cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An efficient and optimal algorithm for simultaneous buffer and wire sizing

In this paper, we consider the problem of interconnect delay minimization by simultaneous buffer and wire sizing under the Elmore delay model. We first present a polynomial time algorithm SBWS to minimize the delay of an interconnect wire. Previously, no polynomial time algorithm for the problem has been reported in the literature. SBWS is an iterative algorithm with guaranteed convergence to the optimal solution. It runs in quadratic time and uses constant memory for computation. Experimental results show that SBWS is extremely efficient in practice. For example, for an interconnect of 10000 segments and buffers, the CPU time is only 0.255 s. We then extend our result to handle interconnect trees. We present an algorithm SBWS-T which always gives the optimal solution. Experimental results show that SBWS-T is faster than the greedy wire sizing algorithm in practice.
Maternal effects influence phenotypes and survival during early life stages in an aquatic turtle

Summary Offspring phenotypic variation can be substantially influenced by non-genetic factors such as maternal effects, which ultimately can influence organismal fitness. For oviparous organisms that lack parental care, oviposition-site choice and egg size are maternal effects that can greatly affect offspring traits. Yet, few studies examine the consequences of these traits in the wild. We manipulated the contents of natural painted turtle nests such that offspring spent two life stages (incubation and hibernation) in either maternally selected nest sites or randomly selected nest sites and quantified treatment differences in environmental parameters and offspring phenotypes. Additionally, we tracked the fates of individual eggs and hatchlings, which allowed us to quantify the strength and form of selection acting on egg size during incubation and, for the first time, body size during hibernation. Maternally selected nest sites were warmer and produced offspring that were longer and hatched earlier than their siblings emerging from cooler, randomly selected nests. Treatments did not affect any measured traits during hibernation. We detected no selection on egg size during the incubation stage, but significant linear selection favouring larger hatchlings during hibernation. Our results suggest that nest-site choice allows mothers to partially control the environment of their incubating eggs, but is less effective at controlling hatchling environments during hibernation. Additionally, we provide novel support for the ‘bigger-is-better’ hypothesis in turtles by showing a positive relationship between size and survival during the hibernation stage.
A High-Precision Contrast Injector for Small Animal X-Ray Digital Subtraction Angiography

The availability of genetically altered animal models of human disease for basic research has generated great interest in new imaging methodologies. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) offers an appealing approach to functional imaging in small animals because of the high spatial and temporal resolution, and the ability to visualize and measure blood flow. The micro-injector described here meets crucial performance parameters to ensure optimal vessel enhancement without significantly increasing the total blood volume or producing overlap of enhanced structures. The micro-injector can inject small, reproducible volumes of contrast agent at high flow rates with computer-controlled timing synchronized to cardiopulmonary activity. Iterative bench-top and live animal experiments with both rat and mouse have been conducted to evaluate the performance of this computer-controlled micro-injector, a first demonstration of a new device designed explicitly for the unique requirements of DSA in small animals. Injection protocols were optimized and screened for potential physiological impact. For the optimized protocols, we found that changes in the time-density curves for representative regions of interest in the thorax were due primarily to physiological changes, independent of micro-injector parameters.
DNA sequestration and transcription in the oriC region of Escherichia coli

In Escherichia coli, gidA and dnaA transcription are shut off transiently after initiation of chromosome replication, while mioC transcription is shut off before initiation. The possible involvements of seqA and dam in these transcriptional periodicities were evaluated by examining transcription of the genes in seqA and dam mutants of E. coli PC2 dnaC2(ts) aligned for initiation of chromosome replication. In both seqA- and dam- cells, gidA and dnaA continued to be transcribed after initiation, whereas the inhibition of mioC transcription before initiation was unaltered. After initiation, transcripts from mioC that traversed oriC reappeared more slowly in seqA+ dam+ cells than in seqA- or dam- cells, but before the release of oriC from sequestration. Apparently, initiation of transcription at a promoter can be completely prevented by sequestration, but established transcription forks can traverse sequestered DNA. These findings, plus analyses of transcript levels in steady-state cultures, support the idea that initiation capacity in seqA mutants is elevated because of the combined influences of increased durations of expression of both gidA and dnaA during the division cycle and defective sequestration at oriC. Accordingly, a proposal for the sequence of events during the interinitiation interval in E. coli is presented based on the evident coupling of transcription to replication.
Purification and characterization of lactate dehydrogenase from Geotrichum candidum

Abstract An appreciable quantity of lactate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.2.3) was present in the crude extract of Geotrichum candidum grown previously in sauerkraut processing waste effluents. The enzyme catalyses the oxidation of lactate to pyruvate with potassium ferricyanide and 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol as electron acceptors. The enzyme was purified 64-fold by ammonium sulfate fractionation, gel filtration, and ion exchange chromatography with a yield of more than 5%. The specific activity of the purified enzyme was more than 6 units per mg protein. pH and temperature optima were 7·5 and 30°C, respectively. The enzyme was stable at pH values between 7·0 and 8·0, but lost most of its activity at 40°C in 10 min. The enzyme was specific for l (+)-lactate and its K m value with potassium ferricyanide as an electron acceptor was 0·71 mm. The enzyme had a molecular weight of > 200 000 as determined by gel filtration, and its pl was estimated to be 7·5. The enzyme activity was inhibited by heavy metals, and EDTA could be used to prevent heavy metal inhibition.
Deficiency in ethanolamine plasmalogen leads to altered cholesterol transport

Plasmalogens are a major sub-class of ethanolamine and choline phospholipids in which the sn-1 position has a long chain fatty alcohol attached through a vinyl ether bond. These phospholipids are proposed to play a role in membrane fusion-mediated events. In this study, we investigated the role of the ethanolamine plasmalogen plasmenylethanolamine (PlsE11167) in intracellular cholesterol transport in Chinese hamster ovary cell mutants NRel-4 and NZel-1, which have single gene defects in PlsEtn biosynthesis. We found that PlsEtn was essential for specific cholesterol transport pathways, those from the cell surface or endocytic compartments to acyl-CoA/cholesterol acyltransferase in the endoplasmic reticulum. The movement of cholesterol from the endoplasmic reticulum or endocytic compartments to the cell surface was normal in PlsEtn-deficient cells. Also, vesicle trafficking was normal in PlsEtn-deficient cells, as measured by fluid phase endocytosis and exocytosis, as was the movement of newly-synthesized proteins to the cell surface. The mutant cholesterol transport phenotype was due to the lack of PlsEtn, since it was corrected when NRel-4 cells were transfected with a cDNA encoding the missing enzyme or supplied with a metabolic intermediate that enters the PlsEtn biosynthetic pathway downstream of the defect. Future work must determine the precise role that plasmalogens have on cholesterol transport to the endoplasmic reticulum.
LEVOTHYROXINE MALABSORPTION INDUCED BY DIABETIC GASTROPARESIS EXACERBATED DURING PREGNANCIES: EFFECT OF INTRAMUSCULAR LEVOTHYROXINE INJECTIONS AND LEVOTHYROXINE SOFT GEL CAPSULES

ABSTRACT Objective: We report a case of severe hypothyroidism with levothyroxine (LT4) malabsorption induced by diabetic gastroparesis. This was exacerbated during the patient's 2 pregnancies. Management was improved by intramuscular (IM) LT4) injections and LT4 soft gel capsules. Methods: Case report with literature review. Results: A 23-year-old Hispanic female with type 1 diabetes (DM) and hypothyroidism developed diabetic gastroparesis with unpredictable responses to LT4. She had 2 pregnancies during which her oral LT4 was switched to weekly IM injections of LT4 that maintained her euthyroid state. An LT4 absorption test with 1,000 mcg LT4 revealed reduced LT4 absorption. A gastric emptying scan showed delayed emptying, and endoscopy demonstrated a large amount of residual food in the patient's stomach after an overnight fast. Weekly IM injections of LT4 and LT4 soft gel capsules maintained her euthyroid state after her last pregnancy with a follow-up longer than 1-year. A repeat LT4 absorption test with a 1,000-mcg LT4 soft gel capsule preparation demonstrated improved absorption compared to the initial LT4 absorption test. Conclusion: This may be the first patient described in the literature in whom diabetic gastroparesis was associated with impaired oral LT4 absorption and exacerbation during pregnancies. Our experience with this patient suggests that rational management of this problem may include IM LT4 injections or oral LT4 soft gel capsule administration. Abbreviations: CHF congestive heart failure DM diabetes mellitus IM intramuscular LT4 levothyroxine T4 thyroxine TFTs thyroid function tests TSH thyroid-stimulating hormone
Resolution effects in a dense linear source array X-ray micro-tomograph

We study reconstruction methods and resolution effects in a proposed multi-source X-ray micro-computed tomography (CT) system. The proposed device is based on dense arrays of microfabricated field-emission X-ray sources which are individually addressable. The proposed system has two 10 cm linear arrays of X-ray sources, each with 50 sources spaced at 2 mm. The two source arrays form two contiguous sides of a square, and two 10 cm area detectors form the other two sides of the square. We estimate that this results in an effective field of view of a 3.2 cm diameter cylinder, suitable for a mouse. No motion of source or subject is needed; simply flashing the individual sources creates angular sampling for tomography, though it is a limited-angle problem. We demonstrate implementations of two iterative reconstruction techniques, block-iterative transmission (BIT) and ordered-subsets convex (OSC). Using data simulated from a realistic mouse phantom, we study the reconstruction quantitative accuracy, point spread functions and noise responses at several locations in the field of view. We demonstrate that the reconstructions are quantitatively accurate and mostly free from disturbing artifacts, while the point spread functions in this geometry are anisotropic and spatially-varying. The OSC algorithm converges faster, showing better resolution yet worse noise performance than BIT after five iterations. We conclude that the proposed geometry is viable for fast, high-resolution and motion-free imaging
Localization of isotope from [2-14C] glucose and [6-14C] glucose in deoxypentose moieties of herpes simplex DNA

Abstract Deoxyperitose of herpes simplex DNA is heavily labeled when viral infected tissue cultures are grown in the presence of [2- 14 C] glucose and [6- 14 C] glucose, but not in the presence of [1- 14 C] glucose. Very little isotope is found in purine and pyrimidine bases of herpes DNA. Data indicate that glucose provides pentose components as well as an energy source for herpes virus synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics of metronidazole administered intravenously to male rats

Abstract Metronidazole was selectively extracted from rat plasma (91.4%), prostate gland (82.6%) and seminal vesicles (87.1%) using ethyl acetate as the organic solvent. A reverse-phase high performance liquid Chromatographie method was developed allowing the quantitation of metronidazole from these tissues. The pharmacokinetics of metronidazole was studied in male rats following the intravenous administration of metronidazole at a dose of 25 mg/Kg. Higher levels of metronidazole were found in plasma than prostate gland and seminal vesicles during the 8 h time period after i.v. injection. A biphasic phenomenon with a rapid distribution followed by a slower elimination phase was observed from the plasma concentration-time curve. Compartmental analysis based on a two-compartment open model with elimination from the central compartment yielded the following pharmacokinetic parameters: terminal elimination rate constant (β) = 0.0023 min−1; biological half-life (t 1 2,β ) = 301 min ; apparent volu central compartment (Vc) = 1014 ml/kg; apparent volume of distribution based on the area under plasma concentration-time curve (Vdβ) = 2513 ml/kg; apparent volume of distribution at steady state (Vdss) = 1769 ml/kg. Statistical moment theory wa determine noncompartmental pharmacokinetic parameters. The estimates for mean residence time (MRT), clearance (CL) and apparent volume of distribution (Vdss) were calculated to be 213 min, 5.78 ml min−1 kg−1, and 1231 ml/kg, respectively.
Lack of fitness costs associated with pyriproxyfen resistance in the B biotype of Bemisia tabaci.

BACKGROUND:TheinsectgrowthregulatorpyriproxyfenhasprovidedeffectivecontrolofthewhiteflyBemisiatabaciGennadius in many countries. Here, whether or not fitness costs were associated with pyriproxyfen resistance in a laboratory-selected resistant strain (QC02-R) of the B biotype was determined. RESULTS:Mortalitycausedbypyriproxyfenandfitnesstraitsovertimeweremeasuredinunselectedandselectedhybridstrains, which were created by crossing individuals of the resistant strain with individuals of a susceptible strain. Fitness costs were not associated with resistance in QC02-R, as mortality caused by pyriproxyfen did not increase over time in unselected hybrid strainsandfitnesstraitsweresimilarinunselectedandselectedhybridstrains.Usinganewmethodtoexaminetheinheritance of resistance, based on data from fitness cost experiments, it was estimated that pyriproxyfen resistance is controlled by two loci in the QC02-R strain. CONCLUSION: The lack of fitness costs associated with pyriproxyfen resistance could promote the evolution of resistance in field populations with similar traits to QC02-R. c � 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
PROLONGATION OF LIFE SPAN OF THE BOVINE CORPUS LUTEUM BY SINGLE INJECTIONS OF BOVINE LUTEINIZING HORMONE.

Abstract Previous work indicating that luteinizing hormone (LH) is the bovine luteotropin suggested that LH should prolong the life span of the corpus lutemn. Single subcutaneous injections of pituitary extract (three glands), bovine LH (30 units of NIH-LH-B2) or bovine LH incubated in 6 m urea at 40 C for 24 hr were given on Day 16 of the cycle. The hormones were homogenized with Freund's complete adjuvant to give a total volume of approximately 20 ml. Maintenance of the corpora was followed by rectal examinations and laparotomies. The length of the diestrous intervals (days) following treatments were (five heifers per group): untreated controls, 20.0 ± 0.7; pituitary extract, 31.0 ± 2.9; bovine LH, 36.4 ± 2.5; urea incubated LH, 21.6 ± 0.2 (P
Spatially distributed 3D circuit models

Spatially distributed 3D circuit models are extracted with a segment-to-segment BEM (boundary element method) algorithm for both capacitance and inverse inductance couplings rather than using the traditional net-to-net approach. Critical issues regarding the extraction efficiency and accuracy of segment-to-segment BEM capacitance models are explored. An adaptive discretization scheme is developed for segment-to-segment capacitance extraction and also applied to segment-to-segment high-frequency inverse inductance extraction. We demonstrate the limitations of the duality between capacitance and inverse inductance. Examples demonstrating the accuracy of these models are presented for real packaging cases.
Gene expression analysis of a Louisiana native Chlorella vulgaris (Chlorophyta)/Leptolyngbya sp. (Cyanobacteria) co-culture using suppression subtractive hybridization

A locally isolated co-culture of two photosynthetic species [Chlorella vulgaris (Chlorophyta) and Leptolyngbya sp. (Cyanobacteria)] displayed enhanced growth when compared to a Chlorella monoculture; however, the biological mechanisms driving such improvement are currently not well understood. To investigate these mechanisms, this study examined the differential gene expression in the Chlorella between the co-culture and the monoculture. Suppression subtractive hybridization was performed between mRNA from Chlorella in the co-culture and in a monoculture, and 105 genes were identified as being putatively differentially expressed. Nine of these genes, corresponding to the key functional categories of energy, metabolism, and protein synthesis, were further examined using quantitative real-time PCR and showed differential regulation of photosystem I and photosystem II and upregulation of stress-response genes and a gene encoding an oil-globule-associated gene in the co-culture Chlorella. This differential gene expression study of a Chlorella/cyanobacteria co-culture will aid in the development of culture strategies capable of taking advantage of these differences for the production of biomass and bioproducts of interest. Knowledge of the underlying genetic causes of the changes in growth and productivity of the species in co-culture provides insights on possible target genes for optimization of the culture.
The desirability of involving adolescents in sex education planning.

The consequences of poor driving are so widely recognized that most high schools have drivers education courses but the consequences of uninformed sexual activity (venereal disease unwanted pregnancy) are not widely recognized. As a result attempts at sexual education run into 2 problems: 1) adult ignorance or prejudice and 2) programs which either do not meet the needs of adolescents or antagonize them. Surveying teens on their needs and interests is essential to developing a program to meet their needs. No only must the planner find out what areas of ignorance exist he must find out what myths are current and provide ways to change these attitudes. The experience of the Detroit Planned Parenthood Teen Clinic is detailed. Not only are thorough attitude and knowledge surveys conducted the teen board interviews teachers to make sure they are sympathetic to adolescents. The teens also help in routine maintenance and reception duties. By being involved they enhance the credibility of the center and help it meet the areas needs.
How are We Doing? The Impact of Motives and Information Use on the Evaluation of Romantic Relationships

A multidimensional model of self-evaluation was modified to examine individuals' perceptions of how they evaluate their romantic relationships. Participants provided estimates of the frequency and usefulness of 10 types of information (objective information, feedback from others, personal standards, feared future relationships, future ideals, positive and negative past relationship information, upward, lateral, and downward social comparison) for meeting four motives (enhancement, improvement, verification, and accuracy) in the context of a romantic relationship. Results from three studies indicate that, overall, personal standards, objective information, and future ideals information were perceived as being used most often to evaluate one's romantic relationship. These types of information were reported as being most useful for meeting all four motives. Social comparison information was reported as least useful and used least often for relationship evaluation. The discussion focuses on the usefulness of ...
Acetylcholinesterase in the Conductive Tissue of the Heart

It is shown that the Purkinje system of bovine hearts contains a specific acetylcholinesterase resembling that of nervous tissue, in an amount comparable to that of peripheral nerve. Its possible implication in the conduction of impulses in the heart is discussed.
Space exploration with a solar sail coated by materials that undergo thermal desorption

Abstract For extrasolar space exploration it is suggested to use space environmental effects such as solar radiation heating to accelerate a solar sail coated by materials that undergo thermal desorption at a particular temperature. The developed approach allows the perihelion of the solar sail orbits to be determined based on the temperature requirement for the solar sail materials. Our study shows that the temperature of a solar sail increases as r − 2 / 5 when the heliocentric distance r decreases. The proposed sail has two coats of the materials that undergo desorption at different solar sail temperatures depending on the heliocentric distance. The first desorption occurs at the Earth orbit and provides the thrust needed to propel the solar sail toward the Sun. When the solar sail approaches the Sun, its temperature increases, and the second coat undergoes desorption at the perihelion of the heliocentric escape orbit. This provides a second thrust and boosts the solar sail to its escape velocity.
Inhibition of nitric oxide formation in vivo enhances superoxide release by the perfused liver

Nitric oxide, a known scavenger of toxic oxygen-derived radicals, has been shown to have a protective effect against tissue injury in endotoxemia. Based on the hypothesis that under normal physiological conditions, a balance between superoxide and nitric oxide exists in vivo, this work examines hepatic superoxide release after nitric oxide formation is inhibited in vivo. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated intravenously with N omega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; 50 mg/kg body wt), an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. One hour later, superoxide anion release by the perfused liver was determined. Results show that a significant amount of superoxide was released after L-NAME treatment. Likely sources of this radical are the Kupffer cells. Inhibition of nitric oxide formation in vivo did not enhance superoxide release by hepatocytes or sinusoidal endothelial cells. The effect of L-NAME treatment on superoxide release in endotoxemic rats was also examined 12 h after lipopolysaccharide treatment, when toxic oxygen-derived radical formation could not be detected. Inhibition of nitric oxide release in vivo in these rats enhanced the formation of superoxide anion. The interaction between nitric oxide and superoxide anion under normal conditions may represent an important protective mechanism of the host against free radical damage.
Once Again, the Status of the Rotator Cuff Does Not Correlate with Patient Symptoms

Decision-making strategies for the appropriate treatment of patients with symptomatic, atraumatic, full-thickness rotator cuff tears are becoming increasingly difficult. It is becoming clear that symptoms of rotator cuff tears do not correlate with disease severity. There have been several recent studies attempting to define a relationship of rotator cuff tears with symptoms such as pain and patient-reported outcome measures1-3. In this Level-II prospective cohort study, Wylie et al. evaluated 169 patients and examined the relationship between rotator cuff tear severity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (number of tendons torn, tear size, tear retraction, and tear area) and patient-reported outcomes, pain, and mental health as measured by the Short Form-36 Mental Component Summary (SF-36 MCS) score. The authors pose two important questions regarding the association of rotator cuff tear morphology and patient-reported outcome measures: How does mental health as …
Invasion of Pistachio Orchards by Navel Orangeworm Moths from Almond Orchards

Navel orangeworm damage to pistachio nuts was especially severe in portions of an orchard adjacent to blocks of infested almonds which served as the sources of immigrant moths. The degree of damage diminished as distance from the principal external sources of moths increased, reaching economically unimportant levels at ca. 500 m. Pest management programs for the navel orangeworm in pistachios should include reduction efforts in almonds when almonds border pistachio orchards.
Foraging Efficiency of Parent Juncos and Their Young

From measurements of metabolizable energy (ME) intake (doubly labeled water technique), prey capture rates, and time spent foraging, we calculated both foraging efficiency (FE) and rate of energy gained while foraging (t,) of adult Yellow-eyed Juncos (Junco phaeonotus) and their offspring throughout the breeding season. , (kJ ME acquired per hr spent foraging) of adult Yellow-eyed Juncos varied 1.7 fold over the breeding cycle, as adults adjusted both the amount of time they spent foraging and their FE to meet changing energy demands and time constraints. Males paired to incubating females, and males and females feeding fledglings acquired energy at substantially lower rates (ca. 15-17 kJ/hr) than incubating females (26 kJ/hr) or than males and females feeding nestlings (21 kJ/hr). From this, we infer that adult juncos may reduce their FE when energy demands and/or time constraints are relaxed, either because the costs of inefficient foraging are negligible during these periods or because there are hidden costs or risks associated with foraging more efficiently. f of juvenile juncos increased 2.1 fold from a low of 5.3 kJ/hr during their first week of parental independence (a period of marked juvenile mortality due to starvation) to 10.9 kJ/hr (about 75% of the lowest adult level) by six-weeks post-independence. Juvenile FE increased linearly with age as the young gained proficiency at foraging. By extrapolation, juvenile FE would not have reached adult levels until the young were about four months old.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Study of Linear Plug Micronozzles

A parametric, three-dimensional, computational study examining steady state performance of a planar plug micronozzle is conducted. Nozzle depth and throat Reynolds number are varied for a single plug contour designed using an approximation for the Method of Characteristics. The Reynolds number is varied from 80 − 820, for nozzle depths of 90μm-360μm. Thrust and specific impulse are used as metrics to assess nozzle performance. Results from 3D simulation are compared to 2D simulation for the same planar geometry and 3D results for a 30◦ linear-walled nozzle of the same throat size. For all Reynolds numbers examined, 3D nozzles were found to under-perform the 2D case. The margin between the 3D and 2D cases decreases with increasing nozzle depth. The 3D plug nozzle outperforms the 3D 30◦ linear-walled nozzle in both 2D and 3D simulation for the range of Reynolds numbers examined.
Spatio-temporal properties of letter crowding

Crowding between adjacent letters has been investigated primarily as a spatial effect. The purpose of this study was to investigate the spatio-temporal properties of letter crowding. Specifically, we examined the systematic changes in the degradation effects in letter identification performance when adjacent letters were presented with a temporal asynchrony, as a function of letter separation and between the fovea and the periphery. We measured proportion-correct performance for identifying the middle target letter in strings of three lowercase letters at the fovea and 10° in the inferior visual field, for a range of center-to-center letter separations and a range of stimulus onset asynchronies (SOA) between the target and flanking letters (positive SOAs: target preceded flankers). As expected, the accuracy for identifying the target letters reduces with decreases in letter separation. This crowding effect shows a strong dependency on SOAs, such that crowding is maximal between 0 and ∼100 ms (depending on conditions) and diminishes for larger SOAs (positive or negative). Maximal crowding does not require the target and flanking letters to physically coexist for the entire presentation duration. Most importantly, crowding can be minimized even for closely spaced letters if there is a large temporal asynchrony between the target and flankers. The reliance of letter identification performance on SOAs and how it changes with letter separations imply that the crowding effect can be traded between space and time. Our findings are consistent with the notion that crowding should be considered as a spatio-temporal, and not simply a spatial, effect.
Once Daily Dosing of Ceftriaxone and Metronidazole in Children With Perforated Appendicitis.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare hospital length of stay and rate of infectious complications in children with perforated appendicitis based on the postoperative antibiotic administered. METHODS: This study was a retrospective analysis of children with perforated appendicitis who underwent an appendectomy at a large academic medical center from 2008 to 2013. The primary outcome was hospital length of stay. The secondary outcomes were rates of abscess formation, wound infection, and 30-day readmissions. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-three patients were included. Sixty-six patients (53%) were administered ceftriaxone and metronidazole once daily; 57 (47%) were administered other antibiotic regimens, which consisted of single, double, or triple antibiotic therapy with a beta-lactam backbone. There was no difference between the groups in terms of postoperative length of stay (5.7 versus 5.8 days, p = 0.83), postoperative abscess rate (8% versus 4%, p = 0.57), postoperative wound infection ra...
Prostate cancer: Combining endocrine treatment and radiotherapy: a bright future

The results of the Scandinavian Prostate Cancer Group-7 trial highlight the benefit of adding radiotherapy to endocrine treatment in men with unfavourable-risk prostate cancer. Further scientific advances in radiation technologies, pharmacotherapy and imaging modalities raise questions about the future of radical prostatectomy in this patient group.
An Immuno-Bioinformatic Analysis of Zika virus (ZIKV) Envelope EProtein

By means of the combined use of B cell epitope prediction (Bepipred) and measurement of information entropy (H) in envelope (E) protein of Zika virus (ZIKV) isolated from infected humans, five amino acid sequences were identified as containing probable epitopes. These five predicted epitopic sequences contained nine amino acid positions where H>0.0. It is proposed that some of the observed entropic positions may reflect mutational escape of the ZIKV from the immune response of the infected host and that such information, applied together with conventional epitope prediction, can guide and facilitate design of anti-ZIKV vaccines.
The Zika Virus has Arrived in the United States

Page e6 Current media broadcasts have been reporting about the rapidly spreading outbreaks of the Zika virus now identified in South and Central America, as well as Mexico, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico and now in the United States. Focal activity of the Aedes species mosquito that transmits the Zika virus to humans through its bite, has been reported in South Florida. Prior to 2007, Zika was not reported outside of Africa and Asia, but since it was discovered recently in Brazil in 2015, the virus has swiftly spread across several continents.
Active Surveillance and Patient Support Intervention

Active surveillance, a care option for early stage or slow-growing prostate cancer in which patients are carefully monitored for cancer progression, permits men with low-risk disease to avoid the side effects of treatment, including impotence and incontinence, until necessary. Quality of life has been a central concern of psychosocial research in these patients, and anxiety and uncertainty have been examined, including the role partners play in the treatment decision process and the effect of the diagnosis on them. The effect of repeated biopsies on erectile function has also been studied. Interventions to improve quality of life include education, uncertainty management, stress management, coping skill enhancement, and comprehensive lifestyle programs. Studies with longer terms and a focus on the role of the physician in choosing AS, the effects of monitoring on anxiety and other distress, and psychosocial adjustment after treatment warrant undertaking.
Nonadjectival Rating Scales in Human Response Experiments

Twenty-two subjects participated in two tracking experiments for the purpose of determining the utility of a nonordinal, nonadjectival rating scale. The scale was devised in an effort to allow a human to quantify his subjective opinions of the characteristics of a system in situations where an adjectival scale would be inappropriate. The tracking task in both experiments was a compensatory one in which the human operator attempted to minimize the difference between a random-appearing input signal and the output of an unstable, controlled element. The system dynamics and input signal were mechanized on an analog computer. The error signal was viewed by the operator on an oscilloscope screen. Control was effected by a small isometric manipulator. In the first experiment, ratings were generated by changing the degree of instability of the controlled element. In the second, the manipulator sensitivity was varied. The nonadjectival rating concept shows definite potential for use in a wide variety of situations...
More frequent intense and long-lived storms dominate the springtime trend in central US rainfall.

The central United States has exhibited increased extreme precipitation. Here, using satellite, radar, and rain-gauge data, Feng et al. show that springtime total and extreme rainfall trends are linked to increased intensity and frequency of long-lived Mesoscale Convective Systems.
Expression of ZAP-70 in B Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Is Associated with a Greater Capacity To Activate NFκB Following Ligation of Surface Immunoglobulin.

The NFκB transcription factors p50/p65 regulate the expression of genes encoding various growth-promoting factors and anti-apoptotic proteins, such as the cellular inhibitors of apoptosis (c-IAPs), Caspase-8/Flice-inhibitory protein (FLIP), A1 (also known as Bfl1), tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-associated factor 1 (TRAF1) and 2 (TRAF2). Furthermore, constitutive activation of NFκB has been observed in many tumor types, supporting the notion that activation of NFκB can play a causal role in tumor development and/or progression. Studies have shown chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells experience activation of NFκB in vitro upon ligation of their surface immunoglobulin (Ig), which commonly possesses polyreactive-binding activity for many self-antigens. Other studies also have found that CLL cells from different patients vary in their capacity to undergo B-cell-receptor signaling following ligation of their surface Ig receptors, a capacity that appears associated with leukemia-B-cell expression of the zeta-associated protein of 70 kD (ZAP-70). We examined whether CLL B cell expression of ZAP-70 also was associated with the capacity to activate NFκB upon surface Ig ligation. For this we used CLL B cells of 8 different patients that expressed ZAP-70 and CLL B cells from 8 other patients that had negligible expression of this tyrosine kinase (as assessed by immunoblot and flow cytometric analysis). The CLL B cells of these two groups of patients had similar expression levels of surface, allowing us to use a F(ab’)2 anti-human IgM (anti-μ) to effect comparable surface Ig receptor ligation. Following treatment with anti-μ, we observed early and sustained degradation of IκB-α, thereby releasing cytoplasmic p50/p65 to the nucleus - the hallmark of NFκB activation. Moreover, this was associated with subsequent increased expression of NFκB target genes. In contrast, similar events were not observed following treatment with anti-μ in the cases lacking expression of ZAP-70. Also, activation of NFκB in ZAP-70+ cases was associated with a greater release of intracellular calcium and calcium flux following treatment with anti-μ than observed in ZAP-70-negative cases. Both calcium flux and activation of NFκB induced by anti-μ in these leukemia cells could be inhibited by Cyclosporine-A, indicating that these responses were mediated via a calmodulin-calcineurin-dependent pathway. These studies reveal that expression of ZAP-70 in B cell CLL is associated with a greater capacity to induce activation of NFκB following ligation of surface Ig, a characteristic that might account for the more aggressive clinical behavior of patients with leukemia B cells that express this tyrosine kinase. Moreover, if constitutive activation via ligation of surface Ig with self-antigen in vivo leads to activation of NFκB, then targeting the calmodulin-calcineurin-dependent pathway might have therapeutic potential for this subset of patients with this disease.
Ability of mini-implant-facilitated micro-osteoperforations to accelerate tooth movement in rats.

Introduction Although current techniques for accelerated tooth movement often involve invasive surgical procedures, micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) using mini-implants may facilitate orthodontic tooth movement without raising flaps, reduce surgical risks, and increase patient acceptance. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of mini-implant–facilitated MOPs in inducing accelerated tooth movement and investigated the potential risks for root resorption. Methods Five MOPs were placed on the left side around the maxillary first molars in 6 rats using an automated mini-implant driver, whereas the right side received no MOPs as the control. Closed-coiled springs were secured from incisors to first molars for orthodontic tooth movement. Tooth movement was measured, and samples underwent radiologic and histologic analyses. Results The MOP side exhibited a 1.86-fold increase in the rate of tooth movement with decreased bone density and bone volume around the first molars compared with the control side. Hematoxylin and eosin and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase analyses showed increased numbers of osteoclasts as well as new bone formation. Three-dimensional volumetric analysis of all 5 roots of the maxillary first molars demonstrated no statistically significant difference in root volumes. Conclusions Mini-implant–facilitated MOPs accelerated tooth movement without increased risk for root resorption and therefore may become a readily available and efficient treatment option to shorten orthodontic treatment time with improved patient acceptance.
Mobilizing and integrating big data in studies of spatial and phylogenetic patterns of biodiversity

Abstract The current global challenges that threaten biodiversity are immense and rapidly growing. These biodiversity challenges demand approaches that meld bioinformatics, large-scale phylogeny reconstruction, use of digitized specimen data, and complex post-tree analyses (e.g. niche modeling, niche diversification, and other ecological analyses). Recent developments in phylogenetics coupled with emerging cyberinfrastructure and new data sources provide unparalleled opportunities for mobilizing and integrating massive amounts of biological data, driving the discovery of complex patterns and new hypotheses for further study. These developments are not trivial in that biodiversity data on the global scale now being collected and analyzed are inherently complex. The ongoing integration and maturation of biodiversity tools discussed here is transforming biodiversity science, enabling what we broadly term “next-generation” investigations in systematics, ecology, and evolution (i.e., “biodiversity science”). New training that integrates domain knowledge in biodiversity and data science skills is also needed to accelerate research in these areas. Integrative biodiversity science is crucial to the future of global biodiversity. We cannot simply react to continued threats to biodiversity, but via the use of an integrative, multifaceted, big data approach, researchers can now make biodiversity projections to provide crucial data not only for scientists, but also for the public, land managers, policy makers, urban planners, and agriculture.
Correlation of IFNγ, CD107 and CD137 at the Single Cell Level Can Be Used To Monitor T Cell Responses in Patients after Immunotherapy.

Abstract As immunotherapies become increasingly important in the treatment of various cancers, monitoring the immune response to reflect the efficacy of the therapy also becomes increasingly important. Previously, tumor antigen-specific humoral responses in patients receiving vaccines for low-grade follicular lymphoma (FL) correlated with clinical outcomes, including tumor regression, molecular remission, progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). By contrast, T cell immune responses have been difficult to validate. T cell proliferation assays, mostly, measure CD4 T cell responses; whereas, CD8 T cells may be the important effectors generated by immunotherapies. However, assays designed to measure CD8 T cells, i.e. chromium release CTL assays, and IFN-γ ELISPOT and intracellular flow cytometry assays, are difficult to make reproducible. To address this issue, PBL were obtained from FL patients, cryopreserved, and thawed, then used to design a standardized method for detection of intracellular IFN-γ by flow cytometry. The combined stimulus of soluble anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies provides a robust stimulation, typically about 5% of normal PBL CD8+ T cells respond. By using a panel of irradiated B cell lymphoma cell lines as stimulators, we demonstrated that, on average, 1 – 2% of these T cells were capable of mounting a response in this assay. Surprisingly, CD8+ PBL T cells from several patients with FL were more responsive to combined anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 stimulation as well as to allo-stimulation, 15 – 22% and 2 – 6%, respectively. This response was accompanied by surface expression of CD107, a surrogate marker for CTL degranulation, in the same population of cells as demonstrated by multi-color flow cytometry. Both the IFN-γ and the CD107 responses were inhibited by an anti-class I antibody, W6/32, suggesting a class I restricted T cell receptor-mediated response. Furthermore, at later time points, these T cells also up-regulated CD137 on their surface. This activation molecule is upregulated on CD8 T cells in response to specific antigen recognition and provides an anti-apoptotic signal to the cells. In conclusion, immune competency of CD8 T cells isolated from FL patients can be assessed through allo-stimulation by a panel of B cell lymphoma cell lines. More importantly, correlation by flow cytometry of 3 independent indicators of response (IFN-γ, CD107 and CD137) within single populations of cells to both allo-stimulation and to the specific target, may lead to better understanding of the role of T cells in the immune response. Ultimately, these responses will need to be validated with patient outcomes in clinical trials of vaccines in lymphoma.
Light-emitting nanolattices with enhanced brightness

Three-dimensional (3D) photonic crystals have potential in solid state lighting applications due to their advantages over conventional planar thin film devices. Periodicity in a photonic crystal structure enables engineering of the density of states to improve spontaneous light emission according to Fermi’s golden rule. Unlike planar thin films, which suffer significantly from total internal reflection, a 3D architectured structure is distributed in space with many non-flat interfaces, which facilitates a substantial enhancement in light extraction. We demonstrate the fabrication of 3D nano-architectures with octahedron geometry that utilize luminescing silicon nanocrystals as active media with an aluminum cathode and indium tin oxide anode towards the realization of a 3D light emitting device. The developed fabrication procedure allows charge to pass through the nanolattice between two contacts for electroluminescence. These initial fabrication efforts suggest that 3D nano-architected devices are realizable and can reach greater efficiencies than planar devices.
Direct evidence for biosynthetic relationships among hydrocarbons, secondary alcohols and ketones in Brassica oleracea

Abstract n -Nonacosane-U-3H (C29 hydrocarbon) fed to young broccoli ( Brassica oleracea ) leaves was converted into labeled nonacosanol and nonacosan-15-one. Exogenous nonacosan-15-ol-U-3H was converted into labeled nonacosan-15-one in the same tissue. The structure of the ketone was determined by chemical degradation and analysis of products. These results show the following biosynthetic relationships: hydrocarbon → secondary alcohol → ketone.
Our Unconstitutional Reapportionment Process

This Article argues that the process used to reapportion representatives among the states after each census violates Section Two of the Fourteenth Amendment. Section Two states that the apportionment of representatives must be done based on population unless a state disenfranchises a sufficient number of people who are presumptively eligible voters. The reapportionment statutes say that apportionment must be done based only on population. By erasing Section Two’s penalty clause, these statutes are unconstitutional. There is time for Congress to correct this error before the next census. If not, then the courts should declare the next reapportionment null and void.
Efficiency analysis of a barcode-enabled and integrated medication-tracking system.

Purpose Operational efficiency improvements for pharmacy workflow processes were evaluated using a barcode-enabled and integrated medication-tracking system for medications dispensed from the pharmacy to the emergency department (ED). Methods The preimplementation study period (Period 1) was defined as November 17–December 16, 2015; system implementation and training, were defined as December 17, 2015–January 18, 2016; and postimplementation (Period 2) was defined as January 19–February 17, 2016. Periods 1 and 2 were compared to (1) quantify the number and type of phone calls received related to medication inquiries, (2) evaluate the percentage of redispensed doses per total dispensed doses, and (3) assess the rate of medication administration record (MAR) messages received per total dispensed doses. Results A reduction in the total number of phone calls by 77% was observed (from 125 to 29 calls). A 0.7% difference was detected for re-dispensed doses as well as MAR messages (0.009% difference in rate) between the 2 study periods. This difference was observed despite an increase in the total amount of dispensed doses that occurred for both redispensed doses (936) and MAR messages (920) during Period 2. Conclusion A barcode-enabled and integrated medication-tracking system was successfully implemented into the medication distribution process in the ED. The process change increased operational pharmacy efficiencies by decreasing medication status phone calls, redispensed doses, and MAR messages.