cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Numerical Age and Residence-Time Mapping for a Small Tidal Creek: Case Study

A numerical modeling study, using an Eulerian tracer and Lagrangian particle-tracking methods, was carried out to map the age of water and residence-time distribution in the tide-dominated East Scott Creek Estuary, South Carolina. A coupled hydrodynamic, solute-transport, and particle-transport model was developed. The flow and solute-transport models were based on depth-integrated conservation equations and the particle-transport model was quasi-three-dimensional. The equations were discretized using the total variation diminishing finite-volume method. The numerical model predictions were verified against a set of field-measured hydrodynamic data, with the model-predicted water elevations and velocities in good agreement with the field measurements. Different methods of computing the age of water and the residence time that are applicable to tide-dominated estuaries and suitable for high-resolution flow and transport numerical modeling setup were investigated. An Eulerian method, based on the tracer-age theory, and a Lagrangian particle-tracking method were each used to map the age and the residence-time distribution throughout the main channel of East Scott Creek. The performance of the two methods in the given tide-dominated environment was investigated through a series of numerical experiments. The effects of the particle and tracer release time and tidal amplitude in the computation of tidal exchange-time scales were also investigated. The residence time computed by the Eulerian method scaled well with that of the Lagrangian method and produces a relatively smooth monotonic profile of the residence time in space. The Lagrangian method, unlike the Eulerian method, consistently showed a more detailed distribution of significant and varying nonmonotonic profile of residence times; yet, the two methods produce, in the tidally averaged sense, reasonably comparable residence-time distributions. The residence time computed by the Lagrangian method is very sensitive to the phase of the tidal forcing at the beginning of the computation.
Fluorescence Microscopic Mapping of Electrical Wave Propagation in an In-vitro Model of Skeletal Myoblast Cell Transplantation

Electrical wave propagation at a multicellular level was mapped in an in-vitro model of skeletal myoblast cell transplantation using a fluorescence micromapping system; microheterogeneity of electrical conduction was observed, which may induce arrhythmias inside hearts.
Mechanisms for the formation of glycoxidation products in end-stage renal disease

Mechanisms for the formation of glycoxidation products in end-stage renal disease. Background Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) accumulate on tissue and plasma proteins in patients with renal failure far in excess of normal aging or diabetes. The aim of these studies was to elucidate the nature of the precursors and the pathways that lead to an accelerated formation of two structurally identified AGEs [pentosidine and N ϵ (carboxymethyl)lysine (CML)] in the uremic milieu. Methods Serum levels of the glycoxidation products, pentosidine and CML, were quantitated by high-performance liquid chromatography in uremic patients treated by dialysis. The formation of early glycation products (as furosine) and late glycoxidation products was modeled in uremic serum and in spent peritoneal dialysate. Results Clinical factors that affect circulating levels of AGEs included dialysis clearance and dialyzer membrane pore size, but not the presence or absence of diabetes. Both pentosidine and CML form at an accelerated rate in serum from uremic patients. Chelating agents most effectively slow the formation in vitro. In uremic fluids, the primary mechanism of formation of pentosidine is through the Amadori pathway. The primary mechanism of formation of CML is through metal-chelated autoxidation of reducing sugars generating reactive carbonyl precursors. In uremic serum, the presence of an unidentified reactive low molecular weight precursor accelerates the formation of pentosidine. Conclusions The formation of the two glycoxidation products, pentosidine and CML, proceeds by different pathways and is enhanced by different precursors in the uremic milieu. The formation of both AGEs is markedly enhanced by metal-catalyzed reactions, evidence for the presence of increased metal-ion mediated oxidant stress in uremia.
Fast and robust method for the determination of microstructure and composition in butadiene, styrene-butadiene, and isoprene rubber by near-infrared spectroscopy.

In the tire industry, synthetic styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), butadiene rubber (BR), and isoprene rubber (IR) elastomers are essential for conferring to the product its properties of grip and rolling resistance. Their physical properties depend on their chemical composition, i. e., their microstructure and styrene content, which must be accurately controlled. This paper describes a fast, robust, and highly reproducible near-infrared analytical method for the quantitative determination of the microstructure and styrene content. The quantitative models are calculated with the help of pure spectral profiles estimated from a partial least squares (PLS) regression, using 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) as the reference method. This versatile approach allows the models to be applied over a large range of compositions, from a single BR to an SBR-IR blend. The resulting quantitative predictions are independent of the sample path length. As a consequence, the sample preparation is solvent free and simplified with a very fast (five minutes) hot filming step of a bulk polymer piece. No precise thickness control is required. Thus, the operator effect becomes negligible and the method is easily transferable. The root mean square error of prediction, depending on the rubber composition, is between 0.7% and 1.3%. The reproducibility standard error is less than 0.2% in every case.
Previously unreported high-grade complications of adrenalectomy

Background Serious complications of adrenalectomy are rare but the incidence may be underestimated if they occur outside major referral centers. We report five cases of high-grade complications after adrenalectomy that have not been previously described.
Dickinson's There's been a Death in the Opposite House

(1992). Dickinson's There's been a Death in the Opposite House. The Explicator: Vol. 50, No. 4, pp. 219-219.
Outcome analysis of endoscopic sinus surgery in patients with nasal polyps and asthma.

Objective To investigate the efficacy of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in the management of chronic sinusitis and asthma in patients with nasal polyps and steroid-dependent asthma. Study design Retrospective chart review. Methods The study included 17 patients who underwent ESS with nasal polyps, steroid-dependent asthma with or without aspirin sensitivity and a minimum of 1 year postoperative follow-up. Nine patients were ASA sensitive, and eight patients were ASA tolerant. Chronic sinusitis and asthma were evaluated using subjective (patient complaints) and objective (computed tomography scans, pulmonary function tests, steroid doses) criteria. Preoperative data were compared with data obtained 12 to 18 months postESS. Tissue samples were graded for degree of inflammation and edema. Results Thirteen of the 17 (76.5%) patients reported improved clinical symptoms postESS. The postoperative Lund-Mackay scores were statistically lower for the 17 patients (P .08) and sinonasal symptoms (P >.16) compared with the ASA tolerant group. Polyp tissue from the ASA sensitive patients demonstrated more edema and more inflammation on average than ASA tolerant polyps, but the results were not statistically significant. Conclusion ESS demonstrates a beneficial effect on the sinonasal and asthma symptomatology in patients with nasal polyps and asthma using objective measures. Subset of aspirin-tolerant patients have statistically better outcome for sinonasal symptoms and pulmonary function testing than aspirin-sensitive patients.
On bottleneck partitioning of k-ary n-cubes

Graph partitioning is a topic of extensive interest, with applications to parallel processing. In this context graph nodes typically represent computation, and edges represent communication. One seeks to distribute the workload by partitioning the graph so that every processor has approximately the same workload, and the communication cost (measured as a function of edges exposed by the partition) is minimized. Measures of partition quality vary; in this paper we consider a processor’s cost to be the sum of its computation and communication costs, and consider the cost of a partition to be the bottleneck, or maximal processor cost induced by the partition. For a general graph the problem of finding an optimal partitioning is intractable. In this paper we restrict our attention to the class of k-ary n-cube graphs with uniformly weighted nodes. Given mild restrictions on the node weight and number of processors, we identify partitions yielding the smallest bottleneck. We also demonstrate by example that some restrictions are necessary for the partitions we identify to be optimal. In particular, there exist cases where partitions that evenly partition nodes need not be optimal.
African voices : an introduction to the languages and linguistics of Africa

Language as a problem in Africa, Vic Webb and Kembo-Sure the languages of Africa, Vic Webb and Kembo-Sure linguistics - an overview, Vic Webb and Kembo-Sure languages in contact in Africa, Nkonko Kamwamgamulu languages in competition, Vic Webb and Kembo-Sure the sounds of Africa, Herman Batibo system in the sounds of Africa, Herman Batibo building techniques in African languages, D. Okoth Okombo the lexicons of Africa, Danie Prinsloo, Albina R. Chuwa and Elsabe Taljard discourse - language in context, Hilton Hubbard cross-cultural communication in Africa, Oswald Ndoleriire language learning in Africa, Jane Kembo.
The physiologic evaluation of patients before and after mitral commissurotomy

SUMMARY 1) The resting cardiac output of patients with mitral stenosis is normal, and does not decrease until the onset of heart failure. 2) Pressure levels are more critical than flow levels in estimating the function of the right heart. 3) The most adequate picture of the right ventricular function is obtained from an analysis of pulmonary resistance and of the work of the right ventricle. 4) Patients who are most likely to benefit from mitral commissurotomy are those with high pulmonary artery pressures. 5) The degree of fall of the pulmonary artery pressure following commissurotomy is roughly parallel to the degree of clinical improvement in the few cases studied. 6) Patients with very low pulmonary artery pressures are not benefited by mitral commissurotomy and such low initial pressures may be present in patients with low grade rheumatic myocarditis. 7) Comparison of pre- and postoperative catheterization findings is the only critical method of evaluating results of mitral commissurotomy and should be further pursued. We wish to acknowledge the technical assistance of Mrs. Helen Obernolte, Dr. Andrew Farr, Miss Mary Mayo and Mr. Lucius Collier.
Coprecipitates of Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn in Iron Oxides:Solid Phase Transformation and Metal Solubility After Aging and Thermal Treatment

Solid phase transformation and metal solubility were monitored after coprecipitation of Cd 2+ , Cu 2+ , Pb 2+ and Zn 2+ with Fe 3+ to form ferrihydrite by titration to pH 6. The (co)precipitates were aged at room temperature for up to 200 d and subsequently heated for 60 d at 70 °C. The mode of (co)precipitate formation, rapid and slow titration, was also investigated. Metal solubility was measured by anodic stripping voltammetry. Surface area, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were used to follow the transformation of ferrihydrite after initial (co)precipitation. Electron microprobe analysis (EMPA) was used to show the distribution of metals within ferrihydrite aggregates. Thermal treatment produced a reduction in soluble Cd 2+ and Zn 2+ , whereas Pb 2+ appeared to be expelled from the solid phase. The more stable coprecipitate (formed by slow titration) maintained a constant Cu 2+ solubility after thermal treatment. Characterization of the solid phase by XRD indicated that the presence of low levels of metals did not affect the initial or final transformation products, although metals present during the slow titration seemed to stabilize a higher surface area material. The rapid titration resulted in a less ordered (1-line) ferrihydrite than the slow titration (9-line). Furthermore, FTIR analysis indicated that the presence of metals promoted the formation of mixed (microcrystalline) end-products. The initial coprecipitation products seem to determine the final thermal transformation products. These transformation products include ferrihydrite, hematite (Hm), and goethite (Gt)- and lepidocrocite-like microcrystalline structures. Although experimental conditions were favorable for the homogeneous distribution of metals throughout the coprecipitate, EMPA suggests that Cu and Zn segregation within aggregates of Fe oxides occurs.
Interleukin-17C Promotes Th17 Cell Responses and Autoimmune Disease via Interleukin-17 Receptor E

Although several interleukin-17 (IL-17) family members and their receptors have been recently appreciated as important regulators in inflammatory diseases, the function of other IL-17 cytokines and IL-17 receptor-like molecules is unclear. Here we show that an IL-17 cytokine family member, IL-17C, was induced in a Th17 cell-dependent autoimmune disease and was required for its pathogenesis. IL-17C bound to IL-17RE, a member of IL-17 receptor family whose full-length isoform was selectively expressed in Th17 cells and signaled via an IL-17RA-RE receptor complex and the downstream adaptor Act1. IL-17C-IL-17RE induced the expression of a nuclear IkappaB family member, IκBζ, in Th17 cells to potentiate the Th17 cell response. Thus, our work has identified a cytokine-receptor pair with important function in regulating proinflammatory responses. This pathway may be targeted to treat autoimmune diseases.
Speciation of Ternary Cobalt(II) Phenanthroline−Silica Surface Complexes as a Function of pH and Ligand Steric Bulk

Co(II) solution species containing 1 equiv of phenanthroline (phen), 2-methyl-1,10-phenanthroline (MMP), or 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline (DMP) ligand formed inner-sphere surface complexes when grafted on silica. The speciation on the silica surface depended on both the pH of the grafting solution and the steric bulk of the ligand. [Co(DMP)]2+ formed tetrahedral surface adducts exclusively, with a 1:1 ligand−Co ratio. These surface adducts were first detectable at pH values above 5.1. [Co(MMP)]2+ and [Co(phen)]2+ formed exclusively octahedral adducts on the surface with a 1:1 ligand−Co ratio at pH values below 5. The [Co(MMP)]2+ complex formed a tetrahedral adduct initially at pH 6 and increasingly as the pH was raised. The [Co(phen)]2+ complex did not produce a comparable tetrahedral surface species under any conditions. Instead, mixtures of octahedral surface species with both 1:1 and 2:1 ligand−Co ratios began to form at pH values above 6. Taken together, the results indicated that the development o...
Phenomenology of a realistic accelerating universe using tracker fields

We present a realistic scenario of tracking of scalar fields with varying equation of state. The astrophysical constraints on the evolution of scalar fields in the physical universe are discussed. The nucleosynthesis and the galaxy formation constraints have been used to put limits on Ωφ and estimate ɛ during cosmic evolution. Interpolation techniques have been applied to estimate ɛ ⋍0.772 at the present epoch. The epoch of transition from matter to quintessence dominated era and consequent onset of acceleration in cosmic expansion is calculated and taking the lower limit Θ /0 =0.2 as estimated from SN e I a data, it is shown that the supernova observations beyond redshift z=1 would reveal deceleration in cosmic expansion.
Inhibition of cgmp mediated relaxation in small rat coronary arteries by block of Ca++ activated K+ channels

Abstract The functional importance of Ca ++ activated K + (K ca channels in cGMP mediated relaxation of pressurized septal arteries (internal basal diameter 213 ± 4μm) was investigated. Vascular tone was increased by the thromboxane A 2 analogue, U-46619 and internal pressure was maintained at 60 mmHg. Vessels were tested with an endothelium independent agonist (nitroprusside) and endothelium dependent agonist (acetylcholine) of nitric oxide which activates soluble guanylate cyclase. Receptor activation of paniculate guanylate cyclase was tested by atrial natriuretic peptide. Direct changes in intracellular cGMP concentration were done with the cell permeable analog, 8-Bromo-cGMP. Tetraethylammonium ion (TEA + ), 1 mM, significantly inhibited relaxation to nitroprusside from 10 −7 to 10 −3 M with a maximal inhibition of 53 ± 8% at 10 −3 M. Relaxation to acetylcholine from 10 −9 M to 10 −5 M was significantly inhibited by TEA + with a maximal inhibition of 52 ± 13% at 10 −7 M. TEA + significantly inhibited relaxation to 8-Bromo-cGMP from 10 −6 M to 10 −3 M with a maximal inhibition of 59 ± 14% at 10 −4 M. The relaxation response to atrial natriuretic peptide from 10 ∮12 M to 10 −7 M was significantly inhibited by TEA + with a maximal inhibition of 84 ± 5% at 10 −11 M. The large conductance K ca , channel blocker, iberiotoxin, eliminated the relaxation response to 8-Bromo-cGMP (10 −3 M). The results suggest that a large portion of the dilator action of cGMP is mediated by effects on K + membrane channels.
Selecting and Acquiring Library Materials for Chinese Studies in Academic Libraries

Abstract Focusing on academic libraries in North America, this article describes the selection and acquisition of library materials for Chinese Studies from the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. It provides an historical overview of the Chinese book publishing and exporting practice, identifies and evaluates current online and printed resources for selection and methods of acquisition, and discusses the problems commonly faced by academic libraries. It also addresses the current state of book publishing and book exporting operations as they respond to China's new status as a member of the World Trade Organization and what this means to libraries in North America.
Continuous Magnetic Profiles near Ground Level as a Means of Discriminating and Correlating Rock Units

Continuous magnetic profiles were recorded by a truck-mounted magnetometer along road traverses over stratified metamorphic rocks and plutonic igneous rocks of the New England Appalachians. The records show a series of distinctive, highly detailed magnetic anomalies which closely reflect the nature and distribution of near-surface bedrock units. The method provides a rapid and versatile means of discriminating bedrock units, which should be especially useful in regions where bedrock exposures are scarce. Under some conditions, analysis of the anomalies may yield critical data on the shape and magnetization of individual rock units. These data should prove useful for deducing geologic structure and for general studies of the magnetization of rocks.
Sigmund Freud and the Greek mythological tradition.

his paper represents an overview of one important strand in an ongoing study of Freud and Jung and the way in which each related psychology and myth. In a sense it is my version of Philip Rieff's Fellow Teachers; I, too, look to Freud for help in recalling us to those urgencies that pulled us into religious studies "once upon a time," to a renewed appreciation of the sacred. But unlike Rieff, I want to equate godterms not only with interdiction and prohibition, but also with celebration. Rieff seems to want to reinstate YHVH as the only true god, albeit a god constantly struggling with the Baals and Asteroths. I am more pagan and find in Freud resources for a genuinely polytheistic theology which affirms the power of YHVH and Astarte, Eros and Thanatos. What I will put forward here is not a literal but a depth reading of Freud: a political reading, a poetic, mythic reading. Freud still has things to say to us precisely because his thinking was more dialectical and subtle than that of the movement he spawned, and because he deliberately invites us to look for latent meanings. We are all familiar with the tensions: is Freud therapist or theorist, scientist or poet, realist or romantic? Obviously, the answer is, "Both, but not in easily reconcilable ways." Freud seems to encourage readings which exploit "Freud against Freud," as Wilhelm Reich put it: readings like Rieff's which set the interdictory over against the remissive, like Herbert Marcuse's which discovers Freud the revolutionary in Freud the apparent conservative, and like Norman O. Brown's which opposes the orgiastic to the repressive, fantasy to literalism. Each of these is a reading that goes beyond Freud they are interpretations that are truly "the other room of the dream" yet they are fathered by him. Freud is important in part because he both allows such going beyond and resists it. He is someone we learn from by wrestling with. Like his YHVH he is a figure worth fighting against. Perhaps just because he had himself so consciously played the role of the son, the rebel, he is willing to take his turn as the father who does not simply abdicate. (I suspect a new vision needs to be mothered as well; in the larger study I turn to Jung as one who might be invested with this role.) My own reading will focus on Freud's understanding of the role of myth in human life; it sees in Freud's criticism and iconoclasm the manifest of resymbolization, in his atheism the manifest of polytheism. Not that we ignore the manifest. It is precisely the analysis of the death of God that makes possible an opening to the continued
Structural, Biological and Biochemical Studies of Myotoxin a And Homologous Myotoxins

AbstractMyotoxin a and a group of closely related, small, basic toxins cause myonecrotic destruction of muscle tissue upon envenomation. The sarcoplasmic reticulum swells and eventually breaks down to small vesicles. Degeneration of myofibrils and myofilaments ensues and loss of the classic striation pattern is apparent. These toxins exhibit high sequence similarity as well as sequence microheterogeneity. A conformational heterogeneity was recently discovered in myotoxin a. The existence of myotoxin a in two forms in equilibrium in solution hinders the generation of a well defined three-dimensional structure. The difference, if any, in the biological activity of the two forms has not been established yet. Recent biochemical studies indicate that myotoxin a is a potent Ca2+ releasing agent that binds to calsequestrin in the lumen of the sarcoplasmic reticulum.
Opposing Roles of Ras/Raf Oncogenes and the MEK1/ERK Signaling Module in Regulation of Expression and Adhesive Function of Surface Transglutaminase

Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) serves as a potent and ubiquitous integrin-associated adhesion co-receptor for fibronectin on the cell surface and affects several key integrin functions. Here we report that in fibroblasts, activated H-Ras and Raf-1 oncogenes decrease biosynthesis, association with β1 integrins, and surface expression of tTG because of down-regulation of tTG mRNA. In turn, the reduction of surface tTG inhibits adhesion of H-Ras- and Raf-1-transformed cells on fibronectin and, in particular, on its tTG-binding fragment I(6)II(1,2)I(7–9), which does not interact directly with integrins. Analysis of Ras/Raf downstream signaling with specific pharmacological inhibitors reveals that the decrease in tTG expression is mediated by the p38 MAPK, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathways. In contrast, increased activation of the ERK pathway by constitutively active MEK1 stimulates tTG mRNA expression, biosynthesis, and surface expression of tTG, whereas MEK inhibitors or dominant negative MEK1 exert an opposite effect. This modulation of surface tTG by ERK signaling alters adhesion of cells on fibronectin and its fragment that binds tTG. Furthermore, transient stimulation of ERK signaling in untransformed fibroblasts by adhesion on fibronectin or growth factors elevates tTG biosynthesis, increases complex formation with β1 integrins, and raises surface expression of tTG. Finally, ERK activation is required for growth factor-induced redistribution of tTG on the surface of adherent fibroblasts and co-clustering of β1 integrins and tTG at cell-matrix adhesion contacts. Together, our data indicate that down-regulation of surface tTG by Ras and Raf oncogenes contributes to adhesive deficiency of transformed fibroblasts, whereas stimulation of biosynthesis and surface expression of tTG by the MEK1/ERK module promotes and sustains cell-matrix adhesion of untransformed cells. Contrasting effects of Ras/Raf oncogenes and their immediate downstream signaling module, MEK1/ERK, on tTG expression are consistent with adhesive function of surface tTG.
Inversed temperature dependence aware clock skew scheduling for sequential circuits

We present an Inversed Temperature Dependence (ITD) aware clock skew scheduling framework. Specifically, we demonstrate how our framework can assist dual-V th assignment in preventing timing violations arising due to ITD effect. We formulate the ITD aware synthesis problem and prove that it is NP-Hard. Then, we propose an algorithm for synergistic temperature aware clock skew scheduling and dual-V th assignment. Experiments on ISCAS89 benchmarks reveal that several circuits synthesized by the traditional high-temperature corner based flow with a commercial tool exhibit timing violations in the low temperature range while all circuits generated using our methodology for the same timing constraints have guaranteed timing.
Crustal structure of eastern Nevada from COCORP deep seismic reflection data

The western Nevada segments of the COCORP 40°N deep seismic-reflection survey of the North American Cordillera reveal the geometry of structures of Cenozoic and possibly earlier ages to travel-times of > 10 s, corresponding to depths of >30 km. The most striking feature of the data is a band of prominent reflections, typically at traveltimes of 9.5 to 10.5 s, that are present discontinuously across the entire data set. Few reflections are observed from beneath the base of this reflective zone, which is interpreted as the crust-mantle transition. This “reflection Mono” is inferred to be continuous across the survey area, varying gradually in depth but without resolvable offsets. It appears to have taken its present form or position during basin-range crustal extension. The middle to lower crust in much of the survey area is characterized by discontinuous reflections that are typically subhorizontal and locally dip gently west. These reflections may represent intrusions or shear zones related to basin-range or pre-basin-range extension, but some are likely to be inherited from earlier compressional deformation. Reflections from the upper crust are interpreted as images of basin-fill strata, basin-range normal faults, and Mesozoic and Paleozoic thrusts related to back-arc thrusting and accretion of oceanic and arc-related rocks.
Fimbrial profiles predict virulence of uropathogenic Escherichia coli Strains: Contribution of Ygi and Yad fimbriae

Escherichia coli, a cause of ∼90% of urinary tract infections (UTI), utilizes fimbrial adhesins to colonize the uroepithelium. Pyelonephritis isolate E. coli CFT073 carries 12 fimbrial operons, 5 of which have never been studied. Using multiplex PCR, the prevalence of these 12 and 3 additional fimbrial types was determined for a collection of 303 E. coli isolates (57 human commensal, 32 animal commensal, 54 asymptomatic bacteriuria, 45 complicated UTI, 38 uncomplicated cystitis, and 77 pyelonephritis). The number of fimbrial types per E. coli isolate was distributed bimodally: those with low (3.2 ± 1.1) and those with high (8.3 ± 1.3) numbers of fimbrial types (means ± standard errors of the means). The fimbrial genes ygiL, yadN, yfcV, and c2395 were significantly more prevalent among urine isolates than human commensal isolates. The effect of deletion of Ygi and Yad fimbrial operons on growth, motility, biofilm formation, adherence to immortalized human epithelial cells, and pathogenesis in the mouse model of UTI was examined. Yad fimbriae were necessary for wild-type levels of adherence to a bladder epithelial cell line and for biofilm formation. Deletion of these fimbrial genes increased motility. Ygi fimbriae were necessary for wild-type levels of adherence to a human embryonic kidney cell line, biofilm formation, and in vivo fitness in the urine and kidneys. Complementation of each fimbrial mutant restored wild-type levels of motility, biofilm formation, adherence and, for ygi, in vivo fitness. A double deletion strain, Δygi Δyad, was attenuated in the urine, bladder, and kidneys in the mouse model, demonstrating that these fimbriae contribute to uropathogenesis.
Variations in levels of cAMP, DNA and RNA in Streptomyces alboniger under conditions of aerial mycelium formation and repression

The relationship between endogenous levels of cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cAMP) and the formation of aerial mycelia was investigated in Streptomyces alboniger under conditions of aerial mycelium formation and repression. The relationship between cellular levels of DNA and RNA and aerial mycelium formation was also investigated. In contrast to cellular differentiation in other Streptomyces, neither variations in cAMP, DNA or RNA levels were found to be associated with the development of aerial mycelia in S. alboniger. The regulation of adenylate cyclase in S. alboniger, however, was found to differ from that of Escherichia coli and related organisms in that glucose raised, rather than lowered, endogenous cAMP levels.
Issues and trends in router design

Future routers must not only forward packets at high speeds, but also deal with nontrivial issues such as scheduling support for differential services, heterogeneous link technologies, and backward compatibility with a wide range of packet formats and routing protocols. The authors outline the design issues facing the next generation of backbone, enterprise, and access routers. The authors also present a survey of advances in router design, identifying important trends, concluding with a selection of open issues.
Compact Ultra Wide-Band (UWB) CPW-fed Elliptical Monopole on Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP)

The implementation of a compact coplanar waveguide (CPW)-fed elliptical monopole antenna that demonstrates good impedance match and omni-directional radiation patterns in the whole ultra wide band range (UWB) is discussed. The proposed antenna is fabricated on 100 mum thick liquid crystal polymer (LCP) with an overall board dimension of 32 mm times 30 mm. Return loss and radiation pattern measurements are in very good agreement with the simulated results
Simulation of dispersive multiconductor transmission lines by Pade approximation via the Lanczos process

A mathematical model for dispersive, multiconductor transmission lines is introduced that makes possible the utilization of the Pade approximation via the Lanczos (PVL) process to the analysis of linear networks that contain transmission line systems. The mathematical model is based on the use of Chebyshev polynomials for the representation of the spatial variation of the transmission-line voltages and currents. A simple collocation procedure is used to obtain a matrix representation of the transmission line equations with matrix coefficients that are first order polynomials in the Laplace-transform variable s and in which terminal transmission-line voltages and currents appear explicitly. Thus, the model is compatible with both the PVL algorithm and the modified nodal analysis formalism. Results from the numerical simulation of both digital interconnect-type and microwave circuits are presented to demonstrate the validity and discuss the efficiency of the proposed model.
Accuracy and Reliability of Peer Assessment of Athletic Training Psychomotor Laboratory Skills

Abstract Context: Peer assessment is defined as students judging the level or quality of a fellow student's understanding. No researchers have yet demonstrated the accuracy or reliability of peer a...
High-resolution electron microscopy of grain boundary structures in yttria-stabilized cubic zirconia

The atomic-scale structure of grain boundaries (GBs) in yttria-stabilized cubic zirconia (YSZ) was investigated by high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM). Non-stoichiometric oxides have found a wide range of applications and therefore it is of importance to explore the role of GBs and their atomic-scale relaxation modes. [001] and [110] tilt GBs were examined by HREM in highly textured thin films of YSZ grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). In addition, a special technique was developed to also allow the HREM study of twist and general GBs. GBs and triple junctions show quite dense arrangements of cation atomic columns. The GB core structures in YSZ can be contrasted to the more open structures in stoichiometric cubic oxides, such NiO, which are characterized by a relatively large GB excess volume. This appears to be due to several factors, including the necessary rearrangement of the oxygen sublattice near GBs in a CsCl2 type structure, the redeployment of oxygen vacancies near GBs, and the segregation of Y to the GB. Relative to stoichiometric oxides, such mechanisms provide additional degrees of freedom for atomic relaxations at GBs and the development of low-energy GBs. These additional relaxation modes, which result in GB cation arrangements more akin to metallic systems, are also reflected by Burgers vector dissociations observed in low-angle YSZ GBs.
Black and brown pigment gallstones differ in microstructure and microcomposition

The two subtypes of pigment gallstones, black and brown stones, differ in chemical composition and pathogenesis. We examined a black bilirubinate stone and a black phosphate stone (which represented opposite ends of the compositional spectrum of black noncarbonate stones), a black carbonate stone, and a brown pigment stone using scanning electron microscopy and microchemical techniques to determine if stone microstructure and microcomposition reflected different patterns of formation. The cross-sectional surfaces of the black bilirubinate and black phosphate stones were smooth and homogenous. Electron probe microanalysis demonstrated high concentrations of sulfur and copper in the center of the black bilirubinate stone; sulfur was in a low valence state consistent with disulfide linkages in proteins. The brown stone was rough-surfaced with lamellated bands on cross-section. The lighter-colored bands in this stone contained virtually all of the detected calcium palmitate, while the darker sections contained much more calcium bilirubinate. Plasma oxygen etching demonstrated a network of protein interdigitating with calcium bilirubinate salts in the black bilirubinate and black phosphate stones but not in the black carbonate or brown stones. Argon ion etching demonstrated that calcium bilirubinate was in a closely packed rod-shaped arrangement in all three black stones but not in the brown stone. We conclude that the marked differences in structure and composition between the black noncarbonate and brown pigment gallstones support the hypothesis that the two major pigment gallstone types form by different mechanisms. In addition, the layered structures of the black carbonate and brown stones suggest that stone growth is affected by cyclic changes in biliary composition.
Identification of key aerosol populations through their size and composition resolved spectral scattering and absorption

Abstract. Characterizing chemical and physical aerosol properties is important to understand their sources, effects, and feedback mechanisms in the atmosphere. This study proposes a scheme to classify aerosol populations based on their spectral optical properties (absorption and scattering). The scheme is obtained thanks to the outstanding set of information on particle size and composition these properties contain. The spectral variability of the aerosol single scattering albedo (dSSA), and the extinction, scattering and absorption Angstrom exponents (EAE, SAE and AAE, respectively) were observed on the basis of two-year measurements of aerosol optical properties (scattering and absorption coefficients at blue, green and red wavelengths) performed in the suburbs of Rome (Italy). Optical measurements of various aerosol types were coupled to measurements of particle number size distributions and relevant optical properties simulations (Mie theory). These latter allowed the investigation of the role of the particle size and composition in the bulk aerosol properties observed. The combination of simulations and measurements suggested a general "paradigm" built on dSSA, SAE and AAE to optically classify aerosols. The paradigm proved suitable to identify the presence of key aerosol populations, including soot, biomass burning, organics, dust and marine particles. The work highlights that (i) aerosol populations show distinctive combinations of SAE and dSSA times AAE, these variables being linked by a linear inverse relation varying with varying SSA; (ii) fine particles show EAE > 1.5, whilst EAE 0.8, whilst ultrafine urban Aitken mode and soot particles show SSA
An Examination of Destination Loyalty: Differences Between First-Time and Repeat Visitors

The objective of the study was to examine how first-time and repeat visitors develop loyalty differently. A multiple group analysis in LISREL was conducted using data collected from a major tourism destination in the southern United States. The findings revealed that (a) repeat visitors reported higher levels of revisit and referral intentions (used to infer destination loyalty) compared with first-time visitors and (b) previous experiences moderated the relationship between tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty—satisfaction played a more important role in leading to loyalty for first-timers than for repeaters. The theoretical and managerial implications were drawn based on the study findings, and recommendations for future researchers were made.
Learning Outcomes for Peer Educators: The National Survey on Peer Education.

The unique impact that college peers have on each other has been widely acknowledged and documented in the higher education literature (Astin, 1993; Pascarella and Terenzini, 2005). In fact, the strength of peer inﬂ u-ence has several beneﬁ ts on the outcomes of student learning, attitudes, and behaviors. Many studies have reported that undergraduate peers are the single most potent source of inﬂ uence on undergraduate student affec-tive and cognitive growth and development during college (Kuh, 1993; Whitt and others, 1999). College and university administrators have taken note of the power of peer inﬂ uence and have capitalized on using peers to play pivotal roles in enhancing the lives of undergraduate students by encouraging peers to consider, talk honestly about, and develop healthy lifestyle choices. Consequently, peer educators have quickly become valued and respected student leaders on many college campuses (Nichols and Lumley, 1999) by serving in a variety of leadership and mentoring capaci-ties and by presenting numerous programs that enhance the development of college and university students.Peer education programs have gained popularity on college campuses (Gould and Lomax, 1993) because peer educators can communicate with other students in ways that faculty and administrators cannot. Peer educa-tion programs continue to grow exponentially because college-age students often feel more comfortable talking with peers when it comes to sensitive issues such as drug use and sexuality (Sawyer, Pinciaro, and Bedwell, 1997). Although peer education programs vary as much as the college cam-puses where these types of programs can be found, they exist at virtually all 17
Bounding Stationary Expectations of Markov Processes

This paper develops a simple and systematic approach for obtaining bounds on stationary expectations of Markov processes. Given a function f which one is interested in evaluating, the main idea is to find a function g that satisfies a certain “mean drift” inequality with respect to f , which in turn leads to bounds on the stationary expectation of the latter. The approach developed in the paper is broadly applicable and can be used to bound steady-state expectations in general state space Markov chains, continuous time chains, and diffusion processes (with, or without, reflecting boundaries).
Spatiotemporal variation in Akodon montensis (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae) and hantaviral seroprevalence in a subtropical forest ecosystem

Relatively little information is available concerning the natural history or population ecology of the montane akodont, Akodon montensis, a sigmodontine species that harbors Jaboraand Ape Aime hantaviruses. On the basis of mark-recapture sampling of 3 locales during 2 years, this report provides comparative data on populational and other characteristics of the species near its distributional limit, in the Upper ParanaAtlantic Forest in Paraguay. We found A. montensis to be almost exclusively terrestrial (nonarboreal) and to vary in population density among locales and between years, findings consistent with earlier studies. Population density was not related either to neotropical seasonality or to most precipitation variables, but sex ratio varied seasonally, which has not been reported previously. We evaluated the seroprevalence of hantavirus in A. montensis, in association with external, populational, and individual variables. As in most previous studies of rodent-hantavirus systems, seroprevalence varied among sampling locales and was higher among males. However, unlike previous reports, especially those from North America, we did not find a correspondence between seroprevalence and population density, seasonal variation, or most precipitation variables. Simple and direct associations between seroprevalence levels and either seasonality or precipitation may be less characteristic of humid neotropical or subtropical systems. Our analyses revealed that seropositive animals exhibit several noteworthy behavioral and life-history modifications, in particular that they have larger home ranges than do seronegatives; exhibit greater maximum distance moved; have greater home range displacement between sampling sessions, particularly those individuals that are seroconverting during the same period; and have greater longevity, especially among males. In general, these characteristics could be postulated as favorable to the capacity of the virus to be transmitted horizontally to other hosts. DOI: 10.1644/ 09-MAMM-A-152.1.
Perfusion of Ischemic Brain in Young and Aged Animals A Laser Speckle Flowmetry Study

Background and Purpose—Aging is an important determinant of ischemic stroke outcomes. Both clinical and experimental stroke studies have shown that aging negatively correlates with infarct volumes but is associated with worsened functional recovery after stroke. This may correspond to a differing cellular and molecular response to stroke in the aged versus young brain. It was hypothesized in this study that the smaller injury seen in the aged ischemic brain is because of structural differences in microvasculature with aging or differences in intraischemic tissue perfusion. Methods—Both young and aged C57BL6 mice were subject to middle cerebral artery occlusion modeling. Laser speckle flowmetry was used to study the functional dynamics of cerebral perfusion, and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran staining was performed to examine the structural change in microvasculature. In separate cohorts, cresyl violet staining and immunohistochemistry with CD31 and IgG antibodies were applied to further assess ...
Intravascular radiographic contrast media: issues for family physicians.

Background: Family physicians frequently order and in some instances supervise diagnostic tests using intravascular radiographic contrast media. Methods: MEDLINE database was searched from 1966 to the present using the key terms “contrast media,” “adverse reaction,” “anaphylaxis,” “anaphylactoid,” “nephropathy,” “renal failure,” “kidney failure,” and “MRI” in combinations. Other sources were found by back referencing these articles and in recent texts. Results and Conclusions: The adverse reactions likely to be encountered in most patients are acute anaphylactoid and cardiovascular reactions, delayed reactions, and renal effects. Mild acute reactions usually require no treatment, but if more severe reaction symptoms occur, emergency treatment is indicated. Acute reactions can be prevented or reduced by close attention to risk factors and pretreatment. Delayed reactions seldom require specific treatment. The type of contrast agent used might lessen the risk of immediate reactions. Contrast-associated nephropathy is most likely to occur in patients who have preexisting renal disease, heart failure, and volume depletion. Optimization of precontrast hydration can lessen the renal effects of contrast material. Magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents might be safer, because of smaller volumes administered, but adverse reactions have occurred.
Dealer Polling in the Presence of Possibly Noisy Reporting

The value of a vast array of financial assets are functions of rates or prices determined in OTC, interbank or other off-exchange markets. In order to price such derivative assets, underlying rate and price indexes are routinely sampled and estimated. To guard against misreporting, whether unintentional or for market manipulation, many standard contracts utilize a technique known as trimmed-means. This paper points out that this polling problem falls within the statistical framework of robust estimation. Intuitive criteria for choosing among robust valuation procedures are discussed. In particular, the approach taken is to minimize the worst-case scenario arising from a false report. The finite sample performance of the procedures which qualify, the trimmed-mean and the Huber-estimator, are examined in a set of simulation experiments.
Use of Probability of Detection When Conducting Analyses of Surveys of Mesopredators: a Case Study from the Ozark Highlands of Missouri

Abstract We surveyed 14 communities of mesopredators in the Ozark Highlands of southern Missouri to examine the effect of landscape and surveying efforts on probability of detection of raccoons (Procyon lotor) and Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana). Virginia opossums had a higher probability of detection than raccoons. Mean size of forested patches had a negative effect on probability of detection, suggesting that the hypothesis that abundance of mesopredators increases in small patches of forest is an artifact of sampling. We suggest that it is important for researchers to include probability of detection when analyzing data from surveys of mesopredators.
Current Outcomes in US Children With Cardiomyopathy Listed for Heart Transplantation

Background—Previous studies have reported worse outcomes in children with nondilated cardiomyopathy (CMP) listed for heart transplant compared with children with dilated CMP. We sought to compare wait-list and posttransplant outcomes in these groups in the current era. Methods and Results—We analyzed all children <18 years of age with a diagnosis of CMP listed for heart transplant in the United States between July 2004 and December 2010. Multivariable risk factors for death on the wait-list (or becoming too sick to transplant) and posttransplant graft loss (median follow-up 2 years) were assessed using Cox models. Of the 1436 children analyzed, 1197 (83%) had dilated CMP and 239 (17%) had nondilated CMP (167 restrictive CMP, 72 hypertrophic CMP). In adjusted analysis, children with nondilated CMP were at higher risk of wait-list mortality only if they were on a ventilator support at listing (hazard ratio, 2.3; CI, 1.2–4.5). The risk was similar among children not on a ventilator support (hazard ratio, 0.6...