cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of inhibitors on the growth of the entomopoxvirus from Amsacta moorei in Lymantria dispar (gypsy moth) cells.

Abstract Within the family of Poxviridae, the entomopoxviruses are the most distant relatives of the more well-known and intensively studied orthopoxviruses (vaccinia and variola). The growth of the entomopoxvirus from Amsacta moorei (AmEPV) has been characterized in cell culture and compared to that of vaccinia virus (VV), the prototypic orthopoxvirus. The overall characteristics of infected cell cultures were generally similar between the two viruses. One striking difference noted was the apparent absence of proteolytic processing of late AmEPV viral proteins, a hallmark of vertebrate poxvirus infections associated with viral morphogenesis. AmEPV, like VV, was found to be sensitive to all the inhibitors of viral infection tested including phosphonoacetic acid, 1-β- d -arabinofuranosylcytosine, and isatin-β-thiosemicarbazone (IBT), a compound associated with the rather specific inhibition of vertebrate poxviruses. While both VV and AmEPV are inhibited by IBT, the inhibition of AmEPV, unlike that of VV, is not accompanied by either a breakdown of ribosomal RNA or a global inhibition of late viral protein synthesis. Instead, in the presence of IBT, AmEPV enveloped, immature virions form devoid of a well-differentiated core, which unlike mature virions fail to insert into occlusion bodies.
Methylthioninium chloride (methylene blue) induces autophagy and attenuates tauopathy in vitro and in vivo

More than 30 neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer disease (AD), frontotemporal lobe dementia (FTD), and some forms of Parkinson disease (PD) are characterized by the accumulation of an aggregated form of the microtubule-binding protein tau in neurites and as intracellular lesions called neurofibrillary tangles. Diseases with abnormal tau as part of the pathology are collectively known as the tauopathies. Methylthioninium chloride, also known as methylene blue (MB), has been shown to reduce tau levels in vitro and in vivo and several different mechanisms of action have been proposed. Herein we demonstrate that autophagy is a novel mechanism by which MB can reduce tau levels. Incubation with nanomolar concentrations of MB was sufficient to significantly reduce levels of tau both in organotypic brain slice cultures from a mouse model of FTD, and in cell models. Concomitantly, MB treatment altered the levels of LC3-II, cathepsin D, BECN1, and p62 suggesting that it was a potent inducer of autophagy....
3,3′-Diindolylmethane Modulates Estrogen Metabolism in Patients with Thyroid Proliferative Disease: A Pilot Study

Background: The incidence of thyroid cancer is four to five times higher in women than in men, suggesting a role for estrogen (E2) in the pathogenesis of thyroid proliferative disease (TPD) that comprises cancer and goiter. The objective of this study was to investigate the antiestrogenic activity of 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), a bioactive compound derived from cruciferous vegetables, in patients with TPD. Methods: In this limited phase I clinical trial study, patients found to have TPD were administered 300 mg of DIM per day for 14 days. Patients subsequently underwent a total or partial thyroidectomy, and tissue, urine, and serum samples were collected. Pre- and post-DIM serum and urine samples were analyzed for DIM levels as well as estrogen metabolites. DIM levels were also determined in thyroid tissue samples. Results: DIM was detectable in thyroid tissue, serum, and urine of patients after 14 days of supplementation. Urine analyses revealed that DIM modulated estrogen metabolism in patients with TP...
Dispositional Correlates of Hypnosis: A Phenomenological Approach

Abstract An attempt was made to construct and validate a questionnaire measure of hypnotic-like experiences based on Shor's (1979) 8-dimension phenomenological analysis of hypnosis. Separate item pools were developed to measure each disposition: Trance, Nonconscious Involvement, Archaic Involvement, Drowsiness, Relaxation, Vividness of Imagery, Absorption, and Access to the Unconscious. Based on preliminary testing (totel N = 856), a final questionnaire was produced containing 5 items measuring normal, everyday experiences in each domain. Results from a standardization sample (N = 468) showed that each of the subscales, except for Archaic Involvement, possessed satisfactory levels of internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Factor analysis indicated that 6 subscales loaded highly on a common factor similar to the absorption construct (Tellegen & Atkinson, 1974), while items pertaining to Relaxation and Archaic Involvement formed separate factors. Validation testing on 4 samples receiving the Harv...
Thickness and refractive index of DPPC and DPPE monolayers by multiple-beam interferometry.

The thickness and refractive index of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidyl choline (DPPC) and 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DPPE) monolayers Langmuir--Blodgett (LB) deposited on mica were measured in dry air and bulk water using multiple-beam interferometry (MBI). Measurements of thickness using atomic force microscopy (AFM) of identical monolayers, and X-ray reflectivity (XRR) of the monolayers on quartz were taken for comparison. The measurement of the properties of solid-supported monolayers in dry air allows lipid optical properties to be determined free from solvent effects. The thickness and refractive index measured by MBI were 25.5 ± 0.6 A and 1.485 ± 0.007 for DPPE monolayers, and 23.9 ± 0.5 A and 1.478 ± 0.006 for DPPC monolayers in dry air. These thicknesses are consistent with the other techniques used in this work as well as other measurements in the literature. The refractive indices of solid-supported lipid monolayers have not been previously measured. The values are higher than previous measurements on black lipid films done by reflectometry, which is attributed to increased lipid packing density and the absence of hydrocarbon solvents. Applying water to the monolayers had no measurable effect on their properties, indicating that any change in hydration was below detection.
Cardiovascular Collapse After Femoral Venous Cannula Placement for Robotic-Assisted Mitral Valve Repair and Patent Foramen Ovale Closure

botica of t ary b diac a air a a per ula i nous c on in t case, t with s ave b as d perf rnal j p nula h left a has b re p lacem that s dden c t t p P c b CASE IS PRESENTED of sudden cardiac decompen tion in a patient undergoing femoral venous cann lacement for robotic-assisted mitral valve repair and pa oramen ovale (PFO) closure. Robotic-assisted and minima nvasive techniques for cardiac surgery create new and un hallenges for anesthesiologists and surgeons. A rare com ation of left atrial appendage perforation and ensuing car amponade secondary to transatrial septal guidewire passage he setting of robotic-assisted surgery is described.
Strategic planning for captive populations: projecting changes in genetic diversity

Maintenance of genetic diversity is critical for the preservation of small populations. Most captive populations are small and managers focus their efforts on reducing extinction risks by minimising loss of genetic diversity. To project changes in genetic diversity, managers use a genetic drift model. We used data from 40 managed captive populations to test whether this drift model is a good predictor of change in genetic diversity by comparing projected 10-year trajectories of annual loss in expected heterozygosity with the changes estimated from pedigree analysis. We found that the drift model frequently overestimated the rate at which genetic diversity would be lost and could not predict increases, which we observed in 22 species. We suggest that the drift model does not adequately reflect the potential for management strategies, such as prioritised breeding recommendations and recruitment of potential founders, to slow the loss of genetic diversity. In many cases, the drift model may be overly pessimistic, leading managers to seek solutions such as importation, increased population size or the abandonment of a captive population, that may be unnecessary or premature. Managers should be cautious when interpreting results from genetic drift models, taking care to assess how management actions might lead to more optimistic prognoses.
Exploratory Tools for Follow-Up Studies to Microarray Experiments

In this paper we present two different exploratory tools for data analysis following a gene microarray experiment. The first tool is based on a novel data mining formulation, called hypergraph mining. In the second tool, we provide a family of expectation based similarity measures between sets of genes or between a set and a single gene. We have evaluated these two tools using output from two different microarray studies. We showed how many interesting observations could be made using our tools, and how the results from the two tools were similar in many ways.
Effects of Estrogenic Xenobiotics on Molting of the Water Flea,Daphnia magna

The effects of five xenobiotics, 2,4,5-trichloribiphenyl (PCB29), the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) Aroclor 1242, diethyl phthalate, lindane, and 4-octylphenol, on molting of Daphnia magna were investigated. All except PCB29 are known to have unexpected estrogenicity in vertebrates. Daphnids exposed to PCB29, Aroclor 1242, and diethyl phthalate took significantly more time to complete four molts than did the controls. The inhibitory effects of these ortho-chlorinated PCBs suggest that certain structural features, most probably including ortho-chlorination, are related to the ability of a PCB to affect molting. Agents with multicyclic structures, such as PCBs, are more effective in inhibiting molting than are single-ringed xenobiotics, such as diethyl phthalate, which suggests that hydrophobicity may be a requirement for binding to the ecdysteroid receptor. These molt-inhibiting agents with multiple rings appear to bear more structural resemblance to the steroidal molting hormones of arthropods, the ecdysteroids, than do the single-ringed ones. While the possibility of alternative mechanisms, such as impairment of ecdysteroidogenesis exists, the results obtained herein support the hypothesis that some xenobiotics which disrupt endocrine processes in vertebrates can also interfere with the hormonally regulated molting process in arthropods through acting as antagonists of endogenous ecdysteroids by binding to and thereby blocking the ecdysteroid receptor.
Conquering Mnemonophobia, with Help from Three Practical Measures of Memory and Application:

Recent articles in Teaching of Psychology have endorsed the classroom use of various mnemonic techniques. Yet a degree of mnemonophobia (i.e., fear of using mnemonics) may persist in the minds of some ToP readers due to various lingering misconceptions. In this regard, we conducted 3 practical experiments with college students using the mnemonic keyword method to learn a set of psychological terms (namely, phobias, for which we provide a sample set, along with their mnemonic representations). We examined students' immediate and delayed recall, inference-demanding matching and categorization tests, and backward recall (recall of terms from definitions). On all measures, mnemonic students statistically outperformed control students. These findings provide further support for the use of classroom-based mnemonic techniques.
Conjugated linoleic acid or omega 3 fatty acids increase mitochondrial biosynthesis and metabolism in skeletal muscle cells

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are popular dietary supplements advertised to contribute to weight loss by increasing fat metabolism in liver, but the effects on overall muscle metabolism are less established. We evaluated the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) or combination omega 3 on metabolic characteristics in muscle cells. Human rhabdomyosarcoma cells were treated with either DMSO control, or CLA or combination omega 3 for 24 or 48 hours. RNA was determined using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Mitochondrial content was determined using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Metabolism was quantified by measuring extracellular acidification and oxygen consumption rates. Omega 3 significantly induced metabolic genes as well as oxidative metabolism (oxygen consumption), glycolytic capacity (extracellular acidification), and metabolic rate compared with control. Both treatments significantly increased mitochondrial content. Omega 3 fatty acids appear to enhance glycolytic, oxidative, and total metabolism. Moreover, both omega 3 and CLA treatment significantly increase mitochondrial content compared with control.
A prospective study of weight maintenance in obese subjects reduced to normal body weight without weight-loss training.

We examined the pattern of weight maintenance in 24 obese women [body mass index (BMI; in kg/m2) 27.6 +/- 0.4 who were provided foods for a balanced deficit diet until each had lost > or = 10 kg and attained normal body weight (BMI 22.9 +/- 0.4). At 1 y subjects had regained a mean of 42% of their weight loss, which increased to 87% at 4 y. At 4 y 44% of patients had regained or = 100% of the weight originally lost. The amount of weight gained was markedly different from that observed in 24 pair-matched never-obese control subjects over the same length of follow-up. Because the results reported herein were obtained without teaching the subjects weight-control skills, they may be regarded as reflective of the natural history of weight maintenance in this population and may serve as a reference for various weight-intervention programs. The pattern of weight rebound observed in this study is very similar to the pattern observed in combined results from published diet and behavioral-modification programs, which raises important questions regarding the efficacy of these approaches in long-term weight maintenance.
Single wavelength check isocratic reverse phase HPLC method for fast and direct estimation of alkyl aromatic oxidation products

An isocratic, reverse phase liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the quantitative determination of p-xylene oxidation products. The method represents a direct and fast analytical procedure to determine the assay. Separation is achieved on Waters μ-Bondapak C18, 300 mm × 3.9 mm × 10 μm column in a single wavelength 230 nm. The method has been validated with respect to linearity, limit of quantification, accuracy and robustness. Critical impurity 4-carboxy benzaldehyde (4-CBA) is found to be within the limit of quantification, 8 ppm, accuracy 97–98%, recovery 98 to 101% and resolution 1.97 from the closest peak. The sample solution is stable and can be used safely within 48 h. The method is verified by real sample reaction mixture.
Severe case of phenytoin-induced anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome.

Anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS) is an uncommon but serious reaction to aromatic anticonvulsants, such as phenytoin, phenobarbital, lamotrigine, and carbamazepine, and generally occurs within one week to three months after initiation of therapy.[1][1]–[8][2] This syndrome is
Statins Are Associated With a Reduced Risk of Hepatocellular Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background & Aims Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Several studies have shown that statins could have chemopreventive effects on HCC. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that evaluated the effects of statins on the risk of HCC. Methods We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science through May 2012 and manually reviewed the literature. Studies were included if they evaluated and clearly defined exposure to statins, reported the incidence of HCC, and reported relative risks or odds ratios (ORs) or provided data for their estimation. Ten studies reporting 4298 cases of HCC in 1,459,417 patients were analyzed. Summary OR estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the random effects model. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed with the Cochran's Q statistic and I 2 statistic. Results Statin users were less likely to develop HCC than statin nonusers (adjusted OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.52–0.76), although the results were heterogeneous ( P = .01, I 2 = 59%). This heterogeneity could be accounted for by study location (Asian population [n = 4]: adjusted OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.42–0.64; Western population [n = 6]: adjusted OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.53–0.85) and design (observational studies [n = 7]: adjusted OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.49–0.73; clinical trials [n = 3]: adjusted OR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.62–1.45). Conclusions Based on meta-analysis, statin use is associated with a reduced risk of HCC, most strongly in Asian but also in Western populations. Randomized clinical trials in populations at high risk for HCC (especially in Asian populations with hepatitis B) are warranted.
Purification and characterization of endo‐xylanases from Aspergillus niger. II. An enzyme of pl 4.5

A homogeneous endo-xylanase (1,4-..beta..-D-xylan xylano-hydrolase, EC 3.2.1.8) was obtained from a crude Aspergillus niger pentosanase by chromatography with Ultrogel AcA 54, SP-Sephadex C-25 at pH 4.5, DEAE-Sephadex A-25 at pH 5.4, Sephadex G-50, and SP-Sephadex C-25 with a gradient from pH 2.8 to pH 4.6. It was much more active on soluble than on insoluble xylan yielding large amounts of unreacted xylan and a mixture of oligosaccharides with chain lengths from two to six. No xylose or L-arabinose was produced. There was high activity on a xylopentaose through xylononaose mixture, but not on xylobiose, xylotriose, or xylotetraose. The enzyme had slight activity on untreated cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, and pectin. Molecular weight was ca. 1.4 x 10/sup 4/, with an isoelectric point of 4.5 and an amino acid profile high in acidic but low in sulfur-containing residues. In a 25-min assay at pH 4.7, this endo-xylanase was most active at 45 degrees C, with an activation energy from 5 to 35 degrees C of 33.3 kJ/mol. The optimum pH for activity was 4.9. Decay in buffer was first order, with an activation energy at pH 4.7 from 48 to 53 degrees C of 460 kJ/mol. Optimum pH for stability was about 5.6,more » where the half-life at 48 degrees C in buffer was ca. 40 h.« less
Production of H5-Specific Monoclonal Antibodies and the Development of a Competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Detection of H5 Antibodies in Multiple Species

The hemagglutinin gene of an avian influenza virus (AIV) A/duck/NC/674964/07 (H5N2) was cloned and expressed in a baculovirus system (H5-Bac). In parallel, a recombinant hemagglutinin of A/Vietnam/1203/04 (H5N1) was expressed in mammalian cells, purified, and used for generation of H5-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAb). The purified H5-Bac was used to develop a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) to detect H5 antibodies in a species-independent approach using one of the established H5-specific MAbs as the competitor antibody. The cELISA performed with influenza antibody-free sera or with sera of animals infected with other than H5-encoding AIV showed no significant inhibition of H5-MAb binding, indicating high test specificity. In contrast, sera of poultry (chickens, turkeys, ducks) experimentally infected with H5-encoding AIV were able to significantly inhibit the binding of the MAb in a species-independent approach. Comparison of the results of the cELISA with results obtained by a hemagglutination inhibition assay showed a gradient of the sensitivity (turkeys > ducks > chicken). The described results show that H5-specific antibodies in sera can be detected in a species-independent approach by using a recombinant protein.
A researcher's guide to investigating the psychological sequelae of infertility: methodological considerations

Research into the psychological sequelae of infertility has been plagued by a number of methodological problems. The most common methodological concerns involve conceptual confusion regarding the measurement and existence of psychiatric morbidity among the infertile, selection of convenience samples which limit generalizability, and failure to analyze the influence of important variables like diagnosis, treatment length, dyadic concordance and dyadic patterns. These methodological limitations are detailed and recommendations are made for future research.
Prospective, controlled tandem endoscopy study of narrow band imaging for dysplasia detection in Barrett's Esophagus

Background & Aims: High-resolution endoscopy with narrow band imaging (NBI) enhances the visualization of mucosal glandular and vascular structures. This study assessed whether narrow band targeted biopsies could detect advanced dysplasia using fewer biopsy samples compared with standard resolution endoscopy. Methods: We conducted a prospective, blinded, tandem endoscopy study in a tertiary care center with 65 patients with Barrett's esophagus undergoing evaluation for previously detected dysplasia. Standard resolution endoscopy was used first to detect visible lesions. Narrow band endoscopy was then used by another gastroenterologist to detect and biopsy areas suspicious for dysplasia. The lesions initially detected by standard resolution endoscopy were then disclosed and biopsied, after biopsy of the lesions targeted with NBI. Finally, random 4-quadrant biopsies were taken throughout the segment of Barrett's mucosa. Results: Higher grades of dysplasia were found by NBI in 12 patients (18%), compared with no cases (0%) in whom standard resolution white light endoscopy with random biopsy detected a higher grade of histology ( P P Conclusions: In patients evaluated for Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia, NBI detected significantly more patients with dysplasia and higher grades of dysplasia with fewer biopsy samples compared with standard resolution endoscopy.
Hopf Algebras for Physics at the Planck Scale

Applies ideas of non-commutative geometry to reformulate the classical and quantum mechanics of a particle moving on a homogeneous spacetime. The reformulation maintains an interesting symmetry between observables and states in the form of a Hopf algebra structure. In the simplest example both the dynamics and quantum mechanics are completely determined by the Hopf algebra consideration. The simplest example is a two-parameter algebra-co-algebra KAB which is the unique Hopf algebra extension, such as is possible, of the self-dual Hopf algebra of functions on flat phase space C(R*R). In the limit (A=0,B) the author recovers functions on a curved phase space with curvature proportional to B2 and in another limit (A= infinity , B= infinity ), A/B=h(cross), the author recovers quantum mechanics on R>or=0 with an absorbing wall at the origin. The algebra in this way corresponds to a toy model of quantum mechanics of a particle in one space dimension combined with gravity-like forces. It has an interesting Z2 symmetry interchanging A to or from B, and thereby, in some sense, the quantum element with the geometric element. The compatibility conditions that are solved are a generalisation of the classical Yang-Baxter equations.
A mathematical model that predicts skeletal muscle force

This study demonstrates the validity of a mathematical model that predicts the force generated by rat skeletal muscles during brief subtetanic and tetanic isometric contractions. The model consists of three coupled differential equations (ODEs). The first two equations represent the calcium dynamics and the third equation represents force dynamics. The model parameters were identified from brief trains of regularly spaces pulses [constant-frequency trains (CFTs)] that produce subtetanic muscle responses. Using these parameters, the model was able to predict isometric forces from other stimulation patterns. For the gastrocnemius muscles predictions were made for responses to CFTs with interpulse intervals (IPI's) ranging from 10 to 50 ms and variable-frequency trains (VFT's), where the initial IPI=10 ms and the remaining IPIs were identical to those used for the CFTs. For the soleus muscles predictions were made for 10-100-ms CFTs. The shape of the predicted responses closely match the experimental data. Comparisons between experimental and modeled force-time integrals, peak forces, and time-to-peak also suggest excellent agreement between the model and the experiment data. Many physiological parameters predicted by the model agree with values obtained independently by others. In conclusion, the model accurately predicts isometric forces generated by rat gastrocnemius and soleus muscles produced by brief stimulation trains.
Comprehensive Modeling of Shape Memory Alloy Material Response Using a Multimechanism-Based Inelastic Model

Despite significant work over many years, using either one of the micromechanics based or phenomenological approaches, there are still prospects of much improvement to be made in constitutive modeling of shape memory alloys (SMAs). This is especially true if we sufficiently target the general scope in the modeling, i.e., including such important attributes as (1) multiaxiality; (2) possible asymmetry in tension and compression; (3) accounting for pseudoelasticity and pseudoplasticity; (4) rate dependence; and (5) effects of shape memory training under cyclic loading. The desire for comprehensive modeling of SMA materials provides the primary motivation for the inelastic model described here. Its theoretical formulation employs two main ingredients: (1) multiplicity of hardening mechanisms and (2) the partition of the energy storage/dissipation that is so vital in capturing the extremes of pseudoelasticity and pseudoplasticity in SMAs. For the purpose of validation and assessment part of the model capabili...
PSI-7851, a Pronucleotide of β-d-2′-Deoxy-2′-Fluoro-2′-C-Methyluridine Monophosphate, Is a Potent and Pan-Genotype Inhibitor of Hepatitis C Virus Replication

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5B RNA polymerase facilitates the RNA synthesis step during the HCV replication cycle. Nucleoside analogs targeting the NS5B provide an attractive approach to treating HCV infections because of their high barrier to resistance and pan-genotype activity. PSI-7851, a pronucleotide of beta-D-2'-deoxy-2'-fluoro-2'-C-methyluridine-5'-monophosphate, is a highly active nucleotide analog inhibitor of HCV for which a phase 1b multiple ascending dose study of genotype 1-infected individuals was recently completed (M. Rodriguez-Torres, E. Lawitz, S. Flach, J. M. Denning, E. Albanis, W. T. Symonds, and M. M. Berry, Abstr. 60th Annu. Meet. Am. Assoc. Study Liver Dis., abstr. LB17, 2009). The studies described here characterize the in vitro antiviral activity and cytotoxicity profile of PSI-7851. The 50% effective concentration for PSI-7851 against the genotype 1b replicon was determined to be 0.075+/-0.050 microM (mean+/-standard deviation). PSI-7851 was similarly effective against replicons derived from genotypes 1a, 1b, and 2a and the genotype 1a and 2a infectious virus systems. The active triphosphate, PSI-7409, inhibited recombinant NS5B polymerases from genotypes 1 to 4 with comparable 50% inhibitory concentrations. PSI-7851 is a specific HCV inhibitor, as it lacks antiviral activity against other closely related and unrelated viruses. PSI-7409 also lacked any significant activity against cellular DNA and RNA polymerases. No cytotoxicity, mitochondrial toxicity, or bone marrow toxicity was associated with PSI-7851 at the highest concentration tested (100 microM). Cross-resistance studies using replicon mutants conferring resistance to modified nucleoside analogs showed that PSI-7851 was less active against the S282T replicon mutant, whereas cells expressing a replicon containing the S96T/N142T mutation remained fully susceptible to PSI-7851. Clearance studies using replicon cells demonstrated that PSI-7851 was able to clear cells of HCV replicon RNA and prevent viral rebound.
Evidence for independent processing of subjective contour brightness and sharpness.

Subjective contours have been of considerable interest because of their importance to theories and physiological models of form perception. In particular, they have recently been characterized as the result of magnocellular cortical processing. There is, however, a paucity of parametric data relating to basic psychophysical parameters in this field.Two experiments are reported in which the roles of subjective contour size, retinal eccentricity, and flicker rate in subjective contour salience were investigated. Eleven observers estimated subjective contour magnitude using an Ehrenstein configuration. Configurations ranging in size from 0.25 to 3 deg were presented to three retinal loci (fovea, 2 deg, and 4 deg) at flicker rates ranging from 5 to 15 Hz. Subjective contour brightness and distinctness were measured separately. Brightness was greatest at a subjective contour size of about 1.25 deg, at flicker rates of 5 – 7 Hz, and at 3 deg peripheral for all flicker rates and all but the smallest stimulus siz...
Integrated electronic subscriber line interface circuit with ringing on chip

A new high-voltage, dielectrically isolated, complementary bipolar technology has been used to integrate high-voltage functions of a subscriber line interface circuit (SLIC). This circuit, in conjunction with a complementary low-voltage junction isolated bipolar integrated circuit, implements most of the line interface functions required for digital telephone switches. Partitioning of the junctions is based on technology requirements, and the two chips are encapsulated in 28-pin package.
Revascularization for acute regional infarct: Superior protection with warm blood cardioplegia

Abstract Continuous retrograde warm blood cardioplegia was compared with two widely used hypothermic myocardial protection techniques in a canine model of acute regional myocardial ischemia with subsequent revascularization. Animals (n = 30) underwent 45 minutes of left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion then cardioplegic arrest (60 minutes), followed by separation from caidiopulmonary bypass and data collection. The cold oxygenated crystalloid cardioplegia group (CC; n=8) and the cold blood cardioplegia group (CB; n=10) had cardiopulmonary bypass at 28 °C, antegrade arrest, and intermittent retrograde delivery. The warm blood cardioplegia group (WB; n=12) had normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass, antegrade arrest, and continuous retrograde delivery. Overall ventricular function (preload recruitable stroke work relationship; ergs × 10 3 /mL) was significantly ( p p 3 /cm 2 ) revealed significantly ( p p = 0.02) worse for CC (WB, 10.2 ± 2.3; CB, 9.4 ± 2.6; CC, 5.6 ± 1.5). Myocardial edema significantly ( p =0.03) increased over time only in the CC animals (WB, 0.4% ± 2.3%; CB, −0. 3% ± 3.6%; CC, 5.5% ± 2.3%). In this model of acute regional myocardial ischemia and revascularization, continuous retrograde warm aerobic blood cardioplegia provided superior myocardial protection compared with cold oxygenated crystalloid cardioplegia with intermediate results for cold blood cardioplegia.
Building Community, Linking Islands: A Distance Learning Model from Hawaii

While online learning is a relatively new domain with few research based models, results from previous studies can be used in program and course design to provide a foundation for success. Tools and strategies, when carefully aligned and informed by research findings, can support high quality learning and a strong community of learners. A case study is presented that details tools, strategies, and student feedback about an online educational technology graduate program at the University of Hawaii-Manoa linking a professional community in the Hawaiian islands.
Intrauterine Infusion of Latency Associated Peptide (LAP) During Early Porcine Pregnancy Affects Conceptus Elongation and Placental Size

In the pig, transforming growth factor beta (TGFB), TGFB receptors (TGFBRs), and integrins are present during the peri-implantation period. Latency-associated peptide (LAP), a part of latent TGFB, can bind to integrin heterodimers via its Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence; therefore, ligand-receptor interactions between TGFB and TGFBRs, along with LAP and integrin heterodimers, may be functional in mediating events supporting conceptus elongation and attachment. With the use of surgically implantable osmotic pumps, we were able to maintain pregnancy with the aim of mechanistically altering in vivo receptor-ligand interactions involving TGFB with TGFBRs and LAP with integrins during porcine pregnancy. Day 9 pregnant gilts received intrauterine infusions of LAP-RGD, a recombinant mutant of LAP (LAP-RGE), or vehicle control and were ovariohysterectomized on Day 13 or 24 of pregnancy. We hypothesized that intrauterine infusion of LAP-RGD would decrease downstream signaling of TGFB while increasing LAP-integrin interactions and that net effect would enhance conceptus survival and attachment early in the peri-implantation period but possibly increase the chance of abnormal placentation later in pregnancy. Additionally, we hypothesized that infusion of LAP-RGE would disrupt TGFB signals but not alter integrin signaling, and thus the net result would be decreased conceptus survival and abnormal development. Unexpectedly, LAP-RGD intrauterine infusions resulted in a reduction of conceptus elongation, whereas infusions of LAP-RGE permitted implantation and placentation but resulted in larger fetal weight, allantois length, and allantoic fluid volume. Results suggest TGFB and integrins are contributing factors in the regulation of conceptus elongation and placental and fetal size.
Efficient, Fully Local Algorithms for CIOQ Switches

A number of algorithms have been proposed in the literature for scheduling CIOQ switches. The algorithms which have been proven to provide strict performance guarantees on delay (via the emulation of an output-queued switch) have been too complicated to implement because they require the exchange of a large amount of information between inputs and outputs. With implementation as our primary focus, we consider scheduling algorithms that are "fully local." This means inputs and outputs must be able to make decisions regarding matchings using only local information (except requests, grants and accepts). This constraint, which is essentially necessary for high-speed implementations, appears too restrictive for designing algorithms which enable the emulation of an output-queued switch. Rather surprisingly, we find a very simple and fully local algorithm FLGS (for fully local Gale-Shapley) which, at a speedup of 2, emulates an output-queued switch implementing a number of different output link scheduling algorithms such as weighted round robin and strict priority. We explore the performance of the algorithm at speedups between 1 and 2 using simulations and find that it partitions the bandwidth nearly as well as an output-queued switch at speedups 1.2 or higher.
The Emancipation Proclamation: Lincoln’s Many Second Thoughts

The ending of slavery is associated most often with President Abraham Lincoln. Although personally opposed to slavery, Lincoln was even more opposed to secession and the disintegration of the American union. On many occasions after signing the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln expressed in his own correspondence and in conversations recorded by others a readiness to renege on emancipation in exchange for the Confederate states’ returning to the Union. Jefferson Davis’s commitment to Southern independence, however, was stronger by far than Abraham Lincoln’s commitment to emancipation. Although willing to break his promise to end slavery, Lincoln could do nothing to convince Davis to accept this concession by returning to the Union. Davis’s absolute devotion to Southern nationhood, in this sense, forced upon Lincoln the title of Great Emancipator.
Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate induce a distinct, restricted subset of primary-response TIS genes in both proliferating and terminally differentiated myeloid cells.

Abstract Induction of early-response genes (tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate [TPA]-induced sequences, or TIS genes; R.W. Lim, B.C. Varnum, and H.R. Herschman, Oncogene 1:263-270, 1987) by granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and TPA was examined both in a factor-dependent murine cell line, 32D clone 3, and in mature human neutrophils. When GM-CSF-deprived 32D clone 3 cells were exposed to GM-CSF or to TPA, four TIS mRNAs (TIS7, TIS8, TIS10, and TIS11) were rapidly and transiently induced. However, neither GM-CSF nor TPA could induce accumulation of TIS1 mRNA in 32D clone 3 cells, even under superinducing conditions. Both GM-CSF and TPA also elicited rapid, transient expression of TIS8 and TIS11 mRNA in postmitotic human neutrophils. However, neither agent could induce accumulation of TIS1 mRNA in human neutrophils. TIS1 is a member of the nuclear receptor supergene family that codes for ligand-dependent transcription factors. Cell-type restriction of inducible transcription factors may contribute to developmental specification.
Abstract 188: Safety of Stroke Thrombolysis During Pregnancy: A Population-Based Analysis

Background: Use of tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) during pregnancy is controversial given potential risks of placental and fetal complications. Since knowledge on this topic is limited, we assessed rates of TPA use during pregnancy and the associated patient characteristics and outcomes in a population-based sample of patients. Methods: We used administrative claims data on all discharges from nonfederal emergency departments and acute care hospitals in California, Florida, and New York between 2005 and 2012. Pregnancy was defined as the 40 weeks prior to delivery or abortive outcome. Using a validated ICD-9-CM diagnosis code algorithm, we identified cases of ischemic stroke, as well as cases of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) since these may represent hemorrhagic transformation of an infarct. We included only the first recorded stroke to focus on incident cases. TPA use was identified by ICD-9-CM procedure code 99.10, which has been validated as 98% specific in this population. Comparisons between groups were made using Fisher’s exact test and t-test or rank-sum test as appropriate. Results: Among 428,564 women with stroke, 599 cases occurred during pregnancy. The rate of TPA use for stroke was significantly lower during pregnancy (1.2%; 95% CI, 0.4-2.4%) than otherwise (3.5%; 95% CI, 3.4-3.6%; P = 0.001). Among pregnant stroke patients, we found few notable differences in the baseline characteristics of the 7 who received TPA versus the 592 who did not: those receiving TPA had higher rates of heart failure (28.6% versus 2.2%; P = 0.01) and pneumonia (14.3% versus 1.2%; P = 0.09) and lower rates of of pre-eclampsia (0.0% versus 29.1%; P = 0.09). There were no notable differences between pregnant stroke patients who did or did not receive TPA in terms of length of hospital stay, discharge disposition, and in-hospital mortality rate. However, we noted a significantly higher rate of abortive pregnancy outcomes during stroke hospitalization in those who received TPA than those who did not (28.6% versus 4.6%; P = 0.04). Conclusion: We found a significantly higher rate of abortive pregnancy outcomes in patients who received TPA. This suggests the need for caution and further research regarding TPA use for stroke in pregnancy.
A rapid miniaturized residue analytical method for the determination of zoxamide and its two acid metabolites in ginseng roots using UPLC-MS/MS.

A miniaturized residue method was developed for the analysis of the fungicide zoxamide and its metabolites in dried ginseng root. The zoxamide metabolites, 3,5-dichloro-1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid (DCBC) and 3,5-dichloro-4-hydroxymethylbenzoic acid (DCHB), are small acid molecules that have not been previously extracted from the ginseng matrix with common multiresidue methods. The presented extraction method effectively and rapidly recovers both the zoxamide parent compound and its acid metabolites from fortified ginseng root. The metabolites are extracted with an alkaline glycine buffer and the aqueous ginseng mixture is partitioned with ethyl acetate. In addition, this method avoids the use of derivatization of the small acid molecules by using UPLC-MS/MS instrumental analysis. In a quantitative validation of the analytical method at three levels for zoxamide (0.007 (LOD), 0.02 (LOQ), and 0.2 mg/kg) and four levels (0.07 (LOD), 0.2 (LOQ), and 0.6 and 6 mg/kg) for both metabolites, acceptable method per...
The New Development and Application in the Sanitation Examination in Modern Ion Chromatography

The basic theory ,the working principle,the recently development and application in the sanitation examination in ion chromatography is reviewed in this paper.
Epidemiological characteristics of severe cases of hand-foot-and-mouth disease in Liangqing District of Nanning City from 2010-2012

[Objective]To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of severe cases of hand-foot-and-mouth disease(HFMD) in Liangqing District of Nanning City from 2010-2012,provide the scientific basis for developing the prevention and control measures of HFMD.[Methods]The data of HFMD cases in Liangqing District from 2010-2012 were collected from China information system for diseases control and prevention,and were analyzed in combination with laboratory examination results,individual questionnaire and death case report.[Results]A total of 8 026 HFMD cases were reported in Liangqing District of Nanning City from 2010-2012,and there were 57 severe cases,which accounted for 0.71%.The peak season of severe cases was March to July,and most of cases were children under 5 years old.Dashatian economic development zone was the high-incidence area,and most of cases were scattered children.3 death cases had the same reason of delay in treatment.There was no significant difference in positive rate of EV71 between cured cases and death cases(χ2 = 0.82,P 0.05).[Conclusion]It is necessary to improve the prevention and control of HFMD,strengthen the training about infectious diseases prevention and control knowledge among rural doctors,and popularize HFMD knowledge among population,to reduce the severe cases and death cases as far as possible.
Patients’ Good and Bad Surprises: How Do They Relate to Overall Patient Satisfaction?

The literature documents little research regarding patients' good and bad surprises in the hospital. Such experiences may inform a patient's future decisions about recommending or returning to the hospital. Utilizing a database of survey respondents, the authors conducted qualitative and quantitative analyses of patients' self-reported surprises about their hospital stay and the relationship between those surprise experiences and their overall feelings of satisfaction. Analysis of these data shows that patients do experience surprises during their hospital stays, that specific events are associated with these surprises, and that these surprises influence patient satisfaction. These results suggest that in order for health care providers to continuously improve and meet patients' needs and expectations, providers must determine steps to take to delight their patients, to avoid patient disappointments, and to meet patients' basic expectations.
Current expectations in cardiac transplantation.

One hundred thirty cardiac transplant procedures have been performed at Stanford University in 124 patients. Four major developments have contributed to increased survival over the past 3½ years (60 patients): (1) transvenous graft biopsy for diagnosis of rejection, (2) antihuman thymocyte globulin of rabbit origin (RATG), (3) immunologic monitoring, and (4) cardiac retransplantation. Right ventricular endomyocardial biopsy is performed every 5 to 7 days for 4 to 6 weeks (830 biopsies in 78 patients without serious morbidity). RATG is given over the first 9 days (total 49 mg. immunoglobulin G per kilogram). Half-lives (T½) of circulating rabbit globulin (RG) are calculated by radioimmune assay. Slow T½ correlates directly with delayed rejection, decreased severity of rejection, and increased survival. RATG is reinstituted for acute rejection and as long-term therapy to reduce toxic maintenance prednisone doses. Its administration is individually modulated by serum RG levels. No serious toxicity has occurred. The primary immunologic monitoring assay is measurement of circulating T-lymphocytes by sheep e-rosette formation. Depression to less than 10 percent of normal occurs within 6 days. Subsequent rejection episodes are heralded by exponential T-cell rises 1 to 3 days before abnormal graft biopsy. This assay detects early efferent immune response and permits earlier and more efficient immunosuppression. Two indications for retransplantation exist: intractable recurrent rejection and accelerated graft atherosclerosis. Five patients have undergone graft replacement, three successfully. These advances have contributed to present survival rates of 66, 63, and 58 percent 1, 2, and 3 years after transplantation (90 percent rehabilitation). More extended application in selected patients is warranted.
Origins of the Scientific Study of Mass Communications in Chile: 1958–67

Adopting a ‘scientific’ approach to mass communications in Chile in the late 1950s meant adopting the methods and premises of North American sociology. Not only was the North American approach seen as a way to modernize the study of communications, but North American sociology was part and parcel of the project to modernize Chile. This chapter will examine the sources and consequences for communications scholarship of the North American influence in Chile during this period.
Winning and losing in cyberspace

This paper examines cyber conflict using a lens of ‘winning’ or ‘losing’, or alternatively the role of ‘victory’ or ‘triumph’ compared to that of ‘defeat’, to draw broader conclusions about the dynamics of cyber power. To do so, the paper analyses writing on the general topic of winning over the years, then dives into the two most critical key case studies: the 2007 attacks on Estonia, and the 2008–2015 conflict between the United States and Iran. It addresses the most relevant factors for these cases, including a summary of the participants in the conflict and which side ‘won’ or ‘lost’ and why. After these case studies, the paper will address larger questions of winning and losing and the implications for our understanding of cyber power.
Fatal Disseminated Mycobacterial Infection Following Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guerin

AbstractWe describe a fatal case of disseminated mycobacteriosis after intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guerin immunotherapy. We summarize the prior safety record of this therapeutic modality, discuss local and systemic pathophysiological mechanisms by which dissemination might have occcurred, and review the reported clinical experience with antituberculous chemotherapy for significant bacillus Calmette-Guerin infection. Finally, we offer suggestions for prophylaxis of certain patients with a history of exposure to intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guerin.
Cohesive chains and writing quality

(1989). Cohesive chains and writing quality. WORD: Vol. 40, Systems, Structures, and Discourse: Selected Papers from the Fifteenth International Systemic Congress, pp. 235-254.