cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of the Activation of Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase by a Thiophosphotyrosine Peptide on Glucose Transport in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Insulin causes the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) through complexation of tyrosine-phosphorylated YMXM motifs on insulin receptor substrate 1 with the Src homology 2 domains of PI 3-kinase. Previous studies with inhibitors have indicated that activation of PI 3-kinase is necessary for the stimulation of glucose transport in adipocytes. Here, we investigate whether this activation is sufficient for this effect. Short peptides containing two tyrosine-phosphorylated or thiophosphorylated YMXM motifs potently activated PI 3-kinase in the cytosol from 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Introduction of the phosphatase-resistant thiophosphorylated peptide into 3T3-L1 adipocytes through permeabilization with Staphylococcus aureus alpha-toxin stimulated PI 3-kinase as strongly as insulin. However, under the same conditions the peptide increased glucose transport into the permeabilized cells only 20% as well as insulin. Determination of the distribution of the glucose transporter isotype GLUT4 by confocal immunofluorescence showed that GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane can account for the effect of the peptide. These results suggest that one or more other insulin-triggered signaling pathways, besides the PI 3-kinase one, participate in the stimulation of glucose transport.
Le procès en destitution du président Bill Clinton : vers une nouvelle conception de la présidence?

Cet article cherche a saisir les principaux determinants de la crise constitutionnelle qui a entoure le proces en destitution du president Clinton. Quatre principaux facteurs expliquent la duree du proces et l’acharnement politique des procureurs republicains. Premierement, l’imprecision de la Constitution americaine quant a la nature des delits rendant passible de destitution offrait un terrain propice a la confrontation. Deuxiemement, la procedure de destitution n’est qu’un moyen detourne offert au legislatif pour controler le pouvoir de l’executif. Troisiemement, la nature du mandat du procureur independant et son extension a la vie privee du president peuvent rendre le judiciaire permeable aux pressions politiques. Quatriemement, ce proces aura revele que le concept de « privileges de l’executif » n’existe pas. Le president n’est pas au-dela de tout soupcon. Le controle de l’opinion publique et l’utilisation des medias sont devenus des elements strategiques pour les deux camps. Le pouvoir de persuasion de la presidence devenait d’ailleurs le seul outil de le Maison-Blanche pour contrecarrer les actions des procureurs republicains. Ce proces a contribue a affaiblir le pouvoir presidentiel.
Teacher education and multicultural education: Implications for science education research

(1996). Teacher education and multicultural education: Implications for science education research. Journal of Science Teacher Education: Vol. 7, No. 1, pp. 1-21.
Electronmicroscopic mass determination using photographic isodensity techniques

Abstract Using Agfacontour, Kodalith, or similar films, it is possible to convert an electron micrograph into a map of regions of equal photographic density (isodensities) by simple copying procedures. If images of polystyrene spheres and a calibrated density wedge are included in the copies, it is possible to quantitatively calibrate the isodensities in terms of mass per unit area of the specimen. In this way, electronmicroscopic mass determination may be accomplished without the need of densitometers or other photometric equipment.
Growth Differentiation Factor-9 Is Expressed by the Primate Follicle Throughout the Periovulatory Interval

Expression of growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9), an apparent regulator of follicular development, reportedly differs between compartments of the rodent (oocytes) and human (oocytes and granulosa cells) ovary. To further characterize GDF-9 expression and action in the primate periovulatory follicle, adult female rhesus monkeys received recombinant human gonadotropins to promote multiple follicular development. Whole ovaries or follicular aspirates were obtained before and at various times after administration of an ovulatory dose of hCG; time points for tissue collection spanned the 40-h periovulatory interval. GDF-9 mRNA was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay in each oocyte and every granulosa cell sample examined, but granulosa cell GDF-9 mRNA levels did not change across the periovulatory interval. GDF-9 was also detected in follicular fluid using Western blotting; GDF-9 protein concentration in follicular fluid did not change across the periovulatory interval. Immunocytochemical staining for GDF-9 indicated that oocytes of both small and large antral follicles were positive for GDF-9. GDF-9 immunoreactivity was also present in cumulus granulosa cells and mural granulosa cells near the cumulus stalk. When granulosa cells from preovulatory follicles were exposed to recombinant GDF-9 in culture, GDF-9 increased vascular endothelial growth factor levels in culture medium. These data demonstrate that the cells of the primate periovulatory follicle both produce and respond to GDF-9. However, GDF-9 expression and action differ between rodent and primate follicles, suggesting a possible regulatory role for GDF-9 that is unique to the primate follicle.
Decision field theory extensions for behavior modeling in dynamic environment using Bayesian belief network

Decision field theory (DFT), widely known in the field of mathematical psychology, provides a mathematical model for the evolution of the preferences among options of a human decision-maker. The evolution is based on the subjective evaluation for the options and his/her attention on an attribute (interest). In this paper, we extend DFT to cope with the dynamically changing environment. The proposed extended DFT (EDFT) updates the subjective evaluation for the options and the attention on the attribute, where Bayesian belief network (BBN) is employed to infer these updates under the dynamic environment. Four important theorems are derived regarding the extension, which enhance the usability of EDFT by providing the minimum time steps required to obtain the stabilized results before running the simulation (under certain assumptions). A human-in-the-loop experiment is conducted for the virtual stock market to illustrate and validate the proposed EDFT. The preliminary result is quite promising.
Erectile function recovery rate after radical prostatectomy: a meta-analysis.

Abstract Introduction Erectile function recovery (EFR) rates after radical prostatectomy (RP) vary greatly based on a number of factors, such as erectile dysfunction (ED) definition, data acquisition means, time-point postsurgery, and population studied. Aim To conduct a meta-analysis of carefully selected reports from the available literature to define the EFR rate post-RP. Main Outcome Measures EFR rate after RP. Methods An EMBASE and MEDLINE search was conducted for the time range 1985–2007. Articles were assessed blindly by strict inclusion criteria: report of EFR data post-RP, study population ≥50 patients, ≥1 year follow-up, nerve-sparing status declared, no presurgery ED, and no other prostate cancer therapy. Meta-analysis was conducted to determine the EFR rate and relative risks (RR) for dichotomous subgroups. Results A total of 212 relevant studies were identified; only 22 (10%) met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed (9,965 RPs, EFR data: 4,983 subjects). Mean study population size: 226.5, standard deviation=384.1 (range: 17–1,834). Overall EFR rate was 58%. Single center series publications (k = 19) reported a higher EFR rate compared with multicenter series publications (k = 3): 60% vs. 33%, RR=1.82, P = 0.001. Studies reporting ≥18-month follow-up (k = 10) reported higher EFR rate vs. studies with P = 0.02. Open RP (k = 16) and laparoscopic RP (k = 4) had similar EFR (57% vs. 58%), while robot-assisted RP resulted in a higher EFR rate (k = 2), 73% compared with these other approaches, P = 0.001. Patients P = 0.001. Conclusions These data indicate that most of the published literature does not meet strict criteria for reporting post-RP EFR. Single and multiple surgeon series have comparable EFR rates, but single center studies have a higher EFR. Younger men have higher EFR and no significant difference in EFR between ORP and LRP is evident. Tal R, Alphs HH, Krebs P, Nelson CJ, and Mulhall JP. Erectile function recovery rate after radical prostatectomy: A meta-analysis. J Sex Med 2009;6:2538–2546.
Crystal growth, frequency doubling, and infrared laser performance of Yb/sup 3+/:BaCaBO/sub 3/F

Yb:BaCaBO/sub 3/F(Yb:BCBF) has been investigated as a new laser crystal with potential for self-frequency doubling, Yb/sup 3+/ in BCBF exhibits a maximum absorption cross section at 912 nm of 1.1/spl times/10/sup -20/ cm/sup 2/ with a bandwidth (FWHM) of 19 nm. The maximum emission cross section at 1034 nm is 1.3/spl times/10/sup -20/ cm/sup 2/ with a transition bandwidth of 24 nm. The measured emission lifetime of Yb/sup 3+/ is 1.17 ms. An Yb:BCBF laser has been demonstrated with a Ti:sapphire pump source, and a measured slope efficiency of 38% has been obtained for the fundamental laser output. Single crystal powders of BCBF have been compared with KD/sup +/P for a relative measure of the second-harmonic generating potential, yielding d/sub eff/(BCBF)/spl sim/0.26 pm/V. The phasematching angle has been estimated from the refractive index data for type I second-harmonic generation of 0.517 /spl mu/m light; the predicted angle is 37/spl deg/ from the c-axis. The growth, spectroscopy, laser performance, and linear and nonlinear optical properties of Yb:BCBF are reported.
Use of postmenopausal hormone therapy since the Women's Health Initiative findings.

Purpose To assess how use of postmenopausal hormone therapy (PHT) has changed since the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) trial was halted early due to an excess risk of stroke and other adverse outcomes. To estimate whether use of alternative drugs to treat menopausal symptoms (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs], soy) has increased. Methods Women were interviewed in the Slone Survey, a random-digit-dial (RDD) survey of current medication use in a representative national sample. Information was obtained on PHT including dose, route, and reason for use, and on use of alternative drugs to treat menopausal symptoms. There were 3853 women aged ≥50 years, interviewed from 1/2001 to 6/2004. Results The average weekly prevalence of PHT declined 57%, from 28% in the first half of 2002 to 12% in the first half of 2004. Use declined for conjugated estrogens (CE) and for other estrogens, taken either alone or with progestin. The decrease exceeded 50% in most strata of age, race, education, and region. The proportion of PHT users taking 0.3 mg CE did not change. Comparing prevalence in 2004 with prevalence in 2002, there was no material increase in use of black cohosh (2.0% in 2004) or soy (2.0%) and use of SSRIs was somewhat lower (8.9%). Conclusions These population-based usage data demonstrate a large decline in PHT use among women of postmenopausal age. The proportion of CE users taking lower doses has not increased. On a population basis, millions fewer women are using PHT in 2004 than before the WHI results were published, but there has been no appreciable increase in use of alternative therapies for menopausal symptoms over the same period. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface-Specific Reactions on Liquids

Surface-specific reactivity is included in the theory of gas−liquid reactions. An expression for the reaction probability (fractional loss of a gas-phase species on collision with a liquid surface) is derived and compared to equations derived previously.
CRYSTAL STRUCTURE AND MADELUNG ENERGY FOR THE CHARGE-TRANSFER COMPLEX TETRATHIAFULVALENE-2,5-DIFLURO-7,7,8,8-TETRACYANO-P-QUINODIMETHANE, TTF-2,5-TCNQF2 - OBSERVATIONS ON A DIMERIZED SEGREGATED STACK MOTIF.

Abstract The twinned crystal structure of the charge-transfer complex TTF-2,5-TCNQF2 has been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. From intensity measurement on one twin component, a full structural model has been developed. The model encompasses segregated stacks of TTF donors and 2,5-TCNQF2 acceptors, with each chain exhibiting significant dimerization. The alternate interplanar spacings in the TTF stack are 3.34A and 3.60A, while those in the 2,5-TCNQF2 stack are 3.23A and 3.55A. Nearly eclipsed molecular overlap patterns are found within each of the dimerized pairs. The Madelung energy of TTF-2,5-TCNQF2 has been calculated at − 2.65 eV per donor/acceptor pair for full charge transfer, utilizing partial atomic charges obtained from CNDO/INDO molecular orbital calculations. Full charge transfer is considered appropriate for this complex based primarily on the observed component molecular geometries. The dimerized structural motif observed at room temperature for the TTF-2,5-TCNQF2 ...
In Memoriam: Nathaniel Gene Smith 1976–2014

Nathaniel “Nate” Gene Smith, 38, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on July 1, 2014. Born on June 20, 1976, his hometown was Bay City, MI. He graduated summa cum laude from Central Michigan University in 1999 with a BS in psychology and a minor in gerontology. In 2000, he entered the doctoral program in the Department of Human Development and Family Life (HDFL) at the University of Kansas, now the Department of Applied Behavioral Science (ABS). His advisor was Professor L. Keith Miller, now retired. At the time of his death, Nate was co-advised by Professors Miller and Edward K. Morris. He had completed his Master’s degree and his dissertation research. He only needed to take his comprehensives examination and defend his dissertation to be awarded his doctorate degree.
Fiscal federalism and redistributive politics

Abstract We consider the interaction between redistributive politics at central and local levels in a federal system, and characterize the factors influencing success in redistributive politics in both federal and unitary systems. We examine how the political characteristics of different states and groups give them better or worse outcomes in a federal system as opposed to a unitary system. We examine possibilities of multiple equilibria with divided government between the two layers. We analyze the choice between block grants and matching grants. We also examine the impact of federalism on the incentives for geographic mobility.
Dipole and slot elements and arrays on semi-infinite substrates

The printed dipole or slot antenna on a semi-infinite substrate and infinite phased arrays of these elements are investigated. The solution is based on the moment method in the Fourier transform domain. The generalized impedance or admittance matrix can be expressed in rapidly converging infinite-integral or infinite-summation forms, allowing the accurate determination of the current distributions. Using the present formulation, the input impedance, resonant length, and radiation pattern for the isolated antennas, and the reflection coefficient for infinite phased arrays, are calculated.
Place, power, and possibility: Remaking social work with children and youth

Abstract This article introduces the work of an interdisciplinary group of scholars and activists who critically examine the nature and boundaries of social work with children and youth. Their works explore the institutional and social spaces shaping young people's lives; deconstruct discourses, policies, and practices that shape meanings and experiences of childhood; and consider challenges for social work and possibilities for transformative action. In this essay the editors address the social construction of childhood; outline a framework for analysis informed by an understanding of the cultural politics of childhood; consider the relationship between neoliberal globalization and contemporary thought and practice regarding children and youth; and introduce cutting-edge scholarship addressing place, power, and possibility and the remaking of social work with children and youth.
Plutonium(IV) sequestration: structural and thermodynamic evaluation of the extraordinarily stable cerium(IV) hydroxypyridinonate complexes

Ligands containing the 1-methyl-3-hydroxy-2(1H)-pyridinone group (Me-3,2-HOPO) are powerful plutonium(IV) sequestering agents. The Ce(IV) complexes of bidentate and tetradentate HOPO ligands have been quantitatively studied as models for this sequestration. The complexes Ce(L1)4, Ce(L2)4, Ce(L3)2, and Ce(L4)2 (L1 = Me-3,2-HOPO; L2 = PR-Me-3,2-HOPO; L3 = 5LI-Me-3,2-HOPO; L4 = 5LIO-Me-3,2-HOPO) were prepared in THF solution from Ce(acac)4 and the corresponding ligand. The complex Ce(L4)2 was also prepared in aqueous solution by air oxidation of the Ce(III) complex [Ce(L4)2]-. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses are reported for Ce(L1)(4)x2CHCl3 [P1 (no. 2), Z = 2, a = 9.2604(2) A, b = 12.1992(2) A, c = 15.9400(2) A, alpha = 73.732(1) degrees, beta = 85.041(1) degrees, gamma = 74.454(1) degrees], Ce(L3)2x2CH3OH [P2(1)/c (no. 14), Z = 4, a = 11.7002(2) A, b = 23.0033(4) A, c = 15.7155(2) A, beta = 96.149(1) degrees], Ce(L4)(2).2CH3OH [P1 (no. 2), Z = 2, a = 11.4347(2) A, b = 13.8008(2) A, c = 15.2844(3) A, alpha = 101.554(1) degrees, beta = 105.691(1) degrees, gamma = 106.746(1) degrees], and Ce(L4)2x4H2O [P2(1)/c (no. 14), Z = 4, a = 11.8782(1) A, b = 22.6860(3) A, c = 15.2638(1) A, beta = 96.956(1) degrees]. A new criterion, the shape measure S, has been introduced to describe and compare the geometry of such complexes. It is defined as [formula: see text], where m is the number of edges, delta i is the observed dihedral angle along the ith edge of delta (angle between normals of adjacent faces), theta i is the same angle of the corresponding ideal polytopal shape theta, and min is the minimum of all possible values. For these complexes the shape measure shows that the coordination geometry is strongly influenced by small changes in the ligand backbone or solvent. Solution thermodynamic studies determined overall formation constants (log beta) for Ce(L2)4, Ce(L3)2, and Ce(L4)2 of 40.9, 41.9, and 41.6, respectively. A thermodynamic cycle has been used to calculate these values from the corresponding formation constants of Ce(III) complexes and standard electrode potentials. From the formation constants and from the protonation constants of the ligands, extraordinarily high pM values for Ce(IV) are generated by these tetradentate ligands (37.5 for Ce(L3)2 and 37.0 for Ce(L4)2). The corresponding constants for Pu(IV) are expected to be substantially the same.
On algorithms of evaluation of Fung's relaxation function parameters.

Abstract The mathematical aspects of the problem of the interpretation of the experimental data on the viscoelastic behaviour of materials by making use of the linear and quasi-linear relaxation model proposed by Fung, are considered. Three idealized cases of the growth of the strain from the zero value of its value a = const., that it will keep at t ≥ t 0 , are analysed: Case 1—a jump at t = t 0 , Case 2—a linear law of growth in the interval 0 ≤ t ≤ t 0 , Case 3—a parabolic law of growth in the same interval. The exact formulae for calculation of the stress are presented. From them the simple ‘small time’ and ‘great time’ asymptotic expressions are derived. These expressions are used for comparison of the Cases 1, 2, 3. An algorithm is suggested for the iterative numerical evaluation of the parameters of the linear model on the basis of the experimental data, corresponding to Case 1, 2 or 3.
Information sources for developing the nursing literature.

Abstract Background Journals are an important method for disseminating research findings and other evidence for practice to nurses. Bibliometric analyses of nursing journals can reveal information about authorship, types of documents cited, and how information is communicated in nursing, among other characteristics. Objectives The purposes of our study were to describe the types of documents used to develop the clinical and research literature in nursing, and extent of gray literature cited in those publications. Design This was a descriptive study of 18,901 citations of articles in clinical specialty and research journals in nursing published between January 2004 and June 2005. Methods The research team reviewed each citation to assess if the cited document was a journal article, book chapter or book, or document falling into the category of gray literature. Frequency counts for each type of cited document were recorded. Results Most of the citations were to journal articles ( n = 14 , 392 , 76.1%) and among those, to articles in medical journals ( n = 7719 , 40.8% of all the citations). This was true for the literature as a whole and for the clinical specialty and research literature separately. Although citations to medical journals were most common, in the clinical nursing literature there was a significantly higher proportion of citations to medical journal articles ( n = 6332 , 44.5%) than in the nursing research literature ( n = 1387 , 29.7%) ( LR X 2 = 326.7 , p 0.0001 ). Nearly 10% of the citations were to gray literature. There was an increase in citations to websites (5.7%) compared to a study done only a few years earlier. Conclusions Our study documented that journal literature was the primary source of information for communication within nursing. This is consistent with other biomedical and hard sciences where the transfer, assimilation, and use of information occur mainly within the scientific community. With a reliance on journal articles for dissemination of research and evidence for clinical practice, improved methods will be needed for integrating this knowledge and presenting it in a usable form to clinicians. As journals proliferate, it will become increasingly difficult for clinicians to keep current with research findings to guide their practice. The development and testing of new methods for integrating and disseminating research evidence to busy clinicians will be increasingly important in nursing. Gray literature was nearly 10% of the citations. The study also revealed an increase in citations to websites, which is anticipated to continue in the future. Further study is needed on the indexing of gray literature relevant to research use and evidence-based practice in nursing and on how to make this literature easily available to clinicians.
Academic Engagement of Elementary School Children with Learning Disabilities.

Abstract Variability of attention-to-task and its relation to instructional contexts for children with learning disabilities was investigated. Twenty-four mainstreamed children were observed in both the regular class and the resource room. Student behaviors relating to academic engagement and the situational contexts in which they occurred were coded. Significant differences in rate of engagement were found for classroom setting, type of instruction, and level of peer involvement, indicating that degree of attending is not stable but a function of the context in which it occurs. Implications for the assessment of attentional problems and instructional practices, especially as related to the resource room program, are discussed.
Postoperative pain management in the patient with a tibial fracture

This paper provides an overview of pain management in the postoperative patient with a tibial fracture. The aim of the paper is to assist in the development of a nursing care plan specific to controlling tibial fracture pain and preventing potential complications. Topics discussed are general to pain management and include the pathophysiology of pain and its deleterious effects on the body, the nurse's role in managing pain, factors contributing to uncontrolled pain in the postoperative setting, and components of an effective pain assessment. Material is specific to the patient with a tibial fracture and includes: common pain-related complications, pertinent pain-assessment data, two applicable nursing diagnoses and expected outcomes, interventions and rationales, and evidence confirming that expected outcomes were met. Finally, conclusions and relevant implications are presented.
Delirium as the Predominant Manifestation of Hyperparathyroidism: Reversal After Parathyroidectomy

A 67-year-old woman who had primary hyperparathyroidism presented with delirium rather than dementia as the predominant psychologic manifestation. After surgical removal of a parathyroid adenoma, there was a dramatic improvement in mental status. Psychologic retesting at six weeks after discharge showed her to be well oriented to time, place, and person, with no impairment of cognitive capacity.
Prey Selection by Bats in Forests of Western Oregon

We investigated food habits and relationships between food resource abundance and activity of bats. We identified prey remains in guano collected from 337 individuals in the Oregon Coast Range. Guano analyses indicated that 2 species, long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) and Townsend's big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii), consumed predominantly Lepidoptera; 4 species, California myotis (M. californicus), little brown myotis (M. lucifugus), Yuma myotis (M. yumanensis), and silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans), consumed predominantly smaller insects likely of aquatic origin (Diptera and Trichoptera); and the remaining 4 species, long-eared myotis (M. evotis), fringed myotis (M. thysanodes), big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), and hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), consumed predominantly larger invertebrates of terrestrial origin (Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Araneae). We hypothesized that bat activity in riparian areas would be correlated with abundance of preferred insect prey and used an information-theoretic approach to determine whether variability in bat activity was more strongly associated with captures of all insects, of taxa most frequently occurring in the diet, or of particular size classes of insects. We found strong associations between activity of small Myotis species and number of captures of small insects, but activities of larger Myotis species and of non-Myotis species were not associated with numbers of insects of any category.
Framework for efficient feature selection in genetic algorithm based data mining

We present the design of more effective and efficient genetic algorithm based data mining techniques that use the concepts of feature selection. Explicit feature selection is traditionally done as a wrapper approach where every candidate feature subset is evaluated by executing the data mining algorithm on that subset. In this article we present a GA for doing both the tasks of mining and feature selection simultaneously by evolving a binary code along side the chromosome structure used for evolving the rules. We then present a wrapper approach to feature selection based on Hausdorff distance measure. Results from applying the above techniques to a real world data mining problem show that combining both the feature selection methods provides the best performance in terms of prediction accuracy and computational efficiency.
Rivaroxaban for Thromboprophylaxis in Patients Undergoing Major Orthopedic Surgery

Objective:To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical efficacy/safety protile of rivaroxaban to inform health-care professionals of this new agent for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery.Data Sources:A literature search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE (1966–March2010), international Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–March 2010), and EMBASE (1990–March 2010), limited to publications in English, using the search terms BAY 59-7939, rivaroxaban, factor Xa inhibitor, hip replacement, and/or knee replacement to identify literature sources. References from retrieved articles were evaluated to identify relevant literature. Unpublished Phase 3 clinical trials in progress (using www.clinicaltrials.gov) were also reviewed. The Food and Drug Administration, European Medicines Agency, and Health Canada Web sites were used to retrieve product monographs, regulatory guidance, and advisory committee briefing packets.Study Selection and Data Extraction...
Choroid plexus macrophages proliferate and release toxic factors in response to feline immunodeficiency virus

Recent observations have suggested that lentiviruses stimulate the proliferation and activation of microglia. A similar effect within the dense macrophage population of the choroid plexus could have significant implications for trafficking of virus and inflammatory cells into the brain. To explore this possibility, we cultured fetal feline macrophages and examined their response to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or the T-cell-derived protein, recombinant human CD40-ligand trimer (rhuCD40-L). The rhCD40-L was the most potent stimulus for macrophage proliferation, often inducing a dramatic increase in macrophage density. Exposure to FIV resulted in a small increase in the number of macrophages and macrophage nuclei labeled with bromodeoxyuridine. The increase in macrophage density after FIV infection also correlated with an increase in neurotoxic activity of the macrophage-conditione d medium. Starting at 16–18 weeks postinfection, well after the peak of viremia, a similar toxic activity was detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from FIV-infected cats. Toxicity in the CSF increased over time and was paralleled by strong CD18 staining of macrophages/microglia in the choroid plexus and adjacent parenchyma. These results suggest that lentiviral infection of the choroid plexus can induce a toxic inflammatory response that is fueled by local macrophage proliferation. Together with the observation of increasing toxic activity in the CSF and increased CD18 staining in vivo, these observations suggest that choroid plexus macrophages may contribute to an inflammatory cascade in the brain that progresses independently of systemic and CSF viral load.
Intra- and inter-nucleosome interactions of the core histone tail domains in higher-order chromatin structure

Eukaryotic chromatin is a hierarchical collection of nucleoprotein structures that package DNA to form chromosomes. The initial levels of packaging include folding of long strings of nucleosomes into secondary structures and array–array association into higher-order tertiary chromatin structures. The core histone tail domains are required for the assembly of higher-order structures and mediate short- and long-range intra- and inter-nucleosome interactions with both DNA and protein targets to direct their assembly. However, important details of these interactions remain unclear and are a subject of much interest and recent investigations. Here, we review work defining the interactions of the histone N-terminal tails with DNA and protein targets relevant to chromatin higher-order structures, with a specific emphasis on the contributions of H3 and H4 tails to oligonucleosome folding and stabilization. We evaluate both classic and recent experiments determining tail structures, effect of tail cleavage/loss, and posttranslational modifications of the tails on nucleosomes and nucleosome arrays, as well as inter-nucleosomal and inter-array interactions of the H3 and H4 N-terminal tails.
Noise-predictive decision-feedback detection for multiple-input multiple-output channels

The decision-feedback (DF) detector is a nonlinear detection strategy for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) channels that can significantly outperform a linear detector, especially when the order in which the inputs are detected is optimized according to the so-called Bell Labs Layered Space-Time (BLAST) ordering. The DF detector may be implemented as the cascade of a linear detector, which mitigates interference at the expense of correlating the noise, followed by a noise predictor, which exploits the correlation in the noise to reduce its variance. With this architecture, existing linear detectors can be easily upgraded to DF detectors. We propose a low-complexity algorithm for determining the BLAST ordering that is facilitated by the noise-predictive architecture. The resulting ordered noise-predictive DF detector requires fewer computations than previously reported ordered-DF algorithms. We also propose and derive the ordered noise-predictive minimum-mean-squared-error DF detector and show how to determine its BLAST ordering with low complexity.
Covariance analysis of time delay estimates for strained signals

Estimates of time-varying delays from the ultrasonic echo signals of compressed biological media are the basis of a new type of medical imaging known as elastography. This paper is focused on predicting the covariance between time delays estimated from sequential Gaussian-weighted echo segments that overlap. The accuracy of the analysis was tested and improved by comparisons with measurements involving ultrasonic waveforms simulated from independent band-limited Gaussian signal and noise spectra. Data were generated to explore the dependence of time delay covariance on ultrasonic signal-to-noise ratio, time-bandwidth product W, fractional bandwidth, window separation, and the amount of strain (a is the time rate of change in delay). The relationship between a and other experimental parameters was crucial for understanding how signal decorrelation affects time delay error and, ultimately, elastographic noise. For echo waveforms without strain (a=0), delay variance was found to decrease with W. However, when waveform segments were strained (a/spl ne/0) a minimum was found in the plot of time delay variance versus W, where delay errors from additive noise equaled those from signal decorrelation caused by strain. Delay covariance decreased monotonically with increasing window separation (less overlap) when a=0. When a/spl ne/0, however, the covariance became negative for large separations. Properties of strain image noise were predicted from knowledge of the experimental parameters and time delay errors.
Helping medical students to acquire a deeper understanding of truth-telling

Problem : Truth-telling is an important component of respect for patients’ self-determination, but in the context of breaking bad news, it is also a distressing and difficult task. Intervention : We investigated the long-term influence of a simulated patient-based teaching intervention, integrating learning objectives in communication skills and ethics into students’ attitudes and concerns regarding truth-telling. We followed two cohorts of medical students from the preclinical third year to their clinical rotations (fifth year). Open-ended responses were analysed to explore medical students’ reported difficulties in breaking bad news. Context : This intervention was implemented during the last preclinical year of a problem-based medical curriculum, in collaboration between the doctor–patient communication and ethics programs. Outcome : Over time, concerns such as empathy and truthfulness shifted from a personal to a relational focus. Whereas ‘truthfulness’ was a concern for the content of the message, ‘truth-telling’ included concerns on how information was communicated and how realistically it was received. Truth-telling required empathy, adaptation to the patient, and appropriate management of emotions, both for the patient's welfare and for a realistic understanding of the situation. Lessons learned : Our study confirms that an intervention confronting students with a realistic situation succeeds in making them more aware of the real issues of truth-telling. Medical students deepened their reflection over time, acquiring a deeper understanding of the relational dimension of values such as truth-telling, and honing their view of empathy. Keywords: clinical education; ethics and humanities; communication skills (Published: 11 November 2015) Citation: Med Educ Online 2015, 20: 28133 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/meo.v20.28133
Endoscopic sialolith removal: orientation and shape as predictors of success.

Abstract Purpose To identify factors that may influence successful retrieval of salivary stones with interventional sialendoscopy. Materials and methods A retrospective chart review of sialendoscopy procedures performed in the Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh from July 2005 to August 2007 was conducted. We identified thirty consecutive cases of sialolithiasis treated with sialendoscopy. Results The mean age at presentation was 45 years (range, 7-77 years) with a male-to-female sex ratio of 1:1.5. The most common presentation was recurrent or persistent salivary gland swelling (53%), followed by salivary gland swelling associated with meals (37%). All these procedures were performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Size of the stones ranged from 0.2 to 1.2 cm. Our success rate for their endoscopic removal was 74% (14/19). Four patients (4/30) required a planned combined technique for stone removal. Conclusions Sialendoscopy is a reasonable minimally invasive option to treat sialolithiasis that avoids the need for salivary gland excision. Salivary stones larger than 4 mm for submandibular cases and 3 mm for parotid cases may be amenable to endoscopic removal provided their largest dimension is orientated favorably along the length of the duct.
Three-dimensional hydrodynamic model, study cases for quarter annular and idealized ship channel problems

Abstract An extended version of the three-dimensional hydrodynamic model, ADCIRC 3D-DSS, was utilized to simulate both horizontal and vertical flows in a (quarter) annular harbor (QATP and ATP) and rectangular basin with an idealized ship channel (RBSC). Comparison of horizontal and vertical solutions to the analytical solution and results of other researchers are in good agreement. The vertical velocity solution is highly sensitive to the horizontal velocity solutions. The presence of the sidewall boundary may also affect the vertical solutions. Around the sloping bank of RBSC channel with one-third gradient, the vertical velocity becomes important. The maximum vertical velocity approaches ±50% of the sediment fall velocity of fine sand.
Rising variance: a leading indicator of ecological transition

Regime shifts are substantial, long-lasting reorganizations of complex systems, such as ecosystems. Large ecosystem changes such as eutrophication, shifts among vegetation types, degradation of coral reefs and regional climate change often come as surprises because we lack leading indicators for regime shifts. Increases in variability of ecosystems have been suggested to foreshadow ecological regime shifts. However, it may be difficult to discern variability due to impending regime shift from that of exogenous drivers that affect the ecosystem. We addressed this problem using a model of lake eutrophication. Lakes are subject to fluctuations in recycling associated with regime shifts, as well as fluctuating nutrient inputs. Despite the complications of noisy inputs, increasing variability of lake-water phosphorus was discernible prior to the shift to eutrophic conditions. Simulations show that rising standard deviation (SD) could signal impending shifts about a decade in advance. The rising SD was detected by studying variability around predictions of a simple time-series model, and did not depend on detailed knowledge of the actual ecosystem dynamics.
Deep inelastic neutrino-nucleon interactions

Deep inelastic neutrino-nucleon interactions are discussed under the assumptions of conserved axial vector current and equal-time commutation relations of currents. It is shown that the structure functionsW1 andW2 for vector and axial vector currents are equal in the average sense with respect to the variablev and are equal in the limitv → ∞. The resulting expressions are then used to predict relations connecting deep inelastic neutrino and electron scattering.
Optically-amplified WDM ring network incorporating channel-dropping filters

We analyze the critical parameters in an optically-amplified WDM ring network. We find that a ring can accommodate 27 nodes when incorporating an EDFA and a channel-dropping filter in each node, a significant advance over nonamplified rings. We compare several node configurations, and find that the sequence of an EDFA followed by an optical tap and a channel dropping filter provides the highest performance for a wide range in system variables including input signal power, inter-node link loss and its variability, power-tapping ratio, and small-signal gain. Limited network modularity can he achieved. >
The Self-Care of Psychologists and Mental Health Professionals: A Review and Practitioner Guide

It has been documented in the professional literature that psychologists and mental health professionals in general tend to neglect their own mental health, despite serving in a field that promotes...
Activated polymorphonuclear cells increase sickle red blood cell retention in lung: role of phospholipids.

This study investigates the role of the activated polymorphonuclear cell (APMN) products on sickle red blood cell (SRBC) retention/adherence in the pulmonary circulation. Isolated rat lungs were pe...
PhonePark: Street Parking Using Mobile Phones

Real-time street parking availability information is important in urban areas, and if available could reduce congestion, pollution, and gas consumption. In this paper, an advanced street parking system called PhonePark is presented. Using the GPS, accelerometer, and Bluetooth sensors on a traveler's mobile phone, in conjunction with geospatial data, we can automatically detect when and where the traveler parked her car, and when she released a parking slot.1
The Improvement of Output Characteristics in Tensile Strained-Si-on-Insulator NMOSFET by Channel Band Gap Adjustment

An asymmetric device, Si/tensile strained-Si heterojunction channel NMOSFET with a Si channel close to the source and a tensile strained-Si channel close to the drain, is fabricated by tilt angle Ge implantation on the source side of the tensile strained Si-on-insulator (SSOI) and followed by solid-phase recrystallization. This asymmetric device has different electron affinities and threshold voltages along the channel. It causes the redistribution of inversion carriers and lateral electric fields when the asymmetric device is turned on. Improved kink effect and channel length modulation are observed. In addition, the enhanced transconductance is also shown in the asymmetric device. This novel asymmetric device can improve the output characteristics of the NMOSFET fabricated by the SSOI substrate.
Feature-Based Texture Display for Detection of Polyps on Flattened Colon Volume

This paper presents a volume-based algorithm to flatten the colon. Based on the flattened colon volume, three different display schemes are adapted to transfer the three-dimensional (3D) flattened colon volume into a 2D image. One display scheme is surface-based rendering, one is volume-based rendering, and the third one is feature-based texture display. These three displays generate not only a traditional flattened-colon surface image, but also a feature-based texture image which can be utilized to characterize and detect the colonic polyps, resulting in a new way to visualize the entire colon
The "Pork Barrel" and Majority Rule: A Note

T he term "pork barrel," as applied to legislation that makes or authorizes appropriations for public works in many districts of the country in excess of what a rational apportionment of resources to needs would justify, appears to have originated in the United States. That the phenomenon itself is American in origin is doubtful, but that it is especially characteristic of the United States is at least widely accepted as a fact. The primary purpose of this note is to examine certain theoretical analyses that are alleged to bear upon this subject and to relate it to the institution of majority rule. My conclusion will be that simple majority rule, other things being equal, tends to maximize "pork-barreling," or at least that this conclusion emerges from the model of rational individualism. Certain other suggestions grow out of the discussion: specifically, that the pork barrel is a subset of a broader phenomenon that should be studied as a whole; that if this whole phenomenon were to be studied it is by no means clear that the record of the American government would compare unfavorably with that of Great Britain; and, finally, that insofar as American government is characterized by the "pork barrel,"' the responsibility for this fact attaches to institutions other than majoritarian or qualified-majority decision-making rules. Two recent books dealing with democratic theory have discussed this subject and have arrived at contrary conclusions. Professor Brian Barry supports the conventional view that the "pork barrel" is especially characteristic of American government. He further contends that this characteristic is a function of the departure from simple majority rule in the direction of a unanimity requirement.' On the other hand, Professors William Buchanan
What to do about apnea of prematurity

apnea of prematurity and resultant intermittent hypoxic episodes are universal in preterm infants. These events range from presumably benign “periodic” breathing to clinically significant events that may require mechanical ventilation. Persistence of these events is a major factor in prolonging
Scalable data fusion using Astrolabe

The dramatic growth of computer networks creates both an opportunity and a daunting distributed computing problem for users seeking to perform data fusion and data mining. The problem is that data often resides on large numbers of devices and evolves rapidly. Systems that collect data at a single location scale poorly and suffer from single-point-failures. Astrolabe performs data fusion in real-time, creating a virtual system-wide hierarchical database, which evolves as the underlying information changes. A scalable aggregation mechanism offers a flexible way to perform data mining within the resulting virtual database. Astrolabe is secure, robust under a wide range of failure and attack scenarios, and imposes low loads even under stress.
Surface Roughness Study of Low-temperature PECVD a -Si:H.

Surface topography of a -Si:H thin films, deposited at 75°C by Plasma-enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) has been examined using helium/silane feedstock mixtures under different substrate bias conditions. Notable differences in the surface roughness evolution are shown for films deposited in “cathodic” versus “anodic” mode – where the substrate is placed on the powered and grounded electrode respectively. Smooth and apparently featureless surfaces result from deposition on RF powered surfaces, upon which a self-bias induces high-energy ion bombardment. Rougher surfaces result from films deposited on electrically grounded surfaces. These anodic films show that after a transition period, surface roughness grows linearly with processing time, exhibiting mounded type growth as evidenced by 2-D power spectral density functions of surface height measurements. Linear growth in roughness has been predicted for shadow growth models assuming film precursor sticking coefficients of one and random angle approach of film precursor species. Growth of this nature has not been reported before in a -Si:H studies, which usually assume directional deposition conditions and sticking coefficients less than unity – occurring even at low processing temperatures.
MICROFILAMENT INVOLVEMENT IN HIRANO BODY FORMATION

The neuron, like many other types of cells, contains three major morphologically distinct filamentous systems: microfilaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules.1 The role of these cytoskeletal components in the neuron has been unclear until recently. These discoveries have implicated the cytoskeleton in many cell functions, including internal organization.2–5 Microfilaments in neurons have mainly been studied in relation to axonal transport.6–9 By light microscopy, actin filaments have been demonstrated in neurites,10–13 growth cones of avian dorsal root ganglia cells14–18 and in microspikes of murine neuroblastoma cells.10–11 In situ organization of actin filaments in dendritic spines, dendrites and axon terminals has been demonstrated19 using heavy meromyosin decoration.20