cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Learning of dynamic variations of N-dimension patterns in a noniterative neural network

In a set of preprocessed N-dimension, analog pattern vectors {Um, m=1 to M, each Um represents a distinct pattern}, if N>>M, then a one-layered sign-function neural network (OLNN) is sufficient to do a very robust, yet very accurate, noniterative-learning of all patterns. After the learning is done, the OLNN will make an accurate identification on an untrained test pattern even when the test pattern is varying within a certain dynamic range of a particular standard pattern learned during the noniterative learning process. The analytical foundation for making this dynamic neural network pattern recognition possible is the following. If we know that a standard pattern Um will vary gradually among K boundary patterns Um1 to Umk, then we can train the neural network noniteratively to learn JUST THE BOUNDARY vectors {Umi, i=1 to k} for each pattern Um. Then, due to a distinctive property of noniterative learning, for a test input pattern Ut equal to any graduate changes within the boundaries (i.e., Ut = any CONVEX combination of the boundary set {Umi, i=1 to k, m fixed.}), the OLNN can still automatically recognize this changed pattern even though all these gradually changed pattern are NOT learned step by step in the noniterative learning.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Age, growth, and mortality of Joffrichthys triangulpterus (Teleostei: Osteoglossidae) from the Paleocene Sentinel Butte Formation, North Dakota, U.S.A.

Abstract Fossilized Joffrichthys triangulpterus scales collected from an ancient lake site in the Paleocene Sentinel Butte Formation near Almont, North Dakota, provide an opportunity to estimate growth, natural mortality, and survival for this species. Based on 166 J. triangulpterus scales, fish ages ranged from zero through nine years old. Four scale-covered skeletons were also recovered and aged at zero, zero, one, and four years of life. Based on an age-frequency histogram, age groups zero, one, and two are clearly under-represented at the Almont site, suggesting they likely inhabited different areas of the lake system, perhaps due to habitat partitioning between juveniles and adults in the lake. Instantaneous natural mortality (M) determined from age-frequency data indicates the average annual mortality of age three and older J. triangulpterus was –0.456 (r2 = 0.958), which is similar to numerous extant fish mortality curves. A Von Bertalanffy growth curve (r2 = 0.977) indicates that growth of J. tria...
Impact of Three-Dimensional Vision in Laparoscopic Training

Simulators are being used to teach laparoscopic skills before residents get to the operating room. It is unknown whether the use of three-dimensional (3D) vision will facilitate laparoscopic training. Therefore, our objective was to compare the effectiveness of using 3D imaging over the traditional two-dimensional (2D) imaging to teach laparoscopic simulator skills to novice individuals and assess whether 3D imaging ameliorates laparoscopic performance for surgeons who have already adapted to working within a 2D surgical environment. This prospective study involved 36 surgical residents and students. Inexperienced participants included medical students and first- and second-year surgical residents (n = 25). Experienced participants included third- and fifth-year surgical residents (n = 11). Participants were tested on six laparoscopic skills using 2D or 3D imaging systems and then retested about 3 months later using the opposing imaging system. Evaluation of performance was based on the time elapsed to task completion and the errors committed during that time. The experienced participants performed better than the inexperienced participants regardless of the imaging system. Inexperienced participants initially tested using 2D imaging required significantly more time and/or made more errors to complete five of the six laparoscopic tasks compared to those initially tested using 3D imaging (p < 0.05). After initial testing on 3D imaging, inexperienced participants retested using 2D imaging performed significantly better on five of six tasks compared to the scores of inexperienced participants initially tested on 2D imaging (p < 0.05). In contrast, the inexperienced participants’ retested on 3D after initial 2D imaging did not improve on any laparoscopic task compared to the scores of inexperienced participants initially tested on 3D imaging. Among the experienced participants, no significant difference in time or errors to task completion was observed under 2D imaging compared to 3D imaging during the first or second testing session. Our study indicates that 3D imaging offers significant advantages in the teaching of laparoscopic skills to inexperienced individuals.
Enhanced H2 Sensing of SnO2 Nanowires Functionalized with Pt and Pd Catalyst Nanoparticles

SnO2 nanowires with a tetragonal structure were synthesized by thermal evaporation of tin grains at 900 °C. The obtained SnO2 nanowires were doped with Pt and Pd. The morphology, crystal structure, and H2 sensing properties of undoped, Pt-doped, and Pd-doped SnO2 nanowires were investigated. SnO2 nanowires were approximately 30–200 nm in diameter and several tens of micrometers in length. Gas sensors based on undoped, Pt-doped, and Pd-doped SnO2 nanowires showed a reversible response to H2 at an operating temperature of RT–300 °C. The response was improved in the order undoped < Pt-doped < Pd-doped SnO2 nanowire sensors under the same conditions. The highest response upon exposure to 1000 ppm H2 was 252.9 at 100 °C for Pd-doped SnO2 nanowire sensor. The results demonstrated that impurity doping improved the sensor response and lowered the operating temperature at which the sensor response was maximized.
The determination of total circulating serum proteins and erythrocyte volumes in normal and protein depleted rats.

SummaryA method is described using the dye T-1824 to measure total blood, plasma and circulating erythrocyte volumes in rats. The method employs a single sample of blood taken 5 minutes after the injection of the dye. Certain precautions necessary to obtain accurate measurements of dye in diluted blood samples are discussed. Data are presented for normal adult rats fed (1) an 18% casein diet, (2) and for adult rats fed a low protein diet for 3 months.
Evaluating Community-Based Nutrition-Programs: Comparing Grocery Store and Individual-Level Survey Measures of Program Impact

Abstract Background . This paper examines whether an "environmental indicator"-a survey of grocery store product displays-can provide a realistic alternative to individual-level telephone surveys for the evaluation of community-based nutrition programs. Methods . Telephone and grocery store measures were used separately to evaluate three community-level dietary interventions that were part of the Kaiser Family Foundation Community Health Promotion Grants Program (CHPGP). Both surveys were conducted in the three intervention and seven control communities at three points in time: 1988, 1990, and 1992. The grocery store survey recorded the relative availability of low-fat and high-fiber products and the amount of store-provided health-education information. Self-reported dietary intake of residents was obtained in the same communities using a telephone survey. Results . In the one community in which the intervention seemed to have contributed to reduced fat consumption, the grocery store and telephone surveys showed very similar relative changes for the only variable they had in common, low-fat milk consumption. In another community, bath survey approaches indicated that there was no change or perhaps a slight worsening in the treatment relative to the controls. The third community produced the only contradictory results: the telephone survey suggested no change or perhaps a worsening, while the grocery store results were generally positive, though not statistically significant. Conclusion . These results, combined with the much lower cost of the grocery store survey, justify further pursuit of environmental indicators as an evaluation tool.
Intracellular Kinetics of Free Catalytic Units Dissociated from Adenosine 3′,5′-Monophosphate-Dependent Protein Kinase in Adrenocortical Tumor Cells (Y-1)

To define the role of cAMP in the actions of ACTH, the dissociation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase and the subsequent intracellular location of its free catalytic units were monitored after exposure of Y-1 cells to ACTH, FSH, or cyclic nucleotide analog. To accomplish this, a fluorescinated cytochemical probe was used that complexes specifically with free catalytic units from cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Also, the effects of hormone or nucleotide on secretion of fluorogenic steroids and DNA synthesis were examined. Y-1 cells dissociated protein kinase in a dose-dependent fashion when exposed to ACTH or cAMP analog, but did not respond to FSH, which was one of the control agents used. After 30 min of treatment with 1.5 × 10–10 M ACTH, free catalytic units were observed only in the cytoplasm of Y-1 cells, whereas a similar time of exposure to 3 × 10–10 M ACTH led to the appearance of catalytic units in nucleolus as well as in cytoplasm. ACTH (6 × 10–10 M) caused a rise in cytoplasmic and nucleolar prote...
The problem of the 1,2,9,10-tetraoxygenated aporphines and the structure of the quaternary aporphine from Fagara tinguassoiba.

Abstract Authentic 1-hydroxy-2,9,10-trimethoxyaporphine (II) has been synthesized, and its N-methyl salt shown to correspond to the quaternary alkaloid from Fagara tinguassoiba . Natural glaucentrine corresponds to corydine (XIX) rather than to structures II or XI.
The influence of skeletal muscle on systemic aging and lifespan

Epidemiological studies in humans suggest that skeletal muscle aging is a risk factor for the development of several age-related diseases such as metabolic syndrome, cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Here, we review recent studies in mammals and Drosophila highlighting how nutrient- and stress-sensing in skeletal muscle can influence lifespan and overall aging of the organism. In addition to exercise and indirect effects of muscle metabolism, growing evidence suggests that muscle-derived growth factors and cytokines, known as myokines, modulate systemic physiology. Myokines may influence the progression of age-related diseases and contribute to the intertissue communication that underlies systemic aging.
Evolution of Soviet Policy Toward the Middle East

Approach as near as possible to Constantinople and India. Whoever governs there will be the true sovereign of the world. Consequently, excite continual wars not only in Turkey but in Persia. Establish dockyards on the Black Sea; seize upon little pieces near this sea as well as on the Baltic which is doubly necessary for the attainment of our project. And in the decadence of Persia penetrate as far as the Persian Gulf; re-establish if it be possible, the ancient commerce with the Levant; advance as far as India, which is the depot of the world. Arrived at this point, we shall have no longer need of England's gold.'
SIMPLE PROOFS OF SOME RESULTS OF RESHETNYAK

In this note, we give simpler proofs of the classical continuity and lower semicontinuity theorems of Reshetnyak.
Fractionating condensation and evaporation in plate-fin devices

A model that describes fractionation with condensation and evaporation in a plate-fin device has been formulated. It is capable of evaluating profiles of composition, temperature, and flow rate for both liquid and vapor streams in an extended surface device. The device may be adiabatic or nonadiabatic and the surface may be incompletely wetted. Compared to experimental measurements, the model predictions showed ± 1 number of transfer unit deviation along the length of the device. The predictions of the top and bottom flow rate ratio showed a 5–10% deviation for adiabatic and condensation runs and a 25% deviation for evaporation runs.
Multiple access in broadband satellite networks

This paper proposes a multiple access algorithm for broadband satellite communication networks. The access channel is the slotted Aloha contention channel. The performance of the algorithm is analyzed considering user terminal time uncertainty, power uncertainty, minimizing co-channel interference as well as non-perfect feedback information from the central receiver. It is shown that reliable access can be achieved with a reasonably small delay by employing the proposed algorithm.
Randomized routing, selection, and sorting on the OTIS-mesh

The Optical Transpose Interconnection System (OTIS) is a recently proposed model of computing that exploits the special features of both electronic and optical technologies. In this paper we present efficient algorithms for packet routing, sorting, and selection on the OTIS-Mesh. The diameter of an N/sup 2/-processor OTIS-Mesh is 4/spl radic/N-3. We present an algorithm for routing any partial permutation in 4/spl radic/N+o(/spl radic/N) time. Our selection algorithm runs in time 6/spl radic/N+o(/spl radic/N) and our sorting algorithm runs in 8/spl radic/N+o(/spl radic/N) time. All these algorithms are randomized and the stated time bounds hold with high probability. Also, the queue size needed for these algorithms is O(1) with high probability.
Propagating the missing bacteriophages: a large bacteriophage in a new class

The number of successful propagations/isolations of soil-borne bacteriophages is small in comparison to the number of bacteriophages observed by microscopy (great plaque count anomaly). As one resolution of the great plaque count anomaly, we use propagation in ultra-dilute agarose gels to isolate a Bacillus thuringiensis bacteriophage with a large head (95 nm in diameter), tail (486 × 26 nm), corkscrew-like tail fibers (187 × 10 nm) and genome (221 Kb) that cannot be detected by the usual procedures of microbiology. This new bacteriophage, called 0305φ8-36 (first number is month/year of isolation; remaining two numbers identify the host and bacteriophage), has a high dependence of plaque size on the concentration of a supporting agarose gel. Bacteriophage 0305φ8-36 does not propagate in the traditional gels used for bacteriophage plaque formation and also does not produce visible lysis of liquid cultures. Bacteriophage 0305φ8-36 aggregates and, during de novo isolation from the environment, is likely to be invisible to procedures of physical detection that use either filtration or centrifugal pelleting to remove bacteria. Bacteriophage 0305φ8-36 is in a new genomic class, based on genes for both structural components and DNA packaging ATPase. Thus, knowledge of environmental virus diversity is expanded with prospect of greater future expansion.
Characterization of NixCo1?xO/ZrO2(CaO) directionally solidified eutectic (DSE) ceramic composites with a ductile interphase

NixCo1−xO/ZrO2(CaO) directionally solidified eutectics (DSEs) form a ductile metallic interphase after they are chemically reduced at high temperatures. Vickers indentation tests have previously shown a significant change in the crack propagation behavior of the reduced composites due to plastic deformation and strain energy absorption mechanisms operating in the system after reduction. This paper focuses on structural and chemical characterization of NixCo1−xO/ZrO2(CaO) DSEs after reduction. Analytical transmission electron microscopy techniques such as energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) show elimination of oxygen and formation of nanoscale Ni(Co) solid.
MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Secondary osteoporosis: pathophysiology and management

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased mass and compromised bone strength predisposing to an increased risk of fractures. Although idiopathic osteoporosis is the most common form of osteoporosis, secondary factors may contribute to the bone loss and increased fracture risk in patients presenting with fragility fractures or osteoporosis. Several medical conditions and medications significantly increase the risk for bone loss and skeletal fragility. This review focuses on some of the common causes of osteoporosis, addressing the underlying mechanisms, diagnostic approach and treatment of low bone mass in the presence of these conditions.
Inbreeding Depression and Male Survivorship in Drosophila: Implications for Senescence Theory

The extent to which inbreeding depression affects longevity and patterns of survivorship is an important issue from several research perspectives, including evolutionary biology, conservation biology, and the genetic analysis of quantitative traits. However, few previous inbreeding depression studies have considered longevity as a focal life-history trait. We maintained laboratory populations of Drosophila melanogaster at census population sizes of 2 and 10 male-female pairs for up to 66 generations and performed repeated assays of male survivorship throughout this time period. On average, significant levels of inbreeding depression were observed for median life span and age-specific mortality. For age-specific mortality, the severity of inbreeding depression increased over the life span. We found that a baseline inbreeding load of 0.307 lethal equivalents per gamete affected age-specific mortality, and that this value increased at a rate of 0.046 per day of the life span. With respect to some survivorship parameters, the differentiation of lineages was nonlinear with respect to the inbreeding coefficient, which suggested that nonadditive genetic variation contributed to variation among lineages. These findings provide insights into the genetic basis of longevity as a quantitative trait and have implications regarding the mutation-accumulation evolutionary explanation of senescence.
Dynamic performance of low-thrust, cold-gas reaction jets in a vacuum.

The pulsed propulsive performance of low-thrust reaction jets, typical of those used for attitude control of small spacecraft, is analyzed and compared with the results of laboratory experiments on H2, N2, NHs, Freon-12, and Freon-14 using a 48:1 expansion-ratio nozzle. The transient processes which dominate the short-pulse or limit-cycle mode of thruster operation are formulated. These relationships show good correlation with the data. The experimental techniques used to obtain accurate measurements of pulsed total impulse lower than 10 ~3 Ib-sec/pulse and to determine values of pulsed gas consumption less than 10 ~5 Ib/pulse are described. Impulse bit size, gas consumption, and specific impulse are characterized in terms of thruster geometry, gas properties, and command pulse width to provide a basis for optimum system design. A simplified method for calculating these quantities as a function of command pulse width is developed. Finally, the influence of tank and propellant weights, as well as specific impulse (/), on the effective specific impulse (/eff) of the gases tested is evaluated. On this basis, NHs, stored as a liquid, has /eff = 75 sec, compared to / eff = 30 sec for Freon-14, Freon-12, and N2. H2 with the highest / (260 sec) has the lowest 7eff (13 sec). The final selection of one propellant over another, however, requires a detailed design study for a particular mission.
Nonlinear excitation control of a single machine infinite-bus power system

The objective of the paper is to apply the concept of exact stochastic feedback linearization to design a nonlinear excitation controller for a single machine-infinite bus power system. Simulations are carried out and the performance of the proposed controller is compared to a well known existing controller (PSS). The results confirm that the proposed control design increases the stability margin of the system, while maintaining good performance in the presence of major disturbances. >
Host specificity of Bangasternus orientalis Capiomont (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) introduced into the United States for biological control of yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis L., Asteraceae: Carduae)

The weevil Bangastemus orientalis Capiomont was selected as a candidate for the biological control of Centaurea solstitialis L. (yellow starthistle) in the United States. Its potential host range was studied during 1982, 1983, and 1984 in Rome, Italy, using populations collected from C. solstitialis in Thermi near Thessaloniki and Kozani in northern Greece. Adults laid eggs only on members of the genus Centaurea and the thistle Onopordum acanthium; eggs laid on 0. acanthiwl1 hatched but 1st instars died before entering buds. There was no significant difference in the number of eggs laid on various U.S. and Italian strains of C. solstitialis included in the tests. Eggs were not deposited on plant species of economic importance such as Cynara scolymus, Heliantlws an11U1l8, Carthamus tinctorills, and Lactuca sativa. Larvae completed their larval development only on C. solstitialis from Greece and on U. S. and Italian populations of C. solstitialis among the 60 plant species, varieties, and strains (in 7 families) tested. This restricted host range suggested introduction of this weevil as a biological control agent against yellow starthistle in the United States. Releases of B. oricntalis were made in California, Washington, Idaho, and Oregon in 198.5 and it became established in all states in 1989.
Risk Factors for Tracheostomy and Effect of Tracheostomy Timing on Outcome in the Elderly Critically Ill Surgical Patient

Background: Controversy remains regarding optimal timing of tracheostomy (T). We performed a retrospective cohort study to determine if there was any benefit to early T; independent risk factors for T were also to be determined. Methods: ICU patients on mechanical ventilation (MV) from March 2004 - 2006 (n = 651) were extracted from our ICU database, with 114 patients undergoing a T. Outcomes for early (E) (≤ 10 d) T vs. late (L) (> 10 d) T were compared. A multivariate analysis was performed with the presence or absence of T being the dichotomous dependent variable. Data are presented as median (25th, 75th percentile). Results: Compared with patients who did not require a T, those who did were older and had higher APACHE II scores; they also had an increased incidence of CHF, vasopressor dependence, and being on the neurosurgical service. Both ICU LOS and hospital LOS were significantly lower in group E vs. group L. Conclusions: In our cohort of elderly, critically ill, surgical patients, benefits associ...
Towards a theory model for product search

With the growing pervasiveness of the Internet, online search for products and services is constantly increasing. Most product search engines are based on adaptations of theoretical models devised for information retrieval. However, the decision mechanism that underlies the process of buying a product is different than the process of locating relevant documents or objects.We propose a theory model for product search based on expected utility theory from economics. Specifically, we propose a ranking technique in which we rank highest the products that generate the highest surplus, after the purchase. In a sense, the top ranked products are the "best value for money" for a specific user. Our approach builds on research on "demand estimation" from economics and presents a solid theoretical foundation on which further research can build on. We build algorithms that take into account consumer demographics, heterogeneity of consumer preferences, and also account for the varying price of the products. We show how to achieve this without knowing the demographics or purchasing histories of individual consumers but by using aggregate demand data. We evaluate our work, by applying the techniques on hotel search. Our extensive user studies, using more than 15,000 user-provided ranking comparisons, demonstrate an overwhelming preference for the rankings generated by our techniques, compared to a large number of existing strong state-of-the-art baselines.
Nitrogen dynamics during O3-induced accelerated senescence in hybrid poplar

Experiments were conducted to determine the fate of nitrogen (N) remobilized as a result of ozone (O 3 )-induced accelerated senescence in hybrid poplar subjected to declining N availability concurrent with O 3 stress. Cuttings were grown in sand culture where the supply of N to the plant could be controlled on a daily basis and reduced in half of the plants when desired. Plants all initially received 3·57 m M N daily until approximately the 20 leaf stage after which daily supply of N was reduced to 0·71 m M . Plants were grown in open-top chambers in the field (Rock Springs, PA, USA) and received charcoal-filtered air, half also received supplemental O 3 to a level of 0·08 µ L L − 1 . Allocation of newly acquired N was determined with 15 N. The specific allocation (mg labelled N mg − 1 total N) of labelled N to upper, expanding leaf N was not affected by O 3 , but was strongly affected by N treatment. However, O 3 increased the relative partitioning of labelled N to the expanding leaves and the roots. The balance between partitioning of newly acquired N to the upper leaves and roots was not affected by O 3 , but was reduced by N withdrawal. Calculated net N flux was strongly negative in the lower leaves of O 3 -exposed, N withdrawal plants. Nitrogen uptake was not reduced by O 3 . The allometric relationships between the roots and shoots were not affected by O 3 or N availability. The relative contribution of newly acquired versus remobilized N to new growth appears to be determined by N supply. Ozone exposure alters the allocation of newly acquired N via alterations in plant size, whereas N availability exerts a strong effect upon both plant size and N allocation.
Homo-dimerization and ligand binding by the leucine-rich repeat domain at RHG1/RFS2 underlying resistance to two soybean pathogens

Background: The protein encoded by GmRLK18-1 (Glyma_18_02680 on chromosome 18) was a receptor like kinase (RLK) encoded within the soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) Rhg1/Rfs2 locus. The locus underlies resistance to the soybean cyst nematode (SCN) Heterodera glycines (I.) and causal agent of sudden death syndrome (SDS) Fusarium virguliforme (Aoki). Previously the leucine rich repeat (LRR) domain was expressed in Escherichia coli. Results: The aims here were to evaluate the LRRs ability to; homo-dimerize; bind larger proteins; and bind to small peptides. Western analysis suggested homo-dimers could form after protein extraction from roots. The purified LRR domain, from residue 131–485, was seen to form a mixture of monomers and homo-dimers in vitro. Cross-linking experiments in vitro showed the H274N region was close (<11.1 A) to the highly conserved cysteine residue C196 on the second homo-dimer subunit. Binding constants of 20–142 nM for peptides found in plant and nematode secretions were found. Effects on plant phenotypes including wilting, stem bending and resistance to infection by SCN were observed when roots were treated with 50 pM of the peptides. Far-Western analyses followed by MS showed methionine synthase and cyclophilin bound strongly to the LRR domain. A second LRR from GmRLK08-1 (Glyma_08_g11350) did not show these strong interactions. Conclusions: The LRR domain of the GmRLK18-1 protein formed both a monomer and a homo-dimer. The LRR domain bound avidly to 4 different CLE peptides, a cyclophilin and a methionine synthase. The CLE peptides GmTGIF, GmCLE34, GmCLE3 and HgCLE were previously reported to be involved in root growth inhibition but here GmTGIF and HgCLE were shown to alter stem morphology and resistance to SCN. One of several models from homology and ab-initio modeling was partially validated by cross-linking. The effect of the 3 amino acid replacements present among RLK allotypes, A87V, Q115K and H274N were predicted to alter domain stability and function. Therefore, the LRR domain of GmRLK18-1 might underlie both root development and disease resistance in soybean and provide an avenue to develop new variants and ligands that might promote reduced losses to SCN.
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PRODUCTIVITY AND NUTRIENT CIRCULATION WITHIN TWO CONTRASTING SOUTHEASTERN U.S. FLOODPLAIN FORESTS

Patterns of nutrient circulation were examined to provide insight into the controlling mechanisms behind differences in aboveground net primary production (ANPP) among floodplain forest types. Geochemical and biogeochemical contrasts typical of many riverine forests are exemplified by the floodplains of the Satilla and Altamaha Rivers, blackwater and redwater river systems, respectively, located in Georgia, USA. Since floodplains possess high microtopographic variation, measurement plots were established to cover a range of topographic positions across both floodplains. Given the low nutrient and sediment loads that are characteristic of blackwater rivers, we hypothesized that the Satilla floodplain (SAT) would have lower ANPP and more efficient nutrient use efficiency (NUE). While both floodplains had similar amounts of litterfall production, the Altamaha floodplain (ALT) had greater stem production and, therefore, higher rates of ANPP. On the SAT, the relationship between litterfall mass and litterfall phosphorus (P) content, high P NUE, and high P resorption proficiency suggested that P was the primary limiting nutrient. While (N) circulation patterns were similar for the floodplains, ALT floodplain litterfall N/P ratios and N NUE suggested that N limitation was paramount there. Patterns of base cation circulation on the SAT indicated low calcium and potassium circulation and higher NUE of these elements compared to the ALT. In contrast, the Altamaha floodplain displayed low magnesium (Mg) circulation and high Mg NUE. Differences in P circulation and P NUE appeared to have the largest influence on ANPP between these eutrophic (ALT) and oligotrophic (SAT) floodplain forests. Furthermore, differences in base cation circulation and NUE suggested that biogeochemical distinctions between these two floodplain types could be made on the basis of base cation availability.
Low Recurrence Rate of Pterygium After Excision With Conjunctival Limbal Autograft: A Retrospective Study With Long-Term Follow-Up.

Purpose Pterygium excision with conjunctival limbal autograft (CLAG) has been used successfully for prevention of pterygium recurrence. However, long-term follow-up data in the literature are lacking regarding CLAG. Methods Retrospective chart review and standard statistical analysis were performed. The records of 289 patients who underwent 323 pterygium excision procedures with CLAG, performed by a single surgeon using the same technique between August 1989 and July 2013, were reviewed. Procedures with at least 4 months of follow-up were included in the final analysis. Results A total of 234 procedures met the inclusion criteria. After a median follow-up of 25.5 months, there were 5 recurrences (2.14%) after pterygium excision with CLAG. Recurrences were observed in 4 of 58 (6.9%) cases with recurrent pterygium and 1 of 178 (0.57%) with primary pterygium. Conclusions This study highlights the safety and efficacy of CLAG in preventing the recurrence of primary and recurrent pterygium.
Budesonide as first-line therapy for non-cirrhotic autoimmune hepatitis in children: a decision analysis

ABSTRACTObjective Therapy for autoimmune hepatitis has been prednisone based for decades; however, budesonide may be equally effective with fewer side effects. Our aim was to evaluate quality-adjusted life years and health care costs of three different treatment regimens. Materials and methods Treatment using prednisone, budesonide or a combination of both over a three-year period in newly diagnosed children with type I autoimmune hepatitis were simulated with a Markov model. Transition probabilities were calculated over consecutive three-month period. Costs were determined from a hospital database and health utilities were estimated from the literature. A Monte Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analysis was used to simulate the outcomes of 5000 patients in each treatment arm. Results Compared to standard therapy, budesonide leads to a gain of 0.09 quality-adjusted life years, costing $17,722 per QALY over a three-year period. Standard therapy led to significantly lower QALY’s compared to other strategies (...
Ultrasensitivity of Cell Adhesion to the Differential Mechanical Cues and Requirement of Reversibility

Cell adhesion regulates critical cellular functions in adherent cells. Yet, the fundamental mechanism during the early events in cell adhesion remains unclear. At the most elementary level, the sensing of the mechanical environment must be performed by single molecules in mechanical contact with the environment, and the cell then must be able to process the single molecular events for its decision making. Herein, we utilized our recently developed DNA tether called tension gauge tether (TGT) to study the mechanical requirements of integrin-mediated cell adhesion. Previously, we showed that cells need to experience a threshold force of 40 pN through single integrin-ligand bonds to initiate adhesion and spreading and that just a few copies of strong (∼ 54 pN) TGTs per cell are enough elicit to cell adhesion and spreading as long as there is a high density of weak tethers. Here, we show that 23 pN and 12 pN tethers, which are unable to induce cell adhesion individually, can induce cell adhesion if they are presented together to the cell. Therefore, the cells appear to be able to perform differential force measurements instead of absolute force measurements. Furthermore, we show, by direct single molecule imaging, a cell needs only two copies of 23 pN tethers for such differential force measurements. We also show that such ultrasensitivity to differential mechanical cues requires reversible formation of the weak mechanical tugs through integrins, suggesting that the presence of relatively stronger tethers as nuclei may keep the cell membrane close to the surface. How the cells can make an important decision of adhesion and spreading in response to the presence of just two integrins that experience stronger tension than other integrin molecules do without amplifying noise is current investigation.
Differential volume regulation and calcium signaling in two ciliary body cell types is subserved by TRPV4 channels

Fluid secretion by the ciliary body plays a critical and irreplaceable function in vertebrate vision by providing nutritive support to the cornea and lens, and by maintaining intraocular pressure. Here, we identify TRPV4 (transient receptor potential vanilloid isoform 4) channels as key osmosensors in nonpigmented epithelial (NPE) cells of the mouse ciliary body. Hypotonic swelling and the selective agonist GSK1016790A (EC50 ∼33 nM) induced sustained transmembrane cation currents and cytosolic [Formula: see text] elevations in dissociated and intact NPE cells. Swelling had no effect on [Formula: see text] levels in pigment epithelial (PE) cells, whereas depolarization evoked [Formula: see text] elevations in both NPE and PE cells. Swelling-evoked [Formula: see text] signals were inhibited by the TRPV4 antagonist HC067047 (IC50 ∼0.9 μM) and were absent in Trpv4(-/-) NPE. In NPE, but not PE, swelling-induced [Formula: see text] signals required phospholipase A2 activation. TRPV4 localization to NPE was confirmed with immunolocalization and excitation mapping approaches, whereas in vivo MRI analysis confirmed TRPV4-mediated signals in the intact mouse ciliary body. Trpv2 and Trpv4 were the most abundant vanilloid transcripts in CB. Overall, our results support a model whereby TRPV4 differentially regulates cell volume, lipid, and calcium signals in NPE and PE cell types and therefore represents a potential target for antiglaucoma medications.
Enhanced Cytocompatibility Properties of Hydroxyapatite Doped with Trivalent Ions

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a bone-like ceramic used as a coating for dental and orthopedic implants. It is well known for its good cytocompatibility properties, but is limited in use due to its high solubility within the body and mechanical properties that differ from surrounding tissue and bone. The presentin vitro study investigated a variety of dopants as a way to further enhance the good cytocompatibility properties of HA as well as address these problematic properties. The dopants investigated were divalent (magnesium and zinc) and trivalent (yttrium, lanthanum, indium, and bismuth) ions. Of the trivalent ions, yttrium and indium have smaller ionic radii than calcium. The present study showed osteoblast adhesion to be statistically greater (p < 0.1) on yttrium-doped HA and indium-doped HA than on undoped HA. Since yttrium and indium are both trivalent ions of a smaller ionic radius than calcium, and other ions of different size and charge did not show significant changes in osteoblast adhesion, these results suggest that substituting divalent calcium with a trivalent ion of smaller size encourages osteoblast adhesion.
The Evidence-Based Physical Examination of the Child and Adolescent Male

The well visit for children and adolescents is extremely important in promoting overall physical, social, and emotional health and preventing disease. The purpose of the physical examination is to identify any abnormalities that require further evaluation. This chapter will discuss the physical examination of the natal male from the newborn age through early childhood and adolescence to young adult. When there is evidence to support or refute performing any physical examination technique, it will be discussed in detail. National organizations, chiefly the American Academy of Pediatrics as well as the American Academy of Family Physicians, contribute evidence as well as expert consensus to fill in any gaps in the evidence. The chapter will discuss the physical examination techniques of the genitourinary exam in greater detail than other components of the physical examination. Other aspects of the well-child examination, including pertinent history, anticipatory guidance, and counseling techniques, are discussed in other chapters in this textbook.
Comparison of the effects between single and multiple scattering on coda waves for local earthquakes

The effects of multiple scattering on coda waves have been investigated by an extension of the single-scattering theory. The contributions to the coda power due to multiple scattering from a uniform distribution of isotropic scatterers in a two-dimensional infinite elastic medium have been numerically evaluated. The results show that at shorter lapse time, the coda power is well explained by the single-scattering theory. At longer lapse time, the effects of multiple scattering need to be considered. The neglect of multiple scattering gives rise to an overestimation of the values of the quality factor ( Q ) by a factor of 1.4.
600. Human Gene Therapy for a Synaptic Disease: X-Linked Retinoschisis (XLRS)

We have initiated a clinical trial for an ocular condition that has prominent synaptic dysfunction caused by mutations in an extracellular matrix protein, RS1 (retinoschisin). This report describes our findings on dissection of the molecular pathology at the synapse and reversal of the structural and functional defects when RS1 is introduced into mature Rs1-KO mouse retina using an AAV8 vector. We have started a human trial (NCT02317887) using the same vector, which will probe the synaptic plasticity in XLRS patients. RS1 mutations result in XLRS, a rare but recognized ocular condition that causes splitting of the neural retinal layers and results in intraretinal cysts. Medical attention generally was focused on the structural abnormalities of XLRS. However, visual function testing shows a selective depression of the electroretinogram (ERG) b-wave despite a normal a-wave, indicating intact photoreceptor responses but deficient post-synaptic signaling.The AAV8-RS1 vector for the murine studies and the clinical trial contains a self-complementary vector genome with the human RS1 promoter and the RS1 cDNA. For synaptic structural studies in adult Rs1-KO retina, 2.5e9 viral vector genomes (vg)/eye were administered by intravitreal injection at postnatal day 30. Retinal morphology, function and pathology were evaluated 2 months post injection, with contralateral untreated eyes as controls.The photoreceptor-depolarizing bipolar cell (DBC) synapse initially develops normally in Rs1 -KO mice, but the mGluR6-TRPM1 signaling cascade elements in the post-synaptic structure are progressively delocalized to the dendritic shaft and soma of the DBC. Concomitantly, the DBC resting membrane potential is altered. This molecular pattern of post-synaptic disruption is different from several other murine night-blindness models which share a “negative-going” ERG response that characterizes murine and human XLRS. Following AAV8-RS1 gene transfer to the XLRS mouse eye, TRPM1 and the signaling molecules return to their proper location at the dendritic tips, and the proper DBC resting membrane potential is restored, along with the ERG b-wave.The clinical trial utilizing the same vector is a prospective, dose-escalation, single-center study conducted at the National Eye Institute. One eye of each participant receives the RS1 gene vector given by intravitreal injection. While the primary outcome is safety, the dose range is scaled to probe possible efficacy.Invoking synaptic plasticity for therapeutic repair would be a desirable treatment strategy for a number of neurological conditions. These findings in Rs1 -KO mice provide insight into the molecular pathology of XLRS disease and demonstrate remarkable plasticity of a critical synapse in the visual system. Reversal of synaptic pathology by an AAV8-RS1 gene construct demonstrates novel possible therapeutic avenues for this and other diseases involving synaptic pathology.
The Effect of GSK3β Inhibitor on Murine Multipotent Adult Progenitor Cells (mMAPCs).

The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is important for maintenance of the undifferentiated state of human embryonic stem cells (ESCs), hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and other stem cells. We here tested if β-catenin activation, by inhibiting GSK3 β with BIO (6-Bromoindirubin-3′-oxime), affects the differentiation status of murine multipotent adult progenitor cells (mMAPCs). mMAPCs were cultured with or without 0.1–2 μ M BIO, LIF, EGF and PDGF-BB, at low density (plating density of 100/cm2 and cells passed every 2 days) or at high confluency (like ESCs). Quantitative RT-PCR (Q-RT-PCR) was done weekly for the ESC-specific pluripotency transcripts, Oct4, Rex1, Nanog, UTF1 and E-Ras, and lineage commitment genes, vWF, VE-cadherin, Sox1, Nestin, CK19, Albumin, HNF3β and AFP. After 2–4 weeks, cells were analyzed by FACS for ESC/MAPC specific antigens, and by immunohistochemsitry for Oct4, β-catenin and E-cadherin protein. Furthermore, cells were differentiated into endothelial cells and hepatocytes by using VEGF-A and HGF/FGF4, respectively for 2 weeks. Q-RT-PCR was used to demonstrate lineage differentiation. BIO caused a dose-dependent clustering of mMAPCs from 4 days after treatment at both cell densities. FACS phenotype of low- and high-density mMAPCs was not affected by BIO. Nanog mRNA was not detected in any of the cell populations. However, Oct4, Rex1, vWF, and CK19 mRNA levels decreased in a BIO dose-dependent manner in mMAPCs maintained at low density, while they acquired higher levels of Sox1 mRNA (P=NS). At high-density, Oct4 and Rex1 mRNA level decreased in a BIO dose-dependent manner for the first week. On the other hand, 0.1 μ M BIO-treatment induced higher levels of Oct4 and Rex1 in cells maintained at high density. β-catenin and E-cadherin protein was highly expressed in clusters of low-density mMAPCs induced by BIO as well as BIO-treated mMAPCs maintained at ESC densities. In both cell densities, only mMAPCs treated with 1 or 2 μM BIO contained large dense mMAPCs clusters that expressed very high levels of β-catenin and E-cadherin. There was no statistical difference of differentiation potential between BIO conditions and cell densities. BIO may not allow culture of mMAPCs without loss of Oct4 as it did for ESCs, but induces clusters like ESCs in a BIO-dose dependent manner. High concentrations of BIO enhances β-catenin and E-cadherin protein expression. BIO may induce lineage commitment of mMAPCs. Despite loss of Oct4 mRNA and protein, MAPCs treated with BIO continue to have the ability to differentiate. Ongoing studies are testing whether BIO treated cells maintained at high density also maintain in vivo engraftment and differentiation potential.
Dopamine D4 receptor stimulation contributes to novel object recognition: Relevance to cognitive impairment in schizophrenia:

Several atypical antipsychotic drugs (APDs) have high affinity for the dopamine (DA) D4 receptor, but the relevance to the efficacy for the treatment of cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of D4 receptor stimulation or blockade on novel object recognition (NOR) in normal rats and on the sub-chronic phencyclidine (PCP)-induced novel object recognition deficit. The effect of the D4 agonist, PD168077, and the D4 antagonist, L-745,870, were studied alone, and in combination with clozapine and lurasidone. In normal rats, L-745,870 impaired novel object recognition, whereas PD168077 had no effect. PD168077 acutely reversed the sub-chronic phencyclidine-induced novel object recognition deficit. Co-administration of a sub-effective dose (SED) of PD168077 with a sub-effective dose of lurasidone also reversed this deficit, but a sub-effective dose of PD168077 with a sub-effective dose of clozapine, a more potent D4 antagonist than lurasidone, did not reverse the sub-chronic phencyclidine-induced novel object recognition deficit. At a dose that did not induce a novel object recognition deficit, L-745,870 blocked the ability of clozapine, but not lurasidone, to reverse the novel object recognition deficit. D4 receptor agonism has a beneficial effect on novel object recognition in sub-chronic PCP-treated rats and augments the cognitive enhancing efficacy of an atypical antipsychotic drug that lacks affinity for the D4 receptor, lurasidone.
Implicit bias in astronomy

We all harbour subconscious expectations about people based on their apparent membership of groups, such as gender, ethnicity or age. Research shows that these expectations can lead us to undervalue some people's contributions, inhibiting their success and thus negatively impacting our entire field.
Safe and feasible motion generation for autonomous driving via constrained policy net

Policy networks have great potential to learn sophisticated driving policy under complicated interaction between human drivers. However, it is hard for policy networks to satisfy safety and feasibility constraints, which is not a challenging task for conventional motion generation methods, such as optimization-based approach. In this paper, we propose Constrained Policy Net (CPN), which can learn safe and feasible driving policy from arbitrary inequality-constrained optimization-based expert planners. Instead of supervised learning with L 2 norm as the loss, we incorporate the domain knowledge of the expert planner directly into the training loss of the policy net by applying barrier functions to the safety and feasibility constraints of the optimization problem. An exemplar scenario with obstacles on both sides is used to implement the proposed CPN. Test results demonstrate that the policy net can learn to generate motions near boundaries of safety and feasibility constraints to achieve high driving quality as the baseline optimization while the constraints are satisfied.