cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
User-friendly simulation model for traffic networks with ATIS/ATMS

Implementation of ATIS (Advanced Traffic Information Systems) and/or ATMS (Advanced Traffic Management Systems) are proceeding in many cities around the world, but only very few frameworks are available to study the effectiveness of these. Such systems are complicated thanks to complex interactions among the dynamics of path-based traffic conditions in the network, information/guidance supply strategies and the driver response in the form of their route-choice decisions. In view of the analytical intractability of these component phenomena, simulation frameworks could well be the only reasonable solution. DYNASMART (Dynamic Network Assignment Simulation Model for Advanced Road Telematics) is a program that we developed earlier that captures these key components in a flexible simulation framework that models individual vehicle movements using macroscopic traffic relationships and the driver decisions based on information at the network nodes. In this paper, we report on the recent enhancements that we have made to this model to make it more user-friendly, as well as the additional capabilities that we have incorporated to it.
Masters Program Biliary Pathway: Multiport Robotic Cholecystectomy

Robotic technology emerged after the advent of laparoscopic surgery in the 1990s, initially with camera steadying systems for laparoscopic surgery, now with console controlled articulating instruments, 3D visualization and enhanced optics. Due to these advances, multi-port robotic cholecystectomy (MPRC) is an acceptably safe alternative to laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It allows the surgeon increased visualization and wristed instrumentation which mimics the hand motion of open surgery. MPRC has not been widely adopted, but may be helpful in reoperative and complex patients. This chapter focuses on the safe application of robotic technology in performing cholecystectomy with the da Vinci SI Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical Inc. Sunnyvale, CA), but the concepts will be broadly applicable to other systems.
Treatment of Refractory and Super-Refractory Status Epilepticus

Refractory and super-refractory status epilepticus are acute neurologic emergencies with high mortality rates, and over half of survivors have poor functional outcomes. The treatment itself portends additional risk of morbidity and mortality. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the pharmacologic treatment of refractory and super-refractory status epilepticus. Treatment aggressiveness, drug selection, and dosing are discussed, including both anesthetic and non-anesthetic anti-seizure drugs. An in depth review of propofol, midazolam, ketamine, and barbiturate drugs, including thiopental and pentobarbital, is provided. Mirroring the daily care of patients with refractory and super-refractory status epilepticus, the chapter emphasizes the complications of anesthetic therapies and when possible, how to prevent them. Less frequently discussed aspects of treatment including the electroencephalogram suppression target, principles of weaning anesthetic drugs, and what to do in between weaning attempts, are addressed. Also included is a section on when and how to initiate a trial of immunotherapy for cryptogenic or antibody-mediated refractory status epilepticus.
Interculturalism, Intercultural Education, and Chinese Society

Globalization is bringing about a new paradigm of super-diversity which is resulting in all societies becoming more culturally diverse. Interculturalism, as a new model which responds to this increasing diversity, rejects all forms of discrimination based on differences, instead embracing reciprocity and accommodation. Interculturalism theory is characterized by integration, cohesion, and intercultural dialogue. Compared to multiculturalism theory, interculturalism theory discusses how to make a society more cohesive and accommodate people from different cultures. Interculturalism features a stronger sense of whole. Therefore, in intercultural education, intercultural competence is highlighted in order to catalyze dialogue between people from different groups. Interculturalism has a role in increasing the current level of diversity within contemporary Chinese society. Furthermore, Confucius’ ideal of Great Harmony, which values integration while respecting differences, echoes the tenets of interculturalism. In conclusion, interculturalism can serve as an effective theory for cultivating a shared society.
Using simulation to model clinical medication reviews in community pharmacies

Providing enhanced clinical services to complex patients is one way that community pharmacies are responding to the shift in healthcare to outcomes-based performance over fee-for-services. One enhanced service that is becoming more popular is comprehensive medication reviews (CMRs). CMRs allow pharmacists to educate the patient on how to correctly manage their medications and discover any possible drug therapy problems (DTPs) that could be effecting the patient's adherence and/or health outcomes. Currently, there is not a specific workflow or process for the best way to perform CMRs in a community pharmacy setting. We developed discrete event simulation models to test different CMR workflows in two different pharmacies and determine the effects on patient waiting time and staff utilization.
Differences between Supportive Music and Imagery and Music Listening during Outpatient Chemotherapy and Potential Moderators of Treatment Effects.

Background Supportive music and imagery and music listening interventions have been effective in decreasing distress and improving mood in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, but it is unclear whether the two interventions differ in their treatment benefits. Furthermore, previous studies have not examined moderators to determine which subgroup(s) of patients may benefit most from each intervention. Objective To examine the effects of supportive music and imagery compared with preferred music listening on responsiveness to music therapy, distress, anxiety and depression, and benefit finding. A secondary purpose was to explore sense of coherence and locus of control as potential moderators of intervention effectiveness. Methods A single-session, two-group comparative effectiveness randomized trial in two cancer centers. Patients were randomized to supportive music and imagery or preferred music listening during outpatient chemotherapy treatment. Data were collected at baseline and immediately after the 45-minute session. ANCOVA models were used to determine main effects of intervention as well as pairing potential moderators with group assignment to explore differences in intervention effects by moderator. Results There were differential effects between the two interventions with the supportive music and imagery group scoring higher in responsiveness to music therapy and benefit finding. The music listening group scores indicated lower distress. The exploratory moderating analyses suggested Health Locus of Control-Internal and Sense of Coherence influenced intervention effectiveness. Conclusions Music and imagery and preferred music listening experiences may serve different therapeutic purposes, access and activate different patient resources, and may be helpful at different stages of treatment.
Classification and Microvascular Flap Selection for Anterior Cranial Fossa Reconstruction.

Background Microvascular reconstruction of the anterior cranial fossa (ACF) creates difficult challenges. Reconstructive goals and flap selection vary based on the defect location within the ACF. This study evaluates the feasibility and reliability of free tissue transfer for salvage reconstruction of low, middle, and high ACF defects. Methods A retrospective review was performed. Reconstructions were anatomically classified as low (anterior skull base), middle (frontal bar/sinus), and high (frontal bone/soft tissue). Subjects were evaluated based on pathologic indication and goal, type of flap used, and complications observed. Results Eleven flaps in 10 subjects were identified and anatomic sites included: low ( n = 5), middle ( n = 3), and high ( n = 3). Eight of 11 reconstructions utilized osteocutaneous flaps including the osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap (OCRFFF) ( n = 7) and fibula ( n = 1). Other reconstructions included a split calvarial graft wrapped within a temporoparietal fascia free flap ( n = 1), latissimus myocutaneous flap ( n = 1), and rectus abdominis myofascial flap ( n = 1). All 11 flaps were successful without microvascular compromise. No complications were observed in the high and middle ACF defect groups. Two of five flaps in the low defect group using OCRFFF flaps failed to achieve surgical goals despite demonstrating healthy flaps upon re-exploration. Complications included persistent cerebrospinal fluid leak ( n = 1) and pneumocephalus ( n = 1), requiring flap repositioning in one subject and a second microvascular flap in the second subject to achieve surgical goals. Conclusion In our experience, osteocutaneous flaps (especially the OCRFFF) are preferred for complete autologous reconstruction of high and middle ACF defects. Low skull base defects are more difficult to reconstruct, and consideration of free muscle flaps (no bone) should be weighed as an option in this anatomic area.
Isolation of functional RNA from periderm tissue of potato tubers and sweet potato storage roots

A reliable and efficient protocol is given for the isolation of mRNA from the periderm of potato tubers and sweet potato storage roots. The method relies on a urea-based lysis buffer and lithium chloride to concentrate total RNA away from most of the cytoplasmic components and to prevent oxidation of phenolic complexes. To enhance the physical separation of the RNA from other macromolecular components, the RNA fraction was incubated in the presence of the cationic surfactant Catrimox-14. Poly(A)+ mRNA was separated from total RNA and other contaminants by using Promega's MagneSphere technology. The mRNA was suitable for cDNA library construction and RNA fingerprinting.
Strain and failure analysis of graphite/epoxy plates with cracks - Experimental-stress-analysis techniques were used to study the deformation and failure of uniaxially loaded graphite/epoxy plates with cracks and the effect of notch size was analyzed

The objective of this investigation was to study the deformation and failure of uniaxially loaded graphite/epoxy plates with cracks and to determine the influence of notch size on failure. The specimens were quasi-isotropic laminates with cracks of various lengths. They were instrumented with strain gages, photoelastic coatings and moire grids. Strains near the crack tip show two distinct points of rate change at strain levels of 0.002 and 0.006, the latter corresponding to the ultimate strain of the 90-deg plies. Failure near the crack tip takes the form of a damage zone consisting of ply subcracking along fibers, local delamination and fiber breakage. Failure occurs when this damage zone reaches some critical value. Measured maximum strains at failure exceeded twice the ultimate strain of the unnotched laminate. The average stress over a characteristic distance (5 mm) from the crack tip was used as a criterion to describe the influence of crack length on failure. Comparison of results with those from similar specimens with circular holes showed that strength was nearly independent of notch geometry in this case, i.e., specimens with holes and cracks of the same size had nearly the same strength.
Ophthalmic lesions in a population of cold-stunned sea turtles (Chelonia mydas, Lepidochelys kempii, Caretta caretta).

Objective To document ocular lesions present in cold-stunned sea turtles and determine the impact of these lesions on their release. Animals All sea turtles (Caretta caretta, Chelonia mydas, and Lepidochelys kempii) presenting to rehabilitation centers in North Carolina over two cold stun seasons. Procedures Complete ophthalmic examination using slit-lamp biomicroscopy, fluorescein stain, rebound tonometry, and occasionally binocular indirect funduscopy was performed within 1 week of presenting to the rehabilitation centers. A second examination was performed 2 weeks after the first examination in animals with ocular lesions and still present at the center. Results One hundred and sixty-four turtles (121 Chelonia mydas, 26 Lepidochelys kempii, 17 Caretta caretta) were evaluated over two cold stun seasons (2016-2017 and 2017-2018). Ocular or periocular lesions were identified in 78 of 164 (47.5%) turtles examined with 37 of 164 (22.5%) having bilateral disease. The most common ocular lesion was superficial corneal ulceration, accounting for 21.3% of all lesions. Adnexal lesions were also common, while intraocular abnormalities were overall rare. Most resolved uneventfully. Though some blinding lesions were noted, these were not present bilaterally in any one turtle, and thus, ocular findings did not affect release. Conclusion Ocular lesions in cold-stunned sea turtles are common. Some of these lesions are potentially blinding or require appropriate care, so evaluation of cold-stunned turtles should include a complete ophthalmic examination.
Combination of curcumin and luteolin synergistically inhibits TNF-α-induced vascular inflammation in human vascular cells and mice

Emerging evidence shows that phytochemicals, the secondary plant metabolites present in a large variety of foods, have the potential ability in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the dosages of phytochemicals in the cellular and animal studies are too high to reach in humans by relevant foods or dietary supplement intake. The aims of this study were to investigate whether and how combined curcumin and luteolin synergistically inhibit tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced monocytes adhesion endothelium, a crucial step of the development of endothelial dysfunction, both in human vascular cells and mouse aortic endothelium. Our results show that combined curcumin (1 μM) and luteolin (0.5 μM) synergistically (combination index is 0.60) inhibited TNF-α-induced monocytes adhesion to human EA.hy926 endothelial cells while the individual chemicals did not have such effect at the selected concentrations. We also found that TNF-α-enhanced protein expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB translocation were synergistically reduced by the combined curcumin and luteolin in EA.hy 926 cells while the individual chemical did not have this inhibitory effect. Consistently, 2 weeks dietary intake of combined curcumin (500 mg/kg) and luteolin (500 mg/kg) in C57BL/6 mice synergistically prevented TNF-α-stimulated adhesion of mouse monocytes to aortic endothelium ex vivo as well as the TNF-α-increased aortic protein expression of MCP-1 and VCAM-1. Therefore, combined curcumin and luteolin at physiological concentrations synergistically inhibits TNF-α-induced monocytes adhesion to endothelial cells and expressions of MCP-1 and VCAM-1 via suppressing NF-κB translocation into the nucleus.
American Nurses Association, Regional, State, and Denominational Faith Community Nursing Organizations

While there are national organizations that support the ongoing development and maturation of the faith community nurse and specialty practice, the local and state organizations are often life lines to faith community nurses who work primarily in faith communities of varying religious denominations in a very independent manner. This chapter will discuss the different national local, regional, and state networks that provide ongoing education, support, and resources to faith community nurses working in local faith communities. These same faith community organizations are at work with local and state governments to highlight the value and impact faith community nurses have on a daily basis in the faith communities where they serve.
Statistics on manifolds

Abstract Statistical analysis of data on a Riemannian manifold extends fundamental concepts from multivariate statistical analysis in vector spaces by using the metric structure. The first example of generalizing a classical statistic to the manifold setting is the Frechet mean, which minimizes the sum-of-squared geodesic distances to the data. Such a geometric least-squares principle also leads to extensions of principal components analysis and regression on manifolds. From these geometric concepts, we extend to a probabilistic viewpoint by defining normal distributions on Riemannian manifolds. This leads to probabilistic modeling and inference through both maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches.
Decompensation Prediction in Hemodialysis by a Feedback Model as Identified by Miniature Wearable Sensors

A simple feedback model for blood pressure regulation is described that incorporates multiple autoregulatory feedback mechanisms, all of which may be monitored by a proposed wearable sensor. The feedback signals measured, either directly or indirectly, are heartrate, peripheral vascular resistance, and compression volume. When examined for trends among hemodialysis patients, sustained reduction in feedback amplitudes below those predicted by the model appears to be strongly associated with later blood pressure decompensation.
My body, your emotions: Viscerosomatic modulation of facial expression discrimination.

Abstract Interoception reflects the ability to observe one’s innermost bodily states. Here, we assessed whether interoceptive accuracy (IA) is related to the empathic ability to discriminate others’ emotions. Participants (N = 111) completed a heartbeat tracking task, as well as an emotional go/no-go task with fearful and disgusted faces. Empathic facial mimicry during the go/no-go task was measured using electromyography (EMG) of the Corrugator Supercilii muscle. Higher IA was associated with higher perceptual sensitivity for emotional faces but was unrelated to response bias. Individuals higher in IA had stronger coupling between facial EMG and task performance. IA and facial EMG were associated with Go but not with NoGo trials, consistent with a specific modulation of perceptual sensitivity. These results suggest that tuning into one’s own viscerosomatic signals relates to empathic mimicry and perception of others’ emotional states.
Obese Tracheostomy: A Challenging Path From Surgery to Decannulation.

Purpose Well-defined or standardized tracheostomy decannulation guidelines are not available, and the long-term data on the outcomes in the obese are limited. The purpose of the present study was to determine the outcomes associated with tracheostomy for obese patients from surgery to decannulation. The specific aims were to measure 1) the rate of successful tracheostomy downsize; 2) the rate of successful tracheostomy decannulation; and 3) the associated pre-, intra-, and postoperative subject variables with tracheostomy downsizing and decannulation success. Patients and Methods A retrospective cohort study was implemented to determine the outcomes associated with downsizing and decannulation after obese tracheostomy. The predictive value of the independent variables from the subjects' pre-, intra-, and postoperative periods were evaluated as they related to successful downsizing and decannulation. The included subjects had undergone tracheostomy from April 2016 to December 2018. The primary outcomes were successful downsizing and successful decannulation. A downsize checklist was created with the following yes/no criteria that should reasonably be met before downsizing a tracheostomy in an obese subject. The secondary analysis was the association between the checklist criteria and successful downsize and decannulation. The data were analyzed using the χ2 test, analysis of variance, t test, likelihood ratio, Kaplan-Meier analysis with Cox regression, and logistic binary regression, with statistical significance set at P Results The study sample included 82 obese subjects (body mass index [BMI] >30 kg/m2), with a mean age of 55.7 ± 15.0 years; 56% were men. Only 62 of the subjects could be downsized (75.6%) and 39 (47.6%) could be decannulated. The general trend showed that an increased BMI resulted in an increased time to decannulation, long-term tracheostomy dependence, and less successful downsize and decannulation. For patients with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or more, the downsize success rate was 93.5% and the decannulation success rate was 89.7%. Conclusions Obese patients have a greater likelihood of complications and an increased risk of remaining tracheostomy dependent. Consideration of the patient's BMI is crucial when initiating the decannulation progression.
Molecular Mapping of the Active Site of an Aging Antigen

An aging antigen, senescent cell antigen, resides on the 911 amino acid membrane protein band 3. It marks cells for removal by initiating specific IgG autoantibody binding (1–22). This appears to be a general physiologic process for removing senescent and damaged cells in mammals and other vertebrates (4). Although the initial studies were done using human erythrocytes as a model, senescent cell antigen occurs on all cells examined (4). The aging antigen itself is generated by the degradation of an important structural and transport membrane molecule, protein band 3 (5). Besides its role in the removal of senescent and damaged cells, senescent cell antigen also appears to be involved in the removal of erythrocytes in clinical hemolytic anemias (7,8), and the removal of malaria-infected erythrocytes (23,24). Oxidation generates senescent cell antigen in situ (6). Neither cross-linking nor hemoglobin appear to play a role. Although storage is the only in vitro model that mimics cellular aging in situ, we have discovered three alterations/mutations of band 3 that permit insight into aging in situ. One mutation with an addition to band 3 has normal or decelerated red cell aging. In contrast, another band 3 alteration with a suspected deletion or substitution that renders band 3 more susceptible to proteolysis, shows accelerated aging. The third alteration which is also more susceptible to proteolysis is associated with neurologic defects.
An Optimized Protocol for In Vivo Analysis of Tumor Cell Division in a Sleeping Beauty-Mediated Mouse Glioma Model.

Malignant gliomas are the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults, and high mitotic rates are associated with their malignancy. Gliomas were modeled in mice using the Sleeping Beauty system to encode genetic lesions recapitulating the human disease. The presented workflow allows the study of the proliferation of glioma cells in vivo, enabling the identification of different phases of the cell cycle, with the advantage that 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine staining does not involve denaturation steps and samples do not require histological processing. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Nunez et al. (2019).
Examining the Role of Novel CKD Therapies for the ADPKD Patient

Two new classes of drugs, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors (HIF-PHis), are likely to have a significant effect on the management of CKD. SGLT2is were approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of diabetes in 2013, and have now been shown to slow the progressive loss of kidney function in both diabetic and nondiabetic kidney disease (1⇓–3). SGLT2is demonstrate mortality benefit for patients with CKD, distinguishing them from renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASis), which have otherwise been the mainstay of treatment for patients with diabetic or proteinuric CKD and which provide mortality benefit for a subset of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (4). Studies of SGLT2is in nondiabetic CKD have been extremely encouraging and we expect that these medications will soon become standard of care for diabetic or nondiabetic, and proteinuric or nonproteinuric, CKD. The potential benefits of SGLT2is have not been specifically explored in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), because both major trials of SGLT2is in nondiabetic CKD (the ongoing EMPA-KIDNEY study [5] and the recently published DAPA-CKD study [1]) excluded patients with ADPKD. Separately, HIF-PHis are anticipated to have a major effect in the management of anemia of CKD. The current use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) involves a complex balance between treating anemia and limiting potential adverse effects of cardiovascular events, hypertension, and loss of vascular access (6). HIF-PHis have beneficial effects on iron metabolism, hypertension, and inflammation (7). However, there are concerns that HIF activation could promote cyst growth (8) when used for treatment of patients with ADPKD. Here, we examine reasons why patients with ADPKD, who comprise approximately 5% of the ESKD population in the United States, warrant unique consideration regarding treatment with SGLT2is or HIF-PHis. We …
Researchers' commercial video game knowledge associated with differences in beliefs about the impact of gaming on human behavior

Abstract Over the past thirty years, research situated in many individual sub-domains of psychology has investigated the potential impact of video game play on behavior. Interestingly, although researchers in the various sub-fields are (presumably) versed in the results of the published research, there nonetheless remain significant individual differences in opinion across researchers regarding what exactly the given literatures “say.” Previous work has suggested that some individual difference factors, such as prior gaming experience, can account for some of this variance. The current study expands this work by examining several additional individual difference factors including field of study (e.g., whether one primarily studies links between video games and aggression, cognitive skill, or well-being) and video game knowledge. Both types of individual differences were associated with differences in belief regarding the state of the literature. In particular, video game knowledge was negatively associated with the belief that video games can lead to addiction and cause aggression and violence, and higher knowledge scores were positively associated with a belief that games can model prosocial behavior. Results are presented in a larger discussion of how researchers’ primary domains of knowledge influence the study of technology of effects, such as those from video game play.
A case series of giant molluscum contagiosum in an immigrant African pediatric population

Giant molluscum contagiosum (MC) has a well-known association with human immunodeficiency virus and other immune deficiency states. Although rare, it can be seen in healthy immunocompetent children. We describe eight cases of giant MC in healthy, immunocompetent African immigrant children in the Columbus, Ohio area. This report describes the clinical characteristics, treatment, and course of giant MC in this patient population.
Adaptive Pre-specification in Randomized Trials With and Without Pair-Matching

In randomized trials, adjustment for measured covariates during the analysis can reduce variance and increase power. To avoid misleading inference, the analysis plan must be pre-specified. However, it is often unclear a priori which baseline covariates (if any) should be adjusted for in the analysis. Consider, for example, the Sustainable East Africa Research in Community Health (SEARCH) trial for HIV prevention and treatment. There are 16 matched pairs of communities and many potential adjustment variables, including region, HIV prevalence, male circumcision coverage, and measures of community-level viral load. In this paper, we propose a rigorous procedure to data-adaptively select the adjustment set, which maximizes the efficiency of the analysis. Specifically, we use cross-validation to select from a pre-specified library the candidate targeted maximum likelihood estimator (TMLE) that minimizes the estimated variance. For further gains in precision, we also propose a collaborative procedure for estimating the known exposure mechanism. Our small sample simulations demonstrate the promise of the methodology to maximize study power, while maintaining nominal confidence interval coverage. We show how our procedure can be tailored to the scientific question (intervention effect for the study sample vs. for the target population) and study design (pair-matched or not). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase Transitions in Cd1-xZnxTe (0 ≤ x ≤ 0. 55)

The pressure-induced phase transitions and compressibility of Cd1-xZnxTe (0 ≤x≤ 0. 55) have been investigated to a pressure of 11 GPa. The B3-to-B 1 transformation shows a linear increase from 3. 4 GPa to 7. 0 GPa as the mole fraction of Zn varied from 0 to 55%.
Effect of a solid insulator on the spark yield of S/sub 2/F/sub 10/ in SF/sub 6/

Because of its toxicity S/sub 2/F/sub 10/ production in SF/sub 6/ discharges has been the focus of intensive study in recent years. In previous work we have examined the yield of S/sub 2/F/sub 10/ for corona, spark and arc discharges and, in sparks, the effects of water and oxygen have been studied systematically. Here we report the influence of an insulating solid spacer on the production of S/sub 2/F/sub 10/ in SF/sub 6/ when subjected to spark discharges in the energy range 1.6-43 J/spark at a gas pressure of 1 atm. Analyses of the sparked gases were performed
Nuclear and nucleolar targeting sequences of c-erb-A, c-myb, N-myc, p53, HSP70, and HIV tat proteins.

Abstract Protein import into the cell nucleus requires specific binding of nuclear proteins to the nuclear pore complex. Based on amino acid sequence "motifs" of known nuclear targeting signals, we identified peptides within a number of nuclear proteins with likely nuclear targeting potential and tested their function by transfecting into cells fusion genes that produce the cytoplasmic "reporter" protein, pyruvate kinase (PK), joined to the test sequence. Sequences within c-myb (PLLKKIKQ), N-myc (PPQKKIKS), p53 (PQPKKKP), and c-erb-A (SKRVAKRKL) oncoproteins that direct PK hybrids into the nucleus were identified. A peptide (GRKKRRQRRRAP) of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) tat protein (Tat), which contains two short basic regions, targets fusion proteins to the nucleolus. The COOH-terminal basic Tat region (QRRRAP) does not target PK hybrid proteins into the nucleus, but mutation of two basic amino acids in this region decreases but does not abolish nucleolar accumulation mediated by the entire Tat nucleolar targeting sequence. Moreover, the c-Myc nuclear targeting sequence fused to the COOH-terminal basic Tat region (PAAKRVKLDQRRRAP) effectively localizes PK hybrids to the nucleus and nucleolus. A similar sequence (FKRKHKKDISQNKRAVRR) in the human heat-shock protein HSP70 also localizes PK to the nucleus and nucleolus.
Glutamate transporter GLT-1 mediates N-acetylcysteine inhibition of cocaine reinstatement.

Both pre-clinical and clinical studies indicate that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) may be useful in treating relapse to addictive drug use. Cocaine self-administration in rats reduces both cystine-glutamate exchange and glutamate transport via GLT-1 in the nucleus accumbens, and NAC treatment normalizes these two glial processes critical for maintaining glutamate homeostasis. However, it is not known if one or both of these actions by NAC is needed to inhibit relapse to cocaine seeking. To determine whether the restoration of GLT-1 and/or cystine-glutamate exchange is required for NAC to inhibit cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine seeking, we utilized the rat self-administration/extinction/reinstatement model of cocaine relapse. Rats were pre-treated in the nucleus accumbens with vivo-morpholino antisense oligomers targeting either GLT-1 or xCT (catalytic subunit of the cystine-glutamate exchanger) overlapping with daily NAC administration during extinction (100 mg/kg, i.p. for the last 5 days). Rats then underwent cue-induced reinstatement of active lever pressing in the absence of NAC, to determine if preventing NAC-induced restoration of one or the other protein was sufficient to block the capacity of chronic NAC to inhibit reinstatement. The vivo-morpholino suppression of xCT reduced cystine-glutamate exchange but did not affect NAC-induced reduction of reinstated cocaine seeking. In contrast, suppressing NAC-induced restoration of GLT-1 not only prevented NAC from inhibiting reinstatement, but augmented the capacity of cues to reinstate cocaine seeking. We hypothesized that the increased reinstatement after inhibiting NAC induction of GLT-1 resulted from increased extracellular glutamate, and show that augmented reinstatement is prevented by blocking mGluR5. Restoring GLT-1, not cystine-glutamate exchange, is a key mechanism whereby daily NAC reduces cue-induced cocaine reinstatement.
Dehydroepiandrosterone 3 beta-sulphate is an endogenous activator of the peroxisome-proliferation pathway: induction of cytochrome P-450 4A and acyl-CoA oxidase mRNAs in primary rat hepatocyte culture and inhibitory effects of Ca(2+)-channel blockers

The role of steroids related to the adrenal androgen dehydroepiandrosterone (5-androstene-3 beta-ol-17-one; DHEA) in regulating the expression of peroxisomal and cytochrome P-450 4A (CYP4A) enzymes active in fatty acid metabolism was assessed using a primary rat hepatocyte culture system. Exposure of hepatocytes to the peroxisome proliferator, clofibric acid (10-250 microM), for 48-96 h led to substantial increases in CYP4A protein, CYP4A1, CYP4A2 and CYP4A3 mRNAs, and the mRNAs encoding both forms of peroxisomal acyl-CoA oxidase (ACOX-I and ACOX-II), as judged by Northern-blot analysis using gene-specific oligonucleotide probes. Although DHEA treatment in vivo is effective in inducing these mRNAs in rat liver, it had no effect in the cultured hepatocytes. In contrast, treatment of the cells with DHEA 3 beta-sulphate (DHEA-S; 10-250 microM) stimulated major increases in CYP4A and ACOX mRNA levels. Examination of several analogues indicated a preference for 3 beta-sulphate over 17 beta-sulphated steroids and the inactivity of a 3 alpha-hydroxy-17 beta-sulphate derivative (DHEA-S > 5-androstene-3 beta,17 beta-diol 3-sulphate approximately 5 alpha-androstene-3 beta-ol-17-one 3-sulphate > 5-androstene-3 beta, 17 beta,17 beta-diol 17-sulphate approximately 5 beta-androstane-3 alpha-ol-17-one 3-sulphate >> 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol 17-sulphate). Induction of CYP4A mRNAs by either DHEA-S or clofibric acid was partially blocked by structurally diverse Ca(2+)-channel antagonists (nicardipine, nifedipine and diltiazem; 50 microM), suggesting that both the steroidal and fibrate classes of CYP4A inducers stimulate peroxisomal-proliferative responses via a Ca(2+)-dependent pathway. Retinoic acid alone slightly induced CYP4A mRNAs but did not enhance the induction by clofibrate or DHEA-S. As DHEA-S corresponds to a physiologically important major circulating androgen, these findings suggest that it may serve as an endogenous regulator of hepatic peroxisome enzyme levels. They further suggest that Ca(2+)-channel blockers may be useful pharmacological tools for the further study of the underlying cellular mechanism whereby endogenous steroids and fibrate drugs induce peroxisome proliferation, and the relationship of these events to activation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor.
Density, overcompleteness, and localization of frames

This work presents a quantitative framework for describing the overcompleteness of a large class of frames. It introduces notions of localization and approximation between two frames F = {fi}i∈I and E = {ej}j∈G (G a discrete abelian group), relating the decay of the expansion of the elements of F in terms of the elements of E via a map a : I → G. A fundamental set of equalities are shown between three seemingly unrelated quantities: the relative measure of F , the relative measure of E—both of which are determined by certain averages of inner products of frame elements with their corresponding dual frame elements—and the density of the set a(I) in G. Fundamental new results are obtained on the excess and overcompleteness of frames, on the relationship between frame bounds and density, and on the structure of the dual frame of a localized frame. These abstract results yield an array of new implications for irregular Gabor frames. Various Nyquist density results for Gabor frames are recovered as special cases, but in the process both their meaning and implications are clarified. New results are obtained on the excess and overcompleteness of Gabor frames, on the relationship between frame bounds and density, and on the structure of the dual frame of an irregular Gabor frame. More generally, these results apply both to Gabor frames and to systems of Gabor molecules, whose elements share only a common envelope of concentration in the time-frequency plane.
An adaptation of the capillary pH electrode for practical use.

CAPILLARY electrodes for pH meters have been applied to the accurate determination of pH when only limited samples were available. This type of electrode has proved particularly valuable for the study of plasma or blood from infants or small animals. However, the problem of frequent plugging and breakage encountered while filling and rinsing the capillary by gravity and/or capillary action has made the micro pH electrode difficult, if not impractical, to use for routine work. Other authors have described a suction system applicable only to the cleansing of a different type of capillary electrode. The accompanying diagram shows how a simple suction system may be attached to the Beckman capillary to allow easy, controlled filling with buffer solutions, plasma or blood, and to permit thorough rinsing.
Going in Reverse to Go Forward: Institutional Repositories and The New York Public Library

The Research Libraries of the New York Public Library is one of the most significant public information centers in the world. Since the opening in 1911 of its flagship building at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street in the heart of Manhattan , the Library has aimed to serve people from all walks of life and on a global scale. ...
Vegetative protein and its relation to grain protein in high and low grain protein winter wheats

Better understanding of the physiological and genetic basis of wheat grain protein will contribute to breeding efforts for this characteristic. This study provides information about plant protein distribution in high and low grain protein winter wheats (Triticum aestivum L.) at different growth stages and its relation to grain protein. Field experiments involved two winter wheats with high grain protein, ‘Redwin’ and ‘Lancota’, and two with low grain protein, ‘Centurk’ and ‘Brule’ in two years. Protein content in the head, the upper three leaves, the first and second leaf, and the peduncle were estimated with Near Infrared Reflectance Spectrophotometer (NIR) at five growth stages. High protein cultivars had higher leaf protein at ripe and higher protein content in the heads at most growth stages than low grain protein cultivars. High protein cultivars had lower protein content in the peduncle than low protein cultivars at ripe. Correlation coefficients between plant-part protein and grain protein ranged from 0.48 to 0.87 for the heads, from −0.45 to −0.79 for the peduncle, and from 0.55 to 0.84 for the leaves. A combination of head, peduncle, and first leaf protein at heading was significantly related to grain protein (R2=0.71). Indirect selection for head, peduncle, and first leaf (flag leaf) protein at heading should result in increased grain protein. Recurrent selection for increased grain protein, with parent selectionbefore anthesis and hybridization should be successful.
Transdiagnostic mechanisms in depression and anxiety: The role of rumination and attentional control

Abstract Background Deficits in attentional control have been hypothesized to cause rumination, suggesting that the relationships between attentional control and clinical symptoms may be mediated in part by rumination. However, to date, no clinical study has examined these constructs transdiagnostically in a path analysis model. Methods Fifty-one adults presenting for treatment completed measures of self-reported attentional control, rumination, and depression and anxiety symptoms. A bias-corrected path analysis-based approach was employed to test whether indirect (i.e., mediating) effects of rumination were significantly associated with the direct effects of attentional control on depression and anxiety symptoms. Separate models for depression and anxiety symptoms were tested along with reverse models using attentional control as a proposed mediator. Results The relationship between attentional control and clinical symptomatology (i.e., both depression and anxiety symptoms) was mediated by rumination. Poor attentional control was associated with more rumination and consequently more severe symptoms of depression and anxiety. The reverse relationship (i.e., attentional control mediating the relationship between rumination and depression or anxiety symptoms) was not significant. Limitations Study design did not allow testing of temporal precedence for the mediation models. All constructs were assessed via self-report. Conclusions Attentional control appears to impact depression and anxiety symptoms through rumination. The pathway between poor attentional control and emotion dysregulation via rumination suggests that interventions targeting attentional control may decrease maladaptive ruminative processes, leading to improved emotion regulation and reduced clinical symptomatology. Future studies should examine the stability of this mediational relationship over time (and in the face of targeted interventions).
Long-term release of a thiobenzamide from a backbone functionalized poly(lactic acid)

Hydrogen sulfide is emerging as a critically important molecule in medicine, yet there are few methods for the long-term delivery of molecules that degrade to release H2S. In this paper the first long-term release of a thiobenzamide that degrades to release H2S is described. A series of polymers were synthesized by the copolymerization of L-lactide and a lactide functionalized with 4-hydroxythiobenzamide. A new method to attach functional groups to a derivative of L-lactide is described based on the addition of a thiol to an α,β-unsaturated lactide using catalytic I2. This reaction proceeded under mild conditions and did not ring-open the lactone. The copolymers had molecular weights from 8 to 88 kg mol−1 with PDIs below 1.50. Two sets of microparticles were fabricated from a copolymer; the average diameters of the microparticles were 0.53 and 12 μm. The degradation of the smaller microparticles was investigated in buffered water to demonstrate the slow release of thiobenzamide over 4 weeks. Based on the ability to synthesize polymers with different loadings of thiobenzamide and that thiobenzamide is a known precursor to H2S, these particles provide a polymer-based method to deliver H2S over days to weeks.
Depletion of white adipocyte progenitors suppresses obesity development (LB763)

The study objective is to test a new approach to obesity prevention. Overgrowth of white adipose tissue (WAT) in obesity occurs as a result of adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia. Expansion and r...
Recurrent abdominal pain in children: A review of psychological factors and treatment

This paper reviews current knowledge regarding recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) and the physiological, dietary, and psychological variables that may have some influence in pain episodes. Emphasis is placed on psychological factors and studies that have investigated psychological treatment modalities. There is some limited evidence of physiological dysfunction in RAP patients, and while some researchers have asserted that RAP may be a dietary disorder, results of several studies do not support this assertion. Studies examining psychological variables in RAP patients show elevated anxiety levels; however, elevated anxiety is also associated with organic abdominal pain. Psychological treatments focusing on cognitive-behavioral methods have demonstrated success in treating RAP. Follow-up studies are needed to determine the long-term success of these treatments, and continued research examining which children benefit from treatment would also be beneficial.
Cross-Coupling Methods for the Large-Scale Preparation of an Imidazole−Thienopyridine: Synthesis of [2-(3-Methyl-3H-imidazol-4-yl)- thieno[3,2-b]pyridin-7-yl]-(2-methyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-amine

The multihundred-gram synthesis of [2-(3-methyl-3H-imidazol-4-yl)-thieno[3,2-b]pyridin-7-yl]-(2-methyl-1H-indol-5-yl)-amine (1) is described utilizing a Stille cross-coupling of an iodothienopyridine (3) with 5-(tributylstannyl)-1-methylimidazole (11). Several cross-coupling methods were evaluated for the conversion of thienopyridine 3 to imidazole−thienopyridine 2, but only two were effective: the Stille coupling and a Negishi cross-coupling of the organozinc reagent derived from 2-(tert-butyldimethylsilyl)-1-methylimidazole and iodothienopyridine (3). The latter procedure worked well on laboratory scale (<50 g), but was capricious upon scale-up. The issues with scale-up of an organostannane reagent are discussed, including control and analysis of organotin levels.
US housing policies for the 1980s

Abstract Conference on Housing Policies in the Eighties: Choices and Outcomes, organized jointly by the Urban Affairs Programme of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and the Institute for Policy Studies, Washington, DC, Alexandria, Virginia, USA, 17–18 May 1985
Change in access blood flow over time predicts vascular access thrombosis

Change in access blood flow over time predicts vascular access thrombosis. Background Vascular access thrombosis accounts for at least $1 billion dollars in annual expenses and 25% of hospitalizations for chronic hemodialysis patients. Low vascular access blood flow (less than 800ml/min) has been shown to modestly increase the relative risk for thrombosis in the subsequent three months. In this study, it is hypothesized that a time-dependent decrease in vascular access blood flow may be more predictive of subsequent thrombosis especially in vascular accesses with flows more than 800ml/min, since it would indicate the development of a critical outlet stenosis in the graft. Methods Ninety-five accesses in 91 CHD patients were prospectively followed over 18months. Vascular access blood flow was measured every six months by the ultrasound dilution technique. Thrombotic events were recorded during the three study periods. Results A total of 34 thrombotic events in 95 accesses were documented through the total study duration. Accesses that thrombosed had a 22% decrease in vascular access blood flow during the first observation period and a further 41% decrease during the second observation period as compared to 4% drop and 15% increase during the first and second observation periods, respectively, for accesses that did not thrombose. There was an estimated 13.6-fold (95%, confidence interval 2.68 to 69.16) increase in the relative risk of thrombosis for accesses with more than 35% decrease in vascular access blood flow compared to those accesses with no change in blood flow. There was no statistical difference in the average vascular access blood flow of all patients over the study period. Conclusions Accesses that show a large (>15%) decrement in vascular access blood flow are associated with a high risk of thrombosis. Serial measurements of vascular access blood flow predict access thrombosis.