cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of short-term use of COX-2 inhibitors in patients after an acute stroke with musculoskeletal pain.

Objective: Musculoskeletal pain commonly occurs in the elderly, many of whom are also prone to suffer from strokes. We studied whether short-term use (≤ 4 weeks) of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors for musculoskeletal pain in stroke patients helped them to participate in their therapies and was safe and efficacious. Materials and Methods: Three hundred and three patients admitted consecutively with first ischemic stroke were studied. Two cohorts were defined, based on whether patients with acute stroke had sufficient musculoskeletal pain that warranted oral COX-2 inhibitors (COX-2 group) or not (case-matched controls). Primary efficacy measures were change in Fugl-Meyer (F-M) pain score and change in total functional independence measure (TFIM) scores on discharge from hospital. Safety was judged by the incidence of vascular episodes during the study period. Results: From the original 303 patients, 64 patients in the COX-2 group were matched with 64 patients in the non-COX-2 group. The groups were matched for age (±5 years), gender, and admission TFIM score (± 5 points). Baseline characteristics between the 2 groups were similar. The primary and secondary outcome measures were similar between the 2 groups, except for ambulation endurance, which favored the non-COX-2 group (P < 0.03). Greater change in the pain score (less pain) was found in the COX-2 group; this effect was strongest in patients who were independent prior to their stroke (on post hoc analysis). There were too few adverse events in either group of any significance. Conclusions: The short-term use of COX-2 inhibitors reduced musculoskeletal pain in acute stroke patients, improved functional motor outcome, and were found to be safe.
Community influence on prosecutorial dismissals: A multilevel analysis of case- and county-level factors ☆

Abstract Researchers have recently recognized the importance of social context for developing a more complete understanding of the sentencing process where community characteristics help to account for variation in sentencing practices from one legal jurisdiction to the next. Similar developments, however, have been nearly absent in the study of prosecutorial decision making; this is particularly important given the substantial authority afforded prosecutors throughout the criminal justice process. To address this considerable shortcoming, the current study used multilevel modeling to test the effects of several theoretically relevant community-level measures on the prosecutor's decision to dismiss criminal charges. Findings indicated that multiple measures of social context influence prosecutorial decision making, but not always as specified by the examined theoretical frameworks. Implications of the current study are discussed with regard to theory, research, and policy.
COMMUNITIES ARE NOT ALL CREATED EQUAL: DESIGNING ENVIRONMENTS TO PREVENT VIOLENCE

Background Violence and fear of violence are major factors that cause injury and disability, correspond to increased rates of chronic disease and health disparities, and fundamentally undermine health and well-being. Aims/Objectives/Purpose Written for local government agencies and community practitioners, this paper presents evidence that violence is a health equity issue and describes prevention strategies, especially at the policy and systems levels, that promote the development of safe environments for everyone. Methods Mixed methods were used, including a literature review on how the built environment and other community-level risk and resilience factors determine the likelihood of violence. It also incorporates practical lessons from seven years of working with U.S. cities to advance a public health approach to prevent youth violence before it occurs. Results/Outcome Safety is not fairly distributed in society, and some U.S. communities and groups are far more exposed to the poor neighborhood conditions that give rise to violence. Violence disproportionately affects young people of color and those living in communities that have been subjected to high levels of disinvestment. Because community-level risk and resilience factors for violence are spread unequally, some neighborhoods experience disproportionately elevated rates of injury, disability, chronic diseases from prolonged stress, and other maladies. Significance/Contribution to the Field This paper provides concrete evidence that preventing violence requires improving specific factors in community environments, such as in urban neighborhoods. The findings suggest that preventing violence is a critical strategy for sustainably reducing disparate outcomes in injury and premature death, and for achieving equity across diverse communities.
Synthesis of zinc sulfide by chemical vapor deposition using an organometallic precursor: Di-tertiary-butyl-disulfide

Abstract Zinc sulfide has gained popularity in the last few years as a cadmium-free heterojunction partner for thin film solar cells and is seen as a good replacement for cadmium sulfide due to better blue photon response and non-toxicity. In this work, zinc sulfide films are prepared using an organic sulfur source. We report a simple and repeatable process for development of zinc sulfide using a cost-effective and less hazardous organic sulfur source. The development of zinc sulfide has been studied on zinc oxide-coated glass where the zinc oxide is converted into zinc sulfide. Zinc oxide grown by atomic layer deposition as well as commercially available zinc oxide-coated glass was used. The zinc sulfide synthesis has been studied and the films are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and a UV–VIS spectrophotometer. XRD, XPS and optical characterization confirm the zinc sulfide phase formation.
Pulsed laser deposition and characterization of perovskite thin films on various substrates

Abstract Pulsed laser deposition (PLD) is a unique tool to grow high quality thin films of complex composition. In recent years it was demonstrated by several groups that PLD is capable of depositing material over application relevant substrate sizes with good uniformity. In this contribution YBCO thin films and buffer layers were deposited by a special PLD setup on substrates as large as 7 cm ×20 cm. For this purpose the UV laser light is focussed to an 8 cm line on cylindrical targets while the substrate is scanned perpendicular to the line focus. Different kinds of substrates (SrTiO3, MgO, LaAlO3 and Sapphire) were coated with YBCO. Two important points of the presented PLD-setup will be discussed in detail: the way of substrate heating and the variation of the angle between the incident laser beam and the target surface (‘wobbling’). The structural and electrical properties of the deposited YBCO thin films were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and inductive measurements of the critical current density jc. Furthermore, PLD was used to deposit ferroelectric (Pb,La)(Zr,Ti)O3 (PLZT) thin films on high-grade steel Hastelloy. This polycrystalline alloy is suitable as substrate and electrode material as well. The deposited films were characterized with respect to their structural, topological and ferroelectric properties.
Comprehensive Study of the Application of a Pb Underpotential Deposition-Assisted Method for Surface Area Measurement of Metallic Nanoporous Materials

An inexpensive, fast, selective, and sensitive technique for surface area measurement of metallic nanoporous materials (MNPM) is developed, systematically tested, and validated. The approach employed is based on underpotential deposition (UPD) of metals on foreign substrates. In this work, Pb UPD on Au is chosen to illustrate the applicability of and reveal the advantages and limitations of the proposed method. Experiments are designed for surface area measurement of nanoporous gold (NPG) electrodes with pore sizes in the range of 5−15 nm, prepared by electrochemical dealloying of single phase AupAg1−p (atomic fraction p = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3). Dealloying is performed galvanostatically at a current density of 1 mA cm−2 in a AgClO4 solution, acidified to pH 1. The experimental results suggest a linearly increasing charge in the Pb UPD layer with NPG thickness. This finding hints at (i) uniformity of the NPG structure and (ii) the general ability of this method to work for analysis of bulk materials. The prop...
Intravenous immune globulin for hypogammaglobulinemia: A comparison of opsonizing capacity in recipient sera

Abstract Twelve severely hypogammaglobulinemic patients received infusions of alkylated immune globulin and two other native nonalkylated products. Administration was separated by an interval of 3 weeks. Serum was obtained prior to and at 24 hr and 3 weeks after each infusion for measurement of total IgG, specific and opsonizing antibodies. The latter was accomplished against Streptococcus pneumoniae types 5, 12F and 14 and zymosan using chemiluminescence methodology. Changes in total IgG concentrations were comparable for the three products. Prior to enrollment, IgG levels averaged 115 ± 72 mg/dl, increasing to 779 ± 399 at 24 hr postinfusion, and were 337 ± 200 after 3 weeks. No differences among the products were seen in their ability to produce antibodies against Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, rubella, toxoplasma, cytomegalo-virus, or tetanus. However, differences in opsonizing antibody were observed between alkylated and native IgG preparations. Peak chemiluminescence responses of neutrophils following opsonization of S. pneumoniae with native immune globulin were significantly higher than with alkylated IgG, indicating greater functional capacity. These studies suggest that native immune serum globulin provides a greater potential for augmenting host defecse mechanisms against pneumococcal infection in hypogammaglobulinemic patients.
A pilot of a tripartite prevention program for homeless young women in the transition to adulthood

Background Among young women who are impoverished and homeless, the transition to adulthood (ages 18–25) is associated with alcohol and drug use, risky sexual activity, and increased risk of being victimized by intimate partner violence. Methods “The Power of YOU,” a program using motivational interviewing (MI), was designed to address these problems. We tested the “Power of YOU” with 31 homeless women (ages 18–25) in 7 focus groups. Women completed questionnaires assessing background characteristics and satisfaction at the end of each group. Each group was followed by a feedback session that was audiorecorded and transcribed. Key themes were identified. Results During a past 6-month period, 38.7% of women reported alcohol intoxication, 19.3% reported 2–3 male sex partners, and 22.2% reported major physical violence from a partner. Women expressed satisfaction and provided consistently positive feedback on the intervention, reporting, for example, that it was “helpful to know how to put a condom on” and that they appreciated the attention paid to safety planning. Conclusions Results from this pilot suggest that “The Power of YOU” may hold promise in helping homeless young women in the transition to adulthood make healthier choices and plan for high-risk situations, and that the nonconfrontational, nonjudgmental approach of MI appeared appropriate for this population.
On the validity of homogeneous nucleation theory

Abstract Exact thermodynamic properties of small clusters of 3–87 atoms have been computed for a simple model system. The differences between the exact results and the classical capillarity model are examined. The exact thermodynamic properties are used to calculate the homogeneous vapor phase nucleation rates, J exact , and the results are compared with the predictions of classical nucleation theory, J class . It is found that J exact J class , varies from 10 −2 to 10 7 and depends strongly on temperature and supersaturation. The predicted values of J exact are compared with existing experimental results involving a wide range of temperatures and materials. The agreement between the theory and experiments is quite good.
MOTION OF TWO WEAKLY COUPLED NONLINEAR OSCILLATORS

Abstract : The purpose of this investigation was to establish the existence of almost periodic solutions for analytic dynamical systems consisting of two weakly coupled oscillators and to describe some qualitative features of these solutions. Hamiltonian formalism was used in the mathematics of this dynamical problem to realize simplicity of presentation and to agree with much of the literature concerning the problem. The method consisted primarily in the application of an invariant curve theorem due to Moser. The basic problem was given in terms of a Hamiltonian with the usual displacement and momentum variables. By changing to action-angle variables, by selecting a particular value of the energy and by eliminating time from the equations of motion, the study of the free oscillations of the two weakly coupled oscillators was reduced to the consideration of a one dimensional oscillator which is weakly forced with periodic forcing.
Validation and verification of Courant number insensitive CE/SE method for transient viscous flow simulations

In this paper, we report an extension of the space-time conservation element-solution element (CE/SE) framework-based viscous flow solver. With the accuracy of solution obtained through the use of a CE/SE-based solver closely related to the CFL number disparity across the mesh, a new formulation to make the solution insensitive to CFL number disparity is herein presented. The capability of the developed solver is then validated through simulation of 2D problems such as driven cavity, external flow over a flat plate, laminar flow over a square cylinder, etc. Investigations are also conducted to verify the sensitivity of results to grid spacing and mesh structure.
An exploratory analysis of exposure-toxicity (E-T) relationships with oblimersen sodium; potential for patient management

Background Oblimersen sodium is a phosphorothioate antisense oligonucleotide in development for treatment of various cancers in combination with chemotherapy. Aims (1) to perform an exploratory analysis from pooled clinical data to examine oblimersen E-T relationships, (2) to evaluate effects of age and gender on oblimersen exposure. Methods Data analysis techniques were descriptive, including scatter and box plots for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Linear and logistic regression methods were used to examine correlation of oblimersen exposure with safety indices. Results Data used in this analysis were from 60 subjects (26–76 years of age) from two Phase I/II studies in advanced malignant melanoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Subjects received oblimersen doses ranging from 170–800 mg/day for 5–7 days. A total of 143 dose events were recorded (a dose event being defined as one cycle of oblimersen therapy), of which 60% was obtained from males and 40% from females. Exploratory trend analyses showed that occurrence/grade of fever and headache appeared correlated with oblimersen exposure; however, no statistical significance was observed (p-value > 0.2). Gender and age did not correlate with oblimersen exposure. Conclusions Results from this preliminary analysis of oblimersen E-T relationships provide a framework for formal examination of these relationships in future clinical trials to potentially define dose-adjustments for toxicity management. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2005) 77, P87–P87; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2004.12.224
Plasma measures of beta-endorphin/beta-lipotropin-like immunoreactivity in chronic pain syndrome and psychiatric subjects

Abstract This study compared basal concentrations of plasma β-endorphin/β-lipotropin-like immunoreactivity and dexamethasone suppression of cortisol in seven chronic pain patients, seven psychiatric disorder patients, and seven normal volunteers. Pain patients and psychiatric patients showed significantly higher basal concentrations of β-endorphin/β-lipotropin-like immunoreactivity compared to normal volunteers. Pain patients also had significantly higher β-endorphin/β-lipotropin-like immunoreactivity than psychiatric patients, even though there was no significant difference in severity of depressive symptomatology as assessed by Beck and Hamilton scores. Resistance to dexamethasone occured in 57% of pain patients. These results may indicate that biological markers for depression occur in populations of chronic pain patients, or may reflect levels of central nervous system arousal in response to stress, pain, or nonaffective phenomena.
Positively reinforcing drugs may produce a different kind of CTA than drugs which are not positively reinforcing

Abstract Positively reinforcing drugs appear to produce a conditioned taste avoidance (CTA) response which is not accompanied by orofacial and somatic rejection responses. Morphine, novel ethanol, and fenfluramine served as US agents in a CTA and Taste Reactivity Test (TRT) paradigm. Morphine, a positively reinforcing agent, produced a CTA, but did not produce rejection responses in the TRT. On the other hand, novel ethanol and fenfluramine, agents which are not positively reinforcing, produced both a CTA and rejection TRT responses. The results are cast in the light of previous findings which suggest that positively reinforcing agents may produce a different kind of CTA than agents which are not positively reinforcing.
Effect of capsaicin on gastric mucosal injury and blood flow following bile acid exposure

Topical bile acid at low pH stimulates gastric mucosal blood flow (GMBF), thereby limiting injury to surface epithelial cells (SEC). Capsaicin-sensitive afferent neurons (ASN) are possible mediators of the GMBF response and, therefore, of mucosal protection. In order to investigate the effect of topical capsaicin (ASN stimulant) and topical lidocaine (ASN inhibitor) on SEC exfoliation and GMBF, vascularized wedges of canine gastric corpus were mounted in lucite chambers. Mucosae were pretreated for 15 min with saline (NSS), 160 microM capsaicin (CAP), 4% lidocaine (LIDO), or CAP and LIDO, followed by a 30-min exposure to acid test solution (ATS; pH 1.2). The same mucosae were then pretreated in an identical fashion followed by a second 30-min exposure to 5 mM taurocholate (5 TC; pH 1.2). Parameters evaluated during both ATS and 5 TC periods were the luminal accumulation of DNA (DNAE, a sensitive marker of SEC exfoliation) and GMBF measured using radiolabeled microspheres. It was found that, relative to NSS pretreatment, CAP pretreatment increased GMBF and decreased DNAE during exposure to both ATS and 5 TC. LIDO blocked the CAP effect on GMBF but not on DNAE. Thus, ASN stimulation by CAP enhances GMBF and is protective. ANS inhibition blocks CAP's GMBF increase but not its protective capabilities. Therefore, augmentation of GMBF is not the only mechanism by which ASNs blunt SEC exfoliation.
Acute adrenal insufficiency after large-dose glucocorticoids for spinal cord injury.

A 24- to 48-h course of large-dose glucocorticoid therapy is often used in the acute management of spinal cord injury. We describe a patient who developed adrenal insufficiency (AI) after this protocol. Although a definitive causal relationship between the steroids and AI was not established, their
Clinical evidence of angiogenesis after arterial gene transfer of phVEGF165 in patient with ischaemic limb

Summary Background Preclinical findings suggest that intra-arterial gene transfer of a plasmid which encodes for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can improve blood supply to the ischaemic limb. We have used the method in a patient. Methods Our patient was the eighth in a dose-ranging series. She was aged 71 with an ischaemic right leg. We administered 2000 μg human plasmid phVEGF 165 that was applied to the hydrogel polymer coating of an angioplasty balloon. By inflating the balloon, plasmid DNA was transferred to the distal popliteal artery. Findings Digital subtraction angiography 4 weeks after gene therapy showed an increase in collateral vessels at the knee, mid-tibial, and ankle levels, which persisted at a 12-week view. Intra-arterial doppler-flow studies showed increased resting and maximum flows (by 82% and 72%, respectively). Three spider angiomas developed on the right foot/ankle about a week after gene transfer; one lesion was excised and revealed proliferative endothelium, the other two regressed. The patient developed oedema in her right leg, which was treated successfully. Interpretation Administration of endothelial cell mitogens promotes angiogenesis in patients with limb ischaemia.
Parental Influences on Students’ Aggressive Behaviors and Weapon Carrying

This article describes the association between four family constructs (family structure, relationship with parents, parental monitoring, and perception of parental attitudes toward fighting) and aggressive behaviors and weapon carrying among middle school students. Results are based on a cross-sectional survey of 8,865 6th, 7th, and 8th graders from eight urban schools in Texas (88.5% response rate). The sample was ethnically diverse. An inverse relationship was observed between aggression scores, fighting, injuries due to fighting, and weapon carrying and the family variables: parental monitoring, a positive relationship with parents, and the lack of parental support for fighting. Students who lived with both parents were less likely to report aggression than students in other living arrangements. These four family constructs accounted for almost one-third of the total variance in the aggression score. The perception of parents' attitudes toward fighting was the strongest predictor of aggression. Results provide support for including a strong parental component in the development of violence prevention programs for young people.
IL-2–dependent adaptive control of NK cell homeostasis

Activation and expansion of T and B lymphocytes and myeloid cells are controlled by Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (T reg cells), and their deficiency results in a fatal lympho- and myeloproliferative syndrome. A role for T reg cells in the homeostasis of innate lymphocyte lineages remained unknown. Here, we report that T reg cells restrained the expansion of immature CD127+ NK cells, which had the unique ability to up-regulate the IL2Rα (CD25) in response to the proinflammatory cytokine IL-12. In addition, we observed the preferential accumulation of CD127+ NK cells in mice bearing progressing tumors or suffering from chronic viral infection. CD127+ NK cells expanded in an IL-2–dependent manner upon T reg cell depletion and were able to give rise to mature NK cells, indicating that the latter can develop through a CD25+ intermediate stage. Thus, T reg cells restrain the IL-2–dependent CD4+ T cell help for CD127+ immature NK cells. These findings highlight the adaptive control of innate lymphocyte homeostasis.
Understanding robot motor capability using information-theory-based approach

Robot skills are usually learned from the so-called learning-from-human-demonstration methods. However, with the limitation of robot motor capability, a robot may not be able to duplicate human motor skills with the same motor performance. To alleviate the problem, one of the possible solutions is to know robot motor capability in advance. Thus, we develop a quantitative measure of a robot motor system, called a pseudo index of motor performance (pI p ), and utilize it to compare with the index of performance (I p ) of a human motor system. To investigate the I p , we propose an information-theory-based method to characterize a robot motor system. Computer simulations and experiments with a PUMA 560 robot will be conducted to validate the proposed information-theory-based method.
Transient Analysis of Supersonic Viscous Flow in 3D MicroNozzles

A numerical investigation of unsteady compressible flow in 3D converging-diverging micronozzles has been performed. The baseline model for the study is derived from the NASA / Goddard Space Flight Center MEMS-based hydrogen peroxide micro-thruster prototype. The 3D micronozzles investigated here have depths of 25μm, 50μm, 100μm, and 150μm and employ expanders with a 30 ◦ divergence half-angle. A hyperbolic-tangent function is used to model micro-valve actuation in order to simulate the start-up and shut-down sequence of the thruster. Transient micronozzle performance is characterized based on the peak throat Reynolds number achieved during the duty cycle. In this study, peak Reynolds numbers range from 160−800 and the propulsion scheme employs85% pure hydrogen peroxide as a monopropellant. Unsteady simulation results have been analyzed in order to quantify subsonic layer evolution, thrust production as a function of time, and total impulse delivered for a single micronozzle duty cycle. Micronozzle impulse efficiency has also been determined based on a theoretical maximum impulse achieved by a quasi-1D isentropic flow responding instantaneously to the actuation profile. It is found that both the flow and thrust exhibit a response ‘lag’ to the time-varying inlet pressure profile during start-up. However, residual thrust is not observed during shut-down owing to viscous forces promoting a reduction in mass flow as the valve closes. Simulation results indicate that thrust and total impulse per unit depth increase with Reynolds number and nozzle depth. However, when quantifying total impulse per unit mass of propellant consumed, performance increases are strongly correlated with nozzle depth and are much less senstitive to Reynolds number.
Congenital Scoliosis A Study of 234 Patients Treated and Untreated

Congenital anomalies of the spine producing scoliosis are frequently associated with other anomalies. The scoliosis is usually slowly but relentlessly progressive and an unacceptable deformity results if active treatment is not given. Except for the unsegmented unilateral bar, the specific anomaly present was of less prognostic value than the pattern of the curve and the area of the spine involved.
Current State of Imaging Protein-Protein Interactions In Vivo with Genetically Encoded Reporters

Signaling pathways regulating proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation are commonly mediated through protein-protein interactions as well as reversible modification (e.g., phosphorylation) of proteins. To facilitate the study of regulated protein-protein interactions in cells and living animals, new imaging tools, many based on optical signals and capable of quantifying protein interactions in vivo, have advanced the study of induced protein interactions and their modification, as well as accelerated the rate of acquisition of these data. In particular, use of protein fragment complementation as a reporter strategy can accurately and rapidly dissect protein interactions with a variety of readouts, including absorbance, fluorescence, and bioluminescence. This review focuses on the development and validation of bioluminescent protein fragment complementation reporters that use either Renilla luciferase or firefly luciferase in vivo. Enhanced luciferase complementation provides a platform for near real-time detection and characterization of regulated and small-molecule-induced protein-protein interactions in intact cells and living animals and enables a wide range of novel applications in drug discovery, chemical genetics, and proteomics research.
Reduced impact logging road issues in tropical forests

Road design, construction, and maintenance practices need to be significantly improved in many logging operations being undertaken in tropical forests worldwide. Reduced impact logging is a program designed to achieve more cost-effective and sustainable logging practices through good stand inventories, sound silvicultural practices, less waste and damage in the operations, and replanting where necessary. The program also involves design and construction of improved logging roads. Many roads being constructed and used today are poorly built, poorly drained, and poorly maintained. Resulting impacts include unnecessarily high road costs, inefficient logging operations, and significant negative environmental impacts. Little consideration is given to long-term or full life-cycle costs of the roads. These are not new problems. The objectives of this paper are to identify ongoing common problems and recommend practical solutions, reiterate the need for good basic engineering practices, and highlight some of the negative impacts of poor engineering practices. Key problems that appear to cause unnecessarily high road costs and inefficient logging operations include inadequate road surface drainage, excessively wide roads and roads built under inconsistent design standards, inadequate use of available road surfacing materials, inadequate road maintenance, and poor road location and the subsequent need for road reconstruction. A variety of other road drainage, materials, and erosion control issues also need improving. Social and environmental issues related to roads and their access include colonization and development along the road corridor, illegal logging and subsequent deforestation, bush meat hunting and wildlife depletion, spread of diseases, and other land use changes. Road management and access control are needed along with improved design, construction, and maintenance practices.
Impact of fungicides on Metarhizium anisopliae in the rhizosphere, bulk soil and in vitro.

The entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (Metchnikoff) Sorokin (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) is registered in the United States and The Netherlands for black vine weevil, Otiorhynchus sulcatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) control in container-grown ornamentals. These studies were conducted to determine the compatibility of M. anisopliae (F52) with a wide range of fungicides commonly applied to container-grown ornamentals for the management of soil-borne plant pathogens. The impact of fungicides on spore germination and mycelial growth were determined in vitro. In addition, M. anisopliae persistence in bulk and rhizosphere soil was determined 30 days following dual application of each fungicide at 7–28 days intervals as prescribed. A number of fungicides (thiophanate-methyl, dimethomorph, captan, triflumizole, triflozystrobin, pyraclostrobin, azoxystrobin) inhibited spore germination in vitro. A larger number of fungicides (fosetyl-AI, thiophanate-methyl, dimethomorph, captan, quintozene, triflumizole, fludioxanil, triflozystrobin, pyraclostrobin, fludiox-mefanox, iprodione, azoxystrobin, phosphorus acid/K-salts) inhibited mycelial growth in vitro. Only three fungicides (etridiazole, propamocard and mafanoxam) had no significant impact in vitro on spore germination or mycelial growth. While a number of fungicides had a detrimental impact in vitro, there was no impact on M. anisopliae populations in bulk soil following dual application of any fungicide. However, the fungicides captan and triflumizolet, which have a short reapplication interval, had a detrimental impact on M. anisopliae populations in the rhizosphere. As researchers develop rhizosphere competence as an alternative management strategy for black vine weevil, the fungicides captan and triflumizole should be avoided.
Reconstruction of midfacial defects following surgical management of skin cancer : the role of tissue expansion

Compared with other locations on the face, skin cancer of the midface has a higher risk of recurrence owing, in part, to the mode of spread and the high frequency of subclinical extension. Skin cancers occurring in the region of the melolabial crease, nasal columella and medial canthus should be resected by Mohs surgery. Because tumors of the midface are sometimes recalcitrant, there are times when surgical ablation results in extensive defects. Reconstruction may be difficult owing to lack of available donor tissue, or because of previous surgery in the area of the proposed donor region. In these circumstances, tissue expansion in the form of controlled prolonged expansion or rapid intraoperative expansion, may, on occasion, provide the optimal reconstruction of form and function.
Sodium-bicarbonate cotransport in retinal astrocytes and Müller cells of the rat.

Sodium-bicarbonate cotransport in retinal glial cells was studied in the everted eyecup preparation of the rat. Intracellular pH was monitored with the indicator dye BCPCF and fluorescence confocal microscopy. Raising the K 1 concentration from 3 to 12 mM in HCO3 2 -buffered perfusate evoked an intracellular alkalinization in both astrocytes and Muller cells. The alkalinization developed more rapidly and was larger in astrocytes. The K 1 -induced alkalinization was HCO3 2 -dependent; it was reduced by 33% in astrocytes and 71% in Muller cells when HCO3 2 was removed from the perfusate. The alkalinization was effectively blocked by addition of 0.5 mM 4,49-diisothiocyanato-stilbene- 2,28-disulfonic acid (DIDS). Removal of Na 1 from the perfusate evoked a rapid acidifica- tion in both types of glial cells. The results indicate that astrocytes and Muller cells in situ in the rat retina possess an electrogenic Na 1 /HCO3 2 cotransporter. GLIA 26:302-
Dextro-Transposition of the Great Arteries: Long-term Sequelae of Atrial and Arterial Switch

Over the last 50 years, improved surgical techniques and progressive medical management have allowed patients with complete or dextro-transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA) to survive into adulthood. Older adult patients underwent an atrial switch procedure (Mustard or Senning operation), whereas the younger cohort of patients with TGA has undergone the arterial switch operation (ASO). The Mustard/Senning maintains the right ventricle as the systemic ventricle, whereas the more recently adopted ASO attempts to restore normal physiologic and anatomic relationships. Neither operation is without consequence. Neither is without consequence and require long term follow up.
Natural killer cell (NK) subsets and NK-like T-cell populations in acute myeloid leukemias and myelodysplastic syndromes

The impact of the immune microenvironment on the behavior and therapeutic strategies for hematopoietic and lymphoid neoplasms is being increasingly recognized. Many functional studies of natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxic responses in myelodysplasia (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) exist, but with limited data on these lymphocyte proportions and related T-cell subsets. The proportions of these cells and their prognostic implications were therefore investigated in 89 AML, 51 MDS, and 20 control marrows by flow cytometry. The median proportion of NK cells (relative to the total lymphocytes) was lower in AML versus controls (P = 0.01). Among AML, a lower proportion of NK cells predicted better survival, whereas a higher NK cell proportion was associated with the poor prognostic AML category (P = 0.002). NK cell proportions were similar in MDS, MDS subgroups, and control marrows. The relative proportion of the mature NK cell subset (CD56(dim) CD16/57(bright) ) was lower in AML and MDS versus controls (P = 0.006, P = 0.0002, respectively). The proportion of mature NK cells was not a prognostic indicator although fewer were seen in poor prognosis AML. In contrast, a lower proportion of mature NK cells correlated with worse survival in MDS (P = 0.027). A higher proportion of NK-like T-cells (of total lymphoid cells) was found in MDS compared to controls (P = 0.01). A lower proportion of NK-like T-cells predicted better survival in AML but not in MDS. Thus, the proportions of NK, NK-cell subsets, and NK-like T-cells vary in myeloid neoplasms, may potentially impact immunomodulatory therapies, and may impact outcome. © 2016 International Clinical Cytometry Society.
Postsynaptic Plasticity Triggered by Ca2+-Permeable AMPA Receptor Activation in Retinal Amacrine Cells

Summary Amacrine cells are thought to be a major locus for mechanisms of light adaptation and contrast enhancement in the retina. However, the potential for plasticity in their AMPA receptor currents remains largely unknown. Using paired patch-clamp recordings between bipolar cell terminals and amacrine cells, we have simultaneously measured presynaptic membrane capacitance changes and EPSCs. Repetitive bipolar cell depolarizations, designed to maintain the same amount of exocytosis, nevertheless significantly potentiated evoked EPSCs in a subpopulation of amacrine cells. Likewise, repetitive iontophoresis (or puffs) of glutamate (or AMPA) onto the dendrites of amacrine cells also significantly potentiated evoked currents and [Ca 2+ ] i rises. However, strong postsynaptic Ca 2+ buffering with BAPTA abolished the potentiation and selective antagonists of Ca 2+ -permeable AMPA receptors also blocked the potentiation of AMPA-mediated currents. Together these results suggest that Ca 2+ influx via Ca 2+ -permeable AMPA receptors can elicit a rapid form of postsynaptic plasticity in a subgroup of amacrine cell dendrites.
Detecting and Classifying Cancers from Image Data Using Optimal Transportation

We describe a new approach to digital pathology that relies on measuring the optimal transportation (Kantorovich-Wasserstein) metric between pairs of nuclei obtained from histopathology images. We compare the approach to the standard feature space approach and show that our method performs at least as well if not better in automatically detecting and classifying different cancers of the liver and thyroid. 100% classification accuracy is obtained in 15 human test cases. In addition, we describe methods for using the geometric space framework to visualize and understand the differences in the data distribution that allow one to classify the data with high accuracy.
Communicating risk with relatives in a familial hypercholesterolemia cascade screening program: a summary of the evidence.

BACKGROUND Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is the most common inherited, potentially deadly disease, affecting an estimated 600 000 people in the United States. When FH is undiagnosed and untreated, it is linked with early coronary heart disease in more than 50% of men by age 50 years and 30% of women by age 60 years. Cascade screening is the most cost effective method available to identify family members with this disease; however, cascade screening guidelines do not specify best methods to use when contacting relatives. Therefore, I conducted an exhaustive search of the literature to find the most successful communication methods used in contact tracing and cascade screening. PURPOSE The purpose of this summary of the evidence was to identify the communication method with greatest impact in having at-risk populations present to a provider for disease screening. These findings will inform clinicians of the most successful methods to implement when cascade screening relatives of known FH patients. CONCLUSIONS Most studies support direct contact of relatives via letter, mailed from the provider. Provider-initiated communication more often resulted in relatives being tested when compared with other methods of communication. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS On the basis of the literature, family members of current FH patients will be more likely to present to a provider for cascade screening if they receive written communication from the provider.
Depression of tryptophan pyrrolase induction in regenerating rat liver.

SummaryThe induction of tryptophan pyrrolase by hydrocortisone has been studied in the regenerating rat liver. An initial depression of response, presumably related to the operative procedure, was observed in both sham operated and partially hepatectomized animals. In partially hepatectomized animals, a second depression was observed during that period in which DNA synthesis has been shown to occur. It has been suggested that alterations in enzyme control mechanisms, such as the failure of tryptophan pyrrolase induction by cortisone in minimum deviation hepatomas, may be a fundamental biochemical alteration in tumors. This study shows that a depressed response to hormonal enzyme induction is found in non-neoplastic hepatic cells preparing to divide.
Observations on the Feeding Capacities and Excretory Functions Of Captive Vampire Bats

Observations are presented on the feeding capacities of captive vampire bats ( Desmodus rotundus ) and on their excretory functions as these relate to the volume of blood ingested and the metabolic efficiency of blood utilization. The average daily intake of blood by individual members of two large groups of bats in which consumption records were kept for a full year was 15.3 ml and 15.6 ml; the range of variation was between 11.6 and 21.0 ml. The daily consumption average of isolated individuals tended to be somewhat higher. One non-pregnant female maintained in isolation for 17 days consumed blood in excess of her body weight (28 gm ) on 13 of them, and on two days the amounts ingested were as high as 47 and 52 ml respectively. Urine excretion is copious, and generally amounts to slightly less than 50 per cent by volume of the blood ingested over a 24 hour period. Urine flow begins promptly after feeding, and evidence is presented that the tubular stomach is a major site of fluid absorption. Based upon observation of a single bat over a 4-day period it is estimated that the animal ingested (on a dry weight basis) an average of 0.12 gm solids/gm body weight per day, and “utilized” metabolically about 73% of the solids ingested. Justification is presented for our estimate (probably conservative), that under natural conditions a single vampire may ingest nearly two gallons of blood a year, and that the total blood lost by the animal prey of vampires in countries (such as Mexico) where the bats are common may amount to many hundreds of thousands of gallons annually.
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole and Minocycline-Hydrochloride in the Treatment of Culture-Proved Bacterial Prostatitis

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 2 tablets twice daily for 90 days, or minocycline-hydrochloride, 100 mg. twice daily for 14 days, was given to 15 and 14 men, respectively, with culture-proved bacterial prostatitis. Given as prescribed both agents seemed equally effective in controlling symptomatic recurrence during the 12 months after cessation of therapy.
Risk Factors for Community-Associated Clostridium difficile Infection in Children.

Objective To characterize the medication and other exposures associated with pediatric community-associated Clostridium difficile infections (CA-CDIs). Study design We performed a case-control study using billing records from the US military health system database. CA-CDI cases included children 1-18 years of age with an outpatient International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnostic code for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) from 2001 to 2013. Each case was matched to 3 controls without CDI by age and sex. Children hospitalized at any time before their CDI were excluded. Outpatient pharmacy records were used to identify medication exposures in the preceding 12 weeks. In addition, we evaluated recent outpatient healthcare exposure, exposure to a sibling younger than 1 year of age, or to a family member with CDI. Results A total of 1331 children with CA-CDI were identified and 3993 controls were matched successfully. Recent exposure to fluoroquinolones, clindamycin (OR 73.00; 95% CI 13.85-384.68), third-generation cephalosporins (OR 16.32; 95% CI 9.11-29.26), proton pump inhibitors (OR 8.17; 95% CI 2.35-28.38), and to multiple classes of antibiotics, each was associated strongly the subsequent diagnosis of CA-CDI. Recent exposure to outpatient healthcare clinics (OR 1.35; 95% CI 1.31-1.39) or to a family member with CDI also was associated with CA-CDI. Conclusions CA-CDI is associated with medications regularly prescribed in pediatric practice, along with exposure to outpatient healthcare clinics and family members with CDI. Our findings provide additional support for the judicious use of these medications and for efforts to limit spread of CDI in ambulatory healthcare settings and households.
Republican Empire: Alexander Hamilton on War and Free Government. By Karl-Friedrich Walling. (Lawrence: University Press of Kansas, I 999. Pp. xii, 356. $40.00.)

War and free government have rarely coexisted for long over the course of human history. The United States seems, to date, to be the exception to this trend. In his noteworthy new book, Republican Empire: Alexander Hamilton on War and Free Government , Karl-Friedrich Walling gives primary credit for this achievement to the Founding Fathers in general, and Alexander Hamilton in particular. Walling argues that the traditional "militarist" interpretation of Hamilton, which generally sees Hamilton as a threat to American liberty during the founding era, is simplistic and short-sighted.
A survey of space mission architecture and system actualisation methodologies

Improving space mission actualisation methodologies is a continuous activity in space systems engineering. In this paper, we review current research that proposes deviations from the traditional standard systems engineering methodologies for formulating and implementing space missions. We categorise the approaches into methodologies targeting: 1) space systems in general; 2) small satellites; 3) generic systems. A three-phase mission life-cycle scheme is also incorporated in the classification regime. We observe that the quest for new methodologies to realise space systems is steered by research efforts targeting small satellites. Further, relatively diverse overall research incentives are revealed. For instance, minimising cost and labour, improved reliability, rapid deployment, etc. are some of the common motivations behind the reviewed research. Majority of the methodologies target the conceptual phase of mission architecture and system design. Three key future research areas are also identified and elucidated.
Unfriendly Fire From Neutrophils Promiscuously Potentiates Cardiovascular Inflammation

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) comprise the vast majority of white blood cells and serve as the first responders during acute inflammatory responses. These cells constitute an essential component of the innate immune response, classically conceived of as antimicrobial stewards that deliver their toxic payload at the site of injury. These cells contain granules, hence their membership in the granulocyte family of leukocytes. The granules contain enzymes such as myeloperoxidase, which generates the strong oxidant hypochlorous acid, and proteinases, which degrade foreign peptides, among other functions. PMNs also possess machinery that potently produces other reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anion. Combined with phagocytosis, the mediators elaborated by PMNs provide a bulwark of defenses to combat foreign invaders and also to aid mop up operations in injured tissues. Article, see p 1081 Yet, friendly fire from PMNs can aggravate or cause disease when these cells undergo excessive or inappropriate activation. Cardiovascular and allied conditions provide examples of the adverse consequences of collateral damage because of the unleashing of PMNs’ potent actions (Figure). The dreaded mechanical complications of myocardial infarction such as rupture of the intraventricular septum, papillary muscles, or of the ventricle itself may result, in part, from excessive extracellular matrix dissolution and extensive cell damage wrought by PMN mediators.1 Coronary microvascular damage caused by PMN can contribute to no reflow situations. PMNs …