cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Calmodulin antagonists differentially affect capacitation-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation of mouse sperm components

Sperm capacitation in vitro is thought to be correlated with the increased protein tyrosine phosphorylation of a subset of sperm components. Our group recently used a pharmacological approach to demonstrate that calmodulin (CaM), a 17 kDa calcium sensor protein, has a role in sperm capacitation. In the present study, we have used several CaM antagonists in an attempt to characterize further the role of CaM in capacitation-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm components. Our data demonstrate, first, that mouse spermatozoa incubated in a medium that favors capacitation undergo increased protein tyrosine phosphorylation in a time-dependent manner. Second, inclusion of six CaM antagonists individually in an in vitro incubation medium prevented sperm capacitation, as demonstrated by their diminished ability to undergo agonist-induced acrosome reaction. Third, half of the CaM antagonists (compound 48/80, W13 and CaM-binding domain) had no effect on protein tyrosine phosphorylation or sperm motility. Fourth, by contrast, three CaM antagonists (W7, ophiobolin A and calmidazolium) significantly inhibited protein tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm components (42, 56, 66, 82 and 95 kDa) and adversely affected their motility without altering viability as assessed by propidium iodine staining. Finally, inclusion of purified CaM in the capacitation medium significantly increased tyrosine phosphorylation of 82 kDa and 95 kDa components. Combined, these data suggest that CaM antagonists prevent capacitation by interfering with multiple regulatory pathways, and do so either with or without adverse effects on sperm motility and protein tyrosine phosphorylation.
Electrochemical Chromatographic Determinations of Morphine Antagonists in Biological Fluids, with Applications

The morphine antagonists naltrexone and naloxone were extracted from plasma and urine, separated on a chromatographic column, and assayed by electrochemical detection. Optimum oxidation potentials were 0.65 V for morphine and 0.75 V for naloxone and naltrexone. Assay sensitivities were 2–5 ng/mL for plasma and 10 ng/mL for urine. The assays were applied to determine red blood cell partition coefficients of 1.83 ± 0.15 (SD) for naltrexone and 1.49 ± 0.27 (SD) for naloxone in a concentration range of 10-3500 ng/mL. No significant time dependence for the partitioning could be observed. Plasma protein binding in the same concentration range, determined by ultracentrifugation, was 27.7% ± 2.5% (SD) for naltrexone and 30.1% ± 5.1% (SD) for naloxone. The degree of protein binding did not change in the presence of morphine for morphine-antagonist ratios between 1:10 and 10:1. No concentration dependencies of red blood cell partitioning or protein binding were observed.
A non-expert-user interface for posing signing avatars

We describe a graphical user interface designed to allow non-expert users to pose 3D characters to create American Sign Language (ASL) computer animation. The interface is an important component of a software system that allows educators of the Deaf to add sign language translation, in the form of 3D character animations, to digital learning materials, thus making them accessible to deaf learners. A study indicates that users with no computer animation expertize can create animated ASL signs quickly and accurately.
Effects of Physician Supply on Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Background: There are few studies examining the effects of physician supply on health-related out­ comes. We hypothesized that increasing physician supply and, in particular, increasing primary care supply would be related to earlier detection of breast cancer. Methods: Information on incident cases of breast cancer occurring in Florida in 1994 (n = 11,740) was collected from the state cancer registry. Measures of physician supply were obtained from the 1994 AMA Physician Masterfile. The effects of physician supply on the odds of late-stage diagnosis were exam­ ined using multiple logistic regression. Results: There was no relation between overall physician supply and stage of breast cancer of diag­ nosis. Each 10th percentile increase in primary care physician supply, however, resulted in a 4% in­ crease in the odds of early-stage diagnosis (adjusted odds ratio = 1.04,95% confidence interval = 1.01-1.06). Conclusions: The supply of primary care physicians was significandy associated with earlier stage of breast cancer at diagnosis. This study suggests that an appropriate balance of primary care and spe­ cialty physician supply might be an important predictor of health outcomes. (J Am Board Fam Pract 2000;13:408-14.) Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer mortality in women in the United States. In 1999 there were 176,300 estimated new cases of breast cancer and 43,700 deaths from breast cancer in the United States. 1 The 5-year survival rate is 97% for patients with local stage, but decreases to 78% for regional spread, and 22% for distant disease. 2 Later stage at diagnosis for breast cancer has been previ­ ously shown to be associated with certain patient characteristics, such as postmenopausal age, 3 African­ American race/-5 low education/ being unmar­
Alanine Scanning of Arp1 Delineates a Putative Binding Site for Jnm1/Dynamitin and Nip100/p150Glued

Arp1p is the only actin-related protein (ARP) known to form actin-like filaments. Unlike actin, Arp1p functions with microtubules, as part of the dynein regulator, dynactin. Arplp's dissimilar functions imply interactionswith a distinct set of proteins. To distinguish surface features relating to Arplp's core functions and to identify the footprint of protein interactions essential for dynactin function, we performed the first complete charge-cluster-to-alanine scanning mutagenesis of an ARP and compared the results with a similar study of actin. The Arp1p mutations revealed three nonoverlapping surfaces with distinct genetic properties. One of these surfaces encompassed a region unique to Arp1p that is crucial for Jnm1p (dynamitin/p50) and NiplOOp (p150 G l u e d ) association as well as pointed-end associations. Unlike the actin mutations, none of the ARP1 alleles disrupt filament formation; however, one pointed-end allele delayed the elution of Arp1p on gel filtration, consistent with loss of additional subunits.
Imaging Properties Of A Delay Line Readoul Using Large Microchannel Plates

Measurements made on the readout of large microchannel plates (MCPs) with crossed delay line anodes are reported. Two chevron pairs of MCPs were used: a 127-mm-diameter circular pair and a 100-mm*100-mm square pair. The modal gain varied over the surface of the MCPs by as much as a factor of three, both before and after extensive UV scrubbing. Attempts to decrease the variations in gain by further full flood scrubbing and by spot scrubbing the high-gain areas were unsuccessful. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the charge distributions was 100% before the scrubbing and improved to 45% afterwards. Characteristic deviations from spatial linearity for the delay line anode are presented. For positions within a diameter of 120 mm, the deviations from linearity were less than +or-150 mu m. For MCP gains greater than 3*10/sup 6/, the FWHM spatial resolution was measured. The resolution at the center at the MCPs was 54 mu m, while at the edge (57 mm from the center) it was 64 mu m. >
Life-Cycle Assessment of Biodiesel Produced from Grease Trap Waste.

Grease trap waste (GTW) is a low-quality waste material with variable lipid content that is an untapped resource for producing biodiesel. Compared to conventional biodiesel feedstocks, GTW requires different and additional processing steps for biodiesel production due to its heterogeneous composition, high acidity, and high sulfur content. Life-cycle assessment (LCA) is used to quantify greenhouse gas emissions, fossil energy demand, and criteria air pollutant emissions for the GTW-biodiesel process, in which the sensitivity to lipid concentration in GTW is analyzed using Monte Carlo simulation. The life-cycle environmental performance of GTW-biodiesel is compared to that of current GTW disposal, the soybean-biodiesel process, and low-sulfur diesel (LSD). The disposal of the water and solid wastes produced from separating lipids from GTW has a high contribution to the environmental impacts; however, the impacts of these processed wastes are part of the current disposal practice for GTW and could be exclud...
ESTIMATING AND CORRECTING FOR CONFOUNDER MISCLASSIFICATION

Confounder misclassification is as pervasive a problem in epidemiologic studies as misclassification of the primary exposure variables. Adjustment using imperfectly classified confounders has been shown to remove only part of the confounding effect of that variable, most important when studying an exposure postulated to have a modest effect in the presence of a strong confounder. The Per Cent Adjustment (amount of confounding bias removed using the misclassified measure relative to the total confounding bias present) is derived for several case-control scenarios, and is found to have a stable relation to the sensitivity and specificity of confounder classification. Figures are provided for estimation of the completely adjusted odds ratio given the results from the misclassified proxy and an estimate of the extent of misclassification. This offers a method for quantitative assessment of the impact of residual confounding that results from confounder misclassification, illustrated with studies of coffee consumption and bladder cancer in the presence of confounding by cigarette smoking.
NetDecoder: a network biology platform that decodes context-specific biological networks and gene activities

The sequential chain of interactions altering the binary state of a biomolecule represents the 'information flow' within a cellular network that determines phenotypic properties. Given the lack of computational tools to dissect context-dependent networks and gene activities, we developed NetDecoder, a network biology platform that models context-dependent information flows using pairwise phenotypic comparative analyses of protein-protein interactions. Using breast cancer, dyslipidemia and Alzheimer's disease as case studies, we demonstrate NetDecoder dissects subnetworks to identify key players significantly impacting cell behaviour specific to a given disease context. We further show genes residing in disease-specific subnetworks are enriched in disease-related signalling pathways and information flow profiles, which drive the resulting disease phenotypes. We also devise a novel scoring scheme to quantify key genes-network routers, which influence many genes, key targets, which are influenced by many genes, and high impact genes, which experience a significant change in regulation. We show the robustness of our results against parameter changes. Our network biology platform includes freely available source code (http://www.NetDecoder.org) for researchers to explore genome-wide context-dependent information flow profiles and key genes, given a set of genes of particular interest and transcriptome data. More importantly, NetDecoder will enable researchers to uncover context-dependent drug targets.
Physician impairment: is recovery feasible?

Background Physician impairment is a serious public health issue affecting not only physicians, but also their families, colleagues, and patients. Physician impairment is used most often to refer to substance use disorders, which involve both substance abuse and substance dependence and/or addiction. Objective This article aims to describe the problem of physician impairment within the context of substance use disorders. The concept of recovery and several strategies for effective recovery are explored. Discussion Experts now define impairment as an enduring condition that if left untreated is not amenable to remission and cure. In terms of functional capacity, impairment renders the physician unable to provide competent medical services, with serious flaws in professional judgment. Herein, we define the scope of the problem, consider several theories to explain the reason physicians may be prone to develop substance use disorders, discuss diagnosis and reporting, as well as treatment and prognosis, and identify several relapse prevention strategies. Conclusion Physician impairment is a real and significant public health concern; however, recovery is feasible and the data support favorable odds of recovery and a return to clinical practice among those seeking appropriate treatment, counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.
Antigen Degradation in Human Colon Ecosystems: Host’s ABO blood type influences enteric bacterial degradation of a cell surface antigen on Escherichia coli O86

Strains of human enteric bacteria produce enzymes that degrade the oligosaccharide moieties of gut mucin glycoproteins. To determine whether these bacterial enzymes also degrade related heteroglycan antigens on the cell walls of enteric bacteria we studied the ability of enzymes in fecal extracts and anaerobic fecal cultures to degrade a cell surface antigen on Escherichia coli O86. This antigen is structurally and immunologically similar to oligosaccharides containing human blood group B antigenic determinant α-D-(1-3)-galactopyranosyl moieties. Enzyme activity in fecal extracts and fecal cultures degraded the B-like antigen from the surface of E. coli O86, but degradation was slower than degradation of B antigen from salivary mucin glycoproteins, and the rate varied among individual subjects. One determinant of degradation rate was the host’s blood type. Fecal extracts and cultures from 4 of 6 blood group B secretors caused ≥ 94% loss of B-like antigen from the bacteria in 24 hr, but only 1 fecal extract and no fecal culture from 10 group A or O secretors degraded it this rapidly from the cells. A bacterial B-degrading α-galactosidase is probably responsible for loss of antigen from E. coli O86 during incubation with fecal extract since galactose was released concurrently from the cells and added galactose inhibited the loss. These results suggest that: (1) cell surface antigens on enteric bacteria may normally be degraded by bacterial enzymes in the human colon, and (2) bacterial enzyme adaptation to blood group antigens in the host’s gut mucins enhances degradation of similar structures on enteric bacteria.
Neurometabolic Profiling of Ketamine: Changes in Neurotransmitter Pools

Abstract The need for understanding the mechanisms of ketamine action in the brain has pushed research to measure the effect of ketamine on neurotransmitters. In fact, ketamine binds to a variety of receptors, but principally acts at the N-methyl- D -aspartate receptor (NMDAR) thus being responsible for NMDAR blockade and/or hypofunction. This hypofunction can explain connectional and oscillatory abnormalities considered as a consequence of a weakened excitation of inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acidergic interneurons that synchronize cortical networks and disinhibition of principal cells. The chapter reviews the studies that have investigated about the changes on the neurotransmitter pools until now to provide robust evidences of the most recent theory of the action of ketamine on human and animal brain.
Highly Processed and Ready-to-Eat Packaged Food and Beverage Purchases Differ by Race/Ethnicity among US Households

Background: Racial/ethnic disparities in dietary quality persist among Americans, but it is unclear whether highly processed foods or convenience foods contribute to these inequalities. Objective: We examined the independent associations of race/ethnicity with highly processed and ready-to-eat (RTE) food purchases among US households. We determined whether controlling for between-group differences in purchases of these products attenuated associations between race/ethnicity and the nutritional quality of purchases. Methods: The 2000–2012 Homescan Panel followed US households (n = 157,142) that scanned their consumer packaged goods (CPG) food and beverage purchases. By using repeated-measures regression models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, we examined time-varying associations of race/ethnicity with processed and convenience food purchases, expressed as a percentage of calories purchased. We estimated associations between race/ethnicity and saturated fat, sugar, or energy density of total purchases with and without adjustment for processed and convenience food purchases. Results: Compared with white households, black households had significantly lower purchases of highly processed foods (–4.1% kcal) and RTE convenience foods (–4.9% kcal) and had higher purchases of basic processed foods, particularly cooking oils and sugar (+5.4% kcal), foods requiring cooking/preparation (+4.5% kcal), and highly processed beverages (+7.1% kcal). Hispanics also had lower purchases of highly processed and RTE foods than whites. Blacks had CPG purchases with significantly higher median sugar (+2.2% kcal) and energy density (+72 kcal/1000 g), whereas Hispanics had purchases with lower saturated fat (–0.6% kcal) and energy density (–25 kcal/1000 g) than whites. Racial/ethnic differences remained significant after adjustment for processed and convenience food purchases. Conclusions: In our study, compared with white households, both black and Hispanic households had lower purchases of highly processed and RTE foods, yet had total CPG purchases with differing nutritional quality. Our findings suggest that highly processed convenience foods are associated with, but cannot fully explain, racial/ethnic disparities in the nutritional quality of CPG purchases.
Cross-layer MAC/PHY protocol to support IoT traffic in 5G: poster

With exponential growth of IoT devices [1], the 5G network will experience a variety of traffic patterns not prevalent in earlier applications. These, often will transmit short sporadic messages, which are not well suited to the connection-oriented modes associated with legacy 3GPP network resulting in high service latency and excessive control overhead. It is acknowledged that current 4G network could be overwhelmed by the surge in both traffic and control plane signaling load. For 5G, it is necessary to redesign the mobile network to provide a low delay, low control overhead IoT mode that will work efficiently for emerging application scenarios. The MAC layer has to be designed in such a way that IoT messages experience low access latency across both the radio access network and core network. The goal is to operate in the same band as current LTE, thus not requiring any separate bandwidth allocation and is backward compatible with the current 4G system. In this paper, we propose a cross-layer MAC and Physical layer solution for low power, low bitrate devices that require low access delay and long range for communication.
Multi-scale landscape and seascape patterns associated with marbled murrelet nesting areas on the U.S. west coast

Habitat for wide-ranging species should be addressed at multiple scales to fully understand factors that limit populations. The marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus), a threatened seabird, forages on the ocean and nests inland in large trees. We developed statistical relationships between murrelet use (occupancy and abundance) and habitat variables quantified across many spatial scales (statewide to local) and two time periods in California and southern Oregon, USA. We also addressed (1) if old-growth forest fragmentation was negatively associated with murrelet use, and (2) if some nesting areas are more important than others due to their proximity to high quality marine habitat. Most landscapes used for nesting were restricted to low elevation areas with frequent fog. Birds were most abundant in unfragmented old-growth forests located within a matrix of mature second-growth forest. Murrelets were less likely to occupy old-growth habitat if it was isolated (> 5 km) from other nesting murrelets. We found a time lag in response to fragmentation, where at least a few years were required before birds abandoned fragmented forests. Compared to landscapes with little tono murrelet use, landscapes with many murrelets were closer to the ocean's bays, river mouths, sandy shores, submarine canyons, and marine waters with consistently high primary productivity. Within local landscapes (≤ 800ha), inland factors limited bird abundance, but at the broadest landscape scale studied (3200 ha), proximity to marine habitat was most limiting. Management should focus on protecting or creating large, contiguous old-growth forest stands, especially in low-elevation areas near productive marine habitat.
A Tug-of-War Mechanism for Pattern Formation in a Genetic Network.

Synthesizing spatial patterns with genetic networks is an ongoing challenge in synthetic biology. A successful demonstration of pattern formation would imply a better understanding of systems in the natural world and advance applications in synthetic biology. In developmental systems, transient patterning may suffice in order to imprint instructions for long-term development. In this paper we show that transient but persistent patterns can emerge from a realizable synthetic gene network based on a toggle switch. We show that a bistable system incorporating diffusible molecules can generate patterns that resemble Turing patterns but are distinctly different in the underlying mechanism: diffusion of mutually inhibiting molecules creates a prolonged “tug-of-war” between patches of cells at opposing bistable states. The patterns are transient but longer wavelength patterns persist for extended periods of time. Analysis of a representative small scale model implies the eigenvalues of the persistent modes are j...
On the dynamic stability of a price dispersion model using gradient dynamics

Abstract This paper studies the evolutionary stability of a unique Nash equilibrium in a price dispersion model (Burdett and Judd, 1983) using gradient dynamics. The numerical solution to the partial differential equation that governs the evolution of prices shows that the stationary equilibrium is not a Nash Equilibrium and that it differs from the cyclical behavior predicted by another family of dynamics, such as replicator and logit, in a continuous action space.
Cobalt-Catalyzed Regioselective Hydroboration of Terminal Alkenes

Cobalt(II) catalysts based on flexible PNP or NNN ligands were explored for the regioselective hydroboration of alkenes. A known CoII–PNP pincer complex was found to efficiently catalyze alkene hydroboration with excellent anti-Markovnikov selectivity, whereas a newly synthesized dinuclear CoII–NNN complex was found to catalyze the hydroboration of a range of aromatic terminal alkenes with good Markovnikov selectivities (up to 98:2, b/l). This represents a rare example of Markovnikov selectivity in the hydroboration of alkenes using an inexpensive, flexible-ligand-supported dinuclear cobalt catalyst.
No Longer in Vogue? The Exploration of Motivations Underlying Millennials' Information Seeking Through Digital Fashion Media

Information seeking is a key component of the consumer decision making process in which consumers sift through information to enhance their knowledge and develop their attitudes towards a good or service before making a purchase decision. With increasing global digitalization, more millennial consumers are looking to digital fashion media (fashion blogs and relevant social media) for information seeking as opposed to traditional media (fashion magazines). This study explores the millennial consumers' psychological motivations to engage in information seeking through digital fashion media grounded by Functional Theory. In order to understand these motivations, six of focus group interviews were conducted with twenty four female consumers between the ages of 18 and 33. Following thematic analysis, six key motivations for information seeking through digital fashion media emerged: search autonomy, instant gratification, visual inspiration, authenticity, virtual storage and gratuitous information. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Embryo aneuploidy is not impacted by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor exposure.

Objective To study whether maternal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) has any influence on rates of blastocyst aneuploidy and/or in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle outcomes. Design Retrospective cohort analysis. Setting Private and academic IVF center. Patient(s) Patients who underwent IVF with preimplantation genetic treatment with trophectoderm biopsy (n = 4,355 cycles) and patients who underwent a single-embryo transfer (SET) between January-2012 and June-2017 (n = 2,132 cycles). Intervention(s) Comprehensive chromosome screening and euploid SET. Main Outcome Measure(s) Odds of embryo aneuploidy. Result(s) Of 19,464 embryos analyzed, 3.9% (n = 743) were exposed to a SSRI, and the remaining 96.1% (n = 18,721) were not. The embryo euploid rate was 52.1%, and the aneuploid rate was 42.5%; 5.4% of the reports were inconclusive. No differences were found in clinical and IVF characteristics among the cohorts. After controlling for cofounders, there was no statistically significant associations between exposure to SSRIs and the odds of aneuploidy (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.04–0.09). In a subanalysis including 2,132 thawed SET cycles, no differences were observed in implantation rate (71.3% vs. 70.1%; OR 0.60; 95% CI, 0.60–1.47), clinical pregnancy rate (58.2% vs. 59.7%; OR 0.70; 95% CI, 0.70–1.61), loss rate (18.5% vs. 11.49%; OR 1.54; 95% CI, 0.94–2.54), or multiple pregnancy rate (0.6% vs. 0; OR 0.7; 95% CI, 0.02–7.32) between cohorts. Conclusion(s) Patients exposed to SSRIs in vivo are not susceptible to an increased rate of embryo aneuploidy in IVF. The IVF outcomes of patients exposed to SSRIs do not differ from those of unexposed patients.
Efficacy of ipronidazole against trichomoniasis in beef bulls

Preputial smegma samples from 195 beef bulls were collected repeatedly and cultured for Tritrichomonas foetus. Seventy-five (38.5%) of these bulls were positive for trichomonads on at least 1 culture. Sensitivity of the culture procedure (number of positive cultures/number of total cultures from known-positive bulls) was 81.6%. Storage of preputial smegma in lactated Ringer's solution at 5 C for 24 hours resulted in a 14% loss of sensitivity. Seventy-three of the 75 infected bulls were available for treatment and were alloted randomly to 2 groups. Bulls in both groups were treated with procaine penicillin (7,000 IU/kg, IM) for 2 days before ipronidazole treatment. Thirty grams of ipronidazole powder was dissolved in 60 ml of sterile water, and was given IM to group 1 bulls. Group 2 bulls were given a similar 30-g ipronidazole solution IM on day 1, and were given 15 g of ipronidazole dissolved in 30 ml of sterile water on days 2 and 3. Efficacy of treatment (ie, negative cultures of preputial smegma for trichomonads for 6 consecutive weeks after treatment) was 92.8% for the 42 bulls treated once and 100% for the 31 bulls treated 3 times.
Hydrocephalus in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: National Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes in 124,444 Hospitalized Patients.

Abstract Background Hydrocephalus is a life-threatening sequela of traumatic brain injury (TBI) with poorly defined epidemiology in children. Here, we report the national incidence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with post-traumatic hydrocephalus (PTH). Methods The Kids Inpatient Database (2003, 2006, 2009, 2012) was queried using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Edition, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes to identify all patients (age 0 to 20) with TBI (850.xx to 854.xx) and noncongenital hydrocephalus (331.3 to 331.5, exclude 742.3). Variables included patient demographics and comorbidities, TBI severity (level of consciousness, injury type), treatment, and outcome-related measures. Risk factors associated with PTH were identified using univariate and multivariable analyses. Results PTH occurred in 1265 of 124,444 patients (1.0%) hospitalized with TBI and was managed by ventriculoperitoneal shunt (32.7%) and extraventricular drain (10.7%). PTH had the highest rate in shaken baby syndrome (6.7%, n = 19) and firearm injury (3.4%, n = 74). PTH varied by type of TBI: subdural hematoma (2.4%), subarachnoid hemorrhage (1.4%), epidural hematoma (1.0%), cerebral laceration (0.9%), concussion (0.2%). Multivariable risk factors for PTH included age zero to five years old (versus six to 20), Medicaid (versus private), electrolyte disorder, chronic neurological condition, weight loss, subarachnoid hemorrhage, subdural hematoma, open wound, postoperative neurological complication (iatrogenic stroke), and septicemia (P Conclusions PTH in children is relatively uncommon compared with adults. Risk factors identified here, along with the influence of surgical intervention, warrant further investigation.
Detection and classification of stochastic features using a multi-Bayesian approach

This paper introduces a multi-Bayesian framework for detection and classification of features in environments abundant with error-inducing noise. This approach takes advantage of Bayesian correction and classification in three distinct stages. The corrective scheme described here extracts useful but highly stochastic features from a data source, whether vision-based or otherwise, to aid in higher-level classification. Unlike conventional methods, these features' uncertainties are characterized so that test data can be correctively cast into the feature space with probability distribution functions that can be integrated over class decision boundaries created by a quadratic Bayesian classifier. The proposed approach is specifically formulated for road crack detection and characterization, which is one of the potential applications. For test images assessed with this technique, ground truth was estimated accurately and consistently with effective Bayesian correction, showing a 25% improvement in recall rate over standard classification. Application to road cracks demonstrated successful detection and classification in a practical domain. The proposed approach is extremely effective in characterizing highly probabilistic features in noisy environments when several correlated observations are available either from multiple sensors or from data sequentially obtained by a single sensor.
Process Integration Using Block Superstructure

We propose a general mathematical model for various process integration problems, involving mass integration, heat integration, simultaneous mass and heat integration, and property integration. The process units, including regenerators/interceptors, mixers, and splitters are represented using blocks. The blocks are arranged in a two-dimensional grid, and the arrangement of these blocks gives rise to various process integration networks. The existence of connecting streams between adjacent blocks and jump flows among all blocks enables the necessary interaction between different blocks via material and energy flows. The size of the block superstructure is determined by the number of layers with mixing operations, process units, product streams, and heat integration stages. The general process integration model is formulated as a mixed-integer nonlinear optimization (MINLP) problem with the minimization of total annual cost as the objective. We demonstrate our approach using four case studies from the proce...
Deletion of the Neurotrophin Receptor p75NTR Prevents Diabetes-Induced Retinal Acellular Capillaries in Streptozotocin-Induced Mouse Diabetic Model

Diabetic retinopathy is characterized by early stage of retinal neuro-inflammation that triggers development of acellular capillaries and a late stage of pathological neovascularization. Due to limited treatment options, there is a pressing need to develop new therapeutics. Our group discovered that diabetes-impaired processing of the nerve growth factor precursor (proNGF) resulting in its accumulation and its receptor p75NTR. Here, we examine the protective effects of modulating p75NTR in experimental model of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin in both wild type (WT) and p75NTR knockout (p75KO) mice. Retinal inflammation and microvascular dysfunction were assessed. Western blot analysis was performed to assess expression of apoptotic and inflammatory markers and levels of the neurotrophin, p75NTR and ephrin-B2. Deletion of p75NTR did not alter body weight or diabetes status compared to WT mice. In WT-mice, diabetes triggered retinal inflammation, significant decrease in pericyte count and marked increase in development of occluded (acellular) capillary formation after 24-weeks. Deletion of p75NTR prevented acellular capillary, restored pericyte count, and inhibited the retinal Ephrin-B2, activation of the stress-kinase JNK and apoptotic marker cleaved caspase-3 in the diabetic retina. Deletion of p75NTR reduced retinal inflammation, and proNGF expression. These effects coincided with increased NGF level and TrkA activation in the diabetic retina. Targeting p75NTR using genetic approach protected the retina from the impact of long-term diabetes in mediating microvascular degeneration and maintains the balance of NGF/proNGF level. Together, these results provide rationale that targeting p75NTR may offer novel and effective therapeutic strategy to combat diabetic retinopathy.
Popliteal Venous Aneurysm

Venous aneurysms are extremely rare and can have devastating consequences such as pulmonary embolism and death. We are reporting a case in which a patient who had two episodes of pulmonary embolism...
Fine structure of rat corneal vessels in advanced stages of wound healing: I. Permeability to intravenously injected thorium dioxide

Abstract The permeability of corneal blood vessels in advanced stages of wound healing in the Sprague-Dawley rat after intravenous injection of Thorotrast has been studied using the electron microscope. The mature corneal vessels show remarkably little leakage of thorium dioxide, in contrast to the marked leakage observed in structurally similar vessels of the limbus of the eye and the skin of the paw. These findings emphasize the differences in susceptibility of various tissues to inflammation.
Sleep Habits and Insomnia in a Sample of Elderly Persons in China

Study objectives To examine sleep habits, insomnia, and hypnotic use in the elderly in China. Design and setting A cross-sectional survey in 5 cities of Shandong, mainland China in 1997. Participants Among 1,820 individuals aged 65 and older who were sampled, 1,679 (92.2%) were interviewed at home, including 770 men and 909 women. Measurements Asleep and demographic questionnaire that included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used for interviews. Results Average bedtime of participants was 9:18 PM (SD = 2.2 hours), and morning rise time was 5:42 AM (SD = 1.0 hour). Reported night sleep duration was 7.1 hours (SD = 1.6) without age and sex differences. Regular napping was more common in men than in women (44.2% vs 28.0%). Of the sample, 32.9% reported frequent insomnia symptoms, and 8.9% had insomnia symptoms with daytime consequences. Multivariate analysis indicated that age 75 years and older (odds ratio = 2.0), female sex (odds ratio = 1.4), unmarried status (odds ratio = 1.7), frequent napping (odds ratio = 1.5), and poor perceived health (odds ratio, = 2.1) were associated with elevated risks for insomnia. Hypnotic use during the past month was reported by 6.5% of the sample; women were 2 times as likely as men to use hypnotics. Conclusion Sleep patterns in Chinese elderly may be characterized by going to bed early and waking up early. Insomnia symptoms are as common among Chinese as among Western elderly. Further study is warranted to examine the association between insomnia and aging per se in Chinese elderly.
NMR-Based Metabolomics

Metabolomics is a relatively new and emerging field of the omics research compared to other well-established platforms (genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics) and is rapidly growing as evidenced by the increasing number of publications in this field (Fig. 9.1). It studies the global profiles of metabolites in a biological system (cell, tissue, or organism) under a given set of conditions (Goodacre et al. 2004). Arguably, its history can be traced back to ancient times (1500–2000 bc) when traditional Chinese doctors used ants to detect high concentrations of glucose in patient’s urine for diagnosing diabetes (Van der Greef and Smilde 2005). The concept that individuals might have different “metabolic patterns” that can be detected in their biological fluids was first introduced by Roger Williams in the late 1940s (Williams 1956; Gates and Sweeley 1978). Since then, several terms (or definitions) have been proposed to describe the field of metabolomics. “Metabolic profile” was introduced by Horning and Horning (1971) to describe the quantitative measurement of metabolite concentrations in urine. “Metabolome” was proposed by Oliver et al. (1998) as referring to the complete set of small-molecule (<1 kDa) endogenous metabolites in an organism, and “metabonomics” by Nicholson et al. as “the quantitative measurement of the dynamic multiparametric response to living systems to pathophysiological stimuli or genetic modification” (Nicholson et al. 1999). Fiehn subsequently extended “metabolome” terminology to metabolomics as the comprehensive and quantitative analysis of all metabolites of an organism (Fiehn 2001). Although these terms are frequently used interchangeably, there is a growing consensus that the field is named as metabolomics, as reflected by the establishment of the Metabolomics Society (an international society) in 2004 and its official journal Metabolomics in 2005.
Clinical Features of Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Neue kontrollierte Studien haben gezeigt, das die Fibromyalgie ein genau umschriebenes Syndrom ist, das durch diffuse Schmerzen in der Skelettmuskulatur sowie Schmerzempfindlichkeit an typischen Stellen (schmerzhaften Druckpunkten) gekennzeichnet ist. Die meisten Patienten sind Frauen im Alter von 20 bis 60 Jahren. Sie beklagen sich nicht nur uber generalisierte Schmerzen und Steifigkeit, sondern oft auch uber Schwellungen in den Gelenken oder in gelenknahen Zonen, ohne das eine Synovitis nachweisbar ware. Die Schmerzen nehmen haufig bei kaltem oder feuchtem Wetter, bei Schlafstorungen, Stres, Inaktivitat wie auch ubermasiger Aktivitat zu. Oft treten auch weitere Symptome auf wie Ermudung, Parasthesien, Kopfschmerzen und Darmreizungen. Gewisse Patienten sind angstlich und depressiv, jedoch sind psychische Faktoren fur das Gesamtbild der Fibromyalgie, die keine psychische Erkrankung darstellt, nicht bestimmend. Bei der korperlichen Untersuchung ergeben sich zahlreiche schmerzhafte Druckpunkte. Diese zeigen in Blindstudien eine zuverlassig hohe Ubereinstimmung sowohl bei ein und demselben Untersucher als auch zwischen verschiedenen Untersuchern. Die ubrigen Untersuchungsresultate sind normal mit Ausnahme von Begleiterscheinungen wie Arthrosen bei alteren Patienten. Die ublichen Labortests, darunter Blutsenkung und Muskelenzymbestimmungen, ergeben ebenfalls normale Befunde. Indessen zeigte sich bei EEG-Aufzeichnungen im Schlaf eine Beeinflussung der Deltawellen durch Alphawellen auserhalb der REM-Phase.
Treatment of Combined Tibial Plateau and Shaft Fractures

Separate ipsilateral tibial plateau and shaft fractures are rare and complicated injuries. They are associated with high energy mechanisms and may present with significant soft tissue as well as life threatening nonorthopaedic trauma. Meticulous preoperative planning is essential when determining the appropriate fixation construct. Utilization of a single locking plate in a minimally-invasive fashion is a common fixation option. Unfortunately, this fixation method is technically demanding and may not provide the optimal biomechanical environment needed for healing of the plateau and/or shaft fracture leading to nonunion and possible hardware failure. This paper describes fixation techniques for ipsilateral tibial plateau and shaft fractures that combine suprapatellar intramedullary nailing of the shaft with separate plate fixation of the tibial plateau. While also technically demanding, with close attention to preoperative planning, these techniques allow for fracture specific fixation of both the tibial plateau and shaft. In doing so, the ideal implant for each fracture is utilized which optimizes the environment for subsequent fracture healing and return to function.
Rough Surfaces: Scaling Theory and Universality

Complex structures and patterns are formed in a wide variety of physical, chemical and biological growth processes, including aggregation [1], vapor deposition [2], solidification [3], and flame propagation [4]. The most characteristic feature of the patterns is the existence of an evolving interface separating the growth from the outside. Thus, one way to develop a better understanding of the growth phenomena would be to study the dynamics of the interface. Surface properties play an important role in scientific and industrial applications as well [1–4]. Therefore, characterization of surface roughness is also a problem of considerable practical importance.
Mono-osmylation of dehydroamino acid dienes: synthesis of dehydroamino acids related to the azinomycins

Abstract Dehydroamino acid dienes 11A-C were synthesized and subjected to the Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation, producing diols 13A-C . Diol 13A was further converted to the naphthoate derivative 18 and to the triacetate 19 .
Preparing for the Worst: Lessons for News Media After Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico

Hurricane Maria (2017) was the most devastating hurricane in Puerto Rico in the last 90 years. The entire communication system collapsed, including cellular. Media organizations in Puerto Rico, wit...
Migration and Overwintering in Australian Monarch Butterflies (Danaus plexippus (L.) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae): a Review with New Observations and Research Needs

Migration and overwintering of Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) in south-eastern Australia is reviewed. Overwintering, non-reproductive aggregations of Monarchs were first reported in the 1930s and 1940s from near Sydney, New South Wales and Adelaide, South Australia but scientific studies on overwintering and migration did not occur until the 1960s–1980s. During the early 1960s, overwintering populations ranged from 15,000–40,000 individuals at sites SW of Sydney. In the late 1970s overwintering populations in the Sydney area comprised only 400–3,500 individuals, a decline of > 90%. By 1984, 21 sites harboring autumn or winter populations had been reported from the Sydney area, the Hunter Valley (∼ 100 km NNW of Sydney) and the Mt Lofty Ranges near Adelaide. Overwintering sites in New South Wales appear to be populated by autumn migrants originating from higher elevation areas to the SW and W of Sydney, the Hunter Valley and lower mid-north coast. Migration and reproductive dormancy in late summer and autumn Monarchs are induced by cool ( 2,000, suggesting no further radical decline in Monarch numbers since the late 1970s. Observations on the phenology, size and behavior of transient (2013) and overwintering (2017) populations of Monarchs at a new site 275 km N of Sydney, New South Wales, are reported. Overnight clustering of Monarchs on Milkweed host plants (G. fruticosus) at this site is documented. The annual status, size and phenology of Monarch populations at overwintering sites in south-eastern Australia is unknown and must be a priority for future research and monitoring. The non-native status of the Monarch and the Milkweeds it uses, has in the past not favored concern and conservation of this iconic species in Australia.
Partial Normalization of Biomarkers of Inflammation and Immune Activation Among Virally Suppressed Men With HIV Infection and High ART Adherence.

Background The objective of this study was to investigate whether 100% antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence in men with HIV (MWH) is associated with normalization of concentrations of biomarkers of inflammation and immune activation compared with HIV-uninfected men. Methods We analyzed person-visits with available biomarker data from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) among MWH receiving ART with HIV RNA <50 copies/mL and among HIV-uninfected men. Self-reported adherence was classified as 100% if no missed ART doses in the past 4 days were reported. We evaluated associations between ART adherence and concentrations of 24 serum biomarkers compared with HIV-uninfected visits using a generalized gamma model, adjusting for potential confounders. Results Person-visits (2565 from MWH reporting 100% ART adherence and 1588 from HIV-uninfected men) from a total of 1469 men were included in the analysis. Serum concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), soluble interleukin-6 receptor (sIL-6R), IL-1β, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL2), and CCL14 from person-visits among MWH who reported 100% adherence were similar to HIV-uninfected person-visits. Comparatively higher concentrations of 11 biomarkers and lower concentrations of 7 biomarkers were observed in person-visits from MWH who reported 100% ART adherence, compared with HIV-uninfected person-visits. Conclusions Although MWH with virologic suppression who reported 100% ART adherence exhibited overall higher concentrations of biomarkers of inflammation and immune activation compared with HIV-uninfected men, some biomarker concentrations were similar in both groups. These findings suggest that optimal ART adherence could have clinical implications beyond achieving and sustaining viral suppression.
Management of odontogenic sinusitis: multidisciplinary consensus statement

Background Odontogenic sinusitis (ODS) can present a therapeutic dilemma because multiple treatment strategies have been reported. ODS review articles have been published, but they have lacked multidisciplinary collaboration and an evidence-based methodology. The purpose of this article was to perform an evidence-based review of ODS management options, and develop a multidisciplinary consensus statement on ODS management options. Methods An evidence-based review of dental and medical literature on ODS management was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Review Databases up to December 2019. Exclusion criteria included non-English-language articles, case series with fewer than 10 patients, fungal sinusitis, and studies that did not report treatment success rates. Because aggregate levels of evidence for recommendations were no higher than level C, a clinical consensus statement was conducted using a modified Delphi method. Results Sixteen articles met inclusion criteria for the evidence-based review on the following ODS management options: dental treatment alone or combined with ESS for various dental pathologies, and endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) alone for dental implant-related ODS. Strong consensus was achieved for 9 of the 10 clinical statements, the strongest being the use of shared decision-making for selecting management strategies. No consensus was reached for determining the extent of ESS necessary for uncomplicated ODS. Conclusion Strong consensus was reached that ODS management should involve shared decision-making between the otolaryngologist, dental provider, and patient, where the benefits and risks of dental treatment and ESS are discussed. Higher-quality studies are necessary to develop evidence-based treatment recommendations for ODS.