cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improved Trabecular Bone Structure of 20-Month-Old Male Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

A few clinical studies have reported that elderly male participants with hypertensive disease frequently have higher bone mineral density (BMD) than the normotensive participants at several skeletal sites. The detailed mechanism is still unknown; therefore, a study of bone structure and density using the hypertensive animal models could be informative. We used micro-computed tomography to quantitatively evaluate the tibial and 3rd lumbar vertebral bones in the 20-month-old male spontaneous hypertensive rat (SHR). The BMD, volume fraction, and the microarchitecture changes of the SHR were compared to those of same-age normotensive controls (Wistar-Kyoto rat, WKY). We found that in the very old (20 month) male rats, the trabecular bone fraction and microstructure were higher than those in the same-age normotensive controls. The observation of the association of hypertension with BMD and bone strength in hypertensive rats warrants further investigations of bone mass and strength in elderly males with hypertension.
Studies of elastin coacervation by quasielastic light scattering

Abstract The molecular mechanism of coacervation of dilute solutions of hydrolysed elastin near the isoionic pH is explored using absorbance measurements and the technique of laser heterodyne spectroscopy. The elastin fragments were found to exist in a monomeric form at low temperatures but these rapidly aggregate to a stable species 400 A in diameter on warming to room temperature. On heating further, the aggregation continues irreversibly till very large species of diameter approx. 8000 A are formed. The aggregation process is complete before the visible transition occurs. This reversible change is shown to correspond to a conformational transformation of the large aggregates and not to a further aggregation effect. The kinetic constant of the conformational change is estimated from a low-angle spectrum and a mechanism for the effect is proposed which is compatible with a Veis-Aranyi type scheme for unicomplex coacervation.
Change detection, accuracy, and bias in a sequential analysis of Landsat imagery in the Pearl River Delta, China: econometric techniques

Time series data from high resolution satellite imagery provide researchers with an opportunity to develop sophisticated statistical models of land-cover change. As inputs to statistical models, land-cover change data that are generated from satellite imagery must be both accurate and unbiased. This paper describes a new change detection method to determine the date of land-cover change in a sequential series of Landsat TM images of the Pearl River Delta, China. The method is a three-step change detection procedure that uses time series and panel econometric techniques. In the first step, regression equations are estimated for each of the six DN bands for each of seven stable land-cover classes. In the second step, the regression equations for each class are used to calculate DN values for change land-cover classes for each of the eight possible dates of change (1989–1996). In the third step, the date of land-cover change is identified by comparing a pixel’s DN values against the eight possible dates of change using tests for predictive accuracy. The accuracy and bias of the dates of change identified by the econometric technique compare favorably to a more conventional change detection technique. Furthermore, the econometric technique may reduce efforts required to assemble the training data and to correct the images for atmospheric effects. Together, these results indicate that is possible to generate land-use change estimates from a time series of satellite images that can be used in conjunction with socioeconomic data to estimate statistical models of land-use change. © 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
The Implications of Unbelief: Tracing the Emergence of Distinctively Shi˛i Notions Regarding the Food and Impurity of Non-Muslims

The distinctively Shi˛i conception of non-Muslims as bearers of a contagious form of impurity emerges gradually, reaching its classical form only in the 5th/11th century. Contrary to common scholarly presumptions, Q. 9.28 does not constitute the point of origin for this conception but rather serves as retroactive justification for its validity. This essay utilizes Hadīth collections and works of law from the 2nd/8th through 5th/11th centuries to trace the emergence of Shi˛i notions regarding the impurity of non-Muslims and the parallel emergence of distinctively Shi˛i norms regarding the meat of animals slaughtered by non-Muslims. It concludes by suggesting that the differences between Sunni and Shi˛i notions regarding the food and impurity of nonMuslims reflect the different ways in which Sunnis and Shi˛i conceive of the Islamic community itself.
Die gerichtlich-medizinische Anwendungsmöglichkeit der Spermacytologie

1. Unter allen gewohnlichen Umstanden ist die Spermamorphologie und -biometrie konstant und fur den betreffenden Mann eigentumlich. 2. Die Identifikation des einzelnen durch die detaillierte Samenuntersuchung ist moglich, wenn, wie bei Fingerabdrucken, eine Vergleichsmoglichkeit gegeben ist. Diese last sich meistens leicht zuwege bringen. 3. In Vergewaltigungsfallen kann die Untersuchungsmethode unter Umstanden von grosem Werte sein und den Fall ohne weiteres klaren.
New Liver Imaging Techniques

Over the past decade, major technological advances have occurred in all the imaging modalities that have provided a completely new perspective to hepatic imaging. Dual-energy computed tomography (CT) acquires images at two different photon energies concurrently, and permits material decomposition based on the energy-dependent attenuation profile of specific material. It provides both morphologic and functional information in the same study, and potentially benefits hepatic tumor imaging. Hardware and software improvements in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology have enabled faster MRI scanning and improved image quality. In addition to several newer MRI pulse sequences, the introduction of a new hepatocyte-specific contrast agent, gadoxetate disodium, offers additional benefits for improved detection and characterization of focal lesions, and allows functional hepatic and biliary imaging. In this article, we discuss the recent advances in CT and MRI technology and their applications for improving hepatic imaging.
Electronic states and “Geometric Isomerism” of p-disubstituted cyanoanilines

Abstract Computations of CNDO/s CI type show that the two lowest energy 1 Γ states of p -disubstituted cyanobenzenes are 1 1 B 1 (ππ * ) and 2 1 A 1 (ππ * ), in order of increasing energy. If the (CH 3 ) 2 N-group of N,N-dimethyl- p -cyanoaniline (NNDMPCA or dimethylaminobenzonitrile) is twisted out of the plane of the benzenoid ring, the two transitions 1 1 B 1 ← 1 1 A 1 and 2 1 A 1 ← 1 1 A 1 undergo an increase of energy and a decrease of intensity. The postulated state in which an electron is promoted from the twisted (90°) (CH 3 ) 2 N-group to a vacant in-plane π χ * orbital of the cyano group is predicted to lie ≈35409 cm −1 above the 1 1 B 1 (ππ * ) state. This prediction contradicts an essential postulate of the excited state isomerization model which has been used to interpret the anomalous fluorescence behavior of NNDMPCA.
Trp-107 and Trp-253 Account for the Increased Steady State Fluorescence That Accompanies the Conformational Change in Human Pancreatic Triglyceride Lipase Induced by Tetrahydrolipstatin and Bile Salt *

The conformation of a surface loop, the lid, controls activity of pancreatic triglyceride lipase (PTL) by moving from a position that sterically hinders substrate access to the active site into a new conformation that opens and configures the active site. Movement of the lid is accompanied by a large change in steady state tryptophan fluorescence. Although a change in the microenvironment of Trp-253, a lid residue, could account for the increased fluorescence, the mechanism and tryptophan residues have not been identified. To identify the tryptophan residues responsible for the increased fluorescence and to gain insight into the mechanism of lid opening and the structure of PTL in aqueous solution, we examined the effects of mutating individual tryptophan residues to tyrosine, alanine, or phenylalanine on lipase activity and steady state fluorescence. Substitution of tryptophans 86, 107, 253, and 403 reduced activity against tributyrin with the largest effects caused by substituting Trp-86 and Trp-107. Trp-107 and Trp-253 fluorescence accounts for the increased fluorescence emissions of PTL that is stimulated by tetrahydrolipstatin and sodium taurodeoxycholate. The largest contribution is from Trp-107. Contrary to the prediction from the crystal structure of PTL, Trp-107 is likely exposed to solvent. Both tetrahydrolipstatin and sodium taurodeoxycholate are required to produce the increased fluorescence in PTL. Alone, neither is sufficient. Colipase does not significantly influence the conformational changes leading to increased emission fluorescence. Thus, Trp-107 and Trp-253 contribute to the change in steady state fluorescence that is triggered by mixed micelles of inhibitor and bile salt. Furthermore, the results suggest that the conformation of PTL in solution differs significantly from the conformation in crystals.
Experiential Education and Empowerment Evaluation: Mars Rover Educational Program Case Example:

Experiential education and empowerment evaluation are in alignment conceptually and in practice. They represent mutually reinforcing educational tools with similar values. The purpose of this discu...
The Increasing Role of Nonradiologists in Performing Ultrasound-Guided Invasive Procedures

Purpose Recent proliferation of mobile diagnostic ultrasound (US) units and improved resolution have allowed for widespread use of US by more providers, both for diagnosis and US-guided procedures (USGP). This study aims to document recent trends in utilization for USGP in the Medicare population. Methods Source data were obtained from the CMS Physician Supplier Procedure Summary Master Files from 2004 to 2010. Allowed billing claims submitted for USGP were extracted and volume was analyzed by provider type and setting. Compound annual growth rates were calculated. Results The total utilization rate for all USGP was 2,425 per 100,000 in 2004 and 4,870 in 2010, an increase of 100.8% (+2,445 per 100,000) with a compound annual growth rate of 12.3%. The year 2010 represents the first year that nonradiologists as a group performed more USGP than radiologists, at 922,672 versus 794,497 examinations, respectively. Nonradiologists accounted for 72.2% (599,751 of 830,925) of the USGP volume growth from 2004 to 2010. Most 2010 claims were submitted by radiologists (n = 794,497; 46.3%) and surgeons (n = 332,294; 19.4%). The largest overall volume increases from 2004 to 2010 were observed among radiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, rheumatologists, midlevel providers, primary care physicians, nonrheumatologist internal medicine subspecialists, and the aggregate of all other provider types. Conclusion The year 2010 represents the first year that nonradiologists performed more USGP than radiologists. From 2004 to 2010, radiologists and surgeons experienced only modest growth in USGP volume, whereas several other provider types experienced more rapid growth. It is likely that many procedures that were previously performed without US guidance are now being performed with US guidance.
Design and Performance Evaluation of a Pressure-Reducing Device for Aerosol Sampling from High-Purity Gases

Pressure-reducing devices are used to reduce the gas pressure from that existing in the high-purity compressed gas system to ambient conditions in order to measure the particulate contaminants. This study deals with the design and performance evaluation of a pressure reducing device. The pressure reducing device using an orifice plate geometry has been designed by calculating the design parameters taking into account low particle loss, compactness, and light weight. The pressure reducer is designed to operate at an upstream pressure up to 150 psig (1034.3 kPa) and for a variety of high purity gas types such as N2, O2, air, and Ar. For the University of Minnesota pressure reducer, the background was found to be 80% and decreased for larger particle size with 50% penetration at approximately 3 μm and 10% penetration at 5 μm. The experimentally determined particle pene...
Prospective analysis of possible myocardial damage or hemolysis occurring as a result of prolonged autoperfusion angioplasty in humans

Abstract Objectives. The purpose of this study was to further explore the procedural safety of prolonged (15-min) dilation using an autoperfusion coronary angioplasty balloon by assessing the degree of myocardial damage or hemolysis, if any, occurring as a result of the procedure. Background. Prolonged balloon inflation periods may be beneficial during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. The duration of standard balloon angioplasty is often limited by the occurrence of myocardial ischemia due to loss of anterograde blood flow. Autoperfusion angioplasty allows continued myocardial perfusion during balloon inflation and has previously been shown to reduce but not totally eliminate acute myocardial ischemia during prolonged (up to 15 min) balloon inflation. The risk of intravascular hemolysis as a result of autoperfusion angioplasty has not yet been fully delineated. Methods. Sixty-two consecutive patients (76% men; mean age 58 years) undergoing elective percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty of a single lesion were studied. Serial electrocardiographic and creatine kinase MB isoenzyme data were examined to detect evidence of myocardial damage. Tests for hemolysis (plasma free hemoglobin, serum haptoglobin and serum lactate dehydrogenase) were obtained in the 1st 24 consecutive patients. Results. Inflation time was 14 ± 4 min (mean ± SD) and the procedure was successful (≤ 50% residual lesion stenosis) in 59 patients (95%). Electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial infarction (> 1 mm persistent ST segment depression, > 1 mm ST segment elevation or new Q waves) was not observed in any patient. Cardiac enzyme assays were within the normal range in all patients. No evidence of hemolysis was found in the 24 consecutive patients studied. Conclusions. We conclude that prolonged autoperfusion angioplasty can be performed in patients without clinical evidence of myocardial damage or hemolysis.
Does the evidence confirm theism more than naturalism

Schlesinger's argument for the confirmation of Theism over Naturalism fails. Principle E on which it is based is unacceptable. But even if Principle E were acceptable the argument would not succeed, for other evidence, not considered by Schlesinger, pulls in the other direction cancelling out the confirmatory effect of the evidence he does cite. Further, granted Principle E, it is not clear that theism as it is usually understood makes the evidence he cites more probable than naturalism; consequently he is not justified in concluding that the evidence he cites confirms theism more than naturalism. Finally, Schlesinger fails to take into account the possibility that the initial credibility of theism may be less than naturalism since theism may be incoherent and naturalism may not be; he also fails to take into account the total available evidence relevant to the confirmation of theism and naturalism.
Two Three-Dimensional Tetrahedral Framework Zinc Phosphates with Infinite Zn–O–Zn Chains: H[Zn4(PO4)3]H2O and [Zn4(H2O)(PO4)3] NH(CH3)3

Abstract Two zinc phosphates materials (ZnPO-W and ZnPO-TMA), both containing infinite Zn–O–Zn chains as part of the three-dimensional framework have been prepared by hydrothermal methods and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. ZnPO-W has one six-ring channel and one eight-ring channel (six or eight refers to the number of tetrahedral atoms forming the rings) along thea-axis with water molecules in channels. ZnPO-TMA has two different eight-ring channels also along thea-axis with trimethylammonium cations located within channels. ZnPO-W was also studied with the thermogravimetry and its decomposition products at 600 and 1000°C were identified with X-ray powder diffraction. Crystal data for H[Zn4(PO4)3]H2O (ZnPO-W),M= 565.42, space groupP1,a= 5.0549(9),b= 9.624(2),c= 13.158(2), α = 101.007(1)°, β = 100.942(1)°, γ = 103.606(1)°,V= 591.9(8)A3,Z= 2,Dc= 3.17 g cm−3, clear needle, MoKα, λ = 0.71073 A, μ = 8.68 mm−1, 2θmax= 60°,R= 3.56%, wR= 3.81%, GOF = 0.999 for 180 parameters and 3226 unique reflections withI> 3.0σ(I). Crystal data for [Zn4(H2O)(PO4)3] NH(CH3)3(ZnPO-TMA),M= 624.53, space groupP1,a= 5.304(2),b= 9.296(3),c= 15.474(5), α = 86.462(1)°, β = 86.420(2)°, γ = 78.906(2)°,V= 746.4(4)A3,Z= 2,Dc= 2.78 g cm−3, clear thin needle, MoKα, λ = 0.71073 A, μ = 6.90 mm−1, 2θmax= 60°,R= 5.75%, wR= 4.07%, GOF = 1.01 for 214 parameters and 2992 unique reflections withI> 3.0σ(I).
In situ cues for ADHD parenting strategies using mobile technology

Parenting is always demanding, but families coping with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ADHD, experience unique challenges. To address these challenges, research in the area of Parental Behavioral Therapy is accelerating. This type of therapy focuses on behavioral strategies that, if practiced regularly, can have a positive impact on the child's long-term behavior, as well as a reduction in parental stress. While these strategies are simple, there are hurdles to putting them into practice. First, parents often struggle with their own---often-undiagnosed---mental health challenges. Second, due to the needs of their children, parents are under immense stress in addition to regular, daily life stresses. Our work explores how to monitor parental stress and offers in situ support to remind parents of behavioral strategies to practice in moments of duress. We gained insight into how to design for the dynamics of families with ADHD children by using a prototype of our system as a probe. Our goal was to bring to the forefront simple strategies that can positively impact family ties and enhance the wellbeing of the child. We present results that suggest that when interventions are cued during moments of duress, technology might prove useful in supporting behavioral therapy.
Binding of cholera toxin to mucins and inhibition by gastric mucin.

The effects of mucin on cholera toxin induced intestinal secretion was studied in the rat small intestine. Gastric mucin inhibited secretion when premixed with cholera toxin on an equal dry-weight basis. Neither salivary nor intestinal mucin inhibited the toxin's action in the intestine. Inhibition by gastric mucin was not reversed by a mucolytic agent or by hexoses or agents that bind hexoses. Plasma and serum did not inhibit the effects of cholera toxin in the intestine. Choleragen was labeled with 14C and its binding to mucins and ganglioside was studied. Gastric mucin was shown to bind to choleragen, but less binding was observed when choleragen was dissociated into subunits by acid pH. Salivary and intestinal mucins bound intact choleragen but not the subunits at acid pH. Salivary mucin binding was reversed by N-acetyl neuraminic acid and neuraminidase. Ganglioside bound choleragen in both the intact and dissociated forms. Binding to the dissociated form was reversed by wheat germ agglutinin. Gastric mucin and ganglioside competed for binding to choleragen with the binding of intact choleragen greater for ganglioside and the affinity of the subunits greater for gastric mucin. Electrophoresis of labeled choleragen showed uniform labeling of the subunits dissociated by acid pH, but a major part of cholera toxin was found not to be labeled when fractionated with sodium dodecyl sulfate and 2-mercaptoethanol.
Culture and Interpersonal Violence Research Paradigm Shift to Create a Full Continuum of Domestic Violence Services

This article addresses the importance of culture within the context of domestic violence. It takes the position that to work more effectively with diverse cultural groups, the development of a full continuum of services that includes eliminating the violence and keeping families together is required. The authors believe that intervention models developed in the fields of HIV/AIDS may provide important examples for future work.
Steady-state canopy gas exchange: system design and operation

This paper describes the use of a commercial growth chamber for canopy photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration measurements. The system was designed to measure transpiration via water vapor fluxes, and the importance of this measurement is discussed. Procedures for continuous measurement of root-zone respiration are described, and new data is presented to dispel myths about sources of water vapor interference in photosynthesis and in the measurement of CO2 by infrared gas analysis. Mitchell (1992) has described the fundamentals of various approaches to measuring photosynthesis. Because our system evolved from experience with other types of single-leaf and canopy gas-exchange systems, it is useful to review advantages and disadvantages of different systems as they apply to various research objectives.
Irreversible electroporation in the liver: contrast-enhanced inversion-recovery MR imaging approaches to differentiate reversibly electroporated penumbra from irreversibly electroporated ablation zones.

Contrast-enhanced MR imaging permits accurate depiction of ablated tissue zones in the liver after irreversible electroporation ablation procedures.
Cellular Organization of an Antennal Mechanosensory Pathway in the Cockroach, Periplaneta americana

Escape responses of cockroaches, Periplaneta americana , can be triggered by wind and mediated by a group of “giant interneurons” that ascend from cercal mechanoreceptors to motor centers. Recently it has been observed that escape also can be triggered by tactile stimulation of the antennae, and it is then independent of the giant interneurons. Here we identify a descending antennal mechanosensory pathway that may account for escape. Cobalt backfills demonstrated that a limited number of cells in the head ganglia have axons that project through all three thoracic ganglia. Comparison with known wind-sensory pathways indicated that wind is not a reliable stimulus for activating descending antennal pathways. However, direct touch stimulation of an antenna reliably evoked short-latency responses in cells with axons in the cervical connectives. Intracellular recording and dye injection revealed members of this pathway, referred to as descending mechanosensory interneurons (DMIs). The two axons of largest diameter in the cervical connectives were found to belong to DMIs, and these large-caliber interneurons were studied in detail. One had a soma in the supraesophageal ganglion, and the other in the subesophageal ganglion. Both had extensive neuritic arborizations at the same level as the soma and axonal arbors in all three thoracic ganglia. Each of these DMIs exhibited short-latency responses to small antennal movements, demonstrated a degree of directional sensitivity, and rapidly conducted impulses to thoracic levels. These cells have properties suggesting that they play a role in a short-latency behavior such as touch-evoked escape.
Strike-slip faults on Mars: Observations and implications for global tectonics and geodynamics

[1] The tectonic evolution of Mars has been driven primarily by the interaction of Tharsis-induced loading stresses with a uniform contractional stress field, leading to global assemblages of graben and wrinkle ridges. Until recently, strike-slip faults have appeared to be largely absent from the tectonic record. We here present evidence for a new set of Noachian to Early Hesperian strike-slip faults southwest of Tharsis. The best-preserved fault in the newly mapped set has a length of ∼200 km and measured lateral offset of 5–9 km. We use the locations of both previously mapped and newly identified strike-slip faults to investigate the tectonic and geodynamic evolution of Mars. We model the tectonic evolution of the planet in response to the evolving balance between the loading and contractional stresses, finding widespread regions in which strike-slip faulting was favored. The observed tectonic history is consistent with a scenario in which loading-induced stresses peaked early in Mars history, followed by the growth of contractional stresses, leading to a shift in the preferred locus of strike-slip faulting from regions southwest of Tharsis in the Noachian to Early Hesperian, to northwest of Tharsis in the Early Amazonian. The contractional strain history inferred from the ages and locations of the strike-slip faults is consistent with the strains calculated from models of the thermal evolution of Mars in which the gradual secular cooling of the planet over time was augmented by plume-induced contraction during Tharsis formation in the Noachian.
Quantitative biomechanical analysis of Drosophila embryos through the stages of embryogenesis using a sensorized human/robot cooperative interface

To better understand the biomechanical properties involved in Drosophila embryo research, this work presents a mechanical characterization of living Drosophila embryos through the stages of embryogenesis. Measurement of the mechanical properties of Drosophila embryos is implemented using a networked human/robot cooperative interface featuring a novel, in situ, and minimally invasive piezoelectric force-sensing tool with resolution in the range of muN. Penetration force profiles of the embryos at various stages of embryogenesis are reported. The Youngpsilas modulus, stiffness, and the mechanical impedance of the developing Drosophila embryos are quantitatively evaluated and presented alongside experimentally derived mathematical models.
Validating the Search and Rescue Game Environment as a robot simulator by performing a simulated anomaly detection task

This paper presents the results from experiments validating the physics and environmental accuracy of a new robot simulation environment, the search and rescue game environment (SARGE), which is the foundation for series of robot-operator training games. An ATRV-Jr. outfitted with a SICK laser, GPS, and compass was used both in the real-world and in a simulated environment modeled after the real-world testing location in a simulated anomaly detection task. The ARTV-Jr., controlled by the Distributed Field Robotics Architecture, navigated through a series of waypoints in the environment. The simulated ATRV-Jr. matched the actions of the real ATRV-Jr. in both velocity and path similarity within 0.08 m/s and 0.7 m respectively.
Auditory-motor synchronization with temporally fluctuating sequences is dependent on fractal structure but not musical expertise

Fractal structure is a ubiquitous property found in nature and biology, and has been observed in processes at different levels of organization, including rhythmic behavior and musical structure. A temporal process is characterized as fractal when serial long-term correlations and statistical self-similarity (scaling) are present. Previous studies of sensorimotor synchronization using isochronous (non-fractal) stimuli show that participants' errors exhibit persistent structure (positive long-term correlations), while their inter-tap intervals (ITIs) exhibit anti-persistent structure (negative long-term correlations). Auditory-motor synchronization has not been investigated with anti-persistent stimuli. In the current study, we systematically investigated whether the fractal structure of auditory rhythms was reflected in the responses of participants who were asked to coordinate their taps with each event. We asked musicians and non-musicians to tap with 12 different rhythms that ranged from anti-persistent to persistent. The scaling exponents of the ITIs were strongly correlated with the scaling exponents of the stimuli, showing that the long-term structure of the participants' taps scaled with the long-term structure of the stimuli. Surprisingly, the performance of the musicians was not significantly better than that of the non-musicians. Our results imply that humans are able to readily adapt (rather than simply react) to the overall statistical structure of temporally fluctuating stimuli, regardless of musical skill.
Mercury accumulation in sharks from the coastal waters of southwest Florida.

As large long-lived predators, sharks are particularly vulnerable to exposure to methylmercury biomagnified through the marine food web. Accordingly, nonlethal means were used to collect tissues for determining mercury (Hg) concentrations and stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) from a total of 69 sharks, comprising 7 species, caught off Southwest Florida from May 2010 through June 2013. Species included blacknose (Carcharhinus acronotus), blacktip (C. limbatus), bull (C. leucas), great hammerhead (Sphyrna mokarran), lemon (Negaprion brevirostris), sharpnose (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae), and tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier). The sharks contained Hg concentrations in their muscle tissues ranging from 0.19 mg/kg (wet-weight basis) in a tiger shark to 4.52 mg/kg in a blacktip shark. Individual differences in total length and δ13C explained much of the intraspecific variation in Hg concentrations in blacknose, blacktip, and sharpnose sharks, but similar patterns were not evident for Hg and δ15N. Interspecific differences in Hg concentration were evident with greater concentrations in slower-growing, mature blacktip sharks and lower concentrations in faster-growing, young tiger sharks than other species. These results are consistent with previous studies reporting age-dependent growth rate can be an important determinant of intraspecific and interspecific patterns in Hg accumulation. The Hg concentrations observed in these sharks, in particular the blacktip shark, also suggested that Hg may pose a threat to shark health and fitness.
Field-induced gelation, yield stress, and fragility of an electro-rheological suspension

Electro-rheological suspensions (ERS) are known to undergo liquid-to-solid transition under the application of an electric field. Long-range interaction between neighboring particles results in sample-spanning particulate structures which behave as soft solids. Here, we studied the rheological expression of this field-induced transition which has many similarities with chemical gelation. This similarity shows in mechanical spectroscopy on a suspension of monodisperse silica in PDMS as model ERS. Upon application of the electric field, dynamic moduli G′, G′′ grow by orders of magnitude and evolve in a pattern which is otherwise typical for gelation of network polymers (random chemical or physical gelation). At the gel point, the slow dynamics is governed by power-law relaxation behavior (frequency-independent tan δ). A low field strength is sufficient to reach the gel point and, correspondingly, the percolating particle structure at the gel point is still very fragile. It can be broken by the imposition of low stress. For inducing a finite yield stress, the field strength needs to be increased further until the long-range electrostatic interaction generates string-like particle alignments which become clearly visible under the optical microscope. The onset of fragile connectivity was defined experimentally by the tan δ method. The ERS was probed dynamically at low frequencies where the transition is most pronounced, and also in steady shear where the rate of structure formation equals the rate of internal breaking.
Second order smoothness over extraordinary vertices

Catmull & Clark subdivision is now a standard for smooth free-form surface modeling. These surfaces are everywhere curvature continuous except at points corresponding to vertices not incident on four edges. While the surface has a continuous tangent plane at such a point, the lack of curvature continuity presents a severe problem for many applications. Topologically, each n-valent extraordinary vertex of a Catmull & Clark limit surface corresponds to an n-sided hole in the underlying 2-manifold represented by the control mesh. The problem we address here is: How to fill such a hole in a Catmull & Clark surface with exactly n tensor product patches that meet the surrounding bicubic patch network and each other with second order continuity. We convert the problem of filling the hole with n tensor product patches in the spatial domain into the problem of filling the hole in the n frequency modes with a single bidegree 7 tensor product patch.
Candida pneumonia secondary to an acquired tracheoesophageal fistula in a patient with AIDS.

Fungal pneumonias represent approximately 5% of all pulmonary infections occurring in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).1 The most commonly observed cause of fungal pneumonia is Cryptococcus neoformans, followed by Histoplasma capsulatum or Coccidioides immitis, depending on the geographic location.2 Despite the prevalence of oral thrush and esophageal candidiasis in patients with AIDS, pneumonia caused by Candida albicans is extremely uncommon. The following case report represents, to our knowledge, the first description of a candidal pneumonia secondary to aspiration through a tracheoesophageal fistula in a patient with AIDS.
Noncoordinated Expression of Luteal Cell Messenger Ribonucleic Acids during Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Stimulation of the Primate Corpus Luteum

In nonfertile cycles, the absolute steroidogenic capacity of the primate corpus luteum, as reflected in the expression of messenger RNA (mRNA) for the progesterone biosynthetic enzymes cytochrome P450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage (P450SCC) and 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD), progressively declines until luteal regression. Despite this progressive loss in luteal cell function, the elaboration of CG by the implanted blastocyst is able to prolong the functional lifespan of the corpus luteum. It was the purpose of this study to investigate the relationship between aging of the primate corpus luteum and the cellular mechanisms by which the decline in luteal cell function is arrested by CG. Corpora lutea were obtained from cynomolgus monkeys on days 11 or 16 of the luteal phase after a 7-day treatment period with increasing doses of human CG (hCG) given intramuscularly beginning on days 5 or 10. Corpora lutea were also obtained from control animals on days 5, 10, 11, and 16 of the luteal phase. Human CG treatment significantly (P < 0.05) elevated both serum progesterone and estradiol levels throughout the treatment period; however, progesterone production in animals treated with hCG late in the luteal phase (days 10-16) steadily declined after the third treatment day. Expression of mRNA for P450SCC and 3 beta-HSD was markedly stimulated (P < 0.05) by hCG treatment early in the luteal phase. However, 3 beta-HSD message levels in corpora lutea from animals treated with hCG on days 10-16 were not different from those of day-16 control corpora lutea, whereas P450SCC mRNA was only minimally stimulated. There was a dramatic (P < 0.05) increase in mRNA levels for the aromatase enzyme and low density lipoprotein receptor in animals given hCG in both the early and the late luteal phase. In conclusion, there appears to be a differential responsiveness of the primate corpus luteum to hCG stimulation dependent upon luteal age. The loss in responsiveness to hCG in terms of maintenance of mRNA levels is reflective of the inability of the late luteal phase corpus luteum for continued progesterone biosynthesis in the face of heightened luteotropic stimulation.
Preoperative FDG-PET for Axillary Metastases in Patients With Breast Cancer

Hypothesis Fludeoxyglucose F 18 (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) can be used to predict axillary node metastases. Design Case series. Setting Comprehensive breast care center. Patients Fifty-one women with 54 biopsy-proven invasive breast cancers. Intervention Whole-body FDG-PET performed before axillary surgery and interpreted blindly. Main Outcome Measures Axillary FDG activity, quantified by standardized uptake value (SUV); axillary metastases, quantified histologically; and tumor characteristics. Results There was PET activity in 32 axillae (59%). The SUVs ranged from 0.7 to 11.0. Twenty tumors had an SUV of 2.3 or greater, and 34 had an SUV of less than 2.3. There were no significant differences between these 2 groups except in axillary metastasis size (SUV ≤2.2 vs SUV ≥2.3): mean age, 53 vs 58 years ( P = .90); mean modified Bloom-Richardson score, 7.7 vs 7.6 ( P = .20); lymphovascular invasion present, 25% vs 36% ( P = .40); mean Ki-67 level, 25% vs 32% ( P = .20); mean tumor size, 2.9 vs 3.2 cm ( P = .05); and axillary metastasis size, 0.9 vs 1.7 ( P = .001). By adopting an SUV threshold of 2.3, FDG-PET had a sensitivity of 60%, a specificity of 100%, and a positive predictive value of 100%. Conclusions Patients with an SUV greater than 2.3 had axillary metastases. This finding obviates the need for sentinel lymph node biopsy or needle biopsy to diagnose axillary involvement. Surgeons can proceed to axillary node dissection to assess the number of nodes involved, eliminate axillary disease, or perhaps provide a survival benefit if preoperative FDG-PET has an SUV greater than 2.3.
Lunar exospheric helium observations of LRO/LAMP coordinated with ARTEMIS

Abstract We present results from Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter’s (LRO) UV spectrograph LAMP (Lyman-Alpha Mapping Project) campaign to study the lunar atmosphere. Several off-nadir maneuvers (lateral rolls) were performed to search for resonantly scattering species, increasing the illuminated line-of-sight (and hence the signal from atoms resonantly scattering the solar photons) compared to previously reported LAMP’s “twilight observations” (Cook, J.C., Stern, S.A. [2014]. Icarus 236, 48–55). Helium was the only element distinguishable on a daily basis, and we present latitudinal profiles of its line-of-sight column density in December 2013. We compared the helium line-of-sight column densities with solar wind alpha particle fluxes measured from the ARTEMIS (Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence, & Electrodynamics of Moon’s Interaction with the Sun) twin spacecraft. Our data show a correlation with the solar wind alpha particle flux, confirming that the solar wind is the main source of the lunar helium. We also support the finding by Benna et al. (Benna, M. et al. [2015]. Geophys. Res. Lett. 42, 3723–3729) and Hurley et al. (Hurley, D.M. et al. [2015]. Icarus, this issue), that a non-zero contribution from endogenic helium, coming from radioactive decay of 232 Th and 238 U, is present. Moreover, our results suggest that not all of the incident alpha particles are converted to thermalized helium, allowing for a non-negligible fraction to escape as suprathermal helium or simply backscattered from the lunar surface. We compare LAMP-derived helium surface density with the one recorded by the mass spectrometer LACE (Lunar Atmospheric Composition Experiment) deployed on the lunar surface during the Apollo 17 mission, finding good agreement between the two measurements. The LRO/LAMP roll observations presented here are in agreement with the most recent lunar exospheric helium model (Hurley, D.M. et al. [2015]. Icarus, this issue) around mid- to high-latitudes (50–70°) regardless of the local solar time, while there is an underestimation of the model around the low- to mid-latitudes (10–30°), especially around the dawn terminator. The LRO/LAMP roll observations presented here provide unique coverage of local solar time and latitude of the lunar exospheric helium, filling a gap in the knowledge of the structure of the lunar exosphere as a whole. These observations will inform future models of transport of volatiles, since at the terminator the analytic expressions for the surface temperature, essential to determine the energy distribution, the residence time, and the hop length of the particles, is least accurate.
Acute Unilateral Blindness from Superior Ophthalmic Vein Thrombosis: A Rare Presentation of Nephrotic Syndrome from Class IV Lupus Nephritis in the Absence of Antiphospholipid or Anticardiolipin Syndrome

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at high risk of arterial and venous thrombosis secondary to anti-phospholipid antibodies. Herein, we are presenting an interesting case of venous thrombosis in a patient with SLE in the absence of anti-phospholipid antibodies.
Compact Monotone Drawing of Trees

A monotone drawing of a graph G is a straight-line drawing of G such that, for every pair of vertices u, w in G, there exists a path \(P_{uw}\) in G that is monotone in some direction l. (Namely, the order of the orthogonal projections of the vertices of \(P_{uw}\) on l is the same as the order they appear in \(P_{uw}\).)
A Segmentation Analysis on Automobile Buyers during the New Model Year Transition Period

How do buyers of “new season” automobiles differ from buyers of “new leftover” automobiles during the period when both models are available for sale? Which variables explain and predict best consum...
Tetrarhena-heterocycle from the palladium-catalyzed dimerization of Re2(CO)8(μ-SbPh2)(μ-H) exhibits an unusual host-guest behavior.

The six-membered heavy atom heterocycles [Re2(CO)8(μ-SbPh2)(μ-H)]2, 5, and Pd[Re2(CO)8(μ-SbPh2)(μ-H)]2, 7, have been prepared by the palladium-catalyzed ring-opening cyclo-dimerization of the three-membered heterocycle Re2(CO)8(μ-SbPh2)(μ-H), 3. The palladium atom that lies in the center of the heterocycle 7 was removed to yield 5. The palladium removal was found to be partially reversible leading to an unusual example of host–guest behavior. A related dipalladium complex Pd2Re4(CO)16(μ4-SbPh)(μ3-SbPh2)(μ-Ph)(μ-H)2, 6, was also formed in these reactions of palladium with 3.
Electronic Detection of Bacteria Using Holey Reduced Graphene Oxide

Carbon nanomaterials have been widely explored for diverse biosensing applications including bacterial detection. However, covalent functionalization of these materials can lead to the destruction of attractive electronic properties. To this end, we utilized a new graphene derivative, holey reduced graphene oxide (hRGO), functionalized with Magainin I to produce a broad-spectrum bacterial probe. Unlike related carbon nanomaterials, hRGO retains the necessary electronic properties while providing the high percentage of available oxygen moieties required for effective covalent functionalization.
Do "most wired" hospitals deliver better care?

Article-at-a-Glance Background A study was conducted in 2006 to compare differences in objective quality of care measures among hospitals labeled "Most Wired"—a hospital or member-hospital of a health system listed among the Hospital and Health Network's Healthcare's Most Wired Hospitals for 2004—versus hospitals without that designation. Methods Ten quality indicators representing cardiac and pulmonary measures were calculated for adult hospitals participating in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Hospital Compare initiative. Performance of Most Wired hospitals and comparison hospitals was compared using t -tests. The association of the Most Wired designation to measures of care was assessed using multivariable linear regression and generalized estimating equations. Results Compared with comparison hospitals, Most Wired hospitals tend to be larger, not-for profit and teaching hospitals. Most Wired hospitals outperformed comparison hospitals in all but one quality indicator ( p Conclusion Most Wired hospitals outperformed other hospitals on most objective quality of care measures. However, some of the results were significantly attenuated by other factors associated with quality, suggesting that for specific indicators, "Most Wired" may be a marker of overall quality more than an independent factor. More research is needed on how overall implementation of health information technology directly affects quality of care measures.
The Economic History of the

Written in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the American Economic Review, this paper recounts the history of the journal. The recounting has an analytic core that sees the American Economic Association as an organization supplying goods and services to its members y one of which is the Review. Early in its history the Review was a multipurpose publication with highly disparate content. Over time the economics profession expanded and more economics research was produced, primarily in the form of journal articles. Editors accommodated this shift by allocating more resources to the refereeing and editing process and more space to research papers. (/£LA14,B19,B29)
Epo Dependent Signaling In Macrophages Regulates Stress Erythropoiesis

Steady State erythropoiesis occurs in the bone marrow and is primarily homeostatic. In response to anemic stress the need for new erythrocytes quickly outpaces the erythropoietic capacity of steady state erythropoiesis. At these times, stress erythropoiesis predominates. Stress erythropoiesis is best understood in mice where this process is primarily extra-medullary occurring in the adult spleen and liver and in the fetal liver during development. Stress erythropoiesis utilizes progenitors and signals that are distinct from steady state erythropoiesis. Using a variety of experimental systems, we have developed a model for stress erythropoiesis during the recovery from anemic stress. This recovery can be divided into three stages. Amplification of progenitors that exhibit stem cell properties, the induction of a signal that promotes the switch from amplifying stress progenitors to differentiating stress progenitors and the final stage where stress progenitors rapidly differentiate into new erythrocytes. We have identified specific stress progenitor populations at each stage on this process as well as the signals that regulate the amplification, the switch to differentiation and differentiation of stress erythroid progenitors. Here we show that macrophage dependent signals play key roles at each stage of stress erythropoiesis. The transition from amplifying stress erythroid progenitors to differentiating stress erythroid progenitors is mediated by Epo dependent signaling in macrophages which changes the signals made by the macrophage microenvironment from those that promote amplification (Wnt family factors) to those that promote differentiation (PGE2). This paradigm is true for murine and human stress erythroid progenitors. This analysis reveals a dynamic interplay between progenitor cells, the macrophage microenvironment and hypoxic tissues in vivo during the recovery from anemic stress. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
BNP and obesity in acute decompensated heart failure with preserved vs. reduced ejection fraction: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Surveillance Study.

Abstract Background Levels of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), a prognostic marker in patients with heart failure (HF), are lower among HF patients with obesity or preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF). We examined the distribution and prognostic value of BNP across BMI categories in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients with preserved vs. reduced LVEF. Methods We analyzed data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) HF surveillance study which sampled and adjudicated ADHF hospitalizations in patients aged ≥55years from 4 US communities (2005–2009). We examined 5 BMI categories: underweight ( 2 ), normal weight (18.5– Results The cohort included 9820 weighted ADHF hospitalizations (58% HFrEF; 42% HFpEF). BNP levels were lower in HFpEF compared to HFrEF ( p p Conclusions BNP levels correlated inversely with BMI, and were higher in HFrEF compared to HFpEF. Obese patients with HFpEF and ADHF had a significant proportion with BNP levels below clinically accepted thresholds. Nevertheless, BNP was a predictor of mortality in ADHF across groups of BMI in HFpEF and HFrEF.