cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical Presentation of Acute Cutaneous Graft-Versus-Host Disease

Acute cutaneous graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) has a variety of clinical presentations. In the early posttransplantation setting, histologic confirmation of aGVHD via skin biopsy is frequently equivocal. Additional clinical information may be necessary to differentiate aGVHD from its clinical mimickers such as viral exanthema, morbilliform drug eruptions, engraftment syndrome (ES), pre-engraftment syndrome (PES), and in severe cases, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) [1–3].
Application of NMR Spectroscopy for Foods and Lipids

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is one of the most powerful analytical tools to identify organic and bio-organic substances and to elucidate their chemical structures. Therefore, it has widely been used to analyze a variety of foods. Moisture content, solid fat content, fatty acid composition in lipid, free fatty acids, authenticity of edible oils, and the metabolic profile of sweet pepper can be analyzed by the NMR spectroscopy.
Quantitative Effects of Biochar Oxidation and Pyrolysis Temperature on the Transport of Pathogenic and Nonpathogenic Escherichia coli in Biochar-Amended Sand Columns.

The present study quantifies the transport of Escherichia coli pathogenic O157:H7 and nonpathogenic K12 strains in water-saturated Quincy sand (QS) columns amended with oxidized (OX) or unoxidized (UO) pine wood (PW) or pine bark (PB) biochar produced at either 350 or 600 °C. Our results showed that (1) the addition of oxidized biochar into QS columns enhanced the transport of E. coli O157:H7 by 3.1 fold compared to the unoxidized counterparts, likely because of an increase in the repulsive forces due to their higher negative charge densities. (2) The retention of E. coli O157:H7 was 3.3 fold higher than that of E. coli K12 in all biochar-amended sand columns. (3) Increased application rates of unoxidized PW600 biochar from 0 to 20 wt % led to a reduction in the transport of E. coli O157:H7 and K12 from 98 to 10% and from 95 to 70%, respectively. Our data showed that mixing sand with PW350-UO at a 20 wt % application rate almost completely retained the pathogenic E. coli in the subsurface, suggesting that...
Percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass grafting for unprotected left main coronary artery disease.

Background Recent trials comparing PCI with CABG for unprotected left main disease yielded discrepant evidence. Objectives To perform an updated meta-analysis of randomized trials comparing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with unprotected left main coronary artery disease. Methods Randomized trials comparing PCI versus CABG for patients with unprotected left main coronary artery disease were included. Summary estimates risk ratios (RRs) were performed with a DerSimonian and Laird model at short-term, intermediate and long-term follow-up periods (i.e., 30-days, 1-year, and >1-year). Outcomes evaluated were major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization and stent thrombosis or symptomatic graft occlusion. Results Six trials with 4,700 patients and a mean SYNTAX score of 23 were included. At short-term follow-up, the risk of MACCE was lower with PCI (RR 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.39-0.76) driven by the lower risk of myocardial infarction (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.46-0.99), and stroke (RR 0.38, 95% CI 0.16-0.90). The risk of MACCE was similar at the intermediate follow-up (RR 1.21, 95% CI 0.97-1.51). At long-term follow-up, PCI was associated with a higher risk of MACCE (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01-1.41), due to a higher risk of revascularization (RR 1.62, 95% CI 1.34-1.94), while the risk of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, and stroke were similar. Conclusions In patients with unprotected left main coronary disease and low to intermediate SYNTAX score, PCI might be an acceptable alternative to CABG. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Random perturbations of nonlinear oscillators: Homogenization and large deviations

Abstract This paper considers two prototypical strongly nonlinear oscillators with weak dissipation and noise: a pendulum which is acted on by a small noisy torque and opposed by a friction; and the noisy Duffing-van der Pol oscillator. But over a long time the weak dissipative and noise effects can be significant. This paper develops asymptotic techniques based on averaging and large deviations to study the effects of weak noise on the escape from the domain of attraction of stable equilibrium points and limit cycles in phase-space.
Shape sensing of inflatable aerospace structures with fiber optic curvature rosettes

The use of inflatable structures in aerospace applications is becoming increasingly widespread. Monitoring the inflation status and overall health of these inflatables requires an accurate means of shape sensing. This work reports on the application of local curvature sensing to establish global shape. The technique uses surface-attached Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) curvature sensing rosettes consisting of three curvature-sensing FBG pairs. Presented will be methods of extracting values for the curvature tensor using the curvature-sensing rosette, along with experimental verification. By using such rosettes on an inflatable surface, the geometry of the inflatable can be monitored in real time.
Beyond morphological use: what semantic knowledge tells us about aspect in L2 portuguese ( Além do uso morfológico: o que o conhecimento semântico nos diz sobre o aspecto em português como L2 )

ABSTRACT This study investigates the acquisition of [±perfective] aspect in L2 Portuguese via knowledge of the [± accidental] distinction that obtains between the Preterit and Imperfect in adverbially quantified sentences (LENCI; BERTINETTO, 2000; MENENDEZ-BENITO, 2002). Crucially, we show that intermediate L2 learners demonstrate phrasal semantic knowledge that we argue is accessed via the acquisition of new L2 features. As a result, we contend that the data support theories of adult UG-continuity (DUFFIELD; WHITE, 1999; SCHWARTZ; SPROUSE, 1996) and provide evidence in contra so-called Failed Features accounts of SLA (BECK, 1998; HAWKINS; CHAN, 1997). Furthermore, we discuss these data in light of probabilistic approaches to SLA, which interpret errors in morphological use at this level as evidence of underlying deficits in L2 mental representations. With others, we argue that morphological performance alone is neither a direct nor an exact measure of linguistic competence (PREVOST; WHITE, 2000; LARDIERE, 1998, 2006). KEYWORDSS L2 acquisition. Aspect in L2 portuguese. Theories of adult UG-continuity. RESUMO Esse estudo investiga a aquisicao do aspecto [±perfeito] em portugues L2, mediante conhecimento da distincao [± acidental] que ocorre entre o preterito perfeito e imperfeito em frases com quantificacao adverbial (LENCI; BERTINETTO, 2000; MENENDEZ-BENITO, 2002). Mostramos que os aprendizes L2 intermediarios demonstram conhecimento da semântica sintagmatica, que conforme argumentamos e acessivel por meio da aquisicao de novos tracos da L2. Como resultado, propomos que os dados dao suporte a teorias de continuidade da GU (DUFFIELD; WHITE, 1999; SCHWARTZ; SPROUSE, 1996) e oferecem evidencia contra as assim chamadas propostas de Tracos Malsucedidos (FAILED FEATURES; BECK, 1998; HAWKINS; CHAN, 1997) para ASL (aquisicao de segunda lingua). Alem disso, discutimos tais dados considerando abordagens probabilisticas para ASL, que interpretam erros de uso morfologico nesse nivel como evidencia de deficits subjacentes das representacoes mentais de L2. Em consonância com outros autores, argumentamos que o desempenho morfologico nao e por si so uma medida direta ou exata da competencia linguistica (PREVOST; WHITE, 2000; LARDIERE, 1998, 2006). PALAVRAS-CHAVES Aquisicao de L2. Aspecto em portugues como L2. Teorias de continuidade da GU.
Helmholtz and Philosophy: Science, Perception, and Metaphysics, with Variations on Some Fichtean Themes

This article considers Helmholtz’s relation to philosophy, including Fichte’s philosophy. Recent interpreters find Fichtean influence on Helmholtz, especially concerning the role of voluntary movement in distinguishing subject from object, or “I” from “not-I.” After examining Helmholtz’s statements about Fichte, the article describes Fichte’s ego-doctrine and asks whether Helmholtz could accept it into his sensory psychology. He could not accept Fichte’s core position, that an intrinsically active I intellectually intuits its own activity and posits the not-I as limiting and determining that activity, because that account requires cognitive abilities that conflict with Helmholtz’s claim that the development of spatial perception relies primarily on associative memory and involves no direct awareness of the ego’s activity as such. Helmholtz would have known various accounts of the distinction between subject and object, or self and world, from sensory physiology, including associative accounts invoking voluntary motor movements and accounts describing checks on the perceiver’s activity. Some of the accounts cite Fichte on the I and not-I, but most do not, and none adopt Fichte’s Idealism. Finally, the article examines Helmholtz’s relation to metaphysics, finding that in all periods he rejected Fichtean Idealism and that the modest metaphysics of his mature period is a version of structural realism.
Merit Recruitment in 19th and Early 20th Century European Bureaucracies 1

Methods of bureaucratic recruitment are widely viewed as having a critical effect on governance outcomes. Yet the literature – particularly the empirical literature – on bureaucratic recruitment has not substantially expanded beyond examinations of the US Federal Government and the Pendleton Act. In this paper, I examine the determinants of merit reforms more generally. I argue that governments trade off the gains from patronage – in terms of in-kind and monetary payments from seekers after posts – against the costs patronage imposes in terms of bureaucratic quality. These costs emerge because those most able to 'pay' for office under patronage may not be those best suited for administrative service. I test this claim, taking advantage of the rich temporal and cross-sectional variation in bureaucratic regimes in late 19th and early 20th century Europe. As is consistent with theoretical expectations, I find that governments are more likely to adopt merit reforms as education becomes more widespread. This is particularly true for regimes in which the politically advantaged class is small – i.e., in more autocratic regimes.
Touring the Slave Route: Inaccurate Authenticities in Bénin, West Africa

French essayist Jean Amery is often quoted as saying, “No one can become what he cannot find in his memories” (1996:84). Indeed, people often find that their sense of being is connected to the people and events they recall from their individual and collective pasts. And the numerous, often political ways that memory and cultural heritage are performed on the social landscape can often lead to varying degrees of contestation between social actors. These somewhat messy social exchanges have occupied the careers of many scholars in fields such as anthropology, sociology, and psychology, to name a few. Whether we understand memory and its relationship to cultural heritage to be about shared collective experiences (Halbwachs 1992), embodied performances (Stoller 1995), or the products of habitual action (Bourdieu 1977; Connerton 1989), it is tempting to invoke habitus (Bourdieu 1977) in an effort to explain the ways that collective memory retains its social efficacy over time and across generations.
USE OF SHORT-LIVED ISOTOPES IN THE STUDY OF XENOBIOTIC TRANSPORT

Abstract The application of short-lived isotopes (11C) in studying the dynamics of carbon allocation in plants using an integrated tracer kinetics system is described. The analogy of the transolcation of xenobiotics (herbicides) labelled with 32P in vivo , to that of assimilates, is illustrated in a preliminary experiment. The information obtained concerning the dynamics of herbicide translocation could be immense, when the general transport patterns of the plant are known from the 11C studies.
Four-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate Versus Plasma for Urgent Vitamin K Antagonist Reversal: New Evidence

Vitamin K antagonist (VKA) therapy is a mainstay of treatment for patients at risk of thromboembolic events. Despite widespread use, a major limitation of VKA therapy is the substantial risk of serious bleeding complications, which often require rapid reversal of anticoagulation. A recent randomized multicenter comparison between a 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC) and plasma in patients with acute major bleeding has provided important new evidence of the benefit of 4F-PCC over plasma for urgent VKA reversal.
A Dual-Mode RF Power Harvesting System With an On-Chip Coil in 180-nm SOI CMOS for Millimeter-Sized Biomedical Implants

In this paper, we present a dual-mode power harvesting system for millimeter-sized biomedical implants that are immune to the variation of wireless link parameters and loading. The design includes a multistage full-wave voltage rectifier, a power management unit, and a low dropout voltage regulator. Depending on the received RF power level and the required power by the load, power delivery is conducted in a continuous or duty-cycled mode. The system is fabricated in 180-nm silicon on insulator (SOI) CMOS technology with an active area of 2.56 mm2 including an on-chip coil. RF power is transferred to the chip from a $2\times 2$ cm2 coil through 10 mm of air at 434 MHz. The efficiency of the designed wireless link, which is the power transfer efficiency from the external coil to the on-chip coil, reaches up to 0.68% (−21.7 dB) at 10-mm separation through air. Keeping the transmitted RF power below 24 dBm, the system can provide a 1.08-V dc voltage for resistive loads larger than 20 $\text{k}\Omega $ continuously over time. When the harvested power is not enough to drive the load continuously, the system operates in the duty-cycled mode. Measurement results show that the system can drive a 1- $\text{k}\Omega $ load in the duty-cycled mode when the transmitted power level is 15 dBm.
Going Around Learning Obstacles: Portages

Portaging while kayaking refers to boaters carrying their gear on shore around an obstacle that is too large to paddle around. In a learning situation, portaging can occur when students need to go around a learning task that is above their abilities, such as when they attempt to read a text above their reading level or are comparing complex mathematical calculations. Portaging can also occur when students or teachers are feeling overwhelmed and need to stay on shore longer to rebuild their mental and emotional resources. After portaging around these obstacles, students and teachers can reenter the river with renewed focus and enthusiasm. Cautions of when to portage, as compared to using other learning strategies to work through difficult social justice material, are also shared.
Object-relational spatio-temporal databases

We present an object-relational model for uniform handling of dimensional data. Spatial, temporal, spatio-temporal and ordinary data are special cases of dimensional data. The said uniformity is achieved through the concept of dimension alignment, which automatically allows lower dimensional data and queries to be used in a higher dimensional context. Unlike ordinary data, dimensional objects are interwoven. We introduce object identity (oid) fragments to circumvent data redundancy at logical level. Computed types are placed appropriately in a type hierarchy to allow maximal use of existing methods. A query language for spatio-temporal data is presented for associative navigation. A framework for algebraic optimization of the query language is suggested. A pattern matching language is designed for complex querying of spatio-temporal data which seamlessly extends the associative navigation in our query language. The pattern matching language recognizes special features of time and space providing an appropriate level of abstraction for application development compared to traditional languages. This reduces the need for embedding the query language in a lower level language such as C++. The pattern matching language is also dimensionally extensible. The pattern matching allows query of data with multiple granularities and continuous data. It also provides hooks for direct query of scientific data (observations). Our model is dimensionally extensible, and also an extension of a relational model for dimensional data. Moreover the dimensionality and addition of oids are mutually orthogonal concepts. Thus starting from classical ordinary data, one may migrate to higher forms of relational or object-relational data in any sequence, without having to recode application software. Our model does not deal with complex objects, which is left as a future extension.
Development and Validation of an Evidence-Based Algorithm for Diagnosing Periprosthetic Joint Infection.

Abstract Background The guidelines for diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) introduced by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons served the orthopedic community well. However, they have never been validated and do not account for newer diagnostic modalities. Our aim was to update current guidelines and develop an evidence-based and validated diagnostic algorithm. Methods This multi-institutional study examined total joint arthroplasty patients from 3 institutions. Patients fulfilling major criteria for infection as defined by Musculoskeletal Infection Society were considered infected (n = 684). Patients undergoing aseptic revision for a noninfective indication and did not show evidence of PJI or undergo reoperation within 2 years served as a noninfected control group (n = 820). The algorithm was validated on a separate cohort of 422 cases. Results The first step in evaluating PJI should include a physical examination, followed by serum C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and D-dimer. If at least one of these tests are elevated, or if high clinical suspicion exists, joint aspiration should be performed, sending the fluid for a white blood cell count, leukocyte esterase, polymorphonuclear percentage, and culture. Alpha defensin did not show added benefit as a routine diagnostic test. In inconclusive cases, intraoperative findings including gross purulence, histology, and next-generation sequencing or a single positive culture can aid in making the diagnosis. The proposed algorithm demonstrated a high sensitivity (96.9%) and specificity (99.5%). Conclusion This validated, evidence-based algorithm for diagnosing PJI should guide clinicians in the workup of patients undergoing revision arthroplasty and improve clinical practice. It also has the potential to reduce cost.
The itch-scratch reflex generates protective immunity

Abstract Itch: its complex neurobiology, its exquisite evolutionary conservation, and even the undeniably euphoric sensation of the scratch it evokes, are all suggestive of a productive physiological function. Nevertheless, we still struggle to answer (or altogether overlook) the basic question of why we itch in the first place. Here, we propose a simple hypothesis: the purpose of itch sensation is to evoke scratching behavior, which in turn boosts protective immunity against the broad range of pathogenic challenges that enter at the skin. We propose that the key function of itch induced scratching is to physically disrupt the skin, serving as a “mechanical adjuvant” that amplifies and directs immune responses to the precise site of potential pathogen entry. As proof of principle, we show that the potent adjuvanticity of itch inducing Compound 48/80 is dependent on this agent’s ability to elicit scratching behavior.
Cortical superficial siderosis and bleeding risk in cerebral amyloid angiopathy: A meta-analysis

Objective To assess the association of cortical superficial siderosis (cSS) presence and extent with future bleeding risk in cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). Methods This was a meta-analysis of clinical cohorts of symptomatic patients with CAA who had T2*-MRI at baseline and clinical follow-up for future intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We pooled data in a 2-stage meta-analysis using random effects models. Covariate-adjusted hazard ratios (adjHR) from multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used. Results We included data from 6 eligible studies (n = 1,239). cSS pooled prevalence was 34% (95% confidence interval [CI] 26%–41%; I2 87.94%; p Conclusion In patients with CAA, cSS presence and extent are the most important MRI prognostic risk factors for future ICH, likely useful in treatment planning. Classification of evidence This study provides Class III evidence that in symptomatic CAA survivors with baseline T2*-MRI, cSS (particularly if disseminated, i.e., affecting >3 sulci) increases the risk of future ICH.
Get Full Text Research and the Search for Appropriate Copies

A group of the largest academic publishers has launched a new service to simplify access to full-text research for users of discovery services and scholarly collaboration platforms. While this serv...
PLANTY GO: A Smart Planter System to Relieve Stress and Anxiety of Urban Youngsters

This paper introduces an application design named Planty Go which encourages young people to exchange their planting harvests in big cities to relieve anxiety. To achieve this target Planty Go offer youngsters a place to learn planting skills, exchange harvest, and make friends with people who also like planting. This paper also includes the process of the application design from research to evaluation. Different from other planting applications, Planty Go focuses on supporting the emotions of youngsters and planting experience. So this paper introduces how to identify the problem through primary research and how to solve those problems with the Planty Go. Finally, this paper introduced a Heuristic Evaluation which helps designers improve this design continually.
Counterbalanced microcircuits for Orx1 and Orx2 regulation of stress reactivity

Abstract Orexins are hypothalamic neuropeptides regulating a range of behaviors broadly associated with sleep, motivation, and feeding. These responses highlight the importance of orexins in maintaining foundational biological processes, but also indicate a connection to stress-related dysfunction, which results in aberrations to normal states of sleep, motivation, and feeding. As such, we predict, based on clinical and preclinical evidence, that irregularities in orexin signaling contribute to changes in affect and the formation of psychological disorders. In support of this, orexin-producing neurons innervate several brain areas important for mediating stress responses, including the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, where intracellular signaling results from activation of orexin receptors (Orx1 and Orx2). While stimulation of Orx1 and Orx2 initiate similar intracellular pathways, signaling dynamics may be modified through receptor location, dimerization, or genetic regulation. We further note, based on evidence from our lab, that Orx1 and Orx2 elicit opposing stress responses after activation, suggesting the existence of a counterbalanced mechanism for inducing physiological and behavioral stress states. Our research and others’ demonstrate that antagonistic neurocircuits promoting either pro- or anti-stress responses, may be bidirectionally shifted with activation of Orx1 or Orx2. Although clinically approved drugs that target the orexin system, like dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs), are moderately effective for the treatment of sleep- and, perhaps, addiction-related disorders, they may inadvertently disrupt mood or exaggerate existing affective dysfunction. We propose a novel idea for pharmacological intervention that accounts for the counterbalanced influence of orexin receptor activity on stress-induced behaviors: selective orexin receptor crossover drugs (SORCOs).
Treatment outcomes in individuals diagnosed with comorbid opioid use disorder and Posttraumatic stress disorder: A review.

Abstract Objectives Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a public health emergency. Evidence suggests that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among individuals with OUD; however, few studies evaluate whether concurrent diagnoses affect treatment outcomes. This review examines the impact of concurrent diagnoses of OUD and PTSD on treatment outcomes. Methods A search was performed using articles identified through June 30, 2020 in PubMed, PsycINFO, and EMBASE. Included peer-reviewed articles evaluated individuals with OUD and a PTSD diagnosis via standardized assessment and/or medical record diagnoses, and reported relationships between diagnosis and treatment outcomes and/or other psychiatric conditions. Results Out of 412 articles, 17 studies met inclusion criteria for this review (from 13 databases). Articles included had a total of n = 2190 with OUD, with n = 79 non-OUD comparison participants. Studies examining individuals with OUD revealed comorbid PTSD was associated with more severe addiction, higher rates of depression, attempted suicide, and psychosocial problems. Conclusions Among individuals with OUD, presence of PTSD is associated with multiple mental health problems. The impact of PTSD on drug use is inconclusive. Although only 5 studies examined psychosocial PTSD treatment, all found PTSD-focused treatment to be effective for those with comorbid OUD. Overall, results suggest the need to better identify PTSD among those with OUD, and to develop and evaluate interventions that are brief, integrative, and easy to implement in clinical settings.
Prevention of bacterial infections of mucosal surfaces by immune secretory IgA.

Secretory IgA (s-IgA) antibody is locally synthesized and secreted following bacterial infections of mucosal surfaces (1–12). IgG, and to a lesser extent IgM antibody, have also been found in secretions following bacterial infections or immunization against bacterial infections, but it is s-IgA that predominates in such responses. These data all point to a prominent function of s-IgA in the protection of mucosal surfaces against bacterial infections. There have been several in vitro studies which have produced evidence that s-IgA might be able to protect against bacterial infection (13–16). Steele et al. (17) in the only in vivo study of the antibacterial effect reported that Vibrio cholerae organisms precoated with immune s-IgA were not able to produce disease in infant mice.
Red Panda Husbandry for Reproductive Management

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses red panda's husbandry issues related to reproductive management. Red pandas are private, sensitive animals whose husbandry has always been challenging. Many years of experience caring for red pandas in captivity, and a gradual understanding of the natural history of the species have brought significant advances in ability to properly care for these animals ex situ. The characteristics of their physical environment, the behavioral and environmental enrichment that one provides includes the delicate balance between leaving mothers alone and still observing them closely enough to provide assistance when it is needed, perhaps also disease prevention and nutrition, all converge to influence the complex and sensitive requirements of successful reproduction in this unique species. To learn how to manage these factors, a close communication network is required among red panda breeding institutions, together with a series of carefully planned and thoughtfully analysed research investigations. The creation of ex situ environments in which animals feel sufficiently comfortable to thrive is the greatest challenge of captive wildlife managers. Decades of science experience improvements in understanding of animal sentience and transitions in the philosophy of animal husbandry.
Low dietary potassium intake stimulates NCC to cause sodium retention (892.16)

Low dietary K+ stimulates the renal sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC), whereas high salt intake inhibits it. As most people in the world consume a diet that is both low in K+ and high in salt, we...
Proteinases Release Mucin from Airways Goblet Cells

The mucin-release effect of proteinases on airways epithelium was assessed in vitro. Using explants of rabbit tracheal mucosa-submucosa we determined that elastase and alkaline proteinase from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, pancreatic trypsin and elastase and the microbial proteinases subtilisin, thermolysin and pronase, all stimulate mucin release from goblet cells. On the other hand Streptomyces caespitosus proteinase pancreatic chymotrypsin and collagenase fail to trigger mucin release. Bovine trachea and human nasal polyp epithelium also release mucins in response to proteinases. Mucin release activity is dependent on proteolytic activity of enzymes which have a fairly broad, but generally similar, substrate specificity. The cellular mechanism of action is not known. We propose that mucin secretion in response to proteinases represents a useful defence mechanism but also forms the basis for hypersecretory states and airways obstruction in chronic endobronchial inflammatory states.
Oxidative damage in DNA. Lack of mutagenicity by thymine glycol lesions.

Abstract Thymine glycol (5,6-dihydroxy-5,6-dihydrothymine) is a base damage common to oxidative mutagens and the major stable radiolysis product of thymine in DNA. We assessed the mutagenic potential of thymine glycols in single-stranded bacteriophage DNA during transfection of Escherichia coli wild-type and umuC strains. cis -Thymine glycols were induced in DNA by reaction with the chemical oxidant, osmium tetroxide (OsO 4 ); modification of thymines was quantitated by using anti-thymine glycol antibody. Inactivation of transfecting molecules showed that one lethal hit corresponded to 1·5 to 2·1 thymine glycols per phage DNA in normal cells, whereas conditions of W-reactivation (SOS induction) reversed 60 to 80% of inactivating events. Forward mutations in the lacI and lacZ′(α) genes of f1 and M13 hybrid phage DNAs were induced in Os0 4 -treated DNA in a dose-dependent manner, in both wild-type and umuC cells. Sequence analysis of hybrid phage mutants revealed that mutations occurred preferentially at cytosine sites rather than thymine sites, indicating that thymine glycols were not the principal pre-mutagenic lesions in the single-stranded DNA. A mutagenic specificity for C → T transitions was confirmed by Os0 4 -induced reversion of mutant lac phage. Pathways for mutagenesis at derivatives of oxidized cytosine are discussed.
The "systems" nature of enterprise architecture

The strategic management of enterprise performance development includes assessment-based planning which in turn depends upon accurate representations of the enterprise. These representations include ontologies, architectures and models. Enterprise architecture is becoming the cornerstone of performance development initiatives which are driving the emergence of the disciplines of enterprise engineer and enterprise architect. Ontologies, architectures and other more detailed models must reflect the systems nature of the enterprise, demonstrating that it is an intelligent complex adaptive system of systems. Recent developments in the creation of architecture for the total enterprise include initiatives by the US federal government, other national, state and local governments, universities and private sector corporations. The emergence of enterprise engineering and continuing emphasis on enterprise architecture can have a profound impact on traditional disciplines such as industrial engineering and systems engineering. In this regard a word of caution and an exciting opportunity can be considered.
The Interactive Effects of Rights-Claims: Sexuality Politics from a Developmental Perspective

Between May 2003 and July 2003, a curious shift in how the American public viewed the legality of consensual homosexual sex took place. While in May the largest percentage of respondents to date supported decriminalizing such sexual activity, that percentage dropped 11 points two months later. Similar declines in support were evident in the same period over a range of gay and lesbian rights claims. The ruling in Lawrence v. Texas decriminalizing consensual homosexual sex is the obvious intervening event. To explain this pattern, coding of print and televised news coverage of the ruling throughout 2003 was undertaken. Coverage was not overtly negative in terms of anti-gay rhetoric or hostility toward the judiciary. Rather, the predominant media frame focused on the implications of Lawrence for an entirely separate rights issue: marriage equality. As such, this paper examines the possibility of media frame “spillover,” or the idea that media focus on entirely distinct and not widely supported rights claim in multifaceted rights agenda might depress support across the entire rights agenda. The suggestive findings call out for further, potentially experimental, research, and they have implications for connections between litigation and public opinion, social movement framing of objectives and strategies, and ideational development and policy debate as studied within the broader field of American political development.
The effect of actinomycin D on estrogen-induced uterine blood flow.

Abstract The effect of actinomycin D on estrogen-induced uterine blood flow was studied in four nonpregnant, oophorectomized sheep, utilizing electromagnetic flow probes chronically implanted around the uterine arteries. Two hours after the intravenous injection of 1 μg of estradiol-17β per kilogram of body weight, incorporation of [3H]-uridine into RNA was two- to threefold higher (2.7 ± 0.4 S.E.M.) in the control horn than the uterine horn that had received an intra-arterial injection of actinomycin D. Actinomycin D had no effect on the estrogen-induced increase in uterine blood flow.
Cosmic Age Controversy Is Overstated

Hubble9s law states that the universe is expanding at a rate that places its age at about 10 to 15 billion years. However, some of the stars in the universe, in particular those found in globular clusters, appear to be older. This paradox has led to debate among astronomers about how old the universe is. In his Perspective, Chaisson argues that such age controversies have occurred in the past and that the paradox will no doubt be resolved, as in the past, as more data comes in and better analyses of the data are carried out.
Pigmentary Anomalies and Hearing Loss

A number of syndromes that include hearing loss in the phenotype also have pigmentary anomalies as a component manifestation. One of the most common of these is Waardenburg syndrome, which includes hypopigmentation and sensorineural hearing loss in the phenotype. There are four types of Waardenburg syndrome, distinguishable from each other by clinical findings. However, there are several other syndromes which include not only hypopigmentation, but also hyperpigmentation in the phenotype. This paper serves as a review of many of these syndromes.
Enzyme antigens associated with pigeon breeder's disease. II: Isolation and characterization of acidic hydrolases

The hydrolytic enzymes in pigeon dropping extracts (PDE) were separated into basic and acidic components by DEAE-cellulose chromatography. Six distinct hydrolytic activities were isolated from the acidic group of enzymes. Elastase, trypsin, and two forms of collagenase were the proteases identified. An esterase and a phospholipase were also detected. The sera of symptomatic pigeon breeders, analyzed by crossed immunoelectrofocusing techniques, were shown to contain antibodies to the enzymes trypsin, collagenase, and esterase in the acidic fractions of PDE by staining the immune precipitates with specific chromogenic substrates. These enzymes were purified by preparative isoelectric focusing, affinity chromatography, and gel filtration. The purified elastase hydrolyzed elastin and consisted of a single polypeptide chain (M r =23,100). Trypsin hydrolyzed a synthetic arginine substrate, but not elastin or collagen. Its size (M r =27,500) and subunit structure were similar to those reported here for elastase. Both enzymes were inhibited by α-1-antitrypsin,Nα-p-tosyl-L-lysine chloromethylketone, and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride. Two distinct collagenases were found; both cleaved bovine collagen. The high-molecular-weight (HMW) collagenase was a glycoprotein (M r =117,500) and consisted of three polypeptide chains (M r =37,100); a low-molecular-weight (LMW) collagenase (M r =12,500) was also isolated. The HMW collagenase was inhibited byEDTA,p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, but not by α-1-antitrypsin. The source of these enzymes as well as their relationship to the basic hydrolytic enzymes of PDE are discussed.
Second annual robotics summer camp for underrepresented students

The University of Minnesota Center for Distributed Robotics and the Digital Technology Center hosted the second annual Technology Day Camp, a week long camp targeting underrepresented students such as girls, African Americans, and Hispanics from the Twin Cities metro area. Students were surveyed prior to the camp revealing a strong proclivity towards math and science, but a resistance to the perceived lifestyle of computer scientists. With an emphasis on the college experience, building hardware, creating software, and interacting with robots, the camp implemented proposed changes from the previous year as well as new activities with a special emphasis on robotics. The successes and failures are discussed in an effort to provide insight for organizations hosting similar programs, new research questions are presented, and a materials list is provided.
Simulations of cloudy, gaseous galactic disks

Aspects of the simulation of cloudy, gaseous galactic disks are discussed. The motivation for conducting such studies is addressed, and the formulation of the fundamental physical problem in mathematical terms is considered. The computational solution study of the formulated physical problem is examined, and the results and interpretation of computational studies are discussed.
A Quantitative Measure of Migratory Timing Applied to the Commercial Brown Shrimp Fishery in North Carolina

Abstract A quantitative description of the migratory timing of the brown shrimp (Penaens aztecns) was estimated from monthly state-wide (1966-1978) and weekly area-specific (1978-1980) catch and effort data from Pamlico Sound, the Neuse River, and Core Sound, North Carolina. Descriptive statistics for timing are defined and calculated. Based on the average of weekly catch data, 25% of the migration occurs in July, 50% in August, and 25% during September-November in Pamlico Sound, the major harvest area. Analysis of migratory timing is an improved method of predicting total yield even during years of apparently aberrant environmental conditions. It is suggested that the impact of various physical factors on the progress of the fishery in time and space can be objectively evaluated by using descriptive statistics as dependent variables in modeling efforts.
Oxidative stress, Nrf2 and keratin up-regulation associate with Mallory-Denk body formation in mouse erythropoietic protoporphyria.

Mallory-Denk bodies (MDBs) are hepatocyte inclusions commonly seen in steatohepatitis. They are induced in mice by feeding 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) for 12 weeks, which also causes porphyrin accumulation. Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is caused by mutations in ferrochelatase (fch), and a fraction of EPP patients develop liver disease that is phenocopied in Fechm1Pas mutant (fch/fch) mice, which have an inactivating fch mutation. fch/fch mice develop spontaneous MDBs, but the molecular factors involved in their formation and whether they relate to DDC-induced MDBs are unknown. We tested the hypothesis that fch mutation creates a molecular milieu that mimics experimental drug-induced MDBs. In 13- and 20-week-old fch/fch mice, serum alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and bile acids were increased. The 13-week-old fch/fch mice did not develop histologically evident MDBs but manifested biochemical alterations required for MDB formation, including increased transglutaminase-2 and keratin overexpression, with a greater keratin 8 (K8)-to-keratin 18 (K18) ratio, which are critical for drug-induced MDB formation. In 20-week-old fch/fch mice, spontaneous MDBs were readily detected histologically and biochemically. Short-term (3-week) DDC feeding markedly induced MDB formation in 20-week-old fch/fch mice. Under basal conditions, old fch/fch mice had significant alterations in mitochondrial oxidative-stress markers, including increased protein oxidation, decreased proteasomal activity, reduced adenosine triphosphate content, and Nrf2 (redox sensitive transcription factor) up-regulation. Nrf2 knockdown in HepG2 cells down-regulated K8, but not K18. Conclusion: Fch/fch mice develop age-associated spontaneous MDBs, with a marked propensity for rapid MDB formation upon exposure to DDC, and therefore provide a genetic model for MDB formation. Inclusion formation in the fch/fch mice involves oxidative stress which, together with Nrf2-mediated increase in K8, promotes MDB formation. (Hepatology 2012;56:322–331)
Role of renal allograft biopsy in multicenter clinical trials in transplantation

There is current agreement that in the design of prospective clinical trials, patients should be assigned to various treatment groups based on histological diagnosis of acute renal allograft rejection. The Banff schema is satisfactory in reporting and grading histology for patient entry into clinical trials, particularly in multicenter studies because it standardizes the entry and randomization criteria and maintains reproducibility of the histological Interpretation between the different centers. It should be emphasized that for biopsy specimens to be effective tools for either clinical practice or clinical trials, they need to be obtained before therapeutic intervention and handled by experienced histopathology laboratory technicians. Adequate tissue sampling is necessary for diagnosis and for proper grading of rejection. It is recommended that a minimum of two cores of renal tissue are needed to avoid underestimation of rejection grade. Banff classification considers a biopsy specimen to be adequate if it contains seven or more glomeruli and at least a single artery. Examination of serial step sections through the tissue samples is crucial to identify focal lesions of toxicity and to properly score intimal arteritis and tubulitis. In addition, fast interpretation of the biopsy by an experienced nephropathologist or a transplant pathologist within 24 hours optimizes the utilization of the biopsy-acquired information. At the present time, it is premature to decide on the role of graft histology as an endpoint in clinical trials, but posttreatment biopsies should be encouraged in large, multicenter, prospective trials because they may be our only tools to study postrejection changes. Semiquantitative biopsy reporting systems should be routinely included in clinical databases to allow for the prospective examination of structure-function relationships and long-term outcomes following acute rejection.
Ethnic Differences and the Closing of the Sex Gap in Alcohol Use Among College-Bound Students

In this study, the authors used Web-based surveys to examine differences in alcohol use by sex and ethnicity and factors associated with these group differences among 2,241 college-bound students. A Sex x Ethnicity interaction indicated that the sex gap was much larger for Latino than for Caucasian students. Although peer influence was important for both Caucasian and Latino students, family influences were significant only for Latino youths. The sex differences in drinking among Latino youths were largely explained by the combination of same-sex family member and same-sex peer drinking through values about the acceptability of drinking behavior. Among Caucasians, perceptions of peer behavior exerted a stronger influence on drinking behavior than among Latinos. These results suggest that interventions targeting peer influence are likely to be most effective for Caucasian students. In contrast, for Latinos, particularly Latina women, family characteristics may be an important target for prevention.
Negative Feedback Avalanche Diodes for Near-infrared Single Photon Detection

In recent years significant progress has been made in near-infrared single photon detection using Geiger-mode InP-based single photon avalanche diodes (SPADs). A more detailed understanding of these detectors with regard to device design, material growth and device fabrication has led to continual performance improvements. A variety of circuits for enabling SPAD Geiger-mode operation have been proposed and demonstrated as well. However, due to the inherent positive feedback nature of the avalanche process, Geiger-mode SPADs are constrained by certain performance limitations, particularly with regard to counting rate and the absence of photon number resolution. These limitations hinder the use of SPADs in certain applications. By incorporating a negative feedback mechanism into InP-based SPADs, these SPAD performance limitations can be overcome. In this paper, we present a negative feedback avalanche diode (NFAD), which is formed by monolithically integrating a passive negative feedback element with a high-performance InP-based SPAD. We describe the design and operation of the NFAD device, along with basic characteristics such as pulse response and quenching dynamics, as well as the dependence of these characteristics on excess bias voltage and input photon number. We will also review the results of near-infrared single photon counting performance for fundamental performance parameters such as photon detection efficiency, dark count rate, and afterpulsing.
Compact QEPAS sensor for trace methane and ammonia detection in impure hydrogen

A compact two-gas sensor based on quartz enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy (QEPAS) was developed for trace methane and ammonia quantification in impure hydrogen. The sensor is equipped with a micro-resonator to confine the sound wave and enhance QEPAS signal. The normalized noise-equivalent absorption coefficients (1{sigma}) of 2.45 x 10{sup -8} cm{sup -1}W/{radical}Hz and 9.1 x 10{sup -9} cm{sup -1}W/{radical}Hz for CH{sub 4} detection at 200 Torr and NH{sub 3} detection at 50 Torr were demonstrated with the QEPAS sensor configuration, respectively. The influence of water vapor on the CH{sub 4} channel was also investigated.
Commentary - caution: constant failure-rate models may be hazardous to your design

This commentary examines the consequences, from a system perspective, of modeling system components using only their failure-rates, viz, the inverse of their MTTF, when, in actuality, they have a lifetime distribution with either an increasing or a decreasing hazard function. Such models are often used because: they are tractable; they are thought to be "robust;" they depend only on average values; or only small amounts of data are available for calculations. However, the results of such models can greatly understate the system-reliability for some time periods and overstate it for others. Using MTTF as a figure of merit for system-reliability can be especially misleading. Furthermore, the redundancy in a redundant system might provide very little of the reliability improvement predicted by the constant failure-rate model, and series systems might, in fact, be much more reliable than predicted. The overall result is that a constant failure-rate model can give very misleading guidance for system-design.
Compositional dependence of the luminescence from Cr4+-doped calcium aluminate glass

We report on spectroscopic investigations of Cr4+-doped calcium aluminate glasses with various MgO and Al2O3 contents. We compare our results to a model which takes into account both the distribution of sites and the mixing of the 3T2 state into the 1E state through the spin-orbit interaction.