cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pigmented cells of the stria vascularis and spiral ligament of the Chinchilla

This study was designed to investigate the cellular distribution and ultrastructure of melanin pigment in the stria vascularis and spiral ligament of the chinchilla cochlea. Typical dendritic melanocytes containing homogeneously distributed eumelanin granules were observed in the spiral ligament. In the stria vascularis melanin was found to occur in three types of cells (heavily pigmented cells that appear to be melanocytes, intermediate cells and basal cells). The melanocyte-like cells contain pigment globules composed of melanin granules, granular matrix and occasional lipid droplets in a configuration similar to that of neuromelanin. These cells are morphologically distinct from intermediate cells which contain sparsely distributed, small, dense granules apparently composed of melanin. The intermediate cells show a positive DOPA reaction and portions of the intermediate cell GERL system display intense acid phosphatase reactivity. The basal cells of the chinchilla stria were also found to contain occasional clusters of melanin granules. It is hypothesized that the basal cells may acquire melanin by donation from the other pigmented cells of the lateral cochlear wall.
Building Effective Bridges Between Academic Departments and Admissions Staff

This paper describes a successful collaboration between the Chairman of an Engineering Technology Department and the Admissions and Enrollment administrator, each looking for increased enrollment. The focus will include the strategic advantages and the practical logistics of the coordinated recruiting program. Specific examples and recommendations will be provided to assist in adapting this program to other institutions.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
The molecular weights of rat liver ribosomal proteins determined by "three-dimensional" polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

The molecular weights of the proteins of rat liver ribosomes were determined by “three-dimensional” polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The proteins of the 40S subunit ranged in mass from 10000 to 44000 daltons; the number average and weight average molecular weights were 25400 and 28400. The proteins of the 60S subunit ranged in mass from 10000 to 53700; the number average and weight average molecular weights were 28000 and 31500.
Relation of preoperative serum albumin levels to survival in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device implantation

Hypoalbuminemia has been recognized as a prognostic indicator in patients with heart failure. We aimed to investigate the association of hypoalbuminemia with postoperative mortality in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. We studied 272 consecutive patients undergoing LVAD implantation from 2000 to 2010 at our institution. Preoperative clinical characteristics and laboratory variables associated with mortality were analyzed. Postoperative survival of patients with preoperative hypoalbuminemia (
THE FUNCTIONS OP THE INTERNAL SECRETION OF THE PLACENTA

From 1884 on, when Johannes Miiller (1), designated the placenta as one of the secretory glands, the amount of investigation devoted to attempts at determining the functions of the elaboration has been so cumulatively stupendous in its complexity that any presentation in detail of the literature would be out of the question save in a monograph devoted to the subject. A retrospective analysis of the work undertaken reveals, however, four fairly distinct nuclei of attention, although it must be said that the investigations from the point of view of quantity bear but little relation to the validity of the findings in the respective fields of endeavor. Apparently the most potent nucleus of attention was that around which has gathered the controversy regarding the role played by the placenta in the development of eclampsia. With the discovery by Schmorl (2) of the presence of emboli of placental cells in the blood vessels of eclamptics there originated the idea that this not infrequent accompaniment of pregnan...
The Stability of the Welding Arc

The stability of the iron welding arc is influenced by a number of factors, such as the nature and the aerodynamic state of the surrounding atmosphere, the strength and distribution of the magnetic field, the composition of the electrode, the nature and the amount of gases occluded in the electrode, etc. In this paper, however, only the first item has been discussed in an attempt to show that the cooling of the electrode and the arc core by dissociation of the surrounding gas has the preponderent influence on the stability of the arc.
Laser Suture Lysis after Mitomycm C Trabeculectomy

Purpose: To evaluate the timing, efficacy, and complications of laser suture lysis (LSL) after mitomycin C trabeculectomy in patients with glaucoma at high risk for failure of filtering surgery. Methods: The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of 62 consecutive patients who underwent a total of 66 sessions of LSL after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C. Results: The interval from surgery to LSL ranged from 2 to 65 days (mean ± standard deviation, 17.9 ± 14.9 days). The average intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction after LSL was 11.9 ± 8.9 mmHg (range, 3–40 mmHg). A longer interval to LSL was correlated with a lesser degree of pressure reduction ( P = 0.0004, Wilcoxon rank-sum test). After LSL, hypotony developed in 13 (21%) patients (IOP P = 0.06, Fisher's exact test). Conclusions: Laser suture lysis is safe and effective in augmenting aqueous filtration after mitomycin C trabeculectomy. A longer time interval between surgery and LSL may result in both a lesser degree of IOP reduction and a lower incidence of subsequent hypotony.
A new progressive ratio schedule for support of morphine self-administration in opiate dependent rats.

In preliminary studies, we observed that opiate dependent rats self-administered only a small number of morphine injections under a PR (progressive ratio) schedule developed to study psychostimulant self-administration. Therefore, a new schedule was developed to support morphine self-administration by incrementing response requirements in a relatively gradual manner. The present study compared morphine self-administration under a commonly used PR schedule to self-administration maintained by our modified PR schedule. After pretreatment with non-contingent morphine, rats acquired self-administration under fixed-ratio (FR) schedules of intravenous morphine delivery. Morphine-maintained behavior was evaluated under a standard PR schedule (termed "PR3–4", because the third response requirement was four lever presses), and our modified PR schedule (termed "PR9–4", because the ninth response requirement was four lever presses). The PR9–4 schedule was also evaluated for self-administration of morphine doses of 0.001–3.2 mg/kg per injection. The number of ratios completed for morphine self-administration on the PR9–4 schedule, but not the PR3–4 schedule, exceeded values obtained during extinction. Dose-related increases in completed ratios occurred for morphine self-administration on the PR9–4 schedule, with stable patterns emerging after three sessions. A relatively flat dose-response relationship was observed, which did not increase monotonically with morphine dose. Morphine self-administration on the PR9–4 schedule decreased mean inter-injection interval and prolonged the duration of responding during 6-h sessions. In the present study, a schedule that incremented response requirement gradually (PR9–4) supported reliable self-administration across a range of morphine doses.
Electrically controlled one-way photon flow in plasmonic nanostructures.

Photonics is frequently regarded as a potential pathway for substituting current solid-state electronics and as a promise for higher-speed all-optical computing. The fundamental challenges facing nanophotonics and electronics of the future are nanoscale on-chip integration of electronics and photonics with an efficient electric field tuning of light propagation, dynamic access to the light sources and material parameters of the system, as well as isolation of optical signals analogous to that in electronics. Here we suggest a paradigm for a monolithically integrated electronic control over the light propagation in nanoscale plasmonic waveguides. We theoretically demonstrate that magnetic field induced by the direct electric current flowing in metallic constituents of plasmonic nanostructures alters the material parameters and thus the optical signal flow. We use this principle for the design of an electrically controlled subwavelength optical isolator. If photonics and electronics are to form hybrid information processing systems, it will be necessary to manipulate and isolate light electrically, over short distances. Davoyan and Engheta propose a route to achieve this in plasmonic waveguides by exploiting the magnetic field induced by a direct current.
Somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration from cultured mature caryopses of bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge)

Callus cultures were initiated from mature excised caryopses of bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge) on Murashige & Skoog medium supplemented with 20 gl−1 sucrose and 2 mg l−1 2,4-D. Excised mature caryopses readily germinated and callus developed at the base of coleoptiles. There was considerable variation in the amount of non-embryogenic callus among the cultures. Most of the explants produced non-embryogenic translucent callus consisting of thin-walled cells and unorganized tissue. Some of these calli gave rise only to roots. Other explants formed embryogenic calli which were distinguished morphologically as white, globular and friable. Somatic embryos developed and germinated precociously when embryogenic calli were transferred to a 2,4-D-free medium. Somatic embryogenesis was confirmed by histological sections and scanning electron microscopy. Of the 300 cultures, 35 were embryogenic but only 10 produced plants that were successfully grown to maturity.
Criteria for Spontaneous Processes Derived from the Global Point of View

Starting with the fundamental and general criterion for a spontaneous process in thermodynamics, ΔStot ≥ 0, we review its relationships to other criteria, such as ΔA and ΔG, that have limitations. The details of these limitations, which can be easily overlooked, are carefully explicated. We also bring in the important example of electrical energy to show how criteria for spontaneity are properly applied to electrochemical cells. The analysis in this article gains clarity from use of the “global” formulation of thermodynamics and from carrying out finite changes of thermodynamic properties rather than manipulating differential changes. Several examples are given.
Evaluation of Wrapper-Based Feature Selection Using Hard, Moderate, and Easy Bioinformatics Data

One of the most challenging problems encountered when analyzing real-world gene expression datasets is high dimensionality (overabundance of features/attributes). This large number of features can lead to suboptimal classification performance and increased computation time. Feature selection, whereby only a subset of the original features are used for building a classification model, is the most commonly used technique to counter high dimensionality. One category of feature selection called wrapper-based techniques employ a classifier to directly find the subset of features which performs best. Unfortunately, noise can negatively impact the effectiveness of data mining techniques and subsequently lead to suboptimal results. Class noise in particular has a detrimental effect on the classification performance, making datasets perform poorly across a wide range of classifiers (i.e. Having a high """"difficulty-of-learning.""""). No previous work has examined the effectiveness of wrapper-based feature selection when learning from real world high dimensional gene expression datasets in the context of difficulty-of-learning due to noise. To study this effectiveness, we perform experiments using ten gene expression datasets which was first determined to be easy-to-learn-from then had artificial class noise injected in a controlled fashion creating three levels of difficulty-of-learning (Easy, Moderate, and Hard). Using the Naive Bayes learner, we perform wrapper feature selection followed by classification, using four classifiers (Naive Bayes, Multilayer Perceptron, 5-Nearest Neighbor, and Support Vector Machines), and we compare these results to the classification performance without feature selection. The results show that wrapper-based feature selection effectiveness depends on the choice of learner: for Multilayer Perceptron, wrapper selection improved performance compared to not using feature selection, while for Naive Bayes it slightly reduced performance and for the remaining learners it further reduced performance. Because its performance relative to no feature selection varied depending on the choice of learner, we recommend that wrapper selection be at least considered in future bioinformatics experiments, especially if the goal is gene discovery not classification. Also, as dimensionality reduction techniques are not only useful but necessary for high-dimensional bioinformatics datasets, the no-feature-selection case may not be feasible in practice.
The Monilioid Species of Sclerotinia

An historical review of the closely related genera Ciboria and Sclerotinia is given.The non-validity of the genera Rutstroemia and Stromatinia has been discussed.Type species for these four genera ...
IDENTITIES OF FINITE INVERSE SEMIGROUPS

Inverse semigroups are considered as algebras with two operations: multiplication and inversion. We prove that there are no inherently non-finitely based finite inverse semigroups. In constrast, if we consider inverse semigroups as semigroups (one binary operation) then it was proved by the author that almost all finite inverse semigroups are inherently non-finitely based.
Inflammatory Mediators: Tracing Links Between Obesity and Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, is associated with joint malfunction and chronic disability in the aged population. It is a multifactorial disorder to which several factors-such as age, sex, trauma, and obesity-contribute significantly. Obesity is one of the most influential but modifiable risk factors because it exerts an increased mechanical stress on the tibiofemoral cartilage. However, the high prevalence of OA in obese individuals in non-weightbearing areas, like finger joints, suggests that the link between being overweight and OA lies with factors other than simple biomechanics. An important correlation has been made between obesity and inflammation. Adipose tissues (and the infrapatellar fat pad) play an important role in this context because they are the major source of cytokines, chemokines, and metabolically active mediators called adipokines (or adipocytokines). These metabolic factors are known to possess catabolic and proinflammatory properties and to orchestrate the pathophysiological processes in OA. This review provides information on the relationship between obesity and OA through biomechanical and biochemical factors and highlights the functions of important obesity-related inflammatory products in the initiation and progression of OA. This information will broaden our thinking in identifying the targets for both prevention and intervention for OA.
First-Principles Approach to Insulators in Finite Electric Fields

We describe a method for computing the response of an insulator to a static, homogeneous electric field. It consists of iteratively minimizing an electric enthalpy functional expressed in terms of occupied Bloch-like states on a uniform grid of $k$ points. The functional has equivalent local minima below a critical field ${\mathcal{E}}_{\mathrm{c}}$ that depends inversely on the density of $k$ points; the disappearance of the minima at ${\mathcal{E}}_{\mathrm{c}}$ signals the onset of Zener breakdown. We illustrate the procedure by computing the piezoelectric and nonlinear dielectric susceptibility tensors of III-V semiconductors.
Studying streaming video quality: from an application point of view

An important aspect of improving streaming application performance is the streaming quality evaluation process. In this paper we introduce a set of alternative objective streaming video quality metrics, which are suitable for large scale deployment. Derived from an existent media application, our metrics are designed to capture the application behaviors disrupting the streaming video quality. We also present a set of experiments to demonstrate the effectiveness of these metrics.
Induction of cytolytic T lymphocytes against pediatric solid tumors in vitro using autologous dendritic cells pulsed with necrotic primary tumor.

Abstract Purpose Effective and generally applicable methods for generating cancer vaccines in children have not been defined. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent professional antigen-presenting cells capable of activating primary cytolytic T cells. We tested the ability of DCs generated from pediatric patients' peripheral blood monocytes and pulsed with a necrotic tumor to activate autologous tumor-specific cytolytic T cells. Methods Tumor and peripheral blood cells were obtained from pediatric patients undergoing biopsy or resection for advanced solid tumors according to an institutional research board–approved protocol and after acquiring informed consent from them. To generate DCs, we treated peripheral blood monocytes with granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor and interleukin (IL)-4. Maturation was induced with a cytokine cocktail (CC) containing tumor necrosis factor– α , IL-6, IL-1 β , and prostaglandin E 2 . The DC phenotype was assayed using flow cytometry. Tumor necrosis was induced by exposure to UV-B irradiation (1000 mJ). Dendritic cells pulsed with a UV-B–treated primary tumor and matured with CC were used to stimulate autologous peripheral blood lymphocytes weekly. Tumor-specific cytolytic activity was assayed using 4-hour 51 Cr release. Results Peripheral blood monocytes isolated from pediatric patients differentiated into immature DCs (CD14 − , MHCII + [major histocompatibility complex], CD80 low , CD86 low ) in the presence of granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor and IL-4. Cytokine cocktail induced maturation of DCs, as characterized by increased expressions of MHCII, CD83, CD80, and CD86. Patients' peripheral blood lymphocytes stimulated in vitro with DCs loaded with a necrotic primary tumor and matured with CC specifically lysed autologous neuroblastoma in 7 of 9 patients. Conclusion Dendritic cells generated from the peripheral blood of children with advanced solid tumors and pulsed with a necrotic primary tumor undergo maturation and effectively stimulate autologous tumor-specific cytolytic T cells in vitro. We describe a simple method for generating a vaccine capable of activating cytotoxic T cells against pediatric solid tumors that does not require the genetic identification of tumor-associated antigens.
Bone marrow stroma-derived miRNAs as regulators, biomarkers and therapeutic targets of bone metastasis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, endogenous RNA molecules that have essential roles in regulating gene expression. They control numerous physiological and cellular processes, including normal bone organogenesis and homeostasis, by enhancing or inhibiting bone marrow cell growth, differentiation, functional activity and crosstalk of the multiple cell types within the bone. Hence, elucidating miRNA targets in bone marrow stromal cells has revealed novel regulations during bone development and maintenance. Moreover, recent studies have detailed the capacity for bone stromal miRNAs to influence bone metastasis from a number of primary carcinomas by interfering with bone homeostasis or by directly influencing metastatic tumor cells. Owing to the current lack of good diagnostic biomarkers of bone metastases, such changes in bone stromal miRNA expression in the presence of metastatic lesions may become useful biomarkers, and may even serve as therapeutic targets. In particular, cell-free and exosomal miRNAs shed from bone stromal cells into circulation may be developed into novel biomarkers that can be routinely measured in easily accessible samples. Taken together, these findings reveal the significant role of bone marrow stroma-derived miRNAs in the regulation of bone homeostasis and bone metastasis.
Recovery Experiments for Adiabatic Shear Localization: A Novel Experimental Technique

A novel experimental technique has been developed that allows the recovery of specimens within which an adiabatic shear band has been grown as the result of a single torsional pulse. The technique uses a new device called the compression-torsion Kolsky bar; this is an adaptation of the classical torsional Kolsky bar in which both compression and torsion are stored in the clamped length. Recovery of the specimen is obtained by causing the transmitted compression pulse to reflect from the free end of the output bar as a tensile pulse which then causes failure of the specimen/output-bar interface. All further pulses then cause no more than rigid motions of the specimen. Thus the specimen is recovered after it has been loaded by a single torsional pulse; microscopic examination of the recovered specimen now allows the rigorous determination of the evolution of microstructure and the identification of deformation mechanisms that are active under the dynamic shear loading. As an example of the utility of this recovery technique, its application to the study of adiabatic shear localization in alpha-titanium is presented. The technique allows a systematic study of the microscopic mechanisms that drive the initiation and growth of adiabatic shear bands by recovering samples within which shear bands have been grown under controlled conditions; further characterization through sectioning, followed by optical, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy is then possible. The technique also allows one to study the influence of the shape and size of geometric defects (for example, notch tip radius and notch depth) on the initiation of adiabatic shearing failures. The effect of normal stresses on the susceptibility of a material to shear localization can also be investigated.
The structure-performance relationship for European banking

Abstract The relationship between market structure and performance has been studied extensively for American banking. In contrast, little work has been done to investigate this relationship for European banking. Two explanations of a positive correlation between profitability and concentration have been advanced, the traditional structure-performance hypothesis (SCP) and the efficient-structure hypothesis. Previous empirical tests of the alternative hypotheses have yielded mixed results but the tests were not robust because they did not incorporate measures of efficiency directly in the model. This study applies a stochastic cost frontier as proposed by Aigner et al. (1977) to derive measures of X-inefficiency and scale-inefficiency, under the assumption that the errors are distributed half-normal. We incorporate these measures of inefficiencies directly into the tests as proposed by Berger and Hannan (1993). We do not find a positive and significant relationship between concentration and profitability for a sample of banks across 11 European countries over a four year period, 1988–1991. However, we do find evidence to support one of the two versions of the efficient-structure hypothesis for banks located in countries with low concentration of banks. Since little support is found for either of the SCP hypotheses, a simple policy of strict limitations on cross-border acquisitions and growth is not warranted.
The spectrochemical determination of some non-rare earth impurities in yttrium oxide

Abstract Yttrium has been used to produce a stabilized zirconium oxide with unique properties. The impurity level of the yttrium compounds used in the preparation of this material is very important since the impurities will concentrate in the grain boundaries, reducing the strength and high temperature properties of the finished product. Two spectrochemical techniques were developed for the determination of 26 non-rare earth impurities in yttrium oxide. One technique involving a direct burn is used for the more refractory elements and higher impurity concentration levels. The other technique involving carrier distillation is used for some of the more volatile elements and concentration levels to 1 ppm or less for 18 elements. The average relative standard deviations were about 10% and the average overall deviations from known concentrations were about 12% for both techniques.
Diffusion effects in the double injection negative-resistance problem

Diffusion effects are usually neglected in the consideration of the negative-resistance problem associated with double injection in insulators. In this paper, these effects are taken into account and are shown to be very important in determining the current-voltage characteristic. It is shown that if the length of the sample is greater than a critical value Lcr, the post-negative-resistance regime of the characteristic is one in which current density increases as the square of the applied voltage; and if the sample length is less than Lcr, the post-negative-resistance characteristic is one in which current increases at constant voltage. The existence of Lcr is shown to be related to the absence of presence of a particular conduction region. The analytic procedure used is the regional approximation method.
Acute complications of Epstein-Barr virus infectious mononucleosis.

Infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) usually resolves over a period of weeks or months without sequelae but may occasionally be complicated by a wide variety of neurologic, hematologic, hepatic, respiratory, and psychological complications. The strength of association of EBV w
Synthesis and biological activity of N-acyl derivatives of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae mating pheromone

We report a general method for acylation of the N epsilon-amino group of the lysyl residue in peptides. The procedure involves acylation using p-nitrophenyl esters and 1-hydroxybenzotriazole in organic solvents to yield a series of fatty acyl mating pheromones of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The fatty acyl group does not influence coupling of peptide fragments. Biological activities of the synthesized alpha-factor mating pheromones derivatized with acetyl, butyryl, caprylyl and lauryl groups are nearly equivalent to the activity of unacylated alpha-factor. The N epsilon-stearyl-alpha-factor is biologically inactive. The procedures reported in this communication can be used to increase hydrophobicity of lysine-containing peptides when the lysyl group is not essential for activity.
Emerging Role of Serelaxin in the Therapeutic Armamentarium for Heart Failure

Acute heart failure (AHF) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, with an increasing prevalence anticipated over the next few decades as the population ages, heightening already significant health and economic burdens to society. New therapies for AHF have stalled over the past decade for a multitude of reasons, principal among them the heterogeneous population of patients affected with potentially multiple operative pathophysiologic mechanisms making a single targeted therapy a challenge. Serelaxin, a recombinant form of human relaxin-2, mediates adaptive cardiovascular effects during pregnancy that could be beneficial in the AHF population, primarily through nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation. Serelaxin is a novel therapeutic agent that has shown promise in the treatment of AHF in predefined subpopulations, though studies powered for "hard" outcomes are still pending. In this review, we examine the clinical investigations to date involving serelaxin in patients with heart failure and its possible emerging role in the future therapy of AHF.
Results of the First 124 Deliveries in the Birth Room at Roosevelt Hospital in New York City

: The organization and use of the birth room at Roosevelt Hospital are described, along with the results of the first 124 births there. All but 5 births were attended by midwives. After admittance to the regular obstetric area, and transfer to the birth room at 5–8 cm dilation, 5 women were transferred back to the labor room for various procedures. Of those transferred, there was 1 cesarean, 1 forceps delivery. All mothers and babies had normal postpartum courses.
State and Local Politics: The Great Entanglement

1. Looking at States and Localities. 2. State Constitutions. 3. Federalism. 4. Election Machinery. 5. Parties, Pressure Groups, and Elites. 6. The Governor. 7. The Legislature. 8. Courts and Law. 9. Counties, Towns, Townships, Special Districts, and Indian Reservations. 10. Cities and Metropolitan Areas. 11. Money Matters. 12. Civil Servants. 13. Agencies, Functions, and Policy Issues. 14. Epilog. Appendix I: Selected Journals and Yearbooks. Appendix II: Some Basic State and Local Government Websites. Glossary. Index.
Therapeutic Options to Reduce Lp-PLA2 Levels and the Potential Impact on Vascular Risk Reduction

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) to pro-inflammatory mediators. Lp-PLA2 is highly expressed in the necrotic core of atherosclerotic plaques and has been associated with atherosclerotic plaque instability. Multiple studies have shown an association between elevated Lp-PLA2 levels and risk of both stroke and myocardial infarction, even after adjustment for standard vascular risk factors, and several professional organizations have recommended Lp-PLA2 as a potentially usefully tool to improve risk stratification for individual patients. Therapies directed at lowering Lp-PLA2 levels may represent a novel approach to reducing vascular risk, though direct clinical benefit from targeting treatment to Lp-PLA2 levels remains unproven. Statins appear to significantly lower Lp-PLA2 levels; fibrates and niacin may also lower Lp-PLA2 levels, though this is less well established. Darapladib, a potent, selective Lp-PLA2 inhibitor, is currently in phase III trials for prevention of recurrent vascular events in patients with coronary artery disease.
Preliminary evidence of riluzole efficacy in antidepressant-treated patients with residual depressive symptoms.

Background Excessive glutamatergic neurotransmission may contribute to the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Recent evidence suggests that riluzole and other agents that target glutamate neurotransmission may show antidepressant activity. Methods Ten patients with treatment-resistant depression had riluzole added to their ongoing medication regimen for 6 weeks, followed by an optional 6-week continuation phase. Depression and anxiety severity were assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). Linear mixed models were used to test for a linear trend in HDRS and HARS scores across time with treatment. Results Subjects' HDRS and HARS scores declined significantly following the initiation of riluzole augmentation therapy. The effect of riluzole was significant at the end of the first week of treatment and persisted for the 12-week duration of the study. Conclusions These data suggest that riluzole augmentation produces antidepressant and anxiolytic effects in patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Effects of chemical and heat treatments on ethylene production in soil

Abstract Factors influencing C 2 H 4 production in a silt loam were investigated in an effort to determine the source of this gas in soil. Air-dried samples of soil in glass vials were moistened to about −10 kPa, sealed with rubber septa, and incubated at 30 or 35°C with an original atmosphere of air or O 2 -free N 2 . C 2 H 4 concentrations in the vials were determined by gas chromatography. Addition of the antibacterial agents chloramphenicol or novobiocin to the soil inhibited C 2 H 4 production, whereas the antifungal agent cycloheximide had no effect. Sodium azide and sodium cyanide also reduced C 2 H 4 production. Treatment of the soil with moist heat (i.e. passing a steam-air mixture through it) at 80°C for 30 min failed to reduce the ability of the soil to produce C 2 H 4 during subsequent incubation at 30°C, but autoclaving it twice at 121°C prevented C 2 H 4 production. As with nonheated soil, C 2 H 4 production from soil treated at 80°C was prevented by novobiocin but not by cycloheximide. Only about 10% of the bacteria isolated from nontreated soil were spore-formers. In contrast, 95–98% and possibly more of the bacteria isolated from heat-treated soil were spore-formers, including those in soil which was heat-treated and then incubated moist at 30°C for an additional 3 days before dilution plating. Addition of methionine had no effect on the production of C 2 H 4 in anaerobic soil, whereas ethionine, chlorogenic acid, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) all enhanced C 2 H 4 production. Ethionine, but not chlorogenic acid or EDTA, also resulted in considerable C 2 H 4 accumulation in autoclaved soil; the C 2 H 4 detected in ethionine-amended soil was apparently nonmicrobial in origin. Soil samples incubated at constant temperatures of 30, 50, or 70°C all produced C 2 H 4 . The results collectively indicate that C 2 H 4 in soil is most likely produced by facultative or strictly anaerobic bacteria which are probably spore-formers and may also be thermophilic. Several isolates of spore-forming bacteria were inoculated into autoclaved soil, but none produced appreciable amounts of C 2 H 4 under the test conditions.
RNA Interference Screen Identifies Abl Kinase and PDGFR Signaling in Chlamydia trachomatis Entry

The strain designated Chlamydia trachomatis serovar L2 that was used for experiments in this paper is Chlamydia muridarum, a species closely related to C. trachomatis (and formerly termed the Mouse Pneumonitis strain of C. trachomatis). This conclusion was verified by deep sequencing and by PCR using species-specific primers. All data presented in the results section that refer to C. trachomatis should be interpreted as referring to C. muridarum. Since C. muridarum TARP lacks the consensus tyrosine repeats present in C. trachomatis TARP, we cannot make any conclusions about the role of TARP phosphorylation and C. muridarum entry. However, the conclusion that C. trachomatis L2 TARP is a target of Abl kinase is still valid as these experiments were performed with C. trachomatis L2 TARP [corrected]. To elucidate the mechanisms involved in early events in Chlamydia trachomatis infection, we conducted a large scale unbiased RNA interference screen in Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells. This allowed identification of candidate host factors in a simple non-redundant, genetically tractable system. From a library of 7,216 double stranded RNAs (dsRNA), we identified approximately 226 host genes, including two tyrosine kinases, Abelson (Abl) kinase and PDGF- and VEGF-receptor related (Pvr), a homolog of the Platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). We further examined the role of these two kinases in C. trachomatis binding and internalization into mammalian cells. Both kinases are phosphorylated upon infection and recruited to the site of bacterial attachment, but their roles in the infectious process are distinct. We provide evidence that PDGFRbeta may function as a receptor, as inhibition of PDGFRbeta by RNA interference or by PDGFRbeta neutralizing antibodies significantly reduces bacterial binding, whereas depletion of Abl kinase has no effect on binding. Bacterial internalization can occur through activation of PDGFRbeta or through independent activation of Abl kinase, culminating in phosphorylation of the Rac guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF), Vav2, and two actin nucleators, WAVE2 and Cortactin. Finally, we show that TARP, a bacterial type III secreted actin nucleator implicated in entry, is a target of Abl kinase. Together, our results demonstrate that PDGFRbeta and Abl kinases function redundantly to promote efficient uptake of this obligate intracellular parasite.
NARCOTIC ADDICTION AND CRIME

Arrest rates and self-reported criminal behavior are examined as a function of frequency of narcatic use during the addiction careers first daily narcatic use to last daily use) of a sample of 690 admissions to the California Civil Addict Program. Thirty-five percent of the addiction career non-incarcerated time involved less-than-daily or no narcatic use. During these periods. arrest rates for property crimes and self-reported criminal behavior were substantially lower than for periods of daily use. This approach to examining the relationship between crime and narcatic addiction avoids several of the methodological problems encountered in pre- and pastaddiction and pre- and pasttreatment studies.
Frequency multipliers for millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths

Theory and tools for analysis and design of millimeter- and submillimeter-wave multipliers are discussed. Experimental work is reviewed. The Schottky diode model at submillimeter frequencies, use of Schottky multiplier chains versus direct higher-order multipliers, and the effect of cooling on Schottky diode multipliers are discussed. Alternative diodes such as the high electron mobility varactor (HEMV), the barrier-intrinsic-n/sup +/ diode (BIN), the barrier-n-n/sup +/ diode (BNN), the quantum well diode (QWD), and the single barrier varactor (SBV) are discussed, with attention given to their potential submillimeter frequency multipliers. >
Synthesis, crystal structure, and transport properties of Fe substituted rhombohedral skutterudite derivatives Co4−xFexGe6Se6

Abstract We report on the synthesis and low temperature transport properties of rhombohedral derivatives of the cubic skutterudite CoSb 3 , namely Co 4− x Fe x Ge 6 Se 6 with x = 0, 1, 1.5. Rietveld refinement and elemental analyses were used to identify the structure and stoichiometry of the compositions. The thermal conductivity was investigated by employing the Debye model with different phonon-scattering parameters. This investigation demonstrates that Fe substitution is feasible in these skutterudite derivatives and can significantly affect the transport properties as compared with Co 4 Ge 6 Se 6 .
Comparison of two cluster analysis methods using single particle mass spectra

Cluster analysis of aerosol time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ATOFMS) data has been an effective tool for the identification of possible sources of ambient aerosols. In this study, the clustering results of two typical methods, adaptive resonance theory-based neural networks-2a (ART-2a) and density-based clustering of application with noise (DBSCAN), on ATOFMS data were investigated by employing a set of benchmark ATOFMS data. The advantages and disadvantages of these two methods are discussed and some feasible remedies proposed for problems encountered in the clustering process. The results of this study will provide promising directions for future work on ambient aerosol cluster analysis, suggesting a more effective and feasible clustering strategy based on the integration of ART-2a and DBSCAN.
Some Phonological Characteristics of the Speech of Normal-Hearing Children of Deaf Parents.

Articulation and stress patterns of 5 hearing children of deaf parents were studied. The children's phonological processes were compared with those of children from normal-speaking homes and with those of their deaf mothers to identify similarities and differences. The phonological processes used most frequently by these children were those that have been identified as common processes among children from hearing homes. None of the children adopted, with any frequency, the less typical productions found in their mother's speech. This was also true for one of the children who was observed to produce articulation and stress patterns resembling "deaf" speech. Possible factors relating to the children's adoption of the standard speech model rather than deaf speech are discussed.
Metabolism and gene expression during cuprizone‐induced demyelination/remyelination

Exposure of mice to the copper chelator, Cuprizone, results in a CNS demyelination; remyelination occurs following removal of this metabolic insult. Using this model, we have demonstrated changes in content and metabolism of myelin lipids in whole brain. We now extend these biochemical studies to brain regions and identify corpus callosum as particularly severely affected; 65% of cerebroside is lost after 6 weeks of exposure. Animals can be rescued by removal of the toxicant and the extent of recovery of myelin, as well as recovery of ability to synthesize cerebroside and cholesterol, can be determined. The temporal pattern for concentration of myelin basic protein tracked that of cerebroside, supporting the assumption that cerebroside level is a good surrogate for myelin concentration. We also applied Affymetrix microarray technology to corpus callosum to track temporal changes in steady-state levels of mRNA species related to demyelination and remyelination. Genes coding for myelin structural components were greatly down-regulated during demyelination and up-regulated during remyelination. Genes related to microglia/macrophages appeared in a time course (peaking at 6 weeks) correlating with that expected for phagocytosis of myelin. mRNAs coding for many cytokine genes had peak expression at 4 weeks, compatible with an intercellular signaling role. Of interest were other genes with temporal patterns correlating with one of the three patterns mentioned above, but with functions not obviously related to demyelination/remyelination. The ability to correlate gene expression with known pathophysiological and regenerative events should be of utility in elucidating further function of such genes. Acknowledgements: Supported by USPHS & NMSS grants.
Urban Rail Development in China: The Challenges Ahead

This paper provides an overview of the recent development of urban rail systems in Chinese cites and the challenges ahead. China is set to become the world leader in length of metro lines in operation in the near to medium term. In view of the large scale of this investment, a focus on the overall economic and financial viability of these systems is needed. On the basis of analytical work supporting a project investment in the city of Kunming and a study tour of urban rail systems in China, this paper highlights four areas believed to be crucial in meeting these objectives: integration of new metro systems with existing systems of public transport, a supportive overall urban transport policy, transit-oriented development, and long-term financial sustainability. The conclusion is that in all of these areas, China possesses tools that may enable the program to succeed if they are used effectively and in concert. Any issues appear to result from a lack of attention to these four areas and from a managerial f...
Physical Properties of Fibrinogen Substrates Control Integrin Mediated Cell Adhesion

The physical properties of substrates are known to control cell adhesion via integrin-mediated signaling. Recently, we have shown that binding of fibrinogen to the surface of fibrin gel prevents integrin αMβ2-mediated leukocyte adhesion by creating an anti-adhesive layer. Furthermore, fibrinogen immobilized on various surfaces at high density supports weak cell adhesion whereas at low density it is highly adhesive.To gain an understanding of the mechanism underlying differential cell adhesion, we extended the cell adhesion assays to platelets carrying integrin αIIbβ3. The results showed a similar behavior indicating that the process is independent of the type of integrins. In order to quantify the adhesion forces, we applied single cell force spectroscopy (SCFS). In this assay, a single cell is attached to a tipless cantilever of an atomic force microscope (AFM) and force-distance curves for different surfaces are acquired. For cells carrying αMβ2-integrins we found significant lower adhesion forces for high- compared to low-density fibrinogen substrates.Furthermore, we analyzed the adhesive behavior of fibrinogen surfaces using force spectroscopy with a silicon nitride AFM tip. These experiments, unrelated to the cells and integrins, show similar behaviors as the cell adhesion assays. AFM images of the different substrates indicate that fibrinogen deposition at high density results in an aggregated multilayered material characterized by low adhesion forces. However, low-density fibrinogen produces a single layer in which molecules are directly attached to the solid surface resulting in higher adhesion forces.The data suggest that deposition of a multilayered fibrinogen matrix prevents stable cell adhesion by modifying the physical properties of surfaces resulting in reduced force generation with implications for hemostasis and biomaterial applications.
Improving the Effectiveness of the Registered Dietitian in the Intensive Care Unit

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To identify specific strategies to decrease repetitive nutrition intervention and increase appropriate and effective nutrition support. A teaching hospital committed to continuous quality improvement (CQI) monitored nutrition support via a total parenteral nutrition (TPN) audit and computer-generated nothing by mouth (NPO) patient screens. In 1995, 31% of patients on TPN received it inappropriately. NPO data revealed that 6% of NPO patients went without nutrition support for over seven days. Since TPN is a costly intervention and extended NPO status increases risk for malnutrition, the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee supported the development of the nutrition support improvement team. The aim of the team was to increase the appropriateness and effectiveness of nutrition support. The team's goals were to provide proactive, interdisciplinary involvement to determine the route of nutrition support, to reduce clinical interventions and to improve education of physician staff. Time consuming interventions were the main form of change in the nutrition care plan. The team initiated nutrition rounds in the ICU. Before daily medical rounds, the RD meets with the physicians to address any nutrition issues for the patients. Nutrition rounds and the CQI approach proved to effectively improve patient care. In 1996 6% of patients received TPN inappropriately and 3% remained NPO greater than seven days.
Accuracy of Electric Power Consumption Forecasts Generated by Alternative Methods: The Case of Hawaii

Abstract A number of alternative methods can be used to generate forecasts of electricity consumption. However, it is seldom possible to compare the accuracy of forecasts generated by different statistical methods. Hawaii provided a unique opportunity for such a comparison because of the availability of the Hawaii Energy Demand Forecasting Model (HEDFM). HEDFM is an econometric-based simulation system designed to provide detailed annual consumption forecasts for various fuel types from 1978 to the year 2005 for the State of Hawaii. This article evaluates the accuracy of electricity consumption forecasts using various commonly employed methods and compares them with forecasts from HEDFM. Traditional forecasting methods based on average historical growth rates or the historical relationships between electricity consumption and key economic and demographic variables such as de facto population and per capita income did not perform well. Quadratic exponential smoothing outperformed all other methods. HEDFM, a...