cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A New Species of Nectar-Feeding Bat of the Genus Hsunycteris (Phyllostomidae: Lonchophyllinae) from Northeastern Peru

ABSTRACT A new species of the nectarivorous bat genus Hsunycteris is described from lowland Amazonian forest in northeastern Peru. The new species, H. dashe, can be distinguished from other congeners by its larger size; V-shaped array of dermal chin papillae separated by a wide basal cleft; metacarpal V longer than metacarpal IV; broad rostrum; lateral margin of infraorbital foramen not projecting beyond rostral outline in dorsal view; well-developed sphenoidal crest; large outer upper incisors; weakly developed lingual cusp on P5; and well-developed, labially oriented M1 parastyle. A phylogenetic analysis of cytochrome-b sequence data indicates that H. dashe is sister to a clade that includes all other species of the genus including H. cadenai, H pattoni, and a paraphyletic H. thomasi. We provide a key based on craniodental and external characters of all four known species of Hsunycteris.
The SPACE 1.0 model: a Landlab component for 2-D calculation of sediment transport, bedrock erosion, and landscape evolution

Abstract. Models of landscape evolution by river erosion are often either transport-limited (sediment is always available but may or may not be transportable) or detachment-limited (sediment must be detached from the bed but is then always transportable). While several models incorporate elements of, or transition between, transport-limited and detachment-limited behavior, most require that either sediment or bedrock, but not both, are eroded at any given time. Modeling landscape evolution over large spatial and temporal scales requires a model that can (1) transition freely between transport-limited and detachment-limited behavior, (2) simultaneously treat sediment transport and bedrock erosion, and (3) run in 2-D over large grids and be coupled with other surface process models. We present SPACE (stream power with alluvium conservation and entrainment) 1.0, a new model for simultaneous evolution of an alluvium layer and a bedrock bed based on conservation of sediment mass both on the bed and in the water column. The model treats sediment transport and bedrock erosion simultaneously, embracing the reality that many rivers (even those commonly defined as bedrock rivers) flow over a partially alluviated bed. SPACE improves on previous models of bedrock–alluvial rivers by explicitly calculating sediment erosion and deposition rather than relying on a flux-divergence (Exner) approach. The SPACE model is a component of the Landlab modeling toolkit, a Python-language library used to create models of Earth surface processes. Landlab allows efficient coupling between the SPACE model and components simulating basin hydrology, hillslope evolution, weathering, lithospheric flexure, and other surface processes. Here, we first derive the governing equations of the SPACE model from existing sediment transport and bedrock erosion formulations and explore the behavior of local analytical solutions for sediment flux and alluvium thickness. We derive steady-state analytical solutions for channel slope, alluvium thickness, and sediment flux, and show that SPACE matches predicted behavior in detachment-limited, transport-limited, and mixed conditions. We provide an example of landscape evolution modeling in which SPACE is coupled with hillslope diffusion, and demonstrate that SPACE provides an effective framework for simultaneously modeling 2-D sediment transport and bedrock erosion.
Efficacy of the Autoimmune Protocol Diet for Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Introduction:Data suggest dietary modification can improve clinical responses in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The goal of this study was to determine the efficacy of an autoimmune protocol diet in patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.Methods:We enrolled adults with active IBD (H
Teaching Neuro Images : Rare cause of Horner syndrome in Loeys-Dietz syndrome.

A 36-year-old woman with Loeys-Dietz syndrome presented with left eye ptosis, anisocoria, and shoulder pain. The diagnosis of left-sided Horner syndrome was made (figure 1). The patient had a known left subclavian artery aneurysm with percutaneous stent graft placement. CT angiography revealed a large left subclavian aneurysm sac, consistent with endoleak type I (figure 2). Horner syndrome and shoulder pain improved following common carotid to axillary artery bypass in addition to thoracic endovascular aortic repair surgery.
Mid-Cervical Kyphosis Surgery Complication

Degenerative cervical kyphosis is a progressive disease that can result in neck pain, myeloradiculopathy, and loss of horizontal gaze. In significantly symptomatic cases, surgical intervention consisting of either anterior, posterior, or circumferential decompression and fusion has shown to improve symptoms. In this chapter, a case of mid-cervical degenerative kyphosis treated with corpectomy and posterior fusion surgery is presented. This case was complicated by postoperative delayed C5 palsy. The etiology, presentation, treatment, and outcomes of C5 palsies will be discussed.
Sensory Testing in Exodeviations

(1992). Sensory Testing in Exodeviations. American Orthoptic Journal: Vol. 42, No. 1, pp. 43-45.
Song and Silence at the Gallows: Cultural Representations of Violence, Region, and Race in State v. McTaggart Slaves and State v. Frances Silver:

This article analyzes cultural representations of two 19th century North Carolina cases, State v. McTaggart Slaves and State v. Frances Silver. Cultural memory of Silver thrives in Appalachian Nort...
Molecular dynamics simulation of the aqueous solvation of sugars.

Recently, several molecular dynamics simulations of the aqueous solvation of carbohydrates have been reported. These studies represent the first theoretical picture available of the microscopic character of sugar solutions, and may provide explanations of the unusual and complex behavior of this class of molecules in solution. This paper will discuss two MD simulations of D-glucopyranose, including a free energy perturbation calculation of the anomeric free energy difference. Solvation was found to have little effect upon the mean conformational structure of the pyranoid rings, but the presence of solvent significantly affected the motions and orientations of the exocyclic groups. Adjacent functional groups of the sugar rings were found to mutually perturb one another’s hydration, depending upon the local stereochemistry, which may prove to play a part in the observed anomeric preferences of the sugars. From a component analysis of the free energy of solvation of the two anomers of D-glucopyranose, it was found that a large solvation term favors the beta anomer, which is the form found to be preferred in aqueous solution.
Middle School Students' Empathy with the Environment throughout a Critical Place-Based Art Program

The ecological imagination calls for a new mode of education: education that embraces the arts as a way to conceive of new ecological perspectives, other ways of being in relation to the earth, better ecological alternatives, and new dialogues about our role in the world. Through a critical place-based art pedagogy, education can become a means of awakening the ecological imagination—opening the world to new possibilities, new critiques, and, most importantly, new acts. Empathy is especially appropriate to study as an outcome of a critical place-based art program because of its ability to facilitate connections and its close ties with aesthetic experience. Thus, the purpose of this ongoing mixed methods case study is to examine how middle school students in a critical place-based art program experience empathy with the environment. Operating in the pragmatic paradigm, the study asks the following questions: How do middle school students experience empathy with the environment throughout a critical place-based art program? How does participation in a place-based art education program affect students’ pro-environmental orientations (ecological paradigm)? Which aspects of a place-based art education program, if any, contribute to students’ empathy with the environment? Why? Drawing exercises, interviews, surveys, reviews of visual/verbal journals, observations, and focus groups will be used to answer these questions. This study is especially relevant for art educators and administrators seeking to develop programs that are relevant to students and capable of producing empathetic, ecologically-minded, active citizens who are capable of working toward social and ecological change in their communities.
Characterization of α3 Glycine Receptors with Ginkgolide B and Picrotoxin

Abstract Ginkgolide B (GB) and picrotoxin (PTX) are antagonists of the major inhibitory receptors of the central nervous system: GABA and glycine receptors (GlyRs). GlyRs contain one or more of the four alpha subunit isoforms of which α1 and α2 have been extensively studied. This report compares GB and PTX block of α3 GlyRs expressed in HEK 293 cells, using whole-cell patch clamp techniques. In CNS, α3 exists as a heteropentamer in conjunction with beta subunits in a 2α:3β ratio. Thus, the nature of block was also tested in α3β heteromeric glycine receptors. GB and PTX blocked α3 GlyRs both in the presence (liganded state) and absence of glycine (unliganded state). This property is unique to α3 subunits; α1 and α2 subunits are only blocked in the liganded state. The GB block of α3 GlyRs is voltage-dependent (more effective when the cell is depolarized) and non-competitive, while the PTX block is competitive and not voltage-dependent. The heteromeric and homomeric α3 GlyRs recovered significantly faster from unliganded GB block compared to liganded GB block, but no such distinction was found for PTX block suggesting more than one binding site for GB. This study sheds light on features of the α3 GlyR that distinguish it from the more widely studied α1 and α2 subunits. Understanding these properties can help decipher the physiological functioning of GlyRs in the CNS and may permit development of subunit specific drugs.
Eyelid Trauma: Principles of Management and Repair

Eyelid trauma is commonly encountered by ophthalmologists and spans a spectrum from easily managed abrasions to complex injuries that involve the deeper orbital tissue and globe. This chapter reviews the epidemiology, evaluation, and management of eyelid trauma, focusing on eyelid lacerations. It includes information about the identification and treatment of periorbital foreign bodies. It details instructions for laceration repair, both simple and complex, such as margin-involving and levator complex-involving lacerations. This chapter also addresses key components of the acute management of eyelid burns. Of note, canalicular trauma and injuries involving the lateral canthal tendon are not discussed in this chapter as they are addressed in other chapters. In summary, this chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the assessment and management of non-canalicular eyelid trauma.
Kiyutin : Protecting the Human Rights of Persons Living with HIV/AIDS Beyond Immigration

People living with HIV/AIDS face many difficulties. After the European Court of Human Rights’ decision in Kiyutin v. Russia, these difficulties may be fewer. Viktor Kiyutin brought his case before the court after Russia denied him a residence permit because he was HIV-positive. Although very few countries still have travel restrictions or immigration bans discriminating against people with HIV/AIDS, the court’s holding sets an important precedent. In making its decision on the basis of the anti-discrimination provision of Article 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights, the court has now brought health status within the protection of the Convention, thus prohibiting differential treatment on account of an individual’s health.
YY1 lo NKT cells are dedicated IL-10 producers

Co-expression of Yin Yang 1 (YY1) is required for the full function of the transcription factor, PLZF, which is essential for the development of natural killer T cell (NKT cell) effector functions. Discordant expression of YY1 and PLZF, therefore, might define NKT cell subsets with distinct effector functions. A subset of NKT cells was identified that expressed low levels of YY1. YY1lo NKT cells were found in all tissues, had a mature phenotype and, distinct from other NKT cells, expressed almost no ThPOK or Tbet. When activated, YY1lo NKT cells produced little IL-4 or IFN-γ. YY1lo NKT cells were found to constitutively transcribe IL-10 mRNA and, accordingly, produced IL-10 upon primary activation. Finally, we find that tumor infiltrating NKT cells are highly enriched for the YY1lo subset. Low YY1 expression, therefore, defines a previously unrecognized NKT cell subset that is committed to producing IL-10.
Awe and Stereotypes: Examining Awe as an Intervention against Stereotypical Media Portrayals of African Americans

Previous research has shown the harmful effects of stereotypical messages on viewers, including increased negative attitudes toward outgroup members. In contrast, positive or counter-stereotypical ...
High-altitude adaptation in rhesus macaques

When natural populations split and migrate to different environments, they may experience different selection pressures that can lead to local adaptation. For aerobic life, the low atmospheric oxygen content of high altitude living presents a special challenge and a strong selection pressure. Searching for evidence of adaptation to high altitude, we compare the whole genomes of 23 wild rhesus macaques captured at high altitude (mean altitude > 4000m above sea level) to 22 wild rhesus macaques captured at low altitude (mean altitude < 500m above sea level). To capture the genomic patterns of a positive selective sweep, we develop XP-nSL, a haplotype-based genomic scan for differential local adaptation with power to detect ongoing and recently completed hard and soft sweeps. We find evidence of local adaptation in the high-altitude population at or near 303 known genes and several unannotated regions. We find the strongest signal for adaptation at EGLN1, a classic target for convergent evolution in several species living in low oxygen environments. Furthermore, many of the 303 genes are involved in processes related to hypoxia, regulation of ROS, DNA damage repair, synaptic signaling, and metabolism. These results suggest that, beyond adapting via a beneficial mutation in one single gene, adaptation to high altitude in rhesus macaques is polygenic and spread across numerous important biological systems. Impact SummaryExtreme environments pose a challenge to life on multiple fronts. Very high-altitude environments are one such example, with low atmospheric oxygen, increased ultraviolet light exposure, harsh temperatures, and reduced nutrition availability. In spite of these challenges, many plants and animals, including humans, have genetically adapted to cope with these hardships. Here we study a population of rhesus macaques living at high altitude and compare their genomic patterns with those of a population living much closer to sea level, searching for evidence of genetic changes that are indicative of adaptation to their environment. When positive selection is ongoing or a beneficial mutation has recently fixed in a population, genetic diversity is reduced in the vicinity of the adaptive allele, and we expect to observe long homozygous haplotypes at high frequency. Here we develop a statistic that summarizes these expected patterns and compares between two populations in order to search for evidence of adaptation that may have occurred in one but not the other. We implement this statistic in a popular and easy-to-use software package. We find evidence for adaptation at a critical gene that helps control physiological response to low-oxygen, one that has been the target of repeated convergent evolution across many species. We also find evidence for positive selection across a range of traits, including metabolic and neurological. This work helps to explain the evolutionary history of the rhesus macaque and furthers our understanding about the ways organisms genetically adapt to high altitude environments.
Elastomeric respirators are safer and more sustainable alternatives to disposable N95 masks during the coronavirus outbreak

In this paper, the authors review the safety and practicality of elastomeric respirators for protecting themselves and others from the novel coronavirus or COVID-19. They also describe the safe donning and doffing procedures for this protective gear. Due to the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), the CDC has recommended ways to conserve disposable N95 masks, including re-use and extended use, and reserving N95 masks for aerosol-generating procedures. However, these were never made to be re-used. Although the modes of transmission of COVID-19 are not fully understood, based on what we know about severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), droplets and aerosolized droplets contribute to the spread of this virus. More evidence from Wuhan, China, has demonstrated that COVID-19 viral particles are aerosolized and found in higher concentrations in rooms where PPE is being removed. Thus, it is best for all healthcare providers to have full aerosol protection. Given the shortage of PPE for aerosols, it is logical to utilize reusable elastomeric respirators with filter efficiency of 95% or higher. A single elastomeric respirator may replace hundreds to thousands of new disposable N95 masks.
Autonomous Modification of Unstructured Environments with Found Material

The ability to autonomously modify their environment dramatically increases the capability of robots to operate in unstructured environments. We develop a specialized construction algorithm and robotic system that can autonomously build motion support structures with previously unseen objects. The approach is based on our prior work on adaptive ramp building algorithms, but it eliminates the assumption of having specialized building materials that simplify manipulation and planning for stability. Utilizing irregularly shaped stones makes the problem significantly more challenging since the outcome of individual placements is sensitive to details of contact geometry and friction, which are difficult to observe. To reuse the same high-level algorithm, we develop a new physics-based planner that explicitly considers the uncertainty produced by incomplete in-situ sensing and imprecision during pickup and placement. We demonstrate the approach on a robotic system that uses a newly developed gripper to reliably pick up stones with minimal additional sensors or complex grasp planning. The resulting system can build structures with more than 70 stones, which in turn provide traversable paths to previously inaccessible locations.
Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy 6 Months After Rectal Spacer Hydrogel Injection.

Background: SpaceOAR (organ at risk) hydrogel is a hydrogel matrix injected into the perirectal space posterior to the prostate for the purpose of mitigating radiation dose (and hence side effects ...
Validating Survey Tools Without Geographical Bias: The Delphi Process Modified for Your Needs

Background: Developing a useful and effective survey tool can be difficult. Developing a valid survey tool that can be utilized without geographical bias can present even more challenges. Can the Delphi Process of anonymous group consensus be utilized to develop a survey tool that does not possess geographical bias? Methods: IRB approval was granted before any research began. The Delphi Process can be utilized to allow all participants equal voice in the creation process. The members of the Delphi panel should consist of experts in the field for which the Delphi was convened. Through anonymous feedback the end product or tool of the Delphi process is considered to possess validity and reliability. A survey tool was developed and then distributed to the stakeholders. The stakeholders then provided feedback and face validity was obtained. An invitation was then sent to the state representative of the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) inquiring if they would agree to participate in a survey validation process. The NASN was chosen as they were considered the experts on the topics of this survey. In addition, efforts were made to have equal representation from all sections of United States. The participants were asked to evaluate each question on question clarity, comprehensiveness, and ease of answering. A Likert scale of 0 to 3 was utilized to rate the approval rating of the question as well as a comment box for feed back. As a question received 75% approval, it was then removed from the evaluation process and considered approved by the committee. Results: Over the course of 4 rounds, all questions received approval. Questions were modified based upon feedback of the Delphi Panel and then resubmitted for approval. The resultant survey received approval by the Delphi members and was considered to possess reliability and validity. Conclusions: As a result of this study, a research tool can be utilized to create a tool that does not possess geographical bias. This process was used to develop and validate a survey. This same process could also be utilized to develop other tools and/or processes. Disclosures: None.
Correlation between dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion MRI and genomic alterations in glioblastoma

To determine if dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion MR imaging (DSC-pMRI) can predict significant genomic alterations in glioblastoma (GB). A total of 47 patients with treatment-naive GB (M/F: 23/24, mean age: 54 years, age range: 20–90 years) having DSC-pMRI with leakage correction and genomic analysis were reviewed. Mean relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV), maximum rCBV, relative percent signal recovery (rPSR), and relative peak height (rPH) were derived from T2* signal intensity-time curves by ROI analysis. Major genomic alterations of IDH1-132H, MGMT, p53, EGFR, ATRX, and PTEN status were correlated with DSC-pMRI-derived GB parameters. Statistical analysis was performed utilizing the independent-samples t-test, ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve analysis, and multivariable stepwise regression model. rCBVmean and rCBVmax were significantly different in relation to the IDH1, MGMT, p53, and PTEN mutation status (all p < 0.05). The rPH of the p53 mutation-positive GBs (mean 5.8 ± 2.8) was significantly higher than those of the p53 mutation-negative GBs (mean 4.0 ± 1.5) (p = 0.022). Multivariable stepwise regression analysis revealed that the presence of IDH-1 mutation (B = − 2.81, p = 0.005) was associated with decreased rCBVmean; PTEN mutation (B = − 1.21, p = 0.003) and MGMT methylation (B = − 1.47, p = 0.038) were associated with decreased rCBVmax; and ATRX loss (B = − 1.05, p = 0.008) was associated with decreased rPH. Significant associations were identified between DSC-pMRI-derived parameters and major genomic alterations, including IDH-1 mutation, MGMT methylation, ATRX loss, and PTEN mutation status in GB.
Disparities in Kidney Stone Disease: A Scoping Review.

Purpose:We reviewed the available evidence regarding health disparities in kidney stone disease to identify knowledge gaps in this area.Materials and Methods:A literature search was conducted using...
Availability of Cost-effectiveness Studies for Drugs With High Medicare Part D Expenditures

Importance Prescription drug spending in the US requires policy intervention to control costs and improve the value obtained from pharmaceutical spending. One such intervention is to apply cost-effectiveness evidence to decisions regarding drug coverage and pricing, but this intervention depends on the existence of such evidence to guide decisions. Objective To characterize the availability and quality of cost-effectiveness studies for prescription drugs with the greatest Medicare Part D spending. Design, setting, and participants In this national cross-sectional analysis, publicly available 2016 Medicare drug spending records were merged with 2016 US Food & Drug Administration Orange Book data and the Tufts Medical Center Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (CEA) Registry. All studies published through 2015 that evaluated the cost-effectiveness of the 250 drugs for which Medicare Part D spending was the greatest in US-based adult patient populations were included. Data were analyzed from September 2018 to June 2020. Main outcomes and measures The presence and quality of published cost-effectiveness analyses for the 250 drugs for which Medicare Part D spending was greatest in 2016 were assessed based on the inclusion of key cost-effectiveness analysis elements and global ratings by independent reviewers for the Tufts CEA Registry. Results Medicare Part D spending on the 250 drugs in the sample totaled $122.8 billion in 2016 (84.1% of total spending). Of these 250 drugs, 91 (36.4%) had a generic equivalent and 159 (63.6%) retained some patent exclusivity. There were 280 unique cost-effectiveness analyses for these drugs, representing data on 135 (54.0%) of the 250 drugs included and 67.0% of Part D spending on the top 250 drugs. The 115 drugs (46.0%) without cost-effectiveness studies accounted for 33.0% of Part D spending on the top 250 drugs. Of the 280 available studies, 128 (45.7%) were industry sponsored. A large proportion of the studies (250 [89.3%]) did not meet the minimum quality requirements. Conclusions and relevance In this cross-sectional study, a substantial proportion of 2016 Medicare Part D spending was for drugs with absent or low-quality cost-effectiveness analyses. The lack of quality analyses may present a challenge in efforts to develop policies addressing drug spending in terms of value.
Effects of Racial Trauma on Black Doctor of Pharmacy Students.

Objective. In the wake of several high-profile police killings, in 2020 the United States began another reckoning with structural racism, injustice, and violence against Black Americans. The objectives of this study were to explore the impact of racialized sociopolitical events on Black Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) students. Methods. Focus groups were conducted with second- to fourth-year Black PharmD students enrolled at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy. The focus groups were conducted in summer 2020, beginning two months after the murder of George Floyd and concluding before the start of the fall semester. Data analysis was conducted using a phenomenological approach, and themes were identified using inductive coding. Results. Twenty-four participants were recruited into five focus group sessions. Thematic analysis of the transcripts resulted in three distinct themes related to the study objectives: Vicarious Trauma, Hypervigilance, and Fight or Flight Responses. Black students reported that they experienced significant psychological distress as a result of prominent racially traumatic events. Some Black students reported withdrawing from non-Black persons due to hypersensitivity and anxiety while others were willing to engage in candid conversations. Conclusion. Racial trauma has implications for student wellness and academic success. As racism and police brutality have proven to be an ever-present problem, this study offers key information for consideration as institutions recruit, support, and retain diverse learners. The data may also inform educators and pharmacy students regarding interactions with Black patients, coworkers, and health professionals during times of sociopolitical unrest.
HERG1 channelopathies

Human ether a go-go-related gene type 1 (hERG1) K+ channels conduct the rapid delayed rectifier K+ current and mediate action potential repolarization in the heart. Mutations in KCNH2 (the gene that encodes hERG1) causes LQT2, one of the most common forms of long QT syndrome, a disorder of cardiac repolarization that predisposes affected subjects to ventricular arrhythmia and increases the risk of sudden cardiac death. Hundreds of LQT2-associated mutations have been described, and most cause a loss of function by disrupting subunit folding, assembly, or trafficking of the channel to the cell surface. Loss-of-function mutations in hERG1 channels have also recently been implicated in epilepsy. A single gain-of-function mutation has been described that causes short QT syndrome and cardiac arrhythmia. In addition, up-regulation of hERG1 channel expression has been demonstrated in specific tumors and has been associated with skeletal muscle atrophy in mice.
Using Genetics to Identify Hereditary Colorectal Polyposis and Cancer Syndromes in Your Patient

The majority of patients with colorectal polyps and cancer do not have a Mendelian cause of the disease. Age, lifestyle, and environmental factors interact with complex genetic traits to contribute to the etiology. However, approximately 5-10 % of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and more than 40 % of patients meeting specific clinical features of the hereditary polyposis syndromes have a discoverable, actionable genetic cause which will significantly alter their medical management.
Referred oral facial pain from brain abscess. Report of a case.

Abstract A girl of 4 years 11 months with congenital cardiovascular disease, who complained of oral facial pain, was found to have a parietal-occipital brain abscess. The child was free of odontogenic or other oral disease which might have caused the pain symptoms.
Genetic Location of Two Mutations Affecting the Lysyl-Transfer Ribonucleic Acid Synthetase of Bacillus subtilis

Two mutations (lysS1 and lysS2), each independently resulting in a thermosensitive, lysyl-transfer RNA synthetase (l-lysine: tRNA ligase [adenosine 5'-monophosphate] EC 6.1.1.6), have been mapped on the Bacillus subtilis chromosome between purA16 (adenine requirement) and sul (sulfanilamide resistance). They are linked by transformation with sul (70 to 74% cotransfer) in the order purA16-lysS1-lysS2-sul. The mutant loci are either in the same gene or in two closely linked genes. They are not linked to the tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase structural gene or to the lys-1 locus.
Primary alcohol sulfatase in a Pseudomonas species.

An ammonium sulfate-precipitated fraction from cell-free extracts of Pseudomonas C12B grown on a medium containing sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) contained alkyl sulfatase increased fourfold in specific activity over the crude. Optimal pH (7.5) and temperature (70 C) for sulfate release were determined with SDS labeled with radioactive sulfur (SDS35) as test substrate. Phosphate, arsenate, and certain heavy metal ions inhibited desulfation, whereas Mg++ and Mn++ stimulated activity of preparations which had been dialyzed against ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. Dodecanol was recovered in semiquantitative yield from reaction mixtures containing enzyme and SDS35. Aryl sulfates, secondary alcohol sulfates, and a phenoxyethyl sulfate failed to serve as substrate for this enzyme.
Exploring the formation and evolution of plasma in single exploding wire experiments

Summary form only given, as follows. An exploding single wire experiment was performed using a /spl sim/250 ns pulser with a rise time of /spl sim/20 A/ns. It was found that wires first experienced a resistive heating phase that lasted for 50-80 ns before a rapid collapse of voltage. From that point on, the voltage across the wire and plasma was negligible while the current continued to increase. Previous experiments will be presented that show the existence of plasma extending to 200 /spl mu/m from the wire core at the time of voltage collapse. New spectral data will be presented that indicates whether this initial plasma is composed of surface contaminants or metal. Also, a special wire holder was constructed that allowed the transfer of current from the wire to surrounding plasma to be observed. The effects of radial electric fields on the plasma will also be examined.
Experimental pulsed plasma thruster for code evaluation

Summary form only given. UTSI has an on-going project to develop advanced computational codes that can predict the detailed behavior and performance of high power plasma thrusters for possible applications in nuclear electric propulsion systems, such as envisioned in Project Prometheus. We have modified the MHD code, MACH2, to perform initial design studies for a small-scale laboratory experiment that can be used for code evaluation. The thruster has been fabricated and installed in a vacuum chamber fabricated from stainless steel tubing and plate. The plasma discharges through a section of vacuum chamber with flat quartz windows that will be used for interferometric, photographic, and spectroscopic measurements. Initial high speed photography has documented a successful firing of the thruster. Diagnostics to obtain electron number density downstream of the exit plane estimates exhaust velocity are planned. Details of the modeling effort and available experimental results is presented.
Biomaterials: Redox and adhesion on the rocks

Man-made adhesives cannot match the ability of a marine mussel to affix itself to a wet rock. New insights help to describe the protein-surface bonding central to this feat of biological materials engineering.
Epidural steroids: Do they have a place in pain management?

Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are an historical therapy, the use of which is now understood to be related to the need for steroids to diminish the inflammatory reaction in nerve roots precipitated by PLA-2 spilled from the nucleus pulposus. Patients who receive ESIs should be actively chosen for such therapy after the distillation of historical, physical examination, and laboratory data suggest that nerve root irritation is causative or at least contributory. Many physical and nonphysical factors influence the selection of patients. Animal research models have established the tissue safety of ESIs, and clinical reports document the utility of the intervention when it is used as a component of an integrated therapeutic program. Responsive medical follow-up examinations are crucial to the safe application of ESIs and to guide the use of additional treatment options when indicated.
Use of cloze and contrast word procedures in repeated storybook reading: targeting multiple domains.

Abstract The purposes of this study were: (1) to implement an intervention approach for children with language and phonological impairments, targeting multiple linguistic domains within a unitary activity, and (2) to investigate whether any observed changes in selected outcome measures were associated with particular scaffolding procedures. The intervention approach employed a variety of scaffolding procedures (cloze procedures; cloze procedures with expansions; contrast words) within an interactive repeated storybook reading activity. It was delivered across 12 sessions to three kindergarten children with language and phonological impairments. Pre-treatment and post-treatment probes, together with treatment data, provided indices of the semantic and phonological complexity of the participants’ utterances. Changes in complexity levels were observed in all participants. Associations between increases in outcome measures and use of particular scaffolding techniques were identified. Learning outcomes (1) The reader will learn a rationale for use of cloze procedures, cloze procedures with expansions, and contrast words during repeated storybook reading as an intervention for some children with both language and phonological disorders. (2) The reader will learn how to implement cloze procedures, cloze procedures with expansions, and contrast words during repeated storybook reading. (3) The reader will learn how various outcome measures (e.g., level of semantic complexity) may be used to track change in performance over time.
Effects of calorie restriction and ω-3 dietary fat on aging in short-and long-lived rodents.

Aging is accompanied by a steady increase in the incidence of spontaneous tumors and a decline in immune function. Calorie restriction (CR) or supplementation with ω-3 fats prolongs life span, suppresses tumorigenesis, and ameliorates immune function in a variety of experimental models. We suggest that decreased oxidant stress and upregulation of apoptosis mediate the effects of calorie restriction on immunity and longevity. CR prolongs life span in several animal models and our studies have examined the effects of CR on the immune system and on tumorigenesis. CR maintains naive T cells, prevents the rise in “double-negative” T cells, maintains lymphocyte responsiveness to mitogens, and preserves Dexamethasone induced apoptosis in spleen cells of MRL/Ipr mice. CR also modulates the expression of inflammatory mediators and cytokines. CR decreases the Sjogren’s syndrome-like chronic inflammation of salivary glands of B/W animals while increasing expression of the immunosuppressive cytokine TGFβ1 and decreasing expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNFα. The autoimmune disease in the B/W mouse also affects the kidneys, and we find that renal expression of platelet derived growth factor-A, (PDGF-A) and thrombin receptor are decreased in CR animals. Similarly, CR decreases the expression and localization of plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 in glomeruli of B/W animals. CR also modulates expression and function of androgen receptors and the binding of insulin to liver nuclei. Finally, CR suppresses the development of breast tumors in the Ras oncomouse. These effects of calorie restriction are paralleled in short-lived B/W animals fed diets supplemented with ω-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids induce the expression of hepatic antioxidant enzymes, and enhance apoptosis in lymphocytes of B/W animals.
CT-Guided Transfemoral Portocaval Shunt Creation

A patient with superior vena cava (SVC) occlusion presented with severe ascites and urgent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was requested. The patient had a chronically occluded SVC. An alternative to classic TIPS was employed using CT guidance to traverse the left portal vein to the inferior vena cava with a small gauge needle. Fluoroscopic guidance was then used to snare a wire placed through the needle and then work from the femoral vein to create a portocaval shunt that passed through the caudate lobe. This procedure was a technical success and improved the patient's ascites.
Metabolic oxidation regulates embryonic stem cell differentiation

Metabolites offer an important unexplored complementary approach to understanding the pluripotency of stem cells. Using MS-based metabolomics, we show that embryonic stem cells are characterized by abundant metabolites with highly unsaturated structures whose levels decrease upon differentiation. By monitoring the reduced and oxidized glutathione ratio as well as ascorbic acid levels, we demonstrate that the stem cell redox status is regulated during differentiation. On the basis of the oxidative biochemistry of the unsaturated metabolites, we experimentally manipulated specific pathways in embryonic stem cells while monitoring the effects on differentiation. Inhibition of the eicosanoid signaling pathway promoted pluripotency and maintained levels of unsaturated fatty acids. In contrast, downstream oxidized metabolites (for example, neuroprotectin D1) and substrates of pro-oxidative reactions (for example, acyl-carnitines), promoted neuronal and cardiac differentiation. We postulate that the highly unsaturated metabolome sustained by stem cells allows them to differentiate in response to in vivo oxidative processes such as inflammation.
Frequency Dependent Charge-Pumping, How deep does it probe?

Frequency dependent charge pumping measurement has become an important tool for high-k dielectric reliability investigation. The interpretation of how deep the technique probes has become a controversy with important implication on the reliability of the high-k gate dielectric. The paper examines this problem experimentally and theoretically in this paper. Charge pumping experiment has been carried out to beyond 1GHz for the first time, providing evidence that neither of the existing models is correct. The paper proposes a new theoretical model that is consistent with the new data
Effect of temporal locus of a recitation attempt on learning and retention

In three experiments, analyses of individual-subject data show that temporal point of interruption for a practice recitation of a serial list affected neither the ultimate amount of time needed to master that list nor the amount of time needed for remastery 24 h later. Learning and relearning were by the unpaced whole-presentation method, with scheduled test interruptions at different stages of original learning.
Lossless image compression using adjustable fractional line-buffer

Video frame memory compression has gained increased popularity in video processing ICs to save external memory storage size and reduce memory access bandwidth. This technique is especially important in portable devices where efficient use of energy is critical for the deployment of video applications. In this paper, we propose a low-complexity lossless image compression method that uses only a fraction of one line-buffer. The proposed method first employs integer wavelet transform (IWT), and then low-frequency coefficients prediction of each segment based on those from the segment in the line above, and last Golomb-Rice (GR) encoding to achieve low-cost and highly efficient compression. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method gives a compression ratio comparable with the existing state-of-the-art low-complexity methods while significantly lowering the internal memory cost and keeping the complexity low.
Rapid estimation of ploidy levels in in vitro-regenerated interspecific Arachis hybrids and fertile triploids

A significant correlation among chromosome number, chloroplast number and pollen grain size was observed using interspecific hybrids (2n=30,60), Arachis hypogaea (2n=40), A. stenosperma (PI 338280) (2n=20), A. batizocoi (PI 468329) (2n=20) and A. villosulicarpa Hoehne (PI 336984) (2n=20), representing four ploidy groups. Both chloroplast number in guard cells and pollen grain size were found to be positively correlated with ploidy, and provided a reliable method to distinguish diploid, triploid, tetraploid and hexaploid plants from each other regardless of their taxonomic backgrounds. These methods in combination with root-tip chromosome counts enabled us to confirm ploidy determinations on all three dissue layers, L1, L2 and L3 (guard cells, microsporocytes and root meristematic cells, respectively), and to detect the chimeric nature of some colchicine-treated tissue culture-derived plants. Screening pollen grains by size and the detection of highly stainable and viable, 30-chromosome pollen grains have enhanced the use of triploid hybrids in peanut breeding programs.
MOLECULAR DYNAMICS CALCULATIONS OF THE THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF SILICA BASED CRYSTALS

The thermal conductivities of quartz and the siliceous zeolites sodalite, faujasite and zeolite-A have been calculated using molecular dynamics simulations. The predicted thermal conductivities range over one order of magnitude at room temperature, and the quartz values are in reasonable agreement with the available experimental data. Evidence of phonon scattering is found by considering the lattice statics and dynamics. The lattice pores in zeolites are found to distort the SiO4 tetrahedra, and decrease the thermal conductivity. The integration of the heat current autocorrelation function in the calculation of the thermal conductivity is done in frequency space, allowing the contributions of different vibrational bands to be identified.
Subfair primitive casino with a discount factor

It is known that, for a subfair primitive casino, if a gambler has an initial fortune in (0, 1) and wishes to reach 1, then he should play boldly. Now if the game is modified by adding a discount factor which is used to motivate the gambler recognizing the time value of fortune and completing the game as quickly as is reasonably consistent with reaching the goal, then one would intuitively suspect that the gambler should still play boldly. However, this intuitive conjecture is false and the result of this paper goes in the opposite direction and states that the bold strategy need not be optimal for a subfair primitive casino with a discount factor.
A partnership: child care in a New Zealand suburb.

SYNOPSIS “The application of our knowledge to improving medical services alone, while important and humane, will not result in major improvements in our health record. What is needed now is a partnership between medicine and society for the application of what we know.”
Aeroelastic applications of the Connection Machine

This paper describes the implementation of a dynamical systems approach to aeroelastic analysis using the Connection Machine model 2 (CM-2). Through numerical simulation, the regions of harmonic and chaotic behavior in the δ,Rx (velocity, in-plane load) plane have been examined in detail. These regions are of interest in evaluation of the fatigue life of fluttering plates. The CM-2 computer architecture allows the removal of many of the previous simplifying and limiting assumptions regarding the prediction of the stability regions maps. Owing to its high-speed prediction capability, the CM-2, with framebuffer, offers 'real-time' display of the solution as it evolves during the prediction process. This feature gives insight into the fundamental way in which the solution evolves. This is essential in defining the scenarios describing roads to chaotic behavior of the dissipative dynamical systems.
Supporting Caregivers of Frail Older Adults in an HMO Setting

The long-term effectiveness of a structured health education program (HEP) for spouses and frail older adults was evaluated in a staff model health maintenance organization (HMO). HEP is a multicomponent group program that includes emotion-focused and problem-focused coping strategies, education, and support. For caregivers, HEP was more effective than usual care (UC) in reducing depression, increasing knowledge of community services and how to access them, and changing caregivers' feelings of competence and the way they respond to the caregiving situation. For care recipients, HEP was more effective than UC in preventing increases in somatic symptoms and symptoms of anxiety/insomnia. ((c) 2004 APA, all rights reserved)
Sex differences in static strength and fatigability in three different muscle groups

Abstract Maximal voluntary static muscle force production was assessed both in strength trials and during 2-min contractions by three muscle groups (right-hand finger flexors [RHF], right-leg extensors [RLE], and both leg extensors [BLE]) in young males (n = 13) and females (n = 14). There was a significant difference (p < .01) between males and females for RHF strength and BLE strength but no significant difference between sexes for RLE strength. During the 2-min task, impulse (force x time) declined significantly (p < .001) and there was a significant difference (p < .001) between muscle groups, but there was no difference between sexes. There was a significant (p < .05) sex x time interact ion for the impulse values indicating that the fatigability was greater in males than females.