cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Paleobiology and taphonomy of exceptionally preserved organisms from the Waukesha Biota (Silurian), Wisconsin, USA

Abstract The Silurian (Llandovery, Telychian) Waukesha Lagerstatte in the Brandon Bridge Formation of Wisconsin, USA, is preserved in a dolomitic plattenkalk representing deposition in a shallow-water sediment trap on a carbonate platform. Renewed study of the deposit demonstrates biodiversity far richer than previously reported and includes both biomineralizing and non-biomineralizing organisms. At present, remains of at least 12 animal phyla are known, in addition to algae and microorganisms. Of these, remains of cnidarians, brachiopods, mollusks and echinoderms were previously unknown from this deposit. The macrobiota is dominated by trilobites, graptolites, conulariids, non-biomineralizing arthropods (some of which were previously unreported), and some worms (palaeoscolecids and annelids). New abundant evidence of microbial mats and associated microbial structures indicates a thriving microorganismal community. Evidence, including remnants of preserved microbes on macrofossils, demonstrates that microbial processes played a leading role in both burial and preservation of non-biomineralizing tissues. This process, referred to as microbial entombment, is a biologically mediated sedimentary process by which organic remains are entombed within a microbial mat.
The Low Medial Horizontal Osteotomy in Patients With Atypical Ramus Morphology Undergoing Sagittal Split Osteotomy.

Purpose Sagittal split osteotomy (SSO) of rami with fused cortices or minimal marrow space above the lingula can increase the risk of an unfavorable osteotomy split of the proximal ramus. To reduce the risk of a proximal segment fracture, a recent modification of the SSO places the medial horizontal osteotomy below the lingula. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the outcomes of SSOs utilizing a low medial horizontal osteotomy in patients with atypical ramus morphologies. Patients and Methods The present study was a prospective series composed of patients with atypical proximal ramus anatomy undergoing SSOs. All patients had undergone bilateral SSO for correction of mandibular deformities. The horizontal ramus osteotomy had been placed at or slightly above the mandibular occlusal plane because of atypical ramus morphology (thin ramus with no appreciable marrow space at or above the lingula and/or narrow retromolar ramus width). The outcome variables were an unfavorable split of the proximal or distal segments, nerve location after SSO (proximal or distal segment), and neurosensory recovery of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). Results The sample included 25 patients who had undergone 50 SSOs using a low medial horizontal osteotomy. Their mean age was 19.6 ± 3.2 years; 14 patients were female. Of the 25 patients, 22 had a primary diagnosis of craniofacial anomaly; 23 had undergone bimaxillary surgery and 6 had received concomitant genioplasty. No unfavorable fractures of the proximal segment occurred. No intraoperative IAN injuries occurred. The IAN was contained within the proximal segment in 52% of the cases. All the patients achieved functional sensory recovery of the IAN bilaterally by 1 year postoperatively. The mean interval to functional sensory recovery was 116 days. Conclusions The low medial horizontal osteotomy is an effective technique for reliable execution of SSOs in morphologically atypical mandibles.
The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology reduces atypia rates and does not alter the negative predictive value of urine cytology

Introduction The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology (TPS) was developed for standardization purposes and it placed an emphasis on screening for high-grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC). Since then, it has shown to reduce atypia rates and better correlate with surgical specimens. The aim of this study was to calculate the negative predictive value (NPV) of urinary cytology for detecting HGUC using TPS and compare these data to our recently published pre-TPS cohort. As a screening test, it is imperative that TPS has a high NPV. Material and methods A search of our institution's pathology database for the term “negative for HGUC” from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017, was conducted. A true negative was defined as a patient with at least 1 subsequent negative urine cytology/surgical biopsy specimen or the patient being clinically negative for 6 months. NPV rates were calculated based on the data obtained. Results The cohort consisted of 2960 urine cytology specimens from 1894 patients. A total of 99 false negatives were identified, generating a NPV of 96.7% (2861/2960). This NPV is identical to our previously published pre-TPS cohort (years 2012-2013; NPV: 96.7%). The clinical indication most effected NPV, with a history of urothelial carcinoma with a NPV of 93.9% followed by hematuria at 98.9%. The atypia rate in years 2012-2013 was 8.2% and in 2016-2017 it was 5.7% (P Conclusions We demonstrate that TPS did not alter the NPV for detecting HGUC compared to our pre-TPS cohort. We believe that TPS is an effective reporting system for screening HGUC in urinary cytology.
Biomechanical Comparison of Tendon Coaptation Methods With a Meshed Suture Construct.

Purpose Tendon-to-tendon attachment constructs for tendon reconstructions or transfers need to be secure in order to allow early mobilization after surgery. The purpose of this study was to biomechanically compare 2 common constructs secured with a novel mesh suture versus a nonabsorbable braided suture. Methods We used 100 cadaveric tendons to create 5 different tendon coaptation constructs (a to e) (10 coaptations per group): (a) Pulvertaft weave with a braided suture (PTe); (b) mesh suture (PTm); (c) single-pass, side-to-side (SP-STS) coaptation with 30-mm overlap using a mesh suture (SP-STS-30m); (d) SP-STS 50-mm overlap with a mesh suture (SP-STS-50m); and (e) SP-STS with 30-mm tendon overlap using a braided suture (SP-STS-30e). The tensile strength, bulk, gliding resistance, and failure type were compared. Results There was no difference between the various tendon constructs and the suture type in terms of coaptation bulk. All SP-STS constructs with mesh suture had higher peak gliding resistance than any of the PT constructs regardless of suture type. Compared with the PT constructs, the SP-STS constructs with mesh or braided suture had a higher peak load, peak load normalized to repair length, and stiffness. Within each tendon coaptation construct group, Pulvertaft or SP-STS, the suture type did not affect any of the investigated parameters. Conclusions The SP-STS constructs are significantly stronger and stiffer than the PT constructs. The SP-STS with mesh suture exhibited greater gliding resistance than the PT constructs and may result in greater gliding resistance through physiological tissue planes. However, the use of a mesh suture did not affect strength, bulk, gliding resistance, or failure type when compared within a construct group. Clinical relevance The use of SP-STS constructs for tendon coaptations produces a stronger and stiffer construct than the PT weave; however, the use of a mesh suture may not provide any benefit over a braided suture.
iPSCs and cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease

Abstract Parkinson’s disease is a common degenerative disorder of the brain for which the cellular basis is in large part the loss of dopaminergic neurons from the midbrain, making it an attractive target for cell replacement therapy. Available medical and surgical treatments have significant drawbacks, further encouraging such efforts. Attempts to achieve this with various sources of dopaminergic and catecholaminergic tissue have been undertaken over several decades, and the use of human fetal midbrain, although associated with numerous problems, has suggested the possibility of significant benefit from cell replacement therapy. iPSC technology has now provided a possible solution to many of these problems. We present the history of cell replacement therapy for Parkinson’s disease and the various current methods and strategies to create, differentiate and develop iPSC as a clinically applicable therapeutic option for both autologous and allogeneic use.
Plasma gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in trauma-exposed women: a preliminary report

Aberrations in the stress response are associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom development, maintenance, and severity. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, may play a key role in stress recovery. In this preliminary study, we examined whether plasma GABA levels differed between women with PTSD and trauma-exposed healthy controls. Thirty participants provided plasma samples during two phases of the menstrual cycle: the early follicular phase and the mid-luteal phase. During each phase, blood was drawn after 45 min of rest, and after mild and moderately stressful psychophysiological tasks. Plasma GABA levels were measured using HPLC-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In analyses using PTSD diagnosis as a categorical group variable, women with and without a diagnosis of PTSD did not differ in plasma GABA levels (ps > .18). However, in analyses examining PTSD symptom severity as a continuous variable, there was a trend-level positive association between more severe PTSD symptoms and higher plasma GABA levels across the four blood draws (p = .06). In analyses examining DSM-IV PTSD symptom clusters separately, dysphoria symptoms were positively and significantly associated with plasma GABA levels (p = .03). Similarly, there was a trend-level positive association between avoidance cluster symptoms and plasma GABA levels (p = .06). Plasma GABA levels were not modulated by experimentally induced stress or menstrual cycle phase. Dysregulation in GABA may be a neurobiological marker and/or potential treatment target for women with PTSD symptom profiles characterized by prominent dysphoria and avoidance cluster symptoms.
The relationship between coronary microvascular dysfunction, atrial fibrillation and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

OBJECTIVE Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is a new frontier in cardiovascular disease and an important contributor to myocardial ischemia. A high prevalence of CMD is shown in heart failure, however, the cause-and-effect relationship between CMD and atrial fibrillation (AF) is unknown. We hypothesize that CMD is associated with AF and increases susceptibility to the co-existence of AF and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). METHODS Our study examined the relationship between CMD, AF, and HFpEF in all patients who underwent invasive coronary physiology studies for assessment of chest pain or dyspnea. CMD was defined as impaired coronary flow reserve (CFR) without obstructive coronary disease. RESULTS A total of 80 patients (mean age 60±12 years, 68.8% female, median follow up of 2.2 years) were studied. Patients with AF (61%) or HFpEF (62%), or both (71%) were more likely to have CMD than those patients without these conditions. Of the patients with AF and abnormal CFR, 91% had HFpEF. CMD was a predictor of AF with concomitant HFpEF (OR 4.38, P=0.02). Our clinical outcome analysis demonstrated that patients with CMD, AF or HFpEF had lower survival free of HF hospitalization than those patients without (P<0.05). AF (OR 5.5, P=0.02), diabetes, older age, female gender, and higher heart rate were predictors of CMD. CONCLUSION CMD is highly prevalent in patients with AF with or without HFpEF. CMD is associated with poor clinical outcomes and the co-existence of AF and HFpEF. Understanding of the association between CMD and AF is important for developing an effective treatment strategy and the risk stratification for the prevention of AF in patients with CMD and vice versa.
Spectral analysis of the sleep electroencephalogram during adolescence.

OBJECTIVES To describe developmental changes of the human sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) during adolescence using EEG spectral analysis and specifically to compare the nocturnal dynamics of slow-wave activity (EEG spectral power 0.6-4.6 Hz, a marker for sleep homeostatic pressure) in prepubertal and mature adolescents. DESIGN After 10 nights on a fixed 10-hour sleep schedule without daytime naps, participants were studied during a 10-hour baseline night. SETTING Data were collected in a 4-bed sleep research laboratory. PARTICIPANTS Eight prepubertal children (pubertal stage Tanner 1; mean age 11.3 years, SD +/- 1.2, 4 boys) and 8 mature adolescents (Tanner 5; mean age 14.1 years, +/- 1.3, 3 boys). INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MEASUREMENTS All-night polysomnography was performed. Sleep stages were scored according to conventional criteria. EEG power spectra (of derivation C3/A2) were calculated using a fast Fourier transform routine. RESULTS A reduction of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep stage 4 (by 40.1%) and greater amounts of stage 2 sleep (19.7%) were found in mature compared to prepubertal adolescents. NREM sleep EEG power was lower in the frequency ranges < 7 Hz, 11.8 to 12.6 Hz, and 16.2 to 16.8 Hz in mature adolescents. A reduction of rapid eye movement sleep spectral power was present in the frequency ranges < 8.6 Hz and 9.6 to 15 Hz for mature compared to prepubertal adolescents. Slow-wave activity showed identical dynamics within individual NREM sleep episodes and across the night in both developmental groups. CONCLUSIONS The homeostatic recuperative drive during sleep remains unchanged across puberty. The decline of slow-wave sleep during adolescence may reflect developmental changes of the brain rather than changes of sleep regulatory processes.
A proposal for a UPC memory consistency model, v1.0

The memory consistency model in a language defines the order in which the results of write operations maybe observed through read operations. The behavior of a UPC program may depend on the timing of accesses to shared variables, so a program defines a set of possible executions, rather than a single execution. The memory consistency model constrains the set of possible executions for a given program; the user may then rely on properties that are true of all of those executions. The memory consistency model is defined in terms of the read and write operations issued by each thread in naive translation of the code, i.e., without any code transformations by the compiler, with each thread issuing operations as defined by the abstract machine defined in ISO C 5.1.2.3. A UPC compiler or run time system may perform various code transformations to improve performance, so long as they are not visible to the programmer - i.e., provided the set of externally-visible behaviors (the input/output dynamics and volatile behavior defined in ISO C 5.1.2.3) from any execution of the transformed program are identical to those of the original program executing on the abstract machine and adhering to the consistency model definedmore » in this document.« less
Central Chemoreceptors: Locations and Functions

Central chemoreception traditionally refers to a change in ventilation attributable to changes in CO2/H(+) detected within the brain. Interest in central chemoreception has grown substantially since the previous Handbook of Physiology published in 1986. Initially, central chemoreception was localized to areas on the ventral medullary surface, a hypothesis complemented by the recent identification of neurons with specific phenotypes near one of these areas as putative chemoreceptor cells. However, there is substantial evidence that many sites participate in central chemoreception some located at a distance from the ventral medulla. Functionally, central chemoreception, via the sensing of brain interstitial fluid H(+), serves to detect and integrate information on (i) alveolar ventilation (arterial PCO2), (ii) brain blood flow and metabolism, and (iii) acid-base balance, and, in response, can affect breathing, airway resistance, blood pressure (sympathetic tone), and arousal. In addition, central chemoreception provides a tonic "drive" (source of excitation) at the normal, baseline PCO2 level that maintains a degree of functional connectivity among brainstem respiratory neurons necessary to produce eupneic breathing. Central chemoreception responds to small variations in PCO2 to regulate normal gas exchange and to large changes in PCO2 to minimize acid-base changes. Central chemoreceptor sites vary in function with sex and with development. From an evolutionary perspective, central chemoreception grew out of the demands posed by air versus water breathing, homeothermy, sleep, optimization of the work of breathing with the "ideal" arterial PCO2, and the maintenance of the appropriate pH at 37°C for optimal protein structure and function.
Turnover of bacterial cell wall peptidoglycans.

Abstract The cell wall peptidoglycan of Lactobacillus acidophilus strain 63 AM Gasser has been shown to turn over rapidly during balanced exponential growth and recovery from amino acid deprivation. In contrast, turnover of either pulse-labeled or extensively labeled peptidoglycan of Streptococcus faecalis ATCC 9790 was not detected by the same method and experimental conditions. In S. faecalis, peptidoglycan turnover could not be induced either by brief exposure of the cells to a low concentration of lysozyme or by growth in the presence of a low concentration of penicillin. The peptidoglycan turnover rate of rapidly growing cultures of L. acidophilus was equivalent to a loss of about one third of their peptidoglycan per generation. This was not due to cellular lysis since turnover of protein was below detectable levels. Comparably rapid peptidoglycan turnover rates per generation were observed in slowly growing cultures (30% lost per generation) and in a mutant which autolyzed at about one fifth the rate of the wild type (25% lost per generation). In cultures labeled for 6 or more generations, turnover was preceded by a lag equivalent to 0.8 to 2 generation times. Turnover of pulses of less than 0.2 generations was not observed for periods exceeding 2 generations. These last two results cannot be interpreted as indicating that newly made wall is immune to turnover since in both cases nonsynchronized cultures were used, and the short pulses would eventually age as the culture grew. The addition of chloramphenicol or deprivation of valine completely prevented peptidoglycan turnover. The absence of detectable peptidoglycan turnover in S. faecalis (and other species) suggests that turnover is not an essential feature of cell wall growth. On the other hand, in L. acidophilus, peptidoglycan turnover appears to be closely associated with that portion of wall synthesis related to wall (and surface) enlargement and not to the portion related to wall thickening.
Differential Roles of the Src Homology 2 Domains of Phospholipase C-γ1 (PLC-γ1) in Platelet-derived Growth Factor-induced Activation of PLC-γ1 in Intact Cells

Upon stimulation of cells with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), phospholipase C-γ1 (PLC-γ1) binds to the tyrosine-phosphorylated PDGF receptor through one or both of its Src homology 2 (SH2) domains, is phosphorylated by the receptor kinase, and is thereby activated to hydrolyze phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate. Association of PLC-γ1 with the insoluble subcellular fraction is also enhanced in PDGF-stimulated cells. The individual roles of the two SH2 domains of PLC-γ1 in mediating the interaction between the enzyme and the PDGF receptor have now been investigated by functionally disabling each domain. A critical Arg residue in each SH2 domain was mutated to Ala. Both wild-type and mutant PLC-γ1 proteins were transiently expressed in a PLC-γ1-deficient fibroblast cell line, and these transfected cells were stimulated with PDGF. The mutant protein in which the COOH-terminal SH2 domain was disabled bound to the PDGF receptor. Accordingly, it was phosphorylated by the receptor, catalyzed the production of inositol phosphates, and mobilized intracellular calcium to extents similar to (but slightly less than) those observed with the wild-type enzyme. In contrast, the mutant in which the NH2-terminal SH2 domain was impaired did not bind to the PDGF receptor and consequently was neither phosphorylated nor activated. These results suggest that the NH2-terminal SH2 domain, but not the COOH-terminal SH2 domain, of PLC-γ1 is required for PDGF-induced activation of PLC-γ1. Functional impairment of the SH2 domains did not affect the PDGF-induced redistribution of PLC-γ1, suggesting that recruitment of PLC-γ1 to the particulate fraction does not involve the SH2 domains.
The Intersection of Climate Change and Clean Air Act Stationary Source Programs

This article deals with Clean Air Act (CAA) legal developments since mid-2010 relating to the control of greenhouse gases (GHGs). It briefly covers federal domestic legislative proposals and then focuses on the regulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) based on the Clean Air Act. It covers GHG reporting requirements, CO2 as a criteria pollutant, construction and operating permits, new source performance standards, hazardous pollutant standards, and interstate transport. It also covers the use of the CAA to prevent the construction and operation of coal-fired electric power plants by increasing the cost of generating electricity due to increasingly stringent air pollution control requirements imposed on traditional air pollutants. It concludes that because Congress appears incapable of developing an energy policy that protects both the environment and the economy, EPA will continue its efforts to use the CAA to make coal too expensive to burn.
High voltage atmospheric cold plasma treatment of fresh cantaloupe to improve safety and quality

Raw agricultural products naturally contain a diverse surface population of microbial organisms. Cantaloupes, like other agricultural products, rarely undergo antimicrobial treatment before reaching the consumer, and are most often consumed raw. Many consumers fail to wash this fruit prior to consumption, contributing to the recent outbreaks of foodborne illness (1). This, along with poor handling practices makes it a desirable model for decontamination treatments. The goal of this research was to evaluate High Voltage Atmospheric Cold Plasma (HVACP) treatment for the reduction of surface microbial load on fresh cantaloupe. HVACP is a novel in-package atmospheric cold plasma process developed at Purdue University by Keener et al. Previous research (2) has shown HVACP is effective at eliminating spores (>6 log 10 ), reducing microbial load (3–5 log 10 of E. coli O157:H7 on lettuce; Salmonella spp. on tomatoes and spinach (3)) while extending shelf life. It indirectly exposes packaged, sliced cantaloupe to a high voltage / low power (90 Kv / 200W) HVACP field for 180 seconds, followed by 24 hours of room temperature (21 C) storage. During the 24 hour storage the reactive gas species (RGS) generated during HVACP treatment slowly convert back to their more forms (O2 and N2). Measurements include microbial load analysis, oxygen, nitrous oxides, and ozone concentrations. Consequent analysis of the cantaloupe exocarp by BARDOT (BActerial Rapid Detection using Optical light scattering Technology), showed a 2–3 log 10 reduction in microbial load across treated samples and 74% reduction in microbial diversity. Results indicate that this HVACP process effectively reduces microbial populations on fresh, raw cantaloupe surfaces.
The Mott-Hubbard metal-insulator transition in the limit of large dimensions—Insights and outlook

The Mott-Hubbard metal-insulator transition is one of the classical and fundamental problems in solid-state physics. A new theoretical approach has become possible within the limit of large dimensions (dynamical mean field theory). Numerous analytical and numerical techniques have since addressed the question of the d=∞ Mott-Hubbard transition. However, the nature of this transition is still controversial. In this paper a brief account is presented of some of the recent results regarding the d=∞ Mott-Hubbard transition.
Ultrastructural study of endocytosis of Chlamydia trachomatis by McCoy cells.

Abstract The entry of Chlamydia trachomatis into McCoy cells (fibroblasts) was studied by transmission electron microscopy. On adsorption of elementary bodies (EBs) to host cells at 37 degrees C, the EBs were bound primarily to preexisting cell-surface microvilli. They were also observed in coated pits located at the bases of the microvilli and along smooth surfaces of the host cells and were internalized within coated vesicles at this temperature. Postembedding immunogold labeling on Lowicryl thin sections with anti-clathrin antibody as the primary reagent revealed the gold marker localized in pits and vesicles containing chlamydiae. Some EBs were present in smooth-surfaced invaginations at or near the bases of microvilli and in vesicles devoid of distinguishable coat material. A similar entry process was observed with centrifugation-assisted inoculation of EBs onto the McCoy cells. Individual EBs were initially internalized into tightly bound endocytic vesicles. However, within 1 to 3 h postinfection, multiple C. trachomatis EBs were observed in large, loosely bound vesicles. Evidence suggests that vesicles containing C. trachomatis may have fused with one another early in the infectious process. These results indicate that chlamydiae can exploit the specific process of adsorptive endocytosis for entry into host cells and for translocation to a given intracellular destination, which may be different for each species.
Thy-1 as a regulator of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions in axon regeneration, apoptosis, adhesion, migration, cancer, and fibrosis

Thy-1 (CD90) is a 25-37 kDa glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) -anchored glycoprotein expressed on many cell types, including T cells, thymocytes, neurons, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts. Activation of Thy-1 can promote T cell activation, and this role of Thy-1 is reviewed elsewhere. Thy-1 also affects numerous nonimmunologic biological processes, including cellular adhesion, neurite outgrowth, tumor growth, migration, and cell death. In reviewing the nonimmunologic functions of Thy-1, we discuss the phenotype of the Thy-1 null mouse, signaling pathways modulated by Thy-1, the role of the GPI anchor in Thy-1 localization to lipid rafts and signaling, and regulation of Thy-1 expression. Thy-1 is an important regulator of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, with important roles in nerve regeneration, metastasis, inflammation, and fibrosis.
Perturbation of Leukocyte Function-Associated Antigen-1/Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 Results in Differential Outcomes in Cardiac Vs Islet Allograft Survival

Background Various studies indicate the requirements for tolerance induction may vary between different transplanted tissues and organs. Consequently, we compared the efficacy of anti-leukocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1)/anti-intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) monoclonal antibody therapy for facilitating cardiac vs islet long-term allograft acceptance in mice. Methods BALB/c (H-2 d ) mouse cardiac or islet allografts were transplanted into recipient CBA/J (H-2 k ) mice. Monoclonal anti-body therapy with anti-LFA-1, anti-ICAM-1, the combination, or control rat immunoglobulin (Ig) was administered intraperitoneally on Days 0 to 5. Cardiac allograft function was assessed by palpation and islet graft function by blood glucose monitoring. Mixed lymphocyte assays were performed to assess proliferation of CD4 and CD8 T-cells under conditions of stimulator-cell ICAM-1 and/or LFA-1 deficiency. Results Anti-ICAM-1 therapy resulted in a modest prolongation of cardiac allografts but in pronounced survival of islet allografts. Anti-LFA-1 therapy promoted significant long-term survival of both cardiac and islet allografts. Surprisingly, combined anti-LFA-1/anti-ICAM-1 therapy abrogated long-term islet, but not cardiac, allograft acceptance relative to either monotherapy. Mixed lymphocyte reactions demonstrated complete blockade of CD4 and CD8 T-cell proliferation under conditions of ICAM-1 deficiency alone or in combination with anti-LFA-1 therapy. Conclusion These results indicate that optimal therapies for some allografts (vascularized-heart) may not translate to other types of allografts (cellular-islet). Thus, the type of transplant represents an independent variable for optimizing strategies to promote indefinite allograft acceptance. Complete inhibition of CD4 and CD8 T-cell proliferation during ICAM-1/LFA-1 blockade suggests a threshold signal may be dependent upon ICAM-1/LFA-1 for regulatory tolerance to occur and that this signal may be lost under conditions of minimal graft cellular mass.
Exchange transfusion for Reye's syndrome

Abstract Eight of 9 patients treated with exchange transfusion for profound Reye's Syndrome responded dramatically and are alive and well. Use of blood components, consisting of saline-washed red blood cells and fresh-frozen plasma, provides more efficient use of available resources and more rapid availability for patients with progressive deterioration. Our limited experience with peritoneal dialysis suggests that exchange transfusion is more efficient.
Survey of Artificial Intelligence Methods for Detection and Identification of Component Faults in Nuclear Power Plants

A comprehensive survey of computer-based systems that apply artificial intelligence methods to detect and identify component faults in nuclear power plants is presented. Classification criteria are established that categorize artificial intelligence diagnostic systems according to the types of computing approaches used (e.g., computing tools, computer languages, and shell and simulation programs), the types of methodologies employed (e.g., types of knowledge, reasoning and inference mechanisms, and diagnostic approach), and the scope of the system. The major issues of process diagnostics and computer-based diagnostic systems are identified and cross-correlated with the various categories used for classification. Ninety-five publications are reviewed.
Incremental compliance and resistance of contacts and contact clusters: Implications of the cross-property connection

Abstract Cross-property connection for a rough interface – that relates its normal incremental compliance to its resistance – allows one to transfer knowledge available in one of the two fields to the other one. This yields results that do not seem to have been discussed earlier. We consider (1) clusters of microcontacts, and implications of available results for resistances of clusters to their elastic compliances, and (2) implications of results for rigid indenters of various shapes pressed against elastic half-space for resistances of these shapes. We also extend the cross-property connection to the shear compliance of contact clusters.
Echo counting and echo integration with a sector scanning sonar

Abstract An investigation is described of the possible application of sector scanning sonar for measuring the spatial density of marine organisms. The two assessment techniques investigated are called echo counting and echo integration. These techniques have been used extensively with single transducer echo sounding equipment for fisheries assessment. One of the main limitations of single transducer assessment systems is that they cannot provide both high resolution and good volume coverage. However, an acoustic assessment system in which a sector scanning sonar is used can provide both. The problems of implementing the two assessment techniques when using a scanning sonar are discussed. The performance of the techniques is evaluated by calculating the normalized rms error in the estimate of spatial density they provide. It is shown that, under certain conditions, the sector scanning assessment will system provide an estimate with a significaantly smaller error than that obtained with a conventional single transducer system.
The effect of adrenalectomy on zinc thionein levels in rat liver.

Abstract The concentrations of zinc thionein and cytosolic zinc in rat liver were examined in male rats five days after bilateral adrenalectomy. Zinc in metallothionein increased 10 fold, as compared with control animals. Cytosolic zinc increased 79% as compared with controls. 65% of this increase could be accounted for bound to metallothionein. Sham operated animals after five days showed a 4 fold increase in hepatic zinc thionein and a 23% increase in cytosolic zinc, 71% of this increase being bound to metallothionein. Adrenalectomized rats, maintained on daily injections of corticosterone (4mg/100g b.w.), exhibited the same levels of zinc thionein and cytosolic zinc as adrenalectomized rats receiving no treatment. Adrenalectomized rats, maintained on daily injections of aldosterone (5μg/100g b.w.), exhibited the same levels of zinc thionein as the sham operated rats, but the cytosolic zinc remained elevated at the level found in adrenalectomized rats receiving no treatment. These results indicate that there is adrenal involvement in the control of hepatic zinc and zinc thionein levels in the rat.
Nicotine patch therapy for smoking cessation in recovering alcoholics.

In a post hoc analysis of prior nicotine patch studies, we analysed findings in 357 subjects (43 recovering alcoholics, 314 non-alcoholics) to determine if recovering alcoholic smokers were more nicotine dependent than non-alcoholics and whether the efficacy of nicotine patch therapy was comparable. The Self-Administered Alcoholism Screening Test was used to identify recovering alcoholics. Recovering alcoholics had significantly higher mean smoking rates (cigarettes per day), Fagerstrom scores and baseline serum nicotine and cotinine than non-alcoholics. Among a subset of 240 subjects with a comparable treatment protocol, smoking cessation rates at the end of nicotine patch therapy were similar in recovering alcoholics (46%) and non-alcoholics (47%) receiving active 22 mg patches but higher than the respective placebo groups (17% and 19%). The 1-year rate was significantly (p = 0.005) higher in the non-alcoholic group assigned to an active patch (31%) compared to placebo (14%). For recovering alcoholics, the rates were lower and not significantly different (active 0%, placebo 11%). Recovering alcoholic smokers are likely to be more nicotine dependent than non-alcoholic smokers but can achieve comparable short-term cessation rates with nicotine patch therapy. Use of an objective, validated measure of alcohol dependence is indicated in clinical trials when it is desirable to know whether the subjects are active or recovering alcoholics.
Measurement of Young’s modulus and damping for hexoloy SG silicon carbide

Stiffness and damping are important design parameters for the potential applications of silicon carbide in the aerospace industry. Thus, Young`s modulus values are needed for calculations of stress and strain, and mechanical damping determines the rate at which vibrations are dissipated in the material. In this paper, the measurements of Young`s modulus and mechanical damping of Hexoloy SG silicon carbide at high temperatures are discussed and compared with published values. These measurements were made using the Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Composite Oscillator Technique (PUCOT). The modulus values are important for calculations involving stress and strain for design purposes. The mechanical damping determines the rate at which vibrations are dissipated in the material. The relationship of the mechanical damping to the strain amplitude is discussed. Microstructural analysis and microhardness tests are discussed as well.
Shear-induced adhesive failure of a rigid slab in contact with a thin confined film

A rigid-glass prism (square or rectangular base, rectangular cross-section) is sheared off a thin film of silicone elastomer bonded to a glass plate by applying a tangential force at various distances above the prism/elastomer interface. At a given tangential force, the prism starts to slide on the elastomeric film. As the sliding velocity, thus the frictional force, is progressively increased, an elastic instability develops at the interface that results in the formation of numerous bubbles. These bubbles, the lateral dimension of which is comparable to the thickness of the film, move across the interface with speeds 1000 times faster than the overall sliding speed of the glass prism against the PDMS film. It is found that the glass prism continues to slide on the elastomeric film as long as the applied shear stress is less than a critical value. During sliding, however, a normal stress is developed at the interface that decays from the front (i.e. where the force is applied) to the rear end of the prism. When the normal stress reaches a critical value, the prism comes off the film. The critical shear stress of fracture increases with the modulus of the film, but decreases with the thickness following a square root relationship, as is the case with the removal of rigid punches from thin elastomeric films by normal pull-off forces.
Response of the topside ionosphere to high-speed solar wind streams

[1] During an 80 d period in 2008 the ionosphere was driven very coherently by periodic high-speed solar wind streams. An examination of the high-latitude ionospheric dynamics during this period indicates that changes in the polar cap potential drop from 20 to 60 kV induce global changes in the dynamics, composition, and temperature of the topside ionosphere. These changes in the potential are small compared to those usually seen during times of higher solar activity. Changes in the polar cap potential produce significant increases in the frictional heating of the ions and neutral gas associated with antisunward flows in the polar cap. These increases are accompanied by expansions in the latitude extent over which the return sunward flows exist. Thus, no significant increase in the magnitude of the flows is seen in this region, and the plasma in the auroral zone remains relatively cool compared to that seen in the polar cap. Associated with changes in the high-latitude convection are changes in the topside ion temperature of 100 to 150 K that extend from the auroral zone itself to latitudes as low as 20°.
Synoptic eddy feedback and air–sea interaction in the North Atlantic region

This paper explores the role of synoptic eddy feedback in the air-sea interaction in the North Atlantic region, particularly the interaction between the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the North Atlantic sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) tripole. A linearized five-layer primitive equation atmospheric model with synoptic eddy and low-frequency flow (SELF) interaction is coupled with a linearized oceanic mixed-layer model to investigate this issue. In this model, the “climatological” storm track/activity (or synoptic eddy activity) is characterized in terms of spatial structures, variances, decay time scales and propagation speeds through the complex empirical orthogonal function (CEOF) analysis on the observed data, which provides a unique tool to investigate the role of synoptic eddy feedback in the North Atlantic air–sea coupling. Model experiments show that the NAO-like atmospheric circulation anomalies can produce tripole-like SSTA in the North Atlantic Ocean, and the tripole-like SSTA can excite a NAO-like dipole with an equivalent barotropic structure in the atmospheric circulation, which suggests a positive feedback between the NAO and the SSTA tripole. This positive feedback makes the NAO/SSTA tripole-like mode be the leading mode of the coupled dynamical system. The synoptic eddy feedback plays an essential role in the origin of the NAO/SSTA tripole-like leading mode and the equivalent barotropic structure in the atmosphere. Without synoptic eddy feedback, the atmosphere has a baroclinic structure in the response field to the tripole-like SSTA forcing, and the leading mode of the dynamic system does not resemble NAO/SSTA tripole pattern.
Intralesional Cidofovir Therapy for Laryngeal Papilloma in an Adult Cohort

Objectives To confirm the safety and efficacy of intralesional cidofovir in the management of laryngeal papilloma and to identify variables that correlate with number of injections needed to achieve remission. Study Design An open-trial prospective evaluation of the efficacy of intralesional cidofovir in subjects with laryngeal papilloma. Methods Fourteen adult subjects with biopsy-proven laryngeal papilloma were enrolled in a treatment study of intralesional cidofovir. Preprotocol disease duration ranged from 1 to 30 years with a mean duration of 7 years. Subjects received monthly injections of cidofovir with a maximum dose of 37.5 mg per injection in 6 cc saline (6.25 mg/mL). Injections were repeated until no papilloma could be visually identified during an intraoperative evaluation. After disease remission was achieved, subjects received an additional injection. All injections occurred during suspension microlaryngoscopy. Results All subjects have achieved disease remission using an injection-only treatment protocol. No additional laryngeal scarring or systemic toxicity was identified. On average, 6 injections were required to achieve remission. Preprotocol disease duration and anatomical staging correlated positively with the number of injections required for disease remission. Conclusions Intralesional injection of cidofovir is an excellent treatment option with limited local and systemic toxicities. The injection therapy regimen requires perseverance from both patient and surgeon. Remission of disease can be achieved in adults with laryngeal papilloma.
Microsatellite evolution: Mutations, sequence variation, and homoplasy in the hypervariable avian microsatellite locus HrU10

Microsatellites are frequently used genetic markers in a wide range of applications, primarily due to their high length polymorphism levels that can easily be genotyped by fragment length analysis. However, the mode of microsatellite evolution is yet not fully understood, and the role of interrupting motifs for the stability of microsatellites remains to be explored in more detail. Here we present a sequence analysis of mutation events and a description of the structure of repeated regions in the hypervariable, pentanucleotide microsatellite locus HrU10 in barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) and tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor). In a large-scale parentage analysis in barn swallows and tree swallows, broods were screened for mutations at the HrU10 locus. In 41 cases in the barn swallows and 15 cases in the tree swallows, mutations corresponding to the loss or gain of one or two repeat units were detected. The parent and mutant offspring alleles were sequenced for 33 of these instances (26 in barn swallows and 7 in tree swallows). Replication slippage was considered the most likely mutational process. We tested the hypothesis that HrU10, a microsatellite with a wide allele size range, has an increased probability of introductions of interruptive motifs (IMs) with increasing length of the repeated region. Indeed, the number and length of the IMs was strongly positively correlated with the total length of the microsatellite. However, there was no significant correlation with the length of the longest stretch of perfectly repeated units, indicating a threshold level for the maximum length of perfectly repeated pentanucleotide motifs in stable HrU10 alleles. The combination of sequence and pedigree data revealed that 15 barn swallow mutations (58%) produced alleles that were size homoplasic to other alleles in the data set. Our results give further insights into the mode of microsatellite evolution, and support the assumption of increased slippage rate with increased microsatellite length and a stabilizing effect of interrupting motifs for microsatellite regions consisting of perfect repeats. In addition, the observed extent of size homoplasy may impose a general caution against using hypervariable microsatellites in genetic diversity measures when alleles are identified by fragment length analysis only.
Neutron Activation Cross Section of Technetium-98

The cross section for the reaction ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{98}(n, \ensuremath{\gamma}){\mathrm{Tc}}^{99m}$ was determined by thermal neutron irradiation of a cyclotron-produced sample containing ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{95}$, ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{97m}$, ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{97g}$, ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{98}$, and ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{99}$. The degree of selectivity and background reduction required to permit an accurate measurement of the ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{98}$ content, 2.68\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.54 disintegrations per minute, was attained by means of $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{-}(740\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{K}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{v} \ensuremath{\gamma})$ coincidence counting. At a thermal flux of 2.1\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}${10}^{12}$ neutrons ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, a saturation activity of 375\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}85 dis/min ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{99m}$ per dis/min of ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{98}$ was obtained. Using the latest value of the half-life of ${\mathrm{Tc}}^{98}$, (1.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.7)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{6}$ years, one finds a cross section of 2.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.3 barns. Relative cross sections are also given for the production of several technetium isotopes by bombardment of molybdenum with 10.2-Mev deuterons.
Coordination of Synaptic Adhesion with Dendritic Spine Remodeling by AF-6 and Kalirin-7

Remodeling of central excitatory synapses is crucial for synapse maturation and plasticity, and contributes to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Remodeling of dendritic spines and the associated synapses has been postulated to require the coordination of adhesion with spine morphology and stability; however, the molecular mechanisms that functionally link adhesion molecules with regulators of dendritic spine morphology are mostly unknown. Here, we report that spine size and N-cadherin content are tightly coordinated. In rat mature cortical pyramidal neurons, N-cadherin-dependent adhesion modulates the morphology of existing spines by recruiting the Rac1 guanine-nucleotide exchange factor kalirin-7 to synapses through the scaffolding protein AF-6/afadin. In pyramidal neurons, N-cadherin, AF-6, and kalirin-7 colocalize at synapses and participate in the same multiprotein complexes. N-cadherin clustering promotes the reciprocal interaction and recruitment of N-cadherin, AF-6, and kalirin-7, increasing the content of Rac1 and in spines and PAK (p21-activated kinase) phosphorylation. N-cadherin-dependent spine enlargement requires AF-6 and kalirin-7 function. Conversely, disruption of N-cadherin leads to thin, long spines, with reduced Rac1 contact, caused by uncoupling of N-cadherin, AF-6, and kalirin-7 from each other. By dynamically linking N-cadherin with a regulator of spine plasticity, this pathway allows synaptic adhesion molecules to rapidly coordinate spine remodeling associated with synapse maturation and plasticity. This study hence identifies a novel mechanism whereby cadherins, a major class of synaptic adhesion molecules, signal to the actin cytoskeleton to control the morphology of dendritic spines, and outlines a mechanism that underlies the coordination of synaptic adhesion with spine morphology.