cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
BIOENGINEERING AND IMPLANT SURGERY SOME NEW DIRECTIONS

Bioengineering research for all types of biomedical applications has expanded tremendously during the past decade. One driving force in the biomaterials area has been the increasing demand for prosthetic implants to replace diseased of malfunctioning organs. Several exciting and innovative applications of materials science and technology are presently being developed for implant use with bone and teeth. These include : composites, especially those where the components are biodegradable and/or bioresorbably; a special class of so-called osteophilic (bone bonding) ceramics: and porous metal or polymer or ceramic-clad metallic systems. These materials and systems are being used to cover a wide range of needs such as : boneplates for fracture healing artificial tendons and ligaments: joint (e.g. hip and knee) prosthesis, dental implants; alveolar ridge augmentation, etc.
Fibronectin matrix assembly is essential for cell condensation during chondrogenesis

Mesenchymal cell condensation is the initiating event in endochondral bone formation. Cell condensation is followed by differentiation into chondrocytes, which is accompanied by induction of chondrogenic gene expression. Gene mutations involved in chondrogenesis cause chondrodysplasias and other skeletal defects. Using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in an in vitro chondrogenesis assay, we found that knockdown of the diastrophic dysplasia (DTD) sulfate transporter (DTDST, also known as SLC26A2), which is required for normal cartilage development, blocked cell condensation and caused a significant reduction in fibronectin matrix. Knockdown of fibronectin with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) also blocked condensation. Fibrillar fibronectin matrix was detected prior to cell condensation, and its levels increased during and after condensation. Inhibition of fibronectin matrix assembly by use of the functional upstream domain (FUD) of adhesin F1 from Streptococcus pyogenes prevented cell condensation by MSCs and also by the chondrogenic cell line ATDC5. Our data show that cell condensation and induction of chondrogenesis depend on fibronectin matrix assembly and DTDST, and indicate that this transporter is required earlier in chondrogenesis than previously appreciated. They also raise the possibility that certain of the skeletal defects in DTD patients might derive from the link between DTDST, fibronectin matrix and condensation.
Effects of intraamniotic helium, carbon dioxide, and water on fetal lambs

The hysteroscopic approach to the correction of congenital anomalies in utero may be helped by the temporary introduction of clear, electrically neutral fluids (liquids or gases) into the amniotic cavity. Accordingly, the authors determined the effects of three candidate fluids (helium, carbon dioxide, and water) on the oxygenation, acid-base balance, electrolyte concentrations, and hemodynamic function of nine sheep fetuses at 120 days' gestation (full term 145 days). Each fetus was exposed, in random order, to each of the three fluids, at an intraamniotic pressure of 15 mm Hg. The authors found that helium produced no changes in any of the measurements and was well tolerated by the fetus and the mother. Carbon dioxide decreased fetal arterial pH, and increased both arterial PCO2 and PO2. Although the decrease in pH was explained entirely by the increase in PCO2, the increase in arterial PO2 may have resulted from vasodilatation of the placental circulation or vasoconstriction of the fetal circulation with a redistribution of blood flow to the placenta. Water caused mild fetal hyponatremia and hypochloremia, without significant changes in acid-base balance or oxygenation. The results suggest that both helium and water may represent viable alternatives for amniotic fluid replacement during hysteroscopic surgery.
A SURVEY OF AIRCRAFT ENGINE HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEMS

This paper presents a survey of engine health monitoring systems for commercial aircraft. The state of practice is explored first, with the purpose of identifying the shortcomings of current systems. The state of the research to address these shortcomings is them surveyed to explore the alternatives. Research and monitoring applications for various other types of engines provide a good basis for further exploring the topic. This survey is meant to serve as a precursor to engine health and monitoring research at the NASA Ames Research Center.
The effect of prolactin on reproductive function in female Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).

Abstract The anti-gonadal or anti-gonadotropic actions of prolactin in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were re-investigated. Treatment of mature regularly laying quail with 16 I.U. of ovine prolactin (NIH-P-S11) per day for 7 or 14 days caused significant (P≤.05) decreases in ovarian and oviductal weight and a reduction in egg production by the third day of treatment. The most frequent response to prolactin was complete cessation of ovulation for the duration of the experiment, but some birds showed no effects from the hormone treatment. Prolactin caused a significant (P≤.05) increase in body weight of the quail. Serum LH, measured during the expected time of the preovulatory LH surge, was significantly lower in birds treated with prolactin the day before sampling than in control birds. It was concluded that prolactin has a distinct anti-gonadal or anti-gonadotropic action in this species.
The Biochemistry and Cell Biology of Antigen Presentation by MHC Class I and Class II Molecules.

T lymphocytes play a central role in adaptive immunity. They provide direct effector function, regulate the activity of non-antigen-specific effector cells such as macrophages, and control the production of antibodies by B cells. Thus, the proper stimulation of T cells is critical to effective vaccination. T cells bearing alpha beta receptors are stimulated by antigen-derived peptides displayed on cell surfaces bound to highly polymorphic, major histocompatibility complex-encoded glycoproteins. To elicit suitable T cell responses vaccines must, therefore, contain proteins or peptides derived from the organism against which protection is desired, the pathogen-derived peptides must be capable of interacting with the allelic forms of the MHC molecules expressed in the vaccinated individuals, and the vaccine components must be delivered in a manner that ensures they are made available for binding to the MHC molecules on appropriate antigen-presenting cells. This paper has reviewed the rules governing peptide binding to MHC molecules, the intracellular pathways of protein synthesis, protein degradation, and protein and peptide transport involved in bringing together antigenic peptides and MHC molecules, and the distinct function of MHC class I versus class II molecules. The implications of this knowledge for effective combined vaccine design and delivery were considered.
Combined photoacoustic and magneto-acoustic imaging

Ultrasound is a widely used modality with excellent spatial resolution, low cost, portability, reliability and safety. In clinical practice and in the biomedical field, molecular ultrasound-based imaging techniques are desired to visualize tissue pathologies, such as cancer. In this paper, we present an advanced imaging technique – combined photoacoustic and magneto-acoustic imaging – capable of visualizing the anatomical, functional and biomechanical properties of tissues or organs. The experiments to test the combined imaging technique were performed using dual, nanoparticle-based contrast agents that exhibit the desired optical and magnetic properties. The results of our study demonstrate the feasibility of the combined photoacoustic and magneto-acoustic imaging that takes the advantages of each imaging techniques and provides high sensitivity, reliable contrast and good penetrating depth. Therefore, the developed imaging technique can be used in wide range of biomedical and clinical application.
Using piconet avoidance techniques to reduce interference in Bluetooth networks

The paper presents techniques to avoid the problem of inter-piconet interference in Bluetooth networks. These techniques aim to reduce the number of piconets created in a Bluetooth networking area. The main advantage of having fewer piconets in a Bluetooth network is the reduction in inter-piconet interference and hence better network performance These techniques are simulated in software called BT-Scatter, which was created specifically to perform Bluetooth scatternet formation simulations. Simulations were run for various randomly generated topologies and the number of piconets created for each of the topologies was collected. Results show that the number of piconets created for a Bluetooth network topology reduces by using the proposed technique.
Model checking the Java meta-locking algorithm

We apply the XMC model checker to the Java meta-locking algorithm, a highly optimized technique for ensuring mutually exclusive access by threads to object monitor queues. Our abstract specification of the meta-locking algorithm is fully parameterized, both on M, the number of threads, and N, the number of objects. Using XMC, we show that for a variety of values of M and N, the algorithm indeed provides mutual exclusion and freedom from lockout.
Bacterivory by deposit-feeding mayfly larvae (Stenonema spp.)

SUMMARY. 1 The importance of bacteria in the diet of deposit-feeding mayflies (Stenonema spp.) from the Ogeecnee River, a sixth order low-gradient blackwater river in Georgia, U.S.A., was determined. Stenonema are abundant and productive on snags in biackwater rivers in the southeastern Coastal Plain of the U.S.A. Bacteria are abundant in the seston in this river, and are a potentially important food source. 2 Naturally occurring seston was fed to Stenonema larvae after bacterial DNA in the seston was labelled with methyl-[3H]thymidine. Larval respiration measurements and growth rate estimations were used to compare the amount of bacterial carbon assimilated and retained in larval tissue to the carbon requirements of the larvae. 3 Stenonema larvae incorporated 8.7×107±1.3×107 bacteria larva−1 h−1 This was equivalent to 93±6% of their daily growth, and 47±3% of their total daily carbon needs. Larger larvae incorporated more bacterial biomass, but mass specific incorporation was not related to size. Ingestion of bacteria while eating seston accumulated on snags appears to be an important component of the diet of Stenonema larvae in these rivers.
Patterns of Immunotoxicity Associated with Chronic as Compared with Acute Exposure to Chemical or Physical Stressors and their Relevance with Regard to the Role of Stress and with Regard to Immunotoxicity Testing

Previous studies have demonstrated that the stress response induced by some drugs and chemicals contributes in a predictable way to alteration of particular immunological parameters in mice. It has not been determined if mice can become tolerant or habituated with regard to the stress response and consequent immunological effects. Addressing this issue was the purpose of the present study. Mice were dosed daily for 28 days with atrazine, ethanol, propanil, or subjected to restraint, which are known to induce neuroendocrine stress responses and thereby to alter several immunological parameters. On day 29, a blood sample was taken and the spleen was removed for analysis of cellular phenotypes, differential cell counts (for blood), and natural killer (NK) cell activity. Corticosterone concentration at various times after dosing (or restraint) was also measured. Comparison of these results with results from previous studies with a single acute exposure revealed that the corticosterone response was almost completely absent in mice treated with ethanol, reduced in mice treated with restraint and propanil, and for atrazine the response was the same as noted for acute exposure. In most cases, the changes in immunological parameters were consistent with expectations based on these corticosterone responses. However, in a few cases (e.g., NK cell activity), it was clear that there were effects not mediated by stress. These results indicate that the nature of the stressor determines whether mice become tolerant with regard to the stress response and consequent immunological effects. This finding has practical implications for safety testing in mice.
Preischemic But Not Postischemic Zinc Protoporphyrin Treatment Reduces Infarct Size and Edema Accumulation After Temporary Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Rats

Background and Purpose Zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP) has multiple actions. It is an interleukin-1 antagonist as well as a hemeoxygenase inhibitor. Interleukin-1 is produced in ischemic brain and probably contributes to ischemic injury, although the role of heme oxygenase during ischemia is unknown. Whether ZnPP treatment is more effective before or after ischemia, as well as whether it is more protective in permanent or temporary cerebral ischemia, is also unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effect of ZnPP on infarction size and edema in a rodent model of temporary and permanent focal cerebral ischemia. Methods Two groups of adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated with either 50 mg/kg ZnPP IP or saline and subjected to permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion 30 minutes later. Four additional groups of animals were subjected to 2 hours of temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by 22 hours of reperfusion. Two of these groups were pretreated 30 minutes before middle cerebral artery occlusion with either 50 mg/kg ZnPP IP or saline. The other groups received ZnPP at either 2 or 4 hours after middle cerebral artery occlusion. Regional cerebral blood flow in the ischemic cortex was monitored with laser Doppler flowmetry. Cerebral infarct size and brain water were measured 24 hours after the onset of either form of ischemia. Results Regional cerebral blood flow after occlusion was approximately 13% to 20% of baseline after either permanent or temporary ischemia. ZnPP had no effect on regional cerebral blood flow, infarct size, or edema formation in permanent ischemia. In contrast, pretreatment significantly reduced infarct size (17.2±6.6% in controls versus 6.2±2.9% in pretreated rats) and edema formation (center zone, 4.00±0.71% water in controls versus 1.18±0.26% water in pretreated rats) in the model of temporary ischemia, but treatment after occlusion had no effect. Conclusions ZnPP treatment protected the brain when administered early in the temporary ischemia model.
Dynamic focusing imaging probe for optical coherence microscopy

A liquid lens-based dynamic focusing skin imaging probe with for in vivo OCM optimized for a Ti:Sa pulsed broadband laser source of bandwidth 100 nm centered at 800 nm is presented. High, quasi-invariant resolution of 3 mum for a 2 mm x 2 mm lateral cross-section, across 2 mm skin depth is demonstrated.
H 2 S and HS - Adsorption on a Charged Cu Surface in an Electrolyte: Effect of Ionic Strength

We present a method for the calculation of the binding and rotational energies of neutral (H2S) and charged (HS-) molecules impinging upon a charged (Cu ) surface in the presence of an electrolyte. A molecular surface is constructed surrounding the H2S and HS- molecules forming boundary elements. A coupled Schrodinger-Poisson-Boltzmann iterative procedure treats the electronic structure of the molecules at the 6-3131G**/MP2 level of theory and includes solvation effects through the single and double layers of charge induced by the electronic distribution. The molecule, together with its charged layers, forms a Molecular Single and Double Layer (MSDL), an object which then interacts with a Gouy-Chapman plane within the electrolyte. The additional induced charge at the molecular surface resulting from this electric field is obtained by solving a second set of boundary element equations. Repulsive interactions between the atoms of the molecule and those of the surface are obtained using a rigid-ion Hartree-Fock method. Binding energies of the molecule to the surface are determined as a function of the real surface charge imposed and also the ionic strength of the solution. It is found that surface charges can completely (180°) reorient these molecules and that the counterions in the solution can completely screen binding effects of even large surface charges. Work supported by the United States Department of Energy under contract #DE-AC04-94AL85000.
New weathering index improves paleorainfall estimates from Vertisols

Vertisols are clayey, shrink-swell soils that are widely recognized in the rock record, thus generating the need to better understand the dynamics of elemental concentrations on the development of weathering indexes for climate interpretations. We assessed the weathering performance of the four major base-forming oxides (CaO, MgO, Na 2 O, K 2 O) along a modern Vertisol climosequence spanning a strong precipitation gradient, and discovered that the concentration of bulk soil CaO and MgO yields the strongest correlation to mean annual precipitation (MAP). Based on this fi nding, we introduce the CALMAG weathering index, defi ned as Al 2 O 3 / (Al 2 O 3 + CaO + MgO) × 100, which improves rainfall estimates for Vertisols relative to the wellestablished CIA-K (chemical index of alteration minus potassium) weathering index. Rather than documenting the hydrolysis of weatherable minerals common in many other soil orders, in Vertisols CALMAG principally tracks the fl ux of calcium and magnesium sourced from calcium carbonate, detrital clay, and exchangeable Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ . Application to two Mesozoic paleosols reveals that in drier climates CIA-K yields higher MAP estimates than CALMAG, but that the reverse is true in wetter climates. This work improves paleorainfall estimates from Vertisols and suggests that a family of weathering indexes is needed for different paleosol types.
Why Odd Pricing?1

The practice of setting prices a few pennies or a few dollars below an even (whole) number is referred to as odd pricing. Most attempts to explain odd pricing use an argument that, in part, draws on varying degrees of consumer irrationality. In this note, a justification for odd pricing is provided that assumes rational and informed consumers and businesses. Empirical evidence is offered in support of this view.
Size effects on the nanomechanical properties of cellulose I nanocrystals

The ultimate properties of a fibrous composite system depend highly on the transverse mechanical properties of the fibers. Here, we report the size dependency of transverse elastic modulus in cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). In addition, the mechanical properties of CNCs prepared from wood and cotton resources were investigated. Nanoindentation in an atomic force microscope (AFM) was used in combination with analytical contact mechanics modeling (Hertz model) and finite element analysis (FEA) to estimate the transverse elastic moduli (Et) of CNCs. FEA modeling estimated the results more accurately than the Hertz model. Based on the AFM–FEA calculations, wood CNCs had higher transverse elastic moduli in comparison to the cotton CNCs. Additionally, Et was shown to increase with a reduction in the CNCs’ diameter. This size-scale effect was related to the Ia/Ib ratio and crystalline structure of CNCs.
Experimental and analytical study of EMC/EMI effects on PCBs and cables enclosed within metallic structures

This work presents an experimental study of EMC/EMI effects on cables and printed circuit boards enclosed within a complex structure comprising several cavities. To this end, a multi-cavity structure was constructed, with several measurement ports to evaluate EMI coupling under various enclosure configurations. Specifically, the measurement setup employs multiple rectangular and cylindrical cavities, penetrating wires and printed circuit boards. The structure was illuminated by a plane wave and the induced fields and load voltages were measured over a 1-3 GHz band. An integrated hybrid solver based on previously validated tools was used and continues to be developed for analyzing the EMI/EMC problem at the system level.
Spectrum and treatment of anaerobic infections

Anaerobes are the most predominant components of the normal human skin and mucous membranes bacterial flora, and are a frequent cause of endogenous bacterial infections. Anaerobic infections can occur in all body locations: the central nervous system, oral cavity, head and neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, skin, and soft tissues. Treatment of anaerobic infection is complicated by their slow growth in culture, by their polymicrobial nature and by their growing resistance to antimicrobials. Antimicrobial therapy is frequently the only form of therapy needed, whereas in others it is an important adjunct to drainage and surgery. Because anaerobes generally are isolated mixed with aerobes, the antimicrobial chosen should provide for adequate coverage of both. The most effective antimicrobials against anaerobes are: metronidazole, the carbapenems (imipenem, meropenem, doripenem, ertapenem), chloramphenicol, the combinations of a penicillin and a beta-lactamase inhibitors (ampicillin or ticarcillin plus clavulanate, amoxicillin plus sulbactam, piperacillin plus tazobactam), tigecycline, cefoxitin and clindamycin.
Coupled Transmission Lines and Directional Couplers

This chapter contains sections titled: Introduction Parameters and Differential Equations of Two Coupled Lines Directional Coupling for Discrete Elements and Short Lines Directional Coupling for Any Length of Coupled Section on Open Wires Solution to Coupled Equations in Terms of Sum and Difference Modes This chapter contains sections titled: Problems References
CXCR5+CD8+ T cells are localized in B cell follicles and germinal centers and exhibit regulatory and anti-tumor function

Germinal centers (GC) are specialized anatomic sites where B cells undergo somatic hypermutation, clonal expansion, and affinity-based selection. Stringent regulation of GC reactions is critical for homeostatic B cell development, as well as T-dependent humoral immunity against self and foreign antigens. Follicular helper T cells (Tfh, CXCR5hiPDhiBcl-6+CD4+) that reside in GC serve as specialized B helper T cells and provide survival and selection signals to GC B cells. Despite recent understandings of Tfh function in autoimmunity, immunodeficiency, and B-cell lymphoma, mechanisms that regulate Tfh development and function remain limited. In the current study, we determined the presence of CD45RA-CXCR5+CD8+ T cells in human peripheral blood, tonsillar tissues, and follicular lymphoma (FL) tumor samples by FACS and confocal microscopy. We found that CXCR5+CD8+ T cells were present in high numbers and localized to GCs and T cell zones in the tonsillar tissues and FL, but present in low numbers in the peripheral blood. Surface marker analysis suggested that these cells displayed an activated status. Importantly, FL tumor samples had significantly more CXCR5+CD8+ T cells than tonsillar tissues. Further analysis using intracellular cytokine staining showed that CXCR5+CD8+ T cells produced higher levels of IFN-γ and TNF-α compared to CXCR5-CD8+ subset. Next, we performed T-B cell co-culture experiments to evaluate whether CXCR5+CD8+ T cells could regulate Tfh function in humans. FACS-sorted Tfh cells were co-cultured with naive or memory B cells in the presence or absence of CXCR5+CD8+ T cells. These experiments indicated that CXCR5+CD8+ T cells suppressed Tfh function, as demonstrated by reduced differentiation of naive and/or memory B cells into plasmablasts cells (CD19intCD38+). To test CXCR5+CD8+ T cell function in vivo, we employed the EG7 lymphoma model in TCR-/- mice. Briefly, ovabulmin-primed OT1-specific CXCR5+CD8+ T cells were adoptively transferred into EG7 tumor-bearing TCR-/- mice, and tumor size and survival rate were determined. In summary, our data suggest that CXCR5+CD8+ T cells may have multiple roles, as they not only inhibited Tfh function, but also exhibited strong anti-tumor immunity.
Mechanistic Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Models in Development of Therapeutic Monoclonal Antibodies

Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models, with integrating the structural, in silico, and in vitro physicochemical data of drugs and the physiological and anatomical features of the body, provide a realistic characterization of the systemic disposition of drugs. Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), as the fastest growing class of new therapeutic molecules, hold great promise for the treatment of a variety of diseases. This chapter first presents the background and history of PBPK models, and then details the principles and methods of PBPK modelling for mAbs. A number of factors should be particularly considered for antibodies in developing PBPK models: distribution space, extravasation, lymphatic distribution, and specific target binding. Then, the chapter discusses the challenges in PBPK modelling, by considering the physiological parameters, extravasation mechanisms, and FcRn function. The chapter also highlights two situations where the minimal PBPK model enacts target-mediated drug disposition (TMDD) in either plasma or interstitial space. Keywords: distribution space; extravasation; FcRn function; lymphatic distribution; mechanistic PBPK models; minimal modelling approach; specific target binding; target-mediated drug disposition; therapeutic monoclonal antibodies
Effects of Gene Duplication, Positive Selection, and Shifts in Gene Expression on the Evolution of the Venom Gland Transcriptome in Widow Spiders

Gene duplication and positive selection can be important determinants of the evolution of venom, a protein-rich secretion used in prey capture and defense. In a typical model of venom evolution, gene duplicates switch to venom gland expression and change function under the action of positive selection, which together with further duplication produces large gene families encoding diverse toxins. Although these processes have been demonstrated for individual toxin families, high-throughput multitissue sequencing of closely related venomous species can provide insights into evolutionary dynamics at the scale of the entire venom gland transcriptome. By assembling and analyzing multitissue transcriptomes from the Western black widow spider and two closely related species with distinct venom toxicity phenotypes, we do not find that gene duplication and duplicate retention is greater in gene families with venom gland biased expression in comparison with broadly expressed families. Positive selection has acted on some venom toxin families, but does not appear to be in excess for families with venom gland biased expression. Moreover, we find 309 distinct gene families that have single transcripts with venom gland biased expression, suggesting that the switching of genes to venom gland expression in numerous unrelated gene families has been a dominant mode of evolution. We also find ample variation in protein sequences of venom gland-specific transcripts, lineage-specific family sizes, and ortholog expression among species. This variation might contribute to the variable venom toxicity of these species.
The Moro Identity and the Rise of Separatist Movements in Mindanao

This paper attempts to link the formation of the Moro identity with the emergence of two separatist movements in Mindanao. Important events in the late 1960s and early 1970s are examined to explain the factors that have raised the consciousness of the Muslims to identify themselves as Moro and to begin their struggle for an independent state in Mindanao.
Forensic Data Pattern Analysis using Information Entropy

We take a data mining approach to characterize distributional patterns of financial/accounting data. We especially analyze underlying information uncertainty in heterogeneous forms of records using the measure of ‘entropy’. In today’s accounting information systems, effective detection of transaction frauds become a key component for the success of e-commerce systems. A popular method in the current practice is the use of Benford’s law to examine distributional patterns of parsed digits. We extend the view of this approach to precisely quantify information uncertainty in terms of entropy. We present a taxonomic analysis on distributional patterns at the leading digit level. While existing research is focused on the variation pattern itself, we perform detailed computations to derive numeric measures which represent underlying information uncertainty. We compared the entropy states of the leading digit distributions against Benford’s law. Goodness of fit and regression analysis results further provide practical insights in recognition of potential transaction fraud.
Basic Aerodynamic Shapes in a Low-Speed, Highly Turbulent Flow

Experiments were conducted to quantify velocity, turbulence intensity, and drag on various bluff-body shapes in a low-speed, highly turbulent wind tunnel. The experimental data were obtained using thermal anemometry and is intended to validate CFD codes. Circular cylinders (singular and tandem), spheres (single and tandem), a simulated wire bundle, a structural rib, and a cubic arrangement of spheres with cylindrical connectors were tested from 1 m/s to 10 m/s in free stream turbulence intensity of approximately 10%. A circular cylinder was also tested in laminar flow at a turbulence intensity of 0.6% for comparison with published data. Drag measurements were estimated using a momentum deficit approach. The results show higher turbulence intensity behind the bluff body when compared to the same configuration in a laminar flow field. Also, the drag coefficients were seen to be lower than the same configurations in laminar flow. NOMENCLATURE
An investigation of ridge waveguide as a near-field transducer for optical data storage

The performance of the ridge waveguide as a near-field aperture in optical data storage systems is investigated. Finite element method and finite-difference time-domain is used to simulate various geometries involving ridge waveguides. The effect of various parameters is investigated.
Papillary endocardial excrescence of the right atrium: report of two cases.

Two cases of papillary endocardial excrescence of the right atrium are reported. These lesions are similar histologically to the papillary endocardial “tumors” of the heart valves. The differentiation from cardiac myxomas is discussed and it is concluded that these two cases represent a distinct lesion of the right atrium. The histologic pattern of the lesion suggests origin in an organizing thrombus.
Structured Information for Support of Knowledge-Based Reasoning

The human process of knowledge-based reasoning is aided by ready access to information that is current, comprehensive and meaningful. Information archives are not, however, structured on a functional architecture that facilitates the natural information seeking and reasoning strategies used in human reasoning. In this paper I outline the fundamentals of a hierarchical structure that encourages a natural, opportunistic reasoning trajectory through a knowledge intensive domain and thereby enhances effectiveness of cognitive reasoning activities such as problem solving, analysis, planning, critical evaluation and understanding.
A Theoretically Grounded Framework for Integrating the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

SoTL scholars have written about the importance and utility of teaching from a guiding theoretical framework. In this paper, ecological theory and specifically Bronfenbrenner’s Process, Person, Context, Time (PPCT) model, is examined as a potential framework for synthesizing SoTL research findings to inform effective teaching at the college level. A general overview of the PPCT model of human development and its connections to current topics and areas of inquiry in the SoTL literature are provided. The benefit of adopting an ecologically-based framework to better understand and exploit the interdisciplinary nature of SoTL is discussed.
The fuzzy theory for evaluating the effects of reservoir profile control measures

Because the single factor appraisal method for evaluation the effect of profile control measures which combined production performance data,water flooding curves,monitoring data and economy assessment is not integrated,making their sub-indicators,fuzzy evaluation their respective indicators,then the AHP is applied to determine the weighing coefficient of these indices.Forming a set of criteria for evaluation of the effect profile,using the method to evaluate the Northeast three blocks.The result shows that the comprehensive fuzzy appraisal method,which avoids the unilateralism of single factor evaluation,reflects the effects of profile control measures objectively and the level of indicators widely and makes the appraisal systematical and quantitative.
Hyperparathyroid crisis manifesting as respiratory and heart failure.

Abstract Objective To describe a case of hyperparathyroid crisis manifesting as respiratory failure and congestive heart failure and to emphasize the implications of hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia in this setting. Methods A case report and a review of the pertinent literature are presented. Results A 71-year-old man was transferred to our care because of respiratory failure and congestive heart failure. He had no change in cardiorespiratory status until the significance of hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia was recognized and therapy was directed at correction of these abnormalities. Primary hyperparathyroidism was the cause of these electrolyte abnormalities. Conclusion To our knowledge, hyperparathyroid crisis manifesting as respiratory insufficiency and congestive heart failure has not been described previously. Phosphate depletion may account for the neuromuscular features seen in hyperparathyroidism. (Endocr Pract. 1999;5:350-353)
Vacuolin-1 Promotes Enucleation of Cultured Human and Murine Erythroblasts

Abstract Abstract 2321 Enucleation of erythroblasts is the final step of differentiation before reticulocytes enter circulation in mammals. In culture, enucleation efficiencies vary widely, between 0 and 90%: improving this process is a necessary step for large-scale production of reticulocytes for transfusion. Recently, we demonstrated that the formation, movement and coalescence of vesicles and vacuoles play a key role in enucleation. Moreover, we showed that vacuolin-1, a small molecule that induces the formation and fusion of vacuoles, increases the enucleation of primary erythroblasts. Separately, we recently discovered that the anti-apoptotic and chromosomal passenger protein survivin plays a novel role in enucleating erythroblasts. Survivin interacts with clathrin and EPS-15, proteins that play important roles in vesicle trafficking, and together these proteins contribute to enucleation. In order to further understand the specific role played by survivin in vesicle trafficking and enucleation, we treated fetal liver Ter119- cells derived from survivin fl/fl mice with TAT-Cre to excise the survivin gene and assess the consequences of survivin loss on enucleation. We observed a significant reduction in the extent of enucleation upon deletion of survivin. Of note, survivin depleted cells harbored fewer numbers of vacuoles compared to control cells, and the vacuoles that were present were smaller than normal. Survivin deleted cells also lacked autophagolysosomes, which are formed by fusion of late endosomes/lysosomes to autophagosomes. Since vacuolin-1 is known to induce fusion of endosomes and lysosomes, we hypothesized that vacuolin-1 would rescue this enucleation defect observed in survivin KO erythroblasts. Indeed, vacuolin-1 reversed the inhibitory effect of survivin KO on enucleation. Surprisingly, we also observed that vacuolin-1 promoted the proliferation of human erythroblasts at the CFU-E stage, leading to a 4-fold increase in the percentage of glycophorin-positive cells on day 12. Thus, we conclude that vacuolin-1 acts at multiple stages of differentiation to improve the production of erythrocytes in vitro. Finally, to gain insights into the mechanism of action of the “hit” vacuolin-1, and to identify more potent small molecules that enhance enucleation in vitro, we designed and studied a further small set of vacuolin-1 structural analogs (N=12). Four vacuolin-1 analogs increase enucleation of erythroblasts with greater potency than that of vacuolin-1, providing us with initial insights into the small molecule structure-activity relationships that might govern this process. We are currently assaying the activity of these next generation compounds in erythroblast cultures as a means to improve production of red blood cells for human use. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
In Vitro activity of Manuka Honey and polyhexamethylene biguanide on filamentous fungi and toxicity to human cell lines.

Soft-tissue invasive fungal infections are increasingly recognized as significant entities directly contributing to morbidity and mortality. They complicate clinical care, requiring aggressive surgical debridement and systemic antifungal therapy. To evaluate new topical approaches to therapy, we examined the antifungal activity and cytotoxicity of Manuka Honey (MH) and polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB). The activities of multiple concentrations of MH (40%, 60%, 80%) and PHMB (0.01%, 0.04%, 0.1%) against 13 clinical mould isolates were evaluated using a time-kill assay between 5 min and 24 h. Concentrations were selected to represent current clinical use. Cell viability was examined in parallel for human epidermal keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts and osteoblasts, allowing determination of the 50% viability (LD50) concentration. Antifungal activity of both agents correlated more closely with exposure time than concentration. Exophiala and Fusarium growth was completely suppressed at 5 min for all PHMB concentrations, and at 12 and 6 h, respectively, for all MH concentrations. Only Lichtheimia had persistent growth to both agents at 24 h. Viability assays displayed concentration-and time-dependent toxicity for PHMB. For MH, exposure time predicted cytotoxicity only when all cell types were analyzed in aggregate. This study demonstrates that MH and PHMB possess primarily time-dependent antifungal activity, but also exert in vitro toxicity on human cells which may limit clinical use. Further research is needed to determine ideal treatment strategies to optimize antifungal activity against moulds while limiting cytotoxicity against host tissues in vivo.
Mitochondrial function, ornamentation, and immunocompetence.

Understanding the mechanisms that link ornamental displays and individual condition is key to understanding the evolution and function of ornaments. Immune function is an aspect of individual quality that is often associated with the expression of ornamentation, but a general explanation for why the expression of some ornaments seems to be consistently linked to immunocompetence remains elusive. We propose that condition-dependent ornaments may be linked to key aspects of immunocompetence through co-dependence on mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial involvement in immune function is rarely considered outside of the biomedical literature, but the role of mitochondria as the primary energy producers of the cell and the centres of biosynthesis, the oxidative stress response, and cellular signalling place them at the hub of a variety of immune pathways. A promising new mechanistic explanation for correlations between a wide range of ornamental traits and the properties of individual quality is that mitochondrial function may be the ‘shared pathway’ responsible for links between ornament production and individual condition. Herein, we first review the role of mitochondria as both signal transducers and metabolic regulators of immune function. We then describe connections between hormonal pathways and mitochondria, with implications for both immune function and the expression of ornamentation. Finally, we explore the possibility that ornament expression may link directly to mitochondrial function. Considering condition-dependent traits within the framework of mitochondrial function has the potential to unify central tenets within the study of sexual selection, eco-immunology, oxidative stress ecology, stress and reproductive hormone biology, and animal physiology.
Pre-purchase and post-purchase apparel satisfaction of female skiers and snowboarders

ABSTRACTThe Functional, Expressive, and Aesthetic (FEA) Consumer Needs model framed an investigation of pre-purchase and post-purchase satisfaction of ski and snowboarding apparel attributes at three levels of commitment. As women’s activities in sports, including skiing and snowboarding, continue to grow, it is necessary to investigate their apparel in order to meet consumers’ needs. A final sample consisted of 117 women, from three ski and snowboarding resorts in the northwestern US. Pre-purchase and post-purchase satisfaction of ski and snowboarding apparel was assessed using FEA attributes. Respondents were more satisfied with functional attributes, than expressive or aesthetic attributes. Results indicate no significant difference in pre-purchase satisfaction by the level of commitment, whereas there was a significant difference in post-purchase satisfaction by the level of commitment. There was also a significant difference between pre-purchase and post-purchase satisfaction, with skiers and snowboa...
Working together: Using a unique approach to evaluate an interactive and clinic-based longitudinal interprofessional education experience with 13 professions.

ABSTRACTInterprofessional education (IPE) involving an interactive and longitudinal clinic experience at an inner-city charitable clinic from September to May 2013/2014 was evaluated. Pre-, mid-, and post-intervention data were collected from students in 13 different professions including medicine (medical and physician assistant), dentistry (dental and dental hygiene), nursing (undergraduate and clinical nurse specialist), public health, pharmacy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutritional sciences, speech and language pathology, and social work. To evaluate their interprofessional attitudes, students completed the TeamSTEPPS Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire (T-TAQ) and Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS). They also completed a unique measure, healthcare professionals circles diagrams (HPCDs), that indicated student conceptualisation of a healthcare team caring for a complex patient, along with perception of their team’s progress towards meeting patient goals. Results from the...
Global Proteomics Analysis of Protein Lysine Methylation

Lysine methylation is a common protein post-translational modification dynamically mediated by protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) and protein lysine demethylases (PKDMs). Beyond histone proteins, lysine methylation on non-histone proteins plays a substantial role in a variety of functions in cells and is closely associated with diseases such as cancer. A large body of evidence indicates that the dysregulation of some PKMTs leads to tumorigenesis via their non-histone substrates. However, most studies on other PKMTs have made slow progress owing to the lack of approaches for extensive screening of lysine methylation sites. However, recently, there has been a series of publications to perform large-scale analysis of protein lysine methylation. In this unit, we introduce a protocol for the global analysis of protein lysine methylation in cells by means of immunoaffinity enrichment and mass spectrometry. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Stem Cell Battles: Proposition 71 and Beyond (How Ordinary People Can Fight Back Against the Crushing Burden of Chronic Disease—with a Posthumous Foreword by Christopher Reeve)

Stem Cell Battles: Proposition 71 and Beyond tells the story of the efforts both to pass a law and earn sustained financial and political support for stem cell research in California, in particular for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM). Reed, whose son became paralyzed in a football accident, is a passionate advocate for patient rights and stem cell research.
Spatial Orientation: A Comparative Approach

Those of us who have been known to get lost in our own neighborhoods cannot fail to be awed by the often remarkable feats of spatial orientation and memory performed by members of other species and other human cultures. Consider two examples, the first cross-species and the second cross-cultural.
Study of Psychic Stress in Freshman College Women

Abstract The effect of a psychic stressor on depth perception, steadiness, blood pressure, and simple hand-eye co-ordination was investigated in freshman college women. The results were compared with the manifest anxiety scores of the subjects. It was found that a psychic stressor significantly influenced scores with regard to blood pressure, depth perception, steadiness, and hand-eye co-ordination, but with the exception of blood pressure the change in scores was not directional. The Taylor Manifest Anxiety scores of the individuals did not appear to be correlated with stress scores obtained for other tests.
Heart Rate Variability: A Neurovisceral Integration Model

The heart is dually innervated by both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. However, parasympathetic influences dominate control of heart rate. Heart rate variability is associated with mortality and morbidity as well as physiological, affective, and cognitive regulation. A model of neurovisceral integration is described that summarizes the relationship between the central nervous system and cardiac activity as indexed by heart rate variability. Forebrain structures are important in the regulation of cardiac function and its relationship to self-regulation. This article is intended to introduce neuroscientists to this important relationship between the brain and the heart.
The Affordable Care Act: How Nixon’s Health Reform Proposal Became Democrats’ Albatross

President Obama’s signature health care reform, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), was passed in 2010 and fully implemented in 2014. Two years later, Republicans’ attacks on the ACA as a failed reform helped fuel their recent electoral victory. The legislation significantly expanded insurance coverage. But it was built on, and fortified, private health insurance firms, and it accelerated the corporate takeover of hospitals and physicians’ practices. This obeisance to corporate interests precluded making coverage universal or care affordable. As a result, the reform failed to address the grave health care problems faced by most working- and middle-class Americans and left many of them feeling betrayed by Democrats who oversold the ACA’s benefits.
Improving regulation of microbiota transplants.

The Human Microbiome Project and similar research has generated great interest in potential health benefits of microbiota transplantations (MTs). The use of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), the transfer of stool from a human donor to a human recipient, for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is considered by many to be standard-of-care therapy, and data on its safety and effectiveness are accumulating ( 1 – 3 ). Yet, although some physicians are practicing FMT using stool from donors known to the physician or patient, stool is inconsistently screened for infectious pathogens. The use of prescreened stool obtained from a stool bank and shipped to the physician is increasing, but the stool banks are not regulated. Patients who self-administer FMT using unscreened stool sourced from family or friends is also widely described. In consideration of these and other particular characteristics and challenges of MT, and the nascent regulatory landscape, we convened human microbiome researchers, legal experts, and others to explore regulatory pathways for MT ( 4 ). We believe our proposed approach is an improvement on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) current and proposed scheme and could provide a model for other countries that are contemplating regulatory frameworks for FMT.