cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
31 PORCINE SKIN-DERIVED STEM CELLS MAY BE A SUPERIOR SOURCE OF DONOR NUCLEI FOR EFFICIENT GENETIC MODIFICATION OF CLONED EMBRYOS

Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in pigs relies primarily on the utilization of fetal-derived fibroblast cells, and the resultant clones tend to exhibit a significant level of phenotypic instability, which may be due to epigenetic reprogramming and/or genomic damage in the donor cells. In addition to the compromised phenotypic stability, production of transgenic clones through SCNT is inefficient, because the restricted lifespan of somatic donor cells in culture can be limiting when the genetic modification requires selection. In contrast, stem cells proliferate rapidly and do not undergo senescence at a high rate, so the selection process can be extended. Since there is no report of an embryonic stem cell line derived in the pig that could contribute to the germ line, we decided to investigate the utility of porcine skin-derived stem cells (SSCs). Porcine SSCs were isolated from the skin on the back of day 35 to 50 Yorkshire fetuses. The SSCs were cultured continually in SSCs medium (DMEM/F12 containing B-27, 20 ng mL–1 of epidermal growth factor, and 40 ng mL–1 of basic fibroblast growth factor) at 37.8°C, 5% CO2, 95% air. The SSCs expressed the neural progenitor marker nestin, as well as genes that are critical for pluripotency, such as Oct4 and Stat3. The SSCs proliferated actively in vitro and retained a normal karyotype after long-term culture. Electron microscopy revealed 2 distinct cell types within the spheres; elongated cells at the sphere periphery had invaginated nuclear envelopes and prominent nucleoli, and these cells displayed few, but large elongated mitochondria with transversal cristae as well as large cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum. In contrast, the cells in the center of the spheres were predominantly round-shaped, with a large round nucleus or cuboidal. The SSCs can be genetically modified with long-term positive selection, and 50 μg mL–1 G418 appeared to be an appropriate dose of G418 for selection of the transfected SSCs. Finally, NT embryos reconstructed with SSCs showed high rates of pre- and post-implantation development.The cell number in the blastocyst stage embryos derived from cloning with the SSC was significantly higher than those of the blastocysts derived from IVF (28.5 ± 1.9, 16.8 ± 4.0, respectively, P < 0.05), although there was no significant difference in blastocyst formation rates between these groups (21 to 25%). Three of the animals became pregnant in 4 surrogate gilts which received cloned embryos and reached to term. Two healthy male cloned piglets and 1 healthy female cloned piglet are genetically identical to the SSCs. Funding for this study was provided by the National Institutes of Health.
The effect of hyperglycemia on intracellular calcium in stroke

The effect of hyperglycemia on cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]i) during temporary focal cerebral ischemia was investigated in cats using a fluorometric technique. The middle cerebral artery (MCA) was occluded for a period of 1 h, after which the clip was removed. In seven animals, plasma glucose was raised to 500-700 mg/dl by infusion of a 50% glucose solution starting 30 min after MCA occlusion, while eight animals were kept normoglycemic during and following occlusion. MCA occlusion induced a significant, but identical, elevation of the [Ca2+]i signal ratio (400/506 nm) in both the normoglycemic group (from 1.40 to 1.97 +/- 0.34, p less than 0.01) and in the hyperglycemic group (from 1.40 to 2.00 +/- 0.53, p less than 0.01) at the end of the occlusion. Between 10 and 30 min after reopening, the [Ca2+]i signal ratio decreased to control levels in the normoglycemic group (1.40 +/- 0.11 and 1.36 +/- 0.08 at 10 and 30 min after reopening, respectively), but remained elevated in the hyperglycemic group (1.69 +/- 0.18 and 1.65 +/- 0.21 at 10 and 30 min after reopening, respectively). There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p less than 0.01). These data suggest that hyperglycemia may be harmful to calcium recovery during the early recirculation period following focal cerebral ischemia.
UVB Radiation Illuminates the Role of TLR3 in the Epidermis

UV radiation poses a significant risk to human health. The mechanisms that help repair UV-damaged cells have recently been more clearly defined with the observation that Toll-like receptor 3 can sense self RNA released from necrotic keratinocytes following UV damage. TLR3 activation in the skin induces inflammation and increases the expression of genes involved in skin barrier repair. Activation of TLR2 in the skin by commensal microbial products prevents excessive inflammation by blocking downstream TLR3 signaling. This review highlights how UV damage–induced inflammation in the skin is propagated by host products and regulated by host inhabitants.
Ultrastructure of neuro-spirocyte synapses in the sea anemone Aiptasia pallida (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Zoantharia).

Using transmission electron microscopy of serially sectioned tentacles from the sea anemone Aiptasia pallida, we located and characterized two types of neuro-spirocyte synapses. Clear vesicles were observed at 10 synapses and dense-cored vesicles at five synapses. The diameters of vesicles at each neuro-spirocyte synapse were averaged; clear vesicles ranged from 49–89 nm in diameter, whereas the dense-cored vesicles ranged from 97–120 nm in diameter. One sequential pair of synapses included a neuro-spirocyte synapse with clear vesicles (81 nm) and a neuro-neuronal synapse with dense-cored vesicles (168 nm). A second synapse on the same cell had dense-cored vesicles (103 nm). An Antho-RFamide-labeled ganglion cell and three different neurites were observed adjacent to spirocytes, but no neuro-spirocyte synapses were present. Many of the spirocytes also were immunoreactive to Antho-RFamide. The presence of sequential neuro-neuro-spirocyte synapses suggests that synaptic modulation may be involved in the neural control of spirocyst discharge. The occurrence of either dense-cored or clear vesicles at neuro-spirocyte synapses suggests that at least two types of neurotransmitter substances control the discharge of spirocysts in sea anemones. J. Morphol. 241:165–173, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
165 CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW AUTOREGULATION WITH ELEVATED INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE DURING NORMOXIA AND HYPOXIA

We assessed the ability to maintain cerebral blood flow (CBF) when intracranial pressure (ICP) is raised under normoxic and isocapnic hypoxic conditions in pentobarbital-anesthetized neonatal lambs (3-9 days old). ICP was increased by infusion of artificial CSF in the lateral ventricle to produce 8 mmHg stepwise decrements in cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) from baseline (a microspheres) was unchanged from baseline (49 ± 7) down to a CPP of 34 mmHg (47 ± 6). At a CPP of 26 mmHg, CBF was decreased to 37 ± 5. In another group (n=6) of hypoxic lambs (CaO2 = 7.6 ± .9 ml/dl; 49 ± 4% arterial O2 saturation) baseline CBF (87 ± 11) was nearly twice that of the normoxic group. CBF was not significantly changed down to a CPP of 34 mmHg (78 ± 8), but was decreased at a CPP of 26 mmHg (73 ± 8). Cerebral fractional O2 extraction (measured at sagittal sinus) was also maintained down to a CPP of 34 mmHg in both groups before it rose at 26 mmHg. Cerebral O2 uptake was not different between groups and was not diminished with elevations of ICP in either group. We conclude that a) neonatal lambs are capable of CBF autoregulation with increasing ICP, and b) hypoxia sufficient to double baseline CBF but not diminish O2 uptake does not impair CBF autoregulation.
Biosynthesis of 6-β-galactinol by β-galactosidase from rat mammary gland and E. coli

Summary The synthesis of 6-β-galactinol by rat mammary gland extracts in vitro, was shown to be catalyzed by β-galactosidase (EC 3.2.1.23) by transferring the galactosyl group of lactose (Km = 37 mM) to myo-inositol (Km = 380 mM) with a pH optimum of 3.6. Highly purified commercial β-galactosidase from E. coli catalyzed a similar reaction yielding 6-β-galactinol from lactose (Km = 20 mM) and myo-inositol (Km = 770 mM) at a pH optimum of 7.2. The identity of 6-β-galactinol synthesized by the action of β-galactosidase from either source was verified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry of the fully trimethylsilylated disaccharide.
PGI17: COMPARISON OF GENERIC VERSUS DISEASE SPECIFIC TOOLS FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE IN CROHN'S DISEASE

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) research suggests that, due to unique characteristics of a disease state, disease specific tools are better discriminators of health status than generic tools. OBJECTIVE: To compare generic (SF-12) versus disease specific (SIBDQ) quality of life tools in a cohort of patients receiving treatment for Crohn's Disease (CD). METHODS: Structural Equation Modeling techniques were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the SF-12 and the SIBDQ for evaluating health status patients with CD. A cohort of 151 patients with CD receiving drug therapy was administered both instruments via telephone survey. RESULTS: The variance explained by the SIBDQ in this population was 11.6% while the SF-12 explained 55.7%. Adapted models of both the SIBDQ and SF-12 resulted in explained variance of 54.8% and 84.1%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Given these results, the generic HRQoL tool was significantly better than the disease specific tool at measuring and accounting for health status in this population. Patients with moderate or severe CD have previously been shown to have differing clinical response to therapy based upon disease severity, whereby patients with more severe disease have better response. Due to these possible unique clinical outcomes of newer medications such as infliximab, the effectiveness of disease specific tools may be compromised since improving therapies may affect HRQoL in a different manner than therapies previously available. Other innovative therapies, such as biologic response modifiers for rheumatoid arthritis, may have similar findings related to HRQoL measurement. This potential problem with HRQoL measurement is likely to increase as biopharmaceutical and pharmacogenomic research increases the number and rate of new product approvals. These findings have important implications related to measurement of HRQoL in clinical trials and pharmacoeconomic evaluation of medications. This suggests a need for careful reevaluation of disease specific tools given the clinical effects of newer therapies.
GLYCOPENIA: THE EFFICACY OF HIGH FAT DIETS IN THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC HYPOGLYCEMIA&

The classification of diseases of the ductless glands has hinged upon the recognition of states of over- and under-function. Thus exophthalmic goiter represents an excessive activity of the thyroid hormone while its antithesis, myxedema, is the consequence of deficient thyroid activity. The clinical syndromes of hyper- and hypo-function are rapidly becoming clarified for each of the members of the hormonopoietic system. It is of historical interest that the recognition of the clinical syndrome has sometimes preceded its experimental reproduction. Thus gigantism was long suspected as due to an exaggerated activity of the anterior hypophysis before Evans produced it experimentally in rats by injections of a potent anterior pituitary-growth-hormone. In the case of the parathyroids, however, the recognition of clinical hyperparathyroidism (osteitis fibrosa cystica) by Barr and others, was the logical outcome of Collip’s isolation of the parathyroid hormone and the experimental production of hypercalcemia in d...
Forgetting of Acquisition and Extinction in an Invertebrate.

Summary Two experiments with isopods, Armadillidium vulgare, were reported. In Experiment I, two groups of five Ss each learned to run a T maze to escape light and heat. Both original learning (OL), and relearning (RL) the next day, were to a criterion 9/10 correct. Between OL and RL one group was immobilized (I), and the other group was given the opportunity for activity (A). The I treatment resulted in greater savings on RL than did the A treatment, and it was thus concluded that A is a retroaction treatment. Experiment II was like I except that all Ss were extinguished immediately following OL, and then given either A or I until RL. In this experiment, the A treatment led to no savings, but the I treatment produced negative savings (more trials on RL relative to OL). It was concluded that the A treatment had retroactively interfered with extinction, and this result was discussed as analogous to differential spontaneous recovery in favor of the A group. It was concluded that Liberman's (4, 5) theory (th...
Pacemaker contact sensitivity.

In a patient who had 4 cardiac pacemakers implanted and removed, pruritus, redness, and swelling of the skin overlying the pacemaker developed at intervals of 6 weeks to 17 months after insertion. Patch testing showed a 2 + reaction to titanium. The positive result of this test, the titanium case of the generator, and the history of multiple local reactions around the generator site pointed toward contact sensitivity to the pacemaker. Although a review of the literature indicates that this problem is rare, it is of extreme importance to the patient with pacemaker contact dermatitis.
N-type magnetism at cryogenic temperatures in oceanic basalt

Abstract Here we report on a self-reversal of magnetization at cryogenic temperatures (25–60 K) due to N-type thermomagnetic behavior in samples of Cretaceous mid-oceanic ridge basalt recovered from Pacific Deep Sea Drilling Project Site 166. The magnetic carrier is highly oxidized single to pseudo-single domain titanomaghemite with a composition (0.57 ≤ x ≤ 0.66, 0.8 ≤ z ≤ 0.9) consistent with model predictions of ionic reordering. The observation of N-type magnetization provides further insight into the compositional field in which ionic reordering and self-reversal can occur in oceanic basalt. Specifically, our observations support the original models of Verhoogen [Verhoogen, J., 1956. Ionic reordering and self-reversal of magnetization in impure magnetites. J. Geophys. Res. 61, 201–209; Verhoogen, J., 1962. Oxidation of iron–titanium oxides in igneous rocks. J. Geol. 70, 168–181] and O’Reilly and Banerjee [O’Reilly, W., Banerjee, S.K., 1966. Oxidation of titanomagnetites and self-reversal. Nature 211 (5044), 26–28] indicating that self-reversal above and below room temperature is limited to relatively high titanium contents ( x > 0.6) and high oxidation states.
Reconstructing reality: Family strategies for managing childhood cancer

The purpose was to describe strategies used by the family in response to childhood cancer and to relate those strategies to two different conceptual frameworks. A longitudinal, prospective, grounded theory study was conducted with a sample of 32 members of seven families who had a child recently diagnosed with cancer. All family members 5 years and older participated in three semistructured home interviews. Constant comparative analysis was used. The core process in which families engaged was reconstructing reality, using strategies of managing the flow of information, reorganizing roles, evaluating and shifting priorities, changing the future orientation, assigning meaning to the illness, and managing the therapeutic regimen. These strategies support a Family Management Style framework for viewing family management of pediatric cancer.
IDPicker 2.0: Improved protein assembly with high discrimination peptide identification filtering.

Tandem mass spectrometry-based shotgun proteomics has become a widespread technology for analyzing complex protein mixtures. A number of database searching algorithms have been developed to assign peptide sequences to tandem mass spectra. Assembling the peptide identifications to proteins, however, is a challenging issue because many peptides are shared among multiple proteins. IDPicker is an open-source protein assembly tool that derives a minimum protein list from peptide identifications filtered to a specified False Discovery Rate. Here, we update IDPicker to increase confident peptide identifications by combining multiple scores produced by database search tools. By segregating peptide identifications for thresholding using both the precursor charge state and the number of tryptic termini, IDPicker retrieves more peptides for protein assembly. The new version is more robust against false positive proteins, especially in searches using multispecies databases, by requiring additional novel peptides in t...
Phoenix project: fault-tolerant applications

After a system crash, databases recover to the last committed transaction, but applications usually either crash or cannot continue. The Phoenix purpose is to enable application state to persist across system crashes, transparent to the application program. This simplifies application programming, reduces operational costs, masks failures from users, and increases application availability, which is critical in many scenarios, e.g., e-commerce. Within the Phoenix project, we have explored how to provide application recovery efficiently and transparently via redo logging. This paper describes the conceptual framework for the Phoenix project, and the software infrastructure that we are building.
Local Intraluminal Infusion of Biodegradable Polymeric Nanoparticles A Novel Approach for Prolonged Drug Delivery After Balloon Angioplasty

Background Several perfusion balloon catheters are under investigation for local drug delivery; however, sustained tissue drug levels are difficult to achieve with these techniques. To overcome this problem, sustained-release, biodegradable nanoparticles represent a potential alternative for prolonged local delivery. Methods and Results A biodegradable polylactic-polyglycolic acid (PLGA) copolymer was used to formulate nanoparticles. Fluorescent-labeled nanoparticles were intraluminally administered in a single, 180-second infusion after balloon injury in the rat carotid model. Localization and retention at different time points and biocompatibility of nanoparticles were evaluated. To evaluate the potential of the system in the prevention of neointimal formation, dexamethasone was incorporated into the particles and delivered locally as above. Nanoparticles were seen in the three layers of the artery at 3 hours and 24 hours. At 3 days, they were mainly present in the adventitial layer, decreasing at 7 day...
Gold and other metals in big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata Nutt.) as an exploration tool, Gold Run District, Humboldt County, Nevada

Big sagebrush — a cold-desert species that dominates the terrain over large parts of western United States — was sampled along several traverses that crossed thermally metamorphosed limestone, phyllitic shale, and schist of the Middle and Upper Cambrian Preble Formation that host skarn-, disseminated gold and silver-, and hot springs gold-type mineral occurrences. Patterns of detectable levels of gold (8 to 28 ppb or ng g−1) in ash of new growth were consistent with areas affected by known or suspected gold mineralization. Soils collected along one of the traverses where a selenium-indicator plant was common contained no gold above background levels of 2ppb, but were consistently high in As, Sb, and Zn, and several samples were unusually high in Se (maximum 11 ppm or μg g−1). Sagebrush along this traverse contained Li at levels above norms for this species. We also found a puzzling geochemical anomaly at a site basinward from active hot springs along a range-front fault scarp. Sagebrush at this site contained a trace of gold and an unusually high concentration of Cd (13 ppm) and the soil had anomalous concentrations of Cd and Bi (3.2 and 6 ppm, respectively). The source of this anomaly could be either metal-rich waters from an irrigation ditch or leakage along a buried fault. Despite the limited nature of the study, we conclude that gold in sagebrush could be a cost-effective guide to drilling locations in areas where the geology seems favorable for disseminated and vein precious metals.
Reclamation of disturbed soil by amending the minesoil and placement of glacial till over minesoil

Abstract The 1977 Federal Surface Mining Control and Mining Reclamation Act (Public Law 95–87) was passed to establish a balance among protection of the environment, maintaining agricultural productivity, and the need for coal as an essential source of energy. This research was undertaken to: (a) evaluate glacial till as a plant growth material for restoring productivity; (b) evaluate routine soil tests to predict fertility status of disturbed land; (c) evaluate grass and grass‐legume mixtures for restoring productivity to mined lands; and (d) compare water plant filter sludge and agricultural lime as an amendment for acid minesoil. Glacial till required only P fertilization to restore production of tall fescue, tall fescue plus birdsfoot trefoil, and orchardgrass plus birdsfoot trefoil to the level of the representative undisturbed soil. Relative yield, within each forage group, was caicualted by using the average of the top 25% individual plot yields as the maximum yield. Maximum relative yield of tall ...
The Mysterious Wrist

All manuscripts submitted to the Journal of Hand Therapy must be accompanied by an abstract of not more than 150 words. Abstracts of studies should be informative, stating purpose of study, methods used, results and conclusions. Abstracts of articles other than studies should indicate the principal topic to be discussed.
Activation or suppression of bactericidal activity of macrophages during a graft-versus-host reaction against i-a and i-j region differences, respectively.

Systemic graft-versus-host reactions (GVHR) were induced in F1 heterozygous mice by injecting 10(8) parental lymphocytes. The Anti-Thy 1.2-sensitive, T-cell mediated activation of macrophages was assessed by their increased capacity to destroy a facultative intracellular bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The difference in MHC regions causing a GVHR that induced high levels of macrophage activation mapped to I-A. In contrast, differences at K or D, in any of the other H-2 subregions or in the non-H-2 background, including Mls alone or in combination, did not induce a GVHR leading to macrophage activation, unless these differences were combined with a difference at I-A. The numbers of parental cells needed to activate macrophages via a GVHR caused by I-A vs. non-I-A differences, varied at least 30- to 100-fold. When parental cells were injected into F1 offspring of parents differing at I-J, growth of Listeria was enhanced significantly; this negative effect on macrophages was not seen when parental combinations differing at I-A alone were compared with those differing at I-A plus I-J or I-J plus other H-2 regions.
Dehalogenation of 1-chloro-1-fluoroethene to acetylene on α-Cr2O3

Abstract The adsorption of CFClCH2 on the nearly stoichiometric Cr2O3 (10 1 2) surface results in a 1,1-dihaloelimination reaction to produce acetylene gas, HCCH(g), and adsorbed chlorine and fluorine. Thermal desorption experiments reveal two acetylene desorption features. The lower temperature acetylene channel is desorption limited (Ea=92 kJ/mole), while the formation of fluorovinyl and/or vinylidene surface intermediates is suggested by the occurrence of a higher temperature (Ea=124 kJ/mole) reaction-limited acetylene desorption channel. The deposition of halogen onto the sample surface by the CFClCH2 decomposition reaction was found to initially increase the CFClCH2 sticking coefficient and the activity for halogen coverages up to about one-third and then lead to deactivation at higher halogen coverages due to site blocking of the surface cations. No evidence was seen for the replacement of surface lattice oxygen by halogen under the conditions of this study. Surfaces that were preexposed to O2 to site block surface cations with terminal chromyl oxygen were found not to react with CFClCH2.
Formation of DNA repair intermediates and incision by the ATP-dependent UvrB-UvrC endonuclease

Abstract The Escherichia coli UvrB and UvrC proteins play key roles in DNA damage processing and incisions during nucleotide excision repair. To study the DNA structural requirements and protein-DNA intermediates formed during these processes, benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide-damaged and structure-specific 50-base pair substrates were constructed. DNA fragments containing a preexisting 3′ incision were rapidly and efficiently incised 5′ to the adduct. Gel mobility shift assays indicated that this substrate supported UvrA dissociation from the UvrB-DNA complex, which led to efficient incision. Experiments with a DNA fragment containing an internal noncomplementary 11-base region surrounding the benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide adduct indicated that UvrABC nuclease does not require fully duplexed DNA for binding and incision. In the absence of UvrA, UvrB (UvrC) bound to an 11-base noncomplementary region containing a 3′ nick (Y substrate), forming a stable protein-DNA complex (Kd ∼5-10 nM). Formation of this complex was absolutely dependent upon UvrC. Addition to this complex of ATP, but not adenosine 5′-(β,γ-iminotriphosphate) or adenosine 5′-(β,γ-methylene)triphosphate, caused incision three or four nucleotides 5′ to the double strand-single strand junction. The ATPase activity of native UvrB is activated upon interaction with UvrC and enhanced further by the addition of Y substrate. Incision of this Y structure occurs even without DNA damage. Thus the UvrBC complex is a structure-specific, ATP-dependent endonuclease.
A model for the involvement of lignin degradation enzymes in phenolic antioxidant mobilization from whole soybean during solid-state bioprocessing by Lentinus edodes

Solid-state bioprocessing (SSB) of food substrates by dietary fungi is a promising and innovative strategy for the production of phenolic-enriched foods and food ingredients. Previously we reported the involvement of carbohydrate-cleaving enzymes (CCEs) and laccase in SSB of soybean by dietary fungi. Here, we investigated the involvement of lignin degradation activities in SSB of soybean by Lentinus edodes. Total peroxidase, manganese(II)-peroxidase (MnP), and β-glucuronidase activity were investigated in addition to total soluble phenolic content, antioxidant activity of the phenolic extracts, and the enzymic activities of laccase, amylase, α-glucosidase, and β-glucosidase. Phenolic mobilization from soybean during SSB was associated with MnP and laccase activity, in addition to amylase and β-glucosidase activity. Further, decreased antioxidant activity was associated with total peroxidase and laccase activity. A model for SSB of soybean by dietary fungi, such as L. edodes was hypothesized and discussed.
Numerical model for isothermal and non-isothermal crystallization of liquids and glasses☆

A new numerical model of isothermal and non-isothermal first order phase transformations, such as the crystallization of liquids and glasses, is presented. This model computes directly the volume fraction transformed, taking into account time-dependent nucleation rates and cluster-size-dependent growth velocities. The model is applied to the crystallization of lithium disilicate glass, using the appropriate kinetic and thermodynamic parameters. The model is used (1) to determine the validity of common methods for computing the volume fraction transformed as a function of time in isothermal experiments when a time-dependent nucleation rate is expected, (2) to simulate non-isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies of glass devitrification as a function of scan rate, and (3) to compute the effect of preannealing on the DSC peak parameters. A novel behavior of the nucleation rate with scan rate is predicted, arising because the relaxation of the cluster distribution cannot be described by a single relaxation time. Comparisons of the calculations with experimental data on this glass demonstrate the validity of the model.
Bilateral improvement of persistent diffuse diabetic macular oedema after unilateral intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) injection.

Bilateral improvement of persistent diffuse diabetic macular oedema after unilateral intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) injection
Simulations of ion trapping in a micrometer-sized cylindrical ion trap.

We have performed detailed SIMION simulations of ion behavior in micrometer-sized cylindrical ion traps (r0=1 µm). Simulations examined the effects of ion and neutral temperature, the pressure and nature of cooling gas, ion mass, trap voltage and frequency, space-charge, fabrication defects, and other parameters on the ability of micrometer-sized traps to store ions. At this size scale voltage and power limitations constrain trap operation to frequencies about 1 GHz and rf amplitudes of tens of volts. Correspondingly, the pseudopotential well depth of traps is shallow, and thermal energies contribute significantly to ion losses. Trapping efficiency falls off gradually as qz approaches 0.908, possibly complicating mass-selective trapping, ejection, or quantitation. Coulombic repulsion caused by multiple ions in a small-volume results in a trapping limit of a single ion per trap. If multiple ions are produced in a trap, all but one ion are ejected within a few microseconds. The remaining ion tends to have favorable trapping parameters and a lifetime about hundreds of microseconds; however, this lifetime is significantly shorter than it would have been in the absence of space-charge. Typical microfabrication defects affect ion trapping only minimally. We recently reported (IJMS 2004, 236, 91–104) on the construction of a massively parallel array of ion traps with dimensions of r0=1 µm. The relationship of the simulations to the expected performance of the microfabricated array is discussed.
Idiopathic lymphoplasmacytic aortic valvulitis: Observations in two elderly women with unexplained aortic insufficiency

Two patients with a unique aortic valvulitis required aortic valve replacement. Both were elderly women who presented with evidence of systemic disease, including fever, arthralgia, myalgia, markedly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anemia, leukbcytosis, hypoalbumihemia and renal insufficiency, in addition to progressive subacute aortic insufficiency. Histologic examination of the excised aortic valve revealed a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. Neither patient had evidence of other diseases that have been associated with aortic insufficiency. One should consider the judicious use of glucocorticosteroids for such patients.
Electron spectroscopy studies of the chemisorption of O2, H2 and H2O on the TiO2(100) surfaces with varied stoichiometry: Evidence for the photogeneration of Ti+3 and for its importance in chemisorption

Abstract Deposition of a monolayer of titanium on the TiO2(100)-( 1 × 3) single crystal surface produces an oxygen deficient surface which has the same chemical composition, electronic structure and chemical reactivity as the Ar ion sputtered TiO2(100) surface. From correlations with studies of oxidation of the Ti(0001) single crystal surface, we provide firm evidence for the existence of Ti+3 species on the clean oxygen deficient TiO2 surface. The chemisorption of O2, H2 and H2O has been studied by ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS), electron energy loss spectroscopy (ELS), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), low-energy electron diffraction (LEED) and thermal desorption on the stoichiometric and Ti+3-rich TiO2(100) surfaces. The presence of surface Ti+3 species causes distinct differences in the nature of chemical bonding between the adsorbed molecule and the substrate surface. From the combination of these studies, we conclude that water is adsorbed associatively on the stoichiometric TiO2(100)−( 1 × 3) surface while it tends to dissociate into surface hydroxyl groups on the Ti+3 rich surface. UPS and ELS show that while adsorption of H2O changes the Ti+3 to a different oxidation state, illumination by band gap energy photons can regenerate Ti+3 species by the reaction Ti+4 + e− → Ti+3. An attempt has been made to correlate these results on well characterized surfaces with studies using TiO2 as a photoanode in the photo-electrochemical cell.
Histamine actions on activity of cultured hypothalamic neurons: Evidence for mediation by H1- and H2-histamine receptors

Abstract Tuberal hypothalamic tissue cultures were used to investigate the actions of histaminergic agents on neuronal activity using extracellular glass micropipettes. Histamine and H 1 - and H 2 -agonists were applied locally onto single active neurons by iontophoresis, while histaminergic antagonists were perfused through the bathing medium. Peri-event histogram and ratemeter analysis showed histamine to both excite and depress unit activity. Excitations were only antagonized by putative H 1 - and not H 2 -histamine antagonists, whereas inhibitions were antagonized by H 2 - and not H 1 -antagonists. Dimaprit, a specific H 2 -agonist, elicited inhibitions of activity, while 2-(2-pyridyl)ethylamine, a putative H 1 -agonist, elicited both excitations and inhibitions. Two pharmacologically distinct populations of histamine receptors may exit in the hypothalamus: excitatory H 1 -receptors and inhibitory H 2 -receptors.
Design driven patterning optimizations for low K 1 lithography

Conventional resolution enhancement techniques (RET) are becoming increasingly inadequate at addressing the challenges of subwavelength lithography. However, the relentless pursuit of feature scaling can be continued for several more generations through increased co-optimization of design and process. A key enabler for such co-optimization is enhancement of design-manufacturing interface to allow more information than traditional layout shapes to be propagated to lithography. We describe a method to generate this additional information in the form of shape tolerances on layout polygons. We further propose an integrated model-based retargeting and optical proximity correction (OPC) flow to optimize lithographic process window in the presence of shape tolerances. Our simulation results show that this increased level of interaction between design and lithography can lead to fewer process hotspots on-wafer compared to conventional design-oblivious methods.
Epidemics of Fear

Exploring biological, social, and narrative aspects of epidemics, Alcabes concludes that the common gap between the hype and the actual levels of damages reflects the crucial roles fear and imagination play in shaping our responses to diseases.
First report of dollar spot caused by Sclerotinia homoeocarpa on Agrostis stolonifera in North Dakota.

Dollar spot disease is a major concern for golf courses nationwide, resulting in poor turf quality and significant damage to playing surfaces. To manage this disease effectively, fungicides need to be applied regularly. This management strategy represents a significant cost to turfgrass managers and may impact the economics of the industry in North Dakota. In the summer of 2011, small, circular, sunken brown patches of dead turf approximately 5 cm in diameter and resembling dollar spot disease were observed on a creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) variety trial at the North Dakota State University Agricultural Experiment Station in Fargo, ND. Fresh individual leaf specimens with distinct lesions having straw colored centers and reddish brown margins were collected. Leaves were surface disinfected in a 0.05% sodium chloride solution for 60 s, rinsed three times in sterile distilled water, then placed onto potato dextrose agar (PDA). Three isolates were obtained from the disease infested leaves with similar morphology to that described for Sclerotinia homoeocarpa F.T. Bennett (1). Fungal colonies were initially colorless followed by the development of sparse white columnar aerial mycelia with cinnamon colored bases. Hyphae were 5 to 8 μm wide and thin walled with dense granular contents and septations at irregular intervals. Fourteen days after culturing, dark brown to black mycelial stroma developed. A single representative isolate was selected to conduct inoculations. Inoculum was produced by placing six 5-mm-diameter plugs of PDA with actively growing mycelium into an Erlenmeyer flask with 40 g of sterile millet seed. The inoculum was incubated for 14 days at ambient temperature (20 to 25°C). Three creeping bentgrass cultivars, Crenshaw, Declaration, and L-93, were inoculated (two pots per cultivar). Following inoculation, the pots were misted with water, sealed in separate plastic bags, and placed in the dark for 48 h. For the next 5 days, plants were placed for 8 h outside of bags on a bench with full spectrum fluorescent bulbs, followed by 16 h in plastic bags in the dark. Finally, pots were placed on a bench for 48 h. Signs and symptoms of S. homoeocarpa developed on all pots, whereas the controls remained asymptomatic. The same fungus was reisolated from grass leaves, satisfying Koch's postulates. To confirm the identity of the fungus, the internal transcribed spacer was amplified using the ITS4 and ITS5 primers (2). The amplicon was sequenced, generating a 549-bp sequence (Accession No. JQ735942) with 100% similarity to sequences of S. homoeocarpa in GenBank (Accession Nos. GQ924924.1, GQ924923.1, and EU123801.1). To our knowledge, this is the first confirmed report of dollar spot in North Dakota. References: (1) F. T. Bennett. Ann. Appl. Biol. 24:236, 1937. (2) T. J. White et al. PCR Protocols: A Guide to Methods and Applications. Academic Press Inc., New York, 1990.
19. A New, Plasmid-Based Adenoviral Vectoring System Derived from the Highly Immunogenic, Human Ad4 Strain

Human Adenovirus type 4 (HAd-4) is a human member of the Group E Ads, a group also including simian Ads, the latter of which have been reported to be more immunogenic in vitro. More importantly, significant morbidity associated with natural HAd4 infections has been of major concern to both civilians and the US military, prompting deployment of a live, orally administered HAd4 vaccine. These features suggest that HAd4 is intrinsically more immunogenic than other HAds. To exploit these properties, we report the successful development of a HAd4 plasmid-based vector production system. This system allows maximal flexibility for construction of several classes of replication incompetent (or competent) HAd4 based vectors. Transgene insertion into various regions of the HAd4 genome is facilitated by development of several HAd4 targeted shuttle plasmids. HAD4 based vectors grew well in human 293 cells, and by design have a zero probability of homologous recombination with the E1 genes present in 293 cells. A prototype [E1-,E3-] LacZ Ad4 vector showed significantly higher transduction efficiencies in A549, HeLa, and Hep3B cells, but similar transduction efficiencies in 293, Hepa1-6, and Hep2G cell lines, (relative to an identical Ad5-based vector) thus indicating an expanded vector tropism in vitro. In vivo, de-targeting of the liver despite high dose administrations (5|[times]|10E10 HAd4 particles/mouse) was noted, and may be due to the shorter shaft, (and lack of HPSG motifs) on the HAd4 fiber. HAd4-based vectors induced the rapid generation of significantly higher plasma levels of many pro-inflammatory cyto/chemokines, including IL-6, G-CSF, MIP-1a, RANTES, and MCP-1, relative to identical treatments with an HAd5 vector. In summary, the immunogenic properties and altered tropism of HAd4 based vectors, (combined with its successful history of being a safe, enterically deliverable vaccine) makes it potentially very useful in pathogenic and cancer vaccination strategies.
Thermal stability of silicon nitride coatings produced by ion assisted deposition

Abstract Amorphous Si-N alloy films containing from about 20 to 60 at.% N were deposited by combined e-beam evaporation of Si and ion bombardment of N. A Kaufman-type ion gun produced the 500-eV nitrogen ion beam. Films up to 1-μm thick were deposited on single-crystals of silicon and sapphire in a vacuum of about 2 × 10 −4 Torr. The as-deposited films were characterized by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy for composition, visible and near-infrared spectrophotometry to measure index of refraction and absorption bands from Si-N bond vibrations, and X-ray diffraction for crystal structure. Subsequently, samples were annealed in a thermogravimetric analyzer at temperatures up to 1350°C to ascertain their thermal stability against crystallization, oxidation, and reaction with the substrate. Postanneal examination by Rutherford backscattering, spectrophotometry. X-ray diffraction, and optical and scanning electron microscopy provided detailed information on the thermally induced changes in the films. Crystallization of Si occurred in N-poor samples, while α Si 3 N 4 crystallized in N-rich samples after 1200°C anneals. Blisters sometimes also appeared following 1200°C anneals of N-rich samples. For anneals up to 1200°C, no reactions with sapphire or Si substrates were observed and minimal oxidation was found.
Superficial masses with color flow Doppler imaging

Color Doppler imaging findings and spectral waveforms were reviewed for 21 superficial masses in which color Doppler imaging revealed flow. This series included 5 benign hyperplastic lymph nodes, 5 malignant masses, 2 staphylococcus abscesses, and 9 pseudoaneurysms. Benign hyperplastic nodes had a vascular pattern consisting of prominent central flow with a branching radial pattern, reflecting the morphology of lymph nodes. One metastasis from melanoma demonstrated abundant peripheral flow and central avascularity, while the other 4 malignant masses and the 2 abscesses had sparse internal flow. All pseudoaneurysms had a to-and-fro imaging and spectral pattern (into the mass during systole, out during diastole), and/or a swirling pattern on real-time images (8 of 9 each). Doppler spectral analysis revealed continuous forward flow during diastole for all other masses and abscesses. Waveforms appeared similar for benign and malignant masses, and for abscesses. Conventional image-directed Doppler examinations performed prior to color Doppler studies failed to reveal flow in 2 partially thrombosed pseudoaneurysms, 1 malignant mass, and 1 abscess. Benign hyperplastic nodes, malignant masses, and pseudoaneurysms had distinctive color Doppler image appearances in this series, although demonstration of flow within a mass does not eliminate the possibility of abscess. Proper use of color and spectral Doppler analysis of superficial masses involves more than mere detection or exclusion of flow.
Concepts and misconceptions in corneal biomechanics.

This review looks at biomechanical concepts and misconceptions related to in vivo assessment of corneal biomechanical response via air-puff deformation, including both human donor corneas and the translation of similar concepts to clinical studies. The impact of corneal viscoelasticity on interpreting clinical data is discussed, as well as the differences between 2 clinical devices that produce air puffs with distinct temporal and magnitude profiles. Financial Disclosure Dr. Roberts is a consultant to Oculus Optikgerate GmbH and Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems AG and has received research funding from Carl Zeiss Meditec AG as well as travel funds from Sooft Italia. She has no financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Effect of the nature of the polyamide on the properties and morphology of compatibilized nylon/acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene blends

The mechanical properties and phase morphology of compatibilized blends of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) with a wide range of polyamide materials having different physical and chemical characteristics were explored. The most efficient dispersion of the ABS phase and the best combination of mechanical properties occur within an optimum range of the nylon/ABS viscosity ratio. It is significantly more difficult to disperse the ABS and to generate toughened blends when the polyamide material is difunctional in character, i.e. a fraction of the chains having two amine end-groups. Increasing the inherent ductility of the polyamide leads to improved toughness of these blends.
Resistance to 402AX teratocarcinoma involves immunity to minor histocompatibility antigens.

The 402AX teratocarcinoma is a 12/J-derived mouse major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen negative tumor that is induced to express H-2b class I antigens during rejection. Resistance to 402AX by MHC allogeneic and syngeneic mice is immunologically mediated and involves the recognition of tumor-associated antigens (TAA) in the context of induced MHC class I antigens. The current studies were undertaken to define the 402AX TAAs. Reconstitution of irradiated susceptible hosts (129/J) with 402AX-primed resistant spleen cells (C57BL/6) results in acute graft-versus-host disease, suggesting that tumor-primed C57BL/6 splenocytes are reactive to tumor genotype (129/J) minor histocompatibility (Hm) antigens. C57BL/6 anti-129/J effector cells, although not directly cytotoxic for 402AX cells, are specifically cold target inhibited by 402AX cells. Genetically susceptible hosts (C3H.SW) immunized to 129/J Hm antigens by skin grafting become resistant to an i.p. challenge of 402AX cells. These results suggest that 129/J Hm antigens may be the TAAs recognized during genetically controlled rejection of the 402AX teratocarcinoma.
No retroviremia or pathology in long-term follow-up of monkeys exposed to a murine amphotropic retrovirus.

ABSTRACT Four monkeys were exposed to a retroviral vector and replication-competent murine amphotropic retrovirus in a bone marrow transplantation/gene transfer protocol (Kantoff et al., 1987). We have studied these animals 2 and 3 years post-transplantation and did not detect replicating virus in serum, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, or bone marrow cells. Amphotropic envelope sequences could not be detected in blood or bone marrow cells by Southern blotting or the polymerase chain reaction. Antibodies directed against the p30 and gp70 viral antigens were detected by Western blot and immunoprecipitation. The animals remain alive and well. Our findings suggest that primates can clear murine amphotropic retroviruses even when exposure occurs during a time of severe immunosuppression.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome in adolescent girls

Abstract Polycystic ovary syndrome is a spectrum of disorders consisting of chronic oligo-anovulation, androgen excess, obesity, insulin resistance and polycystic ovaries. The diagnosis carries life-long implications with increased risk for infertility, endometrial hyperplasia/carcinoma, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Lack of well-defined diagnostic criteria makes identification of this common condition challenging. Because of the varying clinical presentation and manifestation of PCOS, adolescent and young adult woman can present to a variety of healthcare professionals including general practitioners, general paediatricians, adult physicians, gynaecologists, dermatologists or endocrinologists (paediatric and adult). Treatment of adolescent girls with PCOS includes weight reduction if associated with obesity, exercise and various pharmacological interventions. As many women with PCOS have the onset of symptoms during adolescence, it is important for paediatricians to be familiar with the disorder and be able to facilitate a management plan and consider treatments to ameliorate symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term sequelae. This review will focus on the diagnosis and current management of PCOS in adolescent girls.
Scale invariance and gravitational coupling

A variant of General Relativity provides a model in which scale invariance of matter is a consistency requirement on its coupling to gravitation. Invariance breaking is introduced by giving a finite (cosmological) range to one of the gravitational variables; the Einstein and cosmological constants are then approximately determined by the average mass-density of the universe.
On the 6825 A band of methane

High-resolution laboratory spectra of large pressure path-lengths of methane have been acquired in the region of the 6825-A band. The intensities, spacings, and splitting of the absorption features appearing in this band are not compatible with a previous suggestion that they are rotational manifolds of the 5 nu 3 band of methane.