cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electromyographic biofeedback for relief of tension in the facial and throat muscles of a woodwind musician.

Electromyographic(EMG) biofeedback, for the relaxation of specific throat and facial muscles, was given to a woodwind musician. The patient had a nineteen-year history of tics and high levels of tension in his throat and facial muscles. Eventually these problems progressed to a point that interfered with his ability to perform as a professional woodwind musician. Following detoxification from alcohol and Dexamyl, and after a period of psychotherapy, EMG biofeedback relaxation training was started for the muscles specifically showing chronically high tension levels. The EMG training consisted of four phases designed to help the patient progressively lower tension and generalize these newly learned techniques to his professional life. He had a total of twenty treatments of approximately 45 minutes each. This procedure resulted in dramatic reductions in tension levels of the specific throat and facial muscles along with increased proficiency as a muscician and in psychological functioning.
EELS analysis of the low temperature phase of ethylene chemisorbed on Pd(111)

The chemisorption of C2H4 and C2D4 on Pd(111) at 150 K has been studied by high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy. Analysis of the vibrational spectra indicates that (i) C2H4 is more weakly bound on Pd(111) than on Ni(111) and Pt(111) and (ii) softened and broadened CH stretching frequencies suggest hydrogen bond-like interactions between the molecule and the metal surface.
RNAi knockdown of dRNaseZ, the Drosophila homolog of ELAC2, impairs growth of mitotic and endoreplicating tissues

Abstract The Drosophila RNase Z L ( dRNaseZ ) gene encodes a member of the ELAC1/ELAC2 protein family with homologs in every living organism. All RNase Z proteins tested so far were found to possess endoribonuclease activity, which is responsible for the removal of a 3′ trailer from a primary tRNA transcript. Given that tRNA 3′-end processing has been delineated using in vitro , bacterial and cell culture models, its relevance to RNase Z functions in vivo has yet to be established. In this study, we employed heritable RNA interference (RNAi) in combination with the GAL4/UAS system to spatiotemporally knockdown the dRNaseZ gene and study its biological role in cells of a developing fruit fly. We found that dRNaseZ is an essential gene, as ubiquitous knockdown caused growth arrest and early larval lethality. Molecular analysis confirmed that dRNaseZ is necessary for 3′-end processing of nuclear and mitochondrial tRNAs: knockdown larvae displayed significant accumulation of both types of processing intermediates with extensions at the 3′ end. This is the first in vivo demonstration of RNase Z L dependent tRNA processing in the context of a metazoan model organism. Using tissue-specific GAL4 drivers, we also showed that in mitotically growing imaginal discs dRNaseZ is required for cell proliferation and/or viability, but not for the maintenance of their differentiated progeny. In endoreplicating salivary glands, dRNaseZ controls organ size by supporting cell growth but not DNA replication. Although the mechanisms remain unclear, our results support the notion that RNase Z L is involved in biological pathways regulating cell growth and proliferation.
Short-term energy deprivation alters activin a and follistatin but not inhibin B levels of lean healthy women in a leptin-independent manner.

Context: Leptin is a potent modulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis mediating the effect of energy deprivation on several hypothalamic-pituitary-peripheral axes. Activin A, inhibin B, and follistatin (FST) also regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in humans. It remains unknown whether energy deprivation affects these hormone levels in a leptin-dependent or -independent manner. Objective: We investigated 1) day-night variability patterns of activin, inhibin, and FST in the fed state, 2) whether their levels are affected by fasting, and 3) whether such an effect is mediated by leptin in physiological replacement or pharmacological doses. Design: We conducted two studies in healthy, eumenorrheic females, each comprising three separate admissions. In study 1, six women were maintained for 72 h 1) on isocaloric diet, 2) fasting while receiving placebo, or 3) fasting while receiving metreleptin in physiological replacement doses. In study 2, five women were administered physiological or...
Atmospheric concentrations and deposition of Hg to A deciduous forest atwalker branch watershed, Tennessee, USA

Aerosol and total vapor-phase Hg concentrations in air have been measured at Walker Branch Watershed, Tennessee for ≈ 2 yr. Airborne Hg at this site is dominated by vapor forms which exhibit a strong seasonal cycle, with summer maxima that correspond to elevated air temperature. Concentrations in this forest are near background levels; however, concentrations at a site within 3 km are significantly elevated due to emissions from Hg-contaminated soils. The concentration data have been combined with a recently modified dry deposition model to estimate dry deposition fluxes to the deciduous forest at Walker Branch. Weekly mean modeled Vd values for Hg° ranged from 0.1 (summer) cm s1. Weekly dry deposition fluxes ranged from 1.0 µgg m−2 in the summer. Our dry deposition estimates plus limited measurements of wet deposition in this area indicate that dry deposition may be the dominant input process in this forest, at least during the summer.
Intercultural network theory: a cross-paradigmatic approach to acculturation

Abstract The field of intercultural relations has devoted considerable attention to the idea of separate research paradigms. The distinctions between perspectives such as qualitative–quantitative, subjective–objective, functional–interpretive, etc., dominate theoretical and methodological writings. These distinctions are important for outlining the parameters of various research programs; however, many interesting issues in the cultural adjustment process deny the dichotomization of experience and require an approach that addresses a reality that is both reliable and present while at the same time situated and emergent. Recently our focus in the field has been trained on how we might bridge those distinct paradigms with a plausible intercultural theory. In the first portion of this article I outline three common research paradigms employed in intercultural relations. The social network perspective is then offered as a cross-paradigmatic research and theorizing approach. The conceptual history and relevant properties of social networks for intercultural research are described as part of the foundation for a theory of intercultural social networks that allows us to address the relational quality of intercultural interaction while acknowledging the stability of structural phenomena. I then propose seven assumptions and seven propositions comprising the beginning of a dynamic theory of intercultural social networks. Based upon the propositions put forward, future research avenues are suggested. I conclude that a socio-structural approach to acculturation, and the study of intercultural relations in general, is uniquely suited to capture and reconcile situated, emergent phenomena with reliable, present phenomena and increase our understanding of inter-cultural relations.
A chronic percutaneous lead system employing a skin-prosthesis graft.

Abstract This report describes the construction and surgical implantation of a nonreactive cutaneous prosthesis which is the basis for a chronic, sealed, percutaneous lead system that has been tested in 48 dogs and 3 sheep. Some theoretical implications are discussed regarding the functional success of this device, along with some suggested precautions in its application.
Neuroimmune perspectives in sepsis

Physiologic anti-inflammatory mechanisms are selected by evolution to control the immune system and to prevent infectious and inflammatory disorders. Central-acting α2-agonists attenuate systemic inflammation and improve survival in experimental sepsis. This anti-inflammatory and therapeutic mechanism of central sympatholytics appears to be mediated by an unexpected vagomimetic potential of the α2-agonists to activate the vagus nerve. Recent studies, however, rule out a cholinergic anti-inflammatory mechanism based on a direct cholinergic interaction between the vagus nerve and the immune system. Since the nervous system is the principal regulator of the immune system, physiologic studies understanding the neuroimmune connections can provide major advantages to design novel therapeutic strategies for sepsis.
Location of and landing on a source of human body odour by female Culex quinquefasciatus in still and moving air.

The orientation to and landing on a source of human odour by female Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) is observed in a wind tunnel without an airflow or with a laminar airflow of 0.2 m s−1. Odours from human feet are collected by ‘wearing’ clean glass beads inside a stocking and presenting beads in a Petri dish in a wind tunnel. Mosquitoes are activated by brief exposure to a 1 L min−1 jet of 4% CO2 positioned 10 cm from the release cage. In moving air at 0.2 m s−1, a mean ± SE of 3.45 ± 0.49 landings are observed in 10-min trials (five mosquitoes per trial), whereas 6.50 ± 0.96 landings are recorded in still air. Furthermore, 1.45 ± 0.31 mosquitoes are recorded on beads at any one time in moving air (a measure of individuals landing versus one landing multiple times) compared with 3.10 ± 0.31 in still air. Upwind flight to beads in moving air is demonstrated by angular headings of flight immediately before landing, whereas approaches to beads in still air are oriented randomly. The mean ± SE latency until first landing is 226.7 ± 17.98 s in moving air compared with 122.5 ± 24.18 in still air. Strategies used to locate a prospective host at close range in still air are considered.
Speed considerations for electrochromic displays

The elect rochromic effect based on the reversible electro-deposition of a viologen radical cation has been applied to information display systems. Problems of multiplexing can be overcome by the use of an auxiliary switch, such as a thin-film transistor. The question of speed is the subject of this paper, which discusses the factors influencing the contrast ratio of an electrochromic display. The contrast ratio is determined by electrochemical and optical considerations, the former governing the amount of material deposited and the latter the visual effect of the deposit. Electrochemically, the deposition may be influenced by a variety of mechanisms, including diffusion, migration, electrode kinetics and deposit resistance. Multiple pulse driving gives increased speed in diffusion-limited cases. Optically, the perceived contrast is maximised by increasing the absorbance of the deposited material and by optimising the diffuse reflectance of the display electrode.
Dietary factors and vasomotor symptoms in breast cancer survivors: the WHEL Study.

Objective: Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) (hot flashes, night sweats) are associated with natural or surgically or chemotherapy-induced menopause, the latter occurring frequently in women treated for breast cancer. To manage VMS, some women seek alternatives to menopausal hormone therapy, such as supplements or modified food choices. The objective of the present analyses was to assess associations of VMS occurrence and change in severity of VMS over 12 months with dietary intakes of fiber, fat, and selected soy-containing foods, and use of phytoestrogen or vitamin E supplements in women with recent early stage breast cancer, adjusting for covariates. Design: Using multivariate logistic regression, data were analyzed from 2,198 women with early-stage breast cancer who enrolled 2 to 48 months after diagnosis in the Women's Healthy Eating and Living randomized, controlled trial of a high-vegetable, high-fiber, reduced-fat diet. Results: Being peri- or postmenopausal, using tamoxifen, having low social support or depressive symptoms, and using vitamin E or phytoestrogen supplements were significantly associated cross-sectionally with reporting moderate/severe VMS at enrollment. Increased symptom severity after 12 months was significantly associated with higher body mass index, tamoxifen use, and smoking. Decreased symptom severity at 12 months was significantly associated with high dietary fiber intake; no decrease was observed in women who were peri- or postmenopausal, using tamoxifen, or had low fat intake or low social support. Conclusions: High dietary fiber intakes, being premenopausal, and high social support were related to decreased severity of VMS 1 year after study enrollment in women recently treated for breast cancer.
Using Multiple Risk Factors to Assess the Behavioral, Cognitive, and Affective Effects of Learned Helplessness

Rather than examining the effect of the pessimistic explanatory style on an outcome variable reflecting a single domain, I studied the effects of multiple learned-helplessness risk factors on behavioral, cognitive, and affective variables. Undergraduate students completed the Learned Helplessness Scale (Quinless & McDermott-Nelson, 1988) as a measure of their expectation of uncontrollability and the Explanatory Style Questionnaire (Peterson et al., 1982) to determine their explanations for both positive and negative events. Results revealed a significant effect for risk level, with students at greater risk of helplessness reporting significantly more procrastination, lower grade point averages, and more dysphoria. These results support the use of multiple risk factors representing all learned-helplessness precursors and the assessment of learned-helplessness deficits drawn simultaneously from behavioral, cognitive, and affective domains.
The Interaction between Sgt1p and Skp1p Is Regulated by HSP90 Chaperones and Is Required for Proper CBF3 Assembly

Sgt1p is a well-conserved protein proposed to be involved in a number of cellular processes. Genetic studies of budding yeast suggest a role for SGT1 in signal transduction, cell cycle advance, and chromosome segregation. Recent evidence has linked Sgt1p to HSP90 chaperones, although the precise relationship between these proteins is unclear. To further explore the role of Sgt1p in these processes, we have characterized the interactions among Sgt1p, the inner kinetochore complex CBF3, and HSP90 chaperones. We show that the amino terminus of Sgt1p interacts with CBF3 subunits Skp1p and Ctf13p. HSP90 interacts with Sgt1p and, in combination with the carboxy terminus of Sgt1p, regulates the interaction between Sgt1p and Skp1p in a nucleotide-dependent manner. While the Sgt1p-Skp1p interaction is required for CBF3 assembly, mutations that stabilize this interaction prevent the turnover of protein complexes important for CBF3 assembly. We propose that HSP90 and Sgt1p act together as a molecular switch, maintaining transient interactions required to balance protein complex assembly with turnover.
Nuevos medios de comunicación y movilización transnacional: el caso del Movimiento Zapatista

Las nuevas tecnologias de la informacion y la comunicacion facilitaron no solo una globalizacion economica acelerada, tambien fomentaron la esperanza de configurar una robusta sociedad civil y global de cosmopolitas solidarios comprometidos con el activismo transnacional. El levantamiento zapatista en Chiapas ha sido ampliamente considerado como el caso prototipo de conflicto social donde el uso de Internet desempeno un papel instrumental. Este texto cuestiona e indaga en los supuestos generales sobre el impacto del uso de Internet en dicho conflicto. Para ello, se realizo una investigacion empirica de paginas web y listas de correos electronicos, referida contextualmente a las transformaciones de la infraestructura mediatica de Mexico a partir de los anos noventa. El articulo hace un llamado a la cautela respecto a la valoracion del papel que desempena Internet como herramienta en los movimientos sociales, matizando aspectos significativos que contribuyen ya sea a sobre o subestimar dicho papel. Para concluir, se presentan varias hipotesis especificas a fin de orientar investigaciones a futuro.
Response to On the Origin of Urinary Angiotensin II

We were pleased that our article titled, “Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor–Mediated Augmentation of Urinary Excretion of Endogenous Angiotensin II in Val5-Angiotensin II–Infused Rats” generated sufficient interest to prompt van den Heuvel et al1 to suggest how we could distinguish between plasma- and kidney-derived angiotensin II (Ang II) in the urine. The focus of our study was to determine whether chronic Ang II infusion increased production of intrarenal Ang II as reflected by urinary excretion of endogenous Ang II.2 Importantly, during infusion of Val5-Ang II for 14 days, the plasma concentrations of Ile5-Ang II were markedly reduced compared with control rats3 because of the substantial reduction in plasma renin …
Determining Experimentally Induced Variation In Coniferous Canopy Chemistry With Airborne Imaging Spectrometer Data

Experimental treatments in a Douglas-fir forest in NE New Mexico were carried out to determine whether differences in forest canopy chemistry could be detected using data from the Airborne Imaging Spectrometer (AIS-2). Experimental treatments consisted of nitrogen fertilizer additions, sawdust additions, and control plots. After AIS-2 data were collected, the digital number of a given pixel was extracted from each channel, yielding 128 values that were used to form a spectrum. Four spectra were extracted from each treatment plot. Multiple stepwise linear regressions between first and second difference transformations of AIS-2 spectra and the canopy characteristics of biomass, nitrogen concentration, and nitrogen content were performed. The results showed a coefficient of multiple determination of 0.71 between first-difference AIS-2 spectra and measured nitrogen concentration in foliage, indicating that it may be possible to predict nitrogen concentration in Douglas fir using AIS-2 spectra.
Role of Helicobacter pylori Infection in the Development of Pernicious Anemia

It is now accepted that most patients with atrophic gastritis of the stomach have been infected with Helicobacter pylori. Several investigators have also suggested the possibility that H. pylori is involved in the early stages of pernicious anemia, which leads to severe atrophic gastritis of the fundus. In this article, studies investigating the association of this specific form of atrophic gastritis and H. pylori infection are reviewed. Most of the published studies indicate that patients with pernicious anemia are infected with H. pylori less often than are age-matched controls. However, because H. pylori infection may be present before the development of pernicious anemia, prospective studies during the pre-pernicious anemia stage of gastritis are needed.
Toughening mechanisms in bioinspired multilayered materials

Outstanding mechanical properties of biological multilayered materials are strongly influenced by nanoscale features in their structure. In this study, mechanical behaviour and toughening mechanisms of abalone nacre-inspired multilayered materials are explored. In nacre's structure, the organic matrix, pillars and the roughness of the aragonite platelets play important roles in its overall mechanical performance. A micromechanical model for multilayered biological materials is proposed to simulate their mechanical deformation and toughening mechanisms. The fundamental hypothesis of the model is the inclusion of nanoscale pillars with near theoretical strength (σth ~ E/30). It is also assumed that pillars and asperities confine the organic matrix to the proximity of the platelets, and, hence, increase their stiffness, since it has been previously shown that the organic matrix behaves more stiffly in the proximity of mineral platelets. The modelling results are in excellent agreement with the available experimental data for abalone nacre. The results demonstrate that the aragonite platelets, pillars and organic matrix synergistically affect the stiffness of nacre, and the pillars significantly contribute to the mechanical performance of nacre. It is also shown that the roughness induced interactions between the organic matrix and aragonite platelet, represented in the model by asperity elements, play a key role in strength and toughness of abalone nacre. The highly nonlinear behaviour of the proposed multilayered material is the result of distributed deformation in the nacre-like structure due to the existence of nano-asperities and nanopillars with near theoretical strength. Finally, tensile toughness is studied as a function of the components in the microstructure of nacre.
Kudos to our reviewers

Lists the reviewers who contributed to IEEE Transactions on Device and Materials Reliability in 2008.
Does a Relationship Exist Between the Type of Initial Violation and Recidivism

This research study used a retrospective quantitative descriptive correlation design to determine if a relationship exists between the type of violation for which a nurse was initially disciplined by the Arizona Board of Nursing (BON) and recidivism. The hypothesis of the study stated that such relationships exist. The researcher examined the BON's discipline data bank for the years 2002 through 2012 to find specific violations that were likely to lead to multiple disciplinary actions. Based on this examination, the researcher chose the five categories of violations that were most likely to be associated with recidivism. The point-biserial correlation (rpb) was computed to identify if any significant linear relationship existed between categories of violations and repeated disciplines and revealed no statistically significant relationship. Thus, the study concludes that the null hypothesis cannot be rejected. Future research is recommended to identify specific initial violations that may have a relationship with recidivism, rather than descriptive categories of initial violations that may have such a relationship.
Factors involved in colonization of the gut epithelial surface

Some indigenous microbes form climax communities on gastrointestinal epithelial surfaces during succession in animals of many types. Most communities form in mucous layers on the surfaces, where some microbes in the communities may utilize the mucin as a source of carbon and energy. The mucous gel may also serve physically to stabilize the community. Some microbial types that colonize early during succession may serve, perhaps synergistically with dietary components, to lower the oxygen tension and oxidation-reduction potential so that oxygen-intolerant anaerobes can colonize the epithelial surfaces. Microbes in the communities may adhere to the epithelial surface; the mechanisms by which they adhere may depend upon a variety of factors, including the type of epithelium and the rate of flow of lumenal contents in the areas. Dietary fiber may influence the composition of these communities by providing nutrients for the microbes or altering their environmental conditions including peristaltic rate, mucous concentration and composition, and oxygen tension and oxidation-reduction potential.
Thymoma-Associated Paraneoplastic Polymyositis

We read with interest the recent commentary by Inoue et al describing the first reported case of thymic carcinoma–associated paraneoplastic polymyositis. We agree with Inoue et al that this is an extremely difficult complication to manage in this rare histological subtype of thymic malignanices. The authors report that only 23 cases of polymyositis associated with thymoma have previously been described. We have recently encountered a similar constellation of symptoms in a 24-year-old white woman, and wish to summarize her case briefly. She was originally diagnosed with a grade B2 stage IVA malignant thymoma in 2003 with coexistent autoimmune myasthenia gravis and diabetes mellitus. Before attending our clinic in November 2008, she had received extensive prior therapy including three separate debulking surgeries followed by adjuvant radiation on two occasions. Previous chemotherapeutic regimens included six cycles of cisplatin, adriamycin, vincristine, and cyclophoshamide, and three cycles of carboplatin/paclitaxel. In November 2008, she was enrolled on a phase I clinical trial of the histone deacetylase inhibitor belinostat 1,000 mg/m days 1 to 5 every 3 weeks. She attained stable disease on belinostat for 10 months until September 2009, when she presented with an urticarial rash, recurrence of myasthenia gravis, and generalized myalgias predominantly in her shoulder and bilateral thigh muscles. Computed tomography scan at that time revealed stable disease; however, her creatinine kinase was markedly elevated at 2,020 U/L (range, 38 to 252 U/L). Magnetic resonance imaging of her thighs revealed an unusual pattern of edema for an inflammatory myopathy with a fascial distribution in the right vastus lateralis. A muscle biopsy of her anterior thigh confirmed myositis. Despite aggressive therapy, which included intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), plasmapharesis, pulsed steroids, and rituximab, she continued to deteriorate and developed progressive bulbar symptoms, finally requiring ventilator support for respiratory failure and a prolonged intensive care unit admission. While myasthenia gravis and other autoimmune phenomena tend to be more closely associated with thymomas, our patient demonstrated a range of autoimmune phenomena including myasthenia gravis, type I diabetes mellitus, and autoantibodies to interferon and interferon . Interestingly, patients with autoimmune polyendocrinopathy, candidiasis, and ectodermal dystrophy caused by autosomal recessive mutations in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene also have endocrinopathies and autoantibodies against type I interferons. AIRE is known to promote negative selection of autoreactive T cells and apoptosis of thymic medullary epithelial cells. The suggestion that AIRE expression may be altered in thymic tumors provides a fascinating link between autoimmunity and malignancy as demonstrated by our patient.
Temporal patterns of reproduction and recruitment in populations of the penaeid shrimps Trachypenaeus similis (Smith) and T. constrictus (Stimpson) (Crustacea: Decapoda) from the Northcentral Gulf of Mexico

The temporal pattern of reproduction and recruitment is described from monthly population samples (June, 1989 through November, 1990) of two penaeid shrimp species, Trachypenaeus similis (Smith) and T. constrictus (Stimpson), from an inshore location (Mississippi Sound near Horn Island) in the Northcentral Gulf of Mexico. The presence or absence of mating plugs (associated with mating and insemination) and ovarian maturity (an indicator of spawning) were used to examine breeding in adult females. Females with mature ovaries occurred in samples from April through October and November in T. constrictus and T. similis, respectively, with peak values in July to September in both species. The percentage of inseminated females fell to low or zero values in the late fall and winter, indicating a cessation of mating activity. Sexual maturity of males was indicated by fusion of the gonopodal endopods (petasma); mature males were present throughout the year in both species. Recruitment intensity was described as the percentage of juvenile individuals in monthly population samples of each species (“identifiable juveniles”). Very small Trachypenaeus juveniles, at a size closer to actual recruitment but too small to be identified to species (“unidentifiable juveniles”), were used in calculating another recruitment index based on combined monthly samples of both species. Both indices indicated that recruitment occurred throughout most of the year with no obvious seasonal pattern. The monthly spawning intensity of each species was highly correlated with water temperature at the month of sampling, indicating the possible importance of temperature as a proximate factor acting on gonadogenesis and spawning pattern. It is hypothesized that larval food supply may be an important ultimate factor or selective pressure acting on spawning seasonality in these penaeid shrimps. There were no statistically significant correlations between monthly estimates of spawning intensity and recruitment using lag periods from one to 3 months, indicating a complex stock-recruitment relationship in these species.
Centroid density of interval type-2 fuzzy sets: Comparing stochastic and deterministic defuzzification

Recently, Type-2 (T2) Fuzzy Logic Systems (FLSs) gained increased attention due to their capability to better describe, model and cope with the ubiquitous dynamic uncertainties in many engineering applications. By far the most widely used type of T2 FLSs are the Interval T2 (IT2) FLSs. This paper provides a comparative analysis of two fundamentally different approaches to defuzzification of IT2 Fuzzy Sets (FSs) — the deterministic Karnik-Mendel Iterative Procedure (KMIP) and the stochastic sampling defuzzifier. As previously demonstrated by other researchers, these defuzzification algorithms do not always compute identical output values. In the presented work, the concept of centroid density of an IT2 FS is introduced in order to explain such discrepancies. It was demonstrated that the stochastic sampling defuzzification method converges towards the center of gravity of the proposed centroid density function. On the other hand, the KMIP method calculates the midpoint of the interval centroid obtained according to the extension principle. Since the information about the centroid density is removed via application of the extension principle, the two methods produce inevitably different results. As further demonstrated, this difference significantly increases in case of non-symmetric IT2 FSs.
Hepatic mycobacterial disease and AIDS.

We reviewed the clinical data, hepatic histology, and microbiological features of 21 patients with previously documented acquired immune deficiency syndrome who had liver biopsies. Diagnoses of specific infections were made on liver biopsy in 11/21 patients (57%). Granulomas were found in 10/21 patients (48%) and were most often a manifestation of infection with Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare. Elevated levels of serum alkaline phosphatase and longer duration of diagnosed illness were significantly associated with the presence of granulomatous disease.
Quantum molecular computing: The self-assembly model

The principle of macromolecular self-assembly is used to construct a model of computing that exploits quantum effects to achieve enhanced real-time capabilities. Signals impinging on a device (or biological cell) trigger the appearance of macromolecules that self-assemble into a mosaic. Adaptor enzymes recognize features of the mosaic and link these to the output of the device. In this way, a symbolic pattern recognition problem is converted to a free-energy minimization process. A Hartree-type self-consistent-field formalism is developed for treating the self-assembly process. The formalism demonstrates that the parallelism inherent in the quantum mechanical wave function (the superposition of electronic states) can speed up the exploration of the potential surface, thereby increasing computational search power over what can be achieved with conventional models of computation. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Transforming growth factor-β inhibits rat intestinal cell growth by regulating cell cycle specific gene expression

Abstract Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) inhibits the growth of intestinal cells, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. Using a rat intestinal crypt cell line (IEC-6), we determined the site of action in the cell cycle that TGF-β1 acts to suppress proliferation. We also examined the effect of TGF-β1 on the expression of proliferation-associated "immediate early" genes ( zif 268, jun -B, c- myc ) during the early g 1 phase and the cdc 2 gene during the transition from the G 1 phase to the S phase of the cell cycle. Cell cycle progression was determined by incorporation of 3 H-thymidine, and gene expression was analyzed by Northern blot analysis. We found that TGF-β1 acts to inhibit proliferation of rat intestinal crypt cells by blocking cell cycle progression at the middle g 1 phase. The genes activated during g 1 can be divided into TGF-β1 insensitive ( zif 268, jun -B, and c- myc ) and TGF-β1 sensitive (the cdc 2 gene). TGF-β1 suppresses the induction of the cdc 2 gene during the G1S transition without inhibiting the activation of immediate early genes during the early g 1 phase.
Effect of short-term free fatty acids elevation on mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle of healthy individuals

Context: Mitochondrial dysfunction has been proposed as an underlying mechanism in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Objective: To determine whether mitochondrial dysfunction plays a role in the free fatty acid (FFA)-induced impairment in insulin action in skeletal muscle of healthy subjects. Design: Eleven lean normal glucose tolerant individuals received 8 h lipid and saline infusion on separate days with a euglycemic insulin clamp during the last 2 h. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were performed at baseline and after 6 h lipid or saline infusion. Inner mitochondrial membrane potential (Ψm) and mitochondrial mass were determined ex vivo by confocal microscopy. Results: Compared with saline infusion, lipid infusion reduced whole-body glucose uptake by 22% (P < 0.05). Ψm decreased by 33% (P < 0.005) after lipid infusion and the decrement in Ψm correlated with change in plasma FFA after lipid infusion (r = 0.753; P < 0.005). Mitochondrial content and morphology did not...
Hepatitis B virus X protein sensitizes primary mouse hepatocytes to ethanol- and TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis by a caspase-3-dependent mechanism.

It is well-documented that alcohol drinking together with hepatitis viral infection accelerates liver injury; however the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this paper, we demonstrated that primary hepatocytes from transgenic mice overexpressing hepatitis B virus X protein (HBX) were more susceptible to ethanol- and TNF-αinduced apoptotic killing. Compared to normal control mouse hepatocytes, ethanol and/or TNF-α treatment led to a significant increase in reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial permeability transition, cytochrome C release, caspase-3 activity, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase degradation in hepatocytes from HBX transgenic mice. Blocking caspase-3 activity antagonized ethanol- and TNF-α-induced apoptosis in primary hepatocytes from HBX transgenic mice. Taken together, our findings suggest that HBX sensitizes primary mouse hepatocytes to ethanoland TNF-α-induced apoptosis by a caspase-3-dependent mechanism, which may partly explain the synergistic effects of alcohol consumption and hepatitis B virus infection on liver injury. Cellular & Molecular Immunology. 2005;2(1):40-48.
Noncontiguous and open fractures of the lower extremity: Epidemiology, complications, and unplanned procedures.

Abstract Introduction Isolated fractures of the lower extremity are relatively common injuries while multifocal injuries resulting from high-energy trauma are less frequently encountered. Our objectives are to characterise patients who sustained multiple noncontiguous fractures and open fractures of the lower extremity, report the incidence of major complications, and identify factors that may contribute to complications and unplanned re-operations. Patients and Methods A retrospective review of patients was performed at a Level 1 trauma centre from 2000 to 2013. Patients who sustained two or more noncontiguous operative fractures in an ipsilateral lower extremity, with at least one open fracture were included. Noncontiguous was defined as fractures in the same lower limb that were not in continuity on preoperative radiographs or intra-operatively. Demographic, injury characteristics, and hospitalisation data were collected. Primary outcomes included non-union, deep infection, and the need for unplanned surgeries. Results 257 patients sustained a total of 876 lower extremity fractures with an average of 1.7 open and 2.7 operative fractures in the qualifying limb. Ninety-nine patients (38.5%) sustained bilateral lower extremity injuries. Following their initial stay, 22.6% of patients had planned procedures (definitive fixation, skin, or planned bone grafting). Nearly half (45.9%) required one or more unplanned re-operation. Complications included deep infections (19.5%), non-unions (19.5%), and mal-unions (2.7%). 17.5% of the patients had at least one procedure for removal of painful implants. A deep infection was predictive of having a non-union (odds ratio, OR 7.5). The presence of a Gustilo-type IIIB/IIIC (OR 24.6/16.0) fracture was predictive of having a deep infection. After excluding painful implant removal, a type IIIB fracture was associated with an unplanned procedure (OR 13.8). Conclusions Patients with multiple non-contiguous lower extremity injuries associated with open fractures can expect complications including non-unions, deep infections, and painful implants. Nearly half of the patients will need further operative treatment.
A Comparison of Host Response to Cortical Autografts and Processed Calf Heterografts

1. Inlay grafts of calf cortical bone, processed to lower antigenicity, were compared with fresh autogenous cortical bone in dogs one and six months after operation. 2. The incorporation of both types of bone was similar initially and there was no evidence of an inflammatory response with characteristics of the "heterograft reaction" at thirty days. 3. After six months, the heterografts were more completely remodeled than the autografts as judged by gross, radiographic, histological, and microradiographic criteria. 4. These preliminary studies indicate that this material may be a substitute for preserved bone homografts.
How to Use the Black Box

This paper is meant as a supplement to my August, 1998 AJPS article "Recovering a Basic Space From a Set of Issue Scales." I promised the editor and the reviewers of my article that I would provide and support the computer programs used in the article. Accordingly, this paper is part of a package of material that contains the FORTRAN code and the executables of the programs used in the article.
Simultaneous Transventricular-Orbitocranial Resection of Large Suprasellar Craniopharyngioma as Inspired by Jackson's Maneuver from 1863

Traditional skull base techniques utilizing the microscope have allowed surgeons improved safe access to deep-seated lesions. More recent technical advances with the endoscope have allowed improved visibility and access to these previously difficult-to-reach regions. Most current literature emphasizes one technique over the other. We present a unique hybrid-type approach that tackles this not-infrequent surgical dilemma. This hybrid-type surgery resulted in a new technique that is a confluence of both open microsurgery and skull base corridors with an endoscope. Furthermore, a combined ventriculoscope approach adds extended assistance with resection. We detail the utility of this technique. A patient presented with a large suprasellar lesion that was suspicious for a craniopharyngioma. Given improved survival with extent of resection, the goal of surgical intervention was maximal safe resection. The location of the tumor would have involved certain morbidity with deliberate residual if a skull base approach or endoscope-based approach was employed independently. As a result, the patient underwent a hybrid-type operation using a multi-corridor split-surgical team approach for the resection of her tumor. The patient underwent hybrid surgery via a combined open microsurgical craniotomy, endoscopic resection, and a ventriculoscope-assisted approach. The ventriculoscope access allowed for resection of the intraventricular portion of the tumor and guided the extent of resection from the microsurgical corridor. Additionally, from a separate craniotomy, the suprasellar component was resected using both standard skull base and endoscope-assisted techniques. The patient tolerated the procedure well without additional morbidity provided from the multi-corridor hybrid technique. The hybrid surgery resulted in a new multi-modality, split-surgical team approach providing maximal visualization with minimal added morbidity to resect a lesion difficult to access. This hybrid technique may be an effective piece of the surgeon's armamentarium to provide improved patient outcomes.
Local and regional disturbances associated with the invasion of Chesapeake Bay marshes by the common reed Phragmites australis

The invasion of wetlands by Phragmites australis is a conservation concern across North America. We used the invasion of Chesapeake Bay wetlands by P. australis as a model system to examine the effects of regional and local stressors on plant invasions. We summarized digital maps of the distributions of P. australis and of potential stressors (especially human land use and shoreline armoring) at two spatial scales: for 72 subestuaries of the bay and their local watersheds and for thousands of 500 m shoreline segments. We developed statistical models that use the stressor variables to predict P. australis prevalence (% of shoreline occupied) in subestuaries and its presence or absence in 500 m segments of shoreline. The prevalence of agriculture was the strongest and most consistent predictor of P. australis presence and abundance in Chesapeake Bay, because P. australis can exploit the resulting elevated nutrient levels to enhance its establishment, growth, and seed production. Phragmites australis was also positively associated with riprapped shoreline, probably because it creates disturbances that provide colonization opportunities. The P. australis invasion was less severe in areas with greater forested land cover and natural shorelines. Surprisingly, invasion was low in highly developed watersheds and highest along shorelines with intermediate levels of residential land use, possibly indicating that highly disturbed systems are uninhabitable even to invasive species. Management strategies that reduce nutrient pollution, preserve natural shorelines, and limit nearshore disturbance of soils and vegetation may enhance the resilience of shorelines to invasion.
Open approaches to cricopharyngeal hypertonicity and hypopharyngeal diverticulum

Cricopharyngeal dysfunction and Zenker’s Diverticulum are seen more commonly as our population ages and both the entities lead to clinical and quality-of-life derangements. Many practitioners prefer an endoscopic approach for the treatment of these problems, yet surgeons still need to be familiar with open techniques. The open approaches are still necessary for those patients who have failed an endoscopic approach or are not a candidate for the procedure because of anatomical limitations. As such, the surgeon must be comfortable with both the methods to provide effective care for patients with these issues.
The clinical effects of low-dose erythromycin with amino acid based-formula on treatment of feeding intolerance in premature infants

Objective To study the clinical effects of low-dose erythromycin with amino acid based-formula on treatment of feeding intolerance in premature infants.Methods A total of 108 premature infants with feeding intolerance admitted to neonatal intensive care unit from Aug.2009 to Sep.2011 were divided into three groups and retrospectively analyzed.Infants in the control group received conventional therapy.Infants in erythromycin group were administered orally with lowdose erythromycin in addition to the conventional therapy.Infants in the amino acid formula group were administered with low-dose erythromycin and amino acid based-formula in addition to the conventional therapy.The days taken for feeding intolerance symptoms disappearance,ideal weight gain and parenteral nutrition were compared among three groups.Results Compared with the control group,the days of symptoms disappearance,ideal weight gain,parenteral nutrition and achieving full enteral feeding were shorter in erythromycin group and shortest in amino acid formula group(P0.01).Conclusions The combined treatment of low-dose erythromycin and amino acid based-formula can promote feeding tolerance in premature infants.
POLIOVIRUS DOUBLE-STRANDED RNA: ITS EXISTENCE AND ROLE IN REPLICATION

This chapter discusses the existence of poliovirus double-stranded RNA and its role in replication. The infection of HeLa cells by poliovirus leads to the production of a species of ribonuclease-resistant RNA with a sedimentation coefficient of 16S–20S. In cesium sulfate equilibrium gradient centrifugation, it is lighter than viral RNA. Complete characterization of this RNA has been accomplished, and some evidence has been obtained as to its role as a template. It is referred to as 18S RNA. Because the amount of 18S RNA in the cell is greatest near the end of the replication cycle, labeled material is prepared from infected actinomycin-treated cells that were exposed to 32 PO 4 or 3 H-uridine from 2 to 6 h of infection. The labeled RNA is extracted from the cells with phenol and sodium docecyl sulfate and is separated on sucrose gradients. In such gradients, the major species of labeled RNA sediments at 35 S and represents single-stranded viral RNA.
Premature mitral valve opening: a new sign of severe mitral regurgitation

Abstract. A new echophonocardiographic sign of severe mitral regurgitation is described in a patient with left ventricular dysfunction and wide open mitral incompetence. Opening of the mitral valve before aortic valve closure may be seen with a low aortic diastolic pressure and an elevated left atrial V wave
Comparison of Mehlich-3 and Ammonium Bicarbonate-DTPA for the Extraction of Phosphorus and Potassium in Calcareous Soils from Florida

ABSTRACTDeveloping a fast and reliable soil testing method is critical for improving soil testing efficiency and ensuring reliable fertilizer recommendation. The objectives of this study were to evaluate Mehlich-3 (M-3) as a replacement for ammonium bicarbonate-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (AB-DTPA) to extract phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) and to determinate the relationships between extractable P and K and their uptakes by crop in calcareous soils. M-3 and AB-DTPA were compared by using two approaches. In the first approach, the amounts of extracted P and K were compared by analyzing soil samples collected from agricultural production areas; in the second approach, snap beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) were grown in pot to determine the P and K uptakes by crop. There were significant correlations between M-3 and AB-DTPA for both soil test P and K based on soils collected from the agricultural field and the pot study. Soil test P and K by both extractants were significantly correlated with their uptake...