cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fine Mapping of Polymorphic Alcohol‐Related Quantitative Trait Loci Candidate Genes Using Interval‐Specific Congenic Recombinant Mice

Background The inbred long-sleep (ILS) and inbred short-sleep (ISS) strains of mice are widely studied as a model of initial sensitivity to alcohol. Recently, a large comparative DNA sequencing study of candidate genes located within the four Lore quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with the ethanol-induced loss of righting reflex in ILS and ISS mice has identified eight genes that contain coding region differences corresponding to amino acid changes. Here, recently developed interval-specific congenic recombinant mice (ISCRs) have been used to map these genes in relationship to newly narrowed QTL regions. Methods Regions of candidate genes containing DNA differences corresponding to previously identified amino acid changes between ISS and ILS mice were amplified from either genomic DNA or complementary DNA from ISCR mice using polymerase chain reaction. The products were purified and directly sequenced to determine the genotypes for each polymorphism. On the basis of these genotypic data, each candidate gene was determined to be located either within or outside of recently narrowed Lore QTL intervals. Results Of these eight candidates with protein-coding differences, five are now excluded from their respective Lore intervals. The other three (Znf142, Ptprn, and Znf133) have been localized to the narrowed QTL intervals. Conclusions These three central nervous system genes (Znf142, Ptprn, and Znf133) represent promising candidates for involvement in the differential sensitivity to alcohol exhibited between ILS and ISS mice. This study also demonstrates how the combination of high-throughput comparative gene sequencing and concomitant genetic fine mapping of QTL regions with ISCRs can be an effective tool for accelerating the process of moving from QTL to gene.
The signal transduction induced by thrombin in human platelets.

The Stimulation of human platelets by thrombin leads to the activation of phospholipases C and A2, protein kinases, formation of 3-inositol phos- pholipids and mobilization of Ca2+ . These biochemical reactions closely parallel platelet shape change, granular secretion and aggregation. The membrane-bound transducers for the thrombin receptor seem to be the heterotrimeric G protein G12 and the ras-related G protein rap 1-b. Phosphorylation of rap 1-b by the action of the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase seems to uncouple the thrombin receptor from phospholipases. This causes inhibition of the formation of second messenger molecules and the onset of physiological responses.
Aldoses on Ni/Pd(1 1 1) surfaces: A TPD study

Abstract The catalytic production of fuels and chemicals from biomass requires a greater understanding of the chemistry of biomass derived sugars on advanced catalyst surfaces. This study examines the reaction of cellulosic derivative d -glucose and functional surrogates glycolaldehyde and glyceraldehyde on the bimetallic Ni/Pd(1 1 1) surface using temperature programmed desorption (TPD) in ultra high vacuum (UHV). It was found that the primary reaction pathway on the Ni/Pd system for all three molecules was dehydrogenation to produce CO and H2. Additionally, it was found that of the surfaces studied, the reforming activity followed the trend Pd(1 1 1) > Pd-Ni-Pd≈Ni-Pd-Pd > thick Ni/Pd. The Ni terminated surfaces were also found to produce ethylene at high temperatures and saw generally higher temperature and broader H2 desorption peaks, suggesting a higher energy barrier for C H bond scission.
Hyperoxia Stimulates an Nrf2-ARE Transcriptional Response via ROS-EGFR-PI3K-Akt/ERK MAP Kinase Signaling in Pulmonary Epithelial Cells

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) confers protection against cell death induced by hyperoxia and other proapoptotic stimuli. Because phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling promotes cell survival, the significance of this pathway in mediating reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent hyperoxia-induced Nrf2 activation was investigated in the murine pulmonary epithelial cell line, C10. Inhibition of the PI3K pathway markedly attenuated hyperoxia-induced Nrf2 translocation and ARE (antioxidant response element)-mediated transcription. Consistent with this, hyperoxia markedly stimulated the activation of PI3K pathway, while an NADPH oxidase inhibitor and an antioxidant prevented such activation. The inhibition of Akt activity using a pharmacological inhibitor markedly attenuated Nrf2 translocation and ARE-driven expression. Moreover, overexpression of a dominant-negative Akt mutant attenuated the transcription, whereas a constitutively active mutant stimulated it. These results suggest tha...
Monozygotic pregnancies conceived by in vitro fertilization: understanding their prognosis.

Objective To analyze the outcomes and particular characteristics of monozygotic (MZ) pregnancies conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF). Design Retrospective data analysis. Setting Large private-academic fertility center. Patient(s) IVF-conceived MZ pregnancies. Intervention(s) Statistical analysis of MZ pregnancy outcomes depending on fetal order and pregnancy reductions status. Main Outcome Measure(s) Spontaneous pregnancy reduction, pregnancy loss, take-home baby rate, perinatal mortality, gestational age at delivery, and birth weight. Result(s) A total of 72 of 3,426 pregnancies (2.1%) were MZ, and 70 were included in the study. Of these, 34 cases (48.5%) were high-order multiple pregnancies (HOMP), and 36 (51.5%) were non-HOMP. In the HOMP group, only 2.9% (1 of 34) had a complete pregnancy loss while 38.8% (14 of 36) of the non-HOMP were lost by 20 weeks' gestation. Of the HOMP patients, 73.1% therapeutically reduced the MZ component, and a statistically significant difference in gestational age of delivery (37.8 ± 3.2 vs. 28.1 ± 7.7) and birth weight (2796 ± 865.8 vs. 1110.0 ± 731.6) was seen when compared with nonreduced HOMP. Conclusion(s) Twinning with MZ is encountered in a small but important number of pregnancies derived from assisted reproduction. The prognosis for these patients is unfavorable, particularly for single-implantation MZ pregnancies and for nonreduced HOMP. Patients who do not spontaneously reduce a MZ-HOMP by 12 weeks may benefit from therapeutically reducing the MZ component of the pregnancy.
Theory of multimode interactions in cyclotron autoresonance maser amplifiers

The interaction of transverse eigenmodes with a relativistic electron beam in an overmoded cyclotron autoresonance maser amplifier is analyzed using a nonlinear self-consistent model and kinetic theory. It is shown that all of the coupled modes grow with the dominant unstable mode at the same growth rate, but suffer different launching losses. The phases of coupled modes are locked in the linear and nonlinear regimes. Simulations indicate that the rf power distribution among the interacting modes at saturation is insensitive to input power distribution but sensitive to detuning.
Selected Features of the Distribution of Chlorophyll along the Southern Shore of Lake Superior

Monitoring was conducted over the April to October interval of 1999 and 2000, seeking signals in the spatiotemporal structure of algal biomass (chlorophyll) in Lake Superior. Sampling was conducted along three nearshore-offshore transects in the vicinity of Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. Levels of algal biomass in Lake Superior are the lowest in the Great Lakes, with chlorophyll concentrations ranging from ∼0.25 to 2.5 mg·m−3 and averaging less than 1 mg·m−3 in the surface waters. Several spatial signals were observed, including inter-transect differences, nearshore-offshore gradients, and vertical structure. These signals are thought to be mediated by several factors, including runoff from a major tributary, light availability and mixing depth, inter-transect variations in bathymetry and temperature gradients, e.g., the thermal bar in spring and vertical stratification in summer. Seasonally, surface water chlorophyll dynamics were characterized by an increase from late-winter concentrations in late April and early May, a continued increase in the nearshore and a decrease/stabilization at offshore sites from late May through July, a summer minimum in late July and August and an increase in September and October with the approach to turnover. These signals are striking given the modest levels of chlorophyll present in the lake and considering prevailing conditions of light, temperature and phosphorus availability. The spatial and temporal structure evidenced here likely resonates through the system, impacting the distribution of organisms both higher and lower in the food web. These results will find application in this and other similar systems for consideration of the vernal thermal bar as a factor mediating primary production and cross-margin transport of materials of biogeochemical significance, in developing a greater appreciation of the role of the microbial loop in fostering secondary production, in defining the relative roles of allochthonous and autochthonous contributions to the carbon budget and in supporting remote sensing studies of large scale transport phenomena in the lake.
Causes, consequences, and deterence of financial statement fraud

Abstract Financial statement fraud (FSF) has cost market participants, including investors, creditors, pensioners, and employees, more than $500 billion during the past several years. Capital market participants expect vigilant and active corporate governance to ensure the integrity, transparency, and quality of financial information. Financial statement fraud is a serious threat to market participants’ confidence in published audited financial statements. Financial statement fraud has recently received considerable attention from the business community, accounting profession, academicians, and regulators. This article (1) defines financial statement fraud; (2) presents a profile of financial statement fraud by reviewing a selective sample of alleged financial statement fraud cases; (3) demonstrates that “cooking the books” causes financial statement fraud and results in a crime; and (4) presents fraud prevention and detection strategies in reducing financial statement fraud incidents. Financial statement fraud continues to be a concern in the business community and the accounting profession as indicated by recent Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) enforcement actions and the Corporate Fraud Task Force report. This paper sheds light on the factors that may increase the likelihood of financial statement fraud. This paper should increase corporate governance participants’ (the board of directors, audit committees, top management team, internal auditors, external auditors, and governing bodies) attention toward financial statement fraud and their strategies for its prevention and detection. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 was enacted to improve corporate governance, quality of financial reports, and credibility of audit functions. The Act establishes a new regulatory framework for public accountants who audit public companies, creates more accountability for public companies and their executives, and increases criminal penalties for violations of securities and other applicable laws and regulations. Given the difficulties and costs associated with deterring financial statement fraud, understanding the interactive factors described in this article (Cooks, Recipes, Incentives, Monitoring and End-Results (CRIME)) that can influence fraud occurrence, detection and prevention is relevant to accounting and auditing research.
Induction of Oxidative Stress in Brain Tissues of Mice after Subchronic Exposure to 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin

The ability of single doses of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) to induce oxidative stress in hepatic and some extrahepatic tissues of animals is well documented. However, no previous study has examined the ability of TCDD to induce oxidative stress and tissue damage in brain in vivo. In this study the ability of TCDD to induce oxidative stress in brain tissues of mice was studied after subchronic exposures. Groups of female B6C3F1 mice were treated orally with TCDD (0, 0.45, 1.5, 15, and 150 ng/kg/day) for 13 weeks, 5 days/week. The animals were euthanized 3 days after the last treatment and brain tissues were collected. Biomarkers of oxidative stress including production of superoxide anion, lipid peroxidation, and DNA-single-strand breaks (SSB) were determined. TCDD treatment resulted in significant and dose-dependent increases in the production of superoxide anion as assessed by reduction of cytochrome c. Significant increases were also observed in lipid peroxidation and DNA-SSB in those tissues, as assessed by the presence of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and the alkaline elution technique, respectively. These results clearly indicate that subchronic exposure to low doses of TCDD can induce oxidative tissue damage in brain tissues which may at least in part play a role in the effects of TCDD on the central nervous system.
TRANSFORMATION OF SUGAR BEET CELL SUSPENSION CULTURES

Summary A sugar beet transformation method was developed using particle bombardment of short-term suspension cultures of a breeding line FC607. Highly embryogenic suspension cultures derived from leaf callus were bombarded with the uidA (gusA) reporter gene under the control of either the osmotin or proteinase inhibitor II gene promoter, and the npt II selectable marker gene. Transient uidA expression was visualized as 500– 4000 blue units per 200 mg of bombarded cells 2 d after bombardment. Stably-transformed calluses were recovered on both kanamycin and paromomycin media. The greatest number of GUS (þ ) calluses was obtained when 50 or 100 mg l 21 of kanamycin was applied 2 d after transformation for 3 –5 wk, followed by either no selection or reduced levels of the antibiotic. PCR analyses of the GUS (þ) callus lines revealed the expected size fragment for uidA and npt II genes. Stable incorporation of the uidA gene into the genome was confirmed by Southern blot analyses. Several transformed embryos were detected by histochemical b-glucuronidase (GUS) staining.
Tumor necrosis factor-α induces transcriptional activation of nuclear factor-κB in insulin-producing β-cells

We previously showed that tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induces the dysregulation of intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)](i) in β-cells by decreasing the levels of the cytoplasmic Ca(2+) binding protein calbindin-D(28k). The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that TNF-α-induced dysregulation of [Ca(2+)](i) in insulin-producing β-cells causes proteolytic degradation of IκBα and consequently leads to the transcriptional activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). To test this hypothesis, rat insulinoma (RINr 1046-38) cells, which are an insulin-secreting transformed β-cell line that constitutively expresses calbindin-D(28k), were treated with increasing concentrations of TNF-α. Using the FunctionELISA procedure to measure degradation of the IκBα subunit as Phospho-IκBα, it was found that, while in the control RIN cell lysate there was no Phospho-IκBα present, in the RIN cells exposed to 2, 5, 10, 20 and 30 ng/ml TNF-α, 17.176±2.85, 17.292±4.35, 53.77±5.63, 30.58±4.89 and 12±3.27 ng/ml Phospho-IκBα/mg of total cell protein was observed, respectively (n=3, P<0.05). Upon treatment of RIN cells with 2, 5, 10, 20 and 30 ng/ml TNF-α, the relative increases in the NF-κB transcriptional activities based on the DNA binding activity of NF-κB determined using an ELISA-based kit were 6.86±0.76-, 8.42±1.27-,7.8±2.32-, 10.28±1.96- and 6.3±1.57-fold, respectively (n=3, P<0.05). The nuclear translocation of NF-κB measured by immunofluorescence showed that, while the ratio of fluorescence in nuclei to that in the cytoplasm of untreated RIN cells was 0.2078±0.0778 (n=11), in RIN cells treated with 10 ng/ ml TNF-α, the ratio was 0.6267±0.1186 (n=11), indicating a statistically significant increase (P<0.05) in the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. These observations suggest that, in insulin-producing β-cells, the TNF-α-induced degradation of IκBα leads to nuclear translocation and the transcriptional activation of NF-κB.
Estimates of cluster-impact fusion yields.

We present several theoretical estimates of D+D fusion rates for heavy-water molecular clusters impacting on TiD targets. Our considerations range from the simple thick-target yield to single- and multiple-deuteron knock-on to thermonuclear and thermal-spike models; detailed molecular-dynamics simulations are also presented. Each of our models fails, by many orders of magnitude, to reproduce the yields observed in recent experiments. We consider the extent to which experimental artifacts might contribute to the results claimed.
Ruling out divergent speculative bubbles

Abstract The growth in the empirical literature on testing for divergent (in mean) speculative bubbles indicates that existing theoretical arguments for ruling out such price paths are not sufficiently compelling. Here we strengthen the case for ruling out explosive or implosive bubbles a priori by filling in two gaps. First, we demonstrate why divergent stochastic bubbles arising from purely extrinsic uncertainty [as in Blanchard (1979) ] cannot be equilibria in a monetary optimizing model. Second, we show why existing arguments for ruling out implosive price bubbles are insufficient in some cases, and we provide stronger arguments.
Characteristics of 44 cervical cancers diagnosed following Pap-negative, high risk HPV-positive screening in routine clinical practice

Objective To characterize the cervical cancers diagnosed following a Pap-negative, high risk human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive (Pap−/HPV+) screen in routine clinical practice.
Molecular cloning and characterization of additional factors that bind to the interferon-alpha/beta response element B of the murine (2'-5')oligoadenylate synthetase ME-12 gene.

Abstract The function of interferon (IFN) response elements (IREs) may be classified into two classes according to the location of the IRE in the polymerase II transcription promoter: located upstream of the core promoter, or located within the core promoter. Thus, the IRE-binding factors (IREBFs) can serve as sequence-specific transcription factors that activate IFN-inducible gene transcription and they can participate in preinitiation complex formation. In the murine and human (2'-5')oligoadenylate synthetase genes the IRE is located within the core promoter region. For this reason, it is important to isolate cDNAs encoding protein factors that can bind to this IRE and determine their functional roles in the regulation of expression of the IFN-inducible (2'-5')oligoadenylate synthetase gene. We have isolated three groups of cDNAs that encode IREBFs. Here we report on clone 38 cDNA, which contains an open reading frame encoding a protein of 277 amino acids that is designated IREBF-2. The C terminus of IREBF-2 is extremely proline-rich and contains a high percentage of short-armed amino acids. IREBF-2 shares marked similarity with some gene products of the herpes group of viruses. These gene products are potent transcription activators. IREBF-2 is constitutively expressed in BALB/c 3T3 cells.
Rapid Compression Machines: Heat Transfer and Suppression of Corner Vortex

A method to suppress the piston corner vortex generated in compressing gas mixtures in rapid compression machines has been developed. A piston crevice was designed to swallow the thermal boundary layer along the wall, allowing better definition of core conditions in the reacting mixtures by confining the cold gases to the wall. Axisymmetric calculations of the flow and temperature fields show that the proposed design indeed suppresses the vortex formation, keeping the core reacting cases intact. A simple thermodynamic model based on the piston displacement history was formulated, incorporating the predicted heat transfer to the walls and mass transfer to the crevices. The model predictions agree very well with experimental pressure history under a range of initial pressures and types of different gases. The new experimental device and model allows the incorporation of complex chemical kinetics with early heat release without the need for experimental approximations for the heat transfer terms.
Dirofilarial infection presenting as a facial mass: case report of an emerging zoonosis

Dirofilariasis is a parasitic infection caused by nematodes. Human infection remains rare but is increasing in scope, particularly in endemic areas. Dirofilariasis typically presents as a subcutaneous mass or with pulmonary nodules. Here, we present the case of a 73-year-old woman whose asymptomatic facial mass was caused by dirofilarial infection. The pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of dirofilariasis of the head and neck will be discussed. In endemic areas, dirofilariasis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of facial masses.
Photochemical hole-burning in vibronic bands of the S1 ← S0 transition of free-base porphin in an n-octane crystal

Abstract The homogeneous linewidths of vibronic bands of the S 1 ← S 0 transition of free-base porphin (H 2 P) in an n -octane crystal at 4.2 K have been measured by photochemical hole-burning. Fourteen single vibronic levels were selectively excited in a 1600 cm −1 region above the origin. The holewidths vary strongly (by a factor of ≈ 40) as a function of the particular vibration excited and do not increase monotonically with energy.
Complex controls of denitrification at ecosystem, landscape and regional scales in northern hardwood forests

Abstract Denitrification is the most poorly constrained term in the nitrogen (N) budgets of northern hardwood forests due to extraordinary complexity in soil, hydrology and ecosystem processes. This anaerobic microbial process is controlled by the availability of oxygen (O 2 ), nitrate (NO 3 − ) and available carbon (C) and produces three end products; nitric oxide (NO), nitrous oxide (N 2 O) and dinitrogen (N 2 ). Expression of these controlling factors is regulated by ecosystem, landscape and regional factors that influence soil moisture and N and C fluxes that interact to create complexity and extreme variability in flux rates. We investigated these controls and the capacity of topographic index (TI) and foliar N (FN), indicators of moisture and N richness, respectively, to function as integrated predictors of N 2 and N 2 O fluxes at ecosystem, landscape and regional scales at three sites in New Hampshire, USA, including the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest (HBEF) long-term ecological research site. We found high N 2 fluxes, low N 2 O fluxes, and high N 2 :N 2 O ratios at all sites, with best estimates of ∼3–4 kg N ha −1 growing season −1 for N 2 and ∼0.005–0.05 kg N ha −1 growing season −1 , for N 2 O fluxes. N flux rates exhibited considerable spatial variability both within and among sites, as well as temporal variability within a season and among seasons. Indicators of N richness (e.g., net nitrification, C:N ratio, and soil ammonium (NH 4 + ) concentrations) were the strongest predictors of N gas fluxes at the ecosystem scale suggesting that these fluxes are controlled by N limitation in this region. Regressions between fluxes and TI and FN were used to create maps of seasonal N flux for the HBEF landscape for 2005 and 2006. At the regional scale, there were marked and coherent patterns between site history, N cycling variables and N gas fluxes. Variation in the relationship between FN and N gas fluxes between years suggests that while the proximal, organismal-scale controls of these fluxes do not vary, the distal factors that influence the proximal controls show marked temporal and spatial variation. Higher resolution and/or more dynamic data may be necessary to improve the accuracy of landscape and regional scale assessments of these fluxes.
Variability and minimum detectable change for walking energy efficiency variables in children with cerebral palsy

For individuals with neuromuscular disorders, the assessment of walking energy efficiency is useful as a clinical outcome measure. Issues surrounding data collection methodology, normalization of the data, and variability and clinical utility of energy efficiency data preclude universal application. This study examined the variability and the clinical utility of velocity, energy efficiency index (EEI), gross cost, and net nondimensional cost (NNcost) in children and adolescents with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to III. The energy efficiency of walking was evaluated in 23 children and adolescents (12 males, 11 females, mean age 11y 3mo [SD 3y 5mo]; range 7-17y). Day-to-day variability was similar for all energy efficiency variables, with no significant differences in magnitude of variability between GMFCS levels. Correlations between EEI and gross cost and EEI and NNcost were fairly good (r=0.65, p<0.001, and r=0.74, p<0.001 respectively). However, only gross cost and NNcost discriminated between GMFCS levels in children with CP. Gross cost required the greatest amount of change to be considered clinically significant, whereas NNcost and EEI required a similar amount of change. For cohorts of children with CP who are evaluated over time, NNcost is the best normalization method as it reduces the variability between participants of different ages, height, and weight while evaluating only the amount of energy used to ambulate.
The origin of human fecal alkaline phosphatase.

Fecal alkaline phosphatase activity may derive from biliary secretions, desquamated intestinal epithelial cells, and/or colonic flora. The data presented demonstrate the mimetic nature of fecal activity with that of jejunal mucosal biopsy specimens in respect to specific activity, Michaelis-Menten constants,l-phenylalanine inhibition, and electrophoretic mobility on polyacrylamide gel. We conclude that fecal alkaline phosphatase activity is predominately derived from small bowel.
Quantitative analysis of norditerpenoid alkaloids in larkspur (Delphinium spp.) by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy

A Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR) spectroscopic method for measuring norditerpenoid alkaloids in larkspurs was developed. Alkaloids were isolated from dry plant material using a simplified extraction procedure and quantitated using FT–IR. Calibration of the method was made from selected larkspur samples with known alkaloid levels determined by high pressure liquid chromatography and gravimetric methods. Thirty-nine samples from three different larkspur species (Delphinium barbeyi, D. glaucescens, and D. occidentale) were analysed to demonstrate the ability of the FT–IR method to measure toxic and total alkaloid concentrations in these plants. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1-Related Lipoatrophy and Lipohypertrophy Are Associated with Serum Concentrations of Leptin

The relationship between the adipocyte-derived hormone leptin, insulin resistance, and fat redistribution in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has not been established. We classified a cohort of HIV type 1 (HIV-1)-infected patients with >or=6 months of antiretroviral exposure as having no lipodystrophy (51 patients [43% of the cohort]), lipoatrophy (23 patients [19% of the cohort]), mixed lipodystrophy (29 patients [24% of the cohort]), or lipohypertrophy (17 patients [14% of the cohort]), on the basis of physical examination, anthropometric measurements, and the findings of dual-emission x-ray absorptiometry and computed tomography. Measurements of insulin resistance were higher for patients with each category of lipodystrophy, compared with those observed for patients with no lipodystrophy (P<.001). Mean leptin levels (+/- standard deviation) were lowest in patients with lipoatrophy (1.76+/-1.20 ng/mL), highest in patients with lipohypertrophy (9.10+/-6.86 ng/mL), and significantly different from those in patients without lipodystrophy (3.14+/-2.30 ng/mL; both P<.01). In this cohort of antiretroviral-experienced HIV-infected patients, a low serum level of leptin was independently associated with insulin resistance in patients with lipoatrophy, after controlling for total and regional body fat.
Detecting and Tracking Separating Objects Using Direct Monopulse Measurements

A significant complication to the ballistic missile tracking problem is the tendency for target "spawn": one ballistic object becomes two, several or several hundred, of which only one or a few are of concern (warheads), while uninteresting objects such as chaff and boost-rockets comprise the rest. To discern which is which takes time; and during that time it remains vital to maintain surveillance on all objects. Unfortunately these objects are closely-spaced (CSOs), and detection/tracking for CSOs is notoriously difficult. One approach is to use radar waveforms of such high resolution that all objects are "resolved" by a sharp ambiguity function peak. However, not all radar systems have the required bandwidth or operational modes, and inclusion of those modes in new radars would impact the cost. It appears that with unresolved targets there is little that can be done to improve tracking until the targets become resolved. Nonetheless, recent work with advanced statistical modeling of monopulse radar returns has questioned the need for such high resolution: signal processing techniques can "see" inside a previously-closed resolution cell in a similar way that a mis-formed Hubble mirror can be corrected to see clearly.In this presentation we proffer two approaches. In the first, we discuss the maximum-likelihood approach: it turns out that it can be shown that up to 5 targets can be resolved from between two matched filter samples, rather than the one-per- sample case that might otherwise be thought. We also will present an even more advanced statistical approach known as particle filtering. The standard tracking approach is to work with detection "hits"; that is, to separate the signal processing and tracking. The particle filter is a more natural integrated approach, and we have found tracking errors reduced by 50% or more by its use along with significant increase in speed of detection of multiple target spawn.
FAST-SeqS: A Simple and Efficient Method for the Detection of Aneuploidy by Massively Parallel Sequencing

Massively parallel sequencing of cell-free, maternal plasma DNA was recently demonstrated to be a safe and effective screening method for fetal chromosomal aneuploidies. Here, we report an improved sequencing method achieving significantly increased throughput and decreased cost by replacing laborious sequencing library preparation steps with PCR employing a single primer pair designed to amplify a discrete subset of repeated regions. Using this approach, samples containing as little as 4% trisomy 21 DNA could be readily distinguished from euploid samples.
Differences in Male Mating Response and Female Flight Sounds in Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae)

Aedes aegypti (L.) and Ae. albopictus (Skuse) showed similar rates and timing of insemination in the laboratory. Laboratory attempts at interspecific mating were unsuccessful. Because Ae. aegypti males are known to locate females by flight sounds, male response to sound was compared in the two species. Ae. aegypti males responded to female flight sounds with stereotypical orientation and mating behavior, whereas Ae. albopictus males seldom responded. Recorded flight sounds of females were sampled via computer digitization and compared. Ae. aegypti females produced louder sounds with more harmonics than Ae. albopictus. Males were tested for their ability to discriminate between the sounds of the two species. Ae. albopictus males did not respond to recordings of either Ae. albopictus or Ae. aegypti females. Ae. aegypti males responded preferentially to the recorded sounds of Ae. aegypti females. Thus, males of the two species use different mechanisms in locating mates. Ae. aegypti males rely more on sound than do Ae. albopictus males.
Cardiac Troponin T and Cardiac Dysfunction in Extremely Low-Birth-Weight Infants

Extremely low-birth-weight (ELBW) infants frequently manifest signs of cardiac dysfunction requiring inotropic support. It is not clear if this is due to cardiac injury, which can be monitored by measuring cardiac troponin T (cTnT). We performed a nested prospective cohort study at a university level III neonatal intensive care unit. The study included 27 infants weighing between 500 and 999 g. Exclusion criteria included evidence of sepsis, use of postnatal steroids, and cardiac anomalies. Measurements included serum cTnT and echocardiogram in the first 48 hours of life. The mean serum cTnT level of the study population was 0.52 ± 0.38 ng/ml. It was higher in those with lower Apgar scores (0.89 ± 0.37 if 5-minute Apgar < 4 vs 0.36 ± 0.26 ng/ml, p < 0.001) and correlated to initial base deficit (r = −0.37, p < 0.05). Infants who required inotropic support had higher cTnT levels than those who did not (0.73 ± 0.43 vs 0.39 ± 0.29 ng/ml, p < 0.03). cTnT concentrations did not relate to simultaneous echocardiographic measures of cardiac function. In ELBW infants, serum cTnT levels are higher than normally seen in term infants and adults, and they are higher in infants with greater perinatal stress as well as those who show evidence of cardiac dysfunction requiring pressor support.
Spontaneous kicking in month-old infants: manifestation of a human central locomotor program.

Spontaneous kicking of a single leg in normal, month-old infants who are crying in anticipation of a feeding shows a morphological and temporal structure similar to that of a single limb in mature locomotion in a number of species. These results support the probability that human locomotion, like that of other species, is controlled by a central program. The program is manifest in human infants long before actual walking matures and functions in the absence of some sensory signals believed necessary in mature locomotion.
Spinal neurenteric cysts in the magnetic resonance imaging era.

Objective Neurenteric cysts are derived from displaced entodermal tissue. They are infrequently found in the ventral spinal canal with varying degrees of success in their removal. Experience with 10 such individuals is critically analyzed to aid in the diagnosis and management. Methods Ten patients, ages 4 through 55 years, with neurenteric cysts were encountered in the last 20 years. This series included three females and seven males; seven children and three adults. The follow-up periods ranged from 3 to 18 years. Three cysts were located at the ventral cervicomedullary junction, five in the midventral cervical spine, and one thoracic and one lumbosacral. The symptoms reflected the location. Results Six of the 10 patients had associated bony abnormalities such as bifid clivus, hemivertebrae, segmentation failures at the site of the lesion, and blocked vertebra. The patient with the thoracic spinal lesion (age, 55 yr) had symptoms from early childhood. A diplomyelia at the site of the lesion was seen in one individual and tethered spinal cord in the same adult and in a young child. Two patients had undergone laminectomy for aspiration and partial resection before referral to our institution at the time of recurrence. Cervicomedullary junction lesions were approached via the far lateral transcondylar approach; two of the cervical intramedullary lesions were resected via a ventral corpectomy with radical resection and interbody fusion. The goal in each case was complete resection to avoid recurrences. Conclusion Spinal neurenteric cysts are ventrally located, usually intradural and extramedullary, but may insinuate into the spinal cord. They are isointense on T1 images and hyperintense on T2-weighted images on magnetic resonance imaging without true enhancement. These lesions may be associated with block and hemivertebrae with a predisposition to the craniocervical region. Partial resections have led to recurrence and arachnoiditis.
Intraoral occlusal telemetry. Part II. Registration of tooth contacts in chewing and swallowing

Abstract Recordings of tooth contacts produced by an intraoral miniature electronic telemetry system placed in the natural teeth during chewing and swallowing have been presented and explained.
Doping Process for 3-D N-Type Trench Transistors-2-D Cross-Sectional Doping Profiling Study

Comparison study of doping a 3-D trench transistor structure is carried out by beam-line (BL) implant and plasma doping (PLAD) methods. Electron holography (EH) is used as a powerful characterization method to study 2-D cross-sectional doping profiles of arsenic-based doping processes. Quantitative definitions of junction depths xj in both vertical and lateral directions can be obtained. Good correlations of 2-D EH dopant profiles, 1-D secondary ion mass spectrometry/angle-resolved X-ray electron spectroscopy impurity profiles, and device electrical parameters are demonstrated. The results reveal an advantage of PLAD over BL implant: a much larger effective implant area for 3-D trench bottom. It leads to a deeper vertical junction depth xj(V) with a larger lateral junction depth xj(L). It is due to the PLAD technology with less angle variation issues and no line of sight shadowing effect. Enhancing the dopant lateral straggle by PLAD at the trench bottom is particularly useful for nonplanar device structures with low resistance buried dopant layers.
Pinitol, a larval growth inhibitor for Heliothis zea in soybeans

A search for insect growth inhibitors in methanol extracts of soybean leaves resulted in isolation of pinitol. Pinitol caused a 50% reduction in weight gain (ED50) ofHeliothis zea larvae at about 0.7% when added to a synthetic diet. Although myo-inositol is a normal component of the insect diet, it also caused growth inhibition at higher concentrations; ED504%.
Systemic and uterine vascular response to serotonin in third trimester pregnant ewes

Abstract Released from aggregating platelets, serotonin (5HT) among other vasoactive components is considered to play an important role in preeclampsia, one of the most common medical complications of pregnancy. This study was designed to evaluate the simultaneous uterine and systemic vascular effects of systemically administered serotonin in pregnant sheep and compare them to the well known effects of angiotensin II and norepinephrine. Nine instrumented pregnant ewes received intravenous (inferior vena cava) infusions of increasing doses of serotonin, norepinephrine and angiotensin II in random order. Cardiac output, arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and uterine blood flow were recorded. Systemic administration of serotonin at doses of 2, 4, and 8 μg/kg body weight/min caused a slight increase in mean arterial blood pressure (1, 4 and 11%), a large decrease in uterine blood flow (10, 37, and 71%) but did not change cardiac output. Serotonin led to an increase in uterine vascular resistance with only small changes in systemic vascular resistance (UVR 17, 107, and 363% vs. SVR 3, 10 and 11%). In contrast, angiotensin II increased both systemic and uterine vascular resistance (SVR 16, 37, 56, and 95% and UVR 5, 16, 28 and 99%). Norepinephrine also raised both systemic and uterine vascular resistance, though to a different extent (SVR 5, 17, 37, and 118% vs. UVR 5, 46, 84 and 304%). Systemic infusions of serotonin in third trimester pregnant ewes resulted in uterine vasoconstriction. In contrast to the marked effect on the uterine vasculature, the systemic cardiovascular responses were small, thus demonstrating a nearly selective effect of serotonin on the uterine vasculature at the doses administered. Increased release and decreased metabolism of serotonin in preeclampsia therefore could lead to significant reductions in uteroplacental blood flow before hypertension occurs.
Demonstrating the Interplay of Leaders and Followers An Experiential Exercise

Classroom discussions of leadership often neglect the essential role of followers. These discussions do little to address the reality of our students’ predominant roles as followers within organizations. We describe the Origami Frog exercise, an experiential exercise that enables students to discover how follower behaviors impact group process and outcomes. Students are asked to play either leader or follower roles, and followers are asked to exhibit either Effective or Passive follower behaviors. Predictably, different follower roles interact with leader behaviors to yield different consequences. The Origami Frog exercise is complex enough that followers can significantly influence results and yet simple enough that the exercise and its relevant pre- and postdiscussion can be accomplished in a 50-min class.
Human Muscarinic Cholinergic Receptor Hm1 Internalizes via Clathrin-coated Vesicles

The mechanism by which muscarinic receptors internalize upon agonist exposure is poorly understood. To determine the endocytic pathways responsible for muscarinic receptor internalization, we have stably transfected human embryonic kidney (HEK 293) cells with the Hm1 (human muscarinic subtype 1) receptor tagged at the amino terminus with the epitope EYMPME. The subcellular location of the receptor was visualized by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy and quantified with the use of binding studies. The receptor redistributed into intracellular compartments following agonist treatment. This process was reversible upon removal of agonist and inhibited by antagonist. Acid treatment of the cells, which disrupts internalization via clathrin-coated vesicles, inhibited carbachol-stimulated internalization. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, on the other hand, which inhibits caveolae-mediated endocytosis, had no effect on carbachol-induced endocytosis. Double-labeling confocal microscopy was used to characterize the intracellular vesicles containing Hm1 receptor following agonist treatment. The Hm1 receptor was shown to be colocalized with clathrin and α-adaptin, a subunit of the AP2 adaptor protein which links endocytosed proteins with clathrin in the intracellular vesicles. In addition, endosomes containing Hm1 also contained the transferrin receptor, which internalizes via clathrin-coated vesicles. In contrast, caveolin, the protein that comprises caveolae, did not colocalize with Hm1 in intracellular vesicles following agonist treatment, indicating that caveolae are not involved in the agonist-induced internalization of Hm1. These results indicate that agonist-induced internalization of the Hm1 receptor occurs via clathrin-coated vesicles in HEK cells.
A framework for intelligent sensor network with video camera for structural health monitoring of bridges

Wireless sensor network (WSN) gives the characteristics of an effective, feasible and fairly reliable monitoring system which shows promise for structural health monitoring (SHM) applications. Monitoring of civil structures generates a large amount of sensor data that is used for structural anomaly detection. Efficiently dealing with this large amount of data in a resource-constrained WSN is a challenge. This paper proposes a, WSN based, novel framework that triggers smart events from sensor data. These events are useful for both intelligent data recording and video camera control. The operation of this framework consists of active & passive sensing modes. In passive mode, selected nodes can intelligently interpret local sensor data to trigger appropriate events. In active mode, most of the sensing nodes perform high frequency sampling and record useful data. Unnecessary data is suppressed which improves the lifespan of the network and simplifies data management.
Speed-of-processing and driving simulator training result in improved driving performance

Useful field of view, a measure of processing speed and spatial attention, can be improved with training. We evaluated the effects of this improvement on older adults' driving performance. Elderly adults participated in a speed-of-processing training program (N = 48), a traditional driver training program performed in a driving simulator (N = 22), or a low-risk reference group (N = 25). Before training, immediately after training or an equivalent time delay, and after an 18-month delay each participant was evaluated in a driving simulator and completed a 14-mile (22.5-km) open-road driving evaluation. Speed-of-processing training, but not simulator training, improved a specific measure of useful field of view (UFOV), transferred to some simulator measures, and resulted in fewer dangerous maneuvers during the driving evaluation. The simulator-trained group improved on two driving performance measures: turning into the correct lane and proper signal use. Similar effects were not observed in the speed-of-processing training or low-risk reference groups. The persistence of these effects over an 18-month test interval was also evaluated. Actual or potential applications of this research include driver assessment and/or training programs and cognitive intervention programs for older adults.
Parathyroidectomy: Overview of the Anatomic Basis and Surgical Strategies for Parathyroid Operations

It is imperative for the surgeon who performs parathyroidectomy to have a thorough understanding of the anatomy and embryology of the parathyroid glands in order to optimize the cure rate for patients with hyperparathyroidism (HPT). Furthermore, all clinicians caring for patients with hyperparathyroidism should be aware of the advancements in preoperative parathyroid localization, intraoperative PTH monitoring and surgical strategies for treatment of hyperparathyroidism. In this chapter, the anatomy and embryology of the parathyroid glands will be reviewed. The available surgical options for treatment of patients with hyperparathyroidism will be addressed, including “focused” parathyroidectomy, bilateral neck exploration, radioguided parathyroidectomy, and endoscopic and video-assisted parathyroidectomy. The unique challenge associated with reoperative parathyroidectomy for persistent or recurrent hyperparathyroidism will be outlined. Finally, insight into how to locate a qualified surgeon will be provided and recommendations will be made on what constitutes an appropriate choice of operation for specific patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.
Are Hearing and Visual Dysfunction Associated with Cognitive Impairment? A Population-Based Approach:

This study examined the relationship between cognitive functioning and self-reported sensory functioning in a population-based (N = 3,097) survey of the elderly. Obtained were two performance measures (a mental status examination and a recall memory test) and two subjective measures (global self-rated memory and self-reported memoryproblems) of cognitive function. Poorer self-rated vision was associated with poorer scores on the performance measures; poorer self-rated hearing was associated with poorer scores on the performance and subjective measures. Adjustment for age, educational attainment, physical health status, and depressive symptoms accounted for most of the relationships between the performance measures of cognition and vision and hearing function and the subjective measures of cognition and vision function. However, subjective measures of cognitive function remained related to hearing after adjustment. Thus clear evidence of a relationship between sensory function and cognitive performance in ...