cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microwave Technology—Applications in Chemical Synthesis

Microwave heating, a unique heating technique is reviewed for expeditious chemical syntheses. Specifically, the solvent-free reactions or reactions in benign media are convenient to perform and have advantages over the conventional heating protocols as summarized in the previous editions. A wide range of selective functional group transformations have been accomplished expeditiously and efficiently using a variety of supported reagents on mineral oxides as catalysts or in benign reaction media. Further scale-up developments on such themes will go a long way in realizing the sustainable goals in the chemical arena including the synthesis of nanomaterials and nano-catalysts. The major limitations for MW-assisted reactions can be overcome by translating batch microwave chemistry to continuous flow domain wherein conventionally heated and suitably equipped fluidic flow devices may help produce meaningful amounts of chemical products in a continuous mode. This is especially true for the use of magnetic nano catalysis in flow chemistry which has a great potential to grow in this sustainable endeavor as the nanoparticle-bound magnetic catalysts can be confined and at the same time agitated in a reactor by a rotating magnetic field, thus, avoiding potential problems of clogging membranes or filters that are commonly used as barriers for immobilized catalysts. Keywords: Microwave Irradiation; Solvent-free reactions; Aqueous Chemistry; Nano-catalysts
Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP)-modified and bioactive protein-loaded core-shell nanofibers for bone tissue engineering applications.

Coaxial electrospinning is a novel technique for producing core–shell nanofibers that provide a robust structure and deliver hydrophilic bioactive agents. Optimization of parameters used in the coaxial electrospinning process allows for the fabrication of uniform and bead-free polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) core–shell nanofibers. Herein, a cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) process was used to enhance the surface features of electrospun core–shell nanofibers for increased surface pore size and altered surface hydrophilicity. After CAP treatment, the scaffolds’ water contact angle was reduced from 110° to 50° and its protein and water adsorption were significantly elevated. The changes in hydrophilicity and improved scaffold surface area dramatically enhanced cell attachment and proliferation of fibroblasts and osteoblasts. Also, the increased levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, total protein content and calcium deposition from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) indicated a higher osteoinductivity of the CAP-modified nanofibrous scaffold. Most importantly, the increased nanofiber surface pore size induced by the CAP treatment further contributed to significant variations in drug release profiles. The CAP-treated scaffolds showed more rapid release kinetics compared to untreated scaffolds, which eventually led to complete drug release. These results indicated that the CAP-treated and bioactive protein-loaded core–shell nanofibers could be a valuable regenerative medicine and drug delivery system for improved bone tissue engineering.
Advancing the Microcathode Arc Thruster: Effect of the Ablative Anode

Presented is the ablative anode microcathode arc thruster (AAμCAT). The AAμCAT is a new concept that comes from the microcathode arc thruster (μCAT), which implements the idea that an ablative anod...
Should college instructors reveal their high functioning autism in the classroom

College instructors with highly functional autism, also known as Asperger’s, can have difficulty interacting with students. To mitigate the potentially reduced teaching ratings, college instructors...
Exploring the limits for sky and sun glint correction of hyperspectral above-surface reflectance observations.

Above-surface radiance observations of water need to be corrected for reflections on the surface to derive reflectance. The three-component glint model (3C) [Opt. Express25, A742 (2017)OPEXFF1094-408710.1364/OE.25.0000A1] was developed to spectrally resolve contributions of sky and sun glint to the surface-reflected radiance signal Lr(λ), and for observations recorded at high wind speed and with fixed-position measurement geometries that frequently lead to significant sun glint contributions. Performance and limitations of 3C are assessed for all relevant wind speeds, clear sky atmospheric conditions, illumination/viewing geometries, and sun glint contamination levels. For this purpose, a comprehensive set of Lr(λ) spectra was simulated with a spectrally resolved sky radiance distribution model and Cox–Munk wave slope statistics. Reflectances were also derived from an extensive four-year data set of continuous above-surface hyperspectral observations from the Long Island Sound Coastal Observatory, allowing to corroborate 3C processing results from simulations and measurements with regard to sky and sun glint contributions. Simulation- and measurement-derived Lr(λ) independently indicate that spectral dependencies of the sky light distribution and sun glint contributions may not be neglected for observations recorded at wind speeds exceeding 4m/s, even for sun glint-minimizing measurement geometries (Sun-sensor azimuth angle Δϕ=90−135°). These findings are in accordance with current measurement protocols for satellite calibration/validation activities. In addition, it is demonstrated that 3C is able to reliably derive water reflectance for wind speeds up to 8 m/s and Δϕ>20°.
Spontaneous Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome in a Partial Molar Pregnancy With Early Onset Severe Pre-eclampsia at 15 Weeks Gestation.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a well-known entity in assisted reproductive technology. However, it is unusual for this entity to occur without any medications that stimulate follicle stimulating hormone. Herein, we describe a case where a partial molar pregnancy with high human chorionic gonadotropin promiscuously activated follicle stimulating hormone receptors has resulted in spontaneous ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. There are only eight other cases documented per our literature search of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in molar gestations, and this is the third report in partial molar gestation. In our case, it is an unique development of severe early onset pre-eclampsia in the second trimester. Our goal is to discuss the nuances in management of this entity as well as to add the available body of research on this subject.
Food Security Challenges and Health Opportunities of Companion Animal Ownership for Low-Income Adults.

Do pets provide benefits or risks for low-income individuals in regards to food security? Surveys of food security were administered to 392 low-income adults utilizing food pantries. Data collectio...
Stomach, Small Bowel, and Colon Injuries: Techniques

Gastrointestinal (GI) injuries involving the stomach, small bowel, and colon are common. They occur more often as a result of penetrating than blunt abdominal trauma. Proper diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion as missed injuries lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Physical examination findings along with selective radiographic imaging can help guide decision-making. Should exploration be required in the hemodynamically unstable patient, early initiation of damage control should be considered, and significant focus should be placed on prevention of the “lethal triad” of acidosis, coagulopathy, and hypothermia. The surgeon needs to be mindful of this lethal triad while quickly working to obtain optimal exposure in order to stop hemorrhage, control contamination, and identify injuries—with patient physiology being the key driver of decision-making when considering definitive repair. In general, gastric injuries can usually be repaired in either single- or two-layered fashion. Larger areas of injury may require a stapled, nonanatomic resection. When considering repair options of the small bowel and colon, one can choose from primary repair, resection with hand-sewn or stapled anastomoses, or resection and temporarily leaving the two ends in discontinuity. Alternatively, ostomies of the small bowel or colon can be created at the either primary or subsequent second-look laparotomy. Should a second-look laparotomy be desired, temporary abdominal closure devices allow for restoration of normal physiology through continued resuscitation and rewarming of the patient prior to definitive repair.
Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived (WJ-MSC) exosomes for Severe Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: A Dose-Finding Study

Background: Previously, we demonstrated that early administration of Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived (WJ-MSC) exosomes attenuates pulmonary hypertension (PH) and improves lung structure in experimental bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). The optimal dose is however not known. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal WJ-MSC exosome dose for lung regeneration in severe BPD complicated by PH. Objective: To elucidate the most effective and safe MSC exosome dose to prevent neonatal hyperoxia-induced lung injury and PH. Design/Methods: …
Pain Management in Former Addicts on Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program

There has been resurgence in heroin abuse in recent times as opioid prescriptions have declined, especially with federal and state efforts to curb the opioid epidemic. Despite widespread efforts, only a fraction of patients in the general population are on Medication- Assisted Treatment for opiate addiction (MAT). Opiate addiction is related to genetic, environmental, and pharmacologic risk factors. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has the strongest evidence to maintain patients in remission, with three drugs currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this purpose - methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone. This chapter reviews the mechanism of action of the three commonly used drugs and unique perioperative concerns when these patients present for ambulatory surgery. We discuss optimal perioperative pain management strategies and considerations for discharge planning, to ensure adequate pain relief, while minimizing the risk of withdrawal and relapse.
Salton Sea aerosol exposure in mice induces a pulmonary response distinct from allergic inflammation

In communities surrounding the Salton Sea, high rates of asthma are associated with high aerosol dust levels. However, the Salton Sea itself may play an additional role in pulmonary health. Therefore, to investigate a potential role of the Salton Sea on pulmonary health, we exposed mice to aerosolized Salton Sea water for 7 days and assessed tissue responses, including cellular infiltration and gene expression changes. For reference, mice were also exposed to aerosolized fungal allergen (Alternaria sp.) and Pacific Ocean aerosols. Exposure to aerosolized Alternaria sp. induced dramatic allergic inflammation, including neutrophil and eosinophil recruitment to the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue. By contrast, Salton Sea "spray" induced only B cell recruitment to the lung tissue without increased inflammatory cell numbers in BALF. However, there were consistent gene expression changes suggestive of an inflammatory response. The response to the Salton Sea spray was notably distinct from the response to Pacific Ocean water, which induced some B cell recruitment but without an inflammatory gene expression profile. Our studies suggest that soluble components in Salton Sea water promote induction of a unique inflammation-associated response, though any relationship to asthma remains to be explored.
From pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis to PANoptosis: A mechanistic compendium of programmed cell death pathways

Pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis are the most genetically well-defined programmed cell death (PCD) pathways, and they are intricately involved in both homeostasis and disease. Although the identification of key initiators, effectors and executioners in each of these three PCD pathways has historically delineated them as distinct, growing evidence has highlighted extensive crosstalk among them. These observations have led to the establishment of the concept of PANoptosis, defined as an inflammatory PCD pathway regulated by the PANoptosome complex with key features of pyroptosis, apoptosis and/or necroptosis that cannot be accounted for by any of these PCD pathways alone. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the research history of pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis. We then examine the intricate crosstalk among these PCD pathways to discuss the current evidence for PANoptosis. We also detail the molecular evidence for the assembly of the PANoptosome complex, a molecular scaffold for contemporaneous engagement of key molecules from pyroptosis, apoptosis, and/or necroptosis. PANoptosis is now known to be critically involved in many diseases, including infection, sterile inflammation and cancer, and future discovery of novel PANoptotic components will continue to broaden our understanding of the fundamental processes of cell death and inform the development of new therapeutics.
Risk Factors for Readmission following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors for readmission after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and to determine costs associated with readmission. Using a private insurance claims' database, we identified patients who underwent ACL reconstruction from 2010 to 2015 using the International Classification of Diseases, Version 9 (ICD-9) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. Univariate analysis was performed on demographic data, surgical characteristics, and comorbidities. Variables with p < 0.10 were added to a multivariate logistic regression model which was created to identify independent risk factors for all-cause readmission within 90 days postoperatively. Significance was considered at p < 0.05. Overall, 90,263 patients were included (average age: 29 ± 13 years, 44% female), and 1,066 (1.2%) of patients had a hospital readmission within 90 days following surgery. Risk factors for hospital readmission included cerebrovascular disease (odds ratio [OR] = 3.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9, 6.2), diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.9, 3.5), concomitant medial collateral ligament (MCL) or lateral collateral ligament (LCL) reconstruction (OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.9, 3.3), concomitant posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction (OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.4, 3.3), age between 44 and 65 years (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.6, 2.9), and depression (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.49, 2.38, p < 0.001). Female sex was associated with decreased odds of 90-day hospital readmission (OR = 0.8, 95% CI: 0.7, 0.9). Each hospital readmission accounted for an estimated $17,841 (95% CI: $17,173, 18,509) in gross health care payments, and patients with readmissions had substantially higher 1-year cumulative health care costs. Readmission after ACL reconstruction was 1.2%. The strongest risk factors for 90-day readmission include cerebrovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, concomitant MCL/LCL reconstruction, concomitant PCL reconstruction, and age between 44 and 65 years. Readmission was associated with substantial health care costs.
Magnetic Control of a Charge-neutralized Ion Beam

Abstract Charge-neutralized ion beam control is more complex than control of charged beams. While focusing techniques for charged beams have been widely studied, many of the tools available for controlling charged beams are not suitable for charge-neutralized beams. Presented here is a scheme for controlling charge-neutralized beams using a distortion of a magnetic guide field via the presence of two current carrying wires. The extent to which the beam can be controlled is evaluated using a classical trajectory Monte Carlo simulation.
Growth Kinetics in a Frustrated System: The Quenched Axial Next-Nearest-Neighbor Ising Model

We have investigated the influence of the frustration parameter, κ, in Monte Carlo quench simulations of the axial next-nearest neighbor Ising (ANNNI) model. Quenches were performed from the high temperature paramagnetic state into both the ferromagnetic and modulated phase fields. For 0<κ<1, the quenches lead to the formation of a glassy phase. For large κ, domains of the modulated phase form and coarsen by the elimination of domain walls which meet at four-fold vertices. Quenches were also performed by discontinuous change of κ from the ferromagnetic regime to values in the modulated phase field at fixed temperature. For 1<κ<2, the modulated phase forms by nucleation and growth. At larger values of κ and long times in the nucleation and growth regime, the defected modulated structure coarsens by the motion and annihilation of domain walls and vertices.
Vertex F-algebras and their ϕ-coordinated modules

Abstract In this paper, for every one-dimensional formal group F we formulate and study a notion of vertex F -algebra and a notion of ϕ -coordinated module for a vertex F -algebra where ϕ is what we call an associate of F . In the case that F is the additive formal group, vertex F -algebras are exactly ordinary vertex algebras. We give a canonical isomorphism between the category of vertex F -algebras and the category of ordinary vertex algebras. Meanwhile, for every formal group we completely determine its associates. We also study ϕ -coordinated modules for a general vertex Z -graded algebra V with ϕ specialized to a particular associate of the additive formal group and we give a canonical connection between V -modules and ϕ -coordinate modules for a vertex algebra obtained from V by Zhu’s change-of-variables theorem.
Unifying data and domain knowledge using virtual views

The database community is on a constant quest for better integration of data management and knowledge management. Recently, with the increasing use of ontology in various applications, the quest has become more concrete and urgent. However, manipulating knowledge along with relational data in DBMSs is not a trivial undertaking. In this paper, we introduce a novel, unified framework for managing data and domain knowledge. We provide the user with a virtual view that unifies the data, the domain knowledge and the knowledge inferable from the data using the domain knowledge. Because the virtual view is in the relational format, users can query the data and the knowledge in a seamlessly integrated manner. To facilitate knowledge representation and inferencing within the database engine, our approach leverages XML support in hybrid relational-XML DBMSs (e.g., Microsoft SQL Server & IBM DB2 9 PureXML). We provide a query rewriting mechanism to bridge the difference between logical and physical data modeling, so that queries on the virtual view can be automatically transformed to components that execute on the hybrid relational-XML engine in a way that is transparent to the user.
Using Facebook for health-related research study recruitment and program delivery

Facebook has become an important tool for recruiting research participants and for program delivery. Given the wide use of Facebook, there is much potential for the site to help with recruitment efforts in both physical and behavioral health care arenas; reaching groups typically difficult to recruit and providing outreach to individuals that may not have received services elsewhere. Health studies using Facebook have generally reported success, including cost-effectiveness, recruitment of samples in brief periods of time, and ability to locate participants for follow-up research. Still, the use of Facebook for research and program delivery is a relatively new area that warrants more research attention and guidance around issues like validity of data, representativeness of samples, and protections of human subjects.
Genetic Predictors of Exercise Training Response

Both observational studies and randomized, controlled interventions have shown that regular physical activity provides several health benefits. Although exercise programs improve risk factor profiles on average, a substantial body of evidence indicates that there are considerable inter-individual differences in response to these programs. Ability to predict who will be a high- or low-responder to exercise would be desirable from a physiologic and clinical perspective. The first exercise training studies utilizing objective genome-wide screening methods were published in 2010, and both reports identified a group of genes and DNA sequence variants that explained a considerable portion of variance in VO2max training response. These studies strongly suggest that genomic markers can be used to identify high- and low-responders to regular exercise. However, additional research is needed to confirm these findings, to maximize the predictive power of genomic markers in all ethnic groups, and to develop strategies on how to deal with low- and non-responders before predictive genomic markers are ready for clinical use.
An age-dependent stochastic model of population growth

A stochastic model of population growth is treated using the Bellman-Harris theory of agedependent stochastic branching processes. The probability distribution for the population size at any time and the expectation are obtained when it is assumed that there is probability (1−σ), 0≤σ<1, of the organism dividing into two at the end of its lifetime, and probability σ that division will not take place.
Some correlates of cranial and cervical morphology with predatory modes in snakes.

Dissection of the cervical and basicranial regions in three species of snakes indicates that compared to Crotalus viridis and Lichanura roseofusca, Masticophis flagellum possesses relatively high numbers of compound axial muscle insertions on the atlas-axis and vertebrae numbers 3-5. It is suggested that the condition in Masticophis facilitates its vertical-neck-horizontal-head foraging posture and has allowed axial muscles inserting on the dorsocaudal braincase in this snake to generate vertical and lateral head movements more effectively.
Chemical relationship of the paired helical filaments of Alzheimer's dementia to normal human neurofilaments and neurotubules.

Abstract Intraneuronal fibrillary tangles are prominent features of several neurological diseases, including especially Alzheimer presenile and senile dementia, and to a much lesser degree in the normal aged human brain. These tangles are made up of abnormal fibrillar elements each about 22 nm at its widest, periodically reduced to 10 nm at about every 80 nm. Each abnormal fiber seems to be a pair of 10 nm filaments helically wound around each other. In this study the protein subunit of these paired helical filaments isolated from cases of Alzheimer's dementia was compared with the major protein subunits of normal neurofilaments and neurotubules by two-dimensional peptide maps of the tryptic or chymotryptic digests of the proteins labelled with125I. The paired helical filament protein is very similar in its peptide maps to identically treated major neurofilament protein and to the β monomer of neurotubule, while it is not so similar to the α tubulin. These data suggest that the paired helical filament protein subunit is closely related chemically to the normal neurofilament protein subunit, and the β tubulin.
Explaining Terrorism: The Contribution of Collective Action Theory*:

Terrorism is an extreme, violent response to a failed political process engaging political regimes and ethnic and ideological adversaries over fundamental governance issues. Applying the theory of collective action, the author explains the dynamic of violence escalation and persistence. Recent Islamist terrorism stems from the conviction that a theocracy is the only answer to the multiple problems of Middle Eastern and Muslim countries. Checks on terrorism result both from external social control and from the internal contradictions of theocratic states.
Unusual Nature and Possible Evolutionary Implications of the Male Vesicular Gland Secretion in the Tree Shrew, Tupaia glis

Background: Whereas the secretion of the male vesicular gland in most mammals is amorphous, that of the tree shrew, Tupaia glis, was observed to be stored as globules. Methods:Vesicular and prostate glands fromTupaia,fixed in glutaralde- hyde and osmium, were studied in the light and electron microscopes. Other materials considered included the Tupaia ejaculate produced by electroejaculation and, for comparative purposes, sections of the vesicu- lar gland from a dermopteran, theflying lemur. Results: The vesicular gland epithelium in Tupaia secretes small granu- lar aggregates and occasionally a denser aggregate that is associated with cells having obvious apical Golgi lamellae. In the alveolar lumen, these aggregates unite with others to form, respectively, granular and some dense globules of up to approximately 15 m in diameter, which appear as such in semen produced by electroejaculation. In contrast to the prostate, however, precursor secretion vesicles were rare in the vesicular epithe- lium. Although poorly fixed, the vesicular gland secretion from a flying lemur also appeared to form globules. Conclusions: Although it is unlike the homogeneous secretion elabo- rated in most mammals, including primates and insectivores, the globular product of the Tupaia vesicular gland seems comparable to that in a variety of mega- and microbats, among representative species of which it appears to provide the bulk material for the vaginal copulation plug. Because a museum specimen examined here also indicates its occurrence in a flying lemur, the globular vesicular gland secretion common to Tupaiidae, to at least some Mega- and Microchiroptera, and apparently to Dermopteramay provide a soft tissue feature of some value in the cladistic approach to phylogenetic reconstruction within the Archonta. Anat. Rec. 247:199-205, 1997. r 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Mass Sensing With Optomechanical Oscillation

We demonstrate the application of an optomechanical oscillator (OMO) as a high-resolution mass sensor. The coupling between high-Q optical and mechanical modes of a single optical microcavity results in narrow linewidth mechanical oscillation driven by the radiation pressure of the circulating optical power. The oscillation frequency can be monitored upon detection of the modulated transmitted optical power. Therefore the optical wave plays a dual role as both the driving power and a sensitive probe. The narrow oscillation linewidth, combined with the sensitivity of the mechanical resonance to mass changes, makes OMO an excellent candidate for all-optical mass sensing. Experimental results and theoretical analysis show that OMO can function as a compact, low-power mass sensor with sub-pg sensitivity.
Autotuning GEMM Kernels for the Fermi GPU

In recent years, the use of graphics chips has been recognized as a viable way of accelerating scientific and engineering applications, even more so since the introduction of the Fermi architecture by NVIDIA, with features essential to numerical computing, such as fast double precision arithmetic and memory protected with error correction codes. Being the crucial component of numerical software packages, such as LAPACK and ScaLAPACK, the general dense matrix multiplication routine is one of the more important workloads to be implemented on these devices. This paper presents a methodology for producing matrix multiplication kernels tuned for a specific architecture, through a canonical process of heuristic autotuning, based on generation of multiple code variants and selecting the fastest ones through benchmarking. The key contribution of this work is in the method for generating the search space; specifically, pruning it to a manageable size. Performance numbers match or exceed other available implementations.
Aerodynamic characteristics of airfoils with ice accretions

Results of a wind tunnel test to evaluate the performance of an airfoil with simulated rime ice are presented with theoretical comparisons. A NACA 65A413 airfoil was tested in the OSU 6 x 22 inch Transonic Airfoil Wind Tunnel at a Reynolds number near three million and Mach numbers from 0.20 to 0.80. The model was tested in four configurations to determine the aero-dynamic effects of the roughness and shape of a rime ice accretion. The simulated rime ice shape was obtained analytically using a time-stepping dry ice accretion computer code. Lift, drag, moment coefficients, and pressure distributions for the clean and simulated rime ice cases are reported. The measured degradation in airfoil performance is compared to an analytical method which uses existing airfoil analysis computer codes with empirical corrections for the surface roughness. A discussion of the empirical surface roughness correction and uses of other airfoil computer methods is included.
Risk factors associated with children lost to care in a state early childhood intervention program

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to identify risk factors associated with children lost to care, and their families, compared to those not lost to care within the California Early Start Program. The cohort included data on 8987 children enrolled in the Early Start Program in 1998. This cohort consisted of 2443 children lost to care, 6363 children not lost to care, and 187 children that were lost to follow-up due to death or moving outside the state of California. Premature birth was the only medical risk factor in this study related to an increased risk of loss. Family risk factors exert a significant effect on loss to care. Risk factors that are predictive of loss to care include mother's age and educational level, Medi-Cal ineligibility, and lack of transportation. By identifying and examining risk factors for loss to care, interventions may be strengthened to promote continued family participation in early intervention services.
Buffon's Needle Problem on Radial Lines

(1991). Buffon's Needle Problem on Radial Lines. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 64, No. 1, pp. 56-58.
Effects of spaces on report from tachistoscopically presented letter strings

The introduction of spaces into tachistoscopically presented strings of letters produced substantial increases in reportability of letters adjacent to the spaces. As in the detection experiment of Shaw (1969), a space had a greater effect on a letter preceding than on a letter following it in the instructed read-out order. However, a similar asymmetry appeared on the central-peripheral dimension in the visual field. Position of a letter in the read-out order and number of adjacent characters interacted strongly with the central-peripheral gradient.
STUDIES OF A HUMAN AND SIMIAN PLACENTAL HORMONE WITH GROWTH HORMONE-LIKE AND PROLACTIN-LIKE ACTIVITIES.

The cross-reaction between a human placental protein, human and simian placental homogenates and rabbit antiserum to HGH has been explored employing a variety of immunochemical and electrophoretic techniques, including immunoelectrophoresis, double diffusion in agar, passive hemagglutination, hemagglutination inhibition and vertical starch gel electrophoresis. Evidence of an incomplete cross-reaction between these materials and anti-HGH sera was demonstrated. Material with similar immunochemical characteristics was found in pregnancy serum, retroplacental serum and pregnancy urine. An antiserum to the partially purified placental hormone reacted with HGH, MGH and simian placental homogenate. “Native” and purified placental hormones were clearly distinguishable in their physicochemical and immunochemical properties from HGH and MGH. The binding affinity of anti-HGH hemagglutinating antibodies for the placental hormone was less than that for HGH. The same anti-HGH serum used in these studies had been shown ...
Living donor liver transplants: potential disadvantages

Living donor liver transplants (LDLTs) have provided many patients with a lifesaving option. Yet this option remains a significant undertaking, with potentially serious consequences for both the donor and the recipient. The donor is obviously the individual with the most to lose. The exact risks to the donor are difficult to quantify because reporting adverse donor events is not mandatory and no registry exists. The risk to the donor also depends on the extent of the donor resection. By some estimates, the risk of donor mortality is 0.3% to 1.0%. The reported risk of donor complications varies greatly in the literature—ranging from 5 to 60%. Reported complications are usually short-term complications, since most donors are not followed by the transplant center after the first year. Very few studies have examined other issues that are important for the donor, such as the quality of life after donation, the time to full recovery, and the financial impact of donation. For the recipient, an LDLT is a lifesaving procedure. Especially in countries where deceased donation is scarce, the benefits of an LDLT for the recipient are obvious. However, analysis of national data from the United States demonstrates that, at least for adults, results of an LDLT may be inferior, as compared with a whole-liver transplant from a deceased donor. Moreover, the surgical complication rate after an LDLT is significantly higher. As LDLTs continue to gain in popularity, careful evaluation and re-evaluation of both donor and recipient outcomes are necessary to optimize results.
Software for teaching structure-hydrophobicity relationships

We have developed a lecture and laboratory curriculum for introducing beginning undergraduate Biology students to chemical structure-function relationships. The laboratory portion of this curriculum employs cheminformatics software that provides instant feedback to help students develop an understanding of the relationship between structure and hydrophobicity. To evaluate the effectiveness of this curriculum, we measured students' understanding using an open-ended problem-based survey. Student responses to this survey improved significantly following the activities we describe, suggesting that they are effective teaching tools. This curriculum also provides a foundation for students' future structure-function studies in chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
CO Chemisorption and Dissociation at High Coverages during CO Hydrogenation on Ru Catalysts

Density functional theory (DFT) and infrared spectroscopy results are combined with mechanism-based rate equations to assess the structure and thermodynamics of chemisorbed CO (CO*) and its activation during Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS). CO* binding becomes weaker with increasing coverage on Ru(0001) and Ru201 clusters, but such decreases in binding energy occur at higher coverages on Ru201 clusters than on Ru(0001) surfaces (CO*/Ru = 1.55 to 0.75); such differences appear to reflect weaker repulsive interactions on the curved surfaces prevalent on small Ru201 clusters. Ru201 clusters achieve stable supramonolayer coverages (CO*/Ru > 1) by forming geminal dicarbonyls at low-coordination corner/edge atoms. CO* infrared spectra on Ru/SiO2 (∼7 nm diameter) detect mobile adlayers that anneal into denser structures at saturation. Mechanism-based FTS rate equations give activation energies that reflect the CO*-saturated surfaces prevalent during catalysis. DFT-derived barriers show that CO* predominantly rea...
Warpage of Silicon Wafers

High temperature processing of Czochralski grown silicon wafers can create temperature gradients high enough to generate slip. The generation of slip and the slip patterns have been found to depend on three factors: the temperature and the temperature gradient, the amount and form of the precipitated oxygen, and the direction of the initial bow and the wafer diameter over thickness ratio. A model is presented to fit experimental data of critical stress in silicon, temperature gradients, and wafer curvature to predict the critical temperature above which warpage will occur. An important result is that increased wafer diameter over thickness ratio makes the wafers more sensitive to warpage. When this is the case the difference in stresses on both sides of the wafer, because of the bending, makes the area affected by slip on the concave side much larger than on the convex side.
On the inverse temperature transition and development of an entropic elastomeric force of the elastin mimetic peptide [LGGVG](3, 7).

We report on a molecular dynamics simulation based study of the thermal and mechanical properties of the elastin mimetic peptide [LGGVG]n (n = 3, 7). Our findings indicate that this peptide undergoes an inverse temperature transition as the temperature is raised from ∼20 °C to 42 °C. The thermal behavior is similar to what has been observed in other well studied short mimetic peptides of elastin. Both [LGGVG]n (n = 3, 7) peptides exhibit an increase in the number of side chain contacts and peptide-peptide hydrogen bonds when the temperature is raised from ∼20 °C to 42 °C. These observations are accompanied by a decrease in the number of proximal water molecules and number of peptide-water hydrogen bonds. This work also reports on a comparison of the thermal and mechanical properties of [LGGVG]3 and [VPGVG]3 and quantifies the interaction with surrounding waters of hydration under mechanically strained conditions. It is demonstrated, via a quasi-harmonic approach, that both model peptides exhibit a reduction in the population of low-frequency modes and an increase in population of high-frequency modes upon elongation. The shift in population of frequency modes causes the peptide entropy to decrease upon elongation and is responsible for the development of an entropic force that gives rise to elasticity. These observations are in disagreement with a previously published notion that model elastin peptides, such as [VPGVG]18, increase in entropy upon elongation.
Off-site control of repolarization alternans in cardiac fibers

Repolarization alternans, a beat-to-beat alternation in action potential duration, has been putatively linked to the onset of cardiac reentry. Anti-alternans control strategies can eliminate alternans in individual cells by exploiting the rate dependence of action potential duration. The same approach, when applied to a common measuring/stimulating site at one end of a cardiac fiber, has been shown to have limited spatial efficacy. As a first step toward spatially distributed electrode control systems, we investigated "off-site" control in canine Purkinje fibers, in which the recording and control sites are different. We found experimentally that alternans can be eliminated at, or very near, the recording site, and that varying the location of the recording site along the fiber causes the node (the location with no alternans) to move along the fiber in close proximity to the recording site. Theoretical predictions based on an amplitude equation [B. Echebarria and A. Karma, Chaos 12, 923 (2002)] show that those findings follow directly from the wave nature of alternans: the most unstable mode of alternans along the fiber is a wave solution of a one-dimensional Helmholtz equation with a node position that only deviates slightly from the recording site by an amount dependent on electrotonic coupling. Computer simulations using a Purkinje fiber model confirm these theoretical and experimental results. Although off-site alternans control does not suppress alternans along the entire fiber, our results indicate that placing the node away from the stimulus site reduces alternans amplitude along the fiber, and may therefore have implications for antiarrhythmic strategies based on alternans termination.
Frozen start-up behavior of low-temperature heat pipes

Start-up and subsequent operation of a low-temperature heat pipe requires the liquid phase of the operating fluid to be continuously pumped back to the evaporator by the capillary action of the wick. If the pipe has been in an environment where ambient temperatures are below the freezing point of the working fluid prior to start-up, the frozen fluid in the condenser and adiabatic region scan prevent initial flow to the evaporator, causing dryout of the evaporator before all of the working fluid is in the liquid phase. This paper examines the time-dependent wall and vapor temperature profiles along the axial length of a low-temperature heat pipe during start-up from the frozen state, and freeze-out during a normal operation by applying a subfreezing temperature fluid through the condenser. In addition, the experimental transient frozen start-up wall temperature profile is compared with a two-dimensional numerical phase-change model. A successful start-up method using a pulsed power input is presented.
Systemic Lipopolysaccharide Compromises the Blood-Labyrinth Barrier and Increases Entry of Serum Fluorescein into the Perilymph

The blood vessels that supply the inner ear form a barrier between the blood and the inner ear fluids to control the exchange of solutes, protein, and water. This barrier, called the blood-labyrinth barrier (BLB) is analogous to the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which plays a critical role in limiting the entry of inflammatory and infectious agents into the central nervous system. We have developed an in vivo method to assess the functional integrity of the BLB by injecting sodium fluorescein into the systemic circulation of mice and measuring the amount of fluorescein that enters perilymph in live animals. In these experiments, perilymph was collected from control and experimental mice in sequential samples taken from the posterior semicircular canal approximately 30 min after systemic fluorescein administration. Perilymph fluorescein concentrations in control mice were compared with perilymph fluorescein concentrations after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment (1 mg/kg IP daily for 2 days). The concentration of perilymphatic fluorescein, normalized to serum fluorescein, was significantly higher in LPS-treated mice compared to controls. In order to assess the contributions of perilymph and endolymph in our inner ear fluid samples, sodium ion concentration of the inner ear fluid was measured using ion-selective electrodes. The sampled fluid from the posterior semicircular canal demonstrated an average sodium concentration of 145 mM, consistent with perilymph. These experiments establish a novel technique to assess the functional integrity of the BLB using quantitative methods and to provide a comparison of the BLB to the BBB.
Evaluation of patients with abnormal uterine bleeding

An accurate, efficient diagnosis of disorders responsible for abnormal uterine bleeding depends on a systematic consideration of all the possible causes. Careful history and physical and pelvic examinations provide the framework for evaluation. Many adjunctive diagnostic aids can be used to evaluate women with abnormal uterine bleeding. These tests include complete blood cell count, pregnancy test, hormone levels (estradiol, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), thyroid function tests, liver function tests, and coagulation profile. The need for these tests are individualized and based primarily on the patient's presentation. In women of reproductive age a complication of pregnancy should always be ruled out. Ectopic pregnancies can be life threatening. The prognosis in women with trophoblastic disease can be altered by a delay in establishing the correct diagnosis. Ultrasonographic studies, particularly transvaginal ultrasonography and hysteroscopy, have played an increasing role in the evaluation of patients with abnormal uterine bleeding over the past decade, especially for cases of intrauterine space-occupying lesions, including endometrial polyps, submucosal myomas, and retained placental fragments. Suspicion of reproductive tract malignancies is heightened in patients > 35 years old, those with a history of oligoovulation or anovulation suggestive of long-term unopposed estrogen exposure, those who are obese, and those who do not respond to first-line medical management. Diagnostic techniques available for the evaluation of these cases include endometrial biopsy, dilatation and curettage, transvaginal ultrasonography, and hysteroscopy. These procedures not only allow accurate diagnosis but may permit immediate therapeutic measures to be taken when organic causes are discovered. In summary, the key to the evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding is a through history and physical and pelvic examinations governed by the differential diagnosis of excessive uterine bleeding and the selected use of adjunctive diagnostic tests and procedures only when absolutely necessary.
Abdominal wall repair is delayed during hepatic regeneration.

Background Abdominal wall wound failure remains a common surgical problem. The signals that activate normal fibroplastic repair versus regeneration pathways are unknown. Transforming growth factor β levels rise during incisional healing but fall during hepatic regeneration. Changes in the injured host cytokine milieu may therefore differentially effect abdominal wall repair versus hepatic regeneration. Materials and methods. Forty-eight rats were divided into four groups (n = 12). Groups 1-3 underwent sham celiotomy, 70% hepatectomy, or 80% enterectomy with anastamosis. Incisions from Group 4 were treated with either 1 μg of transforming growth factor β 2 (TGF-β 2 ) or vehicle following hepatectomy. Isolated fascial and dermal incisions were harvested and tested for breaking strength on POD 7. Serum (TGF-β 2 ) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) levels were measured by ELISA. Results. Recovery of incisional wound breaking strength was delayed following hepatectomy but not enterectomy (P < 0.002). The inhibitory effect was observed in both the fascia and the dermis of the abdominal wall. TGF-β 2 levels were depressed in hepatectomy animals on POD 7, while at the same time HGF levels were elevated. Exogenous TGF-β 2 shifted the healing trajectory of deficient wounds back toward a control pattern. Conclusion. Abdominal wall fascial and dermal healing is delayed during hepatic regeneration. Elevated HGF and depressed TGF-β 2 suggest a host mechanism that prioritizes hepatic parenchymal regeneration over fibroplastic repair (scar). Observations such as these are needed as therapeutic wound healing enters the clinical realm.
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Aneurysm

Congenitally abnormal aortic valves are defined morphologically according to the number and type of cusps and commissures. The bicuspid aortic valve, first recognized by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 16th century, is the most common congenital anomaly to which that structure is subject. The estimated incidence is 0.9% to 2% of the general population, or a prevalence in the United States of ≈4 million. Two varieties of bicuspid aortic valves are based on commissural fusion, namely, fusion between the left …
INSIGHTS ON MEMBRANE FUSION

Membrane fusion is a fundamental cellular process regulating intracellular transport, neurotransmission, enzyme secretion, hormone release, and the entry/exit of viruses, to name a few. Knowledge of how opposing bilayers fuse, besides advancing our understanding of these cellular processes, will provide us with the facts to ameliorate secretory defects and prevent cellular entry or exit of pathogenic viruses. In the last few years, great strides have been made in our understanding of the molecular machinery and mechanism of membrane fusion. In this Special Issue of Cell Biology International, entitled ‘Membrane fusion: machinery and mechanism’, we have tried to cover several aspects of this vital cellular process, providing insights on the machinery, mechanism and dynamics of the process. Membrane fusion studies reported in this Special Issue have been performed on whole cells, synaptic terminals, viruses, and fusion proteins.