cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Oligodendrocyte death, neuroinflammation, and the effects of minocycline in a rodent model of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (rNAION)

Purpose Optic nerve (ON) damage following nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and its models is associated with neurodegenerative inflammation. Minocycline is a tetracycline derivative antibiotic believed to exert a neuroprotective effect by selective alteration and activation of the neuroinflammatory response. We evaluated minocycline's post-induction ability to modify early and late post-ischemic inflammatory responses and its retinal ganglion cell (RGC)-neuroprotective ability. Methods We used the rodent NAION (rNAION) model in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Animals received either vehicle or minocycline (33 mg/kg) daily intraperitoneally for 28 days. Early (3 days) ON-cytokine responses were evaluated, and oligodendrocyte death was temporally evaluated using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) analysis. Cellular inflammation was evaluated with immunohistochemistry, and RGC preservation was compared with stereology of Brn3a-positive cells in flat mounted retinas. Results Post-rNAION, oligodendrocytes exhibit a delayed pattern of apoptosis extending over a month, with extrinsic monocyte infiltration occurring only in the primary rNAION lesion and progressive distal microglial activation. Post-induction minocycline failed to improve retinal ganglion cell survival compared with the vehicle treated (893.14 vs. 920.72; p>0.9). Cytokine analysis of the rNAION lesion 3 days post-induction revealed that minocycline exert general inflammatory suppression without selective upregulation of cytokines associated with the proposed alternative or neuroprotective M2 inflammatory pathway. Conclusions The pattern of cytokine release, extended temporal window of oligodendrocyte death, and progressive microglial activation suggests that selective neuroimmunomodulation, rather than general inflammatory suppression, may be required for effective repair strategies in ischemic optic neuropathies.
Loading of piperlongumine to liposomes after complexation with β-cyclodextrin and its effect on viability of colon and prostate cancer cells

Use of nano carriers to treat cancer is attractive due to their advantages such as the sustained release of drugs and ability to target specific regions of the body where treatment is needed. However, loading water insoluble chemotherapeutic drugs into liposomes is challenging. In this study, we developed a method to encapsulate water-insoluble drug (piperlongumine) in liposomes by complexing piperlongumine with β-Cyclodextrin. Liposomes encapsulated with piperlongumine incubated with COLO 205 and PC-3 cell lines and demonstrated that viability of COLO 205 and PC-3 cells decreases to 7% and 41% respectively when the piperlongumine concentration is at 20 μM.
Passive Hip Range-of-Motion Values Across Sex and Sport.

Context: Greater passive hip range of motion (ROM) has been associated with greater dynamic knee valgus and thus the potential for increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Normative ...
Low-energy reaction yields for 18O(p, gamma ) and 18O( alpha, gamma ).

Resonance yields, \ensuremath{\gamma}-ray branching, and low-energy limits have been measured for $^{18}\mathrm{O}$(p,\ensuremath{\gamma}) and $^{18}\mathrm{O}$(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma}), for ${\mathit{E}}_{\mathit{p}}$0.22 MeV and ${\mathit{E}}_{\mathrm{\ensuremath{\alpha}}}$0.78 MeV, using a 4\ensuremath{\pi} array of NaI detectors. The results confirm previous resonance strengths, and set additional constraints on possible low-energy contributions to stellar reaction rates.
Artemisinin: Controlling Its Production in Artemisia annua

Artemisinin, a potent antimalarial sesquiterpene lactone, is produced in low quantities by the plant Artemisia annua L. We used inhibitors of both the mevalonate and nonmevalonate terpenoid pathways to study in both seedlings and hairy root cultures the source of isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP), the channeling of carbon from sterols to sesquiterpenes, and the role that sugars may play in controlling artemisinin biosynthesis. Together, our results indicated that artemisinin is likely biosynthesized from IPP pools originating in both the plastid and the cytosol and that channeling of carbon can be directed away from competing sterol pathways and toward sesquiterpenes. Although glucose stimulated artemisinin production, the response is very complex with ratios of glucose to fructose involved; artemisinin levels increased proportionate to increasing amounts of glucose. Disaccharides mainly inhibited artemisinin production, but the response was less definitive. Glucose also increased expression of some of the genes in the artemisinin biosynthetic pathway, thereby suggesting that this sugar is acting not only as a carbon source but also as a signal. As we develop a better understanding of the regulation of the artemisinin biosynthetic pathway, results suggest that many factors can possibly be harnessed to increase artemisinin production in A. annua.
Introduction to Nanoparticle-Based Integrated Passives

This chapter discusses state of the art in nanoengineered integrated passives. In particular, the chapter elaborates nanoparticle-based integrated passives that are being developed using various thin and thick films processes, such as printing. The discussion provides need for next generation of integrated passives and opportunities offered by the nanotechnology to meet those needs. This is a novel area of research and the chapter shares results for integrated capacitors, inductors, and resistors for materials selection, deposition processes, and testing for integrated applications.
Codesign Methodologies and Tools for Cyber–Physical Systems

Cyber–physical system (CPS) analysis and design are challenging due to the intrinsic heterogeneity of those systems. Today, CPSs are often designed by leveraging existing solutions and by adding cyber components to an existing physical system, thus decomposing the design into two separate phases. In this paper, we argue that the codesign of the cyber and physical components would expose solutions that are better under all aspects, such as safety, efficiency, security, performance, reliability, fault tolerance, and extensibility. To do so, automated codesign tools are a necessity due to the complexity of the problems at hand. In the paper, we will discuss the key needs and challenges in developing modeling, simulation, synthesis, validation, and verification tools for CPS codesign, present promising codesign approaches from our teams and others, and point out where additional research is needed.
Restriction-Site-Associated DNA Sequencing Reveals a Cryptic Viburnum Species on the North American Coastal Plain

Species are the starting point for most studies of ecology and evolution, but the proper circumscription of species can be extremely difficult in morphologically variable lineages, and there are still few convincing examples of molecularly informed species delimitation in plants. Here, we focus on the Viburnum nudum complex, a highly variable clade that is widely distributed in eastern North America. Taxonomic treatments have mostly divided this complex into northern (V. nudum var. cassinoides) and southern (V. nudum var. nudum) entities, but additional names have been proposed. We used multiple lines of evidence, including RADseq, morphological, and geographic data, to test how many independently evolving lineages exist within the V. nudum complex. Genetic clustering and phylogenetic methods revealed three distinct groups-one lineage that is highly divergent, and two others that are recently diverged and morphologically similar. A combination of evidence that includes reciprocal monophyly, lack of introgression, and discrete rather than continuous patterns of variation supports the recognition of all three lineages as separate species. These results identify a surprising case of cryptic diversity in which two broadly sympatric species have consistently been lumped in taxonomic treatments. The clarity of our findings is directly related to the dense sampling and high-quality genetic data in this study. We argue that there is a critical need for carefully sampled and integrative species delimitation studies to clarify species boundaries even in well-known plant lineages. Studies following the model that we have developed here are likely to identify many more cryptic lineages and will fundamentally improve our understanding of plant speciation and patterns of species richness.
The socioeconomics of atopic dermatitis.

Abstract Objective To review the current state of the literature regarding the socioeconomics of atopic dermatitis (AD)—more specifically how socioeconomic status (SES) affects AD risk and how the presence of AD may affect one’s SES—as well as discuss the cost of the disease to society. Data Sources A PubMed search was performed to include English-language articles with the keywords atopic dermatitis, cost, finances, economic, income, career, socioeconomic, with preference to those written in the last 5 years. Study Selections Studies were included if they provided information pertaining to socioeconomics in relation to disease severity, disease incidence, direct costs, indirect costs, and effects on work, education, and career choice. Results Many studies have reported that higher SES is associated with increased AD prevalence, whereas lower SES is associated with increased AD severity. Regardless of patient SES, AD creates substantial direct costs that affect the patient, patient’s family, and the payer. Additionally, the effects of the disease create indirect costs from absenteeism and presenteeism, as well as opportunity costs from hinderances in learning, affecting patient SES and the economy. Conclusion Given the substantial and growing burden on the patient and the economy when access to appropriate treatment is limited, the socioeconomic burden of AD represents a tangible public health concern that must be addressed.
Strengthening the rule of law in collaborative governance

Due to the incomplete legal foundation for collaborative governance, which leads to a set of problems, it is significant to promote the legal framework. Promoting the legal framework starts by enha...
Isabel Frances Bellows' "A Deadly Feud" and the Cultural Confines of the Duel and the Police

From Aesop’s Fables to Peter and Wendy, children’s literature combines the innocent, exuberant state of childhood with the grit and grime of reality, often introducing and imprinting upon youth grave concepts beyond their grasp such as crime and death. Isabel Frances Bellows’ “A Deadly Feud” is just such an example, appearing during the heyday of the Golden Age of Children’s literature in the 9th issue of the 14th volume of St. Nicholas Magazine published in 1887.
Tillage practices alter the surface energy balance – A review

Abstract Tillage is commonly implemented worldwide to improve crop productivity by optimizing soil temperature and moisture, reducing penetration resistance of the seedbed, and suppressing weeds. However, these benefits are accompanied by drawbacks, including increased erosion and loss of soil organic matter. Research continues on how to maximize benefits and minimize drawbacks of tillage in a range of agricultural systems. The surface energy balance (SEB) may be a promising avenue for future tillage research because it describes the partitioning of energy into compartments crucial to crop productivity, especially heating the soil and evaporating water. Despite this relevance, very little research addresses the effects of tillage on the SEB, and the existing literature does not adequately describe the relationship between these two topics. The aims of this review are to identify research that has been completed on the subject, synthesize current knowledge, and propose topics for continuing research. This review suggests that alterations to soil surface cover, surface roughness, and near-surface porosity caused by tillage are reflected in changes in the SEB, with the greatest effects evident during wetting-drying cycles. The total available energy is increased following tillage, but the magnitude of change and partitioning of that energy is not understood, which directly relates to the energy available for heating the soil and evaporating water. Future research should focus on quantifying the magnitude of effects of tillage on the SEB, how those effects change over time, and identifying any other indirect effects that may inform better management decisions.
Intersections between Sexual Identity, Sexual Attraction, and Sexual Behavior among a Nationally Representative Sample of American Men and Women

Social scientists struggle on how to best operationalize and measure sexual orientation. Depending on the survey, researchers can use self-reports of lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) identity, same-sex partner cohabitation, same-sex sexual attraction, or same-sex sexual behavior. All measures come with their own limitations. To illuminate differences in these measures, this study examines the intersections between self-reported sexual identity, attraction, and behavior among a nationally representative sample of US men and women aged 15–45. I explore how and when the three measures align, examine the determinants of self-identifying as gay or bisexual based on sexual behavior and attraction, and assess gender differences in the patterns. I find that about 20% of women and 10% of men aged 15–45 would comprise the LGB community if it were defined to include those who report at least one of the following: gay or bisexual identity, any same-sex attraction, or same-sex sex in the last year. This is much higher than the 6.4% of women and 3.6% of men aged 15–45 who self-identify as LGB. I conclude with recommendations that can aid in measurement of the LGB population, and discuss implications for using certain measures over others when conducting research on the LGB community.
Socioeconomic implications of national flood insurance policy reform and flood insurance rate map revisions

Flooding exacerbated by climate change has resulted in more mandatory community participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The purpose of this research is social regulatory floodplain criteria that may have an impact on various socioeconomic factors at the county and sub-county level. Updated mapping can result in widespread changes to the NFIP Special Flood Hazard Area, while no socioeconomic vulnerability assessments are completed before changes in risk designation or subsidy elimination occurs. These changes can result in additional compulsory flood insurance policies, heightened policy costs, and ultimately produce socioeconomic barriers for lower-income residents. The objectives include demonstrating the potential nationwide implications of increasing community risk with these changes to national policy through a case study from Ada County, Idaho where FEMA began updating the floodplain maps in 2015. Ada County was chosen for being reflective of other communities that may be suffering similar impacts from NFIP policy. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach was employed using semi-structured interviews, spatial analysis, and the Spatially Explicit Resilience-Vulnerability (SERV) model to assess potential community impacts. Results indicate increased vulnerability in the revised floodplain. Total annual sales volume, employee numbers, industry sectors, and overall community vulnerability are higher in the revised floodplain. Interviews with community leaders corroborated these results. This case study provides a foundation for further research on the impacts of flood insurance on communities across the USA while discussing the social injustice of a national program that is likely promoting the upward distribution of wealth county by county.
Inferior Oblique Anteriorization

Two common findings in pediatric ophthalmology are inferior oblique overaction and dissociated vertical deviation, often associated with congenital esotropia. Weakening of the inferior oblique is indicated in these situations, accomplished most frequently by a myotomy or anteriorization. The key difference between these two surgical options is an anteriorization not only weakens the muscle, but also changes its force vector, resulting in a more significant decrease in elevation of the eye, helping correct for dissociated vertical deviation more effectively.
Fast statistical model of TiO

The emerging memristor devices have recently received increased attention since HP Lab reported the first TiO
Insertions in SARS-CoV-2 genome caused by template switch and duplications give rise to new variants of potential concern

The appearance of multiple new SARS-CoV-2 variants during the winter of 2020-2021 is a matter of grave concern. Some of these new variants, such as B.1.351 and B.1.1.17, manifest higher infectivity and virulence than the earlier SARS-CoV-2 variants, with potential dramatic effects on the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. So far, analysis of new SARS-CoV-2 variants focused primarily on point nucleotide substitutions and short deletions that are readily identifiable by comparison to consensus genome sequences. In contrast, insertions have largely escaped the attention of researchers although the furin site insert in the spike protein is thought to be a determinant of SARS-CoV-2 virulence and other inserts might have contributed to coronavirus pathogenicity as well. Here, we investigate insertions in SARS-CoV-2 genomes and identify 141 unique inserts of different lengths. We present evidence that these inserts reflect actual virus variance rather than sequencing errors. Two principal mechanisms appear to account for the inserts in the SARS-CoV-2 genomes, polymerase slippage and template switch that might be associated with the synthesis of subgenomic RNAs. We show that inserts in the Spike glycoprotein can affect its antigenic properties and thus have to be monitored. At least, two inserts in the N-terminal domain of the Spike (ins246DSWG and ins15ATLRI) that were first detected in January 2021 are predicted to lead to escape from neutralizing antibodies whereas other inserts might result in escape from T-cell immunity.
Difficult Brain Death Examination After Undetermined Toxic Ingestion (1662)

Objective: NA Background: Brain death is a clinical assessment. Despite established criteria for brain death determination, there are instances where confounding conditions create issues declaring death. Synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones, and phenethylamines have burst onto the recreational drug scene with the advertised advantage of undetectable use with standard drug testing. This has created challenging scenarios where the toxin is unidentifiable and the clinical effects are not predictable. Design/Methods: NA Results: An unidentified 25-year-old man was brought to the hospital by EMS after being found down at a music festival. He developed clinical seizures requiring treatment for status epilepticus. There was no evidence of trauma, infarct, hemorrhage, or detectable toxins that explained his presentation. Brain MRI demonstrated extensive cortical diffusion restriction. His ICU course was complicated by rapid liver failure requiring evaluation for liver transplant, however he was not a candidate. Administrative DNR was reversed when his family was identified via social media and subsequently requested evaluation for organ donation, necessitating brain death declaration for advancement. Prolonged midazolam infusion was administered for seizure-like activity. Given his electrolyte disturbances and inability to clear midazolam due to liver failure, clinical examination was insufficient to declare brain death and the patient required ancillary testing. A nuclear medicine scan was conducted and found to be consistent with absence of cerebral activity. On a brainstem evaluation several hours later, the patient was observed to have nystagmus with cold caloric testing before it finally extinguished and brain death was declared. Conclusions: Brain death requires only a clinical exam and history consistent with catastrophic brain injury. Guidelines require the patient to be free of temperature and electrolyte abnormalities that often occur secondary to intoxication. There are rare cases when usual criteria cannot be met and supportive tests are not perfect measures to declare brain death. New synthetic drugs may increase these complicated clinical situations. Disclosure: Dr. Cross has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kim has nothing to disclose.
The evolutionary trajectory of drosophilid walking

Neural circuits must both execute the behavioral repertoire of individuals and account for behavioral variation across species. Understanding how this variation emerges over evolutionary time requires large-scale phylogenetic comparisons of behavioral repertoires. Here, we describe the evolution of walking in fruit flies by capturing high-resolution, unconstrained movement from 13 species and 15 strains of drosophilids. We find that walking can be captured in a universal behavior space, the structure of which is evolutionarily conserved. However, the occurrence of, and transitions between, specific movements have evolved rapidly, resulting in repeated convergent evolution in the temporal structure of locomotion. Moreover, a meta-analysis demonstrates that many behaviors evolve more rapidly than other traits. Thus, the architecture and physiology of locomotor circuits can both execute precise individual movements in one species and simultaneously support rapid evolutionary changes in the temporal ordering of these modular elements across clades.
Cesarean delivery rates by hospital type among nulliparous and multiparous patients

Cesarean delivery rates continue to remain high despite recent attempts to decrease these rates. Prior data suggest that there is great variation in cesarean rates by hospital.The intent of this st...
Use of Hand Therapy After Distal Radius Fracture: A National Perspective.

Purpose To assess whether certain distal radius fracture (DRF) patients, such as opioid users or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) patients, receive more hand therapy. Methods Using the IBM MarketScan Research Databases from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2016, we identified a cohort of DRF patients and created 4 subgroups of interest: frequent follow-up patients, persistent opioid users, prior opioid users, and patients with CRPS. We measured rates and demographic characteristics associated with therapy use in our populations of interest. Results In this cohort of 87,313 patients, 21% received hand therapy after primary DRF treatment. Patients with CRPS had a higher rate of therapy than non-CRPS patients (44% vs 21%, respectively). Frequent follow-up patients used more therapy than those with less follow-up (30% vs 17%, respectively). Persistent opioid users demonstrated slightly increased therapy use compared to the remaining population (25% vs 22%, respectively). Prior opioid users underwent less therapy than patients without prior opioid use (19% vs 22%, respectively). Female sex, residing in the Northeast, being on a preferred provider organization plan, and having more intense surgical treatments were associated with increased therapy use. Conclusions This study showed variations in therapy use after DRF in subpopulations of interest. Patients with CRPS, persistent opioid use, and frequent follow-ups had higher rates of therapy. Patients with prior opioid use had lower rates of therapy. Clinical relevance Therapy is more common in patients with DRF with CRPS, persistent opioid use, or more follow-up visits.
A Note on How to Conduct a Factor-Based PLS-SEM Analysis

The composite-factor estimation dichotomy has been the epicenter of a long and ongoing debate among proponents and detractors of the use of the partial least squares PLS approach for structural equation modeling SEM. In this brief research note the author discusses the implementation of a new method to conduct factor-based PLS-SEM analyses, which could be a solid step in the resolution of this debate. This method generates estimates of both true composites and factors, in two stages, fully accounting for measurement error. The author's discussion is based on an illustrative model in the field of e-collaboration. A Monte Carlo experiment suggests that model parameters generated by the method are asymptotically unbiased. The method is implemented as part of the software WarpPLS, starting in version 5.0. This note provides enough details for the method's implementation in other venues such as R and GNU Octave.
Neue Teilchen am SLAC entdeckt

Die Teilchenphysik machte jungst wieder von sich reden. Wahrend der Beschleuniger am KEK in Japan neue Luminositatsrekorde brach, fand das Experiment Barbar am SLAC in Kalifornien ein neues subatomares Teilchen [1], das vermutlich aus zwei Quarks besteht. Die erstaunlich lange Lebenszeit und unerwartet geringe Masse konnen zur Zeit nicht mit konventionellen theoretischen Modellen erklart werden.
NicPic: Scalable and Accurate End-Host Rate Limiting.

The degree of multiplexing in datacenters necessitates careful resource scheduling, and network bandwidth is no exception. Unfortunately, today we are left with little control to accurately schedule network traffic with low overhead on end-hosts. This paper presents NicPic, a system which enables accurate network traffic scheduling in a scalable fashion. The key insight in NicPic is to decouple the responsibility of state-management and packet scheduling between the CPU and the NIC, respectively. The CPU is only involved in classifying packets, enqueueing them in per-class queues maintained in host memory, and specifying rate limits for each traffic class. The NIC handles packet scheduling and transmission on a real-time basis. In this paper, we present the design of NicPic which offers a scalable solution for transmit scheduling in future high speed NICs.
Crystalline characteristics and superconducting properties of Bi2212 thin films by Pechini sol–gel method: effect of heating rate on the film growth

High-quality c-axis epitaxial Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ (Bi2212) superconducting thin films prepared by the Pechini sol–gel method using nitrates as reactants have been grown on SrTiO3(100) single-crystal substrates. The precursor sol was deposited on the substrates via spin-coating method. Through the optimization of experimental parameters, 2.0 K min−1 was found to be the optimal heating rate of pre-sintering stage. Below this heating rate of pre-sintering stage, partial composition segregation occurred in the precursor films that resulted in dispersion of impurity phases in sintered thin films and caused the degradation of superconducting properties. Above this heating rate of pre-sintering stage, the surface morphology of thin films was destroyed, as the macroscopic defects, such as cracks and holes caused by excessive gas emissions during organic matter decomposition process and a sharp increase in roughness of precursor film was observed. Furthermore, through the optimization of heating rate at sintering stage, 3.5–3.0 K min−1 was found to be an optimal heating rate range at which Bi2212 thin films exhibited excellent phase purity and crystalline properties. In optimized growth condition, T c,onset rose to above 95 K. Through the optimization of heating rates of pre-sintering and sintering stages, the excellent Bi2212 superconducting thin films without macroscopic defects were prepared by Pechini sol–gel method using nitrate as reactant.
Enlisting hESCs to Interrogate Genetic Variants Associated with Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Connecting rare genetic variants to neuropsychiatric disease mechanisms remains a significant challenge. In this issue of Cell Stem Cell, Pak et al. (2015) combine gene targeting and stem cell technologies to identify a significant cellular effect of rare penetrant NRXN1 mutations in human neurons, which was found to cause a defect in neurotransmitter release.
241Pu and241Am in sediments from coastal basins off California and Mexico

Abstract In sediments deposited in the coastal basins off the western North American continent since the early 1960's, there is more241Am activity than one would predict if its presence was solely due to the decay of241Pu that was produced during the testing of weapons in 1961–1962 (taken as July 1, 1962 for calculations). This excess can be accounted for by the decay of241Pu, if pre-1962 fallout (fallout from the pre-moratorium testing) has been continuously introduced into the recent sediments along with fallout from post-moratorium testing. This hypothesis is supported by the plutonium depth profiles which do not reflect direct fallout from the atmosphere, as characterized by two peaks corresponding to the two major weapons testing periods, but continuously increasing plutonium and americium concentrations from 1954 to 1974. Thus, the nuclides may be coming from a large reservoir that has accumulated and mixed fallout since 1952. Such a concentration gradient for all of the nuclides requires their immobilization in the sediment after deposition.
Dynamic Manipulation and Precision Localization of Nanoparticles Internal to Cells

Spatial localization of signals is commonplace within cells and allows for a variety of integral biological processes, including cell migration and polarization in development, neural synapse strengthening in learning, and correct cell division to avoid cancer development and progression. Despite the importance, few general tools have been developed to understand and probe spatial localization. We present a technique that translates the centimeter scale motions of an external magnet into nanometer scale motions of superparamagnetic nanoparticles internalized within cells growing on specially patterned “nano-active” substrates. In this way, localization of mechanical forces, or localization of nanoparticle-bound biomolecules can be controlled in real time.© 2010 ASME
Peri-procedural anticoagulation management of mechanical prosthetic heart valve patients

Abstract Introduction To estimate the three-month cumulative incidence of thromboembolism and bleeding among mechanical heart valve (MHV) patients receiving peri-procedural anticoagulation management, consecutive MHV patients referred to the Mayo Clinic Thrombophilia Center for peri-procedural anticoagulation management over the seven-year period, 1997-2003, were followed for three months for thromboembolism, bleeding and vital status. Materials and Methods Warfarin was stopped 4-5 days prior to the procedure, and re-started after the procedure as soon as hemostasis was assured. The decision to provide bridging therapy with low molecular weight (LMWH) or unfractionated (UFH) heparin was individualized and based on the estimated risks of TE and bleeding. Results 556 MHV patients (372 aortic only, 136 mitral only, 48 with multiple valves) underwent 580 procedures. The three-month cumulative incidence of thromboembolism was 0.9% which included: cerebral ischemia (n = 3), unstable angina (n = 1), acute myocardial infarction (n = 1). None were fatal. The cumulative incidence of major bleeding was 3.6% and fatal in 0.2%. The incidence of major bleeding events did not differ by postoperative anticoagulant strategy whether LMWH (3.7%), UFH (6.1%), or no heparin (2.4%) was used (p = 0.26). Conclusions The three-month cumulative incidence of thromboembolism among MHV patients in whom anticoagulation is temporarily interrupted for an invasive procedure is low. Whereas bleeding exceeds thromboembolic complications, our current practice is to restart warfarin as soon as possible post-procedure. Post-procedural heparin use is reserved for patients with the highest thromboembolic risk (mitral MHV, multiple MHVs, MHV with prior stroke or atrial fibrillation) waiting at least 48 hours before initiating.
Mutations in the Lipase H Gene Underlie Autosomal Recessive Woolly Hair/Hypotrichosis

Woolly hair (WH) is characterized by the presence of fine and tightly curled hair. WH can appear as a symptom of some systemic diseases, or without associated findings (nonsyndromic WH). Nonsyndromic WH is known to be inherited as either an autosomal-dominant (OMIM 194300) or recessive (ARWH; OMIM 278150) trait. In this study, we identified 11 consanguineous families of Pakistani origin with ARWH, as well as associated features including sparse and hypopigmented hair shafts. We first checked for mutations in the P2RY5 gene, which encodes an orphan G-protein-coupled receptor that we recently identified as a cause of ARWH. However, none of the 11 families had mutations in the P2RY5 gene. To identify the disease locus, we performed linkage studies in one of these families using the Affymetrix 10K array, and identified a region of suggestive linkage on chromosome 3q27. This region contains the lipase H (LIPH) gene which has been recently shown to underlie an autosomal-recessive form of hypotrichosis. Mutation analysis resulted in the identification of a total of 5 pathogenic mutations in the LIPH of all 11 families analyzed. These results show that LIPH is a second causative gene for ARWH/hypotrichosis, giving rise to a phenotype clinically indistinguishable from P2RY5 mutations.
Mathematical analyses of the interference phenomenon of tobacco mosaic virus: Experimental tests

Abstract In a preceding paper, mathematical models for two hypotheses to explain the interference phenomenon of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) were presented ( Furumoto and Mickey, 1970 ). Since these models can be tested against infectivity-dilution experiments using inocula containing two interfering strains of TMV, these experiments were conducted for inocula containing fixed ratios of the U1 strain and the VM strain of TMV together with experiments for inocula containing only the U1 strain. The U1:VM ratios used for these experiments were 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:5. The averaged data for each set of experiments were used to fit equations for the absolute exclusion hypothesis and the random choice hypothesis of explaining the interference phenomenon of TMV. The data obtained from the mixed inocula were analyzed against the respective hypothesis, while the data from the U1 inocula were analyzed simultaneously against the TMV infectivity-dilution model. The analyses were performed on a high speed computer to determine the extent with which the theoretical formulations deviated from the experimental data. In every set of experiments, the absolute exclusion hypothesis yielded rather large sum squares of deviation between the fitted theoretical equation and the experimental data, whereas the random choice hypothesis yielded sum squares of deviation that are reasonably expected for fitting ordinary TMV infectivity-dilution curves to experimental data. Thus, the absolute exclusion hypothesis can be clearly eliminated as an explanation for the TMV interference phenomenon, and the random choice hypothesis is a plausible description of the phenomenon.
A numerical three-dimensional contact model for rough, multilayered elastic/plastic solid surfaces

Abstract A numerical three-dimensional contact model is presented to investigate the contact behavior of rough, multilayered elastic-perfectly plastic solid surfaces. The model is based on a variational principle in which the contact pressure distributions are those which minimize the total complementary potential energy. The quasi-Newton method is used to find the minimum. The influence coefficients of the displacements and stresses for a multilayered contact model are determined using the Papkovich–Neuber potentials with a fast fourier transform (FFT) based scheme. Contact analyses are performed to study the effects of layer-to-substrate ratios of stiffness and surface roughness on the contact statistics of rough, two-layered elastic/plastic solids. Local contact pressure profiles, von Mises stresses, tensile and shear stress contours, and the maximum displacement as a function of material properties and applied load are generated. The results yield insight into the effects of stiffness of layers and substrates, surface roughness and applied load on the contact performance. Optimum layer parameters are identified to provide low friction/stiction and wear.
The Detectivity of Infrared Photodetectors

This article presents a review and an analysis of the factors involved in determining the capability of semiconducting photodetectors to detect radiation. The photoconductive detector is used as the vehicle for this analysis. Signal and noise generation are examined individually for their contribution to noise equivalent power (NEP), the Jones classifications of detectors, and detectivity-star (D*). Equations for NEP are derived that permit direct examination of the influence of parameters such as bandwidth, area, and time constant in detector performance.
Disulfide Connectivity in Cerebroside Sulfate Activator Is Not Necessary for Biological Activity or α-Helical Content but Is Necessary for Trypsin Resistance and Strong Ligand Binding

Abstract Cerebroside sulfate activator (CSAct) protein is exceptionally resistant to heat denaturation and proteolytic digestion. Although water soluble the protein binds membrane-associated lipids. Its biological role is thought to be to transfer certain lipids between membranes and to facilitate their catabolism in the lysosomes. An example of the latter is the removal of the sulfate group from cerebroside sulfate by arylsulfatase A. The mechanism of lipid sequestration from membranes and presentation of the lipid–protein complex to catabolic enzymes is a crucial aspect of the function of this protein. The widespread occurrence of the protein class of which CSAct is one of the best known members underscores the significance of this protein. The preparation, purification and chemical and biological properties of a stable disulfide blocked derivative of CSAct is described. The pyridoethylated protein was susceptible to tryptic attack and devoid of a significant population of solvent-protected exchange resistant protons. It apparantly formed a CS complex. However, unlike the complex with the native protein, this was not sufficiently stable to remain intact during size exclusion chromatography. The disulfide-blocked protein had a similar CD spectrum as native protein, indicating similar α-helical content. Unexpectedly, the activities of disulfide-blocked protein in the arylsulfatse A catalyzed sulfate hydrolysis from cerebroside sulfate were substantial. Hitherto, it had been assumed that the disulfide connectivities were essential for the protein to maintain a correctly folded configuration to bind lipid ligands and potentiate their hydrolysis. Some revision of our thoughts on the importance of the disulfide connectivities in the structure and function of the protein are necessary.
Microdialysis sampling coupled to on-line microbore liquid chromatography for pharmacokinetic studies

Microdialysis sampling has been coupled on-line to microbore liquid chromatography for pharmacokinetic investigations in awake, freely-moving animals. Valve systems are described which provide continuous collection of the microdialysis sample for injection into the chromatographic system. One valve system consisted of two six-port valves used in tandem. The other valve system consisted of an eight-port valve with two sample loops. The eight-port valve system provided better precision than the dual six-port valve system yet worse than an autosampler. However, when used for dialysis samples, the precision of the various injection methods was equivalent. The on-line system was capable of rapidly following changes in the dialysate concentration and provided near real-time analysis of the plasma concentration of analytes. The system was evaluated by monitoring the pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen in awake, freely-moving rats.
The eye in child abuse: Key points on retinal hemorrhages and abusive head trauma

This review presents an up-to-date overview of ocular injuries resulting from child abuse, with a spotlight on abusive head trauma. Retinal hemorrhage is a principle finding of inflicted head trauma. The specific pattern of hemorrhages holds valuable diagnostic information, which can help to guide multidisciplinary assessments of the likelihood of abuse. Indirect ophthalmoscopy through dilated pupils by an ophthalmologist is necessary for adequate examination and documentation of retinal findings. Initial pediatrician evaluation of the eye and indications for ophthalmological consultation are reviewed. Focus is then placed upon understanding retinal hemorrhage patterns, their diagnostic significance and likely pathophysiological mechanisms. The differential diagnosis of retinal hemorrhage in young children is discussed, highlighting key distinctions among retinal hemorrhage patterns, severity and frequencies, as well as other ocular findings. The most common cause of retinal hemorrhage in an infant is trauma, and most other causes can be identified by considering the hemorrhage pattern, ocular or systemic signs and the results of laboratory and imaging tests, when indicated.
What's in a List?:A Rule of Interpretation for Hindu Dharma Offered in Response to Maria Hibbets

The study of South Asian ethics presents a variety of problems for the comparative ethicist. This response focuses on one such problem relating to Hinduism: the pervasive use of nonsystematic lists as a source of ethical injunctions and guidelines. The author demonstrates how an indigenous hermeneutic may unpack a list that contains the gift of fearlessness among other gifts. The source of this interpretation is Purva Mimamsa, an ancient Indian school of philosophy that specialized in language and the application of sacrificial logic to law and ethics. The same principles that allowed ritual specialists to sort out a huge array of rules into proper injunctions also allow us to make sense of ethical principles embodied in puzzling lists of concrete items.
Geologic evolution of southern Rusalka Planitia, Venus

Geologic mapping of southern Rusalka Planitia, Venus, reveals interactions of volcanism, tectonism, and topography. We recognize three regional plains units (prR1, prR2, and prR3) based on crosscutting structural relations, embayment patterns, radar brightness, and surface roughness data. Delineation of secondary (tectonic) structures allows us to constrain the relative temporal relations between the three material units. Unit prRl, a radar dark smooth unit exposed in local topographic highs, hosts NE trending extension fractures. Low-viscosity lava flows of prR2, the most areally extensive unit, fill local topographic lows and the NE trending fractures. A shield-sourced lava unit, prR3, overlies prR2 on the basis of embayment relations and radar brightness. NW trending wrinkle ridges deform all three plains units and record regional contraction. Locally, flood lava flows that fill NE trending fractures are structurally inverted to form short, stepped NE trending wrinkle ridges. Map patterns indicate that prR2 comprises a thin layer (<50 m thick), much thinner than previous estimates of 1–3 km. Therefore previously proposed estimates of plains flood lava flow volumes and effusion rates are much too high. The local geologic history of southern Rusalka Planitia is inconsistent with global stratigraphy models. Our study supports the view of plains evolution occurring through discrete volcanic processes working at local and regional (but not global) scales.
Protective Studies in Mice and Monkeys with an Inactivated Japanese Encephalitis Virus Vaccine Grown in Hamster Diploid Cell Culture.

SummaryFormalin inactivated Japanese encephalitis virus vaccine prepared with a recently isolated strain (JEO) in tissue culture of a continuously propagated hamster embryo skin and muscle diploid cell has been tested for potency in mice and monkeys. Several lots of vaccine had a protective potency in the mouse test with intracerebral challenge similar to that required by the Japanese government. In 2 separate experiments in monkeys the vaccine produced substantital titers of HAI antibdy, reduced the amount of viremia after intranasal challenge and protected them from death. The potency of cell culture vaccine was compared to vaccine produced from mouse brain. In the mouse the cell culture vaccine gave better protection against challenge with a low passage strain, while the mouse brain vaccine protected better against the homologous high mouse passage Nakayama strain. In the monkey protection test, cell culture vaccine produced higher HAI antibody and much better protection against intranasal challenge wi...
Interspecies hydrogen bonding between a nitroxide spin label and perfluoro-t-butanol studied by DNP and 1H and 19F relaxation measurements

Relaxation and polarization of 1H and 19F nuclei on (CF3)3COH in the presence of 4-oxo-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinooxy free radical have been studied. Although 19F polarization indicates both scalar and dipolar coupling of nuclear and unpaired electron spins, relaxation measurements show that the -OH proton interaction is dominated by a stronger coupling arising from only a dipolar contribution.
Point defects in (Mg,Fe)SiO3 perovskite

Equilibrium concentrations of point defects in Fe-bearing MgSiO{sub 3} perovskite are calculated using a quantitative defect chemistry approach. Dependences of defect concentrations on temperature, oxygen activity, and pressure are illustrated. These calculations demonstrate how differences in the control of experimental conditions can lead to significant differences in point defect-controlled properties.
Neurogranin null mutant mice display performance deficits on spatial learning tasks with anxiety related components.

Neurogranin/RC3 is a protein that binds calmodulin and serves as a substrate for protein kinase C. Neuronally distributed in the hippocampus and forebrain, neurogranin is highly expressed in dendritic spines of hippocampal pyramidal cells, implicating this protein in long-term potentiation and in learning and memory processes. Null mutation of the neurogranin gene Ng generated viable knockout mice for analysis of the behavioral phenotype resulting from the absence of neurogranin protein. Ng −/− mice were normal on measures of general health, neurological reflexes, sensory abilities, and motor functions, as compared to wild type littermate controls. On the Morris water task, Ng −/− mice failed to reach acquisition criterion on the hidden platform test and did not show selective search on the probe trial. In the Barnes circular maze, another test for spatial navigation learning, Ng −/− mice showed impairments on some components of transfer, but normal performance on time spent around the target hole. Abnormal and idiosyncratic behaviors were detected, that appeared to represent an anxiogenic phenotype in Ng −/− mice, as measured in the light↔dark exploration test and the open field center time parameter. These findings of apparent deficits in spatial learning and anxiety-like tendencies in Ng −/− support a role for neurogranin in the hippocampally-mediated interaction between stress and performance. Hippocampus 2001;11:763–775. Published 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Themolysis of 3,4-dialkyl-1,2-dioxetames: Effect of cyclic substituents

In 3,4-dialkyl-1,2-dioxetanes, the effect of ring size of cyclic substituents on Ea was found to be 5 ⋍ 7 < 8 < 6 while little or no effect was observed on ΔS≠.