cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of Harvesting Age and Season on Digestibility and Chemical Composition of Pelleted Coastal Bermudagrass

Abstract Coastal Bermudagrass was harvested at either 3-, 5-, or 7-wk frequencies throughout the season, dehydrated and pelleted. It was fertilized with 400lb of N per acre in split applications. In the total fertilizer applied, the ratio of N, P 2 O 5 , and K 2 O was 4:1:2. Total collection digestion trials were conducted with Holstein bull calves. Digestibility of all components decreased as the age of the grass at harvest increased. In excess of 95% of the variation associated with forage age was attributed to the linear effect for dry matter, energy, organic matter, crude fiber, crude protein, ash, and NFE. Average digestibilities for forages harvested at 3-, 5-, and 7-wk frequencies were organic matter, 66.0, 60.7, and 56.8; dry matter, 65.9, 60.7, and 56.6; protein, 67.0, 58.8, and 51.7; crude fiber, 66.2, 59.1, and 54.2; and NFE, 65.3, 61.7, and 59.2. Correspondingly, calculated estimated net energy values were: 59.2, 51.2, and 45.0 therms per 100lb. As forage age at harvest increased, the protein content declined substantially, but there was only a moderate increase in crude fiber. There was a tendency for crude fiber levels to be highest in mid-season. On a within-harvesting frequency basis, nylon bag dry matter disappearance determined in fistulated steers tended to be lowest in the middle of the season. The 3-, 5-, and 7-wk forages contained the following percentages on a dry basis: protein, 15.3, 11.8, and 10.8, and crude fiber, 28.0, 30.2, and 30.9.
A limited survey of retail apple and grape juices for the mycotoxin patulin

A retail survey (38 samples) of apple, grape and other juice‐based products for the mycotoxin patulin has been carried out using HPLC analysis. Positive results were confirmed by GC‐MS of the TMS derivative using chemical ionization selected ion monitoring. No grape juice or mixed juice product contained detectable patulin (limit 5 μg/1), nor did the majority (58%) of the apple juices. Low levels of patulin (in the range 5–10 μg/l) were present in six apple juices and the remaining four positive samples contained 16, 18, 30 and 56 μg/1.
Inhibition of proliferation and migration of stricture fibroblasts by epithelial cell-conditioned media.

Introduction: Urethral stricture is characterized by urethral lumen narrowing due to fibrosis. Urethroplasty of the urethral stricture involves excision of scar, and may be followed by reconstruction of the urethra using split-thickness skin, buccal mucosa, urethral mucosa or, more recently, tissue-engineered grafts. The stricture wound healing process after urethroplasty is known to be mediated by an interaction between keratinocyte and fibroblasts; however, the underlying mechanisms are not studied in detail yet. We investigated the influence of epithelial cell-conditioned medium (ECCM) (obtained from confluent penile skin, buccal mucosa and urethral cell cultures) on the proliferation and migration of stricture fibroblasts using an in vitro scratch assay. Materials and Methods: ECCM was collected from confluent primary epithelial cell cultures of three different human biopsies (penile skin, buccal mucosa and urethral mucosa), whereas stricture fibroblasts were isolated from human urethral stricture biopsies. The effect of ECCM on stricture fibroblasts' proliferation and migration into the scratch was observed using a standard in vitro scratch assay over a period of 3 days. Four experiments were performed independently using four stricture fibroblasts from four patients and ECCM was collected from 12 different patients' primary cell cultures. Results: ECCM from primary epithelial cells cultures obtained from penile skin, buccal mucosa and urethra inhibited stricture fibroblasts' proliferation and migration in the in vitro scratch assay. Conclusion: These results demonstrate the ability of ECCM to inhibit the proliferation and migration of stricture fibroblasts and present it as an effective adjunct in urethroplasty, which may influence stricture wound healing and inhibit the recurrence of stricture.
Increased methylation of lung cancer-associated genes in sputum DNA of former smokers with chronic mucous hypersecretion

Background Chronic mucous hypersecretion (CMH) contributes to COPD exacerbations and increased risk for lung cancer. Because methylation of gene promoters in sputum has been shown to be associated with lung cancer risk, we tested whether such methylation was more common in persons with CMH.
Identification of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Medically Underserved Regions of South America and Vietnam

acute pain was felt most frequently in the lower back (225 [47%]), and the upper back (253 [46.6%]) was the most frequent site of chronic pain. Associations were found between sex and chronic pain, with women reporting more chronic pain than men in the shoulder (17 [53%] vs 15 [47%], respectively), upper back (85 [79%] vs 22 [21%]), hand/wrist (153 [85%] vs 52 [15%]), and knee (40 [80%] vs 7 [20%]). Men reported more acute knee pain than women (73 [48%] vs 148 [38%], respectively). For patients in both samples, acute pain was associated with chronic pain in the same location for all body parts (P<.01).
The Iron Bird for the Fairchild-Dornier 728

Abstract A full size representative system integration test rig (Iron Bird) for the Fairchild-Dornier 728 regional jet has been designed and built. The 728 is a full fly-by-wire aircraft without mechanical back-up and is the benchmark for system integration in its class. The primary focus of Iron Bird testing is on flight controls, landing gear and hydraulics; other aircraft systems are installed for support. To reproduce in-flight aerodynamic loads, a hydraulically powered computer-controlled loading system is employed. The rig is not only used to minimize the development risk by testing fully integrated systems well in advance of the first test aircraft, as in previous programs, but also to unload ground and flight testing to the greatest extent possible as well as to conduct certification testing. A description of the Iron Bird structure and the aircraft systems' integration into the rig is given. An overview is provided of the rig's mechanical and electrical design as well as of its control and data acquisition system. The Iron Bird's capability to run in a closed loop configuration with the Engineering Simulator is highlighted. The main test targets are pointed out and results to date are presented. An outlook with respect to possible future testing and the extension of the capabilities of the Iron Bird facility is provided.
Visual evaluation using microcomputer-based imaging technology

Abstract Microcomputer-based imaging technology reestablishes the direct link between evaluation and environmental design by allowing evaluators and urban designers to visually explore and prospectively evaluate alternative simulations of design proposals. This article describes the microcomputer hardware and software used to create simulations and how these simulations are being used in planning education at the author's university. Imaging technology is presented as a useful and promising addition to the existing repertory of evaluation techniques.
Satellite DNA sequences and reproductive isolation in the Drosophila willistoni group.

Satellite DNAs of theDrosophila willistoni group have been analyzed by Hae III endonuclease digestion. Differences were observed between the 2 speciesD. willistoni andD. paulistorum and also between semispecies ofD. paulistorum and, to a lesser extent, between subspecies ofD. willistoni. Differences did not appear to be consistently greater between strains producing sterile hybrid males than between those producing fertile hybrids.
Role of inhaler competence and contrivance in "difficult asthma".

Abstract Failure to deliver drug effectively to the lungs is a common cause of referrals with “difficult asthma”. This may be due to poor regime compliance or poor device compliance (lack of competence and/or contrivance). The former is the more difficult to address. The latter can be addressed providing the healthcare professional is aware of the principles underlying aerosol delivery and aspects of patient behaviour. Unlike the gastrointestinal tract, the airways have evolved to exclude foreign material. A narrow window of opportunity exists with particles in the size range 1–7 μm having a relatively high probability of depositing within the airways once inhaled. Current delivery systems are able to generate particles in this size range but they all have associated problems that may significantly impair the effectiveness of drug delivery to the lungs. While there is little evidence that compliance with inhaled therapy is significantly worse than with oral therapy, there is evidence that lack of competence (the inability to use a device effectively) or contrivance (knowing how to use a device effectively but contriving to use it ineffectively) are major additional impediments to effective therapy. Ensuring that the delivery system is acceptable to the patient is particularly important in the very young. The device chosen with a patient should be one that can and will be used effectively. For inhaled steroids, the choice of device/drug combination should be limited to those with a good therapeutic index (i.e. the majority of any systemic exposure should result from the lung dose). The best guide to determining the appropriate dose of inhaled steroid is to use the lowest effective dose.
genecap: a program for analysis of multilocus genotype data for non‐invasive sampling and capture‐recapture population estimation

We created genecap to facilitate analysis of multilocus genotype data for use in non-invasive DNA sampling and genetic capture-recapture studies. genecap is a Microsoft excel macro that uses multilocus genetic data to match samples with identical genotypes, calculate frequency of alleles, identify sample genotypes that differ by one and two alleles, calculate probabilities of identity, and match probabilities for matching samples. genecap allows the user to include background data and samples with missing genotypes for multiple loci. Capture histories for each user-defined sampling period are output in formats consistent with commonly employed population estimation programs.
Program evaluation in science education: The model perspective

This chapter describes a comprehensive model for the evaluation of science education programs that was developed from existing models. Observations are also provided regarding the role of evaluation models in the reform of science education.
Suffering and Faith

It is hypothesized that, under the impact of suffering or loss, some Christians not only grieve for what has been lost but also experience feelings of separation from their God and mourn that loss also. This "spiritual mourning" may take different forms and may lead to different outcomes in ways more or less analogous to those described for mourning and variants thereof by various workers. Drawing upon such work, the author describes certain possible forms of "spiritual mourning."
Micromechanics Modeling of Fracture in Nanocrystalline Metals

Nanocrystalline metals have very high theoretical strength, but suffer from a lack of ductility and toughness. Therefore, it is critical to understand the mechanisms of deformation and fracture of these materials before their full potential can be achieved. Because classical fracture mechanics is based on the comparison of computed fracture parameters, such as stress intlmsity factors, to their empirically determined critical values, it does not adequately describe the fundamental physics of fracture required to predict the behavior of nanocrystalline metals. Thus, micromechanics-based techniques must be considered to quanti@ the physical processes of deformation and fracture within nanocrystalline metals. This paper discusses hndamental physicsbased modeling strategies that may be useful for the prediction Iof deformation, crack formation and crack growth within nanocrystalline metals.
Sexual Attitudes of Males and Females as Predictors of Interpersonal Attraction and Marital Compatibility1

Two investigations examine the effect of similarity of sexual attitudes on (a) attraction to a stranger and (b) marital sexual satisfaction. In an experiment using undergraduates, manipulation of subject-stranger similarity in general affective orientation to sexuality affected attraction and other evaluative dependent variables. In the second investigation, married couples revealed sexual attitudes and sexual satisfaction. Husbands and wives were similar (r= 0.58, p < 0.001) in their affective orientations to sexuality. Discrepancy between the partners’ scores predicted sexual dissatisfaction in both partners. In addition, the wife's affective orientation to sexuality predicted more indices of sexual satisfaction and adjustment in both the wife and the husband than did the husband's affective orientation to sexuality. Finally, spouses with a positive affective orientation to sexuality were more accurate when judging their partner's sexual enjoyment, compared to spouses with a negative orientation. The findings have implications for the effects of similarity of attitudes on interpersonal attraction and on relationship quality.
Black Studies in the Third Millennium: Reflections on Six Ideas That Can Still (and Must) Change the World.

(2000). Black studies in the third millennium: Reflections on six ideas that can still (and must) change the World. Souls: Vol. 2, No. 3, pp. 77-90.
Flow triggering added to pressure support ventilation improves comfort and reduces work of breathing in mechanically ventilated patients.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to measure the effect of flow triggering (FT), added to pressure support ventilation (PSV), during spontaneous breathing in intubated patients. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at a Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Hospital. Fourteen consecutive critically ill, mechanically ventilated patients on PSV with positive end-expiratory pressure were studied. Flow triggering was added to PSV in spontaneously breathing ventilated patients. Results: Respiratory rate (f), minute ventilation (Ve), patient work of breathing (WOBp), respiratory drive (P0.1), rapid shallow breathing index (f/Vt), tidal volume (Vt) and a visual analog scale of breathing effort and comfort all improved. There was a large decrease in WOBp, and P0.1, when flow triggering was added to PSV (P < .001). There was a moderate decrease in f/Vt during the same procedure (P < .01). Twelve patients felt subjectively better with the intervention. Conclusions: Flow triggering offers an excellent complement to PSV because it improves patient comfort and reduces the magnitude of the inspiratory effort as well as the delay time between inspiratory muscle contraction and gas flow. It augments gas exchange at no metabolic cost to the patient while reducing the work of breathing.
HSP70 Genes and Historecognition in Botryllus schlosseri: Implications for MHC Evolution

The colonial protochordate Botryllus schlosseri possesses a historecognition system which has long invited comparison to the vertebrate MHC. Upon contact, colonies either fuse or reject one another in a manner resembling graft acceptance or rejection in vertebrates. This response is controlled by a single highly polymorphic genetic region, the FuHC locus. Colonial protochordates such as B. schlosseri are among the closest relatives of the vertebrate lineage, and therefore may possess a recognizable MHC homologue. Since linkage between heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) genes and MHC appears to be conserved within the vertebrate lineage, we have analyzed HSP70 genes from B. schlosseri as a first step toward isolating the historecognition locus. Two HSP70 genes (HSP70.1 and HSP70.2) have been cloned and sequenced, and exhibit 93.6% sequence identity within the predicted coding regions. The B. schlosseri genes share a number of characteristics with vertebrate MHC-linked HSP70 genes: Northern blotting and sequence analysis suggest that the protochordate genes are cytoplasmically-expressed heat-inducible members of the HSP70 gene family (FAGAN and WEISSMAN 1996). However, unlike vertebrate MHC-linked HSP70 genes, HSP70.1 and HSP70.2 are not closely linked (FAGAN and WEISSMAN 1997). Furthermore, neither is closely linked to the locus determining historecognition (FAGAN and WEISSMAN 1997). These results do not support the hypothesis that the B. schlosseri FuHC locus is an MHC homolog. A discussion of the implications of these results for evolution of the vertebrate MHC is included.
Energy Transfer between Tryptophan and Chlorophyll a of Peridinin-Chlorophyll a-Protein

Summary Fluorescence lifetimes of tryptophan residues and chlorophyll a in peridinin-chlorophyll a -protein of Glenodinium sp. have been determined. The fluorescence lifetime of tryptophan residues (excitation at 292 nm) was 3.72 ns (emission monitored at 360 nm) whereas for chlorophyll a (excitation at 610 nm), it was 5.28 ns (emission at 690 nm). The sensitized fluorescence lifetime of chlorophyll a (excitation at 292 nm and emission at 690 nm) was 5.32 ns which was similar to the fluorescence lifetime of chlorophyll a with excitation at 610 nm. Furthermore, intensity of the sensitized chlorophyll a fluorescence was considerably higher than the fluorescence intensity of the tryptophan fluorescence monitored at 360 nm. The results indicate that an efficient energy transfer occurs from tryptophan residues to the chlorophyll a molecule of peridinin-chlorophyll a -protein.
Nonlinear simulations of solar rotation effects in supergranules

Nonlinear calculations for the three-dimensional and time dependent convective flow in a plane parallel layer of fluid are carried out with parameter values appropriate for supergranules on the Sun. A rotation vector is used which is tilted from the vertical to represent various latitudes. For the incompressible fluid used in this model the solar rotation produces turning motions sufficient to completely twist a fluid column in about one day. It is suggested that this effect will be greatly enhanced in a compressible fluid. The tilted rotation vector produces anisotropies and systematic Reynolds stresses which drive mean flows. The resulting flows produce a rotation rate which increases inward and a meridional circulation with poleward flow along the outer surface.
Expression of squid iridescence depends on environmental luminance and peripheral ganglion control

Squid display impressive changes in body coloration that are afforded by two types of dynamic skin elements: structural iridophores (which produce iridescence) and pigmented chromatophores. Both color elements are neurally controlled, but nothing is known about the iridescence circuit, or the environmental cues, that elicit iridescence expression. To tackle this knowledge gap, we performed denervation, electrical stimulation and behavioral experiments using the long-fin squid, Doryteuthis pealeii. We show that while the pigmentary and iridescence circuits originate in the brain, they are wired differently in the periphery: (1) the iridescence signals are routed through a peripheral center called the stellate ganglion and (2) the iridescence motor neurons likely originate within this ganglion (as revealed by nerve fluorescence dye fills). Cutting the inputs to the stellate ganglion that descend from the brain shifts highly reflective iridophores into a transparent state. Taken together, these findings suggest that although brain commands are necessary for expression of iridescence, integration with peripheral information in the stellate ganglion could modulate the final output. We also demonstrate that squid change their iridescence brightness in response to environmental luminance; such changes are robust but slow (minutes to hours). The squid's ability to alter its iridescence levels may improve camouflage under different lighting intensities.
Obesity and the relationship between pre-hypertension and chronic kidney disease: can we really isolate the effect of pre-hypertension?

To the Editor: We read with interest the article by Yano et al.1 entitled ‘Association between prehypertension and chronic kidney disease in the Japanese general population.’ We commend the authors on taking advantage of a large, unique data set to highlight this putative risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD); the study has important public health implications because of the pervasive and increasing presence of pre-hypertension with high-normal blood pressure (BP) (systolic BP between 130–139 mm Hg or diastolic BP between 85–90 mm Hg). However, the study provides only weak evidence that pre-hypertension with high-normal BP is an independent risk factor for CKD. The authors found a statistically significant association between pre-hypertension with high-normal BP and CKD in men only. The association was small in size (odds ratio: 1.11 (95% confidence interval: 1.05–1.17), Table 3). It is unclear whether this small association is clinically significant; trivial effects may achieve statistical significance when sample sizes are large,2 as in this study. Furthermore, the small association could be explained by residual confounding.3 The study collected data on height and weight, but not on waist circumference. Thus, the authors adjusted for obesity defined as body mass index ≥25cm2, but this is an imperfect measure of obesity and may not reflect central obesity, which better predicts the adverse metabolic impact of visceral fat.4 Had the authors adjusted for central obesity, the relationship between prehypertension and CKD in men may have been completely null.
Template-directed synthesis of a small molecule-antisense conjugate targeting an mRNA structure.

The targeting of structural features in mRNA with specificity remains a great chemical challenge. A hairpin structure near exon 10 in the pre-mRNA encoding the tau protein controls its splicing, and dementia-causing mutations that disrupt this structure increase exon 10 splicing. We previously reported the discovery of small molecules, mitoxantrone (MTX) and analogs, which bind to the tau RNA hairpin structure and the design of bipartite antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that simultaneously bind to the discontinuous sequences that flank this hairpin. Herein we report the synthesis of a bipartite ASO conjugated to MTX using the tau RNA hairpin and flanking sequences as a template. A set of six MTX analogs, each containing a linker-azide, and a set of ten bipartite ASOs, each containing a branched linker-alkyne, were synthesized and tested in combinatorial fashion for their ability to conjugate in the presence or absence of template RNA. A single template-dependent MTX–ASO conjugate was identified from among the 60 reaction mixtures, demonstrating that the MTX and ASO precursors could simultaneously bind the RNA template and allow proper positioning of azide and alkyne for 1,3-cycloaddition. While the MTX–ASO conjugate proved too cytotoxic for cell-based assays, the conjugate inhibited tau exon 10 splicing under cell-free conditions more effectively than MTX or bipartite ASO alone.
The space between: globalization, liminal spaces and personal relations in rural Costa Rica

Globalization facilitates the movement of people, goods, ideologies and even diseases across borders and into local communities. This article explores the liminal space created by tourism in the rural Costa Rican community of Monteverde as a site where the movement of people, especially Western women (women from the global North), intersects, contests and even reinforces existing heteropatriarchal ideologies. Theories from feminist geography and anthropology provide a lens for understanding and interpreting how Western women and local residents (both male and female) perceive, construct and interact with each other. We argue that ‘liminality’ or the sense of being ‘betwixt and between’ – physically, socially and ideologically – allows Western women a space to both challenge the hegemony of heteropatriarchal ideology and reconstitute it in their sexual relationships with local men. We also explore the implications that sexual relationships between Western women and local men have for local women. We stress...
Synthesis of malondialdehyde-1-2H and malondialdehyde-1,3-2H2

Two synthetic routes for deuterium labelling of 1,1,3,3-tetraethoxypropane, the precursor of the ubiquitous natural compound malondialdehyde, are described. In one scheme, deuterium is incorporated in ethyl vinyl ether by metalation with t-butyllithium followed by quenching with 2H2O. The conversion of the deuterated ether to monodeuterated tetraethoxypropane, however, proceeds with an overall yield of only ˜5%. As an alternative route, we have metalated the bis-1,3-propylene dithioacetal of malondialdehyde which undergoes excellent deuterium incorporation (92%). In addition, the latter method allows isotopic labelling of either one or two deuterium(s) /molecule. Hydrolysis of the deuterated dithioacetal to the corresponding tetraethoxypropane can be best effected by refluxing with HgO(red) /HgCl2/BF3. etherate in the presence of CH(OC2H5)3/C2H5OH. The overall yield of the method is 48%.
Domain Regularity and Semigroup Commutation Relations

In the present Chapter, we obtain several generalizations of a classical commutation relation from the theory of matrix Lie algebras and Lie groups, often called the adjoint representation identity. Specifically, if A and B are operators on a finite-dimensional space E, this relation takes the form $$ \begin{gathered} \exp (tA)B \exp ( - tA) = \exp (t adA)(B) \hfill \\ = \sum {\left\{ {{t^{k}}/k!{{(ad A)}^{k}}(B):O \leqslant k < \infty } \right\}} \hfill \\ \end{gathered} $$ (1) where ad A(C) = AC - CA. Here, we shall primarily be concerned with extensions of (l) to cases where A and B are linear endomorphisms of infinite-dimensional spaces E∞ or D for which the exponentials in (l) can still be interpreted reasonably in terms of other endomorphisms of these spaces. As is well-known (and essentially recapitulated in Chapter 2), the standard matrix arguments using rearrangements of power series apply equally well to bounded Banach space operators A, B.
Phase Separation in Multiple ZnO/Cubic- MgxZn1−xO Superlattice Heterostructures Observed Via High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy

We have synthesized ZnMgO alloy of wurtzite (Mg content equals to 0.0=0.34) and cubic (Zn content equals to 0.0- 0.18) phases using nonequilibrium pulsed laser deposition method. Epitaxial films of ZnMgO wurtzite structure have been grown on (0001) sapphire substrates. Using JEOL-2010 field-emission transmission electron microscope equipped with STEM and Gatan image filter, we can perform atomic structure, STEM-Z, electron energy loss spectroscopy and imaging simultaneously. Such studies on the ZnO/MgZnO superlattices provide first direct evidence of phase-separation in the range 3 nm.
Localization of the guinea pig eosinophil major basic protein to the core of the granule

The localization of the guinea pig eosinophil major basic protein (MBP) within the cell was investigated by the use of immunoelectron microscopy and by isolation of the granule crystalloids. First, by immunoperoxidase electron microscopy, we found that the MBP of eosinophil granules is contained within the crystalloid core of the granule. Specific staining of cores was present when rabbit antiserum to MBP was used as the first stage antibody in a double antibody staining procedure, whereas staining was not seen when normal rabbit serum was used as the first stage antibody. Second, crystalloids were isolated from eosinophil granules by disruption in 0.1% Triton X-100 and centrifugation through a cushion of 50% sucrose. Highly purified core preparations yielded essentially a single band when analyzed by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels containing 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). The E1%1cm of the core protein was 26.8 +/- 1.0 (X +/- SEM); the E1%1cm for the MBP was 26.3. The core protein could not be distinguished from the MBP by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and essentially all of the protein in the core preparations could be accounted for as MBP. The results indicate that the MBP is contained in the core of the guinea pig eosinophil granule and that it is probably the only protein present in the core.
Cautions in using the child behavior checklist: Observations based on research about children with a chronic illness

The Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the related instruments, the Teacher's Report Form (TRF) and Youth Self-Report (YSR), are frequently used in research assessing the behavioral adjustment of children. This paper describes some issues relevant to children with a chronic physical illness that should be considered when using these instruments. Salient problems include (a) possible bias in interpreting data concerning physical symptoms; (b) limited sensitivity to identify mild adjustment problems of the sort most often encountered in children with chronic physical illnesses; and (c) incomplete and potentially misleading assessment of social competence. When using these instruments investigators should also be aware of several general methodologic issues before collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data regarding children with chronic illnesses.
Biomedical applications and Rayleigh microwave diagnostic of atmospheric plasma jet

Parameters of helium atmospheric plasma jet are measured by means of Rayleigh microwave scattering, fast photographing and measuring of jet currents. The absolute values of plasma density are determined from amplitude of output signal from microwave detecting system, visual observations of plasma jet size and proportionality coefficient determined using the calibration procedure accomplished using Rayleigh scatterers with known electrical properties. The scattering pattern from plasma jet was shown to be isotropic in plane perpendicular to jet direction indicating that plasma scatterer was close to Rayleigh regime. Streamer ("plasma bullet") propagating along with gas flow is generated immediately after the breakdown of the interelectrode gap. The post-streamer plasma column was detected on the way of streamer passing with plasma densities higher than 1013 cm-3 and decay times about 3-5 us.
Two ribbon synaptic units in rod photoreceptors of macaque, human, and cat

The rod photoreceptor's synaptic terminal (or spherule) uses an elaborate synaptic structure to signal absorption of one or more photons to its postsynaptic targets. This structure includes one or two synaptic ribbons inside the terminal and a pouch-like "invagination" outside the terminal, into which enter a widely variable number of incoming fibers and postsynaptic targets-central elements supplied by rod bipolar cells and lateral elements supplied by horizontal cells. Nonetheless, our three-dimensional reconstructions of this synaptic structure in foveal retina of macaque monkey and peripheral retina of human and cat reveal several features that are highly conserved across species and with eccentricity: 1). every spherule has one invagination; 2). with rare exceptions, every spherule has two ribbon synaptic units with these features: a). on the presynaptic side, each ribbon synaptic unit has a ribbon or part of a ribbon and one trough-shaped arciform density that demarcates its active zone; b). on the postsynaptic side, each ribbon synaptic unit has two apposed lateral elements and one or more central elements; 3). the volume of the extracellular space in the single invagination is small, approximately 0.1 microm(3); and 4). the largest distance from active zone to receptor regions on bipolar cells is small, less than approximately 1.5 microm. With such small dimensions, release of one quantum of transmitter can pulse glutamate to a concentration comparable to the EC(50) of the metabotropic glutamate receptors on the central elements associated with both synaptic units. We speculate that two ribbon synaptic units are required to sustain the high quantal release rate needed to signal a single photon.
Infection-Induced Marginal Zone B Cell Production of Borrelia hermsii-Specific Antibody Is Impaired in the Absence of CD1d

Ab that arise in the absence of T cell help are a critical host defense against infection with the spirochetes Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia hermsii. We have previously shown that CD1d-deficient (CD1d(-/-)) mice have impaired resistance to infection with B. burgdorferi. In mice, CD1d expression is highest on marginal zone B (MZB) cells, which produce Ab to blood-borne Ag. In this study we examined MZB cell activation and Ab production in mice infected with B. hermsii, which achieve high levels of bacteremia. We show by flow cytometry that MZB cells associate with B. hermsii and up-regulate the activation markers syndecan I and B7.1 within 16 h of infection. By 24 h, MZB cells secrete B. hermsii-specific IgM, coinciding with the loss of activation marker expression and the reduction in spirochete burden. In contrast, MZB cells from CD1d(-/-) mice remain activated for at least 96 h of infection, but produce only minimal B. hermsii-specific IgM in vivo and ex vivo; pathogen burden in the blood also remains elevated. Wild-type mice depleted of MZB cells using mAb to LFA-1 and alpha(4)beta(1) integrin have reduced serum levels of B. hermsii-specific IgM and increased pathogen burden, similar to B. hermsii-infected CD1d(-/-) mice. Passive transfer of immune mouse serum, but not naive mouse serum, into infected CD1d(-/-) mice leads to down-regulation of activation markers and clearance of B. hermsii from the MZB cells. These results demonstrate that blood-borne spirochetes activate MZB cells to produce pathogen-specific IgM and reveal a role for CD1d in this process.
A Brillouin smart FRP material and a strain data post processing software for structural health monitoring through laboratory testing and field application on a highway bridge

Strain and temperature sensing obtained through frequency shift evaluation of Brillouin scattered light is a technology that seems extremely promising for Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). Due to the intrinsic distributed sensing capability, Brillouin can measure the deformation of any individual segment of huge lengths of inexpensive single-mode fiber. In addition, Brillouin retains other typical advantages of Fiber Optic Sensors (FOS), such as harsh environment durability and interference rejection. Despite these advantages, the diffusion of Brillouin for SHM is constrained by different factors, such as the high equipment cost, the commercial unavailability of specific SHM oriented fiber products and even some prejudices on the required sensitivity performances. In the present work, a complete SHM pilot application was developed, installed and successfully operated during a diagnostic load test on the High Performance Steel (HPS) bridge A6358 located at the Lake of the Ozarks (Miller County, MO, USA). Four out of five girders were extensively instrumented with a “smart” Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) tape having embedded fibers for strain sensing and thermal compensation. Data collected during a diagnostic load test were elaborated through a specific post-processing software, and the strain profiles retrieved were compared to traditional strain gauges and theoretical results based on the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications for structural assessment purposes. The excellent results obtained confirm the effectiveness of Brillouin SHM systems for the monitoring of real applications.
Modeled performance of polycrystalline thin‐film tandem solar cells

The optimum bandgaps for two-terminal monolithic multijunction devices have typically been studied under a fixed set of environmental conditions, using ideal device models. This study examines the effects of a realistic dark-current for typical state-of-the-art thin-film polycrystalline cells on the optimum energy gap for a series-connected two-junction cell. The optimum energy gaps are compared for a series-connected tandem cell under standard reference conditions and the energy produced for five different reference days where the temperature, spectral irradiance and total irradiance varied. The optimum bandgaps were found to be 1� 72 � 0� 02eV for the top cell and 1� 14 � 0� 02eV for the bottom cell. Published in 2002 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low power consumption communication systems

The authors reduced power consumption by considering the system at all levels of design. In the area of overall implementation, the authors reduced the chip-to-chip connections by utilizing logic gates with the smallest area and further by using a technique known as high-density interconnect. The interconnection between the dies is done using ultra-fine metal lines drawn with the help of a computer-guided laser. This reduces the capacitative load at each pin by an order of magnitude as compared to conventional techniques. In this technology the chips almost touch one another, thus achieving area densities that can reach 90%. In the area of architecture a switching network was used to increase the computational capability of limited resources. In the area of circuit design, an innovative CMOS technique which reduces power consumption of the gates while at the same time decreasing the delay and size of the circuits was used. >
Diamond surface functionalization with biomimicry – Amine surface tether and thiol moiety for electrochemical sensors

Abstract The surface of conducting diamond was functionalized with a terminal thiol group that is capable of binding and detecting nitrogen–oxygen species. The functionalization process employed multiple steps starting with doped diamond films grown by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition followed by hydrogen termination and photochemical attachment of a chemically protected amine alkene. The surface tether was deprotected to reveal the amine functionality, which enabled the tether to be extended with surface chemistry to add a terminal thiol moiety for electrochemical sensing applications. Each step of the process was validated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis.
A Micro-benchmark Suite for Evaluating Hadoop MapReduce on High-Performance Networks

Hadoop MapReduce is increasingly being used by many data-centers (e.g. Facebook, Yahoo!) because of its simplicity, productivity, scalability, and fault tolerance. For MapReduce applications, achieving low job execution time is critical. Since a majority of the existing clusters today are equipped with modern, high-speed interconnects such as InfiniBand and 10 GigE, that offer high bandwidth and low communication latency, it is essential to study the impact of network configuration on the communication patterns of the MapReduce job. However, a standardized benchmark suite that focuses on helping users evaluate the performance of the stand-alone Hadoop MapReduce component is not available in the current Apache Hadoop community. In this paper, we propose a micro-benchmark suite that can be used to evaluate the performance of stand-alone Hadoop MapReduce, with different intermediate data distribution patterns, varied key/value sizes, and data types. We also show how this micro-benchmark suite can be used to evaluate the performance of Hadoop MapReduce over different networks/protocols and parameter configurations on modern clusters. The micro-benchmark suite is designed to be compatible with both Hadoop 1.x and Hadoop 2.x.
The Conserved G-Protein Coupled Receptor FSHR-1 Regulates Protective Host Responses to Infection and Oxidative Stress

The innate immune system’s ability to sense an infection is critical so that it can rapidly respond if pathogenic microorganisms threaten the host, but otherwise maintain a quiescent baseline state to avoid causing damage to the host or to commensal microorganisms. One important mechanism for discriminating between pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria is the recognition of cellular damage caused by a pathogen during the course of infection. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the conserved G-protein coupled receptor FSHR-1 is an important constituent of the innate immune response. FSHR-1 activates the expression of antimicrobial infection response genes in infected worms and delays accumulation of the ingested pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. FSHR-1 is central not only to the worm’s survival of infection by multiple pathogens, but also to the worm’s survival of xenobiotic cadmium and oxidative stresses. Infected worms produce reactive oxygen species to fight off the pathogens; FSHR-1 is required at the site of infection for the expression of detoxifying genes that protect the host from collateral damage caused by this defense response. Finally, the FSHR-1 pathway is important for the ability of worms to discriminate pathogenic from benign bacteria and subsequently initiate an aversive learning program that promotes selective pathogen avoidance.
Opiates as Immunosuppressive and Genotoxic Agents

From a historical prospective our immunologic investigations started as a natural consequence of our findings that opiates reduced the genetic integrity of human lymphocytes indicated by evidence of an increased frequency of chromosome damage and a deficiency in DNA repair capacity. Such changes in genetic structure and function are expected to indicate mutagenic and/or carcinogenic outcomes (1).
Left atrial appendage to great cardiac vein fistula complicating watchman left atrial appendage closure.

A 67-year-old man with persistent atrial fibrillation, recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding, and recent percutaneous coronary intervention presented for evaluation of left atrial appendage (LAA) closure. Pre-procedural TEE revealed an EF of >55%, an intact interatrial septum and no evidence of LAA thrombus. Pre-procedural CT revealed a vessel connecting the anterior tip of the LAA to the great cardiac vein ( Panel 1 ). Intraprocedural LAA angiography confirmed the presence of …
An exploration of female offenders’ memorable messages from probation and parole officers on the self-assessment of behavior from a control theory perspective

ABSTRACTGuided by control theory, this study examines memorable messages that women on probation and parole receive from their probation and parole agents. Women interviewed for the study were asked to report a memorable message they received from an agent, and to describe situations if/when the message came to mind in three contexts likely to emerge from a control theory perspective: when they did something of which they were proud, when they stopped themselves from doing something they would later regret, and when they did something of which they were not proud. The types of memorable messages and the reactions to these messages within the three contexts were coded, and differences between women on probation versus parole were examined. Overall, a greater proportion of women on parole recalled memorable messages, and the most frequently reported type of memorable message was behavioral advice. Women reported that the message helped them do things of which they were proud, such as engaging in routine act...
Qualitative Assessment and Quantitative Analysis of the Long Head of the Biceps Tendon in Relation to the Pectoralis Major Tendon Humeral Insertion: An Anatomic Study.

Purpose To qualitatively assess and to quantitatively analyze the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) in the region of the pectoralis major (PM). Methods From 11 fresh cadaveric donors, 20 cadaveric shoulders without operative scars were dissected—mean age, 76.9 years (range, 61 to 93 years); male, 75%; left-sided, 55%; mean height, 67.8 inches (range, 61 to 71 inches); mean weight, 148.1 pounds (range, 106 to 176 pounds). Two specimens with discovered ruptures were excluded. The LHBT circumference was measured at the anterior edge of supraspinatus, suprapectorally, midpectorally, and subpectorally. The muscle was then removed from the LHBT and the circumference was again measured at the supra-, mid-, and subpectoral levels. These data were used to calculate the area of the tendon. All measurements were performed by 2 independent observers. Statistical analysis was performed to assess reliability of data and the difference between serial measurements. Results The mean calculated percentage tendon decreased from 86.7% at the superior edge of the PM to 49.8% at the midpoint of the PM and to 17.5% at the inferior edge of the PM. Conclusions Distal to the PM, the LHBT was composed of a small percentage of tendon to muscle, which may have implications for the mechanical strength of fixation of tenodesis. The anatomic location of the musculotendinous junction of the LHBT began proximal to the superior edge of the PM tendon, which implies that restoration of anatomic tensioning may require a more proximal docking site than previously described. Tenodesis performed between the midpoint of the PM insertion and more distal points involves a significant portion of muscle, which may not be optimal. Clinical Relevance Tenodesis performed between the midpoint of the PM insertion and more distal points involves a significant portion of muscle, which may affect the mechanical strength or optimal choice of fixation location.
Failing to treat : why public hospitals in China do not work

Public hospitals in virtually all countries have long assumed responsibility for treating patients who cannot afford treatment in the private health care sector. In the United States – the most marketized health care system among advanced industrial democracies – public hospitals have been important components of the health care safety net that provides uncompensated health care services to a vulnerable population (Fishman 1997: 218-9). But many public hospitals in postMao China have failed this responsibility, and the problem has worsened since the 1990s. The offi cial Chinese media periodically reported that public hospitals refused to provide treatment to patients who could not afford to pay, even though in many cases these patients were suffering from life-threatening illness or were in a critical condition. Some patients have needlessly died as a result. Hospitals have thus been criticized for not saving patients on the verge of death (jiansi bujiu). In January 2006, the minister of health openly denounced the practice of jiansi bujiu and declared that public hospitals must uphold the principle of “providing treatment fi rst, requiring payment later” (xianjiuzhi, houjiesuan) (Bai 2006: 5).
Internal-external control and anxiety following success and failure.

This study investigated self-reported anxiety in internals and externals after failure or success on an experimental task. Results indicated that externals who had failed were lower in anxiety than...
Blockade of the Pre-ovulatory LH Surge in Hamsters by an Inhibitory Analog of LH-RH

SummaryCycling hamsters were injected sc with 750 μg of d-Phe2-d-Leu6-LH-RH, an inhibitory analog of LH-RH at 3, 4, 5, and 6 pm on the day of proestrus. Serum LH levels were determined by radioimmunoassay in samples collected throughout the afternoon of proestrus. Treatment with d-Phe2-d-Leu6-LH-RH led to 82.8% suppression of the physiological surge of LH as compared with the integrated LH levels of diluent-treated animals. When ova were counted, treatment with d-Phe2-d-Leu6-LH-RH was shown to produce 29.6% (P < 0.05) inhibition of ovulation as compared with diluent-treated animals. No rebound phenomenon in serum LH was observed in the evening of proestrus in animals treated with the analog. Incomplete inhibition of ovulation may be due to the possibility that the small LH surge was well in excess of that needed to produce ovulation or could be synergized with an incomplete FSH surge which was not measured in this study. The small peaks of LH still present in the analog-treated animals may be explained by...