cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Visualizing complexes of phospholipids with Streptomyces phospholipase D by automated docking

The automated docking program AutoDock was used to dock nine phosphatidic acids (PAs), six phosphatidylcholines, five phosphatidylethanolamines, four phosphatidylglycerols, one phosphatidylinositol and two phosphatidylserines, which have two identical saturated fatty acid residues with an even numbers of carbon atoms, onto the active site of Streptomyces sp. PMF phospholipase D (PLD). Two PAs with one double bond on the fatty acid chain linked to the C2 of the glycerol residue were also docked. In general, binding energies become progressively more negative as fatty acid residues become longer. When these residues are of sufficient length, one is coiled against a hydrophobic cliff in a well that also holds the glycerol and phosphate residues and the head group, while the other generally is bound by a hydrophobic surface outside the well. Phosphatidylcholines have the only head group that is firmly bound by the active site, giving a possible structural explanation for the low selectivity of Streptomyces PLD for other phospholipid substrates.
Disruption of the FATB Gene in Arabidopsis Demonstrates an Essential Role of Saturated Fatty Acids in Plant Growth

Acyl-acyl carrier protein thioesterases determine the amount and type of fatty acids that are exported from the plastids. To better understand the role of the FATB class of acyl-acyl carrier protein thioesterases, we identified an Arabidopsis mutant with a T-DNA insertion in the FATB gene. Palmitate (16:0) content of glycerolipids of the mutant was reduced by 42% in leaves, by 56% in flowers, by 48% in roots, and by 56% in seeds. In addition, stearate (18:0) was reduced by 50% in leaves and by 30% in seeds. The growth rate was reduced in the mutant, resulting in 50% less fresh weight at 4 weeks compared with wild-type plants. Furthermore, mutant plants produced seeds with low viability and altered morphology. Analysis of individual glycerolipids revealed that the fatty acid composition of prokaryotic plastid lipids was largely unaltered, whereas the impact on eukaryotic lipids varied but was particularly severe for phosphatidylcholine, with a >4-fold reduction of 16:0 and a 10-fold reduction of 18:0 levels. The total wax load of fatb-ko plants was reduced by 20% in leaves and by 50% in stems, implicating FATB in the supply of saturated fatty acids for wax biosynthesis. Analysis of C18 sphingoid bases derived from 16:0 indicated that, despite a 50% reduction in exported 16:0, the mutant cells maintained wild-type levels of sphingoid bases, presumably at the expense of other cell components. The growth retardation caused by the fatb mutation was enhanced in a fatb-ko act1 double mutant in which saturated fatty acid content was reduced further. Together, these results demonstrate the in vivo role of FATB as a major determinant of saturated fatty acid synthesis and the essential role of saturates for the biosynthesis and/or regulation of cellular components critical for plant growth and seed development.
Multi-parametric monitoring and assessment of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) boiling by Harmonic Motion Imaging for Focused Ultrasound (HMIFU): An ex vivo feasibility study

Harmonic motion imaging for focused ultrasound (HMIFU) is a recently developed high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment monitoring method with feasibilities demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. Here, a multi-parametric study is performed to investigate both elastic and acoustics-independent viscoelastic tissue changes using the Harmonic Motion Imaging (HMI) displacement, axial compressive strain and change in relative phase shift during high energy HIFU treatment with tissue boiling. Forty three (n = 43) thermal lesions were formed in ex vivo canine liver specimens (n = 28). Two-dimensional (2D) transverse HMI displacement maps were also obtained before and after lesion formation. The same method was repeated in 10 s, 20 s and 30 s HIFU durations at three different acoustic powers of 8, 10, and 11 W, which were selected and verified as treatment parameters capable of inducing boiling using both thermocouple and passive cavitation detection (PCD) measurements. Although a steady decrease in the displacement, compressive strain, and relative change in the focal phase shift (Δϕ) were obtained in numerous cases, indicating an overall increase in relative stiffness, the study outcomes also showed that during boiling, a reverse lesion-to-background displacement contrast was detected, indicating potential change in tissue absorption, geometrical change and/or, mechanical gelatification or pulverization. Following treatment, corresponding 2D HMI displacement images of the thermal lesions also mapped consistent discrepancy in the lesion-to-background displacement contrast. Despite the expectedly chaotic changes in acoustic properties with boiling, the relative change in phase shift showed a consistent decrease, indicating its robustness to monitor biomechanical properties independent of the acoustic property changes throughout the HIFU treatment. In addition, the 2D HMI displacement images confirmed and indicated the increase in the thermal lesion size with treatment duration, which was validated against pathology. In conclusion, multi-parametric HMIFU was shown capable of monitoring and mapping tissue viscoelastic response changes during and after HIFU boiling, some of which were independent of the acoustic parameter changes.
Evolving Strategies in Catheter Ablation of Long-Standing Atrial Fibrillation

Since its original description in 1998, the technique of catheter-based atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation has undergone several modifications.1 Currently, many operators use an anatomic approach, consisting of circumferential lesions encircling individual or ipsilateral pulmonary veins (PVs), with additional empirical left atrial ablations (lines), whereas others perform a more PV-specific approach, using entrance and exit block to validate isolation, deferring any additional non-PV lesions, unless clinically indicated.2–7 Despite these differences in technique, there remain remarkable consistencies in the AF outcome data between centers, with overall single-procedure efficacy of ≥70% in achieving long-term arrhythmia control for patients with paroxysmal AF but significantly lower success rates in achieving a similar outcome for patients with persistent or permanent AF. The obvious implications of these observations are that the mechanisms underlying initiation and maintenance of persistent or permanent AF may extend beyond PVs. Although this remains an area of active discussion and debate, it has nevertheless prompted investigators to explore more extensive ablation strategies in these patients.8–10 Article see p 344 Consistent with this trend, in this issue of Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology , Rostock et al11 report their observations in patients with chronic AF. This was a single-center observational study in which 88 subjects underwent ablation during AF, using a step-wise approach comprising PV isolation followed by extensive left atrial, coronary sinus, and right atrial ablation, targeting areas manifesting continuous or rapid electric activity, local activation gradients, or centrifugal activation patterns. The end point of lesion creation was alteration in local electrogram characteristics, and the procedure end point was restoration of sinus rhythm, unless procedure duration exceeded 6 hours or the patient received ≥5 L of fluid, in which case AF was cardioverted. Patients were subsequently followed closely, with frequent Holter monitoring and clinic visits. Reablation was the preferred treatment …
Codes For Error Correction Based Upon Interpolation Of Real-number Sequences

Signal processing structures for changing the sampling rate of a signal are shown to be applicable as encoders and decoders for real-number error-correcting codes when their frequency domain characteristics are properly constrained. Block codes based upon constraints in the discrete Fourier transform domain are considered. Structures implementing this class of coders will be seen to result from decimating circulant matrices. It will be shown that correction of burst errors in coded signals can be accomplished by error-trapping structures. Hence the complete coding system is conveniently realizable by general-purpose, programmable, digital signal or image processors. 1 .O Introduction
RESEARCH ACTIVITIES ON HIGH-Tc SUPERCONDUCTORS IN JAPAN

Newly discovered high-Tc superconductor, Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O (BSCCO) systems are intensively investigated in Japan. Most works are experimental, but not theoretical. Some recent papers on (1) crystal structure, (2) impurity substitution effects and (3) thin film fabrication technologies are briefly reviewed.
Contemporary Anticoagulation Reversal Focus on Direct Thrombin Inhibitors and Factor Xa Inhibitors.

Several oral direct thrombin inhibitors (DTIs) and factor Xa (FXa) inhibitors have recent Food and Drug Administration approval or are under investigation in late-stage clinical trials for the prev...
Surface chemistry mediates adhesive structure, cytoskeletal organization, and fusion of macrophages

Surface chemistry modulates many critical functions of monocyte/macrophages such as adhesion, fusion, spreading, phagocytosis, and secretion. In this study, we investigated the effect of silicone modification on adhesive structure development and cytoskeletal reorganization of adherent macrophages on polyurethanes. Confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM) was used for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of cytoskeletal reorganization of adherent macrophages. Data presented here showed less spreading for adherent cells on silicone-modified materials due to the higher hydrophobicity and protein adsorption profile. This decrease in spreading was accompanied by less F-actin content in adherent cells on silicone-modified polyurethanes and PDMS control, indicating that silicone modification reduces the strength of adhesion. With the addition of interleukin-4 (IL-4) at days 3 and 7 to our culture, adherent cell morphology dramatically changed. The change in morphology led to higher macrophage fusion and foreign body giant cell (FBGC) formation on silicone modified materials after 10 days. In addition, mannose receptor (MR) expression was up-regulated on the silicone-modified polyurethanes and PDMS control in the presence of IL-4. Up-regulation of MR expression suggests an alternatively activated phenotype for adherent macrophages, which is accompanied with an attenuated proinflammatory cytokine production and reactive oxygen secretion. It appears that silicone modification accelerates acquisition of an alternative macrophage and FBGC phenotype, which may then result in increased polyurethane biostability.
Back-propagation learning in expert networks

Expert networks are event-driven, acyclic networks of neural objects derived from expert systems. The neural objects process information through a nonlinear combining function that is different from, and more complex than, typical neural network node processors. The authors develop back-propagation learning for acyclic, event-driven networks in general and derive a specific algorithm for learning in EMYCIN-derived expert networks. The algorithm combines back-propagation learning with other features of expert networks, including calculation of gradients of the nonlinear combining functions and the hypercube nature of the knowledge space. It offers automation of the knowledge acquisition task for certainty factors, often the most difficult part of knowledge extraction. Results of testing the learning algorithm with a medium-scale (97-node) expert network are presented. >
Steady flow in a channel or tube with an accelerating surface velocity. An exact solution to the Navier—Stokes equations with reverse flow

An exact solution to the Navier–Stokes equations for the flow in a channel or tube with an accelerating surface velocity is presented. By means of a similarity transformation the equations of motion are reduced to a single ordinary differential equation for the similarity function which is solved numerically. For the two-dimensional flow in a channel, a single solution is found to exist when the Reynolds number R is less than 310. When R exceeds 310, two additional solutions appear and form a closed branch connecting two different asymptotic states at infinite R. The large R structure of the solutions consists of an inviscid fluid core plus an O(R−1) thin boundary layer adjacent to the moving wall. Matched-asymptotic-expansion techniques are used to construct asymptotic series that are consistent with each of the numerical solutions.For the axisymmetric non-swirling flow in a tube, however, the situation is quite different. For R [Lt ] 10[sdot ]25, two solutions exist which form a closed branch. Beyond 10[sdot ]25, no similarity solutions exist within the range 10[sdot ]25 0. These solutions, however, do not evolve from the R = 0 state nor do they bifurcate from the non-swirling solutions at any finite value of R.
A milk-based method for detecting antimicrobial substances produced by lactic acid bacteria.

A new technique for the detection of antimicrobial substances produced by lactic acid bacteria has been developed. In this technique, milk agar plates were supplemented with tetrazolium chloride or tetrazolium blue dyes. Comparisons of milk agar assays with M17 agar plates indicated that, out of 30 bacterial strains, 13 strains produced bacteriocins or inhibitory substances that were detectable on milk agar plates but not on M17 agar plates. Multiple-strain lactococcal cultures are used in milk fermentations. To identify suitable strains to combine for industrial use, component strains must be tested for compatibility. The procedure described allows optimization of compatibility. The assay of putative producer and sensitive indicator strains using milk agar plates (11% nonfat dry milk plus .8% agar and .02% tetrazolium chloride or tetrazolium blue) provides an important tool to prevent allopathic interactions in mixed cultures.
Multiple signals of recognition memory in the medial temporal lobe.

The medial temporal lobe (MTL) is known to play an essential role in recognition memory (the ability to judge the prior occurrence of a stimulus). Electrophysiological studies in nonhuman pri- mates have suggested the presence of more than one type of recognition signal in the medial temporal lobe (e.g., novelty, familiarity, and recency). It has also been suggested that the perirhinal cortex plays an essential role in visual recognition memory. Here, we present fMRI results from 16 college-aged participants who underwent a continuous yes/no recognition task of novel and familiar pictures with multiple stim- ulus presentations. Our goal was to understand the dynamics of recogni- tion in the MTL over multiple trials. We hypothesized that we could see changes in signal with repeated exposure that carry information related to novelty, familiarity, and recency. Whole brain activation maps dem- onstrated a strong novelty effect, marked by activity in several frontal and occipital regions that decreases with increasing number of presenta- tions. The opposite pattern was observed in several other regions that include the supramarginal gyrus and inferior parietal lobule. In the MTL region, we observed monotonic decreases in activity across trials in the parahippocampal cortex as well as the anterior perirhinal cortex. We also observed monotonic increases in activity in the posterior perirhinal cortex with increasing memory strength. In addition, we observed clear effects of pre-experimental familiarity with the stimulus in several regions. Consistent with previously reported electrophysiological data, we found evidence for several medial temporal lobe signals carrying recency, familiarity, and novelty information. V C 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Integrating Service Learning in Engineering Clinics

Rowan University College of Engineering’s innovative curriculum with the engineering Clinic sequence provides a unique opportunity to integrate service learning activities that increase student awareness of social equity, global issues, and stakeholder concerns as they pertain to engineering practice. In many curricula, case studies are presented in specialized courses, or as segments of a design course, but identification of stakeholder needs and views are not effectively included in the design process itself; hence, societal or environmental effects are reported at the end of the project rather than integrated as part of design considerations. Service learning projects, such as Hurricane Katrina Relief project, and EWB-USA projects present an ideal framework for incorporating social, cultural, and environmental considerations into the design process in a meaningful way. These activities help all students realize the contribution that non-technical disciplines and points of view can have in implementing more socially equitable and environmentally benign engineering designs. They also prepare students to participate intelligently in public debates on technical policy issues. In addition, engineering students also have the opportunity to work on research projects with emphasis on social entrepreneurships. The junior/senior clinics provide students with valuable experiences that give them advantages when applying for internships, scholarships, graduate school, and jobs after graduation. Often, Rowan undergraduate students can point to conference or journal publications, engineering reports, design and fabrication experience or field work as evidence of their exceptional preparation for the real world. This is supported by anecdotal evidence and internship surveys from employers. The engineering clinic sequence is an excellent platform for integrating service learning into the engineering curriculum. The purpose of this paper is to present the mechanism that was developed to provide service learning opportunities that include a larger student body that have varied levels of interest. In addition, this paper, curriculum features, such as engineering clinics at Rowan University’s College of Engineering is presented. In addition, a detailed description of the service learning projects conducted in these clinics and their impact on Rowan and the host community is explained.
Possessive with in Germanic: have and the Role of P

. A central question regarding the syntax–semantics interface is the extent to which semantic primitives correspond one-to-one with syntactic primitives. Den Dikken (1995) proposed that all possession structures can be derived from an underlying locative structure, extending the work of Freeze (1992). This paper argues that such a unified approach is untenable, as there are possession expressions in Icelandic that cannot be derived from locative structures. The Icelandic vera með construction, translated as ‘is with’, provides important insight into the nature of have verbs. It is argued, along the lines of Kayne 1993 and Harley 2002, that have is derived from nonlocative prepositions like English with as in the man with blue eyes. A microcomparative investigation within Germanic supports an analysis whereby the variation in incorporation is correlated with variations in p heads. This analysis allows for a more natural account of the differences between have and be languages beyond Germanic.
Development of Reading in Grades K-2 in Spanish-Speaking English-Language Learners.

Development of English- and Spanish-reading skills was explored in a sample of 251 Spanish-speaking English-language learners from kindergarten through Grade 2. Word identification and reading comprehension developed at a normal rate based on monolingual norms for Spanish- and English-speaking children, but English oral language lagged significantly behind. Four categories of predictor variables were obtained in Spanish in kindergarten and in English in first grade: print knowledge, expressive language (as measured by vocabulary and sentence repetition tasks), phonological awareness, and rapid automatic naming (RAN). Longitudinal regression analyses indicated a modest amount of cross-language transfer from Spanish to English. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that developing English-language skills (particularly phonological awareness and RAN) mediated the contribution of Spanish-language variables to later reading. Further analyses revealed stronger within- than cross-language associations of expressive language with later reading, suggesting that some variables function cross-linguistically, and others within a particular language. Results suggest that some of the cognitive factors underlying reading disabilities in monolingual children (e.g., phonological awareness and RAN) may be important to an understanding of reading difficulties in bilingual children.
Are room temperature and thermal neutral synonymous terms? An investigation of common therapeutic modality control variables.

CONTEXT Therapeutic modality control variables are thought to be thermal neutral, a term sometimes used interchangeably with room temperature. We question this common assumption. OBJECTIVE To determine thermal neutrality of common therapeutic modality control variables. DESIGN We performed 5 laboratory experiments, including (1) water temperature over 3 weeks in 3 different containers (glass, plastic, and polystyrene); (2) water temperature and volume of 4 beakers (2 insulated, 2 uninsulated) over 4 weeks, with 1 beaker of each type covered by polyethylene; and skin interface temperature of (3) a dry, nonheated hydrocollator pack held against the chest, (4) kitty litter applied to the knee, and (5) room-temperature ultrasound gel to the forearm. SETTING Therapeutic modalities laboratory. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS College student volunteers were subjects in experiments 3, 4, and 5. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) We measured temperature and volume change. Data were evaluated using descriptive and interferential statistics. RESULTS Water temperature plateaued significantly below room temperature. Temperatures significantly increased in all but the open, insulated container. Open containers plateaued at approximately 2 degrees C below room temperature and lost significant amounts of water; closed containers plateaued at room temperature with negligible water loss. In experiments 3 through 5, skin temperatures rose significantly during hydrocollator pack, kitty litter, and ultrasound gel application. CONCLUSIONS Room-temperature water baths, dry hydrocollator packs, kitty litter, and ultrasound gel were not thermally neutral. Room temperature should not be used synonymously with thermal neutral. Care must be taken to ensure that control variables truly are controlled.
Review of the current knowledge of the systematics of Onchidiidae (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Pulmonata) with a checklist of nominal species

Because Onchidiidae (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Pulmonata) has been understudied since the last experts were active more than 70 years ago, systematics of this taxon is in a state of confusion: The nomenclatural status of most species names is unknown; the current supra-specific classification, largely based on Labbe’s work, has not been revised since the 1930s and needs to be re-evaluated through a modern, phylogenetic approach. A checklist of all 143 species names available in Onchidiidae is provided, as a first step towards a systematic revision. In addition, type material information (all existing types were examined by the author), type locality, and comments on the current taxonomic status and classification are provided for each species name. Present state of knowledge of the higher-level systematics of Onchidiidae is also briefly reviewed. Species diversity based on traditional generic taxa is presented. Finally, type localities are listed by region, worldwide, and interesting questions of biogeography are mentioned.
Static Torsional Stiffness from Dynamic Measurements Using Impedance Modeling Technique

Static torsional stiffness of a structure is the measure of the resistance it offers to twisting. It is an important design parameter for structures subjected to torsion loading. Estimating the static torsional and bending stiffness values of a structure from test rigs is resource intensive. In order to obtain reasonable estimates of static torsional stiffness at a minimal cost and less time, diagnostic procedures that are efficient and accurate are needed. A method that utilizes the impedance modeling technique to extract the static stiffness from free-free modal test is discussed in this paper. The results of applying this technique on a rectangular plate structure are compared with analytical estimates for static torsional stiffness. The merits and limitations of this technique are also discussed.
How exposure to "role model" projects can lead to decisions for more sustainable infrastructure

A role model, whether an individual or a project, can inspire similar performance in others. This research examines such a phenomenon during the design process for more sustainable physical infrastructure. In this empirical study, engineering professionals (n = 54) were randomly assigned either a modified version of the Envision rating system for sustainable infrastructure, which was changed to include details from an exemplary role model project, or the current version of Envision, with no role model. Professionals given the role model version of Envision achieved on average 34% more points (SD = 27) than the control group (p = 0.001). A positive role model project appears to lead engineering professionals to higher goals for sustainability performance in their design decisions. This finding, and the corresponding line of interdisciplinary research, can be used in decision-structuring interventions, which are a relatively low-cost approach to support greater sustainability in physical infrastructure development.
An Intraday Analysis of the Market Efficiency-liquidity Relationship: The Case of BVB Stock Exchange

Abstract This article has the aim of investigating the relationship between market efficiency and liquidity on an emerging market, the Romanian financial market. Since there are very few studies that address this issue and even fewer studies conducted in developing countries, such an analysis is auspicious. Its complexity is given by the fact that the above link is studied through the use of panel data, a panel of processed intraday observations. Although the article's random effects regression uses inverse indicators of efficiency and liquidity, the result still provides a positive relationship between these two factors reaching the same conclusion as the one of CRS (2008) - market liquidity has a positive impact on informational efficiency, the increase of liquidity leading to greater efficiency.
The Effect of Temperature on Metabolizable Energy Determination and Utilization by the Growing Chick

Abstract In a study designed to evaluate the effect of ambient temperature on energy utilization by the growing chick, 2 trials were conducted in which 2-week-old chicks were randomly assigned to different energy levels and to one of three temperature regimes. The following observations were noted: 1. Weight gain and dietary consumption were enhanced, but poorer feed efficiency occurred with temperature reductions. 2. Weight gain and feed efficiency were improved with increasing energy levels. 3. Temperature had no effect on M.E. determinations. 4. Carcass dry matter, fat, and energy were increased with increasing temperature or dietary energy level, but protein was decreased. 5. The M.E. required for a Kcal. carcass gain was increased with lower temperatures reflecting the increased requirement for body temperature maintenance. It is estimated that a one degree drop in temperature will reduce metabolizable energy efficiency by approximately one percent. To maintain carcass energy gain, it was concluded that an additional .06 to .08 Kcal. M.E. per gram diet is required for each 1°C. decrease in temperature.
Genes with Mutations Causing Herbicide Resistance from the Cyanobacterium Synechococcus PCC 7002

The cyanobacterium Synechococcus PCC 7002 (Agmenellum quadruplicatum) was chosen for the isolation and characterization of mutant genes which convey resistance to some commonly used herbicides. The goals of this project are to investigate the mechanisms by which resistance is achieved and to transfer the resistances into agronomically useful plants.
Intra-operative micro-electrode recording in functional neurosurgery: Past, present, future

The field of functional neurosurgery has experienced a rise, fall and lastly a renaissance over the past 75years. Micro-electrode recording (MER) played a key role during this eventful journey. However, as the intra-operative MRI continues to evolve, a pertinent question about the utility of MER has been raised in recent years. In this article, we critically review these current controversies. The English literature is reviewed and the complex technique of MER is discussed in a simplified manner. The improvement of neuroimaging and its application in functional neurosurgery, especially in deep brain stimulation, is discussed. Finally, the current controversies and technical advances which can direct the future are reviewed. The results of existing meta-analyses addressing the controversies are summarized. Wide variations of pre-operative and intra-operative targeting methods have been described in the literature. Though functional neurosurgery is generally safe, complications do occur and multiple passes during MER can certainly add to the risk of inadvertent hemorrhage and infection. Additionally, the recent introduction of newer MRI modalities has ensured better delineation of the target. However, MER is still useful to address brain shift, for mapping of newer targets, for ablative surgeries and in centers without an intra-operative imaging facility. In the current scenario, it is nearly impossible to conduct a prospective study to decide the utility of MER. The importance of MER may further diminish in the future as a routine procedure, but its role as a gold standard procedure may still persist.
Three Strands of Theory

This chapter argues that while real business cycles and New Keynesian theories with nominal rigidities may help explain certain historical episodes, alternative strands of New Keynesian economics focusing on financial market imperfections, credit, and real rigidities provide a more convincing interpretation of deep downturns, such as the Great Depression and the Great Recession, giving a more plausible explanation of the origins of downturns, their depth and duration.
A Stage 3? Labor Intermediation and the New Jobs Agenda for Development

The final chapter looks forward at advancing labor intermediation services in the wider jobs agenda for development. National labor intermediation services and their public, private, and non-profit partners can be expected to expand in scope and coverage in an increasingly global economy with greater job change. Nonetheless, the chapter argues that one can expect a Stage 3 to include both the expansion of national labor intermediation systems and the greater integration of intermediation – connections to jobs – in workforce and skills development (called integration from the center), in social and labor policy (integration from the left), and economic development (integration from the right). Developing country examples illustrate that these new, more integrated, forms represent a future already in progress.
Hip Arthroscopy: Anatomy and Technical Pearls of the Procedure

The art of hip arthroscopy has made a quantum leap from early surgical procedures of debridement and removal of loose bodies to chondrolabral preservation and femoroacetabular osteoplasty. Challenges remain but with meticulous attention to arthroscopic surgical techniques and attention to anatomy, joint preservation is possible. Proper training, patient selection, and early diagnosis and treatment are essential for maintenance of the hip joint prior to irreparable damage with current knowledge.
On the Use of Intercepts as Performance Measures

Intercepts have long been used as measures of abnormal performance in finance. Jensen’s alpha made its debut in 1968, but more recently researchers have used intercepts from the Fama-French Three-Factor model and others as ex post performance measures. A positive intercept is taken as evidence that the stock (or portfolio) exceeded expectations, and conversely for a negative intercept. We find that even conditional on the premise that the model used is valid, the intercept’s ability to detect abnormal performance is critically dependent on accurately estimating the slope(s). Unfortunately, the same unsystematic perturbation to stock returns that causes abnormal performance typically distorts this estimate of the slope, in which case the intercept can become misleading, in some cases so misleading that it will move in the direction opposite that of the perturbation. This paper quantifies the distortion in the intercept due to errors in estimating the slope(s). It also identifies necessary and sufficient conditions for the intercept to be so misleading as to move in the direction opposite that of the shock, estimates the frequency of these conditions, and provides hypothetical and actual examples. Finally, we offer an alternative approach that alleviates the problem.
Human visitation limits the utility of protected areas as ecological baselines

Abstract A key goal of protected areas is the conservation of biodiversity. Increasing visitation, however, can compromise ecological integrity. A fundamental conundrum is that if parks are to serve as our most pristine places, then we must understand how human presence alters biological interactions. Species that redistribute themselves closer to people is of growing management concern both in and out of national parks because of 1) human safety, 2) animal health, and 3) ecological consequences. Drivers of distributional change are often dissimilar but may include increased association with people for predator avoidance – the human shield hypothesis. We examine redistribution patterns with comparative, observational, and experimental approaches contrasting ecological responses of an iconic species in an USA national park - Glacier. Specifically, we focused on the role of predator-avoidance and resource enhancement to test whether a cold-adapted alpine obligate, mountain goats, (Oreamnos americanus), mediate their distribution by increasing spatial overlap with humans. Individuals that enhanced mineral acquisition through access to human urine concomitantly reduced behavioral and ecological responses to grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) experiments. Goats near people also displayed reduced group sizes, vigilance, use of escape terrain, and forfeited migrations to naturally occurring minerals. Our findings re-enforce the increasing complexities of natural area management because visitation is altering ecological interactions. While protected areas offer some forms of baselines for scientists and enjoyment for millions of visitors, redistribution of species and associated ecological changes signifies that additional care will be needed in what we perceive as pristine and what is anthropogenically-altered.
ANK3 gene polymorphisms and bipolar disorder: a meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE Converging evidence has suggested ankyrin 3 (ANK3) as a risk gene for bipolar disorder (BD). However, association studies investigating its genetic variants and BD susceptibility have reported inconsistent results. In the present meta-analysis, we aimed to establish whether ANK3 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) confer increased risk for BD. METHODS PubMed, Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, and Scopus were searched for literature published up to January 2017. Fourteen case-control studies met our eligibility criteria. We targeted ANK3 SNPs that have been reported by three or more studies to be included in the current meta-analysis, resulting in a final list of four SNPs: rs10994336, rs9804190, rs10994397, and rs1938526. Odds ratios (ORs) for the allele model were calculated using a random effect model as a measure of association. Additional experimental characteristics and between-study heterogeneity were explored using sensitivity test, subgroup analysis, and meta-regression techniques. Publication bias was also assessed using Egger's test and rank correlation test. RESULTS Overall, a significant association was found between BD and rs10994336 (OR=1.18; 95% confidence interval: 1.06-1.31; P=0.0027) as well as rs1938526 (OR=1.16; 95% confidence interval: 1.06-1.28; P=0.0016). Subsequent sensitivity analysis and publication bias test reaffirmed the stability and consistency of these results. CONCLUSION The current meta-analysis provides corroborating evidence suggesting two ANK3 SNPs are associated with an increased susceptibility for developing BD. However, broader coverage is needed on less explored SNPs to further elucidate the genetic effect of other ANK3 variants that may harbor potential BD risk.
Hot fun in the summertime: micro and macrocosmic views on the Summer of Love

AbstractThis keynote address delivered at the “Revisiting the Summer of Love, Rethinking the Counterculture” conference in July 2017 argues that we can better remember, historicize, and understand the “Summer of Love” by glimpsing its oscillations between micro and macrocosmic perspectives. Trying for what Sly and the Family Stone would eventually call “hot fun in the summertime,” participants reoriented scales of temporal and spatial perception as they also probed the vexing links between innocence and experience in pursuit of radically pluralistic, democratic modes of selfhood, community, and citizenship in the modern world.
Differential Gene Expression in Prostate Tissue According to Ejaculation Frequency

Abstract In a prospective study of 31 925 men with 18 yr of follow-up, higher ejaculation frequency (EF) throughout adulthood was associated with lower rates of prostate cancer. To further explore this association, we evaluated whole transcriptome gene expression in the prostate tissue from study participants who developed prostate cancer between 1992 and 2004 (n = 157 tumor tissue, n = 85 adjacent normal). We tested for trends in gene expression according to the level of EF as self-reported in 1992 for ages 20–29 yr, 40–49 yr, and the year prior to the questionnaire, 1991. There were no associations between EF and gene expression in areas of tumor after accounting for multiple testing. In contrast, in the adjacent normal tissue, 409 genes and six pathways were differentially expressed at a false discovery rate ≤0.2 across categories of EF in 1991. These results suggest that ejaculation affects the expression of genes in the normal prostate tissue. The identified genes and pathways provide potential biological links between EF and prostate tumorigenesis. Patient summary To explore previous findings that men who ejaculate more frequently have lower risk of prostate cancer, we evaluated molecular alterations in the prostate tissue according to each man's frequency of ejaculation prior to diagnosis. We identified biological processes that could link ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer.
Abstract 15353: JNK2 RNA Silencing Promotes Plaque Healing and Reduces Thrombotic Risk in Atherosclerotic Mice

Introduction: JNK2, one of three isoforms in the c-jun N-terminal kinase family, is a principal mediator of foam cell formation by activating the macrophage scavenger receptor signaling pathway. Although JNK2 is a clear therapeutic target for suppressing atherosclerosis, there are no approved pharmaceutical agents with acceptable isoform specificity and safety profiles. To this end, we report the utility of a new potent peptide-based siRNA delivery nanoplatform that rapidly conveys serum-stable anti-JNK2 oligonucleotides into growing plaques but not to normal vasculature. Methods and Results: ApoE null mice were fed a Western diet for 3 months followed by treatment for one month (2x/week i.v.; 7 total doses) with a 55 nm siRNA-p5RHH nanoparticle specific for JNK2. Evaluation of thrombotic risk by conventional dye-laser injury to the carotid artery revealed a 118% increase in clotting times, indicative of attenuated thrombotic risk. Endothelial barrier integrity was restored according to magnetic resonance spectroscopic measurements of ~200 nm semipermeant perfluorocarbon ( 19 F) nanoparticles that penetrated aortic plaques after 2 hours of circulation time, revealing a 60% reduction in plaque permeability in treated mice indicative of endothelial healing. JNK2 knockdown in plaques was confirmed by RT-PCR and Western assays, yielding reduced plaque necrosis and macrophage content. Interestingly, inflammatory signaling through NF-κB was reduced according to confocal images of nuclear p65 in plaques where 43% of neointimal cells from the control animals exhibited activated NF-κB signaling, but only 22.48% of cells were positive after JNK2 knockdown, a 47% reduction despite serum cholesterol levels > 1000 mg/dl. Safety was confirmed by normal serum blood test values after multiple doses, and no stimulation of innate or adaptive immunity. Conclusions: RNA silencing of c-jun N-terminal kinase 2 (JNK2) in atherosclerotic mice rapidly restores endothelial barrier integrity, reduces thrombotic risk, and decreases plaque inflammation in hypercholesterolemic mice.
Physician smoking cessation counseling and adherence to the Clinical Practice Guideline

Objective : The U.S. Public Health Service Clinical Practice Guideline recommends that physicians provide tobacco cessation interventions to their patients at every visit. While many studies have examined the extent to which physicians implement the guideline’s “5 A’s”, few studies have examined the extent to which physicians implement the guideline’s “5 R’s” which are to be used in a Motivational Interviewing (MI) consistent style with smokers not ready to quit. This study examined the extent to which physicians in usual practice and without specific training administered the 5 R’s including the use of an MI style. Methods: Thirty-eight physicians were audio recorded during their routine clinical practice conversations with smokers. Recordings were coded by independent raters on the implementation of each of the 5 A’s, 5 R’s and MI counseling style. Results: Results revealed that for patients not ready to quit smoking, physicians most frequently discussed the patient’s personal relevance for quitting and the risks of smoking. Roadblocks and rewards were discussed relatively infrequently. MI skill code analyses revealed that physicians, on average, had moderate scores for acceptance and autonomy support, a low to moderate score for collaboration and low scores for empathy and evocation. Conclusion: Results suggest that for the Clinical Guideline to be implemented appropriately physicians will need specialized training or will need to be able to refer patients to counselors with the necessary expertise of counseling efforts could increase providers’ willingness to implement guideline recommendations.
Initiation of family-centered bedside rounds at Phoenix Children's Hospital Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.

170Background: There has been a national trend towards a family/patient-centered care model in an effort to achieve many goals: earlier discharges, enhanced collaboration and patient safety, and improved satisfaction among medical care teams, patients and families. While most of the services at Phoenix Children’s Hospital (PCH) utilized a family-centered rounding model, the hematology/oncology service used table rounds. In December 2017, the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD) initiated family-centered rounds (FCR) on the inpatient service. Methods: FCR participants include patient, parent(s), bedside nurse, clinical supervisor, residents, fellow, attending, nurse practitioners, pharmacist, dietitian and child life specialist. One unique aspect of our FCR model is using scheduled rounds, whereby each patient is allotted a specific length of time and each family is given a time range within which to expect the team. Patients are scheduled every 10 minutes and if more time is needed, the attending/...
Making liberal use of Kant? Democratic peace theory and Perpetual Peace:

The work of Immanuel Kant has been foundational in modern democratic peace theory. His essay Toward Perpetual Peace gives three prescriptions for attaining peace between democracies: republican ins...
Bringing a Superhero Down to Earth

I am always looking for ways to bring current events into my introductory physics classroom or laboratory. I am especially interested in finding examples where basic principles of physics can be used to cast skepticism on assertions made by celebrities, politicians, or professional athletes. The other day, one such example literally fell into my lap.
Pan-STARRS PSF-Matching for Subtraction and Stacking

We present the implementation and use of algorithms for matching point-spread functions (PSFs) within the Pan-STARRS Image Processing Pipeline (IPP). PSF-matching is an essential part of the IPP for the detection of supernovae and asteroids, but it is also used to homogenize the PSF of inputs to stacks, resulting in improved photometric precision compared to regular coaddition, especially in data with a high masked fraction. We report our experience in constructing and operating the image subtraction pipeline, and make recommendations about particular basis functions for constructing the PSF-matching convolution kernel, determining a suitable kernel, parallelisation and quality metrics. We introduce a method for reliably tracking the noise in an image throughout the pipeline, using the combination of a variance map and a `covariance pseudo-matrix'. We demonstrate these algorithms with examples from both simulations and actual data from the Pan-STARRS1 telescope.
A Brief Overview of Medical Fiber Optic Biosensors and Techniques in the Modification for Enhanced Sensing Ability.

In this paper, we provide a brief overview of fiber optic biosensors for use in MedTech, specifically to aid in the diagnoses and treatment of those with chronic medical conditions. Fiber optic cables as components of biological sensors make them especially effective in biological systems that may require ultra-sensitive detection of low-frequency signals in hard to reach areas. This systematic review focuses on the differentiating factors of fiber-optic biosensors, which are tailored to apply the sensor to specific health needs. The main components of FOBS (fiber optic biosensors) such as biosensing elements, fiber optic cables, optical element enhancements, transducers, sensing strategies, photodetectors, and signal processing are covered in detail by showcasing the recent developments in modifications to these components. This paper pays particular attention to the alterations made in biosensing elements including pH elements, enzymatic elements, as well as those sensors utilizing antibodies and whole-cell bacteria. This paper reviews and discusses several published examples in the research stage of development to give the reader an overall scope of the field. The need for research on biosensing equipment is increasing, as the number of individuals with chronic diseases and the geriatric population require more effective, accurate, and mobile sensing ability and reduced invasiveness. FOBS offer a sensing solution that is accurate, tailorable to almost any clinical need, has abundant and relatively cheap material requirements, and a well-established technological base in fiber optic technology. This small price tag and large market potential make FOBS a desirable research area.