cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Surface Force Measurements of Electrostatic and Hydrogen-Bonding Interactions between Bilayers of Glycine Amphiphiles

Using the surface-force apparatus (SFA), we have made sensitive force and adhesion measurements between Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) bilayers of a novel glycine-containing amphiphile at various pHs. The adhesion between the glycine headgroups is remarkably strong (F/R )- 80 ( 5 mN/m) and leads to the extraction of amphiphiles from the bilayers on surface separation. By SFA measurements and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy on LB layers of glycine amphiphile variants, we determined that hydrogen bonding between amide and carbonyl groups on opposing surfaces is responsible for the strong adhesion. The strong adhesion is accompanied by a 7.5 A interpenetration of the glycine headgroups. At higher pH, charging of the carboxylic acid termini gives rise to electrostatic repulsion between the surfaces and reduces the strength of adhesion. Above pH 8.0, the surface charging blocks interpenetration and the adhesion is extinguished. Analysis of the forces required for amphiphile extraction shows that these amide hydrogen bonds are much stronger than those in aqueous environments. This observation has important implications in the study of protein stability and the design of self-assembled biomaterials.
Vaccine-induced tumor-specific immunity despite severe B-cell depletion in mantle cell lymphoma

The role of B cells in T-cell priming is unclear, and the effects of B-cell depletion on immune responses to cancer vaccines are unknown. Although results from some mouse models suggest that B cells may inhibit induction of T cell–dependent immunity by competing with antigen-presenting cells for antigens, skewing T helper response toward a T helper 2 profile and/or inducing T-cell tolerance1,2,3,4, results from others suggest that B cells are necessary for priming as well as generation of T-cell memory5,6,7. We assessed immune responses to a well-characterized idiotype vaccine in individuals with severe B-cell depletion but normal T cells after CD20-specific antibody–based chemotherapy of mantle cell lymphoma in first remission. Humoral antigen- and tumor-specific responses were detectable but delayed, and they correlated with peripheral blood B-cell recovery. In contrast, vigorous CD4+ and CD8+ antitumor type I T-cell cytokine responses were induced in most individuals in the absence of circulating B cells. Analysis of relapsing tumors showed no mutations or change in expression of target antigen to explain escape from therapy. These results show that severe B-cell depletion does not impair T-cell priming in humans. Based on these results, it is justifiable to administer vaccines in the setting of B-cell depletion; however, vaccine boosts after B-cell recovery may be necessary for optimal humoral responses.
Test-based diagnosis: tree and matrix representations

A common problem encountered in many application scenarios is how to represent some prior knowledge about a system in order to determine its true state as efficiently as possible. The information is typically in the form of tests, or questions about the system. Each test can potentially reduce our uncertainty about the system's state. The problem is to represent the information capturing the dependence between tests, their outcomes, and possible states in an efficiently navigable way to aid diagnosis. The most common such representation is a flowchart with leaf nodes corresponding to possible states, and non-leaf nodes corresponding to tests about the state. The problem with flowcharts is that they are notoriously difficult to maintain. Additional knowledge often has to be manually integrated as the system changes, making it impossible to keep track of all possible decision paths, let alone optimize the flow to maximize performance. We propose an efficient method for optimizing an existing flowchart based on a conversion to an auxiliary matrix representation. The main goal of the paper is show a synergy between the two representations in the hope that this will help practitioners choose a better strategy for their applications. We show that such a conversion suggests ways to improve both representations - ways that were not envisioned when using each representation alone. Finally, we show that the two representations are informationally equivalent in the sense that one can be transformed into the other so that if both are used as black-boxes, one would not be able to tell them apart, regardless of which state the system is in.
In the dark: Spatial choice when access to spatial cues is restricted

The cognitive mechanisms involved in spatial choice when access to visual cues is restricted were examined in three experiments using male rats. A specially constructed radial-arm maze was used, in which extramaze visual cues could not be perceived from the central arena, but could be perceived from the maze arms. Choices were very accurate when the maze was not rotated during each trial, but inaccurate when the maze was rotated. This suggests that intramaze cues were involved in the control of choices. However, the data clearly showed that choices were not simply controlled by intramaze cues. Rather, control by intramaze cues interacted in a more complex manner with representations of the spatial locations of goals. Such spatial representations were involved in the control of choice despite the absence of visual spatial cues at the time choices were made.
The Organ Donation Breakthrough Collaborative: has it made a difference?

Abstract Background The Organ Donation Breakthrough Collaborative (ODBC) was established in 2003 to increase the number of transplantable organs in the United States. However, recent publications have suggested that the ODBC has not impacted donation conversion rates at local organ procurement organizations (OPOs). We sought to determine the impact, if any, of our becoming part of the ODBC on organ donation rates in our OPO or in our institution (Carolinas Medical Center [CMC]), particularly among minority donors. Methods This is a retrospective review of data entered concurrently into a patient referral database maintained by our local OPO. Donation approach and consent rates were calculated. They were then analyzed by race and institution, and trends were analyzed over the study period of 2002 to 2010. Statistical differences between the various patient groups were determined by the chi-square test or the Fisher exact test. Statistical differences over time were determined by the Cochran-Armitage trend test. Results From 2002 to 2010, 10,855 patients were screened by our OPO for potential organ donation. The overall approach rate was 13.4%, and the consent rate was 57.6%. An increase in approach and consent rates was noted beginning in 2004, but this increase was not sustained. Consent rates in general were higher for white patients than for black and Hispanic patients. Consent rates for CMC did increase significantly (P = .02), but they did not increase for the non-CMC hospitals. When analyzed by race, no significant changes were noted in consent rates over time. When analyzed by race and institution, the only statistically significant increase in consent rates occurred for white patients at CMC. Conclusions Since joining the ODBC, we have noted an increase in consent rates at a single institution (CMC), but no other significant changes. Greater emphasis should be placed on methods to increase and sustain consent rates for all racial groups in general, with a special emphasis on increasing consent rates in minority patients.
Wakeup receiver-aided communication terminals

Energy constraints are paramount for wireless communication in aerospace applications. We propose a wakeup receiver-aided communication terminal to reduce the average power consumption. The wakeup scheme is enabled by utilizing the low datarate wakeup message modulated using Minimum-energy coding On/Off Keying (Me-coding OOK). Analysis of energy consumption shows that proposed scheme can significantly improve power dissipation. Better sensitivity and longer communication range are predicted for wakeup receiver-aided wireless terminals. Moreover, it will effectively improve the network dynamics, which enables applications such as data collection and critical message broadcasting at low implementation cost.
Proteomics for the identification of specifically oxidized proteins in brain: Technology and application to the study of neurodegenerative disorders

Summary. Proteomics offers the opportunity elucidate the complex protein interactions of cellular systems by studying the products of genes, i.e., proteins, and their structure, function and localization. The purpose of proteomics is to explain the information contained in the genome sequences in order to provide clues on cellular events, especially related to disease. Our proteomic approach has made possible the identification of specifically oxidized proteins in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brain, providing for the first time evidence on how oxidative stress plays a crucial role in ADrelated neurodegeneration. This represents an example of the use of proteomics to solve biological problems related to disease. The field, which is still in its infancy, represents a very promising way to elucidate mechanism of disease at a protein level. However, the techniques that support its development present several limitations and require introduction of new tools and innovation in order to achieve a fast, reliable and sensitive method to understand normal biological processes and their regulation as well as these cellular properties in disease.
Modelling vertical allocation of tree stem and branch volume for hardwoods

Whole-tree volume equations are in great demand due to the need to quantify the distribution of wood volume within trees for estimating whole-tree utilization potential. While main stem volume has been extensively studied, related to computing the merchantable timber volume of trees, the relative volume of branches has received much less attention. It is particularly challenging to quantify branch volume in trees with deliquescent branching architecture (i.e. hardwoods) where branching is complex and not strongly controlled by a dominant stem. Here, new mixed-effects cumulative volume profiles are presented that allow for simultaneous volume estimation of the dominant stem and whole tree from ground to the top of the tree. Cumulative branch volume can be estimated at different relative heights from the whole-tree and dominant stem profiles by simple subtraction. The models were developed from destructive sampling of 32 trees from a temperate hardwood forest in Michigan, US. The species in the sample were primarily American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) and sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.). The results produce whole-tree cumulative volume models that include all branches in trees and demonstrates the value of studying the whole tree even when the dominant stem is the object of interest.
Orientation aid implementing the global positioning system

A portable device that enables a visually impaired traveler to determine distance and direction of travel to a desired destination point quickly and accurately is being developed. Coordinates of the traveler's current position will be determined through the use of NAVSTAR Global Positioning Systems (GPS). A microcontroller will use the coordinates obtained from a GPS receiver as a point of reference from which to calculate the distance and direction to a desired destination whose coordinates were previously stored in memory. The microcontroller will perform all the necessary mathematical operations to output sufficient information so that the traveler can reach the final destination. >
Facial muscle tonus during REM and NREM sleep.

Equipment and procedures were devised for quantifying relatively noise-free recordings of low amplitude chin and lip electromyograms (EMGs) during sleep. A total of 28 REM periods were recorded from 5 young adult female Ss. Tonic EMG levels tended to decline toward their lowest level of the night beginning 5 min in advance of REM periods. With very rare exceptions, the lowest EMG levels of the night were maintained throughout REM sleep. During the 20 min of NREM sleep which followed REM periods, mean EMG levels increased over the REM levels but were lower than those recorded during the 20 min of NREM sleep which preceded the REM periods. This pattern of tonic EMG variation obtained for each of the first 3 REM periods of the night.
Regional Subcultures of the United States

This study develops the case, theory, and statistical methodology for a new measure of American regional subcultures. Using principal component and cluster analysis on some 45 measures of racial origin, ethnic ancestry, religious affiliation, and social structure, I show how the entire population of U.S. countries can be partitioned into 10 distinctive, regional subcultures that are relatively homogeneous and contiguous. Next, I identify the cultural characteristics of each subculture and relate my new classification scheme to the work of Elazar, Gastil, Garreau, and Fischer. Finally, I compare the relative utility of this new measure with Elazar's typology in explaining the variation in a number of social, political, and policy indicators.
Histones H2A and H2B are neighbors along DNA in chromatin: characterization of subnucleosomal particles containing H2A+H2B.

Abstract Two specific slow sedimenting nucleoprotein particles containing equimolar amounts of histones H2A and H2B and 38 or 49 base pair (bp) lengths of DNA have been isolated by centrifugation on sucrose gradients. The 3.4S particles containing 38 bp DNA and H2A+H2B thermally denature at 61 degrees, considerably higher than Proteinase K treated particles (44 degrees), but lower than 11S nucleosomes (76 degrees). Treatment with Proteinase K increases the circular dichroism of 3.4S particles at 280 nm by 63% and decreases the sedimentation coefficient to 2.1S. These results indicate that H2A and H2B are proximate along DNA in nucleosomes and alone can alter the optical activity and perhaps conformation of local regions of DNA.
Comparison of Two Measures of Weight Criticism in Youth: Associations With Physical Activity Engagement and Attitudes, Weight Status, and Health-Related Quality of Life

The objective of this study was to examine the degree to which 2 measures of weight criticism, the Weight Criticism During Physical Activity (WCA) scale and the Perceptions of Teasing Scale (POTS), represent distinct constructs and in what circumstances each is most appropriately used. A community sample of 307 fourth and fifth graders completed these measures, as well as measures of health-related quality of life, physical activity engagement, and attitudes toward physical activity. Body mass index was also calculated. Results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the WCA scale and the POTS represented correlated but distinct constructs and related differently to measures of physical activity and weight status. Findings suggested that the WCA scale may be representing criticism regarding athletic competency, not criticism of weight status as described in the literature. The POTS subscales appear to be accurately described and used in the literature.
RFX2 Is a Potential Transcriptional Regulatory Factor for Histone H1t and Other Genes Expressed During the Meiotic Phase of Spermatogenesis

H1t is a novel linker histone variant synthesized in mid- to late pachytene spermatocytes. Its regulatory region is of interest because developmentally specific expression has been impressed on an otherwise ubiquitously expressed promoter. Using competitive band-shift assays and specific antisera, we have now shown that the H1t-60 CCTAGG palindrome motif region binds members of the RFX family of transcriptional regulators. The testis-specific binding complex contains RFX2, probably as a homodimer. Other DNA-protein complexes obtained from testis as well as somatic organs contain RFX1, primarily as a heterodimer. Western blots confirmed that RFX2 expression is greatly enhanced in adult testis and that RFX2 is equally prominent in highly enriched populations of late pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. Immunohistochemistry carried out on mouse testis showed that RFX2 is strongly expressed in pachytene spermatocytes, remains high in early round spermatids, and declines only in advance of nuclear condensation. Maximum expression correlates well with the appearance of H1t. In contrast, RFX1 immunoreactivity in germ cells was only detected in late round spermatids. RFX-specific band complexes were also identified for both the mouse lamin C2 and Sgy promoters, using either testis nuclear extracts or in vitro-synthesized RFX2. These results call attention to RFX2 as a transcription factor with obvious potential for the regulation of gene expression during meiosis and the early development of spermatids. gene regulation, meiosis, spermatogenesis, testis, transcription factor
Physiological free fatty acid concentrations do not increase free estradiol in plasma.

Consumption of dietary fat has been linked to the high incidence of breast cancer. The in vitro effects of palmitate, oleate, linoleate, and eicosapentaenoate at supraphysiological concentrations [1.8-4.8 mM; endogenous (0.8) plus added (1-4)] on the binding of 17 beta-estradiol (E2) to sex hormone-binding globulin and albumin were evaluated in plasma, using centrifugal ultrafiltration. The E2-sex hormone-binding globulin complex was significantly dissociated by oleate, linoleate, eicosapentaenoate, and palmitate at 1.8 to 2.8-mM concentrations. The same FFA caused a significant increase in E2 binding to albumin at similar concentrations. However, only the unsaturated fatty acids at 3.8 to 4.8-mM concentrations (i.e. oleate, linoleate, and eicosapentaenoate) significantly increased the nonprotein-bound free E2 fraction. Thus, these results suggest that free E2 concentrations are not affected by physiological concentrations of FFA.
Lpa2 Is a Negative Regulator of Both Dendritic Cell Activation and Murine Models of Allergic Lung Inflammation

Negative regulation of innate immune responses is essential to prevent excess inflammation and tissue injury and promote homeostasis. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a pleiotropic lipid that regulates cell growth, migration, and activation and is constitutively produced at low levels in tissues and in serum. Extracellular LPA binds to specific G protein-coupled receptors, whose function in regulating innate or adaptive immune responses remains poorly understood. Of the classical LPA receptors belonging to the Edg family, lpa2 (edg4) is expressed by dendritic cells (DC) and other innate immune cells. In this article, we show that DC from lpa2−/− mice are hyperactive compared with their wild-type counterparts and are less susceptible to inhibition by different LPA species. In transient-transfection assays, we found that lpa2 overexpression inhibits NF-κB–driven gene transcription. Using an adoptive-transfer approach, we found that allergen-pulsed lpa2−/− DC induced substantially more lung inflammation than did wild-type DC after inhaled allergen challenge. Finally, lpa2−/− mice develop greater allergen-driven lung inflammation than do their wild-type counterparts in models of allergic asthma involving both systemic and mucosal sensitization. Taken together, these findings identify LPA acting via lpa2 as a novel negative regulatory pathway that inhibits DC activation and allergic airway inflammation.
Telehealth behavior therapy for the management of type 1 diabetes in adolescents.

Background: Poor management of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) may result in serious medical complications. Psychological intervention may improve adherence to medical regimens; however, access to trained professionals is limited, particularly in rural communities. Telehealth interventions may address this by allowing families to access services at home; however, little is known about the efficacy of such services. Method: This study presents results from a pilot trial of a randomized waitlist controlled trial of Telehealth Behavioral Therapy (TBT) for youths with T1DM. Primary outcome measures were adherence to the diabetes regimen, glycemic control, and level of family discord. Thirty-two youths (23 female) with T1DM (aged 9 to 17 years) and one parent or caregiver participated. Telehealth Behavioral Therapy sessions were conducted thrice weekly for 12 weeks by phone and lasted an average of 15 min each. Results: Results indicated that youths in treatment decreased their hemoglobin A1c by 0.74 compared to 0.09 in the waitlist, though this was not statistically significant. Youths in treatment reported increased unsupportive and decreased caring parental behaviors. Conclusion: Telehealth Behavioral Therapy improves access to knowledgeable providers and results in a clinically significant improvement in glycemic control. Despite some youths experiencing an increase in unsupportive parental behaviors, TBT is a promising method of service delivery that warrants further investigation.
Confocal imaging of xenobiotic transport across the blood-brain barrier.

The brain capillary endothelium is a formidable barrier to entry of foreign chemicals into the central nervous system (CNS). For the most part it poorly distinguishes between therapeutics and neurotoxins and thus the blood-brain barrier both protects the brain from toxic chemicals and limits our ability to treat a variety of CNS disorders. Two elements underlie the barrier function of the brain capillary endothelium: 1). a physical barrier comprised of tight junctions, which form an effective seal to intercellular diffusion, and the cells themselves, which exhibit a low rate of endocytosis, and 2). a metabolic/active barrier, comprised of specific membrane transporters expressed by the endothelial cells. We have recently developed an experimental system based on confocal microscopy to study mechanisms of transport in freshly isolated brain capillaries. Here I review studies demonstrating a major role for the ATP-driven, xenobiotic export pump, p-glycoprotein, in barrier function and recent experiments showing that transient inhibition of pump function can have substantial benefit for chemotherapy in an animal model of brain cancer.
Runtime Partial Reconfiguration for Embedded Vector Processors

Embedded systems have widely crept into industrial control, automotive, networking, and consumer products. These systems require efficient devices that occupy small area and consume low power. Device area can be minimized by reusing the same hardware for different applications. Thus, reconfiguring the hardware to adapt to the application needs is important for reducing execution time and/or power consumption. Partial reconfiguration enables minimum changes to the hardware to form a new configuration. We have designed a reconfigurable vector processor for embedded applications. Benchmark results on Xilinx FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays) are presented involving partial reconfiguration for embedded applications that process vectors
Habitat Quality, Population Density and Habitat-specific Productivity of Red-winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) in Boulder County, Colorado

Abstract I monitored 382 red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) nests in natural (wetlands and tallgrass prairie) and human-disturbed (hayfields, roadside ditches) habitats in the vicinity of Boulder, Colorado during 1996 and 1997. I counted blackbirds in a total of 6216 ha and quantified habitat composition to determine both within-habitat population density and regional habitat availability. Population density mirrored habitat-specific productivity of red-winged blackbirds in habitats that had predictable sources of water (wetlands, roadside ditches). However, population density and habitat-specific productivity were decoupled in habitats that were unpredictable in the amount of water present during territory establishment (tallgrass prairie and hayfields, which were flood irrigated). Regional habitat productivity was estimated using data on habitat-specific productivity, habitat-specific population density and regional habitat availability. Red-winged blackbirds breeding in wetlands in the absence ...
In Vivo Assessment of the Midbrain Raphe Nuclear Regulation of Serotonin Release in the Hamster Suprachiasmatic Nucleus

In vivo assessment of the midbrain raphe nuclear regulation of serotonin release in the hamster suprachiasmatic nucleus. Serotonin (5-HT) plays important regulatory roles in mammalian circadian tim...
Abstract 60: Renal Denervation Prevents Dendritic Cell Activation and Renal T Cell Activation in Mice During Angiotensin Ii-induced Hypertension

Increased sympathetic outflow has been implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Recent evidence has also suggested a role of T lymphocytes in hypertension. Renal sympathectomy is an effective approach to lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients and animal models. We hypothesized that renal sympathetics link the central nervous system to immune activation in hypertension. To test this hypothesis, we performed either unilateral or bilateral renal denervation (DNX) in C57BL/6 mice by applying phenol to the renal artery and cutting large visible nerves. On the same day mice received an osmotic minipump for angiotensin II (ANG) infusion (490 ng/kg/min, for 14 days). DNX decreased renal norepinephrine content from 162±13 to 42±11 ng/g (p=0.005) as measured by HPLC. Bilateral DNX lowered systolic blood pressure in mice with ANG infusion (137±4 vs. 159±5 mmHg, p=0.003) measured with tail-cuff. Analysis of T cells was performed using flow cytometry in single cell suspensions from kidneys. Angiotensin II significantly increased total leukocyte (CD45+) and T cell (CD3+) infiltration in the kidney, and this was prevented by DNX. Dendritic cells (DCs), which are the major antigen presenting cells that activate T cells, were isolated from the spleen and cultured in RPMI medium for 24 hours for cytokine measurements via Luminex100 system. Angiotensin II infusion increased DC production in IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-6 production by 4 to 6-fold, and these increases were prevented by DNX. These results suggest that renal sympathetic nerves participate in T cell activation, and this is associated with dendritic cell activation in the spleen.
DEPOSITIONAL ENVIRONMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH PALEOSPIT DEVELOPMENT: PLUM ISLAND, MASSACHUSETTS

This study presents a model of cyclic spit accretion for the southern shoreline of Plum Island, Massachusetts, since 2,500 years B.P. A three-dimensional analysis of 325 cores taken from the sand unit underlying Stage Island Pool on Plum Island and bivariate plots of the graphic statistics derived from 40 sand samples permitted identification of three subsurface environments: beach/dune ridge, interdune, and washover/ tidal channel. The cyclic recurrence of these environments is proposed as the mechanism leading to the formation and growth of the southern end of the island since at least 2,500 years B.P.
Debt-Equity Hybrids

This paper examines debt-equity hybrid securities whose existence and popularity appear to be due to their favorable accounting and tax treatment. Marketed under names such as Monthly Income Preferred Securities (MIPS), these securities are treated as equity-like for financial reporting and regulatory purposes, yet are treated as debt for tax purposes. In the four years since their creation, MIPS have largely replaced traditional preferred stock as a source of new capital, and many firms have engaged in recapitalizations in which MIPS are used to retire outstanding preferred stock or debt. We first describe how MIPS are structured to simultaneously achieve financial reporting, regulatory, and tax objectives. Second, we estimate the effects of actual MIPS issues, including how much firms appear to pay in the form of higher MIPS yields and issue costs for the financial reporting and regulatory advantages that MIPS have over debt, and how much firms save in taxes when using MIPS to retire preferred stock. Finally, we document how the market reacts to MIPS issue announcements, including separate analyses on firms that use MIPS proceeds to retire debt and preferred stock.
Distributed dynamic economic dispatch of power generators with storage

This paper considers the dynamic economic dispatch problem for a group of generators with storage that communicate over a weight-balanced strongly connected digraph. The objective of the generators is to collectively meet a certain load profile, specified over a finite time horizon, while minimizing the aggregate cost. At each time slot, each generator decides on the amount of generated power and the amount sent to/drawn from the storage unit. The amount injected into the grid by each generator to satisfy the load is equal to the difference between the generated and stored powers. Additional constraints on the generators include bounds on the amount of generated power, ramp constraints on the difference in generation across successive time slots, and bounds on the amount of power in storage. We synthesize a provably-correct distributed algorithm that solves the resulting finite-horizon optimization problem starting from any initial condition. Our design consists of two interconnected dynamical systems, one estimating the mismatch in the injection and the total load at each time slot, and another using this estimate as a feedback to reduce the mismatch and optimize the total cost of generation, while meeting the constraints.
Lookup Tables Versus Stacked Rasch Analysis in Comparing Pre- and Postintervention Adult Strabismus-20 Data.

PURPOSE We compare two methods of analysis for Rasch scoring pre- to postintervention data: Rasch lookup table versus de novo stacked Rasch analysis using the Adult Strabismus-20 (AS-20). METHODS One hundred forty-seven subjects completed the AS-20 questionnaire prior to surgery and 6 weeks postoperatively. Subjects were classified 6 weeks postoperatively as "success," "partial success," or "failure" based on angle and diplopia status. Postoperative change in AS-20 scores was compared for all four AS-20 domains (self-perception, interactions, reading function, and general function) overall and by success status using two methods: (1) applying historical Rasch threshold measures from lookup tables and (2) performing a stacked de novo Rasch analysis. Change was assessed by analyzing effect size, improvement exceeding 95% limits of agreement (LOA), and score distributions. RESULTS Effect sizes were similar for all AS-20 domains whether obtained from lookup tables or stacked analysis. Similar proportions exceeded 95% LOAs using lookup tables versus stacked analysis. Improvement in median score was observed for all AS-20 domains using lookup tables and stacked analysis (P < 0.0001 for all comparisons). CONCLUSIONS The Rasch-scored AS-20 is a responsive and valid instrument designed to measure strabismus-specific health-related quality of life. When analyzing pre- to postoperative change in AS-20 scores, Rasch lookup tables and de novo stacked Rasch analysis yield essentially the same results. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE We describe a practical application of lookup tables, allowing the clinician or researcher to score the Rasch-calibrated AS-20 questionnaire without specialized software.
FUNCTIONAL MORPHOLOGY AND EVOLUTION OF THE CERATOPSIAN DINOSAURS.

In 1902, H. F. Osborn suggested that the ceratopsian or horned dinosaurs would prove to be "diphyletic" with Torosaurus and Triceratops representing terminal members of two divergent evolutionary trends-one lineage typified by fenestrated parieto-squamosal frills and a second line featuring non-fenestrated frills. Subsequent discoveries have altered some of the details, but these two Lance-age genera are still considered distinct and as yet no other unquestionable contemporaneous genera have been discovered. Consequently, most phylogenies so far proposed (Lull, 1908; Lambe, 1915; Lull, 1933; Schlaikjer, 1935; Colbert, 1948; Sternberg, 1949), although differing in details, have adhered to a "bilineal" evolutionary history for the Ceratopsia. These lineages are now commonly referred to as the "long-frilled" and "short-frilled" lines. If the fossil record has been interpreted correctly and existing ceratopsian specimens do in fact represent two distinct evolutionary lineages, then there must have been a functional reason for these divergent trends. The object of this study was to explore the functional morphology of certain distinctive ceratopsian features in an attempt to assess the adaptive significance of recorded morphologic changes and perhaps thereby the "why" of ceratopsian evolution. In the following discussion, reference is made to specimens in the collections of several institutions, the names of which are abbreviated as follows: American Museum of Natural History (AMNH); National Museum of Canada, Ottawa (NMC); United States National Museum (USNM); Peabody Museum of Natural History, Yale University (YPM). CLASSIFICATION
Effect of Dirofilaria immitis on blood meal size and fecundity in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae).

Aedes aegypti (black-eyed Liverpool strain) ingested significantly less blood when exposed to Dirofilaria immitis -infected dog blood as compared to uninfected blood, as determined by a radioisotope dilution technique. When D. immitis -infected (7 days postinfection) and uninfected mosquitoes were provided a 2nd blood meal (uninfective), there was no significant difference in the volume of blood ingested. Possible relationships between blood meal size, filarial worm infection, and fecundity are discussed.
On the detection and accommodation of unanticipated faults

Pn>cedures exist for rapidly accommodating certain types of faults, based on a priori specification of the' post-fault dynamics. This paper presents a methodology for accommodating the remaining unanticipated faults. For these two approaches, a tradeoff exists between the time to attaining a solution to the reconfiguration problem and the generality of the approach. Unanticipated faults are represented as unmodeled forces and torques on the vehicle. These forces and torques are estimated using a hybrid estimation/learning approach, designed for fast estimation during the initial transient when a fault occurs, with continually increasing performance as the fault information is accumulated by the learning system. Fault accommodation is achieved by a feedforward/feedback control architecture incorporating an actuator distribution system to convert desired forces into individual actuator commands. This approach is demonstrated on a simulated autonomous vehicle, where the addition of a hybrid estimation/learning capability is shown to dramatically increase performance over time.
Wilcox molecular torsion balance with rigid side arm and separable atropisomers for investigating CH-π interactions.

A new variant of the Wilcox molecular torsion balance featuring a naphthyl-alkyl side arm was synthesized. The energy barrier for axial isomerization in the new balance was sufficiently high to allow for separation of the two rotamers and to observe their isomerization kinetics. The CH−π interaction energies in derivatives of the new and the original ester balance were in close agreement, suggesting that the motion in ester linkage is not an important factor in folding in the ester balance.
Biology, Population Dynamics, and Host Finding Efficiency of Pachycrepoideus vindemiae in a Box Stall and a Poultry House

Weekly releases of about 1600 ♀ pteromalid wasps, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae (Rondani), per m2 eliminated populations of house flies, Musca domestica L., stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.), and Fannia spp. at a poultry house after 98 days. Releases of 633 ♀/m2 in a box stall which housed a Holstein steer reduced house fly populations about 40% after 28 days. A population model derived from the results of laboratory and field tests could be used to estimate wasp populations in colonies and to determine the population dynamics of the wasp in the field.
Small Airway Dysfunction and Abnormal Exercise Responses. A Study in Coal Miners

Rationale: Coal mine dust exposure can cause symptoms and loss of lung function from multiple mechanisms, but the roles of each disease process are not fully understood.Objectives: We investigated the implications of small airway dysfunction for exercise physiology among a group of workers exposed to coal mine dust.Methods: Twenty coal miners performed spirometry, first breathing air and then helium-oxygen, single-breath diffusing capacity, and computerized chest tomography, and then completed cardiopulmonary exercise testing.Measurements and Main Results: Six participants meeting criteria for small airway dysfunction were compared with 14 coal miners who did not. At submaximal workload, miners with small airway dysfunction used a higher proportion of their maximum voluntary ventilation and had higher ventilatory equivalents for both O2 and CO2. Regression modeling indicated that inefficient ventilation was significantly related to small airway dysfunction but not to FEV1 or diffusing capacity. At the end...
Doppler analysis of the umbilical artery. The importance of choosing the placental end of the cord

Thirty normal pregnancies were studied with continuous or pulsed Doppler ultrasound (50 measurements). The ratio of systolic (S) to end-diastolic (D) measurement, or S/D ratio, was obtained at both ends of the cord: the placental insertion and the fetal abdominal insertion. A statistically significant difference was demonstrated between the two sets of measurements. Normal values were obtained at the placental insertion, whereas, simultaneously, the fetal abdominal insertion generated highly abnormal values. When performing Doppler waveform analysis of the umbilical artery, if abnormal values are obtained, one should be cautious to be certain that they originated from the placental insertion.
A case-control study on risk factors to hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in Guangzhou

Objective To investigate the risk factors on hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome(HFRS) in Guangzhou.Methods 1 ∶ 1 matched case-control study was conducted,105 HFRS cases were reported through network during October of 2011 to March of 2013,and 105 controls who were dwelled in the same village or worked in the same company,had same gender and the age difference is no more than 5 years old both were interviewed by the same questionnaire.The data processing was done from single factor and multivariate analysis including conditional logistic regression.Results Single conditional logistic regression analysis showed that house adjacent to the pond or river,mouse activity indoor,indoor health,mouse activity in workplace,rat droppings in workplace were the risk factors of HFRS.But average number of rooms,sweep indoor and outdoor floor after sprinkling water,home anti-rodent were the protected factors of HFRS.Multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis showed that mouse activity indoor was the risk factors of HFRS(OR = 2.874,95% CI 1.152-7.170),sweep indoor and outdoor floor after sprinkling water(OR = 0.369,95% CI 0.151-0.900),home anti-rodent(OR = 0.416,95% CI 0.180-0.961) were the protected factors of HFRS.Conclusions The comprehensive measures for prevention and control for HFRS are anti-rodent and ratproof,improve environmental sanitation conditions,strengthen health education,and improve the health level of the masses.
Renal Cell Carcinoma in Childhood and Adolescence: A Clinical and Pathological Study of 17 Cases

From 1955 through 1984, 17 patients aged 17 years or younger were treated or seen in consultation for renal cell carcinoma at the Children's Hospital and Dana Farber Cancer Institute. There were 11 girls and 6 boys, with an average age at diagnosis of 11 years (range 4 to 17 years). Gross hematuria and abdominal or flank pain were the most common presenting complaints, and in 5 cases there was a history of antecedent trauma. The tumors ranged in size from 2 to 15 cm. (average diameter 7.5 cm.). There were 10 tumors in the left kidney and 7 in the right kidney. Childhood renal cell carcinoma displayed similar gross and microscopic features compared with counterparts in adults. The smallest renal cell carcinoma to metastasize measured 3 cm. in diameter and the pathological features suggested an origin from distal collecting tubules (ducts of Bellini). There were 6 tumor-related deaths (35 per cent over-all mortality) occurring 2 months to 2 years after diagnosis. Eleven children were well, with an average duration of followup of 12 years (range 4 to 27 years). The most important prognostic factor was clinical stage at the time of diagnosis. The presence of renal vascular invasion per se did not appear to be an adverse finding. The most optimal treatment for children with stage I renal cell carcinoma is radical nephrectomy with regional lymphadenectomy. While adjuvant radiation and/or chemotherapy may be used in patients with more advanced stage disease, their efficacy in achieving long-term survival free of relapse or cure is not well defined.
The green flash

Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular – the result of a beautiful interaction between the light from our nearest star and the Earth's atmosphere. But for Pete Lawrence, a phenomenon connected with these events holds even more appeal – the elusive "green flash".
Taxonomic Structure: Species Composition

Terrestrial ecologists long ago remarked on the richness of the floras and faunas of tropical environments relative to colder climates. The diversification within many specific taxonomic groups is clearly greater in the tropics than in temperate latitudes, both in terrestrial and in marine environments. Coastal environments support many more species of invertebrates and fish than open ocean regions, probably a response to resource supplies; low numbers of species are common in depauperate, severe, and disturbed habitats. Such observations have spawned an abundant and contentious body of publications that have dealt with three major problems: first, how to quantify the clearly observable differences in diversity of species , second, how are such differences in taxonomic richness of communities generated and maintained, and third, what do such differences mean ecologically.
Producing hybrid forests in the Congo Basin: A political ecology of the landscape approach to conservation

Abstract Environmental conservation is increasingly operated through partnerships among state, private, and civil society actors, yet little is known empirically about how such collectives function and with what livelihood and governance outcomes. The landscape approach to conservation (known also as the ecosystem approach) is one such hybrid governance platform. Implemented worldwide over the past decade by international NGOs, the landscape approach employs the ‘ecosystem principles’ of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). In spite of its prominence as a conservation and development strategy, little political ecology scholarship has considered the landscape approach. This article offers a case study of a conservation landscape in the Congo Basin, the Tri-National de la Sangha (TNS), which connects tropical forests in Cameroon, Republic of Congo, and Central African Republic. Led by NGOs, the TNS has since 2001 relied on partnerships among logging companies, safari hunters, the state, and local communities. Although the landscape approach purports to facilitate re-negotiations of user rights, resource access patterns in the TNS appear to have molded to pre-existing power relations. Rather than incorporating local concerns and capabilities into management, local knowledge is discredited and livelihoods are marginalized. As a result, management occurs through spatially-demarcated zones, contrasting the fluidity of interactions among diverse groups: both human (loggers, hunter-gatherers, safari guides, NGOs) and non-human (trees, elephants). These findings are situated within a burgeoning literature on neoliberal environmental governance, and suggest that ensuring ecologically and socially positive outcomes will require careful and iterative attention to linkages between ecological processes and evolving power dynamics.
Preclinical Course in Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) Digital Dentistry: Introduction, Technology and Systems Evaluation, and Exercise.

Abstract Introduction Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology is an innovative digital system capable of scanning prepared teeth that are intended to receive cro...
Cell Biology: Narrowing the Great Divide

Construction of the cell plate during plant cell division requires the precise insertion of materials around the circumferentially growing phragmoplast. New work shows that two kinesin-4 motor proteins act to shorten the domain of overlapping microtubules at the phragmoplast perimeter, limiting the site of material deposition.
Time to fly: A comparison of marginal value theorem approximations in an agent-based model of foraging waterfowl

Abstract One of the fundamental decisions foragers face is how long an individual should remain in a given foraging location. Typical approaches to modeling this decision are based on the marginal value theorem. However, direct application of this theory would require omniscience regarding food availability. Even with complete knowledge of the environment, foraging with intraspecific competition requires resolution of simultaneous circular dependencies. In response to these issues in application, a number of approximating algorithms have been proposed, but it remains to be seen whether these algorithms are effective given a large number of foragers with realistic characteristics. We implemented several algorithms approximating marginal value foraging in a large-scale avian foraging model and compared the results. We found that a novel reinforcement-learning algorithm that includes cost of travel is the most effective algorithm that most closely approximates marginal value foraging theory and recreates depletion patterns observed in empirical studies.
Changing Jobs and Changing Chores? The Longitudinal Association of Women’s and Men’s Occupational Gender-Atypicality and Couples’ Housework Performance

Prior research linking occupational sex composition (the proportion of women in an occupation) to housework has yielded conflicting results and relies exclusively on cross-sectional data. The present article extends scholarship on the gendered division of household labor by using longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) 1981–2013 to assess how changes in occupational sex composition alter heterosexual married couples’ housework performance over time. I find that either spouse’s gender-atypical employment (e.g., husband’s employment in a predominately female job) is associated with gender-atypical housework performance by both spouses (e.g., higher housework hours for the husband and fewer hours for the wife). The association of women’s occupational sex composition with housework is driven by changes in individual women’s occupations and both spouses’ housework over time. In contrast, the association of men’s occupational sex composition with housework is driven by differences between different couples, not by within-couple change over time. Thus, fundamentally different causal mechanisms link women’s and men’s occupational sex composition to couples’ housework performance, and only for women are longitudinal changes in occupational sex composition associated with changes in housework. These findings have important implications for understanding occupation and housework as domains of gender performance.