cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A one-enzyme RT-qPCR assay for SARS-CoV-2, and procedures for reagent production

ABSTRACT Given the scale of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the need for reliable, scalable testing, and the likelihood of reagent shortages, especially in resource-poor settings, we have developed a RT-qPCR assay that relies on an alternative to conventional viral reverse transcriptases, a thermostable reverse transcriptase / DNA polymerase (RTX)1. Here we show that RTX performs comparably to the other assays sanctioned by the CDC and validated in kit format. We demonstrate two modes of RTX use – (i) dye-based RT-qPCR assays that require only RTX polymerase, and (ii) TaqMan RT-qPCR assays that use a combination of RTX and Taq DNA polymerases (as the RTX exonuclease does not degrade a TaqMan probe). We also provide straightforward recipes for the purification of this alternative reagent. We anticipate that in low resource or point-of-need settings researchers could obtain the available constructs from Addgene or our lab and begin to develop their own assays, within whatever regulatory framework exists for them. We lay out protocols for dye-based and TaqMan probe-based assays, in order to best compare with ‘gold standard’ reagents. These protocols should form the basis of further modifications that can simplify the assay to the use of overexpressing cells themselves as reagents. Developing dye-based and TaqMan probe-based RT-qPCR assays with RTX
Predicting Olfactory Loss In Chronic Rhinosinusitis Using Machine Learning

ABSTRACT Objective Compare machine learning (ML) based predictive analytics methods to traditional logistic regression in classification of olfactory dysfunction in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS-OD), and identify predictors within a large multi-institutional cohort of refractory CRS patients. Methods Adult CRS patients enrolled in a prospective, multi-institutional, observational cohort study were assessed for baseline CRS-OD using a smell identification test (SIT) or brief SIT (bSIT). Four different ML methods were compared to traditional logistic regression for classification of CRS normosmics versus CRS-OD. Results Data were collected for 611 study participants who met inclusion criteria between April 2011 and July 2015. 34% of enrolled patients demonstrated olfactory loss on psychophysical testing. Differences between CRS normosmics and those with smell loss included objective disease measures (CT and endoscopy scores), age, sex, prior surgeries, socioeconomic status, steroid use, polyp presence, asthma, and aspirin sensitivity. Most ML methods performed favorably in terms of predictive ability. Top predictors include factors previously reported in the literature, as well as several socioeconomic factors. Conclusion Olfactory dysfunction is a variable phenomenon in CRS patients. ML methods perform well compared to traditional logistic regression in classification of normosmia versus smell loss in CRS, and are able to include numerous risk factors into prediction models. Several actionable features were identified as risk factors for CRS-OD. These results suggest that ML methods may be useful for current understanding and future study of hyposmia secondary to sinonasal disease, the most common cause of persistent olfactory loss in the general population.
Investigating the Sensitivity of Electric Vehicle Out-of-Home Charging Demand to Changes in Light-Duty Vehicle Fleet Makeup and Usage: A Case Study for California 2030:

Accurately predicting the spatial distribution and charging demand of future electric vehicles (EVs) is vital to directing investment in charging infrastructure and planning policy interventions. T...
Well-water and risk of Parkinson Disease: a case-control study of US Medicare beneficiaries (P4.321)

Objective: In a nationwide, population-based case-control study we sought to determine whether the risk of Parkinson Disease (PD) differs in people who consume private well-water as compared to those who consume publically-monitored water. Background: Studies suggest that environmental exposures contribute to PD risk, but the evidence on well-water is conflicting, and mainly based on studies that are small or clinic-based. Design/Methods: We identified incident cases of PD diagnosed in 2009 (N = 89,790) and comparable controls (N = 22,415,060) ages 66–90 using ICD-9 codes from 2004–2009 Medicare claims data. We assigned each beneficiary’s 9-digit zipcode to the corresponding census block group and the respective use of private wells in that block group according to the 1990 U.S. Census. We used logistic regression to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the risk of PD in relation to this predicted reliance on well-water while adjusting for age, sex, race, and use of medical care. In a subset with data on tobacco smoking, we verified that smoking did not confound results. We repeated all analyses for each of the 50 U.S. states. Results: PD risk was positively associated with age, was greater in men than women, and was greater in whites than non-whites. Tobacco smoking was associated with a decreased risk of PD. Overall, we observed an inverse association between well-water use and PD (OR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.87–0.91, p Conclusions: In this nationwide, population-based study that confirmed all known demographic associations with PD, we observed no evidence that reliance on well-water increases risk of PD. Study Supported by: Supported in Part by a Parkinson’s Disease Foundation-American Parkinson Disease Association Summer Student Fellowship, PDF-APDA-SFW-1664. Also supported in part by the Washington University School of Medicine Summer Research Dean’s Fellowship. Disclosure: Dr. Silver has nothing to disclose. Dr. Searles Nielsen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Dube has nothing to disclose. Dr. Racette has received research support from Phytopharm, PLC, NeuroSearch, Biotie Therapies Inc., Siena Biotech SpA, Abbott Products, Inc., Allergan, and US World Meds.
Downward Trend in Resident Myringotomy and Tympanostomy Tube Experience.

Introduction/Objective:Historically, myringotomy, and the insertion of tympanostomy tubes has served as one of the initial surgical training experiences for residents. Resident experience with this...
EVAP: A two-photon imaging tool to study conformational changes in endogenous Kv2 channels in live tissues

A primary goal of molecular physiology is to understand how conformational changes of proteins affect the function of cells, tissues, and organisms. Here, we describe an imaging method for measuring the conformational changes of the voltage sensors of endogenous ion channel proteins within live tissue, without genetic modification. We synthesized GxTX-594, a variant of the peptidyl tarantula toxin guangxitoxin-1E, conjugated to a fluorophore optimal for two-photon excitation imaging through light-scattering tissue. We term this tool EVAP (Endogenous Voltage-sensor Activity Probe). GxTX-594 targets the voltage sensors of Kv2 proteins, which form potassium channels and plasma membrane-endoplasmic reticulum junctions. GxTX-594 dynamically labels Kv2 proteins on cell surfaces in response to voltage stimulation. To interpret dynamic changes in fluorescence intensity, we developed a statistical thermodynamic model that relates the conformational changes of Kv2 voltage sensors to degree of labeling. We used two-photon excitation imaging of rat brain slices to image Kv2 proteins in neurons. We found puncta of GxTX-594 on hippocampal CA1 neurons that responded to voltage stimulation and retain a voltage response roughly similar to heterologously expressed Kv2.1 protein. Our findings show that EVAP imaging methods enable the identification of conformational changes of endogenous Kv2 voltage sensors in tissue.
The aging knee

The aging knee presents significant problems to the mature athlete who wishes to continue participation in sports. The meniscus is a key structure in the knee and an injury to it may open the door to progressive arthritic changes. Because of our appreciation of the importance of the menisci, treatment options are geared toward salvaging as much of the meniscus as possible. The anterior cruciate ligament is a frequently injured structure which is associated with meniscus tears, articular cartilage damage and progressive degenerative changes. Once an athlete develops degenerative arthritis of their knee, their treatment options are mainly limited to arthroscopic lavage and debride­ ment or an osteotomy procedure. The new knowledge and treatment options have allowed physicians to increase their arsenal in their battle to keep the mature athlete participating in sports.
Strange actions of groups on spheres

In [FS] we investigated certain topological analogs of Schottky groups, called admissible actions, and their compatibility with various structures on spheres. We constructed an action ϕ : F 2 × S 3→ S 3 which was not topologically conjugate to a uniformly quasiconformal action. Also, there was an example ⍦ : (F r ⋊ ℤ2) × S 3 → S 3, r sufficiently large, which was smooth and uniformly quasiconformal, but not topologically conjugate to a conformal action. And we gave examples of admissible actions on higher dimensional spheres, but did not analyse the structures preserved.
Multiple Mechanisms for the Potentiation of AMPA Receptor-Mediated Transmission by α-Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II

Some forms of activity-dependent synaptic potentiation require the activation of postsynaptic Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII). Activation of CaMKII has been shown to phosphorylate the glutamate receptor 1 subunit of the AMPA receptor (AMPAR), thereby affecting some of the properties of the receptor. Here, a recombinant, constitutively active form of αCaMKII tagged with the fluorescent marker green fluorescent protein (GFP) [αCaMKII1–290–enhanced GFP (EGFP)] was expressed in CA1 pyramidal neurons from hippocampal slices. The changes in glutamatergic transmission onto these cells were analyzed. AMPA but not NMDA receptor-mediated EPSCs were specifically potentiated in infected compared with nearby noninfected neurons. This potentiation was associated with a reduction in the proportion of synapses devoid of AMPARs. In addition, expression of αCaMKII1–290–EGFP increased the quantal size of AMPAR-mediated responses. This effect reflected, at least in part, an increased unitary conductance of the channels underlying the EPSCs. These results reveal that several key features of long-term potentiation of hippocampal glutamatergic synapses are reproduced by the sole activity of αCaMKII.
Implementing a Semantic Lexicon

The human lexicon is emerging as the single most important aspect of modern NLP applications. Current research focus ranges from the organization and structure of lexicons to fleshing it out with lexical entries with their full semantics. We have implemented a model of the human lexicon that addresses the automatic acquisition of the lexicon as well as the representation of the semantic content of individual lexical entries. We have used Conceptual Structures as the representation scheme. The system analyzes paragraphs of English sentences, maps the extracted lexical and semantic knowledge to CS graphs, and reasons about them. The system augments its vocabulary by using a persistency mechanism that restores the previously defined lexical items in later sessions.
Opening the black box of “relevance work”: A domain analysis

In response to Hjorland's recent call for a reconceptualization of the foundations of relevance, we suggest that the sociocognitive aspects of intermediation by information agencies, such as archives and libraries, are a necessary and unexplored part of the infrastructure of the subject knowledge domains central to his recommended “view of relevance informed by a social paradigm” (2010, p. 217). From a comparative analysis of documents from 39 graduate-level introductory courses in archives, reference, and strategic/competitive intelligence taught in 13 American Library Association-accredited library and information science (LIS) programs, we identify four defining sociocognitive dimensions of “relevance work” in information agencies within Hjorland's proposed framework for relevance: tasks, time, systems, and assessors. This study is intended to supply sociocognitive content from within the relevance work domain to support further domain analytic research, and to emphasize the importance of intermediary relevance work for all subject knowledge domains. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multivariate statistical analysis and partitioning of sedimentary geochemical data sets: General principles and specific MATLAB scripts

[1] Multivariate statistical treatments of large data sets in sedimentary geochemical and other fields are rapidly becoming more popular as analytical and computational capabilities expand. Because geochemical data sets present a unique set of conditions (e.g., the closed array), application of generic off-the-shelf applications is not straightforward and can yield misleading results. We present here annotated MATLAB scripts (and specific guidelines for their use) for Q-mode factor analysis, a constrained least squares multiple linear regression technique, and a total inversion protocol, that are based on the well-known approaches taken by Dymond (1981), Leinen and Pisias (1984), Kyte et al. (1993), and their predecessors. Although these techniques have been used by investigators for the past decades, their application has been neither consistent nor transparent, as their code has remained in-house or in formats not commonly used by many of today's researchers (e.g., FORTRAN). In addition to providing the annotated scripts and instructions for use, we discuss general principles to be considered when performing multivariate statistical treatments of large geochemical data sets, provide a brief contextual history of each approach, explain their similarities and differences, and include a sample data set for the user to test their own manipulation of the scripts.
Inclusion of minorities and women in cancer clinical trials, a decade later: Have we improved?

BACKGROUND Inclusion of diverse groups of participants in cancer clinical trials is an important methodological and clinical issue. The quality of the science and generalizability of results depends on the inclusion of study participants who represent all populations among whom these treatment and prevention approaches will be used. METHODS We conducted a systematic review using OVID as the primary source of reports included. Based on 304 peer-reviewed publications, diversity in the inclusion and reporting of study participants during a decade of cancer treatment and prevention trials (2001-2010) is summarized. Recommendations are made for improvements in the science and reporting of cancer clinical trials. RESULTS Of the 277 treatment trials and 27 prevention trials included in this report, more than 80% of participants were white and 59.8% were male. In the recent decade, race and sex are rarely used as selection criteria unless the trial is focused on a sex-specific cancer. CONCLUSIONS Women and racial/ethnic minorities remain severely underrepresented in cancer clinical trials, thus limiting the generalizability of cancer clinical research. Cancer 2013;119:2956—2963. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Microthrombosis during endotoxemia: Potential role of hepatic versus alveolar macrophages

Macrophages (Mφ) produce multiple inflammatory mediators which may contribute to the pathophysiological processes seen during sepsis. Since diffuse microthrombosis has been implicated as a potential etiology for organ dysfunction and failure in sepsis, the present study examined the production of procoagulant activity (PCA) by Mφ in response to endotoxin, characterized the activity, and evaluated methods to modify the response. Since hepatic and pulmonary dysfunction is a common complication of sepsis, rabbit Mφ were isolated from both pulmonary (A-Mφ) and hepatic (H-Mφ) sites. Both Mφ populations produced PCA in response to endotoxin in vitro. There is a rapid rise in activity with a peak at 20− to 30+ fold over background levels at 8 hr poststimulation. Although similar in their ability to enhance coagulation, the two Mφ PCAs were shown to differ markedly in other biochemical and functional assays. The A-Mφ PCA in contrast to the H-Mφ PCA, was resistant to heat inactivation, serine protease inhibition, and warfarin pretreatment, while indomethacin (a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor) blocked A-Mφ PCA production but not the H-Mφ response. Corticosteroids totally blocked PCA production by both Mφ populations. Endotoxin, therefore, induces a rapid increase in Mφ PCA, and the magnitude and rapidity of the response argue for a potentially significant pathophysiologic role, in vivo. Although derived from a common progenitor, A-Mφ and H-Mφ produce a functionally discreet PCA. This differential response may partially explain the contradictory results obtained in studies using various cellular metabolism inhibitors, e.g., indomethacin and steroids. Therapeutic proposals must account for these potential selective sensitivities between various cellular populations.
In vitro selection of an RNA sequence that interacts with high affinity with thymidylate synthase

Previous studies have shown that the repressive effect of thymidylate synthase (TS) mRNA translation is mediated by direct binding of TS itself to two cis-acting elements on its cognate mRNA. To identify the optimal RNA nucleotides that interact with TS, we in vitro synthesized a completely degenerate, linear RNA pool of 25 nt and employed in vitro selection to isolate high affinity RNA ligands that bind human TS protein. After 10 rounds of selection and amplification, a single RNA molecule was selected that bound TS protein with nearly 20-fold greater affinity than native, wild-type TS RNA sequences. Secondary structure analysis of this RNA sequence predicted it to possess a stem–loop structure. Deletion and/or modification of the UGU loop element within the RNA sequence decreased binding to TS by up to 1000-fold. In vivo transfection experiments revealed that the presence of the selected RNA sequence resulted in a significant increase in the expression of a heterologous luciferase reporter construct in human colon cancer H630 and TS-overexpressing HCT-C:His-TS+ cells, but not in HCT-C18 cells expressing a functionally inactive TS. In addition, the presence of this element in H630 cells leads to induced expression of TS protein. An immunoprecipitation method using RT–PCR confirmed a direct interaction between human TS protein and the selected RNA sequence in transfected human cancer H630 cells. This study identified a novel RNA sequence from a degenerate RNA library that specifically interacts with TS.
Accurate motion deblurring using camera motion tracking and scene depth

In this paper, we propose an estimation algorithm for spatially-variant blur due to camera motion. To estimate the most accurate latent image, we integrated depth sensor (Microsoft Kinect) and IMU sensor with the camera. The joint analysis of the blurry image, IMU data and the depth data provide better recovery of the real camera motion during the course of the exposure. The reconstructed camera trajectory along with the depth map is then used to synthesize a spatially-variant blur kernel to estimate the final latent (non-blurry) image. The results show that our algorithm effectively compensates the motion blur from the original image while taking scene geometry into account.
Tropical Convection on 7–21-Day Timescales over the Western Pacific

Abstract Evidence is presented to demonstrate that the oscillations of convection on 7–21-day timescales are an important component of the intraseasonal variability over the region spanning the equatorial western Pacific to the subtropical South Pacific. In that area of the world, these oscillations are largely confined to regions with high sea surface temperatures (SSTS) or SST gradients. Consequently, the patterns of 7–21-day variability of convection undergo significant changes, as the El Nin˜o/Southern Oscillation reconfigures the distributions of SST. A test is developed that detects episodes in which the 7–21-day oscillation of outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) is particularly well defined for several cycles. Applying this test, 29 episodes of high 7–21-day variability were defined. Based on this information, the annual and longitudinal distribution of 7–21-day variability is discussed. The 7–21-day oscillations of convection found at subtropical southern latitudes tend to have stronger wind shear i...
A model for uranium, rhenium, and molybdenum diagenesis in marine sediments based on results from coastal locations

Abstract The purpose of this research is to characterize the mobilization and immobilization processes that control the authigenic accumulation of uranium (U), rhenium (Re), and molybdenum (Mo) in marine sediments. We analyzed these redox-sensitive metals (RSM) in benthic chamber, pore water, and solid phase samples at a site in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts (USA) that has high bottom water oxygen concentrations (230–300 μmol/L) and high organic matter oxidation rates (390 μmol C/cm2/y). The oxygen penetration depth varies from 2 to 9 mm below the sediment-water interface, but pore water sulfide is below detection ( Release of RSM to pore waters during the remineralization of solid phases occurs near the sediment-water interface at depths above the zone of authigenic RSM formation. This release occurs consistently for Mo at both sites, but only in the winter for Re in Buzzards Bay and intermittently for U. At the Buzzards Bay site, Re removal to the solid phase extends to the bottom of the profile, while the zone of removal is restricted to ∼2–9 cm for U and Mo. Authigenic Re formation is independent of the anoxic remineralization rate, which is consistent with an abiotic removal mechanism. The rate of authigenic U formation and its modeled removal rate constant increase with increasing anoxic remineralization rates and is consistent with U reduction being microbially mediated. Authigenic Mo formation is related to the formation of sulfidic microenvironments. The depth and extent of Mo removal from pore water is closely associated with the balance between iron and sulfate reduction and the consumption of pore water sulfide via iron sulfide formation. Pore water RSM reach constant asymptotic concentrations in sulfidic sediments, but only pore water Re is constant at depth in Buzzards Bay. The increases in pore water U at the Buzzards Bay site are consistent with addition via irrigation and subsequent upward diffusion to the removal zone. Deep pore water Mo concentrations exceed its bottom water concentration due to irrigation-induced oxidation and remobilization from the solid phase. In sulfidic sediments, there is no evidence for higher pore water U or Mo concentrations at depth due to the absence of irrigation and/or the presence of more stable authigenic RSM phases. There are good correlations between benthic fluxes and authigenic accumulation rates for U and Mo in sulfidic sediments. However, results from Buzzards Bay suggest irrigation ultimately results in the partial loss of U and Mo from the solid phase, with accumulation rates that are 20–30% of the modeled flux. Irrigation can augment (Re, possibly U) or compromise (U, Mo) authigenic accumulation in sediments and is important when determining burial rates in continental margin sediments.
Human intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes bind to mucosal mesenchymal cells through VLA4 and CD11A.

Abstract Human intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL), predominantly CD8 + T lymphocytes, are uniquely situated at the basolateral surfaces of epithelial cells in contact with the myofibroblasts that comprise the basement membrane. Since mesenchymal cells may anchor IEL in this location and may also serve as antigen-presenting cells, the mechanism of binding to IEL was investigated. Lymphocytes were radiolabeled with [ 51 Cr]sodium chromate, cocultured with mesenchymal cell monolayers, and the nonadherent lymphocytes removed by washes. Those adherent to the monolayers were counted by measuring the amount of radiolabel retained in the well. A large fraction of IL-2-activated IEL bound to KD (lip fibroblast), HISM (jejunal smooth muscle), and JF (jejunal fibroblast) cell lines after a 2-hr incubation: 33 ± 11, 37 ± 14, and 48 ± 15%, respectively. When monoclonal antibodies directed at the α chains of the very late activation antigens (CD49) were added alone or combined with anti-CD11a to assays measuring IEL binding to KD or JF monolayers, the greatest inhibition (33 to 38%) occurred with anti-α4 combined with anti-CD11a. The majority of IEL expressed α1 and α4 before and after a 3-day culture with IL-2, with no change in surface density. VCAM-1, a binding partner to α4, was not expressed on KD or JF cells,and anti-VCAM antibody had no effect on binding. In summary, α4 and CD11a on IEL mediate binding to mesenchymal cells.
Results Following Three Modalities of Periodontal Therapy

Three methods for treatment of periodontal pockets (subgingival curettage, modified Widman flap surgery, and pocket elimination) were applied as a clinical trial to 82 patients. Follow up results over one to five years after the initial treatment are reported. The variations in attachment levels and pocket depth were analyzed statistically as related to methods of treatment and yearly time intervals following the initial treatment. The most favorable results regarding gain or maintenance of attachment levels and reduction of pocket depth were observed interproximally. Subgingival curettage provided the greatest gain in attachment level up to three years postoperatively, but after four to five years there was no significant difference in results following the three methods. The most significant loss of attachment and return of pocket depth occurred on the buccal aspects of the teeth, and the results were not significantly different for the three methods except at the first year of follow up when the attachment level was maintained best after curettage.
Microscopic polyangiitis with massive myocardial necrosis and diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage

Sir, we report a rare autopsy case of microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) with myocardial infarction (MI) and pulmonary hemorrhage. A 41-year-old black woman presented with recent onset of severe headache, arthralgia, myalgia, and chest pain. Physical examination revealed macular facial rash. No oral ulcers, photosensitivity, alopecia, weight loss, fever, or Raynaud’s phenomenon were present. Past medical history was unremarkable. The white blood count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, sodium, potassium, chloride, carbon dioxide, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, glucose, and liver enzyme studies were normal. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was 27 mm/h. The antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer was 1:2560 with a speckled pattern. Rheumatoid factor was negative. Creatine phosphokinase (CK) was 99 mU/ml. Her electrocardiogram (EKG) showed normal sinus rhythm. The patient was given 400 mg ibuprofen twice a day. One month later, her symptoms were not relieved and prednisone 15 mg/day was initiated by her primary care physician. There was no improvement. Prednisone was discontinued at the patient’s request. Three months later the patient was hospitalized due to dyspnea and chest pain of 5-day duration. Physical examination revealed bilateral basilar crepitations in the lungs. Cardiovascular and neurological examinations were insignificant. EKG and chest roentgenogram (CXR) were normal. There were no skin lesions or joint tenderness. Further immunological studies showed: ANA titer 1:1280; negative anti-double strand DNA, anti-ribonucleoprotein, anti-Smith, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antiantibody (ANCA), anti-SSA, anti-SSB, and anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) antibodies. Rapid plasma reagin was non-reactive. C3 and C4 were 103 mg/dl and 14.4 mg/dl, respectively. Prothrombin (PT) was 13.3 s and partial thromboplastin time (PTT) was 53.5 s. ESR was 27 mm/h. Urinalysis showed protein 100 mg/dl, red blood cells, and
The Teacher as Codependent

(1991). The Teacher as Codependent. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 65, No. 1, pp. 9-10.
Lethal toxicity, severe endothelial injury, and a threshold effect with high doses of an adenoviral vector in baboons.

The effects of intravenous administration of a first-generation adenoviral vector expressing β-galactosidase were compared in two baboons receiving a high dose or lower dose of vector, 1.2 × 1013 or 1.2 × 1012 particles/kg, respectively. The high-dose baboon developed acute symptoms, decreased platelet counts, and increased liver enzymes, and became moribund at 48 hr after injection, while the lower-dose baboon developed no symptoms. Expression of the β-galactosidase transgene was prominent in liver, spleen, and endothelium of the arterial vasculature in the high-dose baboon, but was much more limited and spared the endothelium in the lower-dose baboon. Injury to the vascular endothelium was the most prominent abnormality in the high-dose baboon. Extensive histological studies provide a detailed picture of the pathology associated with a lethal dose of first-generation adenoviral vector in a primate.
Predicting functional outcomes among college drinkers: Reliability and predictive validity of the Young Adult Alcohol Consequences Questionnaire

Heavy drinking and associated consequences are widespread among U.S. college students. Recently, Read et al. (Read, J. P., Kahler, C. W., Strong, D., & Colder, C. R. (2006). Development and preliminary validation of the Young Adult Alcohol Consequences Questionnaire. Journal of Studies on Alcohol, 67, 169-178) developed the Young Adult Alcohol Consequences Questionnaire (YAACQ) to assess the broad range of consequences that may result from heavy drinking in the college milieu. In the present study, we sought to add to the psychometric validation of this measure by employing a prospective design to examine the test-retest reliability, concurrent validity, and predictive validity of the YAACQ. We also sought to examine the utility of the YAACQ administered early in the semester in the prediction of functional outcomes later in the semester, including the persistence of heavy drinking, and academic functioning. Ninety-two college students (48 females) completed a self-report assessment battery during the first weeks of the Fall semester, and approximately one week later. Additionally, 64 subjects (37 females) participated at an optional third time point at the end of the semester. Overall, the YAACQ demonstrated strong internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and concurrent and predictive validity. YAACQ scores also were predictive of both drinking frequency, and "binge" drinking frequency. YAACQ total scores at baseline were an early indicator of academic performance later in the semester, with greater number of total consequences experienced being negatively associated with end-of-semester grade point average. Specific YAACQ subscale scores (Impaired Control, Dependence Symptoms, Blackout Drinking) showed unique prediction of persistent drinking and academic outcomes.
Electrophysiological Properties of the Rabbit Sinoatrial Perinodal Fibers

In the rabbit, the sinus node is surrounded by a group of cells which we have termed perinodal fibers. Since sinus node impulses preferentially proceed to the crista terminalis and then spread to the rest of the atrium, we selected the zone of perinodal fibers lying between the sinus node and the crista terminalis for study. Values of transmembrane potentials and the maximum rate of rise (Vmax) of phase 0 in these perinodal fibers were intermediate between those in sinus node and crista terminalis fibers. Values of phase-0 amplitude and Vmax obtained from perinodal fibers near the crista terminalis were greater than those values from perinodal fibers near the sinus node. Membrane responsiveness was determined using premature stimulation or potassiuminduced depolarization. In perinodal fibers, recovery of phase-0 Vmax of premature responses to peak value showed a strong time dependence outlasting full repolarization and extending throughout diastole. The increasing values of Vmax during diastole occurred despite spontaneous diastolic depolarization. When time was minimized as a variable, using potassium-induced depolarization, Vmax was also shown to be dependent on membrane activation voltage. In addition, recovery of phase-0 amplitude of premature responses to peak value was shown to be somewhat time dependent. The resistance of phase-0 amplitude and Vmax to the depolarizing effects of increased external potassium concentration was greater in perinodal fibers than it was in ordinary a trial fibers. We were able to show that premature responses capable of exciting the crista terminalis blocked in the zone of perinodal fibers.
Studies of antigenic fractions in honey-bee (Apis mellifera) venom

Abstract Antigenic fractions in honey-bee venom (Grade I) isolated by gel permeation chromatography were characterized by ‘disc’ gel electrophoresis, immunoelectrophoresis and/or Ouchterlony double diffusion technique. There are at least eight protein fractions present in the honey-bee venom, five migrating towards cathode and three towards anode. Phospholipase A, melittin and apamin are the three major fractions while the other five are minor fractions. Antibodies to bee venom phospholipase A have been demonstrated. The sensitivity of various protein staining agents has been studied. The presence of a surfactant fraction in honey-bee venom, inseparable from melittin, has been confirmed.
Massive cerebral arterial air embolism following arterial catheterization

Microscopic cerebral arterial air embolism (CAAE) has been described in many patients undergoing cardiac surgery as well as other invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. However, massive CAAE is rare. We report a 42-year-old woman who initially presented with thalamic and basal ganglia hemorrhages. Shortly after a radial arterial catheter was inserted, the patient suffered a generalized seizure and CT demonstrated intra-arterial air in bilateral cerebral hemispheres.
Rigidity of harmonic maps of maximum rank

Thehomotopical rank of a mapf:M →N is, by definition, min{dimg(M) ¦g homotopic tof}. We give upper bounds for this invariant whenM is compact Kahler andN is a compact discrete quotient of a classical symmetric space, e.g., the space of positive definite matrices. In many cases the upper bound is sharp and is attained by geodesic immersions of locally hermitian symmetric spaces. An example is constructed (Section 9) to show that there do, in addition, exist harmonic maps of quite a different character. A byproduct is construction of an algebraic surface with large and interesting fundamental group. Finally, a criterion for lifting harmonic maps to holomorphic ones is given, as is a factorization theorem for representations of the fundamental group of a compact Kahler manifold. The technique for the main result is a combination of harmonic map theory, algebra, and combinatorics; it follows the path pioneered by Siu in his ridigity theorem and later extended by Sampson.
Modeling of the Magnetic Field-Induced Martensitic Variant Reorientation and the Associated Magnetic Shape Memory Effect in MSMAs

This work is concerned with the magnetic field-induced rearrangement of martensitic variants in magnetic shape memory alloys (MSMAs). In addition to the variant reorientation, the rotation of the magnetization and magnetic domain wall motion are considered as the microstructural mechanisms causing the macroscopically observable constitutive response. The considered free energy terms are the elastic strain energy, the Zeeman energy and the magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy. It is shown how thermodynamic constraints on the magnetization rotation lead to only partial reorientation of the martensitic variants under higher stresses. A straightforward methodology has been devised for the calibration of model parameters based on experimental data. The presented model predictions indicate an improvement of the predictability of the nonlinear strain hysteresis and in particular the magnetization hysteresis.
Pregabalin significantly improves the health-related quality of life of patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: Findings from six randomized clinical trials

E. Dukes, B. Stacey, S. Martin, R. Chambers, U. Sharma; Pfizer Global Pharmaceuticals, New York, NY Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a painful condition disrupting the lives of millions of patients with diabetes. Despite advances in pain management, DPN remains sub-optimally treated. Patients are often treated with medications that evidence-based medicine has shown to be ineffective DPN treatments or with medications recommended for DPN but at sub-optimal doses. Pregabalin is a CNS agent with analgesic, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties proven to be an effective DPN treatment. Using data from six randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, the effect of pregabalin on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of DPN patients was characterized. HRQoL was assessed using the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) administered at baseline and at study termination. The SF-36 evaluates eight HRQoL domains (0-100 scale). The trials, lasting 5-12 weeks, studied the treatment effect of 75, 150, 300, or 600 mg/day of pregabalin. Findings for 150-600 mg/ day pregabalin are described since pregabalin treatment can be started at 150 mg/day and, based on individual response/tolerability, may be increased to 300 mg/day, and if needed, to a maximum of 600 mg/day. A total of 1334 patients were evaluated: 469 received placebo while 174, 266, and 425 received 150, 300, and 600 mg/day pregabalin. At endpoint, DPN patients treated with pregabalin demonstrated significant (P 0.05) reductions in “bodily pain” (all doses), improved “vitality” (300, 600 mg/day), improved “mental health” (all doses), improved “social functioning” (300, 600 mg/day), reduced “emotional-role limitations” (300, 600 mg/day), and improved “general health perception” (600 mg/day). Significant score improvements ranged from 6 to 18 points and may be correlated with pregabalin dose. Findings from this study, based on a large patient sample, show that patients with painful DPN treated with pregabalin experienced significant improvements in multiple health-status domains including physical and emotional health.
Organisational Narratives and Organisational Structure

Organisational narratives as contributing to organisational structure are discussed. The trend lines of narratives introduce the ascent, decline and plateau narratives as reflections of organisational direction. The plateau narrative is used to emphasise the value in supporting the values of flat structures. Plateau narratives are more difficult to grasp because there are more players and more actions that potentially merit recognition by the organisation′s culture. Four suggested dimensions of plateau narratives are offered for change agents to identify. They are: stories of rotating leadership, stories of individuals doing any action that helps the group towards the goal, stories celebrating conscious levelling, and stories of power shifts from turf to large goals.
Microglial low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 modulates c-Jun N-terminal kinase activation

Apolipoprotein E (apoE)-induced activation of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDL) family members reduces inflammatory responses by suppressing c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation. We aimed to identify which specific receptor family member mediates the effect of apoE on inflammation in primary cultures of microglia. Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1)-deficient (LRP1 −/−) microglia were derived from mice using tissue-specific loxP/Cre recombination. Using a peptide formed from the receptor-binding region of apoE (EP), we found that LRP1 mediates the effects of apoE on microglial inflammation. Microglial LRP1 was also essential for EP to suppress JNK activation induced by lipopolysaccharide.
Organization of a unique net-like meshwork of CGRP+ sensory fibers in the mouse periosteum: Implications for the generation and maintenance of bone fracture pain

Although bone fracture frequently results in significant pain and can lead to increased morbidity and mortality, it is still not clearly understood how sensory neurons are organized to detect fracture pain. In the present report we focused on the periosteum, as this thin tissue is highly innervated and tightly adherent to the outer surface of bone. To define the organization and distribution of the sensory and sympathetic fibers in the mouse femoral periosteum, we used whole-mount preparations, transverse sections, immunofluoresence and laser scanning confocal microscopy. While both the outer fibrous layer and the inner more cellular cambium layer of the periosteum receive an extensive innervation by calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and 200-kDa neurofilament (NF200) positive sensory fibers as well as tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) positive sympathetic fibers, there is a differential organization of sensory vs. sympathetic fibers within the periosteum. In both layers, the great majority of TH+ fibers are closely associated with CD31+ blood vessels and wind around the larger vessels in a corkscrew pattern. In contrast, the majority of CGRP+ and NF200+ sensory fibers in both layers lack a clear association with CD31+ blood vessels and appear to be organized in a dense net-like meshwork to detect mechanical distortion of periosteum and bone. This organization would explain why stabilization/fixation causes a marked attenuation of movement-evoked fracture pain. Understanding the organization, plasticity and molecular characteristics of sensory and sympathetic nerve fibers innervating the skeleton may permit the development of novel mechanism-based therapies for treating non-malignant skeletal pain.
Distance Relay With Out-of-Step Blocking Function Using Wavelet Transform

Out-of-step blocking function in distance relays is required to distinguish between a power swing and a fault. Speedy and reliable detection of symmetrical faults during power swings presents a challenge. This paper introduces wavelet transform to reliably and quickly detect power swings as well as detect any fault during a power swing. The total number of dyadic wavelet levels of voltage/current waveforms and the choice of particular levels for such detection are carefully studied. A logic block based on the wavelet transform is developed. The output of this block is combined with the output of the conventional digital distance relay to achieve desired performance during power swings. This integrated relay is extensively tested on a simulated system using PSCAD/ EMTDCreg software.
A note on regularity

An alternative characterization of Gahler's definition of regularity of a lattice-valued convergence space is given. In particular, a space is regular exactly whenever convergence of filters remains invariant with respect to taking ''closures.'' Verification employs a slight modification of the work by Jager.
Multi-variate analysis of trace elements from XRF studies for classification according to origin

The concentrations of twelve trace elements (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, and Nb) in 143 pieces of Chinese porcelain made in Jingdezhen, China and elsewhere were obtained with the use of the energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence technique. An elegant method of multi-variate analysis, known as principal component analysis, was successfully employed in fingerprinting the geographical origin of the porcelain samples.
Distribution of hydrocarbon source potential in the Jurassic Smackover formation

Abstract There are regionally consistent differences in source potential between the upper and lower members of the Smackover Formation. Measurements of total organic carbon and visual kerogen assessments indicate that the Lower Smackover has source potential for crude oil from Texas to Florida. Source potential is largely restricted to the laminated lime mudstone facies of the Lower Smackover where deposition occurred in a subtidal environment that was anoxic and probably hypersaline. Algal-derived amorphous kerogen is concentrated in laminations of depositional origin. Carbonate diagenesis during burial enhanced source potential by further concentrating kerogen along stylolites. We suggest that the efficiency of hydrocarbon expulsion has been enhanced by depositional and diagenetic factors that concentrate source rock kerogen along conduits for fluid movement. The Upper Smackover serves mainly as a reservoir rock, and other Jurassic formations lack source potential.
Clinical and microbiological effects of root debridement in periodontal furcation pockets

Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate longitudinally over 52 weeks the clinical and microbiology effects of plaque control and root debridement at molar furcation sites. The results were compared with changes at non-molar sites. 24 non-molar sites and 31 grade II molar furcation sites with probing depth ≥5.0 mm were monitored in 11 patients. Clinical measurements consisted of plaque scores, probing depths, and changes in probing attachment level. Microbiological monitoring was carried out with phase-contrast microscopy and anaerobic culturing. The debridement resulted in improvement in probing measurements and microbiological counts for both groups of sites. A slightly less favorable clinical response was noted for molar furcation sites. Higher post-operative microbiological counts were found throughout the 52-week, observation period for molar furcation sites. Sites with probing attachment loss showed higher microbial counts and higher proportions of spirochetes, black pigmented colony forming units (CFU), and Bacteroides gingivalis CFU than sites with probing attachment gain. Individual site analysis, however, demonstrated marked variations of the microbiological counts at the different postoperative time points. In the few available sites undergoing probing attachment loss, no apparent association between target micro-organisms and periodontal deterioration was observed.
Yeast ribosomal proteins: Electrophoretic analysis in four two-dimensional gel systems-Correlation of nomenclatures

Proteins from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae 40S and 60S ribosomal subunits were analyzed in four mutually related two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis systems. The position of every protein was determined in each system using the “four-corners” method. Two of the four gels used incorporate conditions common to various analytical systems used in other laboratories. The numbering of the proteins in each system is similar to the standard nomenclature for yeast ribosomal proteins proposed by Bollen, Mager and Planta [Molec Biol Rep (1981) 8: 37–44]. The “four corners” analysis facilitates the correlation of other data resulting from the use of different analytical and numbering systems and obviates occasional erroneous designations and discrepancies in work published on yeast ribosomal proteins.
An Upper Asymptote for the Three-Parameter Logistic Item-Response Model.

Abstract : An upper-asymptote parameter was added to the three-parameter logistic item response model. This four-parameter model was compared to the three-parameter model on four data sets. The fourth parameter increased the likelihood in only two of the four sets. Ability estimates for the students were generally unchanged by the introduction of the fourth parameter. (Author)