cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effective Surgical Management of Competitive Venous Outflow Restriction After Radiosurgery for Cerebral AVMs: Report of 2 Cases

Background Intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are complex pathologies. For patients who do not present with hemorrhage, treatment strategies are often predicated on reducing the risk of hemorrhage and minimizing morbidity. Outcomes vary according to the efficacy of treatment selected. Radiosurgical treatment of certain AVMs can result in incomplete obliteration and may also have only a minimal effect on the presenting nonhemorrhagic symptoms. Case Descriptions We present 2 cases of patients with AVMs who were initially treated with radiosurgery. Both patients' primary clinical symptoms were headaches, which persisted after radiosurgical treatment but abated after subsequent microsurgical resection with or without endovascular embolization. Conclusion Venous outflow obstruction is likely a sizable contributive factor in occipital AVMs among patients who present with headaches and symptoms of intracranial hypertension. Because these high-flow lesions may be suboptimally responsive to stereotactic radiosurgery, microsurgical resection, with or without adjunctive endovascular embolization, should be considered as an initial and definitive treatment strategy. Optimal outcomes may be achieved in patients with a visual deficit that is anatomically correlated to their AVMs.
A Comparison of Outcomes of Particulated Juvenile Articular Cartilage and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate for Articular Cartilage Lesions of the Talus.

Background. Articular cartilage lesions of the talus remain a challenging clinical problem because of the lack of natural regeneration and limited treatment options. Microfracture is often the firs...
CUTIN SYNTHASE 2 Maintains Progressively Developing Cuticular Ridges in Arabidopsis Sepals

The cuticle is a crucial barrier on the aerial surfaces of land plants. In many plants, including Arabidopsis, the sepals and petals form distinctive nanoridges in their cuticles. However, little is known about how the formation and maintenance of these nanostructures is coordinated with the growth and development of the underlying cells. Here we report the characterization of the Arabidopsis cutin synthase 2 (cus2) mutant, which causes a great reduction in cuticular ridges on the mature sepal epidermis, but only a moderate effect on petal cone cell ridges. Using scanning electron microscopy and confocal live imaging combined with quantification of cellular growth, we find that cuticular ridge formation progresses down the sepal from tip to base as the sepal grows. pCUS2::GFP-GUS reporter expression coincides with cuticular ridge formation, descending the sepal from tip to base. Ridge formation also coincides with the reduction in growth rate and termination of cell division of the underlying epidermal cells. Surprisingly, cuticular ridges at first form normally in the cus2 mutant, but are lost progressively at later stages of sepal development, indicating that CUS2 is crucial for the maintenance of cuticular ridges after they are formed. Our results reveal the dynamics of both ridge formation and maintenance as the sepal grows.
Ultraslow Dynamics at a Charged Silicon–Ionic Liquid Interface Revealed by X-ray Reflectivity

The interfacial structure of the room temperature ionic liquid methyltrioctylammonium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([MTOA]+[NTF2]−) near a silicon electrode was investigated using specular X-ray reflectivity. Using this technique, we have previously observed “crowding”, i.e., formation of a thick anion layer on a positively charged electrode. We now report that this layer develops over time scales in the range ∼400–1100 s. This is different from the time scales reported in other experiments, and is inconsistent with most theoretical predictions. A tentative explanation is proposed which assumes that the formation and dispersion of the crowding layer requires collective reordering of anions/cations through the electrochemical cell. We suggest that because of the presence of multiple time scales in these systems, the observed time scales will vary depending on the time scale of the measurement.
A Functional Dimer Model of Ubiquinol Cytochrome C Oxidoreductase

Ubiquinol cytochrome c oxidoreductase (bc1 complex) serves as the electron junction in many respiratory systems. The enzyme possess both a quinol oxidase site (Qp-site) and a quinone reductase site (Qn-site) that operate together in a bifurcated electron transfer mechanism. While most electrons from complex I and II are funneled to cytochrome c, a small percent leak out of the respiratory system to produce the free radical, superoxide. In situ and other experimental systems, the enzyme exists as a dimer. But until recently, it was believed to operate as a functional monomer. Here we show that in order to explain the kinetic, superoxide, and antimycin stimulated data, a functional dimer model is required. A total of nine data sets consisting of kinetic and superoxide measurements from a range of experimental studies were used to constrain the models. The monomer and dimer models behave kinetically similar; however, the electron state distributions were vastly different. In the dimer catalytic mechanism, only one quinol oxidase site is active at any given time. Quinone reduction occurs randomly at either reductase site. But when antimycin A is bound to a single monomer, both Qp-sites are activated. With the superoxide production rate calibrated, model analysis reveals that the mammalian complex relative to the yeast and bacteria complexes either possess a less stable semiquinone at the Qp-site in or the estimated level of free radical scavenging is significantly underestimated.
Moving towards a single market

The removal of market barriers in Europe will lead to major changes in the structure of the automotive component industry. This paper examines the implications of a more unified European market, and the wider movement towards a single global marketplace. It sets out the tasks for vehicle manufacturers and the supplier industry in revising business patterns, and looks at the scope for strategic alliances.
Modeling and Characterization of Vertical GaN Schottky Diodes With AlGaN Cap Layers

A new gallium nitride (GaN) Schottky device structure suitable for power electronic applications is discussed. A GaN Schottky diode with an ultrathin AlGaN cap layer was fabricated using an Ni/Au metal stack as the Schottky electrode. ${C}$ – ${V}$ measurements at various temperatures were used to calculate a barrier height of 0.65 V with a free electron concentration of $5 \times 10^{15}$ cm $^{-3}$ both of which appear temperature independent. A forward conduction model based on a thermionic emission–diffusion process with tunneling through the AlGaN barrier was developed and compared favorably to experimental data. A reverse conduction model utilizing thermionic field emission (TFE) with a triangular energy barrier is presented and then improved upon with a scaling factor that modifies the barrier thickness. This TFE model compares more favorably with the experimental data than the standard thermionic emission model typically used in Schottky diodes. Both the forward conduction and reverse conduction characteristics were assessed at room temperature and elevated temperature. The model can be used to predict how the physical parameters of the device affect its ${I}$ – ${V}$ characteristics.
Searching for citrullinated autoantigen biomarkers for interstitial lung disease associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the cause of death in ~13% of RA patients. Biomarkers are therefore urgently needed to predict ILD development in RA patients, so that appropriate treatment can be instituted. Citrullination occurs in the lungs of RA-ILD patients. We hypothesize that, this post-translational modification leads to the formation of neo-epitopes, triggering autoreactivity & inflammation of the lungs. Because the formation of citrullinated autoantigens and associated autoantibodies is likely linked to ILD in RA patients, we are using RA & RA-ILD patient sera to differentially immunoprecipitate (IP) in-vitro citrullinated HeLa protein extracts containing potential citrullinated autoantigens. When using mass spectrometry (MS) for protein identification, IP results are confounded by an overwhelming amount of antibody-derived peptides. To solve this, we developed a secondary purification step using Biotin-CDM, a novel reversible protein capture reagent that tags all proteins in a cell lysate. The captured biotinylated IP proteins are then separated from non-biotinylated antibodies and released in a un-biotinylated state in the appropriate buffer for proteomic analysis, free of contaminating antibodies. With this modified approach, we have detected several differences in citrullinated autoantigen recognition profiles between RA & RA-ILD patient sera. We are currently identifying these differential IP proteins using MS, with the goal of using target antigens as “bait” in co-IP to isolate other interacting proteins from lung tissue extracts. Once validated, these results will help us further our understanding of the complex networks involved in RA-ILD pathogenesis.
One-Pot Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide/Metal (Oxide) Composites

Graphene, one of the most attractive two-dimensional nanomaterials, has demonstrated a broad range of applications because of its excellent electronic, mechanical, optical, and chemical properties. In this work, a general, environmentally friendly, one-pot method for the fabrication of reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/metal (oxide) (e.g., RGO/Au, RGO/Cu2O, and RGO/Ag) composties was developed using glucose as the reducing agent and the stabilizer. The glucose not only reduced GO effectively to RGO but also reduced the metal precursors to form metal (oxide) nanoparticles on the surface of RGO. Moreover, the RGO/metal (oxide) composites were stabilized by gluconic acid on the surface of RGO. The developed RGO/metal (oxide) composites were characterized using STEM, FE-SEM, EDS, UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, XRD, FT-IR, and Raman spectroscopy. Finally, the developed nanomaterials were successfully applied as an electrode catalyst to simultaneous electrochemical analysis of l-ascorbic acid, dopamine, and uric acid.
Concluding Notes: The Virtues of Hope

In our efforts to rebuild communities that are more inclusive and equitable, we need to remind ourselves of the positive effects of group work and how distinct environments (i.e., “green spaces” and community gardens, forests, etc.) can help influence a greater degree of community unity, connectedness, and self-worth. Our own evolutionary history has shown us that nature has both calming and healing effects when we begin work from an interactive and cooperative perspective. In this sense, then, we are both stewards of the community and tenants of the Earth in providing a healthy environment in which we all share. Continuous themes addressed throughout this manuscript involve extremism, violence, and the unique role that communities have in helping groups of individuals realize their potential and work within a more constructive and cohesive process that brings them together. Exposure to specific types of environments (i.e., “green spaces,” community gardens, and urban forestry programs) has been identified as key elements in promoting mental (and physical) health benefits, such as reduced stress and anxiety, as well as improved sociability and civic ideologies that foster and promote interactive and democratic processes in community development (Glover, Shinew, & Parry, 2005).
Everybody Likes Houses. Even Birds Are Coming

This chapter discusses the trend visible amongst Tibetan pastoralists of Golok Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai Province, China, to invest increasing amounts of money in building houses upon their winter grazing lands. It reveals the beginnings of this phenomenon and brings data on the newest state policies aimed at encouraging the pastoralist population to construct houses. Analysis of successive waves of house construction is accompanied by a discussion of the reasons pastoralists themselves give for building new houses. The chapter analyses the roles which the houses play in the lives of their owners and discusses whether or not the pastoralists perceive the living in houses as conflicting with their self-image.
Development of a Signal Detection-Based Task for Research on Distributed Human-Robot Teaming within Immersive Virtual Reality:

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design and validation of a dynamic signal detection-based task experienced within immersive virtual reality (IVR). The task will be used as a primary ta...
The Role of Mixed Amine/Amide Ligation in Nickel Superoxide Dismutase.

Superoxide dismutases (SODs) utilize a ping-pong mechanism in which a redox-active metal cycles between oxidized and reduced forms that differ by one electron to catalyze the disproportionation of superoxide to dioxygen and hydrogen peroxide. Nickel-dependent SOD (NiSOD) is a unique biological solution for controlling superoxide levels. This enzyme relies on the use of cysteinate ligands to bring the Ni(III/II) redox couple into the range required for catalysis (∼300 mV vs. NHE). The use of cysteine thiolates, which are not found in any other SOD, is a curious choice because of their well-known oxidation by peroxide and dioxygen. The NiSOD active site cysteinate ligands are resistant to oxidation, and prior studies of synthetic and computational models point to the backbone N-donors in the active site (the N-terminal amine and the amide N atom of Cys2) as being involved in stabilizing the cysteines to oxidation. To test the role of the backbone N-donors, we have constructed a variant of NiSOD wherein an a...
Campsites, forest fires, and entry point distance affect earthworm abundance in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Factors controlling the spread of invasive earthworms in Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are poorly known. Believed to have been introduced by anglers who use them as bait, invasive earthworms can alter the physical and chemical properties of soil and modify forest plant communities. To examine factors influencing earthworm distribution and abundance, we sampled 38 islands across five lakes to assess the effects of campsites, fire and entry point distance on earthworm density, biomass and species richness. We hypothesized that all three parameters would be greater on islands with campsites, lower on burned islands and would decrease with distance from the wilderness entry point. In addition to sampling earthworms, we collected soil cores to examine soil organic matter and recorded ground and vegetation cover. Campsite presence was the single most important factor affecting sampled earthworm communities; density, biomass and species richness were all higher on islands having campsites. Fire was associated with reduced earthworm density, but had no direct effects on earthworm biomass or species richness. Fire influenced earthworm biomass primarily through its negative relationship to groundcover and through an interaction with entry point distance. Entry point distance itself affected earthworm density and biomass. For islands with campsites, earthworm biomass increased with distance from the entry point.
Analytical consideration and numerical verification of the confined functionally graded porous ring with graphene platelet reinforcement

Abstract The present work is concerned with the stability behavior of the functionally graded porous (FGP) ring with graphene platelet (GPL) reinforcement. The ring is surrounded by an elastic medium and a point load is introduced at the crown position. Assuming no interface friction between the ring and medium, the buckling load of the ring with a “single-lobe” deformation is obtained analytically. Afterward, the numerical examination is developed by comparing the critical buckling load from the numerical and analytical results. The good comparison indicates the analytical solutions are applicable to the nine cases by combining three porous distributions and three GPL dispersion patterns, respectively. It is explored that the combination of symmetrical pores and symmetrical GPL to the mid-surface can resist the highest external load of the confined FGP–GPL ring, and this case is successfully compared with other closed-form expressions for the homogeneous ring without pores and GPL. Finally, the effects of porosity coefficient, and weight fraction of the GPL are examined and discussed in terms of the load capacity, the hoop force, the bending moment, the hoop stress and strain, and the geometric shapes of the GPL.
Fragile X syndrome: clinical presentation, pathology and treatment

Fragile X syndrome is the monogenetic condition that produces more cases of autism and intellectual disability. The repetition of CGG triplets (> 200) and their methylation entail the silencing of the FMR1 gene. The FMRP protein (product of the FMR1 gene) interacts with ribosomes by controlling the translation of specific messengers, and its loss causes alterations in synaptic connectivity. Screening for fragile X syndrome is performed by polymerase chain reaction. Current recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to test individuals with intellectual disability, global developmental retardation or with a family history of presence of the mutation or premutation. Hispanic countries such as Colombia, Chile and Spain report high prevalence of fragile X syndrome and have created fragile X national associations or corporations that seek to bring patients closer to available diagnostic and treatment networks.
Relationship between Mobility Level and Development of Positional Concepts in Visually Impaired Children

A seven-point Mobility Rating Scale was devised to rate the current level of mobility of 39 visually impaired children, aged 6-10, from two residential schools. Each subject was rated by orientatio...
Characterizing Student Engagement with Hands-On, Problem-Based, and Lecture Activities in an Introductory College Course.

This study examines the interest, motivation, and behavioral engagement of college students in an introductory course relative to three instructional formats used in the course: hands-on, problem-based laboratory stations; problem-based written case studies; and video lectures. Groups of five to seven students were assigned learning activities as treatments in a Latin Square design consisting of three experimental periods. At the beginning of selected laboratory sessions, students completed 10 minutes of the experimental activity immediately followed by a questionnaire. Students rated hands-on, problem-based laboratory stations as more challenging, novel, and attention-grabbing than they rated case studies or video lectures. Interest, intrinsic motivation, and behavioral engagement were greatest for groups completing laboratory stations followed by those completing case studies and lectures, respectively. Overall, the greater situational interest experienced during laboratory stations and case studies indicates that these activities can be leveraged to create learning environments that promote interest, engagement, and achievement.
Hepatocytes and Bile Formation

Abstract Hepatocytes are specialized cells of the liver with synthetic, metabolic, excretory, and detoxification functions that are essential for life. Formation of bile containing pigments, salts, lipids, proteins, and other molecules is characteristic of hepatocytes. The origination and development of hepatocytes requires coordination of complex mechanisms, which are not fully understood. These mechanisms are important for developmental aberrations as well as genetically-determined conditions. Derivation of hepatocytes from pluripotent stem cells is advanced by molecular mechanisms of hepatic development. Stem cell-derived hepatocytes are of enormous interest for multiple applications but current protocols for differentiating stem cells need significant improvements. Preservation of gene expression and differentiated functions in hepatocytes after isolation from liver and culture in dishes is controlled by regulatory networks of major transcription factors, cytokines, and receptors. These networks and processes may be disturbed by liver injury, inflammation and various diseases with impairments in hepatic functions. Many genetic diseases have molecular lesions that produce defects in hepatic protein synthesis, secretory and metabolic functions, or uptake, processing and transport of bile components. The molecular nature of these conditions is important for identifying therapeutic targets. Advances at individual gene and cell levels are offering increasingly exciting opportunities for liver- and hepatocyte-directed personalized medicine.
Influence of hatching eggs storage period upon the incubation parameters in Japanese quails.

The purpose of the present study was to establish the effect of the prolonged storage of Japanese quail hatching eggs upon the incubation performance and the quality of hatched quail chicks. The duration of egg storage prior to their incubation had a weak negative effect on the weight loss from incubation day 0 to day 15. Eggs stored for 1-3 days exhibited a statistically signifi cantly higher weight loss than eggs stored for 8-11 days prior to incubation (P<0.001). Eggs stored for up to 8 days showed a tendency towards statistically signifi cant (P<0.05) longer period of incubation. The relationship between incubation period length and egg storage term was moderate, curvilinear and the effect of egg storage term was estimated at 14.3% оf the total dispersion of the trait. Despite the egg storage term prior to incubation, quails with high relative weight had a statistically signifi cant shorter period of incubation. The analysis of the combined effects of egg storage term and relative weight at hatching on incubation length showed that both factors complemented each other and even enhanced their effects upon the determination of the studied trait. The strength of these factors’ effects was estimated at 13.1% of the total dispersion of the incubation period length (P<0.001), with a leading role of the factor relative weight of hatched quail chicks.
Abstract 6114: Host and neoplastic cells utilize Axl for breast cancer bone metastasis

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related death for women in the United States. Approximately 90% of cancer-related death results from metastasis, and the bone is the most common site of metastasis for breast cancer. Upregulation of signaling pathways can promote the metastatic phenotypes of neoplastic cells, including cell migration, invasion, proliferation and angiogenesis. In addition, when breast cancer cells disseminate to the bone, neoplastic cells upregulate signaling pathways to activate osteoclast-induced bone resorption. A key pathway involved in metastatic spread of cancer cells is the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl. Genetic and pharmacologic Axl inhibition in both human and rodent breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and 4T1) impaired tumor cell migration and invasion. Intracardiac inoculation of Axl knockdown (KD) MDA-MB-231 cells significantly decreased the number of bone metastases compared to the scrambled control MDA-MB-231 cells. Another mechanism by which Axl inhibition impaired bone metastasis is through the modulation of osteoclast maturation and activity. Co-culture of Axl KD breast cancer cells with murine osteoclast precursor cells (Raw264.7) significantly reduced the number of tumor cell-induced osteoclast resorption pits on bone slices. In addition, genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of Axl in Raw264.7 cells as well as bone marrow derived osteoclast precursor cells, significantly reduced osteoclast formation and activity. Scrambled control and Axl KD Raw264.7 cells were cultured in serum free medium for 24 hours, and their conditioned media were collected. The conditioned media of Axl KD Raw264.7 cells revealed significantly decreased levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), which known to promote osteoclastogenesis, compared to the scrambled control Raw264.7 cells. In summary, we have demonstrated that inhibition of Axl decreases breast cancer metastasis to the bone through modulation of the host and neoplastic cell functions. Collectively, these data indicate that Axl signaling may be a promising therapeutic target to impair tumor progression and metastasis. Citation Format: Mai Tanaka, Dietmar W. Siemann. Host and neoplastic cells utilize Axl for breast cancer bone metastasis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 6114.
A Marxian Reply to Hahnel: The Relative Explanatory Power of Marx’s Theory and Sraffa’s Theory:

This paper critically examines Robin Hahnel’s 2017 book Radical Political Economy: Sraffa versus Marx and especially compares the relative explanatory power of Marx’s theory and Sraffa’s theory. Ha...
3D IC Packaging Utilizing a Metal Structure for Heat Reduction, Noise Shielding, and High Interconnect Density

A three-dimensional (3D) microelectronic package structure is proposed to address thermal management by reducing noise and crosstalk. The packaging architecture includes an array of through-silicon-vias (TSVs) located inside an interposer layer with a shielding structure. Each of the TSVs is surrounded by a metal box as a heat spreader and noise/distortion shield. The metal shielding structure is electrically connected to the ground. The boxes also may be further connected to an external heat sink through at least several external contacts. The simulated results show significant improvement in terms of power reduction and signal integrity due to the suppressed coupling noise and crosstalk between adjacent TSVs, thereby reducing heat.
Scalable Fabrication of 3D Structured Microparticles Using Induced Phase Separation

Microparticles with defined shapes and spatial chemical modification can enable new opportunities to interface with cells and tissues at the cellular scale. However, conventional methods to fabricate shaped microparticles have trade-offs between the throughput of manufacture and precision of particle shape and chemical functionalization. Here, we achieved scalable production of hydrogel microparticles at rates of greater than 40 million/hour with localized surface chemistry using a parallelized step emulsification device and temperature-induced phase-separation. The approach harnesses a polymerizable polyethylene glycol (PEG) and gelatin aqueous-two phase system (ATPS) which conditionally phase separates within microfluidically-generated droplets. Following droplet formation, phase separation is induced and phase separated droplets are subsequently crosslinked to form uniform crescent and hollow shell particles with gelatin functionalization on the boundary of the cavity. The gelatin localization enabled deterministic cell loading in nanoliter-sized crescent-shaped particles, which we refer to as nanovials, with cavity dimensions tuned to the size of cells. Loading on nanovials also imparted improved cell viability during analysis and sorting using standard fluorescence activated cell sorters, presumably by protecting cells from shear stress. This localization effect was further exploited to selectively functionalize capture antibodies to nanovial cavities enabling single-cell secretion assays with reduced cross-talk in a simplified format.
SMART Hub: Solving the Spectrum Crisis through Joint Research in Policy, Technology, Security, and Economics for Future Adaptive and Reconfigurable Wireless Systems

The spectrum is a finite resource that has been pushed to the limit. New applications and approaches must contend with the legacy of inflexible policies and band assignments. New approaches involving adaptive and reconfigurable wireless systems and policies, able to flexibly share spectrum in real time, is greatly needed. Implementing this new perspective will require joint research in technology, policy, and economics. To this end, we describe the formation of a hub for Spectrum Management with Adaptive and Reconfigurable Technologies (SMART Hub), which will perform cross-cutting research in reconfigurable circuit and system technology, policy, economics, and security to enable the quick launch of a new paradigm in spectrum-using systems. Consequently, what is typically a multi-decade process can be accelerated on myriad spectrum sharing fronts.
Nuclear Shadowing of Electromagnetic Processes

The study of the high-energy interactions with nuclear targets is both interesting and important. In addition to the obvious advantages—ease of fabrication and operation, and large cross sections—nuclear targets offer unique opportunities to explore processes not otherwise accessible.
IMPROVEMENTS OF THE MULTILAYER HOLO-ACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY BY ITERATIVE AND ALGEBRAIC TECHNIQUES

The scanning tomographic acoustic microscopy (STAM) using the holographic principle has been recently proposed and the algorithm known as “back-and-forth propagation”(BFP) has been devised for the reconstruction of multi-planar objects. The BFP algorithm is a holographic reconstruction coupled with a tomographic processing of multiple data set obtained by the variation of insonification frequency or transducer angle. The tomographic processing is a superposition process applied to the holographically reconstruction images based on the principle that the structures on the reconstruction plane is insonification-frequency or angle invariant, while the diffraction noise (blurred image) coming from out-of-reconstruction planes is frequency or angle dependent. In practice, often the cancellation is incomplete and reconstructed image is blurred by the diffraction from other image planes. In this paper, two methods of restorations, namely iterative and algebraic restorations, have been proposed with which diffraction noise can be largely removed. Simulation results of the iterative method show substantial improvements in image quality by only a few iteration steps. The algebraic method which solves the simultaneous equations of the coefficients related with the propagation transfer function has better computational efficiency than the iterative algorithm. The algebraic technique provides accurate restoration if a noise free environment is available. On the other hand, the algebraic method appears to be more susceptible to random noise. Study of these two methods by computer simulations is performed and results are shown to demonstrate the efficacy of the two algorithms when they are applied to the BFP algorithm.
Frequency and extent of thickening of the nucleated epidermis in leprosy lesions.

A partir de 28 echantillons de peau cliniquement normale provenant de sujets souffrant de lepre lepromateuse comme reference de comparaison, l'epaisseur moyenne de l'epiderme avec noyaux cellulaires (nuclee) fut determinee etre significativement augmentee parmi les lesions non-traitees de 16 patients tuberculoides borderlines, 21 patients souffrant d'erytheme noueux lepreux (ENL) et 14 patients presentant des reaction inverses, alors qu'elle restait inchangee parmi les lesions non traitees des patients lepromateux borderlines et les patients lepromateux. En utilisant les prelevements de 36 lesions lepromateuses et lepromateuses borderlines non-traitees comme reference de comparaison avec celles des reactions inverses ou d'ENL que ces patients ont ensuite developpes, il fut trouve un epaississement significatif de l'epiderme nuclee dans les deux etats reactionnels. Au sein des 2 groupes de comparaisons, l'augmentation moyenne d'epaisseur de l'epiderme nuclee et la frequence de l'epaississement furent plus importante parmi les lesions d'ENL que parmi les lesions de reactions inverses. Cette augmentation d'epaisseur de l'epiderme peut etre interpretee comme urge reponse a la presence d'interferon gamma et d'interleukine 2 parmi les lesions tuberculoides borderlines et celles des reactions inverses. L'augmentation d'epaisseur au sein des lesions d'ENL est plus difficile a expliquer, mais il n'est pas improbable que ces 2 memes cytokines jouent un role au sein des lesions d'ENL.
Truncating Agency: Peer Review and Participatory Research

In this manuscript we explore the ways in which current constructions of the formal peer review process (as played out in article review) in the science education community truncates the participatory research process and thus the research participants' agencies. In making this case, we share our own story of participatory research in an urban middle school. We use our story to establish a set of claims about the purposes and goals of participatory research. We then contrast our purposes and goals with the peer review process to show how peer review, as it is currently practiced, truncates participatory research by valuing voices, intentions, and outcomes/products of research that do not quite match the purposes and goals of participatory research. We conclude our manuscript by arguing that the science education community must grapple with epistemological tensions in the peer review process if we are to value participatory research and the individuals involved in the process.
Removal of seeds from frugivore defecations by ants in a Costa Rican rain forest

At our Costa Rican field site, seeds defecated by frugivorous birds usually do not remain where they have been deposited. Many species of ants are attracted to frugivore defecations and remove seeds and/or pulp. Pheidole species selectively remove seeds, fungus-growing species (tribe Attini) remove both pulp and seeds. Seeds of many Melastomataceae have an appendage, which we hypothesized is an elaiosome. Indeed, preference trials demonstrated that two species of Pheidole selected seeds with the appendage over seeds of the same species in which the appendage had been removed. However, we found that these ants did not take the appendage when it was offered by itself. We conclude that the appendage is not an elaiosome. In further trials, different ant species preferentially selected different seed species. These ants consumed some seeds and deposited others unharmed in refuse piles. We conclude that because the composition of leaf-litter ant communities is highly variable between neighboring square meter plots, and the probability of seed predation depends upon the species of ant, the over-all effect of ants on seed shadows and seed banks is spatially unpredictable.
Morphologic and Morphometric Analyses of Butyrate-Induced Alterations of Rat Glioma Cells In Vitro

The effect of butyrate on cellular morphologic features and morphometric parameters was examined in vitro with clonal glioma cells of the inbred CD Fischer rat. Untreated cells were multipolar with a high nuclear:cytoplasmic ratio, contained few attenuated rough endoplasmic reticular (RER) and cytoskeletal components in the cytoplasm, and were devoid of junctional complexes. Following exposure to butyrate, the glioma cells appeared epithelioid, and each was characterized by a polygonal cell body with a substantially reduced nuclear:cytoplasmic ratio. In contrast to the coarsely clumped nuclear chromatin of untreated glioma cells, the nuclei of the butyrate-exposed cells consisted of finely dispersed chromatin. The cytoplasm of treated cells contained numerous distended RER packed with proteinaceous material and had an elaborate cyto-skeletal network. Butyrate also induced the development of junctional devices between apposed surface membranes of adjacent cells. The acquisition of these phenotypic traits more characteristic of normal glial cells makes butyrate a potent, naturally occurring reverse transformation agent.
Thyroxine supplementation. Method for the prevention of clinical hypothyroidism

Elevation in the blood level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (thyrotropin) is the earliest and most sensitive manifestation of thyroidal failure, and is detectable in clinically healthy and apparently euthyroid persons. Oral thyroxine supplementation designed to titrate thyrotropin back to normal levels, and readjustment of the supplementary dose as failure of the gland progresses and thyrotropin level rises again, may prevent the emergence of clinical hypothyroidism.
Using angle resolved ESCA to characterize Winchester disks

Abstract Recent improvements in ESCA instrumentation have led to a renewed interest in the use of angle resolved ESCA to study thin (
Hagen's glands of the parasitic wasp Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae): ultrastructure and the detection of entomopoxvirus and parasitism-specific proteins

Abstract Hagen's glands of males of the parasitic wasp Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) secrete compounds that are involved in courtship and defense. Like the poison glands of female wasps, the Hagen's glands are secretory, membranous, and of ectodermal origin. The poison glands contain the symbiotic entomopoxvirus, DlEPV and the parasitism-specific protein, PSP 24. DlEPV proteins were detected in homogenates of male wasps. Our goal was to describe the ultrastructure of the Hagen's glands and determine whether they contain DlEPV virions and/or proteins as well as PSP 24. The Hagen's glands are bilateral and each consists of 12–16 tubules arranged in two clusters. In cross-section, a tubule has three zones that enclose a central cuticle-lined lumen. The outermost zone consists of aggregates (‘islands’) of small vesicles, interconnected by narrow ductules that lead to large cuticle-lined ducts, which transport electron-dense material to the lumen prior to its release from the gland. Large vesicles in Zone 2 and a thick layer of ribosomes and rough endoplasmic reticula in Zone 3 are the likely sites of storage and protein synthesis, respectively. While DlEPV virions were not seen in the Hagen's gland, DlEPV and PSP 24 proteins were present.
Potential Role for Therapies Targeting DKK1, LRP5, and Serotonin in the Treatment of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common disorder in which diminished bone mass leads to progressive microarchitectural skeletal deterioration and increased fracture risk. Our understanding of both normal and pathologic bone biology continues to evolve, and with it our grasp of the highly coordinated relationships between primary bone cells (osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes) and the complex molecular signals bone cells use to integrate signals derived from other organ systems, including the immune, hematopoietic, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems. It is now clear that the Wnt signaling pathway is central to regulation of both skeletal modeling and remodeling. Herein, we discuss components of the Wnt signaling pathway (DKK1, an endogenous soluble inhibitor of Wnt signaling) and LRP5 (a plasma membrane-localized Wnt co-receptor) as potential future targets for osteoporosis therapy. Finally, we discuss the current controversial role for serotonin in skeletal metabolism, and the potential role of future therapies targeting serotonin for osteoporosis treatment.
Yield of Skeletal Surveys in Children ≤18 Months of Age Presenting with Isolated Skull Fractures

Objective To measure the yield of a skeletal survey in children ≤18 months old presenting with isolated skull fractures without significant intracranial injury. Study design A retrospective chart review was conducted on all children ≤18 months old presenting with an isolated skull fracture not associated with a motor vehicle crash or shopping cart fall between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2010. An institutional protocol requires a skeletal survey and social work consult on all such children. We analyzed the association of mechanism of injury, type of skull fracture, and presence of “red flags” with a positive skeletal survey using χ2 and Fisher exact tests. Results Of 175 eligible patients, 150 (86%) underwent a skeletal survey. Of the 9 patients (6%) who had another fracture in addition to the presenting one, only 1 child was older than 6 months. Eight patients with additional fractures had a simple skull fracture (not complex) and 7 patients with other fractures had at least 1 red flag. Regarding skull fractures, the majority of long falls (81%) resulted in a simple skull fracture. Conclusion The skeletal survey in patients with isolated skull fractures revealed additional fractures in 6% of patients. Thus, a skeletal survey may yield clinically and forensically relevant data in such patients. However, it may be possible to restrict the window for obtaining a skeletal survey to younger infants, particularly those who are premobile.
Streptococcus anginosus group: Clinical significance of an important group of pathogens

Abstract The Streptococcus anginosus group was first discovered in the 1950s and over time has evolved to consist of three species designated S. anginosus, S. constellatus , and S. intermedius . Investigation of these bacteria over the last few decades has revealed that infections caused by these gram-positive cocci have significant variability in their clinical presentations. In addition, studies have shown that hemolysis, Lancefield group reaction, and other laboratory techniques commonly used to identify bacteria are inconsistent throughout the S. anginosus group. Clinical review has shown that while the S. anginosus group is found as normal flora in humans, these bacteria are pathogens associated with infection in multiple body sites. In addition, the S. anginosus group has been shown to be strongly associated with abscess formation, and recent studies have attempted to investigate the pathogenic mechanisms of these bacteria. While little antibiotic resistance has been noted, treatment of abscesses often requires surgical drainage.
Flight of male Cadra cautella along plumes of air and pheromone superimposed on backgrounds of pheromone

Male Cadra cautella were presented with five heterogeneous pheromone clouds (created from source doses of 0, 0.01, 1, 100, and 10 000 ng) with and without superimposed plumes of either clean air or sex pheromone in a wind tunnel. Moths provided with the lowest doses of background clouds without a superimposed plume did not fly upwind. Moths provided with higher doses of background clouds, with or without superimposed air plumes, increased their track, course, and drift angles (i.e., their zigzags headed more towards crosswind) with increased dose, but slowed their velocity. No differences in flight track parameters were observed for moths provided with a superimposed pheromone plume, regardless of the background cloud dose. Moreover, moths were able to locate the source of superimposed air plumes in the highest background dose, and of superimposed pheromone plumes in any background dose. The significance of these results is discussed in the context of mating disruption.
Lowest n,π* Triplet State of 2-Cyclopenten-1-one: Cavity Ringdown Absorption Spectrum and Ring-Bending Potential-Energy Function†

Author Institution: Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; Department of Chemistry, Hanyang University; Department of Chemistry, Texas A \& M University
Synergy between the Sloan Digital Sky Survey and large telescopes

The Sloan Digital Sky Survey represents a new paradigm for optical astronomy. It is a consortium involving several hundred astronomers from the US, Japan, and Germany, and aims to obtain basic photometric and spectroscopic data of a large representative region of the high Galactic latitude sky. Using a dedicated wide-field 2.5m telescope and unique instrumentation and software, it is imaging the sky in five photometric bands, and obtaining high-quality spectra of magnitude-limited samples of galaxies and quasars. Many of the exciting scientific results to come from this survey have been a result of follow-up of the intriguing objects found with SDSS on larger and specialized instruments, including Keck, the VLT, and the Hobby-Eberly Telescope. I discuss the synergy between the SDSS and the larger telescopes, with emphasis on studies of high-redshift quasars, and discuss how the SDSS and similar surveys are performing an important role in providing the basis for studies with these larger telescopes.
A safe approximate algorithm for interprocedural pointer aliasing

During execution, when two or more names exist for the same location at some program point, we call them aliases. In a language which allows arbitrary pointers, the problem of determining aliases at a program point is P-space-hard [Lan92]. We present an algorithm for the Conditional May Alias problem, which can be used to safely approximate Interprocedural May Alias in the presence of pointers. This algorithm is as precise as possible in the worst case and has been implemented in a prototype analysis tool for C programs. Preliminary speed and precision results are presented.
The Effect of “Getting along” and Managers' Evaluations:

The study examined the “getting along” or “chemistry” effect on managers' perceptions. Utilizing Ghiselli's Self-description Inventory to determine traits of success, 42 subordinate managers were evaluated on success and “getting along” or “chemistry” by their 14 supervisory managers. The data suggest the perception of “getting along” or “chemistry” may be important in evaluating career success.
Culture, Race, and Zero Tolerance Policy: The Implications

ABSTRACT Litanies of issues have emerged because of state-mandated zero tolerance policies across the country. Issues such as suspensions and expulsions over toy guns, verbal assaults, and taking an overthe-counter drug have outraged parents, students, and educators. This paper discusses concerns raised by school administrators and their responsibility to implement zero tolerance policy in their buildings. Specifically, we summarize the array of interpretations of this policy among building principals that subsequently led to differences in the way it was implemented, and in the end, impacted students enrolled in both urban and rural school districts.
Not all ctenophores are hermaphrodites. Studies on the systematics, distribution, sexuality and development of two species of Ocyropsis

The lobate ctenophores Ocyropsis maculata and O. crystallina are not simultaneous hermaphrodites, based on morphological, histological and experimental evidence. Sex ratios in populations, sex ratios of size classes within populations, and average sizes of males and females support the hypothesis that both species are dioecious, rather than sequential hermaphrodites. We have divided each species into two subspecies, based on morphology and geographic distribution. Preliminary evidence suggests that the subspecies also differ in reproductive behavior. One subspecies, O. crystallina guttata, spawns on a daily cycle in the laboratory, and spawning becomes more synchronous when males and females are placed together. Species of Ocyropsis, all of which are oceanic in distribution, are probably descended from a common ancestor that was a simultaneous hermaphrodite. That this group of oceanic ctenophores evolved dioecy directly contradicts the assertion that there is a selective advantage to hermaphroditism in environments where the probability of finding a mate is reduced.