic framework solid Pb[B(Im)4](NO3)(nH2O) can undergo exchange of the nitrate for perrhenate, a model for pertechnetate, forming Pb[B(Im)4](ReO4). We can monitor this reaction by 207Pb solid-state NMR and can isolate single crystals of the resultant material through growth in the presence of an excess of perrhenate. Such a synthetic metal−organic framework solid represents a new candidate for pertechnetate-sequestering materials.
K-Stimulated acetylcholine release: inhibition by several barbiturates and chloral hydrate but not by ethanol, chlordiazepoxide or 11-OH-delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol.

— Thiamylal, methohexital, secobarbital, amobarbital, pentobarbital, phenobarbital and barbital, and also chloral hydrate inhibited K-stimuiated acetylcholine (ACh) release from rat midbrain slices in a dose related manner. The concentrations required for 50% inhibition were related to the lipid partition coefficient. None of the barbiturates nor chloral hydrate inhibited unstimulated ACh release. Ethanol, chlordiazepoxide and 11-OH-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol were without effect on both unstimulated and stimulated ACh release. The results are discussed in terms of other effects of these drugs on the cholinergic system.
CD8+ T lymphocytes are recruited to neoplastic cervix.

ToliicIV distinguish normal cervical lymphocyte populations from phenotypes recruited to the cervix in response to cervical neoplasia, lymphocytes were isolated from normal and neoplastic cervix. A portion of the cervical transformation zone was obtained from 19 patients with pathologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and from 20 patients with normal cervices undergoing hysterectomy for benign indications. Mononuclear cells were harvested from cervical tissue using a serial, multienzymatic digestion procedure and enriched by density gradient centrifugation. Isolated cell populations were stained with surface marker-specific monoclonal antibodies and analyzed by fluorescent activated cell sorter to determine the percentage of B cells, total T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. The distribution of circulating peripheral blood lymphocyte phenotypes was similar for both patients with neoplasia and normal controls. A marked disparity in the proportions of NK cells and T cells was demonstrated among lymphocyte phenotypes infiltrating the cervix. The percentage of CD4+ T cells and NK cells was significantly depressed (P=0.04,P=0.03, respectively) in dysplastic tissue as compared to normal cervical tissue. In contrast, the proportion of CD8+ T cells was significantly increased in the dysplastic tissue (P=0.0001). Analysis of immunocompetent cells in the circulation appears to have little correlation with immunocytes present in the dysplastic epithelium. The depression in the proportion of CD4+ T lymphocytes and NK cells at the cervical squamocolumnar junction reflects a local recruitment of CD8+ T cells to the site of neoplasia in the cervix.
Effects of anoxia on megakaryocyte progenitors derived from cord blood CD34pos cells

: Background: Severe hypoxic insults to the fetus and neonate are associated with the development of thrombocytopenia. The thrombocytopenia in some cases is the result of disseminated intravascular coagulation, but that mechanism fails to account for all, perhaps the majority, of cases. Objective: We hypothesized that human fetal megakaryocyte (Mk) progenitors are directly adversely affected by transient anoxia. Design and methods: To test this, we isolated CD34pos cells from the umbilical cord blood of 10 healthy term neonates, and exposed these to 0% or 20% O2 for 24 h, with or without recombinant thrombopoietin (rTpo, 50 ng/mL). After 24 h, a portion of the CD34pos cells were harvested for flow cytometric evaluation of apoptosis. The remaining cells were cultured for an additional 10–12 days, under normoxic conditions, in a collagen-based serum-free system containing rTpo, IL-3, and IL-6. In this way, we sought to determine the effect of transient anoxia on clonogenic capacity of Mk progenitors. Results: Contrary to our hypothesis, anoxia did not increase either apoptosis or cell death of the CD34pos cells. The addition of rTpo was protective, with a significant decrease in apoptosis and cell death (P < 0.0001), and an increase in the number of Mk colonies cultured (P = 0.04). There was no difference between the normoxic and anoxic groups in proliferative potential of the Mk progenitor cells. Conclusions: The thrombocytopenia observed in neonates following an acute hypoxic event is not likely due to a direct deleterious effect of hypoxia on Mk progenitors.
The Impact of Cloud Computing: Should the IT Department Be Organized as a Cost Center or a Profit Center?

How does the adoption of cloud computing by a firm affect the organizational structure of its information technology (IT) department? To analyze this question, we consider an IT department that procures IT services from a cloud computing vendor and enhances these services for consuming units within the firm. Our model incorporates the competitive environment faced by the cloud vendor, which affects the price of the cloud vendor. We find that when the cloud vendor faces intense competition, the cost-center organizational model is preferred over the profit-center model. Infrastructure services such as basic storage, e-mail, and raw computing face intense competition, and our results suggest that such services be offered as a free corporate resource under the cost-center organizational structure. When the cloud vendor has pricing power, a profit-center organizational structure is likely to be preferred. Our results suggest that highly differentiated services such as cloud-based enterprise-wide enterprise res...
Oscillatory behavior of charge-matter fluids with e/m>G/sup 1/2/

It is shown that the exact solutions of the spherically symmetric time- dependent pressure-free Einstein-Maxwell equations with external e/m> G/sup 1/2/ allow steady-state oscillatory behavior but only under the same conditions that were found previously to be necessary for equilibrium in the static case, namely (1) that a divergence exists in g/sub 44/ at the center, (2) that the matter density is negative, at least near the center, and (3) that the ratio of charge to matter density is not constant (auth)
Post-carotid endarterectomy hyperperfusion syndrome-is it predictable by lack of cerebral reserve?

Background Cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome (HS) is presumed to be because of an increase in postendarterectomy flow in patients with fixed cerebral vascular reserve. Severe headache is thought to be an early sign of possible HS. An increase in partial pressure CO2 (pCO2) is known to cause cerebral vasodilatation and is used to evaluate the presence of cerebral reserve. Methods A total of 45 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy had internal carotid artery flow measured with a transonic flow probe as follows: F1, immediately after full dissection of the internal carotid artery; F2, after 30 seconds of breath holding; and F3, after restoration of flow. ΔF2−F1 and ΔF3−F2 were also evaluated. A 10% increase between F2 and F1 indicated normal cerebral reserve and between F3 and F2 indicated increased postoperative flow. Age, gender, medical comorbidities, indication for carotid endarterectomy, intraoperative cerebral oximetry values, and percentage of bilateral carotid stenosis were recorded. All patients were contacted after discharge about the presence of postoperative headache or other suggestions of HS. Fisher’s exact test was used for categorical predictors and the rank-sum test for continuous predictors. Results Seven (16%) patients (group A) developed postoperative headache and 38 (group B) did not. No patient developed HS. No variables were associated with postoperative headache except for female gender (p = 0.005). There were no statistically significant differences in F1, F2, F3, and ΔF (F2−F1 or F3−F2) between groups A and B (there was no descriptively significant ΔF2−F1 in 17 patients). Only one of the nine patients who had no change between F2 and F1, who had a significant increase in F3, and who was thought to be at higher risk for HS developed a postoperative headache. Conclusions Lack of cerebral reserve is common in patients undergoing endarterectomy. If headache is an early sign of hyperperfusion, it does not seem to be predicted by lack of cerebral reserve and an increase in postendarterectomy flow.
Cognitive profiles of aging and aging-related conditions

This review presents some of the current research and thinking regarding the neuropsychological features associated with aging and aging-related conditions. In the context of the current longevity revolution, many older adults are increasingly concerned about their cognitive performance and the risk for cognitive decline. This makes it critically important to understand the neuropsychological profiles of normal aging and the cognitive features of conditions associated with aging, such as age-associated memory impairment, mild cognitive impairment and dementia. There are also several factors that can modify the neuropsychological abilities and outcomes associated with aging, including gender, genetic status, lifestyle issues and education. The authors point to the importance for future research to embrace a fluid or multifactorial approach to neuropsychology, to focus on those factors contributing to healthy cognition and successful aging, and to correlate neuropsychological changes with the results of neu...
Arabinose is metabolized via a phosphoketolase pathway in Clostridium acetobutylicum ATCC 824

In this report, a novel zymogram assay and coupled phosphoketolase assay were employed to demonstrate that Clostridium acetobutylicum gene CAC1343 encodes a bi-functional xylulose-5-P/fructose-6-P phosphoketolase (XFP). The specific activity of purified recombinant XFP was 6.9 U/mg on xylulose-5-P and 21 U/mg on fructose-6-P, while the specific activity of XFP in concentrated C. acetobutylicum whole-cell extract was 0.094 and 0.52 U/mg, respectively. Analysis of crude cell extracts indicated that XFP activity was present in cells grown on arabinose but not glucose and quantitative PCR was used to show that CAC1343 mRNA expression was induced 185-fold during growth on arabinose when compared to growth on glucose. HPLC analysis of metabolites revealed that during growth on xylose and glucose more butyrate than acetate was formed with final acetate:butyrate ratios of 0.72 and 0.83, respectively. Growth on arabinose caused a metabolic shift to more oxidized products with a final acetate:butyrate ratio of 1.95. The shift towards more oxidized products is consistent with the presence of an XFP, suggesting that arabinose is metabolized via a phosphoketolase pathway while xylose is probably metabolized via the pentose phosphate pathway.
NIH Consensus Development Task Force on Cesarean Childbirth: The Process and the Result

: Ways to lower the incidence of the two most frequent indications for cesarean, repeat cesarean and dystocia, were recommended by the NIH Consensus Development Task Force in September, 1980. This paper describes the recommendations and criticisms of the work of the Task Force.
A Novel Noninterpenetrating Polycyclohexane Network: A New Inorganic/Organic Coordination Polymer Structural Motif Generated by Self-Assembly of “T-Shaped” Moieties

The new bidentate nitrogen-donor ligand 1,4-bis(3-pyridyl)-2,3-diaza-1,3-butadiene (4) has been synthesized (monoclinic, P21/c, a = 11.074(2) A, b = 4.737(1) A, c = 11.475(2) A, β = 115.861(9)°, V = 541.7(1) A3, Z = 4) and its coordination chemistry with cadmium and cobalt nitrate hydrates investigated. Two new noninterpenetrating coordination polymers based on “T-shaped” building blocks have been obtained: [Cd(NO3)2(C12H10N4)1.5·CH2Cl2]n (5) (monoclinic, P21/n, a = 7.891(1) A, b = 17.172(3) A, c = 18.576(4) A, β = 97.72(1)°, V = 2494.5(7) A3, Z = 4) and [Co(NO3)2(C12H10N4)1.5·CH2Cl2]n (6) (monoclinic, P21/n, a = 7.7954(8) A, b = 17.026(3) A, c = 18.412(3) A, β = 97.89(1)°, V = 2420.6(6) A3, Z = 4). Both 5 and 6 adopt a novel “polycyclohexane” structural motif, consisting of “all-equatorially” condensed cyclohexane-like M6(ligand)6 units. They are open-framework materials with unusually large cavities (ca. 28 × 15 A), and reversibly absorb and desorb guest molecules between room temperature and 213 °C wi...
Morphological changes during enhanced carbonation of asbestos containing material and its comparison to magnesium silicate minerals.

Abstract The disintegration of asbestos containing materials (ACM) over time can result in the mobilization of toxic chrysotile ((Mg, Fe) 3 Si 2 O 5 (OH) 4 )) fibers. Therefore, carbonation of these materials can be used to alter the fibrous morphology of asbestos and help mitigate anthropogenic CO 2 emissions, depending on the amount of available alkaline metal in the materials. A series of high pressure carbonation experiments were performed in a batch reactor at P CO2 of 139 atm using solvents containing different ligands (i.e., oxalate and acetate). The results of ACM carbonation were compared to those of magnesium silicate minerals which have been proposed to permanently store CO 2 via mineral carbonation. The study revealed that oxalate even at a low concentration of 0.1 M was effective in enhancing the extent of ACM carbonation and higher reaction temperatures also resulted in increased ACM carbonation. Formation of phases such as dolomite ((Ca, Mg)(CO 3 ) 2 ), whewellite (CaC 2 O 4 ·H 2 O) and glushinskite (MgC 2 O 4 ·2H 2 O) and a reduction in the chrysotile content was noted. Significant changes in the particle size and surface morphologies of ACM and magnesium silicate minerals toward non-fibrous structures were observed after their carbonation.
PREMENSTRUAL, SYMPTONS IN AIXLESCENTS

We administered the Premenstrual Assessment Form (PAF), a standardized self-report questionnaire, to 208 females at a suburban Adolescent Health Service to determine whether adolescents experience the premenstrual changes in mood, behavior, and physical synptoms reported in adults. The PAF consists of 95 items on a 6-point rating scale. It is scored by computer to establish 18 diagnostic categories and an index of severity of emotional and physical symptoms. Subjects sere 12-21 yrs of age frean 17.6±1.7), 89% white, 59% in high school and 28% in college. Premenstrual symptoms, reported by 96% of subjects, uere most often categorized into the following synpton complexes: general discomfort (74% of subjects), impaired social functioning (50%), water retention (50%), major depressive (47%), impulsive (38%), fatigue(32%), and Minor depressive (18%). The prevalence of these complexes matches almost exactly that reported in publidied series of adults (with the exception of impaired social functioning, reported in only 17% of adults). The severity of emotional and physical symptoms are also within the same range as those reported in adults. Syomptoms did not vary significantly among adolescent subjects based on age, race, school status, or parental education. feaer (p < .05) premenstrual symptoms were reported by the 23% of subjects on the birth control pill and by the 38% with mild or no cramps during their menses. Those symptoms said to constitute the “Premenstrual Syndrome” occur as frequently in adolescents as in adults, with a higher incidence of social impairment. Physical and emotional complaints in adolescents must be evaluated, both by the clinician and researcher, in the context of these findings.
Cost and cost-effectiveness of universal screening for hearing loss in newborns.

Abstract Objective: To estimate the cost and cost-effectiveness of universal newborn hearing screening. Study Design and Setting: Decision analysis model utilizing the hospital perspective. This model evaluated 4 distinct protocols for screening a fixed and defined hypothetical cohort of newborn infants. Outcome Measures: Cost of screening and the number of infants with hearing loss identified through universal screening. Results: Otoacoustic emissions testing at birth followed by repeat testing at follow up demonstrated the lowest cost ($13 per infant) and had the lowest cost-effectiveness ratio ($5100 per infant with hearing loss identified). Screening auditory brainstem evoked response testing at birth with no screening test at follow-up was the only protocol with greater effectiveness, but it also demonstrated the highest cost ($25 per infant) and highest cost-effectiveness ratio ($9500 per infant with hearing loss identified). These findings were robust to sensitivity analysis, including best-case and worst-case estimation. The prevalence of hearing loss and the fraction of infants returned for follow-up testing had a large impact on the absolute level, but not relative level of protocol cost and cost-effectiveness. Conclusion: The otoacoustic emissions testing protocol should be selected by screening programs concerned with cost and cost-effectiveness, although there are certain caveats to consider. Significance: The most significant barriers to implementation of universal newborn hearing screening programs have been financial, and this study compares the most common protocols currently in use. This study can assist program directors not only in the decision to initiate universal screening but also in their choice of screening protocol. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2001;124:359-67.)
Low Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Viruses Infect Chicken Layers by Different Routes of Inoculation

In order to develop better control measures against avian influenza, it is necessary to understand how the virus transmits in poultry. In a previous study in which the infectivity and transmissibility of the pandemic H1N1 influenza virus was examined in different poultry species, we found that no or minimal infection occurred in chicken and turkeys intranasally (IN) inoculated with the virus. However, we demonstrated that the virus can infect laying turkey hens by the intracloacal (IC) and intraoviduct (IO) routes, possibly explaining the drops in egg production observed in turkey breeder farms affected by the virus. Such novel routes of exposure have not been previously examined in chickens and could also explain outbreaks of low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) that cause a decrease in egg production in chicken layers and breeders. In the present study, 46-wk-old specific-pathogen-free chicken layers were infected by the IN, IC, or IO routes with one of two LPAI viruses: a poultry origin virus, A/chicken/CA/1255/02 (H6N2), and a live bird market isolate, A/chicken/NJ/12220/97 (H9N2). Only hens IN inoculated with the H6N2 virus presented mild clinical signs consisting of depression and anorexia. However, a decrease in number of eggs laid was observed in all virus-inoculated groups when compared to control hens. Evidence of infection was found in all chickens inoculated with the H6N2 virus by any of the three routes and the virus transmitted to contact hens. On the other hand, only one or two hens from each of the groups inoculated with the H9N2 virus shed detectable levels of virus, or seroconverted and did not transmit the virus to contacts, regardless of the route of inoculation. In conclusion, LPAI viruses can also infect chickens through other routes besides the IN route, which is considered the natural route of exposure. However, as seen with the H9N2 virus, the infectivity of the virus did not increase when given by these alternate routes.
Glucocorticoid induction of rat angiotensin II type 1A receptor gene promoter.

Abstract Promoter/luciferase reporter analysis indicated that the 5′-flanking region of rat angiotensin II type 1A receptor gene was functional, both in the rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMCs) and in Y1 cells derived from mouse adrenal cortex. In response to dexamethasone (Dex), transcriptional activity of promoter increased in transfected RASMCs, suggesting the functional cis-action of a glucocorticoid responsive elements (GRE). Furthermore, the expression of the rat AT 1A gene was also upregulated by Dex at the levels of both mRNA and protein in RASMCs.
Introduction: Women's Friendships and Lesbian Sexuality

(2001). Introduction: Women's Friendships and Lesbian Sexuality. Nineteenth-Century Contexts: Vol. 23, Women's friendships and lesbian sexuality, pp. 175-186.
Effects of isovolemic resuscitation with hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier Hemoglobin glutamer-200 (bovine) on systemic and mesenteric perfusion and oxygenation in a canine model of hemorrhagic shock: a comparison with 6% hetastarch solution and shed blood.

Objective To study Hemoglobin glutamer-200 bovine (Hb-200), 6% hetastarch (HES) and shed whole blood (WB) resuscitation in canine hemorrhagic shock. Study design Prospective laboratory investigation. Animals Twelve adult dogs [29 ± 1 kg (mean ± SD)]. Methods Anesthetized dogs were instrumented for recording systemic and mesenteric hemodynamic parameters and withdrawal of arterial, mixed and mesenteric venous blood, in which hematological, oxygenation, blood gas and acid–bases variables were determined. Recordings were made before [baseline (BL)], after 1 hour of hypovolemia and immediately and 3 hours post-resuscitation with 30 mL kg−1 of either Hb-200, HES, or WB. Results Blood withdrawal (average 34 ± 2 mL kg−1) caused significant hemodynamic changes, metabolic acidosis and hyperlactatemia characteristic for hemorrhagic shock. Only WB transfusion restored all variables. Hemoglobin glutamer-200 bovine infusion returned most hemodynamic parameters including cardiac output and mesenteric arterial blood flow to BL but increased mean arterial pressure above BL (p < 0.05). However, Hb-200 failed to restore total Hb and arterial oxygen content (CaO2), leaving systemic (DO2I) and mesenteric O2 delivery (DO2Im) below BL (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, acid–base variables recovered completely after Hb-200 resuscitation, and met-hemoglobin (Met-Hb) levels increased (p < 0.05). Hetastarch resuscitation returned hemodynamic variables to or above BL but further decreased total Hb and CaO2, preventing recovery of sDO2I and mDO2I (p < 0.05). Thus, systemic and mesenteric O2 extraction stayed above BL (p < 0.05) while acid–base variables recovered to BL, although slower than in Hb-200 and WB groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions and clinical relevance Resuscitation with Hb-200 seemed to resolve metabolic acidosis and lactatemia more rapidly than HES, but not WB; yet it is not superior to HES in improving DO2I and DO2Im. The hyperoncotic property of solutions like Hb-200 that results in rapid volume expansion with more homogenous microvascular perfusion and the ability to facilitate diffusive O2 transfer accelerating metabolic recovery may be the key mechanisms underlying their beneficial effects as resuscitants.
Twenty‐Five Years of Audit Deregulation and Re‐Regulation: What Does it Mean for 2005 and Beyond?

This paper explores broad trends in regulation of the auditing profession from 1981–2005, the first 25 years of Auditing: A Journal of Practice & Theory. It begins with a sketch of the 1980 regulatory environment, three constants over the next 25 years, and three external developments or “shocks” that dramatically affected audit regulation activity. The initial conditions, constants, and shocks are then related to audit regulation beginning with the audit risk model in the 1980s as the basis for selfregulated auditing standards, continuing with a vision of unregulated, non‐mandated value‐adding assurance services in the 1990s, and finally, the 2002 statutory adoption of independent regulation of registered accounting firms and a government‐sanctioned corporate governance role for auditors. I close with some implications of the 2005 audit regulation environment for future auditing scholars and practitioners.
Increase in radiosensitivity of lung micrometastases by hyperbaric oxygen.

Four-day-old artificial pulmonary micrometastases of two murine fibrosarcomas, designated FSA and NFSA, showed increased sensitivity to ionizing radiation by a factor of 1·13 when animals were exposed to hyperbaric oxygen breathing before and during irradiation, implying the presence of hypoxia in the micrometastases. At the time of irradiation the diameter of FSA and NFSA metastases was smaller than 200 and 100μm, respectively, which, on the basis of oxygen diffusion, could not be responsible for hypoxia. It is assumed that hypoxia of micrometastases is passive, reflecting the radiobiological hypoxia of lung tissue that could exist under normal breathing conditions.
[Comment on “Raising the ante on the climate debate”] Wasting public money?

The letters written by U.S. Rep. Joe Barton and his committee (Forum, Eos, 12 July 2005, p. 262) asking for data from Michael Mann and other scientists are certainly chilling because of the time it would take to meet the requests, but Rep. Barton has every right to make such requests. Thomas Crowley asked,“At some point, one must ask why should a member of the U.S. Congress get involved in this matter which may have been raised by a Canadian?” He opines that the reason was to intimidate and foment uncertainty. The real answer is, Barton is making the request because he can and is doing what, in his mind, is his job. That the issues were raised by a Canadian is immaterial; plenty of Americans are also skeptical of global change research. Moreover, the argument that “there is more agreement than disagreement” among the various paleoclimate reconstructions would not resonate with a layperson; even laypeople know that the history of science is fraught with examples of consensuses that proved wrong.