cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification and characterization of small noncoding RNAs in bacterial pathogens.

This chapter reviews the evidence that implicates small noncoding RNAs (sRNAs) in the regulation of virulence and the recent development of bioinformatic tools that facilitate the identification of putative sRNA encoding genes in a wide variety of bacterial pathogens. Most sRNAs characterized to date act as posttranscriptional regulators by forming duplexes with specific target mRNAs, modulating mRNA stability and/or altering the access of mRNAs to the translational machinery. The versatile and highly responsive nature of sRNA-dependent regulation suggests that these riboregulators may be very effective in modulating cellular responses to the rapidly changing environmental conditions often encountered by bacterial pathogens during the course of infection. The recent advances in the identification of Escherichia coli sRNAs can be attributed mainly to the development and utilization of new bioinformatic approaches to predict sRNA encoding genes on a genome-wide scale. To facilitate the identification of sRNA encoding genes in a wide variety of bacterial species, the authors have developed a program called sRNA-Predict that flexibly integrates different combinations of genetic features to rapidly identify putative sRNA-encoding genes in the intergenic regions (IGRs) of any annotated bacterial genome.
Vibration control of flexible beams using self-sensing actuators

This paper considers the design and implementation of a smart piezoelectric self-sensing actuator for active vibration control of flexible structures. A disturbance estimation technique is used for estimating the induced strain on a piezoelectric actuator, which results in a self-sensing piezo-actuator. The proposed self-sensing piezo-actuator is then applied for the elimination of vibration in a flexible beam structure, using a simple rate-feedback control. Simulation and experimental results for a cantilever beam are shown to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed self-sensing actuator for vibration control.
A Culture of (in)Equality?: A Cross-National Study of Gender Parity and Gender Segregation in National School Systems

Recent international education reports have highlighted some of the progress (as well as remaining disparity) in gendered education enrollment rates. But, the problem of gender segregation is still...
Aging regulates 5-HT1B receptors and serotonin reuptake sites in the SCN

Abstract Middle age is associated with changes in circadian rhythms (e.g., alterations in the timing of the circadian wheel running rhythm) which resemble changes induced by selective destruction of the serotonergic input to the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the principal mammalian circadian pacemaker. We hypothesized that serotonergic neurotransmission in the SCN is decreased in middle-aged hamsters, as compared to young adults. This hypothesis was tested indirectly by investigating the effect of aging on two markers of serotonin neurotransmission, 5-HT1B receptors and serotonin reuptake sites, which are regulated by serotonin. Previous studies have shown that experimentally induced decreases in serotonergic neurotransmission increase 5-HT1B receptors but decrease serotonin reuptake sites. Quantitative autoradiography was conducted using [ 125 I ]iodocyanopindolol ([ 125 I ]ICYP) and [ 3 H ]paroxetine, selective radioligands for the 5-HT1B receptors and the serotonin reuptake sites, respectively. Consistent with the hypothesis, specific ([ 125 I ]ICYP binding was significantly elevated in the SCN of middle-aged hamsters, as compared to young hamsters. The results also showed that serotonin reuptake sites in the SCN were significantly increased in both middle-aged and old hamsters, as compared to young controls. This result could not have been caused by decreased serotonin release. Alternatively, increased serotonin reuptake, which would reduce serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft, may cause or contribute to the increase in 5-HT1B receptor binding in the SCN in middle aged animals. These results show that the SCN exhibits changes in serotonergic function during middle age, which has been characterized by changes in the expression of circadian rhythms. Because these changes occur during middle age, they probably reflect the aging process, rather than senescence or disease.
Bcl-xL Blocks Transforming Growth Factor-β1-induced Apoptosis by Inhibiting Cytochrome c Release and Not by Directly Antagonizing Apaf-1-dependent Caspase Activation in Prostate Epithelial Cells

The mechanism by which transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) induces apoptosis of prostate epithelial cells was studied in the NRP-154 rat prostate epithelial cell line. TGF-β1 down-regulates expression of Bcl-xL and poly(ADP-ribosyl)polymerase (PARP), promotes cytochrome crelease, up-regulates expression of latent caspase-3, and activates caspases 3 and 9. We tested the role of Bcl-xL in this cascade by stably overexpressing Bcl-xL to prevent loss by TGF-β1. Clones overexpressing Bcl-xL are resistant to TGF-β1 with respect to induction of apoptosis, cytochrome c release, activation of caspases 9 and 3, and cleavage of PARP; yet they remain sensitive to TGF-β1 by cell cycle arrest, induction of both fibronectin and latent caspase-3 expression, and loss of PARP expression. We show that Bcl-xL associates with Apaf-1 in NRP-154 cells; but this association does not inhibit the activation of caspases 9 and 3 by cytochrome c. Together, our data suggest that TGF-β1 induces apoptosis through loss of Bcl-xL, leading to cytochrome c release and the subsequent activation of caspases 9 and 3. Moreover, our data demonstrate that the antiapoptotic effect of Bcl-xL occurs by inhibition of mitochondrial cytochrome c release and not through antagonizing Apaf-1-dependent processing of caspases 9 and 3.
Ethylene glycol poisoning with a normal anion gap due to occult bromide intoxication

Ethylene glycol poisoning causes metabolic acidosis with an increased anion gap, due to production of organic acid anions during its metabolism. Bromide, poisoning may cause a spuriously decreased anion gap when chloride determination is performed with a colorimetric technique. A 39-year-old woman with ethylene glycol poisoning presented in coma, with a hyperchloremic normal anion gap acidosis. The serum bromide level was found to be in the toxic range, confirming the diagnosis of bromide poisoning. Hemodialytic therapy resulted in resolution of electrolyte and acid-base abnormalities, and restoration of a normal state of consciousness. In this patient, clinically occult bromide intoxication caused a spurious lowering of the anion gap, normalizing what was in reality an increased anion gap due to ethylene glycol poisoning.
Precision motion and position control for the Plane Grating Monochromator at SRC

Precision motion and position control for the Plane Grating Monochromator at SRCMike V. Fisher, Mark Bissen, Frederick Bourgeois, Dave Eisert, Tim Kubala,Ruben Reininger, Mary SeversonSynchrotron Radiation Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison3731 Schneider Drive, Stoughton, WI 53589ABSTRACTA nearly stigmatic Plane Grating Monochromator (PGM) under commissioning for the new undulator beamline at theSynchrotron Radiation Center will provide a resolving power >10000 as it scans from 8 to 240 eV. Scanning requires theprecise, simultaneous rotation of a plane mirror and a combined rotation-translation of a plane grating in close proximity toone another inside a UHV chamber. The required scanning motions are significant due to the large energy range covered by asingle grating. The mirror and grating rotate nearly 23 and 33 degrees respectively and the grating translates approximately200 mm. Sub-arcsec angular resolution allows several steps to be taken across the monochromator's energy resolution. Bothrotations utilize a combination stepping motor-piezoelectric actuator scan drive that is controlled with a feedback ioop using alaser interferometer to measure the in-situ rotation of the optics. The grating mechanism is supported via bellows to anexternal stepping motor driven stage that travels directly on an inspection grade granite block. The stage position is controlledwith a feedback loop using a precision linear encoder. A positional accuracy and vertical stability of a few micrometers isachieved on the grating translation which prevents the image from shifting at the exit slit and introducing energy calibrationerrors.Keywords: synchrotron radiation, monochromator, interferometer, position control1. INTRODUCTIONA state-of-the-art Plane Grating Monochromator (PGM) is under commissioning for the new undulator beamline at theSynchrotron Radiation Center (SRC). The optical design of the monochromator was specified to achieve high resolution overa large energy range with a single grating. These placed significant scanning requirements on the mechanical design of theinstrument. Scanning requires the precise, simultaneous rotation of a plane mirror and a combined rotation-translation of aplane grating in close proximity to one another inside a UHV chamber. The paper begins with a brief review of the opticaldesign of the monochromator and the resulting specifications on the required motions. The remainder of the paper discusseshow the mechanical design and alignment of the monochromator achieves the required precision motion and position control.
Yield impact and spread of Pineapple mealybug wilt associated virus-2 and mealybug wilt of pineapple in Hawaii.

ABSTRACT The impact of mealybug feeding and Pineapple mealybug wilt associated virus-1 (PMWaV-1) and PMWaV-2 infection on pineapple fruit yield, and the spread of PMWaV-1 and mealybug wilt of pineapple (MWP) were evaluated under field conditions with a randomized complete block design. Plots of PMWaV-1-free or infected plants were maintained mealybug-free or inoculated with mealybugs (Dysmicoccus spp.) at monthly intervals. Plants infected with PMWaV-2, an integral part of MWP etiology, were nested within plots that were maintained free of mealybugs, and in the plots of PMWaV-1 infected plants exposed to mealybugs. MWP, which only developed in PMWaV-2 infected plants exposed to mealybugs, resulted in a 35% reduction in yield when compared to PMWaV-free plants. Yield reductions were dependent on time of MWP symptom development; the earlier the expression of symptoms the greater the impact on fruit yields. An interaction effect between PMWaV infection, inclusive of both PMWaV-1 and PMWaV-2 infected plants, ...
Structure and magnetism of Co:CoO core–shell nanoclusters

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron diffraction (ED) are used to investigate the nanostructures of two ensembles of Co:CoO core–shell particles. TEM images show that particles of size about 12 nm are almost fully oxidized, while particles with size about 18 nm have a core–shell structure where a Co core is surrounded by a shell of CoO. ED simulation confirms that the larger particles have an fcc-structured Co core and a rock-salt CoO shell structure, while the smaller particles mostly have the rock-salt CoO structure. The core–shell structure is responsible for the unusual magnetic properties of the Co:CoO nanoclusters, especially the occurrence of inverted hysteresis loops (proteresis), but previous research has been indirect, largely based on magnetic measurements and on a cross-comparison with granular materials. Our measurements show that the structures have ferromagnetic fcc Co cores of varying sizes down to 1 nm which are surrounded by antiferromagnetic rock-salt CoO shells. The core radii obtained from the TEM pictures are used to estimate the exchange interactions responsible for proteresis and to pinpoint the core-size window in which proteresis occurs.
Operation of a GT-225 Diffusion-Flame Combustor on Alternative Fuels Performance, Durability and Emissions

Ten fuels were burned in a GT-225 diffusion-flame combustor and the performance, durability, and emissions evaluated. These fuels were: reference kerosene, three petroleum distillales, two alcohols, one coal-derived fuel, a fuel made from far sands, and two fuels made from oil shale. All of the fuels were burned without modifying either combustor or fuel nozzle. The more volatile petroleum distillates burned more efficiently than kerosene. The alcohols and the more viscous synthetic fuels exhibited combustion efficiencies slightly lower than that of kerosene, possibly as a result of pooper initial atomization. The synthetic fuels having high aromatic contents produced higher flame-tube-wall temperatures than did kerosene, but not sufficiently high to reduce durability. The emissions from the combustion of all petroleum distillates were comparable to those of kerosene. The alcohols gave 60 to 80 percent lower oxides of nitrogen emissions, up to 650 percent higher carbon monoxide emissions and up to 300 percent higher total hydrocarbon emissions than kerosene, but these emissions were considerably reduced by increasing atomizing-air differental pressure to the injector. Some of the synthetic fuels contained large amounts of nitrogen and substantial oxidation of it was evidenced. The most viscous synthetic fuels exhibited carbon monixide and total hydrocarbon emissions 100 percent higher than kerosene.© 1979 ASME
Long-term control of hydrocephalus via endoscopic third ventriculostomy in children with tectal plate gliomas.

OBJECTIVE: We report the control of hydrocephalus in children with presumed tectal plate Gliomas by the use of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). METHODS: The hospital records, office charts, and imaging studies from children who underwent FTV at the Children's Hospital of Alabama were reviewed. Thirteen children with the diagnosis of tectal plate glioma and hydrocephalus were identified. ETV was the primary therapy instituted for all but one of these children. Successful treatment outcome was defined as shunt freedom, improvement in symptoms, and reduced ventricular size. RESULT: Thirteen children underwent a total of 15 ETVs, and all children were shunt-free at their most recent follow-up examinations. One child underwent successfull secondary ETV one child underwent shunt removal concomitant with the initial ETV and one child underwent shunt removal concomitant with secondary ETV. Symptoms and signs resolved in all patients. All postoperative cranial imaging studies revealed normal or reduced ventricular size as compared with preoperative cranial imaging scans. The median fullow-up period was 31 months. CONCLUSION: In our surgical experience, ETV has been uniformly successful in the management of hydrocephalus caused by tectal plate gliomas in children. ETV should be considered the treatment of choice for hydrocephalus in pediatric patients with tectal plate gliomas.
Dosimetric characterization of a newly designed encapsulated interstitial brachytherapy source of iodine-125—model LS-1 BrachyseedTM☆

Abstract A newly designed encapsulated 125 I source has been introduced (Model LS-1 BrachySeed TM manufactured by DRAXIMAGE Inc.) for interstitial brachytherapy . In this source 125 I radionuclide is contained in two ceramic beads positioned at each end of a titanium capsule. The source contains a rod of Pt–Ir, which serves as a radiographic marker for source localization in the patient. Principle photon emissions are 27.4 and 31.0 keV X-rays and a 35.5 keV gamma-ray. The 22.2 and 25.5 keV silver X-rays produced by fluorescence of the silver dopant in the ceramic bead radioisotope carriers, are also emitted. In this work, the dosimetric characteristics of the 125 I source were measured with micro LiF TLD chips and dosimetry parameters were characterized based upon the American Association of Physicists in Medicine, Task Group, No. 43 formalism. The corrected 1999 National Institute of Standards and Technology standard for low energy interstitial brachytherapy sources was used to specify the air kerma strength of the sources used in this study. The dose rate constant of the sources was determined to be 1.02±0.07 cGyh −1 U −1 . The radial dose function was measured and was found to be similar to that of the silver-based model 6711 125 I source. However, the anisotropy function of the Model LS-1 BrachySeed TM source is considerably better than that of model 6711 125 I source, especially on the points along and close to the longitudinal axis of the source. The BrachySeed TM model LS-1 provides more isotropic angular dose distribution in tissue than model 6711 125 I source. The anisotropy constant for the model LS-1 source was determined to be 1.006, which is considerably better than the value of 0.93 for the model 6711 source.
Raiding Islam: Searches that Target Religious Institutions

On the morning of March 20, 2002, while television cameras recorded the events for the evening news, dozens of federal agents entered and searched the offices of several Islamic educational and religious organizations in Northern Virginia. The agents were searching, it appears, for evidence that those organizations contributed money to international groups known to have sponsored terrorist acts. By most public accounts, the targeted institutions were regarded as moderate and progressive voices in American Islam. For that reason, the searches sent shock waves through the American Muslim community. Muslims who had supported the Administration’s domestic war on terrorism began to wonder out loud: If religious institutions like these are suspect in the eyes of the government, then what Islamic organization is not? Is this a war on terrorism, or a war on Islam? In response to protests from a variety of American Muslim organizations, the government was quick to point out that the searches were authorized by warrants issued by a federal magistrate. But as months have passed with little indication that the searches produced
Monte Carlo models of atomic arrangements in arsenic-selenium glasses

Abstract Models of the atomic arrangements for a series of bulk AsSe glasses with compositions from Se to 50 at % As50 at % Se have been developed using a computer-generated Monte Carlo procedure in conjunction with atomic radial distribution functions. These models demonstrate the gradual growth of interconnected chains from a mixture of chains and rings in pure selenium up to 40 at % As followed by a gradual breakdown of such structures. This behavior correlates well with a number of properties dependent on molecular morphology such as the glass transition temperature, viscosity, electric conductivity and photoconductivity. The models indicate that the mean Se vertex bond angle is about 104° with an rms deviation of 13.5° while the mean As vertex bond angle is 102° with an rms deviation of 15°. An addition model based on the crystalline As2Se3 structure has been developed for 40 at % As60 at % Se. It indicates that distortion of the crystalline layer structure must involve breaking about 1 3 of the AsSe rings but that no joining of layers is required. Models were also developed for sputtered films of these materials. Qualitatively, the models are very similar to those for bulk materials, showing rings in pure selenium, gradual interconnection of rings and chains to 40 at % As and then a breakdown of the network above 40 at % As. However there is an increase in the distribution of near neighbor distances and bond angles, some increase in the mean bond angle and at 40 at % As and above, a decrease in the mean near-neighbor distance. Below 40 at % As mean near-neighbor distances for film and bulk materials are the same.
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE CAUSED BY SURAL NERVE WITHDRAWAL FOR NERVE GRAFTING

Sural nerve withdrawal in peripheral nerve surgery is commonly performed for grafting nerve lesions with gap. Notwithstanding its popular use, this procedure is not entirely without fault as painful neuromas can occur after the withdrawal. We have treated 24 cases of painful neuromas of sural nerve after withdrawal; 11 of which were treated surgically. A safe procedure to cure and to prevent such neuromas is described — the electrical coagulation of the stump of the nerve by slowly increasing the intensity of the current. This procedure has been devised based on the fact that electrically burnt patients do not produce painful neuromas. An experimental histological study performed on rats demonstrated that slow electrical burning of the stump of a severed nerve prevents the formation of intraneural fibrosis which, on the contrary, forms abundantly when the cut nerve is not coagulated.
The clinical implications of no reflow demonstrated with intravenous perfluorocarbon containing microbubbles following restoration of thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) 3 flow in patients with acute myocardial infarction

Abstract Intravenous injections or infusions of perfluorocarbon-exposed sonicated dextrose albumin microbubbles were given 2.4 ± 1.6 days following acute myocardial infarction to 45 consecutive patients. Patients were divided into 3 groups: patients with Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) grade 3 angiographic flow but persistent myocardial contrast defects by echocardiography (no reflow), patients with TIMI 3 flow and myocardial contrast enhancement (reflow), and patients with TIMI grade 0 to 2 flow in the infarct vessel. Thirty-five patients had TIMI 3 flow at the time of contrast study. Of these, 25 had evidence of reflow with intravenous contrast, whereas 10 (29%) still had contrast defects. At followup, end-systolic volume index decreased significantly in patients who exhibited reflow (21 ± 8 ml/m 2 at baseline to 18 ± 8 ml/m 2 at follow-up; p = 0.04), whereas those with no reflow had a significant increase (26 ± 9 ml/m 2 at baseline to 32 ± 9 ml/m 2 at follow-up; p = 0.006). A persistent contrast defect in the infarct zone demonstrated with intravenous ultrasound contrast following restoration of TIMI grade 3 flow in the infarct vessel identified patients likely to have deterioration in both regional and global systolic function.
Magnetic ordering in a normal Fermi liquid. II. Strongly polarized systems and the melting curve of He 3

The energy and enthalpy of a spin-half Fermi liquid, with the interparticle interaction given by the Lennard-Jones potential, is calculated using hypernetted chain (HNC) $g(r)'\mathrm{s}$ and the statistical cluster expansion (truncated at the three-body term). The behavior of the systems in response to external fields which produce large polarization is described. An estimate is made of the change in the $^{3}\mathrm{He}$ melting curve brought about by an external magnetic field. The numerical results have a number of desirable qualitative features---certain quantitative aspects of the calculations are not satisfactory.
Dendritic cells induce CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses to Mycobacterium bovis and M. avium antigens in Bacille Calmette Guérin vaccinated and nonvaccinated cattle.

Few data are available regarding the induction of memory T-lymphocyte responses in cattle following Bacille Calmette Guerin (BCG) vaccination. Studies of the immune response induced by BCG vaccination provide an insight into the basis of antimycobacterial immunity that could be exploited for the development of more effective vaccination strategies. We used autologous dendritic cells (DC) infected with Mycobacterium bovis Bacille Calmette Guerin (BCG) or pulsed with purified protein derivative from M. bovis (PPD-B) or M. avium (PPD-A) to assess responses of CD4+, CD8+ and WC1+ gammadelta TCR+ lymphocytes from BCG vaccinated and nonvaccinated cattle. Mycobacteria-specific CD4+ and CD8+, but not WC1+ gammadelta TCR+, memory T lymphocytes were demonstrated in BCG-vaccinated cattle. CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes proliferated and produced interferon (IFN)-gamma in response to BCG-infected or PPD-B-pulsed DC. Proliferative responses were greater for CD4+ than CD8+ lymphocytes, although secretion of IFN-gamma was higher from the CD8+ T cells. Responses to PPD-A-pulsed DC were lower, with no CD8+ response. Lymphocytes from nonvaccinated calves were also stimulated to proliferate by BCG-infected DC, although the magnitude of proliferation was lower. The findings suggest that immunity to M. bovis induced by BCG vaccination in cattle may involve CD8+ memory T cells which produce IFN-gamma, as well as CD4+ memory T cells.
The Power of Perceived Experience: Events That Shape Work as a Calling

Meaning plays an important role in many people's lives and work. A significant source of meaning derives from a greater sense of fulfilling one's calling, or purpose in work. This study examined the specific life experiences that shape people's perceptions of their calling and the characteristics of those experiences that make them so powerful. Fifty-eight people who self-identified as leaders responded to a questionnaire about the relevant experiences that shaped their perceptions of their work as a calling. Participants' responses were content-analyzed to generate a taxonomy of themes in 4 overarching categories: (a) content of the event, (b) context of the event, (c) confirmation of one's call, and (d) the continuing effect that the event has had on the individual's life. By increasing knowledge about events that affect perceptions about one's calling, counselors may be more equipped to shed light on the potential, unexamined trajectories of a client's work and life.
N-6 Substituted Deoxygenated Derivatives of L-like 5'-Noraristeromycin.

Several N-6 substituted derivatives ( 4-11 ) of (+)-4'-deoxy-5'-noraristeromycin ( 2 ) and its unsaturated counterpart ( 3 ) have been prepared. The derivatives are designed to systematically vary the hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance of the lead compounds. These compounds were evaluated against a large number of viruses but no significant antiviral activity was observed. Also, no cytotoxicity to host cells was found. KEY WORDS : L-like, Carbocyclic nucleosides, HBV Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2010 , 24(3), 439-446.
Adrenergic receptor characteristics of cardiac myocytes cultured in serum-free medium: comparison with serum-supplemented medium.

Neonatal rat ventricular myocytes cultured in serum-free medium coexpress both α1 and β1 receptors as determined by radioligand binding studies. In cells exposed to serum for 48 hr surface area increased 3.69 fold, but the maximum number of binding sites ([125I]-iodocynanopindolol) only increased 1.5 fold from 12956 ± 7579 to 19676 ± 5181 sites/cell (n=5, p<.05) yielding a value of 2.48 sites/um2 for cells grown in serum-supplemented medium compared with 6.96 sites/um2 for cells grown in serum-free medium. Thus serum-induced hypertrophy is associated with a decrease in β1 receptor density relative to cell size; however, adenylate cyclase response is unaffected. This cell culture system constitutes an excellent model for studying interventions that may influence the regulation of cardiac myocyte hypertrophy by nonhemodynamic factors, particularly through the adrenergic receptor system.
2-vessel occlusion/hypotension: a rat model of global brain ischemia

Cardiac arrest followed by resuscitation often results in dramatic brain damage caused by ischemia and subsequent reperfusion of the brain. Global brain ischemia produces damage to specific brain regions shown to be highly sensitive to ischemia (1). Hippocampal neurons have higher sensitivity to ischemic insults compared to other cell populations, and specifically, the CA1 region of the hippocampus is particularly vulnerable to ischemia/reperfusion (2). The design of therapeutic interventions, or study of mechanisms involved in cerebral damage, requires a model that produces damage similar to the clinical condition and in a reproducible manner. Bilateral carotid vessel occlusion with hypotension (2VOH) is a model that produces reversible forebrain ischemia, emulating the cerebral events that can occur during cardiac arrest and resuscitation. We describe a model modified from Smith et al. (1984) (2), as first presented in its current form in Sanderson, et al. (2008) (3), which produces reproducible injury to selectively vulnerable brain regions (3-6). The reliability of this model is dictated by precise control of systemic blood pressure during applied hypotension, the duration of ischemia, close temperature control, a specific anesthesia regimen, and diligent post-operative care. An 8-minute ischemic insult produces cell death of CA1 hippocampal neurons that progresses over the course of 6 to 24 hr of reperfusion, while less vulnerable brain regions are spared. This progressive cell death is easily quantified after 7-14 days of reperfusion, as a near complete loss of CA1 neurons is evident at this time. In addition to this brain injury model, we present a method for CA1 damage quantification using a simple, yet thorough, methodology. Importantly, quantification can be accomplished using a simple camera-mounted microscope, and a free ImageJ (NIH) software plugin, obviating the need for cost-prohibitive stereology software programs and a motorized microscopic stage for damage assessment.
Simplified model for the design of composite sandwich construction

Over the past few decades composite materials consistently offered elegant solutions alleviating existing challenges in various industries. For example, major aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing, Bombardier and Airbus increased the share of composite materials utilization into their designs. Continuous progress in composites research and manufacturing technology resulted in making them more appealing solution to design engineers in virtually all industries. As early as the 1960s, composites were used to build parts of the ship superstructure. Since then the percentage of composite structures in ship superstructure is continuously increasing due to their many advantages [1]. Meanwhile the relatively high cost of composites manufacturing and assembly has limited them to military applications [1]. High specific strength requirements implied advanced composites technologies, e.g. autoclaving, since acquiring “one” commercial size autoclave is a substantial investment in the order of millions of dollars. Consequently commercial maritime applications from fishing vessels to bulk carriers are still dominantly utilizing steel and aluminum superstructure. On the other hand current advances in composites manufacturing including the introduction of new resin technologies can provide efficient solutions that overcome the high cost of manufacturing while maintaining their superior strength characteristics. Recent advances in composites manufacturing methods provide new Out-of-Autoclave (OoA) composites at a lower manufacture cost without sacrificing the strength advantages of advanced composites [2]. This is due to the fact that OoA composites do not require the use of autoclave by utilizing enhanced resin technologies. In other words using OoA composites eliminates the high cost associated to acquiring an autoclave as well as its overhead cost.
Marital Satisfaction: Positive Regard Versus Effective Communications as Explanatory Variables

Summary A substantial association between marital communication and marital satisfaction has been demonstrated in much previous research. However, previous research has overlooked the possibility that positive regard might be able to explain much of that association. Using two samples from Kansas of 83 and 98 predominately white, middle-class couples, we compared the effects of partialling regard from the marital communication/marital satisfaction relationship with the effects of partialling communication variables from the regard/marital satisfaction relationship. Our results, which do not appear to be an artifact of marital social desirability, indicated that marital communication variables (empathy, congruence) do not explain variations in marital satisfaction as effectively as does positive regard. Thus, we infer that previous research may have overstated the importance of effective communication as an element of marital quality. Implications for the design of marital enrichment programs are also disc...
Metastatic breast cancer of the oral cavity

Abstract Objective To present a rare case of breast carcinoma initially presenting as an oral cavity mass. Study design Case report with review of the literature. Results A case is presented of a postmenopausal woman with a remote history of treated breast carcinoma who was declared disease-free 2 years before presentation. She presented with an enlarging vestibule mass consistent with metastatic breast carcinoma. Subsequent investigations revealed widely metastatic disease for which the patient was referred for palliative chemotherapy. Conclusions Metastatic disease to the oral cavity represents only 1% of all oral cavity malignancies. A high index of clinical suspicion is necessary when evaluating patients with a history of non–head and neck carcinoma.
Status of screening for skin cancer.

Each May since 1984, the American Academy of Dermatology, using dermatologist members and American Cancer Society volunteers, has conducted a National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Prevention Program. Through free patient screenings at hospitals, community centers, and health fairs, more than 600,000 individuals have been reached. Through its educational and screening functions, this program has been considered «one of the finest examples of preventive medicine in the country» and as a model for other mass screening programs. This paper reviews some of the concepts that guide the Academy's screening program, some organizational aspects of the program, its accomplishments to date, and possible future directions
Plants respond to leaf vibrations caused by insect herbivore chewing

Plant germination and growth can be influenced by sound, but the ecological significance of these responses is unclear. We asked whether acoustic energy generated by the feeding of insect herbivores was detected by plants. We report that the vibrations caused by insect feeding can elicit chemical defenses. Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) rosettes pre-treated with the vibrations caused by caterpillar feeding had higher levels of glucosinolate and anthocyanin defenses when subsequently fed upon by Pieris rapae (L.) caterpillars than did untreated plants. The plants also discriminated between the vibrations caused by chewing and those caused by wind or insect song. Plants thus respond to herbivore-generated vibrations in a selective and ecologically meaningful way. A vibration signaling pathway would complement the known signaling pathways that rely on volatile, electrical, or phloem-borne signals. We suggest that vibration may represent a new long distance signaling mechanism in plant-insect interactions that contributes to systemic induction of chemical defenses.
Diagnosis and Management of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare disease, which requires a high index of suspicion to diagnose when patients initially present. Initial symptoms can be nonspecific and include complaints such as fatigue and mild dyspnea. Once the disease is suspected, echocardiography is used to estimate the pulmonary arterial (PA) pressure and to exclude secondary causes of elevated PA pressures such as left heart disease. Right heart catheterization with vasodilator challenge is critical to the proper assessment of pulmonary hemodynamics and to determine whether patients are likely to benefit from vasodilator therapy. Pathologically, the disease is characterized by deleterious remodeling of the distal pulmonary arterial and arteriolar circulation, which results in increased pulmonary vascular resistance. In the last fifteen years, medications from three different classes have been approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. These include the prostanoids, endothelin receptor antagonists, and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors.
Leadership, teamwork, and the professional writing class

This article argues that examining leaders and leadership techniques is a valid subject for technical and professional writing and communication classes. The article describes an assignment for studying leadership and provides related instructional materials.
Structural and mechanistic studies on the peroxisomal oxygenase phytanoyl-CoA 2-hydroxylase (PhyH).

Phytanic acid (PA) is an epimeric metabolite of the isoprenoid side chain of chlorophyll. Owing to the presence of its epimeric β-methyl group, PA cannot be metabolized by β-oxidation. Instead, it is metabolized in peroxisomes via α-oxidation to give pristanic acid, which is then oxidized by β-oxidation. PhyH (phytanoyl-CoA 2-hydroxylase, also known as PAHX), an Fe(II) and 2OG (2-oxoglutarate) oxygenase, catalyses hydroxylation of phytanoyl-CoA. Mutations of PhyH ablate its role in α-oxidation, resulting in PA accumulation and ARD (adult Refsum9s disease). The structure and function of PhyH is discussed in terms of its clinical importance and unusual selectivity. Most point mutations of PhyH causing ARD cluster in two distinct groups around the Fe(II)- and 2OG-binding sites. Therapaeutic possibilities for the treatment of Refsum9s disease involving PhyH are discussed.
An infinite class of Williamson matrices

Abstract Only a finite number of Hadamard matrices of Williamson type are known so far; it has been conjectured that one such exists of any order 4 t . An infinite family is constructed here, and as a corollary it is shown that an Hadamard matrix of order 6( q + 1) exists if q is a prime power ≡ 1 (mod 4).
Modulation of epithelial cell growth by intraepithelial gamma delta T cells

The role played in immune surveillance by gamma delta T cells residing in various epithelia has not been clear. It is shown here that activated gamma delta T cells obtained from skin and intestine express the epithelial cell mitogen keratinocyte growth factor (KGF). In contrast, intraepithelial alpha beta T cells, as well as all lymphoid alpha beta and gamma delta T cell populations tested, did not produce KGF or promote the growth of cultured epithelial cells. These results suggest that intraepithelial gamma delta T cells function in surveillance and in repair of damaged epithelial tissues.
Cervical vertebral erosions and subluxations in rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

Atlanto-axial and lower cervical subluxations are frequently present in rhematoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Vertebral erosions, particularly of the odontoid process, can often be demonstrated. Rheumatoid involvement of the occipito-atlanto-axial joints may cause a vertical translation of the cervical spine with respect to the skull; at times, this is associated with true basilar invagination. Subluxation atlanto-axial e infero-cervical es frequentemente presente in arthritis rheumatoide e in spondylitis ankylosante. Erosion vertebral, particularmente in le processo odontoide, es frequentemente demonstrabile. Le aHection rheumatoide del articulationes occipitoatlanto-axial pote causar un translation del spina cervical con respecto al cranio. A vices isto es associate con ver invagination basilar.
Economic development and financial depth in a model with costly financial intermediation

Abstract According to Gurley and Shaw, economic development typically is accompanied by a transition from self-financed to intermediated investment activity. In their account, economic growth stimulates financial market development, and financial market development is a strong contributing factor in enhancing real growth. We model the co-evolution of the real and financial sectors during the growth process. To do so, we embed a role for liquidity provision into a conventional neoclassical growth model. Following Baumol and Tobin, we also introduce a fixed cost associated with “trips to the bank”. We describe conditions under which the development of a financial system may or may not proceed smoothly. When it does not, development traps are observed. We also discuss policy interventions that may reduce the potential for development traps to arise.
A Health Education Paradigm Change Encompassing Religious Settings

(1996). A Health Education Paradigm Change Encompassing Religious Settings. Journal of Health Education: Vol. 27, No. 2, pp. 122-125.
Creating a Shared Neuroscience Collection Development Policy

At East Carolina University (ECU), Joyner Academic and Laupus Health Sciences Libraries collaborated on a shared Neuroscience collection development policy, primarily as a reaction to state-level budget cuts. The policy aims to limit duplication in purchases at each library location but also describes the materials that are most appropriate for selection by each library and explores the usefulness of e-book purchases as a cost-saving measure. The result of this collaborative effort is a comprehensive neuroscience collection for ECU's libraries.
Optical scatter imaging as an apoptosis assay for cells undergoing ALA-mediated photodynamic therapy in vitro

Aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is converted to protoporphyrin-IX (PpIX) within mitochondria, causing the assumption that ALA-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) results in mitochondrial damage and therefore an apoptotic response. Mitochondria within apoptosing cells swell, forming pores in their outer mitochondrial membranes which release cytochrome-c, triggering apoptosis. Optical scatter imaging (OSI) makes use of scattered fields in order to indicate the morphology of subcellular components, and is used here in order to measure changes in mitochondrial size as a response to ALA-mediated PDT. Two images of the same field of view are spatially filtered in the Fourier plane of a 4-F system. Both spatial filters block directly transmitted light, while accepting different angles of scattered light through an adjustable iris. The optical scatter image ratio (OSIR) of the local intensities of these two spatially filtered images is indicative of scattering particle size. Mie theory is used to calculate the predicted OSIR as a function of scattering particle size. In this fashion, the OSI system is calibrated using polystyrene microspheres of know sizes. Comparison of the measured OSIR from cellular images to theoretical values predicted for mitochondria then serves as an indication as to whether cells are apoptosing. Cells are treated at varying concentrations of ALA and varying exposures of 635 nm light and imaged at varying time points in order to develop a broader understanding of an apoptotic response of cells undergoing ALA mediated PDT.
Theoretical study of the bonding in LaFe2+, LaRu2+ and YRu2+

The bonding in LaFe(2+) and LaRu(2+) involves nearly equal contributions from La(+) and La(2+). The second IP of Y is larger than that of La and this leads to predominantly Y(+) + Ru(+) character in the YRu(2+) wavefunction. The remarkable stability of these systems derives from multiple d-d bonds that lead to a bond-order of between two and three. Thus the ground states of these dications, which have relatively deep molecular wells and large barriers to dissociation, have essentially infinite lifetimes with respect to unimolecular decay.
Prognostic factors in male urethral cancer.

BACKGROUND: Male urethral cancer is a rare neoplasm, with the published literature consisting of small single-institution retrospective series. As such, there is no objective analysis of prognostic factors and treatment outcome. The author sought to use the population-based Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to evaluate prognostic factors in male urethral cancer. METHODS: From 1988 to 2006, 2065 men were identified in the SEER database as having primary urethral cancer. Median follow-up was 2.5 years. Cancer-specific and overall survival was computed using the Kaplan-Meier method, and Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to evaluate patient age at diagnosis, year of diagnosis, race, histologic type, grade, T stage, nodal status, M stage, extent of surgery, and type of radiation as potential significant independent predictors of survival. RESULTS: Overall survival at 5 and 10 years was 46.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 43.9-48.6%) and 29.3% (95% CI, 26.6-32.0%), respectively, whereas cancer-specific survival at 5 and 10 years was 68.0% (95% CI, 65.5-70.5%) and 60.1% (95% CI, 57.0-63.2%), respectively. Advanced age, higher grade, higher T stage, systemic metastases, other histology versus transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), and no surgery versus radical resection were predictors of death and death from disease, whereas adenocarcinoma was associated with a lower likelihood of death and death from disease as compared with TCC. In addition, nodal metastasis was a predictor of death. Surgery had a better outcome than radiation for stage T2-T4 nonmetastatic disease. CONCLUSIONS: Age, grade, TNM stage, histology, and extent of surgery were predictive of overall and cancer-specific survival. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Synthesis and molecular structure of tris(pentamethylphenyl)gallium

Abstract Tris(pentamethylphenyl)gallium, (Me5C6)3Ga, was prepared by reaction of pentamethylphenylmagnesium bromide with gallium(III) chloride in diethyl ether. The title compound, characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, elemental analyses, and single crystal X-ray diffraction, crystallizes in the P 1 (No. 2) space group with a=9.003(9) A, b=10.713(1) A, c=16.066(2) A, α=107.63 (3)°, β=97.63 (3)°, γ=90.08(3)°, for Z=2. Refinement converged at R1=0.050, wR2=0.11. The pentamethylphenyl ligands are configured about the gallium center in a propeller fashion at angles of 67.3°, 62.3°, and 60.9°.
Intrathecal baclofen for postoperative analgesia after total knee arthroplasty.

Abstract Study Objective To determine whether intrathecal baclofen is an effective adjunctive agent to decrease acute and chronic postoperative pain after total knee arthroplasty. Design Prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled trial. Setting Operating room and inpatient units of a university hospital. Patients 60 adult, ASA physical status I, II, and III patients presenting for total knee arthroplasty. Interventions Anesthesia was provided by spinal injection of 15 mg of 0.75% hyperbaric bupivacaine combined with either 100 mcg baclofen or saline. Sedation was provided with intravenous midazolam and propofol. Measurements Data were collected on adverse effects, opioid usage, and verbal pain scale (VPS) from 0 to 10. The study period was divided into six discrete time intervals that included the 1 st 72-hour postoperative period and a three-month post-discharge follow-up telephone call. Main Results The baclofen group used less morphine in the PACU than the control group (5 mg vs. 9.3 mg; P = 0.04). VPS were lower in the baclofen group than the treatment group, but significant differences could be demonstrated only in the time periods 48-72 hours and three months postoperatively. At three months, fewer patients in the baclofen group reported pain than the control group (8/27 vs. 19/29; P = 0.009). Regression analysis showed that the baclofen group was 4.5 times less likely to report pain at three months (95% CI: 1.5–16.6). Conclusions IT baclofen used as an adjuvant to spinal anesthesia for total knee arthroplasty allows for less postoperative opioid usage and less chronic pain at three months.
More Than a Game: Friendship Relational Maintenance and Attitudes Toward Xbox LIVE Communication

Guided by media multiplexity theory, this manuscript reports an empirical investigation of relational maintenance and closeness between friends who communicate via Microsoft’s Xbox LIVE service. Attitudes toward self-disclosure and social connection across Xbox LIVE interacted to predict Xbox LIVE relational maintenance, with social connection attitude directly predicting offline communication frequency. Both Xbox LIVE relational maintenance and offline communication frequency interacted to predict relational closeness, with high closeness in the presence of either frequent Xbox LIVE maintenance or offline communication. These results suggest extending media multiplexity theory to account for individual attitudes toward new and existing media.