cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increasing Intracellular Free Calcium Induces Circumferential Contractions in Isolated Cochlear Outer Hair Cells

The relationship between intracellular free calcium and the motile responses of outer hair cells isolated from the guinea pig cochlea was examined. Calcium levels were modulated by the addition of the calcium ionophores ionomycin or A23187 to the incubation medium and monitored with the fluorescent calcium indicator fluo-3. In the presence of 1.25 mM external calcium, the application of either ionophore (10 microM) led to an increase in intracellular free calcium from 157 +/- 76 nM to 1200 +/- 500 nM within 30-60 sec. Concurrently, cells elongated by 1-2 microns, cell diameter decreased, and cell volume shrank by 269 +/- 220 microns 3 (5.0 +/- 4.1%). The reduction in diameter was most pronounced in the middle portion of the cell (4.4% +/- 4.2%), also evident in the apical region (3.1% +/- 4.8%) but not significant in the basal region near the nucleus. This response was observed in outer hair cells from basal and apical turns of the cochlea and was reversed when the cells were rinsed with calcium-free medium supplemented with 2 mM EGTA. Optical imaging of the cell membrane with the potentiometric dye 1-(3-sulfonatopropyl)-4-[beta] [2-(di-n-butylaminol)-6-naphthyl vinyl] pyridinium betaine during the elevation of intracellular calcium demonstrated features of contractility at the lateral cell membrane. A rise in intracellular calcium as well as the motile response was still observed after a 5-min exposure of the cells to a calcium-free solution (supplemented with 2 mM EGTA), indicating that the ionophore was also able to liberate calcium from intracellular sites. However, depletion of calcium stores through prolonged incubation of the cells in calcium-free medium (30-60 min) suppressed both the calcium signal and the cell response. The calmodulin inhibitors trifluoperazine and pimozide (30 microM) blocked the cell motility induced by ionomycin while they left the increase of intracellular calcium unaffected. These observations suggest that calcium-dependent circumferential contractions in outer hair cells are mediated by calmodulin. The application to the extracellular medium of putative neurotransmitters of the cochlear efferent system such as acetylcholine and GABA led to neither an increase in intracellular calcium nor a modification of cell shape. Therefore, these neurotransmitters may not be directly involved in calcium-induced contractions in outer hair cells. The circumferential contractions altered the stiffness of the plasma membrane and the turgor of the cell. Under normal conditions, changes in cell volume were inversely proportional to the osmotic pressure of the extracellular medium following van't Hoff's law.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
PERMANENT AFTER-EFFECTS FOLLOWING MASCULINIZATION OF THE INFANTILE FEMALE RAT1

AN EARLIER REPORT (1) described masculinisation of infantile female rats as a result of daily injections of anterior pituitary-like substance. Treatment was started at 6 days of age and the effect appeared within 3 weeks. Some of the rats that had been treated during infancy were observed for nearly a year after the cessation of treatment. Similar observations have been made on rats treated with testosterone propionate. The after effects of masculiniz;ation by either testosterone or anterior pituitary-like substance (2) are of sufficient interest to be reported in greater detail in this paper and to give some experimental evidence concerning the mechanism by which these effects are produced. Seven rats from a group that had been given 2 R.U. of antuitrin-S daily from the 6th until the 24th day of age still survived at 7 months of age. Daily vaginal smears taken during the 8th, 9th and 10th months revealed that all of these rats were in continuous vaginal estrus.
Differential expression of the Na,K-ATPase alpha 1 and alpha 2 subunit genes in a murine myogenic cell line. Induction of the alpha 2 isozyme during myocyte differentiation.

Expression of Na,K-ATPase catalytic alpha isoform (alpha 1, alpha 2, and alpha 3) and beta subunit genes in rodent muscle was investigated using the murine C2C12 myogenic cell line. RNA blot analyses of myoblasts revealed expression primarily of the alpha 1 mRNA and low levels of alpha 2 mRNA. Fusion of the proliferating myoblasts to form myotubes was accompanied by an approximate 12-fold induction of the alpha 2 mRNA. In contrast, expression of alpha 1 mRNA remained constant throughout myogenesis. The alpha 3 mRNA was not detected in either myoblasts or myotubes. The beta mRNA abundance also increased 2-3-fold during myotube formation. In rodent tissues, low and high affinity cardiac glycoside (e.g. ouabain) receptors have been shown to be associated with the Na,K-ATPase catalytic alpha 1 and alpha 2 isoform subunits, respectively. The existence of these two functional classes of Na,K-ATPase in myoblasts and myotubes correlated with the biphasic ouabain inhibition of Na,K-ATPase activity. Confluent myoblasts expressed primarily the alpha 1 isozyme (IC50 = 3.6 X 10(-5) M; 95% of total activity) and lesser amounts of the alpha 2 isozyme (IC50 = 1.1 X 10(-7) M; 5% of total activity). In contrast, the myotubes showed significant levels of the alpha 1 isozyme (IC50 = 4.0 X 10(-5) M; 68% of total activity) and, in addition, showed a 6-fold increase in the relative levels of the alpha 2 isozyme (IC50 = 1.1 X 10(-7) M; 32% of total activity). To quantitate further the expression of the high affinity, ouabain-sensitive alpha 2 isozyme, a whole cell [3H]ouabain-binding assay was used. Results revealed that myotubes have an approximately 6-fold greater concentration of [3H]ouabain-binding sites than myoblasts with an apparent dissociation constant (Kd) of 1.4 X 10(-7) M. The results indicate that muscle cells can express multiple isozymes of Na,K-ATPase and that expression of the alpha 2 isozyme is developmentally regulated during myogenesis.
Pesticide and transformation product detections and age-dating relations from till and sand deposits

: Pesticide and transformation product concentrations and frequencies in ground water from areas of similar crop and pesticide applications may vary substantially with differing lithologies. Pesticide analysis data for atrazine, metolachlor, alachlor, acetochlor, and cyanazine and their pesticide transformation products were collected at 69 monitoring wells in Illinois and northern Indiana to document occurrence of pesticides and their transformation products in two agricultural areas of differing lithologies, till, and sand. The till is primarily tile drained and has preferential fractured flow, whereas the sand primarily has surface water drainage and primary porosity flow. Transformation products represent most of the agricultural pesticides in ground water regardless of aquifer material – till or sand. Transformation products were detected more frequently than parent pesticides in both the till and sand, with metolachlor ethane sulfonic acid being most frequently detected. Estimated ground-water recharge dates for the sand were based on chlorofluorocarbon analyses. These age-dating data indicate that ground water recharged prior to 1990 is more likely to have a detection of a pesticide or pesticide transformation product. Detections were twice as frequent in ground water recharged prior to 1990 (82%) than in ground water recharged on or after 1990 (33%). The highest concentrations of atrazine, alachlor, metolachlor, and their transformation products, also were detected in samples from ground water recharged prior to 1990. These age/pesticide detection relations are opposite of what would normally be expected, and may be the result of preferential flow and/or ground-water mixing between aquifers and aquitards as evident by the detection of acetochlor transformation products in samples with estimated ground-water ages predating initial pesticide application.
The English Catholic Press and the Second Spanish Republic, 1931–1936

The sympathy of most English Catholics during the Spanish Civil War of 1936–1939 lay with General Francisco Franco and the other generals who had rebelled against the Second Spanish Republic. If there was any doubt of this, the spate of literature which then appeared, much of it polemical, and the journalistic views presented could leave little doubt on the matter. The adoption of an anti-Republican stance in English Catholic circles, while not complete, nevertheless implied an adverse judgment upon the viability and legitimacy of the Republic, if not its legality, from 1936 onward. The Republic had failed in its primary obligation—to rule justly—and the military revolt had been necessary to forestall anarchy or communism. The judgment that the Republic had failed, however, was not an a priori one, nor was it enthusiastically reached so much as accepted.
Transcriptional Regulation of APOBEC3G, a Cytidine Deaminase That Hypermutates Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme, catalytic polypeptide-like 3G (APOBEC3G) is an antiretroviral deoxycytidine deaminase that lethally hypermutates human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) but is itself neutralized by the HIV-1-encoded viral infectivity factor. Accordingly, APOBEC3G occurs specifically in human T lymphocytic cell lines that contain this antiviral defense, including H9. Since the substrate specificities of related cytidine deaminases are strongly influenced by their intracellular quantities, we analyzed the factors that control APOBEC3G expression. The levels of APOBEC3G mRNA and protein were unaffected by treatment of proliferating H9 cells with interferons or tumor necrosis factor-α but were enhanced up to 20-fold by phorbol myristate acetate. This induction was mediated at the transcriptional level by a pathway that required activation of the protein kinase Cα/βI isozyme (PKC), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) 1 and 2, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Correspondingly, induction of APOBEC3G was blocked by multiple inhibitors that act at diverse steps of this pathway. The PKCα/βI/MEK/ERK pathway also controlled basal levels of APOBEC3G mRNA and protein, which consequently declined when cells were treated with these inhibitors or arrested in the G0 state of the cell cycle by serum starvation. We conclude that expression of the antiviral APOBEC3G editing enzyme is dynamically controlled by the PKCα/βI/MEK/ERK protein kinase cascade in human T lymphocytes.
Establishing RNA Interference as a Reverse-Genetic Approach for Gene Functional Analysis in Protoplasts

Double-stranded (ds)RNA interference (RNAi) is widely used for functional analysis of plant genes and is achieved via generating stable transformants expressing dsRNA in planta. This study demonstrated that RNAi can also be utilized to examine gene functions in protoplasts. Because protoplasts are nongrowing cells, effective RNAi-triggered gene silencing depends not only on a depletion of gene transcripts but also on turnover rates of corresponding polypeptides. Herein, we tested if transient RNAi in protoplasts would result in the depletion of a targeted polypeptide and, because protoplasts have a limited life span, if functional assays of RNAi knockout genes would be feasible in protoplasts. We showed that protoplasts transfection with an in vitro-synthesized dsRNA against Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) β-glutamylcysteine synthase (ECS1), a key enzyme in the synthesis of glutathione, resulted in a 95% depletion of ECS1 transcript, a 72% decrease of ECS1 polypeptide, and a 60% drop in glutathione content. These results were comparable with those obtained upon analysis of Arabidopsis seedlings bearing the cad2-1 mutant allele of ECS1. We also improved the procedure for RNAi inactivation of several genes simultaneously. Finally, because we isolated protoplasts from tissues of 14-d-old seedlings instead of 1-month-old mature plants, the described procedure is rapid (as it only takes 20 d from seed planting to functional studies), suitable for analyzing multiple genes in parallel, and independent of cloning dsRNAs into plant expression vectors. Therefore, RNAi in protoplasts complements existing genetic tools, as it allows rapid, cost- and space-efficient initial screening and selection of genes for subsequent in planta studies.
The geology and geophysics of Mars

The current state of knowledge concerning the regional geology and geophysics of Mars is summarized. Telescopic observations of the planet are reviewed, pre-Mariner models of its interior are discussed, and progress achieved with the Mariner flybys, especially that of Mariner 9, is noted. A map of the Martian geological provinces is presented to provide a summary of the surface geology and morphology. The contrast between the northern and southern hemispheres is pointed out, and the characteristic features of the surface are described in detail. The global topography of the planet is examined along with its gravitational field, gravity anomalies, and moment of inertia. The general sequence of events in Martian geological history is briefly outlined.
Inflammation rapidly modulates the expression of ALDH1A1 (RALDH1) and vimentin in the liver and hepatic macrophages of rats in vivo

Background: Members of the ALDH1 protein family, known as retinal dehydrogenases (RALDH), produce retinoic acid (RA), a metabolite of vitamin A, and may also oxidize other lipid aldehydes. Of three related ALDH1 genes, ALDH1A1 is most highly expressed in liver. ALDH1A1 is also rapidly gaining importance as a stem cell marker. We hypothesized that ALDH1A1 may have a broad cellular distribution in the liver, and that its expression may be regulated by RA and perturbed by inflammation. Methods: Studies were conducted in vitamin A-deficient and –adequate rats that were further treated with all-trans-RA or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce a state of moderate inflammation. RALDH1A1 expression was determined by quantitative PCR and RALDH1, as well as marker gene expression, was determined by immunocytochemical methods. Results: Inflammation reduced ALDH1A1 mRNA in whole liver regardless of the level of vitamin A in the diet (P<0.05), while treatment with RA reduced ALDH1A1 expression only in chow-fed rats. ALDH1A1 protein exhibited diffuse staining in hepatocytes, with greater intensity in the periportal region including surrounding bile ducts. Six h after administration of LPS, portal region macrophages were more numerous and some of these cells contained ALDH1A1. Vimentin, which was used as a marker for stellate cells and fibroblasts, was increased by LPS, P=0.011 vs. without LPS, in both ED1 (CD68)-positive macrophages and fibroblastic stellate-like cells in the parenchyma as well as portal regions. Alpha-smooth muscle actin staining was intense around blood vessels, but did not change after LPS or RA, nor overlap with staining for vimentin. Conclusions: Acute inflammation rapidly downregulates ALDH1A1 expression in whole liver while increasing its expression in periportal macrophages. Changes in ALDH1A1 expression appear to be part of the early acute-phase inflammatory response, which has been shown to alter the expression of other retinoid homeostatic genes. In addition, the rapid strong response of vimentin expression after treatment with LPS suggests that increased vimentin may be a useful marker of early hepatic inflammation.
Rate-dependent force, intracellular calcium, and action potential voltage alternans are modulated by sarcomere length and heart failure induced-remodeling of thin filament regulation in human heart failure: A myocyte modeling study

Microvolt T-wave alternans (MTWA) testing identifies heart failure patients at risk for lethal ventricular arrhythmias at near-resting heart rates (<110 beats per minute). Since pressure alternans occurs simultaneously with MTWA and has a higher signal to noise ratio, it may be a better predictor of arrhythmia, although the mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between force alternans (FORCE-ALT), the cellular manifestation of pressure alternans, and action potential voltage alternans (APV-ALT), the cellular driver of MTWA. Our goal was to uncover the mechanisms linking APV-ALT and FORCE-ALT in failing human myocytes and to investigate how the link between those alternans was affected by pacing rate and by physiological conditions such as sarcomere length and heart failure induced-remodeling of mechanical parameters. To achieve this, a mechanically-based, strongly coupled human electromechanical myocyte model was constructed. Reducing the sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium uptake current (Iup) to 27% was incorporated to simulate abnormal calcium handling in human heart failure. Mechanical remodeling was incorporated to simulate altered thin filament activation and crossbridge (XB) cycling rates. A dynamical pacing protocol was used to investigate the development of intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca]i), voltage, and active force alternans at different pacing rates. FORCE-ALT only occurred in simulations incorporating reduced Iup, demonstrating that alternans in the intracellular calcium concentration (CA-ALT) induced FORCE-ALT. The magnitude of FORCE-ALT was found to be largest at clinically relevant pacing rates (<110 bpm), where APV-ALT was smallest. We found that the magnitudes of FORCE-ALT, CA-ALT and APV-ALT were altered by heart failure induced-remodeling of mechanical parameters and sarcomere length due to the presence of myofilament feedback. These findings provide important insight into the relationship between heart-failure-induced electrical and mechanical alternans and how they are altered by physiological conditions at near-resting heart rates.
Validation of the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory With a Sample of Students in Nursing

The authors examine the construct validity of the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) using first semester nursing students. Although 10 subscales have been identified by the authors of the instrument, factor analysis of the LASSI data obtained from the current subjects resulted in 4 reliable sub-scales. Results suggest that academic advisors, counselors, and learning center specialists should be cautious in the use of the LASSI with undergraduate students.
Access to water provides economic relief through enhanced relationships in Kenya

Introduction Sub-Saharan Africa is comprised of low- and middle-income countries subject to the residual effects of chronic poverty. Poverty contributes to health disparities and social inequities. Public health strategies and solutions seek to remedy the effects of poverty. Providing access to quality water is one priority public health project that alleviates adverse health effects, but may have additional outcomes. Previous research has not thoroughly reviewed the economic relief and relationship changes from implemented water interventions. Methods A qualitative phenomenological approach used 52 semi-structured interviews to understand relationship experiences among primary water gatherers and their families after implemented water interventions in a community. This study took place throughout the historically semi-arid eastern region in Kitui, Kenya, where community members have been beneficiaries of various water interventions. Results Prior to the water intervention, relationships were strained because of economic hardships. Households experienced economic difficulties in paying for children's school fees, buying bricks for housing structures, having water for house gardens, trees for shade in the compound, crops and providing water for their animals. After receiving access to water, relationships improved, because families were able to discuss and address economic challenges. Additional financial revenue was gained and used to pay for water to make bricks to sell or use on housing structures, expand on house gardens and agricultural crops, build new businesses, purchase water for animals, and construct local water spouts near the household. Discussion Access to water improved relationships, which encouraged economic growth. This information provides a critical component in understanding the interconnected nature between access to water, poverty and family relationships. Ultimately, this research suggests an increased need for access to quality water worldwide to improve both economic situations and relationships in low- and middle-income countries.
Kinetic and specificity differences between rat, human, and rabbit Na+-glucose cotransporters (SGLT-1)

The Na+ activation and substrate specificity of human, rabbit, and rat Na+-glucose cotransporter (SGLT-1) isoforms were characterized using the Xenopus oocyte expression system and the two-electrode voltageclamp method. We find that there are differences, major and minor, in both the kinetics and substrate specificities between these isoforms; the substrate concentration at half-maximal current (K0.5) for hexoses varies from 0.2 to > 40 mM, depending on the species and sugar; the affinity constant (Ki) for phlorizin, the classic competitive inhibitor of SGLT-1, varies lover two orders of magnitude (rat Ki = 0.03 microM vs. rabbit Ki = 1.4 microM); and some glucoside inhibitors of the rabbit isoform, p-nitrophenyl glucose and beta-naphthyl glucose, are transported by the human and rat transporters. Na+ activation is more sensitive to membrane potential in the human and rat isoforms compared with rabbit. The rabbit isoform has a higher apparent affinity for alpha-methylglucose and 3-O-methylglucose by a factor of two than either human or rat. These results can be quantitatively fitted by our six-state kinetic model of SGLT-1, providing insight into the processes involved in these changes. For example, the model predicts that Na+ binding (rate constant, k12) in human and rat SGLT-1 is similar but is fourfold larger than in rabbit, whereas sugar binding (k23) in rabbit and rat is similar but double the value in human SGLT-1. The differences in the primary amino acid sequences between these three homologous proteins must account for the kinetic and substrate specificity differences, and comparisons of the functional properties and amino acid sequences of SGLT-1 isoforms provide useful information about structure/function relationships.
Compact Low Energy Fiber Laser Femtosecond Deactivation of Viral Species

A compact 1550 nm low pulse energy erbium doped femtosecond fiber laser is used to inactivate viruses via Impulse Stimulated Raman Scattering (ISRS). Inactivation using this method was selective to the virus and not cells.
Structure of Turbulent Boundary Layers with Dense Roughness

Measurements were made in two-dimensional zero pressure gradient turbulent boundary layers over 5 geometries of three-dimensional dense rough surfaces in the fully rough regime in order to aid in the development of a predictive tool for the effects of roughness. A 3component laser Doppler velocimeter was used to measure instantaneous velocities. These measurements permitted an independent estimate of skin friction on the surfaces using a momentum balance approach and the validity of the von Karman constant for rough walls was tested. Five roughness fetches were evaluated: three sandpaper roughness fetches of varying grit size and two cases of uniformly distri buted hemispheres of different spacing. Optical surface profilometry was used to characteri ze the geometry of the sandgrain surfaces. Preliminary results show that the smooth wall von Karman constant does not hold for dense rough wall flows. The traditional roughn ess constant f( λ) did not correlate well with λ λ λ λ for the experimental data. Traditional inner wall scalings, as well as other combinations, were not successful at collapsing sur face pressure fluctuations at any frequency range. Nomenclature
The psychodynamics of male prostitution

In a seventeen-month field study thirty-three male were interviewed and tentatively classified into four categories: call-boys, street prostitutes, bar hustlers, and kept boys. These classifications, though flexible, were deemed useful in exploring the homosexual psychodynamics involved. In addition, twenty frequenter of prostitutes (scores) were interviewed and the prostitute-customer relationship was analyzed and discussed.
Measuring cognitive load during procedural skills training with colonoscopy as an exemplar.

Objectives Few studies have investigated cognitive factors affecting learning of procedural skills in medical education. Cognitive load theory, which focuses on working memory, is highly relevant, but methods for measuring cognitive load during procedural training are not well understood. Using colonoscopy as an exemplar, we used cognitive load theory to develop a self-report instrument to measure three types of cognitive load (intrinsic, extraneous and germane load) and to provide evidence for instrument validity. Methods We developed the instrument (the Cognitive Load Inventory for Colonoscopy [CLIC]) using a multi-step process. It included 19 items measuring three types of cognitive load, three global rating items and demographics. We then conducted a cross-sectional survey that was administered electronically to 1061 gastroenterology trainees in the USA. Participants completed the CLIC following a colonoscopy. The two study phases (exploratory and confirmatory) each lasted for 10 weeks during the 2014–2015 academic year. Exploratory factor analysis determined the most parsimonious factor structure; confirmatory factor analysis assessed model fit. Composite measures of intrinsic, extraneous and germane load were compared across years of training and with global rating items. Results A total of 477 (45.0%) invitees participated (116 in the exploratory study and 361 in the confirmatory study) in 154 (95.1%) training programmes. Demographics were similar to national data from the USA. The most parsimonious factor structure included three factors reflecting the three types of cognitive load. Confirmatory factor analysis verified that a three-factor model was the best fit. Intrinsic, extraneous and germane load items had high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.90, 0.87 and 0.96, respectively) and correlated as expected with year in training and global assessment of cognitive load. Conclusions The CLIC measures three types of cognitive load during colonoscopy training. Evidence of validity is provided. Although CLIC items relate to colonoscopy, the development process we detail can be used to adapt the instrument for use in other learning settings in medical education.
Problem management module: an innovative system to improve problem list workflow.

Electronic problem lists are essential to modern health record systems, with a primary goal to serve as the repository of a patient’s current health issues. Additionally, coded problems can be used to drive downstream activities such as decision support, evidence-based medicine, billing, and cohort generation for research. Meaningful Use also requires use of a coded problem list. Over the course of three years, Intermountain Healthcare developed a problem management module (PMM) that provided innovative functionality to improve clinical workflow and boost problem list adoption, e.g. smart search, user customizable views, problem evolution, and problem timelines. In 23 months of clinical use, clinicians entered over 70,000 health issues, the percentage of free-text items dropped to 1.2%, completeness of problem list items increased by 14%, and more collaborative habits were initiated.
Hemodynamic Response to Low-dose Epinephrine Infusion during Hypotensive Epidural Anesthesia for Total Hip Replacement

The hemodynamic response to reduction in blood pressure after epidural anesthesia in elderly patients is poorly defined. Therefore, hemodynamic measurements using radial artery and thermodilution pulmonary artery catheters were performed in 85 patients undergoing total hip replacement in whom blood pressure was allowed to decrease in order to minimize blood loss. Measurements were made in the lateral position prior to and after induction of epidural anesthesia to T4 or above when mean arterial pressure (MAP) had fallen to 50-55 mmHg. Four non-randomized groups of patients were identified: those requiring zero, less than 1 microgram/minute, 1-2 micrograms/minute or 2-5 micrograms/minute, respectively, of intravenous epinephrine to maintain MAP at 50-55 mmHg. In patients receiving no epinephrine, MAP, heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), cardiac index (CI), pulmonary artery diastolic pressure (PAD), left ventricular stroke work index (LVSWI) and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) fell significantly from baseline. Low-dose epinephrine infusions modified this response by increasing SV and CI and reducing SVR, but had little consistent effect on PAD, HR and LVSWI. Increases in SV and CI were significantly related to the dose of epinephrine administered. Low-dose intravenous epinephrine infusions preserve cardiac output during hypotensive epidural anesthesia in elderly patients.
Surgical Treatment of Advanced Peri-Implantitis With a Dual Augmentation Technique: A Report of Two Cases With 15-Month Follow-Up

Introduction: With the prevalence of peri-implantitis increasing, management of the disease is an important therapy to consider. The goal of a dual augmentation technique in the treatment of peri-implantitis is to address hard and soft tissue deficiency simultaneously. This report of two cases presents clinical and radiographic outcomes for surgical treatment of peri-implantitis with a dual augmentation technique in advanced peri-implantitis cases with inadequate keratinized tissue.Case Series: Two patients diagnosed with advanced peri-implantitis exhibiting bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD) >6 mm, and bone loss >3 mm were treated. Affected implants were treated with specific surface decontamination protocol followed by using a combination of recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor with a mixture of freeze-dried bone allograft and deproteinized bovine-derived bone. Subsequently, acellular dermal matrix was used as a membrane to cover defects and augment soft tissue volume at the same ...
English Language Abilities and Domestic Usage

The importance of language skills is highlighted by a clear correlation between English language abilities, social mobility, and income levels. Among Latinos, levels of English language proficiencies are, of course, linked to nativity. Nearly all adult Latinos born in the United States speak English well or very well, and in 2005 about 36% of all domestic-born Latinos 5 years of age and older spoke only English. Yet, nearly 48% of all foreign-born Latinos spoke no English or did not speak English well in 2005. Since foreign-born Latinos increased from 29% of the total Hispanic population in 1980 to nearly 42% in 2005, there was a parallel rise in the percentage of the entire Latino population that did not speak English at all or spoke English poorly. In 1980 nearly 20% of all Latinos had little domination over the English language; by 2005 this had increased to 25%, largely because of the increase in the foreign-born. There were only small differentiations in English language skills by sex among both the foreign- and domestic-born. A slightly greater percentage of foreign-born Latinas (49.4%) had poor or no English language skills compared with 45.8% of males (see Table 9.1). There were, however, distinctions based on educational backgrounds among the foreign-born. Additionally, while lower levels of English language proficiency were found among the foreign-born of all Latino subgroups, the level varied considerably by nationality. Within each Latino national subgroup the percentage of the overall population with either poor or excellent English language skills was directly linked to the volume of immigration between 1980 and 2005 and the relative importance of the foreign-born within each population. Latino nationalities with greater percentages of the foreign-born had higher portions of their populations with poor English-language skills. Among the dominant Mexican-origin population the domestic-born had great proficiency in English and by 2005 less than 5% reported that they spoke no English or did not speak English very well. More than 36% spoke English exclusively. However, with the large-scale immigration of Mexicans after 1980 the portion of foreign-born Mexicans in the United States increased from about 25% of all Mexicans and Mexican Americans in 1980 to nearly 41% in 2005. This meant that a greater share of the overall Mexican population had rudimentary English language skills by 2005 since over half of foreign-born Mexicans indicated little or no English language abilities. In 1980 about 20% of all Mexicans and Mexican Americans had poor or no English language skills; in 2005 this had risen to nearly 27% (see Table 9.2).
The random-walk model

Before introducing more complex methods, we start with a model of a fundamental materials process, the random-walk model of diffusion. The random-walk model is one of the simplest computational models in materials research and thus can help us introduce many of the basic ideas behind computer simulations. Moreover, despite its simplicity, the random-walk model is a good starting place for describing one of the most important processes in materials, the diffusion of atoms through a solid. RANDOM-WALK MODEL OF DIFFUSION Diffusion involves atoms moving from site to site under the influence of the interactions with the other atoms in the system. An atom typically sits at a site for a time long compared with its vibrational period and then has a rapid transit to another site, which we will refer to as a “jump”. To describe that process properly requires much more detail than we now have in hand (though we shall rectify that situation somewhat in the forthcoming chapters). Thus, we will take a very simple model that ignores all atomic-level details and that focuses just on the jumps. Consider the simple example of a single atom moving along a surface, which we will assume consists of a square lattice of sites with a nearest-neighbor distance of a . Diffusion occurs by a series of random jumps from site to site in the lattice, as shown in Figure 2.1.We can understand the basic physics by considering the energy of the interaction between the diffusing atom and the underlying solid, which we show schematically in Figure 2.2a.
Critical evaluation of latanoprostene bunod in the treatment of glaucoma

Latanoprostene bunod (LBN) is a novel nitric oxide-donating prostaglandin F2α receptor agonist in clinical development for intraocular pressure lowering in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Currently in Phase III clinical trials in the USA, European Union, and Japan, LBN has demonstrated promising efficacy while maintaining safety and tolerability. We review preclinical and clinical developmental efforts and evaluate the potential role of LBN monotherapy in the management of open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The current LBN clinical development program comprises eight trials, four of which have resulted in publication of complete methodology and outcomes. We additionally pool adverse events data to determine incidences across three pivotal studies. Evidence thus far indicates that LBN may be a safe and effective ocular hypotensive agent, although the potential neuroprotective effects and the impact on visual field loss remain to be evaluated.
Single Molecule Studies of a Membrane-Bound, Master Kinase Circuit... Detecting Interactions of Two Master Kinase Pairs on the Membrane, PDK1-AKT1 and PDK1-PKC Alpha

In chemotaxing ameboid cells, a leading edge signaling network formed on the cytoplasmic leaflet of the plasma membrane directs actin and membrane remodeling to propel the cell up an attractant gradient. AKT1 (PKB) and PKCα kinases are central to the regulation of this chemotactic and other signaling pathways. To achieve full catalytic competence, PKCα and AKT1 are phosphorylated at key, C-terminal residues by PDK1, a master regulator of several AGC-family kinase members that control cell growth, proliferation, survival regulate metabolism. Interactions of AKT1, PDK1 and PKCα with the membrane are controlled by regulated generation of the signaling phosphoinositide lipid PIP3 (AKT1 and PDK1) and the influx of intracellular calcium (PKCα). Both AKT1 and PKCα possess a C-terminal PIF (PDK1 Interacting Fragment) motif thought to interact with a “PIF pocket” at the PDK1 catalytic domain. Productive collisions between membrane-bound AKT1:PDK1 and PKCα:PDK1 likely accelerate formation of the PIF:PIP pocket complex such that activating phosphorylation events by PDK1 at PKCα and AKT1 more efficient. Despite convincing work describing complexes between these regulatory kinases in solution, there has not been any evidence of AKT1:PDK1 or PKCα:PDK1 complex formation on a lipid membrane. The present work investigates the complexes between AKT1, PKCα and PDK1 using single molecule TIRF microscopy. The poster will present the findings of our work that will test the hypothesis that AKT1 and PKCα are each able to form a stable complex with PDK1, and the complex can be dissociated by adding a PIF peptide mimic. Moreover, by monitoring complex formation via increased protein:membrane friction and diffusional slowing, the affinity of each interaction can be derived. These findings are expected to yield new insight into the PDK1-dependent maturation of AKT1 and PKCα and may also assist with the development and testing of new therapeutics directed towards the kinases and kinase complexes.
Bariatric Surgery in Patients with Cirrhosis

Obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have been increasing globally leading to higher incidences of liver cirrhosis. Bariatric/Metabolic surgery is an effective long-term treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and associated comorbidities providing significant cardiovascular risk reduction. Multiple studies have demonstrated significant histological improvement in NASH following metabolic surgery. Although patients with cirrhosis undergoing metabolic surgery have a higher perioperative risk than the general population, reported mortality and complication rates are less than expected compared to other major abdominal procedures. A multidisciplinary team approach is recommended for the management of bariatric surgery patients with cirrhosis in order to optimize outcomes.
Rootkits and the OS friendly microprocessor architecture

We examine how the hardware level security features in the OS Friendly Microprocessor Architecture improves cybersecurity against a rootkit attack. A rootkit (root + kit) is a malicious program or tool -“kit” of programs designed to obtain “root” level privileges (root for Unix, admin for Windows). Rootkits operate at the same security ring level as an operating system. This gives rootkits access to kernel level data structures. Even with state-of-the-art security technologies, it is very difficult to detect a rootkit. Rootkits have been used for digital rights management and copy protection; however, the 2005 CD copy protection scandal illustrates how poor computer security can leave an open door for other malware. We present a security model of the OS Friendly Microprocessor Architecture and we present a short introduction to rootkits. For this paper, we will focus on OS-kernel level rootkits. We will illustrate how the hardware security features of the OS Friendly Microprocessor Architecture increases the difficulty for rootkit malware to compromise a computer system.
A review of diazinon use, contamination in surface waters, and regulatory actions in California across water years 1992–2014

Diazinon is an organophosphorus insecticide that has been widely used in the USA and in California resulting in contamination of surface waters. Several federal and state regulations have been implemented with the aim of reducing its impact to human health and the environment, e.g., the cancellation of residential use products by the USEPA and dormant spray regulations by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. This study reviewed the change in diazinon use and surface water contamination in accordance with the regulatory actions implemented in California over water years 1992–2014. We observed that use amounts began declining when agencies announced the intention to regulate certain use patterns and continued to decline after the implementation of those programs and regulations. The reduction in use amounts led to a downward trend in concentration data and exceedance frequencies in surface waters. Moreover, we concluded that diazinon concentrations in California’s surface waters in recent years (i.e., water years 2012–2014) posed a de minimis risk to aquatic organisms.
Natural IgM and TLR Agonists Switch Murine Splenic Pan-B to "Regulatory" Cells That Suppress Ischemia-Induced Innate Inflammation via Regulating NKT-1 Cells.

Natural IgM anti-leucocyte autoantibodies (IgM-ALA) inhibit inflammation by several mechanisms. Here we show that pan-B cells and bone marrow derived DC (BMDC) are switched to regulatory cells when pretreated ex-vivo with IgM. B cells are also switched to regulatory cells when pretreated ex-vivo with CpG but not with LPS. Pre-emptive infusion of such ex-vivo induced regulatory cells protects C57BL/6 mice from ischemia induced acute kidney injury (AKI) via regulation of in-vivo NKT-1 cells which normally amplify the innate inflammatory response to DAMPS released after reperfusion of the ischemic kidney. Such ex-vivo induced regulatory pan-B cells and BMDC express low CD1d and inhibit inflammation by regulating in-vivo NKT-1 in the context of low lipid antigen presentation and by a mechanism that requires co-stimulatory molecules, CD1d, PDL1/PD1 and IL10. Secondly, LPS and CpG have opposite effects on induction of regulatory activity in BMDC and B cells. LPS enhances regulatory activity of IgM pretreated BMDC but negates the IgM induced regulatory activity in B cells while CpG, with or without IgM pretreatment, induces regulatory activity in B cells but not in BMDC. Differences in the response of pan-B and dendritic cells to LPS and CpG, especially in the presence of IgM-ALA, may have relevance during infections and inflammatory disorders where there is increased IgM-ALA and release of TLRs 4 and 9 ligands. Ex-vivo induced regulatory pan-B cells could have therapeutic relevance as these easily available cells can be pre-emptively infused to prevent AKI that can occur during open heart surgery or in transplant recipients receiving deceased donor organs.
Effect of patients' functional status on satisfaction with outcomes 12 months after elective spine surgery for lumbar degenerative disease.

Abstract Background Comprehensive assessment of quality of care includes patient-reported outcomes, safety of care delivered, and patient satisfaction. The impact of the patient-reported Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores at baseline and 12 months on satisfaction with outcomes following spine surgery is not well documented. Purpose This study aimed to determine the impact of patient disability (ODI) scores at baseline and 12 months on satisfaction with outcomes following surgery. Study Design Analysis of prospectively collected longitudinal web-based multicenter data. Patient Sample Patients undergoing elective surgery for degenerative lumbar disease were entered into a prospective multicenter registry. Outcome Measures Primary outcome measures were ODI, North American Spine Society satisfaction (NASS) questionnaire. Methods Baseline and 12-month ODI scores were recorded. Satisfaction at 12 months after surgery was measured using NASS questionnaire. Multivariable proportional odds logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the impact of baseline and 12-month ODI on satisfaction with outcomes. Results Of the total 5,443 patients, 64% (n=3,460) were satisfied at a level where surgery met their expectations (NASS level 1) at 12 months after surgery. After adjusting for all baseline and surgery-specific variables, the 12-month ODI score had the highest impact (Wald χ2=1,555, 86% of the total χ2) on achieving satisfaction with outcomes compared with baseline ODI scores (Wald χ2=93, 5% of the total χ2). The level of satisfaction decreases with increasing 12-month ODI score. Greater change in ODI is required to achieve a better satisfaction level when the patient starts with a higher baseline ODI score. Conclusion Absolute 12-month ODI following surgery had a significant association on satisfaction with outcomes 12 months after surgery. Patients with higher baseline ODI required a larger change in ODI score to achieve satisfaction. No single measure can be used as a sole yardstick to measure quality of care after spine surgery. Satisfaction may be used in conjunction with baseline and 12-month ODI scores to provide an assessment of the quality of spine surgery provided in a patient centric fashion.
Climate drives phenological reassembly of a mountain wildflower meadow community.

Spatial community reassembly driven by changes in species abundances or habitat occupancy is a well-documented response to anthropogenic global change, but communities can also reassemble temporally if the environment drives differential shifts in the timing of life events across community members. Much like spatial community reassembly, temporal reassembly could be particularly important when critical species interactions are temporally concentrated (e.g., plant-pollinator dynamics during flowering). Previous studies have documented species-specific shifts in phenology driven by climate change, implying that temporal reassembly, a process we term “phenological reassembly,” is likely. However, few studies have documented changes in the temporal co-occurrence of community members driven by environmental change, likely because few datasets of entire communities exist. We addressed this gap by quantifying the relationship between flowering phenology and climate for 48 co-occurring subalpine wildflower species at Mount Rainier (Washington, USA) in a large network of plots distributed across Mt. Rainier's steep environmental gradients; large spatio-temporal variability in climate over the 6 yr of our study (including the earliest and latest snowmelt year on record) provided robust estimates of climate-phenology relationships for individual species. We used these relationships to examine changes to community co-flowering composition driven by ‘climate change analog’ conditions experienced at our sites in 2015. We found that both the timing and duration of flowering of focal species was strongly sensitive to multiple climatic factors (snowmelt, temperature, and soil moisture). Some consistent responses emerged, including earlier snowmelt and warmer growing seasons driving flowering phenology earlier for all focal species. However, variation among species in their phenological sensitivities to these climate drivers was large enough that phenological reassembly occurred in the climate change analog conditions of 2015. An unexpected driver of phenological reassembly was fine-scale variation in the direction and magnitude of climatic change, causing phenological reassembly to be most apparent early and late in the season and in topographic locations where snow duration was shortest (i.e., at low elevations and on ridges in the landscape). Because phenological reassembly may have implications for many types of ecological interactions, failing to monitor community-level repercussions of species-specific phenological shifts could underestimate climate change impacts.