cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Medical and Surgical Management of Uveitic Glaucoma

Inflammation of the uveal tract might lead to high intraocular pressure (IOP) [1]. A series of components may contribute in the pathogenesis of inflammatory glaucoma, such as trabecular meshwork engorgement by immune-cells and proteins [2, 3], inflammation of the trabecular meshwork itself known as “trabeculitis”, peripheral anterior and/or posterior synechiae [5], rubeosis iridis and, consequently, neovascular glaucoma [6], and anterior rotation of the lens-iris diaphragm [7]. In addition, it is well known that the use of steroids in order to control uveitis may lead to secondary IOP elevation [8–10].
Phytonematode Peptide Effectors Exploit a Host Post‐Translational Trafficking Mechanism to the ER using a Novel Translocation Signal

Cyst nematodes induce a multicellular feeding site within roots called a syncytium. It remains unknown how root cells are primed for incorporation into the developing syncytium. Furthermore, it is unclear how CLAVATA3/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION (CLE) peptide effectors secreted into the cytoplasm of the initial feeding cell could have an effect on plant cells so distant from where the nematode is feeding as the syncytium expands. Here we describe a novel translocation signal within nematode CLE effectors that is recognized by plant cell secretory machinery to redirect these peptides from the cytoplasm to the apoplast of plant cells. We show that the translocation signal is functionally conserved across CLE effectors identified in nematode species spanning three genera and multiple plant species, operative across plant cell types, and can traffic other unrelated small peptides from the cytoplasm to the apoplast of host cells via a previously unknown post-translational mechanism of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) translocation. Our results uncover a mechanism of effector trafficking that is unprecedented in any plant pathogen to date, andthey illustrate how phytonematodes can deliver effector proteins into host cells and then hijack plant cellular processes for their export back out of the cell to function as external signaling molecules to distant cells.
GLP-1R agonist NLY01 reduces retinal inflammation, astrocyte reactivity, and retinal ganglion cell death secondary to ocular hypertension

SUMMARY Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and is characterized by the death of retinal ganglion cells. Reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only therapeutic mechanism available to slow disease progression. However, glaucoma can continue to progress despite normalization of IOP. New treatments are needed to reduce vision loss and improve outcomes for patients who have exhausted existing therapeutic avenues. Recent studies have implicated neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases of both the retina and the brain, including glaucoma and Parkinson’s disease. Pro-inflammatory A1 astrocytes contribute to neuronal cell death in multiple disease processes and have been targeted therapeutically in mouse models of Parkinson’s disease. Microglial release of pro-inflammatory cytokines C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α is sufficient to drive the formation of A1 astrocytes. The role of A1 astrocytes in glaucoma pathogenesis has not been explored. Using a mouse model of glaucoma, we demonstrated that IOP elevation was sufficient to trigger production of C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α by infiltrating macrophages followed by resident microglia. These three cytokines drove the formation of A1 astrocytes in the retina. Furthermore, cytokine production and A1 astrocyte transformation persisted following IOP normalization. Ablation of this pathway, by either genetic deletions of C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α, or treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist NLY01, reduced A1 astrocyte transformation and RGC death. Together, these results highlight a new neuroinflammatory mechanism behind glaucomatous neurodegeneration that can be therapeutically targeted by NLY01 administration.
Nearfield Summary and Analysis of the Third AIAA Sonic Boom Prediction Workshop C608 Low Boom Demonstrator

A summary and statistical analysis of the nearfield Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) submissions for the Third AIAA Sonic Boom Prediction Workshop is provided with a focus on the C608 Low Boom Flight Test Demonstrator. The C608 is more complex in terms of geometry and propulsion boundary conditions than previous workshops cases and is more representative of vehicles with lower ground loudness and the potential for lower annoyance. The nearfield signatures submitted by the participants are propagated to the ground to compute statistics of loudness measures over the vehicle sonic boom carpet. Principle component analysis is used to extract the primary variation modes. Context from previous sonic boom workshops indicates that this workshop has the lowest variation even though the case is more challenging because it is quieter and more complex. The international state-of-the-art results documented in this summary indicates that nearfield CFD variation is low enough for meaningful low-boom design and can contribute toward the discussion of replacing the prohibition of overland supersonic flight with a certification standard.
An International Approach to Maritime Conflicts of Law

This Essay seeks to answer two interrelated questions about regnant maritime choice of law analysis in the United States: Does it descriptively capture international law as the United States claims? And, if so, is such an approach a good one? In so doing, it aims principally to provide national and international decision makers with a robust and fresh resource for resolving these disputes in a manner, I argue, beneficent to overall social welfare and peaceful relations among states. For only by analyzing the United States’ claim can we tell whether it is true and thus, whether it needs to be adhered to or modified. The answer to this latter inquiry is directly informed by whether we think an international law analysis is the best way forward, what that way forward may look like, and perhaps even to make recommendations to that analysis based on emergent practices. The Essay argues that U.S. maritime choice of law rules largely reflect international law and practice and that this approach is a normative good because it promotes peace and trade among nations. More specifically, an international approach takes into consideration not just the forum’s interest in resolving the dispute according to its own parochial polices and choice of law methodologies, but also the interests of other involved states, thereby furthering the smooth working of the international system and peaceful relations among states. Furthermore, it provides a common choice of law methodology for all states which increases primary predictability by legal actors engaged in behavior generally considered beneficent to overall social welfare, like international trade. These features of promoting peace and trade comport with a systems theory of international law under which rules evolve so as to perpetuate the system. Courts confronted with maritime conflicts cases should engage in deeper analysis of state and international interests with these objectives in mind.
Global solution curves in harmonic parameters, and multiplicity of solutions

Abstract For the semilinear Dirichlet problem Δ u + g ( u ) = f ( x ) for x ∈ Ω , u = 0 on ∂ Ω decompose f ( x ) = μ 1 φ 1 + e ( x ) , where φ 1 is the principal eigenfunction of the Laplacian with zero boundary conditions, and e ( x ) ⊥ φ 1 in L 2 ( Ω ) , and similarly write u ( x ) = ξ 1 φ i + U ( x ) , with U ⊥ φ 1 in L 2 ( Ω ) . We study properties of the solution curve ( u ( x ) , μ 1 ) ( ξ 1 ) , and in particular its section μ 1 = μ 1 ( ξ 1 ) , which governs the multiplicity of solutions. We consider both general nonlinearities, and some important classes of equations, and obtain detailed description of solution curves under the assumption g ′ ( u ) λ 2 . We obtain particularly detailed results in case of one dimension. This approach is well suited for numerical computations, which we perform to illustrate our results.
PROTECTING EMPLOYEE RIGHTS AND PROSECUTING CORPORATE CRIMES: A PROPOSAL FOR CRIMINAL CUMIS COUNSEL

To address multi-dimensional conflict of interest problems in directors and officers (DO less than one-third of what fraudulent activities at the single company of Enron cost investors, pensioners, and employees in the same year. Given these statistics, it is understandable why the U.S. Department of Justice (the DOJ) put pressure on corporations not to pay employees’ legal fees and judgments in its efforts to fight corporate crime and to hold individual employees responsible for their criminal acts. But the DOJ’s approach missed at least two essential pieces of the problem. The DOJ overlooked individual employee defendants as potential allies in the fight against corporate crime. Most importantly, however, the DOJ failed to recognize that its objections to corporate indemnification ultimately rest on the conflict of interest for employee’s counsel when counsel is being controlled by the corporation—a violation in the criminal context of the individual employee defendant’s Sixth Amendment rights. Adopting criminal Cumis counsel would address this violation of individual employee defendant’s rights. In addition, adopting criminal Cumis counsel would operate to the benefit of the DOJ, corporations, and individual employee defendants, as well as serve larger social objectives in reducing corporate crime and encouraging the more effective management of companies. + Authors: Josephine Sandler Nelson, Esq., B.A. Yale University, J.D. Harvard Law School, Former Supreme Court Co-Chair of the Harvard Law Review, and Richard O. Parry, Esq., Associate Professor, Management Department, Mihaylo College of Business and Economics, California State University at Fullerton. Many thanks to our friends, family, and colleagues for their help and support in developing this Article. The viewpoints expressed in the Article, and any errors, are our own.
Creep of CarbFix Basalt: Influence of Rock-fluid Interaction

Abstract. Geological carbon sequestration provides permanent CO2 storage to mitigate the current high concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. CO2 mineralization in basalts has been proven to be one of the most secure storage options. For successful implementation and future improvements of this technology, the time-dependent deformation behavior of reservoir rocks in presence of reactive fluids needs to be studied in detail. We conducted load stepping creep experiments on basalts from the CarbFix site (Iceland) under several pore fluid conditions (dry, H2O-saturated and H2O+CO2-saturated) at temperature, T≈80 °C and effective pressure, Peff = 50 MPa, during which we collected mechanical, acoustic and pore fluid chemistry data. We observed transient creep at stresses as low as 11% of the ultimate failure strength, well below the stress level at the onset of bulk dilatancy. Acoustic emissions (AEs) correlated strongly with strain accumulation, indicating that the creep deformation was a brittle process in agreement with microstructural observations. The rate and magnitude of AEs were higher in fluid-saturated experiments than in dry conditions. We infer that the predominant mechanism governing creep deformation is time- and stress-dependent sub-critical dilatant cracking. Our results suggest that the presence of aqueous fluids exerts first order control on creep deformation of basaltic rocks, while the composition of the fluids plays only a secondary role under the studied conditions.
Coaches Activating Reaching and Engaging Patients (CAREPlan): A randomized controlled trial combining two evidence-based interventions to improve goals of care documentation.

2Background: In our prior work, community or lay health worker-led goals of care interventions improved goals of care documentation by clinicians and decreased health care use at the end of life. O...
Incision-independent Repair of a Psoralen-interstrand Crosslink

DNA interstrand crosslinks (ICLs) are extremely cytotoxic because they prevent strand separation and thus interfere with DNA replication and transcription. ICLs are caused by endogenous metabolites...
Chapter 8 Cellular regulation of cholesterol metabolism

Publisher Summary This chapter describes cellular regulation of cholesterol metabolism. The enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase is potentially subject to regulation by a diverse group of end-products including ubiquinone, dolichol, isopentenyl-adenine cholesterol, and derivatives of cholesterol. The existence of two forms of HMG-CoA synthase (one mitochondrial, the other cytosolic) ensures the independent formation of HMG-CoA in each compartment. The activity of reductase is strongly correlated with the cholesterol synthetic capacity over a wide range of dietary conditions. Dietschy and Spady reported a method for determining the absolute rate of cholesterol synthesis that takes advantage of the fact that H atoms can be incorporated into stable nonexchangeable positions on the sterol molecule. As [ 3 H]H 2 O rapidly penetrates cell membranes and because relatively little H 2 O is generated metabolically compared to the H 2 O pool in vivo , the problems of variable dilution effects are circumvented. While reductase is considered to be the rate controlling step in de novo cholesterol synthesis, the cytosolic enzymes involved in HMG-CoA formation are also subject to regulation.
High Frequency Trading and the Stock Market: A Look at the Effects of Trade Volume on Stock Price Changes

The effects of high frequency trading span far beyond what many are able to comprehend. There is, however, a great deal of evidence regarding the affects that trade volumes have on stock prices. As previously mentioned, computers now conduct over 70% of all trades made every day. Just four years ago the market was 30% computer based (CBS News, 2010). It is evident, then, that the numbers of shares traded each day (volume) have increased with the rise in the trades made each day (frequency). For example, the average volume of trades made weekly on the Dow Jones Industrial Average from 2000-2005 leapt over 180% from 2005-2010 (Yahoo! Finance, 2010). So, since high frequency trading can be linked to the large increase in trade volumes, it is appropriate to look at the relationship between volatility of the stock market and the volume of trades
Inhibition of Lipolytic Activity in Milk by Polysaccharides

The effect of gums on the activity of milk lipase and a Pseudomonas lipase in milk was investigated. Gums were hydrated in water and mixed with whole milk. Lipase was added to the gum-milk mixture and hydrolysis was determined after 48 h at 4 degrees C by the acid degree value method. Of the gums tested, the anionically charged lambda-, t- and kappa-carrageenan, furcellaran, and sodium alginate significantly inhibited milk lipase activity by 93.7, 81.2, 46.8, 50.6, and 62.1%, respectively. Furthermore, lambda-carrageenan was 87.6% effective in inhibiting lipolysis by a purified Pseudomonas fluorescens MC50 lipase in milk. The other gums tested, tragacanth, carboxymethyl cellulose, locust bean, propylene glycol alginate, xanthan, microcrystalline cellulose, guar, and arabic did not significantly inhibit milk lipase. Commonly used stabilizers can inhibit lipolytic activity in milk.
An Analysis of Free-Text Alcohol Use Documentation in the Electronic Health Record: Early Findings and Implications

Background: Alcohol use is a significant part of a patient’s history, but details about consumption are not always documented. Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems have the potential to improve assessment of alcohol use and misuse; however, a challenge is that critical information may be documented primarily in free-text rather than in a structured and standardized format, thereby limiting its use. Objective: To characterize the use and contents of free-text documentation for alcohol use in the social history module of an EHR. Methods: This study involved a retrospective analysis of 500 alcohol use entries that include structured fields as well as a free-text comment field. Two coding schemes were developed and used to analyze these entries for: quantifying the reasons for using free-text comments and categorizing information in the free-text into separate elements. In addition, for entries indicating possible alcohol misuse, a preliminary review of other structured parts of the EHR was conducted to determine if this was also documented elsewhere. Results: The top three reasons for using free-text were limited ability to describe alcohol use frequency (75%), amount (22%), and status (18%) with available structured fields. Within the free-text, descriptions of frequency were most common (79%) using words or phrases conveying occasional (61%), daily (13%), or weekly (12%) use. Of the 36 cases suggesting alcohol misuse, 44% had mention of alcohol problems in the problem list or past medical history. Conclusions: Based on the early findings, implications for improving the structured collection and use of alcohol use information in the EHR are provided in four areas: system enhancements, user training, decision support, and standards. Next steps include examining how alcohol use is documented in other parts of the EHR (e.g., clinical notes) and how documentation practices vary based on patient, provider, and clinic characteristics.
Stress-induced and cue-induced craving for alcohol in heavy drinkers: Preliminary evidence of genetic moderation by the OPRM1 and CRH-BP genes.

Background: Neurobiological theories of addiction have highlighted disruption in stress pathways as a central feature of addictive disorders, and pharmacological treatments targeting stress mechanisms hold great promise. This study examines genetic determinants of stress-induced and cue-induced craving in heavy drinkers by testing single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the corticotrophin-releasing hormone binding protein (CRH-BP) gene and the mu-opioid receptor (OPRM1) gene. Methods: This study combines guided imagery stress exposure and in vivo alcohol cue exposure in a sample of 64 (23 women) non-treatment-seeking heavy drinkers. Results: Analyses, uncorrected for multiple comparisons, revealed that a tag SNP of the CRH-BP gene (rs10055255) moderated stress-induced craving in this sample. The same SNP predicted greater affective responses to the stress manipulation, including greater levels of subjective tension and negative mood. The Asp40 allele of the OPRM1 was associated with greater cue-induced alcohol craving following the neutral imagery condition. Conclusions: These initial results extend recent preclinical and clinical findings implicating the CRH-BP in stress-related alcoholism and confirm the role of the Asp40 allele of the OPRM1 gene in reward-driven alcohol phenotypes. Human laboratory models of stress and cue-induced craving may be useful in pharmacotherapy development targeting dysregulation of stress systems. Larger studies are needed to validate these preliminary findings, which should also be extended to clinical samples.
Utilizing MATLAB in two graduate electrical engineering courses

Control system design packages like MATLAB, MATRIX/sub X/, Control C, SIMNON, etc. have become essential ingredients of both undergraduate and graduate courses in the systems and controls area. This work describes our experience, at the University of Arkansas and Pennsylvania State University, with the use of one of these packages, namely MATLAB with its control systems and signal processing toolboxes in stochastic systems and linear control systems courses, both of which are offered to advanced undergraduate and graduate students. This paper also presents the MATLAB features that are found most useful in these two courses in enhancing students' understanding of the material. A discussion of how MATLAB helps in reducing the amount of time spent in performing computational homework assignments follows. Finally, the general positive student reaction to incorporating this software package into these courses is reported.
Ecological implications of molecular biomarkers: assaying sub-lethal stress in the midge Chironomus tentans using heat shock protein 70 HSP-70) expression

Aquatic community structure is a reflection of the changes in constituent populations and the complex interactions between these organisms and environmental Stressors. Consequently, shifts in populations and community structure can be used to assess water quality. However, these indicators only reflect damage already sustained by an ecosystem and are not useful for prediction of potential ecological impacts. Molecular/biochemical indicators, such as heat shock proteins, can provide early indication of environmental stress on aquatic communities. The heat shock protein response involves the synthesis of an array of proteins that protect organisms from cellular damage resulting from exposure to a variety of Stressors. Consequently, stress proteins have the potential of being an important screening tool indicating exposure to, and/or biological effects of environmental contaminants. The midge larva Chironomus tentans has been extensively used in bioassays of freshwater systems. However, investigations of stress proteins as environmental biomarkers in midges are lacking. To evaluate the potential use of HSP-70 as a biomarker of environmental stress, we completed a preliminary characterization of the stress protein response in C. tentans upon exposure to heat shock. Western immunoblotting indicated an increase in a 72 kD protein after larvae were exposed to 33 °C, 35 °C, and 37 °C. The observed induction was rapid, appearing within 5-10 min, and persisted for over 24 h after removal of the Stressor. The results are discussed with regard to the use of the HSP-70 biomarker as an environmental screening tool. It is proposed that the HSP-70 biomarker is most applicable as a sublethal toxicity test endpoint indicative of the presence of biochemically significant levels of stress.
Effect of somatolactin and related hormones on phosphate transport by flounder renal tubule primary cultures

Winter flounder renal proximal tubule primary monolayer cultures mounted in Ussing chambers were used to determine the effect of salmon somatolactin (sSL) on transepithelial Pi and Ca2+ transport. sSL stimulated Pi reabsorption in a dose-dependent manner at physiological levels of the hormone (12.5 ng/ml). Net Pi transport was significantly altered by sSL (200 ng/ml) within 2 h after the initial exposure. Ca2+ fluxes were unchanged by the addition of 200 ng/ml sSL. The sSL-induced Pi reabsorption was abolished by 10 microM H-89, a highly specific protein kinase A inhibitor. Moreover the production and release of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate were significantly increased after 1 and 2 h of exposure to sSL. The data indicate that sSL directly stimulates net renal Pi reabsorption by an adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate-dependent pathway. In addition to sSL, flounder SL and rat prolactin greatly, and salmon growth hormone (2.3 micrograms/ml) slightly, increased net Pi reabsorptive flux, whereas salmon prolactin had no effect.
Characterizing chain processes in visible light photoredox catalysis

The recognition that Ru(bpy)32+ and similar visible light absorbing transition metal complexes can be photocatalysts for a variety of synthetically useful organic reactions has resulted in a recent resurgence of interest in photoredox catalysis. However, many of the critical mechanistic aspects of this class of reactions remain poorly understood. In particular, the degree to which visible light photoredox reactions involve radical chain processes has been a point of some disagreement that has not been subjected to systematic analysis. We have now performed quantum yield measurements to demonstrate that three representative, mechanistically distinct photoredox processes involve product-forming chain reactions. Moreover, we show that the combination of quantum yield and luminescence quenching experiments provides a rapid method to estimate the length of these chains. Together, these measurements constitute a robust, operationally facile strategy for characterizing chain processes in a wide range of visible light photoredox reactions.
Linear systems and conservation laws of gravitational fields in four plus extended superspace

Abstract Linear systems with spectral parameters are formulated for gravitational fields in four plus extended superspace. Infinite nonlocal conservation laws can also be constructed.
A man with anasarca, arthritis, unilateral pleural effusion, and restrictive lung disease

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease affecting articular and extra-articular tissues. In this case report, we report a 53-year-old man initially referred to the pulmonary clinic for dyspnea, new left-sided pleural effusion, and anasarca. After evaluation, he was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and RA-associated lung disease. Although pleuropulmonary findings usually develop in the setting of known RA, this case displays classic findings that preceded the onset of musculoskeletal symptoms and led to the diagnosis.
The Role of Competition and Collaboration in Influencing the Level of Autonomy and Belonging in System of Systems

Prior to this research, autonomy and belonging were perceived as two independent and distinguishing characteristics of system of systems. The objective of this paper is to explore the interdependency of autonomy and belonging, and the role of competition and collaboration among constituent elements to influence the level of autonomy and belonging. The definition of autonomy and belonging are restated using the multiattribute utility theory. Using this theory, competitions and collaborations are modeled as redistributing resources (or values, norms, etc.) to influence the level of autonomy and belonging. The proposed mathematical model is applied in a system of systems of swarm robots to present its applicability and validity. The result shows the impact of competition and collaboration among constituent elements of a system of systems on autonomy and belonging in that system of systems. The proposed mathematical conceptualization is applicable in understanding, engineering, and governing wide-spread system of systems.
Intergranular Exchange Coupling in FePt:X:FePt ( ${\rm X}={\rm B}$ , C, ${\rm SiO}_{\rm x}$ , Cr and ${\rm TaO}_{\rm x}$ ) Thin Films for Heat Assisted Magnetic Recording

In this study we quantitatively determined the exchange coupling across B, C, SiOx, Cr and TaOx segregants by measuring the exchange coupling between two FePt layers separated by segregant layers of varying thickness. Our study indicates that the segregant that provides the best exchange break is TaOx; whereas, C is the worst and SiOx, Cr and B are in between. Our data indicates that a segregant intergranular region thicker than 0.8 nm should decouple FePt grains if B, TaOx, SiOx, or Cr are used, but with C, a thickness greater than 1 nm is required.
The effect of an irrelevant directional cue on choice reaction time: Duration of the phenomenon and its relation to stages of processing.

Two experimental paradigms were used to investigate the interference which occurs in a choice RT task when the source of a stimulus does not correspond with its meaning. In one paradigm, subjects were instructed to delay executing their response to a red or green light until they heard a go signal which was presented 0, 150,250, or 350 msec after the light. In the other paradigm, subjects translated the pitch of a tone into an appropriate keypress response. For some groups, the stimulus response connections were specified prior to or simultaneously with the presentation of the stimulus tone, while, for other groups, the labeling of the response keys followed the onset of the tone. Results indicated that irrelevant directional cues produce interference which affects the response selection stage and persists for approximately 250 msec
A reconstruction of the femur of Australopithecus africanus

Up to the present, no complete femur of Australopithecus has been discovered. Several proximal and distal femoral fragments are available and a fairly complete pelvis. Using this material and the biomechanical requirements of the femur implicit in an erect biped, we have calculated the bicondylar length of the femur of A. africanus to have been about 28 cm. This is smaller than most previous estimates and is consistent with a body size as small as 42–43 inches and a weight of between 40 and 50 pounds.
Venous Thromboembolism in Cancer Patients Undergoing Major Surgery

Background Cancer patients undergoing major abdominal or pelvic surgery are at considerable risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The genesis of thromboses in malignancy is complicated, and reflects the interaction and derangement of multiple molecular pathways. Furthermore, the nature and location of the cancer, as well as the type surgery involved, are thought to affect the level of VTE risk. These considerations may therefore affect treatment decisions.
Automated Recommendation for Cervical Cancer Screening and Surveillance

Because of the complexity of cervical cancer prevention guidelines, clinicians often fail to follow best-practice recommendations. Moreover, existing clinical decision support (CDS) systems generally recommend a cervical cytology every three years for all female patients, which is inappropriate for patients with abnormal findings that require surveillance at shorter intervals. To address this problem, we developed a decision tree-based CDS system that integrates national guidelines to provide comprehensive guidance to clinicians. Validation was performed in several iterations by comparing recommendations generated by the system with those of clinicians for 333 patients. The CDS system extracted relevant patient information from the electronic health record and applied the guideline model with an overall accuracy of 87%. Providers without CDS assistance needed an average of 1 minute 39 seconds to decide on recommendations for management of abnormal findings. Overall, our work demonstrates the feasibility and potential utility of automated recommendation system for cervical cancer screening and surveillance.
Climate Signals in the Mid- to High-Latitude North Atlantic from Altimeter Observations

AbstractThe variability of the sea surface height anomaly (SSHA) in the mid- to high-latitude North Atlantic for the period of 1993–2010 was investigated using the ensemble empirical mode decomposition to identify the dominant time scales. Sea level variations in the North Atlantic subpolar gyre (SPG) are dominated by the annual cycle and the long-term increasing trend. In comparison, the SSHA along the Gulf Stream (GS) is dominated by variability at intraseasonal and annual time scales. Moreover, the sea level rise in the SPG developed at a reduced rate in the 2000s compared to rates in the 1990s, which was accompanied by a rebound in SSHA variability following a period of lower variability in the system. These changes in both apparent trend and low-frequency SSHA oscillations reveal the importance of low-frequency variability in the SPG. To identify the possible contributing factors for these changes, the heat content balance (equivalent variations in the sea level) in the subpolar region was examined. ...
In-situ measurement of dissolved H2 in aqueous fluid at elevated temperatures and pressures

Abstract In-situ measurement of Hz in aqueous fluid under hydrothermal conditions has long been a major concern in experimental geochemistry owing to the important role of H 2 in a wide range of homogenous and heterogeneous equilibria. Although numerous efforts have been made, an effective and reliable H 2 sensor for geochemical applications is lacking, especially one suitable for measurement at supercritical conditions of water. In this paper, we discuss a sensor which was developed for in-situ measurement of dissolved H 2 in aqueous fluid at temperatures and pressures greater than previously possible. In general, the H 2 sensor consists of two electrodes and a Hg/HgO internal reference element: a platinum electrode and a yttrium-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) membrane electrode. The electrochemical cell can be depicted as follows: Pt|H 2 , H + , H 2 O|ZrO 2 (Y 2 O 3 )| HgO|Hg. A titanium flow reactor was used to test and calibrate sensor response and sensitivity. Dissolved H 2 concentration and the rate of fluid flowing through the reactor were controlled by a modified HPLC pump and computer system, respectively. Dissolved H 2 concentrations of fluid leaving the reactor were determined by GC analysis. ΔE YH of the fluid in the reactor was, at the same time, monitored and recorded by an electrometer with high input impedance. The experiments were performed at 400 bars, and temperatures up to 400°C. Results revealed good Nemstain response, even for unusually low dissolved H 2 concentrations. Thus, at 400°C and 400 bars, the following calibration line was obtained: Δ E YH (V) = 0.972 + 0.054 log m H 2 (M/kg) ( r = 0.9974, N = 9), where mH 2 ranged from 0.096 to 5.75 mM/kg. The experiments also demonstrated excellent stability of the sensor during the month-long operation. The high temperature H 2 sensor may have important applications for field monitoring dissolved H 2 in mid-ocean ridge vent fluids. It is also ideally suited for direct determination of redox state in hydrothermal experiments at a wide range of conditions.
The year in review: recent advances in musculoskeletal science

The medical literature is huge and continuously growing. A substantial effort is required to keep abreast of publications in a single field. For those whose interest is in the musculoskeletal system, material of interest may be found in publications related to many different specialties, as well as in general medicine and science (Table 1). Therefore, we thought it would be of interest to summarize some of the articles that have appeared recently in a wide range of publications. We considered all articles from the 22 journals in the table for the years 2007–2008 to identify those papers that we believe likely to be the most influential. This list is subjective and incomplete, but perhaps, it will serve as a stimulus for further exploration.
Engine control using cylinder pressure : past, present, and future

Research into the use of cylinder pressure measurements from reciprocating internal combustion engines for real time automotive engine control has been investigated for the last 20 years. The measurement has been investigated for spark liming, fuel-air ratio control, charge temperature measurements, and misfire detection. The cost of the sensors has inhibited widespread use in production vehicles; however, it was introduced in domestic Japanese production for spark control five years ago. Its use for misfire detection is also being actively considered
59: Timing of prophylactic antibiotics and the rate of post-cesarean surgical site infections

SURGICAL SITE INFECTIONS ANJALI KAIMAL, MARYA ZLATNIK, YVONNE CHENG, MARI-PAULE THIET, ELSPETH CONNATTY, AARON CAUGHEY, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of the timing of antibiotic prophylaxis on the rates of post-cesarean surgical site infections (SSI). Our hypothesis was that administration of antibiotics prior to the skin incision, rather than after cord clamp, would decrease post-operative surgical site infections. STUDY DESIGN: This is a retrospective cohort study of 2,798 term, singleton cesarean deliveries at a single institution. In an effort to decrease SSI, a policy change was instituted in June 2006 wherein prophylactic antibiotics were given prior to skin incision rather than after cord clamp. The primary outcome examined was having an SSI. Secondary outcomes included rates of deep SSI (endometritis) and superficial SSI (cellulitis). Potential confounders were controlled for using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: The overall rate of SSI fell from 6.1% to 2.5% (p 0.001) after the change in policy. When controlling for potential confounders, there was a decline in overall SSI with an aOR of 0.4 (95% CI 0.2 – 0.7), as well as a decrease in endometritis (aOR 0.5; 95% CI 0.2 – 0.9) and cellulitis (aOR 0.2; 95% CI 0.05 – 0.95).
Thyroid receptor β involvement in the effects of acute nicotine on hippocampus-dependent memory

Cigarette smoking is common despite adverse health effects. Nicotine's effects on learning may contribute to addiction by enhancing drug-context associations. Effects of nicotine on learning could be direct or could occur by altering systems that modulate cognition. Because thyroid signaling can alter cognition and nicotine/smoking may change thyroid function, nicotine could affect learning through changes in thyroid signaling. These studies investigate the functional contributions of thyroid receptor (TR) subtypes β and α1 to nicotine-enhanced learning and characterize the effects of acute nicotine and learning on thyroid hormone levels. We conducted a high throughput screen of transcription factor activity to identify novel targets that may contribute to the effects of nicotine on learning. Based on these results, which showed that combined nicotine and learning uniquely acted to increase TR activation, we identified TRs as potential targets of nicotine. Further analyses were conducted to determine the individual and combined effects of nicotine and learning on thyroid hormone levels, but no changes were seen. Next, to determine the role of TRβ and TRα1 in the effects of nicotine on learning, mice lacking the TRβ or TRα1 gene and wildtype littermates were administered acute nicotine prior to fear conditioning. Nicotine enhanced contextual fear conditioning in TRα1 knockout mice and wildtypes from both lines but TRβ knockout mice did not show nicotine-enhanced learning. This finding supports involvement of TRβ signaling in the effect of acute nicotine on hippocampus-dependent memory. Acute nicotine enhances learning and these effects may involve processes regulated by the transcription factor TRβ.
Septic endarteritis due to intra-arterial catheters for cancer chemotherapy. I. Evaluation of an outbreak. II. Risk factors, clinical features and management, III. Guidelines for prevention.

A cluster of three cases of staphylococcal septic endarteritis originating from percutaneously inserted brachial artery catheters for regional cancer chemotherapy prompted an epidemiologic and clinical study of bacteremic infections associated with this therapeutic modality. Nine cases were identified over a 3 1/2-year period (1.6% of all catheterizations), all caused by Staphylococcus aureus. The cluster followed discontinuation of hexachlorophene for scrub of the extremity prior to cannulation; phage-typing suggested the three cases were caused by the patients' own strains of Staphylococcus. These infections produced a distinctive clinical syndrome which facilitates implicating the catheter in the genesis of fever occurring in a patient receiving intra-arterial chemotherapy: early localized pain (89%) and hemorrhage (78%), and Osler's nodes distally (44%), later followed by local inflammation (78%), purulence (56%) and signs of systemic sepsis (100%) (each factor, p less than or equal to .005). Duration of cannulation did not influence susceptibility to infection. However, difficult cannulations or need for repositioning the catheter (p = .0096), prior radiation therapy (p = .033), leukopenia (p less than .05) and hypoalbuminemia (p less than .05) were all associated with septicemia. In the 25 months since implementation of specific control measures, there have been no further catheter-related septicemia in 310 catheterization (p less than .001). Guide-lines for prevention and management of these infections are provided.
Laparoscopic versus open cytoreductive nephrectomy in advanced renal-cell carcinoma.

Background and Purpose: There is growing evidence of the benefit of cytoreductive nephrectomy prior to immunotherapy in patients with advanced renal-cell carcinoma (RCC). We compared the outcomes of patients with metastatic RCC undergoing laparoscopic and open cytoreductive nephrectomy prior to systemic therapy. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 27 patients undergoing cytoreductive nephrectomy for metastatic RCC between 2000 and 2004, 16 laparoscopically and 11 by an open approach. Patients with inferior vena-caval tumor thrombus were excluded from analysis. The two groups were comparable with regard to tumor size, clinical stage, and performance status. Surgical, pathologic, and perioperative characteristics and outcomes were compared. Results: The laparoscopic technique was associated with reduced blood loss (149 v 1135 mL; P = 0.03), transfusion rate and quantity (13% v 55%; P = 0.03; 0.13 v 2.0 units of packed red blood cells; P = 0.007), shorter time to oral intake (1.2 v 2.7 days; P ...
Bench Models for Assessing the Mechanics of Mitral Valve Repair and Percutaneous Surgery

Rapid preclinical evaluations of mitral valve (MV) mechanics are currently best facilitated by bench models of the left ventricle (LV). This review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of these models to aid interpretation of their resulting data, inform future experimental evaluations, and further the translation of results to procedure and device development. For this review, two types of experimental bench models were evaluated. Rigid LV models were characterized as fluid-mechanical systems capable of testing explanted MVs under static and or pulsatile left heart hemodynamics. Passive LV models were characterized as explanted hearts whose left side is placed in series with a static or pulsatile flow-loop. In both systems, MV function and mechanics can be quantitatively evaluated. Rigid and passive LV models were characterized and evaluated. The materials and methods involved in their construction, function, quantitative capabilities, and disease modeling were described. The advantages and disadvantages of each model are compared to aid the interpretation of their resulting data and inform future experimental evaluations. Repair and percutaneous studies completed in these models were additionally summarized with perspective on future advances discussed. Bench models of the LV provide excellent platforms for quantifying MV repair mechanics and function. While exceptional work has been reported, more research and development is necessary to improve techniques and devices for repair and percutaneous surgery. Continuing efforts in this field will significantly contribute to the further development of procedures and devices, predictions of long-term performance, and patient safety.
Biofeedback training in frontalis muscle relaxation and enhancement of belief in personal control

The hypothesis that biofeedback training in frontalis muscle relaxation increases beliefs in internal (personal) locus of control was tested. Subjects were divided into two groups (internals and externals) based on Mirels' (1970) factor analyzedpersonal control subscale of Rotter's (1966) I-E Scale. Internal and external subjects were assigned randomly to one of three conditions: biofeedback (BF), false feedback (FF), or no feedback (NF). All subjects were measured on frontalis electromyographic (EMG) activity. Training consisted of three sessions spaced 1 week apart. Each session was comprised of a 5-minute baseline (nonfeedback) trial followed by a 20-minute experimental session. After each experimental session, subjects completed a questionnaire which assessed the extent to which they attributed their EMG performance to personal and environmental sources. After three sessions, subjects were posttested on the I-E Scale. Results indicated that subjects receiving BF reduced their EMG activity more than did subjects in either the FF or NF conditions, and this effect was maintained across all three sessions. Subjects who received BF shifted toward internal personal locus of control from pre- to posttesting, whereas no such change was found for either FF or NF subjects. Also, the relationship between BF training and change in personal locus of control was mediated by subjects attributing their EMG reduction more to personal effort than to properties of the task. Results are discussed in terms of the importance of contingent feedback as a determinant of cognitions of control.
Flow cytometric detection and quantification of mycobacteria in metalworking fluids

Abstract Mycobacteria are relevant target microorganisms in metalworking fluids (MWFs), owing to their recent recovery from industrial systems and their potential implication in respiratory illness. Whereas a number of detection technologies are available to monitor microbial contamination in MWF, no methods have been developed for the detection of mycobacteria in these matrices. We report here a novel method for detecting Mycobacterium parafortuitum in a semi-synthetic MWF with nonspecific nucleic acid dyes using flow cytometry (FCM). Following disaggregation of bacteria through (probe) sonication, the emulsion was destabilized using isopropanol (IPA) to minimize the nonspecific binding of the fluorescent dye to MWF components. The quantitative results show good correlation with direct counts using epifluorescent microscopy (EFM) within the range of 2.31×104 to 2.31×10 7 cells ml −1 . The time required to complete FCM and EFM enumeration was 10 and 300 s sample −1 , respectively. These results lend support to the applicability of FCM, a multiparametric data acquisition technique, for microbial detection in these complex fluids.
A universal torque wrench system.

aAssociate Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Nevada Las Vegas. bProfessor, Restorative and Prosthetic Dentistry, College of Dentistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. (J Prosthet Dent 2012;108:401-403) 1 Instrument kit with available inserts, from left to right: 0.050in. hexagon straight (Zimmer part # HX1.25D), 0.048-in. 24 mmL hex (Biomet 3i part # RASH3N), 0.048-in. 30 mmL (Biomet 3i part # RASH8N), 6-point star 20 mmL (Straumann part # 046.410), 6-point star 26mmL (Straumann part # 046.411), unigrip star 20 mmL (NobelBiocare part # 29151), unigrip star 25 mmL (NobelBiocare part # 29152), 4-lobe star 22 mL (Thommen part # 3.03.501), locator (Biomet 3i part # LOADT4), 0.035-in. hexagon 24 mmL (Biomet 3i part # RASH2N). Legend: ZI = Zimmer Dental, AST = AstraTech, 3i = Biomet 3i, STR = Straumann, NB = NobelBiocare, THM = Thommen, LOC = Locator. Dental implant manufacturers supply various forms of torque limiting devices for use with implant restorations. A clinician may use these instruments to ensure adequate torque delivery with appropriate precision.1-4 Throughout the early period of dental implant prosthetics, screw loosening was a major complication,4-8 but a later study found that while screw loosening remained a potential prosthetic complication, it was less common than the early studies suggested.9 Nevertheless, inadequate tightening with insufficient torque has been cited as a possible reason for screw loosening.10 Two major categories of torque limiting devices for use in implant dentistry are available: friction-style and spring-style. Friction-style devices are hexagon wrenches with a handle that releases when a desired torque value is reached. Spring-style devices have torque levels marked on an incremental scale, and the operator applies a force on the spring until the appropriate torque level is reached. Spring-style devices have been reported to be significantly more accurate than friction-style devices.11 Spring-style torque limiting devices have been adapted to multiple implant systems,12 which has simplified dental implant prosthetics. The technique, however, had limited torque control because of the lack of an incremental scale, allowing the operator to deliver torque values other than the preset 0, 15, and 35 Ncm. Since 1999 when this technique was published,12 substantial changes in implant systems have occurred and updates to the technique are indicated. The purpose of this article is to describe a universal implant torque kit that would allow an operator to provide precise torque values to implant components from various dental implant manufacturers. PROCEDURE