cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of macroinvertebrate-based index for bioassessment of Idaho rivers.

Theoretical constructs, such as the river continuum concept, predict that the composition of benthic fauna in rivers will be different from that of headwater streams. There exists a need to modify, for use on larger rivers, the bioassessment techniques commonly used on small streams. Using aquatic macroinvertebrates and the "reference condition" approach, we developed and tested a multimetric index for use on the rivers of Idaho. Reference sites were selected to represent the best current conditions (i.e., least impacted) among Idaho rivers. The index performed well in distinguishing reference sites from sites displaying some form of anthropogenic impairment. Individual metrics used in the index included: number of EPT taxa, total number of taxa, percent dominant taxon, percent Elmidae, and percent predators. The index we developed for Idaho rivers was essentially a modification of a framework designed for small streams, suggesting that techniques, including data analysis, currently used for streams can be adapted for use on larger rivers. Adapting these methods for use in rivers is primarily a matter of (1) selecting metrics relevant to the rivers of interest; (2) expanding the field sampling to encompass the greater habitat area and, potentially, heterogeneity of rivers; and (3) selecting an appropriate form of data analysis. The approach we describe here should be applicable to geographic regions other than Idaho.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein 5 Regulates the Number of Keratinocyte Stem Cells from the Skin of Mice

Understanding keratinocyte stem cell regulation is important in understanding the pathogenesis of wound healing and nonmelanoma skin cancer. We previously used a sensitive and quantitative assay for in vitro keratinocyte colony formation and mapped the keratinocyte stem cell locus (Ksc1) on mouse chromosome 9. Examination of the candidate genes in this locus disclosed a sequence variant in the gene for bone morphogenetic protein 5 (Bmp5). In this report, we used a naturally occurring mouse with a null mutation in this gene to probe stem cell properties in mouse epidermis. We found that the mutant keratinocytes had a significant reduction in the size and number of clonogenic keratinocytes. The mutant mice had a 50% reduction in the number of label-retaining cells when compared with their littermates. Addition of exogenous Bmp5 protein increased the number and size of keratinocyte colonies in the mutant as well as their wild-type littermates. Surprisingly, the mutant mice showed at least a 2-fold increase in skin tumor susceptibility over their littermates. We conclude that a naturally occurring mutation in Bmp5 affects keratinocyte stem cell proliferation, and skin tumor susceptibility, and is a candidate stem cell regulatory gene in the Ksc1 locus.
Non-antibiotic antibacterial activity of dodecyl gallate.

Abstract Dodecyl (C12) gallate (3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate) (1) was found to possess antibacterial activity specifically against Gram-positive bacteria, in addition to its potent antioxidant activity. The time–kill curve study indicates that this amphipathic gallate exhibits bactericidal activity against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains. Dodecyl (lauryl) gallate inhibited oxygen consumption in whole cells and oxidation of NADH in membrane preparation. The antibacterial activity of this gallate comes in part from its ability to inhibit the membrane respiratory chain. As far as alkyl gallates are concerned, their antimicrobial spectra and potency depend in part on the hydrophobic portion of the molecule.
Performance of Endoscopic Ultrasound in Staging Rectal Adenocarcinoma Appropriate for Primary Surgical Resection

Background & Aims Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) often is used to stage rectal cancer and thereby guide treatment. Prior assessments of its accuracy have been limited by small sets of data collected from tumors of varying stages. We aimed to characterize the diagnostic performance of EUS analysis of rectal cancer, paying particular attention to determining whether patients should undergo primary surgical resection. Methods We performed a retrospective observational study using procedural databases and electronic medical records from 4 academic tertiary-care hospitals, collecting data on EUS analyses from 2000 through 2012. Data were analyzed from 86 patients with rectal cancer initially staged as T2N0 by EUS. The negative predictive value (NPV) was calculated by comparing initial stages determined by EUS with those determined by pathology analysis of surgical samples. Logistic regression models were used to assess variation in diagnostic performance with case attributes. Results EUS excluded advanced tumor depth with an NPV of 0.837 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.742–0.908), nodal metastasis with an NPV of 0.872 (95% CI, 0.783–0.934), and both together with an NPV of 0.767 (95% CI, 0.664–0.852) compared with pathology analysis. Incorrect staging by EUS affected treatment decision making for 20 of 86 patients (23.3%). Patient age at time of the procedure correlated with the NPV for metastasis to lymph node, but no other patient features were associated significantly with diagnostic performance. Conclusions Based on a multicenter retrospective study, EUS staging of rectal cancer as T2N0 excludes advanced tumor depth and nodal metastasis, respectively, with an approximate NPV of 85%, similar to that of other modalities. EUS has an error rate of approximately 23% in identifying disease appropriate for surgical resection, which is lower than previously reported.
Large-scale linear programming: Geometry, working bases and factorizations

This paper is concerned with linear programming problems in which many of the constraints are handled implicitly by requiring that the vector of decision variables lie in a polyhedronX. It is shown that the simplex method can be implemented using a working basis whose size is the number of explicit constraints as long as the local structure ofX around the current point is known. Various ways of describing this local structure lead to known implementations whenX is defined by generalized or variable upper bounds or flow conservation constraints. In the general case a decomposition principle can be used to generate this local structure. We also show how to update factorizations of the working basis.
Drug development from marine natural products

Drug discovery from marine natural products has enjoyed a renaissance in the past few years. Ziconotide (Prialt; Elan Pharmaceuticals), a peptide originally discovered in a tropical cone snail, was the first marine-derived compound to be approved in the United States in December 2004 for the treatment of pain. Then, in October 2007, trabectedin (Yondelis; PharmaMar) became the first marine anticancer drug to be approved in the European Union. Here, we review the history of drug discovery from marine natural products, and by describing selected examples, we examine the factors that contribute to new discoveries and the difficulties associated with translating marine-derived compounds into clinical trials. Providing an outlook into the future, we also examine the advances that may further expand the promise of drugs from the sea.
Effects of alkali treatment on ArF resist process

In ArF (193nm) lithography, severely sloped pattern profiles have been observed particularly in COMA type resists. In using COMA resists that are relatively absorbent, such crude profiles result in obstacles to litho-process reliability and stability. To improve weak profiles, the effects of Alkali Treatment (AT) on the surface of coated ArF resist film are explored because it is expected that Alkali Treatment works as additive quenchers in top area of resist film, and then latent image contrast can be improved consequently. For this experiment, TMAH (2.38wt%) developer was used as alkali solution and two kinds of ArF resist were used with in-house ArF resist (COMA type) and the commercial resist (Acrylate type). An appropriate Alkali Treatment was found to be effective for good profiles without thickness loss in COMA type but not for the Acrylate resist. In this paper, Alkali Treatment effects and process conditions suitable to obtain good patterns as well as considerable process margin (EL, DOF) will be discussed.
Reinvestigation of the toxins from the blue‐green alga, Aphanizomenon flos‐aquae, by a high performance chromatographic method

Abstract Toxic red tides due to blue green alga‐Aphanizomenon flos‐aquae are becomming common occurrence in the lakes of New Hampshire. The toxins from Aphaizomenon flos‐aquae were purified by a high performance chromatographic method. One of the toxins was identified as saxitoxin; the other three gave reactions indicating their structural similarity to toxins isolated from Gonyaulax tamarensis.
Morphology of ventricular arrhythmias in the boxer as measured by 12-lead electrocardiography with pace-mapping comparison.

The QRS amplitude and polarity were determined in 12-lead electrocardiograms recorded from 22 Boxers with ventricular arrhythmias. Eighty-one percent (18/22) of dogs displayed a positive QRS morphology in the caudoventral leads (II, III, and aVF) and 77% (17/22) of dogs displayed a positive QRS morphology in the left precordial leads (V2-V6). In leads I and V1, the polarity of the QRS complex was variable (positive or negative). To determine if these morphologic features were suggestive of ventricular complexes arising from the right or left ventricle, a comparison was made to the QRS complexes in a pace-mapping study performed in 7 healthy mixed-breed dogs. A total of 3 right and 4 left ventricular sites were paced. None of the left ventricular paced sites resulted in a QRS morphology similar to the most common spontaneous ventricular arrhythmia in the Boxers. In contrast, QRS morphology in each of the 3 right ventricular sites was similar to that observed in the Boxers (P < .033). Each of these produced positive deflections in the caudoventral and left precordial leads, but both positive and negative QRS complexes were observed in leads I and V1 only when the right ventricular septum was paced. This finding suggested that the right ventricular septum might be a site of origin for the ventricular rhythm observed in the Boxers because in the Boxers the polarity of leads I and V1 also varied. Pacing the right ventricular outflow tract always resulted in a negative QRS complex in lead 1, whereas pacing the right ventricular apex always resulted in a positive QRS complex in lead I and a negative QRS complex in V1. However, these locations cannot be excluded as possible sites of origin for the spontaneous ventricular arrhythmias in the Boxers because the arrhythmias could be originating from both of these locations. The spontaneous ventricular arrhythmia of the Boxer is most similar to that of paced ventricular rhythms arising from the right ventricle. More precise localization to a region of the right ventricle such as outflow tract, septal, or apical could not be made.
Grand Challenge: Advancing the Treatment of Neurological Disorders by Optimizing Clinical Trials

Clinical trials provide the best evidence for medical decision-making. The methods for clinical trials are rapidly evolving in response to the needs of every field, and clinical trials involving neurological disorders face unique challenges. Trials are generally launched after many years of painstaking preclinical research and meticulous trial planning, and then require enormous efforts for successful execution. Despite increasing subspecialization of neurology, and especially of neurological research, there are undoubtedly issues that are common to all and represent opportunities for sharing strategies and resources. Frontiers in Clinical Trials in Neurology (FCTN) is a new peer-reviewed, open-access journal launched to provide a broad-based forum to address these critical elements: ethical considerations, study design, measurement of functional status, and methods of analysis across the full spectrum of neurological disorders. We challenge our colleagues to ask these and many other questions as they apply specifically to clinical trials in neurology: How can we improve recruitment into clinical trials in neurology? How should cognitively impaired patients be enrolled in trials? Who can consent for patients with acute or chronic impairment? Which patients are the most informative for a trial? Are some too mildly or severely affected? How should we measure success in a neurology trial? How should we analyze it? How should we measure disability in a neurology trial? How should we analyze it? Is there a functional outcome measure that can be applied to most neurological disorders? When are non-randomized trials warranted for neurological disorders? What is a clinically meaningful difference in outcomes for sample size considerations? Will the results of a trial be generalizable? Are these questions approached differently by neurologists of various subspecialties? The results of large randomized clinical trials with prominent positive results will typically be quickly published in the most prominent journals. Neutral and negative trials are frequently published elsewhere and often with substantially longer times until publication. Further, these large trials are usually preceded by decades of smaller pilot, proof-of-concept, surrogate endpoint, and early phase trials, many of which can be hard to find in searchable journal databases if published at all. Detailed protocols of upcoming and ongoing trials also warrant timely publication. FCTN aims to provide a home for trial protocols and results of all types and sizes, with rapid publication and worldwide open access for researchers and clinicians. We therefore further challenge our colleagues to: Promptly publish protocols for clinical trials in neurology. Report results as soon as possible after trial completion. Fully declare both successes and failures in neurology clinical trials. FCTN aims to enrich the development and enhance the dissemination of clinical trials in neurological disorders, and to thereby amplify the best evidence for the treatment of our patients.
Photon-number-resolved detection of photon-subtracted thermal light

We examine the photon statistics of photon-subtracted thermal light with photon-number-resolving detection. We show the photon-number distribution transforming from a Bose-Einstein distribution to a Poisson distribution as the number of subtracted photon increases.
A Decision Science–Informed Approach to Sexual Risk and Nonconsent

Sexual risk reduction programs often assume that adolescents and young women care only about the minimization of their risks when making decisions about sexual encounters. As a result, these programs teach only the most effective strategies to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections or sexual victimization. We propose a translational decision science approach that addresses the other outcomes that adolescents and young women might consider. In this study, young women reported their sexual nonconsent goals in response to hypothetical encounters in which their partner wished to have sex when they did not. We found that young women highly valued communicating their intent clearly as an end in itself, as well as a means to avoid unwanted sex. However, they also cited other, potentially conflicting, goals such as maintaining relationship stability and protecting their partner. These other goals were associated with participants’ self-reported histories of sexual victimization. Young women who had been sexually coerced or raped attached greater importance to protecting their partner's feelings, preserving sexual relationships, and avoiding awkwardness or embarrassment, compared to young women without such experiences. We discuss the implications for creating sexual risk reduction programming relevant to young women with competing sexual nonconsent goals. Clin Trans Sci 2012; Volume 5: 482–485
Mechanomyography and oxygen consumption during incremental cycle ergometry

The purpose of this investigation was to describe and compare the relationships for mechanomyography (MMG) and oxygen consumption rate (V˙O2) versus power output during incremental cycle ergometry. Twenty four adult males [mean (SD) age, 22.1 (2.0) years] volunteered to perform an incremental test to exhaustion on a cycle ergometer. A MMG piezoelectric recording device was placed mid-thigh over the vastus lateralis muscle and V˙O2 was measured using standard open circuit procedures. The r 2 values for the MMG and V˙O2 versus power output relationships ranged from 0.79 to 0.99 and 0.97 to 0.99, respectively. In 20 of the 24 subjects there was no significant (P > 0.10) difference between the slope values for the normalized MMG and V˙O2 (expressed as a percentage of maximal values) versus power output relationships. The results of this study indicate that MMG procedures can be used to quantify muscular activity and monitor changes in exercise intensity during cycle ergometry. Furthermore, the present findings demonstrated a close association between the mechanical (MMG) and metabolic (V˙O2) aspects of muscular contraction during incremental cycle ergometry.
A comparison of population estimation methods: housing unit versus component II, ratio correlation, and administrative records.

Abstract The housing unit (HU) method is often characterized as inferior to other methods for estimating the population of states and local areas. We believe this characterization must be challenged. In this article we evaluate population estimates produced by the housing unit method and by three other commonly used methods: component II, ratio correlation, and administrative records. Basing our analysis on 1980 census data from 67 counties in Florida and testing for precision, bias, and the distribution of errors, we find our application of the HU method performs at least as well as the more highly acclaimed methods of local population estimation.
Inflammation, Pravastatin, and the Risk of Coronary Events After Myocardial Infarction in Patients With Average Cholesterol Levels

Background —We studied whether inflammation after myocardial infarction (MI) is a risk factor for recurrent coronary events and whether randomized treatment with pravastatin reduces that risk. Methods and Results —A nested case-control design was used to compare C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA) levels in prerandomization blood samples from 391 participants in the Cholesterol and Recurrent Events (CARE) trial who subsequently developed recurrent nonfatal MI or a fatal coronary event (cases) and from an equal number of age- and sex-matched participants who remained free of these events during follow-up (control subjects). Overall, CRP and SAA were higher among cases than control subjects (for CRP P =0.05; for SAA P =0.006) such that those with levels in the highest quintile had a relative risk (RR) of recurrent events 75% higher than those with levels in the lowest quintile (for CRP RR=1.77, P =0.02; for SAA RR=1.74, P =0.02). The study group with the highest risk was that with consistent evidence of inflammation (elevation of both CRP and SAA) who were randomly assigned to placebo (RR=2.81, P =0.007); this risk estimate was greater than the product of the individual risks associated with inflammation or placebo assignment alone. In stratified analyses, the association between inflammation and risk was significant among those randomized to placebo (RR=2.11, P =0.048) but was attenuated and nonsignificant among those randomized to pravastatin (RR=1.29, P =0.5). Conclusions —Evidence of inflammation after MI is associated with increased risk of recurrent coronary events. Therapy with pravastatin may decrease this risk, an observation consistent with a nonlipid effect of this agent.
SSRI use and breast cancer risk by hormone receptor status.

Background There is little evidence linking the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) with increased breast cancer risk, but one study has found an association with estrogen receptor negative (ER−) and progesterone receptor negative (PR−) tumors.
Rat glioma cells (C6) cultured in serum-free defined medium.

Abstract Rat glioma C 6 cells were adapted to and maintained in serum-free medium for 11 months. Morphological differentiation with extended dendrite processes was observed. This phenomenon is reversible if serum is re-supplemented and is protein or RNA synthesis dependent. The formed cytoplasmic processes rapidly retract when colchicine or vinblastine sulfate is added. db-cAMP is found able to stimulate the extension of cytoplasmic processes of cells cultured in medium containing serum, but no further stimulation was observed in cells adapted to serum-free medium. The serum-free adapted cells retain the ability to synthesize the acidic S-100 protein and the production rate is 25% higher than the cells cultured in serum-supplemented medium. The serum-free adapted cells have a longer population doubling time but the metaphase chromosomes show the same karyotype and modal number as that of C 6 cells continuously cultured in serum-supplemented medium.
Arthroscopic repair of full-thicknessrotator-cuff tears: surgical technique

The indications and objectives for successful rotator-cuff repair are similar for open, mini-open, and all-arthroscopictechniques. The arthroscope should be considered only as a means to complete this procedure using less-invasive techniques. This technique is constantly evolving.
Growth Rate of Giant Clam Tridacna gigas at Bikini Atoll as Revealed by Radioautography

At Bikini Atoll, radioactivity from strontium-90 deposited in the growing shell of a giant clam, presumably during the testing of nuclear weapons in 1956 and 1958, produced unmistakable lines on radioautographs made from transverse sections of the shell. The regular banding seen in the sections is interpreted as annular in nature. One annulus precedes the 1956 layer of radioactivity, two intervene in 1958, and six follow to the time of collection, so that this clam (length, 52 centimeters) was in its 9th year of life.
Metal Content of Metallo-β-lactamase L1 Is Determined by the Bioavailability of Metal Ions†

In an effort to probe whether the metal content of metallo-beta-lactamase L1 is affected by metal ion bioavailability, L1 was overexpressed as mature protein (M-L1) and full-length (FL-L1) analogues, and the analogues were characterized with metal analyses, kinetics, and EPR spectroscopy. FL-L1, containing the putative leader sequence, was localized in the periplasm of Escherichia coli and shown to bind Zn(II) preferentially. The metal content of FL-L1 could be altered if the enzyme was overexpressed in minimal medium containing Fe and Mn, and surprisingly, an Fe-binding analogue was obtained. On the other hand, M-L1, lacking the putative leader sequence, was localized in the cytoplasm of E. coli and shown to bind various amounts of Fe and Zn(II), and like FL-L1, the metal content of the resulting enzyme could be affected by the amount of metal ions in the growth medium. L1 was refolded in the presence of Fe, and a dinuclear Fe-containing analogue of L1 was obtained, although this analogue is catalytically inactive. EPR spectra demonstrate the presence of an antiferromagnetically coupled Fe(III)Fe(II) center in Fe-containing L1 and suggest the presence of a Fe(III)Zn(II) center in M-L1. Metal analyses on the cytoplasmic and periplasmic fractions of E. coli showed that the concentration of metal ions in the periplasm is not tightly controlled and increases as the concentration of metal ions in the growth medium increases. In contrast, the concentration of Zn(II) in the cytoplasm is tightly controlled while that of Fe is less so.
Accurate and reliable quantification of total microalgal fuel potential as fatty acid methyl esters by in situ transesterification.

In the context of algal biofuels, lipids, or better aliphatic chains of the fatty acids, are perhaps the most important constituents of algal biomass. Accurate quantification of lipids and their respective fuel yield is crucial for comparison of algal strains and growth conditions and for process monitoring. As an alternative to traditional solvent-based lipid extraction procedures, we have developed a robust whole-biomass in situ transesterification procedure for quantification of algal lipids (as fatty acid methyl esters, FAMEs) that (a) can be carried out on a small scale (using 4–7 mg of biomass), (b) is applicable to a range of different species, (c) consists of a single-step reaction, (d) is robust over a range of different temperature and time combinations, and (e) tolerant to at least 50% water in the biomass. Unlike gravimetric lipid quantification, which can over- or underestimate the lipid content, whole biomass transesterification reflects the true potential fuel yield of algal biomass. We report here on the comparison of the yield of FAMEs by using different catalysts and catalyst combinations, with the acid catalyst HCl providing a consistently high level of conversion of fatty acids with a precision of 1.9% relative standard deviation. We investigate the influence of reaction time, temperature, and biomass water content on the measured FAME content and profile for 4 different samples of algae (replete and deplete Chlorella vulgaris, replete Phaeodactylum tricornutum, and replete Nannochloropsis sp.). We conclude by demonstrating a full mass balance closure of all fatty acids around a traditional lipid extraction process.
Inhibition and dispersion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms with reverse amide 2-aminoimidazole oroidin analogues

The marine alkaloid oroidin along with a small library of reverse amide (RA) 2-aminoimidazoles were synthesized and assayed for anti-biofilm activity against PAO1 and PA14, two strains of the medically relevant γ-proteobacteriumPseudomonas aeruginosa. Analogues that contained a long, linear alkyl chain were more potent inhibitors than the natural product at preventing the formation of PAO1 and PA14 biofilms. The most active compound in the series was also shown to disperse established PAO1 and PA14 biofilms at low micromolar concentrations.
Protein arginine methyltransferase I: substrate specificity and role in hnRNP assembly.

Prmt1, the major protein arginine methyltransferase in mammalian cells, has been implicated in signal transduction, transcriptional control, and protein trafficking. In the present study, mouse embryonic stem cells homozygous for an essentially null mutation in the Prmt1 gene were used to examine Prmt1 activity and substrate specificity, which by several criteria appeared to be highly specific. First, other methyltransferases did not substitute for the loss of Prmt1 activity. Second, almost all proteins modified by recombinant Prmt1 in vitro were authentic substrates, i.e., proteins rendered hypomethylated by Prmt1 gene disruption. Finally, Prmt1 did not modify the substrates of other methyltransferases from cells treated with methyltransferase inhibitors. Recombinant proteins corresponding to two splice-variants, Prmt1353 and Prmt1371, methylated different, proteins in vitro, providing the first evidence for functional differences between the two isoforms. However, the differences in substrate specificity were lost by the addition of an N-terminal His6 tag. Loss of Prmt1 activity (and hypomethylation of hnRNPs) has no obvious effect on the formation or composition of hnRNP complexes. Finally, methylation of the most abundant Prmt1 substrates appeared to be extensive and constitutive throughout the cell cycle, suggesting the modification does not modulate protein function under normal growth conditions. J. Cell. Biochem. 87: 394–407, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
De Sitter Fibers and SO(3,2) Spectrum Generating Group for Hadrons

In order to convince you of the relevance of my topic for an Einstein Centennial celebration let me start with a quote.1
The holmium:YAG laserin knee arthroscopy

Abstract The Holmium:YAG (Ho:YAG) laser is effective in the arthroscopic treatment of common knee conditions, includingresection of inaccessible posterior meniscal tears, smoothing irregular chondral disease, and ablation of hypertrophic synovium. Understanding the multiple parameters that influence energy delivery will facilitate appropriate and effective use of the laser. Clinical outcome data does not demonstrate the laser to be superior to mechanical instrumentation. Complications of osteonecrosis and chondral sloughing have been reported after use of the holmium laser, but critical review suggests these may be a consequence of inappropriate surgical technique rather than the laser itself. When used properly, the holmium laser is safe and provides a convenient and multipurpose tool in the arthroscopic treatment of common conditions of the knee.
Environmental Life Cycle Comparison of Algae to Other Bioenergy Feedstocks

Algae are an attractive source of biomass energy since they do not compete with food crops and have higher energy yields per area than terrestrial crops. In spite of these advantages, algae cultivation has not yet been compared with conventional crops from a life cycle perspective. In this work, the impacts associated with algae production were determined using a stochastic life cycle model and compared with switchgrass, canola, and corn farming. The results indicate that these conventional crops have lower environmental impacts than algae in energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and water regardless of cultivation location. Only in total land use and eutrophication potential do algae perform favorably. The large environmental footprint of algae cultivation is driven predominantly by upstream impacts, such as the demand for CO2 and fertilizer. To reduce these impacts, flue gas and, to a greater extent, wastewater could be used to offset most of the environmental burdens associated with algae. To demonstra...
Scattering and plasmon effect of silver nanoparticles in aluminum doped ZnO(AZO)/Si heterojunction solar cell

In this paper we report the effect of scattering and plasmon enhancement on the energy conversion efficiency of silver nanoparticles (nps) incorporated azo/si heterojunction solar cells. The studied solar cell structure consists of a 240 nm of heavily al doped zno (azo) layer with ag nps on an n-type si. Therefore, azo layer is considered as a transparent current spreading layer with enhanced conductivity as well as rectifying junction with a si. Computer simulation using fdtd method was carried out to explore the effect of ag nps at different positions, densities and sizes in an azo layer. Also, the results were compared to the fabricated devices. To analyze the scattering and plasmon resonance effect, the energy distribution and current generation from azo to si layer was calculated in a spectral range of 400 nm to 1100 nm using standard solar spectrum with 100 mw/cm2 of power density. The calculations were performed, introducing three variables, which are 10-150 nm of nanoparticles sizes, 5-45 % of surface loading amount, and 0-100 nm of nanoparticle position from the junction. This study reveals that there is a certain position (20-40 nm from the azo/si junction) of nanoparticles inside the structure where the energy conversion efficiency reaches to its maximum. These results were well matched with the fabricated solar cells using same structures. The best performance of azo /si heterojunction solar cell was shown to have 0.36 v of Voc, 28.3 ma/cm2 of jsc and an efficiency of 5.91 % when the ag np layer were located at 30 nm from the junction. This study will benefit to the design of surface plasmon enhanced solar cell structure using metallic nanoparticles to maximize the surface plasmon effect and to minimize scattering losses.
The study of trace metal absoption using stable isotopes and mass spectrometry

Abstract The absorption and excretion of zinc stable isotopes have been followed in more than 120 human subjects. The isotope enrichment determinations were made using a standard VG 7070E HF mass spectrometer. A fast atom gun (FAB) was used to form the ions from a dry residue on a pure silver probe tip. Isotope ratio measurements were found to have a precision of better than 2% (relative standard deviation) and required a sample size of 1–5 μg. The average true absorption of zinc was found to be 73 ± 12% (2σ) when the metal was taken in a fasting state. This absorption figure was corrected for tracer that had been absorbed and secreted into the gastrointestinal (GI) tract over the time course of the study. The average time for a majority of the stable isotope tracer to pass through the GI tract was 4.7 ± 1.9 (2σ) days.
Phonological Analysis of Four Down's Syndrome Children.

Several studies have reported that the articulatory abilities of Down's syndrome children are poor, but have provided little detail on the nature of the articulation problem. This paper presents a phonological analysis of the spontaneous speech of four Down's syndrome children, ages 3;10–6;3 including a) the phonetic inventory of each subject, b) a comparison of target consonant phonemes and the subjects' renditions of these phonemes, and c) a characterization of the subjects' errors in terms of phonological processes. The findings indicate that 1) although the subjects are capable of producing nearly all the consonant phonemes, correct production is often limited to a particular position within the word, 2) the phonological processes which account for the errors of the Down's syndrome subjects are similar to those reported for young normal children, and 3) the phonological abilities of the four subjects are comparable to, or better than, their general language ability as measured by MLU.
Comparisons at Tide-Gauge Locations of Glacial Isostatic Adjustment Predictions with Global Positioning System Measurements

Abstract Houston, J.R. and Dean, R.G., 2012. Comparisons at tide-gauge locations of glacial isostatic adjustment predictions with global positioning system measurements. Glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) is routinely used to adjust sea-level trends determined from tide-gauge data to improve estimates of worldwide sea-level rise. This adjustment may be appropriate for formerly glaciated high-latitude (referred to as FGHL) areas where vertical land motions due to GIA are large compared with motions produced by other phenomena. However, since GIA is only one component of vertical motion, does adjusting for it outside FGHL areas improve sea-level rise estimates or bias them? We compare global positioning system (GPS) gauge measurements with the vertical land-motion component of GIA predictions at 147 worldwide locations that are near tide gauges and outside FGHL areas and find remarkably little correlation. We analyze the data in several ways to determine the source of the lack of correlation. We also find t...
Shame, consumption, redemption: reflections on a tour of Graceland.

In this auto‐ethnography, the author recounts a day spent at Graceland with other consumer researchers. During the tour, the author attends to a specialized set of details about Graceland Mansion that both reflects and amplifies his interior state. Biographical details of Elvis’s life are attended to in similar fashion, forming a narrative of shame, alienation, and despair. After the tour, the author is prompted to confront details of his own life that may account for this perspective. A chance meeting with a merchant, followed by a deliberate act of consumption, prove liberatory for the author, enabling him to complete an angst‐filled legal assignment, then begin writing this paper.
Influence of form on Tolerance-Map-generated frequency distributions for 1D clearance in design

Abstract Tolerance-maps are used to generate the frequency distribution for 1D clearance between two planar features, one of which is manufactured on a part to given size and form tolerances. A Tolerance-Map (T-Map) [Davidson JK, Shah JJ, Mujezinovic A. Method and apparatus for geometric variations to integrate parametric computer-aided design with tolerance analysis and optimization, US Patent 6,963,824; November 8, 2005] is the range of points resulting from a one-to-one mapping from all the variational possibilities of a perfect-form feature, within its tolerance-zone, to a specially designed Euclidean point-space. A functional T-Map represents both the acceptable range of 1D clearance and the acceptable limits to the 3D variational possibilities of the target face consistent with it. The geometric shapes of the perfect-form feature T-Map, together with subsets of certain perfect-form variations within it, represent all variational possibilities of manufacture of the part. This array of possibilities is combined with the functional T-Map to compute a measure of all variational possibilities that will give each value of clearance. The measures are then arranged as a probability density function over the acceptable range of clearance. In this paper form variations are incorporated as subsets in order to model the coupling between form variations and the allowable range of actual-mating-size, as required by Rule #1 of the ASME Standard. Two distributions for flatness are used as examples to illustrate the influence of form on the frequency distribution for 1D clearance: the uniform distribution and the Gaussian distribution that has been truncated symmetrically to a range of six standard deviations.
The TNF Superfamily-2008.

Cytokines and Growth Factor Reviews Editor John Hiscott requested (in his ever cogent fashion) an update on the TNF Superfamily. The previous CGFR TNF Superfamily special edition in 2003 reflected the meeting held in 2002 in San Diego in which I also served as guest editor [1]. With passage of just five years, we thought the burning questions of the time were addressed, however the 2007 Conference revealed unanticipated features of the TNF Superfamily in all aspects of physiology and development. The knowledge-base of the TNF Superfamily in 2008 is huge, so large that an attempt to comprehensively cover all aspects of the TNF Superfamily in print risks accelerating global warming. The popularity of TNF is unmatched by any other cytokine. Pubmed various cytokines, TNFα comes up as the big hit at 8×104 citations, next in line is IL-2 (4.6×104), IL-1(4.3×104), IFNα (2.7×104) and CD40 drops in at 8×103 citations. In an attempt to cover the breadth of new advances in the field, this special edition of CGFR represents an eclectic ensemble of lectures presented at the meeting. I offered the authors the freedom to expand their lectures to include review the their recent work. Due to the limited format, my deep apologies to the many deserving scientists that I was unable to incorporate into this edition. The portrait of all the ligands and receptors in the TNF Superfamily is large and complicated (Table 1)(see also [2] for binding interactions), yet accessing the structure and genetic features has never been easier due to so many excellent databases, including the official genome nomenclature site (www.genenames.org), which introduced the TNFSF and TNFRSF numbering system. Table 1 The deep penetrance of the TNF Superfamily into many physiological processes [3] brings the realization that pigeonholing any one ligand-receptor pair to a discrete physiologic compartment denies the reality of the functional diversity each ‘system”. Hence, I loosely organized this volume into four themes: i. Regulating differentiation and survival, ii. Organogenesis and regeneration, iii. CoSignaling in homeostasis and Immune responses, and iv. Mechanisms of inflammation and apoptosis.
Intervention program improves literacy skills for students with severe developmental disabilities

Browder, D., Ahlgrim-Delzell, L., Flowers, C., & Baker, J. (2012). An evaluation of a multicomponent early literacy program for students with severe developmental disabilities. Remedial and Special Education, 33, 237–246. Source of funding and disclosure of interest: The authors declared that Browder and Ahlgrim-Delzell authored the ELSB. The study was supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Educational Sciences; the original authors of this research report no conflicts of interest.
Aluminum phosphinate and phosphates of salen ligands.

A new dealkylation reaction between organophosphate esters and Salen aluminum bromide compounds has been used to prepare three new aluminum salen compounds salen(tBu)AlOP(O)Ph2 (1) (salen = N,N‘-ethylenebis(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylideneimine)), [(MeOH)Alsalen(tBu){OMePO2(O)}Alsalen(tBu){OMePO2(O)}Alsalen(tBu)]Br (2), and [salpen(tBu)AlO]2[(BuO)2PO]2 (3) (salpen = N,N‘-propylenebis(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylideneimine)). Compounds 1·MeOH, 2, and 3 were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound 1 is the first example of a monomeric aluminum Schiff base phosphinate. Compound 2 is a cationic Salen aluminum phosphate, and compound 3 contains an aluminophosphate ring. This work is the first example of the intentional use of an aluminum-based dealkylation reaction to form new compounds.
Interleukin-12-induced interferon-γ production by human peripheral blood T cells is regulated by mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)

Depending on the type of external signals, T cells can initiate multiple intracellular signaling pathways that can be broadly classified into two groups based on their sensitivity to the immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A (CsA). Interleukin (IL)-12-mediated interferon (IFN)-γ production by activated T cells has been shown to be CsA-insensitive. In this report, we demonstrate that the IL-12-induced CsA-resistant pathway of IFN-γ production is sensitive to rapamycin. Rapamycin treatment resulted in the aberrant recruitment of Stat3, Stat4, and phospho-c-Jun to the genomic promoter region resulting in decreased IFN-γ transcription. IL-12-induced phosphorylation of Stat3 on Ser-727 was affected by rapamycin, which may be due to the effect of rapamycin on the IL-12-induced interaction between mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and Stat3. In accordance with this, reduction in the mTOR protein level by small interfering RNA resulted in suppression of Stat3 phosphorylation and decreased production of IFN-γ after IL-12 stimulation. These results suggest that mTOR may play a major role in IL-12-induced IFN-γ production by activated T cells.
The development of new titanium arc-sprayed artificial joints

Abstract The authors developed the new method of titanium porous coating onto Ti-6Al-4V and the coating layers and the substrates were evaluated in this study. The new method is inert gas-shielded arc spraying (ISAS), operated in an inert gas stream at atmospheric pressure, and the coatings showed far fewer voids and cracks in the layers and interfacial areas between the layer and the substrate compared with low-pressure plasma spray (LPPS) coatings commercially available currently. Wear of ISAS coatings by the blast erosion test was one sixth that of LPPS coatings, so the bonding strength between titanium porous particles is six times higher for ISAS coatings than for LPPS. The temperature of the heat treatment after ISAS coating process is 650 °C, which is below the beta transus and far lower than that of beads or wire mesh coatings, and the fatigue strength of the substrates is 38.2% relative to uncoated materials. Chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that very few titanium reactants with oxygen and nitrogen were produced during the ISAS coating process. The new method of HA flame spray coating onto the surface of the ISAS coating (HA/ISAS) was also developed in this study. Animal experiments showed that the interfacial shear strength with surrounding bone was higher for the ISAS and HA/ISAS coatings than for the control smooth surface. From the histological findings, sound new bone formation was recognized around the HA/ISAS coatings at an early stage compared with ISAS coatings. The results indicate that ISAS and HA/ISAS coatings can be successfully used clinically for cementless joint replacements, and HA/ISAS coatings are expected to contribute more satisfactory clinical results in the long term.
VOLUME EXPANSION INCREASES CARDIAC OUTPUT (CO) BUT NOT OXYGEN DELIVERY (QO 2 ) IN PIGLETS

Piglets (1-3 wks; n=12) were anaesthetized, intubated, and ventilated. Blood pressure (BP), pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), left atrial pressure (LAP), central venous pressure (CVP), and CO were measured directly. Arterial and mixed venous (PA) blood samples were obtained to determine QO2, O2 consumption (VO2), and O2 extraction. Six piglets (GENT) received 6% Gentran/0.9% NaCl to elevate LAP from approximately 5 to 15 mm Pig over 30 minutes. Six additional piglets (SAL) received 0.9% NaCl for 30 minutes. Cardiac index (CI) rose during GENT in each piglet, reaching a plateau (+54.2 +/- 38.5 (S.D.) cc/kg/min; p .01) at LAP between 12 - 15 mm Hg. CI fell at the highest LAP reading in 4/6 piglets. GENT raised LAP, PAP, and CVP equivalently (7.3 +/- 1-4, 7.2 +/- 2.6, 5.6 +/- 1.2 mm Hg; all p.01 vs SAL), but had no effect on BP or HR. Hb fell during GENT from 10.4 +/- 1.8 to 7.4 +/- 1.9 gm/dl (p .01) so that QO2 was not enhanced after GENT (17.6 +/- 1.5 vs 17.9 +/- 2.3 cc O2/kg/min) despite the rise in CO. VO2, O2 extraction, pH, and base excess did not change after GENT. Conclusions: 1. CO consistently rises with increased LAP from 5-12 mm Hg. At higher LAP, CO may fall. 2. QO2 does not rise and O2 extraction does not fall during GENT, as increased CO is opposed by hemodilution, 3. To the extent that improved QO2, not CO, is the endpoint of hemodynamic resuscitation, volume infusion without concurrent blood transfusion may be of little benefit.
How to Read the Statistical Methods Literature: A Guide for Students

Abstract Statistical methods papers are densely written. The writers assume that the readers already have sophisticated knowledge of the topic. In addition, a standard statistical notation has not been developed. Students who learn a technique in one notation may be confused when reading articles written with a different notation. This paper contains suggestions for making the student's task easier and more productive.
Aggressive pediatric meningioma with soft tissue and lymph node metastases: a case report

Metastatic meningioma is extremely rare, occurring in an estimated 0.1% of cases. We report a case of pediatric meningioma metastatic to cervical soft tissue and lymph nodes. An 8-year-old boy presented with headaches, dizziness, and involuntary eye flickering. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a 7.5-cm parasagittal, dural-based mass with venous sinus encasement. Therapeutic embolization was followed by bilateral craniotomy, achieving subtotal resection. Histopathologic examination revealed an atypical meningioma with regions of hypercellularity, small cell morphology, sheeting architecture, increased mitoses, and brain invasion. Surveillance MRI studies showed growth of residual tumor and enlarging cervical soft tissue masses with posterior triangle lymphadenopathy. Radiation and surgical resection were employed for the intracranial tumor burden; resection of the soft tissue masses revealed metastatic meningioma, with soft tissue infiltration and metastasis to 8 lymph nodes. This case demonstrates the aggressive biologic potential of pediatric meningiomas, with potential for distant spread via cerebrospinal fluid leakage and lymphatic invasion.