cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Antibiotics for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus skin and soft tissue infections: the challenge of outpatient therapy.

Abstract Purpose Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are becoming increasingly prevalent in both community and hospital settings. Certain strains are notorious for causing skin and soft tissue infections in patients with no established risk factors. In this article, we report our findings on the dynamic antibiotic resistance pattern of MRSA and outpatient prescription trend for skin and soft tissue infections within our community. Methods We conducted a retrospective medical record review of 1876 patients evaluated in the emergency department of an urban community hospital from 2003 to 2012. Data regarding culture isolates and associated antimicrobial resistance, antibiotic treatment, site of specimen collection, age, race, and sex were collected and analyzed. Results Analysis of 1879 culture specimens yielded 2193 isolates. In some cases, a single specimen yielded polymicrobial growth. Staphylococcus aureus represented 996 isolates (45.4%); 463 were methicillin-susceptible (21.1%) and 533 (24.3%) were methicillin-resistant. Most patients were prescribed a single- or poly-drug regimen of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, cephalexin, and clindamycin. Antimicrobial resistance analysis indicated that MRSA became increasingly resistant to the aforementioned antibiotics over time: 10% and 6% in 2012 vs 3.5% and 3.4% in 2007 for clindamycin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, respectively. Conclusion Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a particularly virulent, rapidly adaptive pathogen that is becoming increasingly difficult to combat with existing antibiotics. Care must be taken to ensure appropriate treatment and follow-up of patients with known MRSA infections.
Reporting presence or absence of named objects by a language-trained dolphin

Abstract Referential “reporting” was defined as the transmission of information about the presence or absence of symbolically-referenced real-world objects. In Experiment 1 two bottlenosed dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), trained in earlier studies to carry out instructions conveyed by imperative sentences expressed in artificial gestural or acoustic languages, each gave spontaneous indications that an object referenced in an imperative was absent from their tank. In Experiment 2 the dolphin tutored in the gestural language was taught to make explicit reports of object absence by pressing a “No” paddle in response to imperatives referencing an absent object. Absence was reported correctly on 84% of 97 missing-object probes inserted at random intervals among 598 sentences referring to objects that were present. Reports were typically made after active search of the tank for an average of 15.0 sec. False reports, that objects present were absent, were few (7.5%). In Experiment 3, the dolphin was taught an interrogative sentence form that enabled us to ask direct questions about the presence or absence of specific objects. Responses by the dolphin on the No paddle indicated absence, while responses on a “Yes” paddle indicated presence. From one to three objects were shown the dolphin and then placed in the tank in a discrete-trial procedure. In response to the interrogative, reports of object presence or absence were better than 91% correct with a single object in the tank and either that object or some other object referenced; accuracy declined to 72–78% correct with three objects present, but was still well above chance. Several lines of evidence suggested that the dolphin was attempting to remember which objects it had been shown, rather than conducting an active environmental search as in Experiment 2. The memory strategy became less efficient as the number of objects to be remembered increased. Overall, the results evidenced the language-trained dolphin's understanding of references to present or absent objects, its ability to inventory its environment to seek information about those objects, and its ability to report its obtained knowledge to others.
Deletion of corticotropin-releasing factor binding protein selectively impairs maternal, but not intermale aggression

Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) binding protein (CRF-BP) is a secreted protein that acts to bind and limit the activity of the neuropeptides, CRF and urocortin (Ucn) 1. We previously selected for high maternal defense (protection of offspring) in mice and found CRF-BP to be elevated in the CNS of selected mice. We also previously determined that both CRF and Ucn 1 are potent inhibitors of offspring protection when administered centrally. Thus, elevated CRF-BP could promote defense by limiting endogenous actions of CRF or Ucn 1. To test this hypothesis, we crossed the deletion for CRF-BP into the mice selected for high maternal defense and evaluated offspring protection and other maternal behaviors. CRF-BP knockout (KO) mice exhibited significant deficits in maternal aggression relative to wild-type (WT) mice in three different measures. Other maternal features were almost identical between groups, including dam and pup weight, litter size, nursing time, and pup retrieval. Both groups performed similarly in a forced swim stress test and aggression in both groups was reduced following the swim test. Virgin KO female mice exhibited higher levels of anxiety-like behavior in terms of decreased time in the light portion of the light/dark box test. For males, no differences in light/dark box or swim test were found. However, increased anxiety-like behavior in male KO mice was identified in terms of contact and approach to a novel object both with and without previous exposure to the swim test. No differences in isolation induced resident intruder male aggression were found between groups. Together, these results indicate that loss of CRF-BP selectively impairs maternal, but not intermale aggression and that loss of the gene induces anxiety-like behavior in males and females, but there are sex differences in terms of how that anxiety is revealed.
How do general surgery replacement residents match up with those recruited through the National Resident Matching Program

Abstract Background Although the scope and patterns of attrition of general surgery residents have been reported, no study has examined the residents who replaced them. The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of replacement residents (RRs). Methods A questionnaire asked program directors (PDs) about the prevalence, characteristics, and disposition of RRs in general surgery residency programs from 2001 to 2002. Results PDs from 169 programs (67%) responded, and 109 (64%) of these programs had RRs. Of 244 RRs (7%), 18 (7%) were postgraduate year (PGY)-1 residents; 64 (26%) were PGY-2 residents; 77 (32%) were PGY-3 residents; 52 (21%) were PGY-4 residents; and 33 (14%) were PGY-5 residents. RRs averaged 1.9 years in their programs. One hundred seventy-five (72%) came from outside the current institution, and 142 had (58%) graduated from U.S. medical schools. PDs judged RRs to be superior (20%), comparable (55%), or inferior (25%) to their peers. Neither internal recruitment nor United States medical school graduation predicted performance. Disposition included promotion and graduation (88%), leaving the program voluntarily (5%), repeating the year (4%), and dismissal (3%). Successful RR performance occurred in 71% of RRs. Conclusions Typically, RRs were U.S. medical school graduates, were recruited from outside the institution, and have performed satisfactorily.
The DORF effect: Magnetization ripple in particulate media

In 1966, Pearce [1] introduced without analysis the DORF Effect (DisOrientation by Reverse Field) in liquid dispersions of acicular magnetic particles. Bate and Dunn [2] modified orientation magnets to circumvent the effect and produce recording tapes with improved orientation. This paper describes studies of the DORF Effect and analyzes the behavior of particle groups in liquid media when a reverse field is applied. Magnetization reversal occurs by particle group rotation through a symmetric fanning mechanism which shares features with the magnetization ripple phenomenon [3,4] in continuous metal films. The critical field for particle disorientation follows a dipole-dipole interaction relation like that discussed by Jacobs and Bean [5]. For gamma ferric oxide, critical fields are distributed over the range from 20 to 100 Oe. Rotating sample magnetometer data show the DORF Effect is a destruction of uniaxial anisotropy without creation of biaxial or other anisotropies. Hysteresis work in liquid samples is almost totally due to friction between moving particles.
The Neurologically Impaired and Dying Child: Applying the Neuman Systems Model

(1989). The Neurologically Impaired and Dying Child: Applying the Neuman Systems Model. Issues in Comprehensive Pediatric Nursing: Vol. 12, No. 2-3, pp. 139-157.
Under-reporting and Poor Adherence to Monitoring Guidelines for Severe Cases of Isoniazid Hepatotoxicity.

Background & Aims Isoniazid is a leading cause of liver injury but it is not clear how many cases are reported or how many clinicians and patients adhere to American Thoracic Society (ATS) guidelines. We collected data on cases of isoniazid hepatotoxicity and assessed adherence to ATS guidelines and reports to the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) isoniazid severe adverse events program. Methods We analyzed Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN) cases considered definite, highly likely, or probable for isoniazid injury from 2004 through 2013. We assessed the delays in isoniazid discontinuance according to ATS criteria and hepatotoxicity severity by Severity Index Score. We checked reporting to the CDC by matching cases based on age, latency, indication, reporting period, and comorbidities. Results Isoniazid was the second most commonly reported agent in the DILIN, with 69 cases; 60 of these met inclusion criteria. The median age of cases was 49 years (range, 4–68 y), 70% were female, 97% had latent tuberculosis, and 62% were hospitalized. Patients took a median of 9 days to stop taking isoniazid (range, 0−99 days). Thirty-three cases (55%) continued taking isoniazid for more than 7 days after the ATS criteria for stopping were met. Twenty-four cases (40%) continued isoniazid for more than 14 days after meeting criteria for stopping. A delay in stopping was associated with more severe injury ( P Conclusions Poor adherence to ATS guidelines is common in cases of hepatotoxicity and is associated with more severe outcomes including hospitalization, death, and liver transplantation. Isoniazid continues to be a leading cause of DILI in the United States, and its hepatotoxicity is under-reported significantly.
Influenza virus M2 integral membrane protein is a homotetramer stabilized by formation of disulfide bonds.

Abstract The oligomeric structure of the influenza A virus M2 integral membrane protein was determined. On SDS-polyacrylamide gels under nonreducing conditions, the influenza A/Udorn/72 virus M2 forms disulfide-linked dimers (30 kDa) and tetramers (60 kDa). Sucrose gradient analysis and chemical cross-linking analysis indicated that the oligomeric form of M2 is a tetramer consisting of either a pair of disulfide-linked dimers or disulfide-linked tetramers. In addition, a small amount of a cross-linked species of 150–180,000 kDa, which the available data suggest contains only M2 polypeptides, was observed. The role of M2 cysteine residues in disulfide bond formation and their role in forming oligomers were examined by converting each of the two extracellular and single cytoplasmic cysteine residues to serine residues and expressing the altered M2 proteins in eukaryotic cells. Removal of either one of the N-terminal cysteines at residues 17 or 19 indicated that tetramers formed that consisted of a pair of noncovalently associated disulfide-linked dimers, suggesting that each of the cysteine residues is equally competent for forming disulfide bonds. When both cysteine residues were removed from the M2 N-terminal domain, no disulfide-linked forms were observed. When solubilized in detergent this double-cysteine mutant lost reactivity with a M2 specific mAb and exhibited an altered sedimentation pattern on sucrose gradients. However, chemical cross-linking of this double-cysteine mutant in membranes indicated that it can form tetramers. Taken together, these data suggest that disulfide bond formation, although not essential for oligomeric assembly, stabilizes the M2 tetramer from disruption by detergent solubilization.
Spectrum and Polarization of the Cygnus X-3 Outburst

THE large outburst of Cygnus X-3 was observed at 3 h 58 min UT on September 3, 1972, with the 300-foot antenna of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory at a frequency of 2.7 GHz (λ 11 cm). The flux density and linear polarization were measured as Cygnus X-3 successively transited through three antenna beams aligned in an east-west plane. The Stokes parameters Q and U were obtained by switching between orthogonal linear modes in each of two of the feeds. The third beam was switched against a load and yielded I-U/2. The measurement was calibrated using a similar observation of the unpolarized thermal source DR 21 which is located only 1.8° north-east of Cygnus X-3.
The minimum sum squared error (MSSE) beamformer design technique: initial results

The design of transmit and receive aperture weightings is a critical step in the development of ultrasound imaging systems. Current design methods are generally iterative, and consequently time-consuming and inexact. We have previously described a general ultrasound beamformer design method, the minimum sum squared error (MSSE) technique, that addresses these issues. We provide a brief review of the design method, and present results of simulations that investigate the performance of the technique. We also provide an example of application by applying the technique to improve the depth of field in CW and broadband ultrasound systems.
Microelectromechanical etalon modulator designs with wide angular tolerance for free-space optical links

Optical retrocommunication links have been demonstrated using microelectromechanical system (MEMS) etalon modulators. Here, designs for high data rate membrane MEMS modulators are shown with angular coverage up to 170/spl deg/.
A protracted age of oil: pipelines, refineries and quiet conflict

This article examines the relevance of environmental justice (EJ) and climate change debates as points of articulation and mobilisation among community groups responding to a proposed refinery. It then compares media coverage of the refinery project, a bi-national pipeline and other energy and climate-related news events. The analytical frame joins the EJ paradigm with citizen mobilisation on issues of climate change and energy projects that emit greenhouse gases and that discourage development of renewable sources. Data were collected and analysed from websites, public message boards and media documents. Findings indicate that a community-based anti-refinery campaign combined local EJ struggles with climate activism, while challenging fossil fuel dependencies and calling for renewable regional energy. A climate justice community formed – yet their voices were in their blogs and websites, not in local or national media.
The Function of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors in Thalamus and Cortex

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are found throughout thalamus and cortex and are clearly important to circuit behavior in both structures, and so considering only participation of ionotropic glutamate receptors (e.g., [R,S]-α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid [AMPA] and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors [NMDA] receptors) in glutamatergic processing would be an unfortunate oversimplification. These mGluRs are found both postsynaptically, on target cells of glutamatergic afferents, and presynaptically, on various synaptic terminals themselves, and when activated, they produce prolonged effects lasting at least hundreds of msec to several sec and perhaps longer. Two main types exist: activation of group I mGluRs causes postsynaptic depolarization, and group II, hyperpolarization. Both types are implicated in synaptic plasticity, both short term and long term. Their evident importance in functioning of thalamus and cortex makes it critical to develop a better understanding of how these receptors are normally activated, especially because they also seem implicated in a wide range of neurological and cognitive pathologies.
PL-35: Treatment of vitamin D depletion following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery: A randimized prospective clinical trial

collected database. Between November 2004 and January 2007, 130 patients underwent LSG as a final approach for MO. Data included patient demographics, complications, and weight loss at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after the procedure. All the surgeries were completed laparoscopically. Results: The mean age was 45.6 (range: 12-79) years while the mean body mass index (BMI) was 43.2 (range: 30.2-75.4) kg/m2. Postoperatively, one patient (0.7%) had a leak, four (2.8%) developed a trocar site infection, three (2.1%) complained of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, three (2.1 %) developed symptomatic gallstones and one (0.7%) presented with a trocar site hernia. The mean weight loss was 31.2, 37.4, 9.5 and 41.7 Kg at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months, respectively, while the mean BMI decreased to 32.8, 29.5, 28 and 27.1 kg/m2 at 6, 12 18 and 24 months, respectively. %EWL was 50.8, 62.2, 64.4 and 67.9 at the same evaluation times, respectively; no mortality was registered. Conclusion: LSG is a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity with a low incidence of long-term complications and acceptable excess body weight loss at 2 years postoperatively.
Screening and surveillance colonoscopy in chronic Crohn's colitis.

Abstract Background & Aims: Unlike ulcerative colitis, there are few reports on the efficacy of surveillance colonoscopy in patients with chronic Crohn's colitis and therefore little agreement as to whether routine surveillance is indicated. We report on 259 patients with chronic Crohn's colitis who underwent screening and subsequent surveillance colonoscopy and biopsy since 1980. Methods: Biopsies were performed at 10-cm intervals and from strictures and polypoid masses. Pathology was classified as normal, dysplasia (indefinite, low-grade, high-grade), or carcinoma. Results: A total of 663 examinations were performed on 259 patients. The median interval between examinations was 24 months; examinations were performed more frequently (1–6 months) in patients with dysplasia on biopsy. A thinner-caliber colonoscope was required to complete 12% of screening examinations and 23% of surveillance examinations. The pediatric colonoscope helped increase our yield of neoplasia by 19%. The screening and surveillance program detected dysplasia or cancer in 16% (10 indefinite, 23 low-grade, and 4 high-grade dysplasias and 5 cancers). A finding of definite dysplasia or cancer was associated with age >45 years and increased symptoms. By life table analysis, the probability of detecting dysplasia or cancer after a negative screening colonoscopy was 22% by the fourth surveillance examination. Conclusions: Colonoscopic surveillance should be strongly considered in chronic extensive Crohn's colitis. GASTROENTEROLOGY 2001;120:820-826
In vitro lymphocyte stimulation by wart antigen in man.

SUMMARY The lymphocyte transformation test was used to study cell-mediated immunity to wart antigen in patients with active wart infections, in patients with past history of warts and in control subjects. A common pattern was established with wart antigen; a control baseline, followed by a rise of 14C thymidine uptake in the ‘active’ group and a further elevation in the ‘past history’ group. Five patients with active warts were followed up and re-examined at various intervals after successful wart resolution; all except one responded to wart antigen by increased DNA synthetic activity after the wart resolution. This increased response was specific for wart antigen and could still be detected 6 months after wart resolution.
High-density compliant die-package interconnects

Reduction in inter-level dielectric (ILD) constant has been accompanied by a reduction in ILD adhesive and cohesive strength thus increasing potential for under bump (flip-chip) ILD cracking during packaging and reliability testing. Two primary mechanisms were determined to cause this failure: (1) stress on the ILD created due to the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch between the silicon and the package substrate; and (2) the die-to-package interconnection, i.e. the bump, transmits the CTE-induced mismatch stresses directly to the ILD (Chandran et al., 2004). Compliant die-package interconnects (Zhu et al., 2004) substituted for conventional C4 flip-chip interconnections promises to offer reduction in package induced stresses onto the silicon die consisting of low-k ILD layers. The reduction of stresses achieved with these compliant interconnects is by decoupling the die and the package substrate such that either entity is able to deform without constraining the other. Extensive thermomechanical simulation using various modeling approaches predicts an ILD stress reduction offered by compliant interconnects to be between 17-57% relative to conventional C4 flip-chip bump. A prototype compliant interconnect structure was fabricated on a low-k ILD silicon test-chip with 180/spl mu/m C4 pitch and packaged onto an organic substrate with Pb-free solder. Assembly end-of-line (EOL) data was collected to assess the ILD stress reduction, warpage analysis, I/sub max/ and electromigration performance of the compliant interconnects. The focus of this paper is a comparison of the performance of compliant die-package interconnects as a substitute for conventional C4 flip-chip bump technologies in low-k ILD architectures.
A dietary dairy/yeast prebiotic and flaxseed oil enhance growth, hematological and immunological parameters in channel catfish at a suboptimal temperature (15°C)

Channel catfish raised in the southern United States require two growing seasons to reach market size. Growing seasons are separated by a cool period of about 3 months when feed intake and growth are greatly reduced. A cool-weather feeding strategy to improve feed intake, growth or health of catfish might improve survival and reduce the time needed to achieve market size. We conducted a feeding trial with channel catfish at a suboptimal temperature (15°C) to determine the effects of supplementing diets with either a dairy/yeast prebiotic or flaxseed oil (high in 18:3n-3) compared with a control with soybean oil (high in 18:2n-6). The trial was conducted in recirculating systems with 1140-l tanks containing 100 fish each (mean initial weight 61.4 g±0.43 s.e.m.). A 28%-protein basal diet was supplemented with 20 g/kg cellulose and 20 g/kg soybean oil (SBO, control), 20 g/kg cellulose and 20 g/kg flaxseed oil (FLAX) or 20 g/kg of a dairy/yeast prebiotic and 20 g/kg soybean oil (PREB). Fish were fed once daily to satiation and weighed every 3 weeks to track growth. Hematology, non-specific immune responses, proximate and fatty acid composition of muscle were determined to assess diet effects. Catfish-fed FLAX or PREB had higher weight gain, feed consumption and lysozyme activity than fish fed SBO. Total n-3 fatty acids in muscle were higher in fish fed SBO or FLAX than those fed PREB. Total n-6 long-chain polyunsaturated acids were higher in muscle of fish fed PREB than those fed SBO. Fatty acids in the PREB and SBO diets were similar, so the PREB appeared to increase elongation and desaturation of n-6 fatty acids in muscle. Flaxseed oil and the dairy/yeast prebiotic both have potential to increase catfish performance at a low temperature.
Pigpen and endothelial cell differentiation.

Endothelial cells can toggle back and forth between differentiated and relatively undifferentiated states with comparative ease. This is an important characteristic, particularly in adult tissues where the constitutive endothelial cell phenotype is quiescent. It enables rapid repair of wounds, renewal of the vascular intima in parts of the circulatory system with high flow and turbulence, and is essential to the cyclic function of reproductive organs. However, the ability to dedifferentiate can be a severe disadvantage when it is subverted to the support of disease processes such as tumor growth and metastasis. The control of endothelial cell differentiation state is, therefore, a matter of significance to investigators of basic developmental mechanism, as well as those studying an array of neovascular disorders. Recently, studies have advanced beyond the identification of extracellular triggers and overt cellular responses to the analysis of signal transduction pathways and nuclear events. This review focuses on the nuclear protein pigpen that is found in the right place at the right time, and with the necessary equipment, to modulate endothelial cell differentiation. We project that when we better understand the relationship of pigpen to its upstream regulators and downstream effectors, we will also have a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying capillary morphogenesis.
The Interplay Between Fiber and the Intestinal Microbiome in the Inflammatory Response

Fiber intake is critical for optimal health. This review covers the anti-inflammatory roles of fibers using results from human epidemiological observations, clinical trials, and animal studies. Fiber has body weight–related anti-inflammatory activity. With its lower energy density, a diet high in fiber has been linked to lower body weight, alleviating obesity-induced chronic inflammation evidenced by reduced amounts of inflammatory markers in human and animal studies. Body weight–unrelated anti-inflammatory activity of fiber has also been extensively studied in animal models in which the type and amount of fiber intake can be closely monitored. Fermentable fructose-, glucose-, and galactose-based fibers as well as mixed fibers have shown systemic and local intestinal anti-inflammatory activities when plasma inflammatory markers and tissue inflammation were examined. Similar anti-inflammatory activities have also been demonstrated in some human studies that controlled total fiber intake. The anti-inflammatory activities of synbiotics (probiotics plus fiber) were reviewed as well, but there was no convincing evidence indicating higher efficacy of synbiotics compared with that of fiber alone. Adverse effects have not been observed with the amount of fiber intake or supplementation used in studies, although patients with Crohn’s disease may be more sensitive to inulin intake. Several possible mechanisms that may mediate the body weight–unrelated anti-inflammatory activity of fibers are discussed based on the in vitro and in vivo evidence. Fermentable fibers are known to affect the intestinal microbiome. The immunomodulatory role of the intestinal microbiome and/or microbial metabolites could contribute to the systemic and local anti-inflammatory activities of fibers.
ANG II type 2 receptor regulates smooth muscle growth and force generation in late fetal mouse development.

Although evidence from culture studies implicates the angiotensin II (ANG II) type 2 receptor (AT2R) in the regulation of growth and differentiation of arterial smooth muscle (SM) cells (SMC), the ...
Prospective studies of muscle capillary basement membrane width in prediabetics.

In 1968, this laboratory reported that muscle capillary basement membrane thickening was present in approximately 50% of nondiabetic individuals who had a strong genetic predisposition for developing diabetes mellitus. In the present manuscript we report the 20-yr follow-up observations in this group of prediabetics. We were able to obtain information regarding the presence or absence of diabetes in 17 of 33 subjects (51.5%). In these 17 individuals, 8 (47%) developed diabetes over the ensuing 20+ yr of observation. Initial (1964) glucose tolerance tests in the subjects that developed diabetes were not significantly different from those that did not develop diabetes. One-and 2-h glucose values on follow-up (4–8 yr later) glucose tolerance tests were significantly higher in the group that developed diabetes. On initial biopsy, muscle capillary basement membrane width was similar in the 2 groups; in the follow-up specimens the mean muscle capillary basement membrane width tended to be greater in the group t...
Ecosystem Externalities in Fisheries

ABSTRACT The economics literature on fisheries has focused primarily on stock externalities and, to a lesser degree, on crowding externalities. Yet for many fisheries, harvesting activities may affect the underlying biological productivity of the fish stock by impacting the forage or habitat quantity or quality. We refer to this as an “ecosystem externality.” Ecosystem externalities may be positive as well as negative. While fishing may damage habitat in ways that reduce productivity, in some cases it may increase food availability and thereby increase productivity of the target species of a fishery. Extending the model of Smith (1968), we use three equations to characterize dynamics of a resource stock, profit-maximizing individual behavior, and vessel entry/exit. We use this simple model to show how ecosystem externalities, in conjunction with stock externalities and crowding externalities, affect system dynamics, open-access equilibria, and optimal fishery regulation implemented through a tax. JEL Code...
Inhibition of norepinephrine re-uptake by angiotensin in brain.

—A method for perfusion of rat brain ventricles accompanied by electrical stimulation of right vagus nerve was used in the study of the re-uptake mechanism of norepinephrine in rat brain. Tritiated norepinephrine was injected into the left lateral brain ventricle. After a 1-hr equilibration period, the brain was perfused, and effluent was collected and assayed for norepinephrine, normetanephrine and acid metabolites by means of column chromatography and liquid scintillation counting. Electrical stimulation of central end of right vagus nerve produced a significant release of norepinephrine and decrease of acid metabolites; this indicates a shift of catecholamines to extracellular sites. Angiotensin (200 ng/min) added to the perfusion fluid potentiated the effect of nerve stimulation. Cocaine, desmethylimipramine and phenoxybenzamine greatly reduced the release of norepinephrine from brain tissue. None on these drugs potentiated the effect of angiotensin. It is concluded that angiotensin prevents re-uptake of norepinephrine released by nerve stimulation. As a naturally occurring, physiologically active peptide, angiotensin seems to be highly specific in modulation of adrenergie neurotransmission, allowing increased extraneuronal accumulation of neurotransmitter.
Current status of bevacizumab for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancerrelated death worldwide, with at least 550,000 deaths each year, predominantly in Southeast Asia (1). The incidence of HCC has tripled in the last three decades in the United States, and is on the rise worldwide (2)
Analysis of the Persistence of Humoral and Cellular Immunity in Children and Adults Immunized with Varicella Vaccine

The persistence of humoral and cellular immunity to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) was evaluated in 60 children and 18 adults immunized with live attenuated VZV vaccine. At a mean of 5 years after vaccination, 93% of children and 94% of adults had IgG antibodies to VZV as determined by ELISA. VZV antibody concentrations were significantly higher at 5 years than at 1 year after immunization in children and adults. Cell-mediated immunity to VZV was detected in 87% of children and 94% of adults at 5 years. The mean stimulation index was significantly higher at 5 years than at 1 year among children and adults. Cytokine responses to VZV, including interleukin-2, interferon-gamma, and interleukin-10 were equivalent between children and adults at 5 years. In summary, varicella immunization induced long-term humoral and cellular immunity, and initial differences between cell-mediated responses in children and adults diminished over time.
Predicting response of fuel load to future changes in climate and atmospheric composition in the Southern United States.

Abstract The model projected ecosystem carbon dynamics were incorporated into the default (contemporary) fuel load map developed by FCCS (Fuel Characteristic Classification System) to estimate the dynamics of fuel load in the Southern United States in response to projected changes in climate and atmosphere (CO2 and nitrogen deposition) from 2002 to 2050. The study results indicated that in 2002 the total fuel load of the Southern United States was about 1.15 P g (1 P = 1015), which will decrease to 1.11 P g in 2050. The declination of fuel load is mainly due to the climate change, especially the reduced precipitation in 2050, while the effects of elevated CO2 and nitrogen deposition will increase fuel load. Interactions among all factors will result in 1% reduction in the fuel load in 2050. In response to the spatial heterogeneity in environmental changes, the dynamics of fuel load from 2002 to 2050 vary strongly among the study states. The declined precipitation in the northern inland of the study region may lead to 20% fuel load reduction in Tennessee and Kentucky by the year of 2050, while the elevated precipitation and decreased daily mean temperature in the coastal states, especially in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia, may result in fuel load accumulation. The temporal–spatial variation of the fuel load may be overestimated since the adjustments of forest management regime in response to climate change were not considered in current study.
Investigating Information Search by People with Cognitive Disabilities

The ability to gather information online has become increasingly important in the past decades. Previous research suggests that people with cognitive disabilities experience challenges when finding information on websites. Although a number of studies examined the impact of various design guidelines on information search by people with cognitive disabilities, our knowledge in this topic remains limited. To date, no study has been conducted to examine how people with cognitive disabilities navigate in different content structures. We completed an empirical study to investigate the impact of different search methods and content structures on the search behavior of people with cognitive disabilities. 23 participants with various cognitive disabilities completed 15 information search tasks under three conditions: browsing a website with a deep structure (4 × 4 × 4 × 4), browsing a website with a broad structure (16 × 16), and searching through a search engine. The results suggest that the participants overwhelmingly preferred the search engine method to the two browsing conditions. The broad structure resulted in significantly higher failure rates than the search engine condition and the deep structure condition. The causes of failed search tasks were analyzed in detail. Participants frequently visited incorrect categories in both the deep structure and the broad structure conditions. However, it was more difficult to recover from incorrect categories on the lower-level pages in the broad structure than in the deep structure. Under the search engine condition, failed tasks were mainly caused by difficulty in selecting the correct link from the returned list, misspellings, and difficulty in generating appropriate search keywords.
Optimal Switching Problem for Markov Chains

We consider the following multi-step version of the optimal stopping problem. There is a Markov chain {x t} with a Borel state space X, and there are two functions f < g defined on X; one may interpret f (x t ) and g (x t ) as the selling price and the purchase price of an asset at the epoch t. A controller selects a sequence of stopping times τ1 ≤ τ2 ≤… and can be either in a position to sell or in a position to buy the asset. By selecting τ = τ k , the controller, depending on the current position, either gets a reward f (x τ ) or pays a cost g (x τ ), and becomes switched to the opposite position. The control process terminates at an absorbing boundary, and the problem is to maximize the expected total rewards minus costs.
Hydrological Modeling and Prehistoric Settlement on Santa Rosa Island, California, USA

Fresh water availability was an important variable that influenced prehistoric human settlement on California's northern Channel Islands. Previous attempts to understand settlement on the islands use watershed size as a proxy for water at canyon mouths. In semi-arid regions, this approach has limitations because streams may lose much or all of their flow to groundwater. We developed a distributed hydrological model for Santa Rosa Island that incorporates geospatial and temporal data for climate (precipitation, solar radiation, wind speed, relative humidity, temperature), soils, vegetation, and topography to simulate the complex land-surface-groundwater behavior of island hydrology for hypothetical wet, dry, and median centuries. Our simulations show that water flow is greatest in drainages on the northwest and east coasts of the island. This correlates with some of the earliest and most persistent settlement on the island. During the most extreme droughts of the last 2000 years during the Medieval Climatic Anomaly (1150–600 cal BP), island populations contracted to a small number of large coastal villages. We argue that this was related in part to the greater availability of surface water at these locations. This study expands the theoretical and methodological scope of past studies that have applied hydrological simulation to archaeological investigations.
Anticholinergic Medication Use and Risk of Pneumonia in Elderly Adults: A Nested Case–Control Study

Objectives To examine the risk of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) associated with the use of anticholinergic medications in elderly adults. Design Nested case–control study. Setting A regional Medicare Advantage healthcare plan (2009–2010). Participants Participants were Medicare Advantage Plan enrollees aged 65 and older with at least one inpatient and one outpatient claim with no history of CAP between January 1 and June 30, 2009. Cases were identified as enrollees with an incident diagnosis of CAP, between July 1, 2009, and December 31, 2010 (n = 291). Four age- and sex-matched controls (n = 1,164) were identified per case using incidence density sampling. Measurements Anticholinergic prescription 30 days preceding the event date was the primary exposure. Anticholinergic exposure was defined based on the Anticholinergic Drug Scale (ADS). A conditional logistic regression model stratified on matched case–control sets was used, with exposure to a Level 1, 2, or 3 anticholinergic on the ADS as the main independent variable; CAP as the main outcome variable; and risk factors for CAP as additional explanatory variables. Results After controlling for risk factors, overall use of anticholinergic medications was significantly associated with risk of pneumonia (odds ratio (OR) = 1.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.20–2.28). The risk of pneumonia remained significant across the different exposure periods, although use of higher-level (ADS Level 2 or 3) anticholinergics was not associated with pneumonia risk (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.70–1.96). Conclusion Overall use of anticholinergic medications, but not higher-level drugs, was associated with greater risk of CAP compared to no use after controlling for other factors. More research is needed to better understand the role of potent anticholinergic medications on pneumonia risk in elderly adults.
Aquarius L-band Radiometers Calibration Using Cold Sky Observations

An important element in the calibration plan for the Aquarius radiometers is to look at the cold sky. This involves rotating the satellite 180° from its nominal Earth viewing configuration to point the main beams at the celestial sky. At L-band, the cold sky provides a stable, well-characterized scene to be used as a calibration reference. This paper describes the cold sky calibration for Aquarius and how it is used as part of the absolute calibration. Cold sky observations helped establish the radiometer bias, by correcting for an error in the spillover lobe of the antenna pattern, and monitor the long-term radiometer drift.
Taxonomic Notes on Five Common Holarctic Species of Leptocera (Diptera: Sphaeroceridae)

In this paper, 3 species groups, L. fontinalis, L. ferruginata , and L. lutosa are reviewed. Lectotypes and paralectotypes are designated for 4 common Holarctic species, L. fontinalis (Fallen), L. limosa (Fallen), L. ferruginata (Stenhammar), and L. lutosa (Stenhammar), and the species are redescribed. A key to 4 North American species of the L. fontinalis group is presented. L. lutosa is compared with L. limosa and L. lutosoidea Duda, and L. lutosoidea is redescribed and illustrated.
AUTOMATED FORECASTING OF EXTRATROPICAL STORM SURGES

The Atlantic coast of the United States is affected by extratropical storm surges several times each winter. The most devastating storm of this type on record is that of March 1962. This storm caused damage estimated at over $200 million. The National Weather Service has developed an automated technique for forecasting such storm surges. Statistical forecast equations have been derived for 11 locations from Portland, Me., to Charleston, S.C. Input data to these equations are values of sea-level pressure as forecast by an atmospheric prediction model of the National Meteorological Center. A sample forecast equation is shown. The method was put into operation in 1971. Forecasts are transmitted via teletypewriter and extend to 48 hours at 6-hour intervals. A sample teletype message is shown. Forecasts of the devastating storm surge of Feb. 19, 1972, are discussed. These forecasts agreed reasonably well with observations of the storm surge. Experience with the method indicates it to be useful and therefore it will be expanded to include additional forecast locations.
EEG Patterns and Genotypes in Angelman Syndrome

Researchers at the Children’s Hospital, Boston, other centers in the US, and Poznan University, Poland, prospectively analyzed EEGs from participants in the NIH Angelman Syndrome Natural History Study.
Chemical Solubilization of Particulate Organics as a Pretreatment Approach

The first step degradation of particulate organic waste is solubilization. In a bioreactor, solubilization occurs due to enzymatic hydrolysis. As an alternative, the use of chemical solubilization methods may provide a means of more efficiently solubilizing the particulates to a form that can be readily utilized by a biological treatment system. In this study, an industrial waste high in particulate organic content was used as a test substrate. The chemical pretreatment methods tested were alkaline hydrolysis, oxidation, and a mixture of hydrolysis and oxidation. Experimental studies to elucidate the effects of chemical pretreatment on the characteristics of particulate organics are discussed in this paper.
Fulminant idiopathic intracranial hypertension and venous stasis retinopathy resulting in severe bilateral visual impairment.

Purpose To report a complicated case of fulminant idiopathic intracranial hypertension and concomitant venous stasis retinopathy leading to postpapilledema optic atrophy. Methods Case report. Results A 34-year-old morbidly obese woman with a history of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) presented with a 1-month history of bilateral vision loss, diplopia, and left eye pain after being lost to follow-up for 6 years. Fundus examination revealed florid papilledema with venous tortuosity bilaterally. Brain and orbit magnetic resonance imaging showed bilateral globe flattening, intraocular optic nerve swelling in both eyes, and no abnormality on magnetic resonance venography. After additional workup including lumbar puncture with an opening pressure of 55 cm H2O, a diagnosis of IIH was confirmed. Medical treatment with oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors was initiated, followed by same-day bilateral optic nerve sheath decompression and ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement the following week. Fundus examination 2 months later revealed a persistent blood and thunder fundus suggestive of bilateral central retinal vein occlusions. Over the course of 6 months, both eyes displayed postpapilledema optic atrophy with light perception and hand motion vision in the right and left eyes, respectively. On Goldmann perimetry, the patient had vague limited isolated responses in both eyes to the largest target. Conclusions Fulminant IIH can present with profoundly blinding complications recalcitrant to aggressive medical and surgical intervention. Central retinal vein occlusion is an uncommon blinding complication of IIH.
Abstract 2146: RASSF1C modulation of Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in lung cancer

Introduction: RASSF1C is emerging as an important oncoprotein in lung cancer cell growth. We have shown that RASSF1C promotes lung cancer cell proliferation and migration; and RASSF1C up-regulates important genes in lung cancer cell growth that include a stem cell self-renewal gene, piwi1 (hiwi). PIWI-like proteins are a subfamily of Argonaute proteins that interact with small PIWI-interacting RNA molecules (known as piRNAs that are 24-32 nucleotides long) to form complexes that regulate transcriptional and translational repression. This leads to inhibition of apoptosis, stimulation of cell division and proliferation, and down-regulation of cyclin inhibitors and tumor suppressors. Therefore, modulation of Piwil1-piRNA gene expression by RASSF1C suggests a potential role for RASSF1C in lung cancer stem cell development and progression. To further investigate our hypothesis, we carried out a global piRNA microarray screen to identify piRNAs that are modulated by RASSF1C in lung cancer cells. Method: A piRNA microarray screen was performed using the lung cancer cell line H1299 stably over-expressing RASSF1C (and controls). Total RNA was extracted from experimental and control cells and was submitted to Arraystar (Rockville, MD) for the piRNA microarray screen and data analysis. Results: The piRNA microarray screen identified several piRNAs that are regulated by RASSF1C and we have confirmed the expression of some of them in cell lines. The function of the piRNAs identified is yet to be determined. We have initiated studies to determine the function of some of the most up-regulated and down-regulated piRNA genes in lung cancer cells. We are also profiling the expression of these piRNAs in normal and lung tumor tissues. Conclusion: Several piRNAs are target genes of RASSF1C. Characterization of the function of these piRNAs may enhance our understanding of the role of RASSF1C in promoting lung cancer stem cell growth and progression. Linking a Rassf1c-Piwil1/piRNAs axis to lung cancer stem cell development and progression could possibly lead to discovery of new diagnostic and therapeutic targets for lung cancer. Citation Format: Yousef G. Amaar, Matthew Firek, Mark E. Reeves, Mark E. Reeves. RASSF1C modulation of Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in lung cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 2146. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-2146