cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Free Fatty Acid Metabolism

Background Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is independently associated with insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, data on whether SDB alters the metabolism of free fatty acids (FFAs) are lacking. Research Question The primary objective of the current study was to characterize alterations in FFA metabolism across the spectrum of SDB severity. Study Design and Methods The study sample included 118 participants with and without SDB who underwent full-montage polysomnography, the frequently sampled IV glucose tolerance test (FSIGTT), and body composition measurements including determination of percent body fat. Parameters of lipolysis suppression, time to FFA nadir, and FFA rebound after an IV glucose challenge were derived using a mathematical model. Multivariable regression analyses were used to characterize the independent associations between SDB severity and parameters of FFA metabolism. Results SDB severity, as assessed by the apnea-hypopnea index, was associated with adipocyte insulin resistance, a decrease in the glucose- and insulin-mediated suppression of lipolysis, a longer duration to reach a nadir in FFA levels during the FSIGTT, and a sluggish rebound in FFA levels after suppression. Severity of SDB-related hypoxemia was independently associated with adipocyte insulin resistance and the time to reach the FFA nadir during the FSIGTT. Finally, a higher percentage of stage N3 sleep was positively associated with greater suppression of lipolysis and a faster rebound in the FFA levels during the FSIGTT. Interpretation Independent of adiposity, SDB is associated with impairments in FFA metabolism, which may contribute to the development of glucose intolerance and type 2 diabetes in SDB.
Is APRV Set According to Current Recommendations for Adult Patients at a Medical ICU

Background: APRV is a mode of ventilation designed to manage patients with refractory hypoxemia, particularly when other modes of ventilation fail. Despite its potential benefit, there is limited research that has evaluated the best initial settings, leading to confusion and doubts about the mode amongst practitioners. The purpose of this study was to determine if APRV is currently implemented according to established protocols. Methods: A retrospective chart review from patients admitted to ICUs at a 496-bed university-affiliated institution in San Antonio, between 2017 and 2019. This study was approved by the institutional IRB. The four main APRV parameters (Phigh, Plow, Thigh, Tlow) were documented and compared to current recommendations. Results: The mean age of the 11 patients selected for the study was 53 years (± 12.1). Most patients (63%) and were transitioned to APRV from PRV and were on APRV for an average of 30 hours (1-130). These patients had a mean PaO2 of 91.7 (± 42.5) mm Hg, FIO2 of 77.5% (± 20.9%), P/F ratio 110.2 (± 92.0), OI 26.2 (± 24.2), PIP of 27.5 cm H2O (± 9.32), PEEP of 14.2 cm H2O (± 4.9), and MAP 21.5 (± 9.0). Pplat was not recorded in the majority of patients prior to APRV. The mean values for APRV parameters obtained were P High 29.8 cm H2O (± 4.4; range 18-37), P low 3.13 cm H2O (± 1.57; range 0-15), T High: 4.11 s (± 0.72; range 3.0-5.2), and T Low: 0.59 s (± 0.18; range 0.3-1.0). Ventilator settings on APRV were maintained prior to switching back to conventional modes except mead pressures were and FIO2 were 10% lower. The oxygenation improved dramatically with a mean PaO2 of 178 and the OI decreasing almost 50% (26.2 vs 14.4). These improvements in PaO2 and OI did not reach statistical difference (P = .06 and .08, respectively). The use of the APRV mode was discontinued due to of improved oxygenation in two patients, worsening of ventilation in one patient, a worsening overall condition in one patient, and no documented reasons in the remaining seven patients. Conclusions: When selected, most APRV parameters were set in a similar fashion to recommended protocols. APRV was associated with improvement in oxygenation. A larger number of patients and evaluation at different institutions is necessary to evaluate how consistently suggested protocols are utilized and if a similar oxygenation response is attained.
Abnormal activation of motion perception-related brain networks in primary dystonia (P4.326)

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate discrete involvement of "non-motor" networks in primary dystonia. BACKGROUND: Clinical evidence suggests that neural circuits apart from those involved in basic motor function can also be affected in primary dystonia. Thus, in healthy individuals, motor regions are selectively activated during the visual perception of "natural" motion (defined by kinematics that comply with "the 2/3 power law of motion"). In DYT1 dystonia, motor regions are not activated in response to "natural" or "unnatural" motion. DESIGN/METHODS: To delineate the circuit changes mediating this functional abnormality, we used fMRI to study 15 healthy subjects perceiving "natural" vs. "unnatural" target motion. We used a within-subject spatial covariance algorithm to identify networks characterized by consistent changes in subject expression across experimental conditions. In the normal derivation sample, expression values were computed separately for the "natural" and "unnatural" conditions. Pattern expression was prospectively computed in dystonia subjects (DYT1, n=10; sporadic, n=13) scanned under identical conditions. Between-condition differences in pattern expression were compared across the three groups. The relationship of functional network expression to underlying microstructural integrity was also examined using diffusion tensor imaging from the same subjects. RESULTS: A significant pattern was identified in the healthy subjects, with consistantly greater expression during "natural" vs. "unnatural" motion perception (p=0.02, permutation test; 1000 iterations). The network was characterized by increasing activity in the right superior parietal cortex, the left superior/medial frontal and temporal regions, and the right cerebellar hemisphere. Differences in network activity between task conditions were smaller for both groups of dystonia patients relative to healthy subjects (p<0.005). Interestingly, network expression values for the dystonia subjects correlated (r=0.55, p=0.005) with loss of microstructural integrity in cerebello-thalamo-cortical projection pathways. CONCLUSIONS: Consistent abnormalities of perception-related circuits were observed in patients with inherited or sporadic subtypes of primary dystonia. Supported in part by: NINDS R01 NS072514. Disclosure: Dr. Fujita has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sako has nothing to disclose. Dr. Vo has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ulug has nothing to disclose. Dr. Eidelberg has received personal compensation for activities with the Thomas Hartman Foundation and the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Childhood obesity prevention across borders: A National Institutes of Health commentary

In response to the increasing rates of childhood obesity, the United States and countries across Latin America have invested in research that tests innovative strategies and interventions. Despite this, progress has been slow, uneven, and sporadic, calling for increased knowledge exchange and research collaboration that accelerate the adaptation and implementation of promising childhood obesity interventions. To share research results, challenges, and proven intervention strategies among Latin American and US researchers, particularly those working with Latino and Latin American populations, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) convened researchers from the United States and Latin America to highlight synergies between research conducted in Latin America and among Latino populations in the United States with the goal of catalyzing new relationships and identifying common research questions and strategies. This article highlights the NIH's research and priorities in childhood obesity prevention as well as areas for future direction, including overarching NIH plans and NIH institutes, centers, and offices investments in specific areas related to childhood obesity prevention in Latin America and/or among Latino populations in the United States.
Telemedicine in Pediatric Headache: A Review and Practical Implementation

The purpose of this review was to summarize the current literature about telemedicine in pediatric headache and to provide practical guidance for its implementation. There are few studies dedicated to telemedicine in pediatric headache, and existing studies are small. Patients and families report high levels of satisfaction with telemedicine, and most are willing to continue telemedicine visits in the future. Telemedicine demonstrated similar reductions in headache frequency, severity, and duration as patients treated in-person. Remotely delivered psychologic interventions have some utility in reducing headache severity acutely. Families feel telemedicine reduces geographic and financial barriers to care. Telemedicine in pediatric headache is a growing field. While there is limited research available, it appears safe, efficacious, and feasible. Headache-related outcomes, including frequency, severity, and duration, were similar amongst telemedicine and in-person visits. Future studies should include larger sample sizes and detailed analysis of adverse outcomes.
Sensing storm surge: A framework for establishing a citizen scientist monitored water level network

Abstract Storm surges and extreme water levels are notably more unpredictable in estuaries that are inland from the immediate coast. Estuarine water level data is often non-existent or coarse in resolution, making concrete physical science studies on the data difficult to conduct. Often, communities abutting estuaries have insufficient data to inform coastal zone managers on flood risk, creating uncertainty in planning and adaptation strategies. This study presents a framework for communities to build a citizen science water level monitoring network in estuaries using technical sensors that yield quantitative data helpful for researchers and local stakeholders. The framework provides guidance for establishing a volunteer storm surge monitoring network, how the network functions, and how to use these data. We detail lessons learned applying this framework via a case study in Maine, a state noted for its long shoreline, which is mainly estuarine in nature, where a citizen science network was established to collect bulk water level measurements in four different estuaries. With these data, storm surges were calculated in each estuary allowing local community managers access to extreme water level data for their area. This is one of the first studies reporting on how an environmental monitoring tool was developed, deployed, and used to engage citizen scientists and produce quality data useable in peer-reviewed coastal oceanography journals. Ultimately, the methods outlined in this study can be used and improved in similar projects elsewhere, creating a means for coastal planners and researchers to work together in solving mutual problems and building “smart communities”.
RFID Assisted Vehicle Navigation Based on VANETs

With the trend of global urbanization, complex urban structure leads to the positioning inaccuracy issue in GPS or even failure for conventional navigation. Thanks to the developments of vehicular ad hoc networks (VANET) and RFID systems, the real-time vehicular and positioning information can be collected to deal with the position inaccuracy problem, and the navigation system can be improved by local information exchanging with vehicles and infrastructure. In this chapter, we proposed an RFID-enhanced VANET system to provide accurate path planning, which is determined at a server in a real-time manner based on the shared vehicular information and positioning information. Specifically, the RFID system is utilized for reading accurate positioning information, and vehicular information can be collected and delivered to the server via VANETs. Simulations demonstrate that our system can perform a more accurate positioning and efficient path planning than the traditional GPS. …
Small Diameter Penile Implants: A Survey on Current Utilization and Review of Literature.

Background Inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs) with smaller diameter cylinders have been in use for over 30 years, yet the literature is sparse on their utilization patterns amongst prosthetic surgeons. Aim To understand current usage of small diameter penile implants (SDPI) among prosthetic surgeons. Methods IRB approval was obtained to conduct a survey of prosthetic surgeons. A 23-question online survey was distributed via email to physician members of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA) and Society of Urologic Prosthesis Surgeons (SUPS). The survey included questions regarding surgeon experience and volume, frequency of SDPI utilization, indications for SDPI, surgical strategy in the setting of SDPI (approach, use of concordant modeling/grafting), reservoir and pump management, and perceived infection risk and patient satisfaction. Main outcome measure SDPI were utilized by the vast majority of respondents in certain clinical situations such as corporal fibrosis or anatomically small corpora, and surgeons have had a favorable experience with these as a final destination implant or as a place-holder until reimplantation with a normal diameter device. Results Fifty individuals responded to the survey, 48 of whom routinely utilized SDPI. The most common indication for SDPI placement was corporal fibrosis from prior infection, followed by anatomically small corpora and priapism. The most common maximal dilation diameter was 10 mm (47%), an additional 23% of respondents utilized SDPI with 11 mm dilation. 75.4% of respondents sometimes or always intended to upsize to standard diameter cylinders in the future. 68.8% of surgeons routinely counseled patients on the possibility of reduced grith and rigidity with SDPI. Patient satisfaction was perceived to be comparable to standard diameter cylinders in 56.3% of respondents, while the remaining 43.6% believed it to be lower than traditional cylinders. Utilization of SDPI can be an important tool for prosthetic surgeons faced with difficult cases due to corporal fibrosis or small corpora. This survey provides new insight into patterns of SDPI utilization by surgeons. A limitation of the study is that patient satisfaction is indirectly addressed through surgeons' perception and experience, further research will be necessary to include patient questionnaires regarding device satisfaction. Conclusion SDPI are necessary in certain scenarios that preclude the use of normal diameter cylinders. These implants may offer satisfactory erections, but can also be upsized to standard diameter cylinders in the future. Campbell S.P. et al., Small Diameter Penile Implants: A Survey on Current Utilization and Review of Literature. Sex Med 2021;XX:XXXXXX.
Leptin: A Metabolic Perspective

The history of discovery of leptin is given and current knowledge on the factors that regulate ob gene expression and leptin protein secretion is summarized. The chapter focuses on the metabolic effects of leptin, the pathways involved in the suppression of food intake and stimulation of energy expenditure are described. The role of central activation of sympathetic outflow to peripheral tissues, compared with direct effects of leptin on insulin-sensitive tissues, in mediating metabolic responses to leptin is discussed. Recent work elucidating the cellular basis for the shift in metabolism of adipose and non-adipose tissue to lipid oxidation and triglyceride depletion is reviewed. Keywords: leptin expression; leptin receptors; leptin resistance; food intake; energy expenditure; metabolism
Molecular modeling of cytochrome P450 3A4

The three-dimensional structure of human cytochrome P450 3A4 was modeled based on crystallographic coordinates of four bacterial P450s; P450 BM-3, P450cam, P450terp, and P450eryF. The P450 3A4 sequence was aligned to those of the known proteins using a structure-based alignment of P450 BM-3, P450cam, P450terp, and P450eryF. The coordinates of the model were then calculated using a consensus strategy, and the final structure was optimized in the presence of water. The P450 3A4 model resembles P450 BM-3 the most, but the B' helix is similar to that of P450eryF, which leads to an enlarged active site when compared with P450 BM-3, P450cam, and P450terp. The 3A4 residues equivalent to known substrate contact residues of the bacterial proteins and key residues of rat P450 2B1 are located in the active site or the substrate access channel. Docking of progesterone into the P450 3A4 model demonstrated that the substrate bound in a 6 beta-orientation can interact with a number of active site residues, such as 114, 119, 301, 304, 305, 309, 370, 373, and 479, through hydrophobic interactions. The active site of the enzyme can also accommodate erythromycin, which, in addition to the residues listed for progesterone, also contacts residues 101, 104, 105, 214, 215, 217, 218, 374, and 478. The majority of 3A4 residues which interact with progesterone and/or erythromycin possess their equivalents in key residues of P450 2B enzymes, except for residues 297, 480 and 482, which do not contact either substrate in P450 3A4. The results from docking of progesterone and erythromycin into the enzyme model make it possible to pinpoint residues which may be important for 3A4 function and to target them for site-directed mutagenesis.
Chapter 4 Monotone Dynamical Systems

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a restricted but useful class of dynamical systems—,namely, those enjoying a comparison principle with respect to a closed order relation on the state space. Such systems, variously called monotone, order-preserving or increasing, occur in many biological, chemical, physical, and economic models. The chapter introduces the basic definitions and develops the main tools of monotone dynamics. Several results on density of quasiconvergent points are proved and used to establish existence of stable equilibria.
A theory of may testing for actors

The Actor model and pi-calculus have served as the basis of a large body of research on concurrency. We represent the Actor model as a typed asynchronous pi-calculus, called api-calculus. The type system imposes a certain discipline on the use of names to capture actor properties. Since the reduction semantics of api-calculus is the same as that of pi-calculus, we have a basis for direct comparison between actors and pi-calculus. We investigate the notion of may testing in api-calculus and give a trace based characterization of it. We also present two variants of api-calculus that differ in name matching capabilities, and discuss possible approaches to alternate characterizations of may testing for them. Our characterizations are closely related to those for variants of asynchronous pi-calculus. We present a detailed comparison of our characterizations with them.
SEGREGATION OF TWO ALLELES FOR COLOR OF DOWN IN PARTHENOGENETIC AND NORMAL TURKEY EMBRYOS AND POULTS

Data were collected on the down color of 1,386 parthenogenetic embryos and poults from eggs of 306 young virgin and older nonmated bronze turkey hens. Each hen involved was heterozygous (Cc) for alleles which affect feather pigmentation. Six hundred and sixty nine white and 717 colored parthenogenetic embryos and poults were observed, a 1:1 ratio. Subsequently, 89 of these 306 heterozygous bronze hens were inseminated with semen from BSW (cc) males and down color of embryos and poults from fertilized eggs recorded. the 89 females produced a total of 233 white and 239 colored normal embryos and poults. The 1:1 ratio for down color among both parthenogenetic and normal embryos and poults shows that, in both instances, the two alleles at a locus on an autosome segregated equally. Four possible cytological routes which would lead to diploidy were discussed.
Size and Composition of Marek's Disease Virus Deoxyribonucleic Acid

Abstract Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from purified nucleocapsids of Marek's disease herpesvirus (MDV) was cosedimented with T4 and with herpes simplex virus (HSV) DNA in neutral sucrose density gradients and with T4 DNA in alkaline sucrose density gradients. These experiments indicated that the intact MDV DNA had a sedimentation constant of 56S corresponding to a molecular weight of 1.2 × 108 daltons. In the alkaline gradients, the largest and most prominent band contains a DNA sedimenting at 70S corresponding to 6.0 × 107 daltons in molecular weight. The DNA is therefore double-stranded and not cross-linked. Isopycnic sedimentation of the MDV DNA molecules with SPO1, Micrococcus lysodeikticus, and HSV DNA gave a density of 1.705 g/cm3 corresponding to 46 guanine plus cytosine moles per cent. Lastly, in hybridization tests the DNA hybridized with RNA of infected cells but not with that of uninfected cells supporting the conclusion that it is viral.
Role of angiotensin II in the aldosterone secretory response to adrenocorticotropin in sodium-restricted normal human subjects.

A study was performed to determine the possible role of angiotensin II (All) in mediating the increased adrenal aldosterone response to infused α1–24- ACTH, induced by sodium deprivation. Nine normal subjects, aged 18–31 yr, received 8-h infusions of 1) α1–24-ACTH (0.5 U given over 8 h) while on a diet with unrestricted sodium content; 2) saralasin at 0.5 μg/kg/min or ACTH alone (0.5 U over 8 h) on the 7th day of a 10 meq sodium diet; and 3) ACTH and saralasin together on the 8th day while still on sodium restriction. All was administered for the last 2 h of infusion 3. Plasma cortisol and aldosterone concentrations were measured at hourly intervals during the infusions and plasma renin activity was measured at 2 hourly intervals. ACTH infusion produced an increase in the plasma aldosterone concentration which was significantly greater during sodium restriction than when sodium intake was unlimited. This increase was not associated with an ACTH-induced rise in the plasma renin activity and was not signifi...
Alkaline composite film as a separator for rechargeable lithium batteries

We report a new type of separator film for application in rechargeable lithium and lithium-ion batteries. The films are made of mainly alkaline calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and a small amount of polymer binder. Owing to porosity and capillarity, the composite films show excellent wettability with non-aqueous liquid electrolytes. Typically, the composite films composed of CaCO3 and Teflon and wetted with 1 M LiPF6 dissolved in a solvent mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) (30:70 wt%) exhibit an ionic conductivity as high as 2.5–4 mS/cm at 20 °C, in a comparable range with that (3.4 mS/cm) of the commercial Celgard membrane. In the batteries, the composite film not only serves as a physical separator but also neutralizes acidic products, such as HF formed by LiPF6 hydrolysis, as well as those formed by solvent oxidative decomposition. A Li/LiMn2O4 test cell was employed to examine the electrochemical compatibility of the composite film. We observed that the composite film cell showed an improved cycling performance since the alkaline CaCO3 neutralizes the acidic products, which otherwise promote dissolution of the electrode active materials. More importantly, the composite film cell displayed a superior performance on high-rate cycling, which was probably the result of the less resistive interface formed between the electrode and the composite film.
Effects of tert-butyl halide molecular siting in crystalline NaX faujasite on the infrared vibrational spectra.

Experimental, analytical, and modeling techniques employed in this study elucidate interactions between adsorbate molecules and the interior surfaces of the porous host faujasite. The vibrational spectroscopies of guest and host offer opportunities to locate the guest site in the host. We present Fourier transform (FT) infrared (IR) studies of sodium-X (NaX) faujasite supercage-included tert-butyl halides, (CH3)3C−X (XCl, Br, I) in comparison with the adsorbate molecular gas-phase and host solid-state spectra at 295 K. Four observations of guest (ν5, ν6, ν7, and {ν3, ν16, ν17}) vibrational mode changes, three of them concomitant with host mode changes, together with modeling studies, point to a particular preferred siting of the guest molecules at host hexagonal prisms (D6R). The siting involved simultaneous interactions of the host with methyl group axial protons and the halide atom. All three methyl group axial protons interact preferentially with a single D6R O1 oxygen atom via C−H···O bonding. The hal...
Vibrational Spectra of Triphenyl Compounds of Group VA Elements

The infrared and Raman spectra of triphenyl compounds of Group VA elements PPh3, AsPh3, SbPh3, and BiPh3 (Ph represents the phenyl group), have been reported in the 530–100 cm−1 region. The metal–phenyl stretching and bending vibrations have been assigned with the aid of approximate normal coordinate analysis and depolarization ratios of Raman lines.
Endovascular and Neurosurgical Management of Acute Ischemic Stroke

Acute ischemic stroke is recognized as the third leading cause of death in the United States; improved treatments for management are important to reduce disability and death. The standard of care of acute stroke therapy has been reperfusion/recanalization of the occluded vessels using pharmacologic management, endovascular management, or a combination approach. Significant improvements have been made in the management with the use of endovascular therapy. This article reviews the literature on the endovascular and neurosurgical management of patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke and presents current evidence-based guidelines for endovascular or neurosurgical interventions outlined for management of ischemic stroke.
Predicting the filtration of noncoagulating particles in depth filters

Abstract A predictive model is developed for the filtration of noncoagulating particles in packed-bed depth filters. The model uses the trajectory analysis results of Rajagopalan and Tien (1976, A.I.Ch.E. J. 22 , 523–533) to calculate initial collection efficiencies of the granular media. Stochastic simulations of particle deposition are used to predict the decrease in collection efficiency that results from deposited particles not only occupying sites on the collector but also shadowing large deposition areas. A comparison of model predictions with data obtained form batch latex filtration experiments showed qualitative but not quantitative agreement. The observed decrease in collection efficiency could be described by a simple empirical expression, characterized by a single shadowing exponent, that was first suggested by Terranova and Burns (1991, Biotechnol. Bioengng 37 , 110–120). By developing a correlation for the shadowing exponent from the stochastic simulations and adjusting the expression for the initial collection efficiency, reasonably accurate model predictions could be made once the model parameters from a single experiment were determined. A study of the effect of dimensionless model parameters on predicted breakthrough curves showed that the optimal operating conditions to filter a given liquid suspension occur when the ratio of the particle-to-collector diameter is maximized. An approximate analytical solution is also developed to predict breakthrough behavior in lieu of a numerical solution.
A mapping of the electron localization function for the silica polymorphs: evidence for domains of electron pairs and sites of potential electrophilic attack

The electron localization function, g, evalu- ated for first-principles geometry optimized model structures generated for quartz and coesite, reveals that the oxide anions are coordinated by two hemi- spherically shaped g-isosurfaces located along each of the SiO bond vectors comprising the SiOSi angles. With one exception, they are also coordinated by larger banana-shaped isosurfaces oriented perpendic- ular to the plane centered in the vicinity of the apex of each angle. The hemispherical isosurfaces, ascribed to domains of localized bond-pair electrons, are cen- tered � 0.70 Aalong the bond vectors from the oxide anions and the banana-shaped isosurfaces, ascribed to domains of localized nonbonding lone-pair electrons, are centered � 0.60 Afrom the apex of the angle. The oxide anion comprising the straight SiOSi angle in coesite is the one exception in that the banana-shaped isosurface is missing; however, it is coordinated by two hemispherically shaped isosurfaces that lie along the bond vectors. In the case of a first-principles modelstructure generated for stishovite, the oxide anion is coordinated by five hemispherically shaped g- isosurfaces, one located along each of the three SiO bond vectors (ascribed to domains of bonding-elec- tron pairs) that are linked to the anion with the remaining two (ascribed to domains of nonbonding- electron pairs) located on opposite sides of the plane defined by three vectors, each isosurface at a distance of � 0.5 Afrom the anion. The distribution of the five isosurfaces is in a one-to-one correspondence with the distribution of the maxima displayed by experimental Dq and theoreticalr 2 q maps. Isosurface g maps calculated for quartz and the ðHOÞ 3 SiOSiðOHÞ 3 molecule also exhibit maxima that correspond with the ð3; � 3Þ maxima displayed by distributions of �r 2 q. Deformation maps observed for the SiOSi bridges for the silica polymorphs and a number of silicates are similar to that calculated for the molecule but, for the majority, the maxima ascribed to lone- pair features are absent. The domains of localized nonbonding-electron pair coordinating the oxide an- ions of quartz and coesite provide a basis for ex- plaining the flexibility and the wide range of the SiOSi angles exhibited by the silica polymorphs with four-coordinate Si. They also provide a basis for ex- plaining why the SiO bond length in coesite decreases with increasing angle. As found in studies of the in- teractions of solute molecules with a solvent, a map- ping of g-isosurfaces for geometry-optimized silicates is expected to become a powerfultoolfor deducing potential sites of electrophilic attack and reactivity for Earth materials. The positions of the features ascribed to the lone pairs in coesite correspond with the positions of the H atoms recently reported for an H- doped coesite crystal.
Interdisciplinary Centers: A Natural and Necessary Force for Creativity and Change in Engineering Research and Education

Because problem-solving is the distinguishing feature of engineering education and innovation, interdisciplinary approaches are essential since technologically-related problems do not align themselves neatly in accordance with traditional academic disciplines or professional societies. The challenge is to sustain the evolution of institutional and academic structures to keep pace with rapid advances in technology and social concerns. The tension is between quality control as administered by traditional institutional structure and emerging societal needs and technological opportunities like the environment. Interdisciplinary centers with budget autonomy, in conjunction with re-aligned engineering “departments and professional designations”, can be important vehicles for change. The ultimate measure of success of these proposed structures is that change will be institutionalized, and engineering education will constantly evolve to meet society's emerging needs. Reading through the directories of most major universities (admittedly, no substitute for serious academic research), I am struck by the burgeoning list of acronyms representing administrative units of interdisciplinary centers. As an example, at Cornell there are over 50 interdisciplinary programs and centers. They have become nearly as numerous as the traditional academic departments.
Dysfunction of innate immunity and associated pathology in neonates

The neutrophils and complement system are the critical elements of innate immunity mainly due to participation in the first line of defense against microorganisms by means of phagocytosis, lysis of bacteria and activation of naive B-lymphocytes. In this report we provide an overview of the up to date information regarding the neutrophil and complement system's functional ability in newborn infants in association with the maternal conditions that exist during the intrauterine stage, gestational age and post-neonatal pathology. The neonates' capacity to control the neutrophil and complement protein activation process has also been discussed because of the evidence that uncontrolled activation of these immune elements provides a significant contribution to the tissue damage and subsequent pathology. The authors are confident that despite the many unanswered questions this review updates their knowledge and points the need for further research to clarify the role of the age-associated dysfunction of neutrophils and complement system in the infection and inflammation related pathology of newborn infants.
Interlayer coupling and magnetoresistance in Ir/Co multilayers

Fcc(111) oriented Ir/Co multilayers were prepared to study their magnetic and magnetotransport properties. The superlattice structure was characterized by X-ray diffraction. Results measured for magnetization and magnetoresistance (ΔR/R) exhibit an oscillatory interlayer exchange coupling with a period of about 1 nm (4.5 monolayers). The coupling strength JAF and the largest ΔR/R obtained are − 2.05 mJ/m2 and 4% (at 10 K), respectively. The observed oscillatory behavior can be attributed to an interaction of separated Co magnetic layers, which must be some sort of RKKY coupling. Using this concept, we find a match of the measured oscillation period with the relevant wave vector on the Fermi surfaces of Ir.
Choosing mixers for body preparation with caustic dust

We determined the optimum process parameters for preparing bodies from caustic dust for which a high output mixer is recommended. It is necessary to solve the problem of the regular production of mixer runnermills of continuous action designed by the Urals Machine Factory, with the production in the near future of a prototype for industrial testing.
Spatial and temporal heterogeneity of agricultural fires in the central United States in relation to land cover and land use

Agricultural burning is an important land use practice in the central U.S. but has received little attention in the literature, whereas most of the focus has been on wildfires in forested areas. Given the effects that agricultural burning can have on biodiversity and emissions of greenhouse gasses, there is a need to quantify the spatial and temporal patterns of fire in agricultural landscapes of the central U.S. Three years (2006–2008) of the MODIS 1 km daily active fire product generated from the MODIS Terra and Aqua satellite data were used. The 2007 Cropland Data Layer developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture was used to examine fire distribution by land cover/land use (LCLU) type. Global ordinary least square (OLS) models and local geographically weighted regression (GWR) analyses were used to explore spatial variability in relationships between fire detection density and LCLU classes. The monthly total number of fire detections peaked in April and the density of fire detections (number of fires/km2/3 years) was generally higher in areas dominated by agriculture than areas dominated by forest. Fire seasonality varied among areas dominated by different types of agriculture and land use. The effects of LCLU classes on fire detection density varied spatially, with grassland being the primary correlate of fire detection density in eastern Kansas; whereas wheat cropping was important in central Kansas, northeast North Dakota, and northwest Minnesota.
Use of Simulation-based Teaching Methodologies in US Colleges and Schools of Pharmacy

Objectives. To characterize the use of high-fidelity mannequins and standardized patients in US pharmacy colleges and schools. Methods. A survey instrument was sent to 105 doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) programs to collect data on the use of simulation and to identify barriers to using simulation-based teaching methods. Results. Eighty-eight colleges and schools completed the survey instrument (response rate 84%). Of these, 14 did not use high-fidelity mannequins or standardized patients within the curriculum. Top barriers were logistical constraints and high resource cost. Twenty-three colleges and schools used simulation for introductory pharmacy practice experiences (IPPEs), 34 for interprofessional education, and 68 for evaluation of at least 1 core competency prior to advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs). Conclusions. Although the majority of US colleges and schools of pharmacy use simulation-based teaching methodologies to some extent in the pharmacy curricula, the role of simulation in IPPEs, interprofessional education, and assessment of competency-based skills could be expanded.
Non-overlapping transition encoding for global on-chip interconnect

This paper presents a novel crosstalk reduction technique, non-overlapping transition encoding (NOTE), which significantly reduces negative effects due to crosstalk. We evaluate the performance of a bus encoded by using the NOTE scheme. Results are compared to those obtained from a standard bus and a bus utilizing shielding. Simulations are run for different bus lengths and optimized repeater sizing and wire segmentation using the FreePDK 45nm library [1]. Finally, the trade-off of the proposed technique is discussed.
Comparison of Topical Therapy for Striae Alba (20% Glycolic Acid/0.05% Tretinoin Versus 20% Glycolic Acid/ 10% L-Ascorbic Acid)

Background Topical treatment of striae rubra with 0.1% tretinoin and laser treatment of striae rubra and alba with the 585-nm pulsed dye laser are proven therapeutic options. However, little efficacy has been shown for treatment of striae alba topically, and the laser is currently not a suitable treatment option for darker ethnic skin types. Objective The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that selected commercial topical agents can improve the appearance of striae alba. Methods Ten patients of varying skin types (I-V) having straie distensae alba on the abdomen or thighs were selected to evaluate the effectiveness of two topical treatment regimens. Patients were placed on daily topical application of 20% glycolic acid (MD Forte) to the entire treatment area. In addition, the patients applied 10% L-ascorbic acid, 2% zinc sulfate, and 0.5% tyrosine to half to the treatment area and 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream (Renova) to the other half of the treatment area. The creams were applied on a daily basis for 12 weeks. Improvement was evaluated at 4 and 12 weeks in an objective unblinded fashion at the follow-up visits, a objective blinded fashion by visual grading at the conclusion of the study, and in an objective blinded fashion with profilometry. Additionally, histopathologic analysis was performed. Results Analysis of these data reveals: 1) both regimens can improve the appearance of stretch marks; 2) these topical therapy regimens are safe and effective in study patients with minimal irritation; 3) elastin content within the reticular and papillary dermis can increase with topical 20% glycolic acid combined with 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream therapy; 4) both regimens increased epidermal thickness and decreased papillary dermal thickness in treated stretch marks when compared with untreated stretch marks; 5) combined epidermal and papillary dermal thickness in stretch marks treated with either topical regimen approaches that of normal skin; and 6) profilometry can objectively measure differences in skin texture associated with striae treatments when compared to controls, however, it is not sensitive enough to justify comparison or quantitative improvements between similarly effective treatments.
Differential taxation and the equilibrium structure of interest rates

Equilibrium coupon bond pricing relationships given differential taxation are derived under uncertainty assuming that both corporate and municipal bonds were originally issued at par but are currently selling at a discount. The impact of differential taxation upon the term structure and coupon structure of interest rates is investigated, while the tax structure of interest rates is uniquely characterized. Differential taxation substantially alters the prevailing equilibrium structure of interest rates.
Aprotinin versus ϵ-aminocaproic acid for aortic surgery using deep hypothermic circulatory arrest☆

Objective: To compare the relative efficacy of aprotinin and ϵ-aminocaproic acid (EACA) in decreasing blood loss and transfusion requirements after aortic surgery involving deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA). Design: A retrospective chart review. Setting: A university medical center. Participants: Forty-nine patients who had undergone thoracic aortic surgery with the use of circulatory arrest. Interventions: Charts were examined for variables believed to influence postoperative blood loss, including the use of medications, and for the amount of postoperative chest tube drainage and perioperative transfusion. Measurements and Main Results: Median chest tube output (CTO) at 6 and 12 hours postoperatively was nearly identical in patients treated with aprotinin or EACA (660 and 1,015 v 700 and 950 mL for aprotinin and EACA at 6 and 12 hours, respectively), as were total perioperative blood transfusions. Complications were not significantly different between groups with the exception of a trend toward increased incidence of renal failure in the group receiving EACA. Conclusion: Aprotinin and EACA appear to be equally efficacious in reducing perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients undergoing aortic surgery involving DHCA. Questions of safety remain about the use of EACA in this setting that could not be addressed by this small retrospective study. A prospective, placebo-controlled study is warranted to confirm the absolute efficacy of these agents and to better define safety issues.
The Curiously Strong Relationship Between Cardiovascular Disease and Depression in the Elderly

Since the early observations of Malzberg in 1937, 1 there has been an awareness in psychiatry that patients with severe psychiatric disorders, particularly depression, are at increased risk for death from cardiovascular disease. Subsequent work focused on type A personality and hostility as predisposing factors in the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) and myocardial infarction. In the last 15 years, there has been a veritable explosion in research at the interface of cardiology and psychiatry with a focus on mood disorders. I briefly review this burgeoning literature and then focus on the four manuscripts in this issue that further inform the field. To summarize the field, six major findings are highlighted: 1) Patients with ischemic heart disease exhibit high rates of both syndromal depression and subsyndromal depressive symptoms, far higher than that observed in the general population; 2) Depression is a major and independent risk factor for the development of CAD and stroke; 3) In patients post myocardial infarction, depression is a major risk factor for poor outcome, both in terms of morbidity and mortality; 4) Several pathophysiologic mechanisms have been identified that contribute to the increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke in depressed patients including abnormalities in the platelet clotting cascade, decreased heart rate variability (HRV), increased inflammation, and alterations in brain regions that modulate cardiovascular responses; 5) The findings described above concerning depression and CAD or myocardial infarction also seem to be equally applicable to congestive heart failure, outcome of coronary artery bypass surgery, and stroke; 6) Treatment of depression with antidepressants in patients with comorbid cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease is safe and effective. Because vascular disease is very common in the elderly, it is of great interest to focus on these comorbidities in this risk population. That is generally the focus of four reports in the current issue of the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Many in the field cite two reports that appeared in 1993 as landmark findings that ushered in a new era in our understanding of the relationship of depression and heart disease. Anda et al. reported that in the National Health Examination Follow-Up Study, depressed affect and hopelessness was associated with an increased risk for both fatal and nonfatal ischemic heart disease. Notably, the more severe the depressive symptomatology, the greater the risk for heart disease. That same year, Frasure-Smith et al. reported that in patients in the coronary care unit assessed 1 week postmyocardial infarction, those who fulfilled criteria for major depression exhibited a more than fourfold increase in mortality in the
Critical resource: An institutional economics of the Internet addressing-routing space

This paper links the analysis of IP address policy to the established vocabulary and concepts of institutional economics. Internet addressing and routing are usually discussed in technical terms, yet embedded in this highly technical discourse are a number of critical economic concepts, such as scarcity, externalities, common pool resources, tragedy of the commons, and conflict over the distribution of costs. To solve these problems, governance institutions native to the Internet have evolved. Yet despite the centrality of addressing and routing to Internet governance, there is very little research literature that bridges economic, institutional and technical discussions of IP addressing and routing. This paper connects the techno-economic discussion to analysis of institutions and governance arrangements.
Theory of two-photon interference in an electromagnetically induced transparency system

We examine the possibility of storing and retrieving a single photon using electromagnetically induced transparency. We consider the theory of a proof-of-principle two-photon interference experiment, in which an atomic vapor cell is placed in one arm of a two-photon interferometer. Since the two-photon state is entangled, we can examine the degree to which entanglement survives. We show that while the experiment might be difficult, it should be possible to perform. We also show that the two-photon interference pattern has oscillatory behavior.
Effect of tunicamycin on the glycosylation of rhodopsin.

Abstract The incorporation of [3H]glucosamine, [3H]mannose, and [35S]methionine into rhodopsin was investigated in retinas which had been incubated in the presence and absence of the antibiotic, tunicamycin. In its presence, the incorporation of glucosamine was inhibited 70% and mannose, 96% compared to controls. In the presence of tunicamycin the attachment of glucosamine to core-region sites was virtually eliminated. The formation of unglycosylated rhodopsin was also indicated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and concanavalin A-Sepharose chromatography. These findings are consistent with the participation of the lipid-linked pathway in the glycosylation of this well-characterized intrinsic glycoprotein of the membranes of the disk of the rod outer segment. As indicated by the incorporation of [35S]methionine, the synthesis of rhodopsin apoprotein was inhibited by a much lesser amount. This suggests that the glycosylation of rhodopsin is not required for its insertion into the disk membrane.