cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Internal axonal cytoarchitecture is shaped locally by external compressive forces.

Abstract The cross-sectional architecture of the axon and the area of its surrounding Schwann cell were quantified at selected histological regions along the length of avian myelinated axons. The number of neurofilaments (NFs), the density of NFs, axoplasmic area, and Schwann cell cross-sectional area were measured. These parameters were examined at Schmidt-Lanterman (S-L) clefts, at paranodal-nodal regions, and at regions of compact myelin Schwann cell nuclei. The results were then compared with the same parameters in adjacent compact myelinated regions of the same axons. At S-L clefts, paranodal-nodal regions, and Schwann cell nuclei, the axonal areas were smaller and the NF densities were higher than at compact myelinated regions. From other studies, it has been suggested that NF organization is responsive to local compressive forces — NF packing density tends to increase with increasing compression of the axon. We found that the NF packing densities were relatively small and the axon diameters were relatively large in the compact myelinated regions; this result suggests that in these axonal regions external constraints on axonal architecture are minimal. The higher NF packing densities and smaller axon diameters in the other histological regions suggest that external compressive effects on the axon increase in the following order: simple compact myelin
ZnO p-n homojunction random laser based on nitrogen doped p-type nanowires

We report electrically pumped ZnO homojunction random lasers based on nitrogen doped p-type ZnO nanowires and undoped n-type ZnO thin film. The laser devices with and without distributed Bragg reflector are studied.
The eosinophil and the pathophysiology of asthma

Eosinophilia of lung and blood associated with injury to the mucociliary escalator and excessive shedding of bronchial epithelium are hallmarks of both allergic and nonallergic asthma. In vitro, the eosinophil granule major basic protein (MBP) is toxic to helminths and to mammalian cells, including human respiratory epithelium. The MBP-mediated damage to the respiratory epithelium consists of desquamation and frank destruction of ciliated cells. Increased sputum MBP concentration is a good marker for asthma, and patients treated for acute asthma have high levels of MBP in their sputa, which decrease after treatment. Peak sputum MBP levels approximate concentrations toxic to respiratory epithelium in vitro. In the lungs of patients who had died of asthma, MBP has been localized outside of the eosinophil in association with damage to the epithelium. Overall, these and other findings suggest the hypothesis that the eosinophil mediates damage to the respiratory epithelium and is the prime effector cell in the pathophysiology of asthma.
Safety of insulin pumps, even in adolescent use, depends on thorough patient selection, evaluation, and education.

To the Editor .— I found the report presented by Cope et al1 to be interesting but fear that the conclusions drawn could deprive many of the benefits of pump technology,2,3 particularly adolescents. The reasons are: 1. The report combining insulin pumps and patient-controlled analgesia pumps presumed that technology is the key factor. Not so. Plus, there is little similarity between adolescents using patient-controlled analgesia to those needing insulin to sustain their lives. We have assisted children, adolescents, …
Non-constant distribution coefficients for directionally solidified InSbGaSb

Abstract Methods developed in a previous paper were tested using data for directionally solidified alloys of InSbGaSb. The distribution coefficient k varied appreciably and was influenced by application of a magnetic field.
GENESIS OF CORDIERITE – GEDRITE GNEISSES, CENTRAL METASEDIMENTARY BELT BOUNDARY THRUST ZONE, GRENVILLE PROVINCE, ONTARIO, CANADA

Cordierite- and gedrite-bearing lithologies crop out along the base of the Central Metasedimentary Belt boundary thrust zone (CMBbtz) in Ontario, the boundary between the Central Metasedimentary Belt and the Central Gneiss Belt. It has been proposed that these rocks represent metamorphosed and partially melted Al- and Mg-rich sedimentary rocks. Whole-rock oxygen isotope values (δ18O in the range 6–8‰) from these rocks are not consistent with closed-system metamorphism of either soils or pelitic sediments, and cannot be explained solely by extraction of partial melt from pelitic rocks. The whole-rock δ18O and chemical composition of cordierite–gedrite rocks in the CMBbtz indicate that these rocks represent volcanic rocks hydrothermally altered by seawater. After hydrothermal alteration, these rocks were metamorphosed to the upper amphibolite facies, stabilizing the cordierite + gedrite assemblages. Diffusion modeling of quartz–garnet fractionations suggests intermineral exchange of oxygen in a closed system at moderate fugacity of H2O during slow cooling after regional metamorphism. We believe that cordierite–gedrite lithologies in the CMBbtz mark the site of Mid-Proterozoic rifting at the margin of Laurentia.
Structural comparison of nickel electrodes and precursor phases

A summary of previous Raman spectroscopic results and a discussion of important structural differences in the various phases of active mass and active mass precurors are presented. Raman spectra provide unique signatures for these phases, and allow one to distinguish each phase, even when the compound is amorphous to X-rays (i.e., does not scatter X-rays because of a lack of order and/or small particle size). The structural changes incurred during formation, charge and discharge, cobalt addition, and aging will be discussed and related to electrode properties. Important structural differences include NiO2 layer stacking, nonstoichiometry (especially cation-deficit nonstoichiometry), disorder, dopant content, and water content. The results indicate that optimal nickel active mass is non-close packed and nonstoichiometric. The formation process transforms precursor phases into this structure. Therefore, the precursor disorder, or lack thereof, influences this final active mass structure and the rate of formation. Aging processes induce structural change which is believed to be detrimental. The role of cobalt addition can be appreciated in terms of structures favored or stabilized by the dopant. In recent work, the in situ Raman technique to characterize the critical structural parameters was developed. An in situ method relates structure, electrochemistry, and preparation. In situ Raman spectra of cells during charge and discharge, either during cyclic voltammetry or under constant current conditions were collected. With the structure-preparation knowledge and the in situ Raman tool, it will be possible to define the structure-property-preparation relations in more detail. This instrumentation has application to a variety of electrode systems.
The conversion of 1-propanamine on copper-containing MFI and BEA zeolites prepared by aqueous and vapor ion-exchange

Abstract A process has been developed for exchanging one Cu atom per ion exchange site in an MFI zeolite. The material is synthesized by reaction of the acidic zeolite with CuCl vapor, followed by oxidation with oxygen, and conversion of the Cu2+species to copper hydroxyl ions and copper hydroxyl dimers by reaction of the oxidized material with water upon exposure to humid air. This material, a similarly prepared BEA material, and copper-containing MFI and BEA zeolites prepared by conventional aqueous ion-exchange have been comparatively investigated for the conversion of 1-propanamine. Reaction products include C6products such as dipropanamine and 1-propanamine, N-(1-propylidene). A bifunctional acid/metal reaction pathway is proposed to account for the observed products.
Reduced-density-matrix description for pump-probe optical phenomena in moving atomic systems

Linear and nonlinear (especially coherent) electromagnetic interactions of moving many-electron atoms are investigated using a reduced-density-matrix description, which is applied to electromagnetically induced transparency and related resonant pump-probe optical phenomena. External magnetic fields are included on an equal footing with the electromagnetic fields and spin-Zeeman interactions are taken into account. Complimentary time-domain (equation-of-motion) and frequency-domain (resolvent-operator) formulations of the reduced-density-matrix description are self-consistently developed. The general nonperturbative and non-Markovian formulations provide a fundamental framework for systematic evaluations of corrections to the standard Born (lowest-order-perturbation) and Markov (short-memory-time) approximations. The macroscopic electromagnetic response is described semiclassically, employing a perturbation expansion of the reduced-density operator in powers of the classical electromagnetic field. Our primary results are compact Liouville-space operator expressions for the linear and general ($n\text{th}$-order) nonlinear macroscopic electromagnetic-response tensors, which can be evaluated for nonlocal and nonstationary optical media described by multilevel atomic-system representations. Interactions among atoms and with environmental photons are treated as line-broadening effects by means of a general Liouville-space self-energy operator, for which the tetradic-matrix elements are explicitly evaluated in the diagonal, lowest-order, and Markov approximations. The compact Liouville-space operator expressions that are derived for the macroscopic electromagnetic-response tensors are introduced into the dynamical description of the electromagnetic-field propagation. It is pointed out that a quantized-electromagnetic-field approach will be required for a fully self-consistent quantum-mechanical treatment of local-field effects and radiative corrections.
Dermatoscopic features of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia

Background No data exist on the dermatoscopic findings in central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA). Objective We sought to establish the spectrum of dermatoscopic features and their frequency in CCCA. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 153 nonpolarized dermatoscopic images obtained from 51 women with histologically proven CCCA and established a list of 12 dermatoscopic features that were independently scored for each image. Controls included 30 dermatoscopic images from histologically proven cases of scarring traction alopecia and discoid lupus erythematosus. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis assessed the specificity and sensitivity; Cohen kappa statistics assessed the agreement. Dermatoscopic pathologic correlations were performed on the horizontal sections of 41 of the 51 specimens, which were obtained with dermatoscopy-guided biopsy procedures. Results Peripilar white gray halo around the emergence of hairs was observed in 94% of patients and was highly specific and sensitive for CCCA in all clinical stages. It corresponds on pathology to the lamellar fibrosis surrounding the outer root sheath. Limitations This was a retrospective study. Conclusion The presence of a peripilar white halo is a dermatoscopic feature that suggests the diagnosis of CCCA in African American patients with mild central thinning, and it is an optimal site from which to obtain a biopsy specimen.
tinman-related genes expressed during heart development in Xenopus

The tinman homeobox gene of Drosophila is absolutely required for development of the insect heart. This observation prompted the isolation of tinman-related genes from vertebrates, in the hope that the developmental function of the gene would be conserved between evolutionarily distinct species. The first vertebrate tinman gene, Nkx2-5, was isolated from mouse and subsequently, orthologues of Nkx2-5 have been isolated from a number of different species. In all cases, a conserved pattern of Nkx2-5 expression is observed in the developing heart, commencing prior to differentiation. Genetic ablation of Nkx2-5 in the mouse results in embryonic lethality due to heart defects, but most myocardial genes are expressed normally and a beating heart tube forms. This observation raises the possibility that additional genes related to Nkx2-5 are partially rescuing Nkx2-5 function in the null mouse. Recently, additional members of the tinman-related gene family have been discovered and characterized in a number of different species. Somewhat surprisingly, orthologous genes in different organisms can be rather divergent in sequence and may show completely different expression patterns. In at least some organisms, expression of the tinman-related genes is not observed in the heart. Due to the increasing number of family members and the somewhat divergent expression patterns, the precise role of the tinman-related genes in cardiac development remains an open question. In a search for additional tinman-related genes in the frog, Xenopus laevis, we have identified Nkx2-9, a novel member of the tinman-related gene family. Preliminary characterization reveals that Nkx2-9 is expressed in the cardiogenic region of the embryo prior to differentiation, but transcript levels decrease rapidly, in the heart, at about the time that differentiation commences.
Digitalis toxicity and hypomagnesemia

Abstract Four patients with digitalis toxicity were found to be hypomagnesemic and normokalemic. A significantly lower mean serum magnesium was noted in a group of digitalized heart failure patients (1.40 mEq./L.) than in matched normal subjects (1.93 mEq./L.). These observations, coupled with the fact that both digitalis and magnesium deficiency lead to a decrease in intracellular potassium, suggested that hypomagnesemia might contribute to the development of digitalis toxicity. To determine whether hypomagnesemia facilitates the development of digitalis toxicity, serial acetyl strophanthidin infusions were performed in 19 adult mongrel dogs. Hypomagnesemia was achieved by Kiil kidney dialysis. While dialysate electrolyte concentration corresponded to normal canine plasma, acetyl strophanthidin was infused (100 μg per minute) three times at three hour intervals. Hypomagnesemia was then induced by three hours of magnesium-free dialysis and acetyl strophanthidin was again infused. Mean serum magnesium was reduced 44 per cent (1.67 to 0.93 mEq./L.). This was accompanied by a 26 per cent reduction in the amount of acetyl strophanthidin needed to produce a toxic arrhythmia (42.4 to 31.4 μg per kilogram). Restitution of sinus rhythm was observed in 13 dogs immediately after the intravenous infusion of 2 to 7 c.c. of 25 per cent magnesium sulfate. These studies have shown that hypomagnesemia facilitates digitalis toxicity which can be promptly terminated with magnesium sulfate. Since diuretic drugs may produce hypomagnesemia as well as hypokalemia and both may predispose to digitalis toxicity, it is suggested that serum magnesium as well as potassium levels be determined in patients with digitalis toxicity.
Effect of population nucleation on house size for pueblos in the American Southwest

Abstract House size is dependent not only on the number of residents and various economic and environmental factors, but also on the physical proximity of the house relative to other houses. For the same number of residents, houses in nucleated villages are likely to be larger than houses in dispersed villages. House size is measured both as square meters of floor area and as number of rooms; nucleation is measured as the average number of contiguous rooms per village. Data are derived from Historic Period pueblos in the Southwest.
The Crepidotaceae (Basidiomycota, Agaricales): phylogeny and taxonomy of the genera and revision of the family based on molecular evidence

Advances in phylogenetic systematics have clarified the position of most major homobasidiomycete lineages. In contrast, the status of the Crepidotaceae, a historically controversial family of dark-spored agarics, remains unaddressed. In this paper, current morphology-based classifications of the agaric genera of the Crepidotaceae were evaluated by parsimony and constraint analyses of sequence data from the nuclear large subunit rDNA. Taxa analyzed included the type species for each agaric genus allied in the family by Singer: Crepidotus, Simocybe, Pleurotellus, Tubaria, and Melanomphalia. Contrary to traditional classifications, results suggest that the crepidotoid fungi have three separate origins within the euagarics. The Crepidotaceae sensu stricto (s.s.) includes Crepidotus and Simocybe and represents a separate lineage of dark-spored euagarics. Pleurotellus is congeneric with Crepidotus. Results indicate the exclusion of both Tubaria and Melanomphalia from the Crepidotaceae s.s. Tubaria is allied with the strophariaceous taxa Phaeomarasmius and Flammulaster, while Melanomphalia has arisen from within a lineage of light-spored omphalinoid euagarics representing an independent acquisition of basidiospore pigmentation. Other pleisiomorphic and newly uncovered synapomorphic characters are discussed in detail along with the taxonomic status of each genus, and a revised family description is provided.
Impact of flow regulation on near-channel floodplain sedimentation

article i nfo Article history: Rates and the spatial extent of near-channel floodplain sedimentation on regulated and unregulated reaches in two upland rivers in central Vermont, U.S.A. are measured using the short-lived fallout radionuclide 210 Pb. We find consistent profiles of 210 Pb inventories across all sites; inventories are low immediately next to the channel, increase to a peak value as the inundation frequency decreases and then asymptotically diminish with distance from the channel to the equilibrium inventory associated with atmospheric deposition alone. We infer from our data that flow regulation has impacted sediment deposition to floodplains below the dam; total sediment deposition is less and it is constrained to a narrower band immediately along the active channel. Flow regulation does not appear, however, to impact the general form of the 210 Pb inventory profile, suggesting a uniformity of process across regulated and unregulated floodplains.
Anisotropy of the elastic properties of crystalline cellulose Iß from first principles density functional theory with Van der Waals interactions

In spite of the significant potential of cellulose nanocrystals as functional nanoparticles for numerous applications, a fundamental understanding of the mechanical properties of defect-free, crystalline cellulose is still lacking. In this paper, the elasticity matrix for cellulose Iβ with hydrogen bonding network A was calculated using ab initio density functional theory with a semi-empirical correction for van der Waals interactions. The computed Young’s modulus is found to be 206 GPa along [001] (c-axis), 98 GPa along [010] (b-axis), and 19 GPa along [100] (a-axis). Full compliance matrices are reported for 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 % applied strains Color contour surfaces that show variations of the Young’s modulus and average Poisson’s ratio with crystallographic direction revealed the extreme anisotropies of these important mechanical properties. The sensitivity of the elastic parameters to misalignments in the crystal were examined with 2D polar plots within selected planes containing specific bonding characteristics; these are used to explain the substantial variability in the reported experimental Young’s moduli values. Results for the lattice directions [001], [010] and [100] are within the range of reported experimental and other numerical values.
Amino Acids and Protein in Broiler Nutrition

Abstract Standard commercial broiler type chicks, 150 males and 150 females per pen, were housed in commercial type broiler house pens and fed diets containing from 18 to 24% protein with milo and corn, milo, corn and wheat as grain sources for a period of eight weeks. Formulas were balanced with regard to the ratio of each of the amino acids to the energy level of the diet. From the data of this experiment, it is quite apparent that broiler diets should be formulated to meet amino acid requirements. If the total formula is made up of soybean meal, corn and milo, or soybean meal with fish meal and wheat, and contains no more than 18% protein, it is necessary to add lysine and methionine to the formulation. If the level of the protein is in the range of 20%, it is not necessary to supplement the diet with lysine. Best results were obtained with milo, followed by corn and wheat, in that order. Indications from this study are to the effect that the lysine requirement may be lowered to the range of 1.07–1.10% or the gm./mc. to the range of 3.30–5.53. It is possible that leucine, isoleucine, and valine may be borderline or limiting when wheat is used as the primary grain source in computerized formulations.
The regeneration of caudal epidermal specializations in Lygodactylus picturatus keniensis (Gekkonidae, Lacertilia).

The epidermal covering of the tail scales of the gekkonid lizard Lygodactylus bears three distinct types of specialization: sense organs, pilose pads whose function is either sensory or scansorial or both, and holocrine secretory organs (β-glands) which are only found in males. The same specializations are found on regenerated tails, and although the morphological form and patterning of the scales do not resemble the original, the structure, distribution and sexual specificity of the specialized units is perfectly restored. These structures, and similar units in other lacertilian genera have certain resemblances to mammalian and avian epidermal specializations. Perfection of replacement of integumentary specializations can be correlated with functional demands, although the developmental mechanism underlying the phenomenon is unknown.
Quantifying Exertion Level During Exercise Stress Testing Using Percentage of Age-Predicted Maximal Heart Rate, Rate Pressure Product, and Perceived Exertion

OBJECTIVE: To determine if the attainment of at least 85% of age-predicted maximal heart rate (APMHR), using the equation 220 – age, and/or at least 25,000 as the product of maximal heart rate and systolic blood pressure (rate pressure product, RPP) is an accurate indicator of exertion level during exercise stress testing. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From May 1, 2009, to February 15, 2010, 238 patients (mean ± SD age, 49.3±11.9 years; 50% male) with symptoms suggestive of myocardial ischemia underwent an exercise stress test with the addition of ventilatory expired gas analysis and a myocardial perfusion study. Ventilatory expired gas analysis determined the peak respiratory exchange ratio (RER), which is considered a valid and reliable variable for quantifying a patient's exertion during exercise. RESULTS: Of the patients, 207 (87%) attained a peak RER of 1.00 or more, and 123 (52%) attained a peak RER of 1.10 or more. An APMHR of 85% or more and peak RPP of 25,000 or more were both ineffective in identifying patients who put forth a maximal exercise effort (ie, peak RER, ≥1.10). Perceived exertion was a significant indicator (P=.04) of patient exertion, with a threshold of 15 (6-20 scale) being an optimal cut point. The percentage of equivocal myocardial perfusion study results was significantly higher in patients who demonstrated a submaximal exercise effort by peak RER (P≤.007). CONCLUSION: Aerobic exercise testing is an integral component in the assessment of patients with suspected myocardial ischemia. Our findings indicate that the currently used percentage of APMHR and peak RPP thresholds are ineffective in quantifying a patient's level of exertion during exercise stress testing.
Acute failure of action potential conduction in mdx muscle reveals new mechanism of contraction‐induced force loss

A primary feature of skeletal muscle lacking the protein dystrophin, as occurring in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, is a hypersensitivity to contraction-induced strength loss. We tested the hypothesis that the extensive strength loss results from an impairment in the electrophysiological function of the plasmalemma specifically impaired action potential development. Anterior crural muscles from mdx and wildtype mice performed a single bout of 100 electrically stimulated eccentric contractions in vivo. Electromyography, specifically the M-wave, was analysed during muscle contraction to assess the ability of the tibialis anterior muscle plasmalemma to generate and conduct action potentials. During eccentric contractions, wildtype mice exhibited a 36% loss in torque about the ankle but mdx mice exhibited a greater torque loss of 73% (P < 0.001). Despite the loss of torque, there was no reduction in M-wave root mean square (RMS) for wildtype mice, which was in stark contrast to mdx mice that had a 55% reduction in M-wave RMS (P < 0.001). This impairment resolved within 24 h and coincided with a significant improvement in strength and membrane integrity. Intracellular measurements of resting membrane potential (RMP) in uninjured and injured extensor digitorum longus muscles were made to determine if a chronic depolarization had occurred, which could lead to impaired fibre excitability and/or altered action potential conduction properties. The distributions of RMP were not different between wildtype uninjured and injured muscle cells (median: -73.2 mV vs. -72.7 mV, P = 0.46) whereas there was a significant difference between mdx uninjured and injured cells (median: -71.5 mV vs. -56.6 mV, P < 0.001). These data show that mdx muscle fibres are depolarized after an injurious bout of eccentric contractions. These findings (i) suggest a major plasmalemma-based mechanism of strength loss underlying contraction-induced injury in Duchenne muscular dystrophy distinctly different from that for healthy muscle, and (ii) demonstrate dystrophin is critical for maintaining action potential generation and conduction after eccentric contractions.
Reasons Scientists Avoid Thinking about Ethics

Science is a powerful force for change in modern society. As the professionals at its helm, scientists have a unique responsibility to shepherd that change with thoughtful advocacy of their research and careful ethical scrutiny of their own behavior.
The archaeology of rank

1. The present study of past society 2. Social theory and social life 3. Inequality and social life: a working model 4. Mortuary data as evidence of ranking 5. Mortuary data as evidence of ranking 6. The form and distribution of artifacts 7. Status, settlements, and structures 8. Catal Huyuk: a ranked Neolithic town in Anatolia? Notes References Index.
Genital melanocytic nevi in children: Experience in a pediatric dermatology practice.

Background Little is known about the prevalence and clinical characteristics of genital melanocytic nevi in children. Objective We sought to describe the epidemiology, clinical and dermoscopic features, and natural history of genital nevi in pediatric patients. Methods We reviewed charts of 1159 children given the diagnosis of melanocytic nevi over 11 years. Those with genital nevus as a chief symptom were contacted for follow-up. Results Among children/adolescents evaluated for nevi, the prevalence of genital nevus was 3.5% (40/1159), with a male:female ratio of 1.3:1. There were no statistically significant differences in age, sex, total nevus number, presence of acral and scalp nevi, or family history of dysplastic nevi and melanoma between patients with and without genital nevi. Genital nevus onset was before age 2 years in 63.6% of patients. A globular dermoscopic pattern was observed in 93.3%. Most genital nevi underwent a gradual change in diameter, elevation (becoming soft papules), color, texture, or a combination of these. After median follow-up of 1.5 years, no melanoma or other adverse outcome was observed. Limitations This was a retrospective chart analysis and questionnaire-based study of a limited number of patients. Conclusions Increased awareness of the clinical characteristics, dermoscopic features, and evolution of genital nevi in children may help to avoid unnecessary surgery.
Warmer temperatures increase disease transmission and outbreak intensity in a host–pathogen system

While rising global temperatures are increasingly affecting both species and their biotic interactions, the debate about whether global warming will increase or decrease disease transmission between individuals remains far from resolved. This may stem from the lack of empirical data. Using a tractable and easily manipulated insect host-pathogen system, we conducted a series of field and laboratory experiments to examine how increased temperatures affect disease transmission using the crop-defoliating pest, the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and its species-specific baculovirus, which causes a fatal infection. To examine the effects of temperature on disease transmission in the field, we manipulated baculovirus density and temperature. As infection occurs when a host consumes leaf tissue on which the pathogen resides, baculovirus density was controlled by placing varying numbers of infected neonate larvae on experimental plants. Temperature was manipulated by using open-top chambers (OTCs). The laboratory experiments examined how increased temperatures affect fall armyworm feeding and development rates, which provide insight into how host feeding behaviour and physiology may affect transmission. Disease transmission and outbreak intensity, measured as the cumulative fraction infected during an epizootic, increased at higher temperatures. However, there was no appreciable change in the mean transmission rate of the disease, which is often the focus of empirical and theoretical research. Instead, the coefficient of variation (CV) associated with the transmission rate shrunk. As the CV decreased, heterogeneity in disease risk across individuals declined, which resulted in an increase in outbreak intensity. In the laboratory, increased temperatures increased feeding rates and decreased developmental times. As the host consumes the virus along with the leaf tissue on which it resides, increased feeding rate is likely to increase the probability of an individual consuming virus-infected leaf tissue. On the other hand, decreased developmental time increases the sloughing of midgut cells, which is predicted to hinder viral infection. Increases in outbreak intensity or epizootic severity, as the climate warms, may lead to changes in the long-term dynamics of pests whose populations are strongly affected by host-pathogen interactions. Overall, this work demonstrates that the usual assumptions governing these effects, via changes in the mean transmission rate alone, may not be correct.
Maternal nutrient restriction in sheep: hypertension and decreased nephron number in offspring at 9 months of age

Pregnant ewes were fed either a 50% nutrient-restricted (NR; n = 8) or a control 100% (C; n = 8) diet from day 28 to day 78 of gestation (dGA; term = 150 dGA). Lambs were born naturally, and fed to appetite throughout the study period. At 245 ± 1 days postnatal age (DPNA), offspring were instrumented for blood pressure measurements, with tissue collection at 270 DPNA. Protein expression was assessed using Western blot, glomerulus number determined via acid maceration and hormone changes by radioimmunoassay (RIA) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). NR lambs had higher mean arterial pressure (MAP; 89.0 ± 6.6 versus 73.4 ± 1.6 mmHg; P < 0.05), fewer renal glomeruli (57.8 ± 23.8 versus 64.6 ± 19.3 × 104; P < 0.05), increased expression of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) in the renal cortex (942 ± 130 versus 464 ± 60 arbitrary pixel units (apu); P < 0.03), and increased angiotensin II receptor AT2 expression in the renal medulla (63.3 ± 12.1 versus 19.5 ± 44.2 × 104 apu; P < 0.03). All data are presented as mean ± s.e.m. The present data indicate that global maternal nutrient restriction (50%) during early to mid-gestation impairs renal nephrogenesis, increases MAP, and alters expression of AT2 and ACE without an associated change in birth weight. These data demonstrate the existence of a critical window of fetal susceptibility during early to mid-gestation that alters kidney development and blood pressure regulation in later life.
Lateral rectus resections in divergence palsy: results of long-term follow-up.

Introduction: Lateral rectus resections have been previously advocated as surgical options to treat patients with divergence palsy who do not respond well to prisms. This study was undertaken to review the results and long-term follow-up of patients with divergence palsy who underwent lateral rectus resections at our institution. Methods: Retrospective review of 29 patients (age 35–83 years) with divergence palsy. Five subjects underwent unilateral lateral rectus resection between 4.5 and 5.5 mm on adjustable suture and 24 subjects underwent bilateral lateral rectus resection between 3 and 7 mm on adjustable sutures. Results: Preoperatively, all patients had diplopia at distance and an esodeviation, which was greater at distance (mean 14.7 ± 5.1Δ) than at near (mean 4.7 ± 3.5Δ). Twenty-five subjects had previously been treated with prisms. Postoperative follow-up period ranged from 6 to 96 months (mean 38.7 ± 27.3 months). The angle of deviation at distance was significantly reduced to −0.1 ± 3.2Δ postoperatively ( P P Conclusion: Lateral rectus resection in patients with divergence palsy is an effective and stable procedure in patients with divergence palsy over long-term follow-up periods, with minimal risk of overcorrections at near.
Fenofibrate reduces intestinal cholesterol absorption via PPARα-dependent modulation of NPC1L1 expression in mouse

Fibrates, including fenofibrate, exert their biological effects by binding peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARalpha), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors. Treatment with PPARalpha agonists enhances fatty acid oxidation, decreases plasma triglycerides, and may promote reverse cholesterol transport. In addition, fibrate administration can reduce intestinal cholesterol absorption in patients, although the molecular mechanism for this effect is unknown. Because Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1 (NPC1L1) is already known to be a critical protein for cholesterol absorption, we hypothesized that fenofibrate might modulate NPC1L1 expression to alter intestinal cholesterol transport. Here, we find that fenofibrate-treated wild-type mice have decreased fractional cholesterol absorption (35-47% decrease) and increased fecal neutral sterol excretion (51-83% increase), which correspond to decreased expression of NPC1L1 mRNA and protein (38-66% decrease) in the proximal small intestine. These effects of fenofibrate are dependent on PPARalpha, as Ppar alpha-knockout mice fail to respond like wild-type littermates. Fenofibrate affects the ezetimibe-sensitive pathway and retains the ability to decrease cholesterol absorption and NPC1L1 mRNA expression in chow-fed liver X receptor alpha/beta-double-knockout mice and high-cholesterol- or cholic acid-fed wild-type mice. These data demonstrate that fenofibrate specifically acts via PPARalpha to decrease cholesterol absorption at the level of intestinal NPC1L1 expression.
Judicial Discretion in Sentencing

The role of judicial discretion in the sentencing process is a fundamental and inescapable issue. It tends to become obscured by other issues, such as determinancy and penal policies. When it does come to the public's attention, it is usually in a context of controversy over what a judge has done. The public perception of judicial discretion is almost invariably skewed. For all those reasons, it is important to focus on that issue. A comprehensive discussion of judicial discretion would take more time than is available. I therefore want to narrow the focus to consider what
Analog signal processing/filtering

Optics has the potential to solve some of the most exciting problems in information systems. It promises crosstalk-free interconnects with essentially unlimited bandwidth, long-distance data transmission without skew and without power- and time-consuming regeneration, miniaturization, parallelism, and efficient implementation of important algorithms such as Fourier transforms. Numerous information processing systems and concepts in space and time have been studied during the past decades. Yet, optics in computing and information processing in space and time has so far failed to move out of the lab. The current optical technology is costly, bulky, fragile in their alignment, and difficult to integrate with electronic systems, both in terms of the fabrication process and in terms of delivery and retrieval of massive volumes of data the optical elements can process. Our most recent work emphasizes the construction of optical subsystems directly on-chip, with the same lithographic tools as the surrounding electronics. This has been made possible by the advances in these tools, which can now create features significantly smaller than the optical wavelength, which is predicted to reach as fine as 11 nm by 2020. Arranged in a regular pattern, subwavelength features they act as a metamaterial whose optical properties are controlled by the density and geometry of the pattern and its constituents [1–5]. Moreover, composite metal-dielectric-semiconductor gain geometries [6] are used to create a new type of nanolasers for information systems integration.
Associations between stream hydrogeomorphology and co-dependent mussel–fish assemblages: evidence from an Ohio, USA river system

Understanding linkages among fluvial geomorphology, habitat, and aquatic biota is critical for effective stream ecosystem conservation. However, composite effects of hydrogeomorphic adjustment and condition, which collectively represent channel stability, on freshwater mussel and stream fish assemblages remain unresolved. Associations between stream hydrogeomorphic characteristics (channel geometry, substrate composition, stream flow) and mussel and stream fish assemblages were explored at 20 study reaches characterized by riffle–pool interfaces (RPIs) in Ohio, USA. At a coarse resolution using categorical classifications of equilibrium (i.e. stable) vs. adjusting (i.e. unstable) RPIs, overall fish and darter density was greater at adjusting RPIs (P = 0.048 and P = 0.024, respectively). Conversely, fish species richness was 1.2× greater at equilibrium than adjusting RPIs (P = 0.047). Analysis of quantitative hydrogeomorphic data collected with fine-resolution surveys showed that hydrogeomorphic parameters explained from 20% (darter assemblage evenness) to 55% (density of mussels known to use darters as hosts) of the variation observed in all assemblages. Drainage area was significant in most models with variable influence: R2 = 0.10 for darter species richness to R2 = 0.41 for Simpson's diversity index of mussels with darter hosts. Other important predictor variables included embeddedness, velocity, shear stress, roughness, channel dimensions, and sediment size. Whereas coarse-level fluvial geomorphic classifications may be meaningful for fish, they appear less so for mussels. Fine-resolution quantitative hydrogeomorphic variables provided substantially more information for both assemblages, although hydrogeomorphology–fish and hydrogeomorphology–mussel relationships were not consistent. Some of the strongest relationships related to mussels that use darters as hosts, suggesting that these species are particularly sensitive to hydrogeomorphic conditions. Collectively, these results indicate that fluvial geomorphic condition and characteristics can simultaneously influence co-dependent stream biota. Stream conservation and management plans that include explicit hydrogeomorphic surveys may appreciably benefit cohabitating freshwater fish and mussel assemblages. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pathogen-associated molecular patterns activate expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, immunity and detoxification in the amebocyte-producing organ of the snail Biomphalaria glabrata

The anterior pericardial wall of the snail Biomphalaria glabrata has been identified as a site of hemocyte production, hence has been named the amebocyte-producing organ (APO). A number of studies have shown that exogenous abiotic and biotic substances, including pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), are able to stimulate APO mitotic activity and/or enlarge its size, implying a role for the APO in innate immunity. The molecular mechanisms underlying such responses have not yet been explored, in part due to the difficulty in obtaining sufficient APO tissue for gene expression studies. By using a modified RNA extraction technique and microarray technology, we investigated transcriptomic responses of APOs dissected from snails at 24 h post-injection with two bacterial PAMPs, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and peptidoglycan (PGN), or with fucoidan (FCN), which may mimic fucosyl-rich glycan PAMPs on sporocysts of Schistosoma mansoni. Based upon the number of genes differentially expressed, LPS exhibited the strongest activity, relative to saline-injected controls. A concurrent activation of genes involved in cell proliferation, immune response and detoxification metabolism was observed. A gene encoding checkpoint 1 kinase, a key regulator of mitosis, was highly expressed after stimulation by LPS. Also, seven different aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases that play an essential role in protein synthesis were found to be highly expressed. In addition to stimulating genes involved in cell proliferation, the injected substances, especially LPS, also induced expression of a number of immune-related genes including arginase, peptidoglycan recognition protein short form, tumor necrosis factor receptor, ficolin, calmodulin, bacterial permeability increasing proteins and E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase. Importantly, significant up-regulation was observed in four GiMAP (GTPase of immunity-associated protein) genes, a result which provides the first evidence suggesting an immune role of GiMAP in protostome animals. Moreover, altered expression of genes encoding cytochrome P450, glutathione-S-transferase, multiple drug resistance protein as well as a large number of genes encoding enzymes associated with degradation and detoxification metabolism was elicited in response to the injected substances.
Time-varying and simultaneous frequency stimulation for multi-class SSVEP-based brain-computer interface

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in using steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEP) in brain-computer interface (BCI) systems for their high signal to noise ratio. However, due to the limitations of brain physiology and the refresh rate of the display devices, the available stimulation frequencies that evoke strong SSVEPs are limited. The goal of this paper is to investigate time-varying and simultaneous frequency stimulation in order to increase the number of visual stimuli with a fixed number of stimulation frequencies in multiclass SSVEP-based BCI systems. This study analyzes the SSVEPs induced by groups of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The proposed method produces more selections than the number of stimulation frequencies through an efficient combination of time-varying and simultaneous frequencies for stimulation. The feasibility and effectiveness of our proposed method was confirmed by a set of experiments conducted on six subjects. The results confirmed that our proposed stimulation is a promising method to increase the number of stimuli using a fixed number of frequencies for multi-class SSVEP-based BCI tasks.
Influence of tumor site on cognitive deficits in children with cerebellar tumors at diagnosis

9045 Background: Children with cerebellar tumor are at risk for cognitive deficits (CD) depending on surgery and radiotherapy. Only few studies analyze the role of tumor itself in mental functionin...
Orientation and displacement detection for smartphone device based inertial measurement units

Commonly, navigation uses GPS signals to determine location. In addition, GPS data can be collected over time to determine path taken. In spite of the ubiquity of GPS signals on the earth's surface, there are certain locations where GPS signals are not available, such as inside a buildings or tunnels. Therefore, to determine accurate positioning in areas where GPS signals are unavailable, an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) can be used in conjunction with GPS data. Modern IMUs are small enough to be contained in MEMS chips, including in smartphone devices such as iPhones. This work studies the integration between GPS signal and the collected data from smartphones' MEMS sensors. It also investigates the possibility of using the integrated GPS/MEMS information to estimate route when the GPS signal is missing. We propose estimating the missing GPS signal by sensor integration of smartphone data. This research work would enhance the GPS navigation to determine exact positions even in case of signal failures. Modern IMUs are expensive, and this research shows that GPS/IMU integration can be accomplished with off-the-shelf navigational components. This paper proposes a novel technique for estimating the missing GPS route by integrating data from the sensors available in modern smartphones.
Diagnostic dilemmas in enlarged and diffusely hemorrhagic adrenal glands

We have noted an increasing number of cases of enlarged adrenal glands where the underlying diagnosis was masked by a diffusely hemorrhagic process. We identified from our database 59 cases (32 consults, 27 routine) of adrenal glands with diffuse (>25%) hemorrhage received between 2000 and 2014. Fifty-three adrenalectomies and 6 biopsies were identified. The diagnoses after central review were 41 adrenocortical adenomas, 1 nodular adrenocortical hyperplasia with associated myelolipoma, 1 benign adrenocortical cyst, and 10 nonneoplastic adrenal glands with hemorrhage. A definitive diagnosis for the 6 biopsies was precluded by the sample size. The adrenocortical adenomas (size, 1-13 cm; 25%-95% hemorrhage) showed clear cell change in the neoplastic area (10%-80% of the tumor), 19 showed focal calcification (1 with ossification), 11 showed areas of papillary endothelial hyperplasia, 10 showed scattered lymphoplasmacytic inflammation, 6 showed benign cortical tissue extending beyond the adrenal capsule into soft tissue, 1 showed necrosis in the form of ghost cells, 2 showed lipomatous change, and 6 were associated with incidental benign lesions (1 cortical cyst, 1 schwannoma, and 4 myelolipomas). Twenty-four of the adrenocortical adenomas were consults where the referring pathologist had trouble classifying the lesion. Of the 10 nonneoplastic adrenals (4.5-22 cm; 40%-80% hemorrhage), 2 were consults. In summary, pathologists have difficulties recognizing adrenocortical adenomas in the setting of a massively enlarged and hemorrhagic adrenal gland. Although there is a correlation between adrenocortical malignancy and size, hemorrhage into nonmalignant adrenal glands can result in markedly enlarged adrenals.
God Save the Queen: Kairos and the Mercy Letters of Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots

“God Save the Queen: Kairos and the Mercy Letters of Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots” analyzes the most consequential correspondence of these Renaissance women rulers—letters begging for mercy in the face of death. This analysis uncovers the similar rhetorical techniques of these documents composed in the heightened exigency of literal life and death situations, when these royal women turned to the community of which they were members to invoke pity and ask for mercy in their unique positions as inheritors of a male history in order to create strategies for the rhetoric of women rulers providing an historical exemplar of a kairotic rhetorical response.