cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Risk of Acute Pancreatitis After Initiation of Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors: Testing a Hypothesis of Subgroup Differences in Older U.S. Adults.

OBJECTIVE To examine whether dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP-4I) increase acute pancreatitis risk in older patients and whether the association varies by age, sex, and history of cardiovascular disease (CVD). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted a cohort study of DPP-4I initiators versus thiazolidinedione (TZD) or sulfonylurea initiators using U.S. Medicare beneficiaries, 2007–2014. Eligible initiators were aged 66+ years without history of pancreatic disease or alcohol-related diseases. Patients were followed up for hospitalization due to acute pancreatitis and censored at 90 days after treatment changes. Weighted Cox models were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) for acute pancreatitis. Analyses were performed overall as well as within subgroups defined by age, sex, and CVD history. RESULTS We found no increased risk of acute pancreatitis comparing 49,374 DPP-4I initiators to 132,223 sulfonylurea initiators (weighted HR 1.01; 95% CI 0.83–1.24) and comparing 57,301 DPP-4I initiators to 32,612 TZD initiators (weighted HR 1.11; 95% CI 0.76–1.62). Age and sex did not modify the association. Among patients with CVD, acute pancreatitis incidence was elevated in initiators of DPP-4I and sulfonylurea (2.3 and 2.4 per 1,000 person-years, respectively) but not in TZD initiators (1.5). Among patients with CVD, higher risk of acute pancreatitis was observed with DPP-4I compared with TZD (weighted HR 1.84; 95% CI 1.02–3.35) but not compared with sulfonylurea. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence that DPP-4I is not associated with an increased risk of acute pancreatitis in older adults overall. The positive association observed in patients with CVD could be due to chance or bias but merits further investigation.
Powering ex vivo tissue models in microfluidic systems

This Frontiers review analyzes the rapidly growing microfluidic strategies that have been employed in attempts to create physio relevant ‘organ-on-chip’ models using primary tissue removed from a body (human or animal). Tissue harvested immediately from an organism, and cultured under artificial conditions is referred to as ex vivo tissue. The use of primary (organotypic) tissue offers unique benefits over traditional cell culture experiments, and microfluidic technology can be used to further exploit these advantages. Defining the utility of particular models, determining necessary constituents for acceptable modeling of in vivo physiology, and describing the role of microfluidic systems in tissue modeling processes is paramount to the future of organotypic models ex vivo. Virtually all tissues within the body are characterized by a large diversity of cellular composition, morphology, and blood supply (e.g., nutrient needs including oxygen). Microfluidic technology can provide a means to help maintain tissue in more physiologically relevant environments, for tissue relevant time-frames (e.g., matching the natural rates of cell turnover), and at in vivo oxygen tensions that can be controlled within modern microfluidic culture systems. Models for ex vivo tissues continue to emerge and grow in efficacy as mimics of in vivo physiology. This review addresses developments in microfluidic devices for the study of tissues ex vivo that can serve as an important bridge to translational value.
Pallidal stimulation in Parkinson disease differentially modulates local and network β activity.

β hypersynchrony within the basal ganglia-thalamocortical (BGTC) network has been suggested as a hallmark of Parkinson disease (PD) pathophysiology. Subthalamic nucleus (STN)-DBS has been shown to alter cortical-subcortical synchronization. It is unclear whether this is a generalizable phenomenon of therapeutic stimulation across targets. OBJECTIVES We aimed to evaluate whether DBS of the globus pallidus internus (GPi) results in cortical-subcortical desynchronization, despite the lack of monosynaptic connections between GPi and sensorimotor cortex. APPROACH We recorded local field potentials from the GPi and electrocorticographic signals from the ipsilateral sensorimotor cortex, off medications in nine PD patients, undergoing DBS implantation. We analyzed both local oscillatory power and functional connectivity (coherence and debiased weighted phase lag index (dWPLI)) with and without stimulation while subjects were resting with eyes open. MAIN RESULTS DBS significantly suppressed low β power within the GPi (-26.98% ± 15.14%), p < 0.05) without modulation of sensorimotor cortical β power (low or high). In contrast, stimulation suppressed pallidocortical high β coherence (-38.89% ± 6.19%, p = 0.02) and dWPLI (-61.40% ± 8.75%, p = 0.02). Changes in cortical-subcortical functional connectivity were spatially specific to the motor cortex. SIGNIFICANCE We highlight the role of DBS in desynchronizing network activity, particularly in the high β band. The current study of GPi-DBS suggests these network-level effects are not necessarily dependent and potentially may be independent of the hyperdirect pathway. Importantly, these results draw a sharp distinction between the potential significance of low β oscillations locally within the basal ganglia and high β oscillations across the BGTC motor circuit.
High Frequency Skywave Measurements of Waves and Currents Associated with Tropical and Extra-Tropical Storms

The capability of HF skywave radar to measure surface winds, waves, and currents at distances up to 3000 km for tropical and extra-tropical storm conditions is summarized. Significant wave height and wave spectral estimates made using the Wide Aperture Research Facility skywave radar were compared to similar measurements obtained by NOAA Data Buoy Office buoys EB20 (41°N, 138°W) and EB71 (26°N, 93.5°W). Agreement to within 10% was found for wave heights under varying conditions, ranging from less than 1 m to hurricane wave conditions greater than 5 m.
Improvement of Refractory Peripheral Edema With Multilayered Compression Bandaging: A Case Report

Background and Purpose Lower extremity edema, which can be caused by several factors, is often poorly managed with commonly prescribed compression stockings and diuretics. Diuretics are often erroneously given in all forms of edema and may cause problems because their long-term application may induce chronicity of the edema due to disturbance of the renin-angiotensin relationship. Compression therapy, although effective against venous edema, is widely underused. Case Description A 64-year-old man with a history of hypertension, coronary artery disease, psoriasis, and multiple myeloma was admitted to the hospital for neutropenic fever, right lower extremity (RLE) cellulitis, bilateral lower extremity (BLE) weakness, RLE pain, and significant BLE edema. The patient was referred to a lymphedema-certified therapist to apply lower extremity multilayered compression bandaging and document serial limb circumference measurements. Outcomes The patient's weight decreased from 94.5 kg on day 1 of compression bandaging to 86.3 kg on day 7. The circumferences of the affected limbs also decreased. Discussion This case demonstrates the utility of multilayered compression bandaging, typically used in the management of lymphedema, in the control of peripheral edema that is refractory to diuretic therapy.
Articulatory Suppression Impairs Working Memory for Ostensibly Unvocalizable Abstract Sounds

Both subvocal articulatory rehearsal and attentional refreshing have been advanced as rehearsal mechanisms for verbal material (including speech sounds) in working memory, but the mechanism of rehe...
Limit properties of stochastic matrices

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a proof for the theorem: for any n x n stochastic matrix M of real numbers, there exists an integer p > 1 such that the powers M pr converge to a stochastic matrix L and such that the p matrices - L, ML, M 2 L,…,M p -l L, are distinct. Because the theorem was needed in the theory of automata, it was essential to produce a proof that is effective and provides finitistic methods for finding p and L . Experimenting with examples indicate that the integer p and the position of zeros in the matrix L depend only on the position of zeros in the matrix M and not on actual numerical values of its entries. This observation is correct and paves way to a finitistic treatment of a considerable part of the proof.
Reactive astrocytes foster brain metastases via STAT3 signaling

Brain metastasis remains a grim and complicating factor in many cancers, regardless of the primary tumor origin (1). Moreover, the unique brain microenvironment inadvertently aides in brain metastasis growth and progression (2). In a recently published paper by Priego et al . (3), it was uncovered that there is a subpopulation of reactive astrocytes (RA) that surround brain metastases and are driven by signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation. The metastatic tumor cells in the brain secrete various factors that trigger astrocytes to become reactive and display enhanced STAT3 activation. These STAT3+ RA produce cytokines and other factors that inhibit an appropriate anti-tumor immune response. Both innate and adaptive immune functions are compromised due to the activities of these STAT3+ RA. Targeting the STAT3 signaling pathway in the microenvironment helps reduce pro-tumorigenic signaling and decreases brain metastasis burden.
Optimal Design for Ileal-Pouch Anal Anastomosis

Since its description in 1978, the ileal-pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) has become the most commonly performed procedure for patients with ulcerative colitis requiring surgery. The earliest description of the IPAA included a three-limb “S” pouch with a hand-sewn pouch-anal anastomosis. Several years later, a two-limb “J” pouch was described, which, with the advent of the surgical stapler, became the procedure of choice due to its ease of construction. As practice patterns have changed over time, the optimal pouch configuration has been debated in the literature. Both the S-pouch and J-pouch configurations have well described functional and complication profiles. In this chapter, the literature comparing the complication rates and functional results of these pouches is reviewed. Specifically, we detail several studies examining complications such as pouch failure, pouchitis and mechanical obstruction, as well as functional outcomes such as stool frequency, incontinence, and the need for anti-diarrheal medications. Our analysis of the literature is followed by our recommendation on the optimal design for IPAA.
Deregulation of Long Intergenic Non-coding RNAs in CD4+ T Cells of Lamina Propria in Crohn's Disease Through Transcriptome Profiling.

BACKGROUND The aetiology of Crohn's disease [CD] involves immune dysregulation in a genetically susceptible individual. Genome-wide association studies [GWAS] have identified 200 loci associated with CD, ulcerative colitis, or both, most of which fall within non-coding DNA regions. Long non-coding RNAs [lncRNAs] regulate gene expression by diverse mechanisms and have been associated with disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease. However, disease-associated lncRNAs have not been characterised in pathogenic immune cell populations. METHODS Terminal ileal samples were obtained from 22 CD patients and 13 controls. RNA from lamina propria CD4+ T cells was sequenced and long intergenic non-coding RNAs [lincRNAs] were detected. Overall expression patterns, differential expression [DE], and pathway and gene enrichment analyses were performed. Knockdown of novel lincRNAs XLOC_000261 and XLOC_000014 was performed. Expression of Th1 or Th17-associated transcription factors, T-bet and RORγt, respectively, was assessed by flow cytometry. RESULTS A total of 6402 lincRNAs were expressed, 960 of which were novel. Unsupervised clustering and principal component analysis showed that the lincRNA expression discriminated patients from controls. A total of 1792 lincRNAs were DE, and 295 [79 novel; 216 known] mapped to 267 of 5727 DE protein-coding genes. The novel lincRNAs were enriched in inflammatory and Notch signalling pathways [p <0.05]. Furthermore, DE lincRNAs in CD patients were more frequently found in DNA regions with known inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]-associated loci. The novel lincRNA XLOC_000261 negatively regulated RORγt expression in Th17 cells. CONCLUSIONS We describe a novel set of DE lincRNAs in CD-associated CD4+ cells and demonstrate that novel lincRNA XLOC_000261 appears to negatively regulate RORγt protein expression in Th17 cells.
Adenosine A2B receptor blockade slows growth of bladder and breast tumors

The accumulation of high levels of adenosine in tumors activates adenosine A2A and A2B receptors on immune cells to suppress tumor rejection. We evaluated the effects of intratumor injection of a n...
Impacts of prolonged sitting with mild hypercapnia on vascular and autonomic function in healthy recreationally active adults.

The results of this study reveal that prolonged sitting attenuates endothelial function and microvascular function. Additionally, prolonged sitting with mild hypercapnia, which is similar to everyd...
A Truncated Six Transmembrane Splice Variant MOR-1G Enhances Expression of the Full-Length Seven Transmembrane μ-Opioid Receptor through Heterodimerization

The μ-opioid receptor gene undergoes extensive alternative splicing to generate an array of splice variants. One group of splice variants excludes the first transmembrane (TM) domain and contains six TM domains. These 6TM variants are essential for the action of a novel class of analgesic drugs, including 3-iodobenzoyl-6β-naltrexamide, which is potent against a spectrum of pain models without exhibiting the adverse side effects of traditional opiates. The 6TM variants are also involved in analgesic action through other drug classes, including δ-opioid and κ-opioids and α2-adrenergic drugs. Of the five 6TM variants in mouse, mouse μ-opioid receptor (mMOR)-1G is abundant and conserved from rodent to human. In the present study, we demonstrate a new function of mMOR-1G in enhancing expression of the full-length 7TM μ-opioid receptor, mMOR-1. When coexpressed with mMOR-1 in a Tet-Off inducible CHO cell line, mMOR-1G has no effect on mMOR-1 mRNA expression but greatly increases mMOR-1 protein expression in a dose-dependent manner determined by opioid receptor binding and [35S] guanosine 5′-3-O-(thio)triphosphate binding. Subcellular fractionation analysis using OptiPrep density gradient centrifugation shows an increase of functional mMOR-1 receptor in plasma membrane–enriched fractions. Using a coimmunoprecipitation approach, we further demonstrate that mMOR-1G physically associates with mMOR-1 starting at the endoplasmic reticulum, suggesting a chaperone-like function. These data provide a molecular mechanism for how mMOR-1G regulates expression and function of the full-length 7TM μ-opioid receptor. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The current study establishes a novel function of mouse μ-opioid receptor (mMOR)-1G, a truncated splice variant with six transmembrane (TM) domains of the mouse μ-opioid receptor gene, in enhancing expression of the full-length 7TM mMOR-1 through a chaperone-like function.
Human papillomavirus vaccine guideline adherence among Arizona's Medicaid beneficiaries

Abstract Cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) can be prevented with the timely uptake and completion of the HPV vaccine series. Series completion is associated with increased vaccine effectiveness and longevity of protection. Medicaid beneficiaries are among populations with higher HPV vaccine uptake; however, little research describes factors that influence their HPV vaccine series completion. This study reports on a secondary data analysis of Arizona Medicaid data (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System) from years 2008–2016. We summarized patient data using descriptive statistics and explored relationships between demographic variables and HPV vaccine administration information using bivariate logistic regression. Results of this analysis showed that females were more likely to complete the series as compared to males, and the age group that had the greatest odd of vaccine completion were 13–17-year-olds, the catch-up vaccine population. White Medicaid beneficiaries were most likely to adhere to HPV vaccine guidelines, followed by Hispanic beneficiaries. Patients receiving care in urban settings were more likely to complete the HPV vaccine series than people receiving care in rural areas of the state. Although statistically insignificant, people living with HIV were less likely to complete the 3-dose series. Future work should focus on ensuring that HPV vaccine age-eligible Medicaid, including people living with HIV, adhere to HPV vaccine guidelines. Expanding programs such as Vaccines for Children and scope of practice for dental professionals to offer the vaccine may provide additional options for Medicaid beneficiaries to vaccinate.
Fostering Employee Service Creativity: Joint Effects of Customer Empowering Behaviors and Supervisory Empowering Leadership

Integrating insights from the literature on customers’ central role in service and the literature on employee creativity, we offer theoretical and empirical account of how and when customer empowering behaviors can motivate employee creativity during service encounters and, subsequently, influence customer satisfaction with service experience. Using multilevel, multisource, experience sampling data from 380 hairstylists matched with 3550 customers in 118 hair salons, we found that customer empowering behaviors were positively related to employee creativity and subsequent customer satisfaction via employee state promotion focus. Results also showed that empowering behaviors from different agents function synergistically in shaping employee creativity: supervisory empowering leadership strengthened the indirect effect of customer empowering behaviors on employee creativity via state promotion focus.
The Office-Level Effects of Audit Time Pressure

This study examines the audit office-level effects of changes in client-level time pressure. The extant literature provides evidence that increased client-level time pressure adversely affects the timing and quality of individual engagements. We argue that because audit offices possess finite resources and production capacity, client-level pressure can have office-level effects. To test this prediction, we examine timeliness (i.e., audit and filing timeliness) and audit quality following the acceleration of the 10-k filing deadline, an exogenous shock to engagement timing. We document intra-office differences related to changes in audit timeliness; clients with no pressure (with pressure) post-acceleration experience an increase (a decrease) in audit report lag. This evidence suggests that clients of the same office are not uniformly affected by changes in time pressure. Further, we predict and find that both timeliness and audit quality are a function of office-level time pressure: clients of audit offices with more time pressure have a greater increase in audit delay, are more likely to file late, and experience a decline in audit quality (measured by the likelihood of restatements and changes in working capital accruals). Taken as a whole, our results are consistent with the auditor’s response to increased resource constraints allowing client-level pressure to produce office-level effects. Our results should be informative to regulators and practitioners concerned with the consequences of office-level capacity constraints.
Immunological aspects of acute stroke: therapeutic implications.

Recent studies strongly suggest that cerebral ischaemia initiates a focal inflammatory response that results in significant secondary injury to brain tissue, thereby extending the ultimate size of a stroke. Factors involved in this cascade include the release of cytokines that cause a pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic state on cerebral vessel endothelium, the expression of leucocyte adhesion molecules, and the release of chemotactic factors allowing the migration of leucocytes into the area of injured brain tissue causing further damage. Animal studies have clearly demonstrated the detrimental effects of these inflammatory mediators in stroke models and additionally have shown dramatic reduction in infarct size using leucocyte adhesion modification and cytokine receptor blockade. The approach of modifying the effects of inflammatory cytokines and/or limiting leucocyte adhesion and migration into the region of injury holds great promise for identifying agents that will give significant neuronal protection following a stroke.
Abstract 17729: Ideal Cardiovascular Health is Associated With a Lower Prevalence of Adverse Left Ventricular Remodeling Patterns in the Framingham Offspring Study

Introduction: The American Heart Association Heart Healthy score (AHA score or Life’s Simple 7™) is inversely associated with atherosclerotic vascular disease including heart failure (HF), but its relationship to adverse left ventricle (LV) geometric patterns (known precursors of HF) is unknown. LV geometry can be categorized into 4 distinct patterns: normal (normal LV mass [LVM] and relative wall thickness [RWT]), concentric remodeling (normal LVM with increased RWT), eccentric hypertrophy (increased LVM with normal RWT) and concentric hypertrophy (increased LVM and RWT). Hypothesis: We hypothesized that ideal cardiovascular health is inversely associated with adverse LV geometric patterns. Methods: We evaluated the cross-sectional relations between the AHA score (range 1-7, based on lifestyle and risk factor profile, 7 being healthiest) and the prevalence of echocardiographic LV geometric patterns in 2392 Framingham Offspring Study participants (mean age 58 years, 56% women). Using generalized logits models, we calculated odds ratios (OR) for each pattern of LV remodeling as compared to the normal pattern (that served as referent) for every unit-increase in AHA score, adjusting for age and sex. Results: Normal geometry was present in 1283 participants (54%), concentric remodeling in 486 (20%), eccentric hypertrophy in 352 (15%) and concentric hypertrophy in 271 (11%). Each unit- increase in the AHA score was associated with lower odds of concentric remodeling and hypertrophy, Table. We did not observe a significant association between the AHA score and the odds of eccentric hypertrophy. Conclusions: Our findings support the association between ideal cardiovascular health and a lower prevalence of adverse cardiac remodeling, consistent with the favorable impact of both a healthy lifestyle and optimal risk factor profile on HF risk.
Linearized characteristics method for supersonic flow past vibratingshells.

A linearized characteristics method is developed for the aeroelastic stability analysis of cylindrical shells in supersonic flow. This procedure permits a rapid numerical solution of the complete unsteady linearized potential equation for arbitrarily prescribed axial deflection modes, reduced frequency, circumferential mode number, and cylinder length-to-radius ratio. The generalized aerodynamic forces calculated by the present aerodynamic theory are in excellent agreement with a previous Laplace-transform solution by Dowell and Widnall.
Strategic Planning for Public and Nonprofit Organizations

Strategic planning is a deliberative, disciplined approach to producing fundamental decisions and actions that shape and guide what an organization (or other entity) is, what it does, and why it does it. Strategic planning is not a substitute for strategic thinking, acting, and learning, or for leadership. Instead, strategic planning is a leadership tool meant to enhance strategic thinking, acting, and learning. Strategic planning can produce several benefits, but there is no guarantee that it will. There are a variety of approaches to strategic planning; some approaches emphasize process, while others emphasize content. Strategic management is a broader concept that links planning and implementation.
Carbohydrate metabolism of the avocado. I. Relations between sugars in leaves during photosynthesis and subsequent dark periods.

The sugars of avocado leaves and leaf disks were labeled by photosynthesis in C14O2 during various periods. The label found in the sugars was examined immediately following photosynthesis as well as after a period of respiration under various conditions. Sucrose was found to be the sugar most rapidly labeled during photosynthesis. Mannoheptulose was formed concurrently with sucrose but at a lower rate. Fructose and perseitol were labeled much more slowly than either sucrose or mannoheptulose during photosynthesis. However, in subsequent dark periods activity continued to accumulate in fructose and perseitol while the activity in sucrose and mannoheptulose was depleted. These results suggest that both sucrose and mannoheptulose are formed directly from products of the photosynthetic reduction cycle of carbon dioxide. Fructose and perseitol must be secondary products, formed at the expense of sucrose and mannoheptulose and by reactions independent of photosynthesis.
Fracture resistance of polyblends and polyblend matrix composites. Part I Unreinforced and fibre-reinforced nylon 6,6/ABS polyblends

The deformation behaviour and the fracture resistance of a range of nylon 6,6/ABS alloys of varying composition both with and without the presence of glass fibres were investigated. The deformation behaviour was characterized by careful measurements of the volumetric strain during tensile tests in order to understand the relative roles of cavitation and shear yielding in these materials. The fracture resistance was investigated in detail in the fracture mechanics sense by characterizing the J-integral fracture initiation toughness. In materials exhibiting stable crack growth, a new parameter, namely, the plateau value of the J-integral fracture resistance curve, was measured directly and represented the resistance of the material to stable crack growth. The results showed that the relationship between the deformation behaviour and fracture resistance was related to the extent of damage that developed in the crack-tip zone. Substantial additional toughening was developed during the crack extension stage both in the presence and absence of glass fibres. Glass fibres were found to promote shear yielding and, as a result, enhance both the fracture initiation as well as the fracture propagation resistance of the nylon 6,6/ABS alloys.
Financial Planner as Strategist (Powerpoint Presentation)

This presentation explores the role of financial planners as change agents, supported by a new, empirically-validated model for thinking about how financial planners create the strategies that are best suited to their clients’ needs. Among other things, the Financial Planning Strategy Modes model (FPSM) helps us to understand the skills that allow financial planners to maximize client trust and commitment and be most effective in helping clients to adapt and thrive. It also provides a means of assessing a practitioner’s relative balance across different strategy modes.There is a survey link at the end of the presentation and all financial advisors are invited to complete the brief questionnaire. Individual balance scores will be made available on request.
Networking and ship-to-shore ship-to-ship communication

Shipboard communication is discussed as it applies to computer networking between ships and the shore facilities at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Different communication links are considered, including satellites and VHF radio. Detail is given relating to the networking options, and some of the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of the different systems are pointed out. >
Size doesn't matter

So now we know. The first 'official' count of the number of genes in the human genome is in, and the total is smaller than almost anyone had imagined. Sorting out the pseudogenes from the real ones will take some time, so the number may increase a bit, but it seems clear that the genome of Homo sapiens contains fewer than 40,000 genes, with the final number probably being closer to 30,000. Quibble about the exact count if you will, but the total will probably not approach even half the 80,000-100,000 estimate that was widely bandied about when the Human Genome Project began.
Stereogenic Evolution of clasto-Lactacystin β-Lactone from L-Serine

Reported herein is a novel synthesis of clasto-lactacystin β-lactone. The γ-lactam core was selectively prepared by an intramolecular C–H insertion to establish the stereocenter, C(6). The ensuing construction of the quaternary C(5) and carbinol C(9) centers was facilitated by aldol with excellent stereoselection. All these new stereochemistries were induced by the inherent chirality of L-serine without employing chiral auxiliaries or reagents. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Influence of Children's Positive Self-Perceptions on Donating Behavior in a Naturalistic Setting.

The present study investigated the effects of self-perceptions on the donating behavior of 43 fourth-grade students. The children had two opportunities to donate gum to another class. Half of the students received feedback after the first donation period indicating that they were particularly generous. These children subsequently gave more than children in the control group (p<.05). Sociometric measures indicated that the perceptions children had of themselves and others were related to donating. The results were similar for both males and females. Children process new information into their cognitive systems. The resulting cognitions help guide future behaviors.
Novel homologs of gp91phox.

The existence of homologs of gp91phox in noninflammatory tissues implies that the generation of reactive oxygen in these tissues is not an accident of respiration but is a deliberate biological strategy. The recent cloning of multiple homologs of gp91phox, as well as intriguing recent studies regarding the biochemical and cellular functions of some of these homologs, provide a starting point for understanding the biological relevance of this new group of enzymes.
Acute toxicity of nitrite to crayfish Procambarus simulans in varied environmental conditions

Abstract In low chloride (≤5 mg litre −1 ), neutral pH water, resistance times to 50% death of crayfish Procambarus simulans to environmental nitrite concentration were highly significantly correlated (r = -0·953) in an inverse, double logarithmic fashion. The best fit regression equation equalled: log time ( h ) = 2·64−0·84 log nitrite concentration (mg litre −1 ). This model predicts resistance times to 50% death for 24,48, 72 and 96 h of 31·5, 13·8, 8·6 and 6·1 mg of nitrite litre −1 . Increases in environmental chloride concentration to 300 mg litre −1 ameliorated the toxicity of nitrite. At a lower pH (5·6) resistance times decreased slightly and the protective efficacy of chloride ions was reduced. These results indicate that P. simulans possesses an intermediate tolerance of nitrite relative to fish species and that chloride ions act as antagonists to nitrite ions (NO 2 − ) at monovalent ion uptake sites, but apparently do not compete with the uptake of the uncharged nitrous acid (HNO 2 ) molecule.
Re-Evaluation of Renal Cell Carcinoma Tumor Thrombus Extension by Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography

T RANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY (TEE) is well accepted and extensively used by cardiologists, anesthesiologists, and cardiothoracic surgeons perioperatively to monitor cardiac function and great vessel anatomy.’ TEE remains underused in noncardiac surgical procedures, however. This oversight may be due, in part, to inadequate resources or the specialized training and qualifications necessary to perform TEE.* Alternatively, other physicians may be unfamiliar with its diagnostic capabilities. This case report describes a patient whose treatment was dramatically altered by perioperative TEE. He was brought to the operating room with a diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma and his preoperative diagnostic evaluation revealed extension of the tumor thrombus into the inferior vena cava and intrahepatic vessels. There was no tumor thrombus extension visualized above the level of the diaphragm by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or transthoracic echocardiography. The patient was brought to the operating room for a planned surgical resection of the tumor and subdiaphragmatic tumor thrombus.
Recanalized umbilical vein conduit for meso-Rex bypass in extrahepatic portal vein obstruction.

Background Meso-Rex bypass is used to treat patients with clinically important extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO). Usually, an autologous left internal jugular vein graft is used to bypass the portal blood circulation from the superior mesenteric vein to the left portal vein. Other vascular conduits have included the autogenous saphenous vein, splenic vein, right gastroepiploic vein, and inferior mesenteric vein. Methods A total of 20 umbilical veins with attached livers were harvested from 20 deceased liver donors. Umbilical veins were dilated mechanically and checked for patency and communication with the left portal vein. Vein length and diameter after dilatation were recorded. Cross-sections of 15 recanalized umbilical veins were processed by routine histologic examination and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, as well as processed by immunohistochemistry for CD31 and factor VIII antigens. Subsequently, 3 children with EHPVO underwent this modified meso-Rex bypass using the umbilical vein as a vascular conduit. Results The mean length of harvested umbilical veins was 15 cm (range, 7–21); the mean length of recanalized and usable umbilical veins was 10 cm (range, 5–15). Recanalization was successful in 16 (80%) of the 20 donor umbilical veins. The mean diameter of the umbilical veins after serial dilatation and recanalization was 1.2 cm (range, 1–2). In 11 (73%) of the 15 recanalized vein specimens, the lumen was lined by endothelial cells. In 2 children, the vascular conduit was constructed entirely with native umbilical vein. In the remaining child, 3 cm of umbilical vein was preserved and anastomosed to a mobilized inferior mesenteric vein due to inadequate length. All 3 children had patent bypass and resolution of clinical manifestations of portal hypertension at a mean follow-up of 21 months. Conclusion Meso-Rex bypass may prove to be a definitive treatment for patients with EHPVO. The use of native umbilical vein as a vein conduit achieved decompression of the splanchnic venous system and should be considered a natural alternative to other interposition vein grafts.
Predicting Sparse Array Performance From Two-Element Interferometer Data

Widely distributed (sparse) ground-based antenna arrays are being considered for deep space communications applications with the development of the proposed Next Generation Deep Space Network. However, atmospheric-induced phase fluctuations can impose daunting restrictions on the performance of such an array, particularly during transmit and particularly at Ka-band frequencies, which have yet to be successfully resolved. In this paper, an analysis of the uncompensated performance of a sparse antenna array, in terms of its directivity and pattern degradation, is performed utilizing real data. The theoretical derivation for array directivity degradation is validated with interferometric measurements (for a 2-element array) recorded at Goldstone, CA, from May 2007-May 2008. With the validity of the model established, an arbitrary 27-element array geometry is defined at Goldstone, CA, to ascertain its theoretical performance in the presence of phase fluctuations based on the measured data. Therein, a procedure in which array directivity performance can be determined based on site-specific interferometric measurements is established. It is concluded that a combination of compact array geometry and atmospheric compensation is necessary to minimize array loss impact for deep space communications.
The critical behaviour of the four-dimensional U(1) gauge model; An MCRG study

Abstract On the basis of a recent work on singular renormalization group transformations at first-order phase transition we study the four-dimensional U(1) lattice gauge theory using the two-lattice matching MCRG method. The numerical results suggest that the phase transition stays first order deep in the negative adjoint coupling region in the two-parameter fundamental-adjoint plane.
Satellite observations of annual variability in terrestrial carbon cycles and seasonal growing seasons at high northern latitudes

Global satellite remote sensing records show evidence of recent vegetation greening and an advance in the onset of the growing season at high latitudes. We apply a terrestrial net primary production (NPP) model driven by satellite observations of vegetation properties and daily surface meteorology from an atmospheric GCM to assess spatial patterns, annual variability, and recent trends in vegetation productivity across Alaska and northwest Canada. We compare these results with regional observations of the timing of growing season onset derived from satellite passive microwave remote sensing measurements from the Special Sensor Microwave Imager, SSM/I. Our results show substantial variability in annual NPP for the region that appears to be driven largely by variations in canopy photosynthetic leaf area and average summer air temperatures. Variability in maximum canopy leaf area and NPP also correspond closely to remote sensing observations of the timing of the primary seasonal thaw event in spring. Relatively early spring thawing appears to enhance NPP, while delays in seasonal thawing and growing season onset reduce annual vegetation productivity. Our results indicate that advances in seasonal thawing and spring and summer warming for the region associated with global change are promoting a general increase in NPP.
Microwave Components with MEMS Switches

RF MEMS switches with metal-metal contacts are being developed for microwave applications where broadband, high linearity performance is required. These switches provide less than 0.2 dB insertion loss through 40 GHz. This paper describes the integration of these switches into selected microwave components such as reconfigurable antenna elements, tunable filters, switched delay lines, and SPDT switches. Microwave and millimeter wave measured results from these circuits are presented.
Southern oscillation simulated in a global climate model

The Southern Oscillation is the dominant pattern of interannual climatic variation over the Earth. Climatic variance associated with this phenomenon is exceeded only by the annual cycle and the ice ages. Although there is general agreement among climatologists that the Southern Oscillation originates in the interaction between the atmosphere and the tropical ocean, the detailed mechanism(s) have remained elusive. In this report we present evidence that the essential aspects of the Southern Oscillation are simulated in a general circulation model (GCM) of the coupled atmosphere and upper ocean. This indicates that: (1) the physical basis of this global oscillation is present in the equations of motion underlying this model; (2) multi-year simulations of climate by GCMs, which have hitherto primarily been used to study equilibrium properties of climate, may also be useful in investigating time-dependent changes on the interannual timescale.
Hydrology of Clay Settling Areas and Surrounding Landscapes in the Phosphate Mining District, Peninsular Florida

: The objective of this study was to use applied and naturally occurring geochemical tracers to study the hydrology of clay settling areas (CSAs) and the hydrological connectivity between CSAs and surrounding hydrological landscapes. The study site is located on the Fort Meade Mine in Polk County, Florida. The CSA has a well-developed, subangular-blocky, clay-rich surface layer with abundant desiccation cracks and other macropores, and a massive, clay-rich sublayer that is saturated below ∼1.0-2.5 m. A bromide tracer was applied to study hydrological processes in the upper part of the CSA. Bromide infiltrated rapidly and perched on a massive, clay-rich sublayer. Bromide concentrations decreased in the upper part of the profile without being transported vertically down through the lower part of the profile suggesting that bromide was lost to lateral rather than to vertical transport. Infiltration and lateral flow were rapid suggesting that preferential flow through desiccation cracks and other macropores likely dominates flow in the upper part of the CSA. Naturally occurring solute and stable isotope tracers were used to study the hydrological connectivity between the CSA and the surrounding hydrological landscape. Three-end mass-balance mixing model results indicate that shallow and/or deep CSA water can be found in all downgradient waters and must be as much as ∼50% of some downgradient waters. Discharge from the CSA to the surrounding surface water-bodies and surficial aquifer occurs laterally through the berms and/or vertically through the massive, clay-rich sublayer. However, the precise flow paths from the CSA to the surrounding hydrological landscape are unclear and the fluxes remain unquantified, so the precise effects of CSAs on the hydrology of the surrounding hydrological landscape also remain unquantified.
Pesticides: Prescribing for the Ecosystem

(1970). Pesticides: Prescribing for the Ecosystem. Environment: Science and Policy for Sustainable Development: Vol. 12, Project Survival, pp. 20-25.
MOLECULAR GENETICS OF EARLY-ONSET NON-INSULIN-DEPENDENT (TYPE 2) DIABETES MELLITUS

NIDDM is one of the most common metabolic diseases affecting -5% of the world population. However despite much research, the genetic and nongenetic factors that contribute to its development remain largely unknown. Careful clinical studies of subjects with NIDDM whose onset occurred during childhood or adolescence have identified a familial form of diabetes termed maturity-onset diabetes of the young or MODY. Its early age of onset, autosomal dominant mode of inheritance and availability of multigenerational pedigrees make MODY an attractive model for identifying diabetes-susceptibility genes using genetic approaches. Such studies have shown tight linkage between DNA markers on chromosome 20 and MODY in a large Michigan family of German origin as well as with DNA polymorphisms in the glucokinase gene on chromosome 7 in French and British families. Although the diabetes-susceptibility gene on chromosome 20 has not been identified, mutations in the glucokinase gene have been shown to be the cause of MODY in -60% of French subjects with this form of NIDDM. The demonstration that mutations in the glucokinase gene can cause diabetes suggests that NIDDM may be, at least in part, a disorder of glucose metabolism. This implies that genes encoding other glycolytic and gluconeogenic enzymes, especially those that control rate-limiting steps in these pathways, are candidates for contributing to the development of this genetically heterogeneous disorder. Genetic studies of early-onset NIDDM have provided a belter understanding of its causes and have pointed to cellular pathways that are important for the maintenance of glucose homeostasis and whose perturbation may contribute to the development of the more common late-onset forms of NIDDM.
Diffusion in Replica Healthy and Emphysematous Alveolar Models Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Deposition of nanosized particles in the pulmonary region has the potential of crossing the blood-gas barrier. Experimental in vivo studies have used micron-sized particles, and therefore nanoparticle deposition in the pulmonary region is not well understood. Furthermore, little attention has been paid to the emphysematous lungs, which have characteristics quite different from the healthy lung. Healthy and emphysematous replica acinus models were created from healthy and diseased human lung casts using three-dimensional reconstruction. Particle concentration and deposition were determined by solving the convective-diffusion equation numerically for steady and unsteady cases. Results showed decreased deposition efficiencies for emphysema compared to healthy lungs, consistent with the literature and attributed to significant airway remodeling in the diseased lung. Particle diffusion was found to be six times slower in emphysema compared to healthy model. The unsteady state simulation predicted deposition efficiencies of 96% in the healthy model for the 1 nm and 3 nm particles and 94% and 93% in the emphysema model for the 1 nm and 3 nm particles, respectively. Steady state was achieved in less than one second for both models. Comparisons between steady and unsteady predictions indicate that a steady-state simulation is reasonable for predicting particle transport under similar conditions.
Methanogenic pathways of coal-bed gas in the Powder River Basin, United States: The geologic factor

Abstract Coal-bed gas of the Tertiary Fort Union and Wasatch Formations in the Powder River Basin in Wyoming and Montana, U.S. was interpreted as microbial in origin by previous studies based on limited data on the gas and water composition and isotopes associated with the coal beds. To fully evaluate the microbial origin of the gas and mechanisms of methane generation, additional data for 165 gas and water samples from 7 different coal-bed methane-bearing coal-bed reservoirs were collected basinwide and correlated to the coal geology and stratigraphy. The C1/(C2 + C3) ratio and vitrinite reflectance of coal and organic shale permitted differentiation between microbial gas and transitional thermogenic gas in the central part of the basin. Analyses of methane δ13C and δD, carbon dioxide δ13C, and water δD values indicate gas was generated primarily from microbial CO2 reduction, but with significant gas generated by microbial methyl-type fermentation (aceticlastic) in some areas of the basin. Microbial CO2 reduction occurs basinwide, but is generally dominant in Paleocene Fort Union Formation coals in the central part of the basin, whereas microbial methyl-type fermentation is common along the northwest and east margins. Isotopically light methane δ13C is distributed along the basin margins where δD is also depleted, indicating that both CO2-reduction and methyl-type fermentation pathways played major roles in gas generation, but gas from the latter pathway overprinted gas from the former pathway. More specifically, along the northwest basin margin gas generation by methyl-type fermentation may have been stimulated by late-stage infiltration of groundwater recharge from clinker areas, which flowed through highly fractured and faulted coal aquifers. Also, groundwater recharge controlled a change in gas composition in the shallow Eocene Wasatch Formation with the increase of nitrogen and decrease of methane composition of the coal-bed gas. Other geologic factors, such as burial, thermal and maturation history, lateral and vertical continuity, and coalification of the coal beds, also played a significant role in controlling methanogenic pathways and provided new perspectives on gas evolution and emplacement. The early-stage gas produced by CO2 reduction has mixed with transitional thermogenic gas in the deeper, central parts of the Powder River Basin to form ‘old’ gas, whereas along the basin margins the overprint of gas from methyl-type fermentation represents ‘new’ gas. Thus, a clear understanding of these geologic factors is necessary to relate the microbiological, biogeochemical, and hydrological processes involved in the generation of coal-bed gas.
Quantitative transverse flow measurement using optical coherence tomography speckle decorrelation analysis

We propose an inter-Ascan speckle decorrelation based method that can quantitatively assess blood flow normal to the direction of the optical coherence tomography imaging beam. To validate this method, we performed a systematic study using both phantom and in vivo animal models. Results show that our speckle analysis method can accurately extract transverse flow speed with high spatial and temporal resolution.