cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Partial amino acid sequences of cuticular proteins from Hyalophora cecropia

Abstract The amino-terminal amino acid sequences for seven cuticular proteins from Hyalophora cecropia are reported. Proteins were purified by blotting two dimensional acrylamide gels onto acid-etched glass fiber filters, and the proteins were sequenced without further elution. The sequences of the serine-rich proteins from rigid cuticles revealed a new family of cuticular proteins, with features reminiscent of the amino-termini of certain vertebrate neurofilament proteins, members of the intermediate filament protein family which includes keratins. The proteins from flexible cuticles showed sequence similarity to proteins previously sequenced for Drosophila, Manduca and Sarcophaga . Proteins with identical electrophoretic mobility from two different metamorphic stages or from two anatomical regions within a single stage had identical amino-terminal sequences.
Tuning the color and excited state properties of the azulenic chromophore: NIR absorbing pigments and materials

Abstract In this review, we summarize the work carried out at the University of Hawaii on the highly colored, non-alternant hydrocarbon azulene. Through systematic perturbation of the HOMO and LUMO molecular orbitals, we showed that the characteristic azure color can be changed in a manner that covers the entire visible spectrum based on this single chromophore. Some of the modified azulenes exhibit unusual excited state properties: reversal of energy gap of low lying excited states, unprecedented high fluorescence yield, and long fluorescence lifetime for an upper state in condensed media. Highly polarized polyene aldehydes attached to azulene at C-1 as a π-electron donating end group have been successfully incorporated into bacterioopsin to generate NIR absorbing bacteriorhodopsin pigment analogs—the longest wavelength absorbing analog with λ max =830 nm. Azulene-containing donor–acceptor and symmetrical dye chromophores were synthesized and their excited state absorption spectra, and other properties determined. Non-linear optical properties were also examined. The azulenic dye chromophores are reverse saturable absorbers and are potentially useful for optical limiting applications.
Effects of Geomagnetic Dipole Variations on the Auroral Zone Locations

The purpose of this note is to point out: 1) that during geomagnetic reversals and excursion, the zones of frequent auroral occurrence will be located at very different geographical positions than at present; and 2) that two of the most recent excursions that have been suggested, the Laschamp-Gothenburg and the Lake Mungo events, are dated in upper paleolithic period (ca. 12, 000yr BP and 30, 000yr BP respectively (NOEL and TARLING, 1975; MORNER and LANSER, 1975; BARBETTI and MCELHINNY, 1972; FREED and HEALY, 1974)), and could have produced frequent auroral displays to major populations of stone age people. The second point might be important because it opens the possibility that some of the previously uninterpreted artifacts and drawings from this period could be representations of auroral forms.
Genotype–Phenotype Correlations of Pheochromocytoma in Two Large von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) Type 2A Kindreds With Different Missense Mutations

Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease type 2A is an inherited tumor syndrome characterized by predisposition to pheochromocytoma (pheo), retinal hemangioma (RA), and central nervous system hemangioblastoma (HB). Specific VHL subtypes display genotype–phenotype correlations but, unlike other familial syndromes such as MEN-2, the phenotype in VHL has not yet been stratified at the codon level. Over decades, we have managed two very large VHL type 2A regional kindreds with nearly adjacent but distinct VHL missense mutations. We determined the phenotype of Family 2 and compared the clinical and pathologic parameters of pheo between 30 members of Family 1 (Y112H mutation) and 33 members of Family 2 (Y98H mutation) with mean follow-up of 15.5 and 12.1 years, respectively (P = 0.24). In Family 2, pheo was the most frequent VHL manifestation (79%) and all pheo diagnoses occurred by age 50. Age at first diagnosis was younger in Family 2 than in Family 1 (mean 19.7 vs. 28.8 years; P = 0.02). Pheo expressivity differed by genotype: Family 1 pheo was more likely to be multifocal (P = 0.04), as well as malignant (P < 0.01) and lethal (P = 0.02). Family 1 pheo was also more likely to secrete vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) alone (P = 0.05). This analysis of 130 pheochromocytomas in 63 VHL type 2A patients demonstrates that mutation-specific malignancy and expression patterns exist within the VHL type 2A subtype, and provides information that may help tailor the screening and management algorithms of affected members and those at risk. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Tunneling current through a disordered insulator

A model calculation of tunneling through a one-dimensional metal-insulator-metal junction is carried out. The insulator, composed of two species with equal concentration, is assumed to be disordered with a long-range order. The disorder is treated in the coherent-potential approximation. The effects of varying degrees of disorder on the tunneling current are examined.
Lymphoreticular Disorders of the Gastrointestinal Tract: Roentgenographic Features

Recent advances have permitted close correlation of characteristic roentgen signs with the pathophysiologic alterations in lymphoreticular disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The background of primary and secondary immunoglobin disorders with gastrointestinal manifestations is reviewed. The roentgenographic alterations in the small bowel of the enteropathic immunoglobulin deficiency syndromes and in lymphoma of the small bowel, stomach, and colon are discussed and illustrated in detail.
The Effects of Processing on Hot Electron Trapping in SiO2

Avalanche injection of hot electrons into the insulator of an MOS capacitor has been used to study electron trapping in . Oxides formed by thermal oxidation in dry , , , steam, and chemical vapor‐deposited (CVD) were subjected to avalanche charging. Pure, dry thermal was found to trap up to . The trapping efficiency of varied by three orders of magnitude, depending on forming and annealing conditions.
A micro-mechanical investigation of the dynamic response and liquefaction of saturated granular soils

Abstract A coupled continuum-discrete hydromechanical model was utilized to analyze the meso-scale pore fluid flow and micro-scale solid phase deformation of saturated granular soils. The fluid motion was idealized using averaged Navier–Stokes equations and the discrete element method was employed to model the solid particles. Well established semi-empirical relationships were used to quantify the fluid–particle interactions. Numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the mechanisms of granular deposit liquefaction in the presence of a critical upward pore fluid flow as well as when subjected to a dynamic base excitation. The outcome of these simulations was consistent with experimental observations and revealed valuable information on the micro-mechanical characteristics of soil liquefaction and associated loss of stiffness and strength.
Increased Notch signalling inhibits anoikis and stimulates proliferation of prostate luminal epithelial cells

Prostate epithelia contain basal, luminal and neuroendocrine cells. Here the authors show that overexpression of the Notch intracellular domain in the mouse prostate promotes proliferation and suppresses anoikis of prostate luminal epithelial cells.
Hemorrhage Rates and Risk Factors in the Natural History Course of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations

Brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are abnormal connections of arteries and veins, resulting in arteriovenous shunting of blood. Primary medical therapy is lacking; treatment options include surgery, radiosurgery, and embolization, often in combination. Judicious selection of AVM patients for treatment requires balancing risk of treatment complications against the risk of hemorrhage in the natural history course. This review focuses on the epidemiology, hemorrhage risk, and factors influencing risk of hemorrhage in the untreated natural course associated with sporadic brain AVM.
Second harmonic generation from AlGaAs high contrast gratings

Strong second harmonic generation (SHG) is obtained from AlGaAs-based high contrast gratings for the first time. We show that SHG depends on the grating design and its orientation relative to the crystal axes.
Arthroscopically treated proximal humeral fracture malunion

Articles describing the treatment of proximal humerus malunion are limited. Although in most of the cases, shoulder arthroplasty is the treatment of choice, when the articular surface of the humeral head is intact, other techniques can be considered and successfully used as well. Using arthroscopic techniques for proximal humerus malunion treatment is rarely reported in the literature. We could find only a few cases in which arthroscopic subacromial decompression was used to treat greater tuberosity malunion. Arthroscopic debridement and capsulotomy are also considered in the treatment of proximal humeral malunion cases with shoulder joint stiffness. This case report describes the completely arthroscopic treatment of a 4-part proximal humeral fracture malunion associated with pain and restricted range of motion. The main deformity in our case was medially displaced malunited lesser tuberosity that was blocking the internal rotation of the humerus. Isolated displaced lesser tuberosity fractures are rare injuries. Open techniques are usually the treatment of choice. We did not find any reports of arthroscopic treatment of lesser tuberosity malunion as a separate entity or as a component of a proximal humerus malunion. The early result in our case strongly encourages using arthroscopic techniques for lesser tuberosity malunion treatment as well as expanding the indications for shoulder arthroscopy in proximal humerus malunion cases.
Applied Technology in Gas Turbine Aircraft Engine Development

At General Electric (GW) Aircraft Engines the primary emphasis is on producing engines that meet each customer's unique performance, reliability and life cycle cost requirements. The latest advanced technology is incorporated only ' if it contributes to those goals . Over the years, this approach has brought GE power plants an international reputation for being the most advanced, reliable , and cost effective engines in their power and thrust classes . In fact, engines like the .T700 and F404 deliver the performance, reliability, maintainability and availability so important to their users because of the major technological improvements of the last few decades.
Pigtail slip-knot catches the heart.

An 83-year-old woman had pigtail pericardiocentesis under echo-guidance. The redundancy of pigtail catheter formed a slip-knot which caught the entire heart tightly during removal. Small thoracotomy was necessary to relieve the knot. The extremely rare condition was reported. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Antibodies recognizing human serum albumin are not elicited by immunization with preS2 sequences of the hepatitis B virus envelope protein.

Antibodies to the preS2 region of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) envelope protein and to human serum albumin (HSA) were allegedly detected at about the same level in sera of humans with acute or chronic hepatitis B [Hellstrom et al., 1986]. It was claimed that anti-HSA arises as a result of an immune response to the preS2 sequence and that it was involved in hepatocellular damage. Over 100 sera from animals and humans immunized with HBsAg containing preS2 sequences, or with synthetic peptides from the preS1, preS2, and S regions of the HBV env protein were assayed for anti-HSA. The results revealed the following: 1) Immunization with the native preS2 sequence or with unconjugated synthetic peptides derived from that sequence does not result in elicitation of anti-HSA. Therefore the alleged appearance of anti-HSA during hepatitis B cannot be directly related to an anti-preS2-specific immune response. 2) Some synthetic peptides, whether or not they were derived from the preS2 sequence, when linked to certain carriers, but not to others, elicited in rabbits an anti-HSA response, which was markedly lower than the response to the homologous peptide. These anti-HSA antibodies could be separated from anti-preS2-specific antibodies by affinity chromatography and did not recognize the synthetic peptide used for immunization. The use in active immunoprophylaxis of hepatitis B of unconjugated peptides from the preS2 sequence with proven high immunogenicity will avoid carrier/linker-mediated induction of antibodies not relevant to protection against HBV.
Microprocessor Tutorials—Introduction

(1980). Microprocessor Tutorials—Introduction. A I I E Transactions: Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 2-2.
An integrated approach to centralized communications network management

Recent technological advances have increased the size and number of teleprocessing networks as well as broadened their scope and complexity. This added size and complexity has magnified the need for communications network management. One approach to communications network management is to provide centralized control which is integrated into the Systems Network Architecture user network. This approach is described in this paper by focusing on two program products that provide centralized operator control and problem determination capabilities for a network.
Up‐regulation of phosphorylated CREB but not c‐Jun in bladder afferent neurons in dorsal root ganglia after cystitis

We examined the changes of two transcription factors, CREB and c-Jun, in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) after acute (8 or 48 hours) or chronic (10 days) cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced cystitis. Results showed an increase in the number of p-CREB-immunoreactive (-IR) cells in the L1 and L2 DRG (5-7-fold; P < or = 0.05) as well as L6 and S1 DRG (2-4-fold; P < or = 0.05) after acute and chronic cystitis. The number of p-CREB-IR cells in the L4-L5 DRG was not altered with cystitis. The number of c-Jun-IR cells increased in the L1-L2 DRG (L1: 10-fold; L2: 8-fold; P < or = 0.05) only with chronic cystitis, although it increased in the L6-S1 DRG with CYP-induced cystitis of acute (2-3-fold; P < or = 0.05) and chronic (6-10-fold; P < or = 0.05) duration. After CYP treatment, the percentage of bladder afferent cells expressing p-CREB immunoreactivity (3-7-fold; P < or = 0.05) increased in L1, L2, L6, and S1 DRG. The increase occurred 8 hours post-CYP injection and was maintained with chronic cystitis. There were few c-Jun-IR cells in the bladder afferent population. These results demonstrate that CYP induces p-CREB and c-Jun expression in DRG in a time-dependent manner. However, c-Jun expression is not associated with bladder afferent neurons. Resiniferatoxin reduced CYP-induced up-regulation of p-CREB in DRG, suggesting that cystitis can reveal an altered CREB phosphorylation that may be mediated by capsaicin-sensitive bladder afferents. Colocalization of p-CREB and Trk receptor(s) showed that a subpopulation of p-CREB-IR cells expressed p-Trk with cystitis. These results suggest that up-regulation of p-CREB may be mediated by a neurotrophin/Trk signaling pathway.
Mental Health Issues in the 1990s

An overview is presented of issues facing mental health professionals in the 1990s. Issues and problems addressed include: diagnostic dilemmas, civil rights issues, use of plea of innocent by reason of insanity, consequences of deinstitutionalization, growing disparity between the rich and the poor, AIDS, alcohol and other drug abuse, changes in traditional sex roles, increasing number of single-parent families and blended families, changes in abortion statutes, and an increasing number of elderly persons.
Partial labyrinthectomy with hearing preservation: Frequency-specific data using tone-burst auditory brain stem response

Abstract Surgical approaches to the inner ear with hearing preservation have valuable implications for neurotologic surgery. In a previous study in guinea pigs, we demonstrated that click-evoked auditory brain stem responses (ABRs) were preserved after transection and plugging of 1 or more semicircular canals but were lost after entering the vestibule (Smouha EE, et al. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1996;114:777-784). A limitation of that study was that click-evoked ABR might not represent the function of the entire cochlea. In this study we used tone-burst ABR to determine thresholds across a broad range of frequencies (2 to 24 kHz) before and after surgical entry into the labyrinth at the lateral semicircular canal, ampulla, and vestibule. Serial measurements were made, and a sham surgery group was used as a control. The results obtained with tone-burst ABR generally agreed with those previously obtained with click stimuli. Tone-burst ABR thresholds were similar across most frequencies tested. Transection of the lateral semicircular canal resulted in preservation of ABR thresholds. Ampullectomy had a variable effect on ABR thresholds. Vestibulotomy usually resulted in substantial hearing loss. We conclude that hearing can be preserved across a range of frequencies after selective surgery of the inner ear. Surgical entry into the membranous labyrinth near the vestibule is the critical factor contributing to hearing loss after partial labyrinthectomy. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1999;120:146-52.)
Getting Black Men to Undergo Prostate Cancer Screening: The Role of Social Capital

Despite higher rates of prostate cancer-related mortality and later stage of prostate cancer diagnosis, Black/African American men are significantly less likely than non-Hispanic White men to use early detection screening tools, like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer. Lower screening rates may be due, in part, to controversy over the value of prostate cancer screenings as part of routine preventive care for men, but Black men represent a high-risk group for prostate cancer that may still benefit from PSA testing. Exploring the role of social factors that might be associated with PSA testing can increase knowledge of what might promote screening behaviors for prostate cancer and other health conditions for which Black men are at high risk. Using multilevel logistic regression, this study analyzed self-report lifetime use of PSA test for 829 Black men older than 45 years across 381 Philadelphia census tracts. This study included individual demographic and aggregated social capital data from the Public Health Management Corporation's 2004, 2006, and 2008 waves of the Community Health Database, and sociodemographic characteristics from the 2000 U.S. Census. Each unit increase in community participation was associated with a 3 to 3.5 times greater likelihood of having had a PSA test (odds ratio = 3.35). Findings suggest that structural forms of social capital may play a role in screening behaviors for Black men in Philadelphia. A better understanding of the mechanism underlying the link between social capital and screening behaviors can inform how researchers and interventionists develop tools to promote screening for those who need it.
miR-3151 Interplays With its Host Gene BAALC and Independently Impacts on Outcome of Older Patients With Cytogenetically Normal Acute Myeloid Leukemia by Direct Deregulation of TP53

903 miR-3151 Interplays With its Host Gene BAALC and Independently Impacts on Outcome of Older Patients With Cytogenetically Normal Acute Myeloid Leukemia by Direct Deregulation of TP53 Ann-Kathrin Eisfeld, Guido Marcucci, Kati Maharry, Sebastian Schwind, Michael D. Radmacher, Deedra Nicolet, Heiko Becker, Krzysztof Mrozek, Susan P. Whitman, Klaus H. Metzeler, Jason H. Mendler, Yue-Zhong Wu, Sandya Liyanarachchi, Ravi Patel, Maria R. Baer, Bayard L. Powell, Thomas H. Carter, Joseph O. Moore, Jonathan E. Kolitz, Meir Wetzler, Michael A. Caligiuri, Richard A. Larson, Stephan M. Tanner, Albert de la Chapelle, Clara D. Bloomfield The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH; Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology Statistics and Data Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD; Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC; University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA; Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Monter Cancer Center, Hofstra North Shore-Long Island Jewish School of Medicine, Lake Success, NY; Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY; University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL
Dynamics of non-circular stiffened cylindrical shells

Abstract The objective of this study is to assess the effect of non-circularity, i.e. spatially varying curvature, on the dynamics of stringer stiffened cylindrical shell structures. The transfer matrix method is used to study the effect of varying curvature on the normal modes and the frequency response of such structures. To obtain these results the transfer matrix for a varying curvature shell in conjunction with the transfer matrix techniques for stiffened circular structures are applied. A previously developed exact solution for the panel transfer matrix, where the curvature varies exponentially, is used in computing the numerical results. Responses of increasing curvature and decreasing curvature structures are compared with those of the circular structure.
Cognitive function in older adults according to current socioeconomic status

Cognitive function may be influenced by education, socioeconomic status, sex, and health status. Furthermore, aging interacts with these factors to influence cognition and dementia risk in late life. Factors that may increase or decrease successful cognitive aging are of critical importance, particularly if they are modifiable. The purpose of this study was to determine if economic status in late life is associated with cognition independent of socioeconomic status in early life. Cross-sectional demographic, socioeconomic, and cognitive function data were obtained in 2592 older adults (average age 71.6 years) from the Center for Disease Control’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and analyzed with linear regression modeling. Cognitive function, as measured with a test of processing speed, was significantly associated with poverty index scores after adjusting for educational attainment as an estimate of childhood socioeconomic status, ethnic background, age, health status, and sex (...
Sympathetic neuroaxonal dystrophy in the aged rat pineal gland.

Abstract Dysfunction of circadian melatonin production by the pineal gland in aged humans and rats is thought to reflect the functional loss of its sympathetic innervation. Our ultrastructural neuropathologic studies of the sympathetic innervation of the pineal gland of aged (24 months old) Fischer-344 and Sprague–Dawley rats showed loss of nerve terminals as well as the development of neuroaxonal dystrophy (NAD), an ultrastructurally distinctive distal axonopathy, far in excess of that in young control rats. Immunolocalization of tyrosine hydroxylase confirmed the age-related loss of normal noradrenergic innervation and development of NAD. NAD was more frequent in aged female rats compared to males and was particularly severe in aged female Sprague–Dawley rats compared to Fischer-344 rats. Pineal NGF content was significantly increased or unchanged in female and male aged Fischer-344 rats, respectively, compared to young controls. The rat pineal is a sensitive experimental model for the quantitative ultrastructural examination of age-related neuropathological changes in nerve terminals of postganglionic noradrenergic sympathetic axons, changes which may reflect similar changes in the diffusely distributed sympathetic innervation of other targeted endorgans.
Substance P induced changes in CD74 and CD44 in the rat bladder.

ABSTRACT Purpose: Substance P (SP) induces rat bladder inflammation along with release of the proinflammatory cytokine, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). To describe the mechanism of MIF action we examined changes in the amount of CD74 (membrane receptor for MIF), CD44 and phospho-(p-ERK)1/2 in the bladder. Materials and Methods: In anesthetized rats the bladder was isolated by cutting the ureters and urine was replaced by saline as intraluminal fluid (ILF). One hour after subcutaneous SP (40 μg/kg) or saline administration the ILF and bladder were collected. Bladder tissue was analyzed for CD74 and CD44 by immunohistochemistry. Western blot analysis determined the relative amounts of bladder tissue MIF, CD74, CD44 and p-ERK1/2. ILF immunoprecipitation followed by Western blot analysis was performed to identify an association of MIF with CD74 and/or CD44. Results: SP induced significant MIF release from the bladder and increased CD74 and CD44 bladder immunostaining. SP treatment increased the total amount of bladder CD74 protein and mRNA, intracellular domain CD44, p-ERK1/2 and soluble CD44 in the ILF. Finally, MIF was found to be associated with soluble CD44 in the ILF. Conclusions: CD74 is present in the rat urothelium. SP increases CD74 and intracellular domain CD44 in the bladder, while stimulating the release of soluble CD44 and MIF into the ILF. MIF interacts with soluble CD44 in the ILF and it is available to bind with CD74 in the bladder to exert proinflammatory effects. Therefore, a mechanistic model is emerging to explain the proinflammatory effects of MIF in this acute model of bladder inflammation. Possible clinical implications are discussed.
Slit Diaphragm Protein Neph1 and Its Signaling: A NOVEL THERAPEUTIC TARGET FOR PROTECTION OF PODOCYTES AGAINST GLOMERULAR INJURY*

Podocytes are specialized epithelial cells that are critical components of the glomerular filtration barrier, and their dysfunction leads to proteinuria and renal failure. Therefore, preserving podocyte function is therapeutically significant. In this study, we identified Neph1 signaling as a therapeutic target that upon inhibition prevented podocyte damage from a glomerular injury-inducing agent puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN). To specifically inhibit Neph1 signaling, we used a protein transduction approach, where the cytoplasmic domain of Neph1 (Neph1CD) tagged with a protein transduction domain trans-activator of transcription was transduced in cultured podocytes prior to treatment with PAN. The PAN-induced Neph1 phosphorylation was significantly reduced in Neph1CD-transduced cells; in addition, these cells were resistant to PAN-induced cytoskeletal damage. The biochemical analysis using subfractionation studies showed that unlike control cells Neph1 was retained in the lipid raft fractions in the transduced cells following treatment with PAN, indicating that transduction of Neph1CD in podocytes prevented PAN-induced mislocalization of Neph1. In accordance, the immunofluorescence analysis further suggested that Neph1CD-transduced cells had increased ability to retain endogenous Neph1 at the membrane in response to PAN-induced injury. Similar results were obtained when angiotensin was used as an injury-inducing agent. Consistent with these observations, maintaining high levels of Neph1 at the membrane using a podocyte cell line overexpressing chimeric Neph1 increased the ability of podocytes to resist PAN-induced injury and PAN-induced albumin leakage. Using a zebrafish in vivo PAN and adriamycin injury models, we further demonstrated the ability of transduced Neph1CD to preserve glomerular function. Collectively, these results support the conclusion that inhibiting Neph1 signaling is therapeutically significant in preventing podocyte damage from glomerular injury.
Some leaf spot fungi on western Gramineae-II.

The fungi discussed in this article represent incompletely known or undescribed species that may be encountered by workers dealing with diseases of western range and pasture grasses. The collections that are mentioned in this note are filed either at Oregon State College (O.S.C. numbers) or are in the Mycological Collections of the Bureau of Plant Industry, U. S. Department of Agriculture. The fungi will be discussed individually as follows:
An improved method for quantifying hematozoa by digital microscopy.

Intensity of hematozoan infection is infrequently quantified because accurate calculations require visual counts of parasites relative to a large number of erythrocytes. Manual quantification of erythrocytes can be circumvented by using ImageJ software (developed by the National Institutes of Health) to count erythrocyte nuclei from digital images. Here we use the ratio of microscope erythrocyte counts to digital image erythrocyte counts (field:image ratio) to extrapolate erythrocyte counts from smaller digital images to the microscope's larger field of view. Field:image ratios were consistently calculated from 10 slides (resampling P=0.049) and used to rapidly estimate intensity of infection within 50,000 or more erythrocytes. Intensity of hematozoan infection calculated from manual quantification of 2,000 erythrocytes was significantly lower (0.46 times) than intensity calculated from digital quantification of 50,000 erythrocytes (bootstrap P=0.02). We contend that digital quantification of hematozoan i...
Learning melodies from non-adjacent tones

Language acquisition might heavily rely on statistical learning mechanisms. This has led many researchers to investigate the computational constraints that limit such learning. In particular, it has been argued that statistical relations among non-adjacent items cannot be tracked, as this might lead to a "computational explosion" making statistical learning intractable. In line with this view, previous research suggests that listeners cannot track relations among non-adjacent musical tones (Creel, Newport, & Aslin, 2004). Here I show that participants readily track non-adjacent tone relations when these are implemented in a musically meaningful way. Specifically, participants readily track non-adjacent tone relations in tonal melodies, but find it more difficult to track non-adjacent tone relations in random melodies, suggesting that non-adjacent relations are easier to track when listeners face "ecological", musically meaningful stimuli.
Adaptive vector quantization for waveform coding

Adaptive vector quantization (AVQ) is presented as a waveform coding system with application to digital voice transmission. The AVQ coding algorithms were modeled and simulated on a computer. The results show high SNR performance with relatively low coding complexity. >
Investments in women, economic development, and improvements in health in low-income countries.

Investments in human resources are more likely to have higher rates of return than investments in capital resources like factories equipment inventories and infrastructure. There are a variety of studies that estimate the ratio of return from primary and secondary schooling to be between 5-40% annually. The primary factor affecting return is the level of development of the country in question. Developing countries are able to achieve higher rates of return than already developed countries. Determining the rates of return on public and private health investments and related research and developments is much harder because the major improvements that have occurred in the past were accompanied by other significant improvements in trade nutrition and income. However there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that improvements in health were significantly responsible for the economic growth following World War II. Analysis of education expenditures indicates that the less educated a countrys women are the lower its standard of living. 90% of the intracountry variation in enrollment rates for men and women for 80 countries between 1960-1980 indicate that this is the case. Studies conducted during the 1970s and 1980s by demographers economists anthropologists and sociologists clearly show a trend in education of women and child mortality. Every additional year of female education translates to a 5-10% reduction in child mortality. It is clear that women play a central role in the health determinants of family members. The education of women is a strong although not clearly understood force affecting child mortality nutrition health and school achievement. Household resources and maternal education must always be determined before any study of health care delivery effectiveness is conducted. The same is true for any studies of the effectiveness of local family planning expenditures.
Asymptotic stabilization of the heavy top using controlled Lagrangians

We extend previous work on the asymptotic stabilization of pure Euler-Poincare mechanical systems using controlled Lagrangians to the study of asymptotic stabilization of Euler-Poincare mechanical systems such as the heavy top.
c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase 1 Is Required for Toll-Like Receptor 1 Gene Expression in Macrophages

The regulation of innate immune responses to pathogens occurs through the interaction of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) with pathogen-associated molecular patterns and the activation of several signaling pathways whose contribution to the overall innate immune response to pathogens is poorly understood. We demonstrate a mechanism of control of murine macrophage responses mediated by TLR1/2 heterodimers through c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1) activity. JNK controls tumor necrosis factor alpha production and TLR-mediated macrophage responses to Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease, and the TLR1/TLR2-specific agonist PAM3CSK4. JNK1, but not JNK2, activity regulates the expression of the tlr1 gene in the macrophage cell line RAW264.7, as well as in primary CD11b+ cells. We also show that the proximal promoter region of the human tlr1 gene contains an AP-1 binding site that is subjected to regulation by the kinase and binds two complexes that involve the JNK substrates c-Jun, JunD, and ATF-2. These results demonstrate that JNK1 regulates the response to TLR1/2 ligands and suggest a positive feedback loop that may serve to increase the innate immune response to the spirochete.
Equivalent substrates enable simultaneous study of gastrointestinal pH and CF-related diabetes.

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) protein controls bicarbonate secretion both directly and indirectly [1]. In health, gastric acid is neutralized by bicarbonate secreted from the pancreas, biliary tract and intestinal mucosa via CFTR. In patients with CF, inadequate acid neutralization in the proximal gastrointestinal (GI) tract inhibits pancreatic enzyme activity, leading to maldigestion. Inadequate secretion of bicarbonate causes intraluminal precipitation of bile acids with impaired micelle formation and leads to a relatively dehydrated GI tract and sticky mucus, contributing to post-lipolytic malabsorption [2]. Previously, we have published work showing that when GI pH is measured using a wireless motility capsule (SmartPill, Given Imaging, Duluth, GA), distinct differences are seen in acid neutralization in the proximal small intestine between healthy subjects and those with CF [2]. In brief, subjects fasted overnight and then ingested a standardizedmeal bar (“SmartBar”, Given Imaging, Duluth, GA) which contains 254 kcal, 16 g of protein, 40 g of carbohydrates, 0.5 g of fiber, 1.83 g of total fat, and 1.51 g of saturated fat; they then swallowed the SmartPill. The SmartPill houses sensors for pH, temperature, and pressure, and transmits data to a receiver worn outside the body, which records it until the pill is excreted. When subjects had GI acidity measured using the SmartPill before and after taking the CFTR
Experimental and computational studies of enantioseparation of structurally similar chiral compounds on amylose tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate).

The enantioseparation of 14 structurally similar chiral solutes, with one or two chiral centers, are studied for a commercially important polysaccharide-based chiral stationary phase, amylose tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate) (ADMPC). Among these solutes, only two solutes show significant enantioresolutions of 2 to 2.5 in n-hexane/2-propanol (90/10, v/v) at 298 K. The retention factors of the chiral solutes vary significantly from 0.7 to 7.0, and they are compared with those of simpler nonchiral solutes having similar but fewer functional groups. The sorbent–solute H-bonding interactions between the solute functional groups and the polymer CO and NH functional groups are probed with attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR). The H-bonding interactions of the polymer CO and NH groups with the solutes result in changes in the IR amide band wavenumbers of ADMPC upon solute adsorption. The nanostructure of an ADMPC cavity and the potential interactions with the chiral solutes are proposed based on the sorbent–solute–solvent HPLC data, the sorbent–solute IR data, and the sorbent–solute molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results are consistent with the three point attachment hypothesis and indicate that a significant enantioresolution in ADMPC requires at least three different interaction sites for simultaneous H-bonds and phenyl–phenyl interactions for phenylpropylamine (PPA) and various structurally similar chiral solutes. Chirality 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Random selective advantages of genes and their probabilities of fixation.

The question of what is meant by random fluctuations in selection intensities in a finite population is re-examined. The model presented describes the change in the frequency of a gene in a haploid population of size M. It is assumed that in any generation the adaptive values of A and a are equally likely to be 1 + s: 1 or 1: 1 + s. If s is the selective advantage and x the frequency of gene A, then the first two moments of the change in frequency are found to be m(Δx) = x(1 − x)(1 − 2x) θ/2M andwhere E(s2) = θ/M. The ultimate probability of fixation is computed, showing that variability in selection increases the chance of fixation of a rare gene. A more general form for m(Δx) also is obtained. This form is compared with the equation currently used in describing random fluctuations in selection intensities.
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR α/γ) agonists as a potential target to reduce cardiovascular risk in diabetes

The disappointing results of glucose lowering studies have highlighted the ongoing need to develop new therapeutic strategies to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes. The presence of a range of metabolic abnormalities in diabetic patients presents a number of potential targets for therapeutic intervention. While modulation of peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) represents an attractive approach, the results of studies of pharmacological agonists have been variable. The findings of these studies and rationale for development of dual PPAR-α/γ agonists will be reviewed.
Heat Transfer Enhancement Caused by Sliding Bubbles

Measurements that illustrate the enhancement of heat transfer caused by a bubble sliding under an inclined surface are reported. The data were obtained on an electrically heated thin-foil surface that was exposed on its lower side to FC-87 and displayed the output of a liquid crystal coating on the upper (dry) side. A sequence of digital images was obtained from two cameras: one that recorded the response of the liquid crystal and one that recorded images of the bubble as it moved along the heated surface. With this information, the thermal imprint of the bubble was correlated to its motion and position. A bubble generator that produced FC-87 bubbles of repeatable and controllable size was also developed for this study
An integrated speech-background model for robust speaker identification

A procedure for text-independent speaker identification in noisy environments where the interfering background signals cannot be characterized using traditional broadband or impulsive noise models is examined. In the procedure, both the speaker and the background processes are modeled using mixtures of Gaussians. Speaker and background models are integrated into a unified statistical framework allowing the decoupling of the underlying speech process from the noise corrupted observations via the expectation-minimization algorithm. Using this formalism, speaker model parameters are estimated in the presence of the background process, and a scoring procedure is implemented for computing the speaker likelihood in the noise corrupted environment. The performance was evaluated using a 16-speaker conversational speech database with both speech babble and white noise background processes. >
Granular flow transitions on sinusoidal surfaces

We report on a newly discovered bifurcation that occurs in dry grains flowing down a chute with a wavy bottom. We find that the bifurcation outwardly resembles the long-known fluid analogue of inviscid channel flow over a wavy bottom reported in 1886 by Lord Kelvin; however, in detail, the two situations differ significantly. We compare three distinct states seen in the granular system: a 'regular' flow in phase with the bottom wave; an 'antiregular' flow that is out of phase; and a 'flat' flow in which the surface slides nearly uniformly downhill. Additionally, we discuss evidence that sustained subsurface circulation in the granular bed, accompanied by strong fluctuations in flow velocities, can appear in granular flows over wavy surfaces.
Consequences for Plantain Chemistry and Growth When Herbivores are Attacked by Predators

The indirect effect of insect predators on the chemistry and performance of host plants of their prey is a central issue in the study of tritrophic-level interactions. Few experimental studies evaluate chemistry and performance of host plants fed upon by insect herbivores in the presence and absence of predators. To examine these relationships, we conducted a field experiment using the plant Plantago lanceolata, which contains the iridoid glycosides aucubin and catalpol. Each plot had two plants, designated the "colonization" plant upon which four insect herbivores were initially placed and the "dispersal" plant, to which the herbivores could move. We contrasted the effects of two insect herbivores, Junonia coenia (Nymphalidae), a specialist feeder, vs. Spilosoma congrua (Arctiidae), a more generalized feeder, and the effects of variation in their densities caused by two different types of insect predators. Podisus maculiventris stink bugs and Polistes fuscatus wasps, on host plant growth and phytochemistry. We contrasted these to plots without herbivores. The two herbivore species had different impacts on iridoid glycoside concentration of their host plants. Iridoid glycoside concentrations were higher in plants that had been used by the specialist J. coenia compared to those fed upon by the generalist S. congrua. In contrast to a previous study, herbivory did not induce higher iridoid glycoside concentration. The two herbivore species had similar impacts on plant mass. Predation by wasps and stink bugs had different indirect effects (via the interaction-of predators and herbivores) on iridoid glycoside concentration and plant mass. Aucubin con- centration was lower for plants that had had wasps than those with stink bugs. For plants with the specialist J. coenia, catalpol concentration was lower for plants that had had predators, and iridoid glycoside concentrations were lower for plants that had had wasps present than those that had stink bugs. Leaf mass was higher when predators were present than when predators were absent. For the plants with the specialist J. coenia, scape mass was higher for those that had predators present than those without predators. We discuss the potential for an indirect facultative mutualism between the host plant plantain and the insect predators, and conclude that such a mutualism is transitory, at best.
Automated vulnerability detection for compiled smart grid software

While testing performed with proper experimental controls can provide scientifically quantifiable evidence that software does not contain unintentional vulnerabilities (bugs), it is insufficient to show that intentional vulnerabilities exist, and impractical to certify devices for the expected long lifetimes of use. For both of these needs, rigorous analysis of the software itself is essential. Automated software behavior computation applies rigorous static software analysis methods based on function extraction (FX) to compiled software to detect vulnerabilities, intentional or unintentional, and to verify critical functionality. This analysis is based on the compiled firmware, takes into account machine precision, and does not rely on heuristics or approximations early in the analysis.
Shared Resistance to Aging and ALS in Neuromuscular Junctions of Specific Muscles

Normal aging and neurodegenerative diseases both lead to structural and functional alterations in synapses. Comparison of synapses that are generally similar but respond differently to insults could provide the basis for discovering mechanisms that underlie susceptibility or resistance to damage. Here, we analyzed skeletal neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in 16 mouse muscles to seek such differences. We find that muscles respond in one of three ways to aging. In some, including most limb and trunk muscles, age-related alterations to NMJs are progressive and extensive during the second postnatal year. NMJs in other muscles, such as extraocular muscles, are strikingly resistant to change. A third set of muscles, including several muscles of facial expression and the external anal sphinter, succumb to aging but not until the third postnatal year. We asked whether susceptible and resistant muscles differed in rostrocaudal or proximodistal position, source of innervation, motor unit size, or fiber type composition. Of these factors, muscle innervation by brainstem motor neurons correlated best with resistance to age-related decline. Finally, we compared synaptic alterations in normally aging muscles to those in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Patterns of resistance and susceptibility were strikingly correlated in the two conditions. Moreover, damage to NMJs in aged muscles correlated with altered expression and distribution of CRMP4a and TDP-43, which are both altered in motor neurons affected by ALS. Together, these results reveal novel structural, regional and molecular parallels between aging and ALS.