cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exemplars, Analogies, and Menus: Eastern Europe in Cross Regional Comparisons

This article evaluates three provocative cross-regional comparisons that use Eastern European cases. It begins by defending such comparisons against serious objections emphasizing Leninist legacies. Books by Offe, Greskovits, and Henderson et. al. form the foundation for a discussion of comparisons to the Eastern German, Latin American, and East Asian NIC cases, respectively. The different comparative approaches are assessed with reference to three blocks of issues: the possibility of achieving democratic capitalism “by design,” the strength of social responses to economic hardship, and the viability of state instruments to keep reforms moving. Characterizing the different approaches as reliant upon “exemplars, analogies, and menus,” the article assesses the outcomes of East European transformations at the ten-year mark. It concludes with a sketch of a partially convergent agenda for further research along all three lines.
SU-E-T-425: Spherical Dose Distributions for Radiosurgery Using a Standardized MLC Plan

Purpose: To investigate a standardized MLC treatment plan to generate small spherical dose distributions. Methods: The static virtual cone plan comprised six table positions with clockwise and counterclockwise arcs having collimator angles 45 and 135 degrees, respectively, at each position. The central two leaves of a 2.5 mm leaf width MLC were set to a constant gap. Control points were weighted proportional to the sine of the gantry angle. Plans were created for the 10 MV flattening-filter-free beam of a TrueBeam STx (Varian Medical Systems) with gaps of 1, 1.5, 2, and 3 mm and were delivered to a phantom containing radiochromic film. Dose was calculated using the Eclipse AAA (Varian Medical Systems). A dynamic plan in which the table and gantry moved simultaneously with 1.5 mm gap was also created and delivered using the TrueBeam developer mode. Results: The full-width-half-max (FWHM) varied with leaf gap, ranging from 5.2 to 6.2 mm. Calculated FWHM was smaller than measured by 0.7 mm for the 1 mm gap and ≤ 0.4 mm for the larger gaps. The measured-to-calculated dose ratio was 0.93, 0.96, 1.01, and 0.99 for 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm gaps, respectively. The dynamic results were the same as the static. The position deviations between the phantom target position and the center of the dose distribution were < 0.4 mm. Conclusion: The virtual cone can deliver spherical dose distributions suitable for radio surgery of small targets such as the trigeminal nerve. The Eclipse AAA accurately calculates the expected dose, particularly for leaf gap ≥ 1.5 mm. The measured dose distribution is slightly larger than the calculation, which is likely due to systematic leaf position error, isocenter variation due to gantry sag and table eccentricity, and inaccuracy in MLC leaf end modeling.
Game engine virtual reality with CaveUT

CaveUT, an open source freeware project, uses game technology to make projection-based virtual reality affordable and accessible. The CaveUT works well for low-cost displays and supports real-time spatial tracking and stereographic imaging. Computer games with the most advanced simulation and graphics usually employ a game engine, a commercially available software package that handles basic functions. Based on the Unreal Tournament the CaveUT game engine gives developers a high-performance, low-cost VR alternative. VR applications developed with CaveUT inherit all the Unreal Engine's capabilities along with Unreal Tournament's authoring support, open source code, content library, and large user community.
In vivo administration of l-dopa or dopamine decreases the number of splenic IFNγ-producing cells

Abstract Although dopamine receptors are present on peripheral immune system cells, relatively little is known about the functional role that dopamine may play in immune responses. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of chronic treatment with l -dopa and dopamine on murine lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production/release. In vivo treatment with l -dopa resulted in an increase in the proliferative response of splenic lymphocytes to ConA. Spleen cell supernatant concentrations of IL-4 and IFNγ were not significantly altered following treatment with l -dopa for 5 days. However, the number of IFNγ-, but not IL-4-producing cells was significantly inhibited by l -dopa. This effect was blocked by co-treatment with a dopamine antagonist. The effect on IFNγ was replicated by infusion of dopamine. The results suggest that dopamine may have a direct role in regulating immune responses through down-regulation of IFNγ.
Polycystic brain disease complicating neonatal meningitis: documentation of evolution by computed tomography.

3. Smith DH, Peter G, Ingram DL, Harding AL, and Anderson P: Response of children immunized with the capsular polysaccharide of H. influenzae, type b, Pediatrics 52:637, 1973. 4. Ochs HD, and Igo RP: The NBT slide test: A simple screening method for detecting chronic granulomotous disease and female carriers, J P~DIA'rR 83:77, 1973. 5. Peter G, Smith DH: Hemophilus influenza meningitis at the Children's Hospital Medical Center in Boston, 1958-1973, Pediatrics 55:523, 1975. 6. Fraser DW, Darby CP, Koehler RE, Jacobs CF, and Feldman RA: Risk factors in bacterial meningitis: Charleston County, South Carolina, J Infect Dis 127:271, 1973.
Loss of Androgen Receptor-Dependent Growth Suppression by Prostate Cancer Cells Can Occur Independently from Acquiring Oncogenic Addiction to Androgen Receptor Signaling

The conversion of androgen receptor (AR) signaling as a mechanism of growth suppression of normal prostate epithelial cells to that of growth stimulation in prostate cancer cells is often associated with AR mutation, amplification and over-expression. Thus, down-regulation of AR signaling is commonly therapeutic for prostate cancer. The E006AA cell line was established from a hormone naive, localized prostate cancer. E006AA cells are genetically aneuploid and grow equally well when xenografted into either intact or castrated male NOG but not nude mice. These cells exhibit: 1) X chromosome duplication and AR gene amplification, although paradoxically not coupled with increased AR expression, and 2) somatic, dominant-negative Serine-599-Glycine loss-of-function mutation within the dimerization surface of the DNA binding domain of the AR gene. No effect on the growth of E006AA cells is observed using targeted knockdown of endogenous mutant AR, ectopic expression of wild-type AR, or treatment with androgens or anti-androgens. E006AA cells represent a prototype for a newly identified subtype of prostate cancer cells that exhibit a dominant-negative AR loss-of-function in a hormonally naive patient. Such loss-of-function eliminates AR-mediated growth suppression normally induced by normal physiological levels of androgens, thus producing a selective growth advantage for these malignant cells in hormonally naive patients. These data highlight that loss of AR-mediated growth suppression is an independent process, and that, without additional changes, is insufficient for acquiring oncogene addiction to AR signaling. Thus, patients with prostate cancer cells harboring such AR loss-of-function mutations will not benefit from aggressive hormone or anti-AR therapies even though they express AR protein.
Prevalence, frequency, and initiation of hookah tobacco smoking among first-year female college students: a one-year longitudinal study.

Hookah tobacco smoking has become increasingly prevalent among college students, but little is known about frequency of use or patterns of use over time, including during the transition to college. The goals of this longitudinal cohort study were to assess the: (a) lifetime prevalence, (b) current prevalence, (c) frequency of use, and (d) pattern of initiation of hookah tobacco smoking among female students during the first year of college. First-year female college students (N = 483) at a large private university in upstate New York completed 13 monthly online surveys about their hookah tobacco use from August 2009 to August 2010. Lifetime prevalence of hookah use increased from 29% at college entry to 45% at one-year follow-up. The highest rates of hookah initiation occurred in the first two months of students' first semester of college. Current (past 30 days) hookah use ranged from 5% to 13% during the year after college entry. On average, hookah users reported smoking hookah two days per month. Hookah tobacco use is common among female college students. The transition to college is a vulnerable time for hookah initiation. Preventive efforts should begin in high school and continue through college, with a focus on students' first few months on campus.
Color tuning of an acidic blue dye by intercalation into the basic interlayer galleries of a poly(allylamine)/synthetic fluoromica nanocomposite

The intercalation of an acidic blue dye, Brilliant Blue FCF, into poly(allylamine) (PAA)/synthetic fluoromica (Na-TSM) was investigated as a function of the reaction pH (1.5−12.0) and the loading of the polyelectrolyte and acidic dye. Surprisingly, the colored solids so obtained show a variety of colors from the original blue to yellow through green with only a slight increase in the reaction pH. At low and neutral pH (1.5−9.5), the acidic blue dye molecules were adsorbed/intercalated on/in PAA/Na-TSM mainly through electrostatic interactions between protonated amine groups on the PAA chains and sulfonate groups of the dye, resulting in the original blue color. UV−visible spectroscopic data hint that the adsorbed/intercalated dye molecules were aggregated. The color shifted to blue-green at pH 10.0 and finally to yellow at pH 12.0. At high pH, the PAA layers have lower charge density and the dye is well-dispersed within the interlayer galleries. The fraction of neutral primary amine groups increases with ...
Unilateral kainic acid lesions reveal dominance of right archistriatum in avian fear behavior.

Abstract Unilateral injections of 1 μg of kainic acid in the archistriatum of 5-day-old domestic chicks reduced fear, as expressed by distress calls (peeps), significantly more than did identical injections in the same structure on the left side. This result adds affective behavior to the growing list of functions that have been shown to be differentially controlled by the right and left hemispheres in birds. The directions of the specializations are intriguingly similar to those for verbal and affective functions in human beings.
Ivacaftor Therapy in CF Patients: Single Center Experience

Ivacaftor is the first novel cystic fibrosis pharmaceutical that acts at the molecular level to potentiate cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) function and was first approved for clinical use in 2012. We are sharing our single center experience of five patients: four from pediatric age group and one adult patient. All patients had both subjective and objective improvements in their health. Despite established lung disease, our patients had significant improvement in both their FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 second) and FEF25-75 and BMI (body mass index). Larger studies demonstrated only 6.7% improvement in mean FEV1 after starting Ivacaftor therapy but their patient population had normal lung function to begin with. In contrast our case series demonstrates that, in patients with established lung disease and diminished lung function, Ivacaftor can be expected to result in much higher recovery in lung function. Mean FEV1 improved by 35% in our case series. Ivacaftor is extremely expensive, costing $300,000 per patient per year requiring lifelong therapy, hence requiring prior authorizations from most third-party payers in the USA. The knowledge shared from our experience will be useful for other clinicians to petition healthcare policymakers on behalf of their patients.
A MONTE CARLO MODEL OF FD AND PF1 COAT PROTEINS IN LIPID MEMBRANES

A Monte Carlo Dynamics simulation was used to investigate the behavior of filamentous bacteriophage coat proteins in a model membrane environment. Our simulation agrees with the previous experimental observations that despite the low sequence similarity between the major coat proteins of Pf1 and fd bacteriophages, their structure in the membrane environment is very similar. These results support the hypothesis that the hydrophobic effect exerts an important influence on membrane protein structure. The model may also be used for modeling the insertion and transport processes in protein-membrane systems. The example of fd protein was also used as a test of sensitivity of our model to temperature, thickness of the hydrocarbon phase, and simulation time. In all cases, the results were independent (over the tested range) of the particular values of the parameters.
Introduction: Pulmonary Atresia and Ventricular Septal Defect

Pulmonary atresia and ventricular septal defect (PA-VSD) is a major cardiopulmonary anomaly with significant challenges. Diagnosis and treatment of this condition has been made difficult by an inadequate understanding of its morphology and natural history. Although surgical correction of PA-VS D with fully distributed and normal-size pulmonary arteries has been possible for many years/ most reported surgical series have concentrated on those patients with central pulmonary arteries of near-normal size and without major aortopulmonary collateral arteries. 2,3 Unfortunately, patients with this favorable and adequate pulmonary arterial capacity account for only a small percentage of all patients with PA-VSD. Many patients with PA-VSD show marked abnormalities of the arterial derivatives of the sixth aortic arch, including absence of central pulmonary arteries, nonconfluence of pulmonary arterial branches, and severe hypoplasia of the central pulmonary arterial confluence. In addition, large discrete systemic aortopulmonary collateral arteries originate from different sites of the intrathoracic arterial circulation to supply widely different areas of the bronchopulmonary arterial segments. 4's In most of these patients it is not possible to achieve primary hemodynamic surgical
Viewpoint on the solid Earth sciences and society

As we close in on the 21st century, we face significant global challenges. These include a burgeoning world population that requires more energy, minerals, and water; increasing risks of losses from earthquakes, volcanos, landslides, floods, droughts, and soil erosion; pollution of our air, water, and land; and the consequences of global climate change. Humans may become agents of their own destruction unless they learn to manage planet Earth as a non-renewable resource. But to do so requires scientific understanding of the Earth's interconnected natural processes.
Project APhiD: A Lorenz-gauged A-Φ decomposition for parallelized computation of ultra-broadband electromagnetic induction in a fully heterogeneous Earth

An essential element for computational hypothesis testing, data inversion and experiment design for electromagnetic geophysics is a robust forward solver, capable of easily and quickly evaluating the electromagnetic response of arbitrary geologic structure. The usefulness of such a solver hinges on the balance among competing desires like ease of use, speed of forward calculation, scalability to large problems or compute clusters, parsimonious use of memory access, accuracy and by necessity, the ability to faithfully accommodate a broad range of geologic scenarios over extremes in length scale and frequency content. This is indeed a tall order. The present study addresses recent progress toward the development of a forward solver with these properties. Based on the Lorenz-gauged Helmholtz decomposition, a new finite volume solution over Cartesian model domains endowed with complex-valued electrical properties is shown to be stable over the frequency range 10^-^2-10^1^0Hz and range 10^-^3-10^5m in length scale. Benchmark examples are drawn from magnetotellurics, exploration geophysics, geotechnical mapping and laboratory-scale analysis, showing excellent agreement with reference analytic solutions. Computational efficiency is achieved through use of a matrix-free implementation of the quasi-minimum-residual (QMR) iterative solver, which eliminates explicit storage of finite volume matrix elements in favor of ''on the fly'' computation as needed by the iterative Krylov sequence. Further efficiency is achieved through sparse coupling matrices between the vector and scalar potentials whose non-zero elements arise only in those parts of the model domain where the conductivity gradient is non-zero. Multi-thread parallelization in the QMR solver through OpenMP pragmas is used to reduce the computational cost of its most expensive step: the single matrix-vector product at each iteration. High-level MPI communicators farm independent processes to available compute nodes for simultaneous computation of multi-frequency or multi-transmitter responses.
Secondary flow induced by the rotation of a wavy rod

The flow induced by the rotation of a wavy rod is studied using the method of domain perturbations. Of particular interest is the motion in axial planes which enters at second order. These secondary motions are sensitive to changes in the geometric and material parameters. For some values of the parameters the flow is entirely dominated by inertia; for other values, by normal stresses. For still other values of the parameters the competition between inertia and normal stresses causes the flow field to split into two distinct regions with normal stresses dominant near the rod and inertia dominant far away from the rod. The problem treated may be regarded as a model for the flow induced by agitators and stirring rods. The predictions of the analysis are in qualitative agreement with the experiments ofWhite, Chankraiphon andIde (6).
Root Water Uptake, Leaf Water Storage and Gas Exchange of a Desert Succulent: Implications for Root System Redundancy

A technique used for hydroponics was adapted to measure instantaneous root water uptake from the soil for a leaf succulent CAM species, Agaae deserti. Comparisons were made to previously modelled water fluxes for A. deserti and to Encelia farinosa, a non-succulent C $ species. Net CO # uptake and transpiration for A. deserti under well-watered conditions occurred primarily at night whereas root water uptake was relatively constant over 24 h. Leaf thickness decreased when transpiration commenced and then increased when recharge from the stem and soil occurred, consistent with previous models. A drought of 90 d eliminated net CO # uptake and transpiration and reduced the water content of leaves by 62%. Rewetting the entire root system for 7 d led to a full recovery of leaf water storage but only 56% of maximal net CO # uptake. Root water uptake was maximal immediately after rewetting, which replenished root water content, and decreased to a steady rate by 14 d. When only the distal 50% of the root system was rewetted, the time for net CO # uptake and leaf water storage to recover increased, but by 30 d gas exchange and leaf water storage were similar to 100% rewetting. Rewetting 10 or 20% of the root system resulted in much less water uptake; these plants did not recover leaf water storage or gas exchange by 30 d after rewetting. A redundancy in the root system of A. deserti apparently exists for daily water uptake requirements under wet conditions but the entire root system is required for rapid recovery from drought. # 1999 Annals of Botany Company
Multidisciplinary approach of the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) between hope and reality

Abstract Being a behavioral disorder in children, manifested by an attention deficit (incapacity to focus or to pay attention, regardless of the duration), impulsive behavior, excessive hyperactivity and difficulties in performing a task, the attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome (ADHD) has become a more and more frequent problem, affecting both pre-school and school children. Taking into account that if it is not discovered and appropriately treated, this disorder can significantly affect the social, educational or professional life, a team made of specialists, together with parents, medical professionals, teachers and social workers initiated a multidisciplinary approach, entirely correlated, in order to obtain a complete benefit. The details of this approach and the results obtained represent the object of this paper.
Accuracy of cone beam computed tomography for periodontal defect measurements.

Background Periodontal diagnosis relies heavily on traditional two-dimensional radiographic assessment. Despite efforts in improving reliability, current methods of detecting bone level changes over time or determining three-dimensional architecture of osseous defects are inadequate. To address these issues, computed tomography (CT) has been explored because of its ability to produce accurate three-dimensional imaging, but limitations such as radiation, machine size, and cost have made this approach impractical. Recently, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has turned this concept into potential reality because these lower-cost small machines produce high-quality data. Yet there is little research to establish periodontal bone measurement using CBCT as a valid method. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare CBCT measurements of periodontal defects to traditional methods. Methods Artificial osseous defects were created on mandibles of dry skulls. CBCT scanning, periapical radiography (PA), and direct measurements using a periodontal probe were compared to an electronic caliper that was used as a standard reference. Results Linear measurements for all defects revealed no statistical differences between bone sounding, radiography, and CBCT. There was a significant difference when comparing isolated interproximal measurements using a probe versus the caliper (P Conclusions Overall, all three modalities are useful for identifying interproximal periodontal defects. Compared to radiographs, the three-dimensional capability of CBCT offers a significant advantage because all defects can be detected and quantified.
Nonequilibrium molecular motion in a hypersonic shock wave

Molecular velocities have been measured inside a hypersonic, normal shock wave, where the gas experiences rapid changes in its macroscopic properties. As first hypothesized by Mott-Smith, but never directly observed, the molecular velocity distribution exhibits a qualitatively bimodal character that is derived from the distribution functions on either side of the shock. Quantitatively correct forms of the molecular velocity distribution function in highly nonequilibrium flows can be calculated, by means of the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo technique.
A Brownian Dynamics Study of the Interactions of the Luminal Domains of the Cytochrome b6f complex with Plastocyanin and Cytochrome c6: The Effects of the Rieske FeS Protein on the Interactions

The availability of the structures of the cytochrome b6f complex (cyt b6f), plastocyanin (PC), and cytochrome c6 (cyt c6) from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii allowed us, for the first time, to model electron transfer interactions between the luminal domains of this complex (including cyt f and the Rieske FeS protein) and its redox partners in the same species. We also generated a model structure in which the FeS center of the Rieske protein was positioned closer to the heme of cyt f than observed in the crystal structure and studied its interactions with both PC and cyt c6. Our data showed that the Rieske protein in both the original crystal structure and in our modeled structure of the cyt b6f complex did not physically interfere with binding position or orientation of PC or cyt c6 on cyt f. PC docked on cyt f with the same orientation in the presence or the absence of the Rieske protein, which matched well with the previously reported NMR structures of complexes between cyt f and PC. When the FeS center of the Rieske protein was moved close to the heme of cyt f, it even enhanced the interaction rates. Studies using a cyt f modified in the 184–191 loop showed that the cyt f structure is a more important factor in determining the rate of complex formations than is the presence or the absence of the Rieske protein or its position with respect to cyt f.
Species, Sex and Individual Differences in the Vasotocin/Vasopressin System: Relationship to Neurochemical Signaling in the Social Behavior Neural Network

Abstract Arginine-vasotocin (AVT)/arginine vasopressin (AVP) are members of the AVP/oxytocin (OT) superfamily of peptides that are involved in the regulation of social behavior, social cognition and emotion. Comparative studies have revealed that AVT/AVP and their receptors are found throughout the “social behavior neural network (SBNN)” and display the properties expected from a signaling system that controls social behavior (i.e., species, sex and individual differences and modulation by gonadal hormones and social factors). Neurochemical signaling within the SBNN likely involves a complex combination of synaptic mechanisms that co-release multiple chemical signals (e.g., classical neurotransmitters and AVT/AVP as well as other peptides) and non-synaptic mechanisms (i.e., volume transmission). Crosstalk between AVP/OT peptides and receptors within the SBNN is likely. A better understanding of the functional properties of neurochemical signaling in the SBNN will allow for a more refined examination of the relationships between this peptide system and species, sex and individual differences in sociality.
A General Variational Algorithm to Calculate Vibrational Energy Levels of Tetraatomic Molecules

A general variational method for calculating vibrational energy levels of tetraatomic molecules is presented. The quantum mechanical Hamiltonian of the system is expressed in a set of coordinates defined by three orthogonalized vectors in the body-fixed frame without any dynamical approximation. The eigenvalue problem is solved by a Lanczos iterative diagonalization algorithm, which requires the evaluation of the action of the Hamiltonian operator on a vector. The Lanczos recursion is carried out in a mixed grid/basis set, i.e., a direct product discrete variable representation (DVR) for the radial coordinates and a nondirect product finite basis representation (FBR) for the angular coordinates. The action of the potential energy operator on a vector is accomplished via a pseudo-spectral transform method. Six types of orthogonal coordinates are implemented in this algorithm, which is capable of describing most four-atom systems with small and/or large amplitude vibrational motions. Its application to the molecules H2CO, NH3, and HOOH and the van der Waals cluster He2Cl2 is discussed.
Thyroid-Related Neurological Disorders and Complications in Children

Abstract Background Thyroid hormones exert critical roles throughout the body and play an important and permissive role in neuroendocrine, neurological, and neuromuscular function. Methods We performed a PubMed search through June 2014 with search terms including "hypothyroidism," "hyperthyroidism," "neurological complications," "neuropathy," "myopathy," "congenital hypothyroidism," and "encephalopathy." Relevant publications reviewed included case series, individual case reports, systematic reviews, retrospective analyses, and randomized controlled trials. The neurological outcomes of congenital hypothyroidism were reviewed, along with the clinical features of associated neuromuscular syndromes of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, including other autoimmune conditions. Evidence for, and pathophysiological controversies surrounding, Hashimoto encephalopathy was also reviewed. Results The establishment of widespread newborn screening programs has been highly successful in attenuating or preventing early and irreversible neurological harm resulting from congenital thyroid hormone deficiency, but some children continue to display neuromuscular, sensory, and cognitive defects in later life. Acquired disorders of thyroid function such as Hashimoto thyroiditis and Graves' disease are associated with a spectrum of central nervous system and/or neuromuscular dysfunction. However, considerable variation in clinical phenotype is described, and much of our knowledge of the role of thyroid disease in childhood neurological disorders is derived from adult case series. Conclusions Early and aggressive normalization of thyroxine levels in newborn infants with congenital hypothyroidism is important in minimizing neurological sequelae, but maternal thyroid hormone sources are also critically important to the early developing brain. A spectrum of neurological disorders has been reported in older children with acquired thyroid disease, but the frequency with which these occur remains poorly defined in the literature, and much must be extrapolated from adult data. A high index of suspicion for acquired thyroid disease is paramount in the investigation of many neurological disorders of youth, as many reported sequelae of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are reversible with appropriate endocrine management.
Measurement of total respiratory resistance in children by a modified forced oscillation method.

Measurement of Total Respiratory Resistance in Children by a Modified Forced Oscillation Method
Stroke-Induced Subventricular Zone Proliferation is Promoted by Tumor Necrosis Factor-α-Converting Enzyme Protease Activity:

Cerebral stroke induces proliferation of subventricular zone (SVZ) neural progenitor cells in adult rodent brain. Tumor necrosis factor-a-converting enzyme (TACE) proteolysis sheds the nonamyloidogenic soluble ectodomain of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and is a convertase for tumor necrosis factor-a (TNFa). The resulting soluble peptides of APP and TNFa are mitogenic for neural progenitor cells of the SVZ. Therefore, we hypothesized a role for TACE proteolysis in strokeinduced neurogenesis. Using laser-capture microdissection, we found TACE transcription was increased in SVZ cells of ischemic brain. Immunohistochemistry revealed TACE protein was upregulated in SVZ neuroblasts. Intraventricular infusion of tumor necrosis factor-a protease inhibitor-2 (TAPI-2) decreased bromodeoxyuridine incorporation in SVZ cells of rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion. Furthermore, primary culture SVZ neurospheres from ischemic brain overexpress TACE and its substrates APP and TNF-a. These cells proliferated more rapidly, possessed increased TACE protease-dependent a-secretase activity, and released more soluble APP and TNFa compared with nonischemic control. In addition, TAPI-2 reduced SVZ neuroblast migration out of SVZ explants in vitro. These findings indicate TACE proteolysis as a promoter of stroke-induced SVZ progenitor cell neurogenesis, and suggest this protease activity may represent an attractive therapeutic target for stroke recovery.
Feldspar diagenesis in the Frio Formation, Brazoria County, Texas Gulf Coast

Tremendous quantities of detrital feldspar have been dissolved or albitized below about 14,000 ft (4,267 m) in the Frio Formation (Oligocene), Chocolate Bayou Field, Brazoria County, Texas. Some sandstones no longer contain any unmodified detrital feldspar grains. Material transfer involved in these reactions is immense, affecting at least 15% of the rock volume. Thus, albitization has important implications for several other diagenetic processes that involve feldspars or their components. These processes include formation of secondary porosity, precipitation of quartz and carbonate cements, and the evolution of Na-Ca-Cl formation water.
Epistylis and Aeromonas Hydrophila Infections in Fishes from North Carolina Reservoirs

brought to the attention of the Division of Inland Fisheries of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission by fishermen in the fall of 1972. The fishermen were concerned about the presence of red lesions on game species which made the fish unappealing and undesirable as table fare. The health of fish in these river chains has since become a source of widespread interest and concern in North Carolina.
Phase locking and in-phase supermode selection in monolithic multicore fiber lasers

We report a compact multicore fiber laser that utilizes an all-fiber approach for phase locking and in-phase supermode selection. By splicing passive coreless fibers of controlled lengths to both ends of an active 19-core fiber, we demonstrate that the fundamental in-phase supermode can be selectively excited with a completely monolithic fiber device, instead of conventional free-space and bulk optics, to achieve phase-locked operation for a multiemitter laser device.
Mechanisms of positive inotropic effects and delayed relaxation produced by DPI 201–106 in mammalian working myocardium: effects on intracellular calcium handling

1. We used the bioluminescent protein aequorin, which emits light when it combines with Ca2+, to test the hypothesis that the inotropic and lusitropic actions of DPI 201-106 are due to changes in intracellular Ca2+ handling in papillary muscles from ferrets and guinea-pigs. 2. DPI 201-106 increased peak isometric tension (T) in a dose-dependent manner, with an 83% increase in T as the concentration of DPI 201-106 was increased to 1 x 10(-5) M; however, peak [Ca2+]i did not increase significantly until the concentration of DPI 201-106 reached 3 x 10(-6) M, suggesting a sensitization of the contractile apparatus to Ca2+. 3. Tetrodotoxin (1 x 10(-6) M), which did not reduce the tension response significantly before DPI 201-106, decreased both [Ca2+]i and T in the presence of 1 x 10(-5) M DPI 201-106, suggesting involvement of a sodium channel activation mechanism; however, tetrodotoxin did not completely reverse the calcium sensitization. 4. The shift of the [Ca2+]i versus T relationship was not observed in the presence of another sodium channel agonist, veratridine (3 x 10(-7)-1 x 10(-6) M). 5. In the guinea-pig, DPI 201-106 markedly prolonged relaxation of tension (increase of 60% in the time from peak to 50% tension regression), which was accompanied by the appearance of a second component in the aequorin light signal; effects on relaxation were less prominent in the ferret. 6. Tension prolongation and the second component of the [Ca2+]i transient in the guinea-pig were exacerbated by increased [Ca2+]o and decreased by tetrodotoxin. Ryanodine (3 x 10(-7) M) markedly diminished the calcium transient in controls and the initial component of the calcium transient in the presence of DPI 201-106, but had only a modest effect on the second component. 7. We conclude that although sodium agonism plays a role, sensitization of the contractile apparatus to Ca2+ is an important mechanism in the positive inotropic action of DPI 201-106. 8. The negative lusitropic action of DPI 201-106 varies between ferret and guinea-pig, possibly reflecting differences between these two species in subcellular Ca2+ handling.
The factor structure of the Wechsler memory scale-revised and several brief neuropsychological screening instruments in recently detoxified substance abusers

The Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R) has attracted a fair amount of research activity since its publication. Much of this activity has centered on the factor structure of the WMS-R. The present study examines the factor structure of the WMS-R, both when the indices are used as variables and when the scale scores themselves are used as variables. Three hundred fifty-two recently detoxified substance abusers were used as subjects. Both sets of analyses included other neuropsychological variables in order to facilitate clear explications of memorial and cognitive functions tapped by the WMS-R. The results indicate support both for use of the indices and for use of the subscale scores. Differences between these results and the results of earlier factor analyses are discussed in terms of sample characteristics.
Soil bulk density corrections for providing a better relationship with root growth in gravelly soil

Abstract Bulk density of a Tifton (Plinthitic Paleudult; fine loamy, siliceous, thermic) soil containing 5.8 to 11.0% of the sample weight as pebbles was 0.06–0.12 g/cc lower when corrections were made for presence of pebbles or concretions. A method for determining the bulk density of the soil matrix between pebbles or concretions is outlined. After adjustment, the bulk density at which root penetration was inhibited in this soil closely approximated that for soils which do not contain concretions. The proposed procedure reflects more nearly how bulk density changes where plant roots are growing than previously published procedures do.
Predictors of treatment outcome in a child and adolescent psychiatry clinic: A naturalistic exploration

Abstract We present data on predictors of treatment outcome for 3200 consecutive referrals to a child and adolescent psychiatry clinic. Using Reliable Change Index (RCI) methodology, we divided children into those who, between intake and discharge, improved, stayed the same, or got worse according to clinician-rated impairment. Most predictors of improvement were related to parent variables (marital status, maternal anxiety, and ethnicity), while those associated with deterioration were tied to child status (extent of psychiatric comorbidity, history of placement in a self-contained classroom, and a prior trial of psychotropic medications). The implications of these findings for data-driven program development, clinic management, treatment planning, and systems of care are discussed.
Evaluation on the application mode of distributed generation

A distributed generation system (DGS) consists of a cluster of DG (photovoltaic, diesel engines, wind-power, fuel cells, micro-turbines), has many advantages in improving the quality of voltage in rural power grid and solving power supply in remote area or rural areas. The paper investigates a number of practical projects application modes and put forward several different DGS application modes, such as grid-connected DGS, grid-disconnected DGS, micro-grid system, and then analyses the characteristic of these DGs application modes.
A method for deriving water-quality benchmarks using field data

The authors describe a methodology that characterizes effects to individual genera observed in the field and estimate the concentration at which 5% of genera are adversely affected. Ionic strength, measured as specific conductance, is used to illustrate the methodology. Assuming some resilience in the population, 95% of the genera are afforded protection. The authors selected an unambiguous effect, the presence or absence of a genus from sampling locations. The absence of a genus, extirpation, is operationally defined as the point above which only 5% of the observations of a genus occurs. The concentrations that cause extirpation of each genus are rank-ordered from least to greatest, and the benchmark is estimated at the 5th percentile of the distribution using two-point interpolation. When a full range of exposures and many taxa are included in the model of taxonomic sensitivity, the model broadly characterizes how species in general respond to a concentration gradient of the causal agent. This recognized U.S. Environmental Protection Agency methodology has many advantages. Observations from field studies include the full range of conditions, effects, species, and interactions that occur in the environment and can be used to model some causal relationships that laboratory studies cannot. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:255-262. # 2012 SETAC Keywords—Water-quality criteria Ionic strength Extirpation Benthic invertebrate Species sensitivity distribution
Reaching to Grasp With a Multi-Jointed Arm. I. Computational Model

The generation of goal-directed movements requires the solution of many difficult computational problems. Among these are transformations from extrinsic to intrinsic reference frames, specifying solution paths, removing under-specification due to excess degrees of freedom and path multiplicity, constraint satisfaction, and error correction. There are no current motor-control computational models that address these issues in the context of realistic arm movement with redundant degrees of freedom. In this paper, we conjecture there is a geometric stage between sensory input and physical execution. The geometric stage determines movement trajectories independently of forces. It uses a gradient technique that relies on the metric of the space of postures to resolve endpoint path selection, posture-change specification, error correction, and multiple constraint satisfaction on-line without preplanning. The model is instantiated in an arm with seven degrees of freedom that moves in three-dimensional space. Simulated orientation-matching movements are compared with actual human movement data to assess the validity of several of the model's behavioral predictions.
Bird extinctions in the central Pacific

The first wave of human colonists spread across the Pacific from 4000 to 1000 years ago. That they caused many extinctions is well known from fossil finds. We estimate how many fossil species were missed - the answer is roughly half - and so estimate the true extinction rate. The first colonists exterminated roughly half the species on each island group. Some of these extinctions are falsely attributed to the first colonists, because intensive collection often began a half century after the damage initiated by European discovery. Even taken at face value, these recent extinctions are too few. Many species are so critically endangered that we know neither whether they still survive or how to save them. Interestingly, there are fewer recent extinctions and currently endangered species in the islands of the western Pacific, which were the islands occupied first by humans. We suggest that the species sensitive to human occupation died out long ago in these areas. If so, these islands would have lost even more than half of their bird species.
The social and nutritional meaning of food sharing among older rural adults

Abstract In most societies, the gift of food conveys social meaning, as well as nutritional sustenance. While food sharing has been widely noted, there has been little focused study of this practice among older adults in the US, who, as a group, are considered nutritionally vulnerable. We completed in-depth interviews with 145 adults (African American, European American, and Native American) aged 70+ years in rural North Carolina. Our objectives are (1) to describe the types of food shared by gender and ethnicity, (2) to identify values and meaning elders associate with giving and receiving food, and (3) to discuss the nutritional and social contribution food sharing makes to the lives of these rural elders. All elders participated in food sharing, as givers, recipients, or both. It is valued by these elders as a way to maintain reciprocity in social relations and to create a feeling of community membership. For older adults, receiving food gifts may augment a diet limited by income and functional status.
Four Year Outcome of 23-24 Week Gestation Babies Treated Aggressively ♦ 155

In 1991-2, ten babies were born at our center at 23-24 completed weeks of gestation who required at least one (and a median of two) of four interventions that we define as aggressive. All ten families chose full support both before and after birth, so this group's outcome is not biased by limited support. Only one of these ten babies died, despite their extreme prematurity and need for aggressive support. The four aggressive interventions used for the nine survivors were c-section for fetal indications (n=5), cardiopulmonary resuscitation at birth (n=2), high frequency ventilation(n=4), and extreme pressor support (n=6). Extreme pressor support consisted of 20 mcg/kg/minute of dopamine plus either norepinephrine or additional dopamine to keep the mean blood pressure above 25-30 torr.
Reflux drying of aerosols.

The goal of our efforts has been to generate high aerosolized drug concentrations, so that the entire inhaled dose may be delivered to the animal in a relatively short time interval, typically one minute or less. In this report, we have examined the use of a reflux condenser coupled with an external heat source as a means to dry aerosol particles. The specific interest was to examine the parameters influencing the drying process and identify practical experimental conditions that would allow drying of aerosol particles. Aqueous solutions of cesium chloride were atomized with an ultrasonic driver, and the resulting cloud was subsequently passed through an externally heated column with an inner condenser cooled with flowing water. Increasing the airflow rate increased the output of total mass(water + CsCl) but decreased the particle transit efficiency. At a constant airflow rate, decreasing the wall-to-condenser temperature ratio led to a progressive increase in particle loss, but a maximum was observed in ...
miR-200a Regulates SIRT1 Expression and Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)-like Transformation in Mammary Epithelial Cells

Evidence supports a critical role for microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulation of tissue-specific differentiation and development. Signifying a disruption of these programs, expression profiling has revealed extensive miRNA dysregulation in tumors compared with healthy tissue. The miR-200 family has been established as a key regulator of epithelial phenotype and, as such, is deeply involved in epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) processes in breast cancer. However, the effects of the miR-200 family on transformation of normal mammary epithelial cells have yet to be fully characterized. By examining a TGF-β driven model of transformation of normal mammary epithelium, we demonstrate that the class III histone deacetylase silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), a proposed oncogene in breast cancer, is overexpressed upon EMT-like transformation and that epigenetic silencing of miR-200a contributes at least in part to the overexpression of SIRT1. We have established the SIRT1 transcript as subject to regulation by miR-200a, through miR-200a targeting of SIRT1 3′-UTR. We also observed SIRT1 and miR-200a participation in a negative feedback regulatory loop. Restoration of miR-200a or the knockdown of SIRT1 prevented transformation of normal mammary epithelial cells evidenced by decreased anchorage-independent growth and decreased cell migration. Finally, we observed SIRT1 overexpression in association with decreased miR-200a in breast cancer patient samples. These observations provide further evidence for a critical tumor suppressive role of the miR-200 family in breast epithelium in addition to identifying a novel regulatory mechanism, which may contribute to SIRT1 up-regulation in breast cancer.
Aspects of Abuse: Consequences of Childhood Victimization

Childhood maltreatment is unfortunately a common occurrence in the United States, affecting 1 in 8 children annually. 1 The consequences of maltreatment can be considerable, and exact a heavy toll on the individual, family, and society. Child abuse and neglect can cause permanent, heritable changes in the body׳s response to stress, which in turn inflicts profound changes in the developing brain. While these changes allow a child to contend with a neglectful, chaotic, or possibly violent environment, they strongly influence an individual׳s behavioral, educational, physical, and mental functioning and well-being throughout his/her lifetime, long after the maltreatment has ended. As the adverse childhood experiences (ACE) studies clearly demonstrate, adult survivors of maltreatment experience significant health harms that can cause significant morbidity and contribute to early death. Further, the lifetime economic cost to society of childhood maltreatment is estimated to be $124 billion dollars. 2 The study of resilient individuals who appear to suffer fewer negative consequences of their maltreatment offers insights into possible interventions for clinical practice as well as advocacy and public policy opportunities that would begin to lessen the significant burdens of childhood maltreatment.