cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is the Two-Stage Construction Approach Better for Maturation and Long-term Patency of the Transposed Brachiobasilic Arteriovenous Fistulas?

The transposed brachiobasilic arteriovenous fistula is often constructed by employing a two-stage procedure for better maturation and long-term patency, but its validity on overall outcomes remains...
Cardiac Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Fibrosis and Remodeling in Heart Failure: Role of PDGF Signaling

Objective: To characterize cardiac mesenchymal stem cells (cMSCs) and define the role of platelet derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) signaling on cMSC-myofibroblast differentiation. To evaluate the in vivo effects of PDGFR inhibition on the outcomes of post-myocardial infraction (MI) cardiac remodeling, function and inflammation. Background: Heart failure (HF) is characterized by chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and activation of pro-fibrotic myofibroblasts. PDGF is a known regulator of fibrosis while PDGFR is a marker of MSCs. In addition to fibroblasts, tissue MSCs also differentiate into myofibroblasts; however, the contribution of cMSCs and cMSC-localized PDGFR to fibrosis in the failing heart is unknown. Methods: Flow cytometry was used to quantitate cMSCs in failing hearts. Multiple in vitro experiments were used to characterize cMSCs. Permanent coronary ligation in mice was used to induce myocardial infarction and failure while echocardiography was used asses cardiac function. Results: We demonstrate that; 1) cMSCs temporally expand post-MI and acquire a pro-inflammatory and a pro-fibrotic cell fate, 2) pro-inflammatory macrophages promote a PDGFR-dependent pro-fibrotic myofibroblast differentiation fate specifically in HF-derived cMSCs, and that, 3) inhibition of PDGFR signaling in vivo attenuates post-MI LV remodeling and function. These in vivo effects occurred concomitantly with decreased myocardial fibrosis, myocyte hypertrophy and reduced myocardial infiltration of pro-inflammatory macrophages. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that restoring or maintaining a normal cMSC phenotype by modulating PDGFR expression and/or activation may represent a novel approach for both combating pathological fibrosis in the failing heart as well as potentially enhancing cardiac repair upon exogenous cMSC transplantation in HF.
Longitudinal network models and permutation-uniform Markov chains

We offer a general approach to modeling longitudinal network data, including exponential random graph models (ERGMs), that vary according to certain discrete-time Markov chains. We connect conditional and Markovian exponential families, permutation-uniform Markov chains, various (temporal) ERGMs, and statistical considerations such as dyadic independence and exchangeability. By removing models' temporal dependence but not interpretability, our approach simplifies analysis of some network and autoregressive models from the literature, including closed-form expressions for maximum likelihood estimators. We also introduce "exponential random $t$-multigraph models", motivated by our result on replacing $t$ observations of permutation-uniform Markov chains of graphs with single observations of corresponding multigraphs.
Syringe Services Programs' Role in Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S.: Why We Cannot Do It Without Them

Diagnoses of HIV among people who inject drugs have increased in the U.S. during 2014-2018 for the first time in 2 decades, and multiple HIV outbreaks have been detected among people who inject drugs since 2015. These epidemiologic trends pose a significant concern for achieving goals of the federal initiative for Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. Syringe services programs are cost effective, safe, and highly effective in reducing HIV transmission and are an essential component of a comprehensive, integrated approach to addressing these concerns. Yet, geographic coverage of these programs remains limited in the U.S., and many jurisdictions continue to have laws and policies that limit or disallow syringe services programs. An in-depth literature review was conducted on the role of syringe services programs in the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative. Empirical and model-based evidence consistently shows that syringe services programs have the highest impact in HIV prevention when combined with access to medications for substance use disorder and antiretroviral therapy. Their effectiveness is further maximized when they provide services without restrictions and include proven and innovative strategies to expand access to harm-reduction and clinical services (e.g., peer outreach, telehealth). Increasing geographic and service coverage of syringe services programs requires strong and sustainable policy, funding, and community support and will need to address new challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Syringe services programs have a key role in all 4 Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative strategies-Prevent, Diagnose, Treat, and Respond-and thus are instrumental to its success in preventing disease and saving lives.
A meal enriched in saturated fat acutely impairs cognitive performance in obese men.

BACKGROUND Diets chronically high in saturated fat (SFA) associate with obesity and insulin resistance (IR), which in turn associate with cognitive decline and dementia. However, understanding how acute SFA consumption influences cognition is less clear despite short-term SFA-enriched diets inducing whole-body IR. We examined how consuming meals enriched with SFA or monounsaturated fat (MUFA) acutely influence cognitive function in lean and obese men. We hypothesized that greater diet-induced IR following a SFA-enriched meal would associate with decreased cognitive performance. METHODS Twelve lean and 12 obese males ingested meals containing no fat (CTL), enriched with SFA, or enriched with MUFA in a single-blind, randomized fashion. Cognitive testing and blood sampling were performed pre- and 2 h post-meal. Oral glucose tolerance (OGTT) and body composition were also assessed. RESULTS At baseline, fasting glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, triglyceride, IL-6, and 2-hr glucose during an OGTT were higher in obese men (p < 0.001), while executive function (Stroop Test and Trail Making Test B-A) and working memory (Digit Span Test) were lower in obese men (p < 0.05). In response to the CTL and MUFA-enriched, no differences in cognitive measures were observed in lean or obese subjects. Following a SFA-enriched meal, obese subjects scored worse during cognitive testing (Stroop Test, Trail Making Test B-A, and Digit Span Test) compared to pre-meal scores (p < 0.05). These impairments in cognitive testing scores following the SFA-enriched meal associated with increased HOMA-IR (p < 0.01) and decreased plasma IL-6 (p < 0.05). No changes in cognitive function were observed in lean subjects following a SFA-enriched meal. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that cognitive performance of obese men acutely worsens following a high-SFA meal. Reductions in cognitive performance associated with increased IR, suggesting that diet-induced IR may acutely decrease cognitive function.
Professional Development Alternatives for Childhood Educators

(1988). Professional Development Alternatives for Childhood Educators. National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators Bulletin: Vol. 9, Bulletin No. 30. Early Childhood Teacher Education Issue, pp. 12-12.
Chapter 5 Gastrointestinal Involvement in Systemic Sclerosis

Publisher Summary This chapter provides practical guidance in the diagnosis and treatment of systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated gastrointestinal tract (GIT) involvement. Disease of the GIT occurs in approximately 90% of patients with SSc, and has a major impact on their quality of life. Every part of the GIT can be involved in SSc, including the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, and anorectal system. Different GI organ systems may manifest GIT involvement in a variety of ways, the underlying pathophysiology is the same. SSc affects the distal two-thirds of the esophagus; the motility of the esophageal sphincter and proximal esophagus is generally normal. Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is an important cause of iron deficiency anemia in patients with SSc. The majority of patients with SSc have multiple types of GIT involvement with overlapping symptoms, making quantification of GIT in SSc extremely challenging. The imaging studies and laboratory tests are used for GIT examination; physical examination of the GIT system yields little information. For motility disorders, a barium contrast study is the preferred radiographic procedure, and for assessment of mucosal disease, endoscopy is the preferred test.
The Application of Equal Protection to Prospective Jurors With Disabilities: Will Batson Cover Disability-Based Strikes

It has been said that a case is decided once the jury is seated. In making peremptory strikes, the practitioner must make determinations based on simple questions and assumptions. But what about those prospective jurors with disabilities? How does deafness impact a juror’s ability to process evidence? Will a person with a disability have more empathy for a victim or defendant? Is there evidence that needs to be heard to be understood?In Batson v. Kentucky, 476 U.S. 79 (1986), the Court applied the Equal Protection Clause to require prosecutors to give a race-neutral explanation for alleged purposeful racial discrimination in their use of peremptory strikes. Written just prior to the Court’s decision in J.E.B. v. Alabama ex rel. T.B., 511 U.S. 127 (1994) (intentional discrimination based on gender in jury selection also violates equal protection) and in anticipation of the explosion of post-Batson inquiries about the context in which the Equal Protection Clause applies, this article explores the use of peremptory strikes to exclude jurors with disabilities as well as principles regarding discrimination in the use of peremptory challenges. The article argues that in Batson, the Court fashioned a new kind of Equal Protection analysis formed by the interplay of evolving concepts of law and changing cultural assumptions. Batson, therefore, the author argues should be extended beyond race to protect jurors with disabilities.
Efficient reinforcement learning for robots using informative simulated priors

Autonomous learning through interaction with the physical world is a promising approach to designing controllers and decision-making policies for robots. Unfortunately, learning on robots is often difficult due to the large number of samples needed for many learning algorithms. Simulators are one way to decrease the samples needed from the robot by incorporating prior knowledge of the dynamics into the learning algorithm. In this paper we present a novel method for transferring data from a simulator to a robot, using simulated data as a prior for real-world learning. A Bayesian nonparametric prior is learned from a potentially black-box simulator. The mean of this function is used as a prior for the Probabilistic Inference for Learning Control (PILCO) algorithm. The simulated prior improves the convergence rate and performance of PILCO by directing the policy search in areas of the state-space that have not yet been observed by the robot. Simulated and hardware results show the benefits of using the prior knowledge in the learning framework.
Amplitude blanking related to the pore-filling of gas hydrate in sediments

Seismic indicators of gas-hydrate-bearing sediments include elevated interval velocities and amplitude reduction of seismic reflections owing to the presence of gas hydrate in the sediment’s pore spaces. However, large amplitude blanking with relatively low interval velocities observed at the Blake Ridge has been enigmatic because realistic seismic models were absent to explain the observation. This study proposes models in which the gas hydrate concentrations vary in proportion to the porosity. Where gas hydrate concentrations are greater in more porous media, a significant amplitude blanking can be achieved with relatively low interval velocity. Depending on the amount of gas hydrate concentration in the pore space, reflection amplitudes from hydrate-bearing sediments can be much less, less or greater than those from corresponding non-hydrate-bearing sediments.
Effect of DNA sequence and structure on nuclease activity of the DexA protein of bacteriophage T4.

Abstract The bacteriophage T4 dexA gene product is required during infection of Escherichia coli strains carrying a mutation in the optA gene. We purified the DexA protein from cells which overproduced the protein. The protein was assayed for nuclease activity on synthetic di- and oligonucleotide substrates of known sequence and secondary structure. Sequence and structure significantly affected nuclease activity. The properties of the enzyme may explain the requirement for the DexA protein during infection of optA mutant hosts.
Neuroimmune communication in the submucous plexus of guinea pig colon after infection with Trichinella spiralis.

Abstract Background/Aims: Enteric neuroimmune communication in gastrointestinal hypersensitivity responses includes antigen detection by mast cells and release of chemical messages to the enteric nervous system. The aim of this study was to analyze the electrical and synaptic behavior of neurons in the colonic submucous plexus during exposure to Trichinella spiralis antigen in animals infected earlier with the parasite. Methods: Microelectrodes were used to record in submucous neurons of guinea pig distal colon during application of Trichinella antigen. Results: Neurons in sensitized animals were more excitable than in controls. Hyperexcitability was seen as a greater probability of spontaneous action potential discharge and repetitive firing to depolarizing current or exposure to acetylcholine. Application of histaminergic antagonists reversed the augmented excitability, suggesting endogenously released histamine as a responsible factor. Antigenic exposure increased neuronal excitability and suppressed nicotinic transmission at fast cholinergic synapses only in sensitized animals. Effects on excitability, but not presynaptic inhibitory effects, were blocked by cimetidine. Conclusions: Signaling between mucosal mast cells and the enteric nervous system is involved in colonic anaphylactic responses to sensitizing antigens. Histamine is a paracrine signal in the communication pathway.
A perceiver's own abilities influence perception, even when observing others.

Perceptualjudgments ofobjects, suchasjudgments of their size, distance, and speed, are influenced by the per- ceiver's ability to act on these objects. For example, objects that are easier to block appear to be moving slower than objects that are more difficult to block. These effects are known as action-specific effects. Recent research has found similar patterns when a person observes someone else act: When the other person's task is more difficult, objects look farther away and faster to the observer, whereas when the other person's task is easier, the objects lookcloser and slower to the observer. These previous findings that another person's ability penetrates into perceptual judgments challenge the idea that action-specific effects are specific to the perceiver' so wn abilities. However, in the present study, we show that the apparent effects of another person's ability on the observer's judgments are actually due to the observer's own abilities as if heorshe was inthe other person's situation.Thisimplicatesa type of self-projection motor simulation mechanism. The results also preserve the critical idea that action-specific ef- fects are perceiver specific and, consequently, that they could be adaptive for planning future actions.
Reverse transcriptase: a monitor for perturbation effects of spin labels covalently bound to nucleic acids.

Abstract The sensitive biological assay for reverse transcriptase was used to monitor potential perturbation effects of spin labels covalently bound to various nucleic acids or nucleic acid analogs to the extent of about one label per 100 residues. The inhibitory properties of the spin labeled and unlabeled biopolymers were compared for evaluating possible interference of the reporter group in protein-nucleic acid interaction studies. The amount of inhibitor required for 50% inhibition (ED50) was determined for the competitive inhibitors (U)n, l(U)n, (RUGT,U)n, (Um)n, (A)n, (Am)n, and l(A)n as well as for thenon- or uncompetitive inhibitors (dUfl)n, l(dUfl)n, (dUz)n, and l(dUz)n. The most pronounced inhibition was observed with spin labeled and unlabeled (dUfl)n. The results indicate that the ED50 and the kinetic patterns of inhibition are similar for the spin labeled and unlabeled inhibitors studied. Thus, the presence of a limited number of spin labels in a nucleic acid matrix has little effect, if any, on reverse transcriptase-nucleic acid complexes and most likely on other protein-nucleic acid complexes.
The lunar‐wide effects of basin ejecta distribution on the early megaregolith

The lunar surface is marked by at least 43 large and ancient impact basins, each of which ejected a large amount of material that modified the areas surrounding each basin. We present an analysis of the effects of basin formation on the entire lunar surface using a previously defined basin ejecta model. Our modeling includes several simplifying assumptions in order to quantify two aspects of basin formation across the entire lunar surface: 1) the cumulative amount of material distributed across the surface, and 2) the depth to which that basin material created a well-mixed megaregolith. We find that the asymmetric distribution of large basins across the Moon creates a considerable nearside-farside dichotomy in both the cumulative amount of basin ejecta and the depth of the megaregolith. Basins significantly modified a large portion of the nearside while the farside experienced relatively small degrees of basin modification following the formation of the large South Pole-Aitken basin. The regions of the Moon with differing degrees of modification by basins correspond to regions thought to contain geochemical signatures remnant of early lunar crustal processes, indicating that the degree of basin modification of the surface directly influenced the distribution of the geochemical terranes observed today. Additionally, the modification of the lunar surface by basins suggests that the provenance of lunar highland samples currently in research collections is not representative of the entire lunar crust. Identifying locations on the lunar surface with unique modification histories will aid in selecting locations for future sample collection.
The assembly of a highly ordered component of the cell wall: the role of heritable factors and of physical structure.

An analysis has been made of the biogenesis of the highly ordered lattice structure which comprises an integral part of the cell wall of Chlamydomonas reinhardi. By examining mutants showing various wall defects, it has been shown that in some mutants lattice assembly will only occur in the presence of a particular kind of physical structure; in others the composition of the medium influences assembly. The role of a heritable factor in lattice assembly has also been demonstrated; after prolonged vegetative culture certain mutants lose the ability to form lattice, but regain this ability on passing through the diploid sexual phase. An attempt is made to integrate this information to provide a model for the control of assembly and inheritance of the wall.
Integrating ethics into the business school curriculum

A project on teaching business ethics at The Wharton School concluded that ethics should be directly incorporated into key MBA courses and taught by the core business faculty. The project team, comprised of students, ethics faculty and functional business faculty, designed a model program for integrating ethics. The project was funded by the Exxon Education Foundation.
Louis de Broglie and the Wave Nature of the Electron

Louis de Broglie was a Frenchman of noble birth who many believed would become a great statesman or diplomat. Instead, he changed our understanding of how the universe works by developing a theory for the wave-particle duality of electrons.
Catabolite repression of isocitrate lyase in methylamine-grown Pseudomonas MA. Effect of carbon and nitrogen sources.

Abstract The synthesis of the C 1 -type isocitrate lyase found during growth of Pseudomonas MA on methylamine was investigated. It was shown that this enzyme is subject to catabolite repression by preferred carbon sources, e.g., succinate, and by ammonia. The carbon repression can be overcome by cyclic AMP, which was shown to be acting at the transcriptional level. Repression by ammonia is overcome during growth with methylamine as sole nitrogen, but not carbon, source. Uptake experiments showed that the uptake of methylamine from the medium was prevented by ammonia in the presence, but not in the absence, of an alternative carbon source. Measurement of cyclic AMP levels in cells grown on methylamine and on succinate, glycerol, glucose and acetate as carbon sources (with ammonium chloride as nitrogen source) revealed that methylamine-grown cells have the lowest cyclic AMP level despite having the highest C 1 -type isocitrate lyase activity. Cells grown on acetate with methylamine as sole nitrogen source possess both C 1 -type and C 2 -type isocitrate lyase. The results indicate that the synthesis of C 1 -isocitrate layse is under control by repression-derepression involving a specific inducer, cyclic AMP, and an effector whose action is related to the nitrogen supply of the cell.
Cytomorphology of a solitary left chest wall mass: An unusual presentation from unknown primary hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may present in various ways, but only very rarely with symptoms of distant metastases or evolve from ectopic liver tissue. This report describes a case of a 62-year-old white man who was admitted for hemoptysis and a large left chest wall mass that was growing for about a year. The patient underwent Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of the mass that revealed poorly differentiated large-cell carcinoma. A lung primary was suspected initially; however, further workup of this patient showed an elevated serum α-fetoprotein (AFP) level of 16,425 ng/ml. A computerized tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen showed cirrhotic liver, evidence of esophageal varices, but no evidence of a liver mass. The FNA findings were reviewed and ancillary studies were performed, including pan cytokeratin (AE1/3), Hepatocyte Paraffin 1 (HepPar-1), AFP, CD10, CD34, and polyclonal CEA. The results confirmed the diagnoses of HCC probably from occult primary or from ectopic liver tissue. The former was suggested, since serum AFP was dropped to 6,640 ng/ml following resection of the tumor. We concluded that HCC should be considered in the list of differential diagnosis of chest wall mass. HCC may present as metastatic disease from a clinically and radiologically unrecognized liver mass. FNA, coupled with ancillary studies, provides a rapid and accurate diagnostic tool in challenging cases. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2007;35:586-589. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Studies of the mechanism of action of D-proline reductase: the presence on covalently bound pyruvate and its role in the catalytic process.

Abstract When a partially purified preparation of d -proline reductase reacts with hydroxylamine, phenylhydrazine, and NaBH4, the enzymes becomes inactivated, suggesting that a carbonyl group is required for catalytic activity. In the presence of mercaptans the enzyme is inactivated by alkylating agents. When the enzyme reacts with NaBH4(3H), nonexchangeable tritium is introduced into the protein. Acid hydrolysis of the tritiated protein releases labeled lactate and enzymic hydrolysis produces fragments electrophoretically distinguishable from reduced enzyme, which contain covalently bound labeled lactate. Alkaline hydrolysis of the enzyme releases a fragment which is not lactate, but from which lactate can be released by acid hydrolysis. These results establish the presence of pyruvate covalently bound to a protein. We consider it highly probable that the carbonyl group of pyruvate is involved in the catalytic activity. It is tentatively proposed that an adduct is found between the substrate nitrogen and the carbonyl group of the enzyme. Formation of this adduct enhances the leaving ability of the nitrogen and facilitates the reductive cleavage of the carbon-nitrogen bond.
THE IMMATURE STAGES OF LYGAEIDAE (HEMIPTERA: HETEROPTERA) OF SOUTHWEST AUSTRALIA*

Descriptions are given of the nymphs of 20 species (75 nymphal instars) of southwest Australian Lygaeidae together with descriptions of the eggs of 8 species. A key is given to separate the 5th instar nymphs and a discussion of characters that should prove valuable in the recognition of nymphs from the area that are not yet associated with adults. Dorsal views are given of the nymphs of 8 species.
Public perception regarding anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Background: Relatively little information exists regarding the public’s perception of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and their treatment. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that the public’s understanding of ACL surgery may be incorrect with regard to various aspects of this procedure and to identify issues to emphasize in patient education. Methods: This study utilized a forty-three-question survey designed to measure an individual’s knowledge base and perception of ACL reconstruction with regard to the anatomy, function, indications, operative technique, risks, recovery time, and overall benefits of the procedure. Eligible individuals were between fifteen and sixty years of age. Study participants were recruited from an academic orthopaedic sports medicine clinic, a collegiate athletic training room, and various public venues. Results: A total of 210 individuals (106 men and 104 women) with a mean age of thirty were surveyed. Educational level of the respondents varied widely. Twenty-seven percent of the respondents were employed in a health-care setting. Sixty-five percent of the respondents rated their ACL knowledge level as “little” or “none.” Participants’ self-perception of ACL knowledge was highly correlated with their survey scores on questions with a specific correct answer (p < 0.001). Almost one-third thought that surgical treatment involved repair of the torn ligament rather than reconstruction. Over half (56%) of the respondents preferred an autograft for ligament reconstruction, compared with 4% who preferred an allograft. The ability to return to sports after ACL surgery was the most important concern, followed by the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Conclusions: There is wide variability in the lay public’s knowledge level of ACL injuries; a substantial number of misguided perceptions were identified. Return to sports and risk for future osteoarthritis following ACL surgery appear to be the most important factors to the lay public. Focusing educational efforts on areas of knowledge deficits may be particularly important for patients of physicians who treat ACL injuries.
Pressure balance inconsistency exhibited in a statistical model of magnetospheric plasma

[1] While quantitative theories of plasma flow from the magnetotail to the inner magnetosphere typically assume adiabatic convection, it has long been understood that these convection models tend to overestimate the plasma pressure in the inner magnetosphere. This phenomenon is called the pressure crisis or the pressure balance inconsistency. In order to analyze it in a new and more detailed manner we utilize an empirical model of the proton and electron distribution functions in the near-Earth plasma sheet (−50 RE < X < −10 RE), which uses the Tsyganenko [1989] magnetic field model and a plasma sheet representation based upon several previously published statistical studies. We compare our results to a statistically derived particle distribution function at geosynchronous orbit. In this analysis the particle distribution function is characterized by the isotropic energy invariant λ = EV2/3, where E is the particle's kinetic energy and V is the magnetic flux tube volume. The energy invariant is conserved in guiding center drift under the assumption of strong, elastic pitch angle scattering. If, in addition, loss is negligible, the phase space density f(λ) is also conserved along the same path. The statistical model indicates that f(λ, ) is approximately independent of X for X ≤ −35 RE but decreases with increasing X for X ≥ −35 RE. The tailward gradient of f(λ, ) might be attributed to gradient/curvature drift for large isotropic energy invariants but not for small invariants. The tailward gradient of the distribution function indicates a violation of the adiabatic drift condition in the plasma sheet. It also confirms the existence of a “number crisis” in addition to the pressure crisis. In addition, plasma sheet pressure gradients, when crossed with the gradient of flux tube volume computed from the Tsyganenko [1989] magnetic field model, indicate Region 1 currents on the dawn and dusk sides of the outer plasma sheet.
Neuroadaptations of Cdk5 in cholinergic interneurons of the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex of inbred alcohol-preferring rats following voluntary alcohol drinking

Background: Neurobiological studies have identified brain areas and related molecular mechanisms involved in alcohol abuse and dependence. Specific cell types in these brain areas and their role in alcohol-related behaviors, however, have not yet been identified. This study examined the involvement of cholinergic cells in inbred alcohol-preferring rats following 1 month of alcohol drinking. Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) immunoreactivity (IR), a marker of neuronal plasticity, was examined in cholinergic neurons of the nucleus accumbens (NuAcc) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) and other brain areas implicated in alcohol drinking, using dual immunocytochemical (ICC) procedures. Single Cdk5 IR was also examined in several brain areas implicated in alcohol drinking. Methods: The experimental group self-administered alcohol using a 2-bottle-choice test paradigm with unlimited access to 10% (v/v) alcohol and water for 23 h/d for 1 month. An average of 6 g/kg alcohol was consumed daily. Control animals received identical treatment, except that both bottles contained water. Rats were perfused and brain sections were processed for ICC procedures. Results: Alcohol drinking resulted in a 51% increase in Cdk5 IR cholinergic interneurons in the shell NuAcc, while in the PFC there was a 51% decrease in the percent of Cdk5 IR cholinergic interneurons in the infralimbic region and a 46% decrease in Cdk5 IR cholinergic interneurons in the prelimbic region. Additionally, single Cdk5 IR revealed a 42% increase in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CNA). Conclusions: This study identified Cdk5 neuroadaptation in cholinergic interneurons of the NuAcc and PFC and in other neurons of the CNA following 1 month of alcohol drinking. These findings contribute to our understanding of the cellular and molecular basis of alcohol drinking and toward the development of improved region and cell-specific pharmacotherapeutic and behavioral treatment programs for alcohol abuse and alcoholism.
ANTIGENIC DIFFERENCES ASSOCIATED WITH CONFORMATIONAL CHANGES IN GLUTAMATE DEHYDROGENASE.

The reactions between glutamate dehydrogenase (l-glutamate: DPN (TPN) oxidoreductase (deaminating), EC 1.4.1.3) crystallized from bovine liver and specific rabbit anti-glutamate dehydrogenase immune sera have been studied. This immunologic system can be resolved into three precipitin lines (a, b, and c) by immunoelectrophoresis and double diffusion. Quantitative precipitin experiments demonstrate that the immunologic reactivity of the enzyme varies in relation to changes induced by regulator molecules such as ADP or diethylstilbestrol. Studies performed with supernatant fractions from the precipitin experiments reveal a selective absorption of specific antibodies and sequential disappearance of precipitin lines starting with a. These results are explained on the basis of antigenic differences associated with different conformational states of glutamate dehydrogenase.
Internet delay effects: how users perceive quality, organization, and ease of use of information

In this paper we report the results of an investigation designed to determine the effects of Internet delays on users perceptions of ease of locating information, organization of information, quality of information, and navigation problems. The results demonstrated user sensitivity to delays. As expected, for text-and-graphics documents, shorter delays provoked more favorable responses. However, for text-only documents, the shorter the delay, the less favorably a document was viewed. The results indicated that users may prefer multi-media web sites but are unwilling to tolerate the substantial network delays often associated with delivering graphics, video, animation, and audio.
Reaction of a monomeric titanium hydride with dioxygen does not produce a stable titanium hydroperoxide

Abstract The reaction of gaseous O2 under mild conditions with the monomeric titanium hydride (DIPP-O)3TiH(PMe3) (DIPP = 2,6-diisopropylphenyl), initially prepared by Noth, results in loss of the titanium hydride moiety with the isolation of (DIPP-O)3Ti–O–Ti(O-DIPP)3, a dinuclear species containing a μ2-bridging oxo atom. This species has been characterized spectroscopically as well as by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure is a surprisingly rare example of a homoleptic aryloxide derivative of the Ti–O–Ti framework. Speculation upon the route used to form (DIPP-O)3Ti–O–Ti(O-DIPP)3 is also presented.
Antigenic reactivity of a soluble glycoprotein associated with bovine leukemia virus.

Abstract A glycoprotein associated with bovine leukemia virus was treated with exoglycosidases, trypsin, and a specific protease from Staphylococcus aureus V8. Antigenic activity of the glycoprotein was destroyed by the exoglycosidases within 1 hr. Trypsin and S. aureus protease required longer periods of time to destroy antigenic reactivity. We concluded that the antibody produced in infected animals is directed against the carbohydrate moiety of the glycoprotein.
Small animal ocular biometry using optical coherence tomography

A custom-built OCT system was used to obtain images of the whole mouse eye. We developed a semi-automated segmentation method to detect the boundaries of the anterior and posterior corneal, lens and retinal surfaces as well as the anterior surface of the iris. The radii of curvature of the surfaces were calculated using a conic section fit of each boundary. Image distortions due to refraction of the OCT beam at the successive boundaries were corrected using a ray-tracing algorithm. Corrected ocular distances, radii of curvature of the cornea and lens surfaces, and anterior chamber angle were obtained on 3 C57BL/6J mice. In vivo imaging of the whole eye, segmentation, conic function fits and correction were successful in all three animals. The posterior lens surface of one mouse could not be fit accurately with a conic section. Biometric parameters of C57BL/6J mice compared well with previous published data obtained from histological sections. The study demonstrates the feasibility of quantitative in vivo biometry of mouse models.
Human Liver Microsome-Mediated Metabolism of Brominated Diphenyl Ethers 47, 99, and 153 and Identification of Their Major Metabolites

While the metabolism and excretion of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been reported in rodents, PBDE metabolism in humans has only recently been investigated. In this present study, individual human liver microsomes were incubated for 120 min with radiolabeled and nonradiolabeled BDE 47, 99, or 153 to determine their relative degrees of metabolism and to identify the structures of metabolites formed. Radiolabeled samples were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography/radiochemical detection, while nonradiolabeled samples were analyzed with and without derivatization using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Results from radiolabeled incubations demonstrated that human liver microsomes metabolized BDEs 47 and 99 but not BDE 153. Differences in the extent of BDE metabolism by the three individual liver specimens used in the study were observed. BDE 47 metabolized to a dihydroxylated BDE 47 and 2,4-dibromophenol, while BDE 99 metabolized to a dihydroxylated BDE 99, 2,4,5-tribromophenol and 1,3-dibromobenzene. This study showed that BDEs 47 and 99 are metabolized by human liver microsomes with relatively large interindividual differences. Results of this study could provide one explanation for the high bioaccumulation rate of BDE 153 in humans.
Space Agency Workshop Considers Effect of Climate Change on Infrastructure: Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation: NASA Mission and Infrastructure; Kennedy Space Center, Florida, 28–30 July 2009

With centers located throughout the country, NASA could experience a range of climate change hazards. Depending on the region, these hazards are likely to include more extreme and frequent high temperatures, more frequent and intense precipitation events, changing water availability, and sea level rise. These changing climate hazards could undermine key NASA missions by damaging operations and critical infrastructure assets. The specific effects of climate change may include shifting availability, reliability, and cost of water and energy; and changes in safety and operations related to more extreme events (e.g., floods, fire).
Systematic analysis of errors in target localization and treatment delivery in stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)

Abstract Purpose : To systematically analyze the spatial uncertainties associated with each step of the stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) procedure and the overall spatial accuracy in the treatment delivery. Methods and Materials : A special test device has been designed and fabricated to permit accurate simulation, localization and treatment portal verification of a SRS target. This device with simulated targets dispersed in 3-D space can be rigidly attached to the BRW CT or angio frame for localization, to the BRW phantom base for target coordinate determination, and to the floor stand for portal verification. The setup allows evaluation of the accuracy of each procedure separately as well as the overall accuracy in the delivery of SRS treatment. Results : Biplanar film localizations reveal a systematic error in the phantom base pointer of the order of 0.1 mm that is applied as a correction to the measured target coordinates. Targets localized by planar film angiography had a mean positional error of 0.38 ± 0.1 mm compared to 1.0 ± 0.7 mm for digital angiography localization. The positional accuracy associated with CT localization was superior when a 2 mm vs. 4 mm slice thickness was used (0.9 ± 0.3 mm vs. 1.6 ± 0.5 mm error). Cumulative mean errors, including inaccuracies associated with treatment setup, were 1.0 ± 0.4 mm for radiographic localization, 1.2 ± 0.5 mm for CT with a 512 × 512 matrix and 2 mm slice thickness, and 2.0 ± 0.6 mm for CT at a 4 mm slice thickness (256 × 256 matrix). Larger errors would be expected in the clinical setting. Conclusion : Spatial errors in stereotactic radiosurgery are best estimated using a systematic approach to isolate independent contributing factors. The accuracy in target localization determines the overall accuracy of SRS procedure, provided the mechanical accuracy of the treatment apparatus is assured. Biplanar treatment portal verification with a fiducial localization frame is an accurate method of verifying the target coordinates before delivering treatment.
Morphological variations of secundum-type atrial septal defects: feasibility for percutaneous closure using Amplatzer septal occluders.

The aim of the study was to assess the morphology of secundum-type atrial septal defects (ASD) with a view to percutaneous closure using Amplatzer septal occluders (ASO). One hundred and ninety patients who underwent closure of isolated secundum-type ASD between September 1995 and January 2000 were included. The morphology of the defects was studied using transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. Patients with defects of suitable morphology and size underwent percutaneous closure using ASO. The remaining patients underwent surgical closure. Centrally placed defects were observed in 46 patients (24.2%). Morphological variations of secundum-type ASD were detected in 144 patients (75.8%). One hundred and fifty-one patients (79.5%) underwent percutaneous closure using ASO. Thirty-nine patients (20.5%) underwent surgical closure. Centrally placed defects, defects with deficient superior anterior rim, multiple defects, and perforated aneurysms of the interatrial septum are morphological variations of secundum-type ASD suitable for percutaneous closure using ASO. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2001;53:386-391.
Bacteriology and treatment of dental infections

The microbiologic and therapeutic aspects of sixty-one cases of pyogenic dental infection were studied through the use of modern anaerobic culture methods. Forty-five (74 percent) patients had anaerobic infections. Among them, eighteen (29.5 percent) had Bacteroides fragilis, of which six were resistant to penicillin at 16 microgram/ml. but all were susceptible to clindamycin at less than 2 microgram/ml. Of twenty-five patients treated with 4 to 20 million units of penicillin per day, twenty were cured and did not suffer relapse. The five patients in whom treatment failed had mandibular fractures infected with B. fragilis. Of ten patients treated with clindamycin (600 mg. intravenously every 6 hours), which included five patients with B. fragilis infections, all were cured. The presence of B. fragilis in dental infections has not been recognized. Dental infections associated with mandibular fracture that fail to respond to conventional penicillin therapy should be routinely cultured for B. fragilis.
Anxiety and OC spectrum disorders over life cycle

The developmental trajectory of anxiety disorders over the life span is an area of increasing interest. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), traditionally considered an anxiety disorder, is a disabling and chronic condition that is associated with considerable negative impact on numerous aspects of daily functioning. Lifetime prevalence has been estimated at 1.6%. OCD, like other anxiety disorders, is frequently associated with comorbid depression. Unlike depression, anxiety disorders begin early in life, often early in the teenage years. Thus, the total duration of symptoms may be nearly lifelong. Although a variety of pharmacological and behavioral treatments have proven effective, many patients fail to respond, and for some of those who do respond, response may be incomplete. Patients with these disorders deserve early and rigorous treatment, but the best way of achieving this goal is unclear. The Cape Town Consensus Statement reflects the opinions of an international expert working group who convened to review what is known about OCD and to suggest directions for future research. In their view, phenomenonological, clinical, and neurobiological features of OCD do not justify continued placement in the category of anxiety disorders. It has been suggested that OCD might better be placed in a separate category of obsessive-compulsive related disorders (OCRDs). Phenomenology, demographics, epidemiology, course of illness, comorbidity, endophenotyping and treatment response are factors that may influence the definition of the boundaries and relationships between these disorders. Endophenotyping characteristics include brain circuitry, neurocognitive factors, genetics, and immune function. Incorporation of a dimensional approach to the existing categorical approach to diagnosis may help to enrich the diagnostic specificity of the approach to OC behaviors.
Simvastatin and Amiodarone: Emergence of a Potentially Toxic Interaction

Simvastatin is widely prescribedas an adjunct to diet for lipid modi-fication and cardioprotection inpatients who are high risk. Therecent availability of generic sim-vastatin has prompted the designa-tion of simvastatin as the preferredstatin by many third-party insur-ance providers and hospital formu-laries. Overall, simva statin has anexcellent safety profile, especially atlow to moderate doses. However,when higher doses are required forgreater cholesterol lowering, con-cerns for adverse ef fects increase.
Missing the spark: An investigation into the low adoption paradox of combined heat and power technologies

This study tests the influence of regulatory requirements for Combined Heat and Power (CHP) technologies on its adoption in the market-place controlling for other relevant variables identified in the literature. Control variables in this study include profitability of CHP technology at the individual firm level, ownership structure of the firm, and knowledge about CHP within firms. Employing a logit model with data collected from a survey and an energy engineering software program, the study finds that firms initially search for CHP technologies in order to reduce their current energy cost. Subsequently, however, firms abandon the adoption process due to concerns about the complexity of regulatory requirements. Ownership structure and familiarity with CHP are found to be not significant in this analysis. The study recommends that information programs that promote CHP need to place stronger emphasis on the profitability of CHP. Another recommendation calls for the deployment of alternative regulatory structures that could govern CHP. This research was supported with a grant from the National Science Foundation's Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship Program (Grant DGE 9870646).
Reactors of hydrogen fluoride with metals and metalloids

Abstract Closed-system reactions of liquid hydrogen fluoride with a number of metals, metalloids and refractory materials have been investigated. The reactions with metals proved to be a good route to pure fluorides. The closed-system furnished two unique features: (1) the hydrogen generated in the fluorination maintained a strong reducing atmosphere that permitted isolation of otherwise difficulty obtainable fluorides of lower oxidation state, e.g., TiF3 and NbF3 and (2) the hydrogen is also believed to have contributed significantly to the reactivity of many of the transition metals by forming a metal hydride intermediate.
Fine structure of the Rauscher leukemia virus as revealed by incubation in snake venom.

Abstract Purified Rauscher leukemia virus was incubated in reconstituted lyophilized snake venom. Examination of the negatively stained venom-treated virus preparations showed the outer envelopes of most of the particles to be ruptured, revealing capsids the circumference of which showed 25–30 capsomeres 100 A in length and 75–80 A in width. Prolonged incubation in venom resulted in modification of the capsids of most of the particles and revealed a shell or framework penetrated with holes arranged in a hexagonal array. These results suggest that the capsids of Rauscher leukemia virus are covered with a coat of material which is removed by incubation in snake venom.