cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Loopholes in the regulation of invasive species: genetic identifications identify mislabeling of prohibited aquarium plants

Numerous invasive aquatic species introductions can be traced to the aquarium trade. Many potentially harmful aquarium species may be difficult to identify based on morphology alone. As such, some prohibited or invasive species may be available for purchase if they are mislabeled as species without restrictions. Here we compare molecular identifications to internet vendors’ identifications for accessions of a popular genus of aquarium plants that are difficult to distinguish morphologically (Myriophyllum; watermilfoils). Specifically, we identified the extensive mislabeling of M. heterophyllum—an invasive species in the northeastern and western US. Furthermore, genotypes of M. heterophyllum found in our aquarium survey have also been found in invasive populations, suggesting their potential introduction through escape from aquaria, water gardens, or nurseries. Two additional taxa were sold under incorrect names. Finally, our survey revealed that Myriophyllum taxa present in the aquarium trade generally have poorly known distributions and ecologies, and therefore their invasive potential is unknown. Our study confirms that molecular identification methods can provide a valuable tool to survey commercial pathways for potentially harmful species that are otherwise difficult to identify.
Learning specific-class segmentation from diverse data

We consider the task of learning the parameters of a segmentation model that assigns a specific semantic class to each pixel of a given image. The main problem we face is the lack of fully supervised data. We address this issue by developing a principled framework for learning the parameters of a specific-class segmentation model using diverse data. More precisely, we propose a latent structural support vector machine formulation, where the latent variables model any missing information in the human annotation. Of particular interest to us are three types of annotations: (i) images segmented using generic foreground or background classes; (ii) images with bounding boxes specified for objects; and (iii) images labeled to indicate the presence of a class. Using large, publicly available datasets we show that our approach is able to exploit the information present in different annotations to improve the accuracy of a state-of-the art region-based model.
Impact of blood glucose monitoring on diabetic control: Obstacles and interventions

Despite frequent use in the management of diabetes mellitus, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is not achieving its potential therapeutic impact. Among the behavioral factors which may interfere with the improvement of diabetic control through SMBG are noncompliance and inadequate utilization of obtained blood glucose data. This paper reviews the research concerning these issues, including estimates of the prevalence and clinical significance of each of these limiting factors and an evaluation of assessment and intervention strategies which have been investigated. The methodological problems encountered in attempts to demonstrate that SMBG behaviors affect diabetic control are discussed. Although the existing research literature provides very weak evidence linking SMBG behaviors and diabetic control, the author asserts that it is premature to conclude that such relationships cannot be established and maintained.
Long-Term Monitoring of an Endangered Desert Fish and Factors Influencing Population Dynamics

Abstract The lower perennial corridor of the Little Colorado River in Grand Canyon, Arizona, is numerically dominated by endemic desert fishes and therefore significant for conservation of these species. From 2000 to 2012, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted monitoring of native fishes in the Little Colorado River near its confluence with the Colorado River. The primary focus of these efforts was to estimate the spring and fall abundance of native fishes, especially the federally endangered humpback chub Gila cypha. Because humpback chub in Grand Canyon are influenced by operations of Glen Canyon Dam, our efforts provide managers of the Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Program with abundance estimates and trends of humpback chub in the Little Colorado River, the most important tributary in Grand Canyon for spawning and production of this species. From 2001 to 2006, the spring abundance estimates of humpback chub ≥150 and ≥200 mm remained relatively low (≤3,419 and ≤2,002 fish, respectively), t...
PERFECTLY BOUNDED CLASSES OF ABELIAN GROUPS

Let be the class of abelian p-groups. A non-empty proper subclass is bounded if it is closed under subgroups, additively bounded if it is also closed under direct sums and perfectly bounded if it is additively bounded and closed under filtrations. If , we call the partition of given by a B/U-pair. We state most of our results not in terms of bounded classes, but rather the corresponding B/U-pairs. Any additively bounded class contains a unique maximal perfectly bounded subclass. The idea of the length of a reduced group is generalized to the notion of the length of an additively bounded class. If λ is an ordinal or the symbol ∞, then there is a natural largest and smallest additively bounded class of length λ, as well as a largest and smallest perfectly bounded class of length λ. If λ ≤ ω, then there is a unique perfectly bounded class of length λ, namely the pλ-bounded groups that are direct sums of cyclics; however, this fails when λ > ω. This parallels results of Dugas, Fay and Shelah (1987) and Keef (1995) on the behavior of classes of abelian p-groups with elements of infinite height. It also simplifies, clarifies and generalizes a result of Cutler, Mader and Megibben (1989) which states that the pω + 1-projectives cannot be characterized using filtrations.
VP1 and VP2 capsid proteins of Theiler's virus are targets of H-2D-restricted cytotoxic lymphocytes in the central nervous system of B10 mice.

Resistance to Theiler's virus-induced demyelination maps genetically to the MHC class I D region and is associated with up-regulation of class I products and the presence of MHC-restricted virus-specific cytotoxic CD8+T cells in the CNS. To determine the targets of the cytotoxic response, transfected C57SV (Kb, Db) cells expressing LP (including the leader peptide, VP4, VP2, and VP3 coding sequences), VP4 (including the leader peptide and VP4), VP2, VP3, VP1, or RP (including P2 and P3) were generated. CNS-infiltrating lymphocytes obtained from virus-infected B10, B10.K (Kk, Dk), B10.RBF (Kb, Df), B10.RFB3 (Kf, Db), and B10.RBQ (Kb, Dq) mice were used as effectors. Specific cytotoxicity to the capsid proteins encoded in the LP construct, VP2 and VP1, was demonstrated to be H-2Dbregion restricted and was mediated by CD8+T cells. No Kb-restricted virus-specific cytotoxicity response was observed. No specific cytotoxic response against RP-encoded proteins was observed in the CNS of B10 mice. Therefore, both VP1 and VP2 are targets for an H-2D-restricted cytotoxic immune response against Theiler's virus infection in the CNS of infected resistant B10 mice.
ELEVATED CARDIAC OUTPUT (CO) WITHOUT ELEVATED O2 DELIVERY (QO2) DOES NOT PROTECT AGAINST METABOLIC ACIDOSIS DURING SEPSIS IN PIGLETS

Infants infected with Group B Streptococcus (GBS) develop reduced CO, reduced QO2, and metabolic acidosis. We investigated whether reduced CO is a necessary prerequisite for acidosis during GBS sepsis. Piglets (n=16) were anaesthetized and ventilated. Blood pressure, left atrial pressure (LAP), and CO were measured. Blood gases and O2 contents were determined q. 30 min × 4 hours from aorta and PA. Group 1 (GBS, n=6) received GBS X 4 hours. Group 2 (GBS/DEX, n=6) received GBS + 6% Dextran sufficient to raise LAP from 5 to 12 mm Hg. Group 2 piglets were phlebotomized to maintain QO2 equal to Group 1 during every 30-minute interval. Group 3 piglets (SAL, n=4) received 0.9% NaCl. After 240 minutes of GBS, CO and QO2 fell from 104.4 to 42.5 cc/min/kg and 14,2 to 5.7 cc O2/kg/min (both p<.01). After 240 minutes of GBS/DEX, QO2 fell from 16.8 to 7.3 cc O2/kg/min (p<0.01, 0 vs 240 mins; p=N.S. at each 30-minute interval vs GBS), while CO did not fall significantly (119.9 to 105 co/kg/min p=N.S. vs SAL; p<0.01 vs GBS). Both GBS and GBS/DEX developed lower pH (7.20; 7.22) and greater base deficit (-14.0; -9.7) than SAL (7.44, -2.7) (p<0.05 GBS S GBS/DEX vs SAL; p=N.S. GBS vs GBS/DEX). No differences in VO2 or O2 extraction were noted between GBS and GBS/DEX. Conclusions: 1. GBS infusion reduced CO, QO2, & pH in piglets. 2. Dextran raised LAP and CO during GBS sepsis. 3. Elevation of CO (but not QO2) during GBS did not protect against the development of metabolic acidosis. Reduced CO is not a hemodynamic prerequisite for acidosis during GBS sepsis in piglets.
The correspondence of data gathered from husband and wife: Implications for family planning studies

Abstract Demographic information, nondemographic information, and attitudinal data were gathered from Filipino and Caucasian married couples in an effort to understand cross‐cultural differences in the antecedents of contraceptive behavior. While the correspondence of demographic data gathered from husband vs. wife was high for both ethnic groups studied, the correspondence of nondemographic information and of attitudinal data was moderate at best, especially for Filipinos. Consideration of husband data accounted for discrepancies between wife's motivation for fertility control and couple contraceptive behavior and, for Filipinos, enhanced the predictability of contraceptive behavior over that achievable by looking at wife data alone. These findings point to the importance of collecting and analyzing data from husbands if one is to understand fertility‐related behavior, particularly in those cultures where couple communication is low and marital relationships are characterized by husband dominance.
Toward diagnostic criteria for left ventricular systolic dysfunction from myocardial deformation

Today, echocardiography is regarded as the clinical gold standard for evaluation of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Although a number of quantitative metrics are commonly used in conjunction with specific criteria to diagnose and prognosticate the disease state, part of the assessment of LV function is still qualitative and performed visually. Subjectively derived indices such as the wall motion score index are subject to significant inter-observer variability. Ultrasound- based measures of myocardial deformation (strain) have been available for several years, even in commercially distributed packages, and have the potential to offer a quantitative, objective, and more operator-independent assessment of LV function. However, despite growing evidence on the clinical utility of deformation imaging, a consensus on the meaning, interpretation, and normal ranges of myocardial strain is still lacking, thus preventing routine use of such estimates in clinical practice. In this article, we outline the current status of myocardial strain estimation and address the existing hurdles that must be overcome in order to incorporate this powerful technique into standard clinical assessment of LV function. I. INTRODUCTION
Identification of a putative cell receptor for human cytomegalovirus.

Abstract Proteins from a variety of cell types were separated using SDS-PAGE, transferred to nitrocellulose filters, and probed with intact human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). Virus bound to cell proteins was detected directly using 125labeled HCMV or indirectly using an immunologic assay with a secondary antibody labeled with 125I. Using this approach proteins of molecular weights 32 and 34 kDa were identified that would bind HCMV and were present on T4+ and T8+ lymphocytes, a B lymphoblastoid cell line, and human diploid fibroblasts. Binding of labeled virus to cells could be blocked by the addition of unlabeled homologous virus. Treatment of virus with NP40 to remove the virus envelope blocked binding to cellular proteins. Both the 32- and 34-kDa proteins could be copurified with cellular membranes. HCMV bound equally well to T4- and T8+ cells as well as to either replicating (PHA or interleukin-2 stimulated) or resting lymphocytes. Interestingly, there appeared to be a single binding site for HCMV on human fibroblasts (34 kDa). The results support the idea that there is a receptor for HCMV present on the surface of human lymphocytes and fibroblasts.
Fire protection in the urban/wildland interface: Who plays what role?

The problem of fire protection in the urban/wildland interface is a complex combination of three components: fire behavior and combustion, social and political factors, and the cooperation of property owners. By examining the problem's component parts, it is easier to understand its complexity and to integrate often quite diverse factors relating to interface fire protection.
Adenosine Triphosphate-Dependent Degradation of a Fluorescent λ N Substrate Mimic by Lon Protease

Escherichia coli Lon exhibits a varying degree of energy requirement toward hydrolysis of different substrates. Efficient degradation of protein substrates requires the binding and hydrolysis of ATP such that the intrinsic ATPase of Lon is enhanced during protein degradation. Degradation of synthetic tetrapeptides, by contrast, is achieved solely by ATP binding with concomitant inhibition of the ATPase activity. In this study, a synthetic peptide (FRETN 89-98), containing residues 89-98 of lambda N protein and a fluorescence donor (anthranilamide) and quencher (3-nitrotyrosine), has been examined for ATP-dependent degradation by E. coli and human Lon proteases. The cleavage profile of FRETN 89-98 by E. coli Lon resembles that of lambda N degradation. Both the peptide and protein substrates are specifically cleaved between Cys93 and Ser94 with concomitant stimulation of Lon's ATPase activity. Furthermore, the degradation of FRETN 89-98 is supported by ATP and AMPPNP but not ATPgammaS nor AMPPCP. FRETN 89-98 hydrolysis is eight times more efficient in the presence of 0.5 mM ATP compared to 0.5 mM AMPPNP at 86 microM peptide. The ATP-dependent hydrolysis of FRETN 89-98 displays sigmodial kinetics. The k(cat), [S](0.5), and the Hill coefficient of FRETN 89-98 degradation are 3.2 +/- 0.3 s(-1), 106 +/- 21 microM, and 1.6 respectively.
Quasioptical MESFET VCOs

ABSTRACT The output powers of a large number of solid-state devices can be combined quasi-optically in a planar gridoscillator. The previously demonstrated grid oscillators were hybrid MESFET structures, with the feedback in the source terminal. In this work, a gate feedback oscillator is presented, motivated by the geometry of the monolithic MESFET device, with a monolithically integrated oscillator in GaAs as the final goal. Such a powercombining solid state oscillator can be used as a microwave and millimeter wave source, and in most applicationsit needs to be tunable in both power and frequency. The tuning can he performed with a separate wafer loadedwith varactor diodes, that has an electrically variable reflection coefficient, and is equivalent to a tuning short.At higher microwave frequencies, the fabrication yield across a wafer is worse than at the lower microwave end.Therefore, it can be advantageous to fabricate a lower frequency high-power monolithic oscillator and cascadeit with a wafer loaded with multiplying devices. This is especially important for millimeter-wave applications,where individual solid-state sources have very low output power levels. In radar applications, phase control isthe critical consideration. We plan to achieve phase control by optical injection-locking. We have demonstrateda single MESFET microstrip oscillator that is opticallj injection locked at 5 GHz. Nonlinear modelling requires
Activation of protein kinase Cα couples cell volume to membrane Cl− permeability in HTC hepatoma and Mz‐ChA‐1 cholangiocarcinoma cells

Physiological increases in liver cell volume lead to an adaptive response that includes opening of membrane Cl- channels, which is critical for volume recovery. The purpose of these studies was to assess the potential role for protein kinase C (PKC) as a signal involved in cell volume homeostasis. Studies were performed in HTC rat hepatoma and Mz-ChA-1 human cholangiocarcinoma cells, which were used as model hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, respectively. In each cell type, cell volume increases were followed by: 1) translocation of PKC from cytosolic to particulate (membrane) fractions; 2) a 10- to 40-fold increase in whole-cell membrane Cl- current density; and 3) partial recovery of cell volume. In HTC cells, the volume-dependent Cl- current response (-46 +/- 5 pA/pF) was inhibited by down-regulation of PKC (100 nmol/L phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate for 18 hours [PMA]; -1.97 +/- 1.5 pA/pF), chelation of cytosolic Ca2+ (2 mmol/L EGTA; -5.3 +/- 4.0 pA/pF), depletion of cytosolic adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (3 U/mL apyrase; -12.58 +/- 1. 45 pA/pF), and by the putative PKC inhibitor, chelerythrine (25 micromol/L; -7 +/- 3 pA/pF). In addition, PKC inhibition by chelerythrine and calphostin C (500 nmol/L) prevented cell volume recovery from swelling. Similar results were obtained in Mz-ChA-1 biliary cells. These findings indicate that swelling-induced activation of PKC represents an important signal coupling cell volume to membrane Cl- permeability in both hepatic and biliary cell models.
A Fully-Integrated High-Power Linear CMOS Power Amplifier With a Parallel-Series Combining Transformer

In this paper, a linear CMOS power amplifier (PA) with high output power (34-dBm saturated output power) for high data-rate mobile applications is introduced. The PA incorporates a parallel combination of four differential PA cores to generate high output power with good efficiency and linearity. To implement an efficient on-chip power combiner in a small form-factor, we propose a parallel-series combining transformer (PSCT), which mitigates drawbacks and limitations of conventional power-combining transformers such as a series combining transformer (SCT) and a parallel combining transformer (PCT). Using the proposed PSCT, a two-stage class-AB PA is designed and fabricated in a 0.18-μm CMOS technology. The PA achieves a P1dB of 31.5 dBm , a Psat of 34 dBm, and a Plinear of 23.5 dBm with a peak PAE of 34.9% (peak drain efficiency of 41%) at the operating frequency of 2.4 GHz . A detailed analysis of the proposed PSCT is introduced along with comparisons to the conventional monolithic power-combining transformers. A design methodology of the integrated CMOS PA is also presented.
Numerical study of self-field effects on dynamics of Josephson-junction arrays☆

Abstract We consider the influence of self-induced magnetic fields on dynamic properties of arrays of resistively and capacitively shunted Josephson junctions. Self-field effects are modeled by including mutual inductance interactions between every cell in the array. We find that it is important to include all mutual inductance interactions in order to understand the dynamic properties of the array, in particular subharmonic structure arising under AC current bias.
Synchrotron x-ray diffraction study of silicon during pulsed laser annealing

Time-resolved x-ray diffraction measurements of lattice strain in silicon during pulsed-laser annealing have been made with nanosecond resolution by using synchrotron radiation. Analyses of the strain in pure and boron-implanted silicon in terms of temperature indicate high temperatures and evidence for near-surface melting, in qualitative agreement with the melting model of laser annealing.
Optimization of retrofitting distortion-induced fatigue cracking of steel bridges using monitored data under uncertainty

This paper focuses on optimization of retrofitting distortion-induced fatigue cracking of steel bridges using monitored data under uncertainty. The optimization problem has two competing objectives: (i) maximization of the fatigue reliability of the connection details after retrofitting and (ii) minimization of the cut-off area. The geometrical restrictions, predefined maximum tensile stresses, and minimum remaining fatigue life of the connection details after retrofitting are all taken into account as constraints. The fatigue reliability assessment with monitored data is based on the formulation used in the AASHTO specifications. The original monitored data may be modified by using a proposed cut-off size adjustment factor (SAF) to represent the fatigue stress ranges at the identified critical locations after retrofitting. The nonlinear relationships between the cut-off size and SAF are established. The proposed approach is illustrated by using an existing steel tied-arch bridge monitored by the Advanced Technology for Large Structural Systems (ATLSS) Engineering Research Center at Lehigh University.
Protein Kinase Stimulation of Steroidogenesis in Rat Luteal Cell Mitochondria

The regulatory role of cAMP-dependent protein kinase in steroidogenesis was examined in luteal cell mitochondria prepared from heavily luteinized prepubertal rat ovaries. The cAMP-dependent protein kinase, localized in luteal mitochondria, comprised 5.5% of the total cellular protein kinase activity (cAMP-dependent). Intact mitochondria supported by a suitable electron-donor substrate and inhibited by isoxazole converted cholesterol to a single steroid product, pregnenolone. Neither (Bu)2 cAMP nor a crude preparation of cytosolic protein kinase stimulated pregnenolone production from cholesterol when added to intact luteal cell mitochondria; however, mitochondria treated with 10 mM CaCl2 became responsive to both (Bu)2 cAMP and protein kinase by showing increased pregnenolone production. Likewise, the addition of cytosol protein kinase to incubations of cholesterol and crude cholesterol sidechain cleavage enzyme (cytochrome P-450cscc) isolated from luteal mitochondria, also stimulated pregnenolone product...
Being the Diversity Hire: Negotiating Identity in an Academic Job Search

A diverse faculty is a goal of all social work programs. However, recruiting and retaining diverse faculty is often a struggle. In this article, narratives of 3 recent doctoral graduates are analyzed to identify the role that diversity played in their academic job searches. Autoethnographic analysis revealed 2 broad themes: identity and institutional/structural issues. The narratives explore being the potential “diversity hire” and difficulties related to identity negotiation. Issues related to disciplinary and departmental politics as well as structural concerns are represented in the narratives. This study highlights the multiple challenges for minority faculty candidates and the work that still needs to be done to honor diversity and to integrate it into a faculty and institution.
Efficient 3D data fusion for object reconstruction using neural networks

This paper presents a framework for integrating multiple sensory data, sparse range data and dense depth maps from shape from shading in order to improve the 3D reconstruction of visible surfaces of 3D objects. The integration process is based on propagating the error difference between the two data sets by fitting a surface to that difference and using it to correct the visible surface obtained from shape from shading. A feedforward neural network is used to fit a surface to the sparse data. We also study the use of the extended Kalman filter for supervised learning and compare it with the backpropagation algorithm. A performance analysis is done to obtain the best neural network architecture and learning algorithm. It is found that the integration of sparse depth measurements has greatly enhanced the 3D visible surface obtained from shape from shading in terms of metric measurements.
Feasibility of virtual security laboratory for three-tiered distance education

Today, a number of universities and colleges offering security education has been growing rapidly for last couple of years. Most universities have adequate facilities and labs to provide hand-on experience in security courses, but some universities and colleges that initiated security courses do not have equipments and space to offer hand-on experience for the students. This is challenge for distance learning students, who reside long distance from the universities, since they are not able to receive adequate hand-on training and this may cause limited job opportunities after their graduation. Even if universities provide students with distance education those who reside long distance from the universities, students will face difficulties in job opportunities after their graduation. In this paper, we introduce our feasibility study on three-tier web portal system for distance education focusing on cyber security laboratory for students, schools, and industry. Industry as prospective employers will be one of users of the three-tier web portal system. Universities will be interacting with industry and students in delivering hands-on experience and state-of-the-art knowledge of security that will be one of strong points in education service delivery to improve students' job opportunities and efficient method of recruiting and hiring high quality workforce.
Mouse autoreactive γ/δ T cells I. Functional properties of autoreactive T cell hybridomas

A minor population of dendritic epidermal T cells (DETC) express the V gamma 1.1C gamma 4V delta 6 T cell receptor and T cell clones and hybridomas derived from this subset constitutively secrete cytokines in culture secondary to recognition of an autoantigen. Activation of these autoreactive cells requires the use of the vitronection receptor (VNR) as an accessory molecule which interacts with the Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser (RGDS) sequence of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. We have compared the functional properties of C gamma 4+ hybridomas derived from newborn thymocytes and from adult spleen with the DETC hybridomas/lines in terms of their ability to secrete cytokines spontaneously and for the use of the VNR as an accessory molecule. Almost all the C gamma 4+ thymocyte hybridomas secreted cytokines spontaneously and in the majority of lines the most prominent cytokine secreted was granulocyte-monocyte colony-stimulating factor. In contrast, none of the four splenic C gamma 4+ hybridomas secreted cytokines spontaneously although all were capable of cytokine production following activation via the T cell receptor. Although the thymocyte hybridomas did not grow as adherent cell lines in culture, constitutive cytokine production required engagement of the VNR by its ligand in ECM proteins. In all cases, cytokine production could be inhibited by an anti-VNR monoclonal antibody as well as by soluble RGDS. The strong correlation of functional and molecular properties between thymocyte C gamma 4+ hybridomas and C gamma 4+ DETC suggests that the C gamma 4+ DETC may be of thymic origin and that cells with potential for autoreactivity residing in the thymus at birth may populate other peripheral locations in the mouse. The data also support the concept that the VNR, and possibly other integrins, play a role as accessory elements for autoreactive cells and may be essential for the regulation of such activity.
Comparison of fixed-ratio and progressive-ratio schedules of maintenance of stimulant drug-reinforced responding

The effectiveness of doses of i.v. cocaine and nomifensine in maintaining lever-press responding in rhesus monkeys was evaluated under two schedules, fixed- and progressive-ratio (FR, PR). The doses that maintained maximum rates of responding under the fixed-ratio schedule were 0.32 mg/kg per injection cocaine and 0.10 mg/kg per injection nomifensine. The fixed-ratio rates maintained by this dose of nomifensine were slightly lower than those maintained by cocaine. Under the progressive-ratio schedule, the maximum response rates developed with 0.32 mg/kg per injection cocaine and 0.32 mg/kg per injection nomifensine. Maximum performances under the progressive ratio were slightly higher with cocaine than with nomifensine. Taken in conjunction with existing data for other drugs and conditions, these data indicate that progressive-ratio schedules may yield information on the relative reinforcing effects of drugs that differs only slightly from that obtained with fixed-ratio schedules.
Modified “tubeless” percutaneous nephrolithotomy using a tail-stent

Abstract Introduction “Tubeless” percutaneous renal surgery has previously been described at our institution. Avoiding external nephrostomy tube drainage significantly decreases the pain and morbidity of percutaneous renal surgery. However, internal drainage with a double- J ureteral stent still results in bothersome bladder symptoms, especially in younger male patients. In addition, removal of the stent requires uncomfortable office cystoscopy. We report a technical enhancement of our “tubeless” technique that uses a novel tail-stent for internal drainage. Technical considerations A tubeless approach to any renal surgery should only be attempted in select uncomplicated cases. The exclusion criteria should include operative times longer than 2 hours, three or more percutaneous accesses, significant perforations or disruptions of the collecting system, significant residual stone burden, and significant bleeding. In these instances, and when second-look nephroscopy is desired, traditional external nephrostomy tube drainage should be used. In our select cases, in lieu of the standard double- J stent, we place a 7F/3F tail-stent with the string attached exiting the urethral meatus. Care is taken in correct placement to avoid having the tail of the stent exiting the meatus. Conclusions In our initial 4 patients, tail-stents were successfully placed. The pain scores were low and stent symptoms appeared minimal. All stents were easily removed without the use of cystoscopy. Fluoroscopic visualization of the 3F tail is poor, and positioning of the tail can be difficult. Nevertheless, this modification appears feasible and safe with excellent patient satisfaction.
On approximate solutions of the Graetz problem with axial conduction

Abstract Two approximate solutions of the Graetz problem with axial conduction and a specified wall temperature (one for low Peclet numbers and the other for high Peclet numbers) are presented and compared favorably with the exact analytical solutions. With the proposed techniques, the approximate eigenvalues and eigenfunctions are obtainable explicitly and readily computable, unlike the methods for the exact results. Both low and high Peclet number approximate solutions give excellent agreements with the exact results when Pe ⩽ 1 andPe ⩾ 10 respectively. In the limits, both approximate solutions will tend towards those exact ones. For the intermediate range of Peclet numbers between 1 and 10, either approximate technique gives surprisingly satisfactory results.
Isolation of N-methylated basic amino acids from physiological fluids and protein hydrolysates.

Abstract Hydroxylysine glycosides, methylated histidines, carnosine, anserine, Nϵ-methylated lysines and N-guanidino-methylated arginines were separated from other basic amino acids on cation-exchange resin by elution with a linear gradient of ammonium hydroxide.
The role of topical antibiotic prophylaxis in patients undergoing contaminated head and neck surgery with flap reconstruction.

Objectives/Hypothesis Patients undergoing contaminated head and neck surgery with flap reconstruction have wound infection rates of 20% to 25% with parenteral antibiotic prophylaxis. Studies suggest that perioperative antimicrobial mouthwash reduces oropharyngeal flora and may prevent wound infections. We hypothesized that the addition of topical antibiotics to a parenteral prophylactic regimen would reduce the incidence of wound infection in these high-risk patients. Study Design We performed a randomized, prospective clinical trial. Methods Patients received either 1) parenteral piperacillin/tazobactam (3.375 g every 6 hours for 48 h) or 2) parenteral piperacillin/tazobactam plus topical piperacillin/tazobactam administered as a mouthwash immediately before surgery and once a day for 2 days postoperatively, with piperacillin/tazobactam added to the intraoperative irrigation solution. The wounds of all patients were evaluated daily using predefined objective criteria. Results Sixty-two patients met inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. The overall wound infection rate was 8.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.7%–17.8%). Two of 31 patients (6.4%) who received parenteral antibiotics alone developed a wound infection compared with 3 of 31 patients (9.7%) randomly assigned to receive topical plus parenteral antibiotics. This difference was not statistically significant (P = >.05). Infection rate was not associated with flap type (rotational vs. free tissue transfer), mandibular reconstruction, age, gender, tumor site, stage, surgical duration, or blood loss. Conclusions These results suggest that piperacillin/tazobactam is a highly effective antibiotic for prevention of wound infection in patients undergoing flap reconstruction following contaminated head and neck surgery. However, the addition of topical piperacillin/tazobactam does not appear to enhance the prophylactic benefit of parenteral antibiotics alone.
The vitamin D receptor is necessary for 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to suppress experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice ☆

The active metabolite of vitamin D, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3), suppresses autoimmune disease in several animal models including experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model of multiple sclerosis. The molecular mechanism of this immunosuppression is at present unknown. While 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) is believed to function through a single vitamin D receptor, there are reports of other vitamin D receptors as well as a "nongenomic" mode of action. We have prepared the EAE model possessing the vitamin D receptor null mutation and determined if 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) can suppress this disease in the absence of a functional vitamin D receptor. Vitamin D receptor null mice develop EAE although the incidence rate is one-half that of wild-type controls. The administration of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) had no significant effect on the incidence of EAE in the vitamin D receptor null mice, while it completely blocked EAE in the wild-type mice. We conclude that 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) functions to suppress EAE through the well-known VDR and not through an undiscovered receptor or through a "nongenomic" mechanism.
Mood induction in children: Methodological issues and clinical implications

The author reviews 7 different types of mood induction procedures for use with children and discusses these procedures in light of a number of critical methodological issues. The issues considered ...
Endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor mediates bradykinin-stimulated tissue plasminogen activator release in humans.

Aims: Bradykinin (BK) stimulates tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) release from human endothelium. Although BK stimulates both nitric oxide and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) release, the role of EDHF in t-PA release remains unexplored. This study sought to determine the mechanisms of BK-stimulated t-PA release in the forearm vasculature of healthy human subjects. Methods: In 33 healthy subjects (age 40.3 ± 1.9 years), forearm blood flow (FBF) and t-PA release were measured at rest and after intra-arterial infusions of BK (400 ng/min) and sodium nitroprusside (3.2 mg/min). Measurements were repeated after intra-arterial infusion of tetraethylammonium chloride (TEA; 1 µmol/min), fluconazole (0.4 µmol·min-1·l-1), and NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA, 8 µmol/min) to block nitric oxide, and their combination in separate studies. Results: BK significantly increased net t-PA release across the forearm (p L-NMMA attenuated FBF (p Conclusion: BK-stimulated t-PA release is partly due to cytochrome P450-derived epoxides and is inhibited by K+Ca channel blockade. Thus, BK stimulates both EDHF-dependent vasodilation and t-PA release.
Effects of gender and regional dialect on prosodic patterns in American English

While cross-dialect prosodic variation has been well established for many languages, most variationist research on regional dialects of American English has focused on the vowel system. The current study was designed to explore prosodic variation in read speech in two regional varieties of American English: Southern and Midland. Prosodic dialect variation was analyzed in two domains: speaking rate and the phonetic expression of pitch movements associated with accented and phrase-final syllables. The results revealed significant effects of regional dialect on the distributions of pauses, pitch accents, and phrasal-boundary tone combinations. Significant effects of talker gender were also observed on the distributions of pitch accents and phrasal-boundary tone combinations. The findings from this study demonstrate that regional and gender identity features are encoded in part through prosody, and provide further motivation for the close examination of prosodic patterns across regional and social varieties of American English.
Writing with Concepts: Communal, Internalized, and Externalized

From the perspective of writing concepts are most readily identified through conceptual words deployed by writers to evoke conceptual meanings in readers. Although every word has some conceptual weight, this article focuses on words associated with core ideas or classifications or connections of domains of thought—the kinds of terms attended to in the history of ideas that are at the forefront of discussions in disciplines and that undergraduates grapple with. Such concepts are fluid within historically evolving and socially varying situations, and specific conceptual terms circulate within specific epistemic communities as part of specific intellectual practices, associated with specific genres. These domain-specific conceptual terms create challenges of internalization for novices, and become the basis for thought gists of those enculturated into disciplinary ways of thought. In each new communicative situation calling for new statements, however, internal gists must be externalized to create publically...
The hammerhead, hairpin and VS ribozymes are catalytically proficient in monovalent cations alone

Abstract Background: The catalytic activity of RNA enzymes is thought to require divalent metal ions, which are believed to facilitate RNA folding and to play a direct chemical role in the reaction. Results: We have found that the hammerhead, hairpin and VS ribozymes do not require divalent metal ions, their mimics such as [Co(NH 3 ) 6 ] 3+ , or even monovalent metal ions for efficient self-cleavage. The HDV ribozyme, however, does appear to require divalent metal ions for self-cleavage. For the hammerhead, hairpin and VS ribozymes, very high concentrations of monovalent cations support RNA-cleavage rates similar to or exceeding those observed in standard concentrations of Mg 2+ . Analysis of all reaction components by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrophotometry (ICPOES) and the use of a variety of chelating agents effectively eliminate the possibility of contaminating divalent and trivalent metal ions in the reactions. For the hairpin ribozyme, fluorescence resonance energy transfer experiments demonstrate that high concentrations of monovalent cations support folding into the catalytically proficient tertiary structure. Conclusions: These results directly demonstrate that metal ions are not obligatory chemical participants in the reactions catalysed by the hammerhead, hairpin, and VS ribozymes. They permit us to suggest that the folded structure of the RNA itself contributes more to the catalytic function than was previously recognised, and that the presence of a relatively dense positive charge, rather than divalent metal ions, is the general fundamental requirement. Whether this charge is required for catalysis per se or simply for RNA folding remains to be determined.
Accuracy of cardiac CT, radionucleotide and invasive ventriculography, two- and three-dimensional echocardiography, and SPECT for left and right ventricular ejection fraction compared with cardiac MRI: a meta-analysis

Aims Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) are important tools in clinical decision-making. We hypothesized that two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE), three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE), radionucleotide ventriculography (RNV), cardiac computed tomography (CT), gated single-photon emission CT (SPECT), and invasive cardiac cine ventriculography (ICV) provide variable accuracy for LVEF and RVEF when using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a gold standard. Methods and results We systematically searched published databases for studies comparing LVEF and RVEF measured by CT, 3DE, 2DE, RNV, ICV, and SPECT compared with MRI. We utilized meta-analytic methods to determine the pooled bias (mean weighted difference), limits of agreement (LOA), and correlation coefficient for each modality. For LVEF, 174 studies (7047 patients) were included. For RVEF, 46 studies (1720 patients) were included. Pooled LOA for LVEF were different between modalities: CT and 3DE had smaller LOA than 2DE, SPECT, ICV, and RNV. 2DE showed the largest LOA and a weaker correlation for LVEF (−13.3 to 12.1%, r = 0.660). For RVEF, CT and 3DE have the best data to support their use with a bias 0.75. Conclusion For LVEF, CT and 3DE had the lowest bias and the best agreement with MRI. Compared with MRI, CT and 3DE comparably estimate RVEF and have the most evidence to support their use.
Spatial action of mosquito repellents.

The spatial action for selected repellents to Aedes Aegypti (L.) was studied in an olfactometer. Of 44 compounds evaluated, all but one significantly reduced the approach of mosquitoes to within 15 inches of treated hands; 16 caused outstanding reduction of approach.
Anisotropic thermal conductivity of superconducting lanthanum cuprate.

We have measured the thermal conductivity of a single crystal of ${\mathrm{La}}_{1.96}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{0.04}$${\mathrm{CuO}}_{4}$ in directions both parallel and perpendicular to the copper-oxygen planes. While the effects of electron scattering for in-plane heat transport are strong, the transfer of heat across the ${\mathrm{CuO}}_{2}$ planes is limited primarily by sheetlike faults with spacings on the order of 100 A\r{}. The resulting very high out-of-plane thermal resistivity masks the effects of electron scattering in this direction and prevents a careful study of the anisotropy of the electron-phonon coupling in this superconductor.
Changing QRS Morphology in a Patient with Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome

A case of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome with supraventricular tachycardia is presented in which 2 atrioventricular (AV) reentry circuits are identified. The first circuit used the AV node in the antegrade limb and a left lateral accessory pathway in the retrograde limb. The second circuit used an atriofascicular accessory pathway as the antegrade limb and the left lateral accessory pathway as the retrograde limb. The characteristics of these tachycardias are described, along with diagnostic maneuvers used in the electrophysiology laboratory. Mapping and ablation of both of these accessory pathways is also described. This article is aimed at clinical electrophysiologists interested in management of complex supraventricular tachycardias in the electrophysiology laboratory.
Critical evaluation of the role of nutritional support for radiation therapy patients

Nutritional intake or absorption may be compromised by radiation therapy (RT) when large portions of the gastrointestinal tract are treated. Dietary counseling, oral supplements, tube feedings and intravenous hyperalimentation (IVH) have been employed to limit weight loss and lessen intestinal RT side effects. Unfortunately, no prospective study reviewed has shown improved tumor control or patient survival. Special diets and IVH have also been employed in select patients to relieve chronic malabsorption from severe radiation enteritis.
Absorbing boundary conditions for electromagnetic wave propagation

In this paper, the theoretical perfectly absorbing boundary condition on the boundary of a half space domain is developed for the Maxwell system by considering the system as a whole instead of considering each component of the electromagnetic fields individually. This boundary condition allows any wave motion generated within the domain to pass through the boundary of the domain without generating any reflections back into the interior. By approximating this theoretical boundary condition a class of local absorbing boundary conditions for the Maxwell system can be constructed. Well-posedness in the sense of Kreiss of the Maxwell system with each of these local absorbing boundary conditions is established, and the reflection coefficients are computed as a plane wave strikes the artificial boundary. Numerical experiments are also provided to show the performance of these local absorbing boundary conditions.
EXOGENOUS REINFECTION AND RESURGENCE OF TUBERCULOSIS: A THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

The importance of exogenous reinfection versus endogenous reactivation for the resurgence of tuberculosis (TB) has been a matter of ongoing debate. Previous mathematical models of TB give conflicting results on the possibility of multiple stable equilibria in the presence of reinfection, and hence the failure to control the disease even when the basic reproductive number is less than unity. The present study reconsiders the effect of exogenous reinfection, by extending previous studies to incorporate a generalized rate of reinfection as a function of the number of actively infected individuals. A mathematical model is developed to include all possible routes to the development of active TB (progressive primary infection, endogenous reactivation, and exogenous reinfection). The model is qualitatively analyzed to show the existence of multiple equilibria under realistic assumptions and plausible range of parameter values. Two examples, of unbounded and saturated incidence rates of reinfection, are given, and simulation results using estimated parameter values are presented. The results reflect exogenous reinfection as a major cause of TB emergence, especially in high prevalence areas, with important public health implications for controlling its spread.
Pericardial Effusion in Cats: A Retrospective Study of Clinical Findings and Outcome in 146 Cats

Background: Pericardial effusion (PE) in dogs most often is associated with neoplasia or idiopathic pericarditis, and frequently causes cardiac tamponade. Studies of PE in the cat are limited. Hypothesis: Congestive heart failure (CHF) is the most common cause of PE in the cat. Animals: All cats diagnosed with PE on echocardiographic examination at the Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (MJR-VHUP) from 2000 to 2005. Methods: The clinical and pathologic findings in 146 cats with PE were reviewed. Records were examined retrospectively to identify additional underlying conditions. Follow-up status and cause of death were determined by review of the medical records or phone interviews with the owners. Results: The most common cause of PE in this study was CHF (75%). Biochemical abnormalities were uncommon, but aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity frequently was increased (85%). Follow-up information was available on 108 cats (74%). Median survival time (MST) was 144 days for cats that were not euthanized within 24 hours (n = 85). The MST of cats with heart failure was 41 days, whereas the MST of cats without heart failure was 361 days, when those euthanized within 24 hours were excluded. Conclusions: Survival time of cats with heart failure in this study was significantly shorter than previously reported, and significantly shorter than in cats without heart failure as a cause of PE.