cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distinct New York City Aedes albopictus Mosquito Populations Display Differences in Salivary Gland Protein D7 Diversity and Chikungunya Virus Replication

In an increasingly interconnected world, the exposure and subsequent spread of emergent viruses has become inevitable. This is particularly true for Aedes (Ae.) mosquito-vectored viruses, whose range has increased over the past decade from tropical to temperate regions. However, it is unclear if all populations of Ae. mosquitoes in temperate New York City are able to successfully replicate and transmit arboviruses. To answer this question, we reared Ae. albopictus mosquitoes living in a temperate climate from three locations in New York City. We first sequenced the salivary antiviral protein D7 from individual mosquitoes in each population and found single nucleotide variants that are both shared and unique for each Ae. albopictus population. We then fed each population chikungunya virus (CHIKV) via an artificial blood meal. All three mosquito populations could be infected with CHIKV, yet viral titers differed between populations at 7 days post infection. Moreover, we found that these mosquitoes could transmit CHIKV to mice, and that virus RNA reached the saliva as early as two days post infection. Upon sequencing of the saliva CHIKV genomic RNA, we found mutations at sites correlated with increased transmission and virulence. These studies show that NYC Ae. albopictus populations can be infected with and transmit CHIKV, CHIKV is able to evolve in these mosquitoes, and that host salivary factors display population-specific diversity. Taken together, these studies highlight the need to study how distinct mosquito populations control viral infections, both at the virus and host level.
Five-Year Experience with VATS Versus Thoracotomy Segmentectomy for Lung Tumor Resection.

ObjectiveSegmentectomy for lung tumors has been performed with either video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) or thoracotomy; however, there is a lack of contemporary, multicenter study that co...
Mapping Datasets to Object Storage System

Access libraries such as ROOT[1] and HDF5[2] allow users to interact with datasets using high level abstractions, like coordinate systems and associated slicing operations. Unfortunately, the implementations of access libraries are based on outdated assumptions about storage systems interfaces and are generally unable to fully benefit from modern fast storage devices. For example, access libraries often implement buffering and data layout that assume that large, single-threaded sequential access patterns are causing less overall latency than small parallel random access: while this is true for spinning media, it is not true for flash media. The situation is getting worse with rapidly evolving storage devices such as non-volatile memory and ever larger datasets. This project explores distributed dataset mapping infrastructures that can integrate and scale out existing access libraries using Ceph’s extensible object model, avoiding re-implementation or even modifications of these access libraries as much as possible. These programmable storage extensions coupled with our distributed dataset mapping techniques enable: 1) access library operations to be offloaded to storage system servers, 2) the independent evolution of access libraries and storage systems and 3) fully leveraging of the existing load balancing, elasticity, and failure management of distributed storage systems like Ceph. They also create more opportunities to conduct storage server-local optimizations specific to storage servers. For example, storage servers might include local key/value stores combined with chunk stores that require different optimizations than a local file system. As storage servers evolve to support new storage devices like non-volatile memory, these server-local optimizations can be implemented while minimizing disruptions to applications. We will report progress on the means by which distributed dataset mapping can be abstracted over particular access libraries, including access libraries for ROOT data, and how we address some of the challenges revolving around data partitioning and composability of access operations.
Is food environment associated with body mass index, overweight and obesity? A study with adults and elderly subjects from southern Brazil.

Abstract The purpose of this article was to investigate the association of food environment variables with Body Mass Index (BMI), excess weight and obesity. This was a cross-sectional study determining the presence or absence of food establishments within a 100-m buffer zone from each sampled household. Individuals aged 18 years and older living in the urban area of Rio Grande, RS State, Brazil, in 2016, were considered eligible. A total of 1,139 individuals, with an average age of 46.5 years (SD 17.1), residing in the household for more than one year, were selected as a representative sample of the population. The mean BMI of study participants was 27.0 kg/m2 (SD 4.8), and the prevalence of excess weight and obesity was 61.6% (95%CI: 58.9; 64.3) and 23.7% (95%CI: 21.3; 26.1), respectively. Living near a convenience store was associated with a higher BMI and a higher likelihood of being above normal weight and obese. In contrast, living near a restaurant was associated with a lower BMI and a lower likelihood of being above normal weight and obese. In addition, participants who lived close to fruit shops had lower BMI and a lower likelihood of being above normal weight. Concluding few associations were found between food environment and the health-related outcomes. Proximity to food establishments does not seem to significantly affect BMI, excess weight and obesity in the studied population.
Comparison of Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction Cycle Threshold Values From Respiratory Specimens in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Children With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection.

BACKGROUND: Understanding viral kinetics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is important to assess risk of transmission, manage treatment, and determine the need for isolation and protective equipment. The impact of viral load in asymptomatic infected children is important to understand transmission potential. We sought to determine whether children deemed to be asymptomatic had a difference in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) cycle threshold (Ct) value of respiratory samples from symptomatic children with SARS-CoV-2 infection. METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study to compare PCR Ct values of children who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by respiratory samples collected over a 4-month period at a large tertiary care children's hospital. RESULTS: We analyzed 728 children who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) from a respiratory sample over a 4-month period and for whom data were available in the electronic medical record. Overall, 71.2% of infected children were symptomatic. The mean Ct value for symptomatic patients (Ct mean, 19.9 [standard deviation, 6.3]) was significantly lower than for asymptomatic patients (Ct mean, 23.5 [standard deviation, 6.9]) (P < .001; 95% confidence interval, 2.6-4.6). The mean PCR Ct value was lowest in children <5 years of age. CONCLUSIONS: In this retrospective review of children who tested positive by RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2, the mean Ct was significantly lower in symptomatic children and was lowest in children <5 years of age, indicating that symptomatic children and younger children infected with SARS-CoV-2 may have a higher viral load in the nasopharynx compared to asymptomatic children. Further studies are needed to assess the transmission potential from asymptomatic children.
Supping with the Devil: Belief and the Imaginary World of Multiple Myeloma Therapies Invented by the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review

Previous commentaries in Innovations in Pharmacy and other peer reviewed journals have made the case that the analytical framework, if that is not too strong a term, to support pricing and access recommendations endorsed by the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) fails to meet the standards of normal science. By any criteria the ICER analysis is best described as pseudoscience; it fails the demarcation test between biological evolution and intelligent design. Like intelligent design it has its believers; a meme for all seasons. ICER is fully aware of the fact that it fails these standards, yet perseveres. It justifies its cost-per-QALY framework by maintaining, through unsubstantiated assertions, that it meets standards for scientific credibility; it denies the possibility of negative values and utilities which undercut completely the construction of QALYs. This is nonsense: not only does the ICER framework fail those standards, to include axioms of fundamental measurement, but also a simple rule of logic in basing its models on assumptions. ICER dogmatic adherence to simulation modeling is evidence in its latest report on multiple myeloma. The report is a charade; but unfortunately not one that is rejected by Bristol-Myer Squibb, GlaxoSmithKline, Sanofi and Amgen. Their responses to the draft evidence report points to their acceptance of imaginary simulation constructs to drive pricing decisions. Whether this reflects their unqualified acceptance of the imaginary simulation modelling to create evidence or a failure to appreciate the standards of normal science is unclear. Certainly, in this case they fail to recognize the devastating impact of believing in the use of the EQ-5D-5L preferences to create imaginary or I-QALYs. The question raised in this commentary is whether the willingness to accept the ICER analytical framework reflects a belief in the role of creating evidence, ICER style, or a willingness to accept ICER imaginary conclusions as the easy way out in negotiating prices with insurers and other payers. Accepting ICER imaginary constructs is an analytical dead end that will stifle the discovery of new facts. The question is: so what?
Hypoalbuminemia More Than Morbid Obesity Is an Independent Predictor of Complications After Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract Health care reform is directing clinical practice towards improving outcomes and minimizing complications. Preoperative identification of high-risk patients and modifiable risk factors present opportunity for clinical research. A total of 49,475 total hip arthroplasty patients were identified from National Surgical Quality Improvement Program between 2006 and 2013. We compared morbidly obese patients (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) and non-morbidly obese patients (BMI 18.5–40 kg/m2). We also compared patients with hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin
Some Results on Linear Unequal-Error-Protection Codes Specified by their Generator Matrix

There are many applications in which it is required to design a code that protects messages against different levels of noise (or messages with different levels of importance over a noise stable channel). Examples of such situations are: broadcast channels, multi-user channels, and PCM digital telemetry systems, among others. A code that offers multiple levels of error protection is called an unequal-error-protection (UEP) code. In this paper, the UEP capabilities of certain classes of linear codes, obtained by combining shorter linear codes, are investigated. Linear UEP (LUEP) codes based on generator matrices of shorter codes were considered previously in [1], for the case of the \(\left| {\bar u\left| {\bar u + \bar v} \right.} \right|\)construction of MacWilliams and Sloane [3]. In this paper, we examine linear codes obtained from combining shorter codes using the more interesting constructions X and X4 of Sloane et al. [2]. Both construction X and construction X4 use cosets of a subcode in a linear code as building blocks, and constitute generalizations to the \(\left| {\bar u\left| {\bar u + \bar v} \right.} \right|\)construction. We provide specific examples of families of codes obtained from construction X, using very simple component codes, which yield good LUEP codes. Furthermore, we discuss two-stage decoding methods for LUEP codes obtained using these constructions. Finally, we present the alternative of using an LUEP code as one of the component codes in construction X. An example shows that in this way optimal LUEP codes may be constructed.
Education for Autonomy, Education for Culture: The Case of Ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel

Political theorists often argue that education for autonomy is one of the central goals of schooling in a liberal society. In order to participate meaningfully and effectively in a democratic society a person must have the ability to deliberate critically, to develop and communicate her particular conception of the good, and to act upon this conception. However, individual autonomy is not the only virtue that the citizens of a liberal state promote and pursue. The question posed in this essay is whether a liberal state that fosters autonomy can also accommodate communities that value group solidarity and adherence to traditions over autonomous action. Israel exhibits this tension in an especially stark form since its political project of being a liberal and democratic society is challenged by its identity as a Jewish state.
Caring for Patients After Pregnancy Loss

Despite tremendous progress in medicine generally and in obstetrics specifically, neonatal death, stillbirth, and early pregnancy losses still occur. Although technology has given us the advantage of sophisticated measures of fetal health, these technologies are at times inadequate. For families who depend on modern techniques for prenatal genetic testing, the information gained from this same technology may lead to heart-wrenching decisions about continuing or terminating the pregnancy.
PET in Lymphoma

Lymphoid neoplasms are broadly divided into Hodgkin’s disease (HD) and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). NHL is the fifth most common cancer in the United States, and the American Cancer Society estimated that 56,390 people would be diagnosed in 2005. HD is less common than NHL, and an estimated 7350 cases were diagnosed in 2005 [1]. While the causes behind most cases of lymphoma are unknown, there are recognized associations and risk factors. Slightly more men than women are afflicted, and incidence is higher in the white population. B-cell lymphomas are more common in adults, and T-cell lymphomas are more common in children. Lymphoma can be associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma virus (HTLV-1), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol use do not appear to elevate risk; however, environmental exposures to radiation and certain chemicals such as benzene have been associated with higher incidence. Those who are immunocompromised as a result of infection, immunosuppressive medication, or genetic immunodeficiency also have an increased risk of developing lymphoma. Although outcomes vary by cell type, grade, and stage at diagnosis, overall NHL survival rates are 59% at 5 years and 42% at 10 years. HD survival rates are 85% at 5 years and 77% at 10 years. Approximately 21,000 people in the United States died of lymphoma in 2005 [1]. In recent decades, mortality has improved significantly, in part due to imaging advances which have aided clinicians in accurately staging and planning treatment.
Green's Functions for Mixed Boundary Value Problems in Regions of Irregular Shape

A semi-analytic approach is applied to the construction of Green's functions and matrices of Green's type for Laplace and Klein-Gordon equation in two dimensions. Mixed boundary value problems posed on multiply connected regions are considered. Statements of the problems are complicated by intricate geometry of the regions and different types of boundary conditions imposed on different fragments of the boundary. The approach is based on a combination of the Green's function method and the method of functional equations. Kernels of resolving potentials representing the regular components of the Green's functions to be constructed are built with Green's functions obtained for regions of standard shape.
Randomized Clinical Trial of an Integrated Self-Care Intervention for Persons With Heart Failure and Diabetes: Quality of Life and Physical Functioning Outcomes

Abstract Objectives Persons with concomitant heart failure (HF) and diabetes mellitus (DM) have complicated, often competing, self-care expectations and treatment regimens that may reduce quality of life (QOL). This randomized controlled trial tested an integrated self-care intervention on outcomes of HF and DM QOL, physical function, and physical activity (PA). Methods and Results Participants with HF and DM (n = 134; mean age 57.4 ± 11 years, 66% men, 69% minority) were randomized to usual care (control) or intervention. The control group received standard HF and DM educational brochures with follow-up telephone contact. The intervention group received education and counseling on combined HF and DM self-care (diet, medications, self-monitoring, symptoms, and PA) with follow-up home visit and telephone counseling. Measures included questionnaires for HF- and DM-specific and overall QOL, PA frequency, and physical function (6-min walk test [6MWT]) and were obtained at baseline and 3 and 6 months. Analysis included mixed models with a priori post hoc tests. Adjusting for age, body mass index, and comorbidity, the intervention group improved in HF total ( P = .002) and physical ( P P = .04), and improved in health status ratings ( P = .04) at 6 months compared with baseline. The intervention group improved in 6MWT distance (924 ft to 952 ft; P = .03) whereas the control group declined (834 ft to 775 ft; F 1,63 = 6.86; P = .01). The intervention group increased self-reported PA between baseline and 6 months ( P = .01). Conclusions An integrated HF and DM self-care intervention improved perceived HF and general QOL but not DM QOL. Improved physical functioning and self-reported PA were also observed with the integrated self-care intervention. Further study of the HF and DM integrated self-care intervention on other outcomes, such as hospitalization and cost, is warranted.
A microfluidic platform with digital readout and ultra-low detection limit for quantitative point-of-care diagnostics

Quantitative assays are of great importance for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics because they can offer accurate information on the analytes. However, current POC devices often require an accessory instrument to give quantitative readouts for protein biomarkers, especially for those at very low concentration levels. Here, we report a microfluidic platform, the digital volumetric bar-chart chip (DV-chip), for quantitative POC diagnostics with ultra-low detection limits that are readable with the naked eye. Requiring no calibration, the DV-chip presents a digital ink bar chart (representing multiple bits composed of 0 and 1) for the target biomarker based on direct competition between O2 generated by the experimental and control samples. The bar chart clearly and accurately defines target concentration, allowing identification of disease status. For the standard PtNP solutions, the detection limit of the platform is approximately 0.1 pM and the dynamic range covers four orders of magnitude from 0.1 to 1000 pM. CEA samples with concentrations of 1 ng mL−1 and 1.5 ng mL−1 could be differentiated by the device. We also performed the ELISA assay for B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in 20 plasma samples from heart failure patients and the obtained on-chip data were in agreement with the clinical results. In addition, BNP was detectable at concentrations of less than 5 pM, which is three orders of magnitude lower than the detection limit of the previously reported readerless digital methods. By the integration of gas competition, volumetric bar chart, and digital readout, the DV-chip possesses merits of portability, visible readout, and ultra-low detection limit, which should offer a powerful platform for quantitative POC diagnostics in clinical settings and personalized detection.
The utility of endoscopy and multichannel intraluminal impedance testing in children with cough and wheezing.

Summary Background Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) has been implicated as a causal factor in respiratory disease but prior studies have focused on the role of acid alone in the genesis of symptoms. Prior studies have relied on pH probe testing but this is blind to non-acid reflux which has been implicated in the genesis of extraesophageal symptoms. The objective of this prospective, cross-sectional study is to determine the utility of gastroesophageal reflux testing, including multichannel intraluminal impedance with pH (pH-MII) and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD), in the child with intractable cough and wheezing. We hypothesize that there is a high rate of pathologic reflux testing in these patients. Methods Children ages 1–18 with chronic cough and wheezing who were undergoing bronchoscopy for the evaluation of cough and wheezing were recruited into this prospective, cross-sectional study. They underwent identical reflux testing with pH-MII and EGD at the time of bronchoscopy. Reflux burden, symptom association, and rates of esophageal pathology were determined. Results 58% of patients had abnormal reflux testing; 67% of patients had an abnormal pH-MII test and 32% of patients had abnormal esophageal biopsies. The most common pH-MII abnormality was an abnormal symptom association between cough and reflux and the most common endoscopic abnormality was reflux esophagitis. Seven percent of patients presenting only with cough were diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis. Conclusions There is a high yield to reflux testing in children with chronic cough and wheezing. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:1090–1096. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Binding of small basic peptides to membranes containing acidic lipids: theoretical models and experimental results

We measured directly the binding of Lys3, Lys5, and Lys7 to vesicles containing acidic phospholipids. When the vesicles contain 33% acidic lipids and the aqueous solution contains 100 mM monovalent salt, the standard Gibbs free energy for the binding of these peptides is 3, 5, and 7 kcal/mol, respectively. The binding energies decrease as the mol% of acidic lipids in the membrane decreases and/or as the salt concentration increases. Several lines of evidence suggest that these hydrophilic peptides do not penetrate the polar headgroup region of the membrane and that the binding is mainly due to electrostatic interactions. To calculate the binding energies from classical electrostatics, we applied the nonlinear Poisson-Boltzmann equation to atomic models of the phospholipid bilayers and the basic peptides in aqueous solution. The electrostatic free energy of interaction, which arises from both a long-range coulombic attraction between the positively charged peptide and the negatively charged lipid bilayer, and a short-range Born or image charge repulsion, is a minimum when approximately 2.5 A (i.e., one layer of water) exists between the van der Waals surfaces of the peptide and the lipid bilayer. The calculated molar association constants, K, agree well with the measured values: K is typically about 10-fold smaller than the experimental value (i.e., a difference of about 1.5 kcal/mol in the free energy of binding). The predicted dependence of K (or the binding free energies) on the ionic strength of the solution, the mol% of acidic lipids in the membrane, and the number of basic residues in the peptide agree very well with the experimental measurements. These calculations are relevant to the membrane binding of a number of important proteins that contain clusters of basic residues.
Amorphization of zirconolite: alpha-decay event damage versus krypton ion irradiation

Abstract Natural zirconolite (CaZrTi 2 O 7 ) can receive α-decay event doses of > 10 26 alpha-decay events/m 3 (~2 dpa), and can thus become amorphous (metamict) due to the radioactive decay of 238 U, 235 U and 232 Th and their daughter products which occur as substitutional impurities (the zirconolite contains approximately 20 wt% ThO 2 and is 550 million years old). In this study, the zirconolite sample was recrystallized by thermal annealing at 1130°C for 8 hours in air. Amorphization was induced with 1.5 MeV Kr + ions using the HVEM-Tandem Facility at Argonne National Laboratory. The Kr dose rate used during the irradiation was 3.4 × 10 11 ions/cm 2 s. which is a damage rate 2 × 10 12 times higher than that which has occurred in the natural sample due to decay of the actinides. In-situ transmission electron microscopy was completed during the ion irradiation. The recrystallized zirconolite also formed isolated thorianite (ThO 2 ) crystals, 25–100 nm in size, in the matrix of the polycrystalline zirconolite. After a Kr + dose of 4 × 10 14 ions/cm 2 (= 0.3 dpa ). the zirconolite grains were reamorphized: however, the thorianite grains remained crystalline even after a Kr + dose of 6 × 10 14 ions/cm 2 .
Technique for the three-dimensional localization of implanted fiducial markers

Registration of image space and physical space lies at the heart of any interactive, image- guided neurosurgery system. We have developed a localization technique that enables permanently implanted fiducial markers to be used for the registration of these spaces. Permanently implanted markers are desirable for surgical follow-up, monitoring of therapy efficacy, fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery and improved patient comfort over stereotactic frames. Bone-implanted extrinsic fiducial markers represent a potential long-term mechanism for registration. The major challenge to using implanted markers is the localization of the markers in physical space after implantation. We have developed and tested an A-mode ultrasound technique for determining the location of small cylindrical markers (3.7 mm in diameter, 3 mm in height). Accuracy tests were conducted on a phantom of a patient's head. The accuracy of the system was characterized by comparing the location of a marker analogue with an optically tracked pointer and with the ultrasound localization. Analyzing the phantom in several orientations revealed a mean system accuracy of 0.5 mm with a +/- 0.1 mm 95% confidence interval. These initial tests indicate that transcutaneous localization of implanted fiducial markers is possible with a high degree of accuracy. The results of these experiments will help in determining a final marker design.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Frequency-invariant temporal ordering of interneuronal discharges during hippocampal oscillations in awake mice

Endogenous brain rhythms occurring at various frequencies and associated with distinct behavioral states provide multiscale temporal windows that enable cells to time their spiking activity with high precision, which is thought to be important for the coding of information in neuronal circuits. However, although the selective timing of GABAergic inputs to specific spatial domains of principal cells are known to play key roles in network oscillations, the in vivo firing patterns of distinct hippocampal interneurons in awake animals are not known. Here we used a combination of juxtacellular labeling techniques with recordings from anesthesia-free, head-fixed mice running or resting on a spherical treadmill to study the oscillation-dependent discharges by two major interneuronal subtypes, the perisomatically projecting parvalbumin-positive basket cells (PVBCs) and distal dendritically projecting oriens lacunosum moleculare (OLM) cells. Recordings of the spiking activity of post hoc-identified CA1 interneurons during theta (5–10 Hz), gamma (25–90Hz), epsilon (“high-gamma”; 90–130 Hz), and ripple (130–200 Hz) oscillations revealed both cell type- and behavioral state-dependent entrainments of PVBC and OLM cell discharges in awake mice. Our results in awake mice differed in several respects from previous data on interneuronal discharge patterns in anesthetized animals. In addition, our results demonstrate a form of frequency-invariant, cell type-specific temporal ordering of inhibitory inputs in which PVBC-derived perisomatic inhibition is followed by OLM cell-generated distal dendritic inhibition during each of the network oscillation bands studied, spanning more than an order of magnitude in frequencies.
The Wayward Girl Revisited: Understanding the Gendered Nature of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency

Traditional explanations of delinquency have mostly focused on male offending. While men were the primary subjects of criminological research as well as the central focus of the justice system, gender was rarely explicitly examined, and consequently, girls often went unnoticed. Today, however, female juvenile offenders’ visibility both in research and in the system has changed. This essay reviews feminist theorizing of girls’ delinquency, with a concentrated focus on the ‘pathways’ perspective; the scope of girls’ lawbreaking; and their historical and contemporary experiences inside and outside the juvenile justice system. This essay concludes with an examination of two promising girl-specific juvenile justice initiatives.
Effect of noble gas van der Waals induced dipoles on the work function of metals

We derive the van der Waals induced moment using a reaction field approach based on charge density susceptibilities of several bodies interacting through Coulomb operators. We extend previous results to include nonadditive contributions from up to four bodies. We then expand the Coulomb operators in a moment T-tensor series. The lowest hyperpolarizability terms yielding nonzero values are products of the dipole-dipole quadrupole hyperpolarizability, B, for the body whose dipole moment is being evaluated and the dipole-dipole polarizabilities, a, of the other interacting bodies. We then introduce the image approximation for the case where one body is a solid and apply our results to the cases of argon and xenon on magnesium and on palladium. By closure, we are able to separate the frequency dependencies of the various factors so that this contribution can be reduced to a numerical factor that is then calculated by numerical integration. Our present results show that the work function reductions of magnesium by argon and xenon can be accounted for by our calculations. Our calculated reductions for palladium suggest that in the high work-function metals another mechanism enters in an important way, as has been suggested by others. The relationship between our present results and earlier estimates by ourselves and others is discussed.
Egr-1 Activates Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Transcription MECHANISTIC IMPLICATIONS FOR ASTROCYTE PROLIFERATION

The mechanisms controlling the proliferation of astrocytes are of great interest but are not well defined. We have previously shown that the endogenous neuropeptides, endothelin-3 (ET-3), and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), modulate the proliferation of astrocytes through positively and negatively regulating the transcription of the immediate-early gene egr-1 which transactivates basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) by unknown mechanisms. In these studies, we determined the involvement of MAP kinase (Erk) activation by ET-3 in the transcription of egr-1, and the molecular determinants by which Egr-1 transactivates bFGF. Transfection of astrocytes with a mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase (MAPK) expression vector increased the transcription of a cotransfected egr-chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) construct 3-fold. This induction was totally abolished by a dominant negative MAPK mutant. A 3-fold induction of egr-CAT expression by ET-3 was significantly reduced by treatment with ANP, or a cotransfected dominant negative MAPK plasmid. Using mobility shift assays, we showed that ET-3 induced the expression of Egr-1 protein which bound specifically to several early growth-related protein (Egr-1) binding sites on the bFGF promoter, and that this effect was significantly reversed by treatment with ANP. We also found that the Sp1 transcriptional factor was bound at these same sites, but was not stimulated by ET-3. Deletion experiments indicated that only the site at −160 bp of the bFGF promoter was significant for bFGF transactivation by Egr-1. We conclude that the astrocyte mitogen, ET-3, stimulates egr-1 transcription through a MAP kinase (Erk) related mechanism, and that Egr-1 transactivates bFGF through a specific noncanonical, Egr-1 site on the promoter. ANP inhibits each of these steps, providing a pathway for its anti-proliferative action.
Live Cell Imaging of Alphaherpes Virus Anterograde Transport and Spread

Advances in live cell fluorescence microscopy techniques, as well as the construction of recombinant viral strains that express fluorescent fusion proteins have enabled real-time visualization of transport and spread of alphaherpes virus infection of neurons. The utility of novel fluorescent fusion proteins to viral membrane, tegument, and capsids, in conjunction with live cell imaging, identified viral particle assemblies undergoing transport within axons. Similar tools have been successfully employed for analyses of cell-cell spread of viral particles to quantify the number and diversity of virions transmitted between cells. Importantly, the techniques of live cell imaging of anterograde transport and spread produce a wealth of information including particle transport velocities, distributions of particles, and temporal analyses of protein localization. Alongside classical viral genetic techniques, these methodologies have provided critical insights into important mechanistic questions. In this article we describe in detail the imaging methods that were developed to answer basic questions of alphaherpes virus transport and spread.
No evidence for hypermethylation of the hSNF5/INI1 promoter in pediatric rhabdoid tumors.

The hSNF5/INI1 gene on chromosome 22 has been implicated as a tumor suppressor gene in pediatric rhabdoid tumor, an aggressive malignancy that generally occurs in the first two years of life. The most common sites for tumor development are the brain and kidney. We and other investigators have identified deletions and mutations of the INI1 gene in the majority of rhabdoid tumors of the central nervous system, kidney, and extrarenal tissues. At least 20% of cases do not have genomic alterations of INI1, although expression at the RNA or protein level may be decreased. The aim of this study was to determine whether hypermethylation or mutation of the 5′ promoter region of INI1, or hypermethylation of CpG dinucleotides in a GC-rich repeat region within the first intron, could account for the decreased expression of INI1 observed in these tumors. We employed bisulfite modification, polymerase chain reaction, and sequence analysis to determine the methylation status of the cytosine nucleotides in the predicted promoter region of the INI1 gene, and two GC repeat regions in intron 1. DNA from 24 tumors with or without coding-sequence mutations was analyzed. None of the tumors demonstrated methylation of the promoter or intron 1 regions. This mechanism is unlikely to account for the inactivation of INI1 in rhabdoid tumors without coding-sequence mutations. One tumor demonstrated a potential mutation in the promoter region, but further studies are required for determining its functional significance. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Clinical trials in gene therapy

Abstract Retroviral-mediated gene transfer has permitted the development of clinical protocols for the study and treatment of genetic diseases and cancer. These protocols can be divided into proposals either for gene labelling (transfer) or for gene therapy. Labelling studies include the tracking of gene-modified cells (e.g., tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, bone marrow tumor cells) infused into the patient. Most gene therapy protocols are designed to deliver a therapeutic protein using a mature differentiated cell population (e.g., fibroblasts). A number of protocols to treat genetic diseases and cancer have been recently initiated. The approval process for the clinical studies requires a multi-agency review due to the safety and ethical concerns. While safety issues of the procedure still exist, gene therapy holds much promise as an effective treatment modality.
Electrolytic media for chemical sensors

Abstract Four types of all-solid-state chemical sensors are discussed. Three use introduced ionic media (hydrogels, solid-polymer electrolytes and composites, solid electrolytes) and one spaces the electrodes so close together (submicron spacing) that measurements can be made in air without any further ionic medium. The resulting chemical sensors have application in a variety of fields and the likehood of growth in the use of each type is assessed.
Controlling advanced neck disease: efficacy of neck dissection and radiotherapy.

Objective Neck dissection remains the standard method of treating cervical metastasis from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. In light of recent trends to modify the classic radical neck dissection (RND) for early neck disease, we reviewed our experience with radical and modified RND (MRND) plus radiotherapy as treatment for N2/N3 neck disease in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Methods We retrospectively reviewed our clinical records from July 1989 to June 1996 to identify 43 neck dissections in 39 patients who were found to have pathologically N2 or N3 neck disease treated primarily by neck dissection and postoperative radiotherapy. All patients had head and neck squamous cell carcinoma with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Results Nine percent (4/43) of the dissected necks were pathologically N2a, 72% (31/43) were N2b, 7% (3/43) were N2c, and 12% (5/43) were N3. Of these, 28% (12/43) underwent a RND and 72% (31/43) underwent a MRND. The most common modification of RND was preservation of the spinal accessory nerve. All patients underwent postoperative radiotherapy with a mean dose of 55 Gy. Only 4 of 43 dissected necks had isolated treatment failure, for a regional control rate of 91%. Conclusions The combination of RND or MRND and radiotherapy is highly effective in controlling neck disease in the absence of persistent or recurrent local disease. Also, in our e-perience, MRND appears to be as effective as RND in controlling even advanced neck disease, which supports preservation of the spinal accessory nerve whenever oncologically feasible.
Leucine transport from the ventricles and the cranial subarachnoid space in the cat.

— The clearance of [14C]leucine from the ventricular and cranial subarachnoid space was studied in cats subjected to ventriculo-cisternal and ventriculo-craniosubarachnoidal perfusions. Clearance from both the ventricles and the subarachnoid space was mediated by transport mechanisms with nonsaturable and saturable components. Net clearance from the subarachnoid space was considerably greater than from the ventricles. Analysis of the transport kinetics revealed the affinity constants (Kt) to be comparable for both compartments but transport sites appeared to be more numerous in the subarachnoid space (greater Vmax). Proportionally, the amount of [14C]leucine retained by brain declined as the concentration of leucine in the perfusate was increased. Since at high concentrations the CSF transport systems and presumably cellular uptake were inhibited (self-saturated) it was assumed that the lower brain levels of [14C]leucine reflected a proportionately greater loss of [14C]-leucine from the brain interstitial space to blood.
Market-focused HRM in service organizations: Satisfying internal and external customers

This paper describes how the HRM function can positively influence the satisfaction of both its internal customers, such as, line employees, and external customers. Evidence is cited for how satisfaction levels in these internal and external markets often are correlated in service organizations. The management practices apparently associated with this correlation are described, concentrating on HRM's role in creating satisfied employees who are motivated and able service providers. The importance of customizing HRM practices to fit a specific market segment is emphasized.
Judgmental self-doubt: beliefs about one’s judgmental prowess

Abstract This article describes the development of the Judgmental Self-Doubt Scale (JSDS), an individual difference measure of generalized mistrust of one’s judgment. Study 1 undertook the construction of the scale and demonstrated its high internal consistency. Studies 2 and 3 showed that greater judgmental self-doubt was associated, in anticipated ways, with a wide variety of personal dispositions. In Study 4, judgmental self-doubt was consistently associated with confidence in specific judgments concerning moral dilemmas, risk assessment, controversial societal issues, and societal parameters. In Study 5, the differential confidence of high and low self-doubters was greater following a task that required a difficult decision than it was following one that required an easy decision. The authors discuss ways in which doubt about one’s judgment, as assessed by the JSDS, is implicated in judgment-related behaviors and, more generally, in personality functioning.
Radial Pore Diffusion with Nonuniform Intraparticle Porosities

Effects of radially dependent intraparticle pore sizes on solute fate and transport are examined for batch systems with spherical particles using a recently developed numerical model. The model can accommodate multiple particles distributed in size, mass transfer resistance at particle boundaries, intraparticle reversible sorption kinetics, and first-order decays. Two applications are examined. In the first application, random or deterministic intraparticle porosities across a spherical particle are considered. In the second application, multiple particles distributed in sizes with particle size-dependent intraparticle porosities are studied. Results from these applications indicate that concentration profiles are largely determined by interplays between B, η, and e that incorporate the effects of intraparticle pore structures. Steady-state concentration values in both applications are determined by the volume-averaged intraparticle porosities. These results could be useful for understanding solute tailing behavior in natural porous media and the design of synthetic sorbents for treatment of contaminated waters.
LES of bubble dynamics in wake flows

Abstract The results of large eddy simulations (LES) of turbulent bubbly wake flows are presented. The LES technique was applied together with the Lagrangian particle dynamics method and a random flow generation (RFG) technique to the cases of a two-phase bubbly mixing layer and the high-Reynolds number bubbly ship-wake flows. The validation was performed on the experimental data for the bubbly mixing layer. Instantaneous distributions and probability density functions of bubbles in the wake were obtained using a joint LES/RFG approach. Separate estimates of bubble decay due to dissolution and buoyancy effects were obtained. The analysis of bubble agglomeration effects was done on the basis of experimental data for a turbulent vortex to satisfy one-way coupling that is used in this study.
Serum total cholesterol correlates positively to central serotonergic turnover in male but not in female subjects.

Abstract Reduced central serotonergic activity and low total serum cholesterol have been related to increased aggression, violent behavior, and suicidality. Searching for a correlation between them, we estimated serum total cholesterol and CSF levels of the main serotonin metabolite 5-HIAA in medication free male and female subjects for whom diagnostic lumbar puncture was performed. To eliminate age influence, we included in the study subjects in the age range 26 to 45 years. In a group of 62 subjects (30 males), found negative after diagnostic neurological examination, the correlation was not significant for the whole group, but after sex stratification, a significant positive correlation was revealed for males but not for females. These results were replicated in a second group of 76 subjects (31 males) with clinical and laboratory findings suggestive of multiple sclerosis (clinically isolated syndrome). The results link low cholesterol to low serotonergic activity only in males, predisposing them for violent and risky behaviors. This phenomenon could be seen as an evolutionary trait, possibly a result of the distinct role of males in a hunter–gatherer environment of evolutionary adaptedness, and may contribute to the understanding of the higher incidence of violent behavior observed in males.
Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma of the liver: unusual presentation of a rare tumor and literature review

Background Hepatic follicular dendritic cell (FDC) sarcoma is an extremely rare neoplasm. Most commonly, FDC sarcoma presents as a solitary mass in lymph nodes, however, several extra-nodal locations have been identified. Methods We report a case of a 53-year-old female who presented with symptoms of abdominal pain, fever, anemia, and jaundice. After an extensive review of the literature, we have found only 12 cases of hepatic FDC sarcoma. Results The tumor was 11.5 cm in diameter and composed of spindle and epithelioid cells with ovoid nuclei and associated with mixed Inflammatory infiltrate. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for CD35 and CD21. The patient underwent a left hepatic lobectomy Conclusions Liver follicular dendritic cell sarcoma is a very rare tumor. Most cases present with abdominal pain and weight loss, and most of them can be managed by hepatic resection with excellent short-term outcomes.
An analysis of user behavior in online video streaming

Understanding user behavior in online video streaming is essential to designing streaming systems which provide user-oriented service. However, it is challenging to gain insightful knowledge of the characteristics of user behavior due to its high volatility. To this end, the paper provides an extensive analysis of user behavior in online video streaming, based on a large scale trace database of online streaming video access sessions. We categorize user behaviors into multiple patterns and probe the relationship between them. Our work puts emphasis on the statistical characteristics of user behavior patterns. Particularly, this study uncovers that the behavior of one individual user in a video streaming session is not only related to the popularity level of the video, but also has strong correlation with the user's behaviors in previous streaming sessions.
Extreme hardening of PDMS thin films due to high compressive strain and confined thickness.

Polymers confined to small dimensions and that undergo high strains can show remarkable nonlinear mechanics, which must be understood to accurately predict the functioning of nanoscale polymer devices. In this paper we describe the determination of the mechanical properties of ultrathin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) films undergoing large strains, using atomic force microscope (AFM) indentation with a spherical tip. The PDMS was molded into extremely thin films of variable thickness and adhered to a hard substrate. We found that for films below 1 μm in thickness the Young’s modulus increased with decreasing sample thickness with a power law exponent of 1.35. Furthermore, as the soft PDMS film was indented, significant strain hardening was observed as the indentation depth approached 45% of the sample thickness. To properly quantify the nonlinear mechanical measurements, we utilized a pointwise Hertzian model which assumes only piecewise linearity on the part of the probed material. This analysis revealed th...