cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The formation of tau pore-like structures is prevalent and cell specific: possible implications for the disease phenotypes

Pathological aggregation of the microtubule-associated protein tau and subsequent accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) or other tau-containing inclusions are defining histopathological features of many neurodegenerative diseases, which are collectively known as tauopathies. Due to conflicting results regarding a correlation between the presence of NFTs and disease progression, the mechanism linking pathological tau aggregation with cell death is poorly understood. An emerging view is that NFTs are not the toxic entity in tauopathies; rather, tau intermediates between monomers and NFTs are pathogenic. Several proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as β-amyloid (Aβ) and α-synuclein, have the tendency to form pore-like amyloid structures (annular protofibrils, APFs) that mimic the membrane-disrupting properties of pore-forming protein toxins. The present study examined the similarities of tau APFs with other tau amyloid species and showed for the first time the presence of tau APFs in brain tissue from patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), as well as in the P301L mouse model, which overexpresses mutated tau. Furthermore, we found that APFs are preceded by tau oligomers and do not go on to form NFTs, evading fibrillar fate. Collectively, our results demonstrate that in vivo APF formation depends on mutations in tau, phosphorylation levels, and cell type. These findings establish the pathological significance of tau APFs in vivo and highlight their suitability as therapeutic targets for several neurodegenerative tauopathies.
Thematic mapper analysis of tree cover in semiarid woodlands using a model of canopy shadowing.

Abstract The effect of variable tree canopy cover, shadows, and topography on Thematic Mapper (TM) data was examined for blue oak (Quercus douglasii) woodland and wooded grassland on rugged terrain in central California. Thematic Mapper data were analyzed from September 1986 (trees in leaf, grass understory senescent) and December 1984 (trees leafless, grasses emerging). Tree cover measured in 84 60 m × 60 m field plots was strongly negatively correlated with TM radiances (excluding Band 6) on both dates, and was positively correlated with the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in September. TM Band 3 was most highly correlated with canopy cover. The Li-Strahler geometric-optical canopy reflectance model was used to predict the projected cover of shadow cast by the trees based on crown and illumination geometry. The spectral model was aggregated to two components; figure (tree plus shadow) and background (understory), and the pixel radiances modeled as a function of the cover of the figure. Simulated shadow cover was high at intermediate cover values, and was nonlinearly related to canopy cover. Modeled figure cover in the sample plots at the time of the satellite overpasses was more highly correlated with TM Band 3 than measured tree cover in both September (regression r 2 of 0.76 vs. 0.69) and December (r 2 of 0.59 vs. 0.53). Slope illumination explained an additional 11% of the variance in the December data. The remaining unexplained variance probably resulted from spatial variation in understory and canopy reflectances.
Alterations in Lipid Profiles in HIV-Infected Patients Treated With Protease Inhibitor Therapy Are Not Influenced by Diet

BACKGROUND The use of protease inhibitor (PI) -based highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been linked to alterations in lipid profiles. METHODS Longitudinal cohort study. Lipid profiles were evaluated pre- and post-PI therapy in 49 HIV-infected patients. Diet was also evaluated to determine any contribution to alterations in lipid levels. RESULTS Pre- and post-PI-based HAART samples were examined from 42 men and 7 women, mean age 40.6 years. Mean CD4 count pre-PI was 242 +/- 205 cells/mm(3); HIV RNA was 4.2 log(10) copies/mL; body mass index (BMI) was 24.7 +/- 3.6 kg/m(2); body fat was 17.1 +/- 9.1 kg by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), dietary intake was 2654 +/- 732 kcal/day. Post-PI samples were collected 5.7 +/- 1.66 months after starting therapy. CD4 counts increased to 384 +/- 323 cells/mm(3) and RNA decreased 1 log post-PI. Post-PI BMI (25.2 kg/m2), percent body fat (17.4%) and caloric intake (2656 kcal/day) were unchanged. Pre-PI total cholesterol (TC) in men was 167.6 +/- 42.4 mg/dL; TC increased (190.4 +/- 47.9 mg/dL) post-PI (p < .0001). Pre-PI triglycerides (TG) were 154.5 +/- 109.4 mg/dL; TG increased post-PI (266.1 +/- 363.6 mg/dL, p < .03). Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) -C was 97.8 +/- 31 mg/dL pre-PI and rose to 107.1 +/- 34.7 mg/dL post-PI (p < .05). High density lipoproteins (HDLs) were below desired levels before initiation of PI therapy and remained low. CONCLUSIONS PI therapy significantly alters lipid profiles in HIV-infected patients. Dietary intake did not contribute to changes in lipid profile. More longitudinal studies are needed to demonstrate whether these alterations contribute to additional cardiovascular risk.
Effects of 17β-estradiol, 4-nonylphenol, and β-sitosterol on the growth hormone-insulin-like growth factor system and seawater adaptation of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Abstract Previous studies show that successful adaptation of euryhaline teleost fish to seawater (SW) involves the GH-IGF system. The increasing occurrence, distribution, and concentration of environmental contaminants, including environmental estrogens (EE), in aquatic habit over recent time may compromise the hypoosmoreegulatory ability of fish. In this study, we used rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) to assess the effects of EE on the GH-IGF system and adaptation to increased salinity. Juvenile trout (ca. 30 g) were exposed to either low (10 μg/l) or high (100 μg/l) concentrations of β-sitosterol, 4-n-nonylphenol (NP), or 17β-estradiol (E2) for 28 days in fresh water (FW); after which, fish were exposed to 20‰ SW. Plasma chloride levels in control fish rose initially, and then declined to initial levels after 48 h. By contrast, plasma chloride levels in all EE-treated groups except β-sitosterol low increased and remained elevated over initial levels after 48 h. Levels GH receptor 1 (GHR 1), GHR 2, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and IGF-2mRNAs in liver of control fish increased 6–12 h after SW exposure. In gill, levels of GHR 1, GHR 2, IGF-1, IGF-2, IGF receptor 1A (IGFR1A), and IGFR1B mRNAs increased in control fish 6–12 h after 20‰ SW exposure. Levels of IGFR1A and IGFR1B mRNAs in white muscle and of IGFR1A mRNA in red muscle increased in control fish 6–12 h after 20‰ SW exposure. Expression of all mRNAs in liver, gill, and red and white muscle declined from peak levels in control fish by 48 h after transfer. Exposure of fish to β-sitosterol, NP, and E2 abolished or attenuated normal salinity-induced changes in the expression of GHR, IGF, and IGFR1 mRNAs in all tissues. These results indicate that EE reduces salinity adaptation by inhibiting components of the GH-IGF system.
Direct memory access parsing in the Creanimate biology tutor

Computer tutors that engage in dialog with students require effective parsing technology to understand the intentions of the students. A report is given on an implementation of a direct memory access parser (DMAP) for a computer based biology tutor (Creanimate). The author begins by describing the Creanimate system and giving an overview of direct memory access parser. He then describes the parser developed for Creanimate, DMAP-C, and the extensions and enhancements compared to previous DMAP parsers. Finally, he gives a qualitative evaluation of the effectiveness of the DMAP-C parser. >
Vector Spaces and Linear Programs

Introductory textbooks on linear algebra present a great deal of information about vector spaces. This chapter includes the information that pertains directly to linear programming. It omits the rest. You may find that what remains here is coherent and, as a consequence, particularly accessible.
Sensory, Compositional, and Color Properties of Nutraceutical-Rich Juice Blends

Phytochemical-rich fruits may have health-related properties, which make juices of these fruits prime candidates for the nutraceutical market. Understanding consumer acceptance and compositional, color, and descriptive sensory changes during storage is crucial to the success of nutraceutical-rich juices. Juices (blackberry, blueberry, and Concord grape) were blended according to the ABCD mixture design (three primary juices, three binary blends, and four tertiary blends). Prior to storage, a trained descriptive panel (n = 8) determined that Concord-containing blends were generally sweeter, less bitter, less astringent, and less sour than blackberry- or blueberry-containing blends. When relating compositional, color, and descriptive sensory characteristics, sweetness was inversely correlated to total phenolics (r = -0.88), total anthocyanins (r = -0.75), color density (r = -0.84), and astringency (r = -0.92) and positively correlated with soluble solids (r = 0.92) and polymeric color (r = 0.78). Consumers (n = 108) evaluated overall liking on a 9-point verbal hedonic scale. Average liking scores were high for 100% Concord juice (7.79), moderate for 100% blueberry juice (5.47), and low for 100% blackberry juice (2.95). Consumer acceptance was driven by soluble solids, total anthocyanins, purple color, red color, astringency, sweetness, and grape flavor. Compositional, color, and descriptive sensory changes were tracked during 200 days storage at 2°C and 21°C. Prior to storage, 100% blueberry juice had the highest total anthocyanins (67 mg/100 mL), 100% blackberry juice had the highest total phenolics (249 mg/100 mL), and 100% Concord juice had the highest polymeric color (23%). During storage, polymeric color increased as total anthocyanins decreased at 2°C and 21°C. Blending juices balanced nutraceutical enhancement and maintenance of consumer acceptance.
Psychological Intensities in Young Gifted Children

Emotional sensitivity and emotional intensity are well documented in gifted children. Dabrowski (1967, 1972) proposed that sensitivity and intensity were a part of these children's psychological makeup and instead of being indicators of neurotic imbalances, were positive potentials for further growth. These characteristics were displayed in gifted children through 5 overexcitabilities: psychomotor, sensual, intellectual, imaginational, and emotional. This theory was investigated using a. qualitative case study methodology. Data were collected on 5 young gifted children (ages 4 through 6) and analyzed using Dabrowski's 5 overexcitabilities as a theoretical framework. Results displayed that the 5 overexcitabilities were manifested in the children through behaviors in the classroom and at home. Results support the use of Dabrowski's theory in identifying and understanding some aspects of the behavior of young gifted children.
Role of βAsn-243 in the Phosphate-binding Subdomain of Catalytic Sites of Escherichia coli F1-ATPase

Abstract In the catalytic mechanism of ATP synthase, phosphate (Pi) binding and release steps are believed to be correlated to γ-subunit rotation, and Pi binding is proposed to be prerequisite for binding ADP in the face of high cellular [ATP]/[ADP] ratios. In x-ray structures, residue βAsn-243 appears centrally located in the Pi-binding subdomain of catalytic sites. Here we studied the role of βAsn-243 in Escherichia coli ATP synthase by mutagenesis to Ala and Asp. Mutation βN243A caused 30-fold impairment of F1-ATPase activity; 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole inhibited this activity less potently than in wild type and Pi protected from inhibition. ADP-fluoroaluminate was more inhibitory than in wild-type, but ADP-fluoroscandium was less inhibitory. βN243D F1-ATPase activity was impaired by 1300-fold and was not inhibited by ADP-fluoroaluminate or ADP-fluoroscandium. 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole activated βN243D F1-ATPase, and Pi did not affect activation. We conclude that residue βAsn-243 is not involved in Pi binding directly but is necessary for correct organization of the transition state complex through extensive involvement in hydrogen bonding to neighboring residues. It is also probably involved in orientation of the “attacking water” and of an associated second water.
Topology and burning rates of turbulent, lean, H2/air flames

Abstract Improved understanding of turbulent flames characterized by negative consumption speed-based Markstein lengths is necessary to develop better models for turbulent lean combustion of high hydrogen content fuels. In this paper we investigate the topology and burning rates of turbulent, lean ( ϕ = 0.31), H 2 /air flames obtained from a recently published DNS database (Aspden et al., 2011). We calculate local flame front curvatures, strain rates, thicknesses, and burning velocities and compare these values to reference quantities obtained from stretched laminar flames computed numerically in three model geometrical configurations—a counterflow twin flame, a tubular counterflow flame and an expanding cylindrical flame. We compare and contrast the DNS with these model laminar flame calculations, and show both where they closely correlate with each other, as well as where they do not. These results in the latter case are shown to result from non-flamelet behaviors, unsteady effects, and curvature-strain correlations. These insights are derived from comparisons conditioned on different topological features, such as portions of the flame front with a spherical/cylindrical shape, the leading edge of the flame, and portions of the flame front with low mean curvature. We also show that reference time scales vary appreciably over the flame, and characterizing the relative values of fluid mechanic and kinetic time scales by a single value leads to erroneous conclusions. For example, there is a two order of magnitude decrease in chemical time scales at the leading edge of the front relative to its unstretched value. For this reason, the leading edge of the front quite closely tracks quasi-steady calculations, even in the lowest Damkohler number case, Da F ∼0.005.
Table-Mounted System Hardware Installation

This chapter focuses on installation of a fourth-generation table-mounted eye tracker (cf. the analog-video, or third-generation table-mounted eye tracker discussed in Chap. 6).
Prostaglandins potentiate U-46619-induced pulmonary microvascular dysfunction.

The induction of cyclooxygenase is an important event in the pathophysiology of acute lung injury. The purpose of this study was to examine the synergistic effects of various cyclooxygenase product...
The Tribal Learning Community & Educational Exchange: Examining the Space between the Us-Them Binary

As part of the UCLA university setting, the Tribal Learning Community & Educational Exchange is built into the colonizing narrative and yet aims to address and foster decolonizing narratives. Indeed, as a program it not only exists between that "us-them" barrier but is designed to address that barrier. As the former director, I am aware of its presence between. This article discusses the Tribal Learning Community & Educational Exchange (TLCEE) and how it functions to allow productivity in that space. TLCEE's vision is to make higher education accessible to citizens of Native nations in several ways: on campus, online, and through in-person workshops in the communities.
Dynamically tuned magnetostrictive spring with electrically controlled stiffness

This paper presents the design and testing of an electrically controllable magnetostrictive spring that has a dynamically tunable stiffness (i.e., a magnetostrictive Varispring). The device enables in situ stiffness tuning or stiffness switching for vibration control applications. Using a nonlinear electromechanical transducer model and an analytical solution of linear, mechanically induced magnetic diffusion, Terfenol-D is shown to have a faster rise time to stepped voltage inputs and a significantly higher magnetic diffusion cut-off frequency relative to Galfenol. A Varispring is manufactured using a laminated Terfenol-D rod. Further rise time reductions are achieved by minimizing the rod's diameter and winding the electromagnet with larger wire. Dynamic tuning of the Varispring's stiffness is investigated by measuring the Terfenol-D rod's strain response to dynamic, compressive, axial forces in the presence of sinusoidal or square wave control currents. The Varispring's rise time is ms for 1 A current switches. Continuous modulus changes up to 21.9 GPa and 500 Hz and square wave modulus changes (dynamic effect) up to 12.3 GPa and 100 Hz are observed. Stiffness tunability and tuning bandwidth can be considerably increased by operating about a more optimal bias stress and improving the control of the electrical input.
Detecting weak signals in high dimensions

Fast emerging high-throughput technology advances scientific applications into a new era by enabling detection of information-bearing signals with unprecedented sizes. Despite its potential, the analysis of ultrahigh-dimensional data involves fundamental challenges, wherein the deluge of a large amount of irrelevant data can easily obscure the true signals. Classical statistical methods for low to moderate-dimensional data focus on identifying strong true signals using false positive control criteria. These methods, however, have limited power for identifying weak true signals embedded in an extremely large amount of noise. This paper seeks to facilitate the detection of weak signals by introducing a new approach based on false negative instead of false positive control. As a result, a high proportion of weak signals can be retained for follow-up study. The new procedure is completely data-driven and fast in computation. We show in theory its efficiency and adaptivity to the unknown features of the data including signal intensity and sparsity. Simulation studies further evaluate the method under various model settings. We apply the new method in a real-data analysis on detecting genomic variants with varying signal intensities.
Whole body insulin sensitivity in Osborne-Mendel and S 5B/Pl rats eating a low- or high-fat diet

To determine whether whole body insulin sensitivity differs between a rat strain that does not (S 5B/Pl) and a strain that does [Osborne-Mendel (OM)] become obese when eating a high-fat diet, we performed euglycemic clamp studies in animals from each strain during low- and high-fat feeding. Clamps were performed after 2 days ("initial clamp") and 9 days ("final clamp") on each diet. Plasma glucose and insulin levels during the final 60 min of initial and final clamps were similar in S 5B/Pl and OM rats regardless of diet. Insulin sensitivity, measured as the glucose clearance rate during the final 60 min of the clamp, averaged 35 +/- 3 ml.kg-1.min-1 in S 5B/Pl rats after 2 days on a low-fat diet. This did not change significantly during an additional 7 days on the low-fat diet. The high-fat diet was associated with a 13% reduction in insulin sensitivity after 2 days and a 30% reduction after 9 days in S 5B/Pl rats. OM rats exhibited similar patterns of insulin sensitivity during low- and high-fat diets, albeit at lower insulin sensitivity overall (P < 0.0005 vs. S 5B/Pl). Mean glucose clearance after 2 days on the low-fat diet was 27 +/- 2 mg.kg-1.min-1 and did not change significantly during seven more days of low-fat feeding. The high-fat diet was associated with a 19% reduction in glucose clearance after 2 days and a 38% reduction after 9 days in OM rats. The magnitude of reduction in insulin sensitivity during high-fat diets did not differ significantly between strains.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
9-Allyl-9H-fluoren-9-ol

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C16H14O, contains two independent mol­ecules differing in the orientations of the allyl groups; the corresponding O—C—C(H2)—C(H) torsion angles are −61.01 (13) and −177.43 (10)°. In the crystal, O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds link four mol­ecules into a centrosymmetric tetra­mer, in which each hy­droxy group acts as a donor and an acceptor of hydrogen bonds.
Pet-1 Switches Transcriptional Targets Postnatally to Regulate Maturation of Serotonin Neuron Excitability.

Newborn neurons enter an extended maturation stage, during which they acquire excitability characteristics crucial for development of presynaptic and postsynaptic connectivity. In contrast to earlier specification programs, little is known about the regulatory mechanisms that control neuronal maturation. The Pet-1 ETS (E26 transformation-specific) factor is continuously expressed in serotonin (5-HT) neurons and initially acts in postmitotic precursors to control acquisition of 5-HT transmitter identity. Using a combination of RNA sequencing, electrophysiology, and conditional targeting approaches, we determined gene expression patterns in maturing flow-sorted 5-HT neurons and the temporal requirements for Pet-1 in shaping these patterns for functional maturation of mouse 5-HT neurons. We report a profound disruption of postmitotic expression trajectories in Pet-1−/− neurons, which prevented postnatal maturation of 5-HT neuron passive and active intrinsic membrane properties, G-protein signaling, and synaptic responses to glutamatergic, lysophosphatidic, and adrenergic agonists. Unexpectedly, conditional targeting revealed a postnatal stage-specific switch in Pet-1 targets from 5-HT synthesis genes to transmitter receptor genes required for afferent modulation of 5-HT neuron excitability. 5-HT1a autoreceptor expression depended transiently on Pet-1, thus revealing an early postnatal sensitive period for control of 5-HT excitability genes. Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing revealed that Pet-1 regulates 5-HT neuron maturation through direct gene activation and repression. Moreover, Pet-1 directly regulates the 5-HT neuron maturation factor Engrailed 1, which suggests Pet-1 orchestrates maturation through secondary postmitotic regulatory factors. The early postnatal switch in Pet-1 targets uncovers a distinct neonatal stage-specific function for Pet-1, during which it promotes maturation of 5-HT neuron excitability. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The regulatory mechanisms that control functional maturation of neurons are poorly understood. We show that in addition to inducing brain serotonin (5-HT) synthesis and reuptake, the Pet-1 ETS (E26 transformation-specific) factor subsequently globally coordinates postmitotic expression trajectories of genes necessary for maturation of 5-HT neuron excitability. Further, Pet-1 switches its transcriptional targets as 5-HT neurons mature from 5-HT synthesis genes to G-protein-coupled receptors, which are necessary for afferent synaptic modulation of 5-HT neuron excitability. Our findings uncover gene-specific switching of downstream targets as a previously unrecognized regulatory strategy through which continuously expressed transcription factors control acquisition of neuronal identity at different stages of development.
Abstract B30: Altered response to the prodrug of gemcitabine LY2334737 by overexpression or knockdown of carboxylesterase 2 (CES2)

Gemcitabine (gem) is a nucleoside anticancer agent that inhibits cell cycle in S-phase and is registered clinically for the treatment of a number of solid tumors. A prodrug of gemcitabine, LY2334737, was developed for oral administration for metronomic dosing with the aim of growth inhibition of more tumor cells as they go through the cell cycle. LY is well absorbed and systemically cleaved in humans. The rate of hydrolysis is slow resulting in circulating levels of LY that are 10-fold higher than gemcitabine in plasma. Studies with cell lines and recombinant protein indicate that LY is cleaved to gemcitabine by carboxylesterase 2 (CES2). Because LY circulates in the plasma for an extended period of time, we wondered if expression of CES2 by the tumor could alter its response to the prodrug. The present study was undertaken to determine if the expression of CES2 alters cellular response to LY in vitro and in vivo. The constitutive expression of CES2 in SKOV-3 was knocked down by shRNA. A stable subclone was obtained that had CES2 expression reduced by 80%. Stable HCT-116 transfectants were prepared that overexpressed CES2. Cell lines, transfectants and knock down cells were evaluated for drug sensitivity in a cytotoxicity assay. They were also evaluated for CES2 expression by biochemical cellular assay, Western analysis, and qRT-PCR. A xenograft study was conducted employing transfected HCT-116 cells. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was used to evaluate cell lines and tumors for CES2 expression. LY was less cytotoxic to SKOV-3 cells when CES2 was knocked down while sensitivity to gem was unaltered. Transfection of CES2 into low CES2 endogenously expressing HCT-116 cells enhanced LY drug sensitivity with no change in gemcitabine sensitivity. Stably transfected CES2 and mock HCT-116 transfectants were grown as a xenograft. The transfectants had identical growth rates in vivo and were equally sensitive to gem treatment. IHC staining of the tumors indicated that CES2 expression was maintained throughout the growth period. CES2 expressing tumors demonstrated a statistically significant greater response to LY than mock transfectant tumors. Taken together, these studies indicate that CES2 cleaves the prodrug and tumor expression of CES2 can enhance response to treatment with LY2334737. Citation Information: Clin Cancer Res 2010;16(14 Suppl):B30.
Analysis of NOS isoform changes in a post radical prostatectomy model of erectile dysfunction

Optimal treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) following radical prostatectomy remains a subject of much controversy and is a significant concern for prostate cancer patients requiring surgical intervention. Neural stimulation involving nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is a crucial aspect of the normal erection process. In this study NOS isoform interaction was evaluated to improve our understanding of molecular changes pertaining to erection post radical prostatectomy. Bilateral cavernous nerve (CN) resected and control adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were killed 7, 14 and 21 days after injury. RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis were used to evaluate changes in NOS isoform expression and distribution. NOS-I protein was dramatically decreased after CN injury while NOS-III and NOS-II remained unchanged. A profound decrease in smooth muscle and endothelium was observed in the corpora. To our knowledge this is the first report of differential altered NOS isoform protein abundance under conditions which mimic radical prostatectomy. These results show the importance of maintaining at least partial innervation of the penis after surgical intervention and that endothelial and smooth muscle changes resulting from loss of innervation may account for the ED observed in prostatectomy patients.
Transport of epinephrine and norepinephrine in human plasma.

SummaryPlasma pools collected in ACD solution or through cationic exchange resins were fractionated with the cold ethanol Method 6 of plasma fractionation, and the separated fractions were analyzed for E and NE, chemically and biologically. Although the E is almost completely bound to plasma proteins, an appreciable amount of NE seems to be unbound. The plasma protein responsible for the binding and the transport of both E and NE is in the albumin. A part of E possibly binds also with Fraction IV-4. The increase of E and NE activity following acid hydrolysis suggests the presence of a conjugated form, binding to albumin, which is released by acid hydrolysis.
Resolving gastroesophageal reflux with laparoscopic fundoplication Findings in 138 cases

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of 138 cases of gastroesophageal reflux disease resolved laparoscopically with the Rossetti modification of the Nissen fundoplication and to compare them with findings from other studies in an effort to evaluate the procedure's ability to transfer from an academic setting to a community hospital setting. Methods: We performed laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication on 138 patients and followed them for up to 45 months. Measures included postoperative reflux persistence, complications, operating time, length of hospital stay, and others. These findings were compared, using the Fisher's exact test, chi-square test, and the two-sample t-test, with results from other studies using open and laparoscopic procedures. Results: No patient undergoing laparoscopic fundoplication experienced gastroesophageal reflux after surgery. Complications, not statistically significantly different from those in other studies, occurred in 15 (10.9%), and conversion to an open procedure was required in two (1.5%). The most common postoperative complaint has been dysphagia (21.7%). Operative time averaged 70.6 min, decreasing from an average of 236 min for the first 10 cases to 40.8 min for the last 10. This measure was statistically significantly lower than all other operative times to which it was compared, except one to which it was almost identical (69.9 min). Length of stay (LOS) averaged 2.3 days, ranging from a low of 7 h to a high of 9 days, which made it fall well within limits set by other studies. Overall, LOS fell from a 3.0-day average for the first 20 cases to a 1.9-day average for the last 20 cases. Conclusions: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication resolved gastroesophageal reflux in all 138 patients, and measures for complications, operating time, and LOS were well within values reported by other studies, indicating the ability of this procedure to be successfully transferred from academic medical centers to the community hospital setting.
Fructose-1,6-diphosphate or adenosine attenuate leukocyte adherence in postischemic skeletal muscle

The purpose of this study was to determine whether fructose-1,6-diphosphate (FDP) or adenosine (Ado), administered at the onset of reperfusion, would prevent ischemia/reperfusion (I-R)-induced leukocyte adherence and microvascular dysfunction in skeletal muscle. Changes in vascular permeability and tissue neutrophil content were assessed by measurement of the solvent drag reflection coefficient (delta) for total plasma proteins and muscle myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, respectively, in continuously perfused, isolated canine gracilis muscles and in muscles subjected to I-R alone, I-R + FDP, and I-R + Ado. To determine whether FDP or Ado would attenuate leukocyte-endothelial cell adhesive interactions induced by I-R, leukocyte adherence and emigration were assessed in postischemic mouse cremaster muscles, using intravital microscopy in the presence and absence of FDP or Ado during reperfusion. I-R was associated with a marked increase in microvascular permeability and muscle MPO activity relative to nonischemic controls. These increases were attenuated by FDP and Ado. I-R also increased the number of adherent and emigrated leukocytes relative to control. I-R-induced leukocyte adherence and emigration were significantly attenuated by either FDP or Ado. These results indicate that FDP and Ado attenuate postischemic microvascular barrier dysfunction in skeletal muscle by a mechanism that may be related to their ability to inhibit leukocyte adhesion and emigration.
Consensus Methods, Phylogenetic

Consensus trees are used in evolutionary biology as a way to combine multiple evolutionary trees on the same set of taxa. There are many situations in which combining trees is useful, including summarizing conflicting trees arising from different types of data, inferring the best evolutionary tree, and describing uncertainty in branches of an evolutionary tree. Consensus methods have also been used both for describing a set of gene trees and to combine gene trees to estimate a species tree.
Narrator Point of View and Persuasion in Health Narratives: The Role of Protagonist–Reader Similarity, Identification, and Self-Referencing

Narratives are often used in messages about health threats. We posited that a 1st-person point of view (POV) narrative would have a greater effect than a 3rd-person POV on the mediators identification and self-referencing—an effect moderated by protagonist–reader similarity. Higher levels of identification and self-referencing were expected to elevate susceptibility and severity perceptions, leading to persuasion. Participants ages ≤30 years were recruited from a crowdsource website and randomly assigned to read one version of a faux magazine article about caffeine overdose. Article versions were defined by a 2 (1st- or 3rd-person POV) × 2 (similar or dissimilar protagonist) design. To manipulate similarity, we had respondents read an article in which the protagonist was also young (24 years of age) and of the same sex or much older (54 years of age) and of the opposite sex. Participants then completed a questionnaire measuring study variables. Contrary to expectations, POV did not affect identification o...
Neronianis Temporibus: The So-Called Arae Incendii Neroniani and the Fire of A.D. 64 in Rome's Monumental Landscape.

This essay examines the evidence for the Domitianic ‘Arae Incendii Neroniani’, a presumed set of monumental altars dedicated to Vulcan in fulfilment of a vow dating back to the Neronian Fire of a.d. 64. A close reading of the text of the dedicatory inscription creates a framework for exploring the larger historical and cultural context of these monuments, which offer a significant illustration of Flavian rhetoric concerning Rome's post-Neronian transformation. Reaffirming Julio-Claudian notions of civic identity, collective memory, and the ruler's privileged relationship with the gods, the Arae also constitute a conspicuous form of posthumous reproach to Nero.
Electoral Markets and Party Substitutes in Russia : Origins and Impact

How can we explain the puzzling pattern that Chapter 3 found to exist? On one hand, that chapter's exhaustive study of party strength established that parties were in many ways quite strong in Russia as President Vladimir Putin moved into his second term in office. Collectively, they had cultivated distinctive positions on important issues, developed sizable populations of loyalists, and proven capable of significantly enhancing their candidates' chances in parliamentary elections. These findings appear to contradict widespread suppositions that Russian parties were consistently incapable of providing meaningful support for their candidates or were unable to communicate clear policy positions. On the other hand, we also saw that this party development had largely stalled by the late 1990s after progressing markedly in the middle of that decade; while some growth reemerged with the 2003 election, it was unbalanced, with one party (United Russia) accounting for a disproportionate share while some other key parties appeared to be in decline. Moreover, we found that parties had penetrated some organs of power more fully than others. These latter observations seem contrary to the anticipation of many theorists that the incentives provided by electoral competition would inevitably and smoothly lead to the prevalence of party politics in some form. The logic of electoral markets sketched in Chapter 1 supplies us with some explanatory leverage on this puzzle. If candidates are treated as consumers of goods and services that help them get elected, parties can be seen as suppliers who emerge to meet this candidate demand.
Grapheme to Phoneme Translation Using Conditional Random Fields with Re-Ranking

Grapheme to phoneme (G2P) translation is an important part of many applications including text to speech, automatic speech recognition, and phonetic similarity matching. Although G2P models have been studied thoroughly in the literature, we propose a G2P system which is optimized for producing a high-quality top-k list of candidate pronunciations for an input grapheme string. Our pipeline approach uses Conditional Random Fields (CRF) to predict phonemes from graphemes and a discriminative re-ranker, which incorporates information from previous stages in the pipeline with a graphone language model to construct a high-quality ranked list of results. We evaluate our findings against the widely used CMUDict dataset and demonstrate competitive performance with state-of-the-art G2P methods. Additionally, using entries with multiple valid pronunciations, we show that our re-ranking approach out-performs ranking using only a smoothed graphone language model, a technique employed by many recent publications. Lastly, we released our system as an open-source G2P toolkit available at http://bit.ly/83yysKL.
Tips for roving reference

Les bibliothecaires de reference n'attendent plus a leur bureau le eventuelles questions des utilisateurs, ils vont vers eux. Les AA. decrivent les technique que ces nomades peuvent utiliser (porter un badge, ne pas rester avec la meme personne, controler les connaissances acquises ...). Sont egalement proposees des idees pour que les departements puissent initier ou developper de tels services
Novel Lymphatic Imaging Techniques

The lymphatic system plays an important role in immune regulation, transport of metabolites, and fluid balance. The key circulatory role of the lymphatic system is to transport fluid from tissue back into the venous system via lymphovenous connections. Despite the centuries-old recognition of this key role, there has been poor understanding of lymphatic flow pathophysiology because of a lack of a simple reliable noninvasive clinical lymphatic imaging method. This lack of clinical imaging has limited the treatment options for patients with lymphatic flow disorders. Recent development of noncontrast magnetic resonance (MR) lymphangiogram and dynamic contrast MR lymphangiography make it possible to visualize central lymphatic anatomy and flow dynamics with high spatial and temporal resolution. Dynamic contrast MR lymphangiography has provided insight into understanding the pathophysiology of several pulmonary lymphatic flow disorders and provides guidance for interventional procedures. Another important development has been intranodal lymphangiogram, which has now replaced pedal lymphangiogram as the main lymphatic interventional modality, and which provides quick and reliable access to the central lymphatic ducts for interventional procedures. These new techniques have led to a resurgence in interest in the lymphatic system and the development of new treatments for patients with lymphatic flow disorders.
Parameter adaptation for generalized multiframe tasks: schedulability analysis, case study, and applications to self-suspending tasks

The generalized multiframe task model (GMF) extends the sporadic task model and multiframe task model. Each frame in the GMF model contains an execution time, a relative deadline, and a minimum inter-arrival time. These parameters are fixed after task specification time in the GMF model. However, multimedia and adaptive control systems may be overloaded and no longer stabilized when the task parameters in such systems are not flexible. In order to address this problem, deadlines and periods of frames may change to alleviate temporal overload, e.g., in the parameter adaptation and elastic scheduling model. In this paper, we propose a new model GMF-PA (the GMF model with parameter adaptation). This model allows task parameters to be flexible in arbitrary-deadline systems. A necessary schedulability test based on mixed-integer linear programming is given to check the schedulability under EDF scheduling and optimally assign frame deadlines and periods at the same time. We also prove that the test is a sufficient and necessary schedulability test when frame deadlines and periods must be integers. An approximation algorithm is also deployed to reduce computational running time and indicates a sufficient schedulability test in general. The speed-up factor of our approximation algorithm is $$1+\epsilon $$ where $$\epsilon $$ can be arbitrarily small, with respect to the exact schedulability test of GMF-PA tasks under EDF. We also apply the GMF model to self-suspending tasks. By extending recent work on scheduling self-suspending tasks, we remove the assumption that frame deadlines are equally assigned in self-suspending tasks, and the system is extended from constrained-deadline systems to arbitrary-deadline systems. We have done extensive experiments to show that the schedulability ratio is improved using our techniques in our GMF-PA model.
Clinical Outcomes of Comparing Soft Tissue Alternatives to Free Gingival Graft: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis .

Abstract Objectives This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare clinical outcomes and width of keratinized tissue (KT) around teeth, following the soft tissue alter- natives and free gingival graft (FGG) procedures. The specific graft materials that were explored were extracellular matrix membrane, bilayer collagen membrane, living cellular construct, and acellular dermal matrix. Methods Four different databases were queried to identify human controlled clinical trials and randomized controlled clinical trials that fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Relevant studies were identified by 3 independent reviewers, compiling the results of the electronic and handsearches. Studies identified through electronic and handsearches were reviewed by title, abstract, and full text using Covidence Software. Primary outcome in the present study was change in the width of KT. Results of the included studies were pooled to estimate the effect size, expressed as weighted mean differences and 95% confidence interval. A random-effects model was used to perform the meta-analyses. Results Six hundred thirty-eight articles were screened by title, 55 articles were screened by abstracts, and 34 full-text articles were reviewed. Data on quantitative changes in width of KT were provided in 7 studies. Quantitative analyses revealed a significant difference in changes in width of KT between patients treated with soft tissue alternatives and patients treated with FGGs (P Conclusions Based on the clinical outcomes, the results of this systematic review and meta-analysis showed that soft tissue alternatives result in an increased width of KT. Patients in the soft tissue alternatives group obtained 1.39 mm less KT compared with those in the FGGs group.
Epidemiology of contact lens‐induced infiltrates: an updated review

Corneal infiltrative events (CIEs) are well established as a risk associated with soft contact lens wear. The incidence of symptomatic CIEs during extended soft lens wear ranges from 2.5 to six per cent; when asymptomatic CIEs are included, the incidence can be as high as 20-25 per cent. In daily soft lens wear, the annual incidence of symptomatic CIEs is about three per cent. There are various accepted methods of categorising CIEs, and a scoring system based on clinical signs and symptoms is a good approach to grade severity. Lens-related risk factors include extended wear, silicone hydrogel material, the use of multipurpose solutions, bacterial bioburden and reusable lenses. Recent studies report that daily disposable lenses reduce the risk of CIEs.
Understanding collaborative care implementation in the Department of Veterans Affairs: core functions and implementation challenges

The collaborative care model is an evidence-based practice for treatment of depression in which designated care managers provide clinical services, often by telephone. However, the collaborative care model is infrequently adopted in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Almost all VA medical centers have adopted a co-located or embedded approach to integrating mental health care for primary care patients. Some VA medical centers have also adopted a telephone-based collaborative care model where depression care managers support patient education, patient activation, and monitoring of adherence and progress over time. This study evaluated two research questions: (1) What does a dedicated care manager offer in addition to an embedded-only model? (2) What are the barriers to implementing a dedicated depression care manager? This study involved 15 qualitative, multi-disciplinary, key informant interviews at two VA medical centers where reimbursement options were the same— both with embedded mental health staff, but one with a depression care manager. Participant interviews were recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to identify descriptive and analytical themes. Findings suggested that some of the core functions of depression care management are provided as part of embedded-only mental health care. However, formal structural attention to care management may improve the reliability of care management functions, in particular monitoring of progress over time. Barriers to optimal implementation were identified at both sites. Themes from the care management site included finding assertive care managers to hire, cross-discipline integration and collaboration, and primary care provider burden. Themes from interviews at the embedded site included difficulty getting care management on leaders’ agendas amidst competing priorities and logistics (staffing and space). Providers and administrators see depression care management as a valuable healthcare service that improves patient care. Barriers to implementation may be addressed by team-building interventions to improve cross-discipline integration and communication. Findings from this study are limited in scope to the VA healthcare system. Future investigation of whether alternative barriers exist in implementation of depression care management programs in non-VA hospital systems, where reimbursement rates may be a more prominent concern, would be valuable.
Assessing the Design Solution

Classroom practitioners are often asked to adopt continually changing standards, to be collaborators and reflective practitioners, and to make new and evolving technologies an integral part of their practice. Understanding Problems of Practice: A Case Study in Design Research describes a process for thinking about and reflecting on innovative practice – the design research process. Each of the five phases of the design research process is exemplified by a discussion of how the authors used this process to create a technology education course for perspective secondary educators. In this chapter, the authors explore the need to assess design solution decisions and to investigate how learners respond to design decisions, if design decisions meet learner needs, and to establish the viability of the design solution. They explore recommendations in the design research literature that focus on the importance of iterative design cycles and associated strategies for completing iterative cycles. They acknowledge the role of iterative cycles but point out that time urgencies for instruction associated with classroom practice limit the classroom practitioners’ ability to conduct iterative design cycles. Recognizing the importance of assessing design solutions despite classroom practitioners’ limited ability to conduct iterative design cycles, the authors present the third phase of the design research process in which as classroom practitioners they used qualitative research methods to assess their design decisions as they simultaneously taught the online technology education course for perspective secondary educators for the first time.