cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of fetal vs. maternal contributions of Bos indicus and Bos taurus genetics on embryonic and fetal development

To evaluate how the inclusion of Bos indicus genotype influences early fetal development in cattle, a reciprocal embryo transfer approach was used in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments to generate 55 pregnancies over 2 consecutive years (n = 55). Recipient cows were randomly assigned to (i) a diet that met daily energy maintenance requirements (MAINT) or (ii) a diet that restricted intake to 70% of the energy maintenance requirements (RESTR). Angus (AN) and Brangus (BN) embryo donors were superovulated and artificially inseminated with female sexed-sorted semen from the same breed. Embryos were then randomly transferred to either AN or BN recipients fed their respective diets for 28 d. Recipients remained on the dietary scheme until day 91 of gestation and were then comingled and fed a common diet that met their energy requirements until calving. Measurements included pregnancy establishment at day 28 of gestation, interferon-stimulated genes (ISG) expression in peripheral blood leukocytes, pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG; using two commercial [A1 and A2] and one in-house assay), and fetal crown-to-rump length (CRL). Recipients in the RESTR diet had lower BWs and BCS (diet × day; P 0.10). Recipients that received BN embryos had greater plasma concentrations of PAG in both A1 (embryo breed × day, P < 0.01) and A2 (embryo breed; P < 0.01). Alternatively, recipients that received AN embryos had greater plasma concentrations of PAG for the in-house assay (embryo breed × day; P < 0.01). In addition, fetuses from AN recipients had greater CRL on day 91 (breed × day, P < 0.01). In summary, Bos taurus cows experienced greater pregnancy failure when nutrient restricted. Furthermore, fetal size and the profile of PAG production during early gestation differed between B. indicus-influenced and B. taurus cattle.
Proceedings of the 1st ACM Workshop on Millimeter-Wave Networks and Sensing Systems 2017

It is our great pleasure to welcome you to the First ACM Workshop on Millimeter Wave Networks and Sensing Systems--mmNets'17. The workshop is focused on the design and implementation of new millimeter wave protocols and networks. The workshop's scope ranges from millimeter wave networks that can enable multi-Gbps wireless connectivity for 5G and WLANs to new millimeter wave sensing and imaging systems. Our goal is to identify and solve key challenges facing millimeter wave systems. The workshop brings together researchers from industry and academia to set the future research agenda of millimeter wave networks and sensing systems. Researchers working on millimeter wave systems, communications, networking, hardware designs, and mobile applications will present innovative ideas that have the potential to grow to full-fledged millimeter wave systems that realize the vision of extremely high data rate wireless connectivity. We have put together a very exciting program with three keynotes and several invited talks from both industry and academia. The program also features two technical sessions and a panel discussion. Our keynote talks are: Vehicle-to-X Communications: The Killer Application of Millimeter Wave, Robert Heath (University of Texas at Austin) 3GPP 5G NR mmWave Standards, Boon Loong Ng (Samsung) Millimeter Wave Mobile Communications for 5G: Propagation, System Design and Performance, Ashwin Sampath (Qualcomm).
Organosulfates in the Midwestern United States: abundance, composition and stability

Environmental context Organosulfates in the atmosphere are an indicator that particulate matter has formed from gases in the presence of anthropogenic pollution. By characterising organosulfates in atmospheric fine particulate matter from the Midwestern USA, we found that organosulfates account for a significant fraction of organic carbon and that they are associated with both plant-derived and anthropogenic gases. Our results demonstrate that anthropogenic pollution significantly influences atmospheric particle concentrations and composition. Abstract Organosulfates are components of secondary organic aerosol resulting from the oxidation of volatile organic compounds in the presence of acidic sulfate. This study characterises organosulfates in the Midwestern United States for the first time. In fine particulate matter (PM2.5) collected in Iowa City, IA, in September 2017, organosulfates were analysed using liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution and tandem mass spectrometry (MS) to identify and quantify (or semi-quantify) major species. Among the 22 identified species, methyltetrol sulfate (m/z 215; C5H11SO7−) had the largest contribution to the bisulfate (m/z 97) product ion, as determined by precursor-ion MS/MS (59.5 % of signal), followed by ten other isoprene-derived organosulfates (15.2 %), seven monoterpene-derived organosulfates (5.6 %), three anthropogenic organosulfates (4.3 %) and one species of unknown origin (0.6 %). Among the quantified species were hydroxyacetone sulfate (4.8 ± 1.1 ng m−3), glycolic acid sulfate (21.0 ± 1.5 ng m−3), 2-methylgyceric acid sulfate (15.1 ± 0.8 ng m−3), C5H7SO7− (m/z 211; 17.9 ± 0.9 ng m−3), C5H9SO7− (m/z 213; 16.0 ± 1.0 ng m−3), and methyltetrol sulfate (214 ± 8 ng m−3); together, these species accounted for 4.4 % of organic carbon. To further validate the measurement of organic species in PM using filter samples, the stability of organosulfates on filters frozen at −20 °C was evaluated over the course of 1 year. The stored samples revealed no degradation of organosulfates, indicating their stability on filters stored frozen for extended periods of time. This study provides new insight into the abundance and identity of organosulfates in the Midwestern US and demonstrates that isoprene-derived organosulfates, in particular, are a significant contributor to PM2.5 organic carbon.
Force and Aspiration on Catheters Utilized in the ADAPT Technique in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Bench Top Analysis.

Abstract Introduction Given the high morbidity and mortality of stroke, there remains a demand for techniques that provide rapid and safe intervention while improving time to recanalization. The direct aspiration first-pass technique (ADAPT) uses force and aspiration for clot removal without the aid of separators or retrievers. In this study, we compare the force and aspiration qualities of commercially available catheters. Methods Four different catheters with varying inner diameters were set up in a bench top model to test catheter tip pressure and flow rate. Catheter tip pressure was measured by attaching the catheter to a vacuum pressure gauge and an aspiration pump. The flow rate was calculated by measuring the volume of room temperature water aspirated through each catheter over a given time. Results The Microvention Sofia catheter generated the greatest tip force (21.32 g), and the Stryker AXS Catalyst 6 catheter generated the smallest tip force (15.88 g). The Penumbra ACE 068 catheter and Medtronic ARC catheter measured 20.87 g and 16.78 g respectively. The ACE 068 had highest rate of aspiration at 289 mL/min, and the Catalyst 6 catheter had the lowest rate at 214. The Microvention Sofia catheter had the second highest rate while the ARC had the third highest rate, measuring 285 mL/min and 256 mL/min, respectively. Conclusions When using the ADAPT technique, knowledge of the tip force and catheter flow rate of newer catheters with larger distal inner diameters may guide selection of aspiration catheters. While this study demonstrates differences in tip force and flow rate of different commercially available catheters, clinical translation will require further testing and evaluation.
Characterization of Energy Dissipation Mechanisms in Dual Foucault Pendulum Gyroscopes

In this paper, the primary energy dissipation mechanisms in a dynamically balanced Dual Foucault Pendulum (DFP) gyroscope are identified and characterized experimentally. A Q-factor over one million was measured at room temperature on a vacuum packaged mode-ordered DFP, with operational frequency at 15 kHz. The measurement at low temperature, using a cryogenic probe station, made the anchor loss limit of Q-factor observable. A Q-factor of over 9 million was measured at 110K. The unbalanced electrostatic softening due to fabrication imperfection was identified to contribute to the anchor loss.
Putin's Federal Reforms: A Legal-Institutional Perspective

The first year of Putin's presidency proved to be the most concerted and fundamental shake-up of federal relations in Russia since the 1993 Constitution. This paper examines this transition in detail, focusing attention on the legal-institutional aspects of this dramatic shift in policy. First, the end of Yeltsin's 'parade' - of sovereignties, bilateral treaties and special agreements - is examined. Next, attention is paid to Putin's early decrees: 'positive' decrees creating the seven federal districts and federal envoys, and 'negative' decrees that annulled regional laws and legal acts judged by him not to be in conformity with federal law. Finally, the author explores Putin's legislative reforms - a three-part package of bills that altered the composition of the upper chamber of the federal parliament, the Federation Council, and the relationship of its former members to the federal president.
Trial Registry Use in Surgery Systematic Reviews: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract Objective To determine the extent to which systematic reviews published in surgery journals reported a clinical trial registry search as part of their search strategy and whether systematic reviews that omitted such searches would have located additional trials for inclusion. Background Systematic reviews are used by clinicians to guide clinical decision making. When conducting systematic reviews, the comprehensive search strategy is particularly critical to identify all studies—whether published or not—for producing an overall summary effect. Inclusion of only published studies may lead to overestimated and inaccurate summary effects; thus, it is important to consider unpublished studies. Here, we investigate the extent of clinical trial registry searches performed in surgical systematic reviews because trial registries may be the most viable approach to locate unpublished trial data. Methods We retrieved systematic reviews from the top surgery journals and the Cochrane Collaboration. Each was reviewed to determine which bibliographic databases were used and which, if any, trial registries were searched. Results Of 996 total systematic reviews, 252 (25.3%) reported having included a clinical trial registry search, with systematic reviews published in journals reporting searches of unpublished research at a rate of 6.4% (47/737). Reviews published by the Cochrane Collaboration included searches of unpublished research 79.2% of the time (205/259). Conclusions Many systematic reviews published in surgery journals include only published research, which may contribute to publication bias. We recommend that authors maximize available information by using unpublished trial data found in clinical trial registries.
Perspectives and Trends in Diagnostic Imaging of Head and Neck Cancer

A meaningful and accurate report is the central responsibility of those interpreting imaging studies of patients with head and neck cancer. This chapter will draw on the approximately 80 years of knowledge that has contributed meaningfully to the understanding of the factors that define competent reporting and consultation in head and neck cancer imaging. This begins with a consideration of the fundamental structure and content of consistent and meaningful reports. Next, the chapter will define processes that create a pathway to becoming expert enough to exercise imaging professional behavior that defines an optimal and efficient standard of practice in head and neck cancer imaging. The central theme will continuously reflect how the expectation of such expert practice relates to foundations of knowledge and experience that began in the 1930s and have reached a reasonably defined steady state at this time. Finally, the chapter will summarize suggested improvements in the current state of our imaging techniques that remain primarily of investigational and/or speculative interest. This will include suggestions in the literature, for possible marginal improvements in the data we generate from images and conclusions drawn from that data we provide in reports.
Non-ventilator health care-associated pneumonia (NV-HAP): Putting it all together.

Abstract This section highlights the necessary steps to implement a robust plan to connect surveillance and prevention strategies for nonventilator health care-associated pneumonia (NV-HAP) as described in previous sections. In addition to specific NV-HAP strategies, the importance of general infection prevention principles that are common to all settings for prevention of all health care-associated infections are reviewed. The section also provides an overview of a step-wise model to develop a comprehensive NV-HAP surveillance plan. A sample case review form is included.
Frequency downconversion for a quantum network

By using a parametric downconversion process with a strong signal field injection, we demonstrate coherent frequency downconversion from a pump photon to an idler photon. Contrary to a common misunderstanding, we show that the process can be free of quantum noise. With an interference experiment, we demonstrate that the coherence is preserved in the conversion process. This may lead to a high-fidelity quantum state transfer from a high-frequency photon to a low-frequency photon and connects a missing link in a quantum network. With this scheme of coherent frequency downconversion of photons, we propose a method of single-photon WDM.
Effect of high pressure processing, allyl isothiocyanate, and acetic acid stresses on Salmonella survivals, storage, and appearance color in raw ground chicken meat

Abstract High pressure processing (HPP) technique combined with food-grade antimicrobials, i.e. allyl isothiocyanate (AITC, a major compound in mustard oil) and acetic acid (AA, a key component in vinegar), is a promising preservative hurdle system for meat industries to reduce foodborne pathogens. With the addition of AITC and AA, the hydrostatic pressure level may be lowered to 250–350 MPa which clearly demonstrated a synergistic effect on the reduction of Salmonella. For example, a 5 log reduction was obtained at 350 MPa (4 min) combined with 0.05% AITC (w/w); and more than 7 log inactivation was achieved at 350 MPa (12 min) with 0.075% AITC and 0.1% AA (w/w) added. The color of ground chicken meat is mainly affected by pressurization, where color coordinates (L*, a*, b*), and ΔE were significantly increased after treated with 250 MPa for 4 min (P F (
Competition for space in a structured landscape: The effect of seed limitation on coexistence under a tolerance‐fecundity trade‐off

Life‐history trade‐offs are important coexistence mechanisms in plant communities. In particular, a trade‐off between seed quality and seed output may explain coexistence among species with a wide variety of seed sizes in heterogeneous landscapes with varying degrees of local stresses such as shade, drought and browsing. Under spatially implicit formulations of the tolerance‐fecundity trade‐off, species diversity is only bounded by community size and environmental heterogeneity. However, these formulations leave unanswered the question of how dispersal limitation, an important aspect of real communities, impacts the ability of the tolerance‐fecundity trade‐off to support coexistence. Here we show using stochastic cellular automata that coexistence under the tolerance‐fecundity trade‐off in a spatially structured landscape is strongly modulated by the interactions between the spatial scales of species dispersal and environmental variability. Specifically, coexistence in a patchy landscape is higher under short dispersal scales relative to the scale of environmental variation. These conditions allow species to segregate spatially and thus avoid interspecific competition. In addition to dispersal limitation, coexistence under the tolerance‐fecundity trade‐off is promoted by a sharp drop in tolerance as local environmental stress increases, a high overall seed output across species, local homogeneity in environmental conditions and weak age structure in fertility. In particular, coexistence is much higher when species have full tolerance to stress levels below a threshold and zero tolerance above that threshold, with nothing in between. This steep gradient contributes to coexistence because it maximizes niche separation between similar species. Synthesis. When plants compete for space, dispersal limitation and landscape spatial structure can conspire to boost coexistence and diversity. Our results show that the tolerance‐fecundity trade‐off is a strong niche differentiation mechanism when species experience a well‐defined distinction between suitable and unsuitable environments, and supports higher diversity when dispersal scales are shorter than the scales of variation in the environment. We conclude that the trade‐off is more likely to be a relevant coexistence mechanism in the context of large‐scale environmental variation, such as topography, than small‐scale variation, such as in litter cover and canopy shading.
Neuromechanics and Energetics of Walking With an Ankle Exoskeleton Using Neuromuscular-Model Based Control: A Parameter Study.

Powered ankle exoskeletons that apply assistive torques with optimized timing and magnitude can reduce metabolic cost by ~10% compared to normal walking. However, finding individualized optimal control parameters is time consuming and must be done independently for different walking modes (e.g., speeds, slopes). Thus, there is a need for exoskeleton controllers that are capable of continuously adapting torque assistance in concert with changing locomotor demands. One option is to use a biologically-inspired, model-based control scheme that can capture the adaptive behavior of the human plantarflexors during natural gait. Here, based on previously demonstrated success in a powered ankle-foot prosthesis, we developed an ankle exoskeleton controller that uses a neuromuscular model (NMM) comprised of a Hill type musculotendon driven by a simple positive force feedback reflex loop. To examine the effects of NMM reflex parameter settings on (i) ankle exoskeleton mechanical performance and (ii) users’ physiological response, we recruited nine healthy, young adults to walk on a treadmill at a fixed speed of 1.25 m/s while donning bilateral tethered robotic ankle exoskeletons. To quantify exoskeleton mechanics, we measured exoskeleton torque and power output across a range of NMM controller Gain (0.8-2.0) and Delay (10ms - 40ms) settings, as well as a High Gain/High Delay (2.0/40 ms) combination. To quantify users’ physiological response, we compared joint kinematics and kinetics, ankle muscle electromyography and metabolic rate between powered and unpowered/zero-torque conditions. Increasing NMM controller reflex Gain caused increases in average ankle exoskeleton torque and net power output, while increasing NMM controller reflex Delay caused a decrease in net ankle exoskeleton power output. Despite systematic reduction in users’ average biological ankle moment with exoskeleton mechanical assistance, we found no NMM controller Gain or Delay settings that yielded changes in metabolic rate. Post-hoc analyses revealed weak association at best between exoskeleton and biological mechanics and changes in users’ metabolic rate. Instead, changes in users’ summed ankle joint muscle activity with powered assistance correlated with changes in their metabolic energy use, highlighting the potential to utilize muscle electromyography as a target for on-line optimization in next generation adaptive exoskeleton controllers.
In vivo beheersing van herinneringen aan het trauma

Van alle PRACTICE-modules van TF-CBT is alleen in vivo beheersing optioneel. De meeste kinderen ontwikkelen geen overmatig gegeneraliseerde angsten voor onschuldige situaties en hebben daarom geen technieken voor in vivo beheersing nodig. Therapeuten moeten deze module alleen gebruiken voor kinderen die stelselmatig situaties of signalen mijden die veilig (onschuldig) zijn en bij wie deze vermijding hun vermogen om zich positief te ontwikkelen in de weg staat.
Exertion of Political Influence by Commodity-Based Economic Pressure: Control of Energy and Mineral Natural Resources

Whether commodities are renewable (sustainable) or non-renewable, nations that lack them or do not have a sufficient domestic supply are in competition to obtain them to meet their domestic needs, for their agricultural and industrial interests and for national security. Much of the demand is from developed nations with industrial bases that help support their economies. However, increasing competition for commodities is coming from developing nations in Asia, South America, and Africa that are strengthening their industrial bases for goods they need or that they require for projects that provide or augment employment opportunities. This can help maintain social, political, and economic stability in nations at risk of popular protests because of unemployment. The principal commodities other than food, water, and shelter can be put in two categories: (1) energy sources and petrochemicals and (2) earth materials (metals, minerals, rocks).
Comparison of Pharmacokinetics of 5-Fluorouracil and 5-Fluorouracil with Concurrent Thymidine Infusions in a Phase I Trial

The serum half-life of 5-fluorouracil (5-FUra) in humans is best described as a biexponential decay function, with t1/2 alpha = 7.8 +/- 2.6 (S.E.) min and t1/2 beta = 36.8 +/- 13.5 min during initial courses of this drug alone. Pharmacokinetics of 5-FUra during courses of daily therapy (for 5 days) revealed prolongation of t1/2 in both components of the decay curve, which has not been previously reported. Despite the efficacy of thymidine (dThd) given as a continous i.v. infusion of 8 g/sq m/day in prevention of high-dose methotrexate toxicity, continuous infusion of dThd at this dose does not prevent the toxicity of 5-FUra orreverse inhibition of DNA and RNA synthesis by 5-fura. On the contrary, continuous infusion of dThd appears to increase the toxicity of 5-FUra during continuous dThd infusion revealed prolongation of the 5-FUra t1/2 which remained stable through the course of 5 days of 5-FUra with dThd. This protracted t1/2 is believed to account at least in part for the increased toxicity of 5-FUra with dThd. Dose-limiting mucositis, myelosuppression, and gastrointestinal toxicity were observed at 5-FUra doses ranging from one-half to two-thirds the customarily tolerated dose of 5-FUra alone in similar courses of daily bolus therapy (for 5 days).
Research in humanitarian logistics

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide future researchers with a framework for conducting research in the unique field of humanitarian logistics.Design/methodology/approach – The authors categorized humanitarian logistics research articles. Borrowing from the theory of constraints and management information systems literature, the authors developed a framework for research.Findings – The review of humanitarian logistics literature indicates that researchers have begun to lay the foundation for a core body of knowledge. While there is a growing body of research in humanitarian logistics, it is predominately focused on the area of planning.Originality/value – This effort categorizes past research using elements of logistics, develops a framework for research in humanitarian logistics, and recommends areas for further research.
Quantitative Calculation of Electro-Optic Coefficients of Diatomic Crystals

The bond-charge dielectric theory of Phillips and Van Vechten is applied to the calculation of the electro-optic tensor coefficients. The agreement of the theoretical predictions with experimental values in the case of zinc blende and wurtzite crystals is very good.
VERY LARGE ARRAY H I ZEEMAN OBSERVATIONS OF THE CYGNUS X REGION: DR 22 AND ON 2

We have used the Very Large Array to study the Zeeman effect in 21 cm H I absorption lines from two star-forming regions in the Cygnus X complex, DR 22 and ON 2. We measure the line-of-sight magnetic field toward these regions, finding B los = –84 ± 11 μG toward the DR 22 H II region and B los < 50 μG toward each of the two H II regions in ON 2. We interpret these results in terms of two different models. In one model, we assume that the H I Zeeman effect is a measure of magnetic fields in the associated molecular clouds. If so, then the DR 22 molecular cloud is magnetically subcritical, that is, magnetically dominated. The ON 2 molecular clouds are magnetically supercritical. In a second model, we assume that the H I Zeeman effect is a measure of magnetic fields in photon-dominated regions where the gas has been compressed (and the field amplified) by absorption of stellar radiation. We find that this second model, where the measured field strength has been affected by star formation, accounts well for the DR 22 H I Zeeman effect. This same model, however, overpredicts the magnetic field in ON 2. ON 2 may be a region where the magnetic field is energetically insignificant or where the field happens to lie nearly in the plane of the sky.
Developmental Sequences for Hopping over Distance: A Prelongitudinal Screening

Abstract Proposed developmental steps for hopping for distance (Roberton & Halverson, 1977) in two movement components (arm and leg action) were tested using a prelongitudinal screening technique (Roberton, Williams, & Langendorfer, 1980) for determining their comprehensiveness and developmental accuracy. Seventy-two children, ranging in age from two through five years (24–71 months), were tested for the study. The leg action developmental steps included all observed leg movements in the preschool sample and were accepted as comprehensive. The proposed arm action component required modification to accommodate all observed arm movements before it was accepted as comprehensive. The leg action component was properly ordered, supporting developmental accuracy. Again, additional modifications were necessary in the arm actions before the steps were properly sequenced. In contrast to previous studies which claimed that most children exhibited “mature” hopping behaviors by 5 years of age, these children were clas...
Potentiometric titration of milligram quantities of uranium in the presence of iron

Abstract A method is described for the potentiometric titration of milligram quantities of the uranium(IV) ion in the presence of iron. This is accomplished by complexing the iron with 1.10-phcnanthroline. The uranium can then be titrated with standard ceric sulfate without interference from the iron.
Assaultive Violence in the U.S. Post Office.

This article suggests that a plausible theoretical link exists between the management of change and recent killings in the U.S. Postal Service. The degradation of labor associated with the scientific management of technological change produces stress and frustration that weaken employee integration and undermine existing forms of social control. Certain employees reject prevailing definitions of situations provided by those in power and develop alternative meanings and patterns of behavior, including assaultive violence. The article concludes that when the experience of work fundamentally degrades a person's identity or sense of self-control, especially in the uncertain context of rapid change, it can trigger assaultive violence.
HARMONIC MODES OF A DISORDERED ZIG-ZAG CHAIN.

We describe the results of a simulation of a model of a random chain embedded as a self-avoiding walk on a diamond lattice. The dynamic model is the same as Kirkwood's. The equation of motion method we use permits such functions as S(k, ω), the dynamic structure factor, to be calculated as easily as the density of states. We present results on the density of states and S(k, ω) for chains of 1000 monomers. The results illustrate a mechanism of harmonic self-stabilization of a chain, which we also discuss in physical terms. We believe that simulations of this type can be useful to experimentalists in relating spectral features to morphology.
Non-Manhattan maze routing

The availability of multiple metal layers in modern IC processes raises the possibility of using non-Manhattan routing on some of the layers in order to reduce the average interconnect length, and thus improve performance and routability. In this paper, we present novel algorithms for both Manhattan and non-Manhattan multi-layer maze routing. The algorithms in principle can be extended to an arbitrary number of layers, but the paper focuses on four-layer routing, two in horizontal and two in vertical directions for Manhattan, and one layer each in horizontal, vertical, 45-degree and 135-degree directions for non-Manhattan routing. The non-Manhattan algorithms show an improvement of up to 12.2% in average wire length compared to Manhattan routing for two general MCNC benchmarks.
An h-Adaptive Finite-Element Technique for Constructing 3D Wind Fields

Abstract An h-adaptive, mass-consistent finite-element model (FEM) has been developed for constructing 3D wind fields over irregular terrain utilizing sparse meteorological tower data. The element size in the computational domain is dynamically controlled by an a posteriori error estimator based on the L2 norm. In the h-adaptive FEM algorithm, large element sizes are typically associated with smooth flow regions and small errors; small element sizes are attributed to fast-changing flow regions and large errors. The adaptive procedure employed in this model uses mesh refinement–unrefinement to satisfy error criteria. Results are presented for wind fields using sparse data obtained from two regions within Nevada: 1) the Nevada Test Site, located approximately 65 mi (1 mi ≈ 1.6 km) northwest of Las Vegas, and 2) the central region of Nevada, about 100 mi southeast of Reno.
Microglial Activation Induced by Neurodegeneration A Proteomic Analysis

Neuroinflammation mediated by microglial activation appears to play an essential role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson disease; however, the mechanisms by which microglia are activated are not fully understood. Thus, we first evaluated the effects of two parkinsonian toxicants, manganese ethylene bisdithiocarbamate (Mn-EBDC) and 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridine (MPP+), on microglial activation as well as associated dopaminergic (DAergic) neurotoxicity in primary cell culture systems. The results demonstrated that, when rat primary mesencephalic neuron-enriched or neuron-microglia mixed cultures were treated with Mn-EBDC at 2-8 microm or MPP+ at 0.25-5 microm, respectively, for 7 days, both toxicants were capable of inducing DAergic neurodegeneration as well as activating microglia via a mechanism secondary to DAergic neurodegeneration. Furthermore activated microglia subsequently enhanced DAergic neurotoxicity induced by Mn-EBDC or MPP+. Detailed scrutiny of neuron-microglia interactions identified a fraction of the conditioned media derived from a DAergic cell line treated with Mn-EBDC or MPP+ that potently activated microglia. To further define potential mediators leading to microglial activation secondary to neurodegeneration, we utilized a quantitative proteomic technique termed SILAC (for stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture) to compare the protein profiles of MPP+-treated cellular fraction that mediated microglial activation as compared with controls. The search revealed numerous novel proteins that are potentially important in neurodegeneration-mediated microglial activation, a process believed to be critical in Parkinson disease progression.
Physiological and performance effects of pyridostigmine bromide in healthy volunteers: a dose-response study.

Abstract Rationale. Questions have been raised about the role pyridostigmine bromide (PB) plays in the etiology of Gulf War veterans' illnesses. There is a need to understand better the physiological and behavioral effects of this drug, particularly at the 30-mg/8-h regimen recommended by the US Military. Objective. To perform a double-blind, cross-over, dose-response study of PB in 67 healthy, young volunteers (31 women, 36 men). Methods. Volunteers were initially trained on a standardized test battery. Supervised administration of placebo (PL) and PB (every 8 h/5 days) occurred in each of two dosing weeks, separated by a non-dosing week. One group received 30 mg PB and PL, and the other 60 mg PB and PL. In each dosing week, the battery was performed after the first pill and again when steady-state plasma PB levels were achieved. Results. PB was associated with an overall improvement in reaction time on tests of memory and attention, and with a reduction in RMS error on a tracking task. PB slowed heart rate and decreased the high frequency component of heart rate variability (HF HRV). Dose-response effects were found only for HF HRV, and RMS error. The extent of cholinesterase inhibition was directly related to the magnitude of the HF HRV decrease, and was predicted by the weight-normalized PB dose. Cholinesterase inhibition was not related to the extent or severity of reported drug side effects. Conclusions. PB does not appear to have detrimental physiological or performance consequences at the recommended 30-mg dose, or at twice that dose, when evaluated under non-stressful laboratory conditions.
Video self-assessment of basic suturing and knot tying skills by novice trainees.

Background Self-assessment is important to learning but few studies have utilized video self-assessment of basic surgical skills. We compared a video self-assessment of suturing and knot tying skills by novice trainees to the assessment by a senior attending surgeon. Methods Sixteen senior medical students and 7 beginner surgical interns were video-recorded while performing five suturing and knot tying tasks. All videos were analyzed using an objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) metrics (1-5 scale; 1 = novice, 5 = expert). Video self-assessment was carried out within 4 weeks of an instructional session and subsequently by one senior surgery instructor (blinded to the individual). Both a Global score and total combined OSATS scores were analyzed. Total possible OSATS scores were: interrupted suture—30, subcuticular closure—30, one and two-handed knot tying—25 each, tying in a restricted space 20; maximum combined score—130 points). Confidence levels in performing the tasks pre-test and the value of video self-assessment were rated on a 1-5 Likert scale (1 = low and 5 = high). Data are mean±SD and statistical significance was evaluated using Friedman's test. Results Self-assessment scoring was significantly higher than the assessment by a senior instructor for three tasks by global score and all five tasks by combined OSATS score (self-assessment 71.8±16.7 vs attending assessment 56.7±11.0, p = 0.007). Mean self-assessment Global scores ranged from 2.5 to 2.8 for all tasks performed compared to 1.8-2.3 for attending surgeon assessment (p Conclusions Novice trainees over-estimate their basic technical skills performance compared to the assessment by a senior surgeon. Video self-assessment may be a valuable addition to a pre-residency and surgical internship preparatory curriculum in basic suturing and knot tying.
Churchill and Sip1a repress fibroblast growth factor signaling during zebrafish somitogenesis.

Cell-type specific regulation of a small number of growth factor signal transduction pathways generates diverse developmental outcomes. The zinc finger protein Churchill (ChCh) is a key effector of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling during gastrulation. ChCh is largely thought to act by inducing expression of the multifunctional Sip1 (Smad Interacting Protein 1). We investigated the function of ChCh and Sip1a during zebrafish somitogenesis. Knockdown of ChCh or Sip1a results in misshapen somites that are short and narrow. As in wild-type embryos, cycling gene expression occurs in the developing somites in ChCh and Sip1a compromised embryos, but expression of her1 and her7 is maintained in formed somites. In addition, tail bud fgf8 expression is expanded anteriorly in these embryos. Finally, we found that blocking FGF8 restores somite morphology in ChCh and Sip1a compromised embryos. These results demonstrate a novel role for ChCh and Sip1a in repression of FGF activity. Developmental Dynamics 239:548–558, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF HEAD TRAUMA IN A FOAL

This case report describes computed tomographic findings of a three-month-old, 180 kg female Arabian foal that had suffered head trauma. Computed tomography proved valuable in antemortem diagnosis of skull base fracture and extradural hematoma, which were confirmed by postmortem examination.
Precollege contexts of undocumented students: Implications for student affairs professionals

Undocumented students' precollege experiences have been shaped by and continue to shape their histories of participation in higher education. By understanding these experiences, student affairs professionals can teach and empower undocumented college students as they navigate higher education.
Microsomal epoxide hydrolase polymorphisms and lung cancer risk in non-Hispanic whites.

Microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEPHX) is a critical metabolic enzyme involved in the activation and subsequent detoxification of specific tobacco carcinogens. mEPHX harbors polymorphisms in exon 3 and exon 4 that modulate enzymatic activity. The exon 3 polymorphism decreases mEPHX metabolic activity, whereas the exon 4 polymorphism increases activity. We hypothesized that the mEPHX polymorphisms modulate lung cancer risk. Using a case-control study design and restriction fragment length polymorphism polymerase chain reaction assay, we determined the mEPHX polymorphic genotypes of 181 lung cancer cases among non-Hispanic whites and 163 controls (matched for age, sex, ethnicity, and smoking history). Our results showed that the variant allele of mEPHX exon 4 increased the overall lung cancer risk by 56% (odds ratio [OR] = 1.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.99–2.46). Additionally, the risk estimates were elevated significantly for younger people (< 64 yr) (OR = 2.27, 95% CI = 1.15–4.50) and current smokers (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.06–4.65). The variant allele of mEPHX exon 3 had no effect overall (OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.56–1.38), but there was a 53% protective effect (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.22–0.99) in younger people. When we analyzed the exon 3 and exon 4 polymorphisms together, those people with the high enzymatic activity genotype had an elevated lung cancer risk of 1.72 (95% CI = 0.90–3.29). This elevated risk was also evident only in younger people. These findings suggest that these variant alleles of exon 3 and exon 4 of mEPHX modulates lung cancer risk. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Trisomy 3 mosaicism in a live-born infant.

We report on the first case of trisomy 3 detected in the lymphocytes of a live-born infant who died at the age of 5 months. A normal 46, XX karyotype was found in skin fibroblast cultures, which could account for the child's viability and lack of gross phenotypic malformations.
Code in the air: simplifying sensing on smartphones

Modern smartphones are equipped with a wide variety of sensors including GPS, WiFi and cellular radios capable of positioning, accelerometers, magnetic compasses and gyroscopes, light and proximity sensors, and cameras. These sensors have made smartphones an attractive platform for collaborative sensing (aka crowdsourcing) applications where phones cooperatively collect sensor data to perform various tasks. Researchers and mobile application developers have developed a wide variety of such applications. Examples of such systems include BikeTastic [4] and BikeNet [1] which allow bicyclists to collaboratively map and visualize biking trails, SoundSense [3] for collecting and analyzing microphone data, iCartel [2] which crowdsources driving tracks from users to monitor road traffic in real time, and Transitgenie [5], which cooperatively tracks buses and trains.
Developing a viable link between scientific psychology and educational practices

Characteristics of a linking science between scientific psychology and educational practices are discussed. It is argued that the nature of the knowledge comprising this linking science is qualitatively different from both basic research and applied research as we usually think of them. Differences between a descriptive science and a prescriptive science are discussed. The nature of the instructional problem that needs to be addressed is identified, and examples are presented of how a linking science might address this problem.
Mechanistic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii thymidylate synthase (TS-DHFR)-dihydrofolate reductase. Evidence for a TS intermediate and TS half-sites reactivity.

This study describes the use of rapid transient kinetic methods to characterize the bifunctional thymidylate synthase-dihydrofolate reductase (TS-DHFR) enzyme from Toxoplasma gondii. In addition to elucidating the detailed kinetic scheme for this enzyme, this work provides the first direct kinetic evidence for the formation of a TS intermediate and for half-sites TS reactivity in human and Escherichia coli monofunctional TS and inT. gondii and Leishmania major bifunctional TS-DHFR. Comparison of the T. gondii TS-DHFR catalytic mechanism to that of the L. major enzyme reveals the mechanistic differences to be predominantly in DHFR activity. Specifically, TS ligand induced domain-domain communication involving DHFR activation is observed only in the L. major enzyme and, whereas both DHFR activities involve a rate-limiting conformational change, the change occurs at different positions along the kinetic pathway.
Psychological Stress as a Modulator of Functional Recovery Following Spinal Cord Injury

There is strong evidence indicating that the social environment triggers changes to the psychological stress response and glucocorticoid receptor function. Considerable literature links the subsequent changes in stress resiliency to physical health. Here, converging evidence for the modulatory role of chronic psychological stress in the recovery process following spinal cord injury (SCI) is presented. Despite the considerable advances in SCI research, we are still unable to identify the causes of variability in patients’ recovery following injury. We propose that individuals’ past and present life experiences (in the form of stress exposure) may significantly modulate patients’ outcome post-SCI. We propose a theoretical model to explain the negative impact of chronic psychological stress on physical and psychological recovery. The stress experienced in life prior to SCI and also as a result of the traumatic injury, could compromise glucocorticoid receptor sensitivity and function, and contribute to high levels of inflammation and apoptosis post-SCI, decreasing the tissue remaining at the injury site and undermining recovery of function. Both stress-induced glucocorticoid resistance and stress-induced epigenetic changes to the glucocorticoid receptor can modulate the nuclear factor-kappa B regulated inflammatory pathways and the Bcl-2 regulated apoptosis pathways. This model not only contributes to the theoretical understanding of the recovery process following injury, but also provides concrete testable hypotheses for future studies.
Intracranial administrations of single or multiple source allogeneic cytotoxic T lymphocytes: chronic therapy for primary brain tumors

Previous investigations by our group demonstrated the efficacy of single source allogeneic cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) given multiple times in reducing or curing tumor burden in the rat 9L gliosarcoma model. In this study, the lack of toxicity to normal brain when single source allogeneic CTLs were intracranially administered multiple times is documented. Additionally, the efficacy and lack of toxicity of allogeneic CTLs from multiple sources, each given once is documented. CTLs sensitized to Fischer antigen were prepared from major histocompatibility complex incompatible DA, PVG, Sprague-Dawley and Wistar-Furth rat lymphocytes. CTLs from multiple donors were administered one time each to Fischer rats bearing established 9L tumor at staggered intervals over a two week period and survival was monitored in relation to a sham treated group. Additional groups of nontumor-bearing rats received either multiple source allogeneic CTLs or single source DA anti Fischer CTLs in the same treatment regimen. Histological evaluation of the nontumor-bearing brains receiving either single or multiple source allogeneic CTL infusions showed minimal localized brain damage confined to the cannulation tract. No neuronal loss or inflammatory reaction was seen either adjacent to or remote from the administration site. Brains from the long-term survivors of the tumor-bearing animals showed no residual neoplasm; the instillation site had focal sterile abscesses; gliosis and neuronal loss did not extend into adjacent brain. The safety and potential of chronic, local allogeneic CTL administration, derived from multiple donors, as adjuvant local therapy for brain tumors was demonstrated.
The effect of the alternative minimum tax on corporate tax burdens

Abstract The Tax Reform Act of 1986 revised the corporate alternative minimum tax ( AMT ) and explicitly linked corporate taxation to financial accounting “Book Income”. Congress added the book income adjustment (although temporarily) to eliminate highly publicized instances in which corporations with substantial book income paid no tax. The intent of this study is to assess the incidence of the AMT and the industry groups expected to pay additional taxes under the new law. Our results indicate that while corporate taxes paid increased after implementation of the law, the incidence of the new law did not necessarily fall on those firms expected to pay the new tax. Firms with increased tax burdens did not necessarily incur lower tax burdens prior to the implementation of the new AMT , nor were they the most profitable. Consequently, the potential negative impact of this new law may have overshadowed its expected revenue generation and corrective benefits.
The fibronectin content of canine lungs is increased in bleomycin-induced fibrosis.

Abstract Fibronectin (Fn), a high molecular weight glycoprotein, was found to constitute 0.43% of the normal adult beagle dog lung. The tissue Fn (TFn) was solubilized by sequential chemical extractions and quantified by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay). Subsequent plasmin digestion did not appear to solubilize significantly more Fn. Since 70% of the lung tissue was solubilized by the extractions and plasmin digestions, the TFn quantified represented the bulk of lung Fn. The TFn was identical to plasma fibronectin in the ELISA and one can infer that the Fn molecule is not significantly altered as it is incorporated into the lung connective tissue matrix. Lungs from beagles in which fibrosis had been induced with bleomycin contained 0.99% Fn, more than a twofold increase over normal. In the ELISA TFn from fibrotic lungs gave an inhibition curve of the same shape as did TFn from normal lungs. Thus, Fn from fibrotic lungs is not different qualitatively from Fn from normal lungs in any way detectable with this antiserum. The TFn content of plasmin digests of intact lung was less than that of extracts, which was the converse of results obtained on placenta (B. A. Bray (1985) Biochem. J. 226, 811–815). This difference between lung TFn and placental TFn may be due to differences in degree of glycosylation, which determines susceptibility to proteases.
Comment on On the extended applications of homogeneous balance method

In this letter, we show that all results presented in Senthilvelan's paper can be actually obtained by a direct method.