cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Resolvin E1 Reduces Leukotriene B4-Induced Intracellular Calcium Increase and Mucin Secretion in Rat Conjunctival Goblet Cells.

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a major proinflammatory mediator important in host defense whereas resolvins (Rvs) are produced during the resolution phase of inflammation. We determined the actions of both RvE1 and RvD1 on LTB4-induced responses of goblet cells cultured from rat conjunctiva. The responses measured were an increase in the intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) and high molecular weight glycoprotein secretion. Treatment with RvE1 or RvD1 for 30 min significantly blocked the LTB4-induced [Ca2+]i increase. The actions of RvE1 on LTB4-induced [Ca2+]i increase were reversed by siRNA for the RvE1 receptor and of RvD1 were reversed by an inhibitor to the RvD1 receptor. The RvE1 and RvD1 block of LTB4-stimulated increase in [Ca2+]i was also reversed by an inhibitory peptide to β-adrenergic receptor kinase (BARK1). LTB4- and block of the LTB4-stimulated increase in [Ca2+]i by RvE1 and RvD1 were partially mediated by the depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores. RvE1, but not RvD1, counter-regulated the LTB4-induced high molecular weight glycoprotein secretion. Thus, both RvE1 and RvD1 receptors directly inhibit LTB4 by phosphorylating the LTB4 receptor (BLT1) using BARK1. RvE1 receptor counter-regulates the LTB4-induced increase in [Ca2+]i and secretion while RvD1 receptor only counter-regulates LTB4-induced [Ca2+]i increase.
Living With and Learning About Asthma on the College Campus

Background: The American College Health Association reported in 2016 that 8.9% of college students indicated having an asthma diagnosis. When asthmatic students transition to a college campus, they may be ill-equipped to self-manage their asthma due to a lack of proper education, misinformation from their physician, or lack of acceptance of the chronicity of their disease. The research questions are: (1) How do students with asthma learn from their experiences in the self-management of their asthma during their college years? (2) How do these students cope with their asthma on the college campus? Methods: This qualitative case study recruited five college students with partially controlled asthma through the student health center (SHC) of a large public university. Approval for this study was granted from the university’s IRB (#5359). The students were interviewed individually and in a focus group session. Data collected from the interviews underwent coding and analysis to include: (1) initial coding, (2) focused coding, and (3) axial coding. Once codes emerged, they were assembled into themes and the data was subjected to the constant comparative data analysis. Results: Qualitative coding and analysis of the data revealed the following themes: (a) students have learned from lived experiences to adapt to weather conditions and campus terrain to avoid asthma triggers, (b) students want to establish an educative, meaningful relationship with healthcare providers at the SHC, (c) students have acquired coping strategies from learned behaviors of living with asthma on campus, and (d) as students transition to an adult role they become more autonomous with healthcare decision-making. Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study there is a need for well-written asthma literature that is tailor-made for college students. The need for access to affordable medications is necessary for the overall health and well-being of students with asthma. Study findings reveal there is a need for training of students in the proper use of medication delivery devices and the role of inhaled medications in controlling asthma symptoms. Students prefer a working relationship with healthcare providers at the SHC that utilize a patient-centered approach in the delivery of asthma care. Disclosures: All authors have no conflicts of interest or industry relationships to disclose. This research project was partially funded by a doctoral stipend through Texas State University.
Thermodynamic Investigation of New High-Strength Low-Alloy Steels with Heusler Phase Strengthening for Welding and Additive Manufacturing: High-Throughput CALPHAD Calculations and Key Experiments for Database Verification

High-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels often comprise of Cu clusters and M2C (M: Mo, Cr) carbides as strengthening particles. In this work, three new HSLA steels with alternative strengthening phases, Fe2SiTi and Ni3Ti, are investigated by using HSLA-115 steel as the reference. To evaluate the weldability for potential fabrication using casting, welding, and additive manufacturing, freezing ranges are studied using differential thermal analysis (DTA), and CALPHAD (Calculation of Phase Diagrams) approach under equilibrium and nonequilibrium conditions. While the cooling signals in the DTA analysis are not pronounced enough for thermal analysis, the trend of freezing range change based on the nonequilibrium and equilibrium calculations are consistent with the heating signals. High-throughput calculations are performed to deduce the effect of variation of each alloying element on the freezing range. Moreover, the experimental and calculated phase fractions and compositions of the as-cast and heat-treated alloys were compared. Though CALPHAD model-prediction can provide valuable insights into the phase stability of these new alloys, there is a remarkable difference regarding phase fraction and composition of individual phases. Therefore, this study indicates that the application of the CALPHAD approach in new alloy discovery requires a careful model-validation and database calibration.
Pelvic Floor Conditions: Diarrhea

Fecal incontinence is one of the most disturbing manifestations of pelvic floor dysfunction affecting the patient’s quality of life, causing psychological problems and often leading to institutionalization, especially in the elderly population. Its prevalence in the United States is estimated to be 8.3%. Diarrhea has been shown to be an independent risk factor for development of fecal incontinence in both men and women. Medical and behavioral methods can be used in treatment of chronic diarrhea.
Narrative review of vascular iatrogenic trauma and endovascular treatment

Iatrogenic injury is unfortunately a leading cause of morbidity and mortality for patients worldwide. The etiology of iatrogenic injury is broad, and can be seen with both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. While steps can be taken to reduce the occurrence of iatrogenic injury, it is often not completely avoidable. Once iatrogenic injury has occurred, prompt recognition and appropriate management can help reduce further harm. The objective of this narrative review it to help reader better understand the risk factors associated with, and treatment options for a broad range of potential iatrogenic injuries by presenting a series of iatrogenic injury cases. This review also discusses rates, risk factors, as well as imaging and clinical signs of iatrogenic injury with an emphasis on endovascular and minimally invasive treatments. While iatrogenic vascular injury once required surgical intervention, now minimally invasive endovascular treatment is a potential option for certain patients. Further research is needed to help identify patients that are at the highest risk for iatrogenic injury, allowing patients and providers to reconsider or avoid interventions where the risk of iatrogenic injury may outweigh the benefit. Further research is also needed to better define outcomes for patients with iatrogenic vascular injury treated with minimally invasive endovascular techniques verses conservative management or surgical intervention.
Annual Review of Phytopathology, Volume 58

Jan E. Leach & Steven E. Lindow, eds. 2020. Annual Review of Phytopathology, Volume 58. (ISBN-13: 978-0-8243-1358-6, hbk). Annual Reviews, Inc., 4139 El Camino Way, P.O. Box 10139, Palo Alto, California 94303, U.S.A. (Orders: annualreviews.org, science@annualreviews.org), $118.00 US, 406 pp., 9½" × 7½".
Cutaneous Findings in SARS-CoV-2-Associated Multisystem Inflammatory Disease in Children

Rash is a common feature of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a postinfectious hyperinflammatory disease associated with prior severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Because the differential diagnosis of fever and rash in children is broad, understanding clinical characteristics of MIS-C may assist with diagnosis. Here we describe the cutaneous findings observed in a series of children with MIS-C-associated rash.
Association between asthma and influenza vaccine uptake among US adolescents: a retrospective survey study.

Despite longstanding recommendations for children with asthma to receive the influenza vaccine, vaccine uptake in this population remains low. We used the nationally representative National Immuniz...
Cost-Effectiveness of Hearing Screening in Older Adults: A Scoping Review

Objectives:Age is the most common predictor of hearing loss; however, many older adults are not screened. Hearing screening could improve healthcare access, participation, and outcomes. Establishin...
Sobp modulates the transcriptional activation of Six1 target genes and is required during craniofacial development

Branchio-oto-renal syndrome (BOR) is a disorder characterized by hearing loss, and craniofacial and/or renal defects. Variants in the transcription factor Six1 and its co-factor Eya1, both of which are required for otic development, are linked to BOR. We previously identified Sobp as a potential Six1 co-factor, and SOBP variants in mouse and humans cause otic phenotypes; therefore, we asked whether Sobp interacts with Six1 and thereby may contribute to BOR. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence experiments demonstrate that Sobp binds to and colocalizes with Six1 in the cell nucleus. Luciferase assays show that Sobp interferes with the transcriptional activation of Six1+Eya1 target genes. Experiments in Xenopus embryos that either knock down or increase expression of Sobp show that it is required for formation of ectodermal domains at neural plate stages. In addition, altering Sobp levels disrupts otic vesicle development and causes craniofacial cartilage defects. Expression of Xenopus Sobp containing the human variant disrupts the pre-placodal ectoderm similar to full-length Sobp, but other changes are distinct. These results indicate that Sobp modifies Six1 function and is required for vertebrate craniofacial development, and identify Sobp as a potential candidate gene for BOR.
Oxidation of an Adjacent Methionine Residue Inhibits Regulatory Seryl-Phosphorylation of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase:

A Met residue is located adjacent to phosphorylation site 1 in the sequences of mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase E1α subunits. When synthetic peptides including site 1 were treated with H2O2, the Met residue was oxidized to methionine sulfoxide (MetSO), and the peptides were no longer phosphorylated by E1α-kinase. Isolated mitochondria were incubated under state III or IV conditions, lysed, the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) immunoprecipitated, and tryptic peptides analyzed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. In all instances both Met and MetSO site 1 tryptic-peptides were detected. Similar results were obtained when suspension-cultured cells were incubated with chemical agents known to stimulate production of reactive oxygen species within the mitochondria. Treatment with these agents had no effect upon the amount of total PDC, but decreased the proportion of P-PDC. We propose that the redox-state of the Met residue adjacent to phosphorylation site 1 of pyruvate dehydrogenase contributes to overall regulation of PDC activity in vivo.
Simulation of Dissolved Oxygen Profile

A stochastic mathematical model is developed to describe the probability distribution of dissolved oxygen in streams which have received an input of both thermal and organic pollution. The stochastic model is simulated under conditions of constant and variable temperature, and the results of the simulation are compared with the mean values predicted by recent deterministic models. The simulation provides an estimate of the variability of the DO level to be expected at different points as well as a means of generating typical oxygen sag curves for a stream.
Electrophysiologic assessment of conduction abnormalities and atrial arrhythmias associated with amyloid cardiomyopathy.

Background Arrhythmias in cardiac amyloidosis (CA) result in significant comorbidity and mortality but have not been well characterized. Objective The purpose of this study was to define intracardiac conduction, atrial arrhythmia substrate, and ablation outcomes in a group of advanced CA patients referred for electrophysiologic study. Methods Electrophysiologic study with or without catheter ablation was performed in 18 CA patients. Findings and catheter ablation outcomes were compared to age- and gender-matched non-CA patients undergoing catheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Results Supraventricular tachycardias were seen in all 18 CA patients (1 AV nodal reentrant tachycardia, 17 persistent atrial tachycardia [AT]/AF). The HV interval was prolonged (>55 ms) in all CA patients, including 6 with normal QRS duration (≤100 ms). Thirteen supraventricular tachycardia ablations were performed in 11 patients. Of these, 7 underwent left atrial (LA) mapping and ablation for persistent AT/AF. Compared to non-CA age-matched comparator AF patients, CA patients had more extensive areas of low-voltage areas LA (63% ± 22% vs 34% ± 22%, P = .009) and a greater number of inducible ATs (3.3 ± 1.9 ATs vs 0.2 ± 0.4 ATs, P Conclusion In this group of patients with advanced CA and atrial arrhythmias, there was extensive conduction system disease and LA endocardial voltage abnormality. Catheter ablation persistent AT/AF in advanced CA was associated with a high recurrence rate and appears to have a limited role in control of these arrhythmias.
Imaging of Sound Speed Using Reflection Ultrasound Tomography

OBJECTIVES The goal of this work was to obtain and evaluate measurements of tissue sound speed in the breast, particularly dense breasts, using backscatter ultrasound tomography. METHODS An automated volumetric breast ultrasound scanner was constructed for imaging the prone patient. A 5- to 7-MHz linear array transducer acquired 17,920 radiofrequency pulse echo A-lines from the breast, and a back-wall reflector rotated over 360° in 25 seconds. Sound speed images used reflector echoes that after preprocessing were uploaded into a graphics processing unit for filtered back-projection reconstruction. A velocimeter also was constructed to measure the sound speed and attenuation for comparison to scanner performance. Measurements were made using the following: (1) deionized water from 22°C to 90°C; (2) various fluids with sound speeds from 1240 to 1904 m/s; (3) acrylamide gel test objects with features from 1 to 15 mm in diameter; and (4) healthy volunteers. RESULTS The mean error ± SD between sound speed reference and image data was -0.48% ± 9.1%, and the error between reference and velocimeter measurements was -1.78% ± 6.50%. Sound speed image and velocimeter measurements showed a difference of 0.10% ± 4.04%. Temperature data showed a difference between theory and imaging performance of -0.28% ± 0.22%. Images of polyacrylamide test objects showed detectability of an approximately 1% sound speed difference in a 2.4-mm cylindrical inclusion with a contrast to noise ratio of 7.9 dB. CONCLUSIONS An automated breast scanner offers the potential to make consistent automated tomographic images of breast backscatter, sound speed, and attenuation, potentially improving diagnosis, particularly in dense breasts.
Marked, transient inhibition of expression of the Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein gene in Burkitt's lymphoma cell lines by electroporation.

Abstract The Raji, EB1, and EB2 cell lines are derived from Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive Burkitt's lymphomas. EBV gene products associated with viral latency, including latent membrane protein (LMP) and Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 2 (EBNA-2), are expressed in these cell lines. We have found that transfection of all three of these cell lines by electroporation in both the presence and the absence of foreign DNA resulted in a marked decrease in expression of the endogenous EBV gene encoding LMP. An analysis of this response in Raji cells revealed that the level of RNA of this gene was decreased transiently and returned to normal levels by 7 days after transfection. The level of LMP protein was also reduced after transfection. No difference in survival was detected in electroporated versus unperturbed Raji cells. The level of mRNA encoding a modulator of the LMP gene, EBNA-2, was unchanged by electroporation. However, the level of another EBV transcript, BHLF-I, was reduced. The effect of electroporation could not be attributed to flux of Ca2+, Na+, K+, or Cl- ions across the plasma membrane. Expression of LMP in several lymphoblastoid cell lines was unaffected by electroporation.
On best partial bases

On etablit des theoremes d'unicite pour les meilleures bases partielles dans la meilleure approximation
Pediatric trauma care: an overview of pediatric trauma systems and their practices in 18 US states

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe the state of pediatric trauma system development in the United States in 1997 and 1998 and to characterize the hospitalization patterns of injured children in states with different types of pediatric trauma systems. The authors also investigated the impact of sociodemographic, injury, and geographic characteristics on those hospitalization patterns. Methods: The authors combined statewide hospital discharge data on hospitalized trauma patients less than 15 years old with data from the American Hospital Association, the Area Resource File, the Office of Management and Budget, the states' Departments of Health, and the US Census. Besides conducting descriptive analyses, the authors evaluated the role of several parameters in determining the likelihood of treatment in trauma and nontrauma centers using multivariate multinomial logistic regression models. Results: There were 15 states with adult and pediatric trauma designation systems; 9 of them had statewide hospital discharge data available. In these 9 states, 77% of the discharges were from trauma centers with no pediatric designation. More severely injured children and children with injuries to the head, face, thorax, and abdomen were more likely to be discharged from trauma centers, although large percentages of these children were treated in nontrauma centers. Older children and children with commercial insurance were less likely to be treated at trauma centers, even when injury severity, body region injured, and other factors were accounted for. Conclusions: Even in states with trauma systems, a large proportion of severely injured children are treated in nontrauma center facilities.
Orientation of methanolic attack on the K-region epoxide of 7,12-dimethylbenz (a) anthracene.

Abstract Methanolysis of the K-region epoxide of 7,12-dimethylbenz ( a ) anthracene (DMBA) gave rise to two hydroxy-methoxy derivatives which were dehydrated to 5-methoxy-DMBA and 6-methoxy-DMBA at a ratio of 5:1. The data indicate that methanol attacks preferentially at the 5-position of the arene oxide. These results are in accord with steric considerations of reactivity.
Morphine in cancer pain management: a practical guide.

Morphine is the most practical and versatile analgesic for the relief of severe pain associated with advanced cancer. Information is available in the literature about its use in routine clinical practice. Morphine induces analgesia by reducing neurotransmitter release presynaptically and hyperpolarizing dorsal horn neurons at the postsynaptic level, thus preventing rostral transmission of nociception. Morphine has a unique metabolism via glucuronidation (UGT2B7), which results in an active metabolite (morphine-6-glucuronide). The pharmacokinetics of morphine relate to its hydrophilic characteristic, volume of distribution, route of administration and clearance. Renal failure alters its pharmacokinetics more than cirrhosis. The age of the patient and multiple medications will alter morphine pharmacokinetics. Morphine can be given by several different routes: oral, rectal, subcutaneous (s.c.), intravenous (i.v.), epidural and intrathecal. Recent experience confirms benefits of topical morphine for cutaneous pain associated with benign or malignant ulcers. Guidelines for morphine administration are reviewed, and in particular those of the Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine are outlined.
A prospective test of anxiety sensitivity as a moderator of the relation between gender and posttraumatic symptom maintenance among high anxiety sensitive young adults.

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the individual and combined influence of anxiety sensitivity (AS) and gender on the longitudinal prediction of posttraumatic symptoms. A large nonclinical sample of young adults (n=404) was prospectively followed over approximately 18 months. The primary findings indicated that gender and AS were uniquely associated with posttraumatic symptom levels during the follow-up period. Moreover, AS appeared more strongly (positively) related to posttraumatic stress symptoms during the follow-up period among females than males. These data provide novel prospective evidence regarding the interplay of relatively well-established risk factors implicated in the maintenance of posttraumatic stress symptoms. Depression and Anxiety 0:1–10, 2007. Published 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Calcitriol regulation of osteopontin expression in mouse epidermal cells

We previously showed that calcitriol (1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) induces clonal mouse epidermal JB6 Cl41.5a cells to synthesize and secrete a nonphosphorylated form of osteopontin (OPN) in a dose-dependent and metabolite-specific manner. To investigate whether OPN expression is transcriptionally regulated by calcitriol in these cells, we first determined the early time course of calcitriol-induced expression of OPN protein and steady state levels of OPN messenger RNA (mRNA). Calcitriol treatment of JB6 Cl41.5a cells for 6 h caused increased secretion of [35S]methionine-labeled OPN, with maximal levels attained after 8 h of treatment. Northern analyses showed that steady state levels of OPN mRNA increase before the synthesis and secretion of OPN protein. Treatment of JB6 Cl41.5a cells with calcitriol and the transcriptional inhibitor actinomycin-D (2-250 ng/ml) indicated that calcitriol-induced accumulation of steady state OPN mRNA and secretion of OPN protein were dose dependently inhibited by actinomycin-D. These data suggest that calcitriol regulates the expression of OPN at the level of transcription. Furthermore, calcitriol increased the steady state level of OPN mRNA in a dose-dependent manner. Calcitriol-mediated increases in OPN expression were also observed in a transfection assay using a construct consisting of a portion of the promoter region of the OPN gene fused to the luciferase reporter gene. In addition, a study using 5,6-dichloro-1-beta-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole, an adenosine analog that inhibits mRNA synthesis, showed that calcitriol treatment did not significantly increase the stability of OPN mRNA. These findings suggest that calcitriol increases the expression of OPN mRNA and protein by stimulating transcription.
An Improved Procedure for Selecting the Better of Two Bernoulli Populations

Abstract A truncated play-the-winner sampling procedure for selecting the better of Bernoulli populations π1 and π2 is considered. Associated with πi is success probability pi where p 1 ≥ p 2. The procedure is designed to select π1 with probability at least P* whenever p 1 − p 2 ≥ Δ *; P* and Δ* are preassigned constants. This truncation procedure is shown to be uniformly asymptotically better than the scheme of Sobel and Weiss [6] with regard to both minimizing the expected total number of trials and minimizing the expected number of trials on π2. Numerical results show that the improvement can be substantial for small values of p 1 and p 2.
Structural dynamics of the manganese-stabilizing protein-effect of pH, calcium, and manganese.

The photosystem-II-associated 33-kDa extrinsic manganese-stabilizing protein is found in all oxygen-evolving organisms. In this paper, we show that this protein undergoes pH-induced conformational ...
Web‐based teaching materials: a user’s profile

Technological advances have spurred the development of Web‐based teaching. Today, a substantial body of research addresses the effectiveness of this new teaching medium. Results have been mixed, showing mostly no significant improvement over traditional methods. Examines a fundamental, yet often forgotten, element in designing Web‐based teaching materials: the user. Aims to draw a profile of the heaviest users of a course Web site and uncover the reasons why non‐users decide not to access supplemental materials on the Web. The results indicate that male students access the Web site more often than females. Higher GPA was also related to heavier use. The most important result seems to be the relationship between learning style and use, with assimilators paying more frequent visits to the Web site.
High-Temperature Sulfidation of Fe-Nb Alloys

The sulfidation behavior of Fe-Nb alloys containing up to 30 w/o Nb was studied over the range of 600–900°C in 0.01 aim. S2 vapor. All alloys were two-phase, consisting of an Fe-rich solid solution and Fe2Nb, and followed the parabolic rate law at all temperatures. Scales consisted of two layers-an outer layer of FeS and an inner, complex layer which contained some FeS, FeNb2S4 (possibly some FeNb3S6), NbS2, and intermetallic particles which were either completely or only partially sulfidized. Platinum markers were located always at the interface between the two layers, which corresponded to the original metal surface. Activation energies were 18±3 kcal/mol in close agreement with the 19.8 reported for pure iron. The sulfidation rate decreased markedly with increasing Nb content of the alloys. The decrease is attributed to increasing amounts of Fe2Nb with increasing Nb, the net effect being that the diffusion path for outward iron diffusion through the inner layer is reduced as the Nb content increases. An analysis of the structure of NbS2 reveals that it is easily intercalated with Fe between loosely bonded layers of S-Nb-S. The S-Nb-S layers are covalently bonded which results in very low diffusivities of either S or Nb in pure NbS2. Although intercalated Fe tends to change the Van der Waal's type bonding between layers to more ionic or covalent, Fe diffuses readily between the layers in NbS2. Intercalation of Fe also increases the concentration of sulfur defects in NbS2, which in turn increases the diffusivity of sulfur. Nb was observed to be immobile. Thus, it is thought that either outward iron diffusion or inward sulfur diffusion in the inner layer is the rate-controlling step, in spite of the close agreement of activation energies with that of the sulfidation of pure iron.
Bose condensation in supercritical external fields

We study the relativistic field theory of a charged spin-zero boson field in the presence of an external field, such as the Coulomb field of a prescribed charge distribution. It is shown that for a sufficiently intense field the ground state is unstable against the formation of a Bose-Einstein condensate of charged boson pairs. A consistent quantum theory can be formulated when known nonlinear couplings such as the Coulomb interactions of the bosons are properly included in the Hamiltonian. Speculations are offered concerning the possible stability of nuclei with charge number $Z\ensuremath{\gtrsim}{10}^{3}$.
2D MHD simulation of the emergence and merging of coherent structures

A model of sporadic localized merging of coherent structures has recently been proposed by Chang to describe the dynamics of the Earth's magnetotail. Here we report the results of MHD simulations regarding the development and merging of 2D coherent structures. With a magnetic shear, such coherent structures are generated in alignment with the imposed current sheet. The calculated fluctuation spectra suggest long-ranged correlations with power-law characteristics.
Fermi surface in YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6.9 : Evidence from angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy and positron two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation

We assess the evidence regarding the geometry of the Fermi surface in ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{6.9}$ obtained from angle-resolved photoemission and positron two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation experiments. A detailed picture of the Fermi-surface topology of this system appears to be emerging, based on a comparison of the above-mentioned experiments with each other and with local-density-approximation calculations, although whether the Fermi surface is a manifestation of true Fermi-liquid behavior is in dispute. Some implications of these results are discussed.
Short-Term Metal Ion Trends Following Removal of Recalled Modular Neck Femoral Stems.

Abstract Elevated serum metal ions have been well documented with the Rejuvenate modular neck femoral stem (Stryker, Mahwah, NJ); however, the rate at which ion levels decline following revision is less clear. This study included fifty-nine consecutive revisions of Rejuvenate stems for symptomatic ALTR. Blood tests prior to revision and postoperatively at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year measured serum cobalt and chromium concentrations, ESR, and CRP. At six weeks following revision of a unilateral Rejuvenate, cobalt and chromium levels dropped from preoperative levels by 67% and 42%, respectively. At three months, cobalt levels declined to 19% of preoperative values, but chromium levels remained stable. With this information, surgeons can set realistic expectations for serum metal ion levels following Rejuvenate stem revision.
CYLINDRICAL PENNING TRAPS WITH DYNAMIC ORTHOGONALIZED ANHARMONICITY COMPENSATION FOR PRECISION EXPERIMENTS

Abstract Harmonic potentials can be produced in cylindrical ion traps by means of dynamic orthogonalized anharmonicity compensation with use of two (or multiple) sets of compensation electrodes. One special example is for traps with multiple identical electrodes which are not only easy to construct and allow access to the center region of the trap for particle loading and releasing, laser beams, and microwaves, but also flexible in forming harmonic potential wells in many locations. The nested trap configuration and the side-by-side trap configuration are readily available in this special scheme. Analytical solutions for cylindrical traps with multiple sets of compensation potentials are presented. This work will be useful for studies involving Penning trap diagnostics, atomic and molecular interactions (including the production of antihydrogen atoms), accurate mass measurements of exotic particles, and precision measurements of the spin precession frequencies of trapped particles.
Transcriptional Analysis of Histone Deacetylase Family Members Reveal Similarities Between Differentiating and Aging Spermatogonial Stem Cells

The differentiation of adult stem cells involves extensive chromatin remodeling, mediated in part by the gene products of histone deacetylase (HDAC) family members. While the transcriptional downregulation of HDACs can impede stem cell self-renewal in certain contexts, it may also promote stem cell maintenance under other circumstances. In self-renewing, differentiating, and aging spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), the gene expression dynamics of HDACs have not yet been characterized. To gain further insight with these studies, we analyzed the transcriptional profiles of six HDAC family members, previously identified to be the most highly expressed in self-renewing SSCs, during stem cell differentiation and aging. Here we discovered that in both differentiating and aging SSCs the expression of Sirt4 increases, while the expression of Hdac2, Hdac6, and Sirt1 decreases. When SSCs are exposed to the lifespan-enhancing drug rapamycin in vivo, the resultant HDAC gene expression patterns are opposite of those seen in the differentiating and aging SSCs, with increased Hdac2, Hdac6, and Sirt1 and decreased Hdac8, Hdac9, and Sirt4. Our findings suggest that HDACs important for stem cell maintenance and oxidative capacity are downregulated as adult stem cells differentiate or age. These results provide important insights into the epigenetic regulation of stem cell differentiation and aging in mammals.
Enduring consequences of maternal obesity for brain inflammation and behavior of offspring

Obesity is well characterized as a systemic inflammatory condition, and is also associated with cognitive disruption, suggesting a link between the two. We assessed whether peripheral inflammation in maternal obesity may be transferred to the offspring brain, in particular, the hippocampus, and thereby result in cognitive dysfunction. Rat dams were fed a high-saturated-fat diet (SFD), a high-trans-fat diet (TFD), or a low-fat diet (LFD) for 4 wk prior to mating, and remained on the diet throughout pregnancy and lactation. SFD/TFD exposure significantly increased body weight in both dams and pups compared to controls. Microglial activation markers were increased in the hippocampus of SFD/TFD pups at birth. At weaning and in adulthood, proinflammatory cytokine expression was strikingly increased in the periphery and hippocampus following a bacterial challenge [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] in the SFD/TFD groups compared to controls. Microglial activation within the hippocampus was also increased basally in SFD rats, suggesting a chronic priming of the cells. Finally, there were marked changes in anxiety and spatial learning in SFD/TFD groups. These effects were all observed in adulthood, even after the pups were placed on standard chow at weaning, suggesting these outcomes were programmed early in life.
Main Group Fragments as Ligands to Transition Metals

In its broadest definition, inorganometallic chemistry appropriates a large share of both inorganic and organometallic chemistry much of which can be classified as some type of metal coordination chemistry. As there are many excellent volumes extant in which these chemistries are described,(1,2) there is no need here to repeat or summarize it. Indeed, in the following we build upon these strong foundations in order to draw new connections. But first it is necessary to distinguish the ligand-based chemistry to be discussed herein from that of classical coordination chemistry, on the one hand, and that of inorganometallic cluster chemistry, which is discussed in the chapter immediately following, on the other hand.
A distributed architecture for intra- and inter-cloud data management

When envisioning "The Cloud," one is often presented with an idyllic black box of functionality that seamlessly stores arbitrary amounts of data while providing endless CPU cycles.However, Cloud deployments are often partitioned along institutional and middleware boundaries that link computation and storage infrastructures. Decoupling storage from computation resource providers allows for greater flexibility in resource provisioning and new data storage paradigms to emerge.This paper proposes a decentralized data management architecture that facilitates interoperability between Clouds and other heterogeneous systems. The goals of this research are to augment the latent storage capacity within provisioned Cloud VMs with existing institutional resources to build low-cost Storage Clouds for scientific computing.
Designing virtual instruments with touch-enabled interface

We present and discuss the design of a virtual musical instrument system that can be used by a collaborative group of users to emulate playing percussive music. An optical multi-touch tabletop serves as the input device for multiple users, and an algorithmic pipeline interprets users' interactions with this touch-sensing table and provides control signals to activate the coupled physics-based sound simulation system. The musical tunes can be modulated by our numerical acoustic simulator to create believable acoustic effects generated due to cavity in instruments such as drums. It further allows the users to change the materials, shapes, and sizes of the instruments, thereby offering the capability for both rapid prototyping and active exploration of sound effects by altering various physical parameters. We discuss some of key design principles and what such a system can offer.
Role of the PRNP S127 allele in experimental infection of goats with classical caprine scrapie

Background: Classical scrapie is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy affecting domestic goats and sheep and is associated with accumulation of a misfolded isoform (PrP) of the PRNP gene product. Multiple PRNP polymorphisms have been reported in goats. Experimental scrapie inoculation studies revealed that PRNP polymorphisms at codons 146, 154, 211, and 222 can provide resistance or a prolonged incubation period. A recent study identified the association between a polymorphism at codon 127 (c.127G > S) and reduced probability of developing clinical signs of scrapie in goats with PrP detectable in the brain. In that study, the length of the incubation period (time from infection to clinical signs) was not known. The aim of this study was to identify whether goats with the heterozygous (G/S127) genotype have an extended incubation period compared with goats homozygous for G127 (G/G127) following classical caprine scrapie inoculation.
Anagram solution times: A function of single- and double-letter solution words

The present study was designed to examine the effects of single- and double-letter solution words on anagram solution times. One group of 20 anagrams was composed of five single letters (e.g., CIDER, TREND), while a second group of 20 anagrams was composed of three single letters and one double letter (e.g., LAPEL, FOGGY). Double-letter anagrams were solved significantly faster than single-letter anagrams for high-frequency solution words, but no difference was found with low-frequency solution words. The results were related to a S-R mediational model of anagram-problem-solving behavior.
Microinsurance and Social Protection: The Social Welfare Insurance Program for Informal Sector Workers in Indonesia

Microinsurance programs have expanded rapidly in many developing countries over the past 20 years and are now widely regarded as an integral part of the social protection system. To examine the role of microinsurance in social protection, this article discusses the Indonesian government's Asuransi Kesejahteraan Sosial (Askesos)—or Social Welfare Insurance Program (SWIP)—which is operated in partnership with community-based organizations and is targeted at informal sector workers. Although the program is currently small and pays limited benefits, it helps informal sector workers and their families cope with the risks that challenge their livelihoods.
Using thrombolytics in frostbite injury

Until recently, the treatment of frostbite injuries has been limited to supportive care only, with mediocre outcomes. The use of thrombolytic therapy has been presented in a limited fashion in the literature since 2005. This case study describes the work-up and treatment of a patient with severe frostbite injury who received tPA. We then discuss thrombolytic therapy in more detail, with particular attention to the two studies outlining different treatment regimens.
Thrust vector orientation in pilot-controlled lunar landings.

Thrust vector control orientation during pilot controlled lunar landing with aid of visual references
Simulations of the Effects of Solid Particles on the Flow Instability in Detonative Combustion

We consider here the flow instability that evolves during the spontaneous release of a high pressure gas mixed with small solid particles in a spherical shock tube representing a detonative combustion. Upon the release of the particle-laden high pressure gas contained in the small sphere, a primary shock and a secondary shock are formed. Two material interfaces develop between the two shocks: one between the gas-gas, as in the classical single-phase problem. The second one is between the pure gas and the mixture of gas and solid particles. Because of the density discontinuity, Rayleigh-Taylor-type instabilities may develop for both surfaces, which are studied herein using a high-order numerical scheme. The interaction mechanisms involved can influence the instability and control the efficiency of the combustion process.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
A geometric basis for calculation of right ventricular volume in man.

A clinically applicable method for determining right ventricular volume was developed using a new hemielliptical model. The model was derived from a detailed study of right ventricular geometry. Silicone rubber casts were made from 7 adult human right ventricles at autopsy. Cast volumes measured by water displacement ranged from 30 to 144 ml. Serial sections were made of each cast, and the product of the long and short axis of all sections was found to be directly related to the cross-sectional area and independent of the region or the volume of the ventricle from which the slice originated. Further, using a hemielliptical model, the volume V of each ventricle could be calculated from the equation: V = (π/4) Σ dwh where, d is the depth, w is the width parallel to the septum, and h is the thickness of the cross section. Calculated volume agreed closely with displacement volume throughout (r equals; 0.99, slope equals; 1.05 ± 0.04, intercept equals; −3.6 ± 4., SEE equals; 4.27 ml). Using the same model, calculation of right ventricular surface area was found to agree closely with measured surface area (r equals; 0.99, slope equals; 0.94, intercept equals; −.6, SEE equals; 3.9). This model can be used to calculate right ventricular volumes from biplane radiographs in man using the equation V equals; (π/4)(ARAO·ALAO)/HsbL where ARAO equals; the area of the 30° right anterior oblique image, A, HL equals; the area and height respectively of the 60° left anterior oblique image. For all 7 casts, radiographic volume agreed closely with directly measured volume (slope equals; 0.97, intercept equals; −5.5, r equals; 0.99, SEE equals; 4.7). Evaluation of positional effects showed that radiographic volume was most accurate when the 30° RAO/60° LAO projections were used. This study provides a method of calculating right ventricular volume, based upon right ventricular geometry, that may be applied to evaluating the volume of the right ventricle in man.
Oxidation-reduction sensitive interaction of a cellular 50-kDa protein with an RNA hairpin in the 5' noncoding region of the poliovirus genome.

Abstract Genetic and biochemical analyses of the 5' noncoding region of poliovirus have indicated the importance of this region in both translation and amplification of the viral RNA. The role of the cellular machinery required for these events is just beginning to be revealed. Using an RNA gel retention assay, we have identified a cellular 50-kDa protein that forms a specific complex with a stable stem-loop structure present in the viral 5' noncoding region. The formation of the RNA-protein complex is dependent on the availability of free sulfhydryl groups in the protein. The possible involvement of this RNA-protein complex in the regulation of viral gene expression is discussed.
Temperature-based structural health monitoring baseline for long-span bridges

Abstract A core prerequisite of an effective structural health monitoring (SHM) system is the development and characterization of a baseline response that is sensitive to meaningful changes in the structural system, and insensitive to normal operational changes. Such a baseline allows the use of detected changes to drive proactive maintenance and preservation interventions, or more refined assessment approaches, to ensure the on-going safety, serviceability, and durability of the structure. The approach developed as part of this research utilizes the relationship between temperature changes and the resulting strains and displacements of the structure to create a unique numerical and graphical baseline within an SHM framework. Evaluation of the method was performed through benchmark studies along with long-term monitoring data from a long-span steel tied arch bridge. The benchmark studies and field measurements illustrate that the nonlinear relationship between temperature, local mechanical strains, and global displacements results in a near-flat surface when plotted in 3D space. The bounds and the orientation (angle) of these surfaces are unique for each location and insensitive to normal operational changes in behavior. More importantly, a numerical sensitivity study was performed which indicated the surfaces are sensitive to a series of realistic scenarios which would result in meaningful changes in the performance of the structure. In addition, a comparison with a vibration-based SHM approach was also carried out, and the results indicated that the temperature-based approach was more sensitive for the scenarios examined.
Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid in a Patient With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Purpose: To describe a case of mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) with ocular manifestations in a patient subsequently diagnosed with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Methods: Case report and literature review. Results: A 64-year-old man presented with redness and irritation of both eyes. The patient also had blistering lesions on the roof of his mouth, trunk, and buttocks as well as bilateral conjunctival ulceration and symblepharon formation. A complete blood count performed before initiating treatment of presumed mucous membrane pemphigoid revealed a markedly increased white blood cell count (83,920) with a predominance of lymphocytes. Hematologic evaluation including immunophenotyping flow cytometry resulted in the diagnosis of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Cyclophosphamide treatment improved his MMP and decreased the white blood cell count. Conclusions: Mucous membrane pemphigoid has been reported in association with a variety ofnonhematologic malignancies. This case suggests that mucous membrane pemphigoid may also occur in B-cell CLL and supports the concept that autoantibodies play a role in the pathogenesis of this cicatricial conjunctival disease.
A morphological study of the development of the human liver. II. Establishment of liver parenchyma, extrahepatic ducts and associated venous channels

The establishment of liver parenchyma, extrahepatic ducts and associated venous channels were examined in serial sections of 100 human embryos representative of Horizons XI through XVII. The liver parenchyma first begins to develop from the cephalic end of the hepatic diverticulum in embryos between the 20- and 25-somite stage. The parenchyma develops as cords from the walls of the diverticulum which anastomose around isolated endothelium-lined spaces (blood islands) in the septum transversum. As growth and anastomoses of the parenchymal cords continue, the isolated endothelium-lined spaces form an interconnecting capillary bed which interdigitates with the developing parenchymal cords. The larger omphalomesenteric veins develop simultaneously with the parenchyma and are continuous with the smaller venous channels which interdigitate with the parenchymal cords. These larger developing veins become surrounded by the developing parenchymal cords. As the parenchymal cords branch from the cephalic end of the diverticulum, that portion of the diverticulum becomes reduced to a small tubular structure, the common hepatic duct, which is always continuous with the parenchyma. As the cephalic portion of the original diverticulum is reduced in size, there is a localized outgrowth from the ventral wall of the caudal end of the original diverticulum. This localized outgrowth becomes the cystic duct and gallbladder. The remainder of the caudal segment of the diverticulum elongates to become the common bile duct. The ventral pancreas develops as a localized outgrowth from the dorsal wall of the common bile duct.