cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Jeremiah Metzger Lecture. Pathogenesis of atherosclerosis: redox as a unifying mechanism.

Abstract Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) occurs in many diseases and oxidation may be a common disease mechanism generally. The original "oxidation hypothesis" concerning the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis was posited in the context of the putative central role of oxidized LDL in the process. Atherosclerosis has three major characteristic features: inflammation with accumulation of T-cells and, in particular, monocytes, which become lipid rich foam cells; remodeling of the arterial wall; and the non-random localization of lesions to areas of disturbed flow or of low shear stress. The evidence is reviewed that each of these characteristics can be attributed to excessive ROS, which are derived from cellular oxidases, especially, the NAD(P)H oxidases. This expanded concept of the central role of oxidation in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis has led to a renewed and intense interest in the potential role of antioxidants in therapy. The vascular protective effects of existing drugs such as statins and ACE inhibitors that are not related to serum lipid alterations are attributed to their indirect but effective roles as antioxidants. These data as well as evidence that newly developed antioxidant drugs show promise, not only in experimental animals but also clinically, are reviewed.
Use of Leukemic Dendritic Cells for the Generation of Antileukemic Cellular Cytotoxicity Against Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

The success of adoptive immunotherapy for the treatment of leukemia depends on the generation of T cells that can specifically react with malignant cells. Dendritic cells (DCs) are important antigen-presenting cells in the development of antileukemic T-cell responses. In this study, we generated DCs from peripheral blood cells of patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). CML cells incubated concurrently with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin-4, and tumor necrosis factor-α in vitro developed morphologic and phenotypic characteristics of DCs. Fluorescence in situ hybridization showed the presence of t(9; 22) in the nuclei of these cells, indicating that they were leukemic in origin. These cells were potent stimulators of lymphocyte proliferation in specific in vitro assays for DC function. Autologous T cells stimulated with in vitro-generated, leukemic DCs displayed vigorous cytotoxic activity against CML cells but low reactivity to major histocompatability complex-matched normal bone marrow cells. Cytotoxic activity against CML targets was fourfold to sixfold higher using DC-stimulated autologous T cells than with autologous T cells expanded by culture with interleukin-2 alone. DC-stimulated T cells also inhibited growth of CML clonogenic precursors in colony-forming assays in vitro. These results suggest that cytokine-driven in vitro differentiation of CML cells results in generation of DCs with potent T-cell stimulatory function. In vitro-generated DCs can be effectively used as antigen-presenting cells for the ex vivo expansion of antileukemic T cells.
Present Capabilities of GPS for High-Precision Regional Surveys

Within the next few years the efficiency of high-precision Global Positioning System (GPS) surveys will increase by nearly an order of magnitude with the introduction of lighter-weight and lower-power instruments, the application of kinematic techniques, and the availability of an improved satellite constellation for most areas of the world. There may also be a significant improvement in accuracy from higher data rates and the removal of setup errors with permanently mounted antennas. Much of our knowledge of the capabilities of the system has derived from analysis of static surveys in the southwestern United States, a region for which the Block I constellation has been optimized. This region also includes a large number of sites whose relative positions have been measured independently by the NASA Crustal Dynamics Project and the National Geodetic Survey (NGS) using fixed and mobile very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) systems. By reviewing what has been learned from the five major campaigns and a similar number of smaller ones in California, we attempt to provide a context for surveys which have been and will be carried out in other parts of the world. To complement the review by Beutler and Gurtner (this volume), we concentrate on regional networks, with baselines between 50 and 1000 km.
Design and evaluation of an avatar-based cultural training system:

The need for cultural training for members of the military, and supporting government and industrial organizations, has become more important because of the increasing expectations of effective col...
Increasing stone complexity does not affect fluoroscopy time in percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Background:The aim of this work was to assess whether stone complexity with the Guy’s stone score (GSS) is associated with increased intraoperative fluoroscopy time.Methods:We retrospectively revie...
A temporal integration mechanism enhances frequency selectivity of broadband inputs to inferior colliculus

Accurately resolving frequency components in sounds is essential for sound recognition, yet there is little direct evidence for how frequency selectivity is preserved or newly created across auditory structures. We demonstrate that prepotentials (PPs) with physiological properties resembling presynaptic potentials from broadly tuned brainstem inputs can be recorded concurrently with postsynaptic action potentials in inferior colliculus (IC). These putative brainstem inputs (PBIs) are broadly tuned and exhibit delayed and spectrally interleaved excitation and inhibition not present in the simultaneously recorded IC neurons (ICNs). A sharpening of tuning is accomplished locally at the expense of spike-timing precision through nonlinear temporal integration of broadband inputs. A neuron model replicates the finding and demonstrates that temporal integration alone can degrade timing precision while enhancing frequency tuning through interference of spectrally in- and out-of-phase inputs. These findings suggest that, in contrast to current models that require local inhibition, frequency selectivity can be sharpened through temporal integration, thus supporting an alternative computational strategy to quickly refine frequency selectivity.
Individuals' demand for ride-hailing services: Investigating the combined effects of attitudinal factors, land use, and travel attributes on demand for app-based taxis in Tehran, Iran

Despite the growing body of research on ride-hailing travel behaviors in Western countries, empirical evidence for changes in travel patterns resulting from the use of app-based services in developing countries remains rare. This study explores factors affecting an Iranian on-demand ride service called Snapp Taxi by using a comprehensive dataset collected from 22 municipality zones in metropolitan Tehran (N = 582). Our conceptual framework emphasizes the transportation mode choice effects of technology adoption, travel mode, ride-sourcing attributes, individual attitudes, land use measures, residential attributes, and socio-economic characteristics of the respondents. Results from Structural Equation Models (SEM) show that factors such as cost effectiveness, trip security, anti-shared mobility, and technology-oriented riders have a significant impact on travel mode choice and the frequency of ride-hailing trips. This study suggests that individuals who prefer driving and semi-public transit also have higher numbers of Snapp trips than other demographics. According to our findings, on-demand ride services could complement or compete with other modes of transport, especially in areas with limited access to public transit. However, the presence of ride-hailing services does not necessarily result in fewer car trips if the service operates as a private (single-party occupancy) vehicle and not as a shared mobility option.
2938 Abdominal ICE Following Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Study Objective To assess impact of abdominal ice packs on opioid use and pain control following laparoscopic hysterectomy. Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting Academic tertiary care medical center. Patients or Participants One-hundred-forty-two adult women undergoing laparoscopic (either conventional or robotic) hysterectomy were randomized to control (n=69) or intervention (n=73). Exclusion criteria included preoperative opioid use, planned ICU admission or same-day discharge, an incision ³4 cm, and regional anesthesia use. Interventions Subjects in the intervention group had a large ice pack placed directly on the lower abdomen prior to leaving the operating room. The ice pack was maintained continuously for twelve hours post-op, as desired thereafter until discharge, and continued use encouraged after discharge for up to 48 hours. Measurements and Main Results Total opioids administered postoperatively while inpatient and after dismissal were assessed in morphine metabolic equivalents (MME). Postoperative pain, as well as analgesia acceptability and side effects, were assessed using validated measures, the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and Overall Benefit of Analgesia Score (OBAS). Median MME was lower in the intervention group compared to controls from inpatient stay on the floor to completion of opioid use as outpatient (22.5 vs 26.2), but was not statistically significant (p=0.79). There was no significant difference between groups in BPI assessment of postoperative pain severity (p=0.80) or pain interference (p=0.36) or OBAS total score (p=0.88). The majority in the intervention group were very satisfied with ice pack use (n=51, 79.7%) and very likely to recommend to friends or family (n=54, 83.1%). There were no adverse events related to ice pack use. Conclusion There was no significant difference in postoperative opioid use or pain assessment with ice pack use following laparoscopic hysterectomy. However, the majority of subjects expressed high satisfaction with this intervention and would recommend use to others, suggesting potential desirability as adjunct therapy in postoperative pain control.
Women’s sexual strategies in pregnancy

Abstract Humans exhibit an unusual pattern of sexual behavior compared to other mammalian females. Women's extended sexuality has been hypothesized to be related to a variety of possible benefits, especially non-genetic reproductive benefits, such as securing male investment via reinforced pairbonds or paternity confusion. But sexual behavior also comes at a cost, particularly for pregnant women, in terms of energetic costs, potential disease, and possible harm to the fetus. We hypothesize, therefore, that sexual behavior in pregnant women should reflect adaptive strategies and that pregnant women will be particularly strategic about their sexual behavior in order to maximize potential benefits while minimizing potential costs. One hundred twelve pregnant women completed a survey of their partners' qualities and their sexual desires toward their primary partners and men other than their primary partners. Results showed that women's perceptions of relationship threat positively predicted sexual desire for primary partners, while their perceptions of their partner's investing qualities negatively predicted sexual desire for extra-pair mates. These qualities, as well as cues to partner's genetic quality and gestation age, also interacted in ways that suggest that pregnant women's sexual desires are sensitive to cues of future investment and relationship stability.
Synthetic Random and Graft Copolymers for Utilization in Enhanced Oil Recovery—Synthesis and Rheology

Polyelectrolyte and non-polyelectrolyte acrylamide random copolymers and graft copolymers of dextran with acrylamide were synthesized to evaluate the effects of polymer composition and structure on viscosity modification and solution behavior in water and brine. Polymer solution rheological behavior and precipitation properties were measured.
Dynamic Panel Surveillance of COVID-19 Transmission in the United States to Inform Health Policy: Observational Statistical Study.

Background: The Great COVID-19 Shutdown aimed to eliminate or slow the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The United States has no national policy, leaving states to independently implement public health guidelines that are predicated on a sustained decline in COVID-19 cases. Operationalization of “sustained decline” varies by state and county. Existing models of COVID-19 transmission rely on parameters such as case estimates or R0 and are dependent on intensive data collection efforts. Static statistical models do not capture all of the relevant dynamics required to measure sustained declines. Moreover, existing COVID-19 models use data that are subject to significant measurement error and contamination. Objective: This study will generate novel metrics of speed, acceleration, jerk, and 7-day lag in the speed of COVID-19 transmission using state government tallies of SARS-CoV-2 infections, including state-level dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infections. This study provides the prototype for a global surveillance system to inform public health practice, including novel standardized metrics of COVID-19 transmission, for use in combination with traditional surveillance tools. Methods: Dynamic panel data models were estimated with the Arellano-Bond estimator using the generalized method of moments. This statistical technique allows for the control of a variety of deficiencies in the existing data. Tests of the validity of the model and statistical techniques were applied. Results: The statistical approach was validated based on the regression results, which determined recent changes in the pattern of infection. During the weeks of August 17-23 and August 24-30, 2020, there were substantial regional differences in the evolution of the US pandemic. Census regions 1 and 2 were relatively quiet with a small but significant persistence effect that remained relatively unchanged from the prior 2 weeks. Census region 3 was sensitive to the number of tests administered, with a high constant rate of cases. A weekly special analysis showed that these results were driven by states with a high number of positive test reports from universities. Census region 4 had a high constant number of cases and a significantly increased persistence effect during the week of August 24-30. This change represents an increase in the transmission model R value for that week and is consistent with a re-emergence of the pandemic. Conclusions: Reopening the United States comes with three certainties: (1) the “social” end of the pandemic and reopening are going to occur before the “medical” end even while the pandemic is growing. We need improved standardized surveillance techniques to inform leaders when it is safe to open sections of the country; (2) varying public health policies and guidelines unnecessarily result in varying degrees of transmission and outbreaks; and (3) even those states most successful in containing the pandemic continue to see a small but constant stream of new cases daily.
A Set-Based Context Model for Program Analysis

In program analysis, the design of context models is an understudied topic. This paper presents a study of context models for higher-order program analyses and develops new approaches. We develop a context model which equates control flows with the same set of call sites on the program stack, guaranteeing termination without the arbitrary cutoffs which cause imprecision in existing models. We then selectively polyinstantiate these contexts to avoid exponential growth.
Evaluating Sacubitril/Valsartan Dose Dependence on Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

BackgroundLimited evidence is available regarding low (24/26 mg) and middle (49/51 mg) doses of sacubitril/valsartan.ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of sacubitril/...
Different perspectives on predicting the thermoacoustic energy conversion response in a Rijke tube

In this work, six different perspectives on characterizing the thermoacoustic field in an open-ended Rijke tube are considered and discussed. These begin with a three-pronged approach consisting of theoretical, experimental, and numerical investigations of the Rijke tube's time-dependent field. It is followed by a discussion of effective techniques that rely on either Green's function or differential equation models. Finally, a perturbation expansion is introduced that leverages a naturally occurring small parameter in the open tube configuration. This approach is shown to produce accurate predictions of pressure modal shapes and frequencies for an arbitrary specified temperature distribution. It also leads to a set of linear partial differential equations that can be solved in conjunction with a Green's function expression for the thermoacoustic pressure, velocity, and heat oscillations. In this study, the underlying framework is presented and evaluated for the pressure disturbance only. Another fundamental result includes a similarity parameter, coined the Rijke number, which plays an essential role in driving thermoacoustic oscillations, namely, by relating heat-flux fluctuations to the acoustic velocity and pressure. In this context, we find that the peak value of the energy-flux vector modulus, which stands for the modular product of acoustic velocity and pressure, does indeed occur at the heat source location and increases with the heat power input.
Modeling of Solid-state Circuit Breaker During Current Interruption Phase

As the enabler of next generation DC power distribution system, solid-state circuit breaker (SSCB) behavior is sensitive to power semiconductors, gate drive, energy absorber (e.g. varistor), and their coupling. Thus, it is critical to understanding the impact of different design parameters on the performance of SSCB, especially on the fault current interruption. This paper proposes an analytical model to establish the relationship between SSCB dynamic performance when the fault is being cleared dependence on design variables and operating conditions. Then the sensitivity analysis is performed based on the proposed model to identify the most critical design parameters. Finally, simulation and test results based on a 2kV/1kA SSCB prototype demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed model, which provides fundamentals for the design optimization of SSCB considering gate drive and energy absorber.
Beta-blocker use in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review: A systematic review of βB in COPD.

Beta-blockers (βB) are a frequently used class of medications. Although βB have many indications, those related to cardiovascular disease are among the most common and important. However, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), βB are used less often due to concerns about an unfavorable impact on respiratory morbidity and mortality. a need for well-designed randomized controlled trials to examine their safety and efficacy, particularly in patients with comorbid heart disease who otherwise have strong indications for βB.
Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer

The biological rationale for adjuvant systemic therapy is to eradicate micrometastases and therefore improve patient outcomes. Adjuvant combination chemotherapy regimens result in a significant reduction in risk of 5-year recurrence and 15-year mortality rates, with a greater benefit in women <50 years of age [1]. In the clinical setting, the decision to use adjuvant chemotherapy is guided by the clinician’s estimation of the patient’s prognosis (both her risk of cancer recurrence and overall life expectancy) and assessment of the chemosensitivity of the tumor. Not surprisingly, the use and choice of adjuvant chemotherapy regimen in clinical practice are highly variable. Prognostic determinants of breast cancer recurrence may be broadly divided into the categories of tumor stage (including both tumor size and nodal status) and tumor biology (such as tumor grade, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) status, and HER2/neu expression).
Temporal and Segmental Distribution of Constitutive and Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthases after Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: Effect of Aminoguanidine Treatment

Nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to play an important role in the pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and cerebral ischemia. However, its contribution to the pathogenesis of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) remains to be clarified. This study determined the time course of constitutive and inducible nitric oxide synthases (cNOS and iNOS, respectively) after SCI. Rats underwent moderate SCI at T10 using the NYU impactor device and were allowed to survive for 3, 6, or 24 h and 3 days after SCI (n = 5 in each group). For the determination of enzymatic activities, spinal cords were dissected into five segments, including levels rostral and caudal (remote) to the injury site. Other rats were perfusion fixed for the immunohistochemical localization of iNOS protein levels. cNOS activity was significantly decreased at 3 and 6 h within the traumatized T10 segment and at 3, 6, and 24 h at the rostral (T9) level (p < 0.05). Rostral (T8) and caudal (T11, T12) to the injury site cNOS activity was also dec...
Optimized-fuzzy MPPT controller using GA for stand-alone photovoltaic water pumping system

This paper presents a comparative study among different Maximum Power Point Trackers for Photovoltaic Water Pumping load. Comprehensive analysis and simulation of KC-120-1 PV module (source), Kyocera SD 12–30 solar pump (load) and storage tank (storage) were conducted. Multi-objective optimization based on Genetic Algorithms were performed for two MPPT techniques: perturb and observe (P&O) and fuzzy technique. A GA cost function is developed and explained for optimization purposes. The fitness function considers the irradiance variations of two climates condition (sunny and cloudy days), however the algorithm can be easily changed for considering more cases. A comparative analysis of both techniques was perform before and after optimization based on the system energy error and the water flow rate. It is demonstrated that GA-optimized Fuzzy algorithm presents a more appropriate behavior under the different climatic conditions.
A robust image enhancement technique for improving image visual quality in shadowed scenes

An effective and robust image enhancement algorithm is presented for improving the visual quality of digital images captured under extremely low or non-uniform lighting conditions. The proposed algorithm is composed of two separated processes viz. adaptive luminance enhancement and adaptive contrast enhancement to provide a more flexible and better control over the image enhancement. Adaptive luminance enhancement is an intensity transformation based on a specifically designed nonlinear transfer function which largely increases the luminance of darker pixels and compresses the dynamic range as well. Adaptive contrast enhancement adjusts the intensity of each pixel based on its relative magnitude with respect to the neighboring pixels. Both processes can be self-tuned by the image statistical information. A proportional color restoration process is applied to convert the enhanced intensity image back to a color image. Real time processing and embedded application in mobile device have been successfully realized.
Chemical bonding and magnetic properties of the high-spin molecule [Mn12O12(HCOO)16(H2O)4]

Abstract Density functional self-consistent spin-polarized calculations with the Discrete Variational Method were performed to obtain the electronic structural and magnetic properties of the cluster [Mn 12 O 12 (HCOO) 16 (H 2 O) 4 ] approaching the true high-spin molecule [Mn 12 O 12 (CH 3 COO) 16 (H 2 O) 4 ]. Magnetic moments, total spin, densities of states, and charge- and spin-density maps are obtained. The bond order and magnetic hyperfine field on the Mn nucli in this molecule are obtained from our calculations and compared to reported experimental values of similar compounds when available.
Weight-control practices among U.S. adults, 2001-2002.

Background Approximately $50 billion a year is spent by Americans on weight-loss products and services. Despite the high cost, few national studies have described specific weight-loss and weight-maintenance practices among U.S. adults. This analysis describes the use of specific practices by U.S. adults who tried to lose weight or tried only not to gain weight during the previous 12 months. Methods Data were analyzed from the 2001–2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted on a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population. This study focused on adults aged 20 years or older who were both interviewed and examined (n =5027). Results Fifty-one percent of U.S. adults tried to control their weight in the previous 12 months, including those who tried to lose weight (34% of men, 48% of women) and those who tried only not to gain weight (11% vs 10%, respectively). Among 2051 adults who tried to control their weight, the top four practices were the same: ate less food (65% among those who tried to lose weight, 52% among those who tried only not to gain weight); exercised (61% vs 46%, respectively); ate less fat (46% vs 42%); and switched to foods with lower calories (37% vs 36%). Less than one fourth combined caloric restriction with the higher levels of physical activity (300 or more minutes per week) recommended in the 2005 dietary guidelines by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Conclusions Although weight control is a common concern, most people who try do not use recommended combinations of caloric restriction and adequate levels of physical activity.
Inorganic electrides formed by alkali metal addition to pure silica zeolites

Up to 4 Cs or Rb atoms per 32 Si atoms can be incorporated into the channels of the all-silica (SiO2) zeolites ITQ-4 and beta with effective oxidation states of zero. The optical properties and 29Si MAS NMR spectra suggest partial or complete ionization within the channels to yield M+ ions and relatively free electrons. This view is supported by a published structural model (Petkov, V.; Billinge, S. I.; Vogt, T.; Ichimura, A. S.; Dye, J. L. Phys. Rev. Lett. 2002, 89, 075502) based on pair distribution functions for Cs in ITQ-4. As with solutions of alkali metals in ammonia, however, the trapped electrons in this inorganic electride interact with the cations, and spin-pairing between adjacent electrons also occurs. The crystal morphology is unaffected by the inclusion of alkali metals. Structural distortions that reduce or eliminate long-range order are completely reversed upon oxidation and removal of the metal. At higher temperatures, Na and K can also be incorporated, but the optical spectra indicate th...
Autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell therapy is safe and promotes amputation-free survival in patients with critical limb ischemia.

Objective The purpose of this Phase I open label nonrandomized trial was to assess the safety and efficacy of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell (ABMNC) therapy in promoting amputation-free survival (AFS) in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). Methods Between September 2005 and March 2009, 29 patients (30 limbs), with a median age of 66 years (range, 23-84 years; 14 male, 15 female) with CLI were enrolled. Twenty-one limbs presented with rest pain (RP), six with RP and ulceration, and three with ulcer only. All patients were not candidates for surgical bypass due to absence of a patent artery below the knee and/or endovascular approaches to improving perfusion was not possible as determined by an independent vascular surgeon. Patients were treated with an average dose of 1.7 ± 0.7 × 10 9 ABMNC injected intramuscularly in the index limb distal to the anterior tibial tuberosity. The primary safety end point was accumulation of serious adverse events, and the primary efficacy end point was AFS at 1 year. Secondary end points at 12 weeks posttreatment were changes in first toe pressure (FTP), toe-brachial index (TBI), ankle-brachial index (ABI), and transcutaneous oxygen measurements (TcPO 2 ). Perfusion of the index limb was measured with positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) with intra-arterial infusion of H 2 O 15 . RP, using a 10-cm visual analogue scale, quality of life using the VascuQuol questionnaire, and ulcer healing were assessed at each follow-up interval. Subpopulations of endothelial progenitor cells were quantified prior to ABMNC administration using immunocytochemistry and fluorescent-activated cell sorting. Results There were two serious adverse events; however, there were no procedure-related deaths. Amputation-free survival at 1 year was 86.3%. There was a significant increase in FTP (10.2 ± 6.2 mm Hg; P = .02) and TBI (0.10 ± 0.05; P = .02) and a trend in improvement in ABI (0.08 ± 0.04; P = .73). Perfusion index by PET-CT H 2 O 15 increased by 19.3 ± 3.1, and RP decreased significantly by 2.2 ± 0.6 cm ( P = .02). The VascuQol questionnaire demonstrated significant improvement in quality of life, and three of nine ulcers (33%) healed completely. KDR + but not CD34 + or CD133 + subpopulations of ABMNC were associated with improvement in limb perfusion. Conclusion This Phase I study has demonstrated safety, and the AFS rates suggest efficacy of ABMNC in promoting limb salvage in "no option" CLI. Based on these results, we plan to test the concept that ABMNCs improve AFS at 1 year in a Phase III randomized, double-blinded, multicenter trial.
Spinal and paraspinal pneumococcal infections—a review

Spinal and paraspinal infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae remain a rare event. We present two cases from our institution, discuss the pathophysiology, and present a literature review of an additional 50 cases of spinal pneumococcal infections. Spinal epidural abscess and vertebral osteomyelitis as well as paraspinal abscesses caused by pneumococcus were included in the analysis. As has been reported for spinal infections due to other bacteria, persistent localized back pain with an elevation in inflammatory markers was almost universal. The lumbar spine was the most commonly involved. Pneumococcus was most frequently isolated from material obtained at the site of the infection; blood cultures were a less common source. The majority of patients with neurologic deficits had spinal epidural abscess or phlegmon, and had a higher mortality. Most patients were treated with 6 weeks of parenteral antimicrobials, and surgical intervention was not associated with a mortality benefit.
Raman and infrared study of reorientational dynamics in trifluorobenzene

The Raman spectral bandwidths of two A1′ vibrations of 1,3,5-trifluorobenzene (TFB) were measured in the neat liquid as a function of temperature and in the solvents CH2Cl2 and CS2. The Raman and IR linewidths of two E′ modes were also measured in solution. Derived values of the two rotational diffusion constants, D⊥ and D∥, were compared with the predictions of several current theories. It was observed that the Hynes–Kapral-Weinberg (HKW) theory is superior to both the microviscosity–free rotor and Hu–Zwanzig ‘slip’ models of reorientational diffusion. Calculated values of D⊥ and D∥ for TFB in solution using the HKW model are in excellent agreement with the experimentally measured diffusion constants.
Effect of Fluorinated Pyrimidines on Herpes Simplex Virus

SEVERAL reports have appeared recently regarding the effects of 5-fluoropyrimidines on nucleic acid metabolism1–10. One of these compounds, 5-fluorouracil, has been shown to exert a profound effect on the quantity of thymine component of nucleic acids, perhaps by interfering with the methylation of thymine1,2,8. Other investigators have shown that this fluoropyrimidine can be incorporated into UNA of tobacco mosaic virus, E. coli, mouse tumours and rat liver3–7,9,10. Horowitz et al. have also examined the effect of several other fluoro-derivatives as well as 5-fluorouracil on the synthesis of bacterial proteins and nucleic acids11. These investigators found that the 5-fluoropyrinudines invariably inhibited the synthesis of DNA in several strains of E. coli.
The transport of choline.

ABSTRACTCholine has many physiological functions throughout the body that are dependent on its available local supply. However, since choline is a charged hydrophilic cation, transport mechanisms are required for it to cross biological membranes. Choline transport is required for cellular membrane construction and is the rate-limiting step for acetylcholine production. Transport mechanisms include: (1) sodium-dependent high-affinity uptake mechanism in synaptosomes, (2) sodium-independent low-affinity mechanism on cellular membranes, and (3) unique choline uptake mechanisms (e.g., blood–brain barrier choline transport). A comprehensive overview of choline transport studies is provided. This review article examines landmark and current choline transport studies, molecular mapping, and molecular identification of these carriers. Information regarding the choline-binding site is presented by reviewing choline structural analog (hemicholinium-3 and 15, and other nitrogen/methyl-hydroxyl compounds) inhibition ...
Interactive spacetime control for animation

This paper describes new techniques to design physically based, goal directed motion of synthetic creatures. More specifically, it concentrates on developing an interactive framework for specifying constraints and objectives for the motion, and for guiding the numericrd solution of the optimization problem thus defined. The ability to define, modify and guide constrained spacetime problems is provided through an interactive user interface. Innovations that are introduced include, (1) the subdivision of spacetime into discrete pieces, or Spacetime Windows, over which subproblems can be formulated and solved, (2) the use of cubic B-spline approximation techniques to define a C2 function for the creature’s time dependent degrees of freedom, (3) the use of both symbolic and numerical processes to construct and solve the constrained optimization problem, and (4) the ability to specify inequality and conditional constraints. Creatures, in the context of this work, consist of rigid links connected by joints defining a set of generalized degrees of freedom. Hybrid symbolic and numeric techniques to solve the resulting complex constrained optimization problems are made possible by the special structure of physically based models of such creatures, and by the recent development of symbolic algebraic languages. A graphical user interface process handles communication between the user and two other processes; one devoted to symbolic differentiation and manipulation of the constraints and objectives, and one that performs the iterative numerical solution of the optimization problem. The user interface itself provides both high and low level definition of, interaction with, and inspection of, the optimization process and the resulting animation. Implementation issues and experiments with the Spacetime Windows system are discussed,
Introduction: Protein phosphorylation and signal transduction in bacteria

A single type of reversible protein-phosphorylating system, the ATP-dependent protein kinase/phosphatase system, is employed in signal transduction in eukaryotes. By contrast, recent work has revealed that three types of protein-phosphorylating systems mediate signal transduction in bacteria. These systems are (1) classical protein kinase/phosphatase systems, (2) sensor-kinase/response-regulator systems, and (3) the multifaceted phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system. Physiological, structural, and mechanistic aspects of these three evolutionarily distinct systems are discussed in the papers of this written symposium. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Single Intranasal Inoculation with a Paramyxovirus-Vectored Vaccine Protects Guinea Pigs against a Lethal-Dose Ebola Virus Challenge

To determine whether intranasal inoculation with a paramyxovirus-vectored vaccine can induce protective immunity against Ebola virus (EV), recombinant human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3) was modified to express either the EV structural glycoprotein (GP) by itself (HPIV3/EboGP) or together with the EV nucleoprotein (NP) (HPIV3/EboGP-NP). Expression of EV GP by these recombinant viruses resulted in its efficient incorporation into virus particles and increased cytopathic effect in Vero cells. HPIV3/EboGP was 100-fold more efficiently neutralized by antibodies to EV than by antibodies to HPIV3. Guinea pigs infected with a single intranasal inoculation of 10(5.3) PFU of HPIV3/EboGP or HPIV3/EboGP-NP showed no apparent signs of disease yet developed a strong humoral response specific to the EV proteins. When these animals were challenged with an intraperitoneal injection of 10(3) PFU of EV, there were no outward signs of disease, no viremia or detectable EV antigen in the blood, and no evidence of infection in the spleen, liver, and lungs. In contrast, all of the control animals died or developed severe EV disease following challenge. The highly effective immunity achieved with a single vaccine dose suggests that intranasal immunization with live vectored vaccines based on recombinant respiratory viruses may be an advantageous approach to inducing protective responses against severe systemic infections, such as those caused by hemorrhagic fever agents.
The Effects of the Adhesively Bonded Repair Patch on the Dynamic Response of the Composite Beam Under a Harmonic Peeling Load

The dynamic response of an adhesively patched repaired composite beam under a harmonic peeling load was obtained theoretically and experimentally. In the theoretical part, dynamic responses of the repaired composite beams were obtained by modeling the parent beam as the Euler-Bernouli beam and the repaired patch as the Euler-Bernouli beam supported on a viscoelastic foundation, which resist both peeling and shear stresses. Both axial and transverse displacements were considered in deriving the coupled equations of motion. The effects of the adhesive loss factor, as well as its elastic modulus on the vibrational behavior of the repaired composite beams were investigated theoretically. In addition, finite element modal analyses were performed to justify the results of the proposed theoretical model. In the experimental part, unidirectional fiberglass reinforced epoxy composite specimens with various repaired patch length, thickness and material properties were manufactured. The patch section was either the fiberglass epoxy or E-glass fiber reinforced composites with various ply sequences. Patches were bonded to the composite beam using an epoxy. The system response was measured by the hammer test technique using a non-contact laser vibrometer. The resonant frequencies and damping ratio of the specimens were evaluated from the dynamic response of the composite beam and the results were compared to that of the theoretical and finite element analyses. The results showed that the dynamic response of the repaired composite depended on the adhesive elastic modulus. For the composite repaired with a high adhesive elastic modulus, the beam may act as a classical Euler-Bernouli composite beam. For the composite patched with a low elastic modulus adhesive, the first resonant frequency of the system may decrease up to 22%. In contrast, the natural frequencies may not significantly change having used adhesive with a high elastic modulus.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Embolic microspheres within ovarian arterial vasculature after uterine artery embolization.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Adverse events after uterine artery embolization, including hysterectomy and premature ovarian failure, are concerning for women who desire future fertility. CASE: A 39-year-old woman underwent emergency hysterectomy after uterine artery embolization embolic microspheres found within the ovarian arterial vasculature. CONCLUSION: Uterine artery embolization for the treatment of uterine fibroids has been associated with loss of ovarian function in up to 14% of patients. This case report demonstrates that embolic microspheres injected into the uterine artery can unintentionally migrate through anastomotic channels into the ovarian arterial vasculature and potentially compromise ovarian blood flow. Hypoxic tissue injury may be the mechanism of premature ovarian failure observed after uterine artery embolization. Understanding the etiology of premature ovarian failure after uterine artery embolization might allow better patient selection.
Immunochemical similarities among the hemolymph juvenile hormone binding proteins of moths

The hemolymph from various species of moths was analyzed for cross-reactivity with a panel of six monoclonal antibodies made against the hemolymph juvenile hormone binding protein ofManduca sexta. With the exception of one antibody, the immunoreactivity was limited to the sphingid family. One monoclonal antibody cross-reacted with a number of lepidopteran species; however, families such as Noctuidae and Pyralidae, known to have high affinity, low molecular weight juvenile hormone binding proteins, did not cross-react. Immunological cross-reactivity withManduca sexta juvenile hormone binding protein in several primitive moth families supports the current model of phylogenetic relationships in the order Lepidoptera.
Structure and Function of the Elasmobranch Auditory System

Behavioral evidence indicates that sharks detect underwater sound at frequencies up to 1000 Hz, and that certain low frequency signals attract sharks from large distances. It appears that the adequate stimulus for “sound detecting” systems of the shark is panicle motion, as opposed to fluctuations in sound pressure. The elasmobranch ear consists of the three semi-circular canals for detecting angular accelerations, and otolith organs for detecting linear motion and accelerations due to gravity. Two of these organs, the sacculus and macula neglecta, have been shown to be responsive to vibratory motion, with the macula neglecta having best sensitivity to vertical movements. A direct vibrational pathway exists to the macula neglecta from the parietal fossa of the dorsal chondrocranium. It is not clear at present, however, whether it is the inner ear or the lateral line system which is responsible for hearing. Both detection systems are theoretically capable of providing information to the brain about sound source location using non-parallel arrays of directionally sensitive hair-cell receptors. Recent theories of underwater sound localization by fishes and sharks suggest that the ability to detect a vertical displacement component of an acoustic signal (e. g., via the macula neglecta) is necessary for instantaneous location decisions. It is not known, however, whether the sharks localize by processing information about various aspects of the sound field simultaneously (in parallel), or whether the sound field is sampled successively at different points in space. Clearly, more experimental work on the physiology of elasmobranch acoustic behavior is called for.
Heat hide and seek

Natural variability can explain fluctuations in surface temperatures but can it account for the current slowdown in warming?
Time and light-dependence of electrical passivation of c-Si surfaces with quinhydrone constituent solutions

Quinhydrone has two constituent parts p-benzoquinone and hydroquinone and these components have been dissolved in methanol to passivate hydrogen-terminated silicon surfaces. It has been confirmed that p-benzoquinone is the active component; however, hydroquinone does improve in performance when in contact with the substrates for a longer duration. This effect is independent of substrate doping. The effect of light was also examined. Substrates passivated in full ambient light conditions displayed the highest effective lifetimes. The passivation effect from solutions exposed to light with measurements taken in the dark were compared with that of substrates passivated using a process completely performed in the dark. The passivation effect from these procedures is substrate doping dependent, but not as effective as full light passivation. It is confirmed that the presence of light is facilitating the bonding reaction. The labile proton on methanol is also found to play an important role in passivation. Additionally, protons that help with the effectiveness of passivation process predominantly come from methanol, but not water.
Vaporization thermodynamics of the Yb-S system

The vaporization behavior of the Yb-S system was studied over the temperature range 1688–1842 K. The congruently vaporizing compound was found to be a non-stoichiometric ytterbium monosulfide: Yb0.877S. Mass spectrometric investigation showed that the principal congruent vaporization reaction is: Yb0.877S(s) = 0.877Yb(g) + S(g). The equilibrium partial pressures are given by: ln PYb(atm) = −(54521 ± 1028)T + (16.70 ± 0.58); ln PS(atm) = −(53932 ± 679)T + (14.93 ± 0.39); ln PS2(atm) = −(55091 ± 1357) + (15.30 ± 0.77)T. The second law enthalpy and entropy for the congruent vaporization reaction were determined to be: ΔH2980 = 204.0 (± 5) kcal mol−1; ΔS2980 = 61.7(± 3) cal mol−1. The third law result is: ΔH2980 = 202.2(± 2) kcal mol−1.
Experimental and theoretical study of the wake of a block-shaped vehicle in a shear-free boundary flow

Abstract The wake of a moving vehicle was simulated using a specially-constructed wind tunnel with a moving floor. A “block-shaped” model vehicle was fixed in position over the test-section floor while the floor moved at the freestream air speed to produce a uniform, shear-free, approach flow. This simulates an automobile traveling along a straight highway under calm atmospheric conditions. Vertical and lateral profiles of mean and fluctuating velocities and Reynolds stresses in the wake of the vehicle were obtained using a hot-film anemometer with an X-probe. Profiles were taken at distances of 10–80 model heights downwind. A momentum type wake was observed behind the block-shaped vehicle. The wake does not have a simple self-preserving form. However, it is possible to collapse the velocity deficit with one length and one velocity scale. Two new theories for the velocity deficit are compared to the theory of Eskridge and Hunt (1979). A theory which considered a height-dependent eddy viscosity was found to fit the data best. Length and velocity scales were found for the longitudinal variation of the turbulent kinetic energy. The lateral variation is described by a two-dimensional numerical fit of the crosswind variation of the data.