cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair: Potential in Heart Failure Management

As a large portion of the US demographic advances into the later decades of life, the incidence of valvular heart disease is expected to increase. Mitral regurgitation (MR) caused by primary valve abnormality (degenerative) or secondary to cardiomyopathy (functional) is an important cause of heart failure. Management of valvular heart disease is expected to account for a large segment of services provided to heart failure patients. Recent years have seen a transition from surgical therapy to minimally invasive techniques, specifically percutaneous approaches for the correction of heart valve disease. The double orifice technique of mitral valve repair using the MitraClip™ System (Abbott Vascular, Menlo Park, CA) is one of many percutaneous approaches to treat significant MR. This technique is effective in patients with both degenerative and functional MR, reducing MR severity and improving heart failure symptoms. Broad acceptance of this percutaneous technology requires collaboration among cardiologists and cardiac surgeons in centers with superior catheter experience and knowledge of echocardiography.
The mechanical transduction of physiological strength electric fields.

In this article it is proposed that electric fields of physiological strength (∼100 V/m) are transduced by the mechanical torque they exert on glycoproteins. The resulting mechanical signal is then transmitted to the cytoskeleton and propagated throughout the cell interior. This mechanical coupling is analyzed for transmembrane glycoproteins, such as integrins and the glycocalyx, and for glycoproteins in the extracellular matrix of cartilage. The applied torque is opposed by viscous fluid drag and restoring forces exerted by adjacent molecules in the membrane or cartilage. The resulting system represents a damped, driven harmonic oscillator. The amplitude of oscillation is constant at low frequencies, but falls off rapidly in the range 1–1000 Hz. The transition frequency depends on parameters such as the viscosity of the surrounding fluid and the restoring force exerted by the surrounding structure. The amplitude increases as the fourth power of the length of the transmembrane glycoproteins and as the square of the applied field. This process may operate in concert with other transduction mechanisms, such as the opening of voltage-gated channels and electrodiffusion/osmosis for DC fields. Bioelectromagnetics 29:447–455, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A new series of nematic and smectic liquid crystals with negative dielectric anisotropy: the effect of terminal chain substitution on thermal and electro‐optical properties

Two alkyl (1b and 1c) and four fluoroalkyl derivatives (1d–1f) of 4‐arylbutyric acid (1c, 1d and 1e) and 4‐arylbutanol (1b, 1f and 1g) [aryl = 2′,3′‐difluoro‐4′‐(2‐(E‐4‐pentylcyclohexyl)ethyl)‐biphenyl‐1‐yl] were prepared and investigated in the pure form as nematic materials (1b and 1c) and as additives to a ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) host (1d–1f). A comparison of 1b and 1c with the decyl analogue 1a demonstrates the effect of terminal chain modification on thermal and electro‐optical properties. The substitution of the –CH2O– (1b) or –COO– (1c) for –CH2CH2– in 1a destabilized the N and SmA phases or completely eliminated the smectic behaviour (1c). Dielectric analysis revealed that the chain modification increased the negative Δe, reduced elastic constant K 11 and moderately decreased rotational viscosity γ1. The temperature dependence of the key electro‐optical parameters was analysed for ester 2, the methyl analogue of 1c, which exhibits a 45 K wide N phase. All four fluoroalkyl derivatives 1d...
A direct micromechanics method for analysis of failure initiation of plain weave textile composites

Abstract A micromechanical analysis of the representative volume element (RVE) of a plain weave textile composite has been performed using the finite element method. Stress gradient effects are investigated, and it is assumed that the stress state is not uniform across the RVE. This is unlike most stiffness and strength models, which start with the premise that an RVE is subjected to a uniform stress or strain. For textile geometries, non-uniform stress considerations are important, as the size of a textile RVE will typically be several orders of magnitude larger than that of a unidirectional RVE, for which many analysis techniques are developed. The stress state is defined in terms of the well-known laminate theory force and moment resultants [N] and [M]. Structural stiffness coefficients analogous to the [A], [B], [D] matrices are defined, and these are computed directly using the direct micromechanics method (DMM), rather than making estimations based upon homogenized properties. Failure envelopes for a plain-weave textile composite have been constructed. Transverse failure of the fiber tow was the dominant mode of initial failure. The DMM failure envelope compared closely to the Tsai-Wu failure theory, but was more conservative in some areas.
Structure of the E. coli bifunctional GlmU acetyltransferase active site with substrates and products.

The biosynthesis of UDP-GlcNAc in bacteria is carried out by GlmU, an essential bifunctional uridyltransferase that catalyzes the CoA-dependent acetylation of GlcN-1-PO4 to form GlcNAc-1-PO4 and its subsequent condensation with UTP to form pyrophosphate and UDP-GlcNAc. As a metabolite, UDP-GlcNAc is situated at a branch point leading to the biosynthesis of lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan. Consequently, GlmU is regarded as an important target for potential antibacterial agents. The crystal structure of the Escherichia coli GlmU acetyltransferase active site has been determined in complexes with acetyl-CoA, CoA/GlcN-1-PO4, and desulpho-CoA/GlcNAc-1-PO4. These structures reveal the enzyme groups responsible for binding the substrates. A superposition of these complex structures suggests that the 2-amino group of GlcN-1-PO4 is positioned in proximity to the acetyl-CoA to facilitate direct attack on its thioester by a ternary complex mechanism.
Experiences teaching design automation in the introductory level course

"Logic and Digital Design" is an introductory level course for electrical engineering students at the Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Platteville. This paper describes the development of using design automation tools in the course. Since Fall 1993, a realistic design environment has been created. Through laboratory work and a comprehensive final project, not only students have learned fundamental knowledge of the logic and digital design, but also they have used the extensive facilities in the laboratory to undertake the design and integration of state machine. In the course, several tools have been introduced gradually, which include schematic capture tools (OrCAD, MAX+PLUS II), simulation tool (SYNOPSYS, MAX+PLUS II) hardware design language and synthesis (AHDL, Programmer). At the end of the course, each student is required to design, test and implement and demonstrate his/her own state machine using CPLD devices (ALTERA). This paper also describes the accomplishments of the student projects during the academic year of 1996.
Pennes’ 1948 paper revisited

A paper published by Harry H. Pennes in Volume 1 of theJournal of Applied Physiology defined the theoretical basis for a considerable body of analysis performed by many investigators during the ens...
Investment in organization capital

We study a firm’s investment in organization capital by analyzing a dynamic model of language development and intrafirm communication. We show that firms with richer internal language (i.e., more organization capital) have lower employee turnover, and higher diversity in skill and wages among incumbents who are promoted from within the firm. Our results also suggest that firms in rapidly changing industries are less likely to invest in organization capital, and are more likely to have high managerial turnover. Finally, our model shows that employment protection regulations lead to more investment in organization capital but less innovation.
Orphan SelD proteins and selenium-dependent molybdenum hydroxylases

Bacterial and Archaeal cells use selenium structurally in selenouridine-modified tRNAs, in proteins translated with selenocysteine, and in the selenium-dependent molybdenum hydroxylases (SDMH). The first two uses both require the selenophosphate synthetase gene, selD. Examining over 500 complete prokaryotic genomes finds selD in exactly two species lacking both the selenocysteine and selenouridine systems, Enterococcus faecalis and Haloarcula marismortui. Surrounding these orphan selD genes, forming bidirectional best hits between species, and detectable by Partial Phylogenetic Profiling vs. selD, are several candidate molybdenum hydroxylase subunits and accessory proteins. We propose that certain accessory proteins, and orphan selD itself, are markers through which new selenium-dependent molybdenum hydroxylases can be found.
Observer-based direct field orientation: analysis and comparison of alternative methods

This paper focuses on methods of achieving direct field orientation (DFO) of induction machines based on closed-loop, stator, and rotor flux observers which are well suited to both zero and very high-speed operation. Both observer topologies are dominated by a current model at zero and low speeds, and a voltage model at high speeds. Application of such rotor and stator flux observers to both stator and rotor direct field orientation is presented, including experimental results for three different methods. The influence which flux regulation has on parameter sensitivity of the complete DFO system is analyzed. A rotor-flux-regulated and -oriented system is shown to be sensitive to leakage inductance under high slip (i.e., field weakened) operation. Both a stator-flux-regulated and -oriented system and a stator-flux-regulated, rotor-flux-oriented system are shown to have reduced parameter sensitivity at high speeds. Unlike stator flux orientation using simple voltage integration stator flux models, excellent zero and low-speed operation of an observer-based stator-flux-oriented system is demonstrated. >
Microbial contributions to N-immobilization and organic matter preservation in decaying plant detritus

Abstract Microbial contributions to the detritus of two vascular plant tissues, smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and black mangrove leaves (Avicennia germinans), were estimated over a 4-year decomposition period under subaqueous marine conditions. During this period, 93–97% of the initial plant tissues was decomposed. Bulk elemental and isotopic compositions of the detritus were measured along with hydrolyzable amino sugars (AS) and amino acids (AA), including the bacterial biomarkers muramic acid and the d -enantiomers of AA. A major enrichment in N relative to C occurred during decomposition. Net increases of AS, AA, and bacterial biomarkers in decaying detritus were observed. Three independent approaches indicated that on average 60–75% of the N and 20–40% of the C in highly decomposed detritus were not from the original plant tissues but were mostly from heterotrophic bacteria. During decomposition hydrolyzable AS + AA yields (∼54% of total N) were strongly correlated with total N in both types of detritus. The uncharacterized N appeared to have the same origin and dynamics as AA, suggesting the contribution of other bacterial biomolecules not measured here. There was little indication of humification or abiotic processes. Instead, N-immobilization appeared primarily bacterially mediated. Although varying dynamics were observed among individual molecules, bacterial detritus exhibited an average reactivity similar to plant detritus. Only a minor fraction of the bacterial detritus escaped rapid biodegradation and the relationship between bacterial activity and N-immobilization is consistent with an enzymatically mediated preservation mechanism. Bacteria and their remains are ubiquitous in all ecosystems and thus could comprise a major fraction of the preserved and uncharacterized organic matter in the environment.
The state of the art in raptor electrocution research: A global review

We systematically reviewed the raptor electrocution literature to evaluate study designs and methods used in raptor electrocution research, mitigation, and monitoring, emphasizing original research published in English. Specifically, we wondered if three decades of effort to reduce raptor electrocutions has had positive effects. The majority of literature examined came from North America, western Europe, and South Africa. In spite of intensive and often sustained effort by industry and governments across three continents for 30 years, reductions in the incidence of electrocution have been demonstrated in only a few studies. Reliable rate estimates of electrocution mortality generally are unavailable, with some exceptions. Nearly half of 110 studies we analyzed in detail were retrospective reviews of historical mortality records, banding data, or results of necropsies on dead birds received at pathology and veterinary facilities. Among prospective studies, less than half used unbiased approaches to sampling and many did not provide enough detail to assess the sampling design used. At this time, few researchers can demonstrate the reliability of standardized retrofitting procedures or the effectiveness of monitoring techniques. Future progress in reducing raptor mortalities on power lines will benefit from properly designed studies that generate rate estimates of mortality, address biasing factors, and include predictions concerning risk and techniques to reduce risk that can be tested in the field or laboratory.
Role of CCL3L1-CCR5 Genotypes in the Epidemic Spread of HIV-1 and Evaluation of Vaccine Efficacy

Abstract Background:Polymorphisms in CCR5, the major coreceptor for HIV, and CCL3L1, a potent CCR5 ligand and HIV-suppressivechemokine, are determinants of HIV-AIDS susceptibility. Here, we mathematically modeled the potential impact of thesegenetic factors on the epidemic spread of HIV, as well as on its prevention.Methods and Results:Ro, the basic reproductive number, is a fundamental concept in explaining the emergence andpersistence of epidemics. By modeling sexual transmission among HIV+/HIV2 partner pairs, we find that Ro estimates, andconcordantly, the temporal and spatial patterns of HIV outgrowth are highly dependent on the infecting partners’ CCL3L1-CCR5 genotype. Ro was least and highest when the infected partner possessed protective and detrimental CCL3L1-CCR5genotypes, respectively. The modeling data indicate that in populations such as Pygmies with a high CCL3L1 gene dose andprotective CCR5 genotypes, the spread of HIV might be minimal. Additionally, Pc, the critical vaccination proportion, anestimate of the fraction of the population that must be vaccinated successfully to eradicate an epidemic was ,1 only whenthe infected partner had a protective CCL3L1-CCR5 genotype. Since in practice Pc cannot be .1, to prevent epidemicspread, population groups defined by specific CCL3L1-CCR5 genotypes might require repeated vaccination, or as our modelssuggest, a vaccine with an efficacy of .70%. Further, failure to account for CCL3L1-CCR5-based genetic risk might confoundestimates of vaccine efficacy. For example, in a modeled trial of 500 subjects, misallocation of CCL3L1-CCR5 genotype of only25 (5%) subjects between placebo and vaccine arms results in a relative error of ,12% from the true vaccine efficacy.Conclusions:CCL3L1-CCR5 genotypes may impact on the dynamics of the HIV epidemic and, consequently, the observedheterogeneous global distribution of HIV infection. As Ro is lowest when the infecting partner has beneficial CCL3L1-CCR5genotypes, we infer that therapeutic vaccines directed towards reducing the infectivity of the host may play a role in haltingepidemic spread. Further, CCL3L1-CCR5 genotype may provide critical guidance for optimizing the design and evaluation ofHIV-1 vaccine trials and prevention programs.
9F-5 Combined 2D Array Transducers/Deployment Kits for Real-Time 3D Ultrasound Guidance of Interventional Devices

We have described and fabricated 2D array transducers for many real-time volumetric imaging applications. These applications include transducers operating up to 7 MHz for 15 MHz for intracardiac MHz for transesophageal transthoracic imaging,1-3 up to 15 MHZ for intracardiae echocardiography (ICE), 4-6 5 MHZ for transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and intracranial imaging,7,8 and 7 MHz for laparoscopic ultrasound imaging (LUS).9 Now, we have developed a new generation of miniature 2D array transducers integrated into the deployment kits for interventional devices to enable real time 3D ultrasound scanning for improved guidance of minimally invasive procedures. We have constructed three new transducers. The first consists of 54 elements operating at 5 MHz. Typical measured transducer element bandwidth was 25%, and the 50 Ohm round trip insertion loss was -65 dB. Average nearest neighbor cross talk is -23.8 dB. The second is a prototype 108 element 7 MHz transducer. The transducer center frequency was actually 9 MHz, with a -6 dB bandwidth of 25%. The third is a prototype 108 element transducer operating at 5 MHz. All transducers were constructed on a flat piece of copper clad polyimide and then wrapped around an 11 French catheter of a Cook Medical, Inc. vena cava filter deployment device. This creates the forward viewing ring array transducer. The elements are attached to the system imaging cable through W. L. Gore & Associates MicroMiniature Ribbon Cables. The interelement spacing is 0.2 mm for the 54 element transducer, and 0.10 mm for the two 108 element transdcuers.
Monstrous youth in suburbia: Disruption and recovery of the American dream

Although the American Dream myth idealizes youth who grow up in suburbia as culturetypes of imminent success, the Columbine High School shootings demonstrated that all not suburban youth will grow up to succeed. The extensive news media coverage of the tragedy reflects broader anxieties about the declining status of the suburbs in American society. In the wake of the shootings, the news media created a myth of monstrous youth in suburbia that functioned to repair suburbanites’ waning faith in the myth of the American Dream.
Quantitative PET Imaging of Tumor Integrin αvβ3 Expression with 18F-FRGD2

The development of noninvasive methods to visualize and quantify integrin αvβ3 expression in vivo appears to be crucial for the success of antiangiogenic therapy based on integrin antagonism. Precise documentation of integrin receptor levels will allow appropriate selection of patients who will most likely benefit from an antiintegrin treatment regimen. Imaging can also be used to provide an optimal dosage and time course for treatment based on receptor occupancy studies. In addition, imaging integrin expression will be important to evaluate antiintegrin treatment efficacy and to develop new therapeutic drugs with favorable tumor targeting and in vivo kinetics. We labeled the dimeric RGD peptide E[c(RGDyK)]2 with 18F and evaluated its tumor-targeting efficacy and pharmacokinetics of 18F-FB–E[c(RGDyK)]2 (18F-FRGD2). Methods: E[c(RGDyK)]2 was labeled with 18F by conjugation coupling with N-succinimidyl-4-18F-fluorobenzoate (18F-SFB) under a slightly basic condition. The in vivo metabolic stability of 18F-FRGD2 was determined. The diagnostic value after injection of 18F-FRGD2 was evaluated in various xenograft models by dynamic microPET followed by ex vivo quantification of tumor integrin level. Results: Starting with 18F− Kryptofix 2.2.2./K2CO3 solution, the total reaction time for 18F-FRGD2, including final high-performance liquid chromatography purification, is about 200 ± 20 min. Typical decay-corrected radiochemical yield is 23% ± 2% (n = 20). 18F-FRGD2 is metabolically stable. The binding potential extrapolated from graphical analysis of PET data and Logan plot correlates well with the receptor density measured by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide electrophoresis and autoradiography in various xenograft models. The tumor-to-background ratio at 1 h after injection of 18F-FRGD2 also gives a good linear relationship with the tumor tissue integrin level. Conclusion: The dimeric RGD peptide tracer 18F-FRGD2, with high integrin specificity and favorable excretion profile, may be translated into the clinic for imaging integrin αvβ3 expression. The binding potential calculated from simplified tracer kinetic modeling such as the Logan plot appears to be an excellent indicator of tumor integrin density.
An Empirical Examination of the “Vicious Cycle” of Facebook Addiction

The use of some hedonic information systems (IS) can be addictive and lead to addiction-like symptoms. This study seeks to examine the “vicious cycle” in such situations, i.e., the ways in which pa...
Relativistic transformation laws for thermodynamical variables with application to the classical electron theory

Consider a system described by an energy-momentum tensorTνμ conserved inside (outside) a surface σ such that an element dσμ of the surface is an eigenvector of the energy-momentum tensor and a corresponding eigenvalue—p is constant everywhere on σ. Then the total enthalpy and momentum of the system form a four-vector. The theorem can be applied to relativistic thermodynamics, including black-body radiation, and to classical electron theory.
Laboratory testing of insecticides for control of the winter tick.

Engorged female winter ticks, Dermacentor albipictus (Packard), were dipped in the laboratory in concentrations of 29 insecticides. Then the effects on the estimated reproduction (ER) were determined (ER = g eggs/g ♀ × % hatch of eggs × 20,000), and probit analysis was conducted with percent control of ER afforded by each insecticide. The results are presented in terms of concentrations of insecticides that inhibited the ER of the ticks (IC50 = concentration (%) that inhibited 50% of ER). For the 29 test insecticides, the IC50 values ranged from 0.00013% for isobenzan to 1.933% for ronnel.
Reproduction in the Eastern Flying Squirrel in West Virginia

Inspections of 114 gray squirrel den boxes on Seneca State Forest. Pocahontas County, West Virginia provided some interesting data pertaining to the reproductive ability of the eastern flying squirrel, Glaucomys …
Achieving Program Goals? An Evaluation of Two Decades of the Apprenticeship in Ecological Horticulture at the University of California, Santa Cruz

The Apprenticeship in Ecological Horticulture (AEH) at the University of California, Santa Cruz, has been teaching people organic and ecological horticulture for 43 years. This paper examines the extent to which the program has met the goals of growing farmers and gardeners, and contributing to change in the food system. It also explores specific programmatic ways the AEH contributed to these outcomes. We surveyed program alumni from 1989 through 2008. Findings suggest that the program has successfully met its goals. According to alumni suggestions, the primary way the program contributed to these outcomes was by developing apprentice knowledge and skills through hands-on activities. In addition, other educational components, not always explicitly addressed in similar programs, were also key. We use different learning theories to help understand the AEH’s success and make recommendations for similar programs.
Assay and some properties of kidney transamidinase.

Summary and Conclusions1. An assay of transaminidase activity in mammalian kidneys was developed. 2. The enzyme was inhibited by p-chloromercuribenzoic acid. The inhibition could be reversed with reduced glutathione, cysteine, or dimercaprol. These results suggest that transaminidase is a sulfhy-dryl enzyme. 3. Kidneys from a mercury-poisoned rat showed reduced transaminidase activity. The activity could not be restored by addition of dimercaprol to the reaction flask. 4. Canavanine was found to be 3 times as effective as arginine as an amidine donor in the transamidinase system. 5. Kidney transaminidase activity in weanling rats fed a protein-free diet for 12 days was 24% of normal. The activity was restored to 80% of normal by feeding the rats a complete diet for 15 days following the feeding of a protein-free diet for 12 days. Thus, kidney transaminidase activity appears to be dependent on exogenous protein sources.
Issues in the assessment of PSA immunoassays.

SUMMARY The physician and laboratorian have several proven PSA assays from which to choose, and several more are likely to achieve FDA approval soon. Furthermore, an assay that is FDA approved offers considerable reassurance that the many aspects of assay design and manufacturing processes meet an acceptable standard. This will become even more critical as assays report values in the ultrasensitive range. We have attempted to review here some of the most important issues related to PSA assay performance and standardization. Standardization particularly is a complex problem for which solutions are just now appearing. Yet efforts must continue to minimize controversies, because many more assays will be forthcoming and because newer applications of PSA determinations will place more pressure on proper assay evaluations. For example, measurement of free PSA, PSA-ACT complexes, and the ratio of one to the other are intriguing possibilities for added clinical benefit. Also, ultrasensitive PSA assays add a new dimension to the detection of residual disease and may provide unique opportunities for the implementation of new therapies and their timely evaluation. In our opinion, the impact of PSA on the management of prostate cancer is still growing, and the opportunities for better and new assays are still great.
Purification and characterization of an oxygen-stable form of dinitrogenase reductase-activating glycohydrolase from Rhodospirillum rubrum

Dinitrogenase reductase-activating glycohydrolase (DRAG) is responsible for removing the ADP-ribose moiety from post-translationally inactivated nitrogenase of Rhodospirillum rubrum. Using DRAG purified from an overexpressing strain (UR276), further properties of this enzyme were studied, including its u.v.-visible and fluorescence spectra and its stability in air. DRAG appears to require no covalently bound inorganic cofactors for its activity or regulation. Previously, purified DRAG was found to be rapidly inactivated in air. The air-catalysed lability originated with the presence of sodium dithionite and Mn2+ throughout the purification of the enzyme. This lability can be mimicked using H2O2, which is known to oxidatively inactivate proteins containing bivalent metals. Implications for the regulation of nitrogenase are discussed with respect to the lack of sensitivity to air of the regulatory enzyme, DRAG.
Overland water flow contributes little to survival, growth, reproduction, and ecophysiology ofOlneya tesota(Desert Ironwood) trees

Abstract We studied the responses of Desert Ironwood trees (Olneya tesota), located in desert washes of the Sonoran Desert in California, to a reduction in overland water flow. We hypothesized that trees with access to overland water runoff would have different morphological and ecophysiological responses than trees that did not. We studied responses including branch growth, water potentials, leaf carbon isotope ratios, leaf mass per area, flower production, seed production, and tree population densities. Only branch growth and predawn water potentials were found to be significantly different between treatments. Predawn water potentials indicated seasonally increased water stress in trees without access to overland water runoff. Trees with access to overland water runoff also responded with increased branch growth. The lack of differences between treatments observed for all other morphological and ecophysiological responses may indicate that environmental conditions, especially water availability, were si...
Methodological Considerations to Strengthen Studies of Peripheral Vision

In a recent issue of Trends in Cognitive Sciences, Cohen et al.[1] argue that the study of visual summary statistics represents an elegant method to account for the richness of visual experience in the periphery. We resoundingly agree that employing ensemble statistics is a strong step towards resolving questions of how conscious we are of our visual surroundings. However, we think the explanatory power of this approach can be augmented by focusing on two specific areas: (i) psychophysical quantification of metacognitive capacities and decision biases associated with peripheral vision; (ii) distinction between perceptual decisions that involve different levels of detail. Consideration of these issues will facilitate the development of precise hypotheses about peripheral phenomenology and yield useful data from experiments investigating summary statistics; we explain how below.
Metastatic disease from uveal melanoma: treatment options and future prospects

Uveal melanoma represents ∼85% of all ocular melanomas and up to 50% of patients develop metastatic disease. Metastases are most frequently localised to the liver and, as few patients are candidates for potentially curative surgery, this is associated with a poor prognosis. There is currently little published evidence for the optimal management and treatment of metastatic uveal melanoma and the lack of effective therapies in this setting has led to the widespread use of systemic treatments for patients with cutaneous melanoma. Uveal and cutaneous melanomas are intrinsically different diseases and so dedicated management strategies and therapies for uveal melanoma are much needed. This review explores the biology of uveal melanoma and how this relates to ongoing trials of targeted therapies in the metastatic disease setting. In addition, we consider the options to optimise patient management and care.
Electrical pump-probe characterization technique for phase change materials

Phase change memory (PCM) is a high-speed, scalable, resistive non-volatile memory technology that utilizes melting followed by rapid resolidification and annealing above glass-transition temperature to switch a small volume of phase change material to reversibly switch between conductive crystalline and resistive amorphous phases. PCM offers the potential to fill the gap between dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and flash memory with its density, speed, endurance and non-volatility. This potential can be realized with engineering of materials, devices and the electrical signals used for device operation. However, understanding of PCM is rather complicated compared to conventional solid-state devices due to changing material properties, the high temperatures involved. Furthermore, the critically important metastable materials properties, crystallization dynamics, resistance drift and transport mechanism are not well characterized yet [1]-[8].
Long-term safety of pirfenidone (PFD) in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF): Pooled analysis of 4 clinical trials

Background: IPF is a chronic, progressive and irreversible disease that requires long-term management. Objective: To assess the long-term safety of PFD from a pooled analysis of 4 clinical studies. Methods: All patients who received PFD (2403 mg/d) in the Phase 3 studies (ASCEND/CAPACITY) and/or the long-term extension study (RECAP) were included in this analysis. Safety outcomes were assessed during the period from the first dose until 28 days after the last dose of PFD in either study. Analyses included the final data from the Phase 3 studies and RECAP (data cut, June 30, 2015). Results: The pooled population included 1216 patients with a cumulative total exposure of 3366 patient-exposure years. Median PFD exposure was 25.9 months (range, 0-105 months), with a mean dose of 2306 mg/d. 99% of patients reported ≥1 treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE). 57% of patients reported a serious TEAE (0.51 per patient-exposure year [PPEY]), the most common being IPF (21.5%) and pneumonia (9.3%; Table). TEAEs led to discontinuation in 45% of patients (0.17 PPEY), the most common being IPF (15.9%), rash (1.6%) and nausea (1.6%). Median survival on treatment (or ≤28 days after discontinuation of PFD) was 82.6 months. Conclusions: The safety findings from this pooled analysis are consistent with the known safety profile of PFD and the underlying disease of IPF.
Efficiency of Nanotube Surface-Treated Dental Implants Loaded with Doxycycline on Growth Reduction of Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Purpose: The prevalence of peri-implant infection in patients with dental implants has been shown to range from 28% to 56%. A nanotube-modified implant surface can deliver antibiotics locally and suppress periodontal pathogenic bacterial growth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the deliverability of antibiotics via a nanotube-modified implant. Materials and Methods: Dental implants with a nanotube surface were fabricated and loaded with doxycycline. Afterward, each dental implant with a nanotube surface was placed into 2-mL tubes, removed from solution, and placed in a fresh solution daily for 28 days. Experimental samples from 1, 2, 4, 16, 24, and 28 days were used for this evaluation. The concentration of doxycycline was measured using spectrophotometric analysis at 273-nm absorbance. The antibacterial effect of doxycycline was evaluated by supplementing Porphyromonas gingivalis (P gingivalis) growth media with the solution collected from the dental implants at the aforementioned time intervals for a period of 48 hours under anaerobic conditions. A bacterial viability assay was used to evaluate P gingivalis growth at 550-nm absorbance. Results: Doxycycline concentration varied from 0.33 to 1.22 μg/mL from day 1 to day 28, respectively. A bacterial viability assay showed the highest P gingivalis growth at day 1 (2 nm) and the lowest at day 4 (0.17 nm), with a gradual reduction from day 1 to day 4 of approximately 87.5%. The subsequent growth pattern was maintained and slightly increased from baseline in approximately 48.3% from day 1 to day 24. The final P gingivalis growth measured at day 28 was 29.4% less than the baseline growth. Conclusion: P gingivalis growth was suppressed in media supplemented with solution collected from dental implants with a nanotube surface loaded with doxycycline during a 28-day time interval.
Clinical studies on the newborn thoroughbred foal. I. Perinatal behaviour

SUMMARY Two hundred and sixty-one equine births were studied under the conditions of management and husbandry practised on thoroughbred studs in the Newmarket area. Observations were made on the patterns of behaviour of the mare during delivery and on the foal up to the time that it first fed from its mother. The data collected included gestational lengths, the time taken for delivery, the duration for which the umbilical cord remained intact after delivery, and the time taken by the foal to stand and to suck for the first time. From the results it appears that under the particular conditions in which the mares were kept, the average gestational length was 340.7 days, the mean duration of the second stage of delivery in multiparous and primiparous births was 18 and 21 minutes respectively; 98.5 per cent of mares delivered their foal whilst recumbent and remained in this position for up to 40 minutes after completion of the act; the cord normally remained intact for up to 30 minutes after delivery. Foals took on average 57 minutes to stand and 111 minutes to suck for the first time. It is suggested that foals which take longer than 130 minutes to attain the standing position should be regarded as abnormal.
Accurate, Streamlined Analysis of mRNA Translation by Sucrose Gradient Fractionation

The efficiency with which proteins are produced from mRNA molecules can vary widely across transcripts, cell types, and cellular states. Methods that accurately assay the translational efficiency of mRNAs are critical to gaining a mechanistic understanding of post-transcriptional gene regulation. One way to measure translational efficiency is to determine the number of ribosomes associated with an mRNA molecule, normalized to the length of the coding sequence. The primary method for this analysis of individual mRNAs is sucrose gradient fractionation, which physically separates mRNAs based on the number of bound ribosomes. Here, we describe a streamlined protocol for accurate analysis of mRNA association with ribosomes. Compared to previous protocols, our method incorporates internal controls and improved buffer conditions that together reduce artifacts caused by non-specific mRNA-ribosome interactions. Moreover, our direct-from-fraction qRT-PCR protocol eliminates the need for RNA purification from gradient fractions, which greatly reduces the amount of hands-on time required and facilitates parallel analysis of multiple conditions or gene targets. Additionally, no phenol waste is generated during the procedure. We initially developed the protocol to investigate the translationally repressed state of the HAC1 mRNA in S. cerevisiae, but we also detail adapted procedures for mammalian cell lines and tissues.
Relationship between demographic variables and collegiate athletes’ perceptions of social support from head coaches:

Previous research has demonstrated the importance of social support during the rehabilitation of an injury. In particular, athletes view coaches as a primary source of social support. However, coac...
Origin of the Peyote Religion in The United States

AbstractPeyotism in the United States was dependent upon the Peyote cactus, Lophophora williamsii, which has a very limited distribution along the lower Rio Grande River, centered around Laredo, Te...
Telomerase reverse transcriptase protects against angiotensin II-induced microvascular endothelial dysfunction.

This study identifies telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) but not telomerase RNA component as a key factor regulating endothelium-dependent dilation in the microcirculation. Loss of TERT activi...
Transient Core-Loss Simulation for Ferrites With Nonuniform Field in SPICE

A methodology to develop a subcircuit model for core loss simulation in LTspice is presented. The subcircuit implements the dynamic core loss model used in the transient solver of finite-element analysis (FEA) in order to provide equivalent results in the time domain for ferrite materials. The wipe-out rule is applied in the simulation so that the core loss during the transient behavior can be predicted. A field factor is derived from an effective flux density for a nonuniform flux distribution to simplify the relationship between the current and the field for arbitrary magnetic core shapes. The interface of the subcircuit is capable of being integrated to any power stage simulations. Simulation results of core loss equivalent to the FEA on an exemplary plate-core inductor are obtained from the subcircuit that significantly reduces computational cost.
Glucans as immunological adjuvants.

β-1,3-Linked glucopyranose (β-glucan), a major structural component of yeast, fungi, and algae [1], has a wide range of biological activities. Systemic administration of β-glucan (1) provides nonspecific resistance in experimental animals against a variety of pathogenic challenges [2–7]; (2) prolongs the survival time of tumor-bearing animals [8,9]; (3) enhances bone marrow recovery and survival of lethally irradiated mice [10]; (4) promotes wound healing when applied topically [11,12]; and (5) displays an adjuvant effect when coadministered with either bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or viral agents[13–18].
Interferon-α-Mediated Activation of T Cells from Healthy and HIV-Infected Individuals Is Suppressed by Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol.

Patients with HIV routinely use medicinal cannabinoids to treat neuropathic pain, anxiety, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–associated wasting. However, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, suppresses T-cell function and secretion of interferons, both critically important in the antiviral immune response. Interferon-α (IFNα), a key cytokine in T-cell activation and peripheral control of HIV infection, can potentiate responsiveness to interleukin-7 (IL-7), a crucial homeostatic cytokine for peripheral T-cell maintenance. The objective of this investigation was to compare the response of T cells to stimulation by IFNα and IL-7 in T cells from healthy and HIV+ donors in the absence and presence of THC. To compare T-cell responses between healthy and HIV+ donors signaling through IFNα receptor, IFNα-induced expression of IL-7α receptor (IL-7Rα), cognate signaling through IL-7R, and on IL-7–mediated T-cell proliferation were measured by flow cytometry and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. CD8+ T cells from HIV+ donors showed a diminished response to IFNα-induced phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription-1 activation compared with CD8+ T cells from healthy donors, whereas CD4+ T cells from HIV+ donors and healthy donors were comparable. Treatment with IFNα promoted IL-7R expression and potentiated IL-7–induced STAT5 phosphorylation to augment IL-7–mediated proliferation by T cells from healthy and HIV+ donors. Finally, HIV+ donors exhibited reduced sensitivity to THC-mediated suppression by IFNα- and IL-7–mediated stimulation compared with healthy donors. These results further support THC as being immune suppressive while identifying putatively beneficial aspects of cannabinoid-based therapies in HIV+ patients.
3D-Printed Frequency Scanning Slotted Waveguide Array with Wide Band Power Divider

In this paper we present the design, simulation, and fabrication results of a full 3D-printed frequency scanning slotted waveguide array (SWA) with an accommodating 3D printed power divider and a matched termination. An 18 × 4 non-resonant SWA operating at 12 - 18 GHz is designed with symmetric beam scanning range. A 1:4 waveguide power divider is proposed to feed the SWA. Inductive walls are added to the power divider to improve the impedance matching. A conical load is designed based on the lossy 3D printing material to terminate the SWA. Fabrication is done by fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing technique. Simulation performed with CST shows a symmetric beam scan range from -15.2° to +15.4°. The broadside gain is 15 dBi at 14 GHz. The lowest and the highest gains are 9.3 dBi at 12 GHz and 23 dBi at 16 GHz, respectively. Although there were documented works on non-scanning 3D printed SWAs, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first work on 3D printed two-dimensional scanning SWAs.
Physical etiology of sexual dysfunction in obstetric fistula patients: A prospective study.

OBJECTIVE To understand how the physical etiology of sexual dysfunction among women with obstetric fistulas can inform repair. METHODS A prospective cohort study included women aged 18 years or over presenting at the Fistula Care Center, Bwaila Maternity Hospital, Lilongwe, Malawi, with obstetric vesicovaginal fistula before and after repair. The study took place between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2018, and involved physical examinations and interviews. The primary outcome was sexual function. RESULTS 115 were interviewed before and after repair. 44 (40.0%) preoperatively and 14 (12.2%) postoperatively reported sexual dysfunction. 94 women (81.7%) had little or no interest in sexual activity before repair. 55 women (47.8%) had little or no interest in sexual activity after repair. Before surgery, 69 women (60.0%) were not sexually active in the 30 days before coming to the Fistula Care Centre. After surgery, 32 women (27.8%) were not sexually active in the 30 days before returning to the Fistula Care Centre. Of those who were not sexually active in the 30 days before coming to the Fistula Care Centre (n=69), the majority cited their health as a reason before repair (n=45, 65.2%), while the most commonly cited reason after repair was an absent partner (n=23, 35%). CONCLUSION Given the significant percentage of women with obstetric fistula reporting sexual dysfunction after repair, a more holistic perspective of health outcomes should be considered. Further investment should be made in screening tools and surgical techniques targeting sexual dysfunction.
An approach to modeling resource optimization for substitutable and interdependent resources

Abstract We develop a hierarchical approach to modeling organism acclimation to changing availability of and requirements for substitutable and interdependent resources. Substitutable resources are resources that fill the same metabolic or stoichiometric need of the organism. Interdependent resources are resources whose acquisition or expenditure are tightly linked (e.g., light, CO2, and water in photosynthesis and associated transpiration). We illustrate the approach by simulating the development of vegetation with four substitutable sources of N that differ only in the cost of their uptake and assimilation. As the vegetation develops, it uses the least expensive N source first then uses progressively more expensive N sources as the less expensive sources are depleted. Transition among N sources is based on the marginal yield of N per unit effort expended, including effort expended to acquire C to cover the progressively higher uptake costs. We illustrate the approach to interdependent resources by simulating the expenditure of effort to acquire light energy, CO2, and water to drive photosynthesis in vegetation acclimated to different conditions of soil water, atmospheric vapor pressure deficit, CO2 concentration, and light levels. The approach is an improvement on the resource optimization used in the earlier Multiple Element Limitation (MEL) model.
A preference for power: Willingness to pay for energy reliability versus fuel type in Vietnam

Abstract Developing countries are projected to experience the greatest increases in per capita energy use, motivating enormous investment in government-led energy projects. As energy fuel choices have large implications for pollution, a critical question surrounds citizens' preferences for renewable energy versus coal. While a robust literature suggests that citizens are willing to pay for renewables, the applicability of these findings to developing countries remains limited as many studies do not benchmark findings against preferences for increased capacity with dirtier fuels. We estimate citizens’ willingness to pay for improved electricity reliability from coal versus renewable technologies using a contingent valuation experiment embedded in a nationally-representative survey of 14,000 respondents across Vietnam, the country with the greatest recent increase in coal consumption. We find that while households are willing to pay 95% more in their monthly electricity bill for renewables (USD 7.5 billion per year in aggregate), they are also willing to pay 62% more for coal plants (USD 4 billion per year). Additionally, income and satisfaction with governance drive support both for renewables and coal, suggesting that agenda setting by policymakers is critical. If citizens are not offered alternatives, a majority will support coal even as governance improves or citizens become wealthier.