cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Altered lethality of murine toxin from Yersinia pestis under various metabolic conditions.

SummaryThe susceptibility of mice to highly purified preparations of the murine toxin of Y. pestis was decreased significantly when the animals were fasted, or made diabetic, or exposed to an ambient temperature of 37°, or injected with glucagon, dibutryl cyclic AMP, or cortisone. In contrast, the lethality of toxin was significantly increased in mice that received a high carbohydrate fat-free diet and that were exposed to temperatures of 5 or 17°. In contrast to controls, epinephrine was unable to elicit hy-perglycemia or increase the plasma level of free fatty acid in animals challenged with the toxin. These results support a mode of action in vivo based on hypothermia as a primary determinant of lethality.David E. Wennerstrom, a predoctoral trainee, was supported by Public Health Service Grant No. TO 1-AI00435 from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease.
Evidence of across-channel processing for spectral-ripple discrimination in cochlear implant listeners.

Spectral-ripple discrimination has been used widely for psychoacoustical studies in normal-hearing, hearing-impaired, and cochlear implant listeners. The present study investigated the perceptual mechanism for spectral-ripple discrimination in cochlear implant listeners. The main goal of this study was to determine whether cochlear implant listeners use a local intensity cue or global spectral shape for spectral-ripple discrimination. The effect of electrode separation on spectral-ripple discrimination was also evaluated. Results showed that it is highly unlikely that cochlear implant listeners depend on a local intensity cue for spectral-ripple discrimination. A phenomenological model of spectral-ripple discrimination, as an “ideal observer,” showed that a perceptual mechanism based on discrimination of a single intensity difference cannot account for performance of cochlear implant listeners. Spectral modulation depth and electrode separation were found to significantly affect spectral-ripple discrimination. The evidence supports the hypothesis that spectral-ripple discrimination involves integrating information from multiple channels.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Aqueous Solution Behavior of Electrolyte- and pH-Responsive Carboxybetaine-Containing Cyclocopolymers†

A novel pH- and salt-responsive carboxybetaine monomer, 4-(N,N-diallyl-N-methylammonio)butanoate (2), was prepared and cyclocopolymerized with the cationic monomer N,N-diallyl-N,N-dimethylammonium chloride (3) in 0.5 M NaCl aqueous solution (pH = 7.0) using 2-hydroxy-1-[4-(hydroxyethoxy)phenyl]-2-methyl-1-propanone (Irgacure 2959) as the free-radical photoinitiator. The molar feed ratio of 2:3 was varied from 100:0 to 0:100 with the total monomer concentration held constant at 2.5 M. Cyclopolymerization to five-membered ring structures common to diallylammonium salts was confirmed by 13C NMR spectroscopy. Reactivity ratio studies indicate that 2 and 3 copolymerize in a nearly ideal fashion (r1 = 0.86, r2 = 0.99). Weight-average molecular weights and second virial coefficients vary from (6.0 to 12.8) × 104 g mol-1 and (1.62 to 5.36) × 10-4 mL mol g-2, respectively. Dilute solution viscosity behavior depends on copolymer composition, ionic strength, and pH. Copolymers with a large excess charge exhibit typi...
Associations of characteristics of renal transplant recipients with clinicians' perceptions of adherence to immunosuppressant therapy.

Background. The objective of the study was to determine surveillance criteria for renal transplant recipients (RTRs) at highest risk for immunosuppressant therapy nonadherence. Methods. Retrospective analyses were performed on follow-up data in the United States Renal Data System. Those who received transplants between January 1, 1995 and December 31, 2002, had at least 36 months of follow-up data, and did not receive a second renal transplant were included in the analyses. The risk of nonadherence was estimated by random effects logistic regression while controlling for age, gender, race, education, donor type, primary insurance, time since transplant, and immunosuppressant medications using the STATA software (College Station, TX). Association between nonadherence and graft failure was also examined. Results. A total of 53,997 individuals met the inclusion criteria. About 6% of RTRs were reported nonadherent. Nonadherence risk increased with time posttransplant and decreased with age (P<0.001). RTRs who were male, nonwhite, or used mycophenolate mofetil or tacrolimus were more likely to be nonadherent with odds ratios (OR) of 1.36, 1.99, 1.13, and 1.31, respectively (P<0.05) than RTRs who used cyclosporine, steroids, azathioprine, or had Medicare (P<0.05). Nonadherent RTRs were more likely to experienced graft failure (P<0.001). Conclusions. Interventions to improve adherence should target younger RTRs, male RTRs, nonwhite RTRs, and those not on Medicare to reduce risk of graft failure.
Differential modulation of cortical synaptic activity by calcineurin (phosphatase 2B) versus phosphatases 1 and 2A

Reversible protein phosphorylation is thought to play an important regulatory role in synaptic neurotransmission. We recently have shown in cultured rat cortical neurons that inhibition of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent phosphatase calcineurin (phosphatase 2B) increases the frequency, but not the amplitude, of postsynaptic glutamatergic currents, implicating a presynaptic site of action for calcineurin. The specific presynaptic phosphoprotein substrates for calcineurin are unknown, however, calcineurin has been implicated in the control of the Ca2+-independent phosphatases, phosphatases 1 and 2A. To determine whether calcineurin's effects on synaptic transmission are direct or are mediated by changes in phosphatase 1 and/or 2A activities, we used whole-cell voltage clamp to record spontaneous and miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents in the presence of calyculin A (1 microM in bath solution), a membrane permeant inhibitor of phosphatases 1 and 2A which has no effect on calcineurin. Calyculin increased postsynaptic current amplitude without changing current frequency. In these same neurons, subsequent inhibition of calcineurin with cyclosporine A or FK506 had no further effect on current amplitude, but increased current frequency. The increased current amplitude seen with calyculin involved a postsynaptic mechanism, since the effect was reproduced by microcystin (10 microM in pipette solution), which is a membrane-impermeant inhibitor of phosphatases 1 and 2A. Thus, in rat cortical neurons, glutamatergic neurotransmission appears to be frequency-modulated through a presynaptic mechanism by calcineurin, and amplitude-modulated through a postsynaptic mechanism by phosphatases 1 and 2A.
ION CHANNEL REDISTRIBUTION AND FUNCTION DURING DEVELOPMENT OF THE MYELINATED AXON

The development of myelinated axons represents one of the most complex interactions among different cell types in the nervous system. Striking changes occur in both morphology and function in the early postnatal period. Myelination effectively isolates electrically most of the axolemma and dramatically alters the pathways for current flow that are required for rapid, reliable, and efficient conduction. Correspondingly, ion channels must be directed to and stabilized at their required sites. In the case of Na+ channels, this requires a 25-fold increase in density within nodes of Ranvier, and, in mammalian fibers, a virtually complete spatial separation from voltage-dependent K+ channels. Nodes must also be properly spaced to ensure a high conduction velocity and energy efficiency without compromising the safety factor for reliable propagation. In this review, we consider the events responsible for axon development, emphasizing the involvement of ion channels. We discuss the current state of research in this area, including some controversies regarding mechanisms of neuron-glial communication.
Polylingual and polycultural learning ecologies: Mediating emergent academic literacies for dual language learners:

In this article, we examine the affordances of polylingual and polycultural learning ecologies in expanding the linguistic repertoires of children, particularly young Dual Language Learners. In contrast to settings that promote the development of English and academic language at the expense of maintaining and developing home language, we argue that the social organization of learning should privilege participation in dynamic, hybrid literacy practices. Children are often more likely to experiment with English and academic genres, while also taking on powerful identities as learners and language users, when formal and informal modes of communication are leveraged, multimodality and language-crossing encouraged and the use of both home and academic vernaculars promoted within a context that values social relationships and the playful imagination. We argue that children’s literacy practices develop in particular social and ‘located’ relationships, and we examine one such after-school setting designed with th...
Evaluating Reference: An Introductory Overview of Qualitative Methods

Qualitative evaluation concerns the examination and analysis of individual experiences. This type of research tends to answer questions of why, how, what is the process, what is the relationship, and so on in an effort to understand the essential nature of a service or process. While statistics tell us how many questions we have answered, qualitative evaluation tells us how well we have met the patrons' needs.
PS−PEO Diblock Copolymer at the Cyclohexane/SiO2 Interface: Effect of Micelles on Adsorption Kinetics and Coverage

The adsorption behavior and surface excess of an asymmetric poly(styrene)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) copolymer, 4.2% by mass poly(ethylene oxide), from a cyclohexane solution onto a SiO2 surface ar...
Management of inguinal lymph node metastases from adenocarcinoma of the rectum.

Forty patients with inguinal lymph node metastases from rectal adenocarcinoma were reviewed. Patients were divided into three groups based on the extent of their disease: (1) patients with unresectable primary tumors; (2) patients with recurrent disease after abdominoperineal resection; and (3) patients with isolated inguinal lymph node metastases after abdominoperineal resection. Patients in Groups 1 and 2 underwent biopsy of their nodal metastases. Patients in Group 3 were treated by inguinal node dissection. Survival data were examined for each group, and four clinical and pathologic features were analyzed to determine their impact on prognosis: depth of invasion of the primary tumor (T1–2 vs. T3–4), number of positive lymph nodes in the rectal specimen (0–2vs. > 2), extent of the inguinal lymph node metastases (unilateral vs. bilateral), and timing of the inguinal lymph node metastases ( 1 year after abdominoperineal resection). There were no five-year survivors in any group. Median survival was highest in those with isolated lymph node metastases, with 2 patients remaining free of disease, and was lowest in those with unresectable primary disease (7 months). Median survival was increased when inguinal LNM were unilateral (17 vs. 6 months; P < 0.01) and when they occurred more than 1 year after abdominoperineal resection (21 vs. 7 months; P=0.02). Stage of the primary lesion (depth of invasion and number of positive lymph nodes) did not affect survival. Of the 32 patients who underwent biopsy alone, only 1 developed a tumor-related groin complication. For patients with isolated inguinal lymph node metastases, inguinal node dissection is recommended for the purposes of local control and possible cure. For patients with extranodal disease, prophylactic excision of inguinal lymph node metastases is not warranted.
Curcumin Ameliorates Arterial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress with Aging

We tested the hypothesis that curcumin supplementation would reverse arterial dysfunction and vascular oxidative stress with aging. Young (Y, 4-6 months) and old (O, 26-28 months) male C57BL6/N mice were given normal or curcumin supplemented (0.2%) chow for 4 weeks (n=5-10/group/measure). Large elastic artery stiffness, assessed by aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV), was greater in O (448±15 vs. 349±15 cm/s) and associated with greater collagen I and advanced glycation end-products and less elastin (all P<0.05). In O, curcumin restored aPWV (386±15 cm/s), collagen I and AGEs (AGEs) to levels not different vs. Y. Ex vivo carotid artery acetylcholine (ACh)-induced endothelial-dependent dilation (EDD, 79±3 vs. 94±2%), nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and protein expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) were lower in O (all P<0.05). In O, curcumin restored NO-mediated EDD (92±2%) to levels of Y. Acute ex vivo administration of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic TEMPOL normalized EDD in O control mice (93±3%), but had no effect in Y control or O curcumin treated animals. O had greater arterial nitrotyrosine abundance, superoxide production and NADPH oxidase p67 subunit expression, and lower manganese SOD (all P<0.05), all of which were reversed with curcumin. Curcumin had no effects on Y. Curcumin supplementation ameliorates age-associated large elastic artery stiffening, NO-mediated vascular endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and increases in collagen and AGEs in mice. Curcumin may be a novel therapy for treating arterial aging in humans.
A-Valued Semicircular Systems☆☆☆

Abstract To a von Neurnann algebra A and a set of linear maps ηij: A→A, i, j∈I such that a↦(ηij)ij∈I: A→A⊗B(l2(I)) is normal and completely positive, we associate a von Neumann algebra Φ(A, η). This von Neumann algebra is generated by A and an A-valued semicircular system Xi, i∈I, associated to η. In many cases there is a faithful conditional expectation E: Φ(A, η)→A; if A is tracial, then under certain assumptions on η, Φ(A, η) also has a trace. One can think of the construction Φ(A, η) as an analogue of a crossed product construction. We show that most known algebras arising in free probability theory can be obtained from the complex field by iterating the construction Φ. Of a particular interest are free Krieger algebras, which, by analogy with crossed products and ordinary Krieger factors, are defined to be algebras of the form Φ(L∞[0, 1], η). The cores of free Araki–Woods factors are free Krieger algebras. We study the free Krieger algebras and as a result obtain several non-isomorphism results for free Araki–Woods factors. As another source of classification results for free Araki–Woods factors, we compute the τ invariant of Connes for free products of von Neumann algebras. This computation generalizes earlier work on computation of T, S, and Sd invariants for free product algebras.
Protofilament and hexagon: a three-dimensional mechanical model for the junctional complex in the erythrocyte membrane skeleton.

It is a long-standing mystery why erythrocyte actin filaments in the junctional complex (JC) are uniformly similar to37 nm and the membrane skeleton consists of hexagons. We have previously proposed that a "molecular ruler" formed by E-tropomodulin and tropomyosin 5 or 5b functions to generate protofilaments of 12 G actin under mechanical stress. Here, we illustrate that intrinsic properties of actin filaments, e.g., turns, chemical bonds, and dimensions of the helix, also favor fragmentation into protofilaments under mechanical stress. We further construct a mechanical model in that a pair of G actin is wrapped around by a split alphaand beta spectrin, which may spin to two potential positions, and stabilize to one when the tail end is restricted. A reinforced protofilament may function as a mechanical axis to anchor three (top, middle, and bottom) pairs of Sp. Each Sp pair may wrap around the protofilament with a wide dihedral angle (similar to166.2degrees) and a minimal axial distance (2.75 nm). Such three Sp pairs may spiral down (right handed) the protofilament from the pointed end with a dihedral angle of similar to55.4degrees in between the Sp pairs. This first three-dimensional model of JC may explain the hexagonal geometry of the erythrocyte membrane skeleton. (C) 2003 Biomedical Engineering Society. The original publication is available at www.springerlink.com.
An Opto-Thermal Micro-Disk Resonator for Temperature Detection

In this paper, a temperature sensor has demonstrated using the opto-thermal disk-resonator (OTDR). The sensor is designed based on Whispering Gallery Mode (WGM) principle. The OTDR is a novel technique to integrate thermal science and optical technology. Optical resonances of Transverse Electric (TE) wave propagations in dielectric micro-disk resonator have been developed based on asymptotic approach. The developed expressions for size parameter for TE wave is very simple and can be used to characterize the resonances in dielectric micro-disk resonator. Asymptotic expression has applied to predict the resonance frequency at different temperatures. The sensor performance has been studied by using finite element simulation and found encouraging result for temperature sensing. Theoretical analysis shows that present study will lead to development of novel OTDR sensors for MEMS and nano applications.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Chiral symmetry breaking and low energy π π scattering

Abstract A method is presented for the use of s-wave ππ data in obtaining direct information related to the SU (3) × SU (3) symmetry breaking hamiltonian. Analytic hard pion methods are used to show how to obtain this information from the slopes of ( P /√ t ) cot δ T versus P 2 ffor T =0 and 2.
Repair of recurrent inguinal hernia.

Abstract The most significant finding that emerged from this study was that the incidence of recurrent hernia after primary repair was approximately 10 per cent. In only four of fortyfour patients having repair for recurrent hernias did the hernia recur a second time, an incidence of a little less than 10 per cent. Although these patients with repairs for recurrent hernias have not been followed up as long as those with primary hernia repairs, the highest incidence of recurrence in this series was in the first year after repair. Therefore, it is believed that the incidence of rerecurrence after repair for recurrent hernia will continue to compare relatively favorably with that after primary repair.
Stochastic modeling of reaction kinetics in biosensors using the Fokker Planck equation

The discrete-state continuous-time processes occurring in binding and release of analytes in affinity-based biosensors are formulated using stochastic differential equations (SDEs). The Fokker Planck (FP) equation is used to solve for the governing probability density function (pdf) of the number of captured analytes. A derivation method from the Markovian Master equation to the Fokker Planck equation is also given, which provides an alternative approach to the conventionally used Monte Carlo simulation methods, which has advantages in systems where the state space is large. Using FP equation, the time evolution of pdfs of the captured analytes in typical biosensor settings can be analyzed and subsequently be used to compute the expected behaviour and uncertainty of the detection and also be implemented in the design of optimal estimators.
An expanded GSLIB cokriging program allowing for two Markov models

Abstract The introduction of the two Markov models, MM1 and MM2, corresponding to two symmetric data screening hypotheses, has considerably facilitated the practice of modeling the matrix of (cross) semivariograms needed for cokriging. Program newcokb3D expands the GSLIB code cokb3D to take advantage of the colocated cokriging option under either the linear model of coregionalization (general case) or the MM1 or the MM2 model. A case study using the public domain GSLIB data set demonstrates application of program newcokb3D and analyzes the impact of the alternative models of coregionalization.
Localization of Endogenous β-Galactoside-Binding Lectin as a Means to Distinguish Malignant from Benign Skin Tissue

The immunolocalization of a 30-kd endogenous lectin, referred to as galaptin, was studied in various skin tumor types. Basal cell carcinomas expressed little or no galaptin, whereas nonmalignant basaloid cells, squamous cell carcinomas, melanoma, nevi, and stroma showed more prominent galaptin immuno-staining. Therefore, the immunodetection of galaptin may aid the dermatopathologist in difficult histologic diagnosis.
Parent and adolescent satisfaction with mental health services: does it relate to youth diagnosis, age, gender, or treatment outcome?

Consumer satisfaction with treatment is important information for providers of mental health services. The goal of the current study was to examine the relationship between youth and parent satisfaction ratings and the following youth variables: gender, age, primary diagnosis, and changes in functioning and symptomatology after 6 months of services. Results demonstrated that in a large sample of youth receiving community mental health services satisfaction with services differed as a function of the adolescents’ clinician-derived primary diagnosis, age, and reported changes in symptoms and functioning. Although significant, these variables accounted for only a small portion of the variance in satisfaction. Additionally, the relationship between parent and youth ratings of satisfaction was low, but significant. The implications of these findings are discussed as well as future directions for clinicians and researchers.
Pulmonary embolism in the traumatic brain injured adolescent: report of two cases

Abstract Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus (PE) are known to occur with significant frequency in the adult population but are believed to be rare in children. Our experience during a 26 month period would challenge this thought. Five of 60 adolescent patients developed an acute DVT and/or PE after severe traumatic brain injury. Clinical presentation of pulmonary embolus in two of three patients was similar to acute pneumonia. Prophylaxis for DVT and PE may be necessary to those adolescent patients who are likely to remain immobile for an extended period of time.
Mapping the dimer interface in the C-terminal domains of the yeast MLH1-PMS1 heterodimer.

Yeast MutLα is a heterodimer of MLH1 and PMS1 that participates in a variety of DNA transactions, including DNA mismatch repair. Formation of the MutLα heterodimer requires that the C-terminal domains of MLH1 and PMS1 interact in a manner that is not yet fully understood. Here we investigate the interactions involved in heterodimerization. Using protein surface modification and mass spectrometry, we identify numerous lysine residues that are exposed to solvent in monomeric MLH1. A corresponding analysis of the MLH1−PMS1 heterodimer reveals that three of these exposed residues, K665, K675, and K704, are no longer solvent accessible in the heterodimer, suggesting that they are within the dimer interface. We refine secondary structure predictions and sequence alignments of C-terminal residues of seven eukaryotic MutL homologues and then develop homology models for the N- and C-terminal domains of MLH1. On the basis of this information, we present a model for interaction of the C-terminal domains of MLH1 and ...
A Hyperelastic Contact Model for the Indentation of Chondrocytes and Cartilage Extracellular Matrix

The use of micro and nanoindentation to map the elasticity of cartilage chondrocytes and extracellular matrix has been driven by the desire to understand the changes in microstructure and micromechanical properties of the tissue associated with development and with diseases such as osteoarthritis. Advances in atomic force microscopy (AFM) have facilitated application of the technique to soft tissues, allowing the concurrent imaging and mechanical probing of minute sample regions at high resolution. Examples of the capabilities of the AFM in studying cartilage biomechanics include its use in investigating changes in the elastic properties of the articular surface during development [1], comparing the dynamic elastic response at the microscale and the nanoscale [2], and measuring the elastic moduli of different zones [3].Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Visualization of 3-D high speed ultrahigh resolution optical coherence tomographic data identifies structures visible in 2D frames.

Optical coherence tomography has allowed unprecedented visualization of ocular structures, but the identity of some visible objects within slices remains unknown. This study reconstructs a number of those objects in 3D space, allowing their identification by observation of their 3D morphology. In the case mottling deep within image slices through the optic disc, C-mode imaging provided visualization of the appearance and distribution of laminar pores. In the case of white spots and streaks sometimes observed in image slices through the cornea, C-mode imaging contoured to the path of those white spots allowed their visual identification as nerves extending radially into the cornea from the limbus. White spots observed in ultrahigh resolution retinal image slices were identified as blood within retinal capillaries. C-mode contour-corrected imaging of three-dimensional structures provided the identification of previously unidentified structures visible in cross-sectional image slices.
Mathematical foundations for modeling poikilotherm mortality

Abstract A mathematical basis for incorporating mortality into models of insect development is presented. There has been much attention given to modeling insect development, but the quantitative treatment of mortality, especially of immature stages, is often overlooked. This paper investigates mortality as it affects immature-organism development, proceeding from the simple to the complex. The methods presented are illustrated with examples taken from boll-weevil immature mortality within cotton floral buds.
Vaginal repair of ureterovaginal fistula may be suitable for selected cases.

Ureterovaginal fistula (UVF) is an uncommon but devastating complication of gynecologic surgery. Management includes ureteral stenting for 6–8 weeks. For stent failure, ureteroneocystostomy (UNC) through an open, laparoscopic, or robotic abdominal approach is the classic alternative. Originally pioneered for repair of vesicovaginal fistulas (VVF), the use of the vaginal approach in UVF is scarcely reported in the literature. We report the successful repair of UVF performed exclusively through the vaginal approach in two women after robotic hysterectomy. In select clinical scenarios, this approach may be applied, as it provides a minimally invasive option for managing UVF after failure of ureteral stenting.
ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES FOR RURAL LAND MANAGEMENT

Land-use change and land-management practices affect a variety of ecolog- ical processes. Land-use impacts on ecological processes include local extirpations, intro- ductions of new species, changes in land-cover extent, changes in juxtaposition of land- cover types, changes to disturbance regimes, changes in vegetation structure and compo- sition, and effects on air, water, and light quality, and noise pollution. Effects of land-use changes on ecological processes are discussed with special reference to changes in rural environments. Our premise is that better understanding of ecological processes improves land management. Mitigation strategies are presented with respect to management of initial ecological conditions, of the changes themselves, and of the altered system. The paper focuses on proactive environmental management efforts and identifies key research issues as (1) quantifying land-use legacies, (2) determining conditions under which land use modifies impacts of other stressors, (3) identifying conditions under which deleterious impacts can be avoided, (4) understanding cumulative impacts of land-use change, (5) improving our understanding of how land use alters resistance or susceptibility to invasion and impacts of pollutants, (6) crafting socioeconomically reasonable incentives for restoring or reducing effects of land-use practices, and (7) accelerating the integration of social and ecological sciences
Age-related changes in the mechanical properties of the epimysium in skeletal muscles of rats

Skeletal muscle is composed of muscle fibers and an extracellular matrix (ECM). The collagen fiber network of the ECM is a major contributor to the passive force of skeletal muscles at high strain. We investigated the effect of aging on the biomechanical and structural properties of epimysium of the tibialis anterior muscles (TBA) of rats to understand the mechanisms responsible for the age-related changes. The biomechanical properties were tested directly in vitro by uniaxial extension of epimysium. The presence of age-related changes in the arrangement and size of the collagen fibrils in the epimysium was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A mathematical model was subsequently developed based on the structure-function relationships that predicted the compliance of the epimysium. Biomechanically, the epimysium from old rats was much stiffer than that of the young rats. No differences were found in the ultrastructure and thickness of the epimysium or size of the collagen fibrils between young and old rats. The changes in the arrangement and size of the collagen fibrils do not appear to be the principal cause of the increased stiffness of the epimysium from the old rats. Other changes in the structural composition of the epimysium from old rats likely has a strong effect on the increased stiffness. The age-related increase in the stiffness of the epimysium could play an important role in the impaired lateral force transmission in the muscles of the elderly.
Self‐Reflexivity: A Place for Religion and Spirituality in Public Administration

This article describes an empirical study of a select set of mid-level managers in the federal government. The study examined the participant's capacity to engage in the kind of self-reflexivity that Michael Harmon calls for in his 1995 book Responsibility as Paradox: A Critique of Rational Discourse on Government. Specifically, it focuses on the reflections of two participants, both of whom asserted a direct relationship between their religious beliefs and their work as public administrators. Three implications for the discipline and practice of public administration are developed.
Application of digital image analysis to strain measurement at elevated temperature

Digital imaging techniques are applied to the measurement of surface displacement and strain at elevated temperatures. A simple surface preparation using high temperature paint together with a CCD video camera for digital imaging serve as the basis for the measurements. Mathemetical correlation of the surface intensity pattern between reference and deformed states is used to measure local surface deformation. The method is non-contacting and full field. Displacement and strain measurements have been made at temperatures to 600°. Coefficients of thermal expansion of three metals have been measured using this technique and compared to strain gauge and handbook values. Limitations and potential extensions of the method are discussed.
Host-Mediated Post-Translational Prenylation of Novel Dot/Icm-Translocated Effectors of Legionella Pneumophila

The Dot/Icm type IV translocated Ankyrin B (AnkB) effector of Legionella pneumophila is modified by the host prenylation machinery that anchors it into the outer leaflet of the Legionella-containing vacuole (LCV), which is essential for biological function of the effector in vitro and in vivo. Prenylation involves the covalent linkage of an isoprenoid lipid moiety to a C-terminal CaaX motif in eukaryotic proteins enabling their anchoring into membranes. We show here that the LCV harboring an ankB null mutant is decorated with prenylated proteins in a Dot/Icm-dependent manner, indicating that other LCV membrane-anchored proteins are prenylated. In silico analyses of four sequenced L. pneumophila genomes revealed the presence of eleven other genes that encode proteins with a C-terminal eukaryotic CaaX prenylation motif. Of these eleven designated Prenylated effectors of Legionella (Pel), seven are also found in L. pneumophila AA100. We show that six L. pneumophila AA100 Pel proteins exhibit distinct cellular localization when ectopically expressed in mammalian cells and this is dependent on action of the host prenylation machinery and the conserved cysteine residue of the CaaX motif. Although inhibition of the host prenylation machinery completely blocks intra-vacuolar proliferation of L. pneumophila, it only had a modest effect on intracellular trafficking of the LCV. Five of the Pel proteins are injected into human macrophages by the Dot/Icm type IV translocation system of L. pneumophila. Taken together, the Pel proteins are novel Dot/Icm-translocated effectors of L. pneumophila that are post-translationally modified by the host prenylation machinery, which enables their anchoring into cellular membranes, and the prenylated effectors contribute to evasion of lysosomal fusion by the LCV.
Communities’ Readiness To Commit To High-Quality Health Care

Now that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has become law, the question is whether the country is ready to implement its provisions, especially regarding quality. I believe that the answer is yes, at both the national and local levels. However, we must apply the lessons learned from previous health reform missteps to ensure the new law’s success. Many Americans believe that the law’s provisions concerning health care quality are not specific enough. However, this lack of specificity might provide the flexibility needed to successfully implement those provisions.
In vitro Recovery of Dengue Viruses from Naturally Infected Human Beings and Arthropods

IN the period which has followed the discovery of the mouse neurovirulence of dengue viruses types 1 and 21–3, intracerebral inoculation of the suckling mouse has remained the sole, though inefficient, laboratory method for the recovery of viruses of the dengue group4,5. Despite successful attempts to grow mouse adapted dengue viruses in several cell cultures, primary isolation and identification of dengue viruses entirely by an in vitro method have not been reported. This communication describes the recovery and identification of dengue viruses of several antigenic types in a stable line of grivet monkey kidney cells, Cercopithecus aethiops.
Sequence and chromosomal assignment of human BAPX1, a bagpipe-related gene, to 4p16.1: a candidate gene for skeletal dysplasia.

Abstract Homeobox-containing genes play an important role in both body axis determination and specific organ development. They have increasingly been found to be mutated in human birth defect disorders. Sequences of two bagpipe -related genes in the mouse, Nkx-3.1 and Nkx-3.2, have already been reported. Nkx-3.1 was isolated from the prostate, and its human homolog NKX-3.1 has also been described. Mouse Nkx-3.2, or bapx1, has also been isolated, and its expression in the visceral mesoderm and embryonic skeleton in the mouse has been described. We report here the human BAPX1 sequence and its localization to chromosome region 4p16.1 and suggest BAPX1 as a candidate for disorders of skeletal development that might map to 4p16.1.
Immunoglobulin synthesis in fetal sharks.

Abstract 1. 1. Fetal serum immunoglobulin levels in seven viviparous and one ovoviviparous species of shark ranged from less than 0·3 to 4·8 per cent of the maternal levels. 2. 2. Apparently little or no maternofetal transfer of immunoglobulins occurs in sharks either via the placenta as it does in some mammals or via the yolk as it does in birds. 3. 3. Immunoglobulins can be synthesized by fetal shark spleen and in the adult shark by spleen, liver, stomach and the anal organ. 4. 4. The low serum levels of immunoglobulin in the spiny dogfish fetus may be due in part to a relative unresponsiveness to antigens before birth.
Comparative Release of Phenylpropanolamine HC1 from Long-Acting Appetite Suppressant Products: Acutrim Vs. Dexatrim

AbstractThe release of phenylpropanolamine HC1 from two commercially available long-acting appetite suppressant products, Acutrim and Dexatrim, was evaluated by using a dissolution apparatus modified from the well-calibrated Ghannam-Chien diffusion cells. The solubility profile of phenylpropanolamine showed extreme dependency on pH. The release of phenylpropanolamine from Acutrim tablets was observed to be fairly independent of pH and fluid dynamics, but is affected by the osmotic pressure in the dissolution medium. The release profiles of phenylpropanolamine from both Dexatrim and Acutrim were observed to consist of two stages: an initial, fast-release phase and a sustained-release phase at steady state. While both products achieve 100% release of the loading dose, the sustained-release portion of the phenylpropanolamine dose was observed to release from Acutrim tablets at zero-order kinetics over a 8-hr period, but showed a gradual dissolution from Dexatrim granules for over a 4-hr duration. Therefore, ...
Origami Instruction in the Middle School Mathematics Classroom: Its Impact on Spatial Visualization and Geometry Knowledge of Students

AbstractWithin the study of geometry in the middle school curriculum is the natural development of students’ spatial visualization, the ability to visualize two- and three-dimensional objects. The national mathematics standards call specifically for the development of such skills through hands-on experiences. A commonly accepted method is through the instruction of Origami, the art of paper folding. This study focused on Origami’s impact as a teaching tool in the middle school mathematics classroom. The effects of Origami instruction on a group of seventh grade mathematics students’ (n = 56) spatial visualization skills and level of geometry understanding were investigated using a pre-test/post-test quasiexperimental design. A 2 (group) × 2 (gender) factorial method was used on gathered data via three separate spatial tests (Card Rotation, Paper Folding, and Surface Development Tests) and a subset of released National Assessment of Educational Progress questions. After controlling for initial differences,...
NIMBY taxes matter: the case of state hazardous waste disposal taxes

This paper links the theoretical and empirical literatures on interjurisdictional tax and regulatory competition, focusing on the case of state hazardous waste disposal taxes. It begins by demonstrating that local environmental taxes can be inefficient, and that the inefficiency depends on the tax elasticity of polluters' responses. The paper then uses panel data from the Toxics Release Inventory to estimate the magnitude of the tax elasticities, and to demonstrate the empirical relevance of the theoretical inefficiency of local taxes. © 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.
Iatrogenic fractures of the femoral neck during closed nailing of the femoral shaft

We have reviewed our experience of four iatrogenic femoral neck fractures in 315 consecutive closed intramedullary nailings with the AO/ASIF universal femoral nail. The average neck-shaft angle in the bones that fractured was 139.3 degrees +/- 1.2 degrees SD (136 to 141); in the whole series the average neck-shaft angle was 125.3 degrees +/- 8.6 degrees and only 11 had angles of more than 135 degrees. The upper ends of the nails in the four which fractured were 17 mm, 5 mm, 3 mm, and 1 mm below the tip of the greater trochanter. In the seven patients with neck-shaft angles greater than 135 degrees but with no fracture, none of the nails had been inserted beyond the tip of the greater trochanter. We nailed six cadaver femora to simulate the forces produced by intramedullary nailing. Despite deep insertion, only one of the six sustained a neck fracture. This specimen had a radiographic neck-shaft angle of 140 degrees against an average of 127.3 degrees +/- 4.0 degrees for the other five. We believe that the medial prong of the AO insertion jig, with its medial overhang of 2 to 3 mm, may impinge on the superior aspect of a valgus femoral neck during final impaction, causing a neck fracture. This may be avoided by leaving the end of the nail above the tip of the trochanter in such cases.
Fairness and QoS in multihop wireless networks

In multihop wireless networks, fair allocation of bandwidth among different nodes is one of the critical problems that affect the serviceability of the entire system. Although there is significant research on the fairness issues in single-hop wireless networks, research on multihop fairness is rarely found in the literature. We study various queuing schemes for multihop wireless networks and examine the fairness and throughput performance of each scheme. Each scheme offers a different degree of fairness. While relatively simple queuing schemes require less hardware and processing budget, they inevitably lack good fairness and performance. In contrast, the scheme that provides fairness requires per-flow (i.e., network-layer flow) queuing. Furthermore, we show that in order to achieve the optimal bandwidth utilization, the medium access control (MAC) layer should be able to support different priorities. Without such a MAC-layer QoS scheme, in the worst case, the bandwidth utilization can be degraded by O(N), where N is the number of end users. We theoretically investigate the pros and cons of different queuing schemes and verify the analytical results with detailed simulations.
Wind measurement resolution for a scanning pencil beam scatterometer

The problem of determining the effective wind measurement resolution of a wind scatterometer is considered. Using simplifying assumptions and approximations, a simple linear model for wind retrieval is derived and related to the effective wind estimate resolution and the backscatter measurement resolution. This enables an analytic evaluation of the scatterometer wind measurement resolution. The effective wind resolution is shown to be related to the unique area of the /spl sigma//sup 0/ measurements used to retrieve the wind. This area is a function of the /spl sigma//sup 0/ measurement cell sizes and their coregistration. Using this result the resolution of the SeaWinds scatterometer is analyzed. >
Comparison of 2 techniques of laryngeal tube exchange in a randomized controlled simulation study.

Abstract Background Laryngeal tubes (LT) are often used as rescue airway devices. Among prehospital medical personnel, the success rates are high and significantly faster compared to an endotracheal tube (ETT). Therefore, LTs are increasingly used in the prehospital setting. The exchange of an LT for an ETT may often be desirable. Two fiberoptic bronchoscope–facilitated techniques have been described to exchange an LT for an ETT: an intraluminal technique using an Aintree intubating catheter and an extraluminal technique using a nasal route alongside the LT. In this randomized cross-over mannequin study, we compared the intraluminal with the extraluminal exchange technique. The primary outcome was time to achieve an effective airway through an ETT. We hypothesized that the intraluminal technique would be significantly faster. Methods Thirty anesthesia providers were recruited to the study. Each participant attempted both techniques in an intubation simulation model. The tube exchange time was recorded from picking up the fiberoptic bronchoscope until confirmation of ventilation with the ETT. Results Four participants in each group had a failed attempt at intubation. Time to establish an endotracheal intubation was significantly shorter with the intraluminal technique vs the extraluminal technique (77.5 vs 140 seconds; P = .03). Conclusion Based on the results of our study, we suggest that the intraluminal technique may be a suitable alternative for a fiberoptic-guided rapid exchange of an LT for an ETT to establish an effective airway in a challenging situation.
A soft-systems methodology approach for product and process innovation

Soft-systems methodology (SSM) has been recommended as a tool for scientifically evaluating complex environments. One such environment is the development of organizational processes and products delivered by organizations. This paper proposes a methodology for organizational product and process innovation based on SSM theory incorporating quality function deployment (QFD) and IDEF0 (integrated definition functional modelling tool) techniques. The methodology relies on a series of phases that elicit information from complex and amorphous real-world practices, processes, and information, and develops models of these systems. The paper illustrates the utility of the methodology and tools using a case example: development of an organizational decision support system used to justify strategically important technologies for the enterprise.
Contributing Factors for Young At Fault Drivers in Fatal Traffic Crashes in Florida

This state level case based study is aimed at providing a complete picture of contributing factors for fatal crashes caused by younger drivers (younger than age 25) in Florida. Results showed that nonhuman factors were primary contributing causes in only 6% of the crashes, but secondary and tertiary contributing factors in up to 25% of those crashes. The most common nonhuman factor was tire blowout/tread separation. Common human factors included alcohol use, inattention, and high speed. Younger drivers were at fault in 62% of crashes in which they were involved, and they were highly overrepresented in fault in forward impacts with control loss due to high speeds and abrupt steering input. At the time of the fatal crash, younger drivers were more likely to have had passengers in the vehicle than older drivers and approximately one in four younger at fault drivers was under the influence of alcohol. However, most of the youngest (16 to 17 year olds) at fault drivers were in compliance with nighttime and passenger restriction statutes of graduated driver licensing at the time of the fatal crash. The findings imply that there still remains gaps and weaknesses in current driving programs aimed at younger drivers. Keywords: younger drivers; fatal crashes; case based analysis; contributing factors; Driver distraction
A posteriori method of image restoration

Algorithms are developed which address the problem of estimating the magnitude and phase of the optical transfer function associated with a blurred image. The primary focus of the paper is on the estimate of the phase of the optical transfer function. Once an estimate of the optical transfer function has been made, the corresponding blurred imagery is Wiener filtered to estimate the original unblurred object. Results are demonstrated on real world photographically induced blurs. Included is a mathematical bound on the phase of the optical transfer function.
An unusual cause of severe dyspnea: diastolic dysfunction due to calcific constrictive pericarditis.

Background: Constrictive pericarditis is a rare cause of dyspnea. This disease shares many signs and symptoms with other causes of cardiac failure as well as gastrointestinal and renal diseases, making it difficult to diagnose. Case Report: We present a case of a 73-year-old woman who presented to our Emergency Department (ED) in respiratory failure after a recent history of worsening dyspnea. Constrictive pericarditis was strongly suspected on bedside ultrasonography. Computed tomography scan showed extensive pericardial calcifications and large pleural effusions, supporting the diagnoses. The patient was admitted for treatment and evaluation of constrictive pericarditis, but died of complications during cardiac catheterization. Conclusions: The etiology and physiology of constrictive pericarditis are reviewed and an ultrasound-centered approach to undifferentiated dyspnea in the ED is discussed.