cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Candidiasis-Associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in a Patient Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

We describe a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome who developed candidiasis-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), and we review the previously reported cases of this unusual clinical syndrome in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HLH appears to follow a fulminant course in HIV-infected patients, which warrants an aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic approach. HIV itself may play a role in the pathogenesis of HLH, which is usually associated with opportunistic infections or malignancies. Therapy is usually directed at supportive care and treatment of the underlying disorders, although initiation of antiretroviral therapy may improve the eventual outcome in some cases.
Fresh osteochondral allografting for osteochondral lesions of the talus.

Background: Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) are relatively common sequelae of traumatic injuries involving the talus. We report on clinical outcomes of osteochondral allografting (OCA) of the talus for refractory, symptomatic OLT. Materials and Methods: OCA was performed in 12 ankles in 11 patients with OLT. All involved partial, unipolar grafts of the talar dome, implanted through an anterior approach without osteotomy, under temporary distraction. Clinical evaluation was performed utilizing the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS). Subjective outcome measures included patient questionnaires evaluating pain, function, and satisfaction. Eleven patients (seven males, four females) had a mean age of 35.5 (range, 26 to 57) years. One patient had bilateral involvement. Six OLT affected the medial, six the lateral talar dome. Patients had an average of 1.8 previous surgeries (range, 1 to 5). Mean followup was 38 (range, 24 to 107) months. Results: Mean OMAS improved from 28 to 71 points (p < 0.05). Thre...
Assessing the toxicity of freshwater sediments

The science of sediment toxicology essentially began in the late 1970s. It was largely a product of dredging concerns and recognition of widespread contamination of sediments. During the past few years, sediment toxicity research activity has increased dramatically. Currently, most tests are of an acute nature with fewer available for determining sublethal endpoints of chronic toxicity. Test systems of single and multiple species have included most levels of biological organization in aquatic ecosystems and have been conducted in the laboratory on whole sediments, interstitial waters, elutriates, or other extractable fractions under a wide variety of conditions. Evaluations of methodological effects and comparisons with in situ toxicity using surrogate test species and indigenous communities have, on occasion, shown significant differences in test responses. These differences may be attributed to laboratory-controlled parameters (e.g., light, species, life stage, exposure conditions, test phase, spiking method); sampling and laboratory-induced disruption of sediment integrity; alteration of toxicant partitioning due to manipulations and temporal effects; and failure to recognize other influencing ecosystem variables (e.g., organism niche and life cycle, sediment partitioning and gradient dynamics, physicochemical and biological process integration, biotic and abiotic disturbances, micro- and macrobiota patches, food-web interactions). Optimizing and standardizing test methods will require further studies of these variables to improve inter-laboratory comparisons and ecosystem validity. Despite the many unknowns that exist, a variety of sediment toxicity tests have been effectively used in assessing toxicant contamination by measuring the bioavailable fraction of the in-place pollutants. The optimal assays vary with the study and its objectives. Intergrative studies using several chemical, community, and toxicity measures are currently the most effective at defining ecosystem perturbations.
Disturbances as Hot Spots of Ecotypic Variation: A Case Study with Dryas octopetala

Abstract Ecotypic specialization among populations within plant species can result in adaptational lag when the climate changes directionally. However, disturbances, whether caused by direct effects of human activities or indirect effects such as climate change, may represent zones within which natural selection is relaxed. We compared the genetically based variation in leaf morphology in Dryas octopetala within three natural populations arrayed along a snowbank gradient, to that found in a recently colonized gravel pad less than 100 m away (1600 total leaf lengths measured; 4 sites × 10 transects/site × 4 plants/transect × 10 leaves/plant). Elevated among-clone leaf length variation within the disturbed site supported the idea that disturbances may represent “hotspots” of evolutionarily significant genetic variation. In the Arctic, where colonization of disturbances is primarily by native species, adaptive evolution may be more rapid than previously thought due to relaxation of selection and subsequent m...
The interplay between granularity, performance and availability in a replicated Linda tuple space

Replication is a common method for increasing the availability of data in a distributed environment. The authors' interest is in the application of replication techniques in the domain of parallel processing. They explore the issues concerning degree of replication and granularity in the context of a distributed and highly available Linda tuple space. In particular, they study the performance effects of varying the number of replicas and the granularities of replication and concurrency control. Traditionally, when using replication in databases, the granularity of replication and that of concurrency control have been the same (at the file level (D.K. Gifford, 1979), for example). This is not an inherent requirement however. The authors show by detailed simulation of a replicated Linda tuple space that it is useful to separate the two granularities and that it is an important design issue especially in parallel processing systems. >
The Drosophila heterochromatic gene encoding poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is required to modulate chromatin structure during development

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is a major NAD-dependent modifying enzyme that mediates important steps in DNA repair, transcription, and apoptosis, but its role during development is poorly understood. We found that a single Drosophila Parp gene spans more than 150 kb of transposon-rich centromeric heterochromatin and produces several differentially spliced transcripts, including a novel isoform, PARP-e, predicted to encode a protein lacking enzymatic activity. An insertion mutation near the upstream promoter for Parp-e disrupts all Parp expression. Heterochromatic but not euchromatic sequences become hypersensitive to micrococcal nuclease, nucleoli fail to form, and transcript levels of the copia retrotransposon are elevated more than 50-fold; the variegated expression of certain transgenes is dominantly enhanced. Larval lethality can be rescued and PARP activity restored by expressing a cDNA encoding PARP-e. We propose that PARP-e autoregulates Parp transcription by influencing the chromatin structure of its heterochromatic environment. Our results indicate that Parp plays a fundamental role organizing the structure of Drosophila chromatin.
Therapy with orally administered methoxsalen and ultraviolet A radiation during childhood increases the risk of basal cell carcinoma

A child was treated from age 18 months to 8 years with oral methoxsalen and ultraviolet A radiation (PUVA) for refractory psoriasis. Two basal cell cancers developed before age 21 years, suggesting that exposure to PUVA in childhood increases the risk of basal cell cancer.
Interactions between Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 and Vaccinia Virus in Human Lymphoid Tissue Ex Vivo

Vaccinia virus (VACV) has been attracting attention recently not only as a vector for various vaccines but also as an immunization tool against smallpox because of its potential use as a bioterrorism agent. It has become evident that in spite of a long history of studies of VACV, its tissue pathogenesis remains to be fully understood. Here, we investigated the pathogenesis of VACV and its interactions with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in the context of human lymphoid tissues. We found that ex vivo-cultured tonsillar tissue supports productive infection by the New York City Board of Health strain, the VACV strain of the Dryvax vaccine. VACV readily infected both T and non-T (B) lymphocytes and depleted cells of both of these subsets equally over a 12-day period postinfection. Among T lymphocytes, CD8 cells are preferentially depleted in accordance with their preferential infection: the probability that a CD8 T cell will be productively infected is almost six times higher than for a CD4 T cell. T cells expressing CCR5 and the activation markers CD25, CD38, and HLA-DR are other major targets for infection by VACV in lymphoid tissue. As a consequence, VACV predominantly inhibits the replication of the R5SF162 phenotype of HIV-1 in coinfected tissues, as R5-tropic HIV-1 requires activated CCR5 CD4 cells for productive infection. Human lymphoid tissue infected ex vivo by VACV can be used to investigate interactions of VACV with other viruses, in particular HIV-1, and to evaluate various VACV vectors for the purpose of recombinant vaccine development. The global eradication of smallpox declared by the World Health Organization in 1980 eliminated the need for poxvirus immunization and reduced interest in vaccinia virus (VACV) biology (24). The threat of smallpox virus being used as a biological weapon, however, has prompted the reintroduction of the vaccination program as a preventive measure against acts of bioterrorism and produced a resurgence in scientific attention to VACV. VACV, like variola virus, the causal agent of smallpox, belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus. Vaccination
Pathology consultation on matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry for microbiology.

Objectives: Traditional microbial identification methods are based on morphology (both micro- and macroscopic) and biochemical tests that require long incubation periods and a good deal of technologist hands-on time. In addition, many of these methods have some degree of subjectivity. In comparison, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) identifies microorganisms from colonies grown on solid media within minutes using very few reagents. Methods: A case-based approach was used to review the strengths and weaknesses of MALDI-TOF MS in clinical microbiology laboratories. Results: MALDI-TOF MS has been proven to be an accurate and reliable method for organism identification including bacteria, yeast, molds, and mycobacteria. It is rapid, with results often 24 hours earlier than traditional methods, and inexpensive. There are no FDA-approved systems available currently. Susceptibility data are still reliant on conventional methods. There are genetically similar organisms that cannot be discriminated reliably with this method. Conclusions: MALDI-TOF MS is an exciting, innovative method for organism identification in the clinical microbiology laboratory.
Distinct Glycoforms of a Tumor Specific Glycoprotein, gp200, in Human Testis and Testicular Tumors

AbstractWe recently purified a 200 kD peanut agglutinin-binding glycoprotein from the embryonal carcinoma cell line HT-E (833K) that is expressed selectively in nonseminomatous germ cell tumors. We now further characterize gp200 using Western blot analysis to compare normal and malignant testicular germ cells for reactivity to peanut agglutinin, a plant lectin that recognizes terminal D-galactosyl residues, and GCTM-2, a monoclonal antibody that recognizes a 200 kD keratan-sulfate proteoglycan on human embryonal carcinoma. The results indicate that normal germ cells express gp200 as a membrane-bound 230 kD glycoform that expresses terminal galactose residues. This 230 kD glycoprotein is absent on spermatozoa but present on seminomatous germ cell tumors and somatic tissue and does not express terminal galactose on its carbohydrate side chains. In contrast, nonseminomatous germ cell tumors express a heavily sialylated glycoform of gp200 that does express terminal galactose residues. These results describe a...
Convergence culture in the creative industries

• This article maps the emerging practices in media professions like journalism, advertising, marketing communications and public relations in adapting to a new global environment, characterized by...
Geographical Skills Mismatch, Job Search and Race:

This paper examines whether a geographical skills mismatch exists between the location of less-educated minorities, in particular African Americans, and high-skill job concentrations and, if so, whether it contributes to the relatively poor employment outcomes of this group. It explores these questions by examining data on the recent geographical search patterns of less-educated workers in Los Angeles and Atlanta from the Multi-city Study of Urban Inequality. These data are combined with employer data from the concurrent Multi-city Employer Survey to characterise the geographical areas searched by respondents with respect to high-skill job requirements. The results indicate that, in relation to less-educated Whites, comparable Blacks and Latinos search in areas with higher levels of job skill requirements. Moreover, racial residential segregation as well as Blacks' lower car access rates account for most of Blacks' (but not Latinos') relatively greater mismatch. Evidence is also found that such a geograph...
Depressive symptomatology, self-esteem, and self-blame in battered women

Thirty three currently battered women who sought counseling/support services from a Nassau County, New York community agency that provides services to victims of domestic violence participated. Eighty-nine percent of the women experienced severe acts of physical abuse and 31% of the women required surgery or suffered concussions as a result of their injuries. Fifty-two percent of the women scored above 20 on the Beck Depression Inventory. As the number, form, and consequences of physically aggressive acts increased and/or worsened, the women's depressive symptoms increased and self-esteem decreased. However, only 12% of the women in this sample blamed themselves for causing their partner's violence. Further, neither self-blame nor partner blame was associated with length of abuse or the frequency and severity of physical aggression. However, self-blame was marginally associated with depressive symptomatology.
Efficient controller implementations for robot control

Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) have emerged as the platform of choice for the rapid prototyping and testing of hardware circuits. The dynamic creation of hardware circuits in FPGAs provides an efficient mechanism for customizing the hardware for specific task objectives. The ability of these devices to be reprogrammed during run-time enables the hardware circuitry to adapt to changing task requirements and to accommodate system faults. In this paper, the use of FPGAs in implementing different behaviors and controllers for a mobile robot application is presented. It is shown that the computational hardware can be optimized for each task and sophisticated behaviors and controllers implemented in an efficient manner. The proposed approach is validated through a case study where a robot is configured to meet application specific requirements and the controllers on this robot are modified dynamically using Xilinx Virtex-II Pro FPGAs.
Simultaneous determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and polychlorinated biphenyls by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in human serum and plasma

Sensitive and reliable methods for simultaneous determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in limited volumes of human serum or plasma need to be further documented especially when they accumulate at low levels that are still capable of disrupting endocrine and immune functions, and affecting neurodevelopment and reproduction. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a sensitive and quantitative method that simultaneously quantifies PBDEs and PCBs in 0.5 ml of human serum or plasma. We optimized a solid-phase extraction (SPE) method and used silica particle purification for the extraction of PBDEs and PCBs. Two multiple reactions monitoring (MRM) transitions were optimized for each congener. The sum of the transitions was used for quantification, and their abundance ratios were used for identification. The combined method optimization techniques resulted in limits of detection from 3 to 145 pg/ml for 10 PBDEs and 1-12 pg/ml for 15 PCBs. Method was solidly validated by analyzing serum fortified with a certified PBDE and PCB standard mixture from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The accuracy was 88-118% and day-to-day precision was within 19%. The method was successfully applied to quantify native concentrations of PBDE and PCB in commercially available human serum. The sensitivity and selectivity of the GC/EI-MS/MS analysis enables it to be the method of choice for investigations of exposures to PBDE and PCB congeners, especially when sample volume is limited.
Specification Diagrams for Actor Systems

Traditional approaches to specifying distributed systems include temporal logic specification (e.g. TLA), and process algebra specification (e.g. LOTOS). We propose here a new form of graphical notation for specifying open distributed object systems. The primary design goal is to make a form of notation for defining message-passing behavior that is expressive, intuitively understandable, and that has a formal underlying semantics. We describe the language and its use through presentation of a series of example specifications. We also give an operationally-based interaction path semantics for specification diagrams.
An integral equation for the in-control average run length of a multivariate exponentially weighted moving average control chart

An integral equation is given for the in-control average run length of a multivariate exponentially weighted moving average control chart. This integral equation is used to determine the appropriate upper control limits for various values of the smoothing constant r, the dimension p of the measured quality characteristic, and the desired in-control average run length L o Tables are given which allow a user to select the appropriate value of the upper control limit given these three conditions.
A complete parametrization of 2D nonseparable orthonormal wavelets

The problem of constructing compactly supported orthonormal multidimensional (k-D) nonseparable wavelets is considered. A complete solution to the problem of parametrizing all possible two-dimensional (2-D) wavelets having arbitrary degree of regularity is given. These results can be seen as a generalization of the Daubechies (1988) wavelets in two dimensions and go beyond those specific examples constructed by other workers in the field. Previous work on the multidimensional version of the problem does not provide a complete parametrization useful for generating all wavelets of interest. >
Multi-Physics Energy Approach and Demonstration Facility

A methodology to investigate the generation, transport and storage of energy based on a multi-physics approach, tied to the end use application, is presented. Often little or no consideration is given to the end use or desired product of the energy used. Current energy generation, transport and storage are dominated heavily by a few large sectors, notably electricity and hydrocarbons. These are very effective and practical systems that facilitate the delivery of vast amounts of energy. It is then not surprising that most strategies for renewable energy generation and storage revolve around this centralized model in some way. In larger scale generation, power is usually fed onto the electrical grid with a current challenge being grid stabilization with increasing penetration of intermittent renewable resources. In small grid-independent system a mix of battery and hydrocarbon storage are often used to keep a micro-grid available for various end use applications.A paradigm shift in the thinking and design of energy systems based on the required end use or product is needed. The philosophy and motivation that lead to the consideration of this new approach are outlined in this article. Following this a summary of a methodical approach to developing the most energy and cost-effective solution to general processes by considering their end-use physics is presented. Examples of innovative energy generation, storage, and transport solutions based on the multi-physics approach are then outlined. Finally, a brief description of the Multi-physics Renewable Energy Lab (MPREL), a demonstration facility based on the approach and currently under construction at the Naval Postgraduate School, is given.© 2015 ASME
Are Group Judgments and Memories for Audit Evidence Susceptible to Recency Effects

Sequential processing of evidence leads to recency effect, a potential judgment bias that may impair auditor effectiveness or efficiency. The focus of prior research on order effects has been on individual decision-making. However, many auditing situations involve either formal or informal group consultation. This paper investigates whether group decision-making mitigates recency, and whether group processing of evidence improves auditor memory for evidence. Experienced auditors from a Big-6 firm made going-concern judgments, either individually or as members of a group. The participants were randomly assigned to one of two evidence order conditions. After performing the judgment task, participants completed two evidence recognition tests. Consistent with prior findings, results show that recency does affect judgments of individual auditors. However, recency effects are alleviated when groups make judgments. In fact, groups react less negatively (positively) to negative (positive) information than individuals. Order effects do not persist in memories of either individuals or groups. Groups, however, have more accurate memories for evidence than individuals.
Nonsurgical vs. Surgical Treatment Options for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Review of the Current Evidence

Nonsurgical management of pelvic organ prolapse is generally accepted as first-line therapy for symptomatic patients and includes expectant management, pelvic floor muscle training, or pessary use. The objective of this article is to review the available evidence comparing nonsurgical and surgical options for pelvic organ prolapse.
Born of the Poor: The Latin American Church Since Medellín

Intended as a celebration of the self-renewal of the Latin American Church, this text examines such topics as the theology of liberation, life in Christian communities and ecumenical response to human rights violations and evaluates the effects of the current Latin American economic crisis.
Engineering inverse woodpile and woodpile photonic crystal solar cells for light trapping

We demonstrate that inverse woodpile and woodpile photonic crystal nanocrystalline silicon structures may be engineered for light trapping in solar cells. We use finite-difference tim-domain simulations to show that the geometry of these photonic crystals may be varied such that absorption in the infrared, visible, and ultraviolet parts of the spectrum may all be improved. The short-circuit current density and ultimate efficiency are also improved. We found a 77.1% and 106% absorption enhancement in the optimized inverse woodpile and woodpile structures respectively, compared to a nanocrystalline silicon thin film of the equivalent thickness. The inverse woodpile structures may be approximated as a thin film with effective index of refraction, whereas the woodpile structures exhibit resonances from the coupling of TE and TM leaky modes in the stacked cylinders. Woodpile photonic crystal structures exhibit improved performance compared to inverse woodpile structures over a range of equivalent thicknesses and incidence angles. The performance of woodpile structures is also generally insensitive to the diameter, pitch and number of layers, whereas inverse woodpile structures are much more sensitive to morphology.
Current situation and countermeasure of informatization construction with resident health record in Qujing city

Health record informationization is an inevitable trend of archives utilized.It is an effective tool for health management.And it mainly covers the electronic medical record and electronic health record.This article analyzes the problem existing in the process of health record informationnization and explore solution on the basis of situation of health record informationnization in Qujing.
Correlations among 31P NMR Coordination Chemical Shifts, Ru–P Bond Distances, and Enthalpies of Reaction in Cp′Ru(PR3)2Cl Complexes (Cp′ = η5-C5H5, η5-C5Me5; PR3 = PMe3, PPhMe2, PPh2Me, PPh3, PEt3, PnBu3)

The 31P NMR spectra of CpRu(PR3)2Cl and Cp*Ru(PR3)2Cl complexes with PR3 = PMe3, PPhMe2, PPh2Me, PPh3, PEt3, PnBu3 have been measured; these data correlate with and can be used to predict Ru–P bond distances and enthalpies. Their 31P NMR coordination chemical shifts (Δ(ppm) = δcomplex – δfree) show significant linear correlations with literature values of both the enthalpies of the ligand exchange reactions to form the Ru–P bonds and the average Ru–P bond distances from crystal structures. The strong correlation between Δ(ppm) and Ru–P distance can be extended to include the first-generation Grubbs metathesis catalyst (PCy3)2Cl2Ru═C(H)Ph and four of its derivatives, (PCy3)2Cl2Ru═C(H)(p-C6H4X) (X = OCH3, CH3, Cl, Br), the four related Fischer carbenes (PCy3)2Cl2Ru═C(H)ER (ER = OEt, SPh, N(carbazole), N(pyrrolidinone)), the second-generation Grubbs catalyst (PCy3)(IMes)Cl2Ru═C(H)Ph, and its derivative (PCy3)(IMes)Cl2Ru═C(H)OEt. Other significant correlations in the Cp′Ru(PR3)2Cl complexes are found between ...
Nonstandard maternal work schedules and infant mental health in impoverished families: A brief report

Guided by a bioecological model, this study examines variability in infant mental health by maternal work schedule in the context of poverty. More time in irregular work schedules, but not fixed night/evening schedules, predicts maternal depression and subsequent behavior problems in infants.
Determination of Amino Sugars

Free amino sugars react with acetylacetone in alkaline solution and form a pink-colored complex with p-dimenthylaminobenzaldehyde. This reaction was used for the quantitative determination of amino sugars by Morgan and co-workers. Bound amino sugars, as present in some natural products, must be liberated first by hydrolysis, as described in Exercises 33 or 34, The procedure given here describe one of the numerous modifications based on the publication of Rondle and Morgan (1955).
Observation of acoustoelectric effect in micromachined lamb wave delay lines with AlGaN/GaN heterostructure

We report on the first time observation of acoustoelectric (AE) effect from the interaction of acoustic Lamb waves and two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in an AlGaN/GaN heterostructure. Micro-fabricated Lamb wave delay lines are used to launch and guide travelling acoustic waves through the 2DEG region, resulting in a DC current flow between two ohmic contacts positioned on the delay line. The Lamb wave delay line shows much better acoustic transmission efficiency than the conventional surface acoustic wave (SAW) counterpart. The dependence of AE current on RF power and frequency is also verified.
Correlation of Objective Audiometric and Caloric Function in Ménière's Disease.

ObjectiveMeniere’s disease affects the vestibular and audiologic systems; however, little is known about the relationship between audiometric and caloric function with increasing duration of diseas...
Circadian Rhythm Dysregulation in Bipolar Spectrum Disorders

We review recent evidence for circadian rhythm dysregulation in bipolar spectrum disorders (BSDs). We examine evidence for endogenous abnormalities in the biological clock and disruptions in the external entrainment of circadian rhythms in BSDs. We also address whether circadian dysregulation provides vulnerability to onset of BSD and evidence for a new integration of reward and circadian dysregulation in BSD. Relative circadian phase delay (e.g., later melatonin peak, evening chronotype) is associated with BSD, particularly in the depressive phase. More consistent evidence supports irregularity of social rhythms, sleep/wake and activity patterns, and disruptions of social rhythms by life events, as stable trait markers of BSD and potential vulnerabilities for BSD onset. Growing research supports an integrative reward/circadian model. Both endogenous abnormalities in the biological clock pacemaking function and disruptions in the external entrainment of circadian rhythms by physical and social cues are involved in BSDs. Circadian dysregulation may provide vulnerability to BSD onset.
Current Status of Work on Crowding and Suggestions for Housing Design

The population explosion has given birth to an explosion of a different sort—an enormous outpouring of research on the effects of crowding. Ten years ago there were virtually no papers by psychologists on this subject. Five or six years ago the first ones started appearing and since then there has been an exponential increase in their number. Surely the last few years have seen more papers on crowding than appeared in all the time before that. Now that this area has become a recognized topic for research and has attracted a great many psychologists, perhaps it is time to stop for a moment and see what we know now. This is particularly appropriate since it seems to me that we have passed the initial stage of research—laying out some of the problems and discovering the most obvious facts about crowding—and it is now time to enter the second phase, which should consist of studying the more complex issues and explaining some of the early results.
Framework for Model-Based Design and Verification of Human-in-the-Loop Cyber-Physical Systems

We present a framework for comprehensive model-based systematic design and staged verification of Human-in-the-Loop Cyber-Physical Systems (HiLCPS) to handle their inherent complexity. HiLCPS are systems where humans are in the middle of the feedback loop between their cyber and the physical components. HiLCPS designers require modern tools and simpler model-based approaches for design and verification which encapsulate human behavior and its effect on the system.
Veterinary utility of dried blood spots for analysis of toxic chlorinated hydrocarbons.

AbstractDried blood spots (DBS) on filter paper provide a simple and convenient means of collecting, storing and shipping samples for veterinary diagnostics related to toxin exposures. This paper presents validation data on analysis of DBS for chlorinated persistent organic pollutants, specifically 4,4′-dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (4,4′-DDT) and its breakdown product 4,4′-dichlorodiphenyl-dichloroethylene (4,4′-DDE), lindane and a representative polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener PCB-153. Analysis was by gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC-ECD). The method required one 12.5 mm diameter spot representing application of 50 μL of blood, and working limits of detection (LOD) for each of the compounds was 5 ppb. Data are presented on development and description of the method, assay precision, LOD and quantitation, linearity, accuracy, specificity, effects of long-term storage and ruggedness. The method was also applied to 27 avian DBS, and 4,4′-DDE was detected in the majority of ...
Mars radar clutter and surface roughness characteristics from MARSIS data

Abstract Radar sounder studies of icy, sedimentary, and volcanic settings can be affected by reflections from surface topography surrounding the sensor nadir location. These off-nadir “clutter” returns appear at similar time delays to subsurface echoes and complicate geologic interpretation. Additionally, broadening of the radar echo in delay by surface returns sets a limit on the detectability of subsurface interfaces. We use MARSIS 4 MHz data to study variations in the nadir and off-nadir clutter echoes, from about 300 km to 1000 km altitude, R, for a wide range of surface roughness. This analysis uses a new method of characterizing ionospheric attenuation to merge observations over a range of solar zenith angle and date. Mirror-like reflections should scale as R−2, but the observed 4 MHz nadir echoes often decline by a somewhat smaller power-law factor because MARSIS on-board processing increases the number of summed pulses with altitude. Prior predictions of the contributions from clutter suggest a steeper decline with R than the nadir echoes, but in very rough areas the ratio of off-nadir returns to nadir echoes shows instead an increase of about R1/2 with altitude. This is likely due in part to an increase in backscatter from the surface as the radar incidence angle at some round-trip time delay declines with increasing R. It is possible that nadir and clutter echo properties in other planetary sounding observations, including RIME and REASON flyby data for Europa, will vary in the same way with altitude, but there may be differences in the nature and scale of target roughness (e.g., icy versus rocky surfaces). We present global maps of the ionosphere- and altitude-corrected nadir echo strength, and of a “clutter” parameter based on the ratio of off-nadir to nadir echoes. The clutter map offers a view of surface roughness at ∼75 m length scale, bridging the spatial-scale gap between SHARAD roughness estimates and MOLA-derived parameters.
Mastectomy Flap Thickness and Complications in Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Objective Evaluation using Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Background:Ischemic complications after nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) have been associated with numerous variables. However, the impact of NSM flap thickness has been incompletely evaluated.Methods:NSM flap thickness was determined for all NSMs from 2006 to 2016 with available pre- or postoperativ
Notch Signaling Modulates the Electrical Behavior of Cardiomyocytes

We investigated the effects of Notch receptor signaling on the electrical properties of cardiomyocytes. Our results indicate that the Notch transduction pathway interferes with outward K+ Kv curren...
An intelligent medium voltage gate driver with enhanced short circuit protection scheme for 10kV 4H-SiC MOSFETs

Designing of gate drivers for high voltage SiC power devices in medium voltage applications is challenging due to high dv/dt and di/dt at the switching instants. During short circuit fault, the device current rises with high di/dt, and eventually the device fails within few of micro seconds if not protected. Short circuit protection of power devices is an essential feature to improve reliability of converters. In this paper, a novel gate driver is developed with short circuit protection scheme, suitable for 10kV, 10A 4-H SiC MOSFETs. It utilizes the de-sat sensing scheme to detect the fault, and clears the fault by turning off the gate pulse in two stages. The trip time at the short circuit fault is much smaller than the short circuit withstanding time of 10kV 4H-SiC MOSFETs. The gate driver is qualified with appropriate experimental test bench for validation of short circuit protection feature, over-current limit and continuous operation for the 10kV MOSFETs.
Technology Strategy for the Medium-Size Company

(1976). Technology Strategy for the Medium-Size Company. Research Management: Vol. 19, No. 4, pp. 29-32.
Bariatric surgery and its impact on pseudotumor cerebri: A case report

Abstract Purpose Pseudotumor cerebri is a debilitating condition that causes severe headaches and progressive visual field loss. In this report, we present a patient with Class III obesity, with pseudotumor cerebri who failed medical management and attempted weight loss via diet and exercise. Observations After undergoing bariatric surgery, the patient had significant weight loss and improvement of visual field defects. Conclusion and importance These results suggest that bariatric surgery may be an effective option for patients with rapidly progressing visual loss due to pseudotumor cerebri.
Identification and functional analysis of a novel G310D variant in the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) gene associated with type 2 diabetes in American Indians.

Aims Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) is involved in cell growth and glucose homeostasis. In the current study, the IGF1R locus was analysed as a candidate gene for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in American Indians. Materials and methods Whole genome sequence data from 335 American Indians identified 3 novel missense variants in IGF1R. The associations of IGF1R variants with T2D, age of T2D onset and birth weight were analysed in a population-based sample of 7701 American Indians. Results A novel glycine-to-aspartic acid substitution (G310D) in IGF1R was identified, which associated with T2D in a sex-specific manner (Psex interaction = 0.02). In women, the aspartic acid (D) allele (frequency = 0.034) was associated with increased risk for T2D (n = 4292, P = 2.0 × 10-5 adjusted for age, birth year, and the first 5 genetic principal components; odds ratio [OR] = 2.23 [1.54-3.23] per risk allele) and an earlier age of T2D onset (n = 4292, P = 2 × 10-4 , hazard rate ratio = 1.45 [1.20-1.75], Psex interaction = 0.05). Female carriers of the D-allele also had lower birth weight (n = 1313, β = -163 g, P = .006, Psex interaction = 0.008). Among 85 siblings discordant for G310D, carriers of the D-allele had shorter stature as compared with carriers of the G-allele (β = -1.6 cm, P = .001, within family model). The G310D variant was functionally studied in vitro, where the D-allele had a 22% increase (P = .0005) in FOXO1-induced transcriptional activity, due to decreased activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway mediated through reduced IGF1R activity. Conclusion A unique G310D variant in IGF1R, which occurs in 6% American Indians, may impair IGF1R signalling pathways, thereby increasing the risk of T2D.
The Water-Energy-Food Nexus and California’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act

Water, energy, and food are among the most critically important resources for society. The demand for these resources is likely to increase in the coming decades because of global population growth, climate change, and other socioeconomic forces. This chapter provides a brief outline of some potential impacts and feedbacks of how Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus concepts may help local managers and stakeholders in California, USA design optimal groundwater sustainability plans to best meet the diverse interests in groundwater resources while implementing the State’s new (2014) Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) law. Sustainable groundwater resources will in turn likely increase the resilience of the WEF Nexus across California.
Distributed Routing on Ad Hoc Networks

In many applications of wireless networks, such as mobile commerce, search and rescue, and military battlefield operations, one has to deal with communication systems having no fixed topological structure. Such networks are usually referred to as ad hoc wireless systems.
Hypothesis: Immunologic Oncogenesis

The evidence that immunologic mechanisms may predispose to malignancy is reviewed, and an attempt is made to relate neoplasia possibly induced by immunologic or other reactions involving the recognition of self and not-self to known oncogenic mechanisms. It is suggested that "immunologic" oncogenesis as well as malignant transformation induced by known oncogenic agents may be mediated at least in part by chromosomal aberrations. These could act directly to promote neoplasia, or the cell death and proliferation consequent to them could promote other mutational events. Alternatively, the chromosomal changes themselves may not be sufficient for oncogenesis, but they may potentiate malignant transformation by other agents such as viruses.
Are phantom partials produced in piano strings

The anomalous frequency components in the sound from a piano, often referred to as phantom partials, were first noted almost 75 years ago. They occur at the sums and differences of the frequencies generated by the transverse motion of the string, and it is generally accepted that they are produced by longitudinal motion of the string that is associated with the normal transverse motion. Experimental evidence will be presented demonstrating that while some of the power in a phantom partial may originate in the string, most of it does not. A simple theory explaining how phantom partials may originate in the wooden components of the piano will be presented.The anomalous frequency components in the sound from a piano, often referred to as phantom partials, were first noted almost 75 years ago. They occur at the sums and differences of the frequencies generated by the transverse motion of the string, and it is generally accepted that they are produced by longitudinal motion of the string that is associated with the normal transverse motion. Experimental evidence will be presented demonstrating that while some of the power in a phantom partial may originate in the string, most of it does not. A simple theory explaining how phantom partials may originate in the wooden components of the piano will be presented.
The Try Procedure: A Precision Diagnostic Teaching Strategy:

The try procedure, a diagnostic teaching strategy used with precision teaching, provides teachers a way to determine which teaching methods produce the greatest gains for individual students.The “t...
Concise Description of Auto Fuel Economy and Performance in Recent Model Years

The subject is treated by statistical and engineering analyses applied to extensive measurements of fuel economy and acceleration performance. Fuel economy data are provided by the EPA certification lists for the four years 1973 to 1976. The performance data are track measurements of 0 to 60 MPH acceleration times for 1974 and 1975 vehicles, as reported in the popular automotive literature. Several relatings, supported by engineering analyses, are selected for making least-squares fits to the extensive measurements. The pivotal variables include inertia weight, horsepower, engine displacement and rear axle ratio, individually and in combinations. Satisfactory fits are made by power factorial forms and the resulting algorithms have standard errors of estimate in the vicinity of 10% for fuel economy and in the range 10% to 15% for acceleration time. Basically similar power factorial forms fit equally well various data subsets obtained by model year, by driving schedule, by auto vs. truck, by Federal vs. California certification, by automatic vs. manual transmission, etc. The results are extensively discussed and interpreted, and sufficient comparisons are made with results from other statistical and engineering analyses.
Lateral slit delivery of bone marrow stromal cells enhances regeneration in the decellularized allograft flexor tendon

Abstract Background/objective Stem cell–based therapy has been applied to accelerate the revitalization of allograft tendon into a viable and functional tendon. Although many authors have proposed different methods to help the seeded stem cell distribution in the decellularized allograft, limited success has been achieved as tendon is a high dense connective tissue. We hypothesized that bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), seeded through the lateral slit, can regenerate the decellularized tendon (DCT) graft. The cell proliferation, cell viability, and tendon-specific gene expression are increased with the seeded cell density. Methods Eighty-seven flexor digitorum profundus tendons were equally and randomly divided into 6 treatment groups that were seeded with low-density (2 × 107 cells/mL) and high-density (5 × 107 cells/mL) BMSCs through lateral slits cultured for 2 and 4 weeks, DCT without cells, and fresh live tendons. Tendons were evaluated for cell distribution, cell proliferation, cell viability, gene expression of Collagen I and Collagen III, tenogenic markers, and MMPs. Results Histologic evaluation revealed BMSCs distributed from the lateral slit to the whole DCT. BMSCs were proliferated and kept viable in lateral slit decellularized tendon (LSDCT) in both seeded cell density groups after 2 and 4 weeks of culture. However, no significant differences in the cell proliferation between both cell density groups at 2 and 4 weeks of culture were observed. The lowest cell viability was found in the high-density group after 4 weeks of culture. BMSCs in LSDCT showed a significant tendency of higher gene expression of Collagen I, Collagen III, tenascin C, MMP2, MMP9, and MMP13 compared to normal tendons in both cell density groups at 2 and 4 weeks of culture. Conclusion BMSCs proliferated and remained viable after 2 and 4 weeks of culture with distribution throughout the lateral slits. Lateral slit preparation allows for the effective delivery and maintenance of mesenchymal cells with proliferation and generating a tenogenic behaviour of DCT in both the low and high cell densities in an in vitro model. The translation potential of this article Revitalizing the implanted decellularized allograft is important for clinical application. In this study, we demonstrated that the DCT, with lateral slits, could harbour the seeded stem cell and stimulate proliferation with collagen synthesis. This evidence was presented for clinical application of the lateral slit technique, in DCT grafts, which would repopulate the seeded BMSCs during tendon and ligament reconstruction.
A longitudinal investigation of structural brain changes during second language learning

Few studies have examined the time course of second language (L2) induced neuroplasticity or how individual differences may be associated with brain changes. The current longitudinal structural magnetic resonance imaging study examined changes in cortical thickness (CT) and gray matter volume (GMV) across two semesters of L2 Spanish classroom learning. Learners' lexical processing was assessed via a language decision task containing English and Spanish words. Our findings indicated that (1) CT increased in the left anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and right middle temporal gyrus (MTG) after L2 learning, (2) CT in the right MTG increased in individuals who were better able to discriminate between native language and L2 words, and (3) CT in the left ACC was correlated with functional connectivity between the ACC and MTG. These findings indicate that L2 lexical development is associated with functional and structural changes in brain regions important for cognitive control and semantic processing.