cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intracellular recordings from rat dorsolateral septal neurons, in vitro

We have made intracellular recordings from the dorsolateral septal nucleus (DLSN) in a rat brain slice. DLSN neurons fire short tetrodotoxin (TTX) sensitive action potentials followed by an after-hyperpolarization. The action potential is followed by either a Ca2+-dependent depolarization or a Ca2+-dependent after-hyperpolarization. Stimulation of medial septum results in antidromic invasion of DLSN neurons while stimulation of the fimbria/fornix results in orthodromic EPSPs or action potentials.
Attenuating mutations in the E2 glycoprotein gene of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus: Construction of single and multiple mutants in a full-length cDNA clone

Attenuated mutants of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEE) were isolated by selection for rapid penetration of cultured cells (R. E. Johnston and J. F. Smith, 1988, Virology 162, 437-443). Sequence analysis of these mutants identified candidate attenuating mutations at four loci in the VEE E2 glycoprotein gene: a double mutation at E2 codons 3 and 4, and single substitutions at E2 76, 120, and 209. Each candidate mutation was reproduced in an isogenic recombinant VEE strain using site-directed mutagenesis of a full-length cDNA clone of VEE. Characterization of these molecularly cloned mutant viruses showed that mutation at each of the four loci in the E2 gene was sufficient to confer both the accelerated penetration and attenuation phenotypes. Inoculation of the molecularly cloned viruses into rodent models that differ in their response to VEE suggested that individual mutations affected different aspects of VEE pathogenesis. Full-length clones containing multiple mutations were produced by combining independently attenuating mutations. Molecularly cloned viruses carrying two or three mutations were more attenuated in sensitive animal models than viruses which contained any single mutation alone. However, these highly attenuated strains still retained the ability to induce an immune response sufficient to protect against a high dose challenge with virulent VEE. These results indicate that production of a molecularly cloned live virus vaccine for VEE is feasible.
CEO pay fairness as a predictor of stakeholder management

Abstract This study examines the relationship between chief executive officer (CEO) pay fairness and future stakeholder management (SM) as well as the effect of the board of directors on this relationship. The results show that CEO pay fairness has an effect on future SM such that when underpaid, CEOs decrease SM and when overpaid, CEOs increase SM. Additionally, the relationship between CEO pay fairness and SM becomes stronger as the ratio of inside directors on the board increases, which suggests that as both management control increases and board diversity decreases, the CEO's control over SM increases. Implications for SM and CEO pay are discussed.
A Sceptic Looks at Art (but not Very Closely): Sextus Empiricus on Music

The paper examines Sextus Empiricus’ Against the Musicians (M 6), one of the least studied portions of Sextus’ surviving work, against the background of the more general question why he has so little to say on questions that for us would fall under aesthetics. The structure and goals of the book are considered, along with some puzzles about the consistency of his aims. Each of the two main parts is then analyzed separately, including a comparison between the first part and Philodemus’ On Music. Sextus’ apparent lack of interest in aesthetics is explained primarily by his quite general tendency to focus on foundational questions, of which the second part of M 6 is a notable instance; another, connected factor is the common ancient habit (illustrated in the first part of M 6) of treating aesthetic questions in conjunction with ethical or political ones.
Endless Frontier or Just a Mirage? The Quest for a National Science Policy

Given that the United States lacks a coherent national science policy, the question then becomes whether such policy should (or could) be developed in the current political environment. The author explores this question from the perspectives of overall budgetary support, priority-setting, and research relevance, concluding that the exercise of developing a national policy, even if ultimately unsuccessful, could help to reaffirm science's national importance and autonomy and to coalesce its fragmented political support.
Discrete transfer matrix method for rotating beams

Closed-form approximations of the spatial transfer rnatrix arc derived for beams, based on a mixed yversion finite elemcr~t rncthod. Successive multiplications of these rnatrices together allows a simple approximation of the transfer matrix from the root of the beam to its tip for arbitrary values of natural frequency. Application of the boundary conditions allows the frequencies of interest to bc determined by iteration. This method thus takes advantage of the merits of the transfer matrix method, such as low storage requirerncnts and simple programming algorithms, as well as the accuracy of p-version finite elements. Numerical results are presented which show its accuracy.
Sustainability issues for agricultural research strategies in the semi-arid tropics: Focus on the Sahel

Abstract To stimulate debate in agricultural research circles, the paper discusses six sets of issues for the design and strategy of agricultural research on sustainability in the semi-arid tropics of Africa, to wit: (i) what production systems to propose in what zones, in particular how and where to intensify; (ii) what measures are needed to conserve the resource base in different zones; (iii) what incentive measures, and technology design, are needed to encourage and enable farmers to adopt conservation and productivity measures; (iv) what complementary investments at farm, village, and state level are necessary to help farmers make those investments; (v) what crop and activity mix should be sustained — are the conditions upstream and downstream from production of that mix conducive to sustained profitability; (vi) how should sustainability research be organized?
Crystal structure of the superconducting phases of S and Se

Compressed S and Se are studied by x-ray diffraction with synchrotron radiation up to 160 GPa. Phase IV of S is shown to have a body-centered monoclinic structure and is stable between 83 and 153 GPa, where it transforms to S-V with a primitive rhombohedral $\ensuremath{\beta}$-Po structure. Observation of the modulation reflections in S-IV up to 135 GPa shows that its crystal structure is incommensurately modulated, the same as known for Se and Te. Our study on the stability range of the modulated phase of Se (Se-IV) shows that Se-IV transforms to the $\ensuremath{\beta}$-Po phase Se-V at around 80 GPa. Pressure dependence of the structural parameters of these high-pressure phases in S and Se are discussed in relation to their superconducting behavior.
The effect of chromatic adaptation on color sensitivity of the carp electroretinogram.

Abstract A study of the spectral sensitivity of carp electroretinogram waves was effected utilizing chromatic adaptation and increment threshold techniques to uncover the underlying spectral mechanisms. The action spectrum of the dark-adapted retina followed the rod pigment difference spectrum at shorter wavelengths, but was more sensitive at longer ones, suggesting the presence of a persistent photopic component. This component remained even when maximal dark-adaptation, as assessed by b-wave threshold, had occurred. Action spectra of a - and b-waves in the photopic response revealed that the a-wave was primarily green sensitive but had small contributions from blue and red cones, while the b-wave mainly reflected a red cone signal with a smaller green cone contribution and no detectable one from blue cones. Based on the apparent absence of a blue cone contribution to the b-wave and the high blue sensitivity of one C-potential , it is suggested that the blue cone signal proceeds to a C-potential source. A far-red sensitive mechanism with maximal sensitivity near 660 nm was found in the b-wave and for which no adequate explanation is available. While the derived action spectra may sometimes be fit by hypothetical curves resulting from the addition of cone potentials ( Tomita et al. , 1967), the chromatic adaptation experiments suggest that non-additive mechanisms prevail, and that the correspondence may be fortuitous.
Analysis of iodochlorhydroxyquin in biological materials by high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic system using a mobile phase of 0.05 M phosphoric acid—methanol (30:70) was developed for determination of iodochlorhydroxyquin (clioquinol, I) in biological material. I was extracted from samples with diethyl ether. Conjugates of I were hydrolyzed to free I and extracted by the same method. The ether phases were evaporated to dryness, reconstituted in the mobile phase and chromatographed using a microparticulate C18 column, a pre-column and a UV detector set at 256 nm. Quantitation of I in the range of 0.20–2.0 μg/ml of urine, 0.50–2.0 μg/g of liver, and 0.25–2.0 μg/g of feces was obtained with coefficients of variation of 0.02, 0.05, and 0.06, respectively. The detection limit of I and 0.2 μg. Extensive absorption of I upon topical application to dogs was also demonstrated.
Molecular association behavior of apomyoglobin I from the seal (Phoca vitulina).

Abstract In the present paper the ultracentrifugal, electrophoretic, and optical rotation behavior of apomyoglobin as a function of pH and ionic strength is reported. It has been observed that polymerization occurs between pH 3 and 5.5, with maximum association between pH 4 and 5. At pH 8, the isoelectric point of apomyoglobin I, no change in sedimentation coefficient with different ionic strengths was observed. In free electrophoresis at pH 5 and 0.1 ionic strength, only a single rather symmetric peak was seen. The rotatory dispersion constant decreases with a change of pH from 5 to 3, thus indicating an unfolding of the molecules at pH 3. The nature of the polymerization reaction is discussed.
Heracleon, Origen, and the Text of the Fourth Gospel

L'A. propose une etude comparative entre la doctrine d'Heracleon, les ecrits d'Origene et le texte de l'Evangile selon saint Jean. Heracleon, en effet, en bon disciple valentinien, est le premier a avoir produit un commentaire sur ce fameux Evangile. Origene est celebre pour l'avoir imite dans cette voie. Etant donne le caractere fragmentaire et sporadique de ces deux commentaires, l'A. propose de reunir dans ces quelques pages les principaux points communs ou divergents en relation avec queslques themes precis de l'Evangile de Jean
Finite Element Modeling of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Abstract Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized treatment for inoperable and high risk surgical patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. Transcatheter aortic valves (TAVs) are deployed within the native diseased valve without sutures to secure them within the annulus. Oversizing of TAVs with respect to the annulus size is required to achieve appropriate anchoring. Optimal TAV function requires expansion of the frame to its nominal dimension. However, clinically TAVR results routinely in incomplete expansion of the stent frame. We have previously demonstrated that significant under-expansion results in suboptimal TAV function with impaired coaptation of TAV leaflets, but precise characteristics of TAV leaflets and frame after implantation have been poorly studied. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of TAV under-expansion as observed clinically on stress distribution and magnitude in the TAV stent and leaflets using finite element (FE) modeling. A computer aided design (CAD) model of a TAV was developed based on the 23mm Edwards-SAPIEN design and used to create a finite element (FE) model. The 3D model consists of a stent, three pericardial leaflets, a clamp compression unit and an expandable balloon. Large deformation FE simulations were conducted to model the TAVR procedure, including TAV crimping followed by balloon-expansion to 17, 21, and 23mm. Stress distribution on the stent and leaflets were determined. As the post-inflation diameter increased, the von Mises stress on the TAV stent decreased. The maximum von Mises stresses of stent after expansion to 17, 21, and 23mm were 365, 346, and 262 MPa, respectively. However, unlike the stent, the leaflet stress increased as the post-inflation diameter increased. The peak von Mises stresses after expansion were 1.5, 1.3, and 2.4 MPa, respectively. We present the first FE simulation which was developed to model the TAVR procedure from crimping and balloon inflation of the TAV. Stress on stent and leaflets after implantation is dependent on the internal diameter of the inflated stent. While stress on the stent decreases with increasing TAV expansion, stress on the leaflets increases. FE modeling can be further applied evaluate whether a specific TAV size and design is optimal for a specific patient.
Energy Transfer between Glucose and Dysprosium(III) in Aqueous Solution.

The fluorescence of Dy(III) and other lanthanides is enhanced when glucose is present in the solution and the solution has been heated (15min at 175°C). The experimental evidence suggests that this is due to energy transfer between the aldehyde formed when glucose is heated and Dy. This effect was used for glucose determination in aqueous solution. A detection limit of 7μM was obtained, with a linear response to 1mM.
The Effects of Dietary Caffeine Use and Abstention on Blood Oxygen Level-Dependent Activation and Cerebral Blood Flow.

Background: Caffeine is a known vasoconstrictor that reduces resting cerebral blood flow (CBF) throughout the brain. This effect may be problematic in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research, as the blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal is a complex interaction of CBF and other factors that are dependent on changes in neural activity. It is unknown whether changes in the BOLD signal during an fMRI experiment could be affected by subjects' recent use or abstinence from dietary caffeine. Methods: Here, we report two similar studies (n=45 and 17) that measure the effects of caffeine on BOLD activation, BOLD time course parameters, and CBF. Using a factorial design, low, moderate, and high caffeine consumers received either caffeine (250 mg) or placebo during normal caffeine use (satiated state) or after 30 hours of abstention (abstinent state). The fMRI of a reaction time task and resting-state CBF were collected. Results: In general, acute caffeine administration reduced the time to peak ...
Differential immunoreactivity of transforming growth factor alpha in benign, dysplastic and malignant prostatic tissues

Immunohistochemical examination of radical prostatectomy specimens from 57 patients was performed to determine the differential expression of transforming growth factor alpha in the human prostate. In addition, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) immunoreactivity was assessed in each case. Stromal versus epithelial staining was determined for each histological subtype: benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), prostatic intra-epithelial neoplasia (PIN), and prostatic cancer (CaP) by a single pathologist reviewer. TGFa staining was predominant in stroma while EGFr was localized to the epithelial basal cell layer. Immunoreactivity of both TGFa (P = 0.002) and EGFr (P < 0.001) revealed a significant reduction in CaP compared to BPH or PIN. Autocrine stimulation of EGFr by TGFa or other unrecognized factors may be present in CaP. Conversely, altered stromal influence of CaP via TGFa may be present. These observations could form the basis for future cancer therapeutic strategies using antagonist factors.
Is conventional wisdom wrong? Coverage for substance abuse treatment under Medicaid managed care

Conventional wisdom suggests that coverage for substance abuse treatment under Medicaid is generally poor, and that access to care may be reduced when control over behavioral health services is given to private health plans, such as those under Medicaid managed care. To examine this premise, this study reports on a cross-sectional comparative survey of state Medicaid managed care programs conducted in the year 2000. Although not all states provided substance abuse benefits under their Medicaid programs, our findings suggest that a majority of states used managed care arrangements to provide substance abuse treatment, with most providing an array of covered services. Most Medicaid behavioral health plans were fully capitated. The number of comprehensive health plans providing substance abuse services was slightly higher than the number of behavioral health carveouts. About half of the waiver programs that covered substance abuse treatment covered methadone maintenance, but waiver programs employing comprehensive health plans were more likely to provide coverage for methadone maintenance.
Trace measurements of the disulphide proteins trypsin and chymotrypsin based on adsorptive stripping voltammetry

Abstract Trace measurements of the disulphide proteins trypsin and chymotrypsin by differential pulse voltammetry preceded by a controlled interfacial accumulation on a hanging mercury drop electrode are described. Cyclic voltammetry is used to characterize the interfacial and redox behaviours. The adsorbed proteins yield well-defined peaks at about −0.3 V vs. Ag/AgCl, associated with the reduction of the disulphide bonds in the molecules; the product remains adsorbed and may be reversibly reoxidized. The adsorptive stripping response is evaluated with respect to the preconcentration time and potential, pH, concentration dependence, stripping mode and other variables. Both proteins exhibit similar response characteristics, with substantial peak enhancements following accumulation. Short preconcentration periods permit convenient quantitation at the submicromolar and nanomolar levels. Electroinactive surfactants have only a small effect on the quantitation. The reproducibility of the determination (at the 3 × 10 −7 M level) expressed in terms of relative standard deviation is 0.8–2.0%. The adsorptive stripping procedure possesses potential in applications in both research and clinical laboratories.
32P-postlabeling analysis of adducts formed between DNA and safrole 2',3'-epoxide: absence of adduct formation in vivo.

Abstract We have used the 32P-postlabeling technique to examine the binding of safrole 2′,3′-oxide to DNA. At least 8 covalent adducts are formed when calf thymus DNA is incubated with this oxygenated metabolite of safrole in vitro. However, no corresponding adducts are formed with liver DNA when whole animals are exposed to safrole 2′,3′oxide, or safrole itself. Although safrole 2′,3′-oxide is readily formed in vivo, and is sufficiently reactive to covalently bind to DNA, it is probably not a factor in the in vivo genotoxicity of safrole. We also demonstrate that adducts with similar mobility to the major safrole 2′,3′-oxide-DNA adduct are formed in vitro between safrole 2′,3′-oxide and deoxyguanosine, and also between its chemical analogs allylbenzene 2′,3′-oxide or estragole 2′,3′-oxide and DNA.
Masculine role variables and outcomes among men with spinal cord injury

Purpose. Few studies have considered the impact of masculine role variables on outcome and adjustment to SCI among men. The present study examined the relations among SCI, views of masculinity, psy...
Chemically-initiated solution polymerizations and radiation-initiated bulk polymerizations of isopropyl vinyl ether

Abstract The unusually high rates of polymerization of isopropyl vinyl ether initiated in bulk by high energy radiation, compared with other vinyl ethers, reported previously have been confirmed. The rates, molecular weights and heats of polymerization initiated by triphenylmethyl hexachlorantimonate have now been measured in methylene dichloride solution. Both methods of initiation are believed to involve essentially free ions. The chemically initiated polymerization rates however were similar to those found with the other vinyl ethers. The conflicting results are explained in terms of solvation effects rather than to differences in the methods of initiation. Qualitatively these results have been interpreted in terms of the Eyring theory of reaction rates between an unpaired ion and a neutral molecule.
Effect of text message follow-up on patient's self-reported level of pain and anxiety

ABSTRACT Objectives: To determine whether a text message reduces the severity of patient self-reported levels of pain and anxiety following initial placement of orthodontic appliances. Materials and Methods: Thirty-nine orthodontic patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups and matched for age, gender, and bracket type (self-ligating vs conventional). The subjects completed baseline questionnaires to ascertain their levels of pain and anxiety before initiating orthodontic treatment. Following the initial appointment, subjects completed the pain questionnaire and anxiety inventory at the same time daily for 1 week. One group received a structured text message showing concern and reassurance, while the second group served as a control and received no postprocedural communication. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in pain in relation to time between the text message group and the control group as it was demonstrated that demonstrated that compared with the text message group...
Characterizing the patient-centeredness of hidden curricula in medical schools: development and validation of a new measure.

AbstractPurposeThe “hidden curriculum” has a powerful influence in shaping medical students’ attitudes and behaviors toward patient care. The purpose of this project was to develop and test a tool (the C3 Instrument) to help educators characterize and understand the hidden curriculum at their own in
A 5.3µA quiescent current fully-integrated low-dropout (LDO) regulator with Transient Recovery Time Enhancement

A new technique to decrease the transient recovery time in a very low-quiescent current low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator is introduced. The new Transient Recovery Time Enhancement (TRTE) block comprises a voltage-to-current converter, current comparator and an NMOS output transistor. The proposed LDO using the TRTE block was fabricated in a 0.5-μm 2P3M CMOS process. The circuit operates at a total quiescent current of 5.3 μA with a maximum load current of 50 mA while supplying a regulated output voltage of 1.5 V to a 100 pF load. Experimental results indicate a drop-out voltage of 123 mV with an average recovery time of 5.22 μs under maximum load current changes.
Fractionation of the non-histone proteins of antigen-reactive human lymphocytes: criteria for the specificity of antigen uptake.

Abstract Non-histone proteins were separated from the nuclei of lymphocytes for the purpose of testing if antigen, following antigen uptake, could be localized within this fraction. Human lymphocytes were disrupted by N 2 cavitation, the nuclei isolated by differential centrifugation, the chromatin purified, and the DNA separated from chromatin proteins by chromatography on Bio-Gel A 5M in the presence of 4 M guanidine-HCl. Non-histone proteins were separated from the histones by chromatography on CM-Sephadex C-50 by a stepwise elution. Non-histone and histone proteins were obtained in satisfactory purity as shown by amino acid analysis and gel electrophoresis. Labeled antigen could be separated unaltered following its incubation with T-lymphocytes. On the other hand, antigen mostly degraded but still capable of precipitating with antibody was separated bound to the non-histone proteins of B-cells. Antigen was not bound to histones.
Hypercalcemia complicating an industrial near-drowning

A 28-year-old man presented with lethargy, solmulence, and polyuria following near-drowning in a vessel of an offshore oil rig. Laboratory evaluation demonstrated severe hypercalcemia that responded to saline diuresis and nasogastric suctioning. Calcium salts are used frequently in the drilling and completion of oil wells, and it is presumed that this patient's hypercalcemia represented acute intoxication from swallowed and aspirated fluid. This case highlights the need to consider the potential constituents of the drowning fluid in victims of near-drowning, particularly if unexplained clinical phenomena are evident.
Natural ventilation performance of single room building with fluctuating wind speed and thermal mass

Natural ventilation is driven by either buoyancy forces or wind pressure forces or their combinations that inherit stochastic variation into ventilation rates. Since the ventilation rate is a nonlinear function of multiple variable factors including wind speed, wind direction, internal heat source and building structural thermal mass, the conventional methods for quantifying ventilation rate simply using dominant wind direction and average wind speed may not accurately describe the characteristic performance of natural ventilation. From a new point of view, the natural ventilation performance of a single room building under fluctuating wind speed condition using the Monte-Carlo simulation approach was investigated by incorporating building facade thermal mass effect. Given a same hourly turbulence intensity distribution, the wind speeds with 1 min frequency fluctuations were generated using a stochastic model, the modified GARCH model. Comparisons of natural ventilation profiles, effective ventilation rates, and air conditioning electricity use for a three-month period show statistically significant differences (for 80% confidence interval) between the new calculations and the traditional methods based on hourly average wind speed.
Observation of phase-matched frequency mixing of THz and near-infrared laser pulses in a ZnGeP 2 crystal

We observed phase-matched frequency mixing of a THz wave with a near-infrared laser beam in a ZnGeP 2 crystal. Such a process can be used to detect a THz wave in the range of 91-139 μm.
Management of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage with Intracerebral Hematoma: Clipping and Clot Evacuation versus Coil Embolization followed by Clot Evacuation

Background Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) with associated intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is often treated with concomitant surgical clipping and ICH evacuation. The aim of this study was to determine if aneurysm coiling followed by ICH evacuation is a viable alternative treatment. Methods A retrospective review was conducted between July 2000 and March 2009 of patients with aneurysmal SAH plus ICH (>30 ml or with midline shift >5 mm) who underwent aneurysm repair (either coiling or clipping) and craniotomy for ICH evacuation. Demographic and radiographic criteria, time to aneurysm protection, length of stay (LOS), treatment complications, discharge disposition and 3 month functional outcome were compared between groups. Results Of 18 SAH+ICH patients, 10 underwent aneurysm coiling followed by ICH evacuation and eight underwent clipping with ICH evacuation. Compared with clipped patients, coiled patients had a lower Glasgow Coma Scale score (median 5.5 vs 7.5), higher ICH score (median 3 vs 2), worse modified Fisher score (median 4 vs 3) and higher rate of herniation at presentation (50% vs 25%). Median time to aneurysm protection was shorter in coiled patients (299 vs 885 min, p 0.05). Conclusions Coiling followed by ICH evacuation is associated with faster time to aneurysm protection and similar outcome, LOS and cost as clipping and evacuation. This may be a viable alternative to clipping and ICH evacuation.
The Ratio of Total to Selective Extinction in the Directions of Selected Planetary Nebulae

The ratio of total to selective extinction has been determined for the lines-of-sight to six planetary nebulae.
Plasmonically controlled nucleic acid dehybridization with gold nanoprisms.

The irradiation of anisotropic gold nanostructures at their surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is an efficient method for converting light into heat,[1] particularly in the near-infrared region where absorbance by biological tissues is minimal.[1–7] These techniques however, typically rely on high-power pulsed lasers that can cause irreversible damage to the local environment and have only recently been used to investigate a particle-selective response.[4,5,8–10] Few reports to date focus on the use of SPR-mediated heating to release drugs or nucleic acids under mild conditions amenable to temperature-sensitive environments.[11–13] Herein we show that organic–inorganic hybrid nanostructures consisting of a triangular gold nanoprism core modified with a dense shell of fluorophore-labeled oligonucleotide duplexes can be used for selective, SPR-meditated, and non-destructive release of nucleic acids. Our results introduce a class of tunable nanostructures that facilitate the rational control over the release of hybridized cargo using light-controlled modulation of the local temperature.
New Strategies for the Fabrication of Enzyme Electrodes

The electrochemical properties of o-dianisidine have been studied in both aqueous and organic solvents. This aryl diamine has been electrochemically polymerized on ITO coated glass electrodes and it was determined that the optical properties of these films are influenced by the polymerization conditions. The use of this polymer film as substrate for chemical coupling of biomaterials has been demonstrated with the light harvesting protein, phycoerythrin. Fabrication and bioanalytical application of enzyme electrodes by electrochemical copolymerization of o-dianisidine with the enzymes glucose oxidase and horseradish peroxidase, modified with o-dianisidine is described.
COLLECTIVE BEHAVIOR OF BIOPHYSICAL SYSTEMS WITH THERMODYNAMIC FEEDBACK LOOPS: A CASE STUDY FOR A NONLINEAR MARKOV MODEL — THE TAKATSUJI SYSTEM

We study order–disorder transitions and the emergence of collective behavior using a particular mean field model: the dynamic Takatsuji system. This model satisfies linear non-equilibrium thermodynamics and can be described in terms of a nonlinear Markov process defined by a nonlinear Fokker–Planck equation, that is, an evolution equation that is nonlinear with respect to its probability density. We discuss quantitatively the impact of a feedback loop that involves a macroscopic, thermodynamic variable. We demonstrate by means of semi-analytical methods and numerical simulations that the feedback loop increases the magnitude of order, increases the gap between the free energy of the ordered and disordered states, and increases the maximal rate of entropy production that can be observed during the order–disorder transition.
DNA Degradation Test Predicts Success in Whole-Genome Amplification from Diverse Clinical Samples

The need to apply modern technologies to analyze DNA from diverse clinical samples often stumbles on suboptimal sample quality. We developed a simple approach to assess DNA fragmentation in minute clinical samples of widely different origin and the likelihood of success of degradation-tolerant whole genome amplification (restriction and circularization-aided rolling circle amplification, RCA-RCA) and subsequent polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A multiplex PCR amplification of four glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase amplicons of varying sizes was performed using genomic DNA from clinical samples, followed by size discrimination on agarose gel or fluorescent denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography (dHPLC). RCA-RCA followed by real-time PCR was also performed, for correlation. Even minimal quantities of longer PCR fragments (∼300 to 400 bp), visible via high-sensitivity fluorescent dHPLC or agarose gel, were essential for the success of RCA-RCA and subsequent PCR-based assays. dHPLC gave a more accurate correlation between DNA fragmentation and sample quality than agarose gel electrophoresis. Multiplex-PCR-dHPLC predicted correctly the likelihood of assay success in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples fixed under controlled conditions and of different ages, in laser capture microdissection samples, in tissue print micropeels, and plasma-circulating DNA. Estimates of the percent information retained relative to snap-frozen DNA are derived for real-time PCR analysis. The assay is rapid and convenient and can be used widely to characterize DNA from any clinical sample of unknown quality.
Gender Dynamics, Routine Activities, and Place in Haudenosaunee Territory: An Archaeological Case Study from the Cayuga Region of Central New York State

This chapter focuses on the spatial arrangement of gendered activities on the landscape within and outside an archaeologically recovered, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) longhouse in the Cayuga region of upstate New York. The large size of longhouses (ca. 20–40 or more meters long) means that their interiors form a cultural landscape that people move across to perform spatially distributed activities that are also related to spatially distributed activities in the broader landscape outside the longhouse. Several longhouses have been documented at two sites occupied during the mid to late 1500s in this region. I will discuss the manner in which the spatially and temporally repeated performance of gendered routine activities, particularly those associated with food preparation and domestic manufacture, organizes and determines the archaeological record, as well as the impact this has on the relative visibility of women’s and men’s work at the level of a village landscape. The analysis of feature contents results in the identification of differences between the routine practices undertaken in separate areas of one of these structures. The implications of this study for understanding the organization of economic activities as well as gender relations in Haudenosaunee society are also explored. However, analysis of activities in the structure discussed here needs to be framed within the context of the broader landscape and the patterns of activities in other longhouses that have been researched. I therefore begin by placing the settlements within the context of the broader environment. In addition, the current context of these sites includes contemporary land use and the current owners of these sites. The encouragement and participation of the landowners has allowed this research to move forward and has helped to preserve the sites within the current rural landscape.
Effects of hypophysectomy on coho salmon interrenal: maintenance of steroidogenic pathway and restoration of in vitro responsiveness to adrenocorticotropin after handling.

The role of the pituitary in regulating interrenal activity in coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) was examined using short- (1 week) or long- (10 week) term hypophysectomized (Hx) animals. In experiments in which Hx animals were injected with ovine growth hormone (oGH), triiodothyronine, or vehicle, plasma cortisol was significantly lower (close to nondetectable, 1 ng/ml) in vehicle-injected or hormone-treated short- and long-term Hx animals compared to vehicle-treated sham-operated (SO animals). Treatment of long-term Hx animals with oGH led to a significant increase in plasma cortisol, in comparison to other Hx groups. Interrenal responsiveness to ACTH or cAMP was not consistently affected by hypophysectomy or hormone treatment. Pregnenolone-supported cortisol production by tissue from Hx groups was at least as great as that by tissue from SO animals: production by tissue from GH-treated, long-term Hx animals was significantly greater than that by tissue from Hx or SO animals. Similar experiments utilizing handling stress (handling and anesthesia) instead of hormone injection as a variable revealed that the response of tissue from Hx animals to ACTH or cAMP was significantly reduced in the absence of handling in comparison with SO animals. However, utilization of pregnenolone as a substrate by tissue from Hx animals was no different from that by tissue from SO animals and was independent of handling. These results indicate that the maintenance of the steroid-biosynthetic pathway is pituitary independent. The decrease in tissue responsiveness to ACTH or cAMP in undisturbed Hx animals may be partially attributable to: (1) the absence of nonpituitary/ nonpituitary-mediated factors that are stimulated by handling and which probably upregulate ACTH receptors and mediating systems; and/or (2) to the presence of inhibitory factors which are decreased after handling.
Rapid identification and susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from MGIT cultures with luciferase reporter mycobacteriophages

In a prospective study conducted in a diagnostic laboratory in Mexico City, luciferase reporter mycobacteriophages (LRPs) were evaluated for their utility and performance in identification and antibiotic-susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) isolates from MGIT-960 cultures. Eighty-four consecutive MGIT cultures recovered from 54 patients were included in this study. The LRPs confirmed mycobacterial growth in 79 (94 %) of 84 MGIT cultures. Failure to confirm growth was due to low inoculum (n = 1) or growth with non-tuberculous mycobacteria (n = 4). The median time to confirmation of MGIT cultures was 1 day (range 1–55). Confirmed cultures were identified with p-nitro-α-acetylamino-β-hydroxypropiophenone (NAP), a selective inhibitor of MTC species, and results obtained with LRPs were compared with those obtained by BACTEC-460. The sensitivity and specificity of the LRP NAP test were respectively 97 and 100 %, and the median turnaround time for identification was 3 days with both methods. The accuracy and speed of the LRPs for susceptibility testing with rifampicin, streptomycin, isoniazid and ethambutol were compared with BACTEC-460 and discrepant results were tested by the conventional agar proportion method. In total, 72 MTC cultures were tested. The overall agreement between the LRPs and BACTEC-460 was 98.6 %. Four isolates (5.6 %) were falsely identified as ethambutol-resistant. The median turnaround time for susceptibility testing was 3 days (range 3–57) with the LRPs and 9 days (range 7–29) with BACTEC-460. LRPs offer an accurate and rapid approach for identification and susceptibility testing of M. tuberculosis from MGIT-960 cultures.
Protecting the retina during MemoryLens insertion.

Abstract Background To determine the light-scattering power of the folded MemoryLens®. Setting Department of Ophthalmology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Methods The focusing power of 10 unfolded MemoryLenses (Mentor Ophthalmics) was measured using an optical bench. The IOLs were then unfolded in a 37°C distilled water bath and reexamined within 15 seconds of removal from the bath. Resolutions were read after the lenses were dried for 1 hour and cooled to room temperature and again after they were rehydrated and reheated in the water bath. Results In the rolled state, all lenses diffused the illumination of the light source. After the IOLs were unfolded in the water bath at 37°C, they gave readings of acceptable to high resolution. After the lenses were air dried for 1 hour and cooled to room temperature, the resolution of all lenses decreased. However, after the IOLs were rehydrated and reheated for 1 more hour, resolution was similar to that of the original hydrated lenses. Conclusion When folded, at a low temperature, or dehydrated, the MemoryLens may provide protection from the operating microscope by scattering light.
Comparison of market parameters for jump-diffusion distributions using multinomial maximum likelihood estimation

Previously, we have shown that the proper method for estimating parameters from discrete, binned stock log returns is the multinomial maximum likelihood estimation, and its performance is superior to the method of least squares. Useful formulas have been derived for the jump-diffusion distributions. Numerically, the parameter estimation can be a large scale nonlinear optimization, but we have used techniques to reduce the computation demands of multi-dimensional direct search. In this paper, three jump-diffusion models using different jump-amplitude distributions are compared. These are the normal, uniform and double-exponential. The parameters of all three models are fit to the Standard and Poor's 500 log-return market data, constrained by the data first and second moments. While the results for the skew and kurtosis moments are mixed, the uniform jump distribution has superior qualitative performance since it produces genuine fat tails that are typical of market data, whereas the others have exponentially thin tails. However, the log-normal model has a big advantage in computational time of parameter estimation compared with the others, while the double-exponential is most costly due to having one more model parameter.
The qualitative learning experience of healthcare workers completing a hybrid workplace violence educational program

Background: Hybrid educational methodologies which include online and classroom-based learning experiences increase learning. However, the course delivery preferences of learners need to be evaluated so the design and delivery of future programs will maximize learning outcomes. The aim of this study was to describe how the delivery of a hybrid program contributes to learning outcomes. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used. Participants were recruited from two large emergency departments that completed a hybrid workplace violence educational program. Four focus group sessions were held with a convenience sample of 17 participants to discuss their learning experience with the hybrid educational program. Sessions were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using a constant comparative analysis method. Results: Three themes emerged from the data. The first theme was “Implementation of the Intervention” and represented the opportunity for learning, the environment of learning, and the need for uniform training. The second theme was “Experience of the Intervention” and represented the conditions of learning, interdisciplinary learning, facilitated engagement, and realism of the learning content. The third theme was “Translation of the Intervention” which represented the transferability and retention of the program content. Conclusion: An active learning classroom-based component was perceived to yield greater knowledge attainment and retention than online learning for the participants in this study. Consideration of the learning styles and needs of learners should be taken into consideration when developing content for the online delivery or hybrid approach for educational programs.
Novel ultraviolet electroluminescence from Al/octaethylporphyrin/Ag film sandwich cells

Abstract The electroluminescence of a [glass/Al/H 2 OEP/Ag] sandwich cell under pulsed voltage is presented. The luminescence obtained shows three types of light. (i) There is a red fluorescence characteristics of the octaethylporphyrin material, with the origin at ≈ 630 nm. (ii) There is a UV emission consisting of two origin bands at 315.0 nm and 336.5 nm. An extensive vibronic progression is built on the latter which contains two vibrational energies, 1350 and 1680 cm -1 , which are known to be porphyrin ring vibrations. The progression is explained as electron-hole recombination, i.e. P + +P - →2P(v), Where v is a vibrational level. Two possible explanations are offered for the 315.0 nm origin band, on which no progression is built. (iii) The third type of light comes in the form of burst attributed to dielectric breakdown. The burst last for about 10–20 ns.
Interruptions and intonation

In this paper, we examine how interruptions an manifested in the intonational structure of a discourse. Such interactions come about because of the mutual negotiating to satisfy the differing needs, interests and knowledge states of participants in a conversation. The specific pitch height of an interruption is found to be determined jointly by the need to attract attention, the intensity of the emotion present, and the strength of signal needed to overcome the attention and focus on the current topic.
Actin filament organization is required for proper cAMP-dependent activation of CFTR.

Previous studies have indicated a role of the actin cytoskeleton in the regulation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) ion channel. However, the exact molecular nature...
TweetTracker: An Analysis Tool for Humanitarian and Disaster Relief.

Social media is becoming popular as a key source of information on disasters and crisis situations. Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) respondents can gain valuable insights and situational awareness by monitoring social mediabased feeds. Specifically, the use of microblogs (i.e., Twitter) has been shown to provide new information not otherwise attainable. In this paper, we present a new application designed to help HADR relief organizations to track, analyze, and monitor tweets. The purpose of this tool is to help these first responders gain situational awareness immediately after a disaster or crisis. The tool is capable of monitoring and analyzing location and keyword specific Tweets with nearreal- time trending, data reduction, historical review, and integrated data mining tools. In this paper, we discuss the utility of this tool through a case study on tweets related to the Cholera crisis in Haiti.
Predicting recurrence following post-chemotherapy retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for residual fibrosis or teratoma

4551 Background: The current recommendation for the management of patients with the histologic finding of fibrosis or teratoma at PC-RPLND is surveillance. We evaluated men at our institution who u...
Use of antidepressant medications not associated with A1C among individuals with diabetes in NHANES sample.

Abstract Introduction Studies on the relationships between antidepressant medications and A1C, a measure of glucose levels over the past three months, have resulted in mixed findings. Most available research examined subclass effects. The current study aims to measure the association between individual antidepressant medications and A1C in a large nationally-representative dataset. Methods The sample of this study consists of 45,786 individuals who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 1999 and 2012. We examined the relationships between 18 antidepressant medications and continuous A1C in crude and adjusted linear models stratified by diabetes status (ever or never diagnosed). Adjusted models included demographic covariates (age, gender, race/ethnicity, and education), smoking status, and physical activity. Results No significant associations were found for most antidepressants. However, those who used selegiline ( n =11), all of whom were in the no diabetes stratum, were found to have a higher A1C compared with individuals who do not use antidepressants. Discussion The study agrees with a number of earlier findings. Most antidepressant medications do not appear to be associated with A1C levels among individuals with or without diabetes. Limitations include small numbers for some exposure categories and cross-sectional data. Strengths include use of a nationally-representative dataset and large total sample size.