cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiple copies of iso-insertion sequences of IS1 in Shigella dysenteriae chromosome.

The insertion sequence, IS1, which is 768 base pairs(bp) long1, is the smallest active translocatable DNA element in bacteria (for review see ref. 2), and appears as a repeated DNA sequence in some Enterobacteriaceae species3. In particular, most Shigella species contain more than 40 copies of a sequence that hybridizes to IS13. Here, we report the isolation of various repeated sequences from the Shigella dysenteriae chromosome and the DNA sequence analysis of the class, which is abut 770 bp long. The results demonstrate that there are two major types of sequence in this class; one is identical to IS1 except for 10-bp substitutions and is present in about 50 copies in the chromosome; the second sequence, 766 bp long, is repeated more than 150 times and has ∼55% homology to IS1 on the nucleotide sequence level. Because of this high degree of homology, we call these ‘iso-insertion sequences’ of IS1. Further examination of the nucleotide sequence reveals common coding frames between these sequences, suggesting the existence of two genes that are required for multiplication of these sequences.
Study of microcapillary pipette-assisted method to prepare polyethylene glycol-coated microcantilever sensors

Microcantilever sensors were prepared by direct deposition of polyethylene glycol (PEG) onto the microcantilever surfaces using a microcapillary pipette. The physical properties of the PEG coatings: mass, surface area, volume and thickness were studied. The sensors were tested by exposing them to trace ethanol vapor and the physical properties of the micropipette-deposited PEG coatings were correlated with sensor response. Most of the PEG-coated microcantilevers demonstrated reproducible bending signals upon repeated exposure to ethanol (EtOH) vapor. Evident in the study is that uniformity in the gross morphology and surface structure of the PEG coating was not required for good sensor response. However, the location of the PEG on the microcantilever, PEG film thickness and surface area contributed to optimum response to exposure to EtOH vapor. The results demonstrate the utility of direct application of coatings onto microcantilevers by the micropipette technique. This method of coating microcantilevers is particularly appealing when quick, repeated tests of coated microcantilever sensors are desired as an alternative to more complex and time-consuming coating techniques.
Use of pyridinium bromide perbromide as an analytical reagent

Abstract Pyridinium bromide perbromide has been shown to be a satisfactory reagent for the bromination of phenols, unsaturates and aromatic ethers. The color of the reagent permits the spectrophotometric detection of the end-point. Most phenols and unsaturatcs react fast enough, in the presence of a catalyst, to permit titration within 10 min. The aromatic ethers, in general, react very slowly but yield accurate results. The reagent has the advantage over the conventional bromate-bromide that the titrations are fast and the stoichiometry exact. The speed of reaction of PBPB with many functional groups may permit the use of automatic titration procedures with this reagent.
Emission properties of a defect cavity in a two-dimensional photonic bandgap crystal slab

A single isolated defect within a two-dimensional photonic crystal semiconductor slab is shown to provide a lithographically tunable doubly degenerate emission resonance within the photonic bandgap, with a measured quality factor (Q) of 80-150, depending on the cavity geometry. Spontaneous emission outside the cavity linewidth is below the measurement limit of our system. Stimulated emission from this photonic crystal defect cavity is demonstrated at room temperature under pulsed optical pumping in spite of the large surface-to-volume ratio of this cavity and the associated large nonradiative surface recombination rate.
Cladistics: What's in a Word?

Abstract Abstract —Cladistics has changed considerably with the availability of new methods and sources of data, and the increasing realization that cladograms are relevant to all manner of historical questions. Criticisms of, and justifications for, consensus hypotheses in phylogenetic inference are reviewed. The conclusion is overwhelmingly against taxonomic congruence which deliberately seeks consensus propositions. The total evidence approach is not so burdened. A preference for suboptimal cladograms is also critized, as is the protocol for mapping characters of special interest onto a phylogenetic hypothesis derived from other evidence. The bootstrap and jackknife resampling techniques are questioned because their underlying assumptions are violated and they are sensitive to character frequencies. These findings suggest that cladistics is being redefined in ways that contradict the practices and principles responsible for its pre-eminence in phylogenetic inference.
Inter- and Intratube Self-Diffusion in n-Heptane Adsorbed on Carbon Nanotubes

We have experimentally measured long-range self-diffusivity of normal heptane adsorbed on single-walled carbon nanotubes at 275 K. This was done by observing the displacement kinetics of heptane by a deuterium-labeled molecule, 1-deuteroheptane. We also performed MD simulations of heptane self-diffusion inside an individual nanotube under full loading. The experimentally measured diffusion coefficient (D = 7.7 × 10-12 cm2 s-1) was 8 orders of magnitude lower than the diffusion coefficient inside an individual nanotube from the simulation (D = 8.2 × 10-4 cm2 s-1). Because heptane only adsorbs in the nanotube interior at 275 K, we conclude that the experimentally observed long-range transport is rate-limited by a very slow exchange of heptane between different nanotubes in the bulk SWNT sample. At the same time, the mixing of heptane inside individual nanotubes is fast. The reasons for slow diffusion between different tubes could be the potential energy barriers at the entry points into the nanotubes, as we...
Laboratory evaluation of laparoscopic vascular clamps using a load-cell device--are all clamps the same?

Purpose: The use of effective vascular clamps is key to successful laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Based on our clinical experience the occlusive capabilities of vascular clamps appeared to be quite variable. We compared the occlusive force of currently available laparoscopic vascular clamps.Materials and Methods: The jaw force of 3 laparoscopic vascular clamps (Aesculap®, Klein Surgical Systems, San Antonio, Texas and Karl Storz™) were measured by clamping a 2.2 mm compression load cell (Interface Advanced Force Measurement, Scottsdale, Arizona) in pound-force. The variables tested were handheld Satinsky, DeBakey and Storz clamps vs bulldog clamps, proximal, middle and distal application position, new vs used bulldog clamps and new vs used Satinsky handheld clamps. In addition, handheld clamps were tested according to the force generated by the notches in the locking mechanism. Force retention was also determined for all instruments after clamping a 20Fr latex rubber catheter for an hour. Finally, leak...
Study of the multiple factors in the pathogenesis of autoimmunity in New Zealand mice.

Autoimmune New Zealand mice provide animal models of human systemic lupus erythematosus. Investigations suggest that the disease is multifactorial in origin; genetic, viral, biochemical, and hormonal factors are all capable of modifying the expression of autoimmunity. However, the immune system is the common pathway of disease expression. Early abnormal functioning of the immune system involves excessive effector function and inadequate suppressor function. Since New Zealand mice act as if they are excessively stimulated, the defect in suppressor function may be relative rather than absolute. Thus, excessive B-cell stimulation cannot be controlled by available regulatory processes. Thymic developmental abnormalities point to an early primary defect in the generation of regulatory T cells. As NZB and NZB/NZW mice pass from neonatal to young adult life, they lose suppressor cell function, probably from the loss of one of at least two cell types that interact to produce suppression. The lost cell appears to be an immature or precursor cell. Anti-T cell antibodies and immune complexes may accelerate the loss of suppressor cells and thereby lead to more rapid depletion of the suppressor cell precursors. Beneficial therapeutic efforts include administration of suppressor cells or their products, steroid hormones—glucocorticoids and androgens—immunosuppressive drugs, antiinflammatory agents, and antiviral drugs.
Further comparison of contractions of the smooth muscle of the guinea-pig isolated vas deferens induced by ATP and related analogs

Some structural requirements which are important for the contractile activity of adenine nucleotides at P2-purinergic receptors in the guinea-pig isolated vas deferens were examined. The consequences of deletions, substitutions and isosteric rearrangements in 1-N, C-2, C-8, N-9 and N6 of adenine, in the ribose hydroxyls, and in the polyphosphate chain were examined. Several kinds of effects on activity were observed, including potentiation of responses, losses in activity, modifications of response duration, and transitions from biphasic concentration-response curves, which are characteristic of ATP, to monophasic curves. Generally, deletions and substitutions to adenine reduced activity. Ribose modifications were better-tolerated. The presence of 5'-phosphate or phosphorothioate moieties was required for maximum activity. A comparison of the present results with previous reports indicates that certain modifications to ATP result in similar effects in both the vas deferens and urinary bladder, which are opposite those which occur in the taenia coli.
An investigation of the effects of pyrolysis parameters on gas separation properties of carbon materials

Abstract A significant extension of an earlier analysis of molecular sieving carbons formed from polymeric precursors is reported for separation of important gas pairs including O2/N2, CO2/CH4 and C3H6/C3H8. Previously, it was shown that changing the time or temperature of the pyrolysis protocol for a commercially available polyimide (Matrimid®) altered the final properties of the carbons produced. Changing the precursor material was shown in this study to also affect the final carbon material obtained for a given final pyrolysis temperature. Analysis of low temperature carbon dioxide adsorption isotherms using density functional theory was employed to characterize the microporosity of the materials. Results are given here for a totally different packing-inhibited polyimide precursor (6FDA/BPDA-DAM). Sorption, permeation and diffusion data are compared with those obtained using the more densely packed commercial polyimide precursor Matrimid® studied earlier. Thermal soak was also investigated and the effect on permeation properties determined for carbons using both precursors. The results indicate that carbons from both precursors have size-selective ultramicropores as well as larger nonselective micropores that provide high capacity sorption sites for penetrants. High permselectivities, combined with high permeabilities are found for some of the samples when compared with conventional polymer materials. A hypothetical ultramicropore size distribution is shown to be useful to relate transport data to results from more commonly used characterization techniques such as pore size distribution analysis.
Determination of the affinity of vitamin D metabolites to serum vitamin D binding protein using assay employing lipid-coated polystyrene beads☆

Abstract We have developed an assay to measure the affinity of serum vitamin D binding protein for 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, and vitamin D3, using uniform diameter (6.4 μm) polystyrene beads coated with phosphatidylcholine and vitamin D metabolites as the vitamin D donor. The lipid metabolite coated beads have a solid core, and thus all of the vitamin D metabolites are on the bead surface from which transfer to protein occurs. After incubating these beads in neutral buffer for 3 h, essentially no 3H-labeled vitamin D metabolites desorb from this surface. Phosphatidylcholine/vitamin D metabolite-coated beads (1 μ m vitamin D metabolite) were incubated with varying concentrations of serum vitamin D binding protein under conditions in which the bead surfaces were saturated with protein, but most of the protein was free in solution. After incubation, beads were rapidly centrifuged without disturbing the equilibrium of binding and vitamin D metabolite bound to sDBP in solution was assayed in the supernatant. All three vitamin D metabolites became bound to serum vitamin D binding protein, and after 10 min of incubation the transfer of the metabolites to serum vitamin D binding protein was time independent. The transfer followed a Langmuir isotherm, and the Kd for each metabolite binding to serum vitamin D binding protein was derived by nonlinear least-squares fit analysis. From this analysis the following values for the Kd were obtained: 5.59 × 10−6 m , 25-hydroxyvitamin D; 9.45 × 10−6 m , 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D; and 9.17 × 10−5 m , vitamin D. In conclusion, we have developed a method which avoids problems encountered in previous assays and allows the precise and convenient determination of binding affinities of vitamin D metabolites and serum vitamin D binding protein.
Acute Vision Loss: A Fuzzy Presentation of Sarcoidosis

Abstract Background Acute vision loss is a devastating problem for patients and a challenging diagnostic dilemma for Emergency Physicians. This chief complaint is one in which we must be adept at quickly evaluating and initiating either care or referral. Objectives This case reviews the approach to acute vision loss and shows the importance of expanding the differential in atypical and complex presentations. Case Report A 31-year-old, previously healthy, white woman presented to the Emergency Department (ED) with 1 day of painless right eye vision loss. Ocular ultrasound and slit-lamp examination were unremarkable. Fundoscopic examination revealed retinal hemorrhages and papillitis. Her chest X-ray study was significant for bilateral hilar adenopathy, and subsequent lymph node biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Conclusions Although sarcoidosis is more common in African Americans, it must be considered in all patients in the appropriate clinical context. Sarcoidosis is an important diagnosis to include on the differential of many chief complaints that present to the ED, including acute vision loss and dyspnea.
A Model of Extended, Semisystematic Visual Search

OBJECTIVE: A model of semisystematic search was sought that could account for both memory retrieval and other performance-shaping factors. BACKGROUND: Visual search is an important aspect of many examination and monitoring tasks. As a result, visual search performance has been the topic of many empirical investigations. These investigations have reported that individual search performance depends on participant factors such as search behavior, which has motivated the development of models of visual search that incorporate this behavior. Search behavior ranges from random to strictly systematic; variation in behavior is commonly assumed to be caused by differences in memory retrieval and search strategy. METHODS: This model ultimately took the form of a discrete-time nonstationary Markov process. RESULTS: It yields both performance and process measures that include accuracy, time to perception, task time, and coverage while avoiding the statistical difficulties inherent to simulations. In particular, it was seen that as the search behavior becomes more systematic, expected coverage and accuracy increase while expected task time decreases. CONCLUSION: In addition to explaining these outcomes and their interrelationships from a theoretical standpoint, the model can predict these outcomes in practice to a certain extent as it can create an envelope defined by best- and worst-case search performance. APPLICATION: The model also has the capability of supporting assessment. That is, it can be used to assess the effectiveness of an individual's search performance, and to provide possible explanations for this performance, through the use of one or more of the output measures. Language: en
Streptomycin Studies in Ulcerative Enteritis in Bobwhite Quail I. Results of Oral Administration of the Drug to Manually Exposed Birds in the Fall

Abstract THE purpose of the experiments reported here was to test the therapeutic effects of streptomycin on the disease known as ulcerative enteritis or quail disease in bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus). The work was initiated by one of use (CMK) early in August, 1949 when young quail which were being raised for another experiment began dying with ulcerative enteritis. Since the quail were being reared on wire it was felt that practical sanitary conditions were in effect, and as a possible emergency control, streptomycin was given an exploratory test. Sixteen birds eight weeks of age were selected at random from an infected pen and injected subcutaneously twice daily with 5 mg. of streptomycin in water for 12½ days. Sixteen quail similarly selected from the same infected group were held as non-treated controls. At the end of fourteen days only two of the treated birds had died, these in the first two . . .
Addition of a Suture Anchor for Coracoclavicular Fixation to a Superior Locking Plate Improves Stability of Type IIB Distal Clavicle Fractures

Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of coracoclavicular (CC) fixation on biomechanical stability in type IIB distal clavicle fractures fixed with plate and screws. Methods Twelve fresh-frozen matched cadaveric specimens were used to create type IIB distal clavicle fractures. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans ensured similar bone quality. Group 1 (6 specimens) was stabilized with a superior precontoured distal clavicle locking plate and supplemental suture anchor CC fixation. Group 2 (6 specimens) followed the same construct without CC fixation. Each specimen was cyclically loaded in the coronal plane at 40 to 80 N for 17,500 cycles. Load-to-failure testing was performed on the specimens that did not fail cyclic loading. Outcome measures included mode of failure and the number of cycles or load required to create 10 mm of displacement in the construct. Results All specimens (12 of 12) completed cyclic testing without failure and underwent load-to-failure testing. Group 1 specimens failed at a mean of 808.5 N (range, 635.4 to 952.3 N), whereas group 2 specimens failed at a mean of 401.3 N (range, 283.6 to 656.0 N) ( P = .005). Group 1 specimens failed by anchor pullout without coracoid fracture (4 of 6) and distal clavicle fracture fragment fragmentation (1 of 6); one specimen did not fail at the maximal load the materials testing machine was capable of exerting (1,000 N). Group 2 specimens failed by distal clavicle fracture fragment fragmentation (3 of 6) and acromioclavicular (AC) joint displacement (1 of 6); 2 specimens did not fail at the maximal load of the materials testing machine. Conclusions During cyclic loading, type IIB distal clavicle fractures with and without CC fixation remain stable. CC fixation adds stability to type IIB distal clavicle fractures fixed with plate and screws when loaded to failure. Clinical Relevance CC fixation for distal clavicle fractures is a useful adjunct to plate-and-screw fixation to augment stability of the fracture.
Second-order Green's-function theory of the Heisenberg ferromagnet.

Coupled Green function equations for Heisenberg ferromagnet approximated via differential equations
The dependence of human T-lymphocyte migration on the 5-lipoxygenation of endogenous arachidonic acid

Human T lymphocytes in modified Boyden migration chambers exhibited a chemokinetic response, but no detectable chemotaxis, to 5(S),12(R)-dihydroxyeicosa-6, 14-cis-8,10-trans-tetraenoic acid (leukotriene B4) and to 5(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE), which are 5-lipoxygenase products of arachidonic acid, and failed to respond to either leukotriene C4 or 11-HETE. Concentrations of lymphocyte-derived 15-HETE and of 15-hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid that inhibited the 5-lipoxygenation of endogenous arachidonic acid suppressed significantly both random migration and the chemokinetic responses of T lymphocytes to concanavalin A and α-thioglycerol. That the suppressive effect of 15-HETE on T lymphocyte chemokinesis was attributable in part to the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase was further suggested by the ability of exogenous 5-hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid to restore chemokinetic responsiveness to lymphocytes that had been preincubated with 15-HETE.
Lasing in Ne-like S and other new developments in capillary discharge ultrashort wavelength lasers

We report our most recent progress in the development of capillary discharge soft x-ray lasers. This includes the first observation of discharge-pumped ultrashort wavelength lasing in a material that is solid at room temperature (S), and preliminary results of discharges in Ca. Excitation by a capillary discharge of S vapor generated by discharge ablation of a solid target resulted in amplification in Ne-like S at 60.8 nm with a gain-length product of 7.5. Overheating of the electron temperature respect to steady-state ionization conditions and transient population effects significantly increased the gain above the steady state-value. The results of two-dimensional near-field and far-field imaging of a saturated table-top Ne-like Ar laser and the measurement of its spatial coherence as a function of amplifier length are also reported and compared with model calculations. The generation of a capillary discharge plasma waveguide is to be used in combination with ultrashort pulse laser excitation for the generation of a new kind of efficient collisional soft x- ray laser is discussed.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
“These Communities Have the Most to Gain from Valley Cityhood” Color-Blind Rhetoric of Urban Secession in Los Angeles, 1996–2002

Activists in the San Fernando Valley between 1996 and 2002 renewed efforts to secede from the city of Los Angeles. The movement mobilized many of the constituencies and grievances associated with the 1970s tax revolt and anti-busing protests in the Valley. While mostly white homeowners’ associations were the principal activists for secession, they needed to enlist the Valley’s Latino population. Though secession failed, Valley activists crafted a color-blind rhetoric of community empowerment that won support from many Valley Latinos and offers a preview of future metropolitan politics as whites retain economic privilege but lose demographic predominance.
Protons trap NR1/NR2B NMDA receptors in a nonconducting state

NMDA receptors are highly expressed in the CNS and are involved in excitatory synaptic transmission, as well as synaptic plasticity. Given that overstimulation of NMDA receptors can cause cell death, it is not surprising that these channels are under tight control by a series of inhibitory extracellular ions, including zinc, magnesium, and H+. We studied the inhibition by extracellular protons of recombinant NMDA receptor NR1/NR2B single-channel and macroscopic responses in transiently transfected human embryonic kidney HEK 293 cells using patch-clamp techniques. We report that proton inhibition proceeds identically in the absence or presence of agonist, which rules out the possibility that protonation inhibits receptors by altering coagonist binding. The response of macroscopic currents in excised patches to rapid jumps in pH was used to estimate the microscopic association and dissociation rates for protons, which were 1.4 x 10(9) m(-1) sec(-1) and 110-196 sec(-1), respectively (K(d) corresponds to pH 7.2). Protons reduce the open probability without altering the time course of desensitization or deactivation. Protons appear to slow at least one time constant describing the intra-activation shut-time histogram and modestly reduce channel open time, which we interpret to reflect a reduction in the overall channel activation rate and possible proton-induced termination of openings. This is consistent with a modest proton-dependent slowing of the macroscopic response rise time. From these data, we propose a physical model of proton inhibition that can describe macroscopic and single-channel properties of NMDA receptor function over a range of pH values.
Hippocampal epileptogenesis in animal models of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis: The importance of the “latent period” and other concepts

Prolonged chemoconvulsant-induced status epilepticus in rats has long been promoted as an animal model of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis, under the assumption that these animals involve: (1) pathology similar to that of the human neurologic condition; (2) a seizure-free, "preepileptic" latent period of several weeks duration after injury, during which a secondary epileptogenic process gradually develops; and (3) a chronic epileptic state in which the hippocampus, in general, and the dentate gyrus, in particular, becomes a source of the spontaneous behavioral seizures that define these animals as "epileptic." Retrospective analysis suggests that all of these assumptions are in doubt. Neuropathologic studies have shown that prolonged status epilepticus causes greater extrahippocampal than hippocampal damage, and does not produce classic hippocampal sclerosis. In vivo electrophysiologic studies suggest that the hippocampus of these animals may not be "epileptic." Most importantly, studies using continuous video monitoring to detect spontaneous behavioral seizures indicate that these rats become epileptic soon after insult, before any delayed secondary processes have time to develop. High mortality, significant variability, and the lack of an extended "therapeutic window" after brain injury suggest the need to develop animal models that more closely resemble the human neurologic condition.
Radially uniform electron source

A thermionic electron source capable of producing uniform count rates in a number of channel electron multipliers simultaneously was required for conditioning multipliers for an extended space mission. It was found that a straight tungsten filament in the center of a cylindrically symmetric geometry surrounded by an array of multipliers emits a radially asymmetric distribution of electrons that changes with time. A source was developed which successfully produces a time‐independent radially uniform distribution of electrons by moving the filament out of the direct line of sight and replacing it with a centrally located electron ’’cloud.’’
Analysis of the ring-form tautomers of psicose with MM3(92)

By nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), the four ring forms of psicose, α- and β-pyranose and α- and β-furanose, have almost equal concentrations in aqueous solution. Prediction of this equilibrium by molecular mechanics tests both the balance within the force field and the methods for including the many degrees of freedom in the system. For both the α- and β-furanoses, each of 410 different ring shapes was studied in combination with 3 7 combinations of staggered side-group orientations. Of these, 48 and 57 initial combinations of side-group orientations contributed to the α- and β-furanose energy surfaces. The pyranoses were analyzed in two steps. First, the 38 characteristic ring conformations were optimized with the 63 staggered side-group combinations
Universal System Diagnosis Algorithms

A class of simple digital system diagnosis algorithms is presented, and two members of the class are examined in detail. The algorithms are based on the assumption that good units can be replaced during the diagnosis process. Information pertaining to the system testing structure is not used by the two principal algorithms, so they can be applied regardless of system structure. The efficiency of the algorithms in terms of good units replaced is analyzed, and they are shown to compare favorably with methods for special case systems that have been proposed by others.
600 V 100 A 4H-SiC Junction Barrier Schottky Diode with Guard Rings Termination

4H-SiC SBDs have been commercialized for power application devices. However, the maximum current of these SBDs is 20A. In this work, we designed a JBS (junction barrier Schottky) diode structure and the fabrication processes to be optimized. The current and breakdown voltage were over 100 A and 660 V at Ir = 1 mA/cm2, respectively. The recovery characteristics of the JBS diode are much superior to those of the Si-FRD while it is comparable to those of the commercially available SiC-SBD at elevated temperatures up to 125°C..
Otolaryngologic manifestations of Rosai–Dorfman disease

Abstract Purpose : To describe an unusual head and neck occurrence of Rosai–Dorfman Disease (RDD) and to review the otolaryngologic manifestations of this rare entity. Methods : A case presentation with review of the literature describing Rosai–Dorfman Disease and its head and neck involvement. Setting : A tertiary care, urban children's hospital. Results : This is the first description, to the best of our knowledge, of RDD [Sinus Histiocytosis with Massive Lymphadenopathy (SHML)] involving bilateral external auditory canals and middle ear in a 12 year old patient previously diagnosed with ‘asthma’ and hearing loss. This patient also had extensive involvement of the tracheobronchial tree. Representative clinical, radiographic and histological findings are presented. Its etiology, diagnosis and management are also reviewed. Conclusion : This is the first reported case of middle ear and external auditory canal involvement of RDD in a patient with hearing loss and associated tracheobronchial lesions. RDD, although rare, may be considered in the differential diagnosis of unusual histiocytic lesions of the external auditory canal, especially with findings of similar or comparable lesions involving the respiratory tract. Confirmation is with identification of emperipolesis and appropriate immunohistochemical staining (S-100 positive, CD-68 positive and CD-1a negative). Intervention is recommended in cases where there is increased risk of mortality, as in severe obstruction of the tracheobronchial tree. Otherwise, since these lesions are self-limiting, the patients can be observed closely.
Impact of prison status on HIV-related risk behaviors.

Baseline data were collected to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions on completion of the hepatitis A and B vaccine series among 664 sheltered and street-based homeless adults who were: (a) homeless; (b) recently (<1 year) discharged from prison; (c) discharged 1 year or more; and (d) never incarcerated. Group differences at baseline were assessed for socio–demographic characteristics, drug and alcohol use, sexual activity, mental health and public assistance. More than one-third of homeless persons (38%) reported prison time and 16% of the sample had been recently discharged from prison. Almost half of persons who were discharged from prison at least 1 year ago reported daily use of drugs and alcohol over the past 6 months compared to about 1 in 5 among those who were recently released from prison. As risk for HCV and HIV co-infection continues among homeless ex-offenders, HIV/HCV prevention efforts are needed for this population.
Robust swing leg placement under large disturbances

Swing leg placement is vital to dynamic stability in legged robots and animals. The most common approaches to generating swing leg motions in robotics use either position or impedance tracking of defined joint trajectories. While these approaches suffice in humanoids, they severely limit swing leg placement under large disturbances in prosthetic limbs, for which stabilizing reactions cannot be planned centrally. Rather than careful central planning, animals and humans seem to rely on local feedback control for reliable swing leg placement. Motivated by this observation, we here present an alternative for generating swing leg motions. We develop a local swing leg control that takes advantage of segment interactions to achieve robust leg placement under large disturbances while generating trajectories and joint torque patterns similar to those patterns observed in human walking and running. The results suggest the identified control as a powerful alternative to existing swing leg controls in humanoid and rehabilitation robotics.
Transfer and contact-induced variation in child Basque

Young Basque-speaking children produce Differential Object Marking (DOM) and pre-verbal complementizers in their speech, variants argued to stem from contact with Spanish (Austin, 2006, Rodriguez-Ordonez, 2013). In this paper, I claim that despite their contact-induced origin, these forms reflect distinct developmental tendencies on the part of the child acquiring Basque. Children's use of pre-verbal complementizers in Basque seems to be a relief strategy that bilingual children employ until they have acquired the post-verbal complementizers in Basque, which are low-frequency morphemes. In contrast, the use of DOM is present in the adult input, although children use this construction to a greater extent than adults do. Finally, I discuss the implications of these findings for the part that child learners play in advancing language change.
PANNENBERGS POLANYIANISM: A RESPONSE TO JOHN V. APCZYNSKI

. John V. Apczynski, while presenting a helpful analysis of Wolfhart Pannenberg and Michael Polanyi, does not succeed in showing that Pannenberg's theology is incoherent. Contrary to Apczynski, I hold that Pannenberg's concern for theoretic assertions is not extrinsic but intrinsic and central to his program. Moreover, this concern does not rest directly upon the cultural dominance of impersonal knowing but is a countering of the theological overreaction against it. Polanyi has pioneered the critique of impersonal knowledge, but in Pannenberg's judgment much theology tends to espouse too cheaply the Polanyian elevation of faith as ground of knowing. Pannenberg, while appreciating the relative justification of Polanyi's work, is attempting to thematize afresh—in interesting contrast to Polanyi and, for instance, Paul Tillich—the public, rational structure of faith.
Pelvic Floor Disorders: Scope of the Problem

Pelvic floor disorders encompass symptoms, including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and fecal incontinence. Challenges to treating individuals with pelvic floor disorders include under-reporting of symptoms and inconsistent diagnostic criterion. Nearly 1 in 4 individuals in the United States has experienced a pelvic floor disorder. Incontinence disorders are more frequent in women and the prevalence increases with age. Obstetrical trauma is a common factor in the development of pelvic floor dysfunction. Morbidly obese individuals have a higher prevalence of pelvic floor disorders and weight loss may lead to improvement of symptoms. Evaluation and treatment should address the individual's productivity and quality of life in addition to anatomic and functional limitations. Pelvic floor disorders are best treated with a multidisciplinary approach.
NG2 cells (polydendrocytes) in brain physiology and repair.

NG2 cells, also referred to as oligodendrocyte precursor cells or polydendrocytes, represent a major resident glial cell population that is distinct from mature astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and neural stem cells and exist throughout the gray and white matter of the developing and mature central nervous system (CNS). While their most established fate is the oligodendrocyte, they retain lineage plasticity in an age- and region-specific manner. During development, they contribute to 40% of protoplasmic astrocytes in the ventral forebrain. Despite intense investigation on the neuronal fate of NG2 cells, there is no definitive evidence that they contribute substantially to the neuronal population. NG2 cells have attributes that suggest that they have functions other than to generate oligodendrocytes, but their exact role in the neural network remains unknown. Under pathological states, NG2 cells not only contribute to myelin repair, but they become activated in response to a wide variety of insults and could play a primary role in pathogenesis.
Lesson study, collaboration and teacher efficacy: Stories from two school-based math lesson study groups

Abstract This article describes the experiences of two US teacher groups and their lesson study work. Their stories illustrate some of the dynamics and promise of teacher change spurred by lesson study. The first case is primarily about teacher efficacy, as a group of teachers discover through lesson study that their planning and work can have an impact on student engagement in the classroom in a way that they had not realized. The second case is about one teacher's struggle with the move from isolation to collaboration, illustrating the tension between autonomy and collaboration that often occurs during such a transition.
Factors Associated with Self-concept Change in Student Teachers.

AbstractThis study was designed to determine the direction and magnitude of changes in self-perception by student teachers during a 1-semester experience in public school classrooms, and the relationships which exist between selected factors and a self-concept-change criterion. Ninety-four student teachers were administered the Fiedler Interpersonal Perception Scale at the beginning and at the completion of student teaching. Student teachers were found to generally improve their perceptions of self during student teaching, and five factors intrinsic to the student teaching experience were found to be simply or uniquely related to the self-concept-change criterion.
Acetylcholine induces contraction in vertebral arteries from treated hypertensive patients

Endothelium-dependent vasodilatation to acetylcholine is abnormal in animal models of hypertension. This abnormality reflects a change in the balance of relaxing and contracting factors produced in the vascular wall. In human cerebral arteries, endothelin has been implicated in the abnormal vasoconstrictor response following subarachnoid hemorrhage. This study tests the hypothesis that cerebral arteriolar dilatation to acetylcholine reduced in clinical hypertension due to an overproduction of endothelin. Our results show that at high concentrations of muscarinic agonist (0.3-3 microM), human vertebral arteries from hypertensive patients contract whereas those from normotensive patients remain maximally dilated. We conclude that the normal dilator response to acetylcholine is abrogated in vertebral arteries from treated hypertensive patients but endothelin-1 does not contribute to the abnormal responsiveness.
A cytolytic protein from the edible mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus.

Abstract Aqueous extracts of the edible mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus , contain a substance that is lytic in vitro for mammalian erthrocytes. The hemolytic agent, pleurotolysin, was purified to homogeneity and found to be a protein lacking seven of the amino acids commonly found in proteins. In the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate it exists as monomers of molecular weight 12 050 whereas under non-dissociating conditions it appears to exist as dimers. It is isoelectric at about pH 6.4. The sensitivity of erythrocytes from different animals correlates with sphingomyelin content of the erythrocyte membranes. Sheep erythrocyte membranes inhibit pleurotolysin-induced hemolysis and the inhibition is time and temperature dependent. Ability of membranes to inhibit hemolysis is abolished by prior treatment of membranes with specific phospholipases. Pleurotolysin-induced hemolysis is inhibited by liposomes prepared from cholesterol, dicetyl phosphate adn sphingomyelin derived from sheep erythrocytes whereas a variety of other lipid preparations fail to inhibit. It is concluded that sphingomyelin plays a key role in the hemolytic reaction.
Characterization of synaptosomal dopamine release in rat and human brain after post-mortem storage and cryopreservation

Abstract In preparing pathobiochemical studies on [ 3 H]dopamine (DA) release in post-mortem human brain, freezing methods were tested regarding their applicability for cryopreservation of brain tissue. An optimal method was to incubate pieces of the nucleus accumbens of rats or humans in 0.32 M sucrose containing 5% dimethylsulfoxide before freezing the brain material. After cryopreservation of these pieces in liquid nitrogen the synaptosomal K + -stimulated [ 3 H]DA release was found to be unchanged in comparison with the values obtained before freezing. Moreover, the inhibition of K + -stimulated [ 3 H]DA release by extracellular DA, which is mediated by DA autoreceptors, was also detectable after using this freezing method. During post-mortem storage of rat brains in situ for up to 48 h it was found that [ 3 H]DA release changes occurred in dependence on storage temperature: at 2°C no alteration was noted, however, at 22°C a relatively rapid, biphasic exponential decrease was found. Furthermore, subchronic haloperidol pretreatment of rats did not have any influence on post-mortem changes of [ 3 H]DA release and its modulation by DA autoreceptors. In conclusion, it seems that post-mortem human brain is suitable for investigating synaptosomal K + -stimulated [ 3 H]DA release and its autoreceptor-mediated inhibition. For this end a suitable cryopreservation method is presented and a correction for post-mortem delay is proposed which is based on changes of [ 3 H]DA release at 22°C in rats.
Common iliac artery aneurysm: Expansion rate and results of open surgical and endovascular repair

Objectives To assess expansion rate of common iliac artery aneurysms (CIAAs) and define outcomes after open repair (OR) and endovascular repair (EVAR). Methods Clinical data of 438 patients with 715 CIAAs treated between 1986 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. Size, presentations, treatments, and outcomes were recorded. Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank tests and χ 2 test were used for analysis. Results Interventions for 715 CIAAs (median, 4 cm; range, 2-13 cm) were done in 512 men (94%) and 26 women (6%); 152 (35%) had unilateral and 286 (65%) had bilateral CIAAs. Group 1 comprised 377 patients (633 CIAAs) with current or previously repaired abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Group 2 comprised 15 patients (24 CIAAs) with associated internal iliac artery aneurysm (IIAA). Group 3 comprised 46 patients (58 isolated CIAAs). Median expansion rate of 104 CIAAs with at least two imaging studies was 0.29 cm/y; hypertension predicted faster expansion (0.32 vs 0.14 cm/y, P = .01). A total of 175 patients (29%) were symptomatic. The CIAA ruptured in 22 patients (5%, median, 6 cm; range, 3.8-8.5 cm), and the associated AAA ruptured in 20 (4%). Six (27%) ilioiliac or iliocaval fistulas developed. Repairs were elective in 396 patients (90%) and emergencies in 42 (10%). OR was performed in 394 patients (90%) and EVAR in 44 (10%). The groups had similar 30-day mortality: 1% for elective, 27% for emergency repairs ( P P P = .66); freedom from reintervention was similar after OR and EVAR (83% vs 69%, P = .17), as were survival rates (76% vs 77%, P = .70). Conclusions The expansion rate of CIAAs is 0.29 cm/y, and hypertension predicts faster expansion. Because no rupture of a CIAA
Multiple zone beamforming in FOCUS

Software tools for diagnostic ultrasound simulations are under development in FOCUS, the `Fast Object-oriented C++ Ultrasound Simulator' (http://www.egr.msu.edu/~fultras-web). Previously [Zhu et al, IUS 2012], the accuracy of FOCUS was demonstrated in comparisons with Field II, which is a widely accepted reference for simulations of diagnostic ultrasound. These initial evaluations used single zone beamformers for the transmit and receive apertures. To leverage the fast, accurate, and memory efficient algorithms in FOCUS for ultrasound imaging simulations, multiple zone beamformers and other new features are needed. The present work demonstrates an efficient approach for simulating multiple zone beamforming in FOCUS. After decomposing the input pulse, intermediate transient signals are computed for the transmit and receive apertures with the fast nearfield method combined with time-space decomposition. These intermediate signals are stored and then repeatedly reused, which greatly improves the computational efficiency of the beamformer. The contributions from each decomposed signal are superposed, and the results are then convolved for each combination of transmit and receive zones. B-mode images are simulated in FOCUS and in Field II using 5 transmit and receive zones. The FOCUS and Field II simulations are evaluated for temporal sampling frequencies of 40MHz, 160MHz, and 320MHz. The effects of the discretization of the time delays applied to the transmit and receive apertures are also evaluated. For each simulation, A-lines are computed and B-mode images are formed for a linear arrangement of 20 point scatterers. The results demonstrate that the images and the A-lines obtained with these two programs are in excellent agreement.
The political economy of Russia

The Political Economy of Russia is a set of essays that cover a range of issues focused on the politics and economics of post-Soviet Russia. The authors, who are distinguished scholars in the field...
Cryptic Epidemic of Q Fever in a Medical School

Pregnant sheep used in perinatel research were the source of a large outbreak of Q fever in 1980 among the faculty and staff of a medical school. Complement-fixation tests with phase II Coxiella burnetii antigen were positive in 81 persons, of whom 58 (71.6%) had Q fever during the first eight months of 1980. Microagglutination and/or indirect immunofluorescence tests of 485 sera were positive in an additional 56 persons. Only 41 of the 137 seropositive persons were involved in caring for or working with sheep; the remaining 96(70.1%) persons were located along the routes followed by sheep carts or had been exposed to sheep in other ways. Early in the outbreak few patients sought medical help. Later, most patients reported promptly and responded favorably to therapy with tetracycline. Sheep were removed from the campus in July 1980; cases ceased one month later. Other medical centers engaged in research with pregnant sheep should be alert to the risk of Q fever.
Corneal asphericity after hyperopic laser in situ keratomileusis

Abstract Purpose To analyze corneal asphericity after hyperopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and its relationship to the clinical outcomes. Setting Corneal and Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Methods In a retrospective case series, 23 patients (33 eyes) with hyperopia or hyperopic astigmatism who had LASIK were evaluated. A computer program (Holladay Diagnostic Summary, EyeSys Laboratories) was used to analyze corneal asphericity (Q) before and after LASIK. Corneal asphericity was evaluated to determine the association with the postoperative refractive error, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), achieved refractive correction, mean corneal power (K), refractive yield (achieved/attempted correction), and keratometric yield (change in keratometry/attempted correction). Results After hyperopic LASIK, all corneas exhibited increased negative central Q. The postoperative corneal radius of curvature, BSCVA, and refractive and keratometric yields were not significantly correlated with the preoperative Q values. The asphericity change, ΔQ, was highly correlated with the achieved correction ( r = 0.747, P .0001). The postoperative Q value correlated well with the preoperative value ( r = 0.534, P .05) and the achieved correction (r = 0.601, P .05) but not with the ΔQ. Neither the postoperative Q nor the ΔQ was correlated with the spherical equivalent, K, BSCVA, or UCVA. Conclusions Asphericity may be a useful quantitative descriptor of the corneal optical contour after hyperopic LASIK. Negative central Q increased after hyperopic LASIK, especially when greater degrees of refractive correction were attempted.