cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Brackish water foraging: isotopic landscapes and dietary reconstruction in Suisun Marsh, Central California

While bone stable isotope signatures of humans foraging in open coastal and fully terrestrial environments have been relatively well documented, the signature of foraging near brackish-water estuaries is less well known. This study examines the Central California isotopic landscape, or isoscape, showing how foods in different ecosystems have distinctive isotopic compositions. We present new bone collagen and apatite stable isotope data from two Late Holocene sites (CA-SOL-11 and CA-SOL-69) near Suisun Marsh, a low salinity brackish water estuary upstream from San Francisco Bay. Faunal remains at the sites include significant numbers of aquatic resources including fish and shellfish, in addition to terrestrial mammals, while paleobotanical remains suggest mainly terrestrial nuts and seeds. Stable isotope data at the population level corroborate this finding and show consumption of significant levels of brackish water nutrients, including both dietary protein and dietary carbohydrates and fats, paired with terrestrial foods. This dietary focus generates a unique brackish-water isotopic signature that is distinct from others in Central California. The documentation of an isoscape with strong regional gradients can be of tremendous help in reconstructing ancient patterns in subsistence, migration, and trade.
A vision‐guided robotic water jet cutting system

Describes an application using machine vision as a sensing device to allow robots to adapt according to their use. Describes the application in focus, lists the requirements of the cell and provides the solution. Provides details of the system used, emphasizing in particular its adaptability.
LTR Retrotransposon-Gene Associations in Drosophila melanogaster

Thirty-three percent (228/682) of all long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposon sequences (LRSs) present in the sequenced Drosophila melanogaster genome were found to be located in or within 1000 bp of a gene. Recently inserted LTR retrotransposons are significantly more likely to be located in or within genes than are older, fragmented LTR retrotransposon sequences, indicating that most LRS-gene associations are selected against over evolutionary time. LRSs associated with conserved genes (homologenes) are especially prone to negative selection. In contrast, fragmented LRSs that have persisted in the genome over long spans of evolutionary time are preferentially associated with genes involved in signal transduction and other newly evolved functions.
Quasisymmetric nonparametrization and spaces associated with the Whitehead continuum

The decomposition space R 3 =Wh associated with the Whitehead continuum Wh is not a manifold, but the product .R 3 =Wh/ R m is homeomorphic to R 3Cm for any m 1 (known since the 1960’s). We study the quasisymmetric structure on .R 3 =Wh/ R m and show that the space .R 3 =Wh/ R m may be equipped with a metric resembling R 3Cm geometrically and measure theoretically—it is linearly locally contractible and Ahlfors .3Cm/‐regular—nevertheless the resulting space does not admit a quasisymmetric parametrization by R 3Cm . 30C65; 57N16, 57N45 In memory of Juha Heinonen, an extraordinary mathematician and friend, who passed away after the mathematical work in this paper was completed. ‐ J-M W
Management of the climacteric. Options abound to relieve women's midlife symptoms.

PREVIEWThe transition out of the reproductive years can often be accompanied by uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms, one of the most common of which is hot flashes. Drs Morrissey and Kirchner describe this and other typical menopausal symptoms, as well as pharmacologic, hormonal, and lifestyle options that can bring relief and enable a smooth midlife passage
The structure and stability of surface platinum oxide and of oxides of other noble metals

Abstract The formation and stability of surface layers of platinum oxides in platinum single crystals has been studied in ultrahigh vacuum. Low energy electron diffraction (LEED) was used to identify the ordered structures that formed on the surface of Pt(111), Pt(332), and Pt(110). It appears that these structures can be related to hexagonal planes of PtO2. The cleanliness of the surface was monitored by Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). The presence of impurities like Ca and Si must be avoided as they oxidize preferentially to the Pt. It is shown that the Pt oxide layers are stabilized by the very slow kinetics of oxygen diffusion to the surface which is responsible for the observed long life of the oxide layers under most catalytic reactions that are carried out at temperatures below 500°C. The stability of other oxides of noble metals that have been observed in UHV studies is also reviewed.
A Plexiglas Research Pump With Calibrated Magnetic Bearings/Load Cells for Radial and Axial Hydraulic Force Measurement

A research pump intended for both flow visualization studies and direct measurement of hydrodynamic radial and axial forces has been developed. The impeller and the volute casing are constructed from Plexiglas which facilitates optical access for laser velocimetry measurements of the flow field both inside the impeller and in the volute casing. The pump housing is designed for flexibility allowing for each interchange of impellers and volute configurations. The pump rotor is supported by three radial magnetic bearings and one double acting magnetic thrust bearing. The magnetic bearings have been calibrated to characterize the force versus coil current and air gap relationship for each bearing type. Linear calibration functions valid for rotor eccentricities of up to 2/3 of the nominal bearing clearances and force level of ±58 N (13 lbf ) and ±267 N (60 lbf ) for the radial and axial bearings, respectively, were found. A detailed uncertainty analysis of the force calibration functions was conducted such that meaningful uncertainty bounds can be applied to in situ force measurements. Hysteresis and eddy current effects were quantified for each bearing such that their effect on the in situ force measurements could be assessed. By directly measuring the bearing reaction forces it is possible to determine the radial and axial hydraulic loads acting on the pump impeller. To demonstrate the capability of the magnetic bearings as active load cells representative hydraulic force measurements for a centered 4 vane 16 degree log spiral radial flow impeller operating in a single tongue spiral volute casing were made. At shut-off a nondimensional radial thrust of 0.084 was measured. A minimum nondimensional radial thrust of about 0.007 was observed at the nominal design flow. The nondimensional radial thrust increased to about 0.019 at 120 percent of design flow. The nondimensional axial thrust had a maximum at shut-off of 0.265 and decreased steadily to approximately 0.185 at 120 percent of design flow. Two regions of increasing axial thrust, in the flow range 75 to 100 percent of design flow, were observed. The measurements are compared to radial and axial force predictions using classical force models. The direct radial force measurements are compared to a representative set of radial force measurements from the literature. In addition, the directly measured radial force at design flow is compared to a single representative radial force measurement (obtained from the literature) calculated from the combination of static pressure and net momentum flux distribution at the impeller exit.
Time-delayed control design for active control of structures: principles and applications

In this paper we develop the principles of time-delayed control design for the active control of structures in which the presence of large time delays in the control loop may make it difficult for their effects to be easily eliminated and/or compensated. A control design strategy is proposed that is different from what has been generally accepted hereto; it calls for taking advantage of these large, inherent time delays in the control design. The presence of large time delays in the control loop requires that we understand the infinite dimensionality of the system and so we introduce the concept of non-system poles. This is first done within the framework of an SDOF system with time-delayed velocity feedback control. Several new results are presented dealing with stability and performance issues. These results include and extend those available to date. Having developed control design principles with an SDOF system as the underlying basis, these principles are then developed for multi-actuator, multiple time-delay control of MDOF systems. A numerical example of a building structure modeled as an MDOF system that is subjected to strong earthquake ground shaking is presented. The control design based on the underlying principles shows good stability characteristics and effective performance behavior. We demonstrate its application to a structure subjected to strong earthquake ground shaking, thereby showing its usefulness in hazard mitigation. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Poverty Simulation, an Experiential Learning Modality, on Students' Understanding of Life in Poverty

This research examines the impact of the Poverty Simulation Project, an experiential learning modality, on students' understanding of life in poverty. A total of 101 students representing 5 undergraduate majors in the College of Health and Human Services completed measures of critical thinking, understanding of others, and the active learning scales. Results indicate that although students did not change their thinking about the causes of poverty, they changed their perceptions about the difficulties of the daily lives of the poor, increased their ability to analyze life situations, and stimulated their further thinking about poverty. Results demonstrate that social work majors did not differ from other majors in their gains from this experience. Implications for teaching about poverty and the poor, especially as it relates to experiential learning, are discussed.
Interaction of the anorectic medication, phendimetrazine, and its metabolites with monoamine transporters in rat brain.

Abstract Phendimetrazine is an effective and widely prescribed appetite suppressant. Preclinical findings show that phendimetrazine displays stimulant properties similar to amphetamine, but few studies have examined the neurochemical mechanism of the drug. In the present work, we characterize the activity of phendimetrazine and its putative metabolites [phenmetrazine, pseudophenmetrazine, and associated stereoisomers] at biogenic amine transporters. All drugs were tested in vitro using assays to measure uptake and release of [ 3 H]dopamine, [ 3 H]norepinephrine, and [ 3 H]serotonin ([ 3 H]5-HT) in rat brain synaptosomes. Selected drugs were tested in vivo using microdialysis to measure extracellular dopamine and serotonin (5-HT) in rat nucleus accumbens. Phendimetrazine itself had no effect on uptake or release of any transmitter. In contrast, the trans -configured N -demethylated metabolite, phenmetrazine, was a potent releaser of [ 3 H]norepinephrine (EC 50 =50 nM) and [ 3 H]dopamine (EC 50 =131 nM). The cis N -demethylated metabolite, pseudophenmetrazine, displayed modest potency at releasing [ 3 H]norepinephrine (EC 50 =514 nM) and blocking [ 3 H]dopamine re-uptake (IC 50 =2630 nM). All drugs tested were inactive or weak in the [ 3 H]5-HT assays. When injected intravenously, phendimetrazine had minimal effects on extracellular transmitter levels, whereas phenmetrazine produced dose-related elevations in extracellular dopamine. The collective findings suggest that phendimetrazine is a “prodrug” that is converted to the active metabolite phenmetrazine, a potent substrate for norepinephrine and dopamine transporters.
Electrochemical deposition of nickel/SiC composites in the presence of surfactants

Abstract This study investigated the effect of the surfactant and the concentration of SiC particle on the codeposition of SiC in the Ni layer. Experimental results showed that the addition of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) can reduce the agglomerization of SiC particles in the plating bath so that a high percentage of uniformly distributed SiC particles can be deposited. The adsorption of surfactant CTAB on the SiC particles increases with increasing concentration of CTAB. The enhancement of adhesion between particles and the cathode increases the possibility of embedding larger particles. The effect of surfactant on the codeposition behaviors of SiC particles was explained through the concept of effective particle.
Optimized/adapted finite elements for structural shape optimization

Abstract A methodology for geometry-based structural shape optimization with adaptive meshing is developed. This method uses a two-level optimization problem where the first level is focussed on generation of good-quality finite elements/meshes and the second level deals with optimization of the overall structural shape based on responses computed on the adapted mesh. The first-level optimization problem uses the finite element nodal coordinates as design variables whereas the second-level problem uses design-oriented, geometry-based parameters for modifying the structural shape. An error indicator, based on effective stress variations in an element, is used to refine the finite element mesh. It is seen from initial investigation that, with mesh adaptation, the accuracy of the structural responses (displacements and stresses) are increased, resulting in a more accurate evaluation of the design objective and constraints, and therefore resulting in more conservative designs.
Neuro-immune-endocrine functions of the skin: an overview

For many years, skin was just thought of as a barrier to protect against a variety of insults from the external environment. Our body’s largest organ is gradually revealing itself to be a complex o...
The New Classification System for the Dystonias: Why Was it Needed and How was it Developed?

The term dystonia originated in 1911 with Oppenheim’s description of 4 individuals who were floppy at rest, yet developed stiffness when they tried to move. He believed the core problem was a defect in muscle tone, so he coined the term dys-tonia, which literally means abnormal muscle tone. Over the next decades, additional clinical manifestations of dystonia were recognized, and various authorities began to alter Oppenheim’s definition according to their own views. It was not until 1984 that the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) created a committee to develop a more unified definition: “Dystonia is a syndrome of sustained involuntary muscle contractions, frequently causing twisting or repetitive movements, or abnormal postures.” In the decades that followed this definition, more was learned about the manifestations of dystonia, and expert opinions again led to varying adjustments to the definition. As a result, a new consensus committee revised the definition. This committee was again supported by the DMRF, but also by Dystonia Europe, the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (formerly the Movement Disorders Society), and an international panel with broad expertise in the clinical and biological basis of the dystonias: “Dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by sustained or intermittent muscle contractions causing abnormal, often repetitive movements, postures, or both. Dystonic movements are typically patterned, twisting, and may be tremulous. Dystonia is often initiated or worsened by voluntary action and associated with overflow muscle activation.” The essential change was the addition of the word intermittent and two other sentences. The word intermittent was added to address the frequent misconception that dystonic movements are always sustained, slow, or twisting. Examples of rapid, intermittent dystonic movements include blinking in blepharospasm, voice breaks in spasmodic dysphonia, tremor-dominant dystonias, and myoclonic dystonia. One sentence was added to emphasize that the varied clinical manifestations may be tremulous or twisting, but they tend to be patterned. The second sentence was added to emphasize characteristic worsening with voluntary action, a feature noted in Oppenheim’s original concept.
Risk aversion, disappointment aversion, and futures hedging

This article examines the effect of disappointment aversion on futures hedging. We incorporated a constant-absolute-risk-aversion (CARA) utility function into the disappointment-aversion framework of Gul (1991). It is shown that a more disappointment-averse hedger will choose an optimal futures position closer to the minimum-variance hedge than will a less-disappointment-averse hedger. The effect of disappointment aversion is stronger when the hedger is less risk averse. A small disappointment aversion will cause a near-risk neutral hedger to take a drastically different position. In addition, a more-risk-averse or disappointment-averse hedger will have a lower reference point. Numerical results indicate that the reference point of a disappointment-averse hedger tends to be lower than that of a conventional loss-averse hedger. Consequently, the disappointment-averse hedger will act more conservatively, not exploiting profitable opportunities as much as the conventional loss averse hedger will. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 22:123–141, 2002
SOLAR-CYCLE VARIATION OF SOUND SPEED NEAR THE SOLAR SURFACE

We present evidence that the sound-speed variation with solar activity has a two-layer configuration, similar to the one observed below an active region, which consists of a negative layer near the solar surface and a positive one in the layer immediately below the first one. Frequency differences between the activity minimum and maximum of solar cycle 23, obtained applying global helioseismology to the Michelson Doppler Imager on board the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory, is used to determine the sound-speed variation from below the base of the convection zone to a few Mm below the solar surface. We find that the sound speed at solar maximum is smaller than at solar minimum at the limit of our determination (5.5 Mm). The min-to-max difference decreases in absolute values until ~7 Mm. At larger depths, the sound speed at solar maximum is larger than at solar minimum and the difference increases with depth until ~10 Mm. At this depth, the relative difference (δc 2/c 2) is less than half of the value observed at the lowest depth determination. At deeper layers, it slowly decreases with depth until there is no difference between maximum and minimum activity.
Hybrid analog/digital VLSI chip for template matching

A template matching algorithm, its hybrid analog/digital VLSI implementation, and test results from prototype chips are presented. The inputs to the system are analog values of the pixels of both the template and the region to be matched. The output is a digital code identifying the best match. This hybrid implementation offers two advantages: First, the low-level computationally-intensive template matching task is carried out in analog VLSI with circuits operating in the subthreshold region of transistor operation. The chip consequently consumes very little power. Second, the coded output is digital and hence provides direct interface capability to conventional digital computers. A complete system based on this chip would find numerous applications in edge detection, stereo and motion correspondence, as well as in pattern recognition.
Large Scale Parallel Document Mining for Machine Translation

A distributed system is described that reliably mines parallel text from large corpora. The approach can be regarded as cross-language near-duplicate detection, enabled by an initial, low-quality batch translation. In contrast to other approaches which require specialized metadata, the system uses only the textual content of the documents. Results are presented for a corpus of over two billion web pages and for a large collection of digitized public-domain books.
Low Power, High Dynamic Range CMOS Image Sensor Employing Pixel-Level Oversampling $\Sigma\Delta$ Analog-to-Digital Conversion

We present a theoretical analysis, design, and experimental characterization of a CMOS image sensor with pixel-level ΣΔ oversampling analog-to-digital conversion (ADC). The design employs five transistors per-pixel to implement a charge-based ΣΔ ADC at each pixel. In the current design a dynamic regenerative latch comparator is divided into an input transistor, which is contained within each pixel, and the remaining comparator structure shared among the pixels of each column. A charge feedback digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is implemented at each pixel with a three-transistor structure. As opposed to more traditional CMOS image sensors, this image sensor architecture is suitable for implementations in advanced low supply voltage CMOS technologies since its dynamic range is not affected by the reduction of the pixel reset voltage. In addition, similar to the readout methods in low power random access memory designs, this pixel readout architecture does not employ any active amplifiers which allows for low static power operation. Experimental characterization of a prototype fabricated in a 0.35 μm silicided CMOS technology is presented. The estimated power consumption of the fully integrated 128 × 128 imager including decimation filters and I/O interface is 60 nW/pixel at 30 frames per second for 8-bits per-pixel. A peak signal-to-noise ratio of 52 dB and intra-scene dynamic range of 74 dB were measured. The dynamic range was extended to 91 dB through control of the in-pixel DAC supply voltage over the range of 0.8 V-3.3 V.
Efficacy of chlorfenapyr (AC 303630) experimental pour-on and CyLence formulations against naturally acquired louse infestations on cattle in New York

The four chlorfenapyr formulations examined provided 100% control of both the nymphal and adult stages of naturally acquired Bovicola bovis (L.) on cattle up to 35 days after application. Treatment with 6 mg chlorfenapyr per kg BW in a 0.12 ml per kg BW formulation was as effective as treatment with CyLence TM (cyfluthrin) in controlling naturally acquired Solenopotes capillatus (Enderlein) on cattle for 35 days. Percent reduction was never greater than 90% with any chlorfenapyr application against Linognathus vituli (L.). However, percent reduction was greater than 90% with CyLence TM from day 21 through 35. No adverse effects were noted on cattle from any of the chlorfenapyr dosages used. © 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Impact of mentoring medical students on scholarly productivity

Background Our objectives were to evaluate collaboration with medical students and other nondoctoral authors, and assess whether mentoring such students influences the academic productivity of senior authors. Methods Six issues of the Laryngoscope and International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology (IFAR) were examined for the corresponding author of each manuscript, and whether any students were involved in authorship. The h-index of all corresponding authors was calculated using the Scopus database to compare the scholarly impact of authors collaborating with students and those collaborating exclusively with other physicians or doctoral-level researchers. Results Of 261 Laryngoscope manuscripts, 71.6% had exclusively physician or doctoral-level authors, 9.2% had “students” (nondoctoral-level authors) as first authors, and another 19.2% involved “student” authors. Corresponding values for IFAR manuscripts were 57.1%, 6.3%, and 36.5%. Corresponding authors who collaborated with students had higher scholarly impact, as measured by the h-index, than those collaborating exclusively with physicians and doctoral-level scientists in both journals. Conclusion Collaboration with individuals who do not have doctoral-level degrees, presumably medical students, has a strong association with scholarly impact among researchers publishing in the Laryngoscope and IFAR. Research mentorship of medical students interested in otolaryngology may allow a physician-scientist to evaluate the students’ effectiveness and functioning in a team setting, a critical component of success in residency training, and may have beneficial effects on research productivity for the senior author.
Synthesis of Ta3N5 Nanotube Arrays Modified with Electrocatalysts for Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation

Tantalum nitride (Ta3N5) is a promising material for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation with a narrow band gap (2.1 eV) that can effectively utilize visible light in the solar spectrum. Ta3N5 nanotube (NT) arrays were synthesized on a Ta foil by electrochemical anodization followed by an ammonia treatment at 800 °C. The photocurrent of nanostructured Ta3N5 was over 3 times higher than that of a dense regular Ta3N5 film in 0.1 M Na2SO4 aqueous solution at pH 11. Several electrocatalysts (IrO2 nanoparticles (NPs), Co3O4 NPs, cobalt phosphate, and Pt NPs) were used to modify Ta3N5 NTs for PEC water oxidation. The photocurrent of Ta3N5 NTs modified with IrO2 and Co3O4 was ca. four times higher than that of unmodified NTs. Cobalt phosphate also showed a positive improvement for PEC water oxidation on Ta3N5 NTs, whereas Pt was ineffective. Scanning electrochemical microscopy was used to measure the faradaic efficiency of the Ta3N5 photoanodes for water oxidation, which can reach as high as 88% for a Co3...
Oculo-Cerebro-Renal Syndrome A Four Generation Family Study and Case Reports of Two Living Children

The clinical, anatomical and biochemical variations in this disease are well demonstrated in the family here described. The transmission of the syndrome in this family seems to be by means of an X-linked gene. The presence of lenticular opaci ties in all mothers of affected males may indicate an X-linked, partially dominant, or intermediate transmission pattern. The observed delay in the appearance of hyperaminoaciduria in one youngster is suggestive of a progressive renal tubular lesion.
A Time-Series Approach to Non-Self-Financing Hedging in a Discrete-Time Incomplete Market

We present an algorithm producing a dynamic non-self-financing hedging strategy in an incomplete market corresponding to investor-relevant risk criterion. The optimization is a two-stage process that first determines market calibrated model parameters that correspond to the market price of the option being hedged. In the second stage, an optimal set of model parameters is chosen from the market calibrated set. This choice is based on stock price simulations using a time-series model for stock price jump evolution. Results are presented for options traded on the New York Stock Exchange.
A link between sets of tensors stable under lamination and quasiconvexity

A link is found between quasiconvexity and the conditions for a set L of conductivity or elasticity tensors to be stable under lamination. These conditions, derived in the companion paper, are shown here to be equivalent to the condition that for every point B on the boundary of the set L an operator TB dependent on the tangent plane and curvature of the set at B is a quasiconvex translation operator. A separate class of quasiconvex translation operators is obtained which are candidates for proving that L is stable under homogenization. The region stable under homogenization associated with any one of these operators shares a common boundary point and tangent plane with the set L and has curvature at that point not greater than the curvature of L. The conditions under which there exists a representative subclass of these operators such that the associated regions stable under homogenization wrap around L remains unresolved. It is proved that L can be characterized by minimizations of sums and dual energies in much the same way that convex sets can be characterized by their Legendre transforms. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Isomorphism Theorems

Let S be a subspace of a vector space V, and let ≡ s be the binary relation on V defined by $$u{ \equiv _s}v\; \Leftrightarrow u - v \in S$$
Inflammatory sarcomatoid carcinoma: a case report and discussion of a malignant tumor with benign appearance.

Abstract Inflammatory sarcomatoid carcinoma is an aggressive tumor with an unusually benign appearance. We report the case of a 65-year-old man with a history of inoperable poorly differentiated carcinoma of the right lung, for which he had received chemoradiotherapy. A new solitary mass was discovered 4 years later in the left lung on surveillance computed tomography. The patient underwent thoracotomy with a wedge biopsy on which frozen section was performed. The nodule was vaguely granulomatous and associated with a mixed inflammatory infiltrate and a deceptively bland spindle cell proliferation. Results of immunoperoxidase studies, however, showed that the nodule contained neoplastic cells with an epithelial phenotype that were invading the pulmonary vessels. These are features of the rare inflammatory sarcomatoid carcinoma. In contrast to sarcomatoid carcinomas, this case highlights the deceptively benign appearance of inflammatory sarcomatoid carcinoma. This leads us to concur with the recommendation...
Maternal exposure to neighborhood soil Pb and eclampsia risk in new Orleans, Louisiana (USA): Evidence from a natural experiment in flooding

Abstract Background Previous studies link maternal blood lead (Pb) levels and pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders. Objective Assess the relationship between neighborhood soil Pb and maternal eclampsia risk. Methods Zip code summarized high density soil survey data of New Orleans collected before and after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita (HKR) were merged with pregnancy outcome data on 75,501 mothers from the Louisiana office of public health. Cross-sectional logistic regression analyses are performed testing the association between pre-HKR accumulation of Pb in soils in thirty-two neighborhoods and eclampsia risk. Then we examine whether measured declines in soil Pb following the flooding of the city resulted in corresponding reductions of eclampsia risk. Results Cross-sectional analyses show that a one standard deviation increase in soil Pb increases the odds of eclampsia by a factor of 1.48 (95% CI: 1.31, 1.66). Mothers in zip code areas with soil Pb>333 mg/kg were 4.00 (95% CI: 3.00, 5.35) times more likely to experience eclampsia than mothers residing in neighborhoods with soil Pb Conclusions Mothers residing in neighborhoods with high accumulation of Pb in soils are at heightened risk of experiencing eclampsia.
NOTES: transvaginal cholecystectomy with assisting articulating instruments

Background Transvaginal cholecystectomy has been performed at several institutions using hybrid natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) techniques. Methods A 42-year-old woman with symptomatic cholelithiasis was taken to the operating room for transvaginal cholecystectomy after giving informed consent. A single 5-mm laparoscope was placed at the umbilicus, followed by a 15-mm trocar through the vaginal conduit. The endoscope and a long flexible RealHand surgical instrument (Novare, Cupertino, CA) were placed via the vaginal trocar. The cystic duct and artery were identified and clipped using laparoscopic clips from the umbilical port. The long articulating laparoscopic instrument provided stable retraction. Hook cautery was used to dissect the gallbladder, which was removed via the vaginal trocar. The vaginal incision was closed using a single figure-of-eight absorbable suture under direct vision. The procedure lasted 96 min. Results The cholecystectomy was successfully performed without spillage of bile. The patient was kept overnight for observation only as a precaution. She reported no pain and did not require a discharge prescription for narcotics. Conclusions The described technique for NOTES cholecystectomy results in a virtually scarless operation. The single 5-mm umbilical trocar allows for safe clipping of the cystic duct. Further work is needed to determine the efficacy of this approach.
Geochemical and microbiological controls on dissimilatory iron reduction

Recent experimental studies permit development of conceptual and quantitative models of microbial Fe(III) oxide reduction at circumneutral pH that can be compared to and contrasted with established models of abiotic mineral dissolution. The findings collectively support a model for controls on enzymatic reduction that differs fundamentally from those applied to abiotic reductive dissolution as a result of two basic phenomena: (1) the relatively minor influence of oxide mineralogical and thermodynamic properties on rates of enzymatic reduction compared to abiotic reductive dissolution, and (2) the major limitation which sorption and/or surface precipitation of biogenic Fe(II) on residual oxide and Fe(III)-reducing bacterial cell surfaces poses to enzymatic electron transfer in the presence of excess electron donor. Parallel studies with two well-characterized Fe(III)-reducing organisms (Shewanella putrefaciens and Geobacter sulfurreducens) lead to common conclusions regarding the importance of these phenomena in regulating the rate and long-term extent of Fe(III) oxide reduction. Models in which rates of enzymatic reduction are limited by Fe(III)-reducing bacterial cell density together with the abundance of ‘available’ oxide surface sites (as controlled by oxide surface area and the accumulation of surface-bound biogenic Fe(II)) provide an adequate macroscopic description of controls on the initial rate and long-term extent of oxide reduction. To cite this article: E.E. Roden, C. R. Geoscience 338 (2006).
A Model of the Endogenous Development of Judicial Institutions in Federal and International Systems

Why do sets of sovereign governments create judicial institutions and grant these institutions the power to rule their actions invalid? Once such a court is created, under what conditions is that court able to rule against these governments and get compliance with their rulings? Finally, how might the influence of the court change over time? This study presents a general theory of judicial institutions that provides a unified answer to these three questions. I argue that governments create judicial institutions to help solve collective action problems endemic to operating under a common regulatory regime. Once established, a court in its institutional “infancy” is capable of facilitating compliance with that regulatory regime's rules but only consistent with the purpose for which the governments created the court. And finally, once the court has earned the trust of a government's public, its ability to enforce the regulatory regime's rules qualitatively expands. In demonstrating this last point, I derive ...
An intelligent paradigm for electric generator control based on supervisory loops

In this paper a new approach to a neural network based intelligent adaptive controller, which consists of an online growing dynamic Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBFNN) structure along with a Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC), is proposed. RBFNN control is used to approximate the nonlinear function and the MRAC control adapts when plant parametric set changes. The adaptive laws, including neural network approximation error, are derived based on a Lyapunov function. The update details of the RBFNN width, centers, and weights are derived in order to ensure the error reduction and for improved tracking accuracy. Main advantage and uniqueness of the proposed scheme is the controller's ability to complement each other in case of parametric and functional uncertainty. Moreover, the online neural network produces a plant functional approximation control with growing and pruning nodes. The theoretical results are validated by conducting simulation studies on a single machine infinite bus (SMIB) system for electric generator control.
Analysis of transforming growth factor β receptor expression and signaling in higher grade meningiomas

TGF-β receptors (TGF-βRs) inhibit growth of many cell types. Loss of TGF-βRs or its signaling components have been found in several human malignancies. The expression and the role of TGF-βRs in regulating anaplastic meningioma growth has not been studied. Real time PCR found TGF-β RIII expression significantly lower in five grade III compared to eight grade I and eight grade II tumors (P = 0.0481). By western blot analysis, TGF-βRI was detected in the four fetal and adult leptomeninges, all 18 grade I, 14 grade II and six grade III meningiomas. TGF-βRII was detected in none of the leptomeninges, 55% of grade I, 71% of grade II and weak to negative in five of six the grade III meningiomas analyzed. TGF-βRIII immunoreactivity was not detected in the fetal meninges but was detected in 94% of grade I, 70% of grade II and 67% grade III tumors. Phospho-SMAD 3 and Smad 7 were detected in nearly all tumors. TGF-β1 had no effect on PDGF-BB stimulation of DNA synthesis in six of seven WHO grade II and the grade III cells. It produced an increase in phosphorylation of SMAD 3 and p38MAPK in two of four and p44/42MAPK in three of four grade II cells showing no change in DNA synthesis after treatment. Thus, only attenuated TGF-βRIII expression and TGFB growth inhibition may occur in select higher grade meningiomas. Nonetheless, restoring TGF-β inhibition of meningioma cell proliferation may be an important objective in the design of new chemotherapies for these tumors.
The effects of depowered airbags on eye injuries in frontal automobile crashes

The purpose of this study was to investigate eye injuries resulting from frontal automobile crashes and to determine the effects of depowered airbags. The National Automotive Sampling System database files from 1993 to 2000 were examined in a 3-part investigation of 22 236 individual crashes. Of the 2 103 308 occupants exposed to a full powered deployment, 3.7% sustained an eye injury compared to 1.7% of the 310 039 occupants exposed to a depowered airbag deployment. Occupants were at a significantly higher risk to sustain an airbag-induced eye injury when exposed to a full powered airbag compared with occupants exposed to a depowered airbag deployment ( P = .04). Approximately, 90% of the eye injuries in full powered airbag deployments were caused by the airbag, compared to only 35% of the depowered airbag eye injuries.
Chronic-Dose Acyclovir to Suppress Frequently Recurring Genital Herpes Simplex Virus Infection: Effect on Antibody Response to Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Proteins

To determine the effect of prolonged suppressive acyclovir therapy on the antibody response to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) proteins, we studied sequential sera from 33 patients with frequently recurring (six or more recurrences per year) genital herpes. Twenty-two patients received 400 mg of oral acyclovir and 11 received placebo, twice daily for one year. Sera collected at enrollment, after six months and 12 months of therapy, and during the first recurrence after cessation of therapy were evaluated by western blot for levels of antibodies to HSV-2, gB, gG, gC/gE, VP16, and gD. Mean levels declined by 27%-39% after one year of acyclovir. The magnitude of the decrease in antibody levels was not correlated with disease severity either during or after therapy. Patients with high relative antibody levels to gB after therapy had more-severe first recurrences after therapy than did patients with antibody levels to gB less than or equal to the median. Antibody levels were not restored after the first untreated recurrence.
Predictive Value of Early Testing of Auditory Localization for Language Development

SUMMARY This pilot study attempted to determine whether atypical localization to voice during the first year of life could be predictive of later delayed language development. 22 children who had been tested at six to nine months of age and found to have normal hearing were retrospectively divided into atypical' and normal' groups. They were then evaluated for language development at four years of age. The atypical group had significantly lower scores on two of the four measures of language competence, but the results must be interpreted with caution because of the small number of children in the study. RESUME Valeur predictive du test de localisation auditive precoce dans le developpement du langage Cette etude pilote s'est efforcee de determiner si une localisation atypique de la voix durant la premiere annee de la vie pouvait annoncer un retard ulterieur du developpement du langage. 22 enfants examines de six a neuf mois d'âge et ayant une audition normale ont ete retrospectivement divises en groupes “atypique” et “normal”. lis ont ete ensuite evalues pour le niveau de developpement du langage a l'âge de quatre ans. Le groupe atypique a presente des resultats significativement plus bas pour deux des quatre mesures de l'efficience de langage, mais les resultats doivent etre apprecies avec prudence en raison du petit nombre des enfants de l' etude. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Der prognostische Wert einer fruhen Untersuchung der akustischen Lokalisation fur die Sprachen t wick lung Diese Pilotstudie versucht herauszufinden, ob eine atypische Stimmenlokalisation im ersten Lebensjahr von prognostischer Bedeutung fur eine spatere Sprachentwicklungs-verzogerung sein konnte. 22 Kinder, die mit sechs bis neun Monaten getestet und als normal horend beurteilt worden waren, wurden retrospektiv in eine ‘atypische’ und eine ‘normale’ Gruppe eingeteilt. Im Alter von vier Jahren wurde dann ihre Sprachentwicklung beurteilt. Die Kinder der ‘atypischen’ Gruppe hatten signifikant niedrigere Bewertungen bei zwei von vier Testaufgaben zur Beurteilung des Sprachvermogens; die Ergebnisse mussen jedoch noch zuruckhaltend beurteilt werden, da die Anzahl der Kinder in dieser Studie sehr klein ist. RESUMEN Valor predictivo del test precoz de localizacion auditiva para el desarrollo del lenguaje Este estudio piloto intento determinar si la localizacion atipica de la voz durante el primer ano de vida, podia ser predictiva de un retraso en el desarrollo posterior del lenguaje. 22 ninos que habian sido examinados entre los seis y nueve meses de edad habiendoseles hallado una audicion normal, feuron divididos retrospectivamente en grupos “atipicos” y “normales”. Fueron evaluados en el desarrollo de su lenguaje a los cuatro anos de edad. El grupo “atipico” existian unos puntajes significativamente mas bajos en dos o tres medidas de competencia en el lenguaje, pero los resultados deben ser interpretados con precaution debido al corto numero de ninos que fueron estudiados.
Effects of Nanostructure on Bulk Mechanical Properties of Nacre - 3D Finite Element Modeling of the Segmented/Layered Biocomposite

Nacre is a segmented layered composite containing both nanoscale-thick organic and sub- micrometer thick scale inorganic phases. In addition to controlling the formation of the intricate architecture, the organic plays a significant role in the mechanical properties of the biocomposite. In our previous work, three dimensional finite element models of nacre were constructed to design “brick and mortar” micro-architecture to study effects of nonlinear response of the organic component. Recently, nanomechanical properties such as hardness and elastic moduli of the individual components of nacre have been determined using nanoindentation techniques. In this work, we used these actual properties of the components to perform mesoscale finite element models to quantitatively evaluate nanoscale effects. Specifically, we studied the effect of the solid contacts between the platelets through the organic layer on bulk properties under tensile and compressive loading. In the new 3D finite element model, we also incorporated the pseudo-hexagonal platelet morphology to more accurately represent the nacre microstructure. The multiscale approach in our study involves incorporation of experimentally obtained nanoscale parameters into meso-macroscale numerical models. Our simulations imply that mineral contacts in the aragonitic platelets have marginal impact both on bulk elastic behavior of nacre and yielding. Stress concentration in contact regions were high enough for the contacts to break long before yield started in nacre. These results have important implications in the design of biomimetic segmented-layered composites for improved mechanical properties.
Exocytosis of IgG as mediated by the receptor, FcRn: An analysis at the single-molecule level

IgG transport within and across cells is essential for effective humoral immunity. Through a combination of biochemical and in vivo analyses, the MHC class I-related neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is known to play a central role in delivering IgGs within and across cells. However, little is known about the molecular and cellular mechanisms that are involved in the exocytosis of IgG from cells that express FcRn. Here, we use single-molecule fluorescence microscopy to analyze exocytic processes in FcRn-GFP-transfected human endothelial cells. We show that exocytosis can occur by means of multiple modes that range from complete fusion of the exocytic vesicle with the plasma membrane to a slower-release mode ("prolonged release") that only involves partial mixing of membrane contents. Even for prolonged release, diffusion of FcRn into the plasma membrane can occur, indicating that FcRn is directly involved in IgG exocytosis. The slower-release mode is characterized by periodic, stepwise release of IgG, rather than the rapid burst that is observed for complete-fusion events. Analyses of single-molecule tracks suggest that IgG may be bound to FcRn for several seconds after exocytosis. Unexpectedly, after diffusion out of the exocytic site, IgG and FcRn molecules can also migrate back into the epicenter of the release site. Such retrograde movement may represent a mechanism for FcRn retrieval. Our studies provide insight into the events that lead to IgG exocytosis.
Social Customer Relationship Management (SCRM): How Connecting Social Analytics to Business Analytics Enhances Customer Care and Loyalty?

Social Customer Relationship Management (SCRM) is about people and relationships and demands a customer focus. This study investigates how Social Media (SM) has become an undeniable influence on customer care. The purpose of this paper is to explore how engaging customers through social communities are having far-reaching effects on customer loyalty. Goldman (2011) highlighted that the powerful reach of SM is enabling loyalty marketers to extend their mastery of dialogue with customers achieving trialogue. Evans (2011) stated that marketers are exerting their efforts to understand Facebook, Twitter and blogging to get the rest of their firms aligned with their SM programs. The study was conducted using quality content analysis procedure of the web surveys, interviews, and case studies. This study examined three main questions: (1) how companies can leverage SM to strengthen customer care (2) how SM channels enhances customer loyalty (3) what are the managerial and profit implications of these findings for managers and researchers.
Superfluidity of electron–hole pairs between two critical temperatures

We study a system of spatially separated electrons and holes, assuming the carriers are confined to two parallel planes. The existence of the superfluid state of electron–hole pairs between two critical temperatures is predicted for such system in a case of electron–hole asymmetry caused by the difference in the carrier masses and their chemical potentials. The stability of the superfluid state is studied with respect to the changes of the asymmetry between electrons and holes. It is found that one type of the asymmetry can compensate another one, so the superfluid state is possible in a wide range of the asymmetry parameters when they satisfy a simple linear equation.