cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
102. AAV9 Exclusively Targets the Juxtaglomerular Apparatus in the Adult Mouse Kidney After Intravenous Injection

Aim: Gene delivery to the kidney by adeno-associated virus (AAV) remains a relatively unexplored field. We found that the cells in renal tissue infected by AAV9 vectors were very few but interestingly distributed in some specific regions adjacent to the glomerulus. Therefore we aim to identify the type of the cells infected by the AAV9 vectors, and compare it with other AAVs for the specific targeting by different routes of vector injection.Material and Methods: We injected AAV9-CMV-GFP, AAVH43-CMV-GFP and AAVH48-CMV-GFP (5×1011 vg/mouse) into the adult C57BL/6 mice (n=4 /group) via the tail vein. For the renal parenchyma injection (n=3/group) the vectors (10μl, 1 × 1011vg) were slowly injected into the renal parenchyma by a 33-gauge needle, which was connected to a 50μl Hamilton syringe with PE10 tubing. Two weeks later, kidneys were frozen and sectioned to slices of 10 μm.Results: We found that the AAV9 vector specifically infected juxtaglomerular apparatus in the kidney by intravenous injection. The infection efficiency reached up to 58.2±3.2% of total juxtaglomerular apparatus. On the other hand, The AAVH43 and AAVH48 vectors were negative in the kidney yet achieved GFP expression similarly to AAV9 in the heart and liver. Immunostaining showed the cells infected by AAV9-CMV-GFP vectors were exclusively adjacent to juxtaglomerular (JG) cells. These JG cells synthesize, store and secrete renin, and were identified by anti-renin antibody. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and prostaglandin E receptor 3 (EP3) immunostaining further indicated that GFP-positive cells were peri-macular cells, including the cells opposite the macula densa plaque. These were epithelial cells around the macula densa and one of four contact sites between the distal nephron and vasculature. The peri-macular cells, not including the macula densa, can generate spontaneous [Ca2+ ]i oscillations, and signal to the connected arterioles, regulating renal blood flow and tubular flow. Interestingly, specific infection in the juxtaglomerular apparatus by AAV9 vectors was dependent on the route of vector injection. When injected directly into the renal parenchyma, the peri-macular cells could no longer be infected, whereas the AAVH43 and AAVH48 vectors infected renal tubular epithelial cells.Conclusion: We have identified for the first time that a peri-macular cell type of the kidney is selectively targeted by intravenous AAV9 injection. Considering the importance role of those cells in regulation of renal blood flow and tubular flow, specific targeting by AAV9 may present a novel therapeutic method for renal hypertension and renal dysfunction. On the other hand, the data provide novel proof that the peri-macular cells are a group of functional epithelial cells, which differ from other renal tubular cells and may highly express AAV9 receptors. Additionally, the specificity of AAV9 infection in peri-macular cells was via the blood vessel, suggesting unique communication routes between peri-macular cells and the arterioles.
Ocular melanoma-when you have seen one, you have not seen them all: a clinical outcome study from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database (1973–2012)

BACKGROUND Ocular melanoma (OM) comprises <5% of all melanomas. Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common subtype of OM, while conjunctival melanoma (CM) is rare and differs significantly from UM. The purpose of this study is to evaluate a large cohort of OM patients to differentiate demographic, pathologic, and clinical factors between these two neoplasms, which may affect treatment and outcomes. METHODS The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (1973-2012) was used to extract demographic and clinical data on 8,165 OM patients (92.1% UM and 7.9% CM). RESULTS Both CM and UM were most prevalent among Caucasian males in the seventh decade of life. UM patients presented more often with localized disease (90.9% vs 81.2, P<0.01). Surgery (42.8%), radiation (43.0%), or combined surgery and radiation (7.0%) were used in the treatment of UM, while CM was treated almost exclusively with surgery (88.7%). Mean overall survival was longer (15.4 vs 14.6 years; P<0.01) and mortality rates were lower in patients (38.8% vs 46.1%; P<0.01) with CM. CONCLUSION Despite presenting with more advanced disease than UM, CM is associated with an increased overall survival. Surgery is the primary therapy for CM, whereas radiotherapy is the primary therapy for UM and is associated with prolonged survival.
LSC: A Large-Scale Consensus-Based Clustering Algorithm for High-Performance FPGAs

With recent advances in Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) architecture and design, the robustness and scalability of design implementation tools is becoming increasingly important. In an FPGA implementation flow, the basic logic elements (BLEs) like flip-flops (FFs) and lookup tables (LUTs) are clustered into adaptive logic modules (ALMs) and Logic Array Blocks (LABs). Clustering is a key stage in the flow that determines whether a design can fit onto the target FPGA device, and whether the Quality of Results (QoR) goals are met. Traditionally, FPGA implementation tools have used greedy clustering techniques. This paper presents an innovative clustering algorithm based on a new concept of consensus building at a large scale (LSC). The LSC algorithm is designed to work with designs with millions of elements, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first parallel clustering algorithm in the industry. In our industrial designs benchmark set using modern FPGA devices on two deep submicron technology nodes, the new clustering engine results in average improvements of 0.5% and 2.5% in maximum clock frequency (Fmax) for the two target devices. Additionally, wiring usage is improved on the average by 2.8% and 6.5% respectively. The fitting success rate of highly utilized designs is also improved significantly with the new clustering engine.
Speaker recognition using common passphrases in RedDots

In this paper we report our work on the recently collected text dependent speaker recognition dataset named RedDots, with a focus on the common passphrase condition. We first investigate an out-of-the-box approach. We then report several strategies to train on RedDots itself using up to 40 speakers for training. The GMM-NAP framework is used as a baseline. We report the following novelties: First, we demonstrate the use of bagging for improved accuracy. Second, we estimate the EER of a passphrase using metadata only. Third, the estimated EERs are used for improved score normalization. Finally we report an analysis of system sensitivity to the duration between enrollment and testing (template aging).
Thiol dioxygenase turnover yields benzothiazole products from 2-mercaptoaniline and O2-dependent oxidation of primary alcohols.

Thiol dioxygenases are non-heme mononuclear iron enzymes that catalyze the O2-dependent oxidation of free thiols (-SH) to produce the corresponding sulfinic acid (-SO2-). Previous chemical rescue studies identified a putative FeIII-O2- intermediate that precedes substrate oxidation in Mus musculus cysteine dioxygenase (Mm CDO). Given that a similar reactive intermediate has been identified in the extradiol dioxygenase 2, 3-HCPD, it is conceivable that these enzymes share other mechanistic features with regard to substrate oxidation. To explore this possibility, enzymatic reactions with Mm CDO (as well as the bacterial 3-mercaptopropionic acid dioxygenase, Av MDO) were performed using a substrate analogue (2-mercaptoaniline, 2ma). This aromatic thiol closely approximates the catecholic substrate of homoprotocatechuate of 2, 3-HPCD while maintaining the 2-carbon thiol-amine separation preferred by Mm CDO. Remarkably, both enzymes exhibit 2ma-gated O2-consumption; however, none of the expected products for thiol dioxygenase or intra/extradiol dioxygenase reactions were observed. Instead, benzothiazoles are produced by the condensation of 2ma with aldehydes formed by an off-pathway oxidation of primary alcohols added to aqueous reactions to solubilize the substrate. The observed oxidation of 1o-alcohols in 2ma-reactions is consistent with the formation of a high-valent intermediate similar to what has been reported for cytochrome P450 and mononuclear iron model complexes.
Latent Class Analysis of Brain Injury Symptomatology among College Students

Background Incidents potentially causing mild brain injury (BI) are common, and most people recover rapidly; however, a subset experiences long-lasting challenges. Objective This study used latent class analysis to identify a subset of college students presenting chronic symptomatology consistent with a mild BI diagnosis and pseudo-class mean equality tests to examine relations between latent classes and BI event and academic outcome variables. Methods Participants were 118/423 undergraduates self-reporting possible mild BIs through a survey about general health, daily habits, academic performance, and potential BI events. Twenty-four cognitive, physiological, or socio-emotional sequelae served to identify symptomatology profiles. Results A three-class model including 11% with high symptomatology, 49% with moderate symptomatology, and 40% with negligible symptomatology provided excellent fit and entropy. Symptoms best separating high and moderate classes were memory, thinking speed, new learning, and attention problems. Mean equality tests revealed no significant difference in number of BI events across classes, but high symptomatology respondents were significantly less likely to lose consciousness and significantly more likely to have lower grade point averages and to have failed courses than moderate symptomatology respondents. Discussion Cognitive problems are paramount in distinguishing college students with chronic high symptomatology following BI from those with moderate and negligible symptomatology. Because high symptomatology class individuals differ academically from their counterparts, a functional consequence of mild BI appears to exist. Conclusion About 1 in 10 undergraduate students self-reporting BI events experiences chronic symptomatology affecting general health and academic achievement. Because they may benefit from supportive services, accurate identification is critical.
Listening Through Performance: Identity, Embodiment, and Arts-Based Research

Cooperman addresses identity construction from the perspective of a researcher of the global North studying research participants of the global South. Because identity is enmeshed in epistemic systems, the author draws attention to the inherent difficulties of listening to subalterns without rethinking one’s own positionality and deeply held memories and meanings. In this chapter, the author leads the reader through three examples of performance ethnography in which her own identity was called into question through embodied and participatory research focused on Palestinians in Israel and the West Bank. She demonstrates the way her Jewish-American identity, at first an obstacle, becomes a guidepost to understanding the way dominant epistemologies continue to oppress and occlude Palestinian voices.
Engineering education funding at the National Science Foundation

The goal of this session is to increase the participants' knowledge of current funding opportunities at the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support projects with potential significant impacts on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. In particular, the discussion will focus on new and current funding opportunities in the Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE) in the Directorate of Education and Human Resources (EHR) and the Division of Engineering Education & Centers (EEC) in the Directorate of Engineering. During the session, we will provide examples of project activities that support STEM education research opportunities. The session will use a highly interactive format (i.e., team-based activities and discussion) to engage the participants, to clarify misconceptions, and to potentially initiate and share new ideas pertinent to engineering education research and innovations in classroom implementations. This session facilitates idea sharing and interaction amongst peers.
Kolloidchemische Grundlagen der Lebensmittelfrischhaltung

Im Jahre 1861 glaubte Thomas Graham 1, das es moglich ware, alle chemischen Substanzen in zwei Gruppen einzuteilen: Kristalloide und Kolloide, entsprechend der Fahigkeit dieser Stoffe, in Losung durch eine Membran, z. B. Pergamentpapier, zu diffundieren oder nicht. Er beobachtete namlich, das alle kristallisierbaren Stoffe in gelostem Zustand schnell diffundieren, wahrend Leim, Gummi, Eiweis und andere Stoffe, die man damals nicht in kristallisiertem Zustande kannte, nur langsam oder gar nicht diffundieren. Damit hat Graham den Grundstein zu einer neuen Lehre, der Kolloidchemie, gelegt.
Preparing the Input

The modeling representations of Chapter 2 and the programming concepts of Chapter 3 provide us with the ability to create relatively sophisticated simulation models and executable programs, but only after we have identified all sources of stochastic variation, specified sampling distributions that characterize each source, and assign numerical values to the parameters of the distributions. This chapter addresses these issues.
Series of rare lung diseases mimicking imaging patterns of common diffuse parenchymal lung diseases

Diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLDs) encompass a variety of restrictive and obstructive lung pathologies. In this article, the authors discuss a series of rare pulmonary entities and their high-resolution computed tomography imaging appearances, which can mimic more commonly encountered patterns of DPLDs. These cases highlight the importance of surgical lung biopsies in patients with imaging findings that do not show typical imaging features of usual interstitial pneumonia.
Simultaneous Determination of All Species Concentrations in Multiequilibria for Aqueous Solutions of Dihydrogen Phosphate Considering Debye–Hückel Theory

Solutions of citric acid and Na2HPO4 were studied with the dynamical approach to multiequilibria systems. This widely employed buffer has a well-defined pH profile and allows for the study of the distribution of phosphate species over a wide pH range. The dynamical approach is a flexible and accurate method for the calculation of all species concentrations in multiequilibria considering ionic strength (I) via Debye–Huckel theory. The agreement between the computed pH profiles and experiment is excellent. The equilibrium concentrations of the non-hydrogen species are reported for over 30 buffer mixtures across the entire pH range. These new concentration data enable researchers to lookup the equilibrium distribution of species at any pH. The data highlight the dramatic effects of ionic strength, and for example, the position of maximal H2PO4– concentration is shifted by almost an entire pH unit! From a more general perspective, the study allows for a discussion of the dependence of concentration quotients ...
Perimenopausal Symptoms: Hot Flushes and Night Sweats; Sleep Disturbances; Urogenital Discomfort; Sexual Libido Issues; Mood and Cognitive Changes

From a physiological standpoint estrogen and progesterone deficiency cause a variety of changes in the body, many of which are subtle and wouldn’t be noticed by our patients. Here’s what your patients will report as the troubling symptoms they associate with perimenopause and postmenopause.
Dental applications of injectable biomaterials

Abstract: This chapter focuses on dental biomaterials designed for permanent placement in the mouth. The development of flowable polymer–ceramic composites is traced and their rheological properties, such as pseudoplasticity and thixotropy, discussed. Also considered are some materials that are being developed for root canal therapy, including calcium phosphate cements. There is vast scope for research into materials development, clinical applications and fundamental mechanisms.
Designining Environmentally Benign Solvent Substitutes

Since the signing of 1987 Montreal Protocol, reducing and eliminating the use of harmful solvents has become an internationally prominent environmental protection mission. Solvent substitution is an effective way to achieve this goal. The Program for Assisting the Replacement of Industrial Solvents, Version 2 (PARIS II) is a Windows-based solvent design tool which can greatly reduce the time and cost required for finding solvent substitutes. It can handle either pure chemical or mixture substitute designs. This paper briefly introduces the theory and methods used in PARIS II and gives two examples of solvent design applications using PARIS II as an illustration.
Conformational Characterization of the Single Crystal Surface

The surfaces of polyethylene single crystals have been selectively brominated, and the conformational sensitivity of the C-Br infrared stretching modes has been utilized to characterize the fold structure. From the analysis of low molecular weight compounds, band assignments have been made for each of the six possible conformations of the two C-C bonds adjacent to the C-Br bond. The gauche conformations predominate in the spectra of single crystals. The calculated conformational populations were observed to change with temperature particularly in the region of the dynamic mechanical a relaxation. As a result of similarities observed in the infrared spectra of brominated crystals and one of the model compounds, bromocyclooctane, models for the chain fold have been proposed. These consist of nine carbon atoms arranged in the crown or twisted-crown structures. Both models conform well to the lattice constraints of the {110} fold.
Remote Monitoring of Patients With Heart Failure: A White Paper From the Heart Failure Society of America Scientific Statements Committee.

Abstract Background After several neutral telehealth trials, the positive findings and subsequent Food and Drug Administration approval of an implantable pulmonary arterial pressure monitor (PAPM) led to renewed interest in remote patient monitoring (RPM). Here we seek to provide contemporary guidance on the appropriate use of RPM technology. Results Although early trials of external RPM devices suggested benefit, subsequent multicenter trials failed to demonstrate improved outcomes. Monitoring features of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) also did not deliver improved HF outcomes, newer, multisensor algorithms may be better. Earlier technologies using direct pressure measurement via implanted devices failed to show benefit owing to complications or failure. Recently, 1 PAPM showed benefit in a randomized controlled trial. Although not showing cost reduction, cost-benefit analysis of that device suggests that it may meet acceptable standards. Additional research is warranted and is in progress. Consumer-owned electronic devices are becoming more pervasive and hold hope for future benefit in HF management. Practical aspects around RPM technology include targeting of risk populations, having mechanisms to ensure patient adherence to monitoring, and health care team structures that act on the data. Conclusions Based on available evidence, routine use of external RPM devices is not recommended. Implanted devices that monitor pulmonary arterial pressure and/or other parameters may be beneficial in selected patients or when used in structured programs, but the value of these devices in routine care requires further study. Future research is also warranted to better understand the cost-effectiveness of these devices.
Behavioral and epigenetic consequences of oxytocin treatment at birth

Oxytocin is used in approximately half of all births in the United States during labor induction and/or augmentation. However, the effects of maternal oxytocin administration on offspring development have not been fully characterized. Here, we used the socially monogamous prairie vole to examine the hypothesis that oxytocin exposure at birth can have long-term developmental consequences. Maternally administered oxytocin increased methylation of the oxytocin receptor (Oxtr) in the fetal brain. As adults, oxytocin-exposed voles were more gregarious, with increased alloparental caregiving toward pups and increased close social contact with other adults. Cross-fostering indicated that these effects were the result of direct action on the offspring, rather than indirect effects via postnatal changes in maternal behavior. Male oxytocin-exposed offspring had increased oxytocin receptor density and expression in the brain as adults. These results show that long-term effects of perinatal oxytocin may be mediated by an epigenetic mechanism.
Activated Carbon as a Cathode for Water Disinfection through the Electro-Fenton Process

Unlike many other water disinfection methods, hydroxyl radicals (HO•) produced by the Fenton reaction (Fe2+/H2O2) can inactivate pathogens regardless of taxonomic identity of genetic potential and do not generate halogenated disinfection by-products. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) required for the process is typically electrogenerated using various carbonaceous materials as cathodes. However, high costs and necessary modifications to the cathodes still present a challenge to large-scale implementation. In this work, we use granular activated carbon (GAC) as a cathode to generate H2O2 for water disinfection through the electro-Fenton process. GAC is a low-cost amorphous carbon with abundant oxygen- and carbon-containing groups that are favored for oxygen reduction into H2O2. Results indicate that H2O2 production at the GAC cathode is higher with more GAC, lower pH, and smaller reactor volume. Through the addition of iron ions, the electrogenerated H2O2 is transformed into HO• that efficiently inactivated model pathogen (Escherichia coli) under various water chemistry conditions. Chick-Watson modeling results further showed the strong lethality of produced HO• from the electro-Fenton process. This inactivation coupled with high H2O2 yield, excellent reusability, and relatively low cost of GAC proves that GAC is a promising cathodic material for large-scale water disinfection.
Social equity in the Asia-Pacific region: Conceptualizations and realities

Social equity in the Asia-Pacific Region: Conceptualizations and realities, edited by Morgen Johansen, examines social equity implementation and outcomes across nine national and regional Asia-Paci...
Diagnosis and Management of Dementia: Review.

Importance Worldwide, 47 million people live with dementia and, by 2050, the number is expected to increase to 131 million. Observations Dementia is an acquired loss of cognition in multiple cognitive domains sufficiently severe to affect social or occupational function. In the United States, Alzheimer disease, one cause of dementia, affects 5.8 million people. Dementia is commonly associated with more than 1 neuropathology, usually Alzheimer disease with cerebrovascular pathology. Diagnosing dementia requires a history evaluating for cognitive decline and impairment in daily activities, with corroboration from a close friend or family member, in addition to a thorough mental status examination by a clinician to delineate impairments in memory, language, attention, visuospatial cognition such as spatial orientation, executive function, and mood. Brief cognitive impairment screening questionnaires can assist in initiating and organizing the cognitive assessment. However, if the assessment is inconclusive (eg, symptoms present, but normal examination findings), neuropsychological testing can help determine whether dementia is present. Physical examination may help identify the etiology of dementia. For example, focal neurologic abnormalities suggest stroke. Brain neuroimaging may demonstrate structural changes including, but not limited to, focal atrophy, infarcts, and tumor, that may not be identified on physical examination. Additional evaluation with cerebrospinal fluid assays or genetic testing may be considered in atypical dementia cases, such as age of onset younger than 65 years, rapid symptom onset, and/or impairment in multiple cognitive domains but not episodic memory. For treatment, patients may benefit from nonpharmacologic approaches, including cognitively engaging activities such as reading, physical exercise such as walking, and socialization such as family gatherings. Pharmacologic approaches can provide modest symptomatic relief. For Alzheimer disease, this includes an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor such as donepezil for mild to severe dementia, and memantine (used alone or as an add-on therapy) for moderate to severe dementia. Rivastigmine can be used to treat symptomatic Parkinson disease dementia. Conclusions and Relevance Alzheimer disease currently affects 5.8 million persons in the United States and is a common cause of dementia, which is usually accompanied by other neuropathology, often cerebrovascular disease such as brain infarcts. Causes of dementia can be diagnosed by medical history, cognitive and physical examination, laboratory testing, and brain imaging. Management should include both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches, although efficacy of available treatments remains limited.
Comparison of Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters Following Operative Treatment of Trimalleolar Ankle Fractures vs Healthy Controls

Background:Controversy continues regarding appropriate indications for posterior malleolus fracture fixation in unstable rotational trimalleolar ankle injuries, with limited data comparing gait in ...
Balancing sugar recovery and inhibitor generation during energycane processing: Coupling cryogenic grinding with hydrothermal pretreatment at low temperatures.

Pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass at high temperatures or with oxidizing chemicals generate various inhibitors that restrict the efficient bioconversion of sugars in subsequent steps. The present study systematically investigates individual and combinatorial effects of pretreatment parameters on the generation of inhibitors. A plot between pretreatment temperature and inhibitor revealed optimum pretreatment temperature for energycane bagasse i.e., 170 °C beyond which total inhibitor production increased exponentially. No inhibitor production was observed on mechanical processing i.e., disk milling/cryogenic grinding of biomass. Evaluation of response surface regression exhibited that biomass solids loading has a significant effect on inhibitor generation at higher temperatures. The concentrations of certain inhibitors such as acetic acid, furfurals, and HMF increased more than 3-folds on doubling the solids loading. Furthermore, a novel low-severity approach of low-temperature hydrothermal pretreatment coupled with cryogenic grinding for lignocellulosic biomasses has been introduced which improved sugar yields while maintaining a low inhibitor concentration.
Three-Dimensional Display

There have been many unsuccessful efforts to construct a practical three dimensional display. A display that could produce an up-dateable three dimensional image would have many applications ranging from air traffic control to the display of the higher order structure of proteins. A prototype that demonstrates the fundamental feasibility of a new technique has been constructed; and a more sophisticated, computer-driven display is under development. The new method is loosely based on older schemes involving the deformation or vibration of a lens or mirror, but it avoids the primary problems of these older displays. The technique consists of rotating a lens in front of a stationary, two dimensional light source in which the appropriate pixels are illuminated at calculated lens rotation angles. A real, luminous image is produced in front of the lens. A display based on this method is mechanically simple, produces high quality, large size images, is easily up-dateable, and can be in color.
Synthetic threads through the web of life.

CRISPR-Cas gene editing tools have brought us to an era of synthetic biology that will change the world. Excitement over the breakthroughs these tools have enabled in biology and medicine is balanced, justifiably, by concern over how their applications might go wrong in open environments. We do not know how genomic processes (including regulatory and epigenetic processes), evolutionary change, ecosystem interactions, and other higher order processes will affect traits, fitness, and impacts of edited organisms in nature. However, anticipating the spread, change, and impacts of edited traits or organisms in heterogeneous, changing environments is particularly important with “gene drives on the horizon.” To anticipate how “synthetic threads” will affect the web of life on Earth, scientists must confront complex system interactions across many levels of biological organization. Currently, we lack plans, infrastructure, and funding for field science and scientists to track new synthetic organisms, with or without gene drives, as they move through open environments.
Preventing Injuries in Young Adult Ballet Beginners

(1981). Preventing Injuries in Young Adult Ballet Beginners. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 52, Including Leisure Today, pp. 26-28.
Efficient Supply Chain Structures for Personal Computers

As computing technologies are revolutionizing business efficiency and productivity and improving quality of life, the personal computer (PC) industry that supports such changes has been struggling through the difficult process of improving its supply chain efficiency.
Neurobiology. The analytical bend of the leech.

If you've ever tried to touch a leech, you'll know that it responds by bending away from the point of contact. In each body segment, four sensory neurons detect the location of the touch stimulus, then generate a response through a set of motor neurons. Researchers have now worked out how the leech computes the location of the stimulus, and translates this into a response. And they have found that the leech uses simple cartesian coordinates to do this.
Reformulation for extensional reasoning

Relational databases have had great industrial success in computer science. The power of the paradigm is made clear both by its widespread adoption and by theoretical analysis. Today, automated theorem provers are not able to take advantage of database query engines and therefore do not routinely leverage that source of power. Extensional Reasoning (ER) is an approach to automated theorem proving where the machine automatically translates a logical entailment query into a database, a set of view definitions, and a database query such that the entailment query can be answered by answering the database query. The techniques developed for ER to date are applicable only when the logical theory is axiomatically complete. This paper discusses techniques for reformulating an incomplete theory into a complete theory so that Extensional Reasoning techniques can be applied.
An Analytical one-Dimensional Second-Order Closure Model of Turbulence Statistics and the Lagrangian Time Scale Within and Above Plant Canopies of Arbitrary Structure

An analytical one-dimensional second-order closure model is developed to describe the within canopy velocity variances, turbulent intensities, dissipation rates, Lagrangian time scale and Lagrangian far field diffusivities for vegetation canopies of arbitrary structure and density. The model incorporates and extends the model of momentum transfer developed by Massman (1997) and the model of within canopy velocity variances developed by Weil (unpublished) from the second-order closure model of Wilson and Shaw (1977). Model predictions of within and above canopy velocity variances, turbulent intensities, dissipation rates and the Lagrangian time scale are in reasonable agreement with previously measured or estimated values for these parameters. The present model suggests that the Lagrangian time scale and the far field diffusivity could be strongly dependent upon foliage structure and density through the foliage effects on the velocity variances. A simple formulation for the Lagrangian time scale at canopy height is derived from model results. Taken as a whole, the present model may provide a relatively simple way to incorporate turbulence parameters into models of soil/canopy/atmosphere mass transfer.
Naturally Occurring cis and Polycis Carotenoids

As we have seen, the overwhelming majority of plant carotenoids possess the all-trans configuration. To what extent the more energy-rich cis carotenoids appear in plants and animals is a question of biological and genetical interest. The relative scarcity of cis carotenoids in living tissue indicates the presence of some directing and protective mechanism that forms and preserves the all-trans configuration, even when the pigment is exposed to strong sunlight and heat; similar conditions cause trans → cis rearrangements in extracts. After a cis carotenoid has been formed, its configuration is likewise protected in the plant.
Evaluating a benchmarking database and identifying cost reduction opportunities by diagnosis-related group

Pharmacy cost data from the University HealthSystem Consortium (UHC) Clinical Database for specific diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) were reviewed to assess their applicability to a university medical center and to identify opportunities to reduce costs. UHC headquarters was contacted by telephone to determine UHC's data collection methods. Pharmacy costs for DRG 302 (kidney transplant) at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) were compared with the costs shown in the UHC Clinical Database. Appropriate drug use for DRGs 302 and 480 (liver transplant) was assessed by contacting transplant pharmacists and pharmacy administrators at the five top-performing hospitals (in terms of cost per DRG) as listed in the UHC database to find opportunities for reducing pharmacy costs. KUMC's actual pharmacy costs for DRG 302 ($4635) were 46% lower than those listed in the UHC Clinical Database ($8546). There was a disparity between the amount of both intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) and lymphocyte immune globulin used by KUMC and the top-performing hospitals. Guidelines for use of IVIG, acyclovir, and azathioprine in liver transplant patients at KUMC were revised. A potential cost saving of $53,000 was identified in relation to the use of lymphocyte immune globulin in kidney transplant patients. Data in the UHC Clinical Database were not representative of pharmacy costs at a university medical center for DRG 302 (kidney transplant), overstating pharmacy costs by 46%; benchmarking was found to be a useful tool for identifying opportunities for reducing costs.
A new function for odorant receptors

Myofibers with an abnormal branching cytoarchitecture are commonly found in various neuromuscular diseases as well as after severe muscle injury. These aberrant myofibers are fragile and muscles containing a high percentage of these myofibers are weaker and more prone to injury. To date the mechanisms and molecules regulating myofiber branching have been obscure. Recent work analyzing the role of mouse odorant receptor 23 (MOR23) in muscle regeneration revealed that MOR23 is necessary for proper skeletal muscle regeneration in mice as loss of MOR23 leads to increased myofiber branching. Further studies demonstrated that MOR23 expression is induced when muscle cells were extensively fusing and plays an important role in controlling cell migration and adhesion. These data demonstrate a novel role for an odorant receptor in tissue repair and identify the first molecule with a functional role in myofiber branching.
Electrical insulation properties at ultrahigh temperatures

The era of high-speed nuclear propelled aircraft and missiles demands electronic equipment that can withstand intense nuclear radiation as well as much higher ambient temperatures than the 125 C required of equipment in current use. Major technological advances must be made in design and manufacture to realize these goals.
Biological effects of near-infrared lasers on fibroblast cellular differentiation, proliferation and contraction

Combining near infrared (NIR) laser irradiation into a tumor treatment therapy has shown promising results. For a comprehensive tumor therapy, it is important to understand the effects of NIR irradiation not only on the tumor, but on the tumor stroma as well. The composition of the microenvironment present near the tumor cells is critical to the phenotype of the tumor. Fibroblasts affect tissue homeostasis and change the microenvironment surrounding the tumor. Myofibroblast are derived from fibroblast cells, and in some cases indicate the transformation of healthy tissue into malignant tissue. Wound healing environments are rich in fibroblast cells and are similar to tumor stromas. To simulate a tumor stroma a wound healing environment was constructed. Two different human fibroblast cells were cultured in collagen lattices. Specifically, collagen lattices were created, with type 1 collagen, incubated for 5 days and irradiated with a 980nm laser on the 4th day. The subsequent collagen lattices were either released and measured, or fixed for immunostaining on the 5th day; the contraction rates also were analyzed. Furthermore, collagen lattices were stained to identify fibroblast proliferation and differentiation, into myofibroblasts. The results suggested NIR laser irradiation had some biological effects on the fibroblast cells, but the full extent of the effects is still unclear.
On the localic Yosida representation of an archimedean lattice ordered group with weak order unit

Abstract W is the category of archimedean lattice ordered groups with weak order unit, and F is the category of frames. C: F → W is the functor which assigns to a given frame F the W-object CF= Hom F (O R ,F) , where O R designates the frame of open sets of the real numbers R , and assigns to the frame homomorphism f:F→L the W-homomorphism Cf:CF→CL defined by Cf(g)=fg for all g ϵ CF. On the other hand, Y: W → F is the functor which assigns to a given W-object G the frame YG of W-kernels of G, and assigns to the W-homomorphism u:G→H the frame homomorphism Yu:YG→YH whose value at K ϵ YG is the W-kernel of H generated by u(K). We prove in Theorem 2.3.2 that Y is left adjoint to C, and in Theorem 2.4.3 that the adjunction restricts to an equivalence between the full subcategory RL of regular Lindelof frames and the full subcategory C of W-objects of the form CF for some frame F. The equivalence was first established by Madden and Vermeer. The unit μ=(μG) is the reflection of W in C, herein termed the (localic) Yosida representation, while the counit λ=(λF) is the (frame counterpart of the) reflection of locales into regular Lindelof locales. Finally, we note that the sense in which the Yosida representation is unique is precisely that (μG, YG) is the C-universal map for G.
SIMDizing pairwise sums: a summation algorithm balancing accuracy with throughput

Implementing summation when accuracy and throughput need to be balanced is a challenging endevour. We present experimental results that provide a sense when to start worrying and the expense of the various solutions that exist. We also present a new algorithm based on pairwise summation that achieves 89% of the throughput of the fastest summation algorithms when the data is not resident in L1 cache while eclipsing the accuracy of signifigantly slower compensated sums like Kahan summation and Kahan-Babuska that are typically used when accuracy is important.
Nuclear forces and electron scattering from nucleons and deuterons

Abstract Two polarization transfer experiments are described which appear to offer a feasible way to (a) measure the ratio of the deuteron monopole and quadrupole form factors and (b) measure the neutron and proton electric form factors. These measurements are particularly important because our lack of knowledge of the neutron charge form factor at high Q 2 makes it difficult to draw precise conclusions from electron ed scattering and either one of these measurements would help correct this problem. It is extremely important that the ρπγ exchange current contribution to the deuteron form factor be calculated relativistically.
Is Patients’ Preferred Involvement in Health Decisions Related to Outcomes for Patients with HIV?

BACKGROUND Previous studies suggest that patients who are more involved in their medical care have better outcomes.
Receptor-independent Activation of Atrial Muscarinic Potassium Channels in the Absence of Nucleotides

Abstract The removal of nucleotides from the solution bathing the inner face of excised patches of frog atrial membranes was found to activate muscarinic K+ channels in the absence of agonists. Channel activation was also observed in Mg2+-free solutions and blocked by low (0.1–10 μm) concentrations of GDP or GTP. After full activation was achieved, channel openings were abolished by the application of GDP-bound Gαi2 but were not affected by exogenous Gβγ dimers, suggesting that effector activation is a consequence of the liberation of βγ subunits from endogenous G proteins. The process of channel activation in the absence of nucleotides seems to be receptor-independent, because it is not influenced by muscarinic receptor agonists and antagonists or by treatment with uncoupling agents such as pertussis toxin or N-ethyl maleimide. Taken together, these results suggest that the loss of GDP from the G protein nucleotide binding site promotes its uncoupling from receptors and destabilizes the Gα(empty)βγ heterotrimer. Therefore, the nucleotide-free form of G proteins has some of the characteristics of the GTP-bound, activated form.
Functional Heterogeneity of Splenic T Lymphocyte Subpopulations I. Determination of Splenic Subpopulations by the Use of Mitogenic Probes

The results reported here suggest that there exist two T-cell-mitogenic responsive populations in the spleen--one that is responsive to concanavalin A (Con A) and a second one that is responsive to Con A and phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Using an in vitro restimulation system, we have found that a primary in vivo activation with Con A effectively suppresses the subsequent restimulation response to PHA. However, in the reverse experiment, a primary in vivo PHA activation had little effect on the ability of cells to be restimulated with Con A. The suppression seen was due to a refractory recovery period displayed by all cells after previous activation and not to a nonspecific steric hindrance of mitogenic activation receptors due to the lectin remaining on the cell surfaces.
Numerical statistical investigation on the dynamics of finitely long, nearly periodic chains

A numerical statistical analysis of the effects of structural irregularities on the dynamics of finitely long, nearly periodic assemblies is presented. In particular, emphasis is placed on the numerical analyses of the statistical behavior of the exponential decay rate of the vibration amplitude as the system is excited harmonically at one end. When the coupling is weak and the localization is strong, the localization factor (the exponential decay constant) for finitely long systems is normally distributed, with its standard deviation being inversely proportional to the square root of the distance from the excited end. Thus, for weakly coupled systems with many sites, the standard deviation of the localization factor is small compared with its mean, making the average decay factor for strong localization a true typical value. This allows us to make inferences about the population based on the information contained in the sample. For strong coupling where localization is weak, on the other hand, the probability distribution of the localization factor for finitely long systems is skewed to the right with a long tail, with its standard deviation having the same order of magnitude as that of its mean. Physically, this implies that the ensemble average for the localization factor may differ radically from the typical value. This serves as a warning against the indiscriminate use of the ensemble mean as a predictor for the behavior of a typical system when the localization is weak.
Rational approach to aspirin dosing during oral challenges and desensitization of patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease.

Background Aspirin desensitization improves clinical outcomes in most patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease. Most protocols for desensitization are time-consuming. Objective Our objective was to use historical information about the course of aspirin desensitization to enhance the efficiency of the desensitization protocol. Methods Four hundred twenty subjects with suspected aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease underwent oral aspirin challenges. Their clinical characteristics were analyzed in relation to features of reactions during aspirin challenges. Results Large (FEV 1 decrease >30%) and moderate (FEV 1 decrease 21% to 30%) bronchial reactions occurred in 9% and 20% of subjects, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified risk factors associated with these larger reactions, including lack of leukotriene modifier use, baseline FEV 1 of less than 80% of predicted value, and previous asthma-related emergency department visits. Seventy-five percent of patients reacted to a provoking dose of either 45 or 60 mg. Only 3% of initial reactions occurred after 150- or 325-mg provoking doses, and none occurred after the 650-mg dose. Conclusions Most bronchial and naso-ocular reactions during oral aspirin challenges occurred within a narrow dosing range (45-100 mg). Only 1 of 26 patients without risk factors had a moderate reaction.
Reconstruction of urinary andgastrointestinal tracts in total pelvic exenteration: Experience at columbia-presbyterian medical center

Abstract Objectives. To examine the effectiveness of and complications from total pelvic exenteration (TPE) with maintenance of urethral and anal sphincter function for locally invasive tumors of the pelvis. Methods. A retrospective review of 4 patients who have undergone TPE with urethral and anal sphincter preservation at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center in the last 2 years was performed with attention to perioperative morbidity and mortality, disease-free status, and need for further operative procedures. Results. Two patients had colorectal adenocarcinoma, 1 had squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, and 1 had prostate sarcoma. All had urinary tract reconstruction with orthotopic neobladder creation, and 3 of 4 had primary low rectal anastomoses for gastrointestinal reconstruction. One patient underwent creation of a J rectal pouch. One of 4 patients had received radiation therapy for the disease prior to surgery. There was no operative or perioperative mortality. Two of 4 patients required reoperation, 1 in the immediate postoperative period for repair of a left ureteral stricture, and the other 13 months postoperatively for repair of a rectal-neobladder fistula. With a mean follow-up of 25 months (range, 21 to 43 months), 3 of 4 patients are alive and free of disease. All living patients are continent of urine and 2 of 3 are continent of stool. Conclusions. Our experience confirms that TPE can be effective in controlling a varietyof locally advanced pelvic tumors and can be performed in conjunction with simultaneous genitourinary and gastrointestinal reconstruction with minimal morbidity.