cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Steroidogenic activity of a peptide specified by the reversed sequence of corticotropin mRNA.

Abstract The molecular recognition theory predicts that a reversed (3'----5') reading of an mRNA should yield a peptide that is structurally and functionally similar to that specified in the 5'----3' direction. We tested this idea by synthesizing a corticotropin (ACTH) analogue using a reverse reading of bovine mRNA for ACTH-(1-24). This peptide, designated ACTH-3'----5', had a similar hydropathic profile to native ACTH-5'----3' but had only 30% sequence homology and eight different charge substitutions. ACTH-3'----5' specifically bound to the surface of mouse Y-1 adrenal cells and to polyclonal anti-ACTH antibody. Additionally, ACTH-3'----5' stimulated cAMP synthesis and steroidogenesis in adrenal cells. These findings show that ACTH-3'----5' mimics the corticotropic properties of native ACTH, thereby further validating the molecular recognition theory.
On similarity and scaling of the radiative transfer equation

The present paper shows how the well-known similarity and scaling concepts are properties of the radiative transfer equation and not specifically of the degree of anisotropy of the phase function. It is shown that the key assumption regarding the angular dependence of the radiative field is essential in determining both the value for the parameter used to scale the radiative transfer, as well as the number of streams used in calculating the radiances for various atmospheric problems. Simulations performed on realistic type of cirrus clouds, characterized by strongly anisotropic functions, demonstrates the superior computational advantage for accurately simulating radiances. A new approach for determining the scaling parameter is introduced.
Agrobacterium-mediated large-scale transformation of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using glyphosate selection

An Agrobacterium-mediated transformation system with glyphosate selection has been developed for the large-scale production of transgenic plants. The system uses 4-day precultured immature embryos as explants. A total of 30 vectors containing the 5-enol-pyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase gene from Agrobacterium strain CP4 (aroA:CP4), which confers resistance to glyphosate, were introduced into wheat using this system. The aroA:CP4 gene served two roles in this study—selectable marker and gene of interest. More than 3,000 transgenic events were produced with an average transformation efficiency of 4.4%. The entire process from isolation of immature embryos to production of transgenic plantlets was 50–80 days. Transgenic events were evaluated over several generations based on genetic, agronomic and molecular criteria. Forty-six percent of the transgenic events fit a 3:1 segregation ratio. Molecular analysis confirmed that four of six lead transgenic events selected from Agrobacterium transformation contained a single insert and a single copy of the transgene. Stable expression of the aroA:CP4 gene was confirmed by ELISA through nine generations. A comparison of Agrobacterium-mediated transformation to a particle bombardment system demonstrated that the Agrobacterium system is reproducible, has a higher transformation efficiency with glyphosate selection and produces higher quality transgenic events in wheat. One of the lead events from this study, no. 33391, has been identified as a Roundup Ready wheat commercial candidate.
THE BASIC ECONOMICS OF ARMS REDUCTION

[In this paper, Kenneth Arrow provides a general framework for analysis by economists of the forces lying behind the deescalation and escalation of military expenditures. On the basis of his long experience and leadership in the development of economic theory, he addresses the question: what are the ways suggested by such theory for estimating the economic effects of a major reduction of current arms expenditure, particularly with reference to the United States? (eds.)]
Physical properties of particulate matter (PM) from late model heavy-duty diesel vehicles operating with advanced PM and NOx emission control technologies

Abstract Emission control technologies designed to meet the 2007 and 2010 emission standards for heavy-duty diesel vehicles (HDDV) remove effectively the non-volatile fraction of particles, but are comparatively less efficient at controlling the semi-volatile components. A collaborative study between the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the University of Southern California was initiated to investigate the physicochemical and toxicological characteristics of the semi-volatile and non-volatile particulate matter (PM) fractions from HDDV emissions. This paper reports the physical properties, including size distribution, volatility (in terms of number and mass), surface diameter, and agglomeration of particles emitted from HDDV retrofitted with advanced emission control devices. Four vehicles in combination with six after-treatment devices (V-SCRT®, Z-SCRT®, CRT®, DPX, Hybrid-CCRT®, EPF) were tested under three driving cycles: steady state (cruise), transient (urban dynamometer driving schedule, UDDS), and idle. An HDDV without any control device is served as the baseline vehicle. Substantial reduction of PM mass emissions (>90%) was accomplished for the HDDV operating with advanced emission control technologies. This reduction was not observed for particle number concentrations under cruise conditions, with the exceptions of the Hybrid-CCRT® and EPF vehicles, which were efficient in controlling both—mass and number emissions. In general, significant nucleation mode particles (
“Through the Looking Glass”: Optical Physics, Issues, and the Evolution of Neuroendoscopy

Although the concept of endoscopy has existed for centuries, a practical, working neuroendoscopic system did not emerge until last century, as a result of numerous contributions and refinements in optical technology, illumination sources, and instrumentation. Modern neuroendoscopy would not be a flourishing field, as it is today, without the dedication, innovation, and implementation of emerging technology by key contributors including Maximilian Nitze, Walter Dandy, and Harold Hopkins. Despite several inherent and unique limitations, neuroendoscopic surgery is now performed for a variety of intraventricular, skull base, and spinal operations. In this review, the history of neuroendoscopy, key players who envisioned how the inner workings of the human body could be visualized "through the looking glass," and current state and future potential for neuroendoscopic surgery are discussed. Future directions of neuroendoscopic surgery will likely be guided by further miniaturization in camera and optical technology, innovations in surgical instrumentation design, the introduction of robotics, multi-port minimally invasive surgery, and an enhanced ability to perform bimanual microdissection.
An Assessment of the Scale, Practices, and Conservation Implications of Florida's Charter Boat–Based Recreational Shark Fishery

ABSTRACTRecent conservation efforts have advocated for SCUBA diving ecotourism as a nonconsumptive alternative use of sharks. Although generally overlooked by conservation advocates, another nonextractive use is catch-and-release fishing, which remains poorly characterized for shark fishing. In this study, we use a combination of website content analysis and surveys of charter boat captains to assess the scale of Florida's charter boat shark fishing industry. We further examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of charter boat captains whose clients fish for sharks in Florida. We show that recreational charter boat shark fishing occurs throughout the state but is heavily concentrated in the Florida Keys. Shark fishing is often the most expensive trip offered, suggesting that sharks are economically important to the charter boat fishing industry. Florida's charter boat shark fishers who show a strong conservation ethic toward sharks practice catch and release commonly. Our results suggest that althou...
Operation Red Flag: Igniting a Passion and Commitment to Improving Patient Outcomes: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Prevention and Management of Postpartum Hemorrhage

Childbearing Poster Presentation variances were identified with regard to assessment and treatment of preterm labor as well as patient education and coordination of care. Standardized definitions, guidelines, and orders are being developed to aid in early identification and treatment of preterm labor. Patient educational materials were designed for utilization across the continuum. Teach-back was implemented to assess patient knowledge of the care plan. Coordination of care and communication between providers were streamlined to convey assessment findings, interventions, and medications; pending tests; care needs; follow-up appointments; and resources to aid in the coordination of care between providers. A process also was developed for the safe transport of patients at greatest risk of preterm delivery to more appropriate levels of neonatal care. Data collection is currently underway. Anticipated results include a decreased triage time; decreased observation admissions for preterm labor; decreased cost triage and hospital costs; increased patient, nurse, and physician satisfaction; and an improved rate of antenatal steroid administration.
Hysteroscopic Sterilization in an Immunosuppressed Patient

Essure sterilization produces a local benign tissue response resulting in bilateral occlusion of the fallopian tubes 3 months after insertion. There is a precautionary warning about performing this procedure on immunosuppressed patients. We present a case of successful bilateral tubal occlusion with Essure in a patient with a history of kidney transplantation and receiving immunosuppressive medications.
On the incentives to establish and play political rent-seeking games*

Legislators will enact programs that encourage rent-seeking only if they can thereby increase their chances of winning election, or of receiving contributions themselves. The paper shows rent-seeking to be electorally robust — both voters and contributors will often avoid a candidate who proposes to eliminate rent-seeking. Important exceptions arise, however, if contributions are more likely to help challengers than incumbents, and if legislators prefer that some firm rather than another receive governmental contracts.
Clinical neuro-oncology formal education opportunities for medical students in the United States and Canada.

Objective To develop an understanding of the availability of the formal clinical neuro-oncology educational opportunities for medical students. Methods The curriculum websites of all medical schools accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education were reviewed for the presence of clinical neuro-oncology electives as well as other relevant data. Results Ten (6.8%) of medical schools accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education offer formal neuro-oncology electives. Half are clustered in the Midwest. Forty percent are at institutions with neuro-oncology fellowships. All are at institutions with neurosurgery and neurology residency programs. Conclusions Formal clinical neuro-oncology elective opportunities for medical students in the United States and Canada are limited. Additional such opportunities may be of value in the education of medical students.
Influence of dietary lysine levels and arginine:lysine ratios on performance of broilers exposed to heat or cold stress during the period of three to six weeks of age

Four trials of identical experimental design were conducted to determine the effects of temperature, dietary Lys level, and dietary Arg:Lys ratios on performance and carcass yield of male broilers. Birds of a commercial strain were grown from 21 to 42 d of age in wire-floored finishing batteries placed in environmental chambers. The chambers were programmed to provide either a constant thermoneutral temperature (21.1 C), a constant cold temperature (15.5 C), or a cycling hot diurnal temperature (25.5 to 33.3 C). Within each environment there was a factorial arrangement of three Lys levels (1.0, 1.1, and 1.2%) with four Arg:Lys ratios (1.1:1, 1.2:1, 1.3:1, and 1.4:1). Environmental temperature significantly influenced virtually every characteristic examined. Hot cyclic temperatures reduced weight gain, feed intake, and breast meat yield, and increased feed conversion, dressing percentage, leg quarter yield, and abdominal fat content. The cold environment promoted increased feed intake and mortality. Ascites and cardiomyopathy were the leading causes of death under cold exposure and thermoneutral conditions, whereas complications arising from heat exposure were the main cause of death under hot cyclic conditions. Levels of Lys affected leg quarter yield and abdominal fat content over all environments but increased breast meat yield only under cold conditions. Increasing Arg:Lys ratios improved feed conversion and dressing percentage and reduced abdominal fat content; it could not be determined whether these responses were consistent with Arg per se or were due to a nonspecific N response. As increasing Lys levels or Arg:Lys ratios did not improve weight gain, increase breast meat yield, or attenuate adverse effects due to heat or cold exposure, it is concluded that the levels of Lys and Arg suggested for 21 to 42 d by the NRC are adequate for birds of this age under the environmental conditions encountered.
Estimating sensitivity and specificity for technology assessment based on observer studies.

Rationale and Objectives The goal of this study was to determine the accuracy and precision of using scores from a receiver operating characteristic rating scale to estimate sensitivity and specificity. Materials and Methods We used data collected in a previous study that measured the improvements in radiologists' ability to classify mammographic microcalcification clusters as benign or malignant with and without the use of a computer-aided diagnosis scheme. Sensitivity and specificity were estimated from the rating data from a question that directly asked the radiologists their biopsy recommendations, which was used as the “truth,” because it is the actual recall decision, thus it is their subjective truth. By thresholding the rating data, sensitivity and specificity were estimated for different threshold values. Results Because of interreader and intrareader variability, estimated sensitivity and specificity values for individual readers could be as much as 100% in error when using rating data compared to using the biopsy recommendation data. When pooled together, the estimates using thresholding the rating data were in good agreement with sensitivity and specificity estimated from the recommendation data. However, the statistical power of the rating data estimates was lower. Conclusions By simply asking the observer his or her explicit recommendation (eg, biopsy or no biopsy), sensitivity and specificity can be measured directly, giving a more accurate description of empirical variability and the power of the study can be maximized.
Analysis of injury- and violence-related fatalities in the Ohio Medicaid population: identifying opportunities for prevention.

BACKGROUND:: To identify the leading causes of injury- and violence-related deaths in demographic subgroups of the population in Ohio, by Medicaid status. METHODS:: We used linked Ohio Medicaid and death certificate files, 1992 to 1998, and obtained the probability (p) of dying from a specific mechanism of injury- given death from injury-by Medicaid status, using multinomial multivariable logistic regression analysis. Probabilities were rank-ordered to identify the leading causes of death in each subgroup. RESULTS:: The leading cause of injury-related deaths was homicide among Medicaid decedents in the age groups 0 to 4, 15 to 24, and 25 to 44 (p = 0.283, 0.380, and 0.269, respectively), and motor vehicle crashes among nonMedicaid decedents aged 5 to 14, 15 to 24, 25 to 44, and 45 to 74 (p = 0.448, 0.462, 0.293, and 0.293, respectively). Accidental falls ranked first among the elderly (p = 0.593 and 0.414, respectively in Medicaid and nonMedicaid decedents). Suicide and accidental exposure to smoke, fire, and flames also ranked high among the leading causes of injury-related deaths in many population subgroups. CONCLUSIONS:: Findings from this study, pointing to the vulnerability of population subgroups to certain mechanisms of injury, can be used to formulate targeted prevention strategies. Language: en
Noninvasive screening tools for Down syndrome: a review

Down syndrome is the leading cause of prenatal chromosome abnormalities, accounting for 53% of all reported chromosome conditions. Testing strategies, guidelines, and screening options have expanded from their conception in the 1970s, and now include such options as anatomical ultrasound, maternal serum screening, and noninvasive prenatal testing. This review summarizes all currently available noninvasive diagnostic techniques for the detection of Down syndrome. By understanding fully each technology and the possible alternatives, the physician will be able to provide their patients with all the information necessary to make an informed decision regarding their medical management.
LINAC RADIOSURGERY AT THE JOINT CENTER FOR RADIATION THERAPY

The Joint Center for Radiation Therapy (JCRT) has treated intra-cranial lesions with high-dose single fraction stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) since 1986 and with multi-fraction stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) since 1992. This paper describes the JCRT techniques for treatment planning and delivery for SRS, and to a limited extent for SRT. LINAC quality assurance, treatment delivery, and patient management for stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic radiotherapy technique are closely related at the JCRT, although differences exist. An historical retrospective of our experience with stereotactic techniques including imaging modalities, treatment planning techniques, optimization methods, and treatment delivery is presented. Three treatment planning approaches, single isocenter, multiple isocenter, and micro-jaw field shaping are used to demonstrate the capabilities and technical dosimetric features of each approach. The major planning differences and clinical of each technique are described. From our experience, lesions less than 3.0 cm in maximum extent are well treated with circular fields using either a single or multiple isocenter configuration. Lesions greater than 3.0 cm in maximum extent usually benefit from field shaping using the micro-jaws. For these large lesions, the shaped field approach typically improves the dose homogeneity as well as reduces the amount of healthy brain irradiated. Our physicians choose between the three techniques to meet the desired clinical outcome the patient's situation requires.
Asparagine depletion after pegylated E. coli asparaginase treatment and induction outcome in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in first bone marrow relapse: A Children's Oncology Group study (CCG‐1941)

Purpose Re-induction outcomes vary for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and marrow relapse. We explored possible relationships among asparaginase (ASNase) activity levels, asparagine (ASN) depletion, anti-ASNase antibody titers, and response to re-induction therapy in children and adolescents with ALL and an ‘early’ first marrow relapse. Patients and methods After appropriate informed consent, we enrolled children and adolescents 1–21 years old with ALL and first marrow relapse within 12 months of completion of primary therapy. Induction therapy included intramuscular pegylated ASNase on Days 2 and 16. We assessed ASNase activity, anti-ASNase antibody titers against native and pegylated (E. coli) ASNase, and amino acid levels of asparagine (ASN) and glutamine (GLN) on Days 0, 14, and 35 of re-induction. Results Ninety-three patients were at least partially assessable. Among 21 patients with M1 marrow status at Day 35, the median Day 14 ASN level was <1 µM. This is significantly lower than the median Day 14 ASN level of 4 µM in the group of patients with M3 marrow at Day 35. Neither Day 0 nor Day 35 antibody titers predicted ASNase enzymatic activity level on Day 14. Surprisingly, Day 14 ASNase activity did not predict serum ASN level on Day 14. However, Day 0 and Day 35 anti-native ASNase antibody titers, and Day 0 anti-PEG ASNase antibody titers correlated positively with Day 14 serum ASN levels as one might expect from neutralizing antibody. Day 35 anti-PEG ASNase antibody titers did not. Conclusions Patients with greater ASN depletion were more likely to achieve second remission in the context of six-drug therapy. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Interferon induced Autoimmune Thyroid Disease (AITD): a model for human autoimmunity

Abstract Interferon (IFN) α treatment for various conditions has been associated with thyroid autoimmunity. The incidence of interferon induced thyroid autoimmunity has been reported to range from 2.5% to 42%, possibly depending upon dose and duration of medical therapy and patient characteristics. It is not known whether IFN-α initiates autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) or simply exacerbates AITD in individuals with subclinical AITD.
Management of the Adrenal Gland During Partial Nephrectomy

Purpose: Nephron sparing surgery is an increasingly used alternative to Robson's radical nephroadrenalectomy. The indications for adrenalectomy in patients undergoing partial nephrectomy are not clearly defined and some surgeons perform it routinely for large and/or upper pole renal tumors. We analyzed initial management and oncological outcomes of adrenal glands after open partial nephrectomy.Materials and Methods: Institutional review board approval was obtained for this study. During partial nephrectomy the ipsilateral adrenal gland was resected if a suspicious adrenal nodule was noted on radiographic imaging, or if intraoperative findings indicated direct extension or metastasis.Results: Concomitant adrenalectomy was performed in 48 of 2,065 partial nephrectomies (2.3%). Pathological analysis revealed direct invasion of the adrenal gland by renal cell carcinoma (1), renal cell carcinoma metastasis (2), other adrenal neoplasms (3) or benign tissue (42, 87%). During a median followup of 5.5 years only 1...
Summertime coastal currents in the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract Observations of currents and temperature at a mooring on the 18 m isobath, 30 km south of the Florida shoreline, are discussed for the 31-day period 15 August–15 September 1978. Tidal currents, having average amplitudes of ∼10 cm s−1, account for 85% of the observed kinetic energy. Low-frequency currents with maximum speeds of ∼10 cm s−1 appear to be at least partly driven by local wind-stress events of magnitude ∼0.2 dyn cm−2. Frictional effects give rise to a veering with depth (in the Ekman sense) of both the low-frequency flow and the energetic, counterclockwise-rotating twice-daily tidal currents. Propagation of both the tidal signal and low-frequency coastal sea-level fluctuations (amplitudes <5 cm) is westward through the study area.
Incidence and characteristics of cell pieces on human milk fat globules

Abstract For biochemical and nutritional purposes, milk fat globules of a species are assumed to be more or less uniform. The indicence of organelle-containing cyplasm (crescents) on human milk fat globules was determined by fluorescence microscopy emplying acridine orange. The percentage of globules with crescents in 20 predominantly morning samples from 17 donors ranged from 1 to 38% with three-quarters falling between 3 and 8%. However, analysis of morning and night samples from eight donors showed a significant nocturnal rise in the proportion of globules with crescents. Values for night samples were, on average, twice those for morning samples. Crescents deterioate in human milk. These changes begin in the breast, with marked disintegration occurring in milk during 36-h storage at 2°C. Crescents were isolated from globules by churning and separated from the released membrane by selective centrifugation. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that crescents contribute bands which render the globule protein pattern more complex. The significance of crescents is globule secretion, globule membrane preparation, infant nutrition and as a source of mammary cell components is discussed.
Observations on the metabolism of alkylmercaptans in yeast.

Abstract 1. 1. Experiments with alcohol dehydrogenase have failed to yield evidence for its role in mercaptan formation by yeast. 2. 2. Methyl- and ethylmercaptan are incorporated by yeast into S -adenosylmethionine and S -adenosylethionine.
What Sex Is Your Parachute? Interest Inventory/ Counseling Models and the Perpetuation of the Sex/Wage Segregation of the Labor Market

This article explores the “gender model” of job research instruments that are based on the Holland Occupational Classification scheme. The six Holland “environments” constitute a ubiquitous base for tests and measures in career counseling and research. Analysis of the 1973 Quality of Employment Survey provides evidence that the Holland Classification scheme replicates the segmentation of women into certain occupations that generate low pay, even after controlling for worker education, job tenure, and age. Comparable data for male wage earners show a significant segregation away from low-income, predominantly female occupations. Thus the Holland occupational scheme and the instruments based upon it are likely to contribute to the replication of sex-segregated labor markets. The findings suggest that current models of “work” and job counseling tests and techniques may reinforce, rather than eliminate, the economic disadvantages for women.
An Analysis of Simulation Resources, Needs, and Plans in Florida

Abstract Background An assessment of statewide resources related to simulation equipment, use, and plans was conducted to identify resources and needs. Methods Administrators of nursing programs and hospitals were contacted to participate in the online statewide survey of simulation resources. Results Nursing programs substituted an average of 5.1% of clinical hours with simulation experiences. Schools owned more equipment than hospitals did, including twice as many high-fidelity simulators. Schools were more likely than hospitals were to have space designated for simulation and to hire simulation coordinators. Funding and sustainability of simulation were cited as major concerns by the majority of respondents. Conclusions Application and availability of simulation resources vary. Schools of nursing had more equipment and personnel resources than hospitals did. Sustainable funding for simulation was important to all end users. Opportunities for partnerships and research were identified.
Mediation of ecdysone synthesis in manduca sexta by a hemolymph enzyme

The prothoracic glands of Manduca sexta synthesize dehydroecdysone, which is rapidly converted to ecdysone through the mediation of a hemolymph enzyme, a 3 β-forming-3-ketosteroid reductase. The hemolymph protein fraction (HPF) containing this enzyme was obtained from diapausing and non-diapausing pupae, isolated abdomens, surgically manipulated pupae, etc., and in all cases had the capacity to affect the conversion of dehydroecdysone to ecdysone. The enzyme is heat labile, is inactivated by trypsin, and has a molecular weight of between 20,000 and 30,000. The data indicate that the conversion of dehydroecdysone to ecdysone exhibits linear kinetics and may be dependent on both the enzyme concentration and the concentration of NADPH at the beginning of the reaction but may be limited by the absolute amount of reducing equivalents after 10 min, under the experimental conditions utilized. The capacity of the enzyme to reduce dehydroecdysone was titered in the hemolymph during the last larval instar and during prepupal and pupal life with maximum capacity exhibited at the beginning of the instar, on day 8 of larval life and at day 1 of pupal life. Even at its lowest point at day 5, 1 ml of hemolymph was able to convert 77 pmol (∼35 ng) dehydroecdysone to ecdysone in 1 min. These results require a new interpretation of the control of molting in the Lepidoptera.
A Carboxyl-terminal PDZ-interacting Domain of Scavenger Receptor B, Type I Is Essential for Cell Surface Expression in Liver

Scavenger receptor B, type I (SR-BI) was recently shown to interact with a PDZ domain-containing protein, PDZK1 (CLAMP/Diphor-1/CAP70/NaPi-Cap1), but the importance of this interaction in vivo in terms of SR-BI function has not been determined. In an effort to elucidate the role of this interactionin vivo, the PDZK1-interacting domain of SR-BI was identified and mutated and expressed liver-specifically in mice. The PDZKI-interacting domain on SR-BI was identified as the last three carboxyl-terminal amino acids, Arg-Lys-Leu. A mutant SR-BI (SR-BIdel509) that lacked only the leucine in the PDZ-interacting domain failed to interact with PDZK1 in vitro, while showing normal selective uptake function in nonpolarized cells. Transgenic mice with liver overexpression of SR-BIdel509 showed marked accumulation of SR-BI mRNA with only a moderate increase in SR-BI protein in liver, with no reduction in plasma cholesterol levels. Measurement of cell surface SR-BI levels and HDL cholesteryl ester-selective uptake in primary hepatocytes from transgenic mice revealed that SR-BIdel509 was not expressed at the plasma membrane correlating with normal levels of selective uptake compared with hepatocytes from nontransgenic littermates. This study indicates that the PDZK1-interacting domain of SR-BI is essential for cell surface expression of SR-BI in liver and suggests that PDZK1 or other PDZ domain proteins may play an important role in regulating SR-BI cell surface expression and hence reverse cholesterol transport.
Apoptotic Endothelial Cells Demonstrate Increased Adhesiveness for Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) participate in the wound healing process in mammalians. Adhesion of MSCs to endothelium is a key step in the homing of MSCs circulating in the bloodstream to the sites of injury and inflammation. Because endothelial cells (ECs) may become apoptotic under certain pro-inflammatory conditions, we investigated the effects of pro-inflammatory, TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta, and pro-apoptotic agents, actinomycin D, cycloheximide, okadaic acid, wortmannin, and staurosporine, on human MSCs (hMSCs) adhesion to ECs. Treatment of ECs with pro-apoptotic agents markedly increased adhesion of hMSCs to ECs. This adhesion correlated with reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential, inhibition of NADH dehydrogenases, and release of von Willebrand factor (vWF) by ECs. Treatment of ECs with exogenous vWF also stimulated hMSC adhesion. These data provide evidence that apoptosis of ECs may regulate homing of hMSCs to the sites of tissue injury. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that activation of apoptotic signaling pathways in ECs releases vWF which regulates hMSC adhesion to ECs.
Chromatographic performance of large-pore versus small-pore columns in micellar liquid chromatography

Micellar liquid chromatography (MLC) is useful in bioanalysis because proteinaceous biofluids can be directly injected onto the column. The technique has been limited in part because of the apparently weak eluting power of micellar mobile phases. It has recently been shown [Anal. Chem. 72 (2000) 294] that this may be overcome by the use of large pore size stationary phases. In this work, large-pore (1000 A) C(18) stationary phases were evaluated relative to conventional small-pore (100 A) C(18) stationary phases for the direct sample injection of drugs in plasma. Furthermore, the difference between the large and small pore phases in gradient elution separations of mixtures of widely varying hydrophobicities was investigated. Large-pore stationary phases were found to be very effective for eluting moderately to highly hydrophobic compounds such as ibuprofen, crotamiton, propranolol, and dodecanophenone, which were highly retained on the small-pore stationary phases typically used in MLC. The advantages of direct introduction of biological samples (drugs in plasma) and rapid column re-equilibration after gradient elution in MLC were maintained with large-pore phases. Finally, recoveries, precision, linearity, and detection limits for the determination of quinidine and DPC 961 in spiked bovine plasma were somewhat better using MLC with wide pore phases.
Network-based approach to modelling uncertainty in a supply chain

Supply chains are interlinked networks of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and customers that provide a product or service to customers. Typical supply chains can be characterized by their complexity and by the inherent uncertainty in their operations. Therefore, modelling such supply chains is a difficult and challenging research task, particularly given the need to model the stochastic operations of typical supply chains. What is giving added urgency to the need to address this issue are the recent developments in communications, primarily based on Internet technologies, that offer the promise of connecting suppliers, assemblers and customers in a seamless network of information. This offers the promise of substantially improved decision-making and a consequent considerable improvement in operations. However, fulfilment of this promise is dependent on the development of a suitable modelling methodology for supply chains. A network-based methodology to model and analyse supply chain systems is prop...
Hyperopic laser in situ keratomileusis in eyes with previous radial keratotomy.

Purpose To assess the safety and efficacy of hyperopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in eyes with previous radial keratotomy (RK). Setting Zale Lipshy University Hospital Laser Center for Vision, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA. Methods Thirty-eight eyes of 25 patients were treated with LASIK for secondary hyperopia after RK using a Visx Star S2, S3, S4, or LADARVision excimer laser. Retreatment was done in 7 eyes. The main outcome measures were manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), predictability of treatment, and complications. Results Preoperative mean MRSE was +2.39 diopters (D) ± 1.28 (SD) (range +0.87 to +6.00 D). At the last visit (25 eyes with minimum follow-up of 12 months, including retreatments), the mean follow-up was 23.3 ± 7.3 months (range 12 to 34 months), the mean MRSE was +0.11 ± 0.71 D, and the UCVA was 20/40 or better in 24 eyes (96%). Although no significant change in the mean MRSE was observed, the postoperative mean refractive cylinder showed a gradual increase over the follow-up period. No eye lost more than 2 lines of BSCVA. Conclusions Laser in situ keratomileusis was a safe and effective treatment with good predictability for the correction of consecutive hyperopia after RK. Cylindrical errors were difficult to correct, and astigmatic correction tended to regress over time. Retreatments are safe when old flaps were relifted.
Electric Demand Characteristics of Nebraska Farmsteads

ABSTRACT ELECTRIC demands on 35 farmsteads in a five-county area in central Nebraska were studied. Data for rural residential customers were stratified for sampling. Stratifications were based on average monthly kilowatt-hour (kWh) usage during 1979. Low (100 to 750 kWh), medium (751 to 1,500 kWh), and high (>1,500 kWh) categories were selected. Within the high category, specialty strata of cattle, dairy, grain, poultry, and swine were identified and randomly sampled. Graphs of three seasonal peak days for both 1981 and 1982 for the coincidental, average demand of each group are presented and show unique daily demand patterns for each category. In addition, graphs of the maximum, average, and minimum demands are shown for each month of 1981 and 1982 which illustrate seasonal peak demands in summer, fall, and winter. The monthly load factors are also shown. Load duration curves, which illustrate the effectiveness of utilization of power for the peak winter, summer, and fall months for a selected year are presented for each category. Identifiable demand patterns were found for all of the specialty groups within the high category. Peak demands of the low group were very similar to those in the medium group; however, the average demand of the low group were lower and this poor utilization is reflected in the load duration curves for the low group.
Faraday Fading of Earth Satellite Signals

THE rate of fading of Earth satellite signals caused by the ionospheric Faraday effect was used by British workers1,2 to make estimates of the integrated electron content of the ionosphere up to the height of the satellite. The values obtained were, however, apparently too high. A possible reason for this is failure to take into account the radial velocity component of the satellite which, for certain portions of the orbit, can cause an appreciable contribution to the fading.
Methane Enclathration with Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate: Effect of Cyclopentane and Two Salts on Formation Kinetics

This work presents the effect of NaCl and NaClO4 on the kinetics of methane enclathration with cyclopentane (CP) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in a nonstirred batch reactor. Methane and 1 cm3 of CP were charged sequentially to 150 cm3 of solutions in a high-pressure vessel and the reaction system was cooled down to 274.6 K with an initial pressure of 7.1 MPa. Hydrates are visually observed within 1 h after the onset of cooling at a SDS concentration range of 0−200 ppm. At the end of a growth period of 2.5 h, the pressure reduces to 6.4 MPa for SDS concentrations below 20 ppm, whereas it decreases to 3.2 MPa for SDS concentrations above 50 ppm without any salts, which is very close to the hydrate equilibrium pressure. With 20 ppm SDS and 1 cm3 of CP, the average enclathration rate maximizes at 1.0 mM NaCl or 5.0 mM NaClO4 as the salt concentration increases from 0 to 100 mM. However, with 100 ppm SDS, it decreases monotonically with the increased salt concentration. These results not only provide an imp...
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus for Over 79 Years

An 88-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes mellitus for over 79 years is presented and the characteristics of patients with extremely long duration type 1 diabetes mellitus are discussed. Data about extremely long duration type 1 diabetics including that from the United Kingdom Golden Years Cohort and the Joslin Clinic Medalist Program Cohort are presented. The role of an elevated HDL cholesterol as either a marker for “benign” disease or as a protective factor is discussed. Our patient is thin, has high HDL cholesterol, late-onset diabetic retinopathy, only modest renal disease compatible with her age, and does not have tight glucose control. These features appear to be relatively typical for this patient cohort. doi:10.4021/jem102e
A novel role for bone morphogenetic proteins in the synthesis of follicle-stimulating hormone

FSH is produced in pituitary gonadotropes as an alpha/beta heterodimer, and synthesis of the beta-subunit is the rate-limiting step in overall FSH production. Synthesis of FSHbeta can be regulated by activin and inhibin, both of which are members of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) also belong to the transforming growth factor-beta family and are multifunctional growth factors involved in many aspects of tissue development and morphogenesis, including regulation of FSH action in the ovary. Here we report a novel function for BMP-7 and BMP-6 in regulating FSH synthesis in the pituitary. Using primary pituitary cell cultures derived from transgenic mice that carry the ovine FSHbeta promoter linked to a luciferase reporter gene (oFSHbetaLuc), BMP-7 or BMP-6 was found to stimulate oFSHbetaLuc expression by 6-fold. Transient expression of the oFSHbetaLuc in a transformed gonadotrope cell line, LbetaT2, was induced 4-fold by BMP-7 or BMP-6 treatment. More importantly, BMP-7 and BMP-6 increased endogenous FSH secretion by 10- and 14-fold, respectively, from LbetaT2 cells, demonstrating for the first time that a functional signaling BMP system is present in gonadotropes. Two bioneutralizing antibodies to BMP-7, which cross-react with BMP-6, but not with activin A, decreased basal oFSHbetaLuc expression and FSH secretion from transgenic mouse pituitary cultures by 83-88% and 47-48%, respectively, suggesting an autocrine or paracrine role for BMP-7 or BMP-6 in FSH synthesis. Neither bioneutralizing antibody to activin A or activin B decreased basal oFSHbetaLuc expression or mouse FSH secretion significantly. Dose-dependent inhibition of FSH synthesis by anti-BMP7 was also observed in rat and sheep pituitary cultures. These results combined with the fact that the messenger RNAs for BMP-7 and BMP-6 were detected in mouse pituitaries and LbetaT2 cells indicate that BMP-7 and/or BMP-6 can function as FSH stimulators and may be significant physiological factors maintaining basal FSH expression in vivo.
Effects of optical pumping in the photo-excitation of organic triplet states

Abstract Upon the application of laser and microwave pulses, non-zero magnetic moment of a photo-excited triplet state of organic molecules is generated in zero-field (ZF). The time evolution of the transient magnetic moments can be measured by free induction decay (FID) in ZF. The observed ZF spectra become broadened and ZF transition shifted to lower frequencies when the repetition rate of laser excitation is increased, which are attributed to the optical pumping of nuclear polarization (ONP) effect and the associated nuclear spin lattice relaxation processes. The observed ONP effect is discussed in terms of the local field effect and spin diffusion processes in optical pumping.
Theodore N. Beckman (1895‐1973): external manifestations of the man

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to describe the life and contributions to the marketing discipline of Theodore N. Beckman whose academic career at the Ohio State University spanned some 50 years.Design/methodology/approach – This research used traditional historical interpretation of rare archival documents, depth interviews of two of Beckman's former students, and analysis of Beckman's published work.Findings – The findings are reported as an intellectual biography. The paper reports on Beckman's life and career as an eminent marketing scholar.Originality/value – Little biographical research has been published in the marketing discipline and to date only a brief sketch of Beckman was published in the Journal of Marketing in 1965.
A model to explain uphill water transport in the mammalian stomach

Under most conditions the osmotic gradient hypothesis can account for water movement in the stomach. However, in the resting in vivo dog stomach, with isotonic HCl bathing the mucosal surface, H + disappears and Na + appears at approximately the same rate and water moves from the blood to the mucosal bathing fluid, resulting in the production of a hypotonic fluid. In the present paper we have developed a conceptual model to explain these findings. According to the model the cells on the surface and those lining the pits are impermeable to both water and solutes, the site of the H + -Na + exchange is the tubules, and the tubules are permeable to water. In demonstrating how the model works we have first obtained expressions for the concentration profiles of the ions in the pits under conditions of no water flow and show that the fluid at the bottom of the pits would be hypertonic. We then allow the tubules to become permeable to water, with the result that water moves from blood to lumen while the number of osmotically active particles does not change (the loss of H + equals the gain of Na + ). We obtain an approximate quantitative picture during water flow by making the assumption that HCl and NaCl diffuse independently.
Subpixel‐scale variability of rainfall and its application to mitigate the beam‐filling problem

[1] Surface rain radar data from areas surrounding Japan and in the tropics are used to study the variability of rainfall over an area similar to a satellite microwave radiometric instantaneous field of view (FOV). The results of such variability are applied to radiative transfer simulations to modify the brightness temperature versus rain rate relationship. First, the surface radar data from different geographical regions are used to develop a relationship between fractional rain cover and average rain rate over microwave radiometric FOV-sized areas. This resultant relationship is also compared with spaceborne Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar (PR) observations. It is found that the rainfall type (convective or stratiform) accounts for the most of variations in this relationship. The sub-FOV rainfall variability is then investigated using the same surface radar data sets. The conditional probability distribution function of precipitation within the FOV-sized area is parameterized in terms of average rain of the area. The form of the model function does not depend upon the characteristics of the two radars and their geographical locations and can be parameterized by a combination of two lognormal distributions. By analyzing collocated TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) and PR data, it is shown that the averaged relationship between observed brightness temperatures and rain rates at 19.3 and 37 GHz shows a significant disagreement with that simulated by a plane-parallel radiative transfer model for convective rain events, although it shows a better agreement for stratiform rain events. Presumably, this disagreement is mainly caused by variability of the rain field within satellite instantaneous FOV. With the application of the fractional rain area and the probability distribution function derived from this study to the radiative transfer simulations, we are able to bring results of the radiative transfer simulations much closer to the observations.
Spontaneous facial expression in a small group can be automatically measured: An initial demonstration

Manual measurement of facial expression is labor intensive and difficult to standardize. Automated measurement seeks to address the need for valid, efficient, and reproducible measurement. Recent systems have shown promise in posed behavior and in structured contexts. Can automated measurement perform in more natural, less constrained settings? In the present study, previously unacquainted young adults sat around a circular table for 30 min of conversation. Video was selected for manual and automatic coding of Facial Action Coding System action units (AUs), examining, in particular, AU 6 (cheek raise) and AU 12 (lip corner pull), which together signal enjoyment. Moderate out-of-plane head motion and occlusion, which are challenging for automatic processing, were both common, as participants turned toward and away from each other or consumed drinks. Concurrent validity for both AUs was high. This is the first study to find that automated measurement of facial action in relatively unconstrained contexts can achieve results comparable with those of manual coding. Video demos of our software may be downloaded from http://brm.psychonomic-journals.org/content/supplemental.
The basis for lithographic modeling (Invited Paper)

This paper will go back 30+ years to look at the work that led toward the lithographic models we use today. Although lithography was a very old art, going back to the 1840's, it was relatively new to what we now know as microelectronics. While circuit designers were already beginning to use sophisticated design and modeling techniques, most process models were extremely simple and often not very accurate. For those working in photolithography, there was almost nothing except for optical image models which, while helpful, were not a model of the lithography process. The original publication of this work was in a series of articles in the IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices, Vol ED-22, July 1975.