cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pathophysiology of pachyonychia congenita-associated palmoplantar keratoderma: new insights into skin epithelial homeostasis and avenues for treatment.

Background Pachyonychia congenita (PC), a rare genodermatosis, primarily affects ectoderm-derived epithelial appendages and typically includes oral leukokeratosis, nail dystrophy and very painful palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK). PC dramatically impacts quality of life although it does not affect lifespan. PC can arise from mutations in any of the wound-repair-associated keratin genes KRT6A, KRT6B, KRT6C, KRT16 or KRT17. There is no cure for this condition, and current treatment options for PC symptoms are limited and palliative in nature. Objectives This review focuses on recent progress made towards understanding the pathophysiology of PPK lesions, the most prevalent and debilitating of all PC symptoms. Methods We reviewed the relevant literature with a particular focus on the Krt16 null mouse, which spontaneously develops footpad lesions that mimic several aspects of PC-associated PPK. Results There are three main stages of progression of PPK-like lesions in Krt16 null mice. Ahead of lesion onset, keratinocytes in the palmoplantar (footpad) skin exhibit specific defects in terminal differentiation, including loss of Krt9 expression. At the time of PPK onset, there is elevated oxidative stress and hypoactive Keap1-Nrf2 signalling. During active PPK, there is a profound defect in the ability of the epidermis to maintain or return to normal homeostasis. Conclusions The progress made suggests new avenues to explore for the treatment of PC-based PPK and deepens our understanding of the mechanisms controlling skin tissue homeostasis. What's already known about this topic? Pachyonychia congenita (PC) is a rare genodermatosis caused by mutations in KRT6A, KRT6B, KRT6C, KRT16 and KRT17, which are normally expressed in skin appendages and induced following injury. Individuals with PC present with multiple clinical symptoms that usually include thickened and dystrophic nails, palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK), glandular cysts and oral leukokeratosis. The study of PC pathophysiology is made challenging because of its low incidence and high complexity. There is no cure or effective treatment for PC. What does this study add? This text reviews recent progress made when studying the pathophysiology of PPK associated with PC. This recent progress points to new possibilities for devising effective therapeutics that may complement current palliative strategies.
Non-specific, Unclassifiable, and Rare Idiopathic Interstitial Pneumonia: Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, Respiratory Bronchiolitis Interstitial Pneumonia, Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonia, Nonspecific Interstitial Pneumonia

Acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP), also called Hamman-Rich syndrome, is a rapidly progressive diffuse parenchymal lung disease of unknown etiology resulting in hypoxemic respiratory failure which is often fatal. Respiratory bronchiolitis interstitial lung disease (RB-ILD) and desquamative interstitial pneumonia (DIP) are believed to be on the same spectrum of disease, and share tobacco use as a common denominator; however there is a significant difference between the morbidity and mortality of the two conditions. Non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) is a pathologic description of a chronic interstitial pneumonia that lacks the histopathologic features typical of other idiopathic interstitial pneumonias, despite many similarities in clinical and radiographic presentation. This section is gives information regarding the history, epidemiology, definition, clinical presentation, and treatment of acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP), respiratory bronchiolitis interstitial lung disease (RB-ILD), desquamative interstitial pneumonia (DIP), and non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP).
The fine structure of Phycomyces

The fungus Phycomyces blakesleeanus was examined at several developmental stages. The sporangiophores contain vesicles with either a single membrane or a pair of concentric membranes. Such vesicles contain either intact cytoplasm with organelles or a complex form of debris. These findings suggest that certain endoplasmic cisternae of the sporangiophore are engaged in the isolation and lysis of cytoplasm. Longitudinal sections of the sporangiophore reveal axial groupings of vesicles suggesting formation of vesicles near the cell tip, maturation in lower regions, and final discharge of the lytic debris into the large sporangiophore vacuole. The presence of large (above 1 μ) granules in vesicles, cytoplasm, and nuclei; the frequent proximity of endoplasmic cisternae to nuclei; the occurrence of nuclei with widely separated inner and outer membranes; and the extension of nuclear membranes into the cytoplasm suggest that the vesicle membranes originate from nuclear membranes. These phenomena were found in all stages of sporangiophore development but not in the vegetative hyphae.
Nanocellulose aerogel-based porous coaxial fibers for thermal insulation

Abstract Strong, continuous, and highly porous coaxial fibers with cellulose nanofibril (CNF) aerogel core and cellulose-rich sheath were fabricated by wet-spinning hollow fibers and infusing them with aerogel precursor for high-performance thermal insulators. The sheath contained multiscale pores, including microvoids (14.5 μm) and sub-micron pores (133 nm) in bulk, as well as ca. 25–26 nm surface nanopores, to function as a template and protective sheath for the microporous CNF aerogel core. The porous coaxial fibers had many desirable qualities, including low density (0.2 g cm3), high porosity (85%), high specific tensile strength (23.5 ± 2.5 MPa g cm−3), wide working temperatures (−20 to 150 °C), continuous and large-scale producibility, as well as biodegradability. The unique combination of multiscale porous sheath and ultra-low density aerogel core synergistically minimizes heat conductivity by all three mechanisms, i.e., restrain air circulation to limit convective heat transfer, while the poor conducting cellulose permitting little conductive heat transfer and the highly crystalline aerogel cellular walls prohibit infrared radiation, effectively suppresses radiative heat transfer under extreme temperatures.
Does Student Enthusiasm Equal Learning? The Mismatch between Observed and Self-Reported Student Engagement and Environmental Literacy Outcomes in a Residential Setting.

In this study, we explore the influence of student engagement on middle school students’ environmental literacy outcomes at a residential environmental education (EE) program. We observed 80 lesson...
Extubation and the Risks of Coughing and Laryngospasm in the Era of Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19)

The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has prompted new interest among anesthesiologists and intensivists in controlling coughing and expectoration of potentially infectious aerosolized secretions during intubation and extubation. However, the fear of provoking laryngospasm may cause avoidance of deep or sedated extubation techniques which could reduce coughing and infection risk. This fear may be alleviated with clear understanding of the mechanisms and effective management of post-extubation airway obstruction including laryngospasm. We review the dynamic function of the larynx from the vantage point of head-and-neck surgery, highlighting two key concepts: 1. The larynx is a complex organ that may occlude reflexively at levels other than the true vocal folds; 2. The widely held belief that positive-pressure ventilation by mask can "break" laryngospasm is not supported by the otorhinolaryngology literature. We review the differential diagnosis of acute airway obstruction after extubation, discuss techniques for achieving smooth extubation with avoidance of coughing and expectoration of secretions, and recommend, on the basis of this review, a clinical pathway for optimal management of upper airway obstruction including laryngospasm to avoid adverse outcomes.
Blockchain-Enabled Traceability in Food Supply Chain Networks

Innovative retailers in food supply chains have been exploring blockchain-based tracing systems as part of an ongoing eﬀort to reduce contamination risks and food waste. We develop a three-tier supply chain model with multiple upstream (tier-2) suppliers to investigate: how blockchain adoption aﬀects incentives of supply chain members, and whether and how its anticipated beneﬁts can be realized. We ﬁnd that blockchain-enabled full traceability brings direct revenue beneﬁt to every supply chain member by saving uncontaminated food from disposal (pure traceability eﬀect), but also leaves each tier of the supply chain vulnerable to its immediate downstream buyer’s exploitation through strategically lowering the purchasing price (strategic pricing eﬀect). The interplay of the two eﬀects may result in some of the supply chain members (even the retailer) being worse oﬀ with blockchain adoption, and the system being exposed to higher contamination risk; the latter is due to the weakened upstream supplier’s incentive to exert contamination risk-reduction eﬀort. Moreover, we ﬁnd that the supply chain network structure also inﬂuences the beneﬁt distribution of blockchain adoption: The retailer always beneﬁts from blockchain adoption in network structures where the tier-1 supplier’s strategic pricing power is eliminated or weakened; all supply chain members beneﬁt from blockchain adoption in a network with a large number of tier-2 suppliers. Finally, we show that alternative risk-mitigation schemes such as tier-2 coordination can diminish the value of blockchain adoption, and partial traceability enabled by tier-1 product inspection can be more beneﬁcial to the retailer than blockchain-enabled traceability.
Commercial Weight Loss Programs in the Management of Obesity: an Update.

Comprehensive lifestyle programs are cornerstones of obesity management, but clinician referrals may be limited by program availability. Commercial weight loss programs may be an alternative, but clinicians may be unaware of their efficacy and safety. This review describes the evidence for commercial programs, particularly 12-month weight loss, among individuals with obesity. Several programs are concordant with evidence-based recommendations (i.e., lower-calorie diet, increased physical activity, and behavioral strategies). Among the guideline-concordant programs, National Diabetes Prevention Program, WW, Jenny Craig, Medifast, and OPTIFAST have demonstrated 12-month weight loss efficacy and safety. While other programs show promise, more evidence is needed before clinician referral may be recommended. Clinical practice guidelines support referrals to commercial weight loss programs that have peer-reviewed evidence to support their efficacy and safety. Clinicians should consider the available evidence, patient preference, and cost when considering referrals to these programs for weight management.
The synaptic inputs and thalamic projections of two classes of layer 6 corticothalamic neurons in primary somatosensory cortex of the mouse.

Although corticothalamic neurons (CThNs) represent the largest source of synaptic input to thalamic neurons, their role in regulating thalamocortical interactions remains incompletely understood. CThNs in sensory cortex have historically been divided into two types, those with cell bodies in layer 6 (L6) that project back to primary sensory thalamic nuclei and those with cell bodies in layer 5 (L5) that project to higher order thalamic nuclei and subcortical structures. Recently, diversity among L6 CThNs has increasingly been appreciated. In the rodent somatosensory cortex, two major classes of L6 CThNs have been identified: one projecting to the ventral posterior medial nucleus (VPM-only L6 CThNs) and one projecting to both VPM and the posterior medial nucleus (VPM/POm L6 CThNs). Using rabies-based tracing methods in mice, we asked whether these L6 CThN populations integrate similar synaptic inputs. We found that both types of L6 CThNs received local input from somatosensory cortex and thalamic input from VPM and POm. However, VPM/POm L6 CThNs received significantly more input from a number of additional cortical areas, higher order thalamic nuclei, and subcortical structures. We also found that the two types of L6 CThNs target different functional regions within the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN). Together, our results indicate that these two types of L6 CThNs represent distinct information streams in the somatosensory cortex and suggest that VPM-only L6 CThNs regulate, via their more restricted circuits, sensory responses related to a cortical column while VPM/POm L6 CThNs, which are integrated into more widespread POm-related circuits, relay contextual information. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
A Low-Cost and Scalable Personalized Thermal Comfort Estimation System in Indoor Environments

In commercial buildings, occupant thermal comfort is a key factor that must be optimized to provide a comfortable and productive work environment. However, current methods largely estimate thermal comfort based on preset models which do not incorporate real-time measurements or individual thermal preferences. In this work, we present a scalable system for estimating personalized thermal comfort using low-cost thermal camera based sensor nodes. This system extracts non-intrusive thermal measurements, is robust to different perspectives and environments, is easily deployable and low-cost, and can incorporate individual thermal feedback for more personalized thermal comfort estimates. In comparison with baseline methods, our system is able to improve thermal comfort estimates on the ASHRAE 7-point thermal sensation scale by 64% over baseline methods.
School Development Approaches Over Time: Strengths, Limitations, and the Need for a New Approach

Across the globe, we observe policy trends towards evidence-based school development, “scientific” research, and increasingly centralized curriculum, all occurring amidst growing digitalization and demographic changes resulting in increasingly pluralistic schools and communities. As a result of these policy pressures, many universities and other educational organizations have proposed various evidence-based school development models or projects aimed at continuous improvement. In this chapter, we contest evidence produced from quasi-experimental research designs with other empirically tested evidence. We critique several established school development programs across the U.S. Finally, we propose that in order to have school capacity for continuous development, we need a school development process that is contextually-based and able to consider, reflect upon and use data from evidence-based programs and other sources as appropriate for school-identified problems, and that schools must be able to evaluate their own programs and processes in their particular contexts, with particular populations. For this, we need school development grounded in understandings of education and leadership as well as evidence. For our purposes, we define school development as a continuous growth process for school teams supporting education amidst tensions between policy expectations for use of research-driven evidence and the needs of students in increasingly diverse contexts.
Erratum to: White Dwarf Stars

White dwarf stars represent the most common endpoint of stellar evolution. In fact, about 90% of all stars will end up as white dwarfs. Their high temperatures and low luminosities imply that they are small — only about the size of the Earth (R e = 0.009R⊙). The mean radius for white dwarfs is R = 0.01 R⊙ (see the first table). Their rather ordinary masses of M ≈ 0.6M⊙ indicate that they have been gravitationally compressed to enormously high densities of about 100,000 g cm-3. Degenerate electron pressure stabilizes these stars against further collapse.
Developmental Switch in Excitability, Ca2+ and K+ Currents of Retinal Ganglion Cells and Their Dendritic Structure

In the retina of teleost fish, continuous neuronal development occurs at the margin, in the peripheral growth zone (PGZ). We prepared tissue slices from the retina of rainbow trout that include the...
Analysis of immune cells within the healthy oral mucosa of specific pathogen-free cats.

With 4 figures and 8 tables Summary The oral mucosa is an important interface for host–environment interactions. Based on previous studies, it is generally accepted that the cellular compartments of the oral immune system comprise organized mucosal-associated lymphoid tissues as well as diffusely and focally distributed T- and to lesser extent B-lymphocytes, oral mucosal Langerhans cells (OMLC), macrophages and mast cells. However, a comprehensive quantification of the cellular elements in the oral mucous membranes of the cat has not been reported. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive analysis of the immune cell compartments in the oral mucous membranes and anatomically related tissues of healthy cats. Multiple biopsies of the oral mucous membranes and related tissues were obtained from four specific pathogen-free cats for histological and immunohistochemical assessment of lymphocyte subsets, OMLC, macrophages and mast cells. T-lymphocyte subsets, OMLC, mast cells and macrophages were present in varying frequencies among the tissue compartments of the feline oral cavity. B-lymphocytes were not identified in any of the examined tissues except the tonsils and mandibular lymph nodes. Lymphocytic aggregates (follicles) were found in the palatoglossal folds and the gingiva. We describe the topographical distribution of various leucocyte subsets in the normal healthy feline oral mucosa, and demonstrate regional differences in the distribution of these cells.
Aerial Spray Deposition on Corn Silks Applied at High and Low Spray Rates

Corn earworm is a major pest of sweet corn, especially when grown organically. Aerial application of insecticides is important for both conventionally- and organically-grown sweet corn production as sweet corn is frequently irrigated to assure return on investment given the high production costs. Aerial insecticide application costs can be minimized through use of reduced spray rates if insecticide efficacy can be maintained at the lower spray rates. The objectives of the study were to characterize deposition on field corn silks when applied at 47.9 L/ha (with VMDs at 230 and 400 μm) and 86.2 L/ha (with VMD at 400 μm) spray rates. Applications of the bioinsecticide, Gemstar®, and the insecticide, Entrust®, which are both approved for use in organic production, were made over three different fields. The amount of spray material deposited on individual silks for each treatment was determined. Deposition of spray material on the silks was very similar across all application treatments. Overall, the 86.2 L/ha rate resulted in the greatest deposition of active material on the corn silks. At the 47.9 L/ha rate, the smaller droplet size sprays resulted in less deposition than the other treatments.
Rickettsialpox--a new rickettsial disease with oral manifestations; review of literature and case report.

Abstract 1. 1. Rickettsialpox is a new rickettsial disease transmitted to man by the rodent mite. 2. 2. The disease thus far is confined to New York City but may conceivably occur elsewhere in endemic form. 3. 3. Rickettsialpox is a benign disease characterized by chills, fever, sweating, backache, headache, general malaise, and a maculopapular vesicular exanthema and an oral enanthema. 4. 4. Diagnosis is established by the clinical course and the complement fixation test. 5. 5. Aureomycin and Chloromycetin may prove to be therapeutically effective.
Cinema Engage: Film in the Popular Front

Cinema Engage: Film in the Popular Front by Jonathan Buschsbaum. University of Illinois Press.
Note on the spectral radius of alternating sign matrices

Abstract We show that the n × n so-called diamond alternating sign matrix D n is the unique n × n alternating sign matrix with maximum spectral radius ρ n , and that lim n → ∞ ρ n n = 2 π .
Auscultatory Recognition of Aneurysm of the Membranous Ventricular Septum Associated with Small Ventricular Septal Defect

The clinical diagnosis of aneurysmal formation of the membranous ventricular septum associated with a small ventricular defect has been made previously only by means of angiocardiography. Active movement of the aneurysm during cineangiocardiography suggested the possibility of a corresponding auscultatory event. When careful auscultatory and phonocardiographic examinations were performed on 21 patients previously documented as having a small membranous ventricular defect with an associated aneurysm, a distinct early systolic sound was heard in 17 (81%). This sound was "clicky" in quality, confined to a narrow area along the lower left sternal edge, and best heard in expiration. It occurred during the upstroke of the carotid arterial tracing and followed the Q wave by 100 to 130 msec. On the basis of experience with other patients the development of this early systolic sound in a patient with a small ventricular septal defect suggests the diagnosis of associated septal aneurysm, but such a sequence require...
Cretaceous climate, volcanism, impacts, and biotic effects

Abstract Cretaceous volcanic activities (LIPs and CFBPs) appear to have had relatively minor biotic effects, at least at the generic level. Major biotic stress during the Cretaceous was associated with OAEs and related to nutrient availability largely from weathering, greenhouse warming, drowning of platform areas, and volcanism. The biotic effects of OAEs were often dramatic at the species level, causing the extinction of larger specialized and heavily calcified planktonic foraminifera (rotaliporid extinction) and nannoconids (nannoconid crises), the temporary disappearances of other larger species, and the rapid increase in r-selected small and thin-walled species, such as the low oxygen tolerant heterohelicids and radially elongated taxa among planktic foraminifera and thin walled nannofossils. Biotic diversity increased during cool climates, particularly during the late Campanian and Maastrichtian, reaching maximum diversity during the middle Maastrichtian. High biotic stress conditions began during greenhouse warming and Deccan volcanism about 400 ky before the K-T boundary; it reduced abundances of large specialized tropical planktic foraminiferal species and endangered their survival. By K-T time, renewed Deccan volcanism combined with a large impact probably triggered the demise of this already extinction prone species group. Evidence from NE Mexico, Texas, and the Chicxulub crater itself indicates that this 170 km-diameter crater predates the K-T boundary by ∼300,000 years and caused no species extinctions. The Chicxulub impact, therefore, can no longer be considered a direct cause for the K-T mass extinction. However, the K-T mass extinction is closely associated with a global Ir anomaly, which is considered too large, too widespread, and too concentrated in a thin layer to have originated from volcanic activity, leaving another large impact as the most likely source. This suggests that a second still unknown larger impact may have triggered the K-T mass extinction.
Velocity mapping in a 30-kW arcjet plume using laser-induced fluorescence

A method for measuring the axial and transverse plume velocities and internal energy distributions in rarified thruster plumes by using pulsed laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) of atomic hydrogen Balmer lines is described. The results of an application of this technique for velocity mapping of a 30-kW ammonia arc-jet plume generated in the JPL arc-jet testing facility (which is uniquely suited for these measurements due to the end-on optical access provided by its ninety-degree-bent diffuser) are described. A schematic diagram of the JPL facility with LIF setup is included.
Use of an ion trap storage/reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer as a rapid and sensitive detector for capillary electrophoresis in protein digest analysis.

An ion trap storage (IT)/reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer (reTOFMS) has been coupled to capillary electrophoresis (CE) via a sheathless microelectrospray ionization method. This hybrid mass spectrometer has proved to be a rapid and sensitive detector for CE, where mass spectra could be acquired at a speed sufficient to maintain the high-resolution capabilities of CE separations. The nonscanning property of the time-of-flight mass analyzer can provide a full mass range spectral acquisition speed of up to 25 spectra/s with a data system developed in our laboratory. For the work reported herein, a spectral acquisition speed of 4 spectra/s was found to be optimal for maintaining the quality of the separation while achieving high sensitivity. Tryptic digests of bovine cytochrome c and β-lactoglobulin A were analyzed using the CE/IT/reTOFMS combination, resulting in total ion electropherograms similar to those obtained using UV absorption detection. Taking advantage of the ion storage capability of t...
Rotavirus open cores catalyze 5'-capping and methylation of exogenous RNA: evidence that VP3 is a methyltransferase.

Abstract Rotavirus open cores prepared from purified virions consist of three proteins: the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, VP1; the core shell protein, VP2; and the guanylyltransferase, VP3. In addition to RNA polymerase activity, open cores have been shown to contain a nonspecific guanylyltransferase activity that caps viral and nonviral RNAs in vitro. In this study, we examined the structure of RNA caps made by open cores and have analyzed open cores for other capping-related enzymatic activities. Utilizing RNase digestion and thin-layer chromatography, we found that the majority (∼70%) of caps made by open cores contain the tetraphosphate linkage, GppppG, rather than the triphosphate linkage, GpppG, found on mRNAs made by rotavirus double-layered particles. Enzymatic analysis indicated that the GppppG caps resulted from the lack of a functional RNA 5′-triphosphatase in open cores, to remove the γ-phosphate from the RNA prior to capping. RNA 5′-triphosphatases commonly exhibit an associated nucleoside triphosphatase activity, and this too was not detected in open cores. Caps of some RNAs contained an extra GMP moiety (underlined) and had the structure 3′- Gp Gp(p)ppGpGpC-RNA-3′. The origin of the extra GMP is not known but may reflect the cap serving as a primer for RNA synthesis. Methylated caps were produced in the presence of the substrate, S-adenosyl- l -methionine (SAM), indicating that open cores contain methyltransferase activity. UV cross-linking showed that VP3 specifically binds SAM. Combined with the results of earlier studies, our results suggest that the viral guanylyltransferase and methyltransferase are both components of VP3 and, therefore, that VP3 is a multifunctional capping enzyme.
Elementary approximations for Dawson's integral

Abstract We develop three elementary approximations for computing Dawson's integral. These approximations are convenient to implement in those situations where high accuracy is not required. The most accurate of the three approximations can be used to compute Dawson's integral with a relative error
Some transistor circuits for nuclear physics research

Abstract Useful transistor circuit modules are described, including coincidence and anticoincidence circuits, gating circuits, amplifying and pulse-shaping circuits, and a trigger circuit, all operating with resolution times of about 10 −8 sec. As examples of the use of these modules, a circuit for counting neutrons from muon-capture reactions is given and a circuit for discriminating neutrons from gamma rays by analysis of pulse shape.
Tissue-specific glucocorticoid action: a family affair

Glucocorticoids exert a wide variety of physiological and pathological responses, most of which are mediated by the ubiquitously expressed glucocorticoid receptor (GR). The glucocorticoid response varies among individuals, as well as within tissues from the same individual, and this phenomenon can be partially explained through understanding the process of generating bioavailable ligand and the molecular heterogeneity of GR. This review focuses on the recent advances in our understanding of prereceptor ligand metabolism, GR subtypes and GR polymorphisms. Furthermore, we evaluate the impact of tissue- and individual-specific diversity in the glucocorticoid pathway on human health and disease.
Ion beam releases at rocket altitudes

NASA Flight 29.015 was the third in a series of flights to study the electrodynamics of man-produced ion beams in the ionosphere. Much like an earlier flight (Moore at al., 1982 and 1983; Kaufman et al., 1985), plasma releases perpendicular to the earth's B field result in ions being measured, often at reduced energies, several hundred meters from the source along the magnetic field. Releases at 200-eV energy parallel to B, however, result in over-200-eV ions measured above the source. In addition, parallel ion releases result in two additional populations of ions seen near 90-deg pitch angle; one near the energy of the generator, and the other at considerably lower energy. The energization of parallel ions could result from the same process by which electrons were accelerated to the generator payload as measured on an earlier flight, presumably due to blockage of natural field-aligned currents by gun-related wave turbulence. This turbulence is also undoubtedly inherent in the mechanism by which a parallel beam of ions creates a perpendicular component.
Standardization of long bone growth in children

Diaphyseal lengths of long bones of juveniles from five prehistoric Native American populations were collected in order to test the hypothesis of equivalence of relative lengths of all long bones. Results indicate that the relative lengths of all long bones are not equivalent and that the long bones of the Native Americans exhibit a consistent, significant sequence from relatively most affected (relatively smallest) to relatively least affected (relatively longest): femur, fibula, tibia, humerus, ulna and radius. This sequence can be explained if it is assumed that the most rapidly growing long bones are the most greatly affected by nutritional and disease stress.
Robot-assisted urological surgery: Current status and future perspectives

Abstract Objectives To discuss the current status of robot-assisted urological surgery. Methods We searched PubMed for articles published from 2008 using the search terms ‘advances’, ‘robotic surgery equipment’ and ‘instrumentation’. We also searched PubMed for articles describing the latest developments in reconstructive techniques for lower and upper urinary tract procedures. Finally, we searched PubMed for original articles containing the terms ‘robotic surgery training’ and ‘credentialing’. Results With each release of hardware or ancillary instrumentation, the reconstructive abilities of the da Vinci surgical system (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) improve. Recent developments in reconstructive capabilities of robotic urological surgery include posterior reconstruction during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, barbed sutures for urethrovesical anastomosis, sliding-clip renorrhaphy for robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, and repair of pelvic organ prolapse. The safe implementation of robotic surgery is aided by new guidelines in credentialing and proctoring, and the introduction of virtual reality simulators for training. Conclusion Robotic urological surgery is rapidly developing and expanding globally. To achieve the highest levels of safety for patients, surgeons must ensure that the implementation of robotic surgery is an integrative and effective process.
Structure and mechanism of purine-binding riboswitches

A riboswitch is a non-protein coding sequence capable of directly binding a small molecule effector without the assistance of accessory proteins to regulate expression of the mRNA in which it is embedded. Currently, over 20 different classes of riboswitches have been validated in bacteria with the promise of many more to come, making them an important means of regulating the genome in the bacterial kingdom. Strikingly, half of the known riboswitches recognize effector compounds that contain a purine or related moiety. In the last decade, significant progress has been made to determine how riboswitches specifically recognize these compounds against the background of many other similar cellular metabolites and transduce this signal into a regulatory response. Of the known riboswitches, the purine family containing guanine, adenine and 2'-deoxyguanosine-binding classes are the most extensively studied, serving as a simple and useful paradigm for understanding how these regulatory RNAs function. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge regarding the structure and mechanism of these riboswitches, as well as insights into how they might be exploited as therapeutic targets and novel biosensors.
Inhibition of neuronal M2 muscarinic receptor function in the lungs by extracellular nitric oxide

These experiments were carried out to test whether neuronal M2 muscarinic receptor function in the lungs is affected by nitric oxide (NO) and whether the source of the NO is epithelial or neuronal. In pathogen free, anaesthetized guinea-pigs, the muscarinic agonist pilocarpine inhibited vagally induced bronchoconstriction demonstrating functional neuronal M2 muscarinic receptors. In the presence of the NO donor, 3-morpholino-sydnonimine (SIN-1), pilocarpine no longer inhibited vagally induced bronchoconstriction. In contrast, inhibiting endogenous NO with NG-monomethyl-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NMMA) did not affect the ability of pilocarpine to decrease vagally induced bronchoconstriction. In isolated tracheas, pilocarpine inhibited contractions induced by electrical field stimulation demonstrating that neuronal M2 muscarinic receptors function in vitro. As in the anaesthetized guinea-pigs, SIN-1 shifted the pilocarpine dose response curve to the right, demonstrating decreased neuronal M2 receptor function. However, in vitro, L-NMMA shifted the pilocarpine dose response curve to the left, demonstrating that endogenous NO was inhibiting the ability of the M2 receptors to decrease acetylcholine (ACh) release. Both haemoglobin (Hb), which scavenges NO, and epithelial removal also shifted the pilocarpine dose response curve to the left, demonstrating that the NO inhibiting neuronal M2 receptor function was extracellular and probably of epithelial origin. In conclusion, extracellular NO appears to inhibit the ability of the M2 receptors to decrease ACh release from the parasympathetic nerves in the lungs in vivo and in vitro in pathogen free guinea-pigs. However, while the neuronal M2 receptors will respond to NO (from SIN-1) in vivo, there does not appear to be an endogenous source of NO since L-NMMA had no effect in vivo. British Journal of Pharmacology (2000) 131, 312–318; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0703542
New Perspectives Concerning Performance Appraisals of Intercollegiate Coaches

Despite advances in the study of performance appraisals within the intercollegiate athletic context, there are several limitations to the extant research. Specifically, this literature does not take into account the multi-level nature of organizations and performance appraisals or the reciprocal interdependence of coaching staffs. In considering these factors, we propose a new performance appraisal system for intercollegiate coaches—one that takes place at the team level of evaluation. Six dimensions of performance are measured—team athletic outcomes, team academic outcomes, ethical behavior, fiscal responsibility, recruit quality, and athlete satisfaction. We submit that, by taking into consideration the multilevel nature of performance and the reciprocal nature of coaching staffs, we have provided a more valid model of coaching performance.
Recent experience affects the strength of structural priming

In two experiments, we explore how recent experience with particular syntactic constructions affects the strength of the structural priming observed for those constructions. The results suggest that (1) the strength of structural priming observed for double object and prepositional object constructions is affected by the relative frequency with which each construction was produced earlier in the experiment, and (2) the effects of relative frequency are not modulated by the temporal placement of the tokens of each construction within the experiment.
Experimental Study of Loosening of Threaded Fasteners due to Dynamic Shear Loads

This paper presents a study on loosening of threaded fasteners subjected to dynamic shear loads. A fundamental analysis of loosening reveals that a fastener can loosen at lower loads than previously expected due to localized slip at the contact surfaces. Four different loosening processes of a screw under different conditions of slip at the head and thread contact regions are identified. Experimental results illustrating these loosening processes are presented. In addition, the minimum dynamic shear force required to initiate loosening is determined experimentally.
Characterizing positive chemically amplified resists via in-situ impedance monitoring

We present a novel, accurate methodology for investigating the kinetics of photoacid diffusion and catalyzed-deprotection of positive-tone chemically amplified resists during postexposure bake (PEB) by in-situ monitoring the change of resistance and capacitance (RC) of resist film during PEB. Deprotection converts the protecting group to a volatile group, which changes the dielectric constant of the resist. Thus, the deprotection rate can be extracted from the change of capacitance. The photoacid diffusivity is extracted from the resistance change because diffusivity determines the rate of change of the acid distribution. Furthermore, by comparing the RC curves, the dependence of acid diffusivity on the reaction state can be extracted. The experiment is done on Shipley UV5 resist with 248-nm wavelength illumination, an Agilent LCR meter is used to measure RC curves, and resist thickness loss is recorded. The kinetics of non-Fickean acid transportation, deprotection, free-volume generation and absorption/escaping, and resist shrinkage are analyzed. A comprehensive model of these chemical/physical mechanisms is proposed, whose parameters are extracted though a divide-and-conquer strategy with high accuracy. The theoretical RC curves fit the experiment with rms error less than 0.1%. The effects of free volume, polymer relaxation, and deprotection-induced polarity change on acid diffusion are also identified.
Analysis of symmetric cross ply laminated elastic plates using a higher-order theory. I: Stress and displacement

A simple theory for bending of composite anisotropic plates that are laminated symmetrically about their mid-plane is presented. This theory incorporates transverse shear deformation and transverse normal stress as well as the higher-order effects and fulfills the static conditions on the external boundary planes. Further on, by using Levy-type solutions considered in conjunction with the state space concept, the state of stress and displacement of rectangular plates for a variety of edge conditions is determined and the results are compared to their first-order shear deformation and classical counterparts, obtained by using the same state-space technique.
Characterisation And Optimisation Of A Laser Generated Plasma Source Of Soft X Rays For Biological Imaging And Soft X-Ray Lithography

Preliminary characterisation of a laser generated plasma source of soft x rays in the wavelength range of approximately 40 to 60 A has been undertaken using a Nd:YAG laser emitting 0.5 J at a wavelength of 1.064 itm radiation in 8 ns pulses at 20 Hz repetition rate. The effects upon x-ray production of moving the target through focus and the consequences of target cratering have been investigated. Results from these experiments have been used for preliminary optimisation of the process of contact replication of test specimens, resulting in the replication of feature sizes of 700 A.
The CC chemokine ligand 3 regulates CD11c+CD11b+CD8α- dendritic cell maturation and activation following viral infection of the central nervous system: implications for a role in T cell activation

The role of CC chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3) in activation of dendritic cells (DCs) following mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) infection of the central nervous system (CNS) was examined. The results indicate that CCL3 participates in an effective host response to MHV infection by contributing to CD11c+CD11b+CD8alpha- DC maturation, activation, and migration to cervical lymph nodes (CLN). Diminished CD8alpha- DC activation correlated with reduced IFN-gamma expression by virus-specific T cells accompanied by increased IL-10 production suggesting that CCL3 contributes to an effective host response to viral infection by enhancing the T cell activation potential of DC.
New Methodology for the Measurement of Surface Shear Stress Vector Distributions

When a liquid crystal coating (LCC) is illuminated from the normal direction by white light and observed from an oblique above-plane view angle, its color-change response to shear depends on both shear stress vector magnitude and the direction of the applied shear vector relative to the observer's in-plane line of sight. At any point, the maximum color change is always measured when the local shear vector is aligned with, and directed away from, the observer; the magnitude of the color change at this vector/observer aligned orientation scales directly with shear stress magnitude. Based on this knowledge, a full-surface shear stress vector measurement methodology was formulated. An image-based system, incorporating a three-chip color video camera, linked to a frame grabber and computer, was devised to test the method. Full-surface images of LCC color-change response to a three-dimensional turbulent wall jet flowing over a planar surface were acquired and analyzed to define the surface shear stress vector field.
Differential phosphorylation of syntaxin and synaptosome-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25) isoforms.

Abstract : The synaptic plasma membrane proteins syntaxin and synaptosome-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25) are central participants in synaptic vesicle trafficking and neurotransmitter release. Together with the synaptic vesicle protein synaptobrevin/vesicle-associated membrane protein (VAMP), they serve as receptors for the general membrane trafficking factors N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) and soluble NSF attachment protein (α-SNAP). Consequently, syntaxin, SNAP-25, and VAMP (and their isoforms in other membrane trafficking pathways) have been termed SNAP receptors (SNAREs). Because protein phosphorylation is a common and important mechanism for regulating a variety of cellular processes, including synaptic transmission, we have investigated the ability of syntaxin and SNAP-25 isoforms to serve as substrates for a variety of serine/threonine protein kinases. Syntaxins 1A and 4 were phosphorylated by casein kinase II, whereas syntaxin 3 and SNAP-25 were phosphorylated by Ca2+ - and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase, respectively. The biochemical consequences of SNARE protein phosphorylation included a reduced interaction between SNAP-25 and phosphorylated syntaxin 4 and an enhanced interaction between phosphorylated syntaxin 1A and the synaptic vesicle protein synaptotagmin I, a potential Ca2+ sensor in triggering synaptic vesicle exocytosis. No other effects on the formation of SNARE complexes (comprised of syntaxin, SNAP-25, and VAMP) or interactions involving n-Sec1 or α-SNAP were observed. These findings suggest that although phosphorylation does not directly regulate the assembly of the synaptic SNARE complex, it may serve to modulate SNARE complex function through other proteins, including synaptotagmin I.
EFFECT OF POSITIVE END-EXPIRATORY PRESSURE ON PULSE RESPIRATORY COMPLIANCE IN VENTILATED INFANTS

Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) decreases dynamic respiratory system compliance (Crs) in ventilated infants. As dynamic Crs measurements reflect airway resistance, we utilized a pulse method (J. Appl Physiol. 49:1116) to test the effect of PEEP on static Crs. We measured Crs in 11 infants (gestational age 33±4{mean±S.D.}weeks, weight 2052±704 gms, and study age 29±35 days) with respiratory failure supported with a constant flow ventilator. Flow, transrespiratory pressure, and tidal volume were recorded. We calculated pulse Crs by dividing flow by the slope of the linear portion of the pressure tracing. Static and dynamic Crs were measured by standard methods. Values of Crs were compared from PEEPs of 2.5 to 10.0 cms H2O. At the baseline ventilator settings, pulse and static Crs were similar (b=0.94, r2=90%), and both exceeded dynamic Crs (p<0.005). The effect of PEEP is shown below: Comparing individual regression slopes, pulse Crs decreased uniformly among the infants (F=1.80) from PEEPs of 5.0 to 10.0 cms. PEEPs exceeding 5.0 cms may overdistend the lungs and chest wall of ventilated infants as demonstrated by a decrease in pulse Crs.
Improvement in stroke risk prediction: role of C-reactive protein and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 in the women's health initiative

Background Classification of risk of ischemic stroke is important for medical care and public health reasons. Whether addition of biomarkers adds to predictive power of the Framingham Stroke Risk or other traditional risk factors has not been studied in older women. Methods The Hormones and Biomarkers Predicting Stroke Study is a case-control study of blood biomarkers assayed in 972 ischemic stroke cases and 972 controls, nested in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study of 93 676 postmenopausal women followed for an average of eight-years. We evaluated additive predictive value of two commercially available biomarkers: C-reactive protein and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 to determine if they added to risk prediction by the Framingham Stroke Risk Score or by traditional risk factors, which included lipids and other variables not included in the Framingham Stroke Risk Score. As measures of additive predictive value, we used the C-statistic, net reclassification improvement, category-less net reclassification improvement, and integrated discrimination improvement index. Results Addition of C-reactive protein to Framingham risk models or additional traditional risk factors overall modestly improved prediction of ischemic stroke and resulted in overall net reclassification improvement of 6·3%, (case net reclassification improvement = 3·9%, control net reclassification improvement = 2·4%). In particular, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein was useful in prediction of cardioembolic strokes (net reclassification improvement = 12·0%; 95% confidence interval 4·3–19·6%) and in strokes occurring in less than three-years (net reclassification improvement = 7·9%, 95% confidence interval 0·8–14·9%). Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 was useful in risk prediction of large artery strokes (net reclassification improvement = 19·8%, 95% confidence interval 7·4−32·1%) and in early strokes (net reclassification improvement = 5·8%, 95% confidence interval 0·4–11·2%). Conclusions C-reactive protein and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 can improve prediction of certain subtypes of ischemic stroke in older women, over the Framingham stroke risk model and traditional risk factors, and may help to guide surveillance and treatment of women at risk.