cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Port-Access Mitral Valve Surgery-An Evolution of Technique

Port-access mitral valve surgery has been around since 1995; and many variations upon the technique have been developed. Since 1996, we have performed more than 2500 port-access mitral valve surgeries, and thus gained a substantial experience. The purpose of this document is to describe the current status of port-access mitral surgery at 1 institution, and to share the "know how" and life lessons behind the patient selection and conduct of the operation to accomplish results similar to those achieved from sternotomy mitral valve surgery. While port access started in larger institutions, it can be performed in small centers with the proper guidance of the pearls and pitfalls of this operation, given to young surgeons regarding the right way to start a program.
Psychotic Signs and Symptoms

Descriptive psychopathology which includes phenomenology provides language to describe a patient’s behavior and inner experiences. This chapter reviews the main symptoms of psychosis (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking), with emphasis on how to detect them. Recognizing Schneiderian first-rank symptoms which are evidence of psychosis remains an important clinical skill for psychiatrists even though these symptoms are de-emphasized in current classification systems. Overvalued ideas are introduced as not all extreme views are psychotic. Last, disorganized behaviors and unusual motor phenomena (catatonia) are described as those often occur in psychotic patients.
Neoendogenous Rural Development in Mountain Areas

In recent years, development in mountain regions has been increasingly subject to the pressures of climate change and shifts in natural resource use. At the same time, appreciation of the manifold assets and services provided by these regions to wider communities has increased significantly due to enhanced recognition of place-specific opportunities. Public goods provided through adapted land management systems and regional resource use have helped shape rural amenities and overcome previously limited perspectives aimed at mitigating the danger of marginalization, focusing instead on ways of nurturing the development potential of mountain areas. In this chapter we focus on emerging practices in local development initiatives in these areas, which tend to take both the challenges and opportunities arising from local contexts into account. However, successful action does not rely exclusively on endogenous potential. It must also take into account mountain–lowland inter-relations and inter-regional flows, which must be integrated into development strategies. To foster such approaches, mountain strategies must review the institutional requirements and governance frameworks, and their influence on human–nature relationships in these adverse geographic situations. This perspective reflects, in particular, the substantial services that mountain areas provide to other areas and the increasing importance of the flows between different spatial categories. A “neo-endogenous rural development” approach enables local actors in mountain regions to shift concern about their current status as a dependency culture to exploiting place-specific development opportunities.
Molecular Heterogeneity of Phospholipase D (PLD) CLONING OF PLDγ AND REGULATION OF PLANT PLDγ, -β, AND -α BY POLYPHOSPHOINOSITIDES AND CALCIUM

Phospholipase D (PLD) has emerged as an important enzyme involved in signal transduction, vesicle trafficking, and membrane metabolism. This report describes the cloning and expression of a new Arabidopsis PLD cDNA, designated PLDgamma, and the regulation of PLDgamma, -beta, and -alpha by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) and Ca2+. The PLDgamma cDNA is 3.3 kilobases in length and codes for an 855-amino acid protein of 95,462 Da with a pI of 6.9. PLDgamma shares a 66% amino acid sequence identity with PLDbeta, but only a 41% identity with PLDalpha. A potential N-terminal myristoylation site is found in PLDgamma, but not in PLDalpha and -beta. Catalytically active PLDgamma was expressed in Escherichia coli, and its activity requires polyphosphoinositides. Both PLDgamma and -beta are most active at microM Ca2+ concentrations, whereas the optimal PLDalpha activity requires mM Ca2+ concentrations. Binding studies showed that the PLDs bound PIP2 in the order of PLDbeta > PLDgamma > PLDalpha. This binding ability correlates with the degree of conservation of a basic PIP2-binding motif located near the putative catalytic site. The binding of [3H]PIP2 was saturable and could be competitively decreased by addition of unlabeled PIP2. Neomycin inhibited the activities of PLDgamma and -beta, but not PLDalpha. These results demonstrate that PLD is encoded by a heterogeneous gene family and that direct polyphosphoinositide binding is required for the activities of PLDgamma and -beta, but not PLDalpha. The different structural and biochemical properties suggest that PLDalpha, -beta, and -gamma are regulated differently and may mediate unique cellular functions.
Coupling Structural and Adsorption Properties of Metal-Organic Frameworks: From Pore Size Distribution to Pore Type Distribution

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) attract a rapidly growing attention across the disciplines due to their multifarious pore structures and unique ability to selectively adsorb, store, and release various guest molecules. Pore structure characterization and coupling of adsorption and structural properties are imperative for rational design of advanced MOF materials and their applications. The pore structure of MOFs represents a three-dimensional network comprised of several types of pore compartments: interconnected cages and channels distinguished by their size, shape, and chemistry. Here, we propose a novel methodology for pore structure characterization of MOF materials based on matching of the experimental adsorption isotherms to in silico-generated fingerprint isotherms of adsorption in individual pore compartments of the ideal crystal. The proposed approach couples structural and adsorption properties, determines the contributions of different types of pores into the total adsorption, and estimates to what extent the pore structure of the sample under investigation is different from the ideal crystal. The MOF pore structure is characterized by the pore type distribution (PTD), which is more informative than the traditional pore size distribution that is based on oversimplistic pore models. The method is illustrated on the example of Ar adsorption at 87 K on hydrated and dehydrated structures of Cu-BTC, one of the most well-known MOF materials. The PTD determined from the experimental isotherm provides an estimate of the crystal fraction in the sample and the accessibility and degree of hydration of different types of pore compartments. In addition, the PTD determined from the experimental adsorption isotherm is used to predict the isosteric heat of adsorption that provides important information on the specifics of adsorption interactions. The results are found to be in excellent agreement with experimental data. Such detailed information about the pore structure and adsorption properties of practical MOF samples cannot be obtained with currently available methods of adsorption characterization.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae: A prokaryote which consumes oxygen and generates superoxide but which lacks superoxide dismutase

Abstract Superoxide dismutase and catalase were not detected in M . pneumoniae and several other species of Mycoplasma some of which consume oxygen and secrete H2O2. M . pneumoniae in suspension formed O2− in the presence of NADH and flavins and extracts of M . pneumoniae formed O2− in the presence of either NADH or NADPH. The lack of superoxide dismutase in M . pneumoniae could not be attributed to superoxide dismutase in the complex medium in which the organisms were grown because organisms grown in medium in which the superoxide dismutase had been inactivated by heat still contained undetectable amounts. Mycoplasmas appear to be an exception to the rule that organisms which consume O2 synthesize superoxide dismutase.
Stool-Based Tests for Colorectal Cancer Screening: Performance Benchmarks Lead to High Expected Efficacy.

Participation goals for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in the USA have not been met. Non-invasive screening strategies may improve CRC screening participation. We highlight recent literature on stool-based screening performance and expectations for emerging non-invasive screening tests. Stool-based CRC screening detects screen-relevant colorectal neoplasia and outperforms a currently available plasma assay. Though modestly sensitive for CRC, adherence to annual fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is sub-optimal. Multi-target stool DNA (MT-sDNA) has greater adherence, superior sensitivity for screen-relevant lesions (including those in the proximal colon and sessile serrated architecture), and equivalent specificity to FIT over a 3-year period. Stool-based CRC screening tests are anticipated to reduce the incidence and mortality of CRC through detection of early-stage cancers and high-risk polyps. These endpoints in performance will need to be met by emerging blood sample–based tests in order have meaningful impact in clinical practice.
Patient Reported Ease-of-Use with a Disposable Autoinjector in Individuals with Migraine.

Purpose Erenumab-aooe (erenumab, Aimovig®)-a fully human monoclonal antibody that inhibits the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor-is approved for the prevention of migraine in adults in a number of countries. The approved monthly dosage of erenumab (70 and/or 140 mg, depending on the country) is available as a single, prefilled autoinjector for subcutaneous administration in most countries where it is approved. This study evaluated the patient-reported ease-of-use, ability to learn self-injection, confidence in performing a simulated self-injection, and ergonomics of a prefilled autoinjector device for erenumab (SureClick® autoinjector) in individuals in the US with migraine. Patients and Methods Participants with migraine headaches, all of whom were naive to the use of an autoinjector for migraine or another condition and CGRP therapy, were recruited from three US-based headache centers. Each participant received a supervised demonstration of the autoinjector during a 30-minute one-on-one session using a standard protocol-driven script. Participants then practiced a simulated injection into an artificial tissue pad using the autoinjector and were asked to rate their agreement with 19 statements about the device on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = completely disagree, 2 = somewhat disagree, 3 = neutral, 4 = somewhat agree, 5 = completely agree). Results Participants who completed the study and provided responses (n = 204) were between 21 and 85 years of age, inclusive, and 73% were female. More than 90% of the participants completely or somewhat agreed with 16/19 statements relating to the device, including ease-of-use, ability to self-inject, and confidence in using the device, with an average rating of >4.5 on the 5-point Likert scale. Participants rated the size of the device and the compactness of the device as 4.23/5 and 4.26/5, respectively. Conclusion The erenumab-prefilled disposable autoinjector was consistently highly rated across categories by individuals with migraine, with an average rating of >4.5 on the 5-point Likert scale; results were consistent across the three study centers.
Ethnic and Gender Diversity Comparison between Surgical Patients and Caring Surgeons.

Background Diversity within the medical workforce remains a topic of discussion in academia, particularly when it comes to the underrepresentation of certain ethnic groups and gender in the surgical specialties. In this article, we look at how the gender and ethnicity of surgeons at a large academic institution in a rural setting compare with those of the population it serves. Methods We looked at demographic data from 2008 to 2018 and compared population trends among surgeons and patients. Results We found that while whites represent the large majority in both the surgeon and patient populations, absolute number and percentage of whites in the patient population seem to be trending downward from 2008 to 2018, but trending upward among surgeons (attendings and residents). In addition, we found that while Asians make up only 1% of the patient population, they represent the second largest group (17%) among surgeons, with more than twice the proportion percentage of the second largest group within the patient population, composed of Hispanics (6%). Finally, we found a significant gender difference between the 2 populations with almost two-thirds of the surgeons being men, compared with the nearly even split of men and women within the patient population. Conclusions Ultimately, understanding how gender and ethnic diversity in the surgical workforce compares with that of the patient population being served may aid in designing training programs to address cultural competency and awareness as well as in impacting administrative decisions and hiring.
Differential spatial patterns of structural connectivity of amygdala nuclei with orbitofrontal cortex

The orbitofrontal cortex (OFC)-amygdala circuit is critical to goal-directed behavior, learning, and valuation. However, our understanding of the OFC-amygdala connections that support these emergent processes is hampered by our reliance on the primate literature and insufficient knowledge regarding the connectivity patterns between regions of OFC and amygdala nuclei, each of which is differentially involved in these processes in humans. Thus, we examined structural connectivity between different OFC regions and four amygdala nuclei in healthy adults (n = 1,053) using diffusion-based anatomical networks and probabilistic tractography in four conceptually distinct ways. First, we identified the OFC regions that connect with each nucleus. Second, we identified the OFC regions that were more likely to connect with a given nucleus than the others. Finally, we developed probabilistic and rank-order maps of OFC (one for each nucleus) based upon the likelihood of each OFC voxel exhibiting preferential connectivity with each nucleus and the relative density of connectivity between each OFC voxel and each nucleus, respectively. The first analyses revealed that the connections of each nucleus spanned all of OFC, reflecting widespread overall amygdala linkage with OFC. Analysis of preferential connectivity and probabilistic and rank-order maps of OFC converged to reveal differential patterns of connectivity between OFC and each nucleus. Present findings illustrate the importance of accounting for spatial specificity when examining links between OFC and amygdala. This fine-grained examination of OFC-amygdala connectivity can be applied to understand how such connectivity patterns support a range of emergent functions including affective and motivational processes.
Effect of Concentration

This is the first chapter in the book where the evaluation of electrochemical systems, in particular cell voltage, considers the concentration of reactants differently from what is defined as a reference point or standard conditions (i.e., unit concentration or pressure, room temperature). The calculations of cell voltage under any conditions are done using the Nernst equation, originally derived by Walter Nernst to deliver a correction of the standard cell voltage under nonstandard conditions of concentration and temperature. The equation contains the reaction quotient, which is the ratio of the concentrations of products divided by those of reactants, taking into account the stoichiometric coefficients of the reaction.
How does faculty development innovation cross cultures?: Adapting narrative medicine to Asia.

Medical education is traditionally grounded in the sciences. However, there is a movement to integrate the humanities into medical education to improve the practice and well-being of physicians and...
Chapter 39 Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Publisher Summary Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is defined as bleeding into the subarachnoid space of the brain. The most common etiology of SAH is trauma, and Other etiologies includes aneurysmal SAH, perimesencephalic hemorrhage, vertebral artery dissection, and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) to name a few. This chapter focuses on aneurysmal SAH that accounts for approximately 85% of all causes of non-traumatic SAH, and reviews perimesencephalic SAH and SAH from vertebral artery dissection and traumatic SAH. Intracranial aneurysms are uncommon vascular lesions that can cause significant morbidity and mortality if they rupture. Intracranial aneurysms can be defined by their morphology. The majority are saccular in nature although fusiform aneurysms occur. Saccular aneurysms are usually acquired and are believed to result from prolonged hemodynamic stress and subsequent arterial degeneration, particularly at branch points. Hypertension, cigarette smoking, oral contraceptives, alcohol consumption, pregnancy, and cocaine use are all risk factors for aneurysm formation and probably increase the risk of rupture. The four main complications following rupture of an intracranial aneurysm are cerebral vasospasm, aneurismal re-hemorrhage, hydrocephalus, and seizures. The chapter discusses the genetics of intracranial aneurysm formation, diagnostic approach to aneurysmal SAH, pathology of SAH, treatment of ruptured cerebral aneurysms, and other causes of SAH.
Automatic mapping of RF subcarrier to lasing optical wavelength

Summary form only given. We demonstrate a new technique to map analog RF subcarrier frequencies to precisely controlled ranges of optical wavelength. Our experimental system uses a single semiconductor MQW laser diode and optical feedback from multiple Bragg gratings embedded in a single fiber. By changing RF carrier frequency our system automatically selects optical carrier wavelength for optical communication systems.
MachineProse: an ontological framework for scientific assertions.

Objective: The idea of testing a hypothesis is central to the practice of biomedical research. However, the results of testing a hypothesis are published mainly in the form of prose articles. Encoding the results as scientific assertions that are both human and machine readable would greatly enhance the synergistic growth and dissemination of knowledge. Design: We have developed MachineProse (MP), an ontological framework for the concise specification of scientific assertions. MP is based on the idea of an assertion constituting a fundamental unit of knowledge. This is in contrast to current approaches that use discrete concept terms from domain ontologies for annotation and assertions are only inferred heuristically. Measurements: We use illustrative examples to highlight the advantages of MP over the use of the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) system and keywords in indexing scientific articles. Results: We show how MP makes it possible to carry out semantic annotation of publications that is machine readable and allows for precise search capabilities. In addition, when used by itself, MP serves as a knowledge repository for emerging discoveries. A prototype for proof of concept has been developed that demonstrates the feasibility and novel benefits of MP. As part of the MP framework, we have created an ontology of relationship types with about 100 terms optimized for the representation of scientific assertions. Conclusion: MachineProse is a novel semantic framework that we believe may be used to summarize research findings, annotate biomedical publications, and support sophisticated searches.
High-performance affinity chromatography of DNA. II: Porosity effects

A DNA-silica, (dT)18-silica, was prepared and used in a study of the chromatography of the oligonucleotide, (dA)18, based upon base pairing. It was shown that hybridization efficiency did not depend upon flow-rates up to 2 ml/min for the small columns (22 × 2 mm) used. As increasing amounts of (dA)18 were loaded onto the columns, the columns were found to saturate at a well defined capacity that was always less than the amount that theoretically could have been bound. Maximum capacity was achieved whenever the loading temperature was at least 20–25°C below the temperature at which the loaded oligonucleotide would elute. The effects of porosity on both coupling efficiency and capacity were measured and suggest that pore sizes in the 300–500 A range are most appropriate for this form of chromatography.
Assessment of genetically engineered microorganisms under the Toxic Substances Control Act: Considerations prior to small-scale release

The “Coordinated Framework for Regulation of Biotechnology” (7) explained the EPA TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) authority which allows the review of certain classes of biotechnology products. Under the Coordinated Framework, biotechnology products are regulated in accordance with the use of each product (9). Many agricultural uses of microorganisms, plants and animals are regulated by the Department of Agriculture (USDA); foods, drugs, cosmetics, and biologics are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); microbial pesticides are regulated by the EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Uses of microorganisms not covered by other existing authorities are reviewed by the EPA Office of Toxic Substances (OTS) under TSCA.
Wave Packet Approach to Lattice Electrons in External Galvanomagnetic Fields

The probability for Bragg reflections of wave packets in a lattice and an external electric fieldF is no longer invariant against inversion: (a) Reflections anti-parallel toF are favored compared to reflections parallel toF owing to the energy gain involved. (b) Reflection amplitudes caused in successive cyclotron periods cancel by interference, except when the respective energy gain equals an integer number of magnetic quanta. The effective current parallel toF is calculated up to terms of second order in the lattice potential. It is found proportional to 1/B 2 for scattering times shorter (low field limit) and proportional to 1/B for scattering times longer (high field limit) than one cyclotron period. The effect of magnetic breakdown interpolates between the results of a band model for closed and open electron orbits. From the reflection condition (b) one can deduct oscillations of the effective current inF/B 2 in the 1/B-region.
Extending the Organizational Exchange Model (OEM)

This paper extends development of the Organizational Exchange Model (OEM), an enterprise model that posits resource exchanges are the defining property of organizations. Several network analysis techniques are suggested to support analysis of organizations modeled as networks of exchanges. A case study of a non-profit retail organization demonstrates the model's use for organizational analysis. A prototype computer-based tool for OEM development is described. Organizational decision support systems (ODSSs) are posited to be the primary technology for implementing an enterprise-wide organizational model.
Local and Global Mechanical Behavior and Microstructure of Ti6Al4V Parts Built Using Electron Beam Melting Technology

Laser and electron beam melting are prime technologies in metallic powder bed additive manufacturing in which parts are built layer by layer using high energy source. The technology is at a level where each layer can be as thin as 50 µm. Melting and solidification of each powder layer is typically accompanied by some subsurface melting to assure adherence and fusion of layers. In addition to anisotropic mechanical behavior of material caused by layering phenomenon, it is expected that the local mechanical behavior and microstructure vary throughout each build. In this manuscript, local and global mechanical behavior of Ti6Al4V parts produced using electron beam melting technology is investigated using bulk scale mechanical testing and nanoindentation. Parts fabricated in different build orientation were tested at different strain rates at a large scale. The experiment showed that strength is minimal perpendicular to the build plate. Additionally, material exhibited different local mechanical properties relative to distance from base plate. Investigation of the microstructure indicated very distinguished variations in the grain size and alpha and beta phase formation of material in different locations of part relative to build plate. Strength reduction in perpendicular direction is examined and explained through understanding of the microstructure and plastic deformation mechanism in α phase and prior β grains.
Disassembly process planning using Petri nets

We generate a disassembly PN (DPN) from a disassembly precedence matrix. The resulting DPN can be analyzed using the reachability tree method to generate all feasible disassembly process plans (DPPs), and cost functions can be used to determine the optimal DPP. Since generating the reachability tree is NP-complete, we develop a heuristic algorithm to limit the size of the reachability tree. The algorithm employs multi-hypothesis search to dynamically explore the /spl nu/ likeliest lowest cost branches of the tree, in order to identify near-optimal DPPs. The cost function incorporates tool changes, changes in direction movement, and individual part characteristics (e.g., hazardous). An example is used to illustrate the procedure.
A generalized equation of motion for gravity theories with non-minimal kinetic scalar couplings

A general form for the equation of motion for higher-curvature gravity is obtained. The interesting feature of the analysis is that it can handle Lagrangians which contain non-minimal kinetic scalar couplings. Certain subtle features, which are absent for the Einstein-Hilbert term, arise in higher-curvature gravity. These are identified and an algorithmic prescription is presented for the evaluation of the generalized equation of motion.
Improved wafer-level spatial analysis for I/sub DDQ/ limit setting

This paper proposes a new methodology for estimating the upper bound on the I/sub DDQ/ of defect free chips by using wafer level spatial information. This can be used for I/sub DDQ/ pass/fail limit setting. This methodology is validated using SEMATECH data. Such a methodology accounts for the change in I/sub DDQ/ due to process variations across wafers and reduces false rejects resulting in yield loss. Typical scenarios in using this approach are discussed. The results are compared with traditional methods.
Rescue of in vitro generated mutants of cloned cauliflower mosaic virus genome in infected plants

Cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) DNA is an attractive candidate as a vector for introducing foreign DNA into plants because the DNA can be directly introduced into plants by rubbing it on to leaves1–4. The CaMV genome is a circular double-stranded DNA of about 8 kilobases (kb), and has been entirely sequenced5. DNA isolated from the virus has a ‘tangled’ or ‘knotted’ secondary structure6 and contains two or three (depending on the isolate) site-specific single-strand interruptions5,7,8. Cloned viral DNA, when excised from its recombinant plasmid, is infective in linear form. The infected plant can recircularize the DNA ‘knot’ and reintroduce the site-specific single-strand interruptions1. For CaMV to be a useful vector, sites in the genome are required into which foreign DNA can be inserted without destroying infectivity, and ideally the inserted DNA would be expressed under viral control. Here we report the generation in vitro of small insertion and deletion mutations in cloned CaMV DNA. Most mutations destroy the infectivity of the viral DNA except for one, a linker insertion in the large intergenic region. Co-infection of plants with non-overlapping mutants usually leads to the production of virus particles, which seem to be produced by recombination.
Priming, initiation and synchronization of the segmentation clock by deltaD and deltaC

Zebrafish somitogenesis is governed by a segmentation clock that generates oscillations in expression of several Notch pathway genes, including her1, her7 and deltaC. Using a combination of pharmacological inhibition and Mendelian genetics, we show that DeltaD and DeltaC, two Notch ligands, represent functionally distinct signals within the segmentation clock. Using high-resolution fluorescent in situ hybridization, the oscillations were divided into phases based on eight distinct subcellular patterns of mRNA localization for 140,000 cells. her1, her7 and deltaC expression was examined in wild-type, deltaD(-/-) and deltaC(-/-) embryos. We identified areas within the tailbud where the clock is set up in the progenitor cells (priming), where the clock starts running (initiation), and where the clocks of neighbouring cells are entrained (synchronization). We find that the clocks of motile cells are primed by deltaD in a progenitor zone in the posterior tailbud and that deltaD is required for cells to initiate oscillations on exiting this zone. Oscillations of adjacent cells are synchronized and amplified by deltaC in the posterior presomitic mesoderm as cell movement subsides and cells maintain stable neighbour relationships.
Rabbit Myometrial Oxytocin and α2-Adrenergic Receptors Are Increased by Estrogen but Are Differentially Regulated by Progesterone*

Both myometrial oxytocin and alpha 2-adrenergic receptors are induced by estrogen. To compare the regulation of these two receptor populations by progesterone, we measured myometrial receptor concentration in ovariectomized steroid-treated and in pregnant rabbits. To control for the effects of estrogen withdrawal, we used concomitant rather than sequential presentation of estrogen and progesterone in ovariectomized rabbits. Estradiol increased both myometrial oxytocin and alpha 2-adrenergic receptor concentrations in ovariectomized rabbits after 8 days of treatment. Simultaneous progesterone administration during the last 4 days of estradiol treatment reversed the induction of oxytocin, but not alpha 2-adrenergic, receptors. Similarly, administration of the antiprogestin RU 38486 to pregnant rabbits on day 27 of gestation resulted in premature delivery and evoked an increase in myometrial oxytocin receptor concentration mimicking that observed at term (day 31). However, RU 38486 did not significantly affect alpha 2-adrenergic receptor concentration. Our data provide further support for involvement of oxytocin receptors in parturition, but do not indicate a comparable function for myometrial alpha 2-adrenergic receptors.
Severity of Mitral and Aortic Regurgitation as Assessed by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance: Optimizing Correlation with Doppler Echocardiography

Background: Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is widely recognized as a non-invasive gold standard for quantification of ventricular volumes. In addition, it is an emerging diagnostic modality for clinical evaluation of mitral regurgitation (MR) and aortic regurgitation (AR). CMR facilitates accurate quantitation of regurgitation volumes and regurgitant fraction, but referring physicians are often more comfortable with qualitative measures, and few data exist for correlation of qualitative CMR regurgitation severity with that obtained by more conventional qualitative Doppler echocardiography. Because patients with AR and MR may commonly be assessed by both echocardiography and CMR modalities, consistency between qualitative gradient of regurgitation severity is important for follow-up. Therefore, we sought to define the CMR regurgitant fractions that best correlate with qualitative mild, moderate, and severe regurgitation by color Doppler echocardiography. Methods and Results: Data from 141 consecut...
Association between estimated GFR, health-related quality of life, and depression among older adults with diabetes: the Diabetes and Aging Study.

Background Although chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a highly prevalent condition among older adults with diabetes, the associations between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and severity of CKD in this population are not well understood. The objective of this study was to assess HRQoL and depressive symptoms across estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) stages. Study Design Cross-sectional. Setting & Participants 5,805 members of Kaiser Permanente Northern California, 60 years or older with diabetes, from the 2005-2006 Diabetes Study of Northern California (DISTANCE) survey. Predictor eGFR categories were defined as ≥90 (referent category), 75-89, 60-74, 45-59, 30-44, or ≤29 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . Outcomes HRQoL was measured using the modified Short Form−8 Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire−8. Results In unadjusted linear regression analyses, physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) HRQoL scores were significantly lower with worsening eGFR level. However, after adjustment for sociodemographics, diabetes duration, obesity, and cardiovascular comorbid conditions and taking into account interactions with proteinuria, none of the eGFR categories was significantly or substantively associated with PCS or MCS score. In both unadjusted and adjusted analyses, higher risk of depressive symptoms was observed in respondents with eGFR ≤29 mL/min/1.73 m 2 (relative risk, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.10-3.71; P Limitations Participants are part of a single health care delivery system. Conclusions Our findings suggest the need for greater attention to and potential interventions for depression in patients with reduced eGFR.
Potentiation of luteinizing hormone release by serotonin agonists in ovariectomized steroid-primed rats.

The effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) precursor, and quipazine, a 5-HT agonist, were tested on the afternoon surge of LH in estradiol benzoate-primed ovariectomized rats pretreated with p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), a serotonin synthesis inhibitor, or pchloroamphetamine (PCA), a serotonin neurotoxin. The LH surge was completely abolished 24 h after a single injection of PCPA (300 mg/kg, ip) and was restored by subsequent injection of 5-HTP (50 mg/kg, ip) at 1200 h. On the other hand, administration of 5-HTP to rats prelreated with PCPA 48–72 h earlier significantly increased the LH surge above that of saline-pretreated controls (P < 0.01). The potentiated LH surge was seen only on the first but not on the second day of bleeding despite continued injections of 5-HTP. The administration of six consecutive doses of synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (50 ng/100 g BW, ip) on the first day of bleeding to induce large surges of LH did not prevent 5-HTP from potentiating t...
Selective release of newly synthesised and newly captured GABA from synaptosomes by potassium depolarisation

NORADRENALINE and acetylcholine synthesised de novo are released in preference to the endogenous store following nerve depolarisation. Kopin et al.1 showed that the specific activity of noradrenaline (14C-tyrosine precursor) released from cat spleen during sympathetic nerve stimulation is greater than that of the tissue store; however, 3H-noradrenaline which was just taken up by the nerve is released concomitantly with the endogenous store. In similar experiments, newly synthesised acetylcholine is selectively released from superior cervical ganglia2, phrenic nerve3, Torpedo electroplax4, and brain cortical slices5. We used rat cortical synaptosomes (pinched off nerve endings) to study the temporal relationships of GABA biosynthesis, uptake and release.
Structure, biosynthesis and possible function of tunichromes and related compounds

Several species of ascidians (phylum Chordata, subphylum Urochordata) contain a group of oligopeptides called "tunichromes" in their blood cells. These peptides have been implicated in (a) metal chelation and accumulation/sequestration of vanadium or iron; (b) crosslinking of structural fibers in tunic formation, (c) wound healing and (d) defense reactions. However, their biosynthesis, metabolism, and biological function remain largely un-elucidated due to their extreme instability and high reactivity. Tunichromes and related compounds uniquely possess dehydrodopamine moieties, all originating from post-translational modification of peptidyl tyrosine. It is conceivable that the presence of such novel post-translationally modified groups provide attributes that are crucial for their biological roles. Therefore, we examined the chemistry and reactivity of tunichromes in light of the available knowledge of the biochemistry of simple monomeric dehydro-N-acyldopamine units. Based on the reactivity of such simple compounds, the potential biological activities of tunichromes are predicted. Their possible biosynthetic route from peptidyl tyrosine is critically evaluated to provide a better basis for unraveling their biological functions. Prevalence of dehydro-N-acyldopamine units in different tunichromes, some marine antibiotic compounds, insect cuticular sclerotizing precursors and some bioadhesive marine proteins may aid in the de novo design of unique biomaterials with potential antibiotic/adhesive properties.
Matrix Metalloproteinases and their Inhibitors in Aqueous Humor

Matrix metalloproteinase activity is the rate-limiting step in extracellular matrix degradation. One mechanism by which metalloproteinases are regulated is through the activity of their endogenous inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases. Since metalloproteinase activity is a key component of the angiogenic process and many anterior segment structures are largely avascular, we became interested in examining aqueous humor for the presence of metalloproteinases and their endogenous inhibitors. Using zymography, we have identified the presence of several metalloproteinases in normal aqueous humor. Treatment with 4-aminophenylmercuric acetate, an organomercurial which activates latent metalloproteinases, revealed that all metalloproteinases were in their active state. By Western blot analysis, normal aqueous humor was also found to contain at least two tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases. Subsequent partial purification by two successive chromatographic steps revealed the presence of inhibitory activity against collagenase, endothelial cell DNA synthesis, and angiogenesis on the chick chorioallantoic membrane. The presence of metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in normal aqueous humor, a fluid which bathes avascular ocular structures, suggests that future studies should examine whether an imbalance in this protease/inhibitor family may contribute to the anterior chamber extracellular matrix alterations associated with diseases such as ocular neovascularization and glaucoma.
87-year-old man with macrocytic anemia.

An 87-year-old man was referred to our institution because of a 4-month history of progressive fatigue and orthostatic symptoms. Mild anemia (hemoglobin concentration, 11.1 g/dL) was noted 4 months before the onset of symptoms, but his hemoglobin concentration (14.0 g/ dL) was normal 15 months before that. He had no episodes of syncope but noticed poor exercise tolerance, making it difficult to continue bowling, his favorite pastime. No change was noted in appetite or weight, and he experienced no fever, chills, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, abdominal pain, or altered bowel pattern. The patient had no history of recurrent infections and was not aware of excessive bruising or any source of blood loss, particularly from the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract. There was no history of recent blood transfusions, but he had taken iron supplements for a few weeks 1 year before presentation and continued to take a daily oral multivitamin with iron since that time. He denied taking any other medications. His medical history included sensorineural hearing loss, Gilbert disease, mild dependent edema, and diverticulosis coli. Physical examination revealed pronounced pallor. Orthostatic hypotension was noted, with an increase in his pulse rate from 62/min to 75/min and a decrease in systolic blood pressure from 120 mm Hg to 104 mm Hg from lying down to standing. The patient had no evidence of oropharyngeal abnormalities, excessive bruising, petechiae, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, or neuropathy. A trace of pitting edema was evident bilaterally on his lower extremities. Initial laboratory studies (reference ranges shown parenthetically) revealed a hemoglobin level of 6.9 g/dL (13.517.5 g/dL), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of 115.6 fL (81.2-95.1 fL), leukocyte count of 4.3 × 10/L (3.5-10.5 × 10/L) with a normal leukocyte differential, and platelet count of 261 × 10/L (150-450 × 10/L) determined by an automated hematology analyzer.
The 152-day periodicity of the solar flare occurrence rate

The occurrence rate of solar flares exhibits a periodicity of about 152 days. The cause of the 152-day periodicity still remains a mystery. But answers to the following questions will enhance understanding of it. (1) Is the periodicity a local or a global phenomenon? (2) Is the periodicity due to the interaction of 'hotspots' rotating at different rates such that they align with one another once every 152-day period? (3) Is the periodicity due to the interaction of rotating features originating from g-mode oscillations? Here the authors report an analysis of 'major flares' observed with the Hard X-ray Burst Spectrometer (HXRBS) aboard SMM and conclude that the 152-day periodicity is a global phenomenon, and that the answers to questions (2) and (3) are negative.
Measurement of nontraditional sexuality in women.

The Women’s Nontraditional Sexuality Questionnaire (WNSQ) was developed, and its factor structure, reliability, and convergent and concurrent validity assessed, in two samples of midwestern U.S. college women. Study 1 (N = 243) used exploratory factor analysis to assess the instrument dimensionality. In Study 2 (N = 627), the fit of the four-factor solution derived from Study 1 was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis. Results supported a four-factor solution comprising: Involvement in Casual Sex, Self-Pleasuring, Degree of Sexual Interest, and Using Sex as a Means to an End. WNSQ total score and subscales had acceptable internal consistency reliability. Convergent validity was supported by significant correlations of the WNSQ and its subscales with a measure of casual sex (the Sociosexual Orientation Index), and with a measure of adherence to traditional feminine sexual norms (the Purity subscale of the Femininity Ideology Scale). The WNSQ showed weak relationships with a measure of risky sexual health communication practices (Health Protective Sexual Communication Scale). The WNSQ offers promise for study of women’s sexual attitudes and behaviors.
Ciona intestinalis as a model for cardiac development

The primitive chordate Ciona intestinalis has emerged as a significant model system for the study of heart development. The Ciona embryo employs a conserved heart gene network in the context of extremely low cell numbers and reduced genetic redundancy. Here, I review recent studies on the molecular genetics of Ciona cardiogenesis as well as classic work on heart anatomy and physiology. I also discuss the potential of employing Ciona to decipher a comprehensive chordate gene network and to determine how this network controls heart morphogenesis.
The Pornography Aggression Linkage - Results From A Field-Study

Renewed concern over the possible effects of pornography has been sparked by a “new” body of research. Foremost among these concerns is the possibility of a linkage between viewing pornography and subsequent aggressive behavior, especially toward women. However, the vast majority of this research is limited to laboratory settings. This study reports on a field experiment which assesses the impact of presenting a pornographic movie on a college campus. A longitudinal, self‐report study of 230 women students was conducted to determine any effects of the film's showing on the sample's experiences with aggression from males. Compared with the weeks prior to and following the movie's showing, no significant difference in reported aggression was found. Further, those women reporting association with males attending the movie reported no significantly different levels of experienced aggression from those women whose companions did not view the film. Reasons for the apparent lack of effect are discussed in light ...
Nonlinear long-range plasmonic waveguides

We report on plasmonic waveguides made of a thin metal stripe surrounded on one or both sides by a Kerr nonlinear medium. Using an iterative numerical method, we investigate the stationary long-range plasmons that exist for self-focusing and self-defocusing Kerr-type nonlinearities. The solutions are similar to the well-known case of infinitely wide nonlinear waveguides - they are strongly power-dependent and can experience symmetry-breaking bifurcations under appropriate conditions.
Patterns of Alcohol Abuse and Family Stability

Male alcoholics and their spouses participating in an ongoing family interaction study were assessed as to drinking patterns, psychiatric symptoms, and marital satisfaction. Analyses of these data indicated that high alcohol consumption was associated with high satisfaction and reduced symptomatology in the spouses of steady but not binge drinkers. Findings are discussed in terms of Steinglass' suggestion that alcohol can have "adaptive" consequences for the marriage and family life of alcoholics.
Prevention of Deoxycholate-Induced Gastric Apoptosis by Aspirin: Roles of NF-κB and PKC Signaling

Background Apoptosis is a major mechanism of gastric cell death induced by deoxycholate (DC) and aspirin (ASA), and the caspase cascade and protein kinase C (PKC) signaling play key roles in this process. The transcription factor kappa B (NF-κB) has been shown to modulate apoptosis by regulating the transcription of numerous pro- and anti-apoptotic genes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of DC and ASA on NF-κB signaling, and determine its role in programmed cell death in a human gastric carcinoma cell line. Methods Cells were incubated with DC in the presence or absence of ASA or proteasome inhibitors (PI- I, lactacystin, and MG-132). Cell lysates were evaluated by Western blotting. NF-κB (p65) was measured in the cytosol and nuclear fractions. Results DC induced a translocation of NF-κB into the nuclear compartment that was completely blocked by proteasome inhibitors. Although, ASA itself had no effect on the NF-κB pathway, nor did it reduce DC-induced NF-κB translocation, it did prevent DC-induced caspase-3, -6 and -9 activation, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase and lamin A processing, DNA degradation, and PKC signaling, all indices of apoptosis. In contrast, proteasome inhibitors had no effect on DC-induced apoptosis. Conclusions Deoxycholate activates NF-κB at the same time that it induces apoptosis in gastric epithelial cells. Prevention of NF-κB activation does not alter DC-induced apoptosis, indicating that in our experimental conditions, NF-κB is not essential for apoptosis to proceed. In contrast, the ability of aspirin to restore the alterations in PKC isoforms induced by DC and at the same time prevent caspase cascade activation suggests the importance of the PKC signaling system in this process.