cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of histone deacetylase 3 via RGFP966 facilitates cortical plasticity underlying unusually accurate auditory associative cue memory for excitatory and inhibitory cue-reward associations

Epigenetic mechanisms are key for regulating long-term memory (LTM) and are known to exert control on memory formation in multiple systems of the adult brain, including the sensory cortex. One epigenetic mechanism is chromatin modification by histone acetylation. Blocking the action of histone de-acetylases (HDACs) that normally negatively regulate LTM by repressing transcription has been shown to enable memory formation. Indeed, HDAC inhibition appears to facilitate memory by altering the dynamics of gene expression events important for memory consolidation. However, less understood are the ways in which molecular-level consolidation processes alter subsequent memory to enhance storage or facilitate retrieval. Here we used a sensory perspective to investigate whether the characteristics of memory formed with HDAC inhibitors are different from naturally-formed memory. One possibility is that HDAC inhibition enables memory to form with greater sensory detail than normal. Because the auditory system undergoes learning-induced remodeling that provides substrates for sound-specific LTM, we aimed to identify behavioral effects of HDAC inhibition on memory for specific sound features using a standard model of auditory associative cue-reward learning, memory, and cortical plasticity. We found that three systemic post-training treatments of an HDAC3-inhibitor (RGPF966, Abcam Inc.) in rats in the early phase of training facilitated auditory discriminative learning, changed auditory cortical tuning, and increased the specificity for acoustic frequency formed in memory of both excitatory (S+) and inhibitory (S-) associations for at least 2 weeks. The findings support that epigenetic mechanisms act on neural and behavioral sensory acuity to increase the precision of associative cue memory, which can be revealed by studying the sensory characteristics of long-term associative memory formation with HDAC inhibitors.
The reanimation of the primitive: Fin-de-siecle ethnographic discourse in western Europe.

L'A. analyse la transition des modeles utilises par les scientifiques d'Europe occidentale pour argumenter sur les primitifs ethnographiques et le discours anthropologique
Comparative Stability Analysis of Several Single-Phase Grid-Connected Inverters with Harmonic Compensation

When connected to distribution networks with distorted grid voltages, inverters can easily produce high levels of current harmonics. When these networks have high interface impedances, the control schemes designed to mitigate these harmonics can become destabilized. This paper compares the relative stability of several different control schemes used for this purpose. Specific comparisons are made when connected to a purely inductive grid with impedance as high as 10% per unit. The paper compares multiple resonant control, repetitive control, and a new multirate control scheme based on peak-mode current control.
Minimally Invasive Approaches Do Not Compromise Outcomes for Pneumonectomy: A Comparison Using the National Cancer Database.

Abstract Introduction Minimally invasive approaches are increasingly being used for the conduct of complex surgical procedures. Whether the benefits of minimally invasive approaches compared to thoracotomy for sublobar and lobar lung resection for NSCLC are realized for patients undergoing pneumonectomy is not clear. Methods The National Cancer Database was queried for patients who underwent pneumonectomy for NSCLC from 2010 to 2014. Case data from patients who underwent resection by minimally invasive surgery (MIS) were compared with those from patients who received thoracotomy (open) in an intention-to-treat analysis. Associations between potential covariates and treatment were analyzed using the Pearson chi-square test for categorical variables and Wilcoxon rank sum test for continuous variables. Univariable and multivariable logistic models and proportional hazards model were used to assess the effect of surgical approach on 30-day and 90-day mortality and overall survival. Relative prognosis was summarized using odds ratios and hazards ratios estimates and 95% confidence limits. Results A total of 4,938 patients underwent pneumonectomy during the study period, of which 755 (15.3%) were completed by MIS. No difference was noted in 30- and 90-day mortality rates for MIS compared to open approaches (6.8% and 12.3% versus 6.7% and 11.9%, respectively; p = 0.9 and 0.86, respectively). Tumor histology and stage characteristics were similar between the two groups. The mean number of lymph nodes examined was higher in the MIS group compared to the open thoracotomy group (17.1 ± 0.4 versus 16.1 ± 0.2, p = 0.034). The conversion rate for the MIS cohort was 36.7%. Surgical approach was not associated with any difference in perioperative mortality with univariable or multivariable analysis. MIS was associated with improved overall survival on univariable analysis, but this was not evident with multivariable analysis. Conclusions Pneumonectomy performed by minimally invasive approaches does not compromise perioperative mortality or long-term outcomes. Further investigation into the impact of minimally invasive approaches on perioperative outcomes for whole-lung resection is warranted.
Emerging methods and opportunities in nanoscale materials characterization

Abstract The emergence of powerful nanomaterials characterization techniques promises to underpin a new range of advances in materials research. There have been significant developments in the characterization of the phase, structure, composition, and dynamics of materials at the nanoscale. Articles in this issue report recent advances in three areas: atom probe tomography, x-ray nanobeam scattering and diffraction, and x-ray photon correlation spectroscopy. Each of these provides three-dimensional insight into hard materials in ways that have been previously unavailable. Taken together, these emerging methods have the potential to provide new tests for materials theory and computation and to extend significantly the range of questions that can be answered in materials research.
High Rates of Unrecognized Bladder Overdistension among In-Hospital Patients with Acute Urinary Retention: A Quality Problem

Abstract:Acute urinary retention with bladder overdistension can lead to significant patient morbidity and discomfort. We performed a review of acute urinary retention consults at a large, tertiary Los Angeles hospital to find that urinary retention is largely unrecognized, leading to significant bl
Versatility of cyclooctatetraenyl ligands in rare earth metal complexes of the [M2(COT)3(THF)2] (M = Y and La) type

Two new organometallic cyclooctatetraenyl complexes of the type [M2(COT)3(THF)2] (M = Y and La) have been prepared, using optimized synthetic procedures, and fully characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, IR and 1H NMR spectroscopies. The structures can be represented as formed by the double-decker [M(COT)2]- anion with an asymmetrically bound cationic [M(COT)(THF)2]+ unit. The COT rings in the anionic sandwich are not equidistant from the metal with the M-COTcentroid distances measuring at 1.991(5) A and 2.074(5) A for [Y(COT)2]-vs. 2.045(4) A and 2.154(5) A for [La(COT)2]-. The sandwich fragments are η2-coordinated to the second metal center with the average M-C distances of 2.837(4) A and 2.879(5) A for yttrium and lanthanum complexes, respectively. The M-COTcentroid distances in the cationic unit are 1.962(4) A for the former and 2.009(2) A for the latter.
Recovery of Stem Cell Proliferation by Low Intensity Vibration Under Simulated Microgravity Requires LINC Complex

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) rely on their ability to integrate physical and spatial signals at load bearing sites to replace and renew musculoskeletal tissues. Designed to mimic unloading experienced during spaceflight, preclinical unloading and simulated microgravity models show that alteration of gravitational loading limits proliferative activity of stem cells. Emerging evidence indicates that this loss of proliferation may be linked to loss of cellular cytoskeleton and contractility. Low intensity vibration (LIV) is an exercise mimetic that promotes proliferation and differentiation of MSCs by enhancing cell structure. Here, we asked whether application of LIV could restore the reduced proliferative capacity seen in MSCs that are subjected to simulated microgravity. We found that simulated microgravity (sMG) decreased cell proliferation and simultaneously compromised cell structure. These changes included increased nuclear height, disorganized apical F-actin structure, reduced expression, and protein levels of nuclear lamina elements LaminA/C LaminB1 as well as linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex elements Sun-2 and Nesprin-2. Application of LIV restored cell proliferation and nuclear proteins LaminA/C and Sun-2. An intact LINC function was required for LIV effect; disabling LINC functionality via co-depletion of Sun-1, and Sun-2 prevented rescue of cell proliferation by LIV. Our findings show that sMG alters nuclear structure and leads to decreased cell proliferation, but does not diminish LINC complex mediated mechanosensitivity, suggesting LIV as a potential candidate to combat sMG-induced proliferation loss.
Recommendations for Opioid Prescribing after Endourological and Minimally Invasive Urological Surgery: An Expert Panel Consensus.

Purpose:Opioids are frequently overprescribed after surgery. The 2018 AUA position statement on opioid use suggests using the lowest dose and potency to achieve pain control but the lack of procedu...
Selective over-synthesis and rapid turnover of mitochondrial protein components of respiratory complexes

Mammalian mitochondria assemble four complexes of the respiratory chain (RCI, III, IV and V) by combining 13 polypeptides synthesized within mitochondria on mitochondrial ribosomes (mitoribosomes) with over 70 polypeptides encoded in nuclear DNA, translated on cytoplasmic ribosomes and imported into mitochondria. We report that pulse-chase SILAC can also serve as a valuable approach to study RC assembly as it reveals considerable differences in the rates and efficiency of assembly of different complexes. While assembly of RCV, ATPase, was rapid with little excess synthesis of subunits, RCI, NADH dehydrogenase, assembly was far less efficient with dramatic over-synthesis of numerous proteins, particularly in the matrix exposed N- and Q- Domains. Subunits that do not engage in assembly are generally degraded within three hours. Differential assembly kinetics were also observed for individual complexes immunoprecipitated with complex-specific antibodies. Immunoprecipitation with an antibody that recognizes the ND1 subunit of RCI co-precipitated a number of proteins implicated in FeS cluster assembly as well as newly-synthesized UQCRFS1, the Rieske FeS protein in RCIII, reflecting a degree of coordination of RCI and RCIII assembly.
Binding and internalization of an LFA-1-derived cyclic peptide by ICAM receptors on activated lymphocyte: a potential ligand for drug targeting to ICAM-1-expressing cells.

Purpose. The interaction of cell-adhesion molecules LFA-1/ICAM-1 is critical for many inflammatory and immune responses. Blockades of this interaction using antibodies or peptide analogs are being developed as therapeutic approaches for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study is to examine the binding and internalization mechanisms of LFA-1 peptide [cLAB.L or cyclo-(1,12)-PenITDGEATDSGC] mediated by ICAM receptors on the surface of lymphocytes.
The Representation of Polyelectronic Systems

Since the original formulation of the theory of the chemical bond by Pauling and up until the present time, we have been conditioned to view ground states of molecules as a sum of two electron-two orbital bonds either implicitly or explicitly. As we have already seen, the abandonment of the concept of the two electron-two center bond in favor of the MOVB concept of the multicentric bond gives rise to a new formulation of the Woodward-Hoffmann rules according to which an “allowed” complex is characterized by D and a “forbidden” complex by U bonding. Now, up until this point, the illustrators of the principles of MOVB theory have been model systems, i.e., systems with few orbitals and few electrons. It is now time to ascend to a higher level of complexity for, after all, our goal is the development of a general, qualitative theory of chemical bonding of large systems. Specifically, we wish to answer the following key questions: Is it permissible to think of a complex molecular system as a composite of primitive “few electron-few orbital” systems in a way which renders the concepts developed before directly applicable? If this is not possible, what is the most suitable alternative option? The full dimensions of the problem and the solution which we propose can be illustrated by reference to the model four electron-four orbital system, A = A, depicted below. This is the simplest illustrator of a double bond comprised of one sigma and one pi bond, a well known feature of countless organic and inorganic molecules.
Partitioning of Benzoic Acid into 1,2-Dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine and Blood-Brain Barrier Mimetic Bilayers.

Using an all-atom explicit water model and replica exchange umbrella sampling simulations, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of benzoic acid partitioning into two model lipid bilayers. The f...
Removing the complexity from wide complex tachycardia

Correctly diagnosing the cause of wide QRS tachycardias remain an area of difficulty for many clinicians. The authors provide a concise update to the different ECG algorithms that have been developed as well as caveats in their application.
The Role and Practice of CNS in Australia

The role of the clinical nurse specialist in the Australian context is only present in some states and territories. Although the role of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is filled by a registered nurse, the role itself is not regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. This means that the title is not protected by the National Law, although the Nurse Practitioner title is. The role and scope of practice is articulated in employment awards and job descriptions developed by the employing organisation. Although the clinical nurse specialist role is not present in all states and territories, other advanced practice roles provide similar types and levels of ‘specialist’ nursing and midwifery care, including the clinical nurse consultant (CNC) role. The CNC position is also not regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. In some states, the clinical nurse specialist has responsibility for direct patient care, whereas in other jurisdictions, the clinical nurse specialist has a specialist advisory and support role. A review of a number of CNS roles revealed the requirement for advanced, expert and specialised knowledge for the clinical speciality as detailed in the job descriptions. Not all jurisdictions require tertiary qualifications for preparation to practice as a CNS. The scope of practice for the reviewed positions presented in this chapter broadly includes the provision of advanced and specialised best practice clinical skills to assess, plan, organise, implement and evaluate care. Other key elements include education to patients and family, other nurses and colleagues, participation in the development of evidence-based practice through research and policy evaluation and advocacy.
Multicriterion Optimization of Stern Flap Design

Stern flaps have been used in many recent designs of transom stern vessels to provide increased top speed or to realize improvements in fuel economy over the operating range. The use of stern flaps has also become a practical retrofit on existing designs because significant improvements can be achieved at very minimal cost. Model test data from a limited series of stern flap designs for a group of combatant type vessels were utilized to develop a preliminary design model for stern flaps for these vessels. This model has been incorporated into Visual VB/Microsoft Excel–based software that will permit the investigation of the benefits of stern flaps in preliminary design. Within the limitations of the model, this software will also perform the multicriterion optimization needed to establish the initial parameters for a stern flap in preliminary design. This preliminary design can become the baseline design for use in a subsequent model test program. The software will then accept the results of tests of a systematic stern flap family developed about the baseline design and create a project-specific response surface model that can be used in subsequent detailed design. The software can then be utilized again to provide multicriterion optimization of this project-specific model to establish final design parameters for the stern flap.
2-Acylglycerolphosphoethanolamine acyltransferase/acyl-acyl carrier protein synthetase is a membrane-associated acyl carrier protein binding protein.

Abstract Two enzymatic activities, 2-acylglycerolphosphoethanolamine (2-acyl-GPE) acyltransferase and acyl-acyl carrier protein (acyl-ACP) synthetase, were solubilized and purified from Escherichia coli membranes. Electrophoretic analysis of the final product of the purification procedure revealed a single protein species with an apparent molecular mass of 27 kilodaltons. The ratio of acyltransferase to synthetase activities remained the same throughout the purification scheme indicating that both activities were catalyzed by the same enzyme. 2-Acyl-GPE acyltransferase exhibited an apparent ACP Km of 64 nM under standard assay conditions that increased to 10 microM when the assay was conducted in the presence of 0.4 M LiCl. Acyl-ACP synthetase activity was not detected in the absence of 0.4 M LiCl, and the apparent ACP Km for this reaction was 16 microM. Direct evidence that ACP was a subunit of the acyltransferase/synthetase was obtained by the adsorption of both catalytic activities to an ACP-Sepharose affinity column and by the binding of [3H]ACP to the purified enzyme preparation. The apparent Km for acyl-ACP was 13 microM, and the rate of acyl transfer from this acyl donor was enhanced by the addition of 0.4 M LiCl indicating that the exchange of enzyme-bound ACP for acyl-ACP was a determinant factor in the rate of phosphatidylethanolamine formation from acyl-ACP. These data indicate that the 2-acyl-GPE acyltransferase and acyl-ACP synthetase reactions are catalyzed by the same membrane protein that possesses a high affinity binding site for soluble ACP.
Reinforcement Learning for Resource Allocation in Multiuser OFDM Systems.

Abstract In cellular mobile communications the subcarriers are repeatedly used for best utilizing the assigned frequency spectrum. The assignment of channels for users is complex and involves high computation time. Wong et al [15] proposed a heuristic algorithm to achieve the suboptimal solution for sub-carrier assignment. This proposal was based on constructive assignment in real time situation with prosperous results. However, the algorithm involves computational complexity. In this paper we proposes reinforcement learning algorithm for sub-carrier assignment to the users in a way that the total transmit power is minimized. Reinforcement learning algorithms are frequently used for optimization problems and are related to dynamic programming algorithms. Simulation results show that proposed reinforcement learning is robust and outperforms the heuristic algorithm proposed by Wong et al.
Rheologies of H2O ices Ih, II, and III at high pressures - A progress report

Experimental studies of the rheology of ordinary hexagonal ice have, until recently, been restricted to temperatures greater than -30°C (243 K) and pressures less than 30 MPa. We have greatly extended this pressure-temperature field to pressures as high as 350 MPa and temperatures as low as 77 K and have established the basic features of ice Ih rheology. At the lowest temperatures and highest strain rates, ice Ih fails by a very unusual form of fracture. Above a confining pressure of 50 MPa, fracture strength is independent of pressure and varies from about 160 MPa at 77 K to 120 MPa at 158 K. This fracture process appears to be a shear instability and may be related to localized transformation to a high-pressure phase of ice. At higher temperatures, ice displays a steady-state flow behavior at strains greater than about 10%. No fewer than three separate rheological laws are needed to adequately characterize this steady-state ice rheology. Although our rheological data compare well with glaciological studies at high temperatures, the latter are inadequate to describe the flow of ice at temperatures below about 240 K. Plastic relaxation times tr have been computed from our flow laws at differential stresses that correspond to a range of topographic reliefs on Ganymede and Callisto. For a relief h = 100 m, tr > 3 Ga at temperatures below 110 I and for h >1 km, tr < 10 Ma at temperatures greater than 100 K. Marked crater profile relaxation is therefore implied for large craters with h < 1 km if pure ice In rheology applies to these Jovian satellites.
Abstract W P105: Comparison of Intracranial Stent Placement and Best Medical Treatment Alone for Treatment of Symptomatic Intracranial Stenosis

Objective: To compare the short and long term rates of transient ischemic attack (TIA)/ ischemic stroke and mortality between intracranial stent placement and medical therapy alone for treatment of symptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis. Methods: We identified all prospective and retrospective studies comparing intracranial stent placement and medical management using a search on PubMed and Cochrane libraries, stroke trials database, proceedings of neurology and neurosurgery related conferences, and supplemented by a review of bibliographies of selected publications. The incidences of adverse effects, namely TIA/stroke and/or death at 30 days post treatment and TIA/stroke, myocardial infarction and/or death at 1 year post treatment were ascertained from all studies. For the meta-analysis, Forest plots and calculation of odds ratios [OR] with 95% confidence intervals [CI] using both fixed and random models were performed. The presence of publication bias was interrogated by funnel plot of Standard Error by log odds ratio. Results: Three prospective studies including two randomized clinical trials and one retrospective study were identified and included in the meta-analysis. There were a total of 46/347 (13.2%) stroke-and/or-deaths reported in the stent treatment group compared with 16/351 (4.5%) TIA/stroke-and/or-deaths in the medical therapy alone group at 30 days (OR, 2.97; P Conclusions: Despite the higher risk of 1 month TIA/stroke-and/or-deaths, patients undergoing intracranial stent placement have similar rates of TIA/stroke-and/or-deaths at 1 year compared with medical treatment alone.
Pakistan, the WTO, and Labor Reform

This Note examines the economic and legal implications of developing nations’ membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). Speciacally, the article analyzes Pakistan’s labor reforms subsequent to its membership in the WTO. The Note arst provides a historical background of Pakistani membership in the WTO. Next, the Note discerns that despite the lack of established WTO labor standards, developing nations face pressure to implement labor reforms incidental to trade liberalization policies. The author argues that the pressures imposed on lesser-developed countries (LDCs) such as Pakistan have, as of yet, spawned only superacial labor reforms. The anal section of the Note suggests that whether or not the WTO chooses to set labor standards in the future, international trade commitments must adequately account for the economic and legal constraints of LDCs in order to spur lasting labor
Scattering from mesomorphic structures

The terms mesomorphic and liquid-crystalline are used synonymously. The order of mesomorphic phases is intermediate between that of liquids and crystals. The progression from the completely symmetric isotropic liquid through the mesomorphic phases into the crystalline phases can be described in terms of three separate types of order. The first kind, molecular orientational order, results from the molecules having some preferential orientation, as found in nematic phases. The second type of order is referred to as bond orientational order and the third kind of order is a positional order of an indefinite lattice of the type that defines the 230 space groups of conventional crystals. For mesomorphic phases with a layered structure, this positional order can be separated into positional order along the layer normal and perpendicular to it, or within the layers. In this chapter, mesomorphic phases are classified according to the different kinds of order present and the scattering from each kind of phase is described. Discotic and other kinds of mesomorphic structures are also discussed.
New insights into structure–activity relationships for propane hydrogenolysis over Ni–Cu bimetallic catalysts

Propane hydrogenolysis has been investigated on Ni–Cu/SiO2 model catalysts under elevated pressure conditions. The surface Ni active sites on Ni–Cu/SiO2 were measured by selective hydrogen adsorption under ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) conditions. The specific activity of propane hydrogenolysis shows a slight increase and then decrease with increasing Cu coverages on Ni–Cu/SiO2 bimetallic catalysts, and varies within the 0.6 s−1 to 2.0 s−1 range. On the contrary, many previous studies show a three-to-five order decrease in the specific activity of ethane or propane hydrogenolysis over Ni–Cu bimetallic catalysts. The significant difference was explained by the possible over counting of active Ni sites in the selective hydrogen chemisorptions under atmospheric pressure conditions due to hydrogen spillover from Ni to Cu. New structure–activity relationships for Ni–Cu bimetallic catalysts in propane hydrogenolysis were established based on the present work. Furthermore, possible carbon deposits in this reaction were examined by post reaction Auger electron spectroscopy.
Formation in the Classroom

What is the relationship between the academic knowledge of the guild and the formation of students in the classroom? This Forum gathers four essays originally presented at a Special Topics Session at the 2009 conference of the American Academy of Religion (Atlanta, Georgia), with a brief introductory essay by Fred Glennon explaining the genesis of the panel. Douglas Jacobsen and Rhonda Hustedt Jacobsen clarify some of the issues at stake in undergraduate liberal arts classrooms by distinguishing between four dimensions of what they refer to as “the (in)formation teaching matrix: institutional context, course content, faculty roles, and student outcomes. John Thatamanil argues that all learning necessarily presupposes formation. Amanda Porterfield argues against using the word “formation” because it complicates and undermines her teaching goals to historicize religion and narratives about it through open-ended inquiry. And, finally, Mary Elizabeth Moore explores the interactive processes linking formation, information, reformation, and transformation.
Weight gain and food intake in corticotropin releasing factor immunized Zucker rats

Abstract In Zucker obese rats (fa/fa) there are disturbances in the regulation of ACTH and corticosterone. In addition, β-endorphin concentrations are higher in the pituitary and hypothalamus in obese than in lean rats. Since ACTH and β-endorphin are thought to be controlled by corticotropin releasing factor (CRF), these effects may be due to abnormalities in CRF regulation. This possiblity was investigated by immunizing rats against CRF. Obese rats immunized against CRF developed higher titer antibodies than lean rats. Hypothalamic CRF concentrations were higher in CRF-immunized obese but not lean rats compared with those of control rats, suggesting that compensation for sequestration of peripheral CRF developed in obese rats. In obese, but not lean rats, immunization against CRF decreased weight gains during weeks 1–4 and increased gains during weeks 9–12 and food intakes were decreased during weeks 5–8 compared with those for obese rats immunized against bovine serum albumin (BSA). Adrenal glands weighed 30% less in both obese and lean rats immunized against CRF compared with those immunized against BSA. These responses to immunization against CRF occured even though plasma, hypothalamic and pituitary concentrations of ACTH and β-endorphin were unaffected at the end of the study.
Massive delayed hemorrhage following traumatic rupture of spleen as a complication of full term pregnancy

Abstract A case of massive delayed hemorrhage, following traumatic rupture of the spleen, occurring as a complication of full term pregnancy with survival of the mother is reported. This case was unaccompanied by fracture of the ribs and brings to seventy-one the series of delayed splenic hemorrhage reported in the literature. Of the seventy cases of delayed splenic hemorrhage officially reported, this is the first occurring as a complication of pregnancy. The rapid rise of the patient's hemoglobin and red blood count postoperatively was attributed to the autotransfusion of uterine blood occurring after delivery. The importance of early diagnosis and splenectomy in splenic injuries is reemphasized.
Effects of prolonged inhalation of silica and olivine dusts on immune functions in the mouse

Immunologic responses were determined in Balb/c mice following intermittent silica or olivine inhalations for 150, 300, or 570 days. Animals dust-exposed for 570 days were tested immediately postexposure, while those exposed for 150 or 300 days were tested immediately or were rested for 30 or 150 days as a measure of possible recovery from effects of the dust inhalations. Silica inhalation suppressed the number of specific plaque-forming cells (PFC) in the spleen produced in response to aerosolized Escherichia coli bacteria. When tested after 570 days, silica inhalation also reduced the ability of alveolar macrophages to phagocytize Staphylococcus aureus in vitro. Olivine inhalation also suppressed splenic PFCs and alveolar macrophage phagocytosis, but to a lesser degree than silica. In animals tested after 570 days of dust exposure, it was determined that the ability to lyse allogeneic tumor cells in vitro was impaired by olivine slightly more than by silica, while antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxic and mitogenic responses by splenic lymphocytes were unchanged by inhalation of either dust. The effects of increased exposure periods, and of recovery periods after exposure, were confounded by age-related immunologic changes which were present after the longer exposures.
Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 4 Channel Controls Calcium Signals and Dental Follicle Stem Cell Differentiation

Elevations in the intracellular Ca 21 concentration are a phenomena commonly observed during stem cell differentiation but cease after the process is complete. The transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) is an ion channel that controls Ca 21 signals in excitable and nonexcitable cells. However, its role in stem cells remains unknown. The aim of this study was to characterize TRPM4 in rat dental follicle stem cells (DFSCs) and to determine its impact on Ca 21 signaling and the differentiation process. We identified TRPM4 gene expression in DFSCs, but not TRPM5, a closely related channel with similar function. Perfusion of cells with increasing buffered Ca 21 resulted in a concentration-dependent activation of currents typical for TRPM4, which were also voltage-dependent and had Na 1 conductiv
High SNR analysis of MIMO broadcast channels

The behavior of the multiple antenna broadcast channel at high SNR is investigated. The multiple antenna broadcast channel achieves the same multiplexing gain as the system in which all receivers are allowed to perfectly cooperate (i.e. transforming the system into a point-to-point MIMO system). However, the multiplexing gain alone is not sufficient to accurately characterize the behavior of sum rate capacity at high SNR. An affine approximation to capacity which incorporates the multiplexing gain as well as a power offset (i.e. a zero-order term) is a more accurate representation of high SNR behavior. The power offset of the sum rate capacity is shown to equal the power offset of the cooperative MIMO system when there are less receivers than transmit antennas. In addition, the power offset of using the sub-optimal strategy of beamforming is calculated. These calculations show that beamforming can perform quite well when the number of antennas is sufficiently larger than the number of receivers, but performs very poorly when there are nearly as many receivers as transmit antennas
Empiric Antibiotic Therapy for Intraabdominal Infections

Intraabdominal sepsis most frequently follows penetrating or blunt abdominal trauma or perforated appendicitis or diverticulitis. The initial escape of the endogenous gastrointestinal microflora into the peritoneal cavity results in peritonitis and secondary septicemia, which is frequently followed by localized intraabdominal abscesses. These infections are most frequently polymicrobial and relate directly to the unique endogenous microflora at the various levels of the gastrointestinal tract. The treatment of intraabdominal sepsis is primarily centered around prompt, appropriate surgical intervention. parenterally administered antibiotics are also required to decrease the chance of local bacterial invasion or septicemia. The choice of the appropriate agent(s) to be used initially, before culture and sensitivity reports are available, depends primarily on the clinical presentation. Clinical and experimental studies of intraabdominal sepsis have largely stressed the use of antibiotic agents that have a spectrum of activity effective against both the aerobic coliforms and anaerobic Bacteroides fragilis.
The Optical Quality of Currently Manufactured Intraocular Lenses

We selected 95 intraocular lenses from ten lens manufacturers for a study of optical quality. Tremendous variation in resolution from a high of 313 line pairs per millimeter to a low of 40 line pairs per millimeter was seen. All of the lenses from eight manufacturers showed greater than 100 line pairs per millimeter resolution, the American National Standards Institute proposed minimum. Five of the 95 lenses had greater than 1.0 diopter error, whereas 79 of the 95 lenses had less than 0.5 diopter error from the stated power. With respect to toricity, there were 11 lenses with greater than 0.25 diopter (built-in astigmatism), however, no lenses showed more than 0.5 diopter astigmatism. Two lenses had a built-in double image, another clinically significant problem. We believe the optical quality of the lenses from some lens manufacturers cannot be guaranteed.
Desensitization of signaling by oncostatin M in human vascular cells involves cytoplasmic Tyr residue 759 in gp130 but is not mediated by either Src homology 2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase 2 or suppressor of cytokine signaling 3.

Oncostatin M (OnM) signals through cell surface receptors, which utilize the gp130 subunit. In cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), OnM transiently elevates mRNA encoding for suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 (SOCS-3). By 1 h of OnM treatment, HUVEC become refractory to the restimulation by OnM, measured as failure to reinduce SOCS-3 mRNA. OnM-induced desensitization also prevents responses to other gp130-signaling cytokines (e.g. leukemia inhibitory factor and interleukin 11). OnM treatment does not affect gp130 expression levels and desensitizes signaling mediated by a transduced chimeric receptor containing extracellular domains of platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFRbeta) and the cytoplasmic region of gp130. Interestingly, a chimeric PDGFRbeta-gp130 mutant receptor, in which intracellular Tyr residue 759 of gp130 is replaced by a Phe residue, mediates prolonged signaling and is not cross-desensitized by OnM. Phospho-Tyr759 is the binding site for both SOCS-3 and for Src homology domain 2-containing tyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP-2). In human aortic smooth muscle cells, neither prevention of SOCS-3 protein induction, using STAT3 or SOCS-3 antisense, nor prevention of SHP-2 expression, also with antisense, ablates desensitization. These data suggest that desensitization of vascular cells to OnM is mediated in trans and involves Tyr residue 759 in gp130 but is not mediated by either SOCS-3 or SHP-2, the only two proteins currently known to bind to gp130 at this site.
Elevated impedance during cardioversion in neonates with atrial flutter.

Direct-current cardioversion is a common treatment modality for acute termination of atrial flutter in neonates. Studies in children have demonstrated that cardioversion is often successful with as little as 0.25–0.5 J/kg with the current biphasic devices. We hypothesize that during cardioversion of atrial flutter in neonates, however, the impedance may be high and more energy may be required for successful cardioversion. A retrospective chart review of our institutional experience from 2005 through 2008 was performed. Neonates with atrial flutter requiring cardioversion who had strips available for review were included. Six patients met the inclusion criteria. The median age at the time of cardioversion was 2.6 h (range, 1.3–336 h) and the mean weight was 3.22 ± 0.4 kg (SD). The mean electrical impedance of the successful shocks was elevated, at 234 ± 136 Ω. The mean energy delivered for successful cardioversion was 0.9 ± 0.3 J/kg, and the current was 1 A in all patients. In conclusion, the shock impedance was elevated in the neonates studied during cardioversion of atrial flutter. Low current was sufficient for successful cardioversion. Further studies are needed in this specific population.
Sex roles and sexual attitudes of young Iranian women: implications for cross-cultural counseling.

The purpose of the study was to examine the extent to which young Iranian women in Los Angeles have held on to their traditional Iranian values concerning sex roles and intimate relationships. The primary focus of the investigation was to look at the effect of the educational level and other demographic factors on young Iranian women’s attitudes toward sex roles and sexual issues. Results of the study indicate that the educational level of young Iranian women is related to their attitudes regarding sex roles and sexual issues. The findings also indicate a positive relationship between subjects’ permissive attitudes and the length of time they have been away from Iran. There is a significant negative relationship between the age of the subject when she left Iran and the attitudes she now holds: The younger she was when she came to this country, the more her attitudes resemble those of the majority culture. Implications for cross-cultural counseling are discussed.
Iron chelation therapy in myelodysplastic syndromes

Purpose To understand how to appropriately recognize and manage iron overload with iron chelation therapy (ICT) in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), evaluation of the role of different agents available for management of iron overload, including efficacy, safety, and economic considerations for transfusion-dependent patients with MDS, is provided. Summary Patients with MDS have a high incidence of anemia, which often requires treatment. Supportive care measures such as red blood cell transfusions and erythroid colony stimulating factors are mainstays of therapy. Use of long-term transfusion therapy has limitations in patients with MDS due to the risk of developing iron overload. Strategies to manage iron overload include phlebotomy and ICT with agents such as deferoxamine and deferasirox. Data evaluating pharmacologic therapy for treatment of iron overload in patients with MDS suggest timely intervention can mitigate the morbidity associated with this clinical syndrome. Conclusion Development of practical management strategies to implement and optimize ICT using deferoxamine and deferasirox will be important to provide optimal care for transfusion-dependent patients with MDS.
Effect of fixed-ratio thermal reinforcement on thermoregulatory behavior

Abstract Rats and squirrel monkeys were tested on fixed-ratio schedules for radiant heat reinforcement in a cold environment. Monkeys worked at a rate determined by the schedule as well as the parameters of thermal reinforcement. Rats failed to demonstrate a behavioral regulation of body temperature on ratio schedules by failing to maintain a rate of work great enough to insure a constant rate of reinforcement per unit time. Body temperature was maintained when continuous reinforcement was available, but decreased on ratios. A low ambient temperature or low body temperature facilitated rate of responding by the rat. Repeated daily tests produced a form of cold acclimatization in rats; behavioral response rate decreased, while the usual decrease in body temperature was attenuated as daily testing progressed.
Generic operations and capabilities in the JR concurrent programming language

Abstract The JR concurrent programming language extends Java with additional concurrency mechanisms, which are built upon JR's operations and capabilities. JR operations generalize methods in how they can be invoked and serviced. JR capabilities act as reference to operations. Recent changes to the Java language and implementation, especially generics, necessitated corresponding changes to the JR language and implementation. This paper describes the new JR language features (known as JR2) of generic operations and generic capabilities. These new features posed some interesting implementation challenges. The paper describes our initial implementation (JR21) of generic operations and capabilities, which works in many, but not all, cases. It then describes the approach our improved implementation (JR24) uses to fully implement generic operations and capabilities. The paper also describes the benchmarks used to assess the compilation and execution time performances of JR21 and JR24. The JR24 implementation reduces compilation times, mainly due to reducing the number of files generated during JR program translation, without noticeably impacting execution times.
A generalization of the Leray—Schauder index formula☆☆☆

Abstract This paper generalizes the Leray-Schauder index formula to the case where the inverse image of a point consists of a smooth manifold, assuming some nondegeneracy condition is satisfied on the manifold. The result states that the index is the Euler characteristic of a certain vector bundle over the manifold. Under slightly stronger nondegeneracy conditions, the index is in fact the Euler characteristic of the manifold. The paper also includes a discussion of the Euler characteristic for vector bundles and a simple proof of the Gauss-Bonnet-Chern theorem.
Visual analysis of body shape changes during pregnancy

This paper describes how body shape changes during pregnancy affect pattern shape for maternity wear. Using a 3D body scanner, participants were scanned during each month of their pregnancy. Virtual fit-to-shape patterns were adjusted to fit each body scan using 3D digital draping. The pattern adjustment process represents the visual analysis of the relationship of body changes to pattern changes. The set of 2D front and back fit-to-shape patterns were overlaid in order to analyse pattern shape changes. The results of this study indicate that pattern changes corresponded to the body changes but the patterns did not increase proportionally to each other.
Neoplastic erythema nodosum

Abstract We performed immunohistologic studies on a 75-year-old white woman with erythema nodosum (EN) and a systemic lymphoma. A skin biopsy specimen from an EN lesion showed lobular and septal pannicular infiltration by atypical lymphocytes. The cutaneous lymphocytic infiltrate was composed of a monoclonal population of B cells with λ light chains. Atypical lymphocytes were also seen in the peripheral blood, and flow cytometry showed a predominance of the same phenotype of B cells with λ light chains. Chemotherapy for systemic B-cell lymphoma resulted in the simultaneous resolution of EN and the lymphoma. This is the first documentation of EN representing direct cutaneous invasion by a B-cell lymphoma.
Immunohistochemical localization of creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme and tubulin in gerbil brain

Abstract Cellular distribution of creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme and tubulin was investigated immunohistochemically with tissue sections from various areas of the gerbil brain. Both the reaction for creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme and tubulin visualized nerve cell bodies, dendrites and axons. While the reaction for tubulin was similar between nerve cell bodies and their dendrites, the reaction for creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme tended to be more intense in dendrites. While the reaction for tubulin could be seen in nerve cell bodies of different sizes, the reaction for creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme was more intense in larger neurons. Both the reaction for creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme and tubulin visualized astrocytic cytoplasm but only in the corpus callosum and in the white matter of limited areas. Visualization of dendrites to their peripheries with the reaction for creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme may indicate participation of this isoenzyme in maintainance of high energy-phosphates locally within dendrites. A combination of the immunohistochemical procedure for creatine kinase BB-isoenzyme and tubulin may be very useful for demonstration of various pathophysiological states of the central nervous system which affect dendrites.
Neutrophil myeloperoxidase concentration: changes with development and during bacterial infection.

ABSTRACT: In experimental animals, the quantity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in a volume of whole blood, and the neutrophil concentration in that same volume, were determiner and the results expressed as units of MPO (10-7)/neutrophil. Two situations are repored in which the concentration of MPO/neutrophil was found to change; during the growth and development of animals and during bacterial infection. Premature and newborn rats had only 25% or the MPO/neutrophil found in adults. One to three wk olds had 50% of the adult enzyme concentration. During fatal bacterial infection, MPO/neutrophil fell rapidly, often to undetectable levels, but during sublethal infections, following a 24–h lag period in adults and a 48–h lag in neonates, the concentration increased to twice normal.