cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hirschsprung's disease discordant in monozygotic twins: A study of possible environmental factors in the production of colonic aganglionosis

Abstract The occurrence of Hirschsprung's disease, with histologically verified colonic aganglionosis, in only 1 of 2 prematurely born and presumed identical (monozygotic) twins is reported. The occurrence of monozygotic twinning was supported by the observed sharing of a single and common placenta and by ABO and HLA identity of peripheral blood erythrocytes and leukocytes. The affected twin was of a slightly lower birth weight and experienced early respiratory distress, necrotizing enterocolotis, and more prolonged umbilical artery catheterization (not encountered in the unaffected twin). This, to the authors' knowledge, is the first reported occurrence of Hirschsprung's disease discordant in monozygotic twins. The literature relating to genetic and environmental factors in clinical and experimental colonic aganglionosis is reviewed and speculation is presented regarding the occurrence of colonic aganglionosis discordant in monozygotic twins as reported here.
Polyethylenimine/silica gel as an enzyme support

Abstract We have devised a process to covalently bond polyethylenimine to the surface of chromatographic grade silica gel. Activation for enzyme immobilization is easily accomplished by treatment of the amine support with gluta-raldehyde. Enzyme conjugates were produced with lactate dehydrogenase, trypsin, and chymotrypsin. Relatively small differences in K m and pH dependence were observed when the bound and free forms of the enzymes were compared. All three immobilized enzymes exhibited excellent operational stability in a stirred, flow-through reactor.
Low-salinity stress in the American lobster,Homarus americanus, after chronic sublethal exposure to cadmium: Biochemical effects

Lobsters(Homarus americanus) were exposed to cadmium (6µg l−1, 30 days) in flowing seawater, then held for 7 days in aerated “clean ” seawater at either ambient (27 ‰) or low (17 ‰) salinity. Cadmium exposure alone (ambient salinity) induced a general elevation of enzyme activity (heart, antennal gland, and muscle MDH; heart LDH and GPI), despite the probability of some clearance of cadmium from body tissues during the “clean ” seawater holding period. Low-salinity alone (non-exposed lobsters) caused a decrease of enzyme activity (AAT, LDH, GPI, PK) in most tissues examined, except for tail muscle IDH, the activity of which was increased, and MDH, which was significantly elevated above ambient controls in all tissues except heart. Most low-salinity effects were observed in tail muscle, and most cadmium effects, in heart; low-salinity effects outnumbered cadmium stress by nine to four. In heart and tail muscle of cadmium-exposed lobsters held at low salinity, each of the two stresses apparently operated to nullify the other's effects. The most prominent single biochemical response to these sublethal stresses was the elevation of MDH activity. The ratio MDH: LDH gave the clearest indication of overall relative stress.
Cell Morphogenesis Proteins Are Translationally Controlled through UTRs by the Ndr/LATS Target Ssd1

Eukaryotic cells control their growth and morphogenesis to maintain integrity and viability. Free-living cells are further challenged by their direct interaction with the environment and in many cases maintain a resilient cell wall to stay alive under widely varying conditions. For these organisms, stringent and highly localized control of the cell wall's remodeling and expansion is crucial for cell growth and reproduction. In the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae the RNA binding protein Ssd1 helps control cell wall remodeling by repressing translation of proteins involved in wall expansion. Ssd1 is itself negatively regulated by the highly conserved Ndr/LATS protein kinase Cbk1. We sought to identify mRNA regions that confer Ssd1-mediated translational control. After validating a GFP reporter system as a readout of Ssd1 activity we found that 3′ untranslated regions of the known Ssd1 targets CTS1, SIM1 and UTH1 are sufficient for Cbk1-regulated translational control. The 5′ untranslated region of UTH1 also facilitated Ssd1-mediated translational control in a heterologous context. The CTS1 and SIM1 3′ untranslated regions confer Ssd1 binding, and the SIM1 3′ untranslated region improves Ssd1 immunoprecipitation of the endogenous SIM1 transcript. However, SIM1's 3′ untranslated region is not essential for Ssd1-regulated control of the message's translation. We propose that Ssd1 regulates translation of its target message primarily through UTRs and the SIM1 message through multiple potential points of interaction, permitting fine translational control in various contexts.
Modelling phenotypic plasticity. II. Do genetic correlations matter

Predictions of the evolutionary trajectory of reaction norms and interpretation of empirical results are usually based on two mathematically equivalent ways of partitioning phenotypic variance into its genetic, environmental, and interaction components: the genotype by environment interaction estimated by means of an analysis of variance, or the interenvironment genetic correlation (i.e. the genetic correlation between the expressions of the same trait in two environments). Both these quantities are supposed to indicate the amount of genetic variability for plasticity in a natural population. I point out that not only are the qualitative predictions based on these statistical methods sometimes in conflict with each other, but that both may fail to predict rates of evolution and equilibria under some circumstances, because they ignore the details of the genetic machinery. It is shown that, ultimately, the only way to predict reliably the evolution of plasticity is actually to know its specific genetic basis and the genotypic constitution of the population, however inconvenient this may be from both theoretical and empirical standpoints. The discussion is framed in terms of a simple one-locus two-allele model that mimics the real case of the pennant/vestigial system describing plasticity of wing length to temperature in Drosophila melanogaster.
A Neural Mapping Hypothesis to Explain Why Velar Stops Have an Allophonic Split

Abstract Velar stops are phonetically characterized by two allophones—a palatal “g” when produced in front-vowel contexts and a velar “g” when produced in back-vowel contexts. Acoustic characterizations of velar stops based on plotting the onset and offset frequencies of the second formant transition clearly reveal two acoustically separated allophonic groups. Using cross-linguistic acoustic data, it is shown that alveolar stops fall precisely within the acoustic void created by the velar allophones. A neural-based mapping hypothesis is put forth claiming that the bimodal distribution of velars is an instance of articulatory behavior acting in the service of auditory representation.
Rebels with a cause: A goal conflict approach to understanding when conscientious people dissent

Abstract Highly conscientious people are more likely than others to actively pursue their goals, but whether their goals support the status quo and result in conformity, or are pursuant of social change and result in dissent is likely to depend on other factors, including how they subjectively construe dissent decisions. We propose a goal conflict approach to dissent, positing that dissent (vs. conformity) is motivated by concern for broad/long-term (vs. local/short-term) group outcomes: a preference for change and improvement as opposed to stability and group enhancement. Two experiments employed a construal level manipulation to shift the goals of group members varying in conscientiousness. As predicted, high-level (vs. low-level) construal promoted greater willingness to articulate (Study 1) and actually express (Study 2) non-normative ingroup criticism among highly conscientious individuals.
Rapid Mix Flow Cytometry Measurements of Subsecond Regulation of G Protein-Coupled Receptor Ternary Complex Dynamics by Guanine Nucleotides

We have used rapid mix flow cytometry to analyze the early subsecond dynamics of the disassembly of ternary complexes of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) immobilized on beads to examine individual steps associated with guanine nucleotide activation. Our earlier studies suggested that the slow dissociation of Gα and Gβγ subunits was unlikely to be an essential component of cell activation. However, these studies did not have adequate time resolution to define precisely the disassembly kinetics. Ternary complexes were assembled using three formyl peptide receptor constructs (wild type, FPR-Gαi2 fusion, and FPR-GFP fusion) and two isotypes of the α subunit (αi2 and αi3) and βγ dimer (β1γ2 and β4γ2). At saturating nucleotide levels, the disassembly of a significant fraction of ternary complexes occurred on a subsecond time frame for αi2 complexes and τ1/2 ≤ 4 sec for αi3 complexes, time scales which are compatible with cell activation. β1γ2 isotype complexes were generally more stable than β4γ2 associated complexes. The comparison of the three constructs however proved that the fast step was associated with the separation of receptor and G protein and that the dissociation of the ligand or of the α and βγ subunits was slower. These results are compatible with a cell activation model involving G protein conformational changes rather than disassembly of Gαβγ heterotrimer.
Social memories: Steps to a sociology of the past

This article is an attempt to develop a comprehensive framework to examine memory from a sociological perspective with a particular emphasis on the impersonal, conventional, collective, and normative aspects of the process of remembering. After discussing the social context of remembering as well as various traditions andrules of remembrance, the article examines the process ofmnemonic socialization. It then moves on to identify variousmnemonic communities(the family, the workplace, the ethnic group, the nation) as well as various social sites of memory(documents, stories, photograph albums, archaeological ruins, the calendar). Following a discussion of the way in which holidays allow mnemonic synchronization,the article ends by examining the politics of remembrance as manifested in various mnemonic battlesover the social legacy of the past.
Effects and regulation of prostaglandins in bone: Possible implications for the pathogenesis of osteoporosis

Prostaglandins (PG's) are complex regulators of bone metabolism which have biphasic effects on both bone formation and resorption. PG's, particularly PGE2, are produced abundantly by bone cells of the osteoblast lineage, and their production is highly regulated. Of particular importance for a potential role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis are two recent sets of observations. The first is that sex hormones can regulate PG production in bone. This may be relevant because hormone deficiency is so important in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. The second is that mechanical forces can alter PG production by bone cells and that some of the responses to changes in mechanical force in vitro and in organ culture may be mediated by PG.
The growth, reproductive phenology, and longevity of non-tide-pool Fucus distichus (L.) powell in New England

Abstract The growth, reproductive phenology, and longevity of in situ populations of Fucus distichus L. ssp. edentatus (De la Pylaie) Powell and F. distichus L. ssp. evanescens (C. Agardh) Powell were evaluated in New England. Both subspecies exhibited maximum growth during early summer, a slight decline in late summer, and a brief resurgence in the early fall. The maximum growth rates (in terms of elongation) for F. distichus ssp. edentatus and ssp. evanescens were 3.5 and 3.7 cm/28 days, respectively. Populations of both subspecies showed a distinct bimodal reproductive periodicity, with maxima in the spring and fall. Even so, individuals were either reproductive in the spring or fall but never in both seasons. After reproduction, receptacles dehisced and plants either became vegetative or died. Higher rates of plant attrition were observed during periods of reproduction than during non-reproductive periods.
AIDS among Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States

Abstract Objective: To characterize Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States with reported acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Methods: AIDS surveillance data reported through June 1998 were analyzed. Characteristics of cumulative case patients, rates of AIDS incidence in 1996 through 1997, and trends from 1982 through 1996 were analyzed. Results: Through December 1998, 4,928 Asian and Pacific Islander adults and 46 Asian and Pacific Islander children with AIDS were reported in the United States. Of the total cases, 89% were in men, and 79% of those were in men who have sex with men (MSM). Five states, which account for 63% of the Asian and Pacific Islander population in the United States, reported 78% of the cases: California (45%), Hawaii (12%), New York (15%), Texas (3%), and Washington (3%). Of the 92% of Asian and Pacific Islander patients with country of birth information, 59% were foreign-born, a percentage that corresponds to the distribution in the general population. The overall incidence rate per 100,000 for 1996 through 1997 was 12.8 (21.3 for men; 3.3 for women). The highest rate was in the Northeast (15.9), followed by the West (13.8), South (10.6), and Midwest (5.7). Tuberculosis, reported for 6% of Asians and Pacific Islanders, was higher among foreign-born than among U.S.-born Asians and Pacific Islanders (8% and 4%, respectively). Between 1982 and 1996, AIDS incidence among MSM increased and peaked in 1994. Among heterosexual contacts and injection drug users, incidence has increased but remained low. Conclusions: The AIDS epidemic among Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States has primarily affected MSM and is concentrated in a few states where most Asians and Pacific Islanders reside. Prevention activities should include consideration of cultural diversity and an understanding of cultural norms regarding sexuality. Additional information on risk behaviors and seroprevalence among Asian and Pacific Islander MSM is needed to better guide prevention planning.
Rates of Convergence to Self‐Similar Solutions of Burgers' Equation

We study the large-time behavior of solutions to Burgers' equation with localized initial conditions. Previous studies have demonstrated that these solutions converge to a self-similar asymptotic solution Θ(x, t) with an error whose L p norm is of order t- 1+1/2p . Noting that the temporal and spatial translational invariance of the underlying equations leads to a two-parameter family of self-similar solutions Θ(x -x * , t + t * ), we demonstrate that the optimal choice of x * and t * reduces the L p error to the order of t -2+1/2p .
BUN as a risk factor for mortality after coronary artery bypass grafting

Background. Although information on blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is universally available for patients who undergo coronary artery bypass grafting, BUN has not often been considered as a risk factor for mortality. This study assessed BUN as a risk factor for CABG patients. Methods. Four data sets were evaluated that differed with respect to the types of patients and available patient information. In each of these data sets logistic regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between BUN and mortality after adjusting for other risk factors. Results. Blood urea nitrogen level was strongly associated with mortality in each of the data sets. After adjustment for the available risk factors other than creatinine level, patients with BUN levels greater than 30 mg/dL had a relative odds of mortality ranging between 1.86 and 2.49 ( p p less than 0.01 level for three of the data sets. Conclusions. The results suggest that BUN provides additional information on cardiac function that supplements the information provided by other risk factors.
A light-dependent oxygen-reducing system from Anabaena variabilis.

Abstract Photosynthetic lamellae from Anabaena variabilis catalyze a vigorous photoreduction of O2 to H2O2. The electrons come to O2 from an artificial donor, reduced 2,3′,6-trichlorophenolindophenol, and the reaction does not require an exogenous autoxidizable substance. Evidence is presented to show that reduced 2,3′,6-trichlorophenolindophenol can donate electrons at two distinct sites. Photoreduction of O2 is inhibited by antibodies which block the function of the ferredoxin-reducing substance. The O2-reducing system may result from the formation of a reduced photoproduct which is more accessible to autoxidation than is the analogous product formed in higher plant chloroplasts.
Restoration of sensitivity to salinomycin in Eimeria following 5 flocks of broiler chickens reared in floor-pens using drug programs and vaccination to control coccidiosis

Five successive flocks of broilers were reared in floor-pens and given different drug programs or were vaccinated against coccidiosis. Oocysts of Eimeria were isolated from the litter of pens during the fifth flock and their sensitivity to salinomycin (Sal) investigated by measuring new oocyst production following infection of medicated and unmedicated birds. Parasites obtained following 5 flocks given Sal were not well-controlled and it was concluded that they were partially resistant to the drug. Parasites obtained following 4 unmedicated flocks and one medicated flock were better controlled by Sal and it was concluded that in the absence of continuous medication there had been an improvement in drug efficacy. Sal almost completely suppressed oocyst production of isolates from treatments in which medication was followed by vaccination, indicating that when a drug program is followed by vaccination, restoration of sensitivity to Sal had occurred.
Partial cloning of the M subunit of laminin from adult rat lipocytes: expression of the M subunit by cells isolated from normal and injured liver.

Laminin is a heterotrimeric glycoprotein found in the perisinusoidal space of adult rat liver. The principal cellular source of laminin in liver is the lipocyte, with its three subunits measuring 324, 200 and 200 kD. The large subunit of lipocyte-derived laminin is distinct from the A subunit of murine laminin (440 kD); its size suggests that it represents a peptide, called M, recently cloned from human placenta. Using oligonucleotide primers derived from the human M-subunit cDNA, we amplified a 445-bp sequence encoding a fragment of M-laminin from adult rat lipocytes. The rat cDNA is 90% homologous to the human M-subunit cDNA and recognizes an mRNA in lipocytes measuring about 10 kb. M-subunit transcripts were identified only in lipocytes from normal adult liver; they could not be identified in hepatocytes, endothelial cells or Kupffer cells. Lipocytes were screened for M-subunit protein with a polyclonal M antiserum. Cells stained specifically for the M-subunit after 36 hr in primary culture; the protein was also identified in freshly isolated cells by means of immunoblotting. To determine whether lipocytes alter their expression of the laminin M subunit during liver injury, we monitored M-subunit mRNA in these cells at various intervals after carbon tetrachloride administration. M-subunit transcripts increased twofold within 12 hr of toxin exposure, returning to below baseline by 48 hr. The results indicate that lipocytes produce the M subunit of laminin in place of A. Production of this subunit by lipocytes may facilitate cell growth and reorganization during liver regeneration. (Hepatology 1994;19:764–770).
Gaussian Beam Reflection at a Dielectric-Chiral Interface

This paper describes the phenomena that occur when a Gaussian beam is reflected from a dielectric-chiral interface. These phenomena include an angular shift of the peak of the reflected fields in the far field and, near the critical angle or angles, a lateral shift of the fields in the plane of the interface, known as the Goos- Hanchen shift. The waist size of the reflected fields is also found to differ from that of the incident beam, and an apparent propagation distance known as the "focal shift" also arises. The spectral domain solution of the problem is described, and approximate formulas for determining the parameters for the reflected fields are derived. The problem is also solved numerically for three specific cases of interest and the results are compared to those predicted by the approximate formulas. Lateral, angular, and focal shifts are observed for both components of the reflected field near the critical angles for the interface. It is shown that both positive and negative lateral shifts occu...
Secondary tracheoesophageal puncture: Factors predictive of voice quality and prosthesis use

Objective To identify factors predicting prosthesis use and final speech quality in patients undergoing secondary tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) for voice restoration after laryngectomy. Methods We undertook a retrospective study of 168 patients who underwent secondary TEP at the Cleveland Clinic between June 1980 and October 1993. Factors examined were: patient demographics, extent of initial surgery, method of pharyngeal preparation, history of irradiation, insufflation test results, pharyngeal stricture, and concurrent medical conditions. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to identify predictive factors. Results At last evaluation, 73.8% (124) of the patients were still using the prosthesis. Quality of speech was the only predictor of prosthesis use (p < .001). Phonation on the first day was achieved in 90% (151) of patients. Speech result improved significantly over the first 6 months (p < .001). Univariate analysis found that the need for reconstruction at laryngectomy (p = .04), the presence of pharyngeal stricture (p = .001), and continued prosthetic use (p < .001) were associated with the speech result. There was no significant advantage to the lack of approximation of the pharyngeal constrictors (p = .31). Stepwise logistic regression showed that only the absence of pharyngeal stricture was associated with a better-quality voice (p = .001). Conclusion Tracheoesophageal puncture is a reliable method for restoring voice after laryngectomy. Prosthesis use decreases with time, and good voice quality is the only predictor of continued prosthesis use. In this series the absence of pharyngeal stricture was the only significant predictor of good to excellent speech. HEAD & NECK 1996;18:393–398 © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Surgically intractable epilepsy associated with focal cortical dysplasia and congenital cutaneous hemangiomas

We describe a 6-month-old girl with medically intractable seizures, multiple congenital hemangiomas, and developmental delay. The patient underwent two surgical resections. Pathological findings at both the first and second resections were consistent with focal cortical dysplasia. The literature was reviewed on focal cortical dysplasia associated with cutaneous hemangiomas.
Chronology of an interdental periodontal lesion

Abstract A case in which intermittent and spontaneous periodontal breakdown and repair has occurred on two different occasions in the same interproximal site over a period of 18 years is described. The possible etiology of the lesions is discussed in terms of current concepts of localized bacterial selectivity. Also reviewed is the potential for repair in two-walled infrabony defects.
Nonlinear detail enhancement of error-diffused images

Error diffusion distributes the quantization error over the local neighborhood in such a way that the local mean of the halftoned image is adjusted to the local mean of the original image. This works fairly well in homogeneous portions of the image. But along edges and in areas with fine texture and details, spreading the error out over some pixels inevitably blurs the image locally and obscures details. In this paper, a variation of the standard error diffusion algorithm is proposed using a nonlinear filter for feature extraction. With this filter the error diffusion process can be adapted to the local image characteristics in such a way that the quantization error is not diffused across edges. This leads to sharper halftoned images with more detail information. It also increases the local image contrast which results in an overall perceptually more pleasing rendering of the halftoned image.
Perhaloaryl-metal chemistry III. σ-(trichloro-2-thienyl) derivatives of transition metals and related studies☆☆☆★

Abstract σ-(Trichloro-2-thienyl) derivatives of iron, nickel and manganese have been prepared from 2-lithiotrichlorothiophene and various transition metal halides. These new compounds exhibit enhanced thermal and oxidative stabilities in a manner analogous to pentahalophenyl-transition metal derivatives. 2-Thienylpentacarbonyl-manganese, a compound of limited stability, has been obtained from the reaction of thenoyl chloride and Na[Mn(CO) 5 ]. Attempts to isolate Diels-Alder adducts which would indicate decomposition of 2-lithiotrichlorothiophene to 2,3-dichlorothiophyne have been largely unsuccessful. A reaction between bis(trichloro-2-thienyl)mercury and tetraphenylcyclopentadienone has produced 2,3-dichloro-4,5,6,7-tetraphenyl-thianaphthene in good yield. The latter may be formed via either an aryne or an addition-elimination process.
In vivo manipulation of biological systems with femtosecond laser pulses

Femtosecond laser pulses have the unique ability to deposit energy into a microscopic volume in the bulk of a material that is transparent to the laser wavelength without affecting the surface of the material. Here we review the use of this capability to disrupt specifically targeted structures in live cells and animals with the goal of elucidating function and modeling disease states. Particular attention will be paid to recent work that uses femtosecond laser disruption to injure cerebral blood vessels that lie below the brain surface in a live, anesthetized rat. By varying the degree of injury, the vessel can be made to leak blood plasma, to rupture, or to clot. This technique thus provides a versatile model of cerebrovascular disorders such as small-scale stroke.
CFTR involvement in nasal potential differences in mice and pigs studied using a thiazolidinone CFTR inhibitor.

Nasal potential difference (PD) measurements have been used to demonstrate defective CFTR function in cystic fibrosis (CF) and to evaluate potential CF therapies. We used the selective thiazolidino...
Application of a PCR-RFLP Method to Identify Salmon Species in U.S. Commercial Products

A polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method for salmon species identification was optimized for use with U.S. commercial products. Reference specimens of six salmonid species were collected and morphologically verified. A 463- to 464-bp fragment of the mitochondrial tRNAGlu/cytochrome b gene was PCR-amplified, digested with two restriction enzymes (Sau3AI and NlaIII), and analyzed with agarose gel electrophoresis. All six species were successfully differentiated with this method and the restriction digest was shortened to 1 h rather than overnight. A decision-making flowchart was developed based on these results that allows for species diagnosis within two–three steps. After the method was optimized, it was tested with a variety of commercial salmon products (n = 29), including canned, smoked, jerky, and fresh fillet samples. Salmon species identification was successful for all 14 smoked and fresh/frozen fillet products, with the possibility of same-day species d...
Human resource management's role in internal branding: an opportunity for cross‐functional brand message synergy

Purpose – Many articles and books have been written about building, measuring and managing brand equity – primarily from the perspective of the marketing function. However, the management of the “internal touchpoints” necessary to deliver on the brand promise has received less attention. The paper aims to study these.Design/methodology/approach – A two‐wave e‐mail survey was administered to business seminar participants. Multi‐item measures and a six‐point Likert scale were developed and analyzed to better understand the perceived involvement of human resource (HR) in internal branding efforts and the relationship between HR involvement and the incorporation of the brand message into work activities and attitude toward the brand.Findings – In spite of well‐documented internal branding initiatives, there appears to be room for improvement among HR departments in terms of successfully delivering the corporate branding message. However, there does appear to be a strong personal attitude toward the brand amon...
Significance of changes in the expiratory rate observed during measurement of the vital capacity in asthma.

Abstract Spirographic tracings obtained during the performance of vital capacities are discussed from the point of view of a number of artifacts and the possible significance of the manner in which the speed of expiration changes. The rate of this change may be determined by plotting time on the abscissa and the logarithm of the volume remaining to be expired along the ordinate. Analysis of the curves obtained indicates: 1.1. During forced expiration air leaves the normal lung with a speed which changes (i.e., slows) at a constant or almost constant rate. 2.2. The rate of change in the speed of expiration may vary during a single expiratory effort among patients with chronic lung disease depending on poorly understood intrapulmonary factors. 3.3. In some patients with pulmonary disease, no single measurement or index derived from the so-called timed vital capacity can be regarded as truly representing the manner in which air is expired from the lungs. However, this is readily recognized with a kymographic tracing made with the paper moving at the rate of 0.5 cm. per second or more.
Racial variations in radiation-induced skin toxicity severity: data from a prospective cohort receiving postmastectomy radiation

Purpose Radiation-induced skin toxicity is one of the most symptomatic side effects of postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT). We sought to determine whether the severity of acute skin toxicity was greater in black patients in a prospective cohort receiving PMRT and to identify other predictors of more severe skin toxicity. Methods and Materials We evaluated the first 110 patients in an ongoing prospective study assessing radiation-induced skin toxicity in patients receiving PMRT. We recorded patient demographics, body mass index (BMI), and disease and treatment characteristics. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the effect of potential predictors on the risk of skin toxicity. Results A total of 23.6% respondents self-identified as black, 5.5% as non-Hispanic white, 69.1% as Hispanic white, and 1.8% as other; 57% were postmenopausal, and 70.9% had BMI of >25. Median chest wall dose was 50 Gy, and mastectomy scar dose was 60 Gy. Most patients, 95.5%, were treated with a 0.5-cm bolus throughout treatment. There were no significant differences in patient characteristics in black versus non-black patients. At RT completion, moist desquamation was more common in black patients (73.1% vs 47.6%, respectively, P =.023), in postmenopausal patients (63.5% vs 40.4%, respectively, P =.016), and in those with BMI of ≥25 (60.3% vs 37.5%, respectively, P =.030). On multivariate analysis, the effects of black race (odds ratio [OR] = 7.46, P =.031), BMI ≥25 (OR = 2.95, P =.043) and postmenopausal status (OR = 8.26, P =.004) remained significant risk factors for moist desquamation. Conclusions In this prospectively followed, racially diverse cohort of breast cancer patients receiving PMRT delivered in a uniform fashion, including the routine use of chest wall boost and bolus, black race, higher BMI, and postmenopausal status emerged as significant predictors of moist desquamation. There was a high frequency of moist desquamation, particularly in those patients with elevated risk. Continued study of patient selection for chest wall boost and bolus as well improved skin toxicity management strategies are needed.
Antibodies as delivery vehicles for radioimmunotherapy of infectious diseases.

The field of infectious diseases is in crisis and there is a need for strategies that can facilitate the rapid development of new antimicrobial agents. Radioimmunotherapy (RIT), a therapeutic modality originally developed for cancer treatment, has recently been suggested as a novel therapy for the treatment of a variety of infectious diseases. Because specific antibodies are used in RIT as delivery vehicles of cytocidal radiation, their molecular weight influences the nonspecific accumulation in infectious foci and blood clearance, and their affinity-specific accumulation of antibodies in infectious foci. Like the problems encountered in oncology, relevant variables in the development of RIT of infectious diseases include target antigen-shedding; delivering radionuclides to infectious foci in organs, abscesses, granulomas, heart and brain, and potential safety concerns. Dadachova and Casadevall anticipate that RIT can be developed for many types of infectious diseases, including microbes resistant to conv...
Improving xylose utilization by recombinant Zymomonas mobilis strain 8b through adaptation using 2-deoxyglucose

Numerous attempts have been made to improve xylose utilization in Z. mobilis including adaptive approaches. However, no one has yet found a way to overcome the reduced xylose utilization observed in fermentations carried out in the presence of glucose as well as the inhibitory compounds found within pretreated and saccharified biomass. Our goal was to generate Z. mobilis strains that are more robust than the wildtype strain with increased productivity in fermenting the glucose and xylose present in PCS. Through adaptation in the presence of 2-deoxyglucose, we have generated Zymomonas mobilis strain #7, which is better suited to utilizing xylose in pretreated corn stover (PCS) fermentations in the presence of both glucose and model inhibitory compounds of acetate and furfural. Strain #7 over performed the parent strain 8b both on simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SFF) of PCS and fermentation of saccharified PCS slurry. At 65% neutralized PCS liquor level, strain #7 used 86% of the xylose present in the liquor while strain 8b was not able to ferment the liquor under similar conditions. Similarly, under SSF process conditions with 20% total solids loading of PCS, strain #7 used more than 50% of the xylose present, while strain 8b did not utilize any xylose under this condition. We have further identified genetic alterations in strain #7 in relation to the parental strain 8b that may be responsible for these phenotypic enhancements. We performed an extended lab-directed evolution of Z. mobilis strain 8b in the presence of acetate and a non-hydrolyzable glucose analogue 2-deoxyglucose. Following the adaptation, we identified and characterized numerous candidate strains and found a dramatic increase in xylose usage not only in shake flask, but also in a controlled PCS fermentation. We re-sequenced the genomes of evolved strains to identify genetic alterations responsible for these improved phenotypes, and identified two mutations that may be key to the improved xylose usage in these strains. We have generated Z. mobilis strain #7, which can ferment xylose efficiently in the presence of toxins present in pretreated corn stover. Genetic alterations responsible for the improvement have been identified.
Ten turbidite myths

Abstract During the past 50 years, the turbidite paradigm has promoted many myths related to deep-water turbidite deposition. John E. Sanders (1926–1999), a pioneering process sedimentologist, first uncovered many of these turbidite myths. This paper provides a reality check by undoing 10 of these turbidite myths. Myth No. 1: turbidity currents are non-turbulent flows with multiple sediment-support mechanisms. Reality: turbidity currents are turbulent flows in which turbulence is the principal sediment-support mechanism. Myth No. 2: turbidites are deposits of debris flows, grain flows, fluidized flows, and turbidity currents. Reality: turbidites are the exclusive deposits of turbidity currents. Myth No. 3: turbidity currents are high-velocity flows and therefore they elude documentation. Reality: turbidity currents operate under a wide range of velocity conditions. Myth No. 4: high-density turbidity currents are true turbidity currents. Reality: Ph. H. Kuenen (1950) introduced the concept of “turbidity currents of high density” based on experimental debris flows, not turbidity currents. High-density turbidity currents are sandy debris flows. Myth No. 5: slurry flows are high-density turbidity currents. Reality: slurry-flows are debris flows. Myth No. 6: flute structures are indicative of turbidite deposition. Reality: flute structures are indicative only of flow erosion, not deposition. Myth No. 7: normal grading is a product of multiple depositional events. Reality: normal grading is the product of a single depositional event. Myth No. 8: cross-bedding is a product of turbidity currents. Reality: cross-bedding is a product of traction deposition from bottom currents. Myth No. 9: turbidite facies models are useful tools for interpreting deposits of turbidity currents. Reality: a reexamination of the Annot Sandstone in SE France, which served as the basis for developing the first turbidite facies model, suggests a complex depositional origin by plastic flows and bottom currents. Myth No. 10: turbidite facies can be interpreted using seismic facies and geometries. Reality: individual turbidity-current depositional events, commonly centimeters to decimeters in thickness, cannot be resolved in seismic data. All turbidite myths promote falsehood and should be abandoned.
HPV genotypes and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in a multiethnic cohort in the southeastern USA

For poorly understood reasons, invasive cervical cancer (ICC) incidence and mortality rates are higher in women of African descent. Oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes distribution may vary between European American (EA) and African-American (AA) women and may contribute to differences in ICC incidence. The current study aimed at disentangling differences in HPV distribution among AA and EA women. Five-hundred and seventy-two women were enrolled at the time of colposcopic evaluation following an abnormal liquid-based cytology screen. HPV infections were detected using HPV linear array, and chi-squared tests and linear regression models were used to compare HPV genotypes across racial/ethnic groups by CIN status. Of the 572 participants, 494 (86 %) had detectable HPV; 245 (43 %) had no CIN lesion, 239 (42 %) had CIN1, and 88 (15 %) had CIN2/3. Seventy-three percent of all women were infected with multiple HPV genotypes. After adjusting for race, age, parity, income, oral contraception use, and current smoking, AAs were two times less likely to harbor HPV 16/18 (OR 0.48, 95 % CI 0.21–0.94, p = 0.03) when all women were considered. This association remained unchanged when only women with CIN2/3 lesions were examined (OR 0.22, 95 % CI 0.05–0.95, p = 0.04). The most frequent high-risk HPV genotypes detected among EAs were 16, 18, 56, 39, and 66, while HPV genotypes 33, 35, 45, 58, and 68 were the most frequent ones detected in AAs. Our data suggest that while HPV 16/18 are the most common genotypes among EA women with CIN, AAs may harbor different genotypes.
A REFORMULATION OF QUANTUM MECHANICS

We show that the phenomena explained by quantum mechanics can alternatively be explained as a breakdown of probability theory without the need for wave-particle duality or the idea that a particle does not have a unique path in space. The single-particle Lagrangian consistent with the reformulated quantum mechanics is derived and specialized to the Schrodinger and Klein-Gordon theories. The usual paradoxes of quantum mechanics are explained. A connection to gravity is proposed. Probability theory is restored in the classical limit.
Recursivity of Global Normmaking: A Sociolegal Agenda

This review proposes that the recursivity of law offers a promising framework for sociolegal and interdisciplinary research on global norm-making. The recursivity approach is systematic, generates hypotheses and questions about global actors and mechanisms, takes seriously historical contingency, and is inherently comparative across issue areas and different levels of governance. In global lawmaking, recursivity proceeds principally through the intersection of three interacting cycles of global normmaking, national lawmaking, and the interaction between the two. With particular focus on genocide and war crimes, violence against women, trade law, and climate change, the review demonstrates how four mechanisms—actor mismatch, diagnostic struggles, contradictions, and indeterminacy—drive forward these cycles of reform until the inherent tensions within them are resolved and normmaking settles. A sociolegal approach to the recursivity of global normmaking emphasizes (a) the politics of the legal complex, (b) ...
How personalized and socialized power motivation facilitate antisocial and prosocial decision-making

Abstract In two studies, we investigate the effects of individuals’ power motivation on decision-making. We distinguish between two types of power motivation [McClelland, D. C. (1970). The two faces of power. Journal of International Affairs , 24, 29–47; Winter, D. G. (1973). The power motive. New York: The Free Press] and demonstrate that both types of power motivation facilitate influential decision-making but that each type plays a different role in different contexts. In a conflict context (Study 1), individuals’ personalized (self-serving) power motivation was associated with antisocial decisions, and in a healthcare context (Study 2), individuals socialized (other-serving) power motivation was associated with prosocial decisions. Furthermore, the type of power motivation elicited in each context was associated with less perceived need to deliberate over the relevant policy decision. In separating out the independent effects of each type of power motivation, we are able to explain more variance in decision-making behavior across various contexts than in models using aggregate power motivation (personalized plus socialized).
Line-drawing interpretation: straight lines and conic sections

Line drawings of man-made scenes often exhibit instances of straight lines and conic sections, i.e. ellipses, parabolas, and hyperbolas. Constraints imposed on the scene by such instances are investigated, under the assumption of general viewpoint, i.e. the mapping of the viewed surface onto the line drawing is stable under perturbation of the viewpoint within some open set. Both orthographic and perspective projection are considered. The viewed surfaces are assumed to be piecewise C/sup 3/. It is shown that straight lines and conic sections in line drawings are projections of scene edges which are also straight lines and conic sections, respectively. It is also shown that scene events which project onto straight lines or conic sections cannot be combinations of view-point-independent and viewpoint-dependent edges. Further, continuous-surface-normal depth discontinuities which project onto straight lines can be locally described by developable surfaces, and those which project onto conic sections can be locally described by nondevelopable quadric surfaces. Each of these quadric surfaces is determined up to four degrees-of-freedom by its projection. >
Synthetic approaches to the pyrrolo [3,4-d] imidazole nucleus.

A synthetic scheme for the preparation of compounds containing the pyrrolo [3,4-d] imidazole ring system has been developed. cis-Hexahydropyrrolo [3,4-d] imidazole-2-one has been prepared and its stereochemistry confirmed.
A single nucleotide polymorphism in the CCR3 gene ablates receptor export to the plasma membrane.

Background The chemokine receptor CCR3 orchestrates the migration of eosinophils, basophils, T H 2 lymphocytes, and mast cells during the allergic response, with CCR3 blockade a potential means of therapeutic intervention. Non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the ccr3 gene have previously been described, with little information regarding their effects on CCR3 function. Objective To characterize the effects of nonsynonymous SNPs within the ccr3 gene. Methods Site-directed mutagenesis was used to generate N-terminally tagged mutant CCR3 constructs corresponding to reported SNPs. Cell transfectants expressing either wild-type or mutant CCR3 were studied by flow cytometry, Western blotting, and confocal microscopy and examined for their ability to migrate to the CC chemokine ligand CCL11/eotaxin. Results An L324P mutant CCR3 protein corresponding to the previously identified T971C SNP was not expressed at the cell surface, and cells remained unresponsive to CCL11 in chemotaxis assays. Confocal microscopy confirmed that L324P-CCR3 had a predominantly intracellular distribution compared with wild-type CCR3. A L324A variant of CCR3 had an identical phenotype to the L324P mutant, suggesting that L324 per se is critical for successful trafficking of nascent CCR3 to the cell membrane. The processes involved appear to be specific for CCR3, because an identical mutation in the homologous receptor CCR1 had minor effects. Conclusion Trafficking to the cell surface of nascent CCR3 is critically dependent on a C-terminal leucine residue, suggestive of specific mechanisms for CCR3 export. Manipulation of these mechanisms may suggest novel means of antagonizing CCR3 function in the treatment of allergy.
Silicon Suppresses Fusarium Crown and Root Rot of Tomato

Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. radicis-lycopersici, the causal agent of Fusarium crown and root rot (FCRR), is a serious soilborne disease of tomato. Soil fumigation and host resistance may reduce the impact of this disease, but other alternative management strategies are needed because these options may not always be available or effective. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential of silicon (Si) to reduce the disease severity of FCRR. Seven-day-old seedlings of Bonny Best tomato, susceptible to FCRR, were transplanted in sand culture amended with Hoagland's nutrient solution with (+Si) or without (-Si) 100 mg Si/l. At 3 weeks after transplanting, three inoculum concentrations 0, 10 6 and 10 7 conidia/plant were used to inoculate the seedlings. Disease severity and silicon concentration were evaluated at 4 weeks after inoculation. Disease progress over time was investigated using the seedlings amended with Si or without Si and inoculated with 0 or 10 6 conidia/plant. Disease severity was evaluated at 2, 3, 4 and 6 weeks after inoculation. After rating disease, evaluated plants were divided into shoots and roots for silicon concentration analysis. Si significantly reduced the severity of FCRR on the stem of tomato at 4 weeks after inoculation. Results of disease progress suggested that the decrease in the disease severity of FCRR by Si amendment was probably due to a delay in onset in initial infection of roots and the movement of the pathogen from roots to stems. Si contents of roots and shoots were significantly higher in tomato plants supplied with Si than in those without Si. Moreover, the increase in the Si content of roots was significantly correlated with the reduction of disease severity of root, crown and stem, indicating a silicon-mediated resistance. Supplying Si to tomato seedlings can reduce the disease severity of FCRR, providing an alternative disease management strategy.