cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optical coherence tomography of the anterior segment in secondary glaucoma with corneal opacity after penetrating keratoplasty

Aim: To evaluate secondary glaucoma after penetrating keratoplasty with anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (OCT). Design: Case series. Methods: Four eyes of four patients with corneal opacity and increased intraocular pressure (IOP) were evaluated using high-speed (2000 axial scans/s) OCT at 1.3 μm wavelength. Cross-sectional images of the anterior segment were analysed to assess the cause of increase in pressure. Results: Slit-lamp evaluation of the anterior chamber in all cases was limited by corneal opacity. The OCT imaging allowed visualisation of anterior-segment structures behind the opaque corneas. Using OCT, iris–intraocular lens adhesion and pupillary block were identified as the probable reasons for the increased IOP in one case. Peripheral anterior synechiae and angle closure were identified in the three remaining cases. In two cases, we found that the tip of the aqueous drainage tube was blocked by peripheral anterior synechiae. Conclusions: OCT is similar to ultrasound in that it allows visualisation through opaque corneas. However, OCT has an advantage in that it requires neither contact nor immersion. It is a valuable tool for evaluating the depth of the anterior chamber angle and the causes of secondary angle closure.
Experimental quantification of hydrothermal solubility of platinum-group elements with special reference to porphyry copper environments

We have conducted a series of experiments on the solubility of metallic osmium and palladium in supercritical aqueous KCl fluids in which pH was buffered by the assemblage K-feldspar-quartz-muscovite and oxygen fugacity was controlled by various oxygen buffers at 400° and 500°C. An important objective of these well-constrained experiments is to evaluate current theoretical models of PGE solubility. Our experimental results indicate that the concentration of Os in a 1.0 m KCl solution buffered by the Ni-NiO (NNO) assemblage at 500°C is ∼ 3 ppb (∼1.9 × 10−8 moles/kg H2O), whereas the concentration of Os in a 1.5 m KCl solution also buffered by NNO at 500°C is ∼ 130 ppb (∼ 6.5 × 10−7 moles/kg H2O). As the pH in these two experiments is nearly the same, this finding implies that Os is present in solution as a chloride complex. The concentration of Os in a 1.5 m KCl solution but buffered by a higher oxygen fugacity buffer (Re-ReO2 assemblage) (RRO) is about one order of magnitude higher (∼ 1705 ppb; ∼ 1 × 10−5 moles/kg H2O). The palladium concentrations in a 0.1 m KCl solution buffered by RRO at 500°C and in a 0.1 m KCl solution buffered by MnO-Mn3O4 at 400°C are ∼ 40 ppb (∼ 3.8 × 10−7 moles/kg H2O) and ∼ 15 ppb (1.4 × 10−7 moles/kg H2O), respectively. Our experimental results on the solubility of Pd metal in combination with field observations show that the theoretical calculations of Sassani and Shock (1990, 1998) on palladium underestimate the solubility of palladium by many orders of magnitude under supercritical conditions. Our experimental results are directly applicable to porphyry copper systems because in such systems temperature, pH, salinity and oxygen fugacity are similar to the experimental parameters. Application of our experimental results indicate that a typical porphyry systems can transport at least 40 tons of Pd if sources of platinum-group elements (PGE) are available and the solubility-controlling phase is metallic Pd. Similarly, the amount of osmium that can be transported in a typical porphyry system is calculated to be at least ∼ 3 tons. Consequently, porphyry systems have the capacity to transport sufficient PGE to form at least mid-sized PGE deposits. The absence of important Os mineralization in known porphyry deposits may be due to the lack of availability of source materials, or to the presence of Os in less soluble forms, such as sulfides.
The forward problem in optical mapping of electrical activity in the heart: application to various imaging methods

Voltage-sensitive dyes have become an important tool in visualizing electrical activity in cardiac tissue. However, there are no established methods for assessing the contribution of intramural electrical excitation to recorded optical signals. Here, we develop algorithms to calculate voltage-dependent optical signals from three-dimensional distributions of transmembrane voltage inside the myocardial wall (the forward problem). Optical diffusion theory is applied for different imaging modes including subsurface imaging or epi-illumination, transillumination and coaxial scanning. We use the solutions of the forward problem to assess these imaging methods with respect to their effectiveness in visualizing two types of 3D cardiac activity: electrical point sources and intramural scroll waves initiated at various depths. Simulations were performed both for fluorescent and absorptive voltage-sensitive dyes. In the case of point sources, we focus on the lateral optical resolution, as a function of the source depth. We find that, among the studied methods, fluorescent coaxial scanning yields the best optical resolution (<2.5 mm). In the case of scroll waves we investigate how well the filament, i.e. the organizing center, can be visualized as function of its depth. Our results show that using absorptive transillumination, filaments can be detected up to 3 mm below the recording surface. The presented results provide a powerful tool for the interpretation of experimental data and are the first step towards the development of inverse procedures.
The finite element formulation of the streaming ray method

Abstract A high order spatial differencing technique based on finite element and collocation methods is presented. Collocation is used at the intersection points of streaming rays with the mesh cell boundaries, where flux values are readily available. With all collocation points located on the cell edges, the maximum order of approximation is sixteen. )Here order means simply the number of trial functions per mesh cell.( An even higher order of approximation would be possible if interior collocation points were used. A set of trial functions suitable for an eighth order calculation is given. In the past, streaming ray (SR) computations have relied on first order (diamond difference and step characteristics) or third order (linear characteristics) differencing schemes.
The influence of diet on the lipogenic response to thyroxine in rat liver.

Abstract ATP citrate lyase, acetyl-CoA synthetase, malic enzyme and hexose monophosphate dehydrogenase activities and rates of denovo synthesis of long chain fatty acids from labeled acetate and citrate were measured in cell-free fractions of liver from rats fed various diets, with and without D- or L- thyroxine. Diets containign sucrose (vs. isocaloric glucose) or lard (vs. isocaloric corn oil) stimulated hepatic lipogenesis both in control and in thyroxine-treated rats. The lipogenic response to thyroxine was greatly modified by diet, except for an invariable rise in malic enzyme activity. With diets providing less than 6% of calories as linoleic acid, thyroxine increased fatty acid synthesis, depleted liver glycogen and retarded growth; when linoleic acid was increased to 16% of calories, thyroxine had no effect on fatty acid synthesis or growth and liver glycogen depletion was significantly attenuated. This response to dietary linoleic acid suggests that these phenomena may be largely secondary to the increased requirement for essential fatty acid in thyrotoxicosis. Further study should reveal the extent to which observed effects of excess thyroid hormone are amenable to control by dietary polyunsaturated fat.
Reliability of thermal readings of the skin surface over the anterior deltoid during intermittent, overhead tapping tasks

Abstract Alternative techniques to quantify exposures to risk factors to further our understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms of work related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) development are needed. Exploratory studies of thermal imaging indicate that it is sensitive to changes in work task demands. The objective of this study was to quantify the reliability of skin thermal readings over the anterior deltoid during an overhead task. Twenty four participants completed six test sessions of a simulated overhead tapping task common in automotive assembly. Thermal images were recorded using an infrared camera. Correlations of thermal readings between days and its relationship with subjective discomfort ratings, along with effects of duty cycle (33%, 66% and 100%), gender, and day on thermal parameters were assessed. The overall reliability of thermal rate of change between days was found to be moderate to good with a Pearson's correlation coefficient of 0.56 and an ICC of 0.72. Significant moderate correlations were also found between thermal readings and subjective discomfort ratings with a Pearson's correlation coefficient of −0.55 for the rates of changes. Duty cycle affected all the dependent variables with each duty cycle differing from the other. Gender differences were found for both temperature and discomfort rate of change. Relevance to industry This study suggests that thermal imaging is a reliable method for assessing work task demand effects on the musculoskeletal system for the shoulder during overhead work and may be useful in assessing risk for upper extremity WMSDs.
Drug biotransformation reactions in the human fetal adrenal gland.

Abstract Microsomal fractions of human fetal adrenal gland homogenates were found to contain large quantities of a carbon monoxide binding pigment which exhibited an absorption maximum between 446 and 448 nm. Human fetal liver microsomes exhibited similar spectral properties but the concentration of the pigment in the adrenal microsomes appeared to be at least one order of magnitude higher than that observed in fetal liver microsomes. Aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase specific activities in fetal adrenal microsomes approached those observed in analagous preparations of adult rat livers. Fetal adrenal homogenates from humans and monkeys ( Macaca nemestrina ) also exhibited much higher specific activities with respect to aromatic nitro group and azo linkage reduction and p-hydroxylation of aniline. Comparisons of drug metabolic activities in fetal adrenal glands with activities observable in several other fetal and placental tissues were made in humans, monkeys and guinea pigs. None of the fetal or placental tissues studied appeared to contain significant aminopyrine N-demethylase activity.
The association between vitamin C and vitamin E supplement use before hematopoietic stem cell transplant and outcomes to two years

Abstract Objective To examine the prevalence of supplement use in persons before receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and the association of select supplements with outcomes. Design This observational cohort study included a questionnaire on supplement use before HSCT. Nonrelapse mortality, recurrence/relapse, and mortality or relapse (the inverse of disease-free survival) were followed to two years. Subjects/Setting Persons receiving HSCT at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center between September 1994 and December 1997 were eligible (N=1,182). Statistical Analyses Performed Descriptive statistics and univariate and Cox regression analyses were conducted. Results Sixty-six percent of patients used supplements (31% vitamin C, 19% vitamin E, and 20% herbs or others preparations). Vitamin C at ≥500 mg/day was inversely associated with recurrence among persons with breast cancer (RR=0.11; 95% CI, 0.02-0.89; P =.03). However, among persons with acute leukemia, vitamin C at ≥500 mg/day was positively associated with nonrelapse mortality (RR=2.25; 95% CI, 1.33-3.83; P =.01) and mortality or relapse (RR=1.63; 95% CI, 1.09-2.44; P =.01), respectively. Vitamin E at ≥400 IU/day was positively associated with mortality or relapse (RR=1.77; 95% CI, 1.06 −2.96; P =.02). Applications/Conclusions Though this work was observational, the results suggest supplemental vitamin C before therapy may be beneficial in persons with breast cancer but both vitamin C and vitamin E may increase risk in persons with acute leukemia receiving HSCT. Practitioners should document supplement use in subjects receiving therapy for cancer. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003;103:982-990.
Thinking: Lessons from John Dewey’s How We Think

In this article we draw on John Dewey’s (1910) classic book How We Think to reflect on the absence of a culture of ‘critical thinking’ and/or ‘reflective thinking’ at Morgenster Teachers’ College. ‘Critical thinking’ and/or ‘reflective thinking’ are central to John Dewey (1916, 1910) and Paulo Freire’s (2005, 1995) teachings. But they are also embedded in the dialogues of Plato, for instance, The Republic, Meno, Euthyphro, Apology, and Protagoras, to mention a few. But data from focus group interviews conducted with final year students at Morgenster Teachers’ College shows that pedagogical practices at the college are monologic or one-dimensional, which is not supportive of ‘critical thinking’ and/or ‘reflective thinking’. Our contention in this article is that in teaching and learning it is essential for the students to be equipped with the skills to understand the world and what is in it. For such understanding to occur teachers should engage the students in philosophical inquiry and critical dialogue. Philosophical inquiry is most effective when it takes the form of dialogue between peers. But as Freire (1995) points out, true dialogue cannot exist unless the dialoguers engage in critical thinking. We recognise that Morgenster Teachers’ College is an important institution with a mandate to produce teachers. It is therefore incumbent that the college shifts from monologic pedagogies, to pedagogiies that are anchored in philosophical inquiry, critical dialogue, ‘critical thinking’ and ‘reflective thinking’, which engender an understanding of the world and what is in it. DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2013.v2n2p51
Seed size and recruitment limitation influence seedling establishment in three tallgrass prairie species

A seed size–seed number tradeoff predicts that large numbers of seeds have an establishment advantage under low levels of competition, while large seed size is advantageous under asymmetric competition. Testing these predictions in the context of tallgrass prairie restoration should increase predictability of outcomes of species composition—restoration technique combinations. I conducted field and greenhouse experiments comparing seedling establishment among three tallgrass prairie species with different seed mass-seed number combinations, but with similar mass of seeds sown. Species were prairie dock [Silphium terebinthinaceum, mass = 33.2 + 2.1 mg ( $$\overline{x}$$ + SE, n = 100)], wild quinine (Parthenium integrifolium, mass = 3.1 + 0.3 mg), and smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve var. laeve, mass = 0.53 + 0.02 mg). Seeds were sown into mowed or tilled plots with shade and mulch treatments in an old field in northeastern Illinois USA, and seeds were sown into containers with or without vegetative cover in a greenhouse. In mowed plots, species with larger numbers of seeds sown had higher seedling densities. In tilled plots, seedling densities of the large-seeded Silphium were reduced less by shade than the small-seeded Parthenium. Symphyotrichum, however, did not respond to treatments as expected based on its seed size. High relative growth rate possibly increased Symphyotrichum seedling establishment in competitive environments. Results of this study demonstrated recruitment limitation when seedlings established into existing vegetation, and suggest that species composition resulting from specific seeding rates during prairie restoration may be more predictable when species are interseeded into existing vegetation, than when seeds are sown into tilled fields.
Recombinant Factor VIIa for Rapid Reversal of Warfarin Anticoagulation in Acute Intracranial Hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE To assess the effects of recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) on hemorrhage volume and functional outcomes in warfarin-related acute intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), which has a 30-day mortality of more than 50%. PATIENTS AND METHODS We reviewed the clinical, laboratory, and radiographic features of a consecutive series of 7 patients (median age, 87 years; 5 women) with symptomatic, nontraumatic warfarin-related acute ICH treated with intravenous rFVIIa at St. Luke's Hospital in Jacksonville, Fla, between December 2002 and September 2003. Prestroke baseline functional status was assessed with the modified Rankin Scale. Outcome was assessed with the Glasgow Outcome Scale. RESULTS The international normalized ratio decreased from a mean of 2.7 before administration of rFVIIa to 1.08 after administration of rFVIIa. The median prestroke score on the modified Rankin Scale was zero. The median presenting score on the Glasgow Coma Scale was 14 (range, 4-15). The mean time from onset to treatment was 6.2 hours. The mean initial dose of rFVIIa was 62.1 μg/kg. One patient underwent placement of an external ventricular drain, and another underwent craniotomy and hematoma evacuation. Five of the 7 patients survived and were dismissed from the hospital with severe disability (Glasgow Outcome Scale, 3); 2 patients died during hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS Intravenous bolus administration of rFVIIa can rapidly lower the international normalized ratio and appears to be safe for patients with warfarin-related ICH. Prospective controlled studies are needed to determine whether rFVIIa can prevent hematoma expansion and improve neurologic outcomes in patients with warfarin-related ICH.
Detector system comparison using relative CNR for specific imaging tasks related to neuro-endovascular image-guided interventions (neuro-EIGIs)

Neuro-EIGIs require visualization of very small endovascular devices and small vessels. A Microangiographic Fluoroscope (MAF) x-ray detector was developed to improve on the standard flat panel detector’s (FPD’s) ability to visualize small objects during neuro-EIGIs. To compare the performance of FPD and MAF imaging systems, specific imaging tasks related to those encountered during neuro-EIGIs were used to assess contrast to noise ratio (CNR) of different objects. A bar phantom and a stent were placed at a fixed distance from the x-ray focal spot to mimic a clinical imaging geometry and both objects were imaged by each detector system. Imaging was done without anti-scatter grids and using the same conditions for each system including: the same x-ray beam quality, collimator position, source to imager distance (SID), and source to object distance (SOD). For each object, relative contrasts were found for both imaging systems using the peak and trough signals. The relative noise was found using mean background signal and background noise for varying detector exposures. Next, the CNRs were found for these values for each object imaged and for each imaging system used. A relative CNR metric is defined and used to compare detector imaging performance. The MAF utilizes a temporal filter to reduce the overall image noise. The effects of using this filter with the MAF while imaging the clinical object’s CNRs are reported. The relative CNR for the detectors demonstrated that the MAF has superior CNRs for most objects and exposures investigated for this specific imaging task.
A rapid and simple method for determination of potato chloroplast DNA type

A procedure for restriction enzyme analysis of the potato chloroplast DNA (ctDNA) is described. The advantages of this method are: 1) rapid determination of ctDNA type, 2) no ultracentrifugation, and 3) low cost of analyses. This method makes it easy to distinguish the ctDNA types of wild and cultivated potato accessions.
Double FYVE-containing protein 1 (DFCP1): isolation, cloning and characterization of a novel FYVE finger protein from a human bone marrow cDNA library

Abstract Double FYVE-containing protein 1 (DFCP1) encodes a 777 amino acid protein that contains: (1) an N-terminal Cys–His cluster with some homology to many zinc finger domains; (2) a consensus sequence consistent with an ATP/GTP binding site; and (3) a C-terminal domain unique because it contains two zinc-binding FYVE domains. The gene, ZNFN2A1 (GenBank accession no. AF251025) was localized to chromosome 14q22–q24 and shown to be composed of 11 exons. Northern blot analysis revealed the presence of three different mRNA transcripts (4.2, 3 and 1.2 kb). The two longer transcripts appear to be expressed in a variety of different tissues, especially in endocrine tissues, while the shorter messenger is limited to testis. Both of the larger transcripts are unusual due to the presence of a 463 bp long 5′ UTR. Furthermore, the 4.2 kb transcript contains a non-standard polyadenylation consensus sequence while the 3 kb transcript contains a standard consensus sequence but within the open reading frame. Following in vitro transfection of a DFCP1-containing expression construct, confocal microscopy studies showed a vesicular distribution of DFCP1 suggesting that this protein, like other FYVE-containing proteins, might be involved in membrane trafficking.
Infrared Spectral Hole Burning of Polymers: A Probe of Local Structure

Infrared hole-burning studies of the ionic polymers poly(ammonium styrenesulfonate) and ammonium Nafion are reported. The ammonium groups are doped with a few percent of deuterium, and the irradiation is in the N−D stretching bands. Both polymers show only broad spectral absorption bands, but the narrow spectral holes reveal details of the ammonium group interactions with their surroundings. The results are interpreted by comparison with the hole burning of the model compounds ammonium tosylate and ammonium triflate. Characteristic behavior of the holes shows that some of the local conformations of the models persist in the polymers. Particularly unusual are the changes of hole depth with time: for the Nafion, some holes decay for a period of time, then grow, and then continue to decaya behavior also observed in the model triflate.
Organizational principles for embryological and neurophysiological processes.

The author argues for the development of organizational principles for multicellular assemblies to complement the approach of molecular biologists to cellular mechanisms, and notes that such development requires an inductive phase before detailed deductions can be useful. He notes the challenge posed by neural specificity to theorists of embryological development, and suggests ‘layered somatotopy’ as a useful organizing principle for brain theory.This paper is dedicated to the memory of Donald M. Wilson whose research on insect flight and locomotion combined incisive experiment with theoretical insight. His untimely death in a ‘rough river’ boating expedition has saddened all of us who valued his friendship and had looked forward to enjoying his company and sharing his insights many times in years ahead.
A COMPARISON OF IGG ANTIBODY REACTIVE WITH BACTEROIDES FORSYTHUS AND PORPHYROMONAS GINGIVALIS IN ADULT AND EARLY-ONSET PERIODONTITIS

Recent work has indicated that Bacteroides forsythus and Porphyromonas gingivalis are significant local risk factors for periodontitis. Several reports find that both organisms are frequently associated with periodontitis lesions and often are present together. We have previously shown that early-onset periodontitis patients seropositive for P. gingivalis have less attachment loss than seronegative patients. In this study, we determined serum IgG antibody concentrations reactive with B. forsythus in adult and early-onset periodontitis patients using an ELISA and used P. gingivalis in the same populations as a positive control. The results for P. gingivalis were consistent with previous work and indicated that 47%, 36%, and 33% of adult, generalized earlyonset, and localized juvenile patients were seropositive, respectively. Mean serum IgG concentrations for the three groups were 5.36 μg/ml, 5.65 μg/ml, and 5.44 μg/ml for adult, generalized early-onset, and localized juvenile patients, respectively. In con...
Teaching strategies for reinforcing structural recursion with lists

Recursion is an important concept in computer science and one that possesses beauty and simplicity, yet many educators describe challenges in teaching the topic. Kim Bruce champions the early use of structural recursion in an object-oriented introductory programming course as a more intuitive concept than traditional (functional) recursion. He uses many graphical examples for motivation (e.g., nested boxes, a ringed bullseye, fractals), providing concreteness to the recursive concept. Internally, most of those examples are disguised forms of a basic recursive list pattern. Recursive lists are important in and of themselves and a mainstay within the functional programming paradigm. However, further challenges exist in providing a tangible presentation for pure lists when disassociated from a graphical structure.Recursion is an important concept in computer science and one that possesses beauty and simplicity, yet many educators describe challenges in teaching the topic. Kim Bruce champions the early use of structural recursion in an object-oriented introductory programming course as a more intuitive concept than traditional (functional) recursion. He uses many graphical examples for motivation (e.g., nested boxes, a ringed bullseye, fractals), providing concreteness to the recursive concept. Internally, most of those examples are disguised forms of a basic recursive list pattern. Recursive lists are important in and of themselves and a mainstay within the functional programming paradigm. However, further challenges exist in providing a tangible presentation for pure lists when disassociated from a graphical structure.
Multiobjective model for locating automatic vehicle identification readers

The problem of locating automatic vehicle identification (AVI) readers on a transportation network is one worth considering. AVI readers are strategically located to catch a maximum number of trips and cover a maximum number of origin-destination (O-D) pairs using a minimum number of AVI readers. There are three possible objectives when deciding locations for AVI readers: (a) a minimum number of AVI readers, (b) maximum O-D coverage, and (c) a maximum number of trips (or AVI readings). To satisfy all three objectives as much as possible, the problem is formulated as a multiobjective integer-optimization problem. A distance-based genetic algorithm is applied to solve this multiobjective AVI reader-location problem by explicitly generating the nondominated solutions. Numerical results are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed multiobjective model. The procedure proposed holds great promise for the development of a well-configured AVI system that can achieve a balance between quality and c...
Long-Distance Transport of Bulk Goods in the Pre-Hispanic American Southwest

Abstract The paper examines the limits of efficient foot transport of utilitarian goods and food in the pre-Hispanic American Southwest, basing this assessment on field studies of long-distance portage, both domestic and commercial, in the roadless hills of modern-day eastern Nepal. The paper predicts the effect of load weight on transport costs and energy profits and also examines the relationship between distance and round-trip travel time for portaging 50-kg loads over one-way distances ranging from 50 to 250 km. The Nepali evidence refutes Lightfoot's 50-km operational limit for an “effective redistribution network, based on foot transportation.” The extensive network of domestic and commercial portage operating today in eastern Nepal demonstrates clearly that foot transport of food staples and durable goods would have been feasible in the pre-Hispanic American Southwest on a regular basis over distances of at least 100 to 150 km and on an occasional basis over much longer distances.
Existence and regularity of extrema

Abstract Consider the minimization of a possibly noncoercive Gâteaux differentiable functional F:X→ R . A modified notion of coercivity is introduced which may be usable to show existence of a minimum. Alternatively, F :D→ R has a minimum at y e D ( F not differentiable but the restriction F of F to X ⊂ D differentiable), one may be able to show y is actually in X . The latter case is related to justification of formally calculated “necessary conditions” for optimal controls. The arguments are applications of Ekeland's “approximate variational principle” (J. Math. Anal. Appl. 47 (1974) , 324–353).
Tn5 Transposase Active Site Mutants

Tn 5 transposase (Tnp) is a 53.3-kDa protein that is encoded by and facilitates movement of transposon Tn 5. Tnp monomers contain a single active site that is responsible for catalyzing a series of four DNA breaking/joining reactions at one transposon end. Based on primary sequence homology and protein structural information, we designed and constructed a series of plasmids that encode for Tnps containing active site mutations. Following Tnp expression and purification, the active site mutants were tested for their ability to form protein-DNA complexes and perform each of the four catalytic steps in the transposition pathway in vitro. The results demonstrate that Asp-97, Asp-188, and Glu-326, visible in the active site of Tn 5 crystal structures, are absolutely required for all catalytic steps. Mutations within a series of amino acid residues that are conserved in the IS4 family of transposases and retroviral integrases also impair Tnp catalytic activity. Mutations at either Tyr-319 or Arg-322 reduce both hairpin resolution and strand transfer activity within protein-DNA complexes. Mutations at Lys-333 reduce the ability of Tnps to form protein-DNA complexes, whereas mutations at the less strongly conserved Lys-330 have less of an effect on both synaptic complex formation and catalytic activity.
Oxidation of 7,8-dihydro-8-oxoguanine affords lesions that are potent sources of replication errors in vivo.

Three single-stranded DNA genomes have been constructed that contain the 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2‘-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) oxidation products oxaluric acid, oxazalone, and cyanuric acid. Oligonucleotides containing each lesion were synthesized by treating an oligonucleotide containing a single 8-oxodG with peroxynitrite, and the desired products were isolated by HPLC. The modified oligonucleotides were ligated into M13mp7L2 bacteriophage DNA in such a way that the lesion was situated at a known site in the lacZ gene fragment of the viral genome. The circular genomes were transfected into wild-type AB1157 Escherichia coli. The relative efficiency of lesion bypass by DNA polymerase was determined by counting the number of initial independent infections produced by each genome relative to that of an unmodified DNA control. Viral progeny were analyzed for mutation frequency and type by PCR amplification of the insert region followed by a recently developed post-labeling assay. All three secondary lesions were rea...
Biochemical Composition and Size Distribution of Organic Matter at the Pacific and Atlantic Time-Series Stations

Abstract Amino acids, neutral sugars and amino sugars were analyzed to investigate the chemical composition and diagenetic processing of suspended particulate organic matter (POM, > 100 nm), high-molecular-weight dissolved organic matter (HMW DOM, 1–100 nm) and low-molecular-weight dissolved organic matter (LMW DOM,
Interference between two nuclear polyhedrosis viruses of the armyworm, Pseudaletia unipuncta [Lep.: Noctuidae]

The larva ofPseudaletia unipuncta (Haworth) is susceptible to 2 nuclear polyhedrosis viruses (NPV), the typical (TNPV) and the hypertrophy (HNPV) strains. The interference between the 2 viruses was studied primarily in the tracheal and fat tissues. When both viruses were microfed simultaneously, no larva had mixed virus infections and most were infected with TNPV. In order to obtain 50% infection by each virus the inoculum of HNPV had to be increased by 1000 polyhedra/ml at the LD50 value of TNPV. Mixed infection resulted when TNPV was inoculated 1 and especially 2 days after HNPV inoculation. In mixed infection, each virus attacked certain areas of the tracheae instead of random cells. These results indicated an interference or antagonism between the 2 viruses. The possible cause for the interference is discussed.
Currency Areas and International Monetary Reform at the Dawn of a New Century

The Asian crisis and the creation of the euro have jump-started once again discussion of exchange rate systems, currency areas, and international monetary reform. The role of power in the international monetary system is discussed and its relevance to analysis of the new euro area as an instigator of change in the power configuration of the system. The dollar, euro, and yen areas have achieved a high degree of price stability, but international efficiency is seriously undermined by exchange rate gyrations of these three currencies. The best path to international monetary reform leads through a new international currency called the INTOR based on a G-3 monetary union platform possibly linked to gold.
Improved Simulation of Heel Contact During Normal Walking

Causes of slips and falls involve the interaction of complex environmental and human factors [1]. While experimental studies have been useful to identify biomechanical variables that may impact slipping severity, it is unclear how these factors interact. Relying on experiments alone to acquire this knowledge and establishing cause-effect relationships in complex dynamic systems is difficult. Computational modeling and forward dynamics simulations of walking and slipping are needed to meet these research needs.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Removable partial denture design for a few remaining natural teeth.

T h i s article presents a partial denture design utilizing the hinge-lock apparatus. The patient for whom this design was used is classified as a Kennedy Class II, mod. 1.1 The mandibular arch is bilaterally edentulous, and only four unilaterally posterior teeth are remaining (Fig. 1). The hinge-lock design was used to reduce torque and tooth movement and to provide maximum retention, support, and bracing. 2 In light of these goals it must be remembered that the axis of rotation, i.e., the line around which the denture tends to rotate (Fig. 1), is not bilateral; it is a unilateral line. This presents a problem in providing indirect retention. The ideal location for providing indirect retention is on the side opposite the free-end extension a as far from the axis of rotation as possible. As seen in Fig. 1, the location for indirect retention in this instance lies on the buccal portion of the natural teeth. With the hinge-lock design presented, it is possible to obtain the needed retention through the buccal arms of the hinge-lock apparatus (Fig. 2). The length and location of the buccai arms are important factors in determining the magnitude of stress on the abutment teeth.
In vitro evidence of steroidogenesis in the amphibian (Rana pipiens) ovarian follicle and its relationship to meiotic maturation and ovulation

Cyanoketone (CK) was used to investigate the involvement of steroidogenesis on gonadotropic hormone-induced oocyte germinal vesicle breakdown and ovulation in frog ovarian follicles in vitro. Cyanoketone inhibited pituitary hormone-induced oocyte meiotic maturation and ovulation but had no inhibitory effects on progesterone-induced germinal vesicle breakdown. In contrast, CK inhibited meiotic maturation induced by low but not high doses of pregnenolone. The effect of CK on the uptake and metabolic conversion of 3H-pregnenolone by ovarian follicles was also studied. Ovarian follicles removed 3H-pregnenolone from the incubation medium and frog pituitary homogenate stimulated the net uptake of this steroid by nearly 60%. Cyanoketone had no effect on this uptake. Thin layer chromatographic analysis of extracts of ovarian follicles previously incubated in 3H-pregnenolone, indicated that radioactive progesterone as well as other products were synthesized in the presence or absence of pituitary hormones. Cyanoketone inhibited the amount of 3H-pregnenolone converted by the follicles and similarly reduced the formation of steroid corresponding chromato-graphically to 3H-progesterone. These results indicate that metabolism of pregnenolone occurs in the amphibian follicle and that CK interferes with this process presumably as a result of the inhibition of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydro-genase. These data further suggest that this enzyme is an important link in gonadotropic initiation of meiotic maturation and ovulation in amphibian ovarian follicles.
Selective uptake of glutamine in the gastrointestinal tract: Confirmation in a human study

Recent animal data suggest that the gut plays a far more important metabolic role than previously thought. During critical illness, disruption in bowel barrier function may result in a chronic hypermetabolic state and contribute to multiorgan failure. Animal studies have demonstrated that enterocytes of the gastrointestinal tract use glutamine as a respiratory fuel and during critical illness the consumption of glutamine by the gut significantly increases. The selective uptake of glutamine by the gut, to date, has not been confirmed in humans. Seven patients who sustained multisystem trauma necessitating laparotomy underwent portal venous catheterization. This was done by carefully reopening the obliterated umbilical vein and facilitating access to the left branch of the portal vein using a standard central venous catheter. Portal venous and systemic blood samples were recorded for 5 days after operation. Amino acid levels in both circulations were recorded at 48 h and 5 days. Using Student's t test for related samples, the differences between individual amino acids in portal and systemic circulations were compared. At 48 h, mean(s.d.) portal venous glutamine was 85(5) per cent of the systemic levels (253(80) compared with 296(90) mumol/ml, P less than 0.002). At 5 days, portal glutamine was 87(3) per cent of the systemic levels (255(69) compared with 292(83) mumol/ml, P less than 0.003). Levels of citrulline, a breakdown product of glutamine metabolism, were elevated in the portal venous circulation at 48 h (20(4) compared with 16(3) mumol/ml, P less than 0.005) and at 5 days (21(5) compared with 14(3) mumol/ml, P less than 0.002). No significant differences between any of the other amino acids analysed were identified. This study confirms, for the first time in humans, that selective uptake of glutamine occurs in the gut. In stressed states, glutamine deficiency is associated with gut mucosal atrophy. This has significant implications as glutamine is not provided in most commercially available parenteral and enteral nutrition formulations.
Human neutrophils and TLRs: 2, 4, and plenty more

And who could be truly surprised? Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are orthologs of combined developmental polarization and host defense proteins identified in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster , and respond to molecular motifs that are distinct and unique features of bacterial, fungal, and virus
Quantitative evaluation of sensorineural structures following stapes surgery

Sensorineural hearing loss may occur following stapes surgery. The reason for this remains unclear in spite of experimental studies in animals and postmortem temporal bone evaluations in humans. In this study, we quantitatively evaluated the sensorineural elements of six human temporal bones after stapes surgery. Outer hair cell loss in the upper basal turn was present in two cases. This lesion has not previously been described in human temporal bones after stapes surgery. In temporal bones with preoperative sensorineural hearing loss, evidence of presbycusis was also present. The importance of quantification in evaluating these structures must be stressed.
Body mass index as a correlate of postoperative complications and resource utilization.

Purpose To describe the relationship of body mass index (BMI) with postoperative complications and resource utilization. Patients and Methods Two thousand nine hundred and sixty-four patients 50 years or older undergoing elective noncardiac surgery with an expected length of stay ≥2 days were enrolled in a prospective cohort study to measure major cardiac complications, noncardiac complications, length of stay, and costs. The setting was an urban teaching hospital. A preoperative history, physical, electrocardiogram (ECG), and chart review were performed by study personnel. Postoperative complications were detected by ECGs, creatine kinase and creatine kinase MB levels, and daily chart review. Total costs were obtained from the hospital's computerized database. Results Complication rates were not different among BMI groups (underweight 34), but patients with BMI 30 to 34 and >34 who underwent abdominal or gynecologic procedures had significantly higher wound infection rates (11% each) than normal weight patients (4.7%) or the underweight (0%). After adjusting for age, race, gender, smoking history, comorbid diseases, procedure type, and insurance status, there were nonsignificant trends toward increased resource utilization by the most overweight patients (BMI >34). These patients stayed 0.8 days longer ( P = 0.13) and had total costs that were $843 higher ( P = 0.17) than patients of normal weight (BMI 20 to 29). The underweight patients stayed 0.9 days longer ( P = 0.23) and had total costs that were $3,150 higher ( P = 0.04) than patients of normal weight. Quadratic models to test for a U-shaped relationship found no correlation between BMI and length of stay, but did find that BMI was significantly correlated with total costs ( P = 0.04). This relationship persisted when patients who had complications were excluded from the analysis. Conclusions Overall, BMI was not significantly correlated with postoperative complications or length of stay. However, overweight patients who underwent abdominal or gynecologic procedures had higher wound infection rates, and patients with the highest and lowest BMIs had significantly higher adjusted total costs.
The Karyopherin Kap95 and the C-Termini of Rfa1, Rfa2, and Rfa3 Are Necessary for Efficient Nuclear Import of Functional RPA Complex Proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Nuclear protein import in eukaryotic cells is mediated by karyopherin proteins, which bind to specific nuclear localization signals on substrate proteins and transport them across the nuclear envelope and into the nucleus. Replication protein A (RPA) is a nuclear protein comprised of three subunits (termed Rfa1, Rfa2, and Rfa3 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae) that binds single-stranded DNA and is essential for DNA replication, recombination, and repair. RPA associates with two different karyopherins in yeast, Kap95, and Msn5/Kap142. However, it is unclear which of these karyopherins is responsible for RPA nuclear import. We have generated GFP fusion proteins with each of the RPA subunits and demonstrate that these Rfa-GFP chimeras are functional in yeast cells. The intracellular localization of the RPA proteins in live cells is similar in wild-type and msn5Δ deletion strains but becomes primarily cytoplasmic in cells lacking functional Kap95. Truncating the C-terminus of any of the RPA subunits results in mislocalization of the proteins to the cytoplasm and a loss of protein-protein interactions between the subunits. Our data indicate that Kap95 is likely the primary karyopherin responsible for RPA nuclear import in yeast and that the C-terminal regions of Rfa1, Rfa2, and Rfa3 are essential for efficient nucleocytoplasmic transport of each RPA subunit.
Variations of airborne and waterborne Rn-222 in houses in Maine

Abstract Concentrations of airborne radon ranging from 0.05 to 135 pCi/L were found in houses in Maine. Tracketch cups were placed in five positions for 100 houses to determine integrated average radon concentrations over the period October 1980–May 1981. To investigate the association between elevated radon concentrations in well water and the indoor airborne radon concentrations, the radon in the water supplies of these houses was measured by liquid scintillation. Monitors of airborne radon, recording in intervals of 10 min for periods of 5–7 days, were used for dynamic studies in 18 houses, determining the component of airborne radon associated with major water uses, such as showers, laundry, and dishwashing, which liberate radon in bursts. House residents kept logs noting the time of major water uses. For some of the houses, ventilation rates ranging from 0.3 to 2 air changes per hour were determined by analysis of the dynamic data. The component of airborne radon associated with water sources was found to vary inversely with ventilation rate and directly with waterborne radon concentration, with 0.8 ± 0.2 pCi Rn/L air per nCi Rn/L water at a ventilation rate of 1.0 air change per hour. The data are pertinent to a study which has revealed significant correlations between county averages, from the National Cancer Institute, or age-adjusted cancer mortality rates in Maine and average values of radon concentrations in water for the counties.
Effect of Exogenous Corticosterone on Chicken Embryonic Development

Abstract Embryonic corticosterone (CS) levels were altered by dipping 3-day-old fertile Leghorn eggs in 0, .01, .05, and 1% CS dissolved in absolute ethanol. Mortality was determined by candling from Day 4 through hatch. Body weights and serum CS were measured daily from Day 14 until hatch. Embryos of eggs dipped in 1% CS in ethanol solution had reduced circulating CS. Embryo weights were reduced and mortality increased as concentration of hormone increased. A CS peak was observed just before hatch for control, .01 and .05% groups, but not for the .1% group. All embryos in the .1% treatment group died before hatch. The importance of embryonic CS for normal development and hatching was indicated.
Coping with effects of high dissolved salt samples on the inductively coupled plasma spectrometer

Research on acidic forest soils typically uses unbuffered salt solutions as extractants for exchangeable cations. Our lab uses 1 M NH4Cl extractant for exchangeable cations (Ca, K, Mg, and Na) and 1 M KCl for exchangeable aluminum. The resulting high dissolved salt solutions presented chronic analytical problems on flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) and direct current plasma spectrometer (DCP). More recently, the analyses completed on a simultaneous, axial inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES) have continued to be problematic. Although ICP manufacturers provide application notes that list some precautions to help minimize the salt effect, such issues are seldom mentioned in published articles and can be misleading when interpreting results. This paper describes various modifications that have been tried to eliminate the effects of high dissolved salts when using ICP. Adjustable parameters such as gas flow rates, sample introduction rates, dilution rates, and access...