cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Safety and Solidarity Across Gender Lines: Rethinking Segregation of Transgender People in Detention

This Article examines the enforcement of racialized gender norms through the regulation of dress in prisons. Dress, including hair and clothing, is central to the ways government and other institutions enforce hierarchical social norms based on the intersection of race and gender, as well as religion, sexuality, class, age, and disability For many people, dress is a way to express identity, exercise autonomy, practice religion, participate politically, experience pleasure, preserve health, and/or avoid violence. My review of prison dress regulations shows that prison systems commonly impose penalties including solitary confinement for deviations from dominant social norms, such as wearing hair in an Afro, covering hair with a headscarf, or having long hair if incarcerated as a man. I situate prison rules in the historical context of dress regulation and prison evolution in the United States. The justifications that prison officials offer for these rules, including repression of homosexuality and group affiliation, prevention of attacks and escapes, and promotion of hygiene and rehabilitation, raise normative and instrumental concerns. Nonetheless, courts frequently diminish individual and community interests in dress while deferring to prison regulations that lack a complete or credible justification. Finally, I propose an integrated approach to change through policy amendments, doctrinal shifts, and broader grassroots efforts for social transformation consistent with a goal of prison abolition.
Design of two lightweight, high-bandwidth torque-controlled ankle exoskeletons

Lower-limb exoskeletons capable of comfortably applying high torques at high bandwidth can be used to probe the human neuromuscular system and assist gait. We designed and built two tethered ankle exoskeletons with strong lightweight frames, comfortable three-point contact with the leg, and series elastic elements for improved torque control. Both devices have low mass (< 0.88 kg), are modular, structurally compliant in selected directions, and instrumented to measure joint angle and torque. The exoskeletons are actuated by an off-board motor, and torque is controlled using a combination of proportional feedback and damping injection with iterative learning during walking tests. We tested closed-loop torque control by commanding 50 N·m and 20 N·m linear chirps in desired torque while the exoskeletons were worn by human users, and measured bandwidths greater than 16 Hz and 21 Hz, respectively. During walking trials, we demonstrated 120 N·m peak torque and 2.0 N·m RMS torque tracking error. These performance measures compare favorably with existing devices and with human ankle musculature, and show that these exoskeletons can be used to rapidly explore a wide range of control techniques and robotic assistance paradigms as elements of versatile, high-performance testbeds. Our results also provide insights into desirable properties of lower-limb exoskeleton hardware, which we expect to inform future designs.
Crime Networks with Bargaining and Build Frictions

How does the timing, targets and types of anti-crime policies affect a network when criminal retailers search sequentially for wholesalers and crime opportunities? Given the illicit nature of crime, I analyze a non-competitive market where players bargain over the surplus. In such a market, some anti-crime policies distort revenue sharing, reduce matching frictions and increase market activity or crime. As an application, the model provides a new perspective on why the U.S. cocaine market saw rising consumption after the introduction of the “War on Drugs.”
A Vulvovaginal Mass in a 16-Year-Old Adolescent: A Case Report.

Abstract Background Vulvar varicosities might be misdiagnosed as vulvar venous malformations in the prepubertal or pubertal age. If seen isolated, they can mimic other masses that are usually seen in this anatomic area like a hernia or a cyst. Depending on the associated symptoms and clinical findings, imaging modalities investigate the nature of such a mass and might provide a therapeutic alternative besides surgery. Case We report a case of an isolated asymptomatic vulvar varicosity in a 16-year-old adolescent. A pelvic ultrasound followed by a Doppler and a magnetic resonance imaging scan confirmed the diagnosis. We used guided direct sclerotherapy for successful treatment. Summary and Conclusion Optimal management and outcome are assured using a multidisciplinary approach. Guided sclerotherapy provides a safe, effective, and minimally invasive procedure to treat vulvar varicosities.
Physical Activity Among Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy: An Integrative Review.

Problem Physical activity is necessary for optimum physical and psychosocial health in the general population. It is even more important for adolescents who struggle with impairments that limit motor function. Recommendations for best practice are needed as adolescents transition into adulthood. Purpose An integrative review was performed to determine the state of the science regarding 1) what factors impact physical activity in adolescents with cerebral palsy, and 2) how the needs of this population have been addressed regarding physical activity. Search Strategy A literature search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PubMed was conducted using the terms cerebral palsy, mobility or activity, and adolescents. Exclusion criteria were surgical or pharmacological interventions. Results of the Literature Search Descriptive and intervention studies were included and evaluated for purpose, design, and key findings. Synthesis of Evidence Correcting the decline of physical activity in adolescents with CP may carry benefits over into adulthood. There are few studies that adapt physical activity to age and level of impairment. Several studies support approaching physical activity from a social model, focusing on participation of the person in the context of environment. There is a lack of research incorporating family-centered care. Many study designs are shallow and lack the proper instruments for assessing outcomes. Implications for Practice Home and community based interventions need to be developed that are individualized. More studies are needed with stronger research designs and better instruments in order to generalize results for practice.
A simple synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon micro- and nanotubes.

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNTs) have shown promising performance in a variety of applications: catalysts, catalyst supports, lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors. While chemical vapor deposition continues to be the most common method for N-CNT fabrication, its complexity and high cost have prevented the practical implementation of N-CNTs on a larger scale. Here, we describe a new and simple method for N-CNT synthesis. This method is not only potentially scalable to any required level but also allows for the control of the tube size (20–1000 nm in diameter) and nitrogen doping levels (4–9 at%) through the selection of most suitable transition metal and heat-treatment conditions.
Stress, Mental Health, and Burnout in National Humanitarian Aid Workers in Gulu, Northern Uganda

This study examined the mental health of national humanitarian aid workers in northern Uganda and contextual and organizational factors predicting well-being. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 376 national staff working for 21 humanitarian aid agencies. Over 50% of workers experienced 5 or more categories of traumatic events. Although, in the absence of clinical interviews, no clinical diagnoses were able to be confirmed, 68%, 53%, and 26% of respondents reported symptom levels associated with high risk for depression, anxiety disorders, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), respectively. Between one quarter and one half of respondents reported symptom levels associated with high risk regarding measured dimensions of burnout. Female workers reported significantly more symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and emotional exhaustion than males. Workers with the United Nations and related agencies reported fewest symptoms. Higher levels of social support, stronger team cohesion, and reduced exposure to chronic stressors were associated with improved mental health. National humanitarian staff members in Gulu have high exposure to chronic and traumatic stress and high risk of a range of poor mental health outcomes. Given that work-related factors appear to influence the relationship between the two strategies are suggested to support the well-being of national staff working in such contexts.
Ergot Alkaloids (Re)generate New Leads as Antiparasitics

Praziquantel (PZQ) is a key therapy for treatment of parasitic flatworm infections of humans and livestock, but the mechanism of action of this drug is unresolved. Resolving PZQ-engaged targets and effectors is important for identifying new druggable pathways that may yield novel antiparasitic agents. Here we use functional, genetic and pharmacological approaches to reveal that serotonergic signals antagonize PZQ action in vivo. Exogenous 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) rescued PZQ-evoked polarity and mobility defects in free-living planarian flatworms. In contrast, knockdown of a prevalently expressed planarian 5-HT receptor potentiated or phenocopied PZQ action in different functional assays. Subsequent screening of serotonergic ligands revealed that several ergot alkaloids possessed broad efficacy at modulating regenerative outcomes and the mobility of both free living and parasitic flatworms. Ergot alkaloids that phenocopied PZQ in regenerative assays to cause bipolar regeneration exhibited structural modifications consistent with serotonergic blockade. These data suggest that serotonergic activation blocks PZQ action in vivo, while serotonergic antagonists phenocopy PZQ action. Importantly these studies identify the ergot alkaloid scaffold as a promising structural framework for designing potent agents targeting parasitic bioaminergic G protein coupled receptors.
Retrospective outcomes of glucose control in critically ill children.

Background: Hyperglycemia is a significant problem for critically ill children. Treatment for hyperglycemia remains controversial. This study explores the effect of controlling blood glucose (BG) in hyperglycemic critically ill children. Methods: A retrospective cohort of nondiabetic critically ill children (defined as requiring mechanical ventilation and/or vasopressors) with BG persistently ≥150 mg/dl and treated with insulin (treatment group) were compared with a historical cohort of similar children who did not receive interventions to control hyperglycemia (baseline group). Results: There were 130 children in the treatment group and 137 children in the baseline group. Mean BG in the treatment group was 140 ± 24 mg/dl compared with 179 ± 47 mg/dl in the baseline group (p < .001). After adjusting for patient characteristics, cointerventions, and glucose metrics, patients in the treatment group had 2.5 fewer intensive care unit (ICU)-free days (i.e., number of days alive and discharged from ICU within 28 days after inclusion) than the baseline group (p = .023). Glucose control was not independently associated with duration of ICU stay, ventilator-free days, vasopressor-free days, or mortality. Conclusions:
Prospective double-blinded study of abdominal-pelvic computed tomography guided by the region of tenderness: estimation of detection of acute pathology and radiation exposure reduction.

Study objective Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly used for emergency department (ED) patients with abdominal tenderness. CT-related radiation contributes to 2% of US cancers. We hypothesized that in the ED patient with nontraumatic abdominal tenderness, the tender region accurately delineates acute pathology. z axis–restricted CT guided by this region could detect pathology while reducing radiation dose. Methods This was a prospective double-blinded observational trial with informed consent and was institutional review board–approved and registered with ClinicalTrials.gov. A convenience sample of ED patients undergoing abdominal CT was recruited, excluding pregnant women, patients with altered mental status or abdominal sensation, preverbal children, and patients with abdominal trauma or surgery in the previous month. Before standard CT, physicians demarcated the tender region with labels invisible to radiologists on abdominal windows. Radiologists blinded to the tender region recorded cephalad-caudad limits of pathology on CT. Personnel blinded to pathology location recorded label positions on lung windows. Two hypothetical CT strategies were then explored: CT restricted to the tender region and CT from the cephalad skin marker to the lower caudad limit of the usual CT. The percentage of the pathologic region contained within the extent of the 2 hypothetical z axis restricted CTs was calculated. z axis reduction, which is linearly related to radiation reduction, from the restricted CTs was determined. Results One hundred two subjects were enrolled, 93 with complete data for analysis. Fifty-one subjects had acute pathology on CT. CT limited to the tender region would reduce z axis (radiation exposure) by 69% (95% confidence interval [CI] 60% to 78%). All acute pathology was included within these boundaries in 17 of the 51 abnormal cases (33%; 95% CI 22% to 47%). CT from the cephalad marker through the caudad abdomen and pelvis would reduce z axis (radiation exposure) by 38% (95% CI 29% to 48%). All acute pathology was included within these boundaries in 36 of 51 abnormal cases (71%; 95% CI 57% to 81%). With both strategies 1 and 2, the pathologic region was at least partially included within the CT region in the majority of cases (84% and 92%, respectively). Conclusion CT with z axis restriction based on abdominal tenderness could reduce radiation exposure but with a potentially unacceptably high rate of misdiagnosis, using our current methods. Further prospective study may be warranted to determine the diagnostic utility of partially visualized pathology.
Authenticity Is Contagious: Brand Essence and the Original Source of Production

It is well established that differences in manufacturing location can affect consumer preferences through lay inferences about production quality. In this article, the authors take a different approach to this topic by demonstrating how beliefs in contagion (the notion that objects may acquire a special aura or “essence” from their past) influence perceptions of authenticity for everyday consumer products and brands. Specifically, they find that due to a belief in contagion, products from a company's original manufacturing location are viewed as containing the essence of the brand. In turn, this belief in transferred essence leads consumers to view products from the original factory as more authentic and valuable than identical products made elsewhere. The authors further reveal that consumers who are higher in sensitivity to contagion are more likely to exhibit this effect and that activating the concept of contagion enhances preferences for products made in the brand's original factory. The authors clos...
Better than crystalline: amorphous vanadium oxide for sodium-ion batteries

Amorphous and nanocrystalline vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) were prepared through a combination of sol–gel processing paired with electrochemical deposition and investigated as cathodes for sodium-ion batteries. Amorphous V2O5 demonstrated superior electrochemical properties upon sodiation as compared to its crystalline counterpart. More specifically, amorphous vanadium pentoxide had a measured capacity of 241 mA h g−1, twice the capacity of its crystalline contemporary at 120 mA h g−1. In addition, the amorphous vanadium pentoxide demonstrated a much higher discharge potential, energy density, and cycle stability. The development of amorphous materials could enable the usage and design of previously unexplored electrode materials; herein, the possible relationship between the improved sodiation properties and the amorphous structure is discussed.
Normal left ventricular performance documented by Doppler echocardiography in patients with long-standing hypocalcemia.

Abstract introduction: Several reports suggest significantly reduced left ventricular performance in subjects with chronic hypocalcemia. We prospectively investigated eight patients, aged 13 to 31 years, with long-standing hypocalcemia due to idiopathic hypoparathyroidism or pseudohypoparathyroidism by echocardiography. patients and methods: Six subjects had symptomatic hypocalcemia manifested as recurrent tetany (four), seizures (four), mental retardation (three), behavior disorder (one), and skeletal abnormalities (four); three subjects were untreated when studied. None had carciovascular symptoms. Each patient underwent clinical, biochemical, and cardiac studies, including Doppler, two-dimensional, and M-mode echocardiography, on the same day. results: In serum, both total and ionized calcium concentrations were reduced and averaged 7.2 mg/dl (range: 5.3 to 8.5 mg/dl; normal: 9.0 to 10.3 mg/dl) and 3.6 mg/dl (range: 3.0 to 3.9 mg/dl; normal: 4.5 to 5.3 mg/dl), respectively. Electrocardiograms revealed prolonged QTc intervals in six patients. Also noted were prominent U waves (five), T-wave abnormalities (four), and right-axis deviation (one). Resting echocardiography, however, demonstrated normal left ventricular function in all subjects. All M-mode measurements were normal. Two-dimen-sional-derived left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were 87.1 ± 20.1 ml and 30.2 ± 9.7 ml (mean ± SD), respectively. Left ventricular ejection fraction was 65 percent (61.2 to 74.7 percent). Doppler-derived cardiac output and cardiac index averaged 5.1 liters/minutes (2.9 to 6.7 liters/minute) and 3.0 liters/minute/m2 (1.7 to 4.3 liters/minute/,2), respectively. conclusion: Our prospective study of eight subjects with functional hypoparathyroidism demonstrated that, despite electrocardiographic abnormalities, long-standing hypocalcemia was not associated with left ventricular dysfunction.
IN SITU PRESERVATION OF THE TRANSVERSE FLAGELLUM OF PERIDINIUM CINCTUM (DINOPHYCEAE) FOR SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY1

Three-dimensional structure of the transverse flagellum was studied by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in Peridinium cinctum (O.F.M.) Ehrenberg. Several fixation and dehydration procedures were compared. Cells fixed, rapidly in 1% osmium tetroxide and critical-point dried showed accurate preservation of structural features seen in living cells; in particular, both transverse and posterior flagella were retained in the furrows on the cell surface. Osmium-fixed and freeze-dried, samples were prone to cellular collapse and loss of flagella. Glutar-aldehyde-fixed and critical-point dried cells showed a layer of material covering the thecal plates, most conspicuously over the girdle region; flagella were absent. Stereo-pair micrographs illustrate the 3-dimensional configuration of the transverse flagellum. Modifications of previous structural models are proposed.
Respiratory Control in the Transition from Water to Air Breathing in Vertebrates

SYNOPSIS. Studies on extant bimodally breathing vertebrates offer us a chance to gain insight into the changes in respiratory control during the evolutionary transition from water to air breathing. In primitive Actinopterygian air-breathingfishes (Lepisosteus and Amid) , gill ventilation is driven by an endogenously active central rhythm generator that is powerfully modulated by afferent input from internally and externally oriented branchial chemoreceptors, as it is in water-breathing Actinopterygians. The effects of internal or external chemoreceptor stimulation on water and air breathing vary substantially in these aquatic air breathers, suggesting that their roles are evolutionarily malleable. Air breathing in these bimodal breathers usually occurs as single breaths taken at irregular intervals and is an on-demand phenomenon activated primarily by afferent input from the branchial chemoreceptors. There is no evidence for central CO2/pH sensitive chemoreceptors and air-breathing organ mechanoreceptors have little influence over branchial- or air-breathing patterns in Actinopterygian air breathers. In the Sarcopterygian lungfish Lepidosiren and Protopterus , ventilation of the highly reduced gills is relatively unresponsive to chemoreceptor or mechanoreceptor input. The branchial chemoreceptors of the anterior arches appear to monitor arterialized blood, while chemoreceptors in the posterior arches may monitor venous blood. Lungfish respond vigorously to hypercapnia, but it is not known whether these responses are mediated by central or peripheral chemoreceptors. A major difference between the Sarcopterygian and Actinopterygian bimodal breathers is that lungfish can inflate their lungs using rhythmic bouts of air breathing, and lung mechanoreceptors influence the onset and termination of these lung inflation cycles. The control of breathing in amphibians appears similar to that of lungfish. Branchial ventilation may persist as rhythmic buccal oscillations in most adults, and stimulation of peripheral chemoreceptors in the aortic arch or carotid labyrinths initiates short bouts of breathing. Ventilation is much more responsive to hypercapnia in adult amphibians than in Actinopterygian fishes because of central CO2/pH sensitive chemoreceptors that act to convert periodic to more continuous breathing patterns when stimulated.
Overview of occupational exposure to electric and magnetic fields and cancer: Advancements in exposure assessment

For over ten years, there has been concern with the potential for increased risk of cancer among "electrical workers." In contrast to studies of residential exposure to magnetic fields, occupational studies include electric and magnetic field exposures and have much greater variability in field intensity, frequency, and temporal patterns. Studies of leukemia in electrical workers show a moderate consistency, with elevated risk ratios of 1.2 to 2.0 commonly observed. Brain tumors are similarly elevated with some consistency, and three recent studies have suggested increased risk of male breast cancer. Retrospective exposure assessment methods were advanced in recent studies of diverse occupations in a study in central Sweden, which yielded evidence of increased risk of chronic lymphocytic leukemia among men in more highly exposed occupations. A study of telephone workers in New York State incorporated measurements and found some indication of increased leukemia risk only when exposures were based on historical technology. Utility workers in southern California were studied and found not to have increased risks of leukemia and brain cancer based on exposures estimated with measurements. An ongoing study of electric utility workers at five companies in the United States incorporates an extensive measurement protocol. Randomly selected workers within occupational categories wore a time-integrating magnetic-field meter to provide estimates of exposure for the occupational category. We were able to estimate and partition the variance into between-day (the largest contributor), within occupational categories, and between occupational categories. Principal research needs concern optimal levels of worker aggregation for exposure assignment, historical extrapolation, study of diverse work environments, and integration of residential and occupational exposure in the same study.
Phagocytosis of microbes: insights and prospects

one. For the adventurous in spirit, it combines the thrill of the chase with the capture and speedy demise of the villain. Computer buffs will find in the plasma membrane the cell’s motherboard, coordinating the flow of information from ligated surface receptors to the cell’s metabolic and motile machinery. Science fiction devotees will revel as invading microbial pathogens evade the cell’s outer defences and win the day by striking at a station along the endocytic pathway. The laid-back of all ages will appreciate the many ways prokaryotesform life-long, sometimes symbiotic, associations with the cells that phagocytose them. For cell biologists, the capacity of a bacterial or protozoan pathogen to affect a unique target in a higher eukaryotic cell is an opportunity to identify and probe otherwise undetectable regulatory pathways. Thatsome of these palhways are conserved in organisms whose evolutionary paths diverged millions of years ago (e.g. Legionella pneumophila forms similar r ibosome-studded vacuoles in fresh-water amoebae’ and in human macrophages’), indicates that lessons learned from lower eukaryotes (such as those described by Jeon in this issue) will be relevant to solving current problems of microbial pathogenesis and understanding pathways of host resistance (see for example Harding, and Selsted and Ouellette, this issue).
The Electronic Spectroscopy and Photophysics of Piperidine in the Vapor Phase

The ground- and lowest excited-state properties of piperidine vapor are explored with respect to understanding its absorption and fluorescence properties. A ground-state intrinsic reaction coordinate (IRC) calculation was used to model the conformational potential energy surface connecting the equatorial and axial conformers. At the MP2/6-311++G** level of theory, the equatorial conformer is more stable by 310 cm-1 than the axial conformer, and the inversion barrier height is 2033 cm-1. Two transitions in the UV, with origins of 38 707 and 44 070 cm-1 are assigned. The S1 ← S0 transition (fobs ∼ 3.2 × 10-3) is Rydberg in nature, with considerable involvement of all the ring heavy atoms. A vibrational analysis of this transition shows a main progression in 640 cm-1, which is assigned as the N−H out-of-plane bending motion. The CIS-calculated equilibrium geometry of the S1 state indicates considerable distortion of the N atom relative to the Cα atoms. The one-dimensional absorption spectrum is modeled on th...
On increased risk and the voluntary provision of public goods

This paper examines the impacts of increased risk on the voluntary provision of public goods. I strengthen the view that uncertainty ameliorates free riding even given negative non-Nash conjectures. This result holds since the change in the perceived free riding (i.e., the magnitude of the conjecture) drives voluntary contribution to public good supply. The result has two main implications. First, the traditional model of the rational self-interested individual can explain voluntary contributions. Second, a public policy to encourage volunteerism would maintain private information of private contributions to the supply of public goods. However, risk as a public policy instrument is limited by ethical concerns and behavioral responses to risk.
Stand-by power minimization through simultaneous threshold voltage selection and circuit sizing

We present a new approach for estimation and optimization of the average stand-by power dissipation in large MOS digital circuits. To overcome the complexity of state dependence in average leakage estimation, we introduce the concept of "dominant leakage states" and use state probabilities. Our method achieves speed-ups of 3 to 4 orders of magnitude over exhaustive SPICE simulations while maintaining accuracies within 9% of SPICE. This accurate estimation is used in a new sensitivity-based leakage and performance optimization approach for circuits using dual V/sub t/ processes. In tests on a variety of industrial circuits, this approach was able to obtain 81-100% of the performance achievable with all low V/sub t/ transistors, but with 1/3 to 1/6 the stand-by current.
The Role of Residues Management in Sustainable Agricultural Systems

Crop residues returned to the soil can maintain or enhance soil quality and productivity through favorable effects on soil properties and life-support processes. In the U.S., crop residues produced by 19 principal crops are estimated at 400 million Mg/yr, compared with 2962 Mg/yr produced in the world. Crop residues returned to the soil contribute to the maintenance of and an increase in soil organic carbon content and add plant nutrients and reduce fertilizer requirements. Total amount of principal nutrients in crop residues range from 40 to 100 Kg/Mg. Consumption of fertilizers in 1991 was 116 million Mg of N, P and K in the world and 16 million Mg in the U.S. In comparison, nutrients (N + P + K) contained in crop residues amou8nt to 9 million Mg/yr in the U.S. and 74 million Mg/yr in the world. Therefore, a considerable quantity of fertilizers can be saved by returning the residues produced to the soil. Residue management is also important in soil and water conservation. About 2.5 Mg/ha of crop residue...
Vernix, the newborn, and innate defense.

Vernix, the Newborn, and Innate Defense: Commentary on the article by Yoshio et al. on page 211
Maze orientation, visual and vestibular cues in two-maze spontaneous alternation of rats

In a study of the cues involved in spontaneous alternation in which the first turn took place in one maze and the second turn in a different maze, we found: (1) identical levels of significant, above-chance, alternation whether the mazes were parallel or perpendicular to each other; (2) blinding did not affect alternation rates; and (3) bilateral vestibular neurotomy produced a severe and long-lasting (up to 1 year) reduction of spontaneous alternation under all cue conditions tested. This reduction was greatest in the parallel condition. We conclude that, in the absence of visually differentiated maze arms, vision plays no role in two-maze spontaneous alternation while kinesthetic cues may play a role. Alternation depends on the integrity of the vestibular system, although the specificity of the vestibular alternation deficit remains to be determined. Data on righting reflexes in air, collected in evaluation of vestibular function, are also presented.
3Rs of animal testing for regenerative medicine products.

Considerations of animal welfare have spurred the design of “smarter” preclinical studies intended to ultimately benefit patients.
Cystic kidneys associated with connective tissue disorders

Advances in molecular genetics have resulted in the identification of several forms of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Cystic kidneys have also been observed in tuberous sclerosis, von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, oro-facial-digital type I syndrome, Hajdu-Cheney syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and an "overlap" connective tissue disorder, and cannot be distinguished by ultrasonography from PKD. We have studied four children with similar cystic kidneys. None had a family history of PKD. One child has osteogenesis imperfecta type IV, two appeared to have a mild Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and the fourth has inguinal hernias and undescended testes. We speculate that polycystic kidneys may occur in connective tissue dysplasias. We also realize that these may be chance associations with spontaneous mutations for PKD.
Abstract 3245: SRC-3: A prostate cancer oncogene with the same modus operandi in different niches

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Prostatic adenocarcinoma will affect one in six American men and represents the second leading cause of cancer death in this population. Tumors that are locally invasive/ metastatic at diagnosis cause the majority of prostate cancer deaths. SRC3 is a p160 family coactivator overexpressed in invasive prostate cancers. A recent study in our laboratory demonstrated it is also highly expressed in tumors of the TRAMP mouse, a cancer model in which an androgen-responsive probasin promoter drives expression of the SV40 viral oncogene in several prostate cell types. Global deletion of SRC3 in TRAMP mice arrested primary prostate tumors at the well-differentiated stage and eliminated metastasis. Transformation of prostatic luminal epithelial cells (LECs) into invasive cancers is a key feature of the TRAMP phenotype. Therefore, we hypothesized selective deletion of SRC3 in these cells would inhibit primary tumor growth and metastasis. To test the hypothesis, we crossed floxed SRC3/TRAMP mice with mice harboring a Cre recombinase gene driven by the LEC-specific probasin promoter. Efficacy of SRC3 knockout in SRC3c−/−/TRAMP mice was confirmed via immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. We compared prostate tumor size, composition and metastases in SRC3c−/−/TRAMP vs. WT/TRAMP mice at 12 (n=3/5), 18 (n=7/7), 24 (n=9/9) and 30 (n=6/6) weeks of age. We observed no statistically significant differences in prostate or GU tract weight at any time point, though a trend toward decreased tumor size in the knockout was evident at 30 weeks. Tumor composition differed between SRC3c−/−/TRAMP and WT/TRAMP mice at 24 and 30 weeks. While synaptophysin(+) (neuroendocrine) cells were virtually absent in dedifferentiated regions of WT/TRAMP prostate, large synaptophysin(+) cell clusters were visible in the majority of sections taken from prostates of in SRC3c−/−/TRAMP mice. Neuroendocrine cell clusters were positive for SRC3 and negative for AR. Interestingly, 24 and 30 week-old SRC3c−/−/TRAMP mice also had tumors of the liver, lung and kidney: common sites of neuroendocrine metastasis in the TRAMP model. Given that SRC3c−/−/TRAMP mice have primary tumors of equivalent size to WT/TRAMP but skewed toward neuroendocrine composition, SRC3 deletion in luminal epithelial cells appears to inhibit cancer growth in a cell autonomous fashion thus enabling neuroendocrine proliferation and metastasis. Since global SRC3−/−/TRAMP mice have no neuroendocrine tumors, our findings indicate SRC3 may also act as an oncogene in neuroendocrine cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3245.
Intelligence and regional brain volumes in normal controls

Abstract The relationship between brain size and intelligence was examined in a large sample of healthy normal volunteers (N = 90). In addition to confirmation of the small but significant relationship between IQ and whole brain volume (r = 0.25, p
Improved rapidity and precision in the determination of brain 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphohydrolase☆

Abstract A rapid and precise method for the determination of brain 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphohydrolase (CNP) activity has been developed. Total brain homogenates were treated with deoxycholate, and CNP activity was measured as inorganic phosphate (phosphomolybdic acid, 410 nm) released from the product, 2′-AMP, by alkaline phosphatase. Measurements were carried out under optimal conditions of temperature (30°C) and pH (6.2) using the whole brain of the rat, chicken, and quaking mouse. The entire assay was applicable to multiple samples and could be completed in less than 1 hr.
Concept for a high-resolution thermometer utilizing the temperature dependence of the magnetic penetration depth

A thermometer using the temperature dependence of the magnetic penetration depth in superconductors is described which has the potential for temperature resolution, when using a DC superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) readout, on the order of 1 pK. One such device has been fabricated and characterized to demonstrate proof of concept. It consists of primary and secondary coils of NbTi wire wound on a copper toroidal core on which a thin ( approximately 15-nm) layer of In (T/sub c/=3.4 K) has been deposited. The temperature dependence of the mutual inductance, M(T), or self-inductance, is used to detect changes in temperature. Measurements of M(T) have been made with an AC excitation of the primary for various frequencies and peak magnetic field strengths. Estimates of ultimate temperature resolution are given. >
Axion emissions from Supernova 1987

Abstract We review various assumptions and approximations that are made in the recent theoretical calculations based on the one-pion-exchange approximation of the nucleon-nucleon axion bremsstrahlung amplitude from Supernova 1987A. These calculations indicate that the lower limit of the invisible axion decay constant Fa is upscaled above 1010 GeV so that the window of Fa is significantly narrowed.
Modifying welding process parameters can reduce the neurotoxic potential of manganese-containing welding fumes

Welding fumes (WF) are a complex mixture of toxic metals and gases, inhalation of which can lead to adverse health effects among welders. The presence of manganese (Mn) in welding electrodes is cause for concern about the potential development of Parkinson's disease (PD)-like neurological disorder. Consequently, from an occupational safety perspective, there is a critical need to prevent adverse exposures to WF. As the fume generation rate and physicochemical characteristics of welding aerosols are influenced by welding process parameters like voltage, current or shielding gas, we sought to determine if changing such parameters can alter the fume profile and consequently its neurotoxic potential. Specifically, we evaluated the influence of voltage on fume composition and neurotoxic outcome. Rats were exposed by whole-body inhalation (40 mg/m(3); 3h/day × 5 d/week × 2 weeks) to fumes generated by gas-metal arc welding using stainless steel electrodes (GMA-SS) at standard/regular voltage (25 V; RVSS) or high voltage (30 V; HVSS). Fumes generated under these conditions exhibited similar particulate morphology, appearing as chain-like aggregates; however, HVSS fumes comprised of a larger fraction of ultrafine particulates that are generally considered to be more toxic than their fine counterparts. Paradoxically, exposure to HVSS fumes did not elicit dopaminergic neurotoxicity, as monitored by the expression of dopaminergic and PD-related markers. We show that the lack of neurotoxicity is due to reduced solubility of Mn in HVSS fumes. Our findings show promise for process control procedures in developing prevention strategies for Mn-related neurotoxicity during welding; however, it warrants additional investigations to determine if such modifications can be suitably adapted at the workplace to avert or reduce adverse neurological risks.
Endoscopic full-thickness closure of large gastric perforations by use of tissue anchors

Background A flexible needle-catheter tissue-anchoring device was developed to accomplish full-thickness tissue apposition of the GI wall. The aim of this study was to identify the performance of this device for repair of large iatrogenic gastric perforations in a porcine model. Objectives Six pigs. Design Short-term survival animal study. Settings Pigs were studied while they were under general anesthesia. Device performance in differing gastric locations and wall thicknesses was assessed by 2 perforations more than 2 cm in size created for each pig along the greater curvature and the anterior wall. Interventions Each perforation was closed by parallel placement of tissue anchor sets sequentially along the length of the perforation. Main Outcome Measurements One week follow-up endoscopy and necropsy were performed. Results Twelve perforations were closed with the 48 tissue anchor sets. All animals survived for 1 week without clinical complications. Follow-up endoscopy and necropsy revealed that all tissue anchors remained with firmly held sutures and sealed perforations. Conclusions Full-thickness closure with a new tissue-anchoring device simply and successfully repaired large iatrogenic gastric perforations.
Transverse magnetic loss of metallic whispering gallery waveguides at 10.6 μm

The TM losses of metallic whispering gallery waveguides in the IR have been calculated for a range of angles of incidence. The allowed angles of incidence have been calculated from the caustic of the rays associated with particular modes. In many practical situations the pseudo-Brewster angle is large compared with the allowed ray angles, so that the usual assumptions must be reconsidered. In that case we find that the TM losses are much lower than generally assumed and that the TM and TE loss ratio is independent of the wall material. Experimental verification of these conclusions is presented.
On the stability of solution methods for band Toeplitz systems

Abstract This paper is concerned with the numerical stability of inversion algorithms for banded Toeplitz systems. We analyze the numerical behavior of one algorithm due to B.W. Dickinson [IEEE Trans. Acoust. Speech Signal Process. 27:421–423 (1979)] and two algorithms due to A.K. Jain [IEEE Trans. Acoust. Speech Signal Process. 26:121–126 (1978)]. We show that none of the three algorithms is weakly stable when used to invert symmetric positive definite systems. One of Jain's algorithms is shown to be weakly stable when used to invert a symmetric banded Toeplitz matrix with a well-conditioned positive definite infinite extension. We present a new algorithm which is weakly stable under a more general condition and can be modified to invert certain Toeplitz-like matrices.
Employment transitions and the cycle of income inequality in postindustrial societies

This article presents the claim that the current transition from service to knowledge employment impacts income inequality in a manner that is comparable to the previous transition from agriculture...
Gibberellin A12 and gibberellin A12-7-aldehyde as endogenous compounds in developing seeds of Pisum sativum

Abstract While gibberellin (GA) A12 and GA12-7-aldehyde have been well established as intermediates in GA biosynthesis, their presence in higher plants has not been conclusively demonstrated, with the exception of GA12-aldehyde in mature pea seeds. High specific activity [14C] GA12 and [14C]GA12-aldehyde were synthesized enzymatically from [4,5-14C]mevalonic acid, using a pumpkin endosperm preparation, and purified by HPLC. These were added to developing pea seeds during homogenization and the radioactive material purified by HPLC. Mass spectra of GA12 and GA12-aldehyde were obtained following gas chromatography. The ratio of the 12C to 14C mass ions for the radio-labelled GAs, and the seed extract with added radio-labelled GAs as internal standards, was examined. There was a 123 and a 579% enrichment of the 12C present in the GA12 and GA12-aldehyde spectra, respectively, relative to 14C, proving the presence of endogenous GA12 and GA12-aldehyde in the developing pea seeds. The amounts present were very low, namely 1.2 ng/g fresh weight for GA12 and 8.4 ng/g fresh weight for GA12-aldehyde.
Studies on oxygen consumption in digenetic trematodes. VI. The influence of temperature on larval trematodes.

Abstract 1. 1. The metabolic response of two species of larval trematodes has been determined at temperatures varying from 6–41 ° C. 2. 2. The two species of trematodes used are Himasthla quissetensis , found in sea gulls in the adult stage, and Zoogonus rubellus , which utilizes marine fish as the definitive host. The larval stages of both species are found in the mud-flat snail, Nassarius obsoleta . 3. 3. The larvae of the fish parasite die within a half hour at 39 ° C, while the larvae of the bird parasite were still alive and active at the end of a six hour period at 41 ° C. 4. 4. The Q 10 values of the larvae of H. quissetensis tended to reflect the temperature of the definitive host.
The GRE Analytical Writing Test: Description and Utilization

We surveyed graduate programs to see how they use the Graduate Record Examination Analytic Writing (GRE-AW) Test. Only 35% of the graduate programs that responded use the GRE-AW test in their admission policy; of the programs not using it, most do not plan to do so. The programs using the GRE-AW rated it as medium or low in importance in their admission decisions. Few programs have cutoff scores. Approximately 8% reported using an initial validation study; about half reported considering or running an ongoing validation study. We urge program coordinators to evaluate the potential benefits of the GRE-AW as part of admissions decisions and the Educational Testing Service to help coordinators do so.
Dehalogenimonas lykanthroporepellens BL-DC-9T simultaneously transcribes many rdhA genes during organohalide respiration with 1,2-DCA, 1,2-DCP, and 1,2,3-TCP as electron acceptors.

The genome sequence of the organohalide-respiring bacterium Dehalogenimonas lykanthroporepellensBL-DC-9(T) contains numerous loci annotated as reductive dehalogenase homologous (rdh) genes based on inferred protein sequence identity with functional dehalogenases of other bacterial species. Many of these genes are truncated, lack adjacent regulatory elements, or lack cognate genes coding for membrane-anchoring proteins typical of the functionally characterized active reductive dehalogenases of organohalide-respiring bacteria. To investigate the expression patterns of the rdh genes in D. lykanthroporepellensBL-DC-9(T), oligonucleotide primers were designed to uniquely target 25 rdh genes present in the genome as well as four putative regulatory genes. RNA extracts from cultures of strain BL-DC-9(T) actively dechlorinating three different electron acceptors, 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,2-dichloropropane, and 1,2,3-trichloropropane were reverse-transcribed and subjected to PCR amplification using rdh-specific primers. Nineteen rdh gene transcripts, including 13 full-length rdhA genes, six truncated rdhA genes, and five rdhA genes having cognate rdhB genes were consistently detected during the dechlorination of all three of the polychlorinated alkanes tested. Transcripts from all four of the putative regulatory genes were also consistently detected. Results reported here expand the diversity of bacteria known to simultaneously transcribe multiple rdh genes and provide insights into the transcription factors associated with rdh gene expression.
Response of spinal cord blood flow to the nitric oxide inhibitor nitroarginine.

Objective The extent to which nitric oxide (NO) is involved in the modulation of spinal cord blood flow (SCBF) in the uninjured and injured cord is unknown. To elucidate these questions, the following experiments in anesthetized rats were conducted. Methods Because NO is an unstable free radical with a half-life of seconds, its role can be understood through the study of the NO synthase inhibitor L-NG-nitroarginine (L-NOARG). L-NOARG was administered intravenously for 30 minutes at a dose of 100 or 500 micrograms/kg/min in 12 and 10 uninjured animals, respectively. SCBF fluctuations at C7-T1 were measured using laser doppler flowmetry. In a second set of 12 rats, L-NOARG (500 micrograms/kg/min) was administered 10 minutes before spinal cord injury using a modified aneurysm clip at C7-T1 and continued for 30 minutes thereafter. Results In the uninjured animals, L-NOARG was associated with a dose-dependent increase in mean arterial pressure of 20 to 80% above baseline (P = 0.0001), together with a dose-related decrease in SCBF (P = 0.0373). In the injured animals, L-NOARG was associated with a 48% increase in mean arterial pressure. With L-NOARG, the changes in SCBF from baseline after injury were similar to those of noninjured controls (n = 25) and significantly less than injury controls (n = 18) or those receiving phenylephrine (n = 8). Conclusion NO synthase inhibitors, by reducing available NO, cause systemic vasoconstriction and a decrease in SCBF in the uninjured spinal cord. In the injured spinal cord, the administration of L-NOARG results in a redistribution of blood flow with an augmentation in posttraumatic SCBF at the injury site.