cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Retrograde axonal transport of dopamine β hydroxylase

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a study analyzing retrograde axonal transport of dopamine-β-hydroxylase. In the study, an analogous experiment was performed with dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH). Two ligatures were applied, 10–14 mm apart, to the right sciatic nerves of rats under ether anesthesia; the animals were sacrificed 8 h later. Segments 3 mm long were cut immediately above and below the proximal ligature and the distal ligature; another 3 mm segment was cut from the exact middle of the region between the two ligatures. These tissue samples were homogenized and assayed for DBH activity using tyramine as a substrate. Compared to control segments from the contralateral nerves, DBH activity increased significantly in the segment above the proximal ligature. DBH activity also increased significantly in the segments below both the proximal and the distal ligature. The segment below the distal ligature had more DBH activity than did either the segment just above it or the segment just below the proximal ligature. These results strongly suggest a real retrograde transport of DBH.
Evaluation of the first year of Dental Health Partnerships: a web-based distance learning partnership between UK dental educators and students from low-resource countries

Aim To introduce and discuss the results of a newly-founded online, distance learning organisation, Dental Health Partnerships. The motivation behind the project is to bridge the gap between dental educators in the UK and dental students in low-resource communities. The results of the first partnership with Amoud Dental University, Somaliland, are presented. Method Sixteen tutorials were conducted between February 2016 and June 2016 for the final year dental students via an online virtual classroom (WizIQ). Sixteen students participated in the weekly tutorials, each of which lasted for approximately 90 minutes. The students were sent online questionnaires at two stages during the study to qualitatively evaluate their experience. Results Nine of the sixteen students responded to both questionnaires. One-hundred percent of the participants were 'very satisfied' or 'satisfied' with the programme at the end of the year. The attendance and participation rates for the weekly sessions were positive. The students had theoretical knowledge of the topics, however, the application of theoretical concepts to clinical scenarios was a challenge. Conclusion The results of the first year of the partnership indicates the relevance of case-based tutorials to dental practice in Somaliland, equipping students with the clinical-based knowledge to be effective in the field after graduation.
Weekly Rounding With the MICU Team: Description of a Clinical Ethics Project.

Context:Patients in medical intensive care units (MICUs) are medically complex. This complexity can lead to uncertainty about patient goals and prognosis. Ethical dilemmas arise when there is uncer...
Exercise-Induced Changes to the Macrophage Response in the Dorsal Root Ganglia Prevent Neuropathic Pain after Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) induces neuropathic pain that is refractory to treatment. Central and peripheral immune responses to SCI play critical roles in pain development. Although immune responses in the dorsal horn have been implicated in SCI-pain, immune mechanisms in the periphery, especially in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG), where nociceptor cell bodies reside, have not been well studied. Exercise is an immunomodulator, and we showed previously that early exercise after SCI reduces pain development. However, the mechanisms of exercise-mediated pain reduction are not understood. Therefore, we examined the 1) underlying immune differences in the spinal cord and DRG between rats with and without pain and 2) immunomodulatory effects of exercise in pain reduction. Rats were subjected to a unilateral contusion at C5 and tested for pain development using von Frey and mechanical conflict-avoidance paradigms. A subgroup of rats was exercised on forced running wheels starting at 5 days post-injury for 4 weeks. We observed greater microglial activation in the C7-C8 dorsal horn of rats with SCI-induced pain compared to rats with normal sensation, and early exercise reduced this activation independently of pain behavior. Further, abnormal pain sensation strongly correlated with an increased number of DRG macrophages. Importantly, exercise-treated rats that maintain normal sensation also have a lower number of macrophages in the DRG. Our data suggest that macrophage presence in the DRG may be an important effector of pain development, and early wheel walking exercise may mediate pain prevention by modulating the injury-induced macrophage response in the DRG. Further supportive evidence demonstrated that rats that developed pain despite exercise intervention still displayed a significantly elevated number of macrophages in the DRG. Collectively, these data suggest that macrophage presence in the DRG may be an amenable cellular target for future therapies.
A Mobile Electroencephalogram (EEG) Tutorial Atlas as a Learning Tool for Neurology Residents (P3.344)

Objective: The objective of our study is to determine if use of a mobile tutorial EEG atlas will improve user recognition of EEG waveforms and patterns. Background: According to the ACGME, every graduating neurology resident must be proficient at interpreting an electroencephalogram (EEG). EEG interpretation is an exercise in visual analysis and pattern recognition. As such, mastery of EEG interpretation requires visual exposure to a large volume of varied cases. Traditional methods of teaching EEG include: (1) books/lectures, which usually do not provide an opportunity for the learner to test their knowledge, or (2) clinical experience, during which learning is highly variable depending on the case mix at the time and the teaching skills/interest of the supervising physicians. We propose that this gap in EEG learning tools can be filled by a mobile tutorial EEG atlas. Design/Methods: The mobile application we developed includes an atlas of 55 EEG images representing various normal features of sleep or wake states, benign variants, EEG artifacts, and epileptiform and slow patterns. 30 neurology residents will participate in use of the application. Users can learn to recognize components of EEG by viewing images either in study-mode (flashcard format) or review-mode (using glossary feature). User knowledge will be evaluated with a multiple choice pre-test, as well as two post-tests (immediately after use, and at 4 weeks) to assess for retention of information. The primary outcome measured will be the inter-user change in test score after application use. Results: Results expected at time of presentation. Conclusions: We hypothesize that use of a mobile tutorial EEG atlas will improve user recognition of EEG waveforms and patterns. This can be a useful tool for residents to improve EEG interpretation skills. Goals for the future include expansion of the application to include a larger collection of images, as well as a case-based learning mode. Disclosure: Dr. Shapiro has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mendiratta has nothing to disclose. Dr. Patel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bell has nothing to disclose.
PHENOTYPIC PATTERNS OF LEFT VENTRICULAR DIASTOLIC FUNCTION IDENTIFIED USING CLUSTERING APPROACHES

The assessment of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function is an integral part of routine echocardiography in patients with cardiovascular diseases. We explored the clustering of variables used for assessing LV diastolic dysfunction (DD) to isolate high-risk phenotypic patterns. We prospectively
Circulating blood cellular glucose transporters - Surrogate biomarkers for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy assessed by novel scoring systems.

Abstract Objective We examined Red Blood Cell (RBC) Glucose Transporter isoform 1 (GLUT1) and White Blood Cell (WBC) Glucose Transporter isoform 3 (GLUT3) protein concentrations to assess their potential as surrogate biomarkers for the presence of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and response to therapeutic hypothermia (TH), with respect to the neurodevelopmental prognosis. Study design A prospective feasibility study of 10 infants with HIE and 8 age-matched control subjects was undertaken. Following parental consent, blood samples were obtained at baseline before institution of TH ( Results RBC GLUT1 concentrations were increased at the baseline pre-TH time point in HIE versus control subjects (p = .006), normalizing after TH (p = .05). An association between GLUT1 and NSE concentrations (which was reflective of the HIE-high risk and the Neuro-scores) in controls and HIE pre-TH was seen (R2 = 0.36, p = .008), with GLUT1 demonstrating 90% sensitivity and 88% specificity for presence of HIE identified by Sarnat Staging. WBC GLUT3 concentrations were low and no different in HIE versus control, and GFAP concentrations trended higher during re-warming (p = .11) and post-TH (p = .16). We demonstrated a significant difference between HIE and controls for both the “HIE-high risk” and the “Neurological” Scores. The latter score revealing the severity of clinical neurological illness correlated with the corresponding RBC GLUT1 (R2 value = 0.39; p = .006). Conclusion Circulating RBC GLUT1 concentrations with NSE demonstrate a significant potential in reflecting the severity of HIE pre-TH and gauging effectiveness of TH. In contrast, the low neonatal WBC GLUT3 concentrations make discerning differences between degrees of HIE as well as assessing effectiveness of TH difficult. The HIE-high risk and Neurological scores may extend the “Sarnat staging” towards assessing severity and neuro-developmental prognosis of HIE.
Cobalt-catalyzed nitrile hydrogenation: Insights into the reaction mechanism and product selectivity from DFT analysis

Abstract When primary amines are the desired product of nitrile hydrogenation, the use of cobalt catalysts are commonly recommended. Nitrile hydrogenation using heterogeneous catalysis is an important commercial process for the production of primary, secondary, and tertiary amines. In recent years, modern experimental methods have investigated the detailed mechanism underlying the surface reactions of nitrile hydrogenation. These experimental studies provide new insights, but also raise additional questions. To help resolve these inconsistencies, modern theoretical techniques have been applied by way of periodic plane-wave Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to study acetonitrile adsorption and hydrogenation to primary (monoethylamine), secondary (diethylamine), and tertiary amines (triethylamine) over flat Co surfaces, specifically the Co(0001) surface facet. The presented theoretical analysis applies fundamental physical chemistry and reaction engineering principles to better understand surface reaction mechanisms in the kinetically-controlled regime at low surface coverages. Reaction pathways for acetonitrile hydrogenation and the most probable routes for secondary and tertiary amine formations are discussed. The presented first-principles analysis is in line with experimental observations of gas-phase acetonitrile hydrogenation on flat Co surfaces. Key mechanistic findings are discussed in the context of larger alkane nitrile hydrogenation processes, which are ordinarily performed in the liquid phase.
Recent advances in our understanding of the Earth's Radiation Belts

The Earth's radiation belts were discovered by James van Allen more than fifty years ago and are a home to a plethora of fascinating processes ranging from low energy cold plasma to relativistic and ultra-relativistic particle populations. The traditional morphological picture of the radiation belts is that of an outer belt comprising mostly of electrons and an inner belt comprising mostly of protons with a so-called slot region separating the two. The inner belt is somewhat stable, while the outer radiation belt is very dynamical and shows variability in energetic electron populations over a wide range of energies, intensities, and time scales ranging from minutes, days and even years. This variability is due to dynamical processes of energization and loss with a variety of plasma waves playing an important and crucial role. The traditional picture has recently been challenged with new observations coming from the twin spacecraft mission, Van Allen Probes launched in the fall of 2012, which carries a comprehensive suite of instruments that measure particles and plasma waves. In more than 5 years of observations Van Allen Probes has advanced our understanding of fundamental questions regarding the acceleration and loss of outer Van Allen belt electron population. Van Allen Probes observations have also revealed new phenomena such as the “electron Storage ring”, and the “impenetrable barrier”. This article reviews electron dynamics in the Van Allen belts focusing on van Allen Probes observations and discuss exciting new ways of advancing radiation belt science with CubeSats and CubeSat constellations.
Opportunities and Benefits of a University-Based Weatherization Assistance Program: The Case of Furman University's Community Conservation Corps

Weatherization assistance programs have been in existence in the United States for decades, but they are commonly managed and implemented by local government organizations. Furman University, a sma...
Laparoscopic Distal Pancreatectomy with Splenectomy

This chapter discusses technical aspects of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy, including instrumentation and equipment, patient positioning and trocar placement, and surgical steps. The authors also offer pearls and pitfalls.
An Approach to Address Residual “Hot Spots” in SMAP RFI-Filtered Data

Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) is a well-documented problem for passive remote sensing of the Earth at L-band even though the measurements are made in the protected band centered at 1.413 GHz. Consequently, filtering for RFI is an important early step in the processing of measurements made by the SMAP (Soil Moisture Active/Passive) radiometer. However, the filtered data still include regions with suspiciously high antenna temperatures. One possible cause of these “hot spots” is interference not fully detected during RFI filtering. This paper presents some evidence supporting this hypothesis and describes an algorithm to identify these “hot spots” so that they can be removed from the measurements. The impact of removing these “hot spots” is generally small, but evidence is presented that the brightness temperature and soil moisture improve when the hot spots are removed.
Keratolysis Associated with Methamphetamine Use - Incidental Diagnosis of Corneal Melt in a Patient with Acute Methamphetamine Intoxication.

Author(s): Heer, Jagdipak S.; Heavey, Sean; Quesada, Daniel; Aguiniga-Navarrete, Phillip; Garrett, Madison B.; Barkataki, Kieron | Abstract: Case Presentation: A 38-year-old male presented to the emergency department with methamphetamine-induced agitation. Physical exam showed clouding of the left cornea, with gelatinous appearance and associated conjunctivitis, consistent with corneal melt, or keratolysis.Discussion: Keratolysis is dissolution of the corneal stroma that can lead to corneal ulceration and vision loss. Smoking stimulants has been shown to be associated with this pattern of ocular injury, although this is a relatively rare presentation. Acute keratolysis is a unique complication of methamphetamine preparation and ingestion via smoking that can lead to corneal ulceration and loss of vision.
Pericytes as novel targets for HIV/SIV infection in the lung.

Antiretroviral therapy in HIV patients has lengthened lifespan but led to an increased risk for secondary comorbidities, such as pulmonary complications characterized by vascular dysfunction. In th...
Numerical Investigations of MRI RF-induced Heating for Passive Implants in Birdcage and TEM Body Coils at 3 Tesla

This paper compares the radiofrequency (RF) -induced heating for passive implants between the birdcage (BC) coil and the transverse electromagnetic (TEM) coil at 3 Tesla (T). Two common passive implants, orthopedic plate and spinal fixation device were considered. To assess the RF-induced heating in the two different coils, electromagnetic simulations were performed to calculate the local specific absorption rate (SAR) in the standard phantom. It is determined that the device length leading to the worst-case heating is around 10 cm in both BC coil and TEM coil. This worst-case length corresponds to the half wavelength of the RF field at 3 T. It is also shown that for both orthopedic plates and spinal fixations, the BC coil generates larger RF-induced heatings than those from the TEM coil. This result indicates that in the presence of passive implants, patients undergoing TEM coil can have a larger safety margin. It would be more conservative to use BC coil, rather than TEM coil, to evaluate the RF-induced heating of medical implants.
An Atypical Presentation of Pemphigus Vegetans in the Umbilicus

Pemphigus is a chronic, autoimmune bullous disease that affects the skin and mucous membranes. Pemphigus vegetans is a rare variant of pemphigus and presents as oral ulcerations with associated verrucous lesions in intertriginous or flexural areas. A 38-year-old African American woman presented to the clinic with a chief complaint of oral ulcers. She carried a diagnosis of Behcet’s disease and was referred by rheumatology for evaluation of treatment-resistant mucosal ulcerations. At the time of her dermatology visit, she also reported an enlarging umbilical mass that had been present for several months. Further examination of the umbilical lesion identified an exophytic, vegetative mass. Histologic assessment of the lesion identified acanthosis and acantholysis with dermal eosinophils consistent with pemphigus vegetans. A pemphigus antibody panel was done and resulted positive for IgG desmoglein-3 antibodies. The patient was treated with prednisone and rituximab with improvement of her lesions. We present an atypical presentation of pemphigus vegetans involving the umbilicus. This diagnosis should be considered in patients who present with oral erosions and concomitant vegetative lesions, regardless of location or prior diagnoses.
WEScover: selection of whole exome sequencing vs. gene panel testing

Abstract Motivation Whole exome sequencing (WES) is widely adopted in clinical and research settings. However, there is potential for false negatives due to incomplete breadth and depth of coverage for several exons in clinically implicated genes. In some cases, a targeted gene panel testing may be a dependable option to ascertain true negatives for genomic variants in known phenotype associated genes. We developed a tool for quickly gauging whether all genes of interest would be reliably covered by WES or whether targeted gene panel testing should instead be considered to minimize false negatives in candidate genes. Results WEScover is a novel web application that provides an interface for discovering breadth and depth of coverage across population scale WES datasets, searching either by phenotype, by targeted gene panels and by gene(s). Moreover, the application shows metrics from the Genome Aggregation Database to provide gene-centric view on breadth of coverage. Conclusion WEScover allows users to efficiently query genes and phenotype for exome coverage of associated exons, and recommends use of panel tests for genes that are potentially not well covered by WES.
Myocardial Work Efficiency, A Novel Measure of Myocardial Dysfunction, Is Reduced in COVID-19 Patients and Associated With In-Hospital Mortality

Background: Although troponin elevation is common in COVID-19, the extent of myocardial dysfunction and its contributors to dysfunction are less well-characterized. We aimed to determine the prevalence of subclinical myocardial dysfunction and its association with mortality using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), specifically global longitudinal strain (GLS) and myocardial work efficiency (MWE). We also tested the hypothesis that reduced myocardial function was associated with increased systemic inflammation in COVID-19. Methods and Results: We conducted a retrospective study of hospitalized COVID-19 patients undergoing echocardiography (n = 136), of whom 83 and 75 had GLS (abnormal >-16%) and MWE (abnormal <95%) assessed, respectively. We performed adjusted logistic regression to examine associations of GLS and MWE with in-hospital mortality. Patients were mean 62 ± 14 years old (58% men). While 81% had normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), prevalence of myocardial dysfunction was high by STE; [39/83 (47%) had abnormal GLS; 59/75 (79%) had abnormal MWE]. Higher MWE was associated with lower in-hospital mortality in unadjusted [OR 0.92 (95% CI 0.85-0.99); p = 0.048] and adjusted models [aOR 0.87 (95% CI 0.78-0.97); p = 0.009]. In addition, increased systemic inflammation measured by interleukin-6 level was associated with reduced MWE. Conclusions: Subclinical myocardial dysfunction is common in COVID-19 patients with clinical echocardiograms, even in those with normal LVEF. Reduced MWE is associated with higher interleukin-6 levels and increased in-hospital mortality. Non-invasive STE represents a readily available method to rapidly evaluate myocardial dysfunction in COVID-19 patients and can play an important role in risk stratification.
Induced alterations in the hepatic metabolism of androgens in the rat.

Abstract Phenobarbital administered to sexually mature male rats acclerated the metabolism of androgen as reflected by significant reductions in weight and RNA content of male accessory organs. In addition, semen analysis of treated animals revealed an increase in the percentage of nonviable spermatozoa. This demonstration of drug steroid interaction reinforces speculation as to the possibility of utilizing such phenomena as therapeutic modalities for human gynecologic syndromes associated with overproduction of androgens.
The pyruvate-phosphate dikinase reaction. The fate of phosphate and the equilibrium.

Abstract An enzyme capable of catalyzing the reaction AMP + PPi + P-enolpyruvate ⇌ ATP + Pi + pyruvate was obtained from Bacteroides symbiosus cell extracts and was purified from interfering enzyme activities. It was strongly stimulated by ammonium ion. In this respect and in other physical properties the bacterial enzyme differed from that previously obtained from Entamoeba histolytica. In a complete reaction system the enzyme transferred label from orthophosphate to pyrophosphate and to the γ position of ATP while the label of 32P-enolpyruvate was transferred to the β position of ATP. The observed equilibrium constant catalyzed by the bacterial enzyme was directly dependent upon the square of the hydrogen ion concentration. At pH 7.0 its value was 1140. Apparent Km values for P-enolpyruvate and pyrophosphate were 0.07 mm and 0.1 mm for the amebal enzyme and 0.06 mm and 0.1 mm for the bacterial enzyme, respectively.
Mechanisms of Action of Cancer Chemotherapeutic Agents: Antimicrotubule Agents

First page of article Keywords: antimicrotubule agents; tubulin; mitosis; apoptosis; Bcl-2; p34/Cdc2; cyclin B1; p53; paclitaxel; vinblastine
Culturally situated design tools: animated support tools for mathematics

Culturally Situated Design Tools (CSDTs) are web-based software applications that allow students to create simulations of cultural arts: Native American beadwork, African American cornrow hairstyles, urban graffiti, and so forth; using these underlying mathematical principles. CSDTs are the rationale of creating a set of culturally designed games utilizes gaming as a teaching tool to attract and instruct students with familiar methods and environments. The focus of this study is on Ron Eglash and others research on the indigenous design of various cultures using computer game simulations to teach math and computer science in the classroom sector. This study will review the development and evaluation of CSDTs, and discuss how various activities attempt to navigate through the potential dangers and rewards of this potent hybrid of information technology (CSDTs), traditional culture and individual creativity.
Millimeter and submillimeter spectroscopy in support of upper atmospheric research

This paper describes the laboratory program in millimeter and submillimeter spectroscopy at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). The program directly supports ongoing and developing field measurement programs; in particular, the Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) now in orbit aboard the Upper Atmospheric Research Satellite (UARS), the balloon borne Submillimeter Limb Sounder (SLS), the Far Infrared Limb Observing Spectrometer (FILOS), the 2.5 THz balloon OH spectrometer (BOH), and the MLS to be flown in 2002 on the Earth Observing System (EOS) AQUA platform. This program provides frequencies, linewidths and transition moments for species sought by the observing program, which have promise of being observed by instrumentation being developed by NASA, and which improved atmospheric models indicate are important. These data along with pertinent data available from other sources are analyzed and the results made available to the user community via the JPL “Microwave, Millimeter, and Submillimeter Spectral Line Catalog.” From these data, accurate brightness temperatures and line profiles can be obtained. In addition, this program supplies necessary microwave through far infrared data that aid in the interpretation and assignment of infrared and optical spectra of importance to stratospheric research. Particular attention is paid to molecules whose high resolution infrared spectra are contained in the JPL and HITRAN infrared databases and to transient species relevant to research being done by the JPL kinetics group. This program has also been concerned with the determination of molecular structures and other molecular properties of halogen oxides and oxo-acids which affect chemical reactivity.
Long-term low ascorbic acid intake reduces bone mass in guinea pigs.

The effect of long-term (1 y) low to excess ascorbic acid (AA) intake on bone mass was evaluated using guinea pigs that were 12-14 d old at the start of the experiment. Dietary AA was low (0.15 g/kg diet) (n = 7), normal (0.50 g/kg) (n = 8) or excess (10 g/kg) (n = 8). After 12 mo, total body bone mineral density (BMD, mg/cm 2 ) and bone mineral content (BMC, g) were determined by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Histomorphometric analysis of the cancellous bone of the proximal tibial metaphysis was completed after in vivo dual fluorochrome labeling. Total body BMD of the low AA group was 4.9% lower (P < 0.05), and total body BMC was 12.4% lower (P < 0.05) than in the normal AA group. Total body BMD and BMC were similar in normal and excess AA groups and in the low and excess AA groups. Histomorphometric analysis indicated significantly greater (P < 0.05) double-labeled bone surface, mineralizing surface, and bone formation rate in the low AA guinea pigs compared with the normal AA animals. Thus, there was greater bone turnover in the low AA group than in the normal AA guinea pigs. No differences in histomorphometric endpoints existed between the normal AA and excess AA groups. Long-term AA deficiency, during the period of rapid growth and slower phases of skeletal maturation, resulted in bone abnormalities in adult guinea pig skeletons. Long-term dietary AA excess caused no such abnormalities.
Sulfide permeability in the marine invertebrate Urechis caupo

Hydrogen sulfide can reach toxic concentrations in the burrow-water of the echiuran worm Urechis caupo during low tide. Its two large epithelial surfaces, the thick muscular body wall and the thin-walled hindgut are in constant contact with the environment. Hindgut inflation of up to 2 ml water·g wet weight-1 causes tissue stretch. To determine if these body surfaces present a barrier to sulfide influx, the total permeability coefficient PT was measured at different degrees of stretch in diffusion chambers at pH 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0, and specific permeability coefficients PH 2S and PHS - were calculated. Both the body wall and the hindgut were more permeable to H2S than HS-. The body wall showed no significant increase in sulfide permeability with natural degrees of stretch, and the mean PH 2S and PHS - were 0.17 and 0.063 cm·h-1, respectively. The sulfide permeability of the hindgut was increased by stretch, with the relative permeability of H2S increasing faster than that of HS-. Unstretched hindgut mean PH 2S and PHS - were 0.095 and 0.11 cm·h-1, respectively, and stretched hindgut mean PH 2S and PHS - were 1.8 and 0.16 cm·h-1, respectively. A model of sulfide influx in the natural environment indicates that even if the hindgut is kept uninflated, the coelomic fluid of U. caupo would have toxic sulfide concentrations well before the end of a 2-h tidal exposure in the absence of a sulfide elimination mechanism.
Quasiparticle spectrum of d-wave superconductors in the mixed state: A large Fermi-velocity anisotropy study

The quasiparticle spectrum of a two-dimensional d-wave superconductor in the mixed state, H_c1 << H << H_c2, is studied for large values of the ``anisotropy ratio'' alpha_D = v_F/v_Delta. For a square vortex lattice rotated by 45 degrees from the quasiparticle anisotropy axes (and the usual choice of Franz--Tesanovic singular gauge transformation) we determine essential features of the band structure asymptotically for large alpha_D, using an effective one-dimensional model, and compare them to numerical calculations. We find that several features of the band structure decay to zero exponentially fast for large alpha_D. Using a different choice of singular gauge transformation, we obtain a different band structure, but still find qualitative agreement between the 1D and full 2D calculations. Finally, we distort the square lattice into a non-Bravais lattice. Both the one- and two-dimensional numerical calculations of the energy spectra show a gap around zero-energy, with our gauge choice, and the two excitation spectra agree reasonably well.
Effects of ultra-low volume applications of malathion in Hale County, Texas. IV. Arbovirus studies.

Vector mosquito populations, arbovirus infection rates among mosquitoes and avian hosts, sentinel chicken flock transmission indices, and human clinical and inapparent arbovirus infection rates were monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of ultra-low volume (ULV) applications of malathion for control of arthropod-borne encephalitis in Hale County, Texas, during 1967. Effective control of arbovirus activity was not obtained by weekly treatments of towns with areas of approximately 17 and 65 km2 (6.5 and 25 square miles). Barrier treatments between the towns and the areas of Culex tarsalis breeding may have reduced infiltration of infected vector mosquitoes into the treated towns. Retreatment at 3-day intervals also may have resulted in sustained vector control and reduced arbovirus activity.
Static data race detection for concurrent programs with asynchronous calls

A large number of industrial concurrent programs are being designed based on a model which combines threads with event-based communication. These programs consist of several threads which perform computation by dispatching tasks to other threads via asynchronous function calls. These asynchronous function calls are implemented using function objects, which are essentially wrappers containing a pointer to the function that should be executed on a particular thread with the corresponding arguments. In many cases, the arguments, in turn, contain function objects which serve as callbacks. Verifying such programs which involves reasoning about complex concurrency constructs comprising function pointers and callback functions is extremely tricky especially in the presence of recursion. In this paper, we present a fast and accurate static data race detection technique for multi-threaded C programs with asynchronous function calls and demonstrate its application to real-life software.
SU-E-T-613: Improving Dose-Shaping and OAR-Sparing Using Robust Statistical Methods.

Purpose: To achieve a better balance between tumor coverage and organ‐at‐risk (OAR) sparing by applying robust statistical methods to IMRT inverse optimization.Methods: We propose a novel approach to shape dose dropoff from the PTV by minimizing the L1 norm of the difference between the obtained and aimed dose value and the total variation of the dose distribution on the PTV and OAR regions. Minimizing the L1 norm results in operand values that are mostly small but potentially large on a sparse set. Applying this structure to both dose discrepancy and dose gradient, our method achieves: 1) sparsely‐distributed, high‐dose gradients; 2) structure dose‐homogeneity; and 3) connectivity in the distribution of high‐gradient voxels on the PTV's surface. Dose‐volume histograms (DVHs) and visual observations of dose maps were compared among two plans optimized for the same dynamic IMRT prostate case: 1) the clinical plan (plan_c); and 2) a plan optimized using the TV energy, L‐1 norm, and an over‐dose quadratic (plan_r). Importance factors for the objective function of planr were chosen empirically. The beam geometry was obtained from the clinical plan, and the solution was optimized with linear programming. Results: Plan_r improved dose conformity, increased overall bladder‐sparing, and globally increased rectum‐sparing relative to plan_c. Conclusions: These results suggest that robust formulations may be used to improve dose‐shaping and OAR‐sparing. The numerical stability and implementation simplicity of our method permits fast translation to the clinic.
MALDI-TOF MS Analysis of a Library of Polymerizable Cyclodextrin Derivatives

Polymerizable cyclodextrin derivatives (PCDs) have been proposed as candidates for use in dental therapeutics (Bowen, 1996; Bowen and Reed, 1997). Here, PCD "libraries" were synthesized by quasi-random reactions of 6 moles of methacrylic anhydride plus 6 moles of cyclic glutaric anhydride per mole of beta-cyclodextrin (BCD) in solution. BCD has 21 reactive sites on each of its molecules. These proportions were based on probability calculations, which predicted that the products should have a minimum of 2 polymerizable substituents and acidic ligand groups on practically every one of the diverse product molecules. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) gave valuable information regarding the masses of molecular ions representing the molecules that made up the PCD libraries. For the MALDI-TOF MS analyses, small samples were analyzed by the successive application of 3 solutions to the sample holder: the matrix in acetone, the products in water, and sodium trifluoroacetate in water. The resulting spectra had > 40 envelopes of mass peaks above background. The ionic-abundance peak heights had quasi-Gaussian configurations, with central peaks having masses in the neighborhood of 2000 g/mol (Daltons). Regardless of structural permutations within each peak, the range of these peaks was between about 1500 g/mol and 2900 g/mol. This range of masses was in accord with, but perhaps somewhat more narrow than, that predicted by the statistical method, which was based on equal reactivity of all hydroxyl groups. Analysis by MALDI-TOF MS gave valuable data regarding the masses, structures, and characteristics of the products formed and provided unanticipated information to facilitate improvements in future PCD syntheses.
Novel crystalline sheets of Na,K-ATPase induced by phospholipase A2

Treatment of purified preparations of Na,K-ATPase by phospholipase A2 has led to the formation of two-dimensional crystals of the protein. Control tests with another phospholipase and two detergents have shown that crystallization occurs as the result of hydrolysis and/or solubilization of the phospholipids in the enzyme vesicles. Experimentation with various buffer systems has indicated that reduction in the amount of phospholipids alone is sufficient for inducing the formation of crystalline sheets. Inclusion of crystal inducing ions in the buffer facilitates the crystallization process, resulting in more extensive arrays. The new crystalline sheets are exclusively dimeric with average unit cell dimensions: a = 15.8 +/- 0.4 nm, b = 4.9 +/- 0.2 nm, and gamma = 64 +/- 3 degrees. Examination of the micrographs shows that the initial intermolecular interaction leading to the formation of sheets is between the alpha subunits. Results from this study suggest that removal and/or modification of phospholipids by phospholipases could prove successful in crystallizing those membrane proteins in which excess lipid is the main barrier to the formation of two-dimensional arrays.
Expression of the Argonaute protein PiwiL2 and piRNAs in adult mouse mesenchymal stem cells

Piwi (P-element-induced wimpy testis) first discovered in Drosophila is a member of the Argonaute family of micro-RNA binding proteins with essential roles in germ-cell development. The murine homologue of PiwiL2, also known as Mili is selectively expressed in the testes, and mice bearing targeted mutations of the PiwiL2 gene are male-sterile. PiwiL2 proteins are thought to protect the germ line genome by suppressing retrotransposons, stabilizing heterochromatin structure, and regulating target genes during meiosis and mitosis. Here, we report that PiwiL2 and associated piRNAs (piRs) may play similar roles in adult mouse mesenchymal stem cells. We found that PiwiL2 is expressed in the cytoplasm of metaphase mesenchymal stem cells from the bone marrow of adult and aged mice. Knockdown of PiwiL2 with a specific siRNA enhanced cell proliferation, significantly increased the number of cells in G1/S and G2/M cell cycle phases and was associated with increased expression of cell cycle genes CCND1, CDK8, microtubule regulation genes, and decreased expression of tumor suppressors Cables 1, LATS, and Cxxc4. The results suggest broader roles for Piwi in genome surveillance beyond the germ line and a possible role in regulating the cell cycle of mesenchymal stem cells.
Fluid evolution and kinetics of metamorphic reactions in calc-silicate contact aureoles—From H2O to CO2 and back

Mineral assemblages in contact-metamorphic aureoles are the products of the interplay between heat transfer and fluid flow induced by intrusion of magma. In wall rocks containing carbonate and silicate minerals, metamorphic reactions produce CO 2 , which then becomes part of the hydrodynamic system. Although observed assemblages are the ultimate products of T-X CO 2 fluid -t paths in aureole rocks, the complexities of the paths, and hence the evolution of a hydrodynamic system, are difficult to decipher from them. Numerical simulations were conducted to model the mineralogical evolution in a hydrodynamic system and to evaluate the extent and effects of reaction retardation. Simulations reveal that fluid composition in the inner aureole evolves rapidly toward high X CO 2 fluid as the rocks heat up before an appreciable amount of water is exsolved out of the pluton. After local fluid pressure drops when early reactions are coming to completion, infiltration of magmatic water becomes significant and can drive production of typical inner aureole minerals such as wollastonite. Fluid compositions in the outer aureole reflect largely (1) the initial CO 2 production, as fluids are driven down the pressure gradients from the inner aureole, and (2) the subsequent infiltration of magmatic H 2 O. Simulations also suggest temperature overstepping of the onset of reactions and retarded consumption of reactant minerals, which leads to coeval metastable reactions. However, the final simulated mineral assemblage in the inner aureole reflects equilibration with H 2 O-rich fluids that is usually seen in the field, although evidence for kinetic retardation may be preserved in some rocks, especially in the outer aureole.
Development, Characterization and Ecological Implications of a Smooth Colony Variant of Biofilm-forming Cariogenic Streptococcus mutans

The development of dental caries has been an important topic in oral microbiology research for several decades. One of the common strains of bacteria oral Streptococcus mutans, has long been considered the primary bacterium involved in the initiation and progression of dental caries. One of the primary virulence traits of S. mutans is sucrose-dependent biofilm formation. However, beginning in the 1970s, several researchers have observed a naturally derived variant of S. mutans defective in biofilm formation, and there have since been numerous studies on this variant. The mechanism of the appearance of this variant has been well established, but little is known about its ecological significance. Additional studies will be needed to advance our understanding of the role and behavior of this colony variant within the oral cavity. In this review, we summarize the development and characterization of this naturally derived variant, and discuss its ecological implications in the oral habitat.
Unconstrained face recognition using MRF priors and manifold traversing

In this paper, we explore new methods to improve the modeling of facial images under different types of variations like pose, ambient illumination and facial expression. We investigate the intuitive assumption that the parameters for the distribution of facial images change smoothly with respect to variations in the face pose angle. A Markov Random Field is defined to model a smooth prior over the parameter space and the maximum a posteriori solution is computed. We also propose extensions to the view-based face recognition method by learning how to traverse between different subspaces so we can synthesize facial images with different characteristics for the same person. This allow us to enroll a new user with a single 2D image.
Remobilization of transition metals in surficial pelagic sediments from the eastern Pacific

Abstract The top thirty centimeters of sediment at two sites in the eastern equatorial Pacific contain evidence of post-depositional remobilization of Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn. Remobilization takes place as Mn and Fe oxyhydroxides are released to the pore water during the microbially-mediated decomposition of organic matter. Precipitation of the dissolved metals in near-surface more oxic strata controls the solid-phase distribution of Mn, Fe, and Zn. The solid-phase redistribution of Co and Ni requires only suitable material for readsorption. Comparison of pore water fluxes with solid-phase metal distributions in the solid sediment indicates no loss of dissolved metal to the overlying water column at the present time. Loss of Mn during the Quaternary is indicated by the composition of the sediments, however. Leaching experiments suggest that portions of the mobile Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu are fixed by incorporation in authigenic smectite in the surficial sediments.
Sources of stream sulphate in headwater catchments in Otter Creek Wilderness, West Virginia, USA

Upland forested catchments in the Appalachian Plateau region receive among the greatest rates of atmospheric sulphur (S) deposition in the eastern USA, although coal mines and S-bearing minerals in bedrock may also contribute to stream acidity in this region. Watershed mass balance and stable S isotopic values (δ34S) of sulphate (SO42−) were used to assess the contributions to stream SO42− from atmospheric and lithogenic sources at Yellow Creek (YC), a headwater catchment on the Appalachian Plateau in West Virginia. Oxygen isotopic values (δ18O) of water were used to study catchment hydrology. Stream output of SO42− was c. 60% of atmospheric S deposition during a relatively dry year, whereas atmospheric S input was nearly balanced by stream output during a year with above normal amounts of precipitation. The temporal patterns and values of δ34S were similar between bulk precipitation and stream water at two upper elevation sites. At the lowest elevation site, stream δ34S values were similar to bulk precipitation values during the dormant season but were slightly lower than precipitation during the low-flow summer, probably as the result of a greater proportion of stream water being derived from deep hydrological flowpaths that have contacted S-bearing minerals with low δ34S values in coal seams. Stream δ34S values at YC were significantly higher than at Coal Run, a catchment containing abandoned coal prospects and having a greater amount of S-bearing minerals than YC. Results suggested that lithogenic S is a relatively minor source and that atmospheric deposition is the principal source of stream SO42−, and thus stream acidity, at YC. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exit, Voice, and Interest Group Governance:

Interest groups constitute critical mediating institutions linking citizens and political elites, thereby enhancing participation and representation at all levels of government. But to what extent ...
Solution or reduction of equilibrium equations for large complex structural systems

Abstract A general purpose subprogram is presented for the solution or partial reduction of a set of equilibrium equations. The subroutine can be used as an efficient tool for the direct solution of a complex structural system or to form a reduced stiffness matrix for a large substructure. The numerical method is based on the active column method in which the stiffness matrix is stored in compacted block form on secondary storage. Therefore, the maximum size of system which can be solved is generally governed by the amount of secondary storage available at a particular computer facility. The subprogram presented is in the form of three main Fortran subroutines which separate the block manipulation from the arithmetic logic and the operations associated with secondary storage units. Hence, machine dependent subroutines can easily be added in order to increase the efficiency for arithmetic operations and for direct access to secondary storage units.
Tumor necrosis in osteosarcoma: inclusion of the point of greatest metabolic activity from F-18 FDG PET/CT in the histopathologic analysis

Objective To determine if the location of the point of maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) being included in or not included in the histopathologic slab section corresponded to tumor necrosis or survival.