cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chiroinositol deficiency and insulin resistance. II. Acute effects of D-chiroinositol administration in streptozotocin-diabetic rats, normal rats given a glucose load, and spontaneously insulin-resistant rhesus monkeys

The acute effects of administration of D-chiroinositol (D-CI), a component of a putative mediator of insulin action, on plasma glucose were examined in low dose streptozotocin-treated rats and normal rats given a glucose load and the effects on plasma glucose and insulin were determined in five obese rhesus monkeys with varying degrees of spontaneous insulin resistance. Single dose intragastric D-CI (10 mg/kg) administered to streptozotocin-treated rats produced a 30-40% decrease in plasma glucose (P < 0.05) at 30-120 min. Single dose intragastric D-CI (2-15 mg/kg) administered to normal rats 2 h before ip glucose produced a 30-50% decrease (P < 0.05) in plasma glucose. D-CI (10 mg/kg) caused a 50% increase (P < 0.05) in glucose disappearance rates in these rats. Myoinositol (10 mg/kg) was without effect. Intravenously administered single dose D-CI (100 mg/kg) increased both the glucose and insulin disappearance rates by 129 +/- 41% (mean +/- SE; P < 0.06) and 89 +/- 39% (P = 0.01), respectively, in all m...
Assessment of wall shear stress in arteries, applied to the coronary circulation

Time dependent wall shear rates cannot be directly or accurately measured in arteries using presently available techniques. Here a simple method is presented for calculating them from a single measured velocity waveform (either centreline or cross-sectionally averaged velocity). The method involves only Fourier analysis and the application of given formulae, and it is expected to be approximately valid in any segment of artery which has no branches or sharp curves for a distance of several diameters. It is shown, however, that a frequency response of 30 Hz is required in the velocity measuring device if the resulting wall shear rate waveform is to be accurate throughout the cycle although 10 Hz is adequate if only the rms value is desired. This restriction on accuracy applies to this or any other method of estimating time-dependent wall shear. The method is applied to a prediction of wall shear in the left coronary arteries of the horse, based on measured velocities where they are available and calculated ones where they are not; the results show that in vivo the amplitude of wall shear fluctuations is much greater than the mean. The method is also applied to a scaled down model of the horse coronaries, thought to be representative of man; here the unsteadiness is still important but no longer dominant. The variation of wall shear with distance along the artery is discussed in the context of atherogenesis.
Isolation of a β-1,3-glucan (laricinan) from compression wood of Larix laricina

A β-d-(1→3)-linked glucan has been isolated from compression wood of tamarack [Larix laricina (Du Roi) K. Koch]. The polysaccharide, which had [α]D + 17.6°, consumed 0.17 mole of periodate per glucose residue and gave a methyl derivative which consisted of 115 2,4,6-tri- and 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-methyl-d-glucose residues in a ratio of 17.8:1. Partial acid hydrolysis yielded a series of β-d-(1→3)-linked oligosaccharides, while enzymic hydrolysis with a β-1,3-glucanase afforded glucose, laminaribiose, and laminaritriose. The glucan occurred in amounts varying from 2 to 4% in compression wood of this and other conifer species and was present in the wall of both tracheids and ray cells. It is proposed that this structural polysaccharide be designated as laricinan to distinguish it from callose and the various β-1,3-glucans in lower plants.
The Impact of Covariates on Statistical Power in Cluster Randomized Designs: Which Level Matters More?

Field experiments with nested structures are becoming increasingly common, especially designs that assign randomly entire clusters such as schools to a treatment and a control group. In such large-scale cluster randomized studies the challenge is to obtain sufficient power of the test of the treatment effect. The objective is to maximize power without adding many clusters that make the study much more expensive. In this article I discuss how power estimates of tests of treatment effects in balanced cluster randomized designs are affected by covariates at different levels. I use third-grade data from Project STAR, a field experiment about class size, to demonstrate how covariates that explain a considerable proportion of variance in outcomes increase power significantly. When lower level covariates are group-mean centered and clustering effects are larger, top-level covariates increase power more than lower level covariates. In contrast, when clustering effects are smaller and lower level covariates are gr...
Does Contractile Ca2+ Control Calcineurin-NFAT Signaling and Pathological Hypertrophy in Cardiac Myocytes?

In noncontractile cells, a sustained increase in total cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration is typically needed to activate the intracellular protein phosphatase calcineurin, leading to dephosphorylation of the transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT), its nuclear translocation, and induction of gene expression. It remains a mystery exactly how Ca(2+)-dependent signaling pathways, such as that mediated by calcineurin-NFAT, are regulated in contracting cardiac myocytes given the highly specialized manner in which Ca(2+) concentration rhythmically cycles in excitation-contraction coupling. Here, we critically review evidence that supports the hypothesis that calcineurin-NFAT signaling is regulated by contractile Ca(2+) transients in cardiac myocytes.
Immunity in a Social Insect

Although pathogens appear to have exerted significant selective pressure on various aspects of sociality, mechanisms of disease resistance in the social insects are poorly understood. We report here on an immune response to infection by the dampwood termite, Zootermopsis angusticollis. Nymphs immunized with an injection of 7.6×107, 7.6×105, or 7.6×104 cells/ml glutaraldehyde-killed solution of the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa had significantly higher survivorship than controls following a challenge with a lethal concentration of active bacteria. Similarly, nymphs exposed to a 9×10–1 spores/ml suspension of the fungus Metarhizium anisopliae had higher survivorship than controls after a challenge with a lethal concentration of spores. Prior exposure to a pathogen thus conferred upon termites a degree of protection during a subsequent encounter with the same pathogen. This represents the first demonstration of immune function in vivo in a social insect.
Methods and criteria for deciding whether specific-locus mutation-rate data in mice indicate a positive, negative, or inconclusive result

Abstract The binomial approximation of the UMPU (uniformly most powerful unbiased) test for the equality of 2 binomial proportions is shown to be a highly accurate and easily applied method for testing the hypothesis that a given mouse specific-locus mutation frequency is not higher than the spontaneous mutation frequency (43 mutations in 801 406 offspring, for males). Critical sample sizes have been calculated that show at a glance whether P The first hypothesis that the mutation frequency (induced + spontaneous) of treated mice is not higher than the spontaneous mutation frequency is combined with the second hypothesis that the induced mutation frequency of treated mice is no less than 4 times the historical-control mutation frequency to produce a multiple decision procedure with 4 possible decisions: inconclusive result, negative result, positive result, and weak mutagen. Critical sample sizes for the second hypothesis, also with P Positive results can become apparent in relatively small samples. Larger samples, of at least 11 166 offspring, are required to obtain a negative result. If samples of 18 000 are routinely collected (unless positive results are found earlier), 75% of tests of chemicals that are non-mutagens will give a negative result. If the question being asked is not whether a chemical induces gene mutations but, rather, whether the exposure received by humans causes any important risk from gene mutations, a much smaller sample size may be acceptable, under certain conditions. A comparison of the relative efficiencies of the specific-locus test (for gene mutations and small deficiencies) and the heritable-translocation test (for transmissible chromosome rearrangements), in detecting the same proportional increases over the spontaneous frequencies of their respective types of genetic damage, shows that less work is involved in reaching a conclusive result in the specific-locus test. Proposed specific-locus tests using biochemical markers are at a considerable statistical disadvantage compared with the standard test (using 7 visible markers) for which there is available a very large historical control showing a very low mutation rate.
Distributed parameter system identification using spatial filtering and Karhunen-Loeve modes

This paper presents a procedure for empirically generating a reduced order model of a distributed parameter system. Two problems arise in generating this model: state estimation and system identification. These problems are coupled by the fact that the optimal state estimator, the Kalman filter, requires a model of the system being estimated. In general, state estimation for a distributed parameter system can be performed by filtering in time, "space," or both. Spatial filtering is a suboptimal state estimation technique with the advantage that it decouples the state estimation and system identification problems. When the number of sensors is large, the procedure yields good estimates. The equations for the optimal spatial filter are presented along with the least squares solution of the system identification problem. Together, they generate a reduced order model of the distributed parameter system. This reduced order model is defined by the reduced order state which in turn depends on the choice of a finite dimensional basis. Choosing this basis to consist of terms in the Karhunen-Loeve expansion results in simplifications to the equations which are presented. The statistics required to generate the spatial filter are also defined in terms of the Karhunen-Loeve expansion. A recursive formulation of the entire process is presented.
Methods of Knowledge Development in Marketing and Macromarketing

A framework is proposed to examine the process of knowledge development in marketing and macromarketing. To this end, various approaches for developing new knowledge are specified and discussed: theory applications, effects applications, and replication/extensions. This framework is used to highlight differences between micro- and macromarketing. A content analysis of North American journal articles published over the past 10 years demonstrates where the knowledge development focus has been in recent years and facilitates recommendations to guide future knowledge development.
Examination of Gene Expression Profile of Functional Human Pancreatic Islets After 2-Week Culture

Islet transplant faces significant challenges, mainly because of the high incidence of primary nonfunction of transplanted islets. Protocol modifications to improve the rate of islet function have included changes in pancreatic preservation and the introduction of short-term culture. Islet culture for 48 to 72 hours has become a standard part of most successful protocols for clinical islet transplantation. We have previously reported gene expression profiles associated with human pancreatic islet function. The aim of this study was to determine the change in gene expression profiles of functional islets after 2 weeks of culture in Memphis-serum free media. Human islets from four isolations were maintained in culture for 14 days in Memphis-serum free media. RNA was extracted from 10000 IEQ for analysis of the gene expression profiles using high-density Affymetrix U133A GeneChips and Genespring software. Islet function was assessed by measurements of human C-peptide at days 7 and 14 posttransplant into NOD-SCID mice. Human C-peptide levels were determined by radioimmunoassay. Our preliminary data showed that genes related to functionality, such as those directed toward insulin processing and secretion, did not vary over 14 days of culture, while genes related to exocrine pancreas and organ architecture and immune-associated genes decreased over time. The ability to maintain islets in culture is an important step toward the development of islet tissue repositories, as well as toward screening human islet preparations for additional pathogens.
Stimulation of the membrane-bound, magnesium-dependent adenosine triphosphatase of mouse neuroblastoma by concanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin.

Abstract The effect of the plant lectins concanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin on the membrane-bound Mg +2 -dependent ATPase of an adrenergic clone of mouse neuroblastoma was examines. When cell membranes were treated with concanavalin A or wheat germ agglutinin, a dose-related increase in ATPase-specific activity was observed. Maximal stimulation was greater with wheat germ agglutinin than with concanavalin A; half-maximal and maximal stimulation occurred at similar lectin concentrations. Concanavalin A-dependent stimulation was blocked by α-methylmannoside but not by N-acetylglucosammine. Conversely, stimulation with wheat germ agglutinin was prevented by N-acetylglucosamine but not by α-methylmannoside. The combined effects of concanavalin A and wheat germ agglutinin were greater than the individual effects of either, but were not additive. The results suggest that these lectins interact specifically with membrane glycoproteins or glycolipids, resulting in enhancement of Mg +2 -dependent ATPase activity.
Efficient Light-Trapping in Periodic Nanostructured Thin Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells

We theoretically and experimentally show that simple periodic pyramid structures on the order of the wavelength can greatly enhance absorption for solar cell applications and potentially reduce silicon mass up to two orders of magnitude.
Ann: A case study

Aaron Beck’s cognitive therapy model has been used repeatedly to treat depression and anxiety. The case presented here is a 34-year-old female law student with an adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood. It is presented to illustrate a successful treatment outcome using cognitive interventions. Sessions by session summaries are offered to further demonstrate the specific treatment plan implemented and to serve as a learning tool for clinicians and students.
Process-induced trapping of charge in PECVD dielectrics for RF MEMS capacitive switches

Charge-induced failure is recognized as the primary reliability issue in RF MEMS capacitive switches. In this paper, we present a simplified method for quantifying the effects of process-induced charging of PECVD dielectrics commonly used in the fabrication of these devices. Using this method, based on capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurements of MIS (metal-insulator-semiconductor) devices, we examined the charge behavior of PECVD silicon dioxide, nitride, and oxynitride films deposited at substrate temperatures of 250-350/spl deg/C. The results show that these PECVD dielectrics contain sufficient incorporated charge in their as-deposited state to inhibit reliable switch operation. Post-deposition, plasma-induced and electrical stresses were also found to negatively impact the charge behavior of these films. However, after an initial period of instability, chemical analysis showed film composition to be highly consistent, both across deposition runs and with post-deposition stress. We conclude by presenting potential techniques for mitigation of the incorporated charge observed in these PECVD dielectrics.
Photodetachment-threshold shifts in two-frequency radiation fields

The one-dimensional Schrodinger equation was solved numerically to observe the effects of a strong radiation field on the photodetachment-threshold behavior of a model negative ion. The negative ion is exposed to a near-threshold single-photon detaching radiation pulse while in the presence of a second, constant-intensity, low-frequency field. As the second field frequency is increased from zero to the photodetachment threshold, we observe a gradual transition from the interference effects found for detachment into a static field (dc limit) to the increased energy required to detach an electron into a strong oscillatory field (ac limit). The detachment-threshold shift occurs because the second field drags temporarily detached low-energy electrons back across the potential, where they are reattached. This detachment, excursion, and reattachment process is quite fragile, particularly in three dimensions, and will lead to leakage detachment below the shifted threshold.
Dark membrane lysis and photosensitization by 3-carbethoxypsoralen.

— Aqueous solutions of 3-carbethoxypsoralen (3-CPs) induce lysis of egg lecithin liposomes and whole human erythrocytes in the dark. Near-UV irradiation of 3-CPs sensitizes the inactivation of lysozyme attributed to the production of reactive radical intermediates. The implications of these findings for the use of 3-CPs as a sensitizer in PUVA therapy of psoriasis are discussed.
Activation Analysis of the Final Optics Assemblies at the National Ignition Facility

Commissioning shots have commenced at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Within a year, the 192 laser beam facility will be operational and the expe...
An analysis of grammatical errors in non-native speech in english

While a wide variety of grammatical mistakes may be observed in the speech of non-native speakers, the types and frequencies of these mistakes are not random. Certain parts of speech, for example, have been shown to be especially problematic for Japanese learners of English [1]. Modeling these errors can potentially enhance the performance of computer-assisted language learning systems. This paper presents an automatic method to estimate an error model from a non-native English corpus, focusing on articles and prepositions. A fine-grained analysis is achieved by conditioning the errors on appropriate words in the context.
Olfactory sensory deprivation increases the number of proBDNF-immunoreactive mitral cells in the olfactory bulb of mice

In the olfactory bulb, apoptotic cell-death induced by sensory deprivation is restricted to interneurons in the glomerular and granule cell layers, and to a lesser extent in the external plexiform layer, whereas mitral cells do not typically undergo apoptosis. With the goal to understand whether brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mediates mitral cell survival, we performed unilateral naris occlusion on mice at postnatal day one (P1) and examined the subsequent BDNF-immunoreactive (BDNF-ir) profile of the olfactory bulb at P20, P30, and P40. Ipsilateral to the naris occlusion, there was a significant increase in the number of BDNF-ir mitral cells per unit area that was independent of the duration of the sensory deprivation induced by occlusion. The number of BDNF-ir juxtaglomerular cells per unit area, however, was clearly diminished. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of primarily proBDNF in the olfactory bulb. These data provide evidence for a neurotrophic role of proBDNF in the olfactory system of mice and suggest that proBDNF may act to protect mitral cells from the effects of apoptotic changes induced by odor sensory deprivation.
A Genetic Resource for Rapid and Comprehensive Phenotype Screening of Nonessential Staphylococcus aureus Genes

ABSTRACT To enhance the research capabilities of investigators interested in Staphylococcus aureus, the Nebraska Center for Staphylococcal Research (CSR) has generated a sequence-defined transposon mutant library consisting of 1,952 strains, each containing a single mutation within a nonessential gene of the epidemic community-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (CA-MRSA) isolate USA300. To demonstrate the utility of this library for large-scale screening of phenotypic alterations, we spotted the library on indicator plates to assess hemolytic potential, protease production, pigmentation, and mannitol utilization. As expected, we identified many genes known to function in these processes, thus validating the utility of this approach. Importantly, we also identified genes not previously associated with these phenotypes. In total, 71 mutants displayed differential hemolysis activities, the majority of which were not previously known to influence hemolysin production. Furthermore, 62 mutants were defective in protease activity, with only 14 previously demonstrated to be involved in the production of extracellular proteases. In addition, 38 mutations affected pigment formation, while only 7 influenced mannitol fermentation, underscoring the sensitivity of this approach to identify rare phenotypes. Finally, 579 open reading frames were not interrupted by a transposon, thus providing potentially new essential gene targets for subsequent antibacterial discovery. Overall, the Nebraska Transposon Mutant Library represents a valuable new resource for the research community that should greatly enhance investigations of this important human pathogen. IMPORTANCE Infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus cause significant morbidity and mortality in both community and hospital environments. Specific-allelic-replacement mutants are required to study the biology of this organism; however, this process is costly and time-consuming. We describe the construction and validation of a sequence-defined transposon mutant library available for use by the scientific community through the Network on Antimicrobial Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus (NARSA) strain repository. In addition, complementary resources, including a website (http://app1.unmc.edu/fgx/) and genetic tools that expedite the allelic replacement of the transposon in the mutants with useful selectable markers and fluorescent reporter fusions, have been generated. Overall, this library and associated tools will have a significant impact on studies investigating S. aureus pathogenesis and biology and serve as a useful paradigm for the study of other bacterial systems.
Hierarchical interpretation of human activities using competitive learning

In this paper we describe a method of learning hierarchical representations for describing and recognizing gestures expressed as one and two arm movements using competitive learning methods. At the low end of the hierarchy, the atomic motions ("letters") corresponding to flowfields computed from successive color image frames are derived using Learning Vector Quantization (LVQ). At the next intermediate level, the atomic motions are clustered into actions ("words") using homogeneity criteria. The highest level combines actions into activities ("sentences") using proximity driven clustering. We demonstrate the feasibility and the robustness of our approach on real color-image sequences, each consisting of several hundred frames corresponding to dynamic one and two arm movements.
Sparse unbiased analysis of anatomical variance in longitudinal imaging

We present a new algorithm for reliable, unbiased, multivariate longitudinal analysis of cortical and white matter atrophy rates with penalized statistical methods. The pipeline uses a step-wise approach to transform and personalize template information first to a single-subject template (SST) and then to the individual's time series data. The first stream of information flows from group template to the SST; the second flows from the SST to the individual time-points and provides unbiased, prior-based segmentation and measurement of cortical thickness. MRI-bias correction, consistent longitudinal segmentation, cortical parcellation and cortical thickness estimation are all based on strong use of the subject-specific priors built from initial diffeomorphic mapping between the SST and optimal group template. We evaluate our approach with both testretest data and with application to a driving biological problem. We use testretest data to show that this approach produces (a) zero change when the retest data contains the same image content as the test data and (b) produces normally distributed, low variance estimates of thickness change centered at zero when test-retest data is collected near in time to test data. We also show that our approach--when combined with sparse canonical correlation analysis--reveals plausible, significant, annualized decline in cortical thickness and white matter volume when contrasting frontotemporal dementia and normal aging.
Corrosion of evaporated Ag films on glass by saturated water vapor

Abstract The corrosion of evaporated Ag films on an aluminoborosilicate and a soda lime glass in saturated water vapor and ambient air was studied as a function of thermal annealing, and glass surface treatment and composition. Water vapor caused more rapid corrosion of the Ag films than ambient air. Thermal annealing between 80 and 140°C improved the corrosion resistance of the Ag films. An alkali depleted soda lime glass surface and the aluminoborosilicate glass resulted in more corrosion resistant Ag films. Alkali ions on the glass surface accelerated the corrosion of the Ag films, forming Ag2O. The corrosion of Ag films is attributed to Ag agglomeration, Ag-alkali interdiffusion, and glass hydration.
Dimensional reduction in the early universe: Where have the massive particles gone?

Abstract In many models based on reduction from greater than four dimensions, there are absolutely stable particles with masses of order R−1 (R is the compactification scale). If the temperature of the universe were ever close to R−1, these massive states would have been present and some would have survived annihilation. We calculate the present mass density due to these particles and find both the five-dimensional model and some versions of N = 8 supergravity to be unacceptable. We discuss some possible solutions to this problem.
Dynamic complex modulus predictions of hot-mix asphalt using a micromechanical-based finite element model

A micromechanical-based finite element (FE) model was used to predict the dynamic complex modulus ( E*) of the hot-mix asphalt (HMA). The microstructure of HMA was captured with a high resolution scanner. Two material phases (aggregates and sand mastic) of HMA were modelled with finite elements. The sand mastic herein was composed of fines and asphalt binder with some fine aggregates. The dynamic complex modulus of the sand mastic under different temperatures and loading frequencies was measured in an experimental program. The corresponding principles were applied to bridge the elastic simulation and viscoelastic behavior with the input of the viscoelastic mastic properties. The input parameters in the FE model include the dynamic complex modulus of the sand mastic, the elastic modulus of the aggregates, and the microstructure of the HMA. The E* values of the HMA were measured and used to compare the E* predicted from the FE model. It is found that the FE approach used in this paper has the ability to pre...
Second Generation Quad-Core Intel Xeon Processors Bring 45 nm Technology and a New Level of Performance to HPC Applications

The second generation of Quad-Core Intel® Xeon® processors was launched on November 12th 2007. In this paper we take a look at what the new 45 nm based Quad-Core Intel Xeon Processor brings to high performance computing. We compare an Intel Xeon 5300 series based system with a server utilizing his successor the Intel Xeon 5400. We measure both CPU generations operating in dual socket platforms in typical HPC benchmark scenario using some common HPC benchmarks. The results presented clearly show that the new Intel Xeon processor 5400 family provides significant performance advantage on typical HPC workloads and would therefore be seen to be an appropriate choice for many of HPC installations.
Low-dose inhaled fluticasone propionate versus oral zafirlukast in the treatment of persistent asthma.

Abstract Background: Few studies have compared the efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids and leukotriene modifiers for the treatment of persistent asthma. Objective: Our purpose was to compare the efficacy of a low dose of inhaled fluticasone propionate (FP) with that of oral zafirlukast in the treatment of persistent asthma previously treated with short-acting β 2 -agonists alone. Methods: A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, multicenter study was conducted in 451 patients aged 12 years and older with asthma who were symptomatic on short-acting β 2 -agonists alone. After an 8- to 14-day run-in period, patients were randomized to treatment with FP 88 μg twice daily or zafirlukast 20 mg twice daily. Results: Treatment with FP was more effective than treatment with zafirlukast in increasing morning FEV 1 (by 0.42 L vs 0.20 L over baseline, P P P 1 were noted after the first observation (week 4) and in morning and evening peak expiratory flow by week 2. Mean change in percentage of symptom-free days was greater with FP than with zafirlukast (28.5% of days vs 15.6% of days, P P P P Conclusion: The clinical effectiveness of a low dose of FP as first-line therapy in patients with persistent asthma who are symptomatic on β 2 -agonists alone is superior to that of zafirlukast. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000;105:1123-9.)
Effectiveness and safety of dabigatran and warfarin in real-world US patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation: a retrospective cohort study.

Background The recent availability of dabigatran, a novel oral anticoagulant, provided a new treatment option for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation beyond warfarin, the main therapy for years. Little is known about their real‐world comparative effectiveness and safety, even less among patient demographic and clinical subgroups. Methods and Results Using a cohort of non‐valvular AF patients initiating anticoagulation from October 2010 to December 2012 drawn from a large US database of commercial and Medicare supplement claims, we applied propensity score weights to Cox proportional hazards regression to assess the comparative effectiveness and safety of dabigatran versus warfarin. Analyses were repeated among clinical and demographic subgroups using stratum‐specific propensity scores as an exploratory analysis. Of the 64 935 patients initiating anticoagulation, 32.5% used dabigatran. Compared with warfarin, dabigatran was associated with a lower risk of ischemic stroke or systemic embolism (composite adjusted Hazard Ratio [aHR], 95% CI: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.79 to 0.93), hemorrhagic stroke (aHR: 0.51, 0.40 to 0.65), and acute myocardial infarction (aHR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.77 to 0.99), and no relation was seen between dabigatran and the composite harm outcome (aHR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.01). However, dabigatran was associated with a higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (aHR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.22). Estimates of effectiveness and safety appeared to be mostly similar across subgroups. Conclusions Dabigatran could be a safe and potentially more effective alternative to warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation managed in routine practice settings.
Babesiosoma tetragonis n. sp. (Sporozoa: Dactylosomidae) from a California Teleost†

SYNOPSIS. Sporozoans belonging to the genus Babesiosorna were found in the erythrocytes of a young Catostomus collected in northern California. This is the first record of these parasites in a North American teleost. All stages of the schizogonic cycle and also the “gametocytes” were observed in the erythrocytes of the host Descriptions and measurements of these stages are given, and comparisons with the four known species of Babesiosoma are made. This parasite represents a new species, for which the name, Babesiosoma tetragonis, is proposed.
A 50 dB variable gain amplifier using parasitic bipolar transistors in CMOS

A variable-gain amplifier (VGA) with a gain range of 50 dB has been implemented in a standard 3 mu m CMOS process using parasitic lateral and vertical bipolar transistors to form the core of the circuit. The bipolar transistors had been characterized extensively. The VGA has a bandwidth larger than 3 MHz over the whole gain range and operates on a single 5 V power supply. The active area is about 0.8*0.9 mm/sup 2/. >
Plant Responses to Rising Carbon Dioxide and Potential Interactions with Air Pollutants

As global population increases and industrialization expands, carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and toxic air pollutants can be expected to be injected into the atmosphere at increasing rates. This analysis reviews a wide range of direct plant responses to rising CO 2 , increasing levels of gaseous pollutants, and climate change, and to potential interactions among the factors. Altough several environmental interactions on stomata and foliage temperatures are reviewed briefly, a comprehensive review of effects of potential climatic change on plants is not a major objective of this analysis
Sources and fate of Salmonella and fecal indicator bacteria in an urban creek

This research aimed to understand the sources and fate of Salmonella and fecal bacteria in urban surface waters. An urban creek (San Pedro Creek, California, USA) that had unusually high levels of Salmonella and fecal bacteria relative to other nearby waterbodies was chosen as a model field site. State of the art microbiological methods were used in concert with modeling to investigate Salmonella and fecal bacteria sources, and determine field-relevant dark inactivation and photoinactivation rates. Three along-creek surveys that spanned reaches adjacent to both urban and forested land covers were conducted to measure Salmonella, enterococci, Escherichia coli, and horse- and human-specific Bacteroidales. Salmonella were detected adjacent to and downstream of urban land cover, but not adjacent to forested land cover. No human or horse-specific Bacteroidales fecal markers were detected implicating other urban animal sources of bacteria. Two locations along the creek where Salmonella was consistently detected were sampled hourly for 25 hours and a mass-balance model was applied to determine field-relevant light and dark inactivation rates for Salmonella, enterococci, and E. coli. Sunlight inactivation did not appear to be important in modulating concentrations of Salmonella, but was important in modulating both enterococci and E. coli concentrations. Dark inactivation was important for all three organisms. This is the first study to quantitatively examine the fate of Salmonella within an urban surface water. Although the work is carried out at a single site, the methodologies are extendable to source tracking in other waterbodies. Additionally, the rate constants determined through the modeling will be useful for modeling these organisms in other surface waters, and represent useful benchmarks for comparison to laboratory-derived inactivation rates.
Walking patterns of patients with unilateral hip pain due to osteo-arthritis and avascular necrosis.

The simultaneous displacement patterns of parts of the body were analyzed during free-speed anf fast walking of twenty-six men with unilateral hip pain. Despite the variability from one patient to another, certain distinct gait abnormalities emerged as typical of the coxalgic gait.The limp of hip pa
(1′R, 2′S, 3′R)-9-(2′, 3′-Dihydroxycyclopentan-1′-yl)-Adenine and −3-Deaza-Adenine: Analogues of Aristeromycin Which Exhibit Potent Antiviral Activity with Reduced Cytotoxicity:

Two synthetic analogues of aristeromycin, which were shown in a separate study to be inhibitors of S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase and devoid of substrate activity with adenosine kinase and adenosine deaminase, were found in this study to inhibit vaccinia virus replication in murine L929 cells and to have reduced cytotoxicity compared with that of the parent compound. Aristeromycin was shown to produce cytocidal effects on murine L929 cells, whereas the synthetic analogues produced cytostatic effects on cell growth. The antiviral effects of these synthetic analogues are correlated with their ability to elevate the intracellular ratio of S-adenosylhomocysteine/S-adenosylmethionine. These results confirm that S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase is the molecular target which mediates the antiviral effects of aristeromycin and that transformation of aristeromycin by cellular adenosine kinase mediates its cytocidal properties.
On the Genesis and Transformation of Mencius' Reconstructive Theory of Literary Interpretation

This paper examines how Mencius' reconstructive theory of literary interpretation arose out of the interpretive traditions of "guanshi"(observing the oral performance of the Book of the Poetry)and "yinshi"(citing from the Book of Poetry),and how it was subsequently turned into a method of liberal allegorization by the author of "Preface to the Mao Text of the Book of Poetry).
Breath-holding attacks in children

Both cyanotic breath-holding and pallid infantile syncope are dramatic but benign nonepileptic conditions that can usually be easily diagnosed with the help of a detailed history. In both conditions, providing parents with reassurance and a careful explanation of the events is the best treatment.
The impact of splenectomy on human coronary artery atherosclerosis and vascular macrophage distribution.

Abstract Background Splenectomy can potentially impact atherosclerosis through multiple mechanisms including altered lipid homeostasis, increased coagulation, and altered macrophage recruitment to the plaque. In patients, splenectomy has been associated with increased rates of coronary artery events, while in experimental mice, splenectomy causes increased atherosclerosis but reduces systemic monocyte supply. In this study, the direct impact of splenectomy on human coronary artery atherosclerotic plaque severity and macrophage content was investigated. Methods Coronary artery atherosclerotic plaque severity was determined at autopsy in 18 long-term (≥10 years) splenectomy patients and 90 matched control patients. Coronary artery macrophage content was evaluated in mild atherosclerotic plaques of 11 mid- to long-term (≥1 year) splenectomy patients and 11 matched control patients. Results Splenectomy was associated with reduced coronary artery atherosclerosis ( P =.03). The association was most pronounced for the subgroup of patients who had undergone splenectomy 20 years or more prior to death ( P =.02). There was no difference in the density of macrophages in the plaque, media, or adventitia upon comparing splenectomy and control patients. In the control group, there was no correlation between the macrophage densities in the three arterial layers. However, in the splenectomy patients, there was a strong correlation in the macrophage densities across the plaque, media, and adventitia ( P ≤.0002), with resulting slopes that were significantly greater than seen in the control patients ( P =.0007–.011). Conclusions These findings indicate that, in humans, splenectomy is associated with lower coronary artery atherosclerotic plaque severity and altered coronary artery macrophage distribution. These results suggest that the spleen can modulate the recruitment of macrophages into human coronary arteries and the progression of atherosclerosis.
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery: Opportunities and Challenges

Since their introduction in the early 1990s, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have received tremendous attention in drug delivery because of their ability to carry and solubilize lipophilic drugs and their small particle size, resulting in increased cellular uptake and absorption. SLNs are composed of physiological lipids, which reduce the risk of acute and chronic toxicity. However, SLNs are prone to instabilities because of their complex crystallization behavior due to the occurrence of polymorphic transitions. This chapter summarizes various aspects of SLNs such as components and production of SLNs, drug loading, drug release, stability, and application of SLNs in drug delivery. This chapter also provides a summary of SLNs as a potential carrier of anticancer drugs, one of the most aggressively expanding areas of research. A special emphasis is placed on the stability and toxicity issues associated with SLNs and their diagnostic applications.
Effective Hamiltonian for the radiation in a cavity with a moving mirror and a time-varying dielectric medium

We study the quantized field in a one-dimensional electromagnetic resonant cavity. The cavity contains a linear and lossless dielectric medium with frequency-independent polarizability. The dielectric permittivity is an externally prescribed function of both the space and the time. We also allow one of the cavity's mirrors to move in a given trajectory. Unlike other previous studies on the same system, we formulate an effective Hamiltonian so that the dynamics of the cavity field can be described in the Schr\"odinger picture. The effective Hamiltonian is quadratic in structure, therefore two-photon generation from the vacuum state can occur. We also discuss the case of resonant behavior of the system.
Comparison of Self-Reported Data on Student Doctor Network to Objective Data of the National Resident Matching Program.

Abstract Purpose To compare matching outcomes between self-reporting on Student Doctor Network (SDN) and objective data from the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Materials and Methods Data were collected from SDN starting in the 2010 to 2011 academic year and extending to the 2015 to 2016 academic year. A total of 193 radiation oncology applicants had reported data during the period. A total of four applicants (2.1%) did not match and were excluded from the analysis. Applicants were compared with the NRMP charting outcomes of 2011, 2014, and 2016. Results US allopathic seniors comprised a majority of those reporting on SDN (95.2%). The majority of applicants (58.2%) self-reported in the later years between 2014 and 2016. Those reporting on SDN were more likely to be members of Alpha Omega Alpha (39.7% on SDN versus 27.5% in 2016 NRMP, 23.6% in 2014 NRMP, and 31.2% in 2011 NRMP) and had higher mean United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) step 1 and step 2 scores. Of the applicants, 81% matched within their top three ranked residencies on their match list. Common themes associated with reasons for their successful match included research experience, letters of recommendation, and away rotations. Common themes associated with advice given to future applicants were the importance of research, personality, and away rotations. Conclusion Self-reporting on SDN does have a bias toward more successful radiation oncology applicants compared with the objective NRMP data. However, if self-reporting increases, SDN may serve as a reasonably accurate source of information for future applicants.
Architects of Buddhist Leisure: Socially Disengaged Buddhism in Asia’s Museums, Monuments, and Amusement Parks

Justin McDaniel’s new study is an excellent example of the extra-disciplinary methodologies architectural historians can draw on to better understand the diverse material and intellectual exchanges...
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated PD-1 disruption enhances anti-tumor efficacy of human chimeric antigen receptor T cells

Immunotherapies with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and checkpoint inhibitors (including antibodies that antagonize the programmed cell death protein 1 [PD-1] pathway) have both opened new avenues for cancer treatment, but the clinical potential of combination checkpoint blockade and CAR T cell therapy remains incompletely explored. Here we show that programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression on tumor cells can render human CAR T cells (anti-CD19 4-1BBζ) hypo-functional, resulting in impaired tumor clearance in a sub-cutaneous mouse xenograft model. To overcome this suppressed anti-tumor response, we developed a protocol for combined Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (Cas9 RNP)-mediated gene editing and lentiviral transduction to generate PD-1 deficient, anti-CD19 CAR T cells. PD-1 disruption augmented CAR T cell mediated killing of tumor cells in vitro and enhanced clearance of PD-L1+ tumor xenografts in vivo . This study demonstrates improved therapeutic efficacy of Cas9-edited human CAR T cells and highlights the potential of precision genome engineering to enhance next-generation cell therapies and uncover mechanisms regulating human immune cell function.
Two methods of prediction signatures

Bladder cancer molecular subtypes are promising for predicting patient outcomes. In contrast to most reports to date that used unsupervised clustering methods, a new study has demonstrated the value of a tumour differentiation signature based on normal biological expression patterns characteristic of basal or differentiated urothelial cells. Refers to Mo, Q. et al. Prognostic power of a tumour differentiation gene signature for bladder urothelial carcinomas. J. Natl Cancer Inst. https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/djx243 (2018)
SUNCT and SUNA: an Update and Review

The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the clinical features, diagnosis, pathogenesis, epidemiology, and treatment of the rare primary headache disorders short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with autonomic symptoms (SUNA). Together these entities are known as short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks (SUNHA). Recent case reports of secondary SUNCT and SUNA due to medullary infarcts support the theory that the trigeminohypothalamic pathway is involved in the pathophysiology of SUNHA. While medical therapy for SUNHA has not significantly changed, surgical therapy for refractory SUNCT and SUNA has made advancements with a recent case series demonstrating the efficacy of deep brain stimulation. We will discuss the pathophysiology of both the pain and the autonomic symptoms experienced in SUNCT and SUNA attacks as well the medical, procedural, and surgical options for treatment with emphasis on recent advances. Specific secondary causes reported in the recent literature will be discussed in brief.
Time Delayed Logistic Equations

So far, we have assumed that our population has no effect upon the environment from which it gains its livelihood. This is really only reasonable if the population numbers are so small as not to influence the availability of resources. The Carrying Capacity of any environment, for example, depends upon the food supply which is available at any time, which in turn depends upon the recent history of the population size.
Computational Considerations in Integer Programming

This chapter describes the model formulation in integer programming, a composite algorithm, and general approximate methods for integer programming. The chapter develops general strategies that allow the users to select a code or a combination of codes. These strategies are developed based on the theoretical aspects. The goal is the development of some kind of composite algorithm that includes all the desired properties in different algorithms. These properties are incorporated in one code so that when a certain method ceases to perform satisfactorily, the deadlock can be broken by invoking a different strategy. There seems to be a general unawareness of the fact that it might be the poor formulation of the model that is responsible for inadequate performance. The chapter discusses different guidelines as to the particular properties that are desired in formulating an integer model.