cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protein expression profiles distinguish between experimental invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and Pseudomonas pneumonia

We hypothesized that invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) may generate a distinctive proteomic signature in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Proteins in plasma and BAL from two neutropenic rabbit models of IPA and Pseudomonas pneumonia were analyzed by SELDI-TOF MS. Hierarchical clustering analysis of plasma time course spectra demonstrated two clusters of peaks that were differentially regulated between IPA and Pseudomonas pneumonia (57 and 34 peaks, respectively, p<0.001). PCA of plasma proteins demonstrated a time-dependent separation of the two infections. A random forest analysis that ranked the top 30 spectral points distinguished between late Aspergillus and Pseudomonas pneumonias with 100% sensitivity and specificity. Based on spectral data analysis, three proteins were identified using SDS-PAGE and LC/MS and quantified using reverse phase arrays. Differences in the temporal sequence of plasma haptoglobin (p<0.001), apolipoprotein A1 (p<0.001) and transthyretin (p<0.038) were observed between IPA and Pseudomonas pneumonia, as was C-reactive protein (p<0.001). In summary, proteomic analysis of plasma and BAL proteins of experimental Aspergillus and Pseudomonas pneumonias demonstrates unique protein profiles with principal components and spectral regions that are shared in early infection and diverge at later stages of infection. Haptoglobin, apolipoprotein A1, transthyretin, and C-reactive protein are differentially expressed in these infections suggesting important contributions to host defense against IPA.
Refinements and Secondary Surgery After Flap Reconstruction of the Traumatized Hand

The traumatized hand often has soft tissue loss requiring flap reconstruction. Before proceeding with flap selection, the need for future refinement and secondary surgery should be taken into consideration. Although muscle flaps may offer better contour, fasciocutaneous flaps allow easier secondary flap elevation. After the initial flap reconstruction, indications for secondary procedures may be managed according to tissue type: bone, joint, tendon, nerve, and soft tissue.
Design, synthesis and functional characterization of a pentameric channel protein that mimics the presumed pore structure of the nicotinic cholinergic receptor

Abstract Nicotinic cholinergic receptors are membrane proteins composed of five subunits organized around a central aqueous pore. A pentameric channel protein, T5M2δ, that emulates the presumed pore-forming structure of this receptor was generated by assembling five helix-forming peptide modules at the lysine ϵ-amino groups of the 11-residue template [K∗AK∗KK∗PGK∗EK∗G], where ∗ indicates attachment sites. Helical modules represent the sequence of the M2 segment of the Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor (AChR) δ subunit; M2 segments are considered involved in pore-lining. Purified T5M2δ migrates in SDS-PAGE with an apparent Mr~14,000, concordant with a protein of 126 residues. T5M2δ forms cation-selective channels when reconstituted in planar lipid bilayers. The single channel conductance in symmetric 0.5 M K.C1 is 40 pS. This value approximates the 45 pS single channel conductance characteristic of authentic purified Torpedo AChR, recorded under otherwise identical conditions. These results, together with conformational energy calculations, support the notion that a bundle of five amphipathic a-helices is a plausible structural motif underlying the inner bundle that forms the pore of the pentameric AChR channel.
The disjoint curve property and genus 2 manifolds

Abstract Genus 2 manifolds are a convenient and accessible place to introduce an interesting condition on Heegaard splittings, called the disjoint curve property . This paper will describe the disjoint curve property and its ramifications for understanding genus 2 manifolds, and use it to find a necessary condition for a genus 2 manifold to be hyperbolic.
Distinct Roles for CTD Ser-2 and Ser-5 Phosphorylation in the Recruitment and Allosteric Activation of Mammalian mRNA Capping Enzyme

Abstract Capping is targeted to pre-mRNAs through binding of the guanylyltransferase component of the capping apparatus to the phosphorylated CTD of RNA polymerase II. We report that mammalian guanylyltransferase binds synthetic CTD peptides containing phosphoserine at either position 2 or 5 of the YSPTSPS heptad repeat. CTD peptides containing Ser-5-PO 4 stimulate guanylyltransferase activity by enhancing enzyme affinity for GTP and increasing the yield of the enzyme–GMP intermediate. A CTD peptide containing Ser-2-PO 4 has no effect on guanylyltransferase activity. This implies an allosteric change in guanylyltransferase conformation that is specified by the position of phosphoserine in the CTD. Stimulation of guanylyltransferase increases with the number of Ser-5-phosphorylated heptads. Our results underscore how mRNA production may be regulated by the display of different CTD phosphorylation arrays during transcription elongation.
Fusarium proliferatum culture material alters several production and immune performance parameters in White Leghorn chickens.

White Leghorn Cornell K-strain chicks (3 replicates of 16 per pen) were started at Day 7 on feed amended with Fusarium proliferatum culture material containing fumonisin B1, fumonisin B2, and moniliformin at 61, 10.5, and 42.7 ppm, respectively. Observed effects on performance of treated birds included reduced feed conversion at 2 wk, and reduced body weight of males and females up to 6 wk (P < or = .05). Splenic, thymic, and liver weights, normalized for body weight, were reduced (P < or = .05) with no change in bursa of Fabricius. No significant changes were observed histologically in the spleen, bursa, kidney, heart, liver, cecal tonsils, colon, or tibia. Significant suppression in total Ig and IgG levels occurred. Macrophages from treated chicks exhibited a 34% reduction in phagocytic activity. Natural killer cell activity was not affected. These findings, which showed that Fusarium toxins alter performance and immune end points in chickens, imply that chickens exposed to mycotoxins may be more susceptible to infectious diseases.
Synthesis and evaluation of radioiodinated terminal-substituted 5-iodo-(2-thienyl) fatty acids as new myocardial imaging agents

In order to evaluate the stability of radioiodide attached to the 5 position of thiophenes substituted at the 2-position with tissue-specific groups as new radiopharmaceuticals, two [125I]iodothienyl-substituted long-chain fatty acids have been prepared and evaluated in rats. Radioiodide was introduced into the 5 position of 17-(2-thienyi)heptadecanoic acid and 13-(2-thienyl)tridecanoic acid by K-125I treatment of their corresponding 5-[bis-(trifluoroacetoxy)]thallium derivatives. Tissue distribution studies in rats with 17-[5-[125I]iodo(2-thienyl)]heptadecanoic acid shows significant heart uptake and prolonged retention accompanied by in vivo deiod-ination and moderate blood levels. A comparison of the heart uptake of the 17 carbon fatty acid with a 13 carbon analogue, 13-[5-[135I]iodo(2-thienyl)]tridecanoic acid, demonstrated a significantly greater myocardial uptake for the 17 carbon fatty acid than the 13 carbon analogue. These results suggest that the 5-iodothienyl moiety substituted at the terminal position of long chain fatty acids does not interfere with myocardial uptake and that such compounds may be of value as a new class of myocardial imaging agents.
The geography of private forests that support at-risk species in the conterminous United States

In this study, we present a coarse-scale, first approximation of the geographic areas where privately owned forests support at-risk species in the conterminous United States. At-risk species are defined as those species listed under the US Endangered Species Act or with a global conservation status rank of critically imperiled, imperiled, or vulnerable. Our results indicate that two-thirds of the watersheds in the conterminous US contain at-risk species associated with private forests, with counts ranging from one to 101 species. Those watersheds with the greatest number and density of such species are found in the Southeast, Midwest, and west coast states. Many private forests are threatened by land-use conversion. Those forests projected to experience the greatest increase in housing density within the next 25 years, and with relatively high densities of at-risk species, are found in over 100 watersheds, most of them in the Southeastern states.
Introduction to the Integration of Verbal and Visual Information in Science Texts

This special issue of Science and Literacy explores specific challenges endemic to reading informational science texts. The researchers included in this special issue consider science text in a holistic manner, which encompasses both the graphics and words of science texts. Specifically, this issue considers (a) graphics' use within the overall communication of science; (b) the use of concrete examples and seductive details within the text of science writing; and (c) the integration of graphical information and the corresponding textual information.
Merkel cell carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare malignant neoplasm of the skin which is locally invasive and frequently metastasizes to lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bone, and brain. Computed tomographic and pathologic findings in an elderly woman with Merkel cell carcinoma of the buttock and regional nodal metastasis are reported. The presence of calcitonin and neuron-specific enolase within the tumor supports the theory that Merkel cell carcinoma is a neuroendocrine tumor derived from the APUD (amine precursor uptake and decarboxylase) system.
Congenital thrombotic disorders

The investigation of kindreds with recurrent thrombotic disease has advanced the understanding of the mechanisms of coagulation and fibrinolysis. In those cases where an etiology has been established, congenital thrombotic disorders are associated either with deficiencies or qualitative abnormalities in inhibitors of activated coagulation factors, qualitative abnormalities of fibrinogen, fibrinolytic defects that impair clot lysis, or an inborn error of metabolism, homocystinuria. The etiologies of congenital thrombotic disorders, their clinical features, and an approach to their laboratory diagnosis are summarized in this review.
The misleading problem of failed states: a ‘socio-geography’ of terrorism in the post-9/11 era

Abstract Contrary to a commonly held view, significant numbers of international terrorists do not come from failed states. Nor do failed states house many organisations that support terrorism. All states consistently fail some portions of their population. In fact, were we to generalise, it should only be along the following lines: from disenfranchised populations can come foot soldiers, from alienated populations can come terrorists. And these exist in pockets everywhere, including our own backyard. To the degree that these produce security problems, these problems are best handled by means other than direct military force.
Strategic Action In Health Information Technology: Why The Obvious Has Taken So Long

Recent enthusiasm for the automation of medical records and the creation of a health information infrastructure must be viewed in the context of a four-decade history of anticipation and investment. To understand the current opportunities and challenges, we must understand both the evolution of attitudes and accomplishments in health care information technology (IT) and the cultural, economic, and structural phenomena that constrain our ability to embrace the technology. Because prudent IT investment could make a profound difference in U.S. health and disease management, our strategic response must begin with an understanding of the pertinent history plus the challenges that lie ahead.
Multiframe combination and blur deconvolution of video data

In this paper we present a technique that may be applied to surveillance video data to obtain a higher-quality image from a sequence of lower-quality images. The increase in quality is derived through a deconvolution of optical blur and/or an increase in spatial sampling. To process sequences of real forensic video data, three main steps are required: frame and region selection, displacement estimation, and original image estimation. A user-identified region-of-interest (ROI) is compared to other frames in the sequence. The areas that are suitable matches are identified and used for displacement estimation. The calculated displacement vector images describe the transformation of the desired high-quality image to the observed low quality images. The final stage is based on the Projection Onto Convex Sets (POCS) super-resolution approach of Patti, Sezan, and Tekalp. This stage performs a deconvolution using the observed image sequence, displacement vectors, and an a priori known blur model. A description of the algorithmic steps are provided, and an example input sequence with corresponding output image is given.
Development and Testing of a Computer-Assisted Instructional Program to Teach Music to Adult Nonmusicians

Two universities were selected to evaluate music fundamentals software developed for prospective nursery-school through sixth-grade teachers. Using folk songs as examples, the investigator designed computer-assisted instructional (CAI) software to supply future teachers with a repertoire of songs and related music concepts for classroom use. Subjects at the first university (N = 148) were enrolled in a music fundamentals and performance skills course, the first of two music courses for preservice teachers. Subjects at the second university (N = 95) were enrolled in a music methods and materials course, the only music course for preservice teachers offered at this site. A comparison of posttest scores of control (in-class lecture) and experimental (CAI) groups yielded no significant differences in either experiment. Students in both experiments thought the song examples were helpful. Furthermore, reducing class time spent with music theory allowed instructors to spend more time with other instructional tas...
Assessments of temporal discrimination in vision

Conflicting results have been obtained in assessments of the discrimination of visual order under dichoptic viewing conditions. Part of the difficulty has centered on experimental controls; a more important part on the interpretation of results. In vision, much of the filtering of stimulus information is achieved at a peripheral (neuro-retinal) level of processing. Eliminating the peripheral sources of filtering (inhibition) or reducing their effects with dichoptic presentation methods results in more valid estimates of the central capacity to resolve in time.
Ghost cells and odontomas

Abstract Eight of forty-three odontomas in this study contained epithelial ghost cells. A theoretical pathogenesis is presented with the demographic findings.
Genetic epidemiology of acute lung injury: choosing the right candidate genes is the first step

In an innovative scientific review in this issue, Grigoryev and colleagues report a method for choosing candidate genes for acute lung injury (ALI) based on gene expression data derived from multiple animal models of mechanical ventilation and shear stress. The authors conclude there are five key biologic processes that warrant further investigation: inflammatory and immune responses, cell proliferation, chemotaxis, and blood coagulation. This review represents an important first step toward studying the genetic epidemiology of ventilator-induced lung injury and ALI. The application of these findings to future human studies of the genetic influence on ALI risks and outcomes is discussed here.
Generalized Inverses, Ridge Regression, Biased Linear Estimation, and Nonlinear Estimation

A principal objective of this paper is to discuss a class of biased linear estimators employing generalized inverses. A second objective is to establish a unifying perspective. The paper exhibits theoretical properties shared by generalized inverse estimators, ridge estimators, and corresponding nonlinear estimation procedures. From this perspective it becomes clear why all these methods work so well in practical estimation from nonorthogonal data.
Communicating with the next generation

Abstract Nurse managers play a critical role in creating harmony among nurses on their units. Many nurse managers, however, do not receive any education on dealing with staff of different ages and experience levels. Additionally, nurses vary in their career desires and work styles. Multigenerational education for nurse managers gives a different perspective on conflicts among staff and helps the manager better understand nurses’ individual needs.
Going Through the Emotions: Passion, Violence, and “Other‐Control” among the Dou Donggo

I take as my starting point an anecdote about passionate and violent displays of emotion, displays I observed in 1983 during the adjudication of a dispute in the Dou Donggo village of Doro Ntika, on the island of Sumbawa in eastern Indonesia.' The dispute, which I have described in detail elsewhere (Just 1986a:49-51) was ostensibly about an assault a young man, la Ninde, was supposed to have made on an older, married kinswoman. Even though virtually everyone in the village knew what had happened, the proceedings took place in public before a panel of village elders and called for the presentation of evidence and the testimony of witnesses who were also examined by the presiding elders. The business stretched out over the better part of a day. Remarkably, displays of passionate emotion and violence on the part of everyone concerned-accuser, accused, wit-
PKCθ: a new target for selective immunosuppression.

Members of the PKC enzyme family play a critical role in diverse intracellular signaling pathways leading to cell proliferation, activation, differentiation, survival and death. Among the ten membe...
Economic Effects of NAFTA on Mexico

The economic effects of NAFTA on Mexico have been discussed and measured mostly in terms of its effect on employment on both sides of the border and by the increase in Mexico-US trade and investmen...
Reduction of Losses in Linacs for Protons or Heavy Ions

It is necessary to minimize the beam losses in linacs for high average currents in order to avoid serious problems due to radiation damage, dissipation and radio activation of the accelerator's structure. A large part of the losses in existing linacs is due to incomplete bunching of the injected beam. Proposed improvements generally appear to be deficient in one or more respects if applied to linacs with conventional frequencies, injection energies and current densities. By preceding the linac proper with an accelerating structure and an energy analyzer, it becomes possible to separate the particles that remained outside the buckets from those that are inside so that they can be dumped in a controlled manner.
Sodium‐evoked, calcium‐independent vasopressin release from rat isolated neurohypophysial nerve endings.

1. The effects of Na+ on vasopressin release and on redistribution of Ca2+, Na+ and H+ in isolated rat neurohypophysial nerve endings have been studied. 2. Substituting Na+ for a non-permanent cation produced a pronounced and sustained release of vasopressin. This increase occurred in the absence of external Ca2+ and in nerve endings loaded with the Ca2+ chelator dimethyl-BAPTA (1,2-bis-(O-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid). 3. The effect of Na+ was independent of a rise in intracellular Ca2+ as judged by the measurement of [Ca2+]i using the indicator fura-2 and 45Ca2+ efflux studies. Although Na+ could release Ca2+ from internal reservoirs the small elevation in [Ca2+]i induced by Na+ could not explain the large and sustained increase in vasopressin secretion. 4. The channel blockers TTX (tetrodotoxin), D888 (desmethyoxyverapamil), N144 (5-nitro-2-(phenylpropylamino)-benzoic acid) or SITS (4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid) could not prevent the Na(+)-dependent increase in vasopressin release. Similarly this increase was not affected by metabolic inhibitors (Ruthenium Red and KCN) nor by CCCP (carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone), an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation. 5. Selectivity among monovalent cations to promote secretion was found with the largest effect on the secretory response being produced by Na+. Similarly Cl- was found to be the most potent anion studied for inducing, in the presence of Na+, an increase in neurohormone release. 6. Measuring [Na+]i by means of the Na+ indicator SBFI showed that the extent of the secretory response was correlated with the intraterminal Na+ concentration. 7. The Na(+)-induced, Ca(2+)-independent release of vasopressin occurred by exocytosis as judged (i) by the linear relationship between the amount of vasopressin secreted and that of the co-localized neurophysin and (ii) by the demonstration that the extracellular marker horseradish peroxidase was only found in endocytotic vacuoles and not in the cytoplasm of the stimulated nerve endings. 8. The Na(+)-dependent secretory response found on addition of extracellular Na+ was not the result of the change in internal pH as measured with the indicator BCECF and as mimicked by addition of propionic acid. 9. Addition of Na+ to digitonin- or streptolysin-O-permeabilized nerve endings in the presence or absence of Ca2+ also gave rise to an increase in vasopressin secretion. 10. It is concluded that an increase in internal Na+ per se can promote, in the absence of a rise in intracellular Ca2+, an increase in neuropeptide secretion.
PC-based image compression using adaptive rectangular segmentation

A method of image compression, along with its suitability for PC-implementation, is considered. The compressed file is a description of a set of rectangular segments of the image whose pixels all have approximately the same intensity. The compression process developed in this work was implemented on a PC 33 MHz-386 machine using Turbo C-2.0. The process produces a binary tree of rectangular segments whose pixel intensity variance is below a given amount. It does this by recursively dividing rectangular image segments into two, preferably along lines of high intensity gradient. The divisions are found by trying every possible horizontal and vertical cut for the segment. The process is accelerated by two preprocessed moment tables that replace much of the repetitive calculating. The resulting segments are compactly described in the compressed file. The decompression routine recreates the same binary tree to place and fill the segments. >
Control of Cytokine mRNA Expression by RNA-binding Proteins and microRNAs

Cytokines are critical mediators of inflammation and host defenses. Regulation of cytokines can occur at various stages of gene expression, including transcription, mRNA export, and post- transcriptional and translational levels. Among these modes of regulation, post-transcriptional regulation has been shown to play a vital role in controlling the expression of cytokines by modulating mRNA stability. The stability of cytokine mRNAs, including TNFα, IL-6, and IL-8, has been reported to be altered by the presence of AU-rich elements (AREs) located in the 3′-untranslated regions (3′UTRs) of the mRNAs. Numerous RNA-binding proteins and microRNAs bind to these 3′UTRs to regulate the stability and/or translation of the mRNAs. Thus, this paper describes the cooperative function between RNA-binding proteins and miRNAs and how they regulate AU-rich elements containing cytokine mRNA stability/degradation and translation. These mRNA control mechanisms can potentially influence inflammation as it relates to oral biol...
Changing dietary sodium alters the chronic cardiovascular effects of losartan in rats.

Introduction. We have previously demonstrated a profound hypotensive response to the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1)-receptor antagonist losartan in rats consuming a normal salt diet that is not seen in salt-loaded rats, presumably due to a suppression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by high sodium levels.The purpose of the present study was to examine the cardiovascular effects of changing dietary sodium intake during chronic treatment with losartan.We hypothesised that during blockade of AT1-receptors by chronic losartan infusion, when renin levels would be elevated regardless of dietary sodium, changing diets from high to normal or normal to high salt would have no effect on mean arterial pressure (MAP).Materials and methods. To test this hypothesis, groups of rats instrumented with radiotelemetry transducers for MAP monitoring and venous catheters for infusion were initially placed on either a 0.4% salt content diet, referred to as Losartan Normal diet — High salt diet (LosN-HI, n = 7), or a 4.0% sa...
CHRM2 variation predisposes to personality traits of agreeableness and conscientiousness

Personality traits are among the most complex quantitative traits. Certain personality traits have been postulated to be part of the inherited component of substance dependence (SD) risk. Association between the M2 cholinergic receptor gene (CHRM2) and SD has recently been reported and replicated (Wang et al. Hum. Mol. Genet. (2004);13:1903-1911; Luo et al. Hum. Mol. Genet. 2005;14:2421-2434). In this study, we investigated the relationship between CHRM2 variation and personality traits in two American populations. We assessed dimensions of the five-factor model of personality, and genotyped six CHRM2 markers and 38 unlinked ancestry-informative markers in 239 subjects with SD [173 European-Americans (EAs) and 66 African-Americans (AAs)] and 275 healthy subjects (237 EAs and 38 AAs). The relationships between CHRM2 markers and personality traits were examined using multivariate analysis of covariance, controlling for marker-marker interaction effects and potential confounders. Associations were decomposed by Roy Bargmann stepdown analysis of covariance. Generally, substance-dependent patients, older individuals, males, and AAs scored higher on Neuroticism and lower on other personality factors. Diplotype CTCAAA/ CTCGTT (P = 0.005) and the interaction between its two haplotypes (CTCAAA x CTCGTT) (P = 0.003) were associated with lower Conscientiousness scores. Haplotype CTCGAT (P = 0.006) and its interaction with haplotype TCAAAT (P = 0.002) were associated with higher Agreeableness scores. The trait-influencing variant site in CHRM2 for Agreeableness was close to marker rs1824024 (SNP3) (P = 0.002). CHRM2 variation may contribute to the genetic component of variation in personality traits. Personality traits might substantially underlie the heritable component of SD.
Single-equation models for the tear film in a blink cycle: realistic lid motion

We consider model problems for the tear film over multiple blink cycles that utilize a single equation for the tear film; the single non-linear partial differential equation that governs the film thickness arises from lubrication theory. The two models that we consider arise from considering the absence of naturally occurring surfactant and the case when the surfactant is strongly affecting the surface tension. The film is considered on a time-varying domain length with specified film thickness and volume flux at each end; only one end of the domain is moving, which is analogous to the upper eyelid moving with each blink. Realistic lid motion from observed blinks is included in the model with end fluxes specified to more closely match the blink cycle than those previously reported. Numerical computations show quantitative agreement with in vivo tear film thickness measurements under partial blink conditions. A transition between periodic and non-periodic solutions has been estimated as a function of closure fraction and this may be a criterion for what is effectively a full blink according to fluid dynamics.
Low power technology of PIT "ZAURUS"

The advance of multimedia is accelerating the expansion of the product market for Personal Information Tools (PIT) with the evolution of leveraging technologies such as VLSI, LCD, software and so on. In this paper the trends of PIT products will be summarized. Low power technology for PITs will be discussed referring to the PIT product "ZAURUS" which we have recently developed and marketed.
Control of solid tumor growth in mice using EGF receptor-targeted RNA replicase-based plasmid DNA

Aim: Previously, it was shown that treatment of tumor-bearing mice with an RNA replicase-based plasmid that produces dsRNA when transfected into tumor cells significantly inhibited the tumor growth. In the present study, the feasibility of further improving the anti-tumor activity of the RNA replicase-based plasmid by targeting it into tumors cells was evaluated. Material & methods: An EGF-conjugated, polyethylene glycosylated cationic liposome was developed to deliver the RNA replicase-based plasmid, pSIN-β, into EGF receptor-overexpressing human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-468) in vitro and in vivo. Results: Delivery of pSIN-β using the EGF receptor-targeted liposome more effectively controlled the growth of MDA-MB-468 tumors (and human epidermoid carcinoma A431 tumors) in mice than using untargeted liposome. The pSIN-β carried by the EGF receptor-targeted liposome caused the complete regression of MDA-MB-468 tumors in mice, probably due to the enhancement of its proapoptotic, antiproliferative and anti...
Using JPL Micro-Imagers for the Johnson Space Center International Space Station Cell Growth Experiment

A development program is occurring to produce the International Space Station (ISS), Bio Tech Facility (BTF) at the Johnson Space Center (JSC). This facility will allow numerous experiments related to micro--gravity cell development, growth and adaptation to be preformed on the International Space Station. JSC desired an upgrade to current capabilities that included micro-imagers. JPL has provided these micro-imagers for the JSC ISS Cell Growth Experiment Program. The imagers are to be used to make heuristic decisions on the growth and health of growing cells and as a means of recording data on their development. This paper describes the imager produced, its intended application and the subsequent testing that has gone on to ensure functionality of such a system in the space radiation environment.
Identification of a Perchlorate Reduction Genomic Island with Novel Regulatory and Metabolic Genes

A comparative analysis of the genomes of four dissimilatory (per)chlorate-reducing bacteria has revealed a genomic island associated with perchlorate reduction. In addition to the characterized metabolic genes for perchlorate reductase and chlorite dismutase, the island contains multiple conserved uncharacterized genes possibly involved in electron transport and regulation.
Multi-size-mesh Multi-time-step Dispersion-relation-preserving Scheme for Multiple-scales Aeroacoustics Problems

The optimized high-order Dispersion-Relation-Preserving finite difference scheme is extended so as to be able to compute multiple-scales aeroacoustics problems effectively and efficiently. It is proposed that a multi-size-mesh is used in the computation. In implementing the time marching scheme, the computation domain is first partitioned into a number of subdomains. In each subdomain, a single size mesh is used. The mesh size of adjacent subdomain changes by a factor of two. The time step of adjacent subdomains also changes by the same ratio. This choice serves not only to maintain numerical stability but also to avoid unnecessary computations in regions with large size mesh. To pass information between subdomains, special optimized stencils are used at the subdomain interface region. Because rapid changes take place at the mesh-size-change interfaces, they are likely sources of spurious numerical waves. To prevent the generation and spreading of spurious numerical waves, special artificial selective dam...
Intraspecific Predation in Juvenile White Ibis

Abstract The first case of juvenile White Ibis (Eudocimus albus) intraspecific predation is reported from the Florida Everglades.
Community Detection in Anonymized Social Networks

media and social networks are embedded in our society to a point that could not have been imagined only ten years ago. Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter are already well known social networks that have a large audience in all age groups. Recently more trendy social sites such as Pinterest, Instagram, Vine, Tumblr, WhatsApp, and Snapchat are being preferred by the younger audience. The amount of data that those social sites gather from their users is continually increasing and this data is very valuable for marketing, research, and various other purposes. At the same time, this data usually contain a significant amount of sensitive information which should be protected against unauthorized disclosure. To protect the privacy of individuals, this data must be anonymized such that the risk of re-identification of specific individuals is very low. In this paper we study how well anonymized social networks preserve existing communities from the original social networks. To anonymize social networks we used two models, namely, k-anonymity for social networks and k- degree anonymity. To determine communities in social networks we used a community detection algorithm based on modularity quality function known as Louvain method. Our experiments on publically available datasets show that anonymized social networks satisfactorily preserve the community structure of their original networks.
Nonintrusive Measurement of Gas Turbine Exhaust Velocity Using Hydroxyl Tagging Velocimetry

The Hydroxyl Tagging Velocimetry (HTV) technique has been applied to the measurement of engine exhaust velocities for an aviation gas turbine engine with augmentor capabilities. The J85-GE-5 engine exhaust was measured to be 110 m/s at idle and ramping up to 540 m/s at full throttle conditions. This information can be useful for the development of a noncontact thrust measurement system, which would rely on fluid flow measurements, rather than the use of load cells, to infer engine thrust. For the augmented (afterburner) mode of operation, the HTV tag lines were not present in the camera field of view; instead, there was significant fluorescence indicating turbulent mixing between fluorescing and nonfluorescing flow regions. The tag line absorption and concomitant exhaust gas fluorescence is probably a result of unreacted kerosene vapor exiting the afterburning gas turbine engine. Although this prevents the HTV technique from being applied to the afterburning engine, it can provide useful information about the instantaneous spatial distribution of fuel in the engine exhaust, and this information could be used to understand the processes occurring inside the engine in regards to its augmented operation.
Youth Programs of the ESA: Don't Sell 4-H Extension Programs Short

Don't sell 4-H Extension programs short. Never sell young people short, for they have hope, energy, and abounding faith in the future.
Conclusion — Conceptualizing Energy Justice

During the 1850s in the United States, when the debate over whether Christianity justified slavery reached its peak, then Illinois Congressperson Abraham Lincoln was reputed to place a silver dollar on top of the Bible and to say during debates that “no man can see the word of justice when it’s covered by a silver dollar.” His point was that as long as people have a vast economic stake in some sort of existing infrastructure or system, no matter how immoral it may be, they will tend to support it.
Pediatric Precursors of Atherosclerosis

Clinical manifestations of coronary heart disease (CHD), cerebrovascular disease (CVD), and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) as well as the clinical sequellae of hypertension, are generally not present in children. However, the evidence that the atherosclerotic lesion has its anatomic origins in childhood and adolescence is both broad-based and persuasive. The presence of anatomically and hemodynamically advanced coronary artery occlusion in young war victims unselected for coronary heart disease risk factors indicates that occlusive atherosclerosis is well underway in young American men by their late teens and early twenties.
Shoot Inversion-induced Ethylene Production in the Diageotropica Tomato Mutant

Two major objectives were to determine whether or not shoot inversion would stimulate ethylene synthesis in the diageotropica (dgt) mutant and, if so, to characterize it; and to determine whether the dgt shoot elongation was inhibited by inversion and, if so, to explore the possible role of ethylene in shoot inversion inhibition of elongation in the system
Confidence Investigation of Discovering Organizational Network Structures Using Transfer Entropy

Abstract Transfer entropy has long been used to discover network structures and relationships based on the behavior of nodes in the system, especially for complex adaptive systems. Using the fact that organizations often behave as complex adaptive systems, transfer entropy can be applied to discover the relationships and structure within an organizational network. The organizational structures are built using a model developed by Dodd, Watts, et al, and a simulation method for complex adaptive supply networks is used to create node behavior data. The false positive rate and true positive rates are established for various organizational structures and compared to a basic tree. This study provides a baseline understanding for the accuracy that can be expected when discovering organizational networks using these techniques. It also highlights conditions in which it may be more difficult to successfully discover a network structure using transfer entropy and bounds confidence levels for practitioners of such methods.
Diabetes Mellitus with Chronic Complications in Relation to Carotid Endarterectomy and Carotid Artery Stenting Outcomes

Background Carotid endarterectomy and carotid artery stenting are effective treatment procedures for carotid artery stenosis. Although diabetes mellitus is highly prevalent among patients undergoing these revascularization procedures, few studies have examined their impact on periprocedural outcomes. Objectives The study aimed to determine whether perioperative outcomes among patients undergoing carotid artery stenting and carotid endarterectomy varied depending on the presence of diabetes with or without chronic complications. Methods We examined adults aged 45 and above hospitalized between 2007 and 2011 in U.S. hospitals who underwent carotid artery revascularization procedures. We used data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's Nationwide Inpatient Sample and evaluated the influence of diabetes with or without chronic complications on outcomes. Results Among patients receiving carotid artery stenting, diabetic patients with chronic complications had significantly increased odds of acute kidney injury (odds ratio [OR]: 3.17, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.31-4.35) and longer hospital stay (β: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.58-2.38) compared with nondiabetic patients. Diabetic patients with chronic complications receiving carotid endarterectomy experienced increased odds of myocardial infarction (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: .90-1.40), stroke (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: .97-1.72), perioperative infection (OR: 2.45, 95% CI: 1.29-4.65), mortality (OR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.01-2.16), and longer hospital stay (β (days): 2.05, 95% CI: 1.90-2.20) compared with nondiabetic patients. No significant increased odds of perioperative outcomes were observed among diabetic patients without chronic complications. Conclusions Uncomplicated diabetes did not appear to convey a higher odds of perioperative outcomes among patients undergoing revascularization. However, the presence of diabetes with chronic complications is an important risk factor in the carotid endarterectomy category.
Alternative conduits for esophageal replacement

Replacement of the native esophagus after esophagectomy is a problem that has challenged surgeons for over a century. Not only must the conduit be long enough to bridge the distance between the cervical esophagus and the abdomen, it must also have a reliable vascular supply and be sufficiently functional to allow for deglutition. The stomach, jejunum, and colon (right, left or transverse) have all been proposed as potential solutions. The stomach has gained favor for its length, reliable vascular supply and need for only a single anastomosis. However, there are times when the stomach is unavailable for use as a conduit. It is in these instances that an esophageal surgeon must have an alternative conduit in their armamentarium. In this paper, we will briefly discuss the technical aspects of jejunal and colonic interposition. We will review the recent literature with a focus on early and late outcomes. The advantages and disadvantages of both options will be reviewed.
Quantitative Analysis of Different Formation Modes of Platinum Nanocrystals Controlled by Ligand Chemistry

Well-defined metal nanocrystals play important roles in various fields, such as catalysis, medicine, and nanotechnology. They are often synthesized through kinetically controlled process in colloidal systems that contain metal precursors and surfactant molecules. The chemical functionality of surfactants as coordinating ligands to metal ions however remains a largely unsolved problem in this process. Understanding the metal–ligand complexation and its effect on formation kinetics at the molecular level is challenging but essential to the synthesis design of colloidal nanocrystals. Herein we report that spontaneous ligand replacement and anion exchange control the form of coordinated Pt–ligand intermediates in the system of platinum acetylacetonate [Pt(acac)2], primary aliphatic amine, and carboxylic acid ligands. The formed intermediates govern the formation mode of Pt nanocrystals, leading to either a pseudo two-step or a one-step mechanism by switching on or off an autocatalytic surface growth. This fin...
Diagnosis of gastrogastric fistula on computed tomography: a quantitative approach.

To determine if the attenuation of contrast material in the excluded stomach compared with the gastric pouch is helpful in diagnosing gastrogastric (GG) fistula. In a retrospective study, 13 CT scans in 12 patients (age 43.2 ± 9.2, 10 females) who had undergone Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and who had oral contrast in both the gastric pouch and excluded stomach were qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated for GG fistula by two radiologists, using upper GI series (UGI) as the gold standard. Quantitative analysis was performed by computing the relative attenuation (RA) ratio (HU in excluded stomach/HU in gastric pouch). Statistical analysis was performed to determine if the RA ratio values correlated with the UGI findings of GG fistula. 46.2% (6/13) of UGI studies demonstrated a GG fistula. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant difference in RA ratio (P < 0.05) between the fistula group (1.12 ± 0.29) and the reflux group (0.56 ± 0.19). A receiver operating characteristic analysis identified an RA ratio of 0.8 that maximized sensitivity (100%), at the expense of specificity (78.6%), for diagnosing GG fistula. In contrast, the initial qualitative evaluation for GG fistula yielded a lower sensitivity (45.8%) and a higher specificity (89.2%). After taking RA ratios into account, radiologists’ final conclusions achieved higher sensitivity (58.3%) and specificity (100%). The relative attenuation ratio of oral contrast in the excluded stomach versus the gastric pouch can be a reliable tool in differentiating GG fistula from oral contrast reflux up the biliopancreatic limb on CT.
In Vitro Comparison of Two Barbed Suture Configurations for Flexor Tendon Repair.

Purpose The current study compares the strength of a previously studied technique for flexor tendon repair with barbed sutures to an experimental approach that aligns all the barbs to oppose distraction. Methods Twelve flexor tendons from cadaveric specimens were mechanically tested following repair of simulated zone II tendon injuries. Two repair techniques utilizing barbed sutures were studied: the Marrero-Amadeo four-core barbed suture approach and the experimental configuration with all barbs on four cores opposing distraction. Maximum applied load at failure, that is, ultimate load, and 2-mm gap force were compared between the two repair techniques, both as raw values and after normalization to cross-sectional area of the intact tendon. Statistical testing was performed using t -tests and Mann-Whitney U -tests, where appropriate, with a significance level of 0.05. Results The ultimate loads, raw (58.2 N) and normalized (4.8 N/mm 2 ), were significantly larger for the Marrero-Amadeo repair than the proposed experimental approach (35.6 N and 2.7 N/mm 2 ; p Conclusion The innovation of suturing to align all barbs to oppose distraction does not improve strength of the repaired tendon. The Marrero-Amadeo technique was found to have superior strength for use in traumatic zone II flexor tendon injuries.
Impact of prenatal stress on offspring glucocorticoid levels: A phylogenetic meta-analysis across 14 vertebrate species

Prenatal exposure to maternal stress is commonly associated with variation in Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal (HPA)-axis functioning in offspring. However, the strength or consistency of this response has never been empirically evaluated across vertebrate species. Here we meta-analyzed 114 results from 39 studies across 14 vertebrate species using Bayesian phylogenetic mixed-effects models. We found a positive overall effect of prenatal stress on offspring glucocorticoids (d’ = 0.43) though the 95% Highest Posterior Density Interval overlapped with 0 (−0.16–0.95). Meta-regressions of potential moderators highlighted that phylogeny and life history variables predicted relatively little variation in effect size. Experimental studies (d’ = 0.64) produced stronger effects than observational ones (d’ = −0.01), while prenatal stress affected glucocorticoid recovery following offspring stress exposure more strongly (d’ = 0.75) than baseline levels (d’ = 0.48) or glucocorticoid peak response (d’ = 0.36). These findings are consistent with the argument that HPA-axis sensitivity to prenatal stress is evolutionarily ancient and occurs regardless of a species’ overall life history strategy. These effects may therefore be especially important for mediating intra-specific life-history variation. In addition, these findings suggest that animal models of prenatal HPA-axis programming may be appropriate for studying similar effects in humans.