cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Double trouble for typhoon forecasters

[1] The sensitivity of tropical cyclone forecast to changes in the initial state is examined using powerful singular vector diagnostics from a global weather forecast model. These techniques reveal the complex impact of both the local and remote environment on the typhoons. We demonstrate how the analyzed position and forecast of one typhoon can have a significant impact on the forecast of a second typhoon, even at distances up to 1861 km. These results highlight the difficulty of tropical cyclone prediction, especially when remote forcing plays a significant role in tropical cyclone motion.
The Issue — Mutual survival

During the past ten years the labor-management problem has become one of major concern. To provide some basis for analysis, the author has interviewed approximately 60 leaders in each field and has prepared a summary of their reactions to the problem. The main difficulty seems to be an inability, or unwillingness, for either side to understand the other's position or to modify its own. The article emphasizes the importance of mutual understanding and a common aim—mutual, not separate, survival.
Solubility of ionization behavior of the antifungal α-( 2,4-Difluorophenyl) -α-[(1-(2-(2-pyridyl)phenylethenyl)]-1H-1, 2,4-triazole-1-ethanol bismesylate (XD405)

Abstract α-(2,4-Difluorophenyl)-α-[(1-(2-(2-pyridyl)phenylethenyI)]-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-ethanol bismesylate (XD405) exhibits exceptional solubility for a triazole antifungal. The solubility of XD405 in water is high (790 mg/ml at pH 1.51). Changes in pH have a dramatic effect on the solubility with values of 3 μg/ml at pH 6. The high solubility is due to self-association. Surface tension studies show a critical micelle concentration of 10.9 mg/ml.
Characterization of an invertebrate transferrin from the crabCancer magister (Arthropoda)

An iron binding protein was isolated from crab blood and tested for its chemical and functional behavior. 1. The protein has a molecular weight of 150,000±10,000 and consists of a single polypeptide chain. The iron content was found to be two molecules iron per molecule protein; the presence of a 52-fold molar excess of copper did not alter the iron binding properties. 2. Spectroscopical analysis carried out in the presence of bicarbonate yielded two absorption maxima at λ=276 and λ=465 nm. 3. The59Fe-tagged crab protein did not yield its iron to human apotransferrin when incubated in human plasma. When incubated with rat reticulocytes, the crab iron protein delivered its iron for hemoglobin and ferritin synthesis. This delivery can be completely abolished by adding an excess of rat transferrin. 4. When injected into rats in vivo, the crab protein delivered its iron to erythroid and non-erythroid tissue. The amount delivered to the erythroid marrow was shown to depend on iron requirements of that tissue. 5. When injected as59Fe-tagged protein into a crab, half-time disappearance of the radioiron is reached between 7 and 9 h. In the liver and in the carapace lining, the radioiron released is found in other iron binders. 6. Except for the significantly larger molecular weight, the crab iron binding protein fulfills all the criteria for transferrin. The findings negate the concept that transferrin is a newcomer in the evolutionary scene and to be found only in the phylum Chordata. Thus the need for a specific iron transport protein of the transferrin class is independent of the achievement of hemoglobin as a means to accomplish oxygen transport.
A method for the deletion of restriction sites in bacterial plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid.

A general method has been developed for the deletion of restriction endonuclease sites in bacterial plasmid DNA. The procedure involves partial digestion of the covalently closed circular plasmid DNA with an appropriate restriction endonuclease under conditions which allow accumulation of unit-length linear DNA molecules, controlled digestion of the exposed 5′ ends with the λ 5′-exonuclease, and in vivo recircularization of the resulting linear DNA in a bacterial host cell. The method has been used for the deletion of one of the two EcoRI sites in the plasmid pML2 (colE1-Km). Two of the resulting plasmids, pCR1 and pCR11, have a single EcoRI cleavage site, but retain genetic determinants specifying resistance to colicin E1 and kanamycin, and thus may be useful as vectors for the cloning and amplification of DNA in bacteria.
Diabetes-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in the retina.

Purpose Oxidative stress is increased in the retina in diabetes, and antioxidants inhibit activation of caspase-3 and the development of retinopathy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of diabetes on the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria and translocation of Bax into mitochondria in the rat retina and in the isolated retinal capillary cells. Methods Mitochondria and cytosol fractions were prepared from retina of rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes and from the isolated retinal endothelial cells and pericytes incubated in 5 or 20 mM glucose medium for up to 10 days in the presence of superoxide dismutase (SOD) or a synthetic mimetic of SOD (MnTBAP). The release of cytochrome c into the cytosol and translocation of the proapoptotic protein Bax into the mitochondria were determined by the Western blot technique and cell death by caspase-3 activity and ELISA assay. Results Diabetes of 8 months' duration in rats increased the release of cytochrome c into the cytosol and Bax into the mitochondria prepared from the retina, and this phenomenon was not observed at 2 months of diabetes. Incubation of isolated retinal capillary cells with 20 mM glucose increased cytochrome c content in the cytosol and Bax in the mitochondria, and these abnormalities were accompanied by increased cell apoptosis. Inclusion of SOD or its mimetic inhibited glucose-induced release of cytochrome c, translocation of Bax, and apoptosis. Conclusions Retinal mitochondria become leaky when the duration of diabetes is such that capillary cell apoptosis can be observed; cytochrome c starts to accumulate in the cytosol and Bax into the mitochondria. Inhibition of superoxides inhibits glucose-induced release of cytochrome c and Bax and inhibits apoptosis in both endothelial cells and pericytes. Identifying the mechanism by which retinal capillary cells undergo apoptosis may reveal novel therapies to inhibit the development of retinopathy in diabetes.
Retention characteristics of protonated mobile phases injected into deuterated mobile phases in capillary liquid chromatography (LC) using on-line nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) detection

The behavior of protonated binary solvents injected into deuterated binary mobile phases in capillary LC is studied with NMR. Specifically, the solvent elution is followed on-flow with a capillary LC coupled to a 900 nL volume microcoil NMR probe. A range of identical composition 5% protonated (and 95% deuterated) solvents is injected into composition-matched deuterated mobile phases of CD3CN/D2O and CD3OD/D2O. The protonated components separate for all solvent combinations except at 80% CD3CN/20% D2O and ∼72% CD3OD/28% D2O where only a single retention time is observed. The more hydrophilic protonated component, HOD, elutes first with higher percentages of hydrophilic solvent, D2O, in the mobile phase whereas retention is reversed with the higher percentage of the more hydrophobic solvent (CD3CN and CD3OD) in the mobile phase. The hydrophilic/hydrophobic nature of the chromatographic system as a function of mobile phase composition is characterized by following the retention times of protonated solvents.
HIGH-EFFICIENCY 3HE PROPORTIONAL COUNTER FOR THE DETECTION OF DELAYED NEUTRONS

Abstract The characteristics of a high-efficiency 3 He proportional counter for the measurement of β i -delayed neutrons have been examined. The detection system required for this experiment needs to meet some stringent requirements such as high-efficiency, low dead time, and gamma-insensitivity. The 3 He counter described here meets all these requirements. This detection system consists of an array of 20 3 He tubes embedded in polyethylene. The principal operating characteristic of this proportional counter is its high efficiency. The absolute efficiency, determined with an Am/Li source, is 29.04%±0.6%. The system’s dead time is 0.46±0.02 μs. It is also displacement insensitive within a range of 10 cm.
Treatment of Radiation Induced Hemorrhagic Cystitis With Hyperbaric Oxygen.

Purpose: Hemorrhagic cystitis can occur 6 months to 10 years after pelvic radiation therapy with moderate to severe persistent rates of hematuria as 3% to 5% after radiotherapy for pelvic malignancies. Current treatment modalities for hemorrhagic cystitis include oral and intravenous agents, intravesical therapy and selective embolization of the hypogastric arteries. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is now a widely accepted treatment option for radiation induced hemorrhagic cystitis. We assess the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen for treatment of hemorrhagic cystitis. Material and Methods: From May 1988 through March 2001, 62 patients with radiation induced hemorrhagic cystitis were treated with hyperbaric oxygen at our institution. Followup ranged from 10 to 120 months. The primary pathological conditions were prostate cancer (81%) and bladder cancer (10%). Mean patient age was 70 years (range 15 to 88). Mean time between completion of radiation therapy and onset of hematuria was 48 months (range 0 to 355). Patients received an average of 33 hyperbaric oxygen treatments (range 9 to 68). Results: Of the 62 patients treated information on 57 was available for analysis. Of the 57 patients (86%) 49 experienced complete resolution or marked improvement of hematuria following hyperbaric oxygen treatment. Of the 8 patients who did not improve 4 received fewer than 40 hyperbaric oxygen treatments and 7 prematurely terminated treatment (medical co-morbidities 4, claustrophobia 2, temporary resolution of symptoms 1). Conclusions: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for radiation induced hemorrhagic cystitis is an efficacious treatment modality for patients in whom other forms of management have failed.
In vivo cloning of artificial DNA nanostructures

Mimicking nature is both a key goal and a difficult challenge for the scientific enterprise. DNA, well known as the genetic-information carrier in nature, can be replicated efficiently in living cells. Today, despite the dramatic evolution of DNA nanotechnology, a versatile method that replicates artificial DNA nanostructures with complex secondary structures remains an appealing target. Previous success in replicating DNA nanostructures enzymatically in vitro suggests that a possible solution could be cloning these nanostructures by using viruses. Here, we report a system where a single-stranded DNA nanostructure (Holliday junction or paranemic cross-over DNA) is inserted into a phagemid, transformed into XL1-Blue cells and amplified in vivo in the presence of helper phages. High copy numbers of cloned nanostructures can be obtained readily by using standard molecular biology techniques. Correct replication is verified by a number of assays including nondenaturing PAGE, Ferguson analysis, endonuclease VII digestion, and hydroxyl radical autofootprinting. The simplicity, efficiency, and fidelity of nature are fully reflected in this system. UV-induced psoralen cross-linking is used to probe the secondary structure of the inserted junction in infected cells. Our data suggest the possible formation of the immobile four-arm junction in vivo.
Pruritus in rabbits, rodents, and ferrets.

This article covers specific causes of pruritus in rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice, and ferrets. It also discusses some behavioral traits that may be confused with pruritus. Diagnosis, treatment, and control of the causes of pruritus are emphasized.
Two-Step Variable Valve Actuation for Fuel Economy, Emissions, and Performance

Variable-Valve Actuation (VVA) provides improvements in engine efficiency, emissions, and performance by changing the valve lift and timing as a function of engine operating conditions. Two-Step VVA systems utilize two discrete valve-lift profiles and may be combined with continuously variable cam phasing. Two-Step VVA systems are relatively simple, low cost and easy to package on new and existing engines, and therefore, are attractive to engine manufacturers. The objective of this work was to optimize Two-Step system design and operation for maximum system benefits. An Early-Intake-Valve-Closing (EIVC) strategy was selected for warmed-up operating conditions, and a Late-lntake-Valve-Opening (LIVO) strategy was selected for the cold start. Engine modeling tools were used to fundamentally understand the thermodynamic and fluid mechanical processes involved. A procedure was developed to rapidly and automatically process engine simulations for a wide range of engine operating conditions and valve train parameters including valve lift, duration, and timing. Modeling results indicate that substantial improvements in fuel economy, NOx emissions, and performance can be achieved. Reduced cold-start HC emissions are also expected. A comparison to fully flexible VVA, Three-Step VVA, and dual-independent cam phasing (only) is presented.
Modulation of Na+/alanine cotransport in liver sinusoidal membrane vesicles by internal divalent cations

Rat liver basolateral plasma membrane (blLPM) vesicles resuspended in 5 mM Mg2(+)-, Ca2(+)-, Mn2(+)- or Co2(+)-containing media exhibited a markedly lower rate of Na(+)-stimulated L-alanine transport. Divalent cation inhibition of L-alanine uptake was dose dependent, and was observed only when the vesicles were pre-loaded with the divalent cations. The presence or absence of the metal ions in the extravesicular incubation media had no effect on L-alanine transport. Conversely, pretreatment of the vesicles with 0.2 mM of either EGTA or EDTA resulted in higher initial rates of L-alanine transport. This stimulation was overcome by addition of excess divalent cation to the vesicle suspension solution. Since these blLPM vesicles are primarily oriented right-side-out, the divalent cation inhibition of L-alanine transport appears to be a result of their interaction with cytosolic components of the cell membrane. Total Na+ flux as measured with 22Na+ was not affected by intravesicular 5 mM Mg2+ or Ca2+, indicating that the inhibition was not due to dissipation of the Na+ gradient. These observations suggest that intracellular divalent cations may serve to modulate L-alanine transport across the liver cell plasma membrane.
Memory and Sacrifice: An Embodied Theory of Martyrdom

We use a reputational approach to create a theory of martyrdom that synthesizes scholarship on the body politic, cultural symbols, and collective memory. The making of a martyr, a contested social process, depends on both the resources of the martyr's supporters and the cultural context into which the martyr's image is introduced. Our approach is well suited to analyzing how martyrs are used `on the ground' and given cultural and material utility. We highlight the attention paid to the conception and reception of the martyr's corporeal body, in particular, as a source of identity and meaning, giving emotional weight to social ideas about death and sacrifice. Control over martyrs' bodies derives from the cultural and political intricacies of reputational entrepreneurship, thus employing the body as a medium of culture. To examine this concept of embodied martyrdom, we examine the cases of Joan of Arc, John Brown, and Che Guevara.
A Multi-Poller based Energy-Efficient Monitoring Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks

For sensor networks deployed in unattended, harsh environments, the knowledge of sensor statuses such as liveness, node density and residue energy, is critical for maintaining the normal operation of the network. In this paper, we propose a poller-pollee based architecture to monitor the sensor status, focusing on two important issues: false alarm and energy ef- ficiency. To reduce the false alarm rate, each pollee is monitored by multiple pollers. However, this approach will increase the power and bandwidth consumption. To address this issue, we propose a novel solution where the monitored sensor sends the status reports to different pollers in a round robin manner. In this way, bandwidth and power can be saved, and the false alarm rate can be reduced. We further propose a simple randomized algorithm to select the optimal number of pollers to stochastically minimize the expected total energy consumption due to monitoring. Theoretical analyses and simulations are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed techniques.
Pattern of invasion and margin assessment in patients with oral tongue cancer

Background Involvement of resection margins and the pattern of tumor invasion are reported to be important predictors of local recurrence and survival in surgically treated patients. In this study we have retrospectively assessed the significance of these two prognostic factors in a relatively homogeneous patient population. Patients and Methods This study was confined to 150 previously untreated patients who had surgery for squamous carcinoma of the oral tongue between 1987 and 1993. There were 82 men and 68 women who ranged in age from 25 to 89 years (median 60 years). Glossectomy was peroral in 129, whereas 8 and 13, respectively, had a cheek flap or mandibulotomy approach. Some form of lymphadenectomy was performed in 109 (73%), and 51 patients (34%) received postoperative radiotherapy. Histologic slides from each primary tumor were reviewed to verify the margin status. In addition, the pattern of invasion was evaluated and graded from 1 to 4, varying from a consistently well-defined, “pushing” border (Grade 1) to diffuse infiltration and cellular dissociation (Grade 4). Results Intraoperative frozen section assessment of margins was accurate, whether positive or negative, in 118 of 133 patients (89%). Positive or close margins (within one high-power field) and an endophytic growth pattern were associated with a significant increase in local recurrence (p <0.003 and <0.04, respectively). With higher grades of infiltration (Grade 3 or 4; 82 patients), the tumors tended to be larger and the patients younger. Although the likelihood of nodal involvement and subsequent distant metastasis was significantly greater in those with Grade 3 or grade 4 patterns (p <0.0003 and <0.01, respectively), there was no impact on local recurrence. Cumulative survival was similar whether or not the surgical margins were involved, but was significantly reduced when the pattern of tumor invasion was of higher grade (p <0.01). Summary Frozen section provided reasonably accurate information about margins in our patients, whether taken from the patient or the surgical specimen. Positive margins increased the likelihood of local recurrence, but did not impact on survival because subsequent surgery and/or irradiation controlled tumor recurrence in some patients. Grade 3 or 4 patterns at the tumor/host interface were associated with an increased incidence of nodal and distant metastasis, as well as a significant decrease in survival. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Head Neck 21: 408–413, 1999.
Functional Role of Caspases in Heat-Induced Testicular Germ Cell Apoptosis

In the present study, we determined whether a pan caspase inhibitor could prevent or attenuate heat-induced germ cell apoptosis. Groups of five adult (8 wk old) C57BL/6 mice pretreated with vehicle (DMSO) or Quinoline-Val-Asp (Ome)-CH2-O-Ph (Q-VD-OPH), a new generation broad-spectrum caspase inhibitor, were exposed once to local testicular heating (43 degrees C for 15 min) and killed 6 h later. The inhibitor (40 mg/kg body weight) or vehicle was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) 1 h before local testicular heating. Germ cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay and quantitated as number of apoptotic germ cells per 100 Sertoli cells at stages XI-XII. Compared with controls (16.8 +/- 3.1), mild testicular hyperthermia within 6 h resulted in a marked activation (277.3 +/- 21.6) of germ cell apoptosis, as previously reported by us. Q-VD-OPH at this dose markedly inhibited caspase 3 activation and significantly prevented (by 67.0%) heat-induced germ cell apoptosis. Q-VD-OPH-mediated rescue of germ cells was independent of cytosolic translocation of mitochondrial cytochrome c and DIABLO. Electron microscopy further revealed normal appearance of these rescued cells. Similar protection from heat-induced germ cell apoptosis was also noted after pretreatment with minocycline, a second-generation tetracycline that effectively inhibits cytochrome c release and, in turn, caspase activation. Collectively, the present study emphasizes the role of caspases in heat-induced germ cell apoptosis.
Microencapsulation of Chemotherapeutics into Monodisperse and Tunable Biodegradable Polymers via Electrified Liquid Jets: Control of Size, Shape, and Drug Release

This paper describes microencapsulation of antitumor agent 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU, Carmustine) into biodegradable polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) using an electrojetting technique. The resulting BCNU-loaded PLGA microcapsules have significantly higher drug encapsulation efficiency, more tunable drug loading capacity, and (3) narrower size distribution than those generated using other encapsulation methods.
Therapeutic Potential of a Monoclonal Antibody Blocking the Wnt Pathway in Diabetic Retinopathy

Dysregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling contributes to the development of diabetic retinopathy by inducing retinal inflammation, vascular leakage, and neovascularization. Here, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of a monoclonal antibody (Mab) specific for the E1E2 domain of Wnt coreceptor low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 6, Mab2F1, on canonical Wnt signaling and its therapeutic potential for diabetic retinopathy. Mab2F1 displayed robust inhibition on Wnt signaling with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 20 μg/mL in retinal pigment epithelial cells. In addition, Mab2F1 also attenuated the accumulation of β-catenin and overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and tumor necrosis factor-α induced by high-glucose medium in retinal endothelial cells. In vivo, an intravitreal injection of Mab2F1 significantly reduced retinal vascular leakage and decreased preretinal vascular cells in oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) rats, demonstrating its inhibitory effects on ischemia-induced retinal neovascularization. Moreover, Mab2F1 blocked the overexpression of the inflammatory/angiogenic factors, attenuated leukostasis, and reduced retinal vascular leakage in both early and late stages of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. In conclusion, Mab2F1 inhibits canonical Wnt signaling, vascular leakage, and inflammation in the retina of diabetic retinopathy models, suggesting its potential to be used as a therapeutic agent in combination with other antiangiogenic compounds.
Broad-band photoresponse from InAs quantum dots embedded into InGaAs graded well

A broad-band photoresponse is obtained from undoped InAs multiple quantum dots grown by the molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) technique on a (100) GaAs substrate. The quantum dots were embedded in an In/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/As graded well where the In mole fraction is chosen in the range of 0.3 /spl ges/ x /spl ges/ 0.0. The photoresponse of the reversed biased device, obtained at 80.5 K and using the normal incident configuration, was found to span the spectral range of 3.5 - 9.5 /spl mu/m. While the photoresponse is significantly high under the influence of the reverse bias voltage, the forward bias photoresponse is found to be negligible.
Case comment--Boncher v. Brown County: the need for an appropriate comparison of suicide rates

This case concerns the level of supervision a local government needs to provide for inmates of jails who may have an increased risk of committing suicide. An expert noted that the number of suicides at the particular jail was ‘high’ and implied the county should have been on notice that inmates were not being monitored sufficiently. The appels court noted that the expert had not made any statistical comparison of the suicide rate for the jail in question either to national data for the general population or to that of other jails. This failure to use a control group should have rendered the expert’s testimony inadmissible. A recent publication of the Bureau of Justice Statistics recommends an alternative definition of suicide rates, which would reduce the current measure of prisoner suicide rates by a factor of 10. A more careful definition of the rate of suicides shows that this alternative measure is inappropriate.
On the method of two-sided continuation of solutions of the integral convolution equation on a finite Interval

The paper is devoted to the development of the method of two-sided continuation of the solution of the integral convolution equation $$\begin{array}{*{20}c} {S(x) = g(x) + \int_0^r {K(x - t)S(t)dt,} } & {0 < x < r,} & {r < \infty ,} \\ \end{array}$$ with an even kernel function K ∈ L 1(−r, r). Two continuations of the solution S are considered: to (−∞, 0] and to [r,∞). A Wiener–Hopf-type factorization is used. Under invertibility conditions for some operators, the problem can be reduced to two equations with sum kernels: $$\begin{array}{*{20}c} {H^ \pm (x) = q_0^ \pm (x) \mp \int_0^\infty {U(x + t + r)H^ \pm (t)dt,} } & {x > 0,} & {U \in L^ + .} \\ \end{array}$$ Applied aspects of the realization of the method are discussed.
A study of wave forces on an offshore platform by direct CFD and Morison equation

Engineering simulation tools for hydrodynamic loads on offshore platforms (e.g. NREL’s HydroDyn and Orcina’s OrcaFlex) use simplified theories and empirical models. The most common is the Morison’s equation which accounts for unsteady drag and inertial forces created by incident waves. Coefficients are required for these models and are typically derived from wave-tank or pulsatile U-Shaped water tunnel experiments.The first step of this study focuses on the application of Morison’s equations for computing forces on a 3D platform using both computational fluid dynamics computed and empirical coefficients. Wave forces on a simple structure, such as a bottom–mounted monopile, are estimated by a strip–wise application of Morison’s equation on each section. The fluid particles orbit and kinematics at strip–wise depth are readily derived from wave theory, and the total wave force on the supporting structure is computed by performing a simple integration in the vertical direction over each section.The next step is the presentation of 3D multiphase RANS simulation of the wind-turbine platform in single-harmonic regular waves. Simulation results from full 3D simulation will be compared to the results from Morison’s equation. We are motivated by the challenges of a floating platform which has complex underwater geometry (e.g. tethered semi-submersible). In cases like this, our hypothesis is that Morison’s equation will result in inaccurate prediction of forces, due to the limitations of 2D coefficients of simple geometries, and that 3D multiphase RANS CFD will be required to generate reliable predictions of platform loads and motions.
A Biomechanical Comparison of Isometric and Anatomic Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

The purpose of this study was to compare two different methods of medial patellar femoral ligament (MPFL) reconstructions: isometric and anatomic. These were then compared with the native MPFL. Fourteen fresh frozen cadaveric knees were carefully dissected to expose the MPFL. The patella was laterally translated 10 mm using an Instron and values were recorded for the intact ligament and the reconstructions. Neither the anatomic nor the isometric reconstructions completely restored the biomechanical properties of the intact MPFL. There were fewer differences between the isometric reconstruction and the intact specimens. The higher forces and stiffer constructs that occurred with the anatomic reconstruction may suggest that this reconstruction technique could overconstrain the patellofemoral joint.
Efficacy of Mediterranean diet in a peculiar case of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hypobetalipoproteinemia

s / Digestive and Liver Disease 47S (2015) e226–e235 e233 therapy strategies, such as vitamin E or insulin-sensitizers, lead to controversial clinical outcomes. The aim of this studywas to evaluate the efficacy of a fixed combination of berberine, tocotrienols and chlorogenic acid (Trixy®, Nathura s.r.l.), in combination with diet and moderate aerobic physical activity, on the biochemical parameters of steatosis. In this study we examined 19 patients consistent with ultrasounddiagnosedNAFLD, elevatedaminotransferase levels, BMI>25kg/m2 and<30kg/m2 and/or altered lipid and/or glucose levels. After three months of an appropriate diet andmoderate aerobic physical activity, we compared those who only followed the behavioural advice (n=10),with thosewhoalso took thenutraceutical (n=9), assessing any additional efficacy. In both groups we observed a marked improvement in most parameters. However, the percentages of reduction in plasma glucose, insulin and HOMA-IR were significantly different, e.g. themeanpercentages of reductionofHOMA-IR were−60.03%±9.328and−12.62%±12.11 in thenutraceutical and in the control group respectively (P<0.01). Even the HSI and the NAFLD fibrosis score diminished but they did not reach statistical significance probably for the short period of treatment. The use of the nutraceutical combination might reduce insulin resistance, which is likely the first hit of NAFLD. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.dld.2015.07.039
Kinetic modeling of 3'-deoxy-3'-fluorothymidine in somatic tumors: mathematical studies.

We present a method to measure the regional rate of cellular proliferation using a positron-emitting analog of thymidine (TdR) for human imaging studies. The method is based on the use of 3′-deoxy-3′-18F-fluorothymidine (FLT) to estimate the flux of TdR through the exogenous pathway. The model reflects the retention of FLT-monophosphate (FLTMP), which is generated by the phosphorylation of FLT by thymidine kinase 1 (TK1), the initial step in the exogenous pathway. Methods: A model of FLT kinetics has been designed based on the assumptions of a steady-state synthesis and incorporation of nucleotides into DNA, an equilibration of the free nucleoside in tissue with the plasma level, and the relative rates of FLT and TdR phosphorylation from prior data using direct analysis with in vitro assays. A 2-compartment model with 4 rate constants adequately describes the kinetics of FLT uptake and retention over 120 min and leads to an estimation of the rate of cellular proliferation using the measured FLT blood clearance and the dynamic FLT uptake curve. Results: Noise characteristics of kinetic parameter estimates for 3 tissues were assessed under a range of conditions representative of human cancer patient imaging. The FLT flux in these tissues can be measured with a SE of
Good start on using biochemical markers to compare surgical trauma in total hip replacement approaches: commentary on an article by Patrick F. Bergin, MD, et al.: "Comparison of minimally invasive direct anterior versus posterior total hip arthroplasty based on inflammation and muscle damage markers".

The use of minimally invasive approaches in total hip arthroplasty has been a topic of substantial controversy in the last decade. Proponents have typically pointed to more rapid recovery, reduced pain, and avoidance of excessive tissue trauma, while detractors have noted the increased technical difficulty of performing already complex procedures with reduced visibility and have noted higher rates of complications such as iatrogenic neurovascular injury, fracture, and component malposition. Many of the studies in the existing literature have been subjective, retrospective, and nonrandomized. Thus, there is a need for studies with objective measurement of clinically relevant markers. Although true blinded randomization is impractical, investigators should strive for a study design that is prospective and utilizes comparable patient groups. In their study, Bergin et al. sequentially assessed twenty-nine patients treated with a direct anterior approach by a single surgeon and compared them with twenty-eight patients treated with a standard posterior approach by two different surgeons. Levels of inflammatory markers and creatine kinase (CK), a marker of muscle injury, were assessed preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and on postoperative days 1 and 2. The current study is valuable for several reasons. First, Bergin et al. attempted to quantify surgical trauma with a biochemical marker. Subjective measures, such …
Experimental Crossing of Subspecies in Nemobius (Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

In 1925, in a paper on Oecanthus (1), I reported the occurrence in Iowa of three ecological races of Nemobius fasciatus (De Geer), namely, a race widely distributed in grass land, a lowland grass race and a woodland race. Each race had a distinct song. No diagnostic characters were noted except that the woodland race was lighter and more reddish in color. After moving to North Carolina, I found the three types of songs duplicated there in races segregated by habitat. The most common race which had long been considered a southern geographical race, N. fasciatus socius Scudder, sang like the lowland grass race of the north. The southern race was defined as having the ovipositor no longer than the hind femora, a character which did not hold for the other two ecological races in North Carolina. Further study revealed differences in the proportions of the male tegmina and in the shape of the tip of the ovipositor, which were correlated with the type of song wherever found. The new characters were no more clearly limited than the old but defined what seemed to be the true subdivisions of the species. These findings were reported in a general paper on the genus (2), in which I proposed that the lowland grass race of the north should be recognized as socius , and described the woodland race as a new subspecies, N. fasciatus tinnulus .
Three new species of Laelaps (Echinolaelaps) from Indonesia (Acari: Laelapidae).

Three new species of parasitic mites are described from Indonesian rodents. These are Laelaps (Echinolaelaps) capitatipilus , n. sp. ex Rattus surifer, L. (E.) joaquini , n. sp. ex R. surifer , and L. (E.) papagomyis , n. sp. ex Papagomys armandvillei .
The Action of Botulinal Toxin

Two areas of research on botulinal toxin are reviewed: (1) isolation and characterization of the toxin molecule and (2) the mechanism by which the toxin acts to paralyze transmission by cholingerrgic nerves. The various molecules of botulinal toxin (types A, B, D, E and F) have molecular weights of approximately 150,000. The toxins are composed of two subunits with molecular weights of approximately 100,000 and approximately 50,000, respectively. The subunits are linked by one or more disulfide bonds. The large-molecular-weight substance (approximately 150,000) is fully neurotoxic; neither subunit possesses neurotoxicity. Toxin-induced paralysis of cholingergic nerves involves three steps: (1) an initial binding step that involves an external receptor; (2) a translocation step during which the toxin molecule, or some portion of it, moves through the nerve membrane; and (3) a paralytic step during which the release of acetylcholine is blocked.
Simplified bedside evaluation of respiratory insufficiency.

What is needed to evaluate respiratory insufficiency? The essentials are simple—the physician's senses, his knowledge of chest wall and cardiovascular changes in insufficiency, a stethoscope, a 6 in. ruler, a box of matches, a tape measure, a De Bono whistle, and a sphygmomanometer. With these he can clinically assess and measure a patient's respiratory status.
A composite parallel intelligent controller for multimodal and uncertain systems: theoretical formulation

This paper presents theoretical formulation of a new intelligent controller approach for parametric, functionally uncertain and multi-modal systems based on a supervisory loop approach. The scheme consists of three software agents that work in an autonomous manner for the precision control of such nonlinear dynamic systems. The first agent is a neuro-controller that monitors the system closed loop error for functional uncertainty. The second agent is an adaptive controller which controls the system dynamics when parametric change occur and helps to keep it inbound. The third one is a fuzzy reference model generator that works online to generate stable desired reference models when the system shows drastic modal changes. The theoretical formulations and subsequently the stability of the overall scheme based on a Lyapunov function candidate are analyzed in this part, thus illustrating the strengths of the proposed concept.
Structural equation modeling of the influence of environmental factors on summer phytoplankton growth in the Ross Sea

The Ross Sea is a highly productive region of the Southern Ocean, and net phytoplankton growth varies seasonally, ranging from zero to near the temperature-limited maximum. Given that variations in growth can result from a number of factors (such as irradiance and iron concentrations), variability in net growth rate was investigated using structural equation modeling (SEM) and data collected during a January–February 2012 cruise to the Ross Sea. Structural equation modeling indicated that summer growth rates were significantly affected by iron concentrations and particulate organic carbon (POC) levels, the latter which most likely contributed to the seasonal depletion of iron by phytoplankton. Conversely, growth rates did not strongly vary with mixed layer depth (and hence irradiance). SEM indicated that if iron concentrations were increased by 1.0 standard deviation (ca. 0.12 nM), summer growth rates would increase by 0.5 standard deviation (ca. 0.07 day−1). Similarly, if POC (a measure of phytoplankton biomass in this region) was increased by 1.0 standard deviation (from 23.0 to 39.4 µmol L−1), growth rates would decrease by 0.31 standard deviations (~0.04 day−1), which we speculate is likely due to heightened iron limitation via increased total iron uptake. This modeling exercise confirms the dominant role of iron in regulating summer phytoplankton rates over the continental shelf of the Ross Sea.
18 Balance training alone is as effective as balance training augmented with sensory treatments in those with chronic ankle instability

Background Research demonstrates that both motor (balance training) and sensory (massage, joint mobilizations) interventions are effective at improving chronic ankle instability (CAI) associated impairments but limited information is available about the effectiveness of combined interventions. Objective To determine if using sensory targeted ankle rehabilitation strategies (STARS) concurrently with balance training results in greater improvements in static postural control than balance training alone in those with CAI. Design Randomised controlled trial. Setting Research Laboratory. Patients (or participants) Twenty-four participants with self-reported CAI were randomly assigned to two groups: balance training (BT; age = 21.2 ± 1.6 years; height = 170.8 ± 15.1 cm; body mass = 73.0 ± 24.8 kg; FAAM = 85.9 ± 8.8%; FAAM-S = 68.2 ± 13.4%) and balance training with STARS (BTS; age = 21.4 ± 2.4 years; height = 168.8 ± 10.9 cm; body mass = 71.9 ± 20.3 kg; FAAM = 84.8 ± 7.3%; FAAM-S = 69.0 ± 12.9%). Interventions (or assessment of risk factors) Subjects completed a 4-week (12 sessions) balance training protocol on their involved limb consisting of hopping, reaching tasks, and static balance tasks with eyes open and closed. Progression was based on error free performance. The BTS group received a 5-minute STARS treatment prior to each training session consisting of calf stretching, talocrural joint traction, Grade III A-P joint mobilizations, and plantar massage. Main outcome measurements Time-to-boundary (TTB) minima, means and standard deviations were calculated for anterior-posterior (AP) and medial-lateral (ML) directions during eyes open and eyes closed single-limb balance at baseline and 24 h after protocol completion. Results Group differences were evaluated using separate 2-way repeated measures ANOVAs. No significant group or time main effects for eyes open TTB (p > 0.05) was identified. However, a time main effect for eyes closed TTB was observed for AP mean (p = 0.031) and AP standard deviation (p = 0.019). Conclusions A brief (5-minute) STARS treatment given concurrently with a balance training protocol does not improve static postural control in those with CAI any better than an error based dynamic balance training protocol does alone. Future research should explore the manipulation of different parameters associated with combined interventions.
Oil Users, Air Polluters, and Forest Abusers: Macro-Level Segmentation of 121 Countries Based on Resource Usage Efficiency Per Capita

This paper makes a vital contribution to the fields of sustainability studies and environmental policy making by presenting evidence that contradicts widely accepted conventional wisdom about the relative environmental efficiency of countries.Significant findings include the existence of clusters of relative resource usage efficiency that are not entirely explained by geography, stages of economic development, or other conventional theories.To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first time that a model-based three-dimensional cluster analysis has been used to address this question of ranking the relative environmental efficiency of countries.
Design and implementation of SEPIC converter with low ripple battery current for electric vehicle applications

This paper focuses on the energy management of battery for electric vehicle applications. The ultra capacitors are used in electric vehicle which protects the batteries from high peak current and therefore extend the life time of battery. The combination of ultra capacitor and battery are used to improve the power density in electric vehicles. The proposed system contains SEPIC converter which reduces the losses of converter and battery current ripple is minimized. The energy of electric vehicle consumption is increased due to converter losses.
Enhancing learning through virtual reality and neurofeedback: a first step

Virtual reality presents exciting new prospects for the delivery of educational materials to students. By combining this technology with biological sensors, a student in a virtual educational environment can be monitored for physiological markers of engagement or more cognitive states of learning. With this information, the virtual reality environment can be adaptively altered to reflect the student's state, essentially creating a closed-loop feedback system. This paper explores these concepts, and presents preliminary data on a combined EEG-VR working memory experiment as a first step toward a broader implementation of an intelligent adaptive learning system. This first-pass neural time-series and oscillatory data suggest that while an EEG-based neurofeedback system is feasible, more work on removing artifacts and identifying relevant and important features will lead to higher prediction accuracy.
The Government Wage Premium in Alaska

All across the North and throughout remote regions of the world, the government plays an important economic role [1]. Federal and regional government employment is often the dominant sector of the economy. Federal government spending of all sorts provides an important source of basic sector activity. Government employment can also bring stability to economies built around cyclically and seasonally unstable reosurce industries. Government is often the dominant resource owner in the region, and the decisions by government employees about the use of these resources will determine the economic growth of the region. Finally, government employees enforce the rules for economic activity which, depending on the point of view, either assist or hinder economic development.
Relative Association of Multi-Level Supportive Environments on Poor Health among Older Adults

Background: The aging of the United States population poses significant challenges to American healthcare and informal caregiving systems. Additional research is needed to understand how health promotion programs and policies based on a socio-ecological perspective impact the health and well-being of older persons. The purpose of this study was to investigate personal characteristics and supportive environments associated with poor health among older individuals aged 65 and over. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design and was guided by a conceptual framework developed by the authors to depict the relationship between personal characteristics and environments associated with poor health status. Environment types included in this study were family, home, financial, neighborhood, and healthcare. The sample was comprised of 1319 adults aged 65 years and older residing in Central Texas. From a random selection of households, participants were administered a mail-based survey created by a community collaborative effort. Descriptive statistics and three binary logistic regression models were fitted to examine associations with poor health status (i.e., physical, mental, and combined physical/mental). Results: Two personal characteristics (number of chronic conditions and educational level) were consistently related (p < 0.05) to health outcomes. Supportive family, home, financial, neighborhood, and health care environmental factors were shown to be related (p < 0.05) to various aspects of physical or mental health outcomes. Conclusions: Multidimensional factors including personal characteristics and protective environments are related to health status among older individuals. The unique roles of each environment can help inform public health interventions to create and enhance support for older adults to engage in healthful activities and improve their physical and mental health.
Suicidal behaviors and their relationship with psychotic-like symptoms in children and adolescents at clinical high risk for psychosis.

Abstract Background Previous research has demonstrated elevated rates of suicide attempts and ideation in individuals with psychosis. This study investigated rates and severity of suicidal behavior in youth with and at clinical high risk for psychosis, and examined the positive, negative, and disorganized symptoms associated with suicidal behaviors among the clinical high risk group. Methods Eighty-six youth ages 7–18 ( n = 21 non-clinical controls [NCC], n = 40 clinical high risk [CHR], n = 25 diagnosed psychotic disorder [PD]) were recruited. CHR and PD participants were identified using the Structured Interview for Prodromal Symptoms (SIPS) and Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children—Present and Lifetime Version (KSADS-PL). All participants completed the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R). Results Findings indicated significantly higher levels of suicidal behavior among CHR and PD relative to NCC participants ( F = 7.64, p = 0.001). 17.5% of CHR participants had previously attempted suicide. Dysphoric Mood and Odd Behavior or Appearance were significantly correlated with suicidal behavior severity among CHR youth. Conclusion Suicidal behavior was observed with greater frequency and severity in the CHR and PD groups than in the NCC group. CHR suicidal behavior severity was correlated most strongly with Dysphoric Mood and Odd Behavior or Appearance , a relationship which warrants further investigation.
What Does It Mean to Be Human

Humans are the highest form of intelligent life on Earth. But what is it that makes us distinctly human? From a purely scientific perspective, what, if anything, sets us apart from other forms of life? Are there other important considerations, apart from the natural sciences, which might be necessary, if we want a complete picture of what it means to be human? In this chapter we will explore these and other questions related to our humanness. We conclude by focusing on the question, what can we learn from an android about what it means to be human?