cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Losing Function Through Wetland Mitigation in Central Pennsylvania, USA

In the United States, the Clean Water Act requires mitigation for wetlands that are negatively impacted by dredging and filling activities. During the mitigation process, there generally is little effort to assess function for mitigation sites and function is usually inferred based on vegetative cover and acreage. In our study, hydrogeomorphic (HGM) functional assessment models were used to compare predicted and potential levels of functional capacity in created and natural reference wetlands. HGM models assess potential function by measurement of a suite of structural variables and these modeled functions can then be compared to those in natural, reference wetlands. The created wetlands were built in a floodplain setting of a valley in central Pennsylvania to replace natural ridge-side slope wetlands. Functional assessment models indicated that the created sites differed significantly from natural wetlands that represented the impacted sites for seven of the ten functions assessed. This was expected because the created wetlands were located in a different geomorphic setting than the impacted sites, which would affect the type and degree of functions that occur. However, functional differences were still observed when the created sites were compared with a second set of reference wetlands that were located in a similar geomorphic setting (floodplain). Most of the differences observed in both comparisons were related to unnatural hydrologic regimes and to the characteristics of the surrounding landscape. As a result, the created wetlands are not fulfilling the criteria for successful wetland mitigation.
General Basis Functions for Parametric Representation of Energy Deposition Processes

General basis functions for parametric representation of energy deposition processes are constructed according to the general physical characteristics of energy deposition within a volume of material from a beam energy source. These basis functions include previously constructed source functions as special cases. The construction of a general parameterization of energy deposition processes, e.g., welding and rapid prototyping, is necessary for inverse analysis of such processes. The structure of such a parameterization follows from the concepts of model and data spaces that imply the existence of an optimal parametric representation for a given class of inverse problems. Accordingly, the optimal parametric representation lying within the model space is determined by the characteristics of the available data, i.e., data space, which contain both experimental measurements and numerical simulation data. Experimental measurements include solidification cross-sections, thermocouple measurements, and microstructural changes. Numerical simulation data include general temperature field trend characteristics, response characteristics of materials to volumetric energy deposition, and the relative sensitivity of temperature field characteristics to phenomena occurring on different space and time scales. A general procedure is described for using basis functions with the available experimental and numerical data to construct a multidimensional field representation of a large class of energy deposition processes.
Parathyroidectomy promotes wound healing and prolongs survival in patients with calciphylaxis from secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Abstract Background. Calciphylaxis is a rare but life-threatening condition occasionally affecting patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism. Parathyroidectomy has been advocated as the only potentially curative intervention. Methods. Between January 1989 and May 2000, 13 patients with pathologic/clinical criteria of calciphylaxis were treated at our institution. Of these 13 patients, 7 were managed with medical therapy alone, and 6 were referred for parathyroidectomy. The medical records were reviewed, and patients/relatives were interviewed. Results. All patients had cutaneous wounds requiring local debridement predominantly located on the lower extremities or abdominal wall. Six patients underwent subtotal (3.5 gland) parathyroidectomy without morbidity. All 6 had significant reductions in parathyroid hormone levels after surgery (mean decrease, 94% ± 0%), and all reported resolution of pain and healing of cutaneous wounds. Of the remaining 7 patients who had medical management alone, 5 eventually died of complications related to calciphylaxis. In comparing the 2 groups, patients who underwent parathyroidectomy had a significantly longer median survival than those who did not have surgery (36 vs 3 months, P =.021). Conclusions. Calciphylaxis frequently causes gangrene, sepsis, and eventual death. Parathyroidectomy can be performed with minimal morbidity and is associated with resolution of pain, wound healing, and a significantly longer median survival. Therefore, patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism and signs/symptoms of calciphylaxis should be referred promptly for consideration of parathyroidectomy. (Surgery 2001;130:645-51.)
Fluorescence Quantum Yield of Poly(p-phenylenevinylene) Prepared via the Paracyclophene Route: Effect of Chain Length and Interchain Contacts

The monomer 9-[(tert-butyldimethylsilyl)oxy][2.2]paracyclophan-1-ene (1) is polymerized by Mo(NAr)(CHCMe2Ph)(OCMe(CF3)2)2 (Ar = 2,6-diisopropylphenyl) in a living manner. Block copolymers containing poly(1) and polynorbornene (poly(NBE)) can be prepared and have narrow polydispersities. Treatment of poly(1) with NBu4F produces poly(9-hydroxy[2.2]paracyclophan-1-ene) which dehydrates to poly(p-phenylenevinylene) (PPV) under mild conditions. Block copolymers containing segments of size-specific and defect-free PPV with poly(NBE) of various dimensions can be prepared readily and are soluble in a variety of common organic solvents. These polymers serve as excellent candidates to measure the effect of chain length and frequency of interchain contacts on PPV's fluorescence quantum yield (Φf). Solution and solid-state quantum yield determinations, coupled to fluorescence lifetime measurements, reveal an acute drop in Φf as the degree of polymerization of the emissive species increases and as the average distance...
Fourier transform infrared imaging of stereoregular poly(methyl methacrylate) dissolution.

Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) imaging was used to study dissolution of stereoregular poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films in toluene, benzene, chloroform, acetic acid, and 2-ethoxyethanol. Images of the polymer–solvent interface showed that syndiotactic (sPMMA), atactic (aPMMA), and isotactic (iPMMA) samples dissolved in acetic acid and chloroform; only iPMMA dissolved in benzene, toluene, and 2-ethoxyethanol. Concentration profiles allowed quantitative comparison of each polymer–solvent system. In the cases of chloroform and acetic acid, the rate of polymer dissolution increased with increasing isotacticity. Dissolution of PMMA in chloroform was observed to coincide with development of strong polymer–solvent interactions. The results of systems containing toluene, benzene, and 2-ethoxyethanol reflect kinetic effects on dissolution, including solvent size and stiffness of the polymer backbone.
On finite quasi-isometric sets in \( \mathbb{R}^n \)

We compare two concepts from distance geometry of finite sets: quasi-isometry and isometry. We show that for every \( n\geq5 \) there exist sets of n points in \( \mathbb{R}^{n-1} \) that are quasi-isometric and not isometric. By contrast, for finite sets in S1 we show that under some additional hypotheses, quasi-isometric sets are isometric.
Multistage Complexity in Language Proficiency Assessment: A Framework for Aligning Theoretical Perspectives, Test Development, and Psychometrics

Abstract: This article contends that the necessary links between constructs and test scores/decisions in language assessment must be established through principled design procedures that align three models: (1) a theoretical construct model; (2) a test development model; and (3) a psychometric scoring model. The theoretical construct model articulates the cognitive tasks, mechanisms, and ability constructs underlying language proficiency. The test development model focuses on developing formal mechanisms for structuring the design and development of the test problems (items and tasks) and for assembling the test as a whole. The psychometric scoring final model involves the use of psychometric modeling techniques capable of handling complex, multidimensional structures underlying the responses to a language proficiency assessment. The authors promote the need for modeling the complexity inherent in the process of defining constructs, designing and building problems and tests, and finally, scaling and scoring the instruments that assess language proficiency.
Mother Knows Best? Inhibitory Maternal Gatekeeping, Psychological Control, and the Mother-Adolescent Relationship.

We used structural equation modeling to explore associations between inhibitory maternal gatekeeping attitudes, reports of inhibitory maternal gatekeeping behaviors, maternal psychological control, observed mother-adolescent warmth, and adolescent reports of maternal involvement. Our random stratified sample consisted of 315 mothers and their adolescents. Results revealed that inhibitory maternal gatekeeping attitudes were positively associated with reports of inhibitory gatekeeping behaviors. Psychological control fully mediated the relationship between inhibitory gatekeeping attitudes, reports of inhibitory gatekeeping behaviors, and adolescent reports of maternal involvement. Though gatekeeping attitudes and behaviors were not associated with observed mother-adolescent warmth, psychological control was negatively associated with observed mother-adolescent warmth. Thus, although prior research emphasized the negative effects of inhibitory gatekeeping on father-child relationships, the present research elucidates that in conjunction with psychological control, inhibitory gatekeeping negatively influences the mother-adolescent relationship. All findings are discussed in the context of family systems theory.
Particle convection in an evaporating colloidal droplet

An emergent technique of patterning surfaces with solid particles utilizes the evaporation of colloidal droplets from a substrate. Upon complete evaporation of the liquid, the suspended particles remain adhered to the solid in a variety of patterns. Experimentally, the type of particle deposit has been correlated with the mode of liquid evaporation. It is expected that the manner in which the liquid evaporates from the droplet should significantly affect the flow of fluid inside the droplet. Therefore, the determination of the flow profiles in the droplet will aid in understanding the redistribution of particles under different experimental conditions. Using lubrication theory, this study shows that either an outward flow toward the contact line or an inward flow toward the center of the droplet can be induced, depending on the evaporative driving force. If an outward flow toward the contact line is generated inside the droplet, then a ringlike deposit remains on the substrate. Conversely, if the liquid i...
Spontaneous adherence and rosette formation of lymphocytes to Leydig cells: an in vitro technique.

Abstract A spontaneous rosette phenomenon occurs in vitro when suspensions of mouse testicular cells are mixed with suspensions of lymphocytes. The core cell of these rosettes are the Leydig cells, and the coronas are formed by lymphocytes. No other testicular cell, either seminal or Sertoli, participates in lymphocyte binding. Autogeneic, syngeneic, allogeneic, and xenogeneic lymphocytes from thymus, spleen, and peripheral blood similarly react with mouse Leydig cells. Lymphocytes from spleens of athymic nude mice and from chicken bursa also give Leydig rosettes. It is suggested that mouse Leydig cells carry membrane receptors spontaneously recognized by lymphocytes.
Optical realization of textural edge extraction

Abstract The extraction of the boundary between two textural domains based on both odd-and even-type baseband filters have recently been reported [Park et al., Appl. Optics 25 (1986) 2357), Townsend et al., Appl. Optics 24 (1985) 2067]. In this communication, a simple technique for realizing both of these filters in a heterodyne optical scanning system is described and illustrated experimentally.
Membrane Curvature and Fission By Dynamin: Mechanics, Dynamics and Partners

Membrane fission requires creation of high membrane curvature even before the actual rearrangement of lipid bilayer occurs. We analyze here how this curvature stress enforces rearrangements in the inner monolayer of tightly squeezed membrane necks leading to “self-fusion” of the inner monolayer and formation of canonical stalk-type membrane intermediate. We further resolve experimentally how a single fission machinery assembled by dynamin, the prototype protein orchestrating membrane fission in different intracellular processes, imposes curvature stresses leading to fission of nanotubes pulled from a lipid bilayer. We show that dynamin is capable of producing critical curvature stress, leading to non-leaky membrane fission, and that the geometrical arrangement of dynamin on the tube membrane corresponds to the theoretically predicted configuration optimal for the triggering of membrane fission. Using dynamin mutant with altered membrane insertion profile, we confirm another prediction of the model on the critical role of the hydrophobic insertion in lowering the main energy barrier for the fission. Finally, we analyze the dynamic coupling between the GTPase cycle of dynamin and the membrane curvature and outline the pathways of mechano-chemical energy transduction in the membrane fission mediated by dynamin.
Vectorial secretion of transferrin and androgen binding protein in Sertoli cell cultures: effect of extracellular matrix, peritubular myoid cells and medium composition.

Abstract We examined the effect of various culture conditions on the polarized secretion of androgen binding protein (ABP) and transferrin (Trf) by Sertoli cells (Sc) in vitro. Sc from 18-day-old rats were cultured as confluent monolayers on permeable membranes in two-compartment chambers for up to 11 days. Coating of the membranes with extracellular matrix (ECM) components: collagen IV + laminin (CL) or reconstituted basement membrane (RBM) enhanced ABP and Trf secretion (200% and 150%, respectively), with RBM being more effective than CL in stimulating ABP but not Trf secretion. Neither CL nor RBM significantly influenced the relative amounts of ABP and Trf secreted into the outer (OC) and inner (IC) compartments of the culture chamber (OC/IC ratio). All of these effects were not significantly influenced by the presence of testosterone and serum. Co-culture of Sc with peritubular myoid cells (Pc) significantly increased the secretion of both ABP and Trf, although the magnitude of stimulation and the time-response patterns were different for each protein. Co-culture with Pc also dramatically increased the OC/IC ratios for ABP and Trf. Testosterone (10 −6 M) enhanced the Pc effects. In cultures of Sc alone, presence of 2% fetal bovine serum increased the OC/IC ratios, whereas testosterone had no effect. Based on these results, we suggest a possible role of Pc in the regulation of Sc polarized secretions.
Imaging at the Nanoscale With Practical Table-Top EUV Laser-Based Full-Field Microscopes

The demonstration of table-top high average power extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) lasers combined with the engineering of specialized optics has enabled the demonstration of full-field microscopes that have achieved tens of nanometer spatial resolution. This paper describes the geometry of the EUV microscopes tailored to specific imaging applications. The microscope illumination characteristics are assessed and an analysis on the microscope's spatial resolution is presented. Examples of the capabilities of these table-top EUV aerial microscopes for imaging nanostructures and surfaces are presented.
Authoring Social Responsibility

To better understand how researchers author social responsibility, the authors closely examined the “privileged” language in Mitchell Duneier’s and Carol Stack’s ethnographic texts and the ways that they transformed their positions without decentering the voices of those living in poor communities. The authors then describe how these texts consider a new ethnographic sensibility for economic injustice that forces ethnographers to assume responsibilities for intersecting social class with all other oppressive structures. This ethnographic sensibility involves ethnographers writing texts that broaden and transform standpoints of economically privileged persons living and working in our local communities. That is, when ethnographers position their texts from a social class standpoint, they automatically change the dimensions of how individuals interrupt and explain race, gender, and other social injustices. The authors propose that to better understand hierarchical structures that dominate society in today’s...
Compositional differences in particle-associated and free-living microbial assemblages from an extreme deep-ocean environment.

Summary Relatively little information is available for the com- position of microbial communities present in hadal environments, the deepest marine locations. Here we present a description of the phylogenetic diversity of particle-associated (> 3 mm) and free-living (3-0.22 mm) microorganisms present in a pelagic trench environment. Small subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequences were recovered from members of the Bacteria, Archaea and Eukarya obtained from a depth of 6000 m in the Puerto Rico Trench (PRT). Species richness estimates for the bacterial particle- associated fraction were greater compared with the free-living fraction and demonstrated statistically sig- nificant compositional differences, while the archaeal fractions were not found to be significantly different. The particle-associated fraction contained more Rhodobacterales and unclassified Myxococcales along with Bacteroidetes, Planctomycetes and chlo- roplast sequences, whereas the free-living fraction contained more Caulobacterales, Xanthomonadales and Burkholderiales, along with Marine Group A and Gemmatimonadetes. The Eukarya contained a high abundance of Basidiomycota Fungi 18S rRNA genes, as well as representatives from the super-groups Rhizaria, Excavata and Chromalveolata. A diverse clade of diplonemid flagellates was also identified from the eukaryotic phylotypes recovered, which was distinct from previously identified deep-sea pelagic diplonemid groups. The significance of these results to considerations of deep-sea microbial life and par- ticle colonization is discussed in comparison to the few other deep-ocean phylogenetic surveys available.
Pharmacology Review: Topical Mydriatics: The Adverse Effects of Screening Examinations for Retinopathy of Prematurity

The American Academy of Pediatrics, in a joint statement with the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus and the American Academy of Ophthalmology, recommends that all infants who have birthweights less than 1,500 g or gestational ages of 28 weeks or less, as well as selected infants whose birthweights are between 1,500 and 2,000 g and who have unstable clinical courses should receive fundus examinations after pupillary dilatation to evaluate for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Most infants have at least two examinations. Despite more than 100,000 examinations being performed annually on preterm infants, there are relatively few data regarding the frequency and severity of adverse systemic effects caused by the examination or the medications used for the examination. Ocular stimulation causes alterations in cardiac rhythm or rate via afferent impulses through the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve via the reticular formation to the visceral motor nuclei of the vagus nerve. Traction on the ocular muscles and pressure on the globe are among the stimuli that cause bradycardia and ectopic beats in some patients. Clarke and associates documented positive oculocardiac reflexes in 17 of 54 preterm infants (31%) undergoing ophthalmoscopic screening examinations for ROP. Instillation of eye drops, introduction of the speculum, scleral depression, and traction on the rectus muscles all were associated with heart rate decreases of greater than 10%. All episodes lasted fewer than 15 seconds after removal of the stimulus. Ramet and colleagues demonstrated that the heart rate response to ocular pressure progressively increased with decreasing postconceptional age; infants at 32 weeks’ postmenstrual age (PMA) demonstrated electrocardiographic RR interval prolongation that was two to three times greater than infants at term PMA and older. A later study by the same authors demonstrated that RR interval prolongation induced by ocular stimuli during REM sleep was significantly greater …
GATA-6 Transcriptional Regulation of 15-Lipoxygenase-1 during NSAID-induced Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer Cells

The mechanisms by which nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) induce apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells are undergoing intensive investigation. We found previously that NSAIDs induce apoptosis in these cells by restoring 15-lipoxygenase-1 (15-LOX-1) expression. The present study examined the NSAID mechanism for up-regulating 15-LOX-1 in two colorectal cancer cell lines (RKO and DLD-1). We found that NSAID effects on 15-LOX-1 occurred at the level of transcriptional regulation. We then studied NSAID effects on GATA-6, a transcription factor that suppresses 15-LOX-1 expression. Beginning within 4 h, NSAIDs progressively down-regulated GATA-6 expression. Ectopic GATA-6 expression blocked NSAID induction of 15-LOX-1 and apoptosis. NSAIDs down-regulate GATA-6 to transcriptionally up-regulate 15-LOX-1 and induce apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells.
Supervising Athletic Trainers' Perceptions of Professional Socialization of Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainers in the Collegiate Setting

Context: Many newly credentialed athletic trainers gain initial employment as graduate assistants (GAs) in the collegiate setting, yet their socialization into their role is unknown. Exploring the ...
Inhibitory effects of human gingival extracts on bone resorption in vitro.

The effects of human gingival extracts on in vitro, bone resorption were examined and related to the amount of plaque, gingival inflammation and bone resorption present at the time of sampling. Twenty patients with varying degrees of periodontal disease were used in this study. The plaque index and bleeding index were recorded. the marginal gingiva removing surgically and immediately freeze dried. Alveolar bone resorption was then measured from the cemento enamel junction (CFI) to the alveolar bone crest directly during surgical exposure or on radiographs. The bone resorting activity of extracts from freeze dried gingiva was then tested in an in vitro bone resorption assay. No bone resorting activity was noted in 17 of the 18 extracts tested and thus no correlation could be found with the clinical indices. Mean values of the T/C ratios for 18 extracts tested indicate a biphasic suppression of control resorption by the extracts. The extracts suppressed resorption stimulated by known bone resorbing agents. H [eating of the extract prior to testing eliminated this suppressive effect. It is concluded that inhibitors of bone resorption are present in human gingival extracts. Their presence may explain our inability to demonstrate bone resorhing activity in human gingiva.
The effect of lead toxicity and milk deprivation on myelination in the rat

Abstract During a defined postnatal developmental period, the 2nd through the 28th postnatal day, rats were exposed daily to either an oral administration of 200 mg lead (as lead acetate) per kilogram of body weight, and 8-hr maternal milk deprivation schedule, or a combination of the two insults. On the 29th day the rats were killed. Either lead exposure or milk deprivation alone decreased brain (10%) and body (15%) weights, and an additive effect was observed in rats exposed to both lead and milk deprivation (brain: 20%; body: 35%). Neither the lead nor the deprivation insult alone produced a perturbation in the process of myelination. However, when the two conditions were combined an interaction was evident as a 25% decrease in myelin accumulation in females. No effect was seen in males. The myelination deficit in females was specific in that neither accumulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (a marker for astroglial cells) nor neurofilament protein (a marker for neurons, especially axons) was perturbed. Tissue lead concentrations did not suggest that this increased sensitivity in females was due to a selective increase in their body burden of lead.
Oral health of young children in Mississippi Delta child care centers: a second look at early childhood caries risk assessment.

Objectives: To identify the predictors of early childhood caries and urgent dental treatment need among primarily African-American children in child care centers in the Delta region of Mississippi. The purpose of this study was to replicate predictors of caries and urgent dental treatment needs that were identified in an earlier study conducted in Delta child care centers and to assess additional caries risk factors not collected in the original study. Methods: Children in 19 child care centers were examined by the dentists, and the parents provided data on oral health practices, oral health history, and on children's oral health-related quality of life (QOL). The dentists also assessed visible plaque and tested levels of mutans streptococci. Predictors of caries and treatment need among children 24 to 71 months of age were examined using logistic regression. Results: Two parent predictors of caries identified in the earlier study (parent flossing and soft/sugary drink consumption) were not predictive in the current study. Parent history of abscess continued to predict their child's urgent need for treatment. Young children's level of salivary mutans streptococci, maxillary incisor visible plaque, and parents' reports of child oral health-related QOL measures predicted the presence of both caries and urgent treatment need. Some expected predictors, such as frequency of child's toothbrushing, were not predictive of caries. Conclusions: Parental abscess and parent's report of the child's oral health-related QOL are risk indicators for poor oral health outcomes that could be used by nondental personnel to identify young children in need of early preventive intervention and dental referral.
An Examination of the Relationship of Teacher Certification Area to Sexual Misconduct: Florida as a Case Study

The purpose of the current study was to examine the relationship of teacher certification area to sexual misconduct. The study also examined teachers certified in music education to ascertain the frequency with which they are disciplined for sexual misconduct and to compare that information with teachers of other subject areas. Data were randomly selected from the Florida Department of Education’s Discipline Against Educator Licenses database. Within the sample (N = 290), teachers holding multiple certifications were found to be the most frequent offenders (35.51%), and music teachers accounted for less than 5% of the total. The most frequent offense was sexual misconduct (25.77%), and more than 60% of the offending music teachers in the sample had been disciplined for this offense. Ramifications of this type of study for music teacher education are discussed as well as recommendations for dissemination of this information to preservice music educators.
The ‘Authorial Other’ in the Autobiographical Social Novel

This article redefines the concept of the ‘Other,’ a term typically used in literary criticism. The writer's new conceptualised definition of the ‘Other’ refers more to the composition of creative writing, namely that this ‘Other’ is a reimagined version of the Author him/herself as a fictional character. This ‘Other’ is carefully reimagined and meticulously created, per novel, so that it is complementary for a novel's intended audience, tone, plot, character identity, and genre. More specifically, this article discusses the purposeful creation of an authorial ‘Other’ in a postmodern family saga novel that also contains ample social commentary and is written as a successful ‘genre mash-up.’ Novels of this complexity are written by postmodern social fictionists such as Michael Cunningham, Jeffrey Eugenides, and Jonathan Franzen, whose family saga novels all contain much ‘factionalised’ social commentary about contemporary America and whose novels are truly genre-spanning. As examples to illustrate the crea...
Toward a Transdisciplinary Internet Research

Given the expanse of the Internet as a topic for research, the need for transdisciplinary research becomes evident. This paper introduces and expands on the problems of Internet research and how some of those can be resolved by pursuing transdisciplinary research. Issues introduced are the fragmentation of understanding, the disunity of research, and the public reception of that research.
Using the Electronic Medical Record to Enhance the Use of Combination Drugs

The objective of this study was to increase combination drug prescriptions through the use of electronic point-of-care reminders, thereby maintaining quality while decreasing medication costs. The electronic medical record (EMR) was used to identify all patients who were potential candidates for one of the following 3 currently available combination drugs: fluticasone-salmeterol, amlodipine-benazepril, or glyburide-metformin. Point-of-care electronic reminders were attached to the medication record of the EMR for each patient, and providers were asked to consider using the available combination medication. Of the patients who had electronic reminders attached to their charts and were seen at the clinic during the study period, 47 of 175 were switched to a combination medication. A cost-savings analysis showed a total annual savings of dollars 6,159.30. Point-of-care reminders are a simple and effective tool for quality-improvement interventions. Combination drugs may play an important role in controlling medication costs.
Method for analyzing series resistance and diode quality factors from field data Part II: Applications to crystalline silicon

Abstract The method described in a prior journal publication [1] is applied to the determination of module series resistance and diode quality factors for several crystalline silicon (c-Si) technology photovoltaic (PV) modules. This method makes use of the functional dependence of the slope of the current–voltage ( I – V ) characteristics at open circuit ( R oc ) against the reciprocal of the short-circuit current density ( J sc ), from multiple I – V curves taken under variable illumination. It is shown that calculations of the series resistance for six modules yield values in the range 1.0–1.6 Ω-cm 2 , expressed in unit-cell area terms. The derived values for the series resistance ( R s ) determined from the data are investigated for their effect on the module fill factor (FF) values and their dependence at higher light intensity levels. The diode quality factors also derived from the same data are shown to be somewhat larger than those obtained from the more canonical method — slope of the fit of the open-circuit voltage ( V oc ) versus logarithm of J sc . The differences between the two methods are explored within a two-diode model for c-Si. Deriving average values of diode quality factors for series-connected cells using either method is shown to exhibit problematic issues.
Sarcopenia as a predictor of complications in penile cancer patients undergoing inguinal lymph node dissection

Lymphadenectomy (LND) is part of the surgical management of penile cancer but causes significant perioperative morbidity. We determined whether sarcopenia, a novel marker of nutritional status, is a predictor of postoperative complications after LND. Seventy-nine patients underwent LND for penile cancer from 1999 to 2014, and 43 had available preoperative abdominal imaging. Skeletal muscle index (SMI) was calculated on axial computed tomography images at the third lumbar vertebrae, and an SMI of 55 cm2/m2 was used to classify patients as sarcopenic versus not. This classification was then correlated with postoperative complications and survival. Median lumbar SMI was 54.7 cm2/m2 with 22 (51.2 %) patients categorized as sarcopenic versus 21 (48.8 %) who were not. Twenty-seven postoperative complications occurred in 20 patients within 30 days, of which 11 (40.7 %) were major (Clavien score ≥IIIa) and 16 (59.3 %) were minor. The most common complications were wound dehiscence (25.9 %), wound infection (18.5 %), lymphocele (18.5 %), and flap necrosis (14.8 %). On univariate analysis, the presence of sarcopenia, nodal disease, and lymphovascular invasion were predictors of postoperative complications. On multivariate analysis, only sarcopenia was an independent predictor of 30-day complications [p = 0.038; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.1–21.1]. Although sarcopenia was not statistically associated with worse overall survival (OS), there was a trend toward poorer outcomes in these patients. Sarcopenia can be a useful prognostic tool to predict the likelihood of postoperative complications after LND for penile cancer. Preoperative nutritional supplementation may help reduce complication rates in the future.
Learning-based scheduling in a flexible manufacturing flow line

We develop a bilevel framework for scheduling a circuit board (PCB) assembly plant which uses surface mount technology for inserting electronic components. Machine learning techniques are utilized for developing a system that adaptively utilizes the most appropriate heuristics given the current state of the system. We consider heuristics for both part-release and dispatching at machines. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach compared to some other existing heuristic scheduling approaches. >
Low-Power and High-Speed Pipelined ADC Using Time-Aligned CDS Technique

Time-aligned correlated double sampling (CDS) technique, which overcomes the error accumulation problem found in the time-shifted CDS technique, is proposed. This technique allows low gain opamp based switched-capacitor operation to achieve the equivalent accuracy that is traditionally possible only in high gain opamp based switched-capacitor operation. This allows simple single stage opamps to be used, leading to low-power and high-speed performance. As a proof of concept, a prototype pipelined analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is fabricated in a 0.18 mum CMOS process. Measured results demonstrate 1.8V 10b 100 MS/s 50 mW ADC.
Ultrastructural aspects of calf submandibular glands

Submandibular gland biopsies from four calves were examined by electron microscopy. Most of the parenchyma consists of mucous acini capped by seromucous demilunes. Secretory product of the demilunes reaches the acinar lumen via intercellular canaliculi located between adjacent demilunar cells or by narrow apical extensions of demilunar cells bordering the lumen in common with acinar cells. Intercellular canaliculi are absent between mucous acinar cells, but intercellular space is present at junctions of demilunar cells, acinar cells, and intercalated duct cells. Intercalated ducts are short and connect mucous acini with striated ducts. Striated ducts show more basal infoldings and mitochondria than those of bovine parotid glands. Nuclear bodies are present in most epithelial cell types of the gland but are larger and more easily recognized in nuclei of striated duct cells. Attempts are made to correlate the structure of bovine submandibular glands with its secretion of small amounts of hypotonic saliva relative to the larger volume of isotonic saliva secreted by parotid glands of the same animal.
Mice null for NEDD9 (HEF1) display extensive hippocampal dendritic spine loss and cognitive impairment

NEDD9 (neural precursor cell expressed, developmentally down-regulated 9) is a member of the CAS (Crk-associated substrate) family of scaffolding proteins that regulate cell adhesion and migration. A Nedd9 knock-out/lacZ knock-in mouse (Nedd9(-/)(-)) was developed in order to study Nedd9 expression and function in the nervous system. Herein we show that NEDD9 is expressed in the adult brain and is prominently expressed in the hippocampus. Behavioral testing uncovered functional deficits in Nedd9(-)(/)(-) mice. In the Morris water maze test, Nedd9(-)(/)(-) mice showed deficits in both the ability to learn the task as well as in their ability to recall the platform location. There was no change in the gross morphology of the hippocampus, and stereological analysis of BrdU-labeled newly formed hippocampal cells suggested that this defect is not secondary to altered neurogenesis. However, analysis of the hippocampus revealed extensive loss of dendritic spine density in both the dentate gyrus (DG) and CA1 regions. Spine loss occurred equally across all branch orders and regions of the dendrite. Analysis of spine density in Nedd9(-)(/)(-) mice at 1.5, 6 and 10 months revealed an age-dependent spine loss. This work shows that NEDD9 is required for the maintenance of dendritic spines in the hippocampus, and suggests it could play a role in learning and memory.
Developmental expression of human angiotensinogen in transgenic mice.

Transgenic mice containing the human angiotensinogen (HAGT) gene were utilized to determine the developmental regulation ofHAGT expression. RNase protection assay on total RNA obtained from whole t...
Abstract IA14: Reprogramming cell fate by mimicking natural mechanisms

We are exploiting natural mechanisms to derive mammalian cell sources for regenerative medicine: (1) by recapitulating pathways used by newts and zebrafish, (2) by mimicking biophysical cues to which adult stem cells are exposed in the body, (3) and by gaining insights into the mechanisms such as DNA demethylation by which adult cells are reprogrammed to pluripotency (iPS) in heterokaryons. These approaches provide fundamental mechanistic insights into stem cell fate determination, provide novel cell sources, and enable clinical applications of cell therapies for regenerative medicine. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Second AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Basic Cancer Research; 2011 Sep 14-18; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(18 Suppl):Abstract nr IA14.
Abstract P2-04-08: Targeted Expression of the Human Chaperone BAG3 to the Murine Mammary Gland Dysregulates Mammary Gland Development and Differentiation By Unrestricted Expansion of Luminal Cells

BAG3 is a pro-survival pro-invasion chaperone. We hypothesized that human BAG3 overexpression in murine breast would contribute to mammary tumorigenesis. We generated transgenic mice ectopically expressing hBAG3 in the mammary gland under the control of the Mouse Mammary Tumor Viral promoter (MMTV-hBAG3). hBAG3 was expressed in luminal cells throughout the ductal tree in multiple transgenic lines. Targeted expression of hBAG3 dysregulated mammary gland development by both increasing proliferation and differentiation. hBAG3 mammary glands had increased epithelial elongation at 5 weeks of age, premature glandular differentiation at 10 weeks, and features of ductal hyperplasia at week 13 with increased Ki67 and p-Histone H3 in the luminal compartment. At week 13 hBAG3 induced acinar differentiation. BAG3 pro-survival gain of function was recapitulated post-partum with delayed involution. Mammary glands of MMTV-hBAG3 had alveolar persistence three days after forced involution where non-transgenic controls demonstrated typical involution-driven apoptosis and remodeling. We crossed heterozygous MMTV-hBAG3 to WAP-Int3 mice with absent alveolar development in pregnancy. hBAG3 caused alveolar budding in the WAP-Int3 background. We hypothesized hBAG3 gain of function in the mammary gland would promote tumorigenesis. On aging, mammary glands of heterozygous MMTV-hBAG3 displayed densely crowded acinar structures with atypia, consistent with hyperplastic alveolar nodule (HAN). We subjected MMTV-hBAG3 mice to either multiparity or chemical carcinogenesis. After two pregnancies, most MMTV-hBAG3 animals had hyperplastic mammary ductal lesions (MMTV-hBAG3 6/7, 86%; FVB/N 1/7, 14%). Eighteen weeks post 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)antracene (DMBA) treatment, virgin females from five different transgenic lines had more hyperplastic lesions (MMTV-hBAG3 mean 6.3 lesions/gland, N=13, FVB/N mean 3.6 lesions/gland, N=9; p = 0.04), some with atypical hyperplasia. Transgenic MMTV-hBAG3 females developed ER and PR (+) malignant tumors (5/19), 26% while non-transgenic controls had none (0/12). WAP-Int3 mice developed tumors as early as two pregnancies. Heterozygous WAP-Int3xMMTV-BAG3 had the same tumor frequency but preliminary data suggest increased aggressiveness and metastasis. Collectively, our results indicate that MMTV-hBAG3 promotes proliferation, dysregulates mammary gland development and promotes hyperplasia and tumorigenesis and may provide a novel mouse model to represent the human ER+ luminal breast cancer subtype. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2012;72(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-04-08.
Bone Biopsy Techniques

The key to effective management of osteomyelitis is early and accurate diagnosis which allows for prompt and aggressive treatment. A variety of diagnostic modalities exist for the identification of osteomyelitis, but the current standard remains bone biopsy, including histopathologic evaluation and microbiologic culture. The goal of bone biopsy is to obtain a representative sample of bone without contamination of the specimen or harm to the patient. A number of variables need to be considered to accomplish these goals which are the focus of this chapter. Selection of the ideal biopsy technique is dependent on multiple factors including which bone is being biopsied, the size and location of any overlying wound defect, the quality of the surrounding soft tissue, presence of cellulitis, and need for wide resection including partial foot amputation. Case examples are included to highlight common biopsy protocols including the percutaneous trephine technique, open wound excision with corticotomy, joint arthroplasty with bone biopsy, and bone biopsy associated with partial foot amputation.
Analysis of 361 Cases of Pesticide Poisoning in Neijiang

Objective To analyze the incidence of pesticide poisoning in Neijiang,and provide evidence for the prevention and treatment of pesticide poisoning and take corresponding measures.Methods The data of pesticide poisoning in Neijiang from May 2007 to January 2010 were analyzed statistically on the cases' time,sex and age distributions.Results Among the 361 cases of pesticide poisoning,more cases occurred among females than males,and most cases were young adults.The incidence of pesticide poisoning peaked in the second quarter of a year.Most cases were caused by organic phosphorus pesticide poisoning.Conclusion The harm of pesticide poisoning is serious,the management of pesticide should be strengthened and health education should be conducted to reduce the incidence of pesticide poisoning.
Formulation and In Vitro Evaluation of Cyclosporine-A Inserts Prepared Using Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose for Treating Dry Eye Disease.

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop and characterize a novel sustained-release drug delivery system of cyclosporine-A (CsA) using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and xanthan gum (XG) for treating dry eye disease (DED). Methods: Polymeric inserts of CsA were prepared using the solvent casting technique with a 23 full factorial design to evaluate the effect of HPMC and XG ratios and drug content on thickness, folding endurance, wettability, and in vitro drug release. Inserts were also evaluated for drug content, moisture absorption and loss, and surface pH. Inserts with an optimized ratio of HPMC and XG were sterilized with UV light and evaluated for morphology, thermal analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, stability at 4°C, 25°C, and 40°C, cytotoxicity in cultured bovine corneal endothelial cells, and anti-inflammatory effect in Jurkat T cells. Results: The addition of XG increased the CsA release duration and enhanced the folding endurance of films. All films showed un...
Do Views Toward Homosexuality Differ by Social Class? An Empirical Study of United States Opinion

Homosexuality is generally viewed negatively. That is certainly the case in the Jewish and Christian holy books as well as the Quran, although opinions differ as to interpretation. The practice has been condemned by these religions. An Imam in Orlando, Florida, the site of the mass murder of homosexuals, has gone so far as to say that killing homosexuals would be the compassionate thing to do.It is not the purpose of this paper to review the history of homosexuality, or the pros and cons or moral standing of the practice. Readers can obtain that information by reading the items listed in the reference section of this paper. The goal of this study is more limited, to determine whether views toward homosexuality differ by social class in the United States.The present study is part of a series on homosexuality. Other studies in the series look at trends on the acceptance of homosexuality and examine specific demographic variables such as gender, age, level of education, income, religion and region to see whether these variables are significant. One study ranks the acceptance of homosexuality for 98 countries. Citations to some of those studies (with links) are listed in the reference section of the present paper.
Chapter 44 – Mucosal Immune Response to Parasitic Infections

The mucosal immune responses to parasitic infestations are a sequel of direct contact between the parasite and the host mucosa, the outcome of which is both host and parasite dependent. A competent host immune system, antigenicity of parasite constituents, and duration of contact—are factors contributing to the development of mucosal immunity. The intensity of the infection, the nature of the parasite, and specific host–parasite interactions determine the degree of tissue injury and manifestations of disease. Infection in the host's colon is mediated by the amebic galactose-inhibitable adherence lectin, allowing trophozoites to adhere to the colonic mucins. A Ca++ mediated lethal hit produced by E. histolytica trophozoites kills host cells. Clearance of E. histolytica is directly related to the development of the host's mucosal and humoral immune response. The mucosal antiamebic antibody response to E. histolytica differs from that to E. dispar . Contact time with the colonic mucosa may be for up to 1 year for E. dispar and up to 3 months for E. histolytica before eliciting a mucosal immune response.
E-judiciaries: a model for community policing in cyberspace

Online harassment is a significant and growing problem. Under current conditions, however, economic pressures and constitutional restrictions make actionable change unlikely. This Article proposes a model for community self-governance that may be termed ‘e-judiciaries,’ in which online community members participate in a process of reviewing and disciplining alleged participant misconduct. In support of this model, the Article examines quantitative and qualitative data from a major online community that has adopted this approach to self-regulation. Empirical analysis suggests that this regulatory design leads community members to adopt an aggressive approach to policing harassment. Such a system, expanded more broadly into other online communities entailing high amounts of user-generated content and activity, has the potential to work as an effective anti-harassment countermeasure.