cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using rubrics to assess information literacy

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report the results of an assessment study of undergraduate students' achievement of information literacy learning outcomes in a first‐year research and writing course.Design/methodology/approach – The object of the assessment was a group of bibliographies compiled by the students. The librarian and other faculty members created a scoring rubric based on course learning objectives and the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education. The rubric was used to score the bibliographies to determine the students' levels of mastery of the objectives, their use of library‐licensed vs freely available web sources, and differences among the classroom learning environments.Findings – The paper finds that students' academic work is a useful gauge of their achievement of information literacy‐based learning outcomes. A rubric is a valuable assessment tool that provides a reliable and objective method for anal...
Routing, wavelength assignment, and spectrum allocation in wavelength-convertible flexible optical WDM (WC-FWDM) networks

We investigate the routing, wavelength assignment, and spectrum allocation problem in WC-FWDM networks for the first time. The benefits of full, limited, sparse, and limited range wavelength conversion capabilities are evaluated in WC-FWDM networks.
Phosphorus Sorption Characteristics of Bh and Bt Horizons from Sandy Coastal Plain Soils

Retention of land-applied P is an environmental concern in sandy Coastal Plain regions. Compositional differences between Spodosol Bh and Ultisol Bt horizons are likely to have major consequences for P retention. The purpose of this study was to compare P sorption-desorption characteristics of Bh and Bt horizons using selective chelation to evaluate the effects of organically complexed Fe and Al in Bh samples. The Bh and Bt samples sorbed comparable amounts of P but Bh samples desorbed a higher proportion of their adsorbed P. After alkaline acetylacetone extraction of metal-organic complexes, Bh samples lost most of their P adsorption capacity, but their desorption behavior was more like that of samples whose day fractions were dominated by inorganic metal oxides. Aluminum-organic matter complexes appear to be responsible for the high P adsorption capacity of Bh horizons as well as for the tendency of these horizons to release P more readily at low solution P concentrations.
Effect of carbohydrate moieties on the folate hydrolysis activity of the prostate specific membrane antigen

BACKGROUND Prostate specific membrane antigen or PSMA has been recognized as one of the important cellular markers for prostate cancer, the expression of which is enhanced many fold in prostate cancer and other tumor neovasculature. PSMA is a type II membrane glycoprotein with a short cytoplasmic N-terminal region, a transmembrane domain, and a 701 amino acid extracellular portion with 10 potential N-linked glycosylation sites. PSMA is a folate hydrolase, which cleaves terminal glutamates from poly- and gamma-glutamated folates; and NAALADase, which hydrolyses alpha-glutamate-linked dipeptide, N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG) and is a glutamate carboxypeptidase. METHODS In our study we have used various enzymes or site directed mutagenesis to remove sugar molecules from PSMA protein and studied its folate hydrolase function. We have performed a biochemical characterization of N-linked glycosylation of the various mutant proteins. RESULTS PSMA protein expressed in different prostate cancer cell lines is differentially glycosylated. Removal of sugar residues either enzymatically or by mutagenesis abolishes the enzyme activity of PSMA protein completely. CONCLUSION N-linked carbohydrate structures are important for the folate hydrolase function of the protein. Removal of sugars partially or completely causes PSMA to be enzymatically inactive, improperly folded, resulting in increased rate of degradation. Prostate 57: 140–151, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Mechanism of action of benzo(a)pyrene and nicotine on hormone production by rat pituitary tumor cells

Abstract The effects of the cyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) and that of the tobacco alkaloid, nicotine, on prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) synthesis by rat pituitary tumor cells in culture (GH cells) have been studied. Treatment of GH cells with nicotine (0.1–300 μg/ml) neither affected the growth, nor significantly altered the general pattern of hormone production in these cells. BaP at concentrations greater than 5 μg/ml irreversively inhibited the growth of these cells. The sublethal concentrations of BaP, which did not affect either 1) cell growth, or 2) amino acid transport or 3) total protein synthesis or degradation, did however inhibit specifically, hormone synthesis by these cells. More interestingly concentrations of nicotine which did not affect either cell growth or hormone synthesis, modulated both of these cellular processes in the presence of BaP. A concentration dependent stimulation of microsomal BaP monooxygenase activity was observed in nicotine or BaP treated cells. The effects of these drugs on stimulation of BaP monooxygenase activity seems to be additive. Nicotine also enhanced the association of radioactivity (presumably [3H] BaP metabolites) with DNA in [3H] BaP treated cells. It is concluded that nicotine by itself did not demonstrate any cytotoxic effect nor influence hormone synthesis in GH cells. However, this constituent of tobacco smoke stimulated BaP monooxygenase activity and the interaction of [3H] BaP metabolites with cellular DNA and also modulated BaP induced inhibition of hormone synthesis in GH cells.
Quantitative assessment of asymmetric aortic dilation with valve-related aortic disease.

Rationale and Objectives Previous work suggests that ascending aortic (AsAo) dilation can be asymmetric and is potentially related to valve-related blood flow abnormalities. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the aortic valve and AsAo dilation using a quantitative, three-dimensional assessment of aortic shapes. Materials and Methods Computed tomographic and magnetic resonance images of the thorax were retrospectively reviewed. Four groups with aortic dilation were studied: those with tricuspid aortic valves (TAVs) with and without stenosis and those with bicuspid aortic valves (BAVs) with and without stenosis. Controls had either TAVs or BAVs but no aortic stenosis or dilation. In additional to standard orthogonal diameters, a unique measurement of AsAo asymmetry was used: the ratio of the greater to lesser curvatures measured using three-dimensional reformats in a “candy-cane” orientation. Results A total of 105 patients were identified. Ratios of greater to lesser curvature in patients with aortic dilation and nonstenotic TAVs were not significantly different from those in controls (1.69 vs 1.55, P > .20), but the asymmetry reflected by this ratio was markedly increased in patients with aortic dilation and stenotic TAVs (1.94, P < .001). Patients with aortic dilation and BAVs had significantly elevated ratios regardless of the status of the aortic valve (1.96 for nonstenotic and 2.05 for stenotic vs 1.53 for controls, P < .001). Conclusions Asymmetric AsAo dilation with relative bulging of the greater curvature is linked to aortic stenosis, but it is also seen with nonstenotic BAVs. This suggests that the hemodynamic forces that contribute to aortic dilation are not fully revealed by conventional assessment of the aortic valve.
Relevance of the habenular complex to neuropsychiatry : a review and hypothesis

Since the initial observation by Brown (1914) that electrical stimulation applied to the habenular efferent bundle in the chimpanzee evoked a pattern of respiration which closely resembled the act of laughter, the habenular complex has remained a mysterious structure. The anatomy of the habenular complex is well delineated (Jones, 1985) forming a major component of the dorsal diencephalic conduction system. Data derived mainly from animal experimentation over the past decade point to the fact that the habenular complex functions as an important link between the limbic forebrain and the midbrain-extrapyramidal motor system. The elucidation of the functions of the habenular complex may thus significantly increase the current insight into the understanding of the interaction between behavioral and motor functions. Clearly, such information would be of great relevance for further understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, Tardive dyskinesia, and Tourette's syndrome in which behavioral and motor impairments are interfaced. This review summarizes anatomical, functional, and pharmacological aspects of the habenular complex and discusses its potential contribution to the pathophysiology of selected neuropsychiatric and movement disorders.
Shil’nikov Analysis of Homoclinic and Heteroclinic Orbits of the T System

We study the chaotic behavior of the T system, a three dimensional autonomous nonlinear system introduced by Tigan (2005, "Analysis of a Dynamical System Derived From the Lorenz System, " Scientific Bulletin Politehnica University of Timisoara, Tomul, 50, pp. 61-72), which has potential application in secure communications. Here, we first recount the heteroclinic orbits of Tigan and Dumitru (2008, "Analysis of a 3D Chaotic System, " Chaos, Solitons Fractals, 36, pp. 1315-1319), and then we analytically construct homoclinic orbits describing the observed Smale horseshoe chaos. In the parameter regimes identified by this rigorous Shil'nikov analysis, the occurrence of interesting behaviors thus predicted in the T system is verified by the use of numerical diagnostics.
Vehicle Positioning Using Image Processing

An image-processing approach is described that detects the position of a vehicle on a bridge. A load-bearing vehicle must be carefully positioned on a bridge for quantitative bridge monitoring. The personnel required for setup and testing and the time required for bridge closure or traffic control are important management and cost considerations. Consequently, bridge monitoring and inspections are good candidates for smart embedded systems. The objectives of this work are to reduce the need for personnel time and to minimize the time for bridge closure. An approach is proposed that uses a passive target on the bridge and camera instrumentation on the load vehicle. The orientation of the vehicle-mounted camera and the target determine the position. The experiment used pre-defined concentric circles as the target, a FireWire camera for image capture, and MATLAB for computer processing. Various image-processing techniques are compared for determining the orientation of the target circles with respect to speed and accuracy in the positioning application. The techniques for determining the target orientation use algorithms based on using the centroid feature, template matching, color feature, and Hough transforms. Timing parameters are determined for each algorithm to determine the feasibility for real-time use in a position triggering system. Also, the effect of variations in the size and color of the circles are examined. The development can be combined with embedded sensors and sensor nodes for a complete automated procedure. As the load vehicle moves to the proper position, the image-based system can trigger an embedded measurement, which is then transmitted back to the vehicle control computer through a wireless link.
Raman spectroscopy of M2CoF4 planar antiferromagnets

Abstract We have measured the Raman spectra of phonons and magnons in the planar antiferromagnets K 2 CoF 4 , Rb 2 CoF 4 , and Tl 2 CoF 4 . The energies of the long-wavelength magnons are one to two orders of magnitude higher than in isomorphic K 2 NiF 4 or K 2 MnF 4 and agree well with a theoretical estimate.
An Improved Time-Amplitude Window Discriminator

Usually extracellular microelectrodes record the activity from several neurons. In order to quantify the activity of an individual neuron in the record some form of spike discrimination is required. This paper describes a window discriminator for the separation of multi-unit neuronal spike trains which will display simultaneously the recorded spike information and the time-amplitude window levels. The window levels are displayed and can be delayed to include any portion of the spike waveform either above or below the initial threshold level. Several instruments can be cascaded for multiple time-amplitude interrogations of the same spike class from a single electrode recording. The instrument utilizes inexpensive commercially available integrated circuits.
Stress-activated signalling responses leading to apoptosis following photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic treatment with the phthalocyanine Pc 4, a mitochondrially localizing photosensitizer, is an efficient inducer of cell death by apoptosis, a cell suicide pathway that can be triggered by physiological stimuli as well as by various types of cellular damage. Upon exposure of the dye- loaded cells to red light, several stress signalling pathways are rapidly activated. In murine L5178Y-R lymphoblasts, caspase activation and other hallmarks of the final phase of apoptosis are observed within a few minutes post-PDT. In Chinese hamster CHO-K1 cells, the first signs of apoptosis are not observed for 1 - 2 hours. The possible involvement of three parallel mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathways has been investigated. The extracellular- regulated kinases (ERK-1 and ERK-2), that are thought to promote cell growth, are not appreciably altered by PDT. However, PDT causes marked activation of the stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) cascade in both cell types and of the p38/HOG-type kinase in CHO cells. Both of these latter pathways have been demonstrated to be associated with apoptosis. A specific inhibitor of the ERK pathway did not alter PDT-induced apoptosis; however, an inhibitor of the p38 pathway partially blocked PDT-induced apoptosis. Blockage of the SAPK pathway is being pursued by a genetic approach. It appears that the SAPK and p38 pathways may participate in signaling apoptosis in response to PDT with Pc 4.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Muscle catabolism in lean and obese zucker rats fed a very low calorie diet

Abstract In this study we examined the adaptations of adult lean and obese Zucker rats to a very low calorie diet (VLCD) or simple starvation. Lean rats were fed the VLCD or starved until they lost 31% of their starting weight. Obese rats were subjected to the same two treatments until they had lost about 52% of their initial weight. Weights of five skeletal muscles, three fat pads, and three organs were determined. Compared to the lean rats, obese rats relied to a greater extent on catabolism of fat stores for energy and to a lesser extent on lean body mass during both types of food restriction. Obese rats on the VLCD lost significantly less skeletal muscle, but not cardiac muscle, than the starved rats. Both the VLCD and starved groups experienced a 27–28% loss of cardiac muscle mass. This “protein-sparing” effect of the VLCD was seen in both the tissue weights and protein contents of skeletal muscle. Lean rats were not as capable of minimizing muscle losses during the rapid body weight loss due to the VLCD. In conclusion, obese Zucker rats have an enhanced ability to conserve skeletal muscle when fed a VLCD, but cardiac muscle is not “spared” in the same manner as skeletal muscle.
Experimental demonstration of lossy recording of information into DNA

Non-coding DNA comprises the majority of an organism's DNA and has the potential to store massive amounts of information. We hypothesize that information can be stored into non-coding DNA using a noisy mechanism comprised of thermally sensitive liposomes as sensors and measuring transport state variable information through DNA release and binding in response to stimuli. To test our hypothesis, we performed experiments that demonstrated the in situ , de novo synthesis of information-encoding DNA using natural biomaterials. Our results were compared to a lumped-parameter model designed to simulate the experiments. We found promising correlation between the DNA sequences generated by the simulations and those generated experimentally, suggesting that the in situ, de novo synthesized DNA does store recoverable information by the mechanism proposed.
Thurstone scaling in order statistics

Thurstone scaling is widely used for presenting the priorities among the compared items. The mean values of the quantiles corresponding to frequencies of each stimilus' preference over the other stimuli define the items' locations on the psychological continuum of the Thurstone scale. This paper considers an extension of the scale levels to the aggregates of the independent covariates. In a sense, it is similar to a multiple regression extension of the mean value of the dependent variable to its conditional mean expressed by the linear aggregate of the independent variables. A maximum likelihood objective constructed by the probabilities of the order statistics applied to the ranked or paired comparison data is suggested. Probit, logit and multinomial links are tried to obtain the Thurstonian scale exposition by the covariates, and to estimate probabilities of the items' choice. This approach is very convenient and can substantially enrich both theoretical interpretation and practical application of Thurstone modelling, particularly in marketing and advertising research.
Thorascopic resection of an apical paraspinal schwannoma using the Da Vinci surgical system

Background Posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumors have traditionally been resected via an open posterolateral thoracotomy. Video-assisted thorascopic surgery has emerged as an alternative technique allowing for improved morbidity with decreased blood loss, less postoperative pain, and a shorter recovery period, among others. The da Vinci surgical system, as first described for urologic procedures, has recently been reported for lung lobectomy. This technique provides the advantages of instrumentation with 6 degrees of freedom, stable operating arms, and improved visualization with the three-dimensional high-definition camera. Methods We describe the technique for thorascopic resection of an apical paraspinal schwannoma of the T1 nerve root with the da Vinci surgical system. This technique used a specialized intraoperative neuromonitoring probe for free-running electromyography (EMG) and triggered EMG. Results We demonstrate successful resection of a posterior paraspinal schwannoma with the da Vinci surgical system while preserving neurologic function. The patient displayed stable intraoperative monitoring of the T1 nerve root and full intrinsic hand strength postoperatively. Conclusion The technique described in this article introduces robotic system accuracy and precludes the need for an open thoracotomy. In addition, this approach demonstrates the ability of the da Vinci surgical system to safely dissect tumors from their neural attachments and is applicable to other such lesions of similar size and location.
A dynamic dichotomy for a system of hierarchical difference equations

A system of difference equations that arises in population dynamics is studied. Criteria are given for the existence of equilibria lying in the positive cone and for the existence of periodic cycles lying on the boundary of the cone. These equilibria and cycles arise from a bifurcation that occurs as a fundamental parameter R 0 increases through the value 1. Under monotone conditions on the nonlinearities and for R 0 near 1, we derive criteria for the stability of the equilibria and we determine the global dynamics on the boundary of the cone. We show that boundary orbits tend to periodic cycles (all of which we classify into four types). A dynamic dichotomy is established between the equilibria and the cycles, which asserts that one is stable and the other is unstable. We also establish a dynamic dichotomy between the equilibria and the boundary of the cone.
Death without caspases, caspases without death

Apoptosis is a conserved cell-death process displaying characteristic morphological and molecular changes including activation of caspase proteases. Recent work challenges the accepted roles of these proteases. New investigations in mice and the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans suggest that there could be caspase-independent pathways leading to cell death. In addition, another type of cell death displaying autophagic features might depend on caspases. Recent studies also indicate that caspase activation does not always lead to cell death and, instead, might be important for cell differentiation. Here, we review recent evidence for both the expanded roles of caspases and the existence of caspase-independent cell-death processes. We suggest that cellular context plays an important role in defining the consequences of caspase activation.
Acceptors in ZnO

Zinc oxide (ZnO) has potential for a range of applications in the area of optoelectronics. The quest for p-type ZnO has focused much attention on acceptors. In this paper, Cu, N, and Li acceptor impurities are discussed. Experimental evidence indicates these point defects have acceptor levels 3.2, 1.4, and 0.8 eV above the valence-band maximum, respectively. The levels are deep because the ZnO valence band is quite low compared to conventional, non-oxide semiconductors. Using MoO2 contacts, the electrical resistivity of ZnO:Li was measured and showed behavior consistent with bulk hole conduction for temperatures above 400 K. A photoluminescence peak in ZnO nanocrystals is attributed to an acceptor, which may involve a Zn vacancy. High field (W-band) electron paramagnetic resonance measurements on the nanocrystals revealed an axial center with g⊥ = 2.0015 and g// = 2.0056, along with an isotropic center at g = 2.0035.
Stromal cell-derived factor-1 promotes survival of pancreatic beta cells by the stabilisation of beta-catenin and activation of transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2)

Aims/hypothesis Stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) is a chemokine produced in stromal tissues in multiple organs. Earlier we reported on levels of SDF-1 and SDF-1 receptor (CXCR4) in the insulin-producing beta cells of the mouse pancreas and determined that the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis is important for beta cell survival through activation of the prosurvival kinase, protein kinase B (AKT). Since AKT is known to modulate the wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT) signalling cascade, we examined the effects of SDF-1/CXCR4 on WNT signalling in beta cells and whether this signalling is important for cell survival.
Thermodynamics of Binding to SH3 Domains: The Energetic Impact of Polyproline II (PII) Helix Formation†

Although numerous biophysical studies have focused on elucidating the structural and thermodynamic determinants that govern the free energy of binding between various SH3 domains and their putative recognition sequences, a quantitative accounting of the energetics of this interaction has proven enigmatic. Specifically, the binding results in a large and negative change on the standard enthalpy and entropy functions, a result which is inconsistent with the positive values for these quantities that is expected from the hydrophobic nature of the binding pocket. Here, the binding of the C-terminal SH3 domain of Sem-5 to its putative recognition peptide on the Sos (Son of Sevenless) protein is investigated using isothermal titration calorimetry under a variety of temperature and pH conditions. In addition, the energy associated with folding the Sos peptide into the binding competent polyproline II conformation is quantitatively evaluated. These results provide a rationale for the observed discrepancy between the experimental and predicted behavior and indicate that the determinants of binding in this system cannot be ascertained from a static structural representation of the binding process.
Wurster's crownophanes: an alternate topology for para-phenylenediamine-based macrocycles

Abstract Six redox-active cyclophane/crown hybrid molecules (crownophanes) were prepared via cyclization reactions involving N,N′-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine and tosylated oligoethylene glycols of varying length. These new host molecules differ from other phenylenediamine-containing crown ethers in that the electron-rich π face is designed to be part of the ligating group. Their electrochemical properties were determined by cyclic voltammetry with a correlation found between macrocyclic architecture and ease of oxidation. The affinity of the smaller crownophanes for cations was studied by cyclic voltammetry with the result that these hosts show no electrochemical response to alkali metal cations, but, dependent on macrocycle size, modest selectivity for alkaline earth metal cations. This stands in contrast to previously reported phenylenediamine-containing crown ethers in which the redox centers are linked to guest ions through a macrocyclic amino group.
Early Identification of Patients Who May Require Electrical Control Treatment

Patients who are at increased risk of sudden death generally have significant underlying organic heart disease, but this is not always the case. The majority of patients at risk include those with the idiopathic long QT syndrome, the Wolff-Parkinson-White disorder, mitral valve prolapse, coronary heart disease, and cardiomyopathy. A history of syncope or presyncope and/or frequent or repetitive runs of ventricular ectopic beats are common prodromal findings in patients with a potentially life-threatening problem. Potential candidates for implantable antiarrhythmic devices include high-risk patients in whom an effective antiarrhythmic agent cannot be identified or those who cannot tolerate indicated antiarrhythmic agents because of adverse side effects.
3,7-Disubstituted-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolines display remarkable potency and selectivity as inhibitors of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase versus the alpha2-adrenoceptor.

3-Hydroxymethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (4) is a more selective inhibitor (PNMT Ki = 1.1 μM, α2 Ki = 6.6 μM, selectivity (α2 Ki/PNMT Ki) = 6.0) of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT, EC 2.1.1.28), with respect to its α2-adrenoceptor affinity, than is 3-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (2; PNMT Ki = 2.1 μM, α2 Ki = 0.76 μM, selectivity = 0.36) or 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (1, THIQ; PNMT Ki = 9.7 μM, α2 Ki = 0.35 μM, selectivity = 0.036). Evaluation of the O-methyl ether derivative of 4 suggested that the 3-hydroxymethyl substituent might be involved in a hydrogen-bond donor-type of interaction at a sterically compact region in the PNMT active site. The directionality of the steric bulk tolerance at both the PNMT active site and the α2-adrenoceptor appears to be the same. Since the presence of a hydrophilic electron-withdrawing substituent (such as NO2, SO2CH3, or SO2NH2) at the 7-position of THIQ reduced the binding affinity toward the α2-adrenoceptor, we investigated the combina...
Laparoscopic splenopexy and cystectomy for an enlarged wandering spleen and splenic cyst

Wandering spleen is an uncommon condition, which can present emergently in children. Similarly, nonparasitic splenic cysts are also rarely encountered. In this report, we describe a massive wandering spleen (22 cm in longitudinal dimension) with a pseudocyst (4.6 x 2 cm) in the inferior pole in an asymptomatic 16-year-old adolescent. Only 4 similar cases have been reported in the literature; 2 of them have been in the pediatric age group. These 2 conditions were diagnosed while she was being evaluated for dysmenorrhea, and she was referred for surgical consultation. The cyst was excised laparoscopically, and the spleen was placed into an extraperitoneal pouch. To date, there are no other reports describing laparoscopic cystectomy and splenopexy in a teenager.
Protein-tyrosine Phosphatase Shp-2 Regulates Cell Spreading, Migration, and Focal Adhesion

Shp-2, a widely expressed cytoplasmic tyrosine phosphatase with two SH2 domains, is believed to participate in signal relay downstream of growth factor receptors. We show here that this phosphatase also plays an important role in the control of cell spreading, migration, and cytoskeletal architecture. Fibroblast cells lacking a functional Shp-2 were impaired in their ability to spread and migrate on fibronectin compared with wild-type cells. Furthermore, Shp-2 mutant cells displayed an increased number of focal adhesions and condensed F-actin aggregation at the cell periphery, properties reminiscent of focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-deficient cells. This is consistent with our previous observations in vivo that mice homozygous for the Shp-2 mutation died at midgestation with similar phenotype to FAK and fibronectin-deficient embryos, having severe defects in mesodermal patterning, particularly the truncation of posterior structures. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that FAK dephosphorylation was significantly reduced in Shp-2 mutant cells in suspension. Furthermore, regulated association of Src SH2 domain with FAK and paxillin during cell attachment and detachment on fibronectin was disrupted in Shp-2 mutant cells. This report defines a unique role of the Shp-2 tyrosine phosphatase in cell motility, which might guide the design of a new strategy for pharmaceutical interference of tumor metastasis.
Bacillus thuringiensis Cry5B Protein Is Highly Efficacious as a Single-Dose Therapy against an Intestinal Roundworm Infection in Mice

Background Intestinal parasitic nematode diseases are one of the great diseases of our time. Intestinal roundworm parasites, including hookworms, whipworms, and Ascaris, infect well over 1 billion people and cause significant morbidity, especially in children and pregnant women. To date, there is only one drug, albendazole, with adequate efficacy against these parasites to be used in mass drug administration, although tribendimidine may emerge as a second. Given the hundreds of millions of people to be treated, the threat of parasite resistance, and the inadequacy of current treatments, new anthelmintics are urgently needed. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) crystal (Cry) proteins are the most common used biologically produced insecticides in the world and are considered non-toxic to vertebrates.
Changes in ornithine decarboxylase activity during matrix-induced cartilage, bone and bone marrow differentiation.

Abstract Subcutaneous transplantation of coarse powders of demineralized rat diaphyseal bone matrix into allogeneic recipients results in new bone formation. The changes in ornithine decarboxylase activity during such bone matrix-induced sequential differentiation of cartilage, bone and bone marrow were investigated. There was a peak in ornithine decarboxylase activity on day 3 corresponding to the appearance of fibroblasts in close contiguity to the bone matrix. This was followed by another peak of enzyme activity on day 8 which was correlated with the onset of proliferation of presumptive osteoblasts and vascular endothelial cells. The peak of ornithine decarboxylase activity on day 3 appears to be a demineralized bone matrix-specific event. Induction of ornithine decarboxylase activity represents one of the early responses to implanted bone matrix.
Boundary-mode approximations for posterior expectations

Abstract Laplacian approximations to posterior expectations of smooth functions of parameters are considered when the posterior mode lies on the boundary of the parameter space. Since posterior expectations can be written as ratios of integrals, a simple approximation to the expectation can be obtained by approximating the numerator and the denominator integrals separately and then taking the ratio. Depending on the behavior of the gradient vectors of the numerator and the denominator integrands on the boundary, several types of approximations are developed having errors of different orders. The accuracies of these approximations are illustrated by one- and two-dimensional examples.
Successful thoracoscopic staged repair of bilateral congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) occurs in 1 of every 2000 to 3000 live births and accounts for 8% of all major congenital anomalies. Bilateral hernias account for no more than 1% of all types of CDH; furthermore, they are usually fatal prenatally. Those that survive are identified through a limited number of case reports. We are presenting an unusual case of bilateral CDH hernia in a neonate that was repaired successfully using a staged thoracoscopic approach. To our knowledge, this represents the first case in the world literature of bilateral CDH that was repaired thoracoscopically. In carefully selected patients, appropriate use of disruptive new technologies such as thoracoscopy can be achieved.
Distal Aneurysms of Intracranial Arteries: Application of Numerical Nomenclature, Predilection for Cerebellar Arteries, and Results of Surgical Management

Background Distal intracranial aneurysms are rare, have unclear origins, and are frequently nonsaccular. Published clinical experience with these aneurysms is limited. Objective To examine differences between distal aneurysms of cerebral and cerebellar arteries and to examine results associated with surgical therapy in 140 patients. Methods Distal aneurysms in the cerebral arteries were defined as outside the circle of Willis, on or beyond the A2 anterior cerebral artery, M2 middle cerebral artery, or P2 posterior cerebral segments. Distal aneurysms in the cerebellar arteries were on or beyond the s2 superior cerebellar artery, a2 anterior inferior cerebellar artery, or p2 posterior inferior cerebellar artery segments. Clinical data, microsurgical technique, and patient outcomes were reviewed. Results The incidence of distal cerebellar artery aneurysms was 4.3 times greater than distal cerebral artery aneurysms (6.5% vs. 28.6%; P Conclusions Distal intracranial aneurysms have a predilection for cerebellar arteries and are not as rare as the literature suggests. Application of standardized nomenclature for segmental anatomy to these lesions will increase the precision of anatomic description and clarity of clinical discourse. Although technically difficult, good clinical results can be expected with surgical management.
Electrochemical evidence for hypervalent (10-C-5) [1] pentacoordinate carbon

The electrochemical oxidation of 1,8-bis(4-methylphenylthio)-9-(2, 6-dimethoxyphenyl)-10-phenylanthracene (2) is discussed. It undergoes facile, reversible two-electron electrooxidation in two closely spaced one-electron steps at E′ = 0.98 V and E′ = 1.02 V (vs. SCE). This behavior is discussed in terms of relief of three-center antibonding interaction involving the 1-, 8-, and 9-substituents of 2 with two sulfurs and a carbon of the 2,6-dimethoxyphenyl group, which becomes a stabilized three-center bonding interaction in dication 1. The central atom in the three-center bond is a hypervalent pentacoordinate carbon atom. A related two-center antibonding interaction present in 1-(4-methylphenylthio)-9-(2,6-dimethoxyphenyl)-10-phenylanthracene (5) is relieved by facile one-electron oxidation (Ep = 1.14 V vs. SCE) forming 7. Removal of a second electron (Ep = 1.34 V vs. SCE) from anthracene 5 results in an unstable dication, 8. Other analogous anthracene derivatives lacking both thioaryl groups (4) or the 9-aryl group (4) prove much more difficult to oxidize, both showing oneelectron reversible oxidation potentials of 1.27 V (vs. SCE) similar to 9-phenylanthracene (1.34 V vs. SCE) and 9,10-diphenylanthracene (1.22 V vs. SCE). These results provide strong evidence for the postulated structure of dication 2 which incorporates hypervalent pentacoordinate carbon, a 10-C-5 species [2,3].
Print versus a culturally-relevant Facebook and text message delivered intervention to promote physical activity in African American women: a randomized pilot trial

African American women report insufficient physical activity and are disproportionally burdened by associated disease conditions; indicating the need for innovative approaches to promote physical activity in this underserved population. Social media platforms (i.e. Facebook) and text messaging represent potential mediums to promote physical activity. This paper reports the results of a randomized pilot trial evaluating a theory-based (Social Cognitive Theory) multi-component intervention using Facebook and text-messages to promote physical activity among African American women. Participants (N = 29) were randomly assigned to receive one of two multi-component physical activity interventions over 8 weeks: a culturally-relevant, Social Cognitive Theory-based, intervention delivered by Facebook and text message (FI) (n = 14), or a non-culturally tailored print-based intervention (PI) (n = 15) consisting of promotion brochures mailed to their home. The primary outcome of physical activity was assessed by ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometers. Secondary outcomes included self-reported physical activity, physical activity-related psychosocial variables, and participant satisfaction. All randomized participants (N = 29) completed the study. Accelerometer measured physical activity showed that FI participants decreased sedentary time (FI = −74 minutes/week vs. PI = +118 minute/week) and increased light intensity (FI = +95 minutes/week vs. PI = +59 minutes/week) and moderate-lifestyle intensity physical activity (FI = + 27 minutes/week vs. PI = −34 minutes/week) in comparison to PI participants (all P’s .05). Results of secondary outcomes showed that in comparison to the PI, FI participants self-reported greater increases in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (FI = +62 minutes/week vs. PI = +6 minutes/week; P = .015) and had greater enhancements in self-regulation for physical activity (P < .001) and social support from family for physical activity (P = .044). Satisfaction with the FI was also high: 100% reported physical activity-related knowledge gains and 100% would recommend the program to a friend. A culturally-relevant Facebook and text message delivered physical activity program was associated with several positive outcomes, including decreased sedentary behavior, increased light- and moderate-lifestyle intensity physical activity, enhanced psychosocial outcomes, and high participant satisfaction. Future studies with larger samples are warranted to further explore the efficacy of technology-based approaches to promote physical activity among African American women. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02372565 . Registered 25 February 2015.
proBDNF Negatively Regulates Neuronal Remodeling, Synaptic Transmission, and Synaptic Plasticity in Hippocampus

Summary Experience-dependent plasticity shapes postnatal development of neural circuits, but the mechanisms that refine dendritic arbors, remodel spines, and impair synaptic activity are poorly understood. Mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) modulates neuronal morphology and synaptic plasticity, including long-term potentiation (LTP) via TrkB activation. BDNF is initially translated as proBDNF, which binds p75 NTR . In vitro, recombinant proBDNF modulates neuronal structure and alters hippocampal long-term plasticity, but the actions of endogenously expressed proBDNF are unclear. Therefore, we generated a cleavage-resistant probdnf knockin mouse. Our results demonstrate that proBDNF negatively regulates hippocampal dendritic complexity and spine density through p75 NTR . Hippocampal slices from probdnf mice exhibit depressed synaptic transmission, impaired LTP, and enhanced long-term depression (LTD) in area CA1. These results suggest that proBDNF acts in vivo as a biologically active factor that regulates hippocampal structure, synaptic transmission, and plasticity, effects that are distinct from those of mature BDNF.
Analysis of prenylated carboxyl-terminal cysteine methyl esters in proteins

We describe methods that allow for the identification of prenylated and methyl-esterified carboxyl-terminal cysteine residues in proteins radiolabeled in vitro and in vivo . Proteins isotopically labeled in the 15-carbon farnesyl or 20-carbon geranylgeranyl prenyl group, the cysteine residue, or the methyl group are subjected to complete enzymatic hydrolysis under conditions that preserve the methyl ester. The products of this reaction are mixed with synthetic standards of farnesylcysteine, farnesylcysteine methyl ester, geranylgeranylcysteine, and geranylgeranylcysteine methyl ester and are fractionated by reverse-phase HPLC. Each of these compounds is readily resolved, and the product identification can be confirmed using normal-phase thin-layer chromatography. Further confirmation of the linkage of the methyl group to the α -carboxyl group of a carboxyl-terminal cysteine residue can be obtained by identifying radiolabeled cysteic acid methyl ester derived from performic acid-oxidized samples of digests of cysteine or methyl ester labeled material. Cysteic acid methyl ester can be identified by amino acid analysis on cation-exchange resin as well as by thin-layer chromatography. We describe synthetic methods for preparing the farnesyl- and geranylgeranylcysteine derivatives as standards, as well as general methods for detecting radiolabeled methyl esters.
Issues in signal processing

Some of the relationships between signal processing and control are highlighted. The nature of the connection between the two is briefly examined. The following topics are then discussed: stability; parameter identification, state estimation and signal modeling; synthesis, realization and implementation of algorithms; multidimensional systems; and nonlinear systems. >
Altered thermoregulation in the iguana disposaurus dorsalis following exercise

Abstract 1. 1.|Seven desert iguanas ran on a motorized treadmill for 20-min periods. Before, during and after exercise, the iguanas were in a thermal gradient which allowed them to thermoregulate behaviourally. 2. 2.|For several hours following exercise, the iguanas selected warmer ambient temperatures, resulting in small, but statistically significant, increases in body temperature. 3. 3.|The increases in temperature were proportional to the exercise intensity. 4. 4.|These changes were not observed if exercised was preceded by administration of the antipyretic drug, sodium salicylate. 5. 5.|These data support the hypothesis that exercise causes a change in central thermoregulatory control which may be similar to fever caused by infection.
Strong coupling polaron theory and translational invariance

Abstract We develop a systematic, manifestly translation invariant, strong coupling theory for nonrelativistic Hamiltonians of the polaron type. As in earlier strong coupling theories, the position of the polarization well is a collective coordinate. The field is expanded in a set of basis functions centered about the well with three amplitudes deleted. A particle coordinate relative to the polarization center is introduced. The new coordinates are introduced using a point canonical transform leading to a Hermitian Hamiltonian, with properly normalized wavefunctions, and with a Jacobian that is evaluated in closed form. All subsequent approximations to the states are manifestly translation invariant. For the ground state the energy of the recoil terms to leading order depend on the coupling constant g as g−4. The intrinsic part of the Hamiltonian determines the energy terms of order g4 and g0. An adiabatic canonical transformation is used to calculate all terms through order g−4. The coefficients depend on the Green's function for the electron in a static potential well. We determine the first three terms in the inverse coupling constant expansion of the effective mass.
Fluoroscopy guided implantation of penile prosthesis in cases of severe fibrosis

Abstract Penile prosthesis implantation in men with scarred corpora presents a challenge to surgeons due to the fibrosis created and the loss of normal anatomic boundaries. We present a new technique to recreate corporal spaces and preserve circulation in a patient with a neophallus that we believe can be used in other circumstances of atypical anatomy such as extensive fibrotic scarring. The operation was performed in a hybrid operating room that was capable of complete angiography as well as complete sterility for operative procedures. Angiography of the femoral vessels documented the blood supply to the neophallus and decreased the risk of accidental injury to its vascular supply. Under fluoroscopic guidance a 16 cm needle was extended through the pseudo-corpora of the neophallus to provide a channel for a super stiff guide-wire to be advanced. The needle was then removed and an inflatable Amplatz dilator was advanced along the wire. The balloons were inflated with contrast media under fluoroscopic gui...
Isotopic composition of lead in pegmatitic feldspars

Abstract An ion-exchange method was developed for extracting microgram quantities of lead from pegmatitic feldspars. The isotopic composition of lead in feldspars ranging from 350 to 2750 million years (m.y.) in age was determined. Model ages were calculated and were generally found to be in good agreement with independent age determinations. The results are compatible with a lead model stipulating relatively short periods of time in a crustal environment for the lead. In one instance where there was a large discrepancy between the model age and the known age, because of excess radiogenic lead in the feldspar, the anomaly was resolved by acid leach experiments which preferentially removed the excess radiogenic lead. The lead content of twenty-five feldspars was measured and found to range from
Severe Proliferative Retinopathy as the Only Sign of Sickle Cell Hemoglobin C Disease

A 48-year-old black woman developed severe bilateral hypoxic proliferative retinopathy without other clinical manifestations. The hemoglobin level was 10.6 to 11.5 g/100 ml, reticulocyte level was 2.2%, targeted and sickled red blood cells were seen on blood smears, and hemoglobins S and C were demonstrated by electrophoresis. Glucose tolerance test was normal. The development of neovascular proliferation, vitreous hemorrhage, and retinal detachment unassociated with other clinical symptoms is unusual in sickle cell hemoglobin C disease.
Two calibration satellites

Two Space Object Identification Calibration (SOICAL) satellites were recently launched into 500 nmi orbits of 70° inclination, one a right circular cylinder and the other a right circular cone.
Pathogenesis of pulmonary Mycobacterium bovis infection: basic principles established by the rabbit model.

In rabbits, one out of every three small inhaled units of 1 to 3 fully virulent bovine-type tubercle bacilli (M. bovis) generates one primary tubercle that progresses until the host succumbs. In contrast in rabbits, 50}2000 small inhaled units of human-type bacilli (M. tuberculosis) are required to generate one such primary tubercle, 2, 4}6 which eventually heals. 2 For this reason, the rabbit was used about 70 years ago to distinguish between these two strains of tubercle bacilli. The pathogenesis of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in rabbits is summarized in Figures 1 through 4 and in references 1 and 7 through 12. In brief, pulmonary alveolar macrophages (AM) are a highly activated cell population. AM may destroy very low doses of inhaled M. bovis (of somewhat reduced virulence) and prevent the establishment of the disease. If the AM do not kill the bacillus, it multiplies intracellularly, especially within non-activated monocyte/macrophages that enter the alveolus from the bloodstream. Tissuedamaging delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) (mediated by Th1 lymphocytes) develops and kills the bacilli-laden macrophages within the developing lesion. A solid