cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Up-regulation of γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase activity in melphalan-resistant human multiple myeloma cells expressing increased glutathione levels

Levels of intracellular glutathione (GSH) and the GSH-related enzymes γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (γ-GCS) and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (γ-GT) were measured in the melphalan-resistant human multiple myeloma cell line 8226/LR-5 and were compared to those measured in the drug-sensitive 8226/S and doxorubicin-resistant 8226/Dox40 cell lines. Both GSH and γ-GCS activity, the rate-limiting step in the de novo synthesis of GSH, were elevated by a factor of approximately 2 in the melphalanresistant 8226/LR-5 cells relative to the other two lines. γ-GT activity was not elevated significantly in the /LR-5 cells. Northern analysis with a probe specific for the large subunit of human liver γ-GCS identified two bands (3.2 and 4.0 kb), both of which were increased by a factor of 2–3 in the 8226/LR-5 line. Levels of γ-GCS mRNA expression were comparable in the /S and /Dox40 cell lines. Levels of γ-GT mRNA were similar in the /S and /LR-5 lines but were reduced in the /Dox40 cells. These data suggest that the increased GSH levels associated with resistance to melphalan in the 8226/LR-5 myeloma cells is attributable to up-regulation of γ-GCS. This observation is consistent with recent demonstrations of up-regulation of γ-GCS in melphalan-resistant prostate carcinoma cells and cisplatinum-resistant ovarian carcinoma cells, suggesting that increased expression of γ-GCS may be an important mediator of GSH-associated resistance mechanisms.
Pharmacological Treatments for Frontotemporal Dementias A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

The objective of this review is to summarize the current data on the pharmacological treatments for frontotemporal dementias from randomized controlled trials. A systematic search of 4 major databases, PubMed, Medline, PsychINFO and Cochrane, found a total of 9 randomized controlled, double-blinded clinical trials. Of these, 2 trials used the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), paroxetine; 1 trial used trazodone; 2 trials used stimulants (methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine); 1 trial used the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, galantamine; 2 trials used the N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonist, memantine; and 1 trial used the neuropeptide oxytocin. The analysis of the available data indicates that SSRIs, trazodone, and the amphetamines may be effective in reducing some behavioral symptoms, but none of these medications had an impact on cognition. Available data indicate that these medications were well tolerated in all the trials.
Interpreting shoreline sands using borehole images: A case study of the Cretaceous Ferron Sandstone Member in Utah

To establish borehole image interpretation guidelines in a siliciclastic shoreline environment, this study used unique data from the Ferron Sandstone Member in Utah, where several core holes were drilled next to the outcrop cliff and logged with electrical borehole images. The guidelines include three main components: (1) differentiating depositional elements based on borehole image textures, (2) multiwell stratigraphic correlation and depositional architectures, and (3) ambiguity and data limitations. The stratigraphic interpretation of the image logs is closely correlated with the cores and the outcrops to evaluate the interpretation methodology. The sandstones of upper shoreface, middle shoreface, and channels are differentiated in each well based on a list of depositional textures and sequence characteristics revealed by the images and open-hole logs. The coals, carbonaceous shales, bay fill, and transgression lag deposits are identified as important elements in building the stratigraphic framework. Channels eroding into the shoreface and shoreface pinch-out into delta plains are recognized based on the facies classification and stratigraphic framework. The shoreface progradation directions are drawn through multiwell sequence correlation, paleoflow, and seaward facies transition analysis. In the Muddy Canyon area, the progradation directions of the shoreface parasequences vary from north to east with dominance to the northeast. The complex channel systems with diverse flow directions amalgamated in the delta plains and eroded into the strand-plain shoreface sandstones in most of the regression cycles. In the northern study area, the latest borehole image data revealed the south- or southeastward-prograding Ferron shorelines and the cyclic Blue Gate Member shoreline sequences. The integrated study supports the regional V-shaped Ferron shoreline with oblique delta progradations within the regional eastward transportation into the Mancos Sea.
Critical Assessment of QSAR Models of Environmental Toxicity against Tetrahymena pyriformis: Focusing on Applicability Domain and Overfitting by Variable Selection

The estimation of the accuracy of predictions is a critical problem in QSAR modeling. The "distance to model" can be defined as a metric that defines the similarity between the training set molecules and the test set compound for the given property in the context of a specific model. It could be expressed in many different ways, e.g., using Tanimoto coefficient, leverage, correlation in space of models, etc. In this paper we have used mixtures of Gaussian distributions as well as statistical tests to evaluate six types of distances to models with respect to their ability to discriminate compounds with small and large prediction errors. The analysis was performed for twelve QSAR models of aqueous toxicity against T. pyriformis obtained with different machine-learning methods and various types of descriptors. The distances to model based on standard deviation of predicted toxicity calculated from the ensemble of models afforded the best results. This distance also successfully discriminated molecules with low and large prediction errors for a mechanism-based model developed using log P and the Maximum Acceptor Superdelocalizability descriptors. Thus, the distance to model metric could also be used to augment mechanistic QSAR models by estimating their prediction errors. Moreover, the accuracy of prediction is mainly determined by the training set data distribution in the chemistry and activity spaces but not by QSAR approaches used to develop the models. We have shown that incorrect validation of a model may result in the wrong estimation of its performance and suggested how this problem could be circumvented. The toxicity of 3182 and 48774 molecules from the EPA High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program and EINECS (European chemical Substances Information System), respectively, was predicted, and the accuracy of prediction was estimated. The developed models are available online at http://www.qspr.org site.
A trimeric HIV-1 fusion peptide construct which does not self-associate in aqueous solution and which has 15-fold higher membrane fusion rate.

A peptide construct (FPtr) was synthesized which mimics the biologically relevant topology of fusion peptide (FP) domains of the trimeric HIV-1 gp41 envelope protein. The FP domains play a critical role in gp41-catalyzed fusion of viral and host cell membranes which is a key step in viral infection. The FPtr construct contains three FP strands chemically bonded at their C-termini through lysine side chains. Analytical ultracentrifugation demonstrated that FPtr does not self-associate in aqueous solution and therefore models the expected FP topology of gp41. Comparative functional fusion assays were carried out using FPtr, FPdm (a cross-linked FP dimer construct), and FPmn (FP monomer). The derived fusion rate constants order ktr > kdm > kmn, and the ratio ktr/kmn has values in the range of 15−40. These results suggest that there is strong correlation of the fusion rate with the biologically relevant trimeric FP topology.
Characteristics of the solvates of the rare-earth acetylacetonates

Abstract Chemical analyses, X-ray diffraction patterns, vapour-pressure studies and cryoscopic molecular weight determinations of nine rare-earth acetylacetonates prepared by conventional methods show that only two hydrates are formed: the monohydrate and the trihydrate. None of the conventional methods of preparation and drying yielded the anhydrous rare-earth acetylacetonates. Vapour pressure studies showed the formation of a solvate containing two moles of methanol per mole of chelate. Values of ΔH for the decomposition of the methanol disolvate indicate that the bond energy between the chelate and methanol is equivalent to strong hydrogen bonding. Solubility and cryoscopic molecular weight studies show that the chelates dissolve in benzene to form the monobasic compounds which polymerize, especially upon heating.
Biologic basis for maxillary osteotomies.

Adult Rhesus monkeys were used as experimental models to investigate revascularization and bone healing in different single-stage anterior, posterior and total maxillary osteotomy techniques. Microangiographic and histologic studies demonstrated that intraosseous and intrapulpal circulation to the mobilized maxillary segments were maintained by the experimental flap designs which maintained intact soft tissue; the fragments healed by osseous union within six weeks without immobilization of the mandible. The treatment of many severe dental-facial deformities is difficult and challenging. Functional and stable occlusions with facial balance and harmony have been attained in many adult patients by maxillary osteotomy techniques. The Rhesus monkey serves as an excellent experimental model to develop new biologically sound maxillary surgical orthodontic techniques.
Swimming of larval zebrafish: fin-axis coordination and implications for function and neural control.

SUMMARY Adult actinopterygian fishes typically perform steady forward swimming using either their pectoral fins or their body axis as the primary propulsor. In most species, when axial undulation is employed for swimming, the pectoral fins are tucked (i.e. adducted) against the body; conversely, when pectoral fins are beating, the body axis is held straight. In contrast to adults, larval fishes can combine their pectoral fin and body-axis movements during locomotion; however, little is known about how these locomotor modes are coordinated. With this study we provide a detailed analysis of the coordinated fin and axial movements during slow and fast swimming by examining forward locomotion in larval zebrafish ( Danio rerio L.). In addition, we describe the musculature that powers pectoral fin movement in larval zebrafish and discuss its functional implications. As larvae, zebrafish alternate their pectoral fins during slow swimming (0.011±0.001 mm ms –1 ) in conjunction with axial undulations of the same frequency (18–28 Hz). During fast swimming (0.109±0.030 mm ms –1 ; 36–67 Hz), the fins are tucked against the body and propulsion occurs by axial undulation alone. We show that during swimming, larval fishes can use a similar limb–axis coordination pattern to that of walking and running salamanders. We suggest that the fin–axis coordination observed in larval zebrafish may be attributed to a primitive neural circuit and that early terrestrial vertebrates may have gained the ability to coordinate limbs and lateral bending by retaining a larval central pattern generator for limb–axis coordination in the adult life history stage.
The Use of the Harmonic Scalpel vs Conventional Knot Tying for Vessel Ligation in Thyroid Surgery

Hypothesis The technique of thyroidectomy has undergone little change in several decades. The harmonic scalpel, using ultrasonic frictional heating to ligate vessels, is widely used in laparoscopic surgery, but there is little experience in open thyroidectomy. We hypothesized that the use of the harmonic scalpel could lead to a significant reduction in operative time as compared with knot tying in thyroid surgery. Design Retrospective case-controlled study. Setting Teaching institution. Patients One hundred seventy-one consecutive patients undergoing lobectomy or total thyroidectomy by one surgeon (A.E.S.). Interventions Eighty-six patients underwent thyroid surgery with the conventional clamp-and-tie technique (lobectomy, n = 49; total thyroidectomy, n = 36) and 85 with the harmonic scalpel (lobectomy, n = 38; total thyroidectomy, n = 47). Main Outcome Measures Demographics, pathological characteristics, thyroid size, operative time, blood loss, and complications using a 2-tailed t test, χ 2 test, and Wilcoxon rank sum test. Results The 2 groups were similar regarding age and sex. There were no intraoperative complications. Mean ± SD thyroid size tended to be larger in the harmonic scalpel group for both lobectomy (5.1 ± 2.6 cm vs 4.2 ± 2.2 cm; P = .06) and total thyroidectomy specimens (6.3 ± 3.8 cm vs 4.8 ± 2.9 cm; P = .08) compared with the conventional technique. Mean ± SD operative time was shorter in the harmonic scalpel group compared with the conventional technique group for both lobectomy (89 ± 20 minutes vs 115 ± 25 minutes; P P Conclusions The use of the harmonic scalpel for the control of thyroid vessels during thyroid surgery is safe, and it shortens the operative time by almost 30 minutes compared with the conventional technique for both unilateral lobectomy or total thyroidectomy procedures.
Low power test generation for path delay faults using stability functions

A recent work describes an ATPG for path delay faults that limits the power dissipated by the test patterns to a given bound. However, the power dissipated by the intermediate patterns while applying the test patterns in a sequence is not considered. Experiments with test patterns derived from different ATPGs has shown that the switching activity due to intermediate patterns dissipate considerable power. This paper proposes a method to incorporate stability functions in a functional ATPG to derive test vectors that guarantee reduced power dissipation by the intermediate patterns without loss in PDF coverage.
Top-down versus bottom-up forcing: evidence from mountain lions and mule deer

Abstract We studied mountain lions (Puma concolor) and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) inhabiting a Great Basin ecosystem in Round Valley, California, to make inferences concerning predator–prey dynamics. Our purpose was to evaluate the relative role of top-down and bottom-up forcing on mule deer in this multiple-predator, multiple-prey system. We identified a period of decline (by 83%) of mule deer (1984–1990), and then a period of slow but steady increase (1991–1998). For mule deer, bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata) in diets, per capita availability of bitterbrush, kidney fat indexes, fetal rates (young per adult female), fetal weights, and survivorship of adults and young indicated that the period of decline was typical of a deer population near or above the carrying capacity (K) of its environment. Numbers of mountain lions also declined, but with a long time lag. The period of increase was typified by deer displaying life-history characteristics of a population below K, yet the finite rate of growth (...
A comparison of the biological action of allopregnane-21-ol-3,20-dione acetate and progesterone.

THE inhibitory effect of progesterone on the estrogen-induced tissue growth response of the chick oviduct was reported by Hertz et al. (1947). Among other steroid hormones tested for inhibitory activity in the chick oviduct test, allopregnane-21-ol-3,20-dione acetate (cpd. I) proved to be a potent antagonist (Hertz, 1951). In a test for corticoid activity, Wettstein and Hunzicker (1940) reported the compound to be inactive for weight maintenance and survival in adrenalectomized rats at a daily dose of 2 mg. Since progesterone and cpd. I inhibit the estrogen-stimulated chick oviduct, further investigations were made to determine whether these compounds possessed any other common biological properties. In the present report, we present details of a comparison between progesterone and cpd. I based on certain biological actions exhibited by progesterone. MATERIALS AND METHODS (1) Oviduct inhibition test Two week old New Hampshire Red chicks were housed in electrically heated brooders under controlled lighting...
A component based noise correction method (CompCor) for BOLD and perfusion based fMRI

A component based method (CompCor) for the reduction of noise in both blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) and perfusion-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data is presented. In the proposed method, significant principal components are derived from noise regions-of-interest (ROI) in which the time series data are unlikely to be modulated by neural activity. These components are then included as nuisance parameters within general linear models for BOLD and perfusion-based fMRI time series data. Two approaches for the determination of the noise ROI are considered. The first method uses high-resolution anatomical data to define a region of interest composed primarily of white matter and cerebrospinal fluid, while the second method defines a region based upon the temporal standard deviation of the time series data. With the application of CompCor, the temporal standard deviation of resting-state perfusion and BOLD data in gray matter regions was significantly reduced as compared to either no correction or the application of a previously described retrospective image based correction scheme (RETROICOR). For both functional perfusion and BOLD data, the application of CompCor significantly increased the number of activated voxels as compared to no correction. In addition, for functional BOLD data, there were significantly more activated voxels detected with CompCor as compared to RETROICOR. In comparison to RETROICOR, CompCor has the advantage of not requiring external monitoring of physiological fluctuations.
Usefulness of bucindolol in congestive heart failure

Abstract The sympathetic hyperactivity of congestive heart failure (CHF) may worsen cardiovascular function by down-regulation of myocardial β-receptors. For this reason, β blockade is proposed to be useful in CHF. Bucindolol is a new β blocker that has intrinsic nonadrenergically-mediated vasodilation and may be valuable in the treatment of CHF. To test this, 19 patients with CHF were randomized in a double-blind protocol to 3 months of treatment with bucindolol (n = 12) or placebo (n = 7). Significant improvement was seen in the bucindolol group using invasive and noninvasive tests; treadmill time increased from 445 to 530 seconds (p = 0.04), Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire score improved from 61 to 40 (p = 0.0001), cardiac output increased from 4.0 to 4.7 (p = 0.02), and systemic vascular resistance decreased from 1,888 to 1,481 (p = 0.04). Also, peak exercise heart rate and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure decreased significantly with treatment. There were no changes in the placebo group. We conclude that bucindolol may be an effective treatment for CHF when administered chronically and that its nonadrenergic vasodilation may be an important feature.
Anomalous Quantitation Standard Growth Curves in a Laboratory-Developed Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) RNA Quantification Assay Using the TaqMan HCV Analyte-Specific Reagent

A retrospective examination of quantitation standard growth curves associated with 1,000 unique clinical serum specimens tested by a laboratory-developed TaqMan hepatitis C virus analyte-specific reagent-based assay revealed anomalous growth curves associated with 0.40% (95% confidence interval, 0.11% to 1.00%) of these specimens.
Exploiting visual constraints in robot motion planning

A number of issues concerning the integration of visual and physical constraints for the synthesis and execution of error-tolerant motion strategies are addressed. Object features and their projections onto the image plane of a supervisory camera are used to define visual constraint surfaces. These surfaces can be directly used to enforce the following types of constrained motion: motion terminated on contact with a visual constraint surface, motion maintaining constant contact with a visual constraint surface, and motion that is simultaneously constrained by both visual and physical constraint surfaces. Preimage planning techniques are extended to the synthesis of motion strategies that exploit these types of motion. >
Direct approaches to the distal portions of the deep femoral artery for limb salvage bypasses

Abstract This study describes a technique that facilitates lower extremity "redo" revascularizations and that may increase the number of patients who can be revascularized. By using the distal deep femoral artery for bypass outflow or inflow, we were able to revascularize patients with no other accessible patent major thigh artery, to increase the use of autologous vein for infrapopliteal bypasses, and to avoid difficult groin reoperations. Thirty-seven patients (23 men) had various distal deep femoral revascularizations for limb salvage indications only (rest pain, ischemic ulcers, and/or gangrene). Techniques to expose the distal deep femoral artery directly are described and their uses discussed. We found that the type of bypass performed (e.g., axillofemoral or aortofemoral) determined the patency rate of the reconstruction. Placement of the origin or termination of the graft in the deep femoral artery did not appear to affect the results adversely. (J VASC SURG 1988;8:576-81.)
Accidental Scald Burns in Sinks

Scald burns to the feet and lower extremities in children are described in the literature as often resulting from forced immersions. This report illustrates 3 cases of burns whose distribution and historical factors identify them as accidental. The location of these accidental burns is similar to those found in inflicted injury, but the patterns were indicative of flowing water burns, not forced immersions. Burns in these locations may be confused with abuse. Medical providers need to be aware of information that may enable them to distinguish the 2 causes. Effective caregiver education regarding the importance of lowering the temperature of water heaters and discouraging play in household sinks is critical to prevent additional tap water scald burn injuries.
Early results and medium-term follow-up of stent implantation for mild residual or recurrent aortic coarctation

Abstract Background Optimal timing and mode of treatment for patients with aortic coarctation remains controversial, particularly when the degree of obstruction is mild. Surgery, balloon dilatation, and stent implantation have all proven effective in the treatment of moderate or severe obstruction. In this report, we describe the use of stents to treat coarctation in a heterogeneous population, including patients with relatively mild obstruction. Methods Retrospectively, we studied the results of stent implantation in 33 patients, children and young adults, who underwent catheterization for treatment of coarctation. Patients with isolated coarctation, as well as those with associated cardiac defects, were included. The median systolic pressure gradient of our patients was 25 mm Hg. Results Patients had an acute decrease in systolic blood pressure gradient (25 mm Hg to 5 mm Hg, P P P P =.002). Although the procedure was generally safe, serious complications did occur. Conclusions Stent implantation represents a therapeutic option that can safely and effectively reduce gradient in challenging patients with mild postoperative coarctation. Furthermore, our data suggest that aortic obstruction often coexists with ventricular diastolic dysfunction in these patients and that relief of obstruction may play a role in improvement of function. (Am Heart J 2000;139:1054-60.)
Persistent J-ST elevation: a sign of persistent perimyocardial irritation

Dear Editor: We greatly enjoyed reading the recently published case by Cudmore et al. 1 The case emphasises the importance of keeping a broad differential and a low threshold for suspecting an ominous diagnosis viz. ‘secondary pericardial metastasis or encroachment’, especially with the history of a known systemic malignancy. Metastatic and infiltrative/invasive involvement of the pericardium may often be the initial …
The Morphology of Macroscopic Soot

ABSTRACT The morphology of soot collected from a laminar acetylene/air diffusion flame was studied. Collection methods included both thermophoretic and impaction sampling from both the luminous and nonluminous portions of the flow. The soot was viewed with both electron and optical microscopy. Cluster sizes ranged over four orders of magnitude from 50 nm to 400 yam to include some clusters visible to the naked eye. A new method of micrograph analysis, necessary when the clusters were large, was developed to account for the unresolved primary particles. Over this entire size range, the same fractal morphology was found with a fractal dimension of D = 1.8 and, within a rather large uncertainty, the same prefactor k0=1.7. Thus, the fractal morphology of soot remains constant from clusters of about 10 primary particles per aggregate to macroscopic clusters of over 108 primary particles.
Evolutionary Genomics Reveals Lineage-Specific Gene Loss and Rapid Evolution of a Sperm-Specific Ion Channel Complex: CatSpers and CatSperβ

The mammalian CatSper ion channel family consists of four sperm-specific voltage-gated Ca2+ channels that are crucial for sperm hyperactivation and male fertility. All four CatSper subunits are believed to assemble into a heteromultimeric channel complex, together with an auxiliary subunit, CatSperβ. Here, we report a comprehensive comparative genomics study and evolutionary analysis of CatSpers and CatSperβ, with important correlation to physiological significance of molecular evolution of the CatSper channel complex. The development of the CatSper channel complex with four CatSpers and CatSperβ originated as early as primitive metazoans such as the Cnidarian Nematostella vectensis. Comparative genomics revealed extensive lineage-specific gene loss of all four CatSpers and CatSperβ through metazoan evolution, especially in vertebrates. The CatSper channel complex underwent rapid evolution and functional divergence, while distinct evolutionary constraints appear to have acted on different domains and specific sites of the four CatSper genes. These results reveal unique evolutionary characteristics of sperm-specific Ca2+ channels and their adaptation to sperm biology through metazoan evolution.
A neural network model for nonlinear predictive coding in Fock space

A generic nonlinear autoregressive (AR) model for a random time series is presented. The model is obtained by a nonlinear predictive coding (NLPC) approach which expresses the minimum mean square error estimate of the current value of the series as a Volterra series in terms of its immediate N preceding values. This Volterra series is assumed to belong to a generalized Fock Hilbert space F. In the second stage, which is parametric, the model parameters, which are coefficients of a linear combination of known nonlinear random functions of the data, are obtained by linear mean square estimation. The implementations of the model and of the estimator appear respectively as two layer recurrent and feedforward neural networks. >
Toll-like receptor 2 mediates high-fat diet-induced impairment of vasodilator actions of insulin

Obesity is characterized by a chronic proinflammatory state that leads to endothelial dysfunction. Saturated fatty acids (SFA) stimulate Toll-like receptors (TLR) that promote metabolic insulin resistance. However, it is not known whether TLR2 mediates impairment of vascular actions of insulin in response to high-fat diet (HFD) to cause endothelial dysfunction. siRNA knockdown of TLR2 in primary endothelial cells opposed palmitate-stimulated expression of proinflammatory cytokines and splicing of X box protein 1 (XBP-1). Inhibition of unfolding protein response (UPR) reduced SFA-stimulated expression of TNFα. Thus, SFA stimulates UPR and proinflammatory response through activation of TLR2 in endothelial cells. Knockdown of TLR2 also opposed impairment of insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of eNOS and subsequent production of NO. Importantly, insulin-stimulated vasorelaxation of mesenteric arteries from TLR2 knockout mice was preserved even on HFD (in contrast with results from arteries examined in wild-type mice on HFD). We conclude that TLR2 in vascular endothelium mediates HFD-stimulated proinflammatory responses and UPR that accompany impairment of vasodilator actions of insulin, leading to endothelial dysfunction. These results are relevant to understanding the pathophysiology of the cardiovascular complications of diabetes and obesity.
Cytokeratin and DAS-1 immunostaining reveal similarities among cardiac mucosa, CIM, and Barrett's esophagus.

OBJECTIVE: The normal histology at the gastroesophageal junction, and in particular the nature of cardiac mucosa, remains in dispute. Likewise, the relationship of intestinal metaplasia at the gastroesophageal junction (CIM) to Barrett’s and intestinal metaplasia of the stomach (GIM) is unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the immunostaining characteristics of cardiac mucosa and CIM and compare their staining pattern with that of other foregut mucosal types. We hypothesized that the immunostaining patterns of these foregut tissues would provide insight into the nature and etiology of cardiac mucosa and CIM. METHODS: Paraffin-embedded biopsy specimens from 50 patients with normal antral or fundic mucosa, cardiac mucosa, squamous mucosa, CIM, GIM, or Barrett’s were obtained and immunostained with a panel of monoclonal antibodies including those for cytokeratins 7 and 20 (CK7/ CK20) and DAS-1. RESULTS: Biopsies from normal gastric antral and fundic mucosa and squamous esophageal mucosa all showed a non-Barrett’s type CK7/CK20 immunostaining pattern, whereas in 85% of patients, cardiac mucosa had a Barrett’s type CK7/CK20 pattern (p 0.001). A Barrett’s type CK7/ CK20 staining pattern was seen in 100% of Barrett’s, 78% of CIM, and 0% of GIM patients. Likewise, DAS-1 staining was similar in patients with CIM and Barrett’s and significantly different in patients with GIM. CONCLUSIONS: Cytokeratin immunostaining of cardiac mucosa demonstrates significant differences from recognized normal gastric and esophageal mucosa but a similarity to Barrett’s. This suggests that cardiac mucosa, like Barrett’s, may be acquired. Likewise, immunostaining similarities between CIM and Barrett’s biopsies point to the possibility of a reflux etiology for CIM in some patients. (Am J Gastroenterol 2002;97:2514 –2523. © 2002 by Am. Coll. of Gastroenterology)
Insensitivity to future consequences following damage to human prefrontal cortex

Following damage to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, humans develop a defect in real-life decision-making, which contrasts with otherwise normal intellectual functions. Currently, there is no neuropsychological probe to detect in the laboratory, and the cognitive and neural mechanisms responsible for this defect have resisted explanation. Here, using a novel task which simulates real-life decision-making in the way it factors uncertainty of premises and outcomes, as well as reward and punishment, we find that prefrontal patients, unlike controls, are oblivious to the future consequences of their actions, and seem to be guided by immediate prospects only. This finding offers, for the first time, the possibility of detecting these patients' elusive impairment in the laboratory, measuring it, and investigating its possible causes.
Optimizing Guideline-Recommended Antibiotic Doses for Pediatric Infective Endocarditis

The American Heart Association recently published an updated scientific statement on the management of infective endocarditis in childhood. The recommendations included for vancomycin, aminoglycoside, and β-lactam dosing and monitoring are based primarily on expert opinion and do not consider available evidence for dose optimization based on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles in pediatric patients. This is concerning because even when clinically necessary, some practitioners may be hesitant to deviate from guideline-recommended doses. In this perspective, we highlight potential areas for improvement in the statement-recommended doses and summarize evidence supporting antibiotic dosing optimization. The addition of a pediatric clinical pharmacist with expertise in antibiotic dosing to the panel would be beneficial for future updates.
Dorsal premotor activity and connectivity relate to action selection performance after stroke

Compensatory activation in dorsal premotor cortex (PMd) during movement execution has often been reported after stroke. However, the role of PMd in the planning of skilled movement after stroke has not been well studied. The current study investigated the behavioral and neural response to the addition of action selection (AS) demands, a motor planning process that engages PMd in controls, to movement after stroke. Ten individuals with chronic, left hemisphere stroke and 16 age-matched controls made a joystick movement with the right hand under two conditions. In the AS condition, participants moved right or left based on an abstract, visual rule; in the execution only condition, participants moved in the same direction on every trial. Despite a similar behavioral response to the AS condition (increase in reaction time), brain activation differed between the two groups: the control group showed increased activation in left inferior parietal lobule (IPL) while the stroke group showed increased activation in several right/contralesional regions including right IPL. Variability in behavioral performance between participants was significantly related to variability in brain activation. Individuals post-stroke with relatively poorer AS task performance showed greater magnitude of activation in left PMd and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), increased left primary motor cortex-PMd connectivity, and decreased left PMd-DLPFC connectivity. Changes in the premotor-prefrontal component of the motor network during complex movement conditions may negatively impact the performance and learning of skilled movement and may be a prime target for rehabilitation protocols aimed at improving the function of residual brain circuits after stroke. Hum Brain Mapp 37:1816-1830, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Class, Gender, and the Victorian Masculine Subject

(1990). Class, Gender, and the Victorian Masculine Subject. a/b: Auto/Biography Studies: Vol. 5, Constructing the Subject in Nineteenth-Century Autobiography, pp. 99-113.
Abstract 4788: Protein kinase CK2 modulates TAp73 phosphorylation and suppresses apoptosis in head and neck cancer

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL The TP53 family member TAp73 has been shown to be pro-apoptotic and enhance chemosensitivity, but is inactivated in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We recently found that the inflammatory cytokine, TNFα, induces NF-κB activation and TAp73 nuclear export, which contribute to the suppression of TAp73 pro-apoptotic function. However, the intermediate signaling involved in TNFα regulated TAp73 inactivation and modulation of apoptosis has not been defined. Here, we found that TAp73 exhibits varying levels of phosphorylation in a panel of HNSCC cell lines. An inverse association between phospho- and total TAp73 protein expression was observed, suggesting that signal phosphorylation could contribute to TAp73 turnover. In response to TNFα treatment, phosphorylated TAp73 decreased in the nucleus while increasing in the cytoplasm, consistent with nuclear-cytoplasmic translocation. As we previously showed that protein kinase CK2 subunits are aberrantly overexpressed and promote IKK-NF-κB activation in HNSCC, we examined CK2 as a potential upstream regulator of TAp73 phosphorylation. Both CK2 inhibitor DMAT (2-Dimethy-lamino-4,5,6,7-tetrabromo-1H-benzimidazole) and CK2α siRNA inhibited TAp73 phosphorylation, as well as increased TAp73 mRNA and protein expression. Consequently, DMAT treatment increased the expression of TAp73 downstream pro-apoptotic genes, p21, PUMA and NOXA through increased TAp73 binding to the promoters of these genes. DMAT treatment and mutation of TAp73 phosphorylation sites increased p21 reporter activity. Furthermore, DMAT blocked cell cycle progression and proliferation, and increased apoptosis of HNSCC in vitro. Delivery of anti-CK2α/α′ oligodeoxy-nucleotide nanocapsules into HNSCC xenograft models significantly suppressed tumor growth, concomitant with decreased TAp73 phosphorylation, increased expression of TAp73, and target apoptotic proteins PUMA and NOXA. These results suggest that the aberrant activation of protein kinase CK2 could be one of the upstream signaling molecules modulating phosphorylation of TAp73, TAp73 nuclear exportation, and suppression of apoptosis in HNSCC cells. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4788. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-4788
Identification of pulsation modes from photometry

The identification of the detected pulsation modes in terms of the spherical harmonic quantum numbers is crucial for asteroseismology. Light curves obtained in different passbands have become an important tool for mode identifications, which rely on wavelength-dependent amplitudes and phase shifts. We demonstrate this for different types of pulsators and review recent successes from earth-based measurements, especially in determining the important l values. The extensive amount of accurate data needed to determine small phase shifts and accurate amplitude ratios suggests multicolor measurements using space satellites. This motivated the multicolor BRITE satellite project, for which the first two satellites have already been launched successfully. We demonstrate the potential from models computed for the BRITE wavelengths. Most of the excellent presently available satellite photometry is not multicolor, although frequencies with amplitudes as small as a few parts-per-million have been detected and confirmed. We briefly discuss mode identifications from frequency patterns, including the use of correlations between phase and amplitude changes.
Intraoperative Supine Breast MR Imaging to Quantify Tumor Deformation and Detection of Residual Breast Cancer: Preliminary Results

Tumor deformation and position were substantially different on prone and supine images; therefore, supine MR imaging may enable more useful tumor delineation in the surgical planning of lumpectomy.
Fine Mapping of a Dravet Syndrome Modifier Locus on Mouse Chromosome 5 and Candidate Gene Analysis by RNA-Seq

A substantial number of mutations have been identified in voltage-gated sodium channel genes that result in various forms of human epilepsy. SCN1A mutations result in a spectrum of severity ranging from mild febrile seizures to Dravet syndrome, an infant-onset epileptic encephalopathy. Dravet syndrome patients experience multiple seizures types that are often refractory to treatment, developmental delays, and elevated risk for SUDEP. The same sodium channel mutation can produce epilepsy phenotypes of varying clinical severity. This suggests that other factors, including genetic, modify the primary mutation and change disease severity. Mouse models provide a useful tool in studying the genetic basis of epilepsy. The mouse strain background can alter phenotype severity, supporting a contribution of genetic modifiers in epilepsy. The Scn1a+/- mouse model has a strain-dependent epilepsy phenotype. Scn1a+/- mice on the 129S6/SvEvTac (129) strain have a normal phenotype and lifespan, while [129xC57BL/6J]F1-Scn1a+/- mice experience spontaneous seizures, hyperthermia-induced seizures and high rates of premature death. We hypothesize the phenotypic differences are due to strain-specific genetic modifiers that influence expressivity of the Scn1a+/- phenotype. Low resolution mapping of Scn1a+/- identified several Dravet syndrome modifier (Dsm) loci responsible for the strain-dependent difference in survival. One locus of interest, Dsm1 located on chromosome 5, was fine mapped to a 9 Mb region using interval specific congenics. RNA-Seq was then utilized to identify candidate modifier genes within this narrowed region. Three genes with significant total gene expression differences between 129S6/SvEvTac and [129xC57BL/6J]F1 were identified, including the GABAA receptor subunit, Gabra2. Further analysis of Gabra2 demonstrated allele-specific expression. Pharmological manipulation by clobazam, a common anticonvulsant with preferential affinity for the GABRA2 receptor, revealed dose-dependent protection against hyperthermia-induced seizures in Scn1a+/- mice. These findings support Gabra2 as a genetic modifier of the Scn1a+/- mouse model of Dravet syndrome.
Weighted rules under the stable model semantics

We introduce the concept of weighted rules under the stable model semantics following the log-linear models of Markov Logic. This provides versatile methods to overcome the deterministic nature of the stable model semantics, such as resolving inconsistencies in answer set programs, ranking stable models, associating probability to stable models, and applying statistical inference to computing weighted stable models. We also present formal comparisons with related formalisms, such as answer set programs, Markov Logic, ProbLog, and P-log.
A new ElGamal-like cryptosystem based on matrices over groupring

In this paper, we have developed a new ElGamal-like public key cryptosystem based on the matrices over a groupring. The underlying hard problem for this cryptosystem is the conjugacy search problem. That is, we have replaced the exponentiation of elements by conjugacy. This makes the key generation step more efficient. We also talk about different security aspects against known attacks. The proposed scheme is found to be secure against known plaintext attack when encryption uses a different random key for every new plaintext.
Cost and efficacy examination of alvimopan for the prevention of postoperative ileus

Opioid analgesics exacerbate ileus through peripheral μ-opioid receptor action. Alvimopan, a μ-opioid receptor antagonist, has been proposed to alleviate postoperative ileus, leading to decreased time to return of gastrointestinal function and hospital discharge. As opioid-induced motility issues are only one factor affecting postoperative ileus, continued examination of the cost of the use and efficacy of the drug is needed. Data for this study were collected retrospectively from the charts of 55 patients who received an anastomosis and were given alvimopan at Morristown Medical Center between 2010 and 2013 as well as from 58 appropriately matched controls. The billing record and chart for each patient was examined, and information on total hospital charges, age, sex, body mas index, primary diagnosis, procedure type, length of stay (days), time to return of bowel function (hours), and outcomes were recorded for analysis. No difference between patients given alvimopan and controls was observed for the length of hospital stay (4.6 vs 4.8 days) or for time to return of bowel function (68.5 vs 67.3 hours). Total hospital charges were higher for treated patients (p=0.0080), averaging $48 705.15 and $41 068.80, respectively. Alvimopan was not associated with improved clinical outcome but was associated with an increase in hospital charges within this population.
Powassan virus postencephalitic parkinsonism

Postencephalitic parkinsonism has been described following infection with influenza A and Flaviviridae family viruses such as Japanese B encephalitis, St Louis encephalitis, and West Nile virus.1 Some of these viruses are neurotropic, and a few preferentially target the substantia nigra.2,3 We report a novel case of Powassan virus (POWV) causing postencephalitic parkinsonism with evidence of decreased presynaptic uptake of dopamine in the striatum.
Parathyroid hormone is related to QT interval independent of serum calcium in patients with coronary artery disease.

Background Elevated serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular death, including sudden cardiac death, in patients with and without parathyroid disease. In small studies, PTH levels have been associated with changes in cardiac conduction and repolarization. Changes in the corrected QT interval (QTc) in particular are thought to be mediated by the effect of PTH on serum calcium. There is limited evidence to suggest PTH may affect cardiac physiology independent of its effects on serum calcium, but there is even less data linking PTH to changes in electrical conduction and repolarization independent of serum calcium. Methods ECG data were examined from the PULSE database—an observational cohort study designed to examine depression after acute coronary syndromes (ACS) at a single, urban American medical center. In all, 407 patients had PTH and ECG data for analysis. Results The QTc was longer in patients with elevated PTH levels compared with those without elevated PTH levels (451 ± 38.6 ms vs. 435 ± 29.8 ms; p < .001). The difference remained statistically significant after controlling for calcium, vitamin D, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = .007). Inclusion of left ventricular ejection fraction in the model attenuated the association (p = .054), suggesting that this finding may be partly driven by changes in cardiac structure. Conclusions In one of the largest series to examine PTH, calcium, and QT changes, we found that elevated PTH is associated with longer corrected QT interval independent of serum calcium concentration in ACS survivors.
DTRA operation independent spark overview: SREMP test on an operational transmission-distribution power substation and components at HERMES III

• The purpose of the test was to obtain information on the effects of a SREMP environment to modern technology power grid elements • An operational, power, transmission-distribution substation (2.4:69 kV) found to be very robust when simultaneously subjected to high levels of radiation and a 5,000 A electromagnetic current pulse • No significant radiation effects on the operational substation or substation components were observed — The SREMP environment was within the constraints of the DOE HERMES III facility • The grid protection elements for an operational power substation (i.e. line insulators, lightning arresters, gas circuit breakers and digital protection control relays) are effective in protecting against catastrophic current pulse insults (e.g., lightning and SREMP)
Education Student Perceptions of Virtual Reality as a Learning Tool.

The purpose of this study was to ascertain student perceptions of the use and value of three-dimensional virtual environments. A grounded theory approach was used to gather and examine data. Just o...