cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anxiety, cognition, and habit: A multiple memory systems perspective

Consistent with a multiple systems approach to memory organization in the mammalian brain, numerous studies have differentiated the roles of the hippocampus and dorsal striatum in "cognitive" and "habit" learning and memory, respectively. Additional research indicates that activation of efferent projections of the basolateral amygdala (BLA), a brain region implicated in mammalian emotion, modulates memory processes occurring in other brain structures. The present brief review describes research designed to link these general concepts by examining the manner in which emotional state may influence the relative use of multiple memory systems. In a dual-solution plus-maze task that can be acquired using either hippocampus-dependent or dorsal striatal-dependent learning, acute pre-training or pre-retrieval emotional arousal (restraint stress/inescapable foot shock, exposure to the predator odor TMT, or peripheral injection of anixogenic drugs) biases rats towards the use of habit memory. Moreover, intra-BLA injection of anxiogenic drugs is sufficient to bias rats towards the use of dorsal striatal-dependent habit memory. In single-solution plus-maze tasks that require the use of either cognitive or habit learning, intra-BLA infusions of anxiogenic drugs result in a behavioral profile indicating an impairing effect on hippocampus-dependent memory that effectively produces enhanced habit learning by eliminating competitive interference between cognitive and habit memory systems. It is speculated that the predominant use of habit memory that can be produced by anxious and/or stressful emotional states may have implications for understanding the role of learning and memory processes in various human psychopathologies, including for example post-traumatic stress disorder and drug addiction.
Postoperative radiation for squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to cervical lymph nodes from an unknown primary site : Outcomes and patterns of failure

Background: This retrospective study assesses the outcomes and patterns of failure in patients with squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to cervical lymph nodes from an unknown primary site treated with combined surgery and postoperative radiotherapy. Methods: One hundred thirty-six patients with squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to cervical lymph nodes from an unknown primary source were treated postoperatively with radiotherapy at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center between the years 1968 and 1992. Stage distribution was: N1, 31 patients; N2a, 49; N2b, 25; N2c, 3; N3, 18; and Nx, 10. Thirty-nine patients had excisional biopsies only, 64 patients underwent modified neck dissections, and 33 had radical neck dissections. Extracapsular extension was present in 87 cases. Fifty-nine patients had multiple nodes involved. The median duration of follow-up for surviving patients was 8.7 years. Results: Twelve patients, all with extracapsular nodal disease, developed regional relapse. The 5-year actuarial rates of regional relapse in patients with and without extracapsular nodal disease were 16% and 0%, respectively (p =.004). Nine patients (22%) with extracapsular disease and multiple nodes relapsed compared with three patients (7%) with extracapsular disease and a solitary node (p =.02). None of the patients treated with excisional biopsy and radiotherapy relapsed regionally. No statistically significant relationship between dose, treatment duration, time interval between surgery, and the start of radiotherapy and relapse was detected. The 2-, 5-, and 10-year actuarial disease-specific survival rates were 82%, 74%, and 68%, respectively. Fourteen patients developed cancers in head and neck mucosal sites; six of these cancers were located in unirradiated tissues. Conclusions: Relapse occurred infrequently in patients treated with excisional biopsies and postoperative radiotherapy. Extracapsular extension and multiple nodes were associated with worse regional control and disease-specific survival. These results appear consistent with those expected for patients with advanced neck disease and a known primary site, and the absence of a primary site should not exclude patients from studies aiming to improve outcomes in patients with extensive neck disease from a head and neck squamous cell cancer. We continue to recommend radiation to the necks and pharyngeal axis for patients suspected of having residual microscopic disease following surgery for squamous cell carcinoma metastatic to the neck from an unknown primary site.
Characterizing mRNA Interactions with RNA Granules during Translation Initiation Inhibition

When cells experience environmental stresses, global translational arrest is often accompanied by the formation of stress granules (SG) and an increase in the number of p-bodies (PBs), which are thought to play a crucial role in the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression through the control of mRNA translation and degradation. SGs and PBs have been extensively studied from the perspective of their protein content and dynamics but, to date, there have not been systematic studies on how they interact with native mRNA granules. Here, we demonstrate the use of live-cell hybridization assays with multiply-labeled tetravalent RNA imaging probes (MTRIPs) combined with immunofluorescence, as a tool to characterize the polyA+ and β-actin mRNA distributions within the cytoplasm of epithelial cell lines, and the changes in their colocalization with native RNA granules including SGs, PBs and the RNA exosome during the inhibition of translational initiation. Translation initiation inhibition was achieved via the induction of oxidative stress using sodium arsenite, as well as through the use of Pateamine A, puromycin and cycloheximide. This methodology represents a valuable tool for future studies of mRNA trafficking and regulation within living cells.
Symptomatic and syndromal anxiety in chronic forms of major depression: Effect of nefazodone, Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy, and their combination

Background Limited information is available on treatment response of anxiety symptoms in chronic forms of major depression. Concurrent anxiety disorders are prevalent in chronic depression, but the responsiveness of patients with such comorbidity to different treatments is largely unknown. This study investigated the comparative efficacy of nefazodone, Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP), and their combination in improving anxiety symptoms in patients with chronic forms of major depression, including those with a concurrent anxiety disorder. Method 681 patients with chronic major depressive disorder (DSM-IV criteria) participated in a multicenter study of 12 weeks of acute treatment with nefazodone (N = 226), CBASP (N = 228), or the combination (N = 227). The Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A), the HAM-A psychic anxiety factor, and the anxiety/arousal subscale of the 30-item Inventory for Depressive Symptomatology-Self Report (IDS-SR-30) were used to assess anxiety symptoms. Results In the full sample. without controlling for change in depressive symptoms, combination therapy was superior to both monotherapies on all 3 anxiety measures both in the rate of change and at endpoint. When change in depressive symptoms was controlled for, there were no treatment differences in rate of change from baseline to week 12 on any of the 3 anxiety measures. In those patients with a concurrent anxiety disorder, however, the combination was superior to CBASP on the HAM-A and the IDS-SR-30. Nefazodone alone and combination therapy were both superior to CBASP on the HAM-A psychic anxiety factor. Conclusion For patients with chronic depression, combination therapy is superior to CBASP or nefazodone alone. Among patients with a concurrent anxiety disorder, nefazodone. either alone or in combination with CBASP, improves anxiety symptoms faster than CBASP alone, independent of depressive symptom reduction.
New Technology, Union Strategies and Worker Participation

American unions are undergoing a new set of challenges, to initiate strategic planning on technological change within a context of cooperative and hostile labor relations and new economic constraints. Amidst major difficulties, there are some encouraging developments which have taken place.
Characterization of Inverse Temperature Dependence in logic circuits

As the supply voltage (V DD ) approaches the device threshold voltage (V T ), the elevated temperature results in increased device current. This phenomenon is generally known as Inverse Temperature Dependence (ITD). In this paper, we propose a test structure with a built-in poly-resistor-based heater to characterize ITD in digital circuits. Our measurements from a 130nm test-chip show that the Zero-Temperature-Coefficient (ZTC) point varies by circuit type, and further fluctuates due to process variation. A more accurate ITD-sensitive thermal sensor is thus needed for better temperature tracking.
Endovascular treatment of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulae using Onyx: a case series.

OBJECTIVE: An endovascular approach is often the first-line treatment of dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVFs). Information on the use of Onyx (ev3 Neurovascular, Irvine, CA) for treating DAVFs, however, is limited. Therefore, we present our early experience, technical considerations, and complications associated with the use of Onyx for DAVF embolization. METHODS: Twenty-eight patients with 29 DAVFs treated with Onyx embolization were included in this analysis. Hospital records, operative reports, and angiograms were reviewed and analyzed. RESULTS: Forty Onyx procedures, including 39 transarterial and 1 transvenous approaches, were performed. Fifty-one external carotid artery branches, 8 posterior meningeal artery branches, and 3 internal carotid artery branches were used for Onyx embolization. Branches of the middle meningeal artery were embolized 32 times, and the occipital artery was embolized 15 times. Twenty-one fistulae (72%) were cured angiographically with endovascular therapy. Transarterial embolization via the middle meningeal artery cured 12 DAVFs (41%). Four complications (9.7%) were recorded, including 3 transient (7.3%) and 1 permanent neurological deficits (2.4%). Follow-up imaging, which was available for 8 fistulae with angiographic cures, showed no evidence of recurrence. CONCLUSION: Transarterial Onyx embolization of external carotid artery branches, particularly the middle meningeal artery, offers a high likelihood of cure. This technique provides a safe and effective method of embolization with few side effects and complications. However, long-term follow-up is needed to establish its efficacy.
A variational method for finding Eigenvalues of the Lippmann-Schwinger equation and the corresponding Regge trajectories

We develop a variational principle for finding approximate eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of the kernel of the Lippmann-Sohwingtr equation. Regge trajectories are then easily found from the solution to the eigenvalue equation. We apply the variational principle to other potential-theory calculations with very good results in both accuracy and simplicity.
Determination of indinavir, potassium sorbate, methylparaben, and propylparaben in aqueous pediatric suspensions

Abstract A gradient, reversed phase, HPLC method was developed for simultaneous analysis of potassium sorbate, methylparaben, propylparaben, and indinavir in aqueous suspensions that contain a proprietary orange flavoring and Magnasweet® sweetener enhancer (MacSanrews and Forbes Company, Magnasweet® product brochure). The chromatographic separation is performed on an Eclipse XDB-C8 column using a gradient run with an analysis time of 35 min. The mobile phase consists of acetonitrile and acetonitrile:citrate buffer, pH 4.0 (20:80 v/v). The method successfully separates the three preservatives, indinavir (active ingredient), the orange flavoring, the Magnasweet® species, and the indinavir lactone degradate. Recovery, linearity, and precision results for the three preservatives and indinavir are described. The method applies to two types of formulations: Xanthan Gum suspension and NanoSystems suspension.
Reduced memory multiscale fusion for combined topographic and bathymetric data

The multiscale Kalman smoother (MKS) is a globally optimal estimator for fusing remotely sensed data. The MKS algorithm can be readily parallelized because it operates on a Markov tree data structure. However, such an implementation requires a large amount of memory to store the parameters and estimates at each scale in the tree. This becomes particularly problematic in applications where the observations have very different resolutions and the finest scale data are sparse or aggregated. Such cases commonly arise when fusing data to capture both regional and local structure. In this work, we develop an efficient MKS algorithm and apply it to the fusion of topographic and bathymetric elevation data.
Incidence of the Leech Actinobdella pediculata on Freshwater Drum in Lake Erie

Actinobdella pediculata (Glossiphoniidae), a freshwater leech, was found attached to freshwater drum (Aplodinotus grunniens) from western Lake Erie during 1991 through 1993. The animal was first observed during routine examinations of freshwater drum collected in May 1991. The leeches were usually attached to the inside, lower portion of the opercula near the isthmus. Incidence of attachment increased with freshwater drum age and length. No noticeable adverse effects on the fish from attachment by the leech were noted.
Influence of thromboxane A2 receptor antagonism on pulmonary vasoconstrictor responses.

ABSTRACT: Thromboxane A2 (TxA2) is an arachidonic acid metabolite which causes severe pulmonary vasoconstriction (PV) and may mediate the PV produced by platelet-activating factor (PAF-acether) and leukotriene D4 (LTD4). To determine the role of TxA2 receptors on PAF-acether, LTD4, and hypoxia-induced PV, we administered PAF-acether 0.1 nmol/kg, the TxA2 analog U-46619 0.2 μg/kg/min, LTD4 3.0 μg/kg, or acute hypoxia (Fio2 = 0.12 for 3 min) before and during the infusion of the selective TxA2 receptor blocker SQ 29 548 50 μg/kg/min or vehicle into 27 open-chest, anesthetized newborn piglets, measuring pulmonary and systemic arterial pressures, cardiac index, and right and left ventricular pressures and dimensions. Mean pulmonary arterial pressure rose and cardiac index fell in response to PAF-acether (14 ± 1 to 32 ± 2 mm Hg and 91 ± 5 to 15 ± 5 mL/kg/min, both p < 0.01), U-46619 (11 ± 1 to 28 ± 2 mm Hg and 93 ± 10 to 36 ± 9 mL/kg/min, both p < 0.01), and LTD4 (13 ± 3 to 22 ± 2 mm Hg and 85 ± 12 to 29 ± 9 mL/kg/min, both p < 0.05). Acute hypoxia increased PAP (12 ± 1 to 26 ± 2 mm Hg, p < 0.01) but did not alter cardiac index. Infusion of SQ 29 548 prevented PAF-acether and U-46619-induced increases in pulmonary arterial pressure (13 ± 1 to 14 ± 1 mm Hg and 12 ± 1 to 12 ± 1 mm Hg) and decreases in cardiac index (70 ± 4 to 70 ± 3 mL/kg/min and 94 ± 14 to 92 ± 12 mL/kg/min) but failed to alter the response to LTD4 or hypoxia. Vehicle had no effect. We conclude that TxA2 receptors are not involved in LTD4 or hypoxia-induced PV but play an important role in the PV produced by PAF-acether and U-46619.
Infestation of the clam Protothaca staminea by two species of tetraphyllidian cestodes (Echeneibothrium spp.)

Abstract Littleneck clams ( Protothaca staminea ) collected from south Humboldt Bay, California, were observed to contain yellowish white cysts of two size groups. These cysts contained two species of tetraphyllidian cestodes of the genus Echeneibothrium. Attempts to identify both species were largely unsuccessful. Further research is required to elucidate their life cycles for positive identification.
The tape-complexity of context-independent developmental languages

We show that languages in the least full AFL enclosing all E0L-languages are of tape-complexity (log n)^3. The proof indicates in what respect context-independent developmental languages are ''more complex'' than context-free languages, for which a tape-complexity (log n)^2 is known.
Applications of the Bloch–Siegert Shift in Solid-State Proton-Dipolar-Decoupled19F MAS NMR

Abstract In solid-state proton-dipolar-decoupled 19 F MAS NMR spectroscopy, 19 F chemical-shift data need to be corrected for the Bloch–Siegert shift. Assigning the single sharp 19 F resonance of 2-fluoroadamantane to its proton-coupled 19 F shift of −174.4 ppm results in chemical-shift referencing that is independent of the amplitude of the proton-decoupling field. The Bloch–Siegert shift is also a useful tool to characterize the amplitude and homogeneity of the proton-decoupling field, H 1H , and to monitor probe performance. Considerable inhomogeneity in H 1H along the long axis of the right-cylinder sample rotor was detected. In our commercial 7 mm H– F MAS probe, the proton field strength,[formula], decreases to 25% of the maximum value across the usable sample volume. Measurement of the Bloch–Siegert shift revealed that the proton-decoupling field strength decreases during the first few scans of an acquisition. Reductions in the proton field strengths can exceed 10%, and they are explained by the heating of the RF coil circuitry which is caused by high-power proton decoupling. The extent of reduction in field amplitude is a function of the decoupling duty cycle. Losses in[formula]can be avoided by tuning the probe proton RF circuitry at the operating temperature of the probe, using the Bloch–Siegert shift as an optimization parameter.
Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction of the N-terminal calmodulin-like domain of the human mitochondrial ATP-Mg/Pi carrier SCaMC1

SCaMC is an ATP-Mg/Pi carrier protein located at the mitochondrial inner membrane. SCaMC has an unusual N-terminal Ca2+-binding domain (NTD) in addition to its characteristic six-helix transmembrane bundle. The NTD of human SCaMC1 (residues 1–193) was expressed and purified in order to study its role in Ca2+-regulated ATP-Mg/Pi transport mediated by its transmembrane domain. While Ca2+-bound NTD could be crystallized, the apo state resisted extensive crystallization trials. Selenomethionine-labeled Ca2+-bound NTD crystals, which belonged to space group P6222 with one molecule per asymmetric unit, diffracted X-rays to 2.9 A resolution.
Body fluid compartment changes following cardiopulmonary bypass in dogs

To investigate whether pulsatile perfusion affects postoperative edema, we examined weight, total body water (TBW), and extracellular fluid (ECF) following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in dogs using three different perfusion systems. Fourteen dogs were divided into three groups differing only in the perfusion system used: Sarns nonpulsatile and pulsatile roller pumps and a University of Texas pulsatile pump. Weight, TBW, and ECF were measured preoperatively and on postoperative days (POD) 1, 3, and 7. No significant differences were seen in body weight, TBW, or ECF between groups. Body TBW (percent of body weight) rose significantly (P=0.005) to 72% on POD 3 and 7. ECF (percent of body weight) rose to 58% by POD 7 (P=0.008). These three perfusion systems produced no differences in the pattern of postoperative body fluid distribution after CPB, suggesting that there is no advantage to pulsatile perfusion for the purpose of decreasing postoperative edema.
Ensemble-based characterization of uncertain environmental features

This paper considers the characterization of uncertain spatial features that cannot be observed directly but must be inferred from noisy measurements. Examples of interest in environmental applications include rainfall patterns, solute plumes, and geological features. We formulate the characterization process as a Bayesian sampling problem and solve it with a non-parametric version of importance sampling. All images are concisely described with a small number of image attributes. These are derived from a multidimensional scaling procedure that maps high dimensional vectors of image pixel values to much lower dimensional vectors of attribute values. The importance sampling procedure is carried out entirely in terms of attribute values. Posterior attribute probabilities are derived from non-parametric estimates of the attribute likelihood and proposal density. The likelihood is inferred from an archive of noisy operational images that are paired with more accurate ground truth images. Proposal samples are generated from a non-stationary multi-point statistical algorithm that uses training images to convey distinctive feature characteristics. To illustrate concepts we carry out a virtual experiment that identifies rainy areas on the Earth’s surface from either one or two remote sensing measurements. The two sensor case illustrates the method’s ability to merge measurements with different error properties. In both cases, the importance sampling procedure is able to identify the proposals that most closely resemble a specified true image.
Novel single shot scheme to measure submillimeter electron bunch lengths using electro-optic technique

A novel, single shot, nondestructive scheme to measure the bunch length of submillimeter relativistic electron bunches using the electro-optical method is described. In this scheme, the birefringence induced by the electric field of the electrons converts the temporal characteristics of the bunch to a spatial intensity distribution of an optical pulse. Electric field characteristics, induced birefringence, and retardation are calculated for a few typical electron beam parameters and criteria limiting the resolution are established.
Frequency domain inference for univariate impulse responses

Abstract Impulse response analysis is a major topic in applied econometrics where it is invariably conducted by fitting an autoregression to the time series being considered. This is not however the only approach that is available: it is also possible to estimate univariate impulse response coefficients in the frequency domain by smoothing the periodogram and then calculating the corresponding impulse response coefficients. In this paper, I compare the properties of these estimates with those obtained from estimating an autoregression. I also suggest forming confidence intervals for the impulse response coefficients using a frequency domain bootstrap and I evaluate the properties of these confidence intervals.
Estimating Gap Origin Probabilities for Canopy Trees

A method is presented for estimating the probability that existing canopy trees were growing in gaps during the sapling stage, given observed mean 5—yr radial growth rates starting at the point where the trees were 4 cm diameter at breast height (dbh). Required calibration data are frequency distributions of radial growth rate for existing saplings that are currently suppressed in the forest understory vs. those of saplings growing in gaps. Threshold growth rates for high confidence of gap origin are calculated in an iterative fashion using growth rate data and interpretation of radial increment patterns. The method is illustrated with data from sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) in mature and old northern hardwood forests of western Upper Michigan. The proportion of canopy trees that had been growing in gaps during the sapling stage ranged from 35—67% in different stands. This wide range suggests the adaptability of these two late—successional, shade—tolerant species to a...
New end-on thiolactone scaffold by an isocyanide-based multicomponent reaction

The three component reaction of homocysteine, an oxocomponent and an isocyanide smoothly and stereoselectively yields N-substituted 2-(2-oxotetrahydrothiophen-3-ylamino)acetamides. In this communication we present our preliminary results on six compounds derived from this unprecedented reaction.
Intrapartum fetal stimulation tests: a meta-analysis.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To assess the performance of stimulation tests for the prediction of intrapartum fetal acidemia. DATA SOURCES: We conducted a MEDLINE (Internet Grateful Med) literature review from 1966 to 2000 using the terms “fetal scalp pH,” “fetal scalp stimulation,” and “fetal acoustic stimulation.” STUDY SELECTION: Articles were included if sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values for intrapartum fetal acidemia could be calculated. Reactivity was a fetal heart rate (FHR) acceleration of 15 beats per minute for 15 seconds. Likelihood ratio and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for four different fetal provocations were calculated using the Cochrane collaboration 2000 Review Manager 4.1. This permitted an estimate of the degree of confidence surrounding the point estimate of the likelihood ratio for the presence or absence of acidemia given a positive or negative test. The likelihood ratio is a stable predictive property of any test because it combines information from both sensitivity and specificity, is independent of prevalence, and avoids the limitations of traditional predictive values. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS: Eleven of 512 articles met criteria for inclusion and included four stimulation tests — fetal scalp puncture, Allis clamp scalp stimulation, vibroacoustic stimulation, and digital scalp stimulation. Pooled likelihood ratio and 95% CIs were similar among the four different stimulation tests. Each test was very useful at predicting both the lack of and the presence of fetal acidemia. Likelihood ratio and 95% CIs for the prediction of fetal acidemia given a positive test were: scalp puncture 8.54 (CI 1.28, 56.96), Allis clamp 10.4 (CI 1.47, 73.61), vibroacoustic stimulation 5.06 (CI 2.69, 9.50), and digital 15.68 (CI 3.22, 76.24). For a negative test, these were: scalp puncture 0.12 (CI 0.02, 0.78), Allis clamp 0.10 (CI 0.01, 0.68), vibroacoustic stimulation 0.20 (CI 0.11, 0.37), and digital 0.06 (CI 0.01, 0.31). CONCLUSION: Intrapartum stimulation tests appear to be useful to rule out fetal acidemia in the setting of a nonreassuring FHR pattern. Our data reveal the degree of confidence around the estimate of the likelihood ratio of a stimulation test. The very low negative likelihood ratios warrant the use of these tests when a nonreassuring intrapartum FHR pattern appears. Because these tests are less than perfect, caution is advised; careful continued monitoring with repeat testing during the course of labor should be performed as long as suspicious FHR patterns persist. Fetal scalp pH should be determined whenever possible after a positive stimulation test (lack of acceleration).
Differential Regulation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Nuclear Factor kappa-B by G α q-coupled and Cytokine Receptors

NF kappaB has been implicated as a downstream effector of G alphaq-coupled receptor signaling, but whether these and cytokine receptors activate NF kappaB similarly remains unclear. Stimulation of rat vascular smooth muscle cell G alphaq-coupled P2Y nucleotide receptors with UTP induces luciferase transcription from a sensitive and specific NF kappaB dependent promoter. However, these responses are only;15% of that to the reference cytokine IL-1 beta. IL-1 beta is a powerful stimulator of I kappaB alpha degradation, RelA nuclear import, and isoform specific NF kappaB enhancer binding in vitro, responses that are not detectable after P2Y receptor stimulation. Expression of two trans -dominant NF kappaB polypeptides suppresses induction of the NF kappaB reporter and also IL-1 beta stimulated monocyte chemoattractant-1 mRNA, which is not induced by UTP. In contrast, UTP induces higher expression of the endogenous COX-2 and IL-6 mRNAs than does IL-1 beta, implying that G alphaq-coupled receptor evokes additional NF kappaB-independent transcription factors in regulating these two genes. P2Y receptors are as effective as the reference growth factor PDGF-BB at inducing CREB, AP-1, SRE and NFAT transcription, which are largely unaffected by IL-1 beta treatment. NF kappaB is less efficiently activated then several other transcriptional effectors of G alphaq-coupled receptor signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells, and is instead preferentially activated by inflammatory cytokines.
WebFeat: managing a complex Web design project in an academic environment

WebFeat was a World Wide Web site design project undertaken on behalf of six units (five departments and an administrative office) in the College of Engineering at the University of Washington. The effort was undertaken by seven student/faculty/staff teams: six teams supporting the six participating units and a seventh "core" team to provide design and technical guidance for the overall effort. The management of this project required innovative coordination and communication strategies. However, the success of the project derived as much from conventional as from innovative project management features. The four main success factors for the project, beyond the plain excellence of the students taking part, were the sharing of physical office space, the use of face-to-face meetings, the use of online/paper tracking and reporting tools and the use of team-building e-mails.
Short- and long-term soy diet versus casein protects liver steatosis independent of the Arginine content

Abstract Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a major cause of abnormal liver function, is often associated with obesity. Arginine (ARG) plays a role in modulating body weight/fat, but limited data exist as to the role of ARG in soy protein's ability to protect from liver steatosis. We investigated the role of native ARG in the soy protein isolate (SPI) in reducing liver steatosis in male obese Zucker rats. Rats (N=48; 6 weeks old) were randomly assigned to one of three diets for 8 or 16 weeks: the casein (CAS) diet as control (0.6% ARG), CAS diet supplemented to contain 1.3% ARG, or an SPI diet containing isoflavones (1.3% ARG). SPI and ARG rats gained significantly more weight (P<.05) than CAS rats after 16 weeks only. The SPI rats had lower liver steatosis scores after 8 and 16 weeks (P<.05 and P<.001, respectively) compared to CAS and ARG rats. SPI rats had lower serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels (P<.05) compared to CAS after 16 weeks, and AST was lower (P<....
Linear anti-glomerular basement membrane IgG but no glomerular disease: Goodpasture's syndrome restricted to the lung.

C.V. is a 22-year-old woman, who presented to the emergency room (ER) with shortness of breath, coughing and frank haemoptysis. She had been seen in the ER twice over the previous 3 weeks for similar symptoms, but with only mild blood-tinged sputum. Chest X-ray showed bilateral infiltrates. She was treated with Zithromax and subsequently Biaxin for a presumed pneumonia. There was no history of fevers, chills or weight loss. However, the haemoptysis persisted with increasing shortness of breath, forcing her back to the ER. Her history was significant in that she is a smoker and works as a bartender in a smoky restaurant. Laboratory investigations at admission: haemoglobin 10 gm/dl, platelet count 309 10/ml, sodium 138mEq/l, potassium 3.8mEq/l, serum creatinine 0.7mg/dl, blood urea nitrogen 11mg/dl, total bilirubin 1.5mg/dl, PCO2 34, PO2 48. Urinalysis was unremarkable. Chest X-rays showed worse diffuse alveolar infiltrates compared with the previous X-rays. The clinical diagnosis was that of acute interstitial lung disease with haemoptysis and included a differential diagnosis Wegner’s granulomatosis, lupus, sarcoidosis, pneumonitis, Goodpasture’s disease, etc. Titres for anti-GBM antibodies returned high positive (>32U/ml, normal <3U/ml). Remaining serological tests were negative. A renal biopsy was done to confirm Goodpasture’s disease and to document whether renal disease was present or not.
Contemporary outcomes of surgery for aortic root aneurysms: A propensity-matched comparison of valve-sparing and composite valve graft replacement.

Abstract Objective The study objective was to give an overview of the current state of the art of the surgical treatment of aortic root pathologies in a high-volume center. Methods From May 1997 to January 2014, aortic root replacement was performed in 890 consecutive patients; 289 received a mechanical composite valved graft, 421 received a biologic composite valved graft, and 180 received a valve-sparing reconstruction. Propensity matching analysis was used to neutralize the differences in baseline characteristics between patients assigned to the different procedures. Results Operative mortality was 0.2% (0% in the valve-sparing reconstruction group); the incidence of major postoperative complications was less than 0.5%. Predictors of adverse in-hospital outcome were age, nonelective operation, renal status, reoperation, New York Heart Association class, ejection fraction, and concomitant procedures. Five-year survival was 89.4%. Previous myocardial infarction, preoperative renal status, redo operation, and concomitant procedures were significantly associated with follow-up death. In the propensity-matched groups, the type of operation performed did not affect in-hospital and late outcome. Aortic reintervention rates at 5 years were 0% for the mechanical composite valved graft group, 2.4% for the biologic composite valved graft group, and 7.3% for the valve-sparing reconstruction series. Conclusions In the current era, aortic root replacement can be performed with low perioperative risk in high-volume aortic centers. The type of operation performed does not affect early or late survival. Although the mechanical composite valved graft remains the gold standard for durability, the biologic composite valved graft and valve-sparing reconstruction are excellent options for those who cannot take or want to avoid long-term anticoagulation.
Golimumab: A Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Inhibitor for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

OBJECTIVETo review the pharmacologic, pharmacokinetic, efficacy, and safety data of golimumab, an anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) monoclonal antibody.DATA SOURCESA search of MEDLINE (1950-September 2009) was performed to identify any published clinical trials or review articles pertaining to golimumab. Key search terms included golimumab, rheumatoid arthritis, CNTO 148, and anti-TNF-α inhibitors. Bibliographies of selected articles were reviewed to identify other relevant citations. Abstracts from national and international meetings and information from the manufacturer were also reviewed.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTIONAll available published articles and abstracts describing golimumab's pharmacologic or pharmacokinetic profile, efficacy, and safety were included.DATA SYNTHESISGolimumab is a fully humanized TNF-α monoclonal antibody that is specific for human TNF-α. Trials have investigated the use of golimumab in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are on methotrexate, are methot...
Loss of total and visceral adipose tissue mass predicts decreases in oxidative stress after weight-loss surgery.

It is not known whether there are mechanisms linking adipose tissue mass and increased oxidative stress in obesity. This study investigated associations between decreasing general and abdominal fat depots and oxidative stress during weight loss. Subjects were severely obese women who were measured serially at baseline and at 1, 6 (n = 30), and 24 months (n = 18) after bariatric surgery. Total fat mass (FAT) and volumes of visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue (SAT) were related to plasma concentrations of derivatives of reactive oxidative metabolites (dROMS), a measure of lipid peroxides and oxidative stress. After intervention, BMI significantly decreased, from 47.7 ± 0.8 kg/m2 to 43.3 ± 0.8 kg/m2 (1 month), 35.2 ± 0.8 kg/m2 (6 months), and 30.2 ± 1.2 kg/m2 (24 months). Plasma dROMS also significantly deceased over time. At baseline, VAT (r = 0.46), FAT (r = 0.42), and BMI (r = 0.37) correlated with 6-month decreases in dROMS. Similarly, at 1 month, VAT (r = 0.43) and FAT (r = 0.41) correlated with 6-month decreases in dROMS. Multiple regression analysis showed that relationships between VAT and dROMS were significant after adjusting for FAT mass. Increased plasma dROMS at baseline were correlated with decreased concentrations of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) at 1 and 6 months after surgery (r = −0.38 and −0.42). This study found longitudinal associations between general, and more specifically intra-abdominal adiposity, and systemic lipid peroxides, suggesting that adipose tissue mass contributes to oxidative stress.
Y-family DNA polymerases in Escherichia coli

The observation that mutations in the Escherichia coli genes umuC + and umuD + abolish mutagenesis induced by UV light strongly supported the counterintuitive notion that such mutagenesis is an active rather than passive process. Genetic and biochemical studies have revealed that umuC + and its homolog dinB + encode novel DNA polymerases with the ability to catalyze synthesis past DNA lesions that otherwise stall replication – a process termed translesion synthesis (TLS). Similar polymerases have been identified in nearly all organisms, constituting a new enzyme superfamily. Although typically viewed as unfaithful copiers of DNA, recent studies suggest that certain TLS polymerases can perform proficient and moderately accurate bypass of particular types of DNA damage. Moreover, various cellular factors can modulate their activity and mutagenic potential.
SYNTHESIS OF A NONAPEPTIDE SEQUENCE (A11-A19) OF RUBREDOXIN.

A synthesis is described for the protected N-terminal nonapeptide (A11-A 19) fragment of rubredoxin, methyl Na-benzyloxycarbonyl-O-t-butyl-L-tyrosyl-L-isoleucyl-O-t-butyl-L-tyrosyl-L-t-butyl-L-aspartyl-L-prolyl-L-alanyl-L-leucyl-L-valyl-glycinate.
Tropical climate influences on drought variability over Java, Indonesia

of these indices provides significant predictive skill (ar 2 = 0.50). Both the DMI and EQWIN correlate strongly with Java droughts (r = 0.71 and 0.66, respectively), but weakly with wet events (r = 0.21 and 0.18, respectively), while
The onconeural antigen Nova-1 is a neuron-specific RNA-binding protein, the activity of which is inhibited by paraneoplastic antibodies

Nova-1, a protein expressed in tumors and neurons, is a target antigen in a human paraneoplastic motor disorder [paraneoplastic opsoclonus-myoclonus ataxia (POMA)]. We evaluated the relationship between the function of Nova-1 and its role as a disease antigen. We show that Nova-1 is a neuron-specific RNA-binding protein with sequence and functional similarities to FMR-1. Nova-1 mRNA is restricted to the subcortical nervous system, and the protein binds to RNA with high affinity. Nova-1 KH domains mediate this RNA binding, and point mutations within them abrogate binding. POMA disease antisera (6/6) recognize the third KH domain but not an inactive point mutant, and affinity-purified antibody blocks Nova-1 RNA binding. Thus, a cardinal feature of POMA is the production of antibodies that inhibit Nova-1-RNA interactions, suggesting such inhibition may cause the neurological disease.
Cellular Arrays for Large-Scale Analysis of Transcription Factor Activity

Identifying molecular mechanisms or therapeutic targets is typically based on large-scale cellular analysis that measures the abundance of mRNA or protein; however, abundance does not necessarily correlate with activity. We report a method for direct large-scale quantification of active pathways that employs a cellular array with parallel gene delivery of constructs that report pathway activity. The reporter constructs encode luciferase, whose expression is influenced by binding of transcription factors (TFs), which are the downstream targets of signaling pathways. Luciferase levels are quantified by bioluminescence imaging (BLI), which allows for rapid, non-invasive measurements. Activity profiles by BLI of 32 TFs were robust, consistent, and reproducible, and correlated with standard cell lysis techniques. The array identified five TFs with differential activity during phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA)-induced differentiation of breast cancer cells. A system for rapid, large-scale, BLI quantification of pathway activity provides an enabling technology for mechanistic studies of cellular responses and processes.
Numerical dominance of a group of marine bacteria in the alpha-subclass of the class Proteobacteria in coastal seawater

A cluster of marine bacteria within the alpha-3 subclass of the class Proteobacteria accounted for up to 28% of the 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences in seawater samples from the coast of the southeastern United States. Two independent oligonucleotide probes targeting 16S rDNA of this "marine alpha" cluster indicate that the group dominates bacterioplankton communities in estuarine and nearshore regions of the southeastern U.S. coast. Marine alpha bacteria decline predictably in abundance with decreasing salinity along estuarine transsects and are not detectable in low-salinity (5%) or freshwater samples. Sequences of 16S rDNA obtained from seawater by PCR with one group-specific oligonucleotide as a primer confirm that the oligonucleotide targets only members of this phylogenetic cluster. Likewise, sequences of 16S rDNA obtained from seawater by PCR with several different pairs of nonspecific primers show an unusually high abundance of marine alpha sequences (52 to 84%) among the clones, which possibly indicates a PCR bias toward the group. Members of the marine alpha group were readily cultured from coastal seawater, accounting for 40% of the colonies isolated on low-nutrient marine agar, based on hybridizations with the group-specific 16S rDNA probe and on sequence analysis. This is the first description of a numerically dominant cluster of coastal bacteria, identified by molecular techniques, that can be readily cultured and studied in the laboratory.
Low power microsystems for brain computer interfaces

Neural interfaces convert brain signals into outputs that infer brain intentional states. As a communication channel it can be used to implement brain computer interfaces (BCIs) to aid subjects with severe motor disabilities. The realization of this emerging paradigm of neural prosthetics requires extremely low power, small, low noise, highly parallel and distributed signal acquisition hardware platforms with on-chip signal processing and energy efficient wireless data communication. This paper presents a brief overview of the hardware challenges and considerations in BCI systems.
Evaluation of the gamma interferon ELISA in sheep subclinically infected with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis using a whole-cell sonicate or a johnin purified-protein derivative.

The aim of the study reported here was to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the gamma interferon (IFN-c) ELISA for paratuberculosis in sheep using receiver-operating characteristic analysis. Bacteriologic culture of tissues was used to define the reference positive population (n 5 33). Two reference negative populations were used: culture-negative sheep from infected flocks (n 5 77), and sheep from noninfected flocks (n 5 358). We also evaluated the accuracy of 2 Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) antigen preparations, a whole-cell sonicate (MpS) and a johnin purified-protein derivative (PPDj). The source of the reference negative sheep used in the analysis affected overall accuracy of the IFN-c ELISA. The area under the curve was 0.683 (95% confidence interval 0.574-0.787), using culture- negative sheep from infected flocks, was 0.831 (0.764-0.889), using sheep from noninfected flocks for the MpS, and was 0.809 (0.726-0.881) and 0.897 (0.862-0.925) for the PPDj, respectively. Using the MpS, the cut point that classified the most sheep correctly was an optical density reading of 0.20, for sensitivity of 40.7% (19.4- 57.6) and specificity of 88.7% (77.0-95.7) or 97.6% (93.04-99.5), depending on the reference negative population used. Using the PPDj, the cut point that classified the most sheep correctly was 0.25 for sensitivity of 66.7% (47.2-82.7) and specificity of 93.5% (85.5-97.9) or 98.3% (96.4-99.4), respectively. The PPDj was more accurate at identifying MAP-infected sheep than was the MpS (P 5 0.034).
Mice genetically deficient in immunoglobulin E are more permissive hosts than wild-type mice to a primary, but not secondary, infection with the filarial nematode Brugia malayi.

Human lymphatic filariasis is caused by the parasitic nematodes Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori. Patients exhibit enhanced Th2-like responses, accompanied by Th1 nonresponsiveness and substantially elevated levels of the Th2-associated isotypes immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) and IgE (20, 22, 26, 37). Murine models of lymphatic filariasis have been used extensively to dissect the mammalian response to these nematodes. Immunocompetent mice on several backgrounds are able to clear an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of B. malayi prior to the onset of patency, providing an excellent example of a successful mammalian host response to a human-infective parasite. Like human infections, murine infections with B. malayi and its close relative Brugia pahangi are characterized by an increase in the amount of circulating parasite-specific and nonspecific IgE as well as IgG1, the murine counterpart to human IgG4 (2, 29). As of yet, a definitive role has not been established for these antibodies in control of infection. IgE binds preferentially to the high-affinity FcɛRI, which is expressed on mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils in humans and on mast cells in the mouse. Cross-linking of bound IgE by antigen leads to activation, cytokine production, and degranulation in these target cells (6, 15, 19). IgE has been implicated in the expulsion of nematode parasites from the gut and respiratory tract, in part by enhancement of eosinophil cytotoxic activities in an antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity mechanism (4, 18, 30). In vitro data also suggest a role for IgE-mediated killing of helminths (3). Despite a presumed role for IgE in parasitic infections, neutralization of IgE in vivo has not been shown to dramatically affect parasite expulsion. Similarly, in a mouse model of murine filariasis, in vivo neutralization of IgE was found to have no effect on worm clearance abilities (35). The inability to determine the degree of removal of cytophilic IgE is a limitation of this approach. To circumvent this caveat, we have utilized mice with an isolated null mutation of the Cɛ gene encoding the IgE heavy chain constant region domains. These mice failed to produce detectable IgE or ɛ mRNA following lipopolysaccharide stimulation of B cells (24). Here we revisit the question of in vivo significance of IgE production in host protection against a primary infection with Brugia. In addition, we investigate for the first time a role for IgE in the accelerated clearance seen upon challenge infection.
Dermatologic surgical implications of allergic contact dermatitis.

Background. Dermatologic surgery is a common practice among dermatologists; consequently, there is an increased number of exposures to potential contact allergens in the surgical setting. Objective. The purpose of this article is to alert the clinician to the most common allergens associated with the use of surgical products. Conclusions. Increased awareness will lead to early diagnosis and allergen avoidance.
Operations and Maintenance in Buildings Containing Asbestos: Where Do We Go from Here?

Abstract The Workshop on Operations and Maintenance (OM (2) means of extending OM and (3) optimal techniques in terms of cost and efficacy.