cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toward feedback controlled deep brain stimulation: dynamics of glutamate release in the subthalamic nucleus in rats.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an effective symptomatic treatment in Parkinson's disease. High frequency stimulation (HFS) of the subthalamic nucleus elicits neurotransmitter release in multiple nuclei. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that neurotransmitter release during HFS may be used to provide feedback control of the intensity and pattern of HFS. We studied the dynamic relationship between extracellular glutamate levels and HFS in and around the STN in anesthetized rats. We used a pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS) of stimulation in the STN, the independent forcing function, while measuring extracellular glutamate in the same nucleus, the dependent variable. The PRBS consisted of 90 s periods during which stimulation (100 μA, 150 Hz, 10% duty cycle) was either off or on. The stimulation and extracellular glutamate levels were fitted using an autoregressive exogenous model (ARX) to determine the transfer function between HFS and the extracellular glutamate concentration in the STN. The ARX model fit the dynamics of extracellular glutamate levels well (correlation coefficients ranged from 0.74 to 0.99; n = 11). The transfer function accurately predicted extracellular glutamate levels in the STN even when the pattern of HFS was modified. We used the transfer function to develop a feedback controlled stimulation algorithm. Feedback controlled HFS maintained extracellular glutamate concentrations at any predefined level, but only intermittent HFS was required. We conclude that the transfer function between HFS and neurotransmitter levels in the brain can be used to design DBS protocols that generate specific temporal patterns of glutamate release in the STN.
Tear strength of polyethylene

The fracture energy of moulded sheets of polyethylene has been found to depend strongly upon the thickness of the sheet, increasing linearly over the range 0.05 to 1.0 mm. This variation is attributed to a dependence of the volume of the plastic zone at the crack tip upont2, wheret is the torn thickness. By extrapolation, threshold values of fracture energy were determined at zero thickness. These represent the strength in the absence of large-scale plastic yielding. The fracture energies of both thin and thick sheets of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) were found to vary strongly with rate of tearing and test temperature, passing through maxima at particular rates and temperatures. This behaviour is attributed to corresponding changes in local ductility. A general correlation was found between the dependence of fracture energy upon tear rate and the dependence of loss modulusE″ upon the frequency ω of small oscillatory deformations. It is concluded that the work of fracture is mainly expended in local yielding at the tear tip, on the scale of single spherulites, about 4μm for HDPE. Annealing HDPE at 120° C reduced the fracture energy of thick sheets to about 10 kJ m−2 but did not greatly alter the threshold strength. In contrast, annealing sheets of LDPE had relatively little effect on the fracture energy at any thickness.
The histological features of chronic hepatitis C and autoimmune chronic hepatitis: a comparative analysis.

Before the availability of serological markers for hepatitis C, the morphological features of this diagnosis, which represents most non-A, non-B hepatitis, could not be confirmed. We examined biopsy specimens from 50 patients with chronic hepatitis C and 21 patients with autoimmune chronic hepatitis. Each biopsy specimen was graded on 19 different histological features. The results indicated that at the time of biopsy, the average age of patients with chronic hepatitis C was 46 yr vs. 36 yr for autoimmune chronic hepatitis. Cirrhosis was seen more frequently in autoimmune chronic hepatitis (90%) than in hepatitis C (58%). Features more commonly observed in chronic hepatitis C were bile duct damage (91% vs. 40%), bile duct loss (91% vs. 20%), steatosis (72% vs. 19%) and lymphoid cell aggregation (follicles) within portal tracts (49% vs. 10%). Severe lobular necrosis and inflammation (76% vs. 38%), piecemeal necrosis (81% vs. 10%), multinucleated hepatocytes (29% vs. 6%) and broad areas of parenchymal collapse (76% vs. 6%) were seen more often in autoimmune chronic hepatitis. Exclusion of five patients with autoimmune chronic hepatitis who received immunosuppression before biopsy accentuated these differences. In conclusion, morphological criteria, in addition to serological data, may be useful for differentiating chronic hepatitis C from autoimmune chronic hepatitis, which histologically is a more aggressive disease. (Hepatology 1992;15:572–577).
Examination of methods for evaluating remining a mine waste site. Part I. Geostatistical characterization methodology

Comprehensive characterization of the distribution and metal content of mine wastes is a crucial component of any project which aims at selective remediation as a function of minimization of cost and risk. Knowledge of the existence of structures and horizons within the sediments is critical to remediation since metal concentrations can vary significantly both within and between groupings of wastes and sediments. The exploratory techniques for structural and statistical analyses of the wastes as presented herein were used to identify population domains between observed waste/sediment classes and by locality within waste/sediment classes. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of split spoon samples extracted from the wastes proved to be effective in identifying population domains within the various observed waste/sediment classes. Variography identified the nature and continuity of variability in metal concentrations. Metal concentrations in mine and mill waste may vary rapidly over distance. For this reason, exploratory variogram analysis was used to relate estimation variance to sampling grid design and orientation. Where the deposition of mine wastes is influenced by fluvial processes, gravity separation can take place across areas that are sometimes flooded. This process produces drift in metal concentrations and can complicate the characterization of water deposited or reworked waste/sediment sites. Contaminant levels in mine and mill wastes are controlled by forces that can be very local in nature. As a result, the covariance structure can be non-stationary over relatively short distances. A methodology is presented herein for checking covariance stationarity.
The Value of Applying Molecular Biology Tools in Environmental Engineering: Academic and Industry Perspective in the USA

The integration of molecular biology tools in environmental engineering is a challenge. We discuss our views on the following four critical issues: (i) faculty career development, (ii) tool standardization, (iii) teaching, and (iv) the application of molecular biology tools in practice. For (i), we suggest that administrators and faculty need to understand the special challenges inherent to research and teaching within this highly interdisciplinary area. Furthermore, we suggest preparing two white papers aimed at educating administrators in universities and agencies. For (ii), we conclude that, because molecular biology tools are still in a state of rapid development, proposing standards at this time is premature. In the future, standards for widely applied tools should be in an on-line, peer-reviewed format. Concerning (iii), we believe that molecular biology should be taught only to the degree needed to achieve program goals. For example, environmental engineering practitioners only need to know the vocabulary and basic concepts of molecular biology tools, not be experts at doing them hands on. To help engineering students gain the right level and type of information, learning modules should be developed for them. Finally, although engineering successes applying molecular biology tools are available (iv), the biggest value will come when the tools are fully integrated with practice. Therefore, we encourage the creation of a demonstration project to document the value of applying molecular biology tools in environmental engineering.
Parametrices for a class of hypoelliptic operators

Using the general calculus of pseudodifferential operators developed by by Beals ( Duke Math. J. 42 (1975), 1–42), parametrices are constructed for a class of degenerate semi-elliptic operators satisfying a quasi-homogeneity condition.
Anticoagulation during continuous renal replacement therapy

Proper anticoagulation is an important factor in the function and life of the filter in CAVH or CAVHD and is the Achilles heel for CRRT. Several options now exist for anticoagulation and can be selected based on individual patient characteristics, availability of various anticoagulants, and local expertise. The choice of anticoagulant should be based on multiple factors, including A) the access site and whether an external pump is being used; B) the nature and geometry of the membrane; C) whether enhancements for ultrafiltration, such as predilution, are used; and D) the clinical status of the patient and preexisting coagulation abnormalities. Since anticoagulation in continuous therapy lasts longer than in intermittent hemodialysis, careful selection and monitoring are essential to prevent complications.
Locus of control and mathematics anxiety as predictors of performance in a psychological statistics course.

Although anxiety about mathematics might be expected to predict performance on mathematics examinations, some research shows that the two variables are not related (e.g., Llabre & Suarez, 1985). However, since Lessing (1969) found a positive relationship between locus of control scores and over-all grade-point averages for eleventh grade students, the present study was designed to explore the relationship of locus of control and anxiety about performance in mathematics of students in a college statistics course. The subjects were 16 male and 21 female undergraduates, aged 18 to 23 yr. (M age = 20.2 yr., SD = 1.0) and enrolled in a psychological statistics course. Two weeks before the first examination, students were administered a mathematics anxiety rating scale (Plake & Parker, 1982) and a locus of control scale (Levenson, 1974). Mean scores (and SDs) were: control by powerful others -7.4 (7.81, chance -8.3 (9.3) and internal 13.3 (5.9, learning math anxiety 45.9 (13.8) and math evaluation anxiety 31.0 (7.0). Scores on the examination were related to anxiety about mathematics evaluation (Pearson r = -0.47, p < ,001) and the predicted performance (r = 0.40, p< ,001). Scores on the examination were not related to age (r = 0.04), belief in a locus of control by powerful others (r = 0.08), chance (r = -0.01), or oneself (r = -0.05), anxiety about mathematics learning (r = -0.17), or sex (r= -0.04). A stepwise multiple regression showed that anxiety about evaluation of mathematics was the only significant predictor variable (beta = -0.47, t = 3.18, p = ,003). The results of the present study indicated that people who are more anxious about their performance on mathematics examinations do indeed perform worse on an examination, whereas anxiety about learning mathematics and belief in locus of control were not related to examination performance.
Emergence of a Norovirus GII.4 Strain Correlates with Changes in Evolving Blockade Epitopes

The major capsid protein of norovirus GII.4 strains is evolving rapidly, resulting in epidemic strains with altered antigenicity. GII.4.2006 Minerva strains circulated at pandemic levels in 2006 and persisted at lower levels until 2009. In 2009, a new GII.4 variant, GII.4.2009 New Orleans, emerged and since then has become the predominant strain circulating in human populations. To determine whether changes in evolving blockade epitopes correlate with the emergence of the GII.4.2009 New Orleans strains, we compared the antibody reactivity of a panel of mouse monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against GII.4.2006 and GII.4.2009 virus-like particles (VLPs). Both anti-GII.4.2006 and GII.4.2009 MAbs effectively differentiated the two strains by VLP-carbohydrate ligand blockade assay. Most of the GII.4.2006 MAbs preferentially blocked GII.4.2006, while all of the GII.4.2009 MAbs preferentially blocked GII.4.2009, although 8 of 12 tested blockade MAbs blocked both VLPs. Using mutant VLPs designed to alter predicted antigenic epitopes, binding of seven of the blockade MAbs was impacted by alterations in epitope A, identifying residues 294, 296, 297, 298, 368, and 372 as important antigenic sites in these strains. Convalescent-phase serum collected from a GII.4.2009 outbreak confirmed the immunodominance of epitope A, since alterations of epitope A affected serum reactivity by 40%. These data indicate that the GII.4.2009 New Orleans variant has evolved a key blockade epitope, possibly allowing for at least partial escape from protective herd immunity and provide epidemiological support for the utility of monitoring changes in epitope A in emergent strain surveillance.
Higher-order abstract syntax: setting the record straight

A recent SIGACT News Logic column, guest-written by James Cheney DOI = 10.1145/1107523.1107537, discussed nominal logic [1], an approach to abstract syntax with binding structure. In addition to providing a worthy tutorial on nominal logic, that column leveled five criticisms at higher-order abstract syntax, an alternative approach for dealing with binding structure in abstract syntax. We argue below that three of those criticisms are factually inaccurate, and the other two are misguided.
Criteria for the onset of flow recirculation and onset of mixed convection in vertical rod bundles

In a vertical rod bundle with forced upflow and a nonuniform radial power profile, the potential for flow reversal into the low power side of the bundle exists due to buoyancy forces. In this paper a criterion is developed to predict the onset of flow recirculation in rod bundles. The criterion is validated with experimental data for flow recirculation in water-cooled bare rod bundles and with the results of a standard multichannel rod bundle code. A criterion for the onset of mixed convection is also given. Thus, the boundaries between the forced convection, mixed convection, and recirculation regimes are identified. Results are expressed on a flow regime map in terms of the dominant dimensionless parameters (the Reynolds number and a buoyancy parameter B*) as a closed-form equation.
Resource allocation decision making in an uncertain environment

Abstract This experiment investigated how individuals learn to allocate limited resources across competing activities in order to maximize their objective when the form of the objective function is uncertain. On each of 25 trials, subjects selected an allocation policy and received a corresponding profit. The objective function that was used to assign profits to allocations was unknown initially and was learned through trial by trial outcome feedback. A total of 144 subjects were randomly assigned to nine groups constructed from a 3 (objective function form) by 3 (amount of error variability) factorial design. Several measures of learning were analyzed including (a) the distance between the current and optimal allocation policy as a function of training, (b) the magnitude of change in allocation as a function of past profits, and (c) the direction of change in allocations as a function of the direction of change in past profits. The results provide evidence for an integrated approach to learning — a functional learning process based on global information about the shape of the objective function and a hill-climbing learning process based on local information about trial to trial improvements in profit.
Employees’ perceptions of younger and older managers by generation and job category

Abstract The purpose of this exploratory study is to examine the perceptions hospitality employees have of their younger and older managers by generation and job position across three generational cohorts. Using data collected from both line-level employees and managers of a U.S. hotel company, first the underlying dimensions of employees’ perceptions of their younger and older managers were identified. Afterwards, a multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) test was used to identify significant differences in employees’ perceptions of their younger and older managers by generations and job position across three generational cohorts while controlling for employees tenure. Findings supported the premise that there are significant differences in employees’ perceptions of their younger and older managers by generation and job position across three generational cohorts. Managerial implications are discussed.
Distinguishing Trauma-Associated Narcissistic Symptoms from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Diagnostic Challenge

Individuals with trauma-associated narcissistic symptoms (referred to in this paper by the acronym TANS for simplicity) display a discrete cluster of psychological symptoms that can closely mimic those of PTSD. In TANS, the underlying vulnerability to traumatic stress usually stems from a narcissistic personality disorder or narcissistic personality traits. However, narcissistic symptoms associated with an external traumatic event may be reflexively and erroneously attributed to PTSD, no matter how small or insignificant the traumatic stressor. Mistaking TANS for PTSD usually results in treatment failure. In litigation, distinguishing between TANS and PTSD assists the trier of fact in determining causation and assessing damages.
Human Lp(a): regions in sequences of apoproteins similar to domains in signal transduction proteins.

ABSTRACT The major apoproteins of Lp(a)-apo(a) and apo B-100-are linked by only one intermolecular disulfide bond. This linkage has been suggested to be located between apo(a) Cys4057 and apo B-100 Cys3734. Several studies, however, have suggested other noncovalent interactions between different regions of apo(a) and apo B-100. One possible mechanism for these interactions may involve the apo(a) proline-rich interkringle regions that share sequence similarities with the proline-rich regions of Src homology 3 (SH3) domain-binding proteins such as 3BP-1. SH3 and SH2 domains, and their respective ligands, proline-rich regions, and phosphotyrosine motifs, are noncatalytic segments common to signal transduction proteins. Therefore, we used sequence comparison algorithms and molecular modeling programs to identify corresponding SH3 and SH2 candidate regions as well as potential phosphotyrosine sites in the apo B-100 sequence. Six SH2 and 16 SH3 candidate regions, along with 21 potential phosphotyrosine sites, are contained in the apo B-100 sequence. In Lp(a), these regions of apo B-100 may be involved in the noncovalent, protein-protein interactions between apo(a) and apo B-100. The presence of candidate SH3 and SH2 regions in apo B-100, and potential phosphotyrosine sites in apo B-100, apo(a), and apo A-I, suggests an alternative signaling pathway unrelated to the known B/E receptor. (Endocr Pract. 1995; 1:440-448)
Factors associated with health-related quality of life of student pharmacists.

Objective. To assess the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of student pharmacists and explore factors related to HRQoL outcomes of student pharmacists in a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program ...
Effects of hypophysectomy, pituitary autografts, prolactin, temperature and salinity of the medium on survival and natremia in the bullhead, Ictalurus melas.

Abstract 1. 1. Hypophysectomy induced hyponatremia and decreased the mean fresh water (FW) survival time to 7·0 days. 2. 2. Prolactin treatment or isosmotic saline maintenance of hypophysectomized fish maintained plasma sodium at the level of intact fish and prolonged survival. 3. 3. Hyponatremic, hypophysectomized fish maintained in FW at 11°C survived > 21 days compared to 8·0 days in FW at 20°C. 4. 4. Autografted pituitary glands prolonged FW survival and maintained plasma sodium at presurgical concentrations for the entire experimental period of 12 days.
A Perspective on Anthropology.

Entre a l'Universite du Texas en 1930, l'A., a travers son parcours personnel en anthropologie, s'est retrouve a mi-chemin de l'histoire d'un siecle et demi de la discipline et a la jonction de deux generations de l'anthropologie boasienne. Il examine l'histoire de l'anthropologie a partir de cette position particuliere, proposant moins une histoire au sens strict qu'un commentaire sur cette histoire ; quelques reflexions personnelles sur la maniere dont ce que l'anthropologie se propose de dire s'inscrit dans les evenements d'une epoque. Evoquant notamment l'influence des autres disciplines sur la formation de l'anthropologie americaine de l'epoque, il plaide, en conclusion, pour une approche anthropologique eclectique, pour la comprehension de la condition humaine a partir d'une multiplicite de points de vue.
TH‐A‐213AB‐08: Robust Multi‐Criteria IMPT Optimization

Purpose: We present a method to include robustness in a multi‐criteria optimization (MCO) framework for intensity‐modulated proton therapy (IMPT). The approach allows one to simultaneously explore the trade‐off between different objectives including robustness and nominal plan quality. Methods: A database of plans each emphasizing different treatment planning objectives, is pre‐computed to approximate the Pareto surface. An IMPT treatment plan that strikes the best balance between the different objectives can be selected by navigating on the Pareto surface. We integrate robustness into MCO by adding robustified objectives and constraints. Uncertainties are modeled by pre‐calculated dose‐influence matrices for a nominal scenario and a number of pre‐defined error scenarios (shifted patient positions, proton beam undershoot and overshoot). A robustified objective represents the worst objective function value that can be realized for any of the error scenarios and thus provides a measure of plan robustness. The optimization method uses a linear projection solver and is capable of handling large problem sizes resulting from a fine dose grid resolution, many scenarios, and a large number of proton pencil beams. Results: A base‐of‐skull case is used to demonstrate that the robust optimization method reduces the sensitivity of the treatment plan to setup and range errors to a degree that is not achieved by a safety margin approach. A chordoma case is analyzed in more detail to demonstrate the involved trade‐offs between target underdose and brainstem sparing as well as robustness and nominal plan quality. The robust optimization for each Pareto optimal plan takes less than 5 min on a standard computer. Conclusions: The uncertainty pertinent to the IMPT procedure can be reduced during treatment planning by optimizing a database of plans that emphasize different treatment objectives, including robustness. The planner can then interactively explore all convex combinations of database plans to decide on the most‐preferred trade‐off.
Seismic wave propagation beneath the Molucca Sea arc-arc collision zone, Indonesia

Abstract Seismograms of earthquakes from the Molucca Sea arc-arc collision zone, recorded at local stations, show a wide variety of coda envelope shapes and frequency contents. Some shallow (depth less than 20 km) events display large amplitude codas (relative to primary body waves) and lower frequency (2–4 cps) than deeper events which contain frequencies up to 12 cps. The shallowest events probably originate within the accretionary wedge of the collision zone and their signal characters at local stations indicate intense scattering within the highly deformed accretionary material. The scattering/attenuation for travel paths within the crust is high, but must decrease with depth starting in the upper mantle resulting in a more efficient path between intermediate depth events and the stations. A wide variation in the efficiency of S-wave propagation from intermediate depth events suggests the presence of considerable heterogeneity in deeper structure of the collision zone.
Implementation of a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor for the measurement of embryo-induced aberrations using fluorescent microscopy

Adaptive optics (AO) improves the quality of astronomical imaging systems by using real time measurement of the turbulent medium in the optical path using a guide star (natural or artificial) as a point source reference beacon. AO has also been applied to vision science to improve the current view of the human eye. This paper will address our current research focused on the improvement of fluorescent microscopy for biological imaging utilizing current AO technology. A Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor (SHWS) was used to measure the aberration introduced by a Drosophila Melanogaster embryo with an implanted 1 micron fluorescent bead that serves as a point source reference beacon. The measurements show an average peak-to-valley and root-mean-square (RMS) wavefront error of 0.77 micrometers and 0.15 micrometers, respectively. The Zernike coefficients have been measured for these aberrations which indicate that the correction of the first 14 Zernike coefficients should be sufficient to correct the aberrations we have obtained. These results support the utilization of SHWS for biological imaging applications and that a MEMS deformable mirror with 1 micron of stroke and 100 actuators will be sufficient to correct these aberrations. The design, assembly and initial results for the use of a MEMS deformable mirror, SHWS and implanted fluorescent reference beacon for wavefront correction will also be discussed.
Molecular diversity of the SCG10/stathmin gene family in the mouse.

SCG10 is a neuronal growth-associated protein that shares an amino acid sequence similarity with an 18- to 19-kDa phosphoprotein named stathmin (also called p19, p18, Op18, pp17, prosolin, pp20, 19K, and leukemia-associated phosphoprotein, Lap18), which is more broadly expressed in a variety of cell types of the neural, immune, and reproductive systems. The sequence similarity has suggested that SCG10 and stathmin have been derived from structurally and evolutionarily related genes. To explore the structural and evolutionary relationships between these genes, we have isolated a series of cosmid and phage clones that covers the entire region of the mouse stathmin gene and most of the mouse SCG10 gene. The SCG10 transcription unit spans at least 30 kb, while the stathmin gene is 6 kb in length. Both genes consist of five exons, and many of the intron/exon boundaries fall into the homologous regions of conserved domains of these two proteins. However, the promoter-proximal regions are distinct in the two genes, suggesting that they have evolved by fusion of the duplicated coding exons to unique promoters. Southern blot analysis indicates that SCG10 mRNA is encoded by a single gene in the mouse genome, while stathmin cDNA probes detect multiple genes. Chromosome mapping experiments reveal that the SCG10 gene is localized at the proximal region of mouse chromosome 3 and is linked to II-7, while the stathmin gene loci are distributed to three chromosomes; the authentic stathmin gene lies on chromosome 4, whereas the loci on chromosomes 9 and 17 are likely to be pseudogenes. These data are consistent with the idea that the neuron-specific SGC10 gene evolved by duplication and modification of the more broadly expressed stathmin/Lap18 gene.
Density-Stratified Flow Events in Great Salt Lake, Utah, USA: Implications for Mercury and Salinity Cycling

Density stratification in saline and hypersaline water bodies from throughout the world can have large impacts on the internal cycling and loading of salinity, nutrients, and trace elements. High temporal resolution hydroacoustic and physical/chemical data were collected at two sites in Great Salt Lake (GSL), a saline lake in the western USA, to understand how density stratification may influence salinity and mercury (Hg) distributions. The first study site was in a causeway breach where saline water from GSL exchanges with less saline water from a flow restricted bay. Near-surface-specific conductance values measured in water at the breach displayed a good relationship with both flow and wind direction. No diurnal variations in the concentration of dissolved (<0.45 μm) methylmercury (MeHg) were observed during the 24-h sampling period; however, the highest proportion of particulate Hgtotal and MeHg loadings was observed during periods of elevated salinity. The second study site was located on the bottom of GSL where movement of a high-salinity water layer, referred to as the deep brine layer (DBL), is restricted to a naturally occurring 1.5-km-wide “spillway” structure. During selected time periods in April/May, 2012, wind-induced flow reversals in a railroad causeway breach, separating Gunnison and Gilbert Bays, were coupled with high-velocity flow pulses (up to 55 cm/s) in the DBL at the spillway site. These flow pulses were likely driven by a pressure response of highly saline water from Gunnison Bay flowing into the north basin of Gilbert Bay. Short-term flow reversal events measured at the railroad causeway breach have the ability to move measurable amounts of salt and Hg from Gunnison Bay into the DBL. Future disturbance to the steady state conditions currently imposed by the railroad causeway infrastructure could result in changes to the existing chemical balance between Gunnison and Gilbert Bays. Monitoring instruments were installed at six additional sites in the DBL during October 2012 to assess impacts from any future modifications to the railroad causeway.
Nonparametric Large Sample Many-One Comparisons.

Dunnett’s procedure for comparing k - 1 treatments with a control is discussed within the context of three nonparametric models. Examples are presented in which Dunnett’s procedure is employed to make comparisons associated with a Kruskal-Wallis one-way AOV test for ranked data, Friedman’s two-way AOV test for ranked data, and Cochran’s test of change for dichotomous data.
Patterning of cells through patterning of biology

For the first time, cells have been patterned on surfaces through the spatial manipulation of native gene expression. By manipulating the inherent biology of the cell, as opposed to the chemical nature of the surfaces they are attached to, we have created a potentially more flexible way of creating patterns of cells that does not depend on the substrate. This was accomplished by bringing an siRNA that targets the expression of pten under the control of light, by modifying it with photocleavable groups. This pten-targeting siRNA has been previously demonstrated to induce dissociation of cells from surfaces. We modified this siRNA with dimethoxy nitro phenyl ethyl photocleavable groups (DMNPE) to allow the activity of the siRNA, and hence pten knockdown, to be toggled with light. Using this approach we demonstrated light dependent cell dissociation only with a DMNPE modified siRNA that targets pten and not with control siRNAs. In addition we demonstrated the ability to make simple patterns of cells through the application of masks during irradiation.
Appendicitis in preschool children

Appendicitis in preschool children, although uncommon, is associated with a high perforation rate and increased morbidity. Of 132 preschool children treated for appendicitis over a 5-year period, 63 (47.7%) had perforations and 29 (22.0%) had an appendiceal mass. Although classic symptoms were present in the majority of the patients, atypical symptoms were found in many children and included diarrhoea (35), cough/sore throat (15), dysuria (4), headache (2), and earache (2). A diagnosis other than appendicitis was suspected by attending medical practitioners in 53 (40%) patients, leading to delay in management. Mean duration of symptoms before admission was as follows: acute appendicitis 38.9 h, perforation 52.6 h, and appendix mass 81.7 h. Ten (7.6%) patients developed postoperative complications that included wound infection in 5, intra-abdominal abscess in 4, and adhesive intestinal obstruction in 1. A high index of suspicion of appendicitis is necessary in preschool children in view of the atypical presentation and high incidence of advanced appendicitis and morbidity.
MR-derived right ventricular parameters can predict pulmonary hypertension

Right heart catheterization (RHC) is required for definitive diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and serial echocardiograms or RHC are necessary for long term disease management. However, RHC is invasive, costly and risky for the patient[1]. Echocardiography is a non-invasive alternative but recent studies have questioned its accuracy and reproducibility in the setting of PH[2]. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has been shown to be helpful in distinguishing PH patients from healthy subjects through visualization of morphologic features such as right atrial and ventricular enlargement, tricuspid regurgitation and abnormal interventricular septal motion[3]. CMR has the additional advantage of producing quantitative measures of right ventricular function, which may have added value in assessing PH.
Can Antioxidants Protect Against Disuse Muscle Atrophy

Long periods of skeletal muscle inactivity (e.g. prolonged bed rest or limb immobilization) results in a loss of muscle protein and fibre atrophy. This disuse-induced muscle atrophy is due to both a decrease in protein synthesis and increased protein breakdown. Although numerous factors contribute to the regulation of the rates of protein breakdown and synthesis in skeletal muscle, it has been established that prolonged muscle inactivity results in increased radical production in the inactive muscle fibres. Further, this increase in radical production plays an important role in the regulation of redox-sensitive signalling pathways that regulate both protein synthesis and proteolysis in skeletal muscle. Indeed, it was suggested over 20 years ago that antioxidant supplementation has the potential to protect skeletal muscles against inactivity-induced fibre atrophy. Since this original proposal, experimental evidence has implied that a few compounds with antioxidant properties are capable of delaying inactivity-induced muscle atrophy. The objective of this review is to discuss the role that radicals play in the regulation of inactivity-induced skeletal muscle atrophy and to provide an analysis of the recent literature indicating that specific antioxidants have the potential to defer disuse muscle atrophy.
Field and Software Evaluation of Illuminance from LED Luminaires for Roadway Applications

Field measurements and lighting analysis software were used to conduct an evaluation of the illuminance of LED roadway luminaires. Three sets of recently developed LEDs and one set of high-pressure sodium luminaires were installed in the field, and data were collected separately for each luminaire according to Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) LM-50-99. Photometric characteristics provided by the manufacturers of the luminaires were used to assess their performance with AGi32 lighting analysis software, and the results were compared with the field illuminance data. Results showed that field illuminance was sometimes lower than the illuminance indicated by the software; these differences varied in both magnitude and location, depending on the LED luminaire. Multiplicative factors to describe the differences were estimated and ranged from 0.96 (relatively small) to 0.57 (relatively large). Larger differences were located near the light poles and at the middle and third points of the ...
Integrating Algebra and Proof in High School: Students' Work with Multiple Variables and a Single Parameter in a Proof Context

In the United States, researchers argue that proof is largely concentrated in the domain of high school geometry, thus providing students a distorted image of what proof entails, which is at odds with the central role that proof plays in mathematics. Despite the centrality of proof, there is a lack of studies addressing how to integrate proof into other mathematical domains. In this article, we discuss a teaching experiment designed to integrate algebra and proof in the high school curriculum. Algebraic proof was envisioned as the vehicle that would provide high school students the opportunity to learn not only about proof in a context other than geometry but also about aspects of algebra. Results from the experiment indicate that students meaningfully learned about aspects of both algebra and proof in that they produced algebraic proofs involving multiple variables and a single parameter, based on conjectures they themselves generated.
Our modification of onlay island flap urethroplasty in severe hypospadias.

Dans la periode de 1990 a juin 1993, la technique du «onlay island flap» avec mobilisation et preservation de la plaque urethrale a ete utilisee dans le traitement de l'hypospadias severe. Le principe de la technique a ete la mobilisation de la plaque urethrale sans sa division pour liberer la chorde. Si une chorde corporocaverneuse persiste, une corporoplastie dorsale additionnelle est indispensable. L'«island flap» cree sur la peau de la partie dorsale de la verge est transpose sur la partie ventrale de la verge par une manœuvre de type «buttonhole»; «island flap» est anastomose avec la plaque urethrale est mobilisee; le pedicule du «island flap» est si abondant qu'il couvre completement toutes les lignes de suture, ce qui est un element decisif pour le succes de l'operation. Cette technique a ete appliquee chez 124 patients ages de 12 mois a 19 ans avec un taux de complication tres bas (5 %)
Obstacles to the accumulation of knowledge in the social sciences

The accumulation of knowledge may be thought of as one of the criteria which must be satisfied before a discipline may call itself scientific. Al though there is an 'information explosion' in social science, at least if measured by the increase in the running feet of bookshelves devoted to social science literature, there is yet to be observed a substantial accumu lation of scientific knowledge. Further, with few exceptions, an examina tion of the type of training given to the future generation of researchers in social science gives little hope for any improvement in the near future. These factors the present substantial lack of accumulated knowledge coupled with the grossly inadequate training programs for the next gener ation of social scientists suggest that consideration should be given to the question: "What are the obstacles to the accumulation of knowledge in social science?" Consequently, this question is taken as a starting point for this essay. The theme to be developed is that the lack of accumulation of scientific knowledge in social sciences is a direct result of the lack of an appropriate view of social reality. The main purpose of the essay is to sketch one set of reality assumptions which could fill the conjectured void. If these proposed assumptions are to be utilized as a basis for social science research, a number of problems have to be solved. A few of these problems will be indicated. Before some basic assumptions about the nature of social science are stated, a few references related to the claim that social science is in an unsatisfactory state should be presented. Optimism for the future of scientific social science has been voiced by a few writers (Deutsch et al., 1971), but the significance of the optimism seems lessened when argu ments are presented by others (Filstead, 1970) disclaiming the appropri ateness of quantification. The basis for optimism for the development of scientific sociology also seems to be in question when sociologists review the status of some theories in their field. A general review of the work of several theorists has been presented (Robson, 1968) as well as a detailed review (Berger et al., 1968) of the work of Talcott Parsons, regarded by
The short-term effects of a single dose of erythropoietin upon reticulocytes in starved rats.

Nach einer Injektion von Erythropoietin in hungernde Ratten beobachteten wir eine Erhohung der Reticulocyten. Junge Formen von Reticulocyten erschienen bereits 12 h nach der Behandlung. Dieser Befund deutet vielleicht darauf hin, dass Erythropoietin nicht nur die Stammzellen angreift.
A masculinizing tumor of the ovary in a postmenopausal woman.

THERE has been, and there still is, considerable confusion in the literature concerning certain masculinizing tumors of the ovary, especially the so-called adrenal rest tumor, or lipoid cell virilizing tumor, or masculinovoblastoma, or hypernephroma of the ovary. The multiplicity of names, each including some characteristic of the tumor, bears testimony to the need for clarification. In 1908 Bovin (1) reported the first case of hypernephroma or adrenal rest tumor of the ovary. Stadiem (2) reported 19 cases of hypernephroma of the ovary in 1937. In a critical review of these cases in 1939, Rottino and McGrath (3) could not classify any of them as virilizing lipoid cell tumors of the ovary, and limited the total number reported in the literature to 7 cases. Kepler (4) in 1944 reviewed 6 additional cases and reported the fourteenth. Greene (5) in 1944 reported a case of adrenal rest tumor of the ovary, and Burket and Abell (6) later in the same year reported still another case. At the present time Curtis (7)...
Global optimization in stabilizing controller design

In this paper, we develop a global optimization methodology to solve stabilization problems. We first formulate stabilization problems as bilevel programming problems. By invoking the Hurwitz stability conditions, we reformulate these bilevel programs to equivalent single-level nonconvex optimization programs. The branch-and-reduce global optimization algorithm is finally applied to these problems. Using the proposed methodology, we report improved solutions for two feedback stabilization problems from the literature. In addition, we improve the lower bound of the stabilizability parameter of the Belgian chocolate problem from the previous best known 0.96 to 0.973974.
Amperometric measurements of ethanol on paper with a glucometer.

Abstract Recent advances in electrochemical analysis on filter paper exemplify the versatility of this substrate for high performance testing. Its low-cost, light-weight, and environmentally friendly properties make it particularly attractive for applications in addressing health and environmental safety needs in low-resource settings and developing countries. However, the main drawback to sensitive electrochemical testing is the use of a potentiostat, a bench-top instrument that is extremely expensive, thereby negating the some of the benefits of paper-based devices. Hence there is a need to develop paper-devices for use with handheld, portable device readers that can extract quantitative readouts. In this study, we developed a method to use micro-paper electrochemical devices, or µPEDs, with a glucose meter, which are used for personal monitoring of blood glucose levels. Ethanol was chosen as a model target analyte due to its importance in the global issue of road safety. µPEDs were simple in design and could be tested with a potentiostat. We observed that inclusion of the stabilizer trehalose was critical to preparing µPEDs for later analysis. In addition, an NAD+-dependent enzyme was used to impart selectivity to the biosensor, which also represents a class of enzymes with targets relevant to the health and food industry.
Proinflammatory cytokines and bile acids upregulate ΔNp73 protein, an inhibitor of p53 and p73 tumor suppressors.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the main etiological factor behind the recent rapid increase in the incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma. During reflux, esophageal cells are exposed to bile at low pH resulting in cellular damage and inflammation, which are known to facilitate cancer development. In this study, we investigated the regulation of p73 isoform, ΔNp73α, in the reflux condition. Previous studies have reported that ΔNp73 exhibits anti-apoptotic and oncogenic properties through inhibition of p53 and p73 proteins. We found that direct exposure of esophageal cells to bile acids in an acidic environment alters the phosphorylation of ΔNp73, its subcellular localization and increases ΔNp73 protein levels. Upregulation of ΔNp73 was also observed in esophageal tissues collected from patients with GERD and Barrett’s metaplasia, a precancerous lesion in the esophagus associated with gastric reflux. c-Abl, p38 MAPK, and IKK protein kinases were identified to interact in the regulation of ΔNp73. Their inhibition with chemotherapeutic agents and siRNA suppresses ΔNp73. We also found that pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β and TNFα, are potent inducers of ΔNp73α, which further enhance the bile acids/acid effect. Combined, our studies provide evidence that gastroesophageal reflux alters the regulation of oncogenic ΔNp73 isoform that may facilitate tumorigenic transformation of esophageal metaplastic epithelium.
Educational reform discourse: President George Bush on “America 2000” 1

This study is an examination of the metaphorical language used by President George Bush about educational reform, specifically with regard to “America 2000,”; his proclaimed education strategy for the nation and the major educational reform bill he sent to Congress. We address the questions: What language is used by President Bush to construct “America 2000”; metaphorically? Was a coherent metaphorical concept created for President Bush's audience? More specifically, we focus on: What is “America 2000”; according to President Bush? The data base for the study consisted of 38 presidential speeches delivered between April of 1991 and October of 1992. From our identification and analysis of his discursive vehicles, we discovered a conceptual metaphor of “America 2000”; as a journey. Close examination of his language, however, indicated mixed and contradictory references to “America 2000”; as a journey. We conclude that his discourse did not come together to constitute a coherent, conceptual metaphor of “Amer...
THE PATHOLOGY OF INSECT BLOOD CELLS: A REVIEW

An important part of the defense of the insect body is carried out by the blood, although other tissues, such as the gut (Toumanoff, 1949; Heimpel, 1954; Bucher, 1960), may markedly participate. The immunity of insect blood results from cellu? lar as well as humoral mechanisms (Metal? nikov, 1927; Chorine, 1931; Zernoff, 1931; Frings et al., 1948; Gary et al., 1948; Steinhaus, 1949; Toumanoff, 1949; Krieg, 1957, 1958a; Briggs, 1958; Wagner, 1961). The humoral immunity will not be discussed here.
Teaching & Learning Guide for: Teaching the Middle Ages on Film: Visual Narrative and the Historical Record

A comparatively new medium, film can be used for a range of discussions about the ways in which history is recorded, edited, shaped, and remembered; it is also useful for teaching contemporary interpretation of older literatures. Like historical fiction – or works of art more generally – movies with historical themes are most productively studied in their broader contexts, alongside, and in conjunction with, written sources. The classroom provides a perfect venue for such study. While reading and analyzing older texts, students can also be taught to read films for their authenticity, their accuracy or inaccuracy of detail in portraying the past, and for effective (or ineffective) use of purposeful or intentional anachronism, among other approaches. Film enhances the study of texts; careful reading of texts may, in turn, lead to more critical evaluation of film.