cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
External ear cytological results and resident flora of clinically normal alpacas (Vicugna pacos).

Background Otitis is common in alpacas. Suppurative otitis media/interna can be an extension from the external ear canal or from a respiratory infection. Cytological evaluation provides rapid and inexpensive information to assist in therapeutic decision; to date, there is no published information regarding the normal cytological results and flora of the alpaca external ear canal. Hypothesis/objectives To describe normal resident cytological findings and flora and possible variation over time, we sampled clinically normal alpaca external ear canals during two different seasons. Animals Fifty privately owned, healthy alpacas of different ages and sexes in two northeastern United States flocks. Methods and materials One ear per alpaca had both cytological swabs (ectoparasites, inflammatory and epithelial cells, bacteria and yeast) and sterile swabs (bacterial and fungal cultures) taken. This was done in August 2017 and repeated in January 2018. Results Yeast organisms were noted cytologically in 2-4% of the samples. Prevalence of total yeast genera was 6% in August and 30% in January. Cytologically, rod-shaped bacteria [maximum 4-10/high power field (HPF); median 0-0.5/HPF] were seen in 50% of alpacas in August and 26% in January. Coccal bacteria (maximum 6-10/HPF; median 0/HPF) were seen in 32% of alpacas in August and 16% in January. No statistically significant findings were noted between sampling months. Common bacterial genera isolated in August were Bacillus (44%), Arthrobacter (40%) and nonhaemolytic Staphylococcus (26%), and in January were Bacillus (42%) and Pantoea (38%). Conclusions and clinical importance This information may be useful when evaluating alpaca external ear canal samples, which subsequently may help dictate empirical therapy.
Modeling Framework for Capacity Analysis of Freeway Segments: Application to Ramp Weaves:

This research proposes a new modeling framework for the analysis of freeway segments. The framework provides a continuum from the operation of ramp weave segments to an equivalent basic segment ser...
Control of a slow moving space crane as an adaptive structure

Assuming that the space crane is an adaptive structure with length-adjustable bars and taking as controls the length-adjustments of these bars, the computation of the incremental controls corresponding to the motion of a payload along its minimum-energy trajectory is given in terms of the inverse-transpose of matrix B of the joint equilibrium equations Bs = p, where s lists the bar forces and p lists the nodal loads. The compensation of the controls for elastic deformations and support movements are shown. It is also shown that the computations may be done automatically and in real time by an attached processor once the characteristics of the crane's maneuver are keyed in.
Three dimensional reactor power profile reconstruction using Cerenkov radiation

Abstract The purpose of this study is to extend a method of power profile reconstruction based upon Cerenkov radiation measurements outside of a reactor core to provide information about the 3D power profile. Multiple simulated viewpoints above a coolant channel in a TRIGA reactor are used to estimate the axial tilt in the power density in the surrounding pins. The ability to produce a map of the axial flux tilts throughout the core is demonstrated. The presence of control rods inserted from the top of the core causes a downwards tilt throughout the reactor. Various reactor states are analyzed to demonstrate the ability of the method to provide information about changes in the axial flux tilt by comparing a perturbed state to a baseline.
Abstract A84: B7-H3 promotes antitumor T-cell suppression via MDSCs in colorectal cancer

One of the mechanisms causing resistance to checkpoint inhibitor treatment is accumulation of suppressive immune cells including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). In CRC patients, accumulation of MDSCs correlates with poor overall survival. Among a subset of CRC patients with high mutation burden, 31.1% respond to checkpoint inhibitor treatment. This implies that targeting resistance mechanisms such as MDSCs in these CRC patients could boost the efficacy of this treatment. B7-H3 (CD279), a member of the B7 family, is expressed on myeloid cells and suppresses T-cell proliferation. Therefore, we hypothesize that B7-H3 on MDSCs could promote CRC tumor growth by suppressing cytotoxic CD8 T cells. We used polyps from ApcMin/+ mice, an intestinal tumor model and a transplantable CRC tumor model such as MC38 colon carcinoma to assess the role of B7-H3. Our findings show that B7-H3 is upregulated in ApcMin/+ polyps and is expressed on in vitro derived monocytic MDSCs (M-MDSCs). The frequency of MDSCs increased with tumor growth, indicating the close correlation between MDSCs and disease burden. Blocking B7-H3 with an antibody in MC38 tumor model significantly reduced tumor volume (control group receiving isotype antibody: 1672.2 ± 121 mm3; B7-H3 antibody treated group: 892.7 ± 36.4 mm3; p Citation Format: Asha Jayakumar, Alfred Bothwell. B7-H3 promotes antitumor T-cell suppression via MDSCs in colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy; 2018 Nov 27-30; Miami Beach, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2020;8(4 Suppl):Abstract nr A84.
Compact Bases for Vibronic Coupling in Spectral Simulations: The Photoelectron Spectrum of Cyclopentoxide in the Full 39 Internal Modes.

We report an algorithm to automatically generate compact multimode vibrational bases for the Koppel–Domcke–Cederbaum (KDC) vibronic coupling wave function used in spectral simulations of moderate-s...
Towards physics-informed, reliable, and interpretable deep learning for scientific imaging

Emerging deep learning based computational imaging techniques promise unprecedented imaging capabilities. In this talk, I will discuss our efforts in building such techniques with improved reliability and explainability. First, I will discuss a physics-guided deep learning imaging approach that enables designing highly efficient multiplexed data acquisition schemes for intensity diffraction tomography. I will highlight an uncertainty quantification framework to assess the reliability of the deep learning predictions. Second, I will present a deep learning approach to invert the effects of scattering. The trained network is able to make high-quality object predictions from speckles captured from diffusers entirely different from the training data and is highly robust to defocus across several depths of field. I will highlight a dimensionality reduction approach to explain the underlying statistics learned by the network and understand the capability and limitations for generalization.
Laser writing of nitrogen-doped silicon carbide for biological modulation

Conducting or semiconducting materials embedded in insulating polymeric substrates can be useful in biointerface applications; however, attainment of this composite configuration by direct chemical processes is challenging. Laser-assisted synthesis has evolved as a fast and inexpensive technique to prepare various materials, but its utility in the construction of biophysical tools or biomedical devices is less explored. Here, we use laser writing to convert portions of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) into nitrogen-doped cubic silicon carbide (3C-SiC). The dense 3C-SiC surface layer is connected to the PDMS matrix via a spongy graphite layer, facilitating electrochemical and photoelectrochemical activity. We demonstrate the fabrication of arbitrary two-dimensional (2D) SiC-based patterns in PDMS and freestanding 3D constructs. To establish the functionality of the laser-produced composite, we apply it as flexible electrodes for pacing isolated hearts and as photoelectrodes for local peroxide delivery to smooth muscle sheets.
Silicone Gel for Scar Prevention

Silicone gel sheets and cream are nowadays used extensively in scar management. This chapter highlights the original findings, evidence, and working mechanism of silicone gel for scar prevention and management.
The social power of the Bible in culture and politics

Biblical texts hold social power, acting in and through the religious traditions that hold the Bible authoritative, with far-reaching impact on culture and politics. Work by Bruno Latour and others...
Reintroducing Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Single-Center Experience from the United States COVID-19 Epicenter

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges for endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) given the elevated viral load in the nasopharynx and aerosolization of particles inherent to the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA). Furthermore, reports and anecdotes shared within the skull base surgeon community suggesting potential elevated risk of COVID-19 transmission during ESBS led to an abundance of precaution and scrutiny regarding endonasal procedures during the pandemic. The Mount Sinai Hospital is a busy ESBS center located in New York City, the United States COVID-19 pandemic epicenter. We report a case series describing the early experience of resuming ESBS during the COVID-19 pandemic, including systems for case selection, surgical precautions and modifications, and patient outcomes. Methods: All consecutive ESBS cases and deferred surgical cases were identified prospectively within the first three-week period after resumption of urgent scheduled surgery. Data regarding indications, pre-surgical screening, operative results, and postoperative course were collected retrospectively. All data are presented using descriptive statistics. Results: With the study time frame, 14 patients underwent ESBS. Four patients had surgery deferred. The mean age was 57. The most common pathology was pituitary tumor, in 57% of patients. Visual symptoms precipitated the urgency in 36% of cases. All patients underwent COVID-19 screening with a minimum of one SARSCoV-2 reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) nasal swab within 48 hours preceding surgery. All patients tested negative. There were no intraoperative complications. Median length of stay was two days. A total of 14% of patients experienced postoperative complications. Mean follow-up was 100.9 days. Conclusions: Due to its relatively low morbidity and potential short length of stay, ESBS is adaptable to unique pandemic challenges such as bed scarcity and exposure minimization. As endoscopic centers return to normal operations during the COVID-19 era, standard testing, case selection algorithms, and systematic surgical precautions and modifications can enable a safe resumption of ESBS.
Correlates of Sexual Self-Consciousness Among Black Women

Sexual self-consciousness, also known as spectatoring, can result in unpleasurable sexual experiences, sexual difficulties, and negative mental health outcomes. The purpose of this study is to investigate ratings and correlates of sexual self-consciousness (sexual embarrassment and sexual self-focus) among (N = 283) Black women ages 19–42 living in the South using objectification theory. Data for this study is from the quantitative phase of a larger explanatory mixed-methods study addressing pain, pleasure, and sexual anxiety among Black women. Descriptive statistics, bivariate correlations, and linear regressions were conducted. Demographic (age, education), partner, partner factors (marital status, gender of last sex partner), and sexual well-being factors (frequency of sexual pain, frequency of sexual anxiety, sexual satisfaction, history of sexual violence) were explored as correlates. Participants had higher scores on sexual embarrassment than sexual self-focus. The bivariate correlations showed that participants who reported higher sexual embarrassment were more likely to have non-male partners, be younger, report a history of sexual anxiety, more frequent sexual pain, and lower sexual satisfaction. Participants who reported higher sexual self-focus were older, coupled, had a male sex partner during last sexual encounter, and did not report a history of sexual anxiety. Implications for sex education, individual and couple sex therapy are discussed.
Application of the X-Ray Measurement Model to Image Processing of X-Ray Radiographs

A computational model has been developed at which simulates the film response to the interaction of x-rays with a sample[1,2]. By using a CAD model as a virtual part, film densities of the radiograph are predicted. The number of photons which reach the film is based on the thickness of the part, part geometry, and the material absorption coefficient. Also taken into consideration are the x-ray beam characteristics, film properties, and the experimental configuration. The model generated images can vary in size and resolution, depending on the user chosen parameters. Noise is calculated using a Gaussian noise distribution and adjusted for the film type. The result of this simulation is a two-dimensional numerically generated digital image, which represents a radiograph of the part. This result can be used to analyze the flaws in an actual radiograph with the same set-up and exposure parameters.
Those Weren't “The Good Old Days,” Just the Old Days: Laura Kalman on Yale Law School in the Sixties

Laura Kalman's Yale Law School and the Sixties (2005) provides a particularly detailed and attractive portrait of the activist students at the school in these years. There is a real risk that nostalgia for the Sixties will cause law students today to be measured by this past time, even though today's students are significantly different in their response to the law school experience. Reasons for this difference can be found by looking at changes in the social meaning of undergraduate education and at the differences in economic circumstances between then and now—the warm and comforting economic circumstances of the Fifties and Sixties versus the unforgiving economic circumstances that students face today.
Nitric oxide, the kidney and hypertension.

SUMMARY 1. According to the renal body fluid feedback mechanism for long-term control, persistent hypertension can only occur as a result of a reduction in renal sodium excretory function or a hypertensive shift in the pressure natriuresis relationship. Although an abnormal relationship between renal perfusion pressure and renal sodium excretion has been identified in every type of hypertension where it has been sought, factors responsible for this effect are still unclear. 2. Nitric oxide (NO) is produced within the kidney and plays an important role in the control of many intrarenal processes that regulate the renal response to changes in perfusion pressure and, thus, help determine systemic vascular volume and blood pressure. Numerous studies have shown that long-term inhibition of NO synthesis results in a chronic hypertensive shift in renal pressure natriuresis. 3. Recent studies have shown that certain animal models of genetic hypertension and forms of human hypertension areas are associated with a decrease in NO synthesis. Reductions in NO synthesis reduce renal sodium excretory function, not only through direct actions on the renal vasculature, but through modulation of other vasoconstrictor processes and through direct and indirect alterations in tubular sodium transport. 4. The causes and consequences of the disregulation of NO in hypertension and other renal disease processes remain an important area of investigation.
Second-Order Near-Wall Turbulence Closures: A Review

Advances in second-order near-wall turbulence closures are summarized. All closures under consideration are based on high-Reynolds-number models. Most near-wall closures proposed to date attempt to modify the high-Reynolds-number models for the dissipation function and the pressure redistribution term so that the resultant models are applicable all the way to the wall. The asymptotic behavior of the near-wall closures is examined and compared with the proper near-wall behavior of the exact Reynolds-stress equations. It is found that three second-order near-wall closures give the best correlations with simulated turbulence statistics. However, their predictions of near-wall Reynolds-stress budgets are considered to be incorrect. A proposed modification to the dissipitation-rate equation remedies part of those predictions. It is concluded that further improvements are required if a complete replication of all the turbulence properties and Reynolds-stress budgets by a statistical model of turbulence is desirable.
Robust quantum computation by simulation

Simulation of quantum systems that provide intrinsically fault-tolerant quantum computation is shown to preserve fault tolerance. Errors committed in the course of simulation are eliminated by the natural error-correcting features of the systems simulated. Two examples are explored, toric codes and non-abelian anyons. The latter is shown to provide universal robust quantum computation via simulation.
EBNA3C regulates p53 through induction of Aurora kinase B.

// Hem C. Jha 1 , Karren Yang 1 , Darine W. El-Naccache 1 , Zhiguo Sun 1 and Erle S. Robertson 1 1 Department of Microbiology and the Tumor Virology Program, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America Correspondence: Erle S. Robertson, email: // Keywords : EBV, Aurora Kinase B, p53, Phosphorylation, oncogenesis Received : December 21, 2014 Accepted : January 02, 2015 Published : January 21, 2015 Abstract In multicellular organisms p53 maintains genomic integrity through activation of DNA repair, and apoptosis. EBNA3C can down regulate p53 transcriptional activity. Aurora kinase (AK) B phosphorylates p53, which leads to degradation of p53. Aberrant expression of AK-B is a hallmark of numerous human cancers. Therefore changes in the activities of p53 due to AK-B and EBNA3C expression is important for understanding EBV-mediated cell transformation. Here we show that the activities of p53 and its homolog p73 are dysregulated in EBV infected primary cells which can contribute to increased cell transformation. Further, we showed that the ETS-1 binding site is crucial for EBNA3C-mediated up-regulation of AK-B transcription. Further, we determined the Ser 215 residue of p53 is critical for functional regulation by AK-B and EBNA3C and that the kinase domain of AK-B which includes amino acid residues 106, 111 and 205 was important for p53 regulation. AK-B with a mutation at residue 207 was functionally similar to wild type AK-B in terms of its kinase activities and knockdown of AK-B led to enhanced p73 expression independent of p53. This study explores an additional mechanism by which p53 is regulated by AK-B and EBNA3C contributing to EBV-induced B-cell transformation.
Use of Functional Polymorphisms To Elucidate the Peptide Binding Site of TAP Complexes

TAP1/TAP2 complexes translocate peptides from the cytosol to the endoplasmic reticulum lumen to enable immune surveillance by CD8 + T cells. Peptide transport is preceded by peptide binding to a cytosol-accessible surface of TAP1/TAP2 complexes, but the location of the TAP peptide-binding pocket remains unknown. Guided by the known contributions of polymorphic TAP variants to peptide selection, we combined homology modeling of TAP with experimental measurements to identify several TAP residues that interact with peptides. Models for peptide–TAP complexes were generated, which indicate bent conformation for peptides. The peptide binding site of TAP is located at the hydrophobic boundary of the cytosolic membrane leaflet, with striking parallels to the glutathione binding site of Na Atm1, a transporter that functions in bacterial heavy metal detoxification. These studies illustrate the conservation of the ligand recognition modes of bacterial and mammalians transporters involved in peptide-guided cellular surveillance.
The cardiac Ca2+-sensitive regulatory switch, a system in dynamic equilibrium.

The Ca2+-sensitive regulatory switch of cardiac muscle is a paradigmatic example of protein assemblies that communicate ligand binding through allosteric change. The switch is a dimeric complex of troponin C (TnC), an allosteric sensor for Ca2+, and troponin I (TnI), an allosteric reporter. Time-resolved equilibrium Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) measurements suggest that the switch activates in two steps: a TnI-independent Ca2+-priming step followed by TnI-dependent opening. To resolve the mechanistic role of TnI in activation we performed stopped-flow FRET measurements of activation after rapid addition of a lacking component (Ca2+ or TnI) and deactivation after rapid chelation of Ca2+. Time-resolved measurements, stopped-flow measurements, and Ca2+-titration measurements were globally analyzed in terms of a new quantitative dynamic model of TnC-TnI allostery. The analysis provided a mesoscopic parameterization of distance changes, free energy changes, and transition rates among the accessible coarse-grained states of the system. The results reveal that 1), the Ca2+-induced priming step, which precedes opening, is the rate-limiting step in activation; 2), closing is the rate-limiting step in de-activation; 3), TnI induces opening; 4), there is an incompletely deactivated population when regulatory Ca2+ is not bound, which generates an accessory pathway of activation; and 5), there is incomplete activation by Ca2+—when regulatory Ca2+ is bound, a 3:2 mixture of dynamically interconverting open (active) and primed-closed (partially active) conformers is observed (15°C). Temperature-dependent stopped-flow FRET experiments provide a near complete thermokinetic parameterization of opening: the enthalpy change (ΔH = −33.4 kJ/mol), entropy change (ΔS = −0.110 kJ/mol/K), heat capacity change (ΔCp = −7.6 kJ/mol/K), the enthalpy of activation (δ‡ = 10.6 kJ/mol) and the effective barrier crossing attempt frequency (νadj = 1.8 × 104 s−1).
The relationship between trusting beliefs and Web site loyalty: The moderating role of consumer motives and flow

This research (1) examines how specific consumer motives (i.e., goal-directed: searching for information, experiential: browsing for recreation) influence the trusting belief–loyalty relationship at a Web site in a distinct manner and (2) investigates how the online flow experience in each of the motive states strengthens or weakens the trusting belief–loyalty relationship. The results suggest that for consumers with an experiential motive, benevolence- and integrity-related beliefs are the key drivers of loyalty, while ability-related beliefs do not drive loyalty. On the other hand, for consumers with a goal-directed motive, the ability- and integrity-related beliefs are the key drivers of loyalty, while benevolence-related beliefs are not influential. Further, this research illustrates that when consumers with an experiential motive experience a high level of flow, the impact of trusting beliefs on loyalty weakens. However, for consumers with a goal-directed motive, trusting beliefs continue to exert the same impact on loyalty across both high and low levels of flow. ©2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Congruences for the Andrews spt function

Ramanujan-type congruences for the Andrews spt(n) partition function have been found for prime moduli 5 ≤ l ≤ 37 in the work of Andrews [Andrews GE, (2008) J Reine Angew Math 624:133-142] and Garvan [Garvan F, (2010) Int J Number Theory 6:1-29]. We exhibit unexpectedly simple congruences for all l≥5. Confirming a conjecture of Garvan, we show that if l≥5 is prime and (-δ/l) = 1, then spt[(l2(ln+δ)+1)/24] ≡ 0 (mod l). This congruence gives (l - 1)/2 arithmetic progressions modulo l(3) which support a mod l congruence. This result follows from the surprising fact that the reduction of a certain mock theta function modulo l, for every l≥5, is an eigenform of the Hecke operator T(l(2)).
Simultaneous Temperature and Velocity Measurements in Air with Femtosecond Laser Tagging

High spatial resolution measurements of local flow velocities and temperature distributions are crucial for understanding turbulent, high-speed, and reacting flows. In this paper, we demonstrate that femtosecond laser electronic excitation tagging, a recently developed molecular tagging velocimetry method, can also be used to simultaneously measure temperature. A 150 femtosecond pulse populates excited molecular nitrogen states, driving significant emission from the nitrogen second positive and first negative systems. Spectroscopy of this emission allows temperature to be determined from the distribution of rotational molecular energy. Temperature profiles are measured with better than 10% uncertainty and 500 μm spatial resolution between 300 and 650 K in heated jets. This method is expected to be valid up to at least 2000 K. Femtosecond laser electronic excitation tagging temperature and velocity measurements involve separate nitrogen transitions and can be conducted simultaneously without interference.
WE‐C‐L100J‐02: Determination of Pixel‐Value to X‐Ray Path‐Length Conversion Factor From Single Angiograms

Purpose: Currently, 3D vessel lumen data are available via intravascular ultrasound or multiple angiographic views. However, when the relationship between pixel value and x‐ray path length through the vessel is known, the 3D lumen shape can be estimated from only a single view. Therefore, we have developed methods to determine this relationship from single angiograms. Method and Materials: Angiograms are acquired, and vessel centerlines are indicated. Profiles are extracted perpendicular to the vessel centerlines. The background in each profile is estimated and subtracted, and the subtracted profiles are individually fit using elliptical models. The constants (K) relating pixel value to x‐ray path length are determined from the elliptical fits. A histogram of these constants is generated, and the constant corresponding to the maximum in the histogram is taken as the final value for K. Blurring is taken into account and used to refine the value of K. The ensemble of vessel profiles is convolved with a Gaussian the width of which is varied iteratively. The Gaussian providing the best fit over the ensemble is taken as an estimate of the resolution function. We evaluated our technique using computed simulated x‐ray images of cylindrical rods with blurring included, x‐ray images of aluminum rods and of clinical coronary angiograms. Results: In simulation studies, errors in K were less than 10% for signal to noise ratios as small as 5 and blurring of 1.0 mm widths. In phantom studies, the errors in K were less than 5%. For coronary vessels, K varies by less than 10% in three consecutive images.Conclusion: These techniques provide values for K and should provide the basis for reconstruction of the vessel lumen from a single view. Conflict of Interest: This study was supported by NIH Grant ♯ HL052567 and Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation.
Catalysis of the water gas shift reaction by polymer-immobilized rhodium complexes

Abstract Catalysts for the water gas shift prepared from RhCl3·3H2O immobilized on several porous aminated polymers in neutral aqueous and aqueous organic solvent media are described. Those using poly(4-vinylpyridine) as the support proved to be the most active among those surveyed, and the effects of varying different experimental parameters were investigated. The turnover frequencies for the production of H2 displayed a nonlinear dependence on the partial pressure of CO in the 0–1.5 atm range but were independent of the polymer loading in the range 0.5 to 1.5 × 10−4 mol RHCl3H2O/ g of polymer. An activation energy of 18.4 ± 0.9 kcal/mol was obtained from a linear Arrhenius plot based on H2 production over the temperature range 80–110°C. The activity of the poly(4-vinylpyridine)-anchored catalyst was found to be insensitive to pH in the 3–5 zone but to fall off sharply outside this range. A catalysis mechanism consistent with the quantitative behavior is proposed. This species also catalyzes the Reppe-type transformations (hydrogenation and hydroformylation) of alkenes as well as the reduction of nitrobenzene to aniline.
Challenges in the Diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

readily adapt their lifestyles to offset diminished exercise capacity and rarely seek evaluation early in the disease. Cough, wheezing, sputum production, and shortness of breath are symptoms, which become increasingly more common as spirometric values of lung function decline. However, up to 21 % of patients with severe to very severe airflow limitation by spirometry describe no symptoms [3]. Even when symptoms arise, they are nonspecific, with a recent study showing that even when three or more of the common symptoms of COPD are present, they cannot discriminate between patient with or without airflow obstruction [4•]. Patients can also present with different complaints. Studies have shown that male patients with COPD present more commonly with complaints of cough and phlegm production, whereas female patients often note more dyspnea and decreased quality of life, even with lower pack years of tobacco use and similar lung function [5, 6]. Gender bias is also a barrier in women to the diagnosis of COPD, as demonstrated by a study where spirometry data improved an inherent gender bias seen when physicians were more likely to diagnose COPD in men than women, when both presented with similar symptoms and clinical characteristics [7, 8].
Design for survivability: a tradeoff space

When designing a system that has strong reliability, security, or survivability requirements one moves in a trade-off space with a delicate balance between causes and effects that have implications on various objective functions such as cost, performance, availability, analyzability, predictability, or feasibility. The key issues are: 1) given an existing system or application, what are the impacts of adjustments in the fault assumptions, 2) given an existing system or application, what are the impacts of adding or subtracting security features, and 3) given performance, availability, security, or survivability requirements, how can one determine feasibility based on the infrastructure- or application-induced limitations.This research promotes design for survivability and analyzability to allow for effective assessment of the trade-off space from the view of dynamically changing fault models and the analyzability of a system. It gives pointers to new research directions and presents solutions that aid in making operational decisions or assessing impacts of design decisions.
gCap39, a calcium ion- and polyphosphoinositide-regulated actin capping protein

The polymerization of actin filaments is involved in growth, movement, and cell division. It has been shown that actin polymerization is controlled by gelsolin, whose interactions with actin are activated by calcium ion (Ca2+) and inhibited by membrane polyphosphoinositides (PPI). A smaller Ca2(+)- and PPI-regulated protein, gCap39, which has 49% sequence identity with gelsolin, has been identified by cDNA cloning and protein purification. Like gelsolin, gCap39 binds to the fast-growing (+) end of actin filaments. However, gCap39 does not sever actin filaments and can respond to Ca2+ and PPI transients independently, under conditions in which gelsolin is ineffective. The coexistence of gCap39 with gelsolin should allow precise regulation of actin assembly at the leading edge of the cell.
A unified approach to nonparametric trend tests for dependent and independent samples

We consider testing nonparametric hypotheses against ordered alternatives and propose a new unified approach for dependent and independent samples and factorial designs. The new approach allows for arbitrary underlying distributions, including quantitative and discrete ordinal (ordered categorical), or even binary data. It is compared to procedures available in the literature and applied to different data examples. The new method is not only invariant under monotone transformations of the response, but also under monotone transformations of the weights describing the alternative pattern.
Interwar fascism and the post-1989 radical right: Ideology, opportunism and historical legacy in Bulgaria and Romania

Abstract Do contemporary Bulgarian and Romanian radical right movements represent a legacy of interwar fascism? We argue that the key element is not that interwar movements provided legacies (of structures, ideologies, or organizations) but rather a symbolic “heritage” that contemporary movements can draw upon. The crucial legacy is, rather, the Socialist era, which in asserting its own definitions of interwar fascism created a “useable past” for populist movements. The Peoples’ Republics created a flawed historical consciousness whereby demonized interwar rightist movements could be mobilized after 1989 as historical expressions of “anti-Communist” — and, ergo, positive symbols among those of anti-Communist sentiment. Although radical right parties in both countries may cast themselves as “heirs” to interwar fascism, they share little in common in terms of ideology. Their claims to a fascist legacy is, rather, a factor of how their respective Socialist states characterized the past.
Early in vitro passages of breast cancer cells are differentially susceptible to retinoids and differentially express RARβ isoforms

The effect of retinoids on breast cancer has been predominantly studied in vitro, on established cell lines, which in biology differ significantly from primary tumor cells. Little is known on whether early in vitro passages of breast cancer cells (EPBCCs) are differentially sensitive to retinoids and differentially express retinoid acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs). We have previously identified a novel RARβ isoform (RARβ5) and hypothesized that it may serve as a potential target of retinoids in EPBCCs. Breast cancer cells isolated from primary tumors were cultured in vitro for 6-12 passages (EPBCCs) and their epithelial origin was confirmed by a cocktail of antibodies against cytokeratins. EPBCCs were treated for 4 days with 1.0 µM of all-trans retinoic acid (atRA), 9-cis retinoic acid (9cRA) or 4-hydroxy-phenylretinamide (4-HPR) and their viability determined by MTT assay. Among nine EPBCCs consistently grown in vitro, three were resistant to the above retinoids, five were susceptible to atRA, four to 4-HPR and two to 9cRA, suggesting that patients with breast carcinomas may differentially respond to various retinoids. All EPBBCs differentially expressed RARα, RARγ, RXRα, RXRβ proteins and RARβ5 and RARβ2 mRNAs. However, only one EPBCC (BCA-2) expressed RARβ5 at mRNA and protein level and it was resistant to retinoids, both in vitro and in a xenograft tumor assay. RARβ5 suppression by siRNA in BCA-2 cells increased their susceptibility to atRA. No correlation was found between sensitivity of EPBCCs to the above retinoids and RARβ5 and RARβ2 mRNA expression. atRA reduced RARβ expression in most EPBCCs suggesting that this retinoid receptor is most probably the prime target of retinoids in breast cancer. These data may have clinical implication in selecting patients with breast cancer that would benefit the most from clinical trials with retinoids.
Meckel's diverticulum--a high-risk region for malignancy in the ileum. Insights from a population-based epidemiological study and implications in surgical management.

In 1598, Fabricius Hildanus described the presence of a diverticulum of the small bowel occurring in the distal part of the ileum, which later came to be called by the last name of the German anatomist, Johann Friedrich Meckel who described its embryology in 1809.1 The Meckel’s diverticulum (MD) is a true congenital diverticulum that is a remnant of the omphalomesenteric duct, the incomplete obliteration of which can result in a range of anomalies, the most common (90%) being MD.2 It is the most common congenital anomaly of the GI tract, with an estimated prevalence of 2%,3 although several autopsy studies describe a general population prevalence in the range of 0.3% to 3%.4,5 About 90% of MDs occur within 100 cm of the ileocecal valve1 and measure approximately 3 cm in length.1,6,7 Though there is a significant prevalence of ectopic tissue nests in the MD (10%–60%), they are commonly asymptom-atic.1,5,6,8,9 Malignancies are reported to account for only 0.5% to 3.2% of the complications.4,10 Several tumors of the MD have been described, with carcinoids being the most common.11–14 Other pathologic types include adenocarcinoma,15–18 pancreatic carcinoma,19 intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm,20 gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and leiomyosarcomas,4,21,22 lymphoma,23,24 lipoma,25 adenomyoma,26 and villous adenoma.27 In 1992, Neis et al summarized 104 published cases of Meckel diverticulum cancer (MDC).13 In their review of 13,715 carcinoids from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, Modlin et al observed that 0.48% to 0.74% of all carcinoids in the body occurred in the MD.28 To the best of our knowledge, there have been no single population-based analysis of the epidemiological and prognostic features of primary MD malignancies. In this study, we have performed such an analysis of patients with MDC identified in the SEER database and from that analysis have identified implications for the management of incidentally found MDs.
Early lens use: lenses found in context with their original objects.

The early history of optical lenses is poorly defined. Lens-like objects were used for jewelry or decorations for thousands of years, and technology necessary to make lenses was available. In antiquity, a number of activities would have benefited from image size enhancement, and a few lens-like objects have been found at sites where lens use was logical. Means for enhancing visibility of objects have been suggested. Two alternative positions are considered in modern literature: (1) Lenses existed and (2) Fine close work was executed by relatively young and/or nearsighted individuals. Neither argument meets necessary and sufficient conditions for proof of the existence of or lack of lens use. Both forms of image size enhancement might have co-existed, and added factors such as ambient illumination, contrast between the object examined and its background, and shadows must have affected visibility of items viewed. Most probably, optical properties of lens-like elements were appreciated often, across time, by artisans. What is not clear is to what extent general use of lenses resulted. Here, I draw attention to a number of individual lens-like artifacts and the objects intended to be viewed through them. All were decorative pieces or articles of jewelry. The existence of such artifacts has been reported previously. The unique feature in each case presented here is that the lens-like element and object to be viewed were permanently linked together, i.e., "frozen" in time and space. It can be inferred that at least the artisan appreciated the resulting optical effects. Clearly, too, the artist/artisan had to intend the object to be viewed through the lens. This analysis provides an additional useful approach to assessment of early lens use.
Can preoperative administration of isosulfan blue improve outcomes of subinguinal varicocelectomy

Can preoperative administration of isosulfan blue improve outcomes of subinguinal varicocelectomy?
Enhanced multi-spectral imaging of live breast cancer cells using immunotargeted gold nanoshells and two-photon excitation microscopy

We demonstrate the capability of using immunotargeted gold nanoshells as contrast agents for in vitro two-photon microscopy. The two-photon luminescence properties of different-sized gold nanoshells are first validated using near-infrared excitation at 780 nm. The utility of two-photon microscopy as a tool for imaging live HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cells labeled with anti-HER2-conjugated nanoshells is then explored and imaging results are compared to normal breast cells. Five different imaging channels are simultaneously examined within the emission wavelength range of 451-644 nm. Our results indicate that under near-infrared excitation, superior contrast of SK-BR-3 cancer cells labeled with immunotargeted nanoshells occurs at an emission wavelength ranging from 590 to 644 nm. Luminescence from labeled normal breast cells and autofluorescence from unlabeled cancer and normal cells remain imperceptible under the same conditions.
Air/water interface: Two sides of the acid–base story

The ability of the water surface to donate or accept protons critically influences vital processes in chemistry and biology, but intense disagreement persists regarding this property. Researchers show new evidence that the air side of the air/water interface is more basic than the aqueous one.
Training students to use a modified version of SQ3R: An instructional strategy

Abstract An Instructional Strategy was developed to train college students in the use of a version of SQ3R which placed emphasis on the read‐recite‐review sequence as suggested by Pauk. This strategy presupposed that merely introducing the steps of a system as complex as SQ3R would not be sufficient for students to integrate it into their daily study routine. Instead, training which assured mastery of the steps of the modified SQ3R technique (plus monitored application of this technique to a textbook that students were using in a college course) was needed. This strategy was considered especially significant because students were given enough time to see SQ3R work successfully with materials relevant to their immediate needs.
Serum factors that stimulate fatty acid oxidation: Physiological specificity

In the accompanying paper (Wice et al., 1986) we reported that serum from chickens contains small molecular weight compounds that stimulate longchain fatty acid oxidation ten fold or more in HeLa cells. Here we show that this response is not limited to specific sera or to specific target cells. The specificity of the metabolic response to these factors was also investigated. They had no effect on the following major pathways of HeLa cell metabolism: (1) the oxidation of the medium-chain fatty acid, octanoic acid, (2) the rate of glycolysis of glucose, (3) the flux of glucose carbon through the oxidative arm of the pentose cycle, (4) the entry of pyruvate into the citrate cycle, (5) the oxidation of glutamine carbon, (6) the utilization rate of oxygen or (7) the rate of fatty acid synthesis. Furthermore, the increased oxidation of long-chain fatty acids was not a result of an increased uptake into the cells. Thus, the serum factors appear to be very specific for the oxidation of long-chain fatty acids for energy. Since carnitine also stimulates long-chain fatty acid oxidation in these cells, it seems likely that these compounds either facilitate the activity of carnitine or provide the same function–presumably the transport of long-chain fatty acid into and out of the mitochondria.
Micromechanics of brittle faulting and cataclastic flow in Tavel limestone

Abstract Previous studies reveal that while compact carbonate rocks display exclusively dilatancy under compressive deformation, compaction may be observed in their more porous counterparts. In their compactive behavior the porous carbonate rocks are more akin to e.g., sandstone. Whereas the micromechanics of brittle faulting and cataclastic flow in sandstone has been studied extensively, little is known about these processes in a porous limestone. To investigate both failure modes we deformed samples of Tavel limestone with porosity 10–14% to various stages of deformation in conventional triaxial configuration at confining pressures corresponding to brittle faulting and cataclastic flow and described the microstructures associated with the damage evolution using optical and electron microscopy. In this porous micritic limestone cataclasis is the dominant mechanism of deformation. The microcracks initiate as pore-emanated and while all pores contribute to microcrack initiation, it is the large pores that drive crack propagation and coalescence leading to failure. In brittle faulting, dilatancy arises from microcracks growing parallel to maximum principal stress, with their coalescence leading to shear localization. In cataclastic flow microcracks do not have preferred orientation. Interplay between pore collapse and formation of new microcracks determines the compactive versus dilatant character of the cataclastic flow.
A modified surgical technique for penile amputation and preputial ablation in the horse

Summary The aim of this study was to describe a modified surgical technique for treatment of severe penile pathology, and the long-term outcome. The surgery consisted of subischial urethrostomy and penile amputation with preputial ablation, with the horse in dorsal recumbency. A redundant section of the penis root and body was left in situ, rather than being retroflexed as described elsewhere. Follow-up was obtained using a structured owner telephone questionnaire. The 15 cases included: 11 squamous cell carcinomas (73.3%); 2 melanomas; one chronic preputial discharge with no associated neoplasia; and one paraphimosis following routine sedation. Length of survival ranged from 0.9 to 74.6 months (median 25.1 months). From the 14 horses with follow-up, 9 survived >18 months (64.3%) [Correction added on 17 August 2015, after first online publication: The percentage in the preceding sentence was wrong and has been corrected to '64.3%' from '69.2%']. Four euthanasias were due to presenting or post operative complications, while 2 were unrelated to the procedure. This procedure presents a simplified, viable option for treatment of extensive mixed penile lesions; reducing surgical complexity and time in comparison to previously described techniques requiring retroversion.
Disposition and elimination of 17α-methyltestosterone in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Abstract 17α-Methyltestosterone (MT) is of potential use in commercial production of all male cohorts of food fish. Sexually undifferentiated Oteochromis niloticus received control ration or 30 mg MT/kg ration for 30 days. On day 31 control and MT pretreated fish received a single dietary dose of 3 H-MT and were killed 1, 3, 7, and 10 days later. At 1 day after dosing only 2.5-3% of whole body 3 H-MT residues were identified as parent compound. The concentration of residues remaining 1–10 days after 3 H-MT dosing were similar in control and MT pretreated fish. 3 H-MT whole body residues decreased logarithmically during this period and had a 1-day half-life. At day 3 after dosing, 95% of 3 H-MT had been convened to polar metabolites, which decreased to 70% by 7 days, and to only trace concentrations by day 10. Five months after MT pretreatment control and pretreated fish received a single oral dose of 3 H-MT and were killed 1, 3, 7, and 10 days thereafter. In both groups, concentrations of 3 H-MT residues were biliary ≫ liver > kidney > muscle at all times points. Bile contained 97–99% polar metabolites of 3 H-MT in all cases and appeared a major route of excretion. These data indicated MT was readily eliminated by Oreochromis niloticus and that the pretreatment regimen proposed for commercial use did not substantially alter disposition of subsequent doses.