cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Infection caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria: clinical aspects.

A PPRECIATION of the pathogenic potential of the nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) has lagged significantly behind that of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Indeed, adequate documentation and widespread acceptance of the role of these organisms in production of human disease did not come about until the 1950s, over 60 years after Koch definitively implicated the tubercle bacillus as the causative agent of tuberculosis. Delay in recognition of the pathogenic role of these organisms stems from their relatively low intrinsic virulence, their propensity to commensally inhabit the airways, and their tendency to infect patients with preexistent lung disease whose features of infection may be difficult to distinguish from those of the underlying disease process. The spectrum of human disease associated with the NTM includes not only pulmonary but also cutaneous, soft tissue, lymph node, bone and joint, and disseminated infections (Table 1). The list of NTM reported to infect humans has grown to approximately 15 though several organisms account for the vast majority of cases: Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacteriurn intracellulare (collectively termed Mycobacterium avium complex), Mycobacterium kansasii, and the "rapid growers" (so named because of their characteristic rapid growth in culture), Mycobacterium fortuitum, and Mycobacterium chelonae. This review will focus on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of infection due to NTM, with particular emphasis on the more commonly encountered organisms. The radiographic manifestations of infection due to NTM will be discussed in another report in this issue.
Cloning and expression of hemolysin genes from Treponema denticola strains ATCC 35404 (TD-4) and human clinical isolate GM-1 in Escherichia coli

Abstract The oral spirochete, Treponema denticola is a putative etiologic agent in adult periodontitis, and acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis. In vitro , the oral treponeme produces several factors including proteases, hemolysins, hemin-binding proteins, which could potentially be involved in the virulence of this spirochete. Our laboratory has been investigating the pathobiology of T. denticola , and has demonstrated the production of several hemolysins by T. denticola . In this report two hemolysin genes from T. denticola strains ATCC 35404 (TD-4) and GM-1 were isolated by screening genomic DNA libraries of T. denticola on sheep blood agar plates. Physical maps of the insert fragments were not identical. Southern blot analyses suggested some degree of homology in the nucleotide sequence. Maxicell analyses of [ 35 S]-methionine-labeled polypeptides from the recombinant plasmids have suggested the synthesis of an approximately 62.5 kDa polypeptide. Biochemical characterization of the T. denticola hemolysin genes indicated the activity to be inhibited by Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ and Zn 2+ but not by EDTA. Dithiothreitol and glutathione moderately enhanced the hemolytic activity of the recombinant plasmids. Iron partially inhibited the hemolytic activities. Addition of 2-2′ bipyridyl moderately enhanced the activities, possibly by iron limitation. These results suggest the isolation of an identical hemolysin gene from T. denticola strains TD-4 and GM-1.
Gallic acid-based small-molecule inhibitors of JC and BK polyomaviral infection

JCPyV and BKPyV are common human polyomaviruses that cause lifelong asymptomatic persistent infections in their hosts. In immunosuppressed individuals, increased replication of JCPyV and BKPyV cause significant disease. JCPyV causes a fatal and rapidly progressing demyelinating disease known as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. BKPyV causes hemorrhagic cystitis and polyomavirus associated nephropathy in bone marrow transplant recipients and in renal transplant recipients respectively. There are no specific anti-viral therapies to treat polyomavirus induced diseases. Based on detailed studies of the structures of these viruses bound to their receptors we screened several compounds that possessed similar chemical space as sialic acid for their ability to bind the virus. Positive hits in the assay were restricted to gallic acid based compounds that mimic the viruses known cellular glycan receptors. Pre-treatment of virions with these inhibitors reduced virus infection in cell culture and as such may form the basis for the development of virion specific antagonists to treat these infections.
What is MRT and how do I get one

Although minimum resolvable temperature difference (MRTD) measurements of forward looking infrared (FLIR) systems have been around for a long time, there is still a lot of confusion and misunderstanding about the measurement techniques. C2NVEO has been performing the measurement since the middle 1970s in its image evaluation facility (IEF). The IEF is generally considered to be the standard of the free world for FLIR measurements. This paper provides a basic understanding of the measurement state-of-the-art of MRTD for first- and second-generation FLIR systems. Concepts and theory behind the measurement are addressed and equipment requirements as well as observer training are reviewed. A discussion of the challenges of evaluating new systems such as staring arrays and second-generation digital FLIRs and the requirements for both horizontal and vertical MRTD measurements is also provided. A discussion of effects at automating the measurement is provided.
A demonstration of discriminative conditioning in the blow fly, Phormia regina

We present conclusive evidence for the classical conditioning of Phormia regina (the blow fly) by performing necessary control procedures that have been lacking in previous studies. Experiment 1 replicated successfully the study by Zawistowski and Hirsch (1984) which showed (1) that flies receiving a discriminative conditioning procedure responded (by extending their proboscises) differentially to a CS+ and CS− and (2) that flies receiving a random control procedure did not respond differentially. Experiment 2 controlled for experimenter bias by using an automatic stimulating procedure and performing blind tests. The two experiments together provide the most fully controlled evidence for learning in blow flies.
Annas: Virtuous Person, Relativism, and the Circularity Objection

This paper is informed by two principles: the Partiality Principle and the Impartiality Principle. Relying upon a relatively-unknown argument in Kant, the latter principle is stated and defended. The former principle is shown to be connected to Annas’ claim, in her theory of virtue ethics, that no mature, responsible adult wants to be told what to do, as well as to her developmental account of teaching and learning of virtue. I argue that Annas’ theory of virtue ethics is susceptible, as Kant’s theory is not, either to the Circularity Objection or (inclusive) to the Relativism Objection.
Structure and organization of the CyIII actin gene subfamily of the sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus

We describe here the organization of the CyIII subfamily of cytoskeletal actin genes in the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus. The functional genes CyIIIa and CyIIIb are linked at a 6 × 10^3-base distance. Gene CyIIIc appears to be a pseudogene that lacks 5′ exons and displays unselected mutational changes. Gene CyIIIa codes for a protein that differs at only nine out of 376 residues from that coded by another cytoskeletal actin gene, CyI. However, five of these nine changes occur within an 11-amino acid region that could represent a functional specialization of the CyIIIa actin protein. The CyIIIa gene possesses three introns, located, respectively, 25 nucleotides upstream from the translation start site, between the codons for amino acids 121 and 122, and within the codon for amino acid 204. These intron positions have also been observed in other cytoskeletal sea urchin actin genes. Comparison of both intron and 3′-terminal sequences shows that the CyIIIa and CyIIIb genes are closely related, while no homology in these untranslated sequences is observed between the CyIII genes and the other cytoskeletal actin genes of the S. purpuratus genome. The CyIII genes probably arose by duplication events at least 40 × 10^6 years ago, prior to radiation of the genus Strongylocentrotus. Consideration of the biological role of the embryo and larval aboral ectoderm cells to which CyIIIa and CyIIIb transcripts are confined suggests that these actins might contribute to cytoskeletal elements that endow the larval body wall with its rigid structure.
Cytochrome P450 oxidations in the generation of reactive electrophiles: epoxidation and related reactions.

Abstract Much of the interest in the cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes has been because of oxidation of chemicals to reactive products. The epoxides (oxiranes) have been a major topic of interest with olefins and aryl compounds. Epoxides vary considerably in their reactivity, with t 1/2 varying from 1 s to several hours. The stability and reactivity influences not only the overall damage to biological systems but also the site of injury. Transformations of some xenobiotic chemicals may involve products other than epoxides. Chemicals considered here include olefins, aromatic hydrocarbons, heterocycles, vinyl halides, ethyl carbamate, vinyl nitrosamines, and aflatoxin B 1 . These compounds either are unsaturated or are transformed to unsaturated products. The epoxides and other products provide a view of the landscape of P450-generated reactive products and the myriad of chemistry involved in the metabolism of drugs and protoxicants. Understanding the chemical nature of reactive products is necessary to develop rational strategies for intervention.
A second gene affecting the sialylation of lysosomal alpha-mannosidase in mouse liver.

We have previously reported on a mouse liver-specific genetic polymorphism associated with altered sialylation of lysosomal a-mannosidase. A second electrophoretic polymorphism for liver lysosomal a-mannosidase has now been found and characterized. This variation, between SWR/J and SM/JCv inbred mice, is determined by a single genetic locus (Map-2) on chromosome 17 and appears to be the result of further differences in sialylation of the lysosomal enzyme. The Map-2 gene appears to affect the processing of liver, spleen, and lung lysosomal a-mannosidase, whereas the Map-1 gene appears to be specific to the processing of liver lysosomal a-mannosidase (Dizik and Elliott, 1977). The more negatively charged electrophoretic liver phenotype (MA-A) characteristic of the SM/JCv strain is recessive to the phenotype (MA-B) characteristic of the SWR/J strain. In contrast, at the Map-1 locus, the more negatively charged phenotype is dominant. The electrophoretic pattern of development of the liver enzyme from SM/JCv mice is described.
Chinese children's self-concepts in the domains of learning and social relations.

In both academia and pop psychology, the Chinese self is often characterized as collectivist, putting group interest above self-interest. This account of self misconstrues the complex nature of human psychosocial functioning in cultural contexts. This account further overlooks the dynamic process in which the self is formed and sustained. In this article, we propose, from a domain-specific perspective, to reexamine the construct of self and its development in Chinese children. By presenting others' and our own research, we analyze Chinese children's self-concept in two distinct domains—the domain of learning and the domain of social relations. We demonstrate that Chinese children's self-concept has a strong autonomous component in the context of learning and achievement while displaying a social orientation in the context of relationships and family. We show how these tendencies of Chinese self relate to Confucian ethics and how they are shaped by early socialization. We then discuss implications of these findings for theories of the self. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 40: 85–101, 2003.
Resolution and synthetic aperture characterization of sparse radar arrays

The concept of radar satellite constellations, or clusters, for synthetic aperture radar (SAR), moving target indicator (MTI), and other radar modes has been proposed and is currently under research. These constellations form an array that is sparsely populated and irregularly spaced; therefore, traditional matched filtering is inadequate for dealing with the constellation's radiation pattern. To aid in the design, analysis, and signal processing of radar satellite constellations and sparse arrays in general, the characterization of the resolution and ambiguity functions of such systems is investigated. We project the radar's received phase history versus five sensor parameters: time, frequency, and three-dimensional position, into a phase history in terms of two eigensensors that can be interpreted as the dimensions of a two-dimensional synthetic aperture. Then, the synthetic aperture expression is used to derive resolution and the ambiguity function. Simulations are presented to verify the theory.
Rural Natural Increase in the New Century: America’s Third Demographic Transition

This chapter examines nonmetropolitan demographic trends in the first decade of the 21st century, with a particular focus on natural increase. Demographic growth and change in rural America is influenced both by natural increase and net migration. The two represent distinctly different but intimately interrelated demographic processes. The relative influence of each in overall rural demographic change has varied from one decade to another. Our results clearly show that natural increase has re-emerged as a prominent demographic force in the growth of rural America in the first decade of the 21st century. Nearly 77% of the rural population growth since 2000 is due to natural increase. Perhaps paradoxically, natural increase has become more important demographically even as the volume of rural natural increase has declined. In numerous nonmetro counties, deaths now routinely exceed births. That natural decrease is rising sharply now at the same time that annual births nationwide are at levels not seen since the baby boom underscores the complex set of factors that influence the demographic structure of rural America. The growing presence of Hispanics introduces a new element to the demographic calculus of nonmetropolitan America. The rapid growth of the Hispanic population – fueled increasingly by natural increase rather than in-migration – also underscores the changing racial and ethnic mix of America’s young people. Our research contributes to the understanding of rural demographic processes by emphasizing the critical role that natural increase/decrease is playing in rural population redistribution. It contributes to policy discussions by delineating the rapidity and geographic scale at which rural America is changing.
Federating Advanced Cyberinfrastructures with Autonomic Capabilities

Cloud computing has emerged as a dominant paradigm that has been widely adopted by enterprises. Clouds provide on-demand access to computing utilities, an abstraction of unlimited computing resources, and support for on-demand scale up, scale down and scale out. Clouds are also rapidly joining high performance computing system, clusters and grids as viable platforms for scientific exploration and discovery. Furthermore, dynamically federated Cloud-of-Clouds infrastructure can support heterogeneous and highly dynamic applications requirements by composing appropriate (public and/or private) cloud services and capabilities. As a result, providing scalable and robust mechanisms to federate distributed infrastructures and handle application workflows, that can effectively utilize them, is critical. In this chapter, we present a federation model to support the dynamic federation of resources and autonomic management mechanisms that coordinate multiple workflows to use resources based on objectives. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework and autonomic mechanisms through the discussion of an experimental evaluation of illustrative use case application scenarios, and from these experiences, we discuss that such a federation model can support new types of application formulations.
Cytoskeleton of Apicomplexan Parasites

The Apicomplexa are a phylum of diverse obligate intracellular parasites including Plasmodium spp., the cause of malaria; Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium parvum, opportunistic pathogens of immunocompromised individuals; and Eimeria spp. and Theileria spp., parasites of considerable agricultural importance. These protozoan parasites share distinctive morphological features, cytoskeletal organization, and modes of replication, motility, and invasion. This review summarizes our current understanding of the cytoskeletal elements, the properties of cytoskeletal proteins, and the role of the cytoskeleton in polarity, motility, invasion, and replication. We discuss the unusual properties of actin and myosin in the Apicomplexa, the highly stereotyped microtubule populations in apicomplexans, and a network of recently discovered novel intermediate filament-like elements in these parasites.
The Social Scientist's Role in The Preparation of The Florida Desegregation Brief

One of the significant features of the 1954 desegregation cases was the extensive, even though indirect, involvement of social scientists in both the arguments and the decisions. Social science work had been cited previously in cases involving racial segregation, but never before had it played so important and influential a part. In the further hearings of the cases, at least two of the briefs, that of the NAACP and the amicus curiae brief of the Attorney General of Florida, relied heavily upon social science findings for their arguments. Once again the problem of the role conflicts that the social scientist encounters when he
Complex shear modulus of thermally-damaged liver

The complex shear modulus of fresh and thermally damaged porcine liver has been measured, in vitro, using an ultrasonic shear wave imaging technique. Measurements were compared to two constitutive models, Kelvin-Voigt and Zener, to estimate the complex modulus of liver for shear wave frequencies between 50 and 300 Hz. An axially vibrated needle placed in the liver excites harmonic shear waves that are imaged using a pulsed Doppler technique. Liver heated to 47°C for 90 min was found to have little measurable cellular damage, and yet the elastic shear modulus increased by a factor of two and the viscous shear modulus increased by a factor of three in this frequency range. These observations imply that elastic properties, especially the viscous shear modulus, may be a sensitive indicator of thermal damage. Also, within the testing bandwidth for shear waves, the Zener model represented the data better than the Kelvin-Voigt model.
Aldose reductase inhibition by ponalrestat (statil) does not prevent proteinuria in long-term diabetic rats

The aldose reductase pathway has been implicated in the development of chronic complications of diabetes. In this study, we investigated the effect of an aldose reductase inhibitor, statil, on glomerular synthesis of heparan sulfate and albuminuria in male Wistar rats made diabetic with streptozotocin. Heparan sulfate is the predominant glycosaminoglycan (GAG) proteoglycan in the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). It confers a negative charge on the GBM, and its loss has been related to the presence of albumin in the urine. Diabetic rats synthesized less glomerular heparan sulfate and excreted more albumin than normal rats. Glomerular sorbitol concentration was significantly higher in diabetic than in normal rats. Chronic treatment of diabetic rats with statil did not improve either heparan sulfate synthesis or albuminuria despite normalization of glomerular sorbitol content. The present study does not support the role of excess sorbitol in the development of glomerular abnormalities in this rat model of streptozotocin diabetes.
Use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in the Medicare population

Background Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has been Food and Drug Administration approved in the United States since 2004 but did not obtain a unique code until 2010. Therefore, the use of this popular procedure has yet to be reported. The purpose of this study was to examine the use and reimbursement of RSA compared with total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) and shoulder hemiarthroplasty (SHA). Methods We analyzed the 100% sample of the 2011 Medicare Part A claims data for patients aged 65 years or older. Patient demographic characteristics, diagnoses, provider information, reimbursements, and lengths of stay were extracted from the claims data. Results In 2011, a total of 31,002 shoulder arthroplasty procedures were performed; 37% were RSAs, 42% were TSAs, and 21% were SHAs. Osteoarthritis was the primary diagnosis code in 91% of TSAs, 37% of SHAs, and 45% of RSAs. A primary diagnosis of osteoarthritis with no secondary code for rotator cuff tear was found in 22% of patients undergoing RSA. The mean length of stay for RSA (2.6 days; SD, 2.1 days) was longer than that for TSA (2.1 days; SD, 1.5 days) and shorter than that for SHA (3.5 days; SD, 3.6 days) (P Conclusions RSA is performed with similar frequency to TSA and almost twice as much as SHA in the Medicare population. Lower-volume surgeons perform most RSAs, and a majority of surgeons perform more RSAs than all anatomic shoulder arthroplasties combined.
Psychiatric aspects of Wilson disease: a review.

Abstract Objective To review the current evidence about psychiatric symptoms in Wilson's disease (WD). Method We searched Ovid, PsychInfo, CINHAL and PubMed databases from May 1946 to May 2012 using the key words Wilson('s) disease in combination with psychiatry , psychiatric , psychosis , schizophrenia , depression , mania , bipolar , mood , anxiety , personality and behavior . Results Psychiatric symptoms occur before, concurrent with or after the diagnosis and treatment for WD. Thirty to forty percent of patients have psychiatric manifestations at the time of diagnosis, and 20% had seen a psychiatrist prior to their WD diagnosis. When psychiatric symptoms preceded neurological or hepatic involvement, the average time between the psychiatric symptoms and the diagnosis of WD was 864.3 days. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders in WD patients varies wildly (major depressive disorder, 4–47%; psychosis, 1.4–11.3%). Certain gene mutations of ATP7B may correlate with specific personality traits. Conclusions Psychiatric manifestations represent a significant part of the clinical presentation of WD and can present at any point in the course of the illness. Psychiatric manifestations occurring without overt hepatic or neurologic involvement may lead to misdiagnosis. A better understanding of the psychiatric presentations in WD may provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of psychiatric disorders.
Subprogram inlining: a study of its effects on program execution time

Equations representing the execution time performance of noninlined and inlined versions of a program have been developed. The accuracy of the equations' description of inlined program execution time behavior was demonstrated on four computer systems. Using the equations, understanding of how certain factors influence the speed of inlined code was gained. Contrary to a number of published reports in the literature, the increased size of inlined code was not found to affect its execution time performance on demand-paged virtual memory machines. On such systems, neither the use of an inlining algorithm that includes program size constraints nor the substitution of interprocedural data flow analysis for inlining is warranted. A modest improvement in the caching and paging behavior of test programs' inlined versions was also observed. >
Preserving fertility in the hypogonadal patient: an update

An increasing number of young and middle-aged men are seeking treatment for symptoms related to deficient levels of androgens (hypogonadism) including depression, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and fatigue. The increase in prevalence of testosterone supplementation in general and anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism specifically among younger athletes is creating a population of young men who are uniquely impacted by the testicular end-organ negative consequences of exogenous steroid use. Exogenous testosterone therapy can alter the natural regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis leading to impaired spermatogenesis with azoospermia being a serious possible result, thus rendering the individual infertile. For men of reproductive age who suffer from hypogonadal symptoms, preservation of fertility is an important aspect of their treatment paradigm. Treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has shown the ability not only to reverse azoospermia brought on by testosterone supplementation therapy but also to help maintain elevated intratesticular testosterone levels. In addition, selective estrogen receptor modulators, often used with hCG have been shown both to elevate total testosterone levels and to maintain spermatogenesis in hypogonadal men.
Postwar Era Precedents and the Ambivalent Quest for International Students at the University of Florida

The number of international students studying at U.S. institutions of higher education in the 2003-2004 academic year dropped for the first time in more than three decades. New visa restrictions and international tensions in the wake of September 11, 2001, have been cited as central factors. This article identifies historical precedents from the postwar era (1945 to 1960) as additionally significant causes of this decline. Highlighting competing advocates of altruism, cultural diplomacy, or exclusion, it recounts the conflicting priorities of one public research university in the post-war years—the University of Florida—as an exemplification of the nation’s ambivalent quest for international students at American colleges and universities.
Executive Functioning Component Mechanisms and Schizophrenia

Background Executive functioning refers to a set of processes involved in complex, goal-directed thought and behavior involving multiple brain regions (e.g., prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex, basal ganglia) and multiple neurotransmitters (e.g., dopamine, glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid). People with schizophrenia exhibit executive functioning deficits that are associated with treatment-refractory aspects of the disorder. Although there is general consensus about what cognitive tasks involve executive functioning, there is disagreement about the specific cognitive mechanisms that comprise executive functioning. Methods This article discusses a number of possible candidate executive functioning mechanisms and provides a summary of the consensus reached by the executive functioning discussion group at the first CNTRICS (Cognitive Neuroscience for Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia) meeting in Washington, DC. Results The consensus was that two constructs have a well-founded basis in basic cognitive neuroscience research and seem to be impaired in schizophrenia: 1) rule generation and selection; and 2) dynamic adjustments in control (i.e., after conflict and errors). Conclusions The consensus of the first CNTRICS meeting was that immediate translation of measures of these constructs for use in schizophrenia should be pursued. A number of other constructs (e.g., scheduling, sequencing) could also be very important for schizophrenia and are in need of more basic and more clinical research.
Family transactions and relapse in bipolar disorder.

This study examined whether patient symptoms and relatives' affective behavior, when expressed during directly observed family interactions, are associated with the short-term course of bipolar disorder. Twenty-seven bipolar patients and their relatives participated in two 10-minute family interactions when patients were discharged after a manic episode. Results indicated that patients who showed high levels of odd and grandiose thinking during the interactions were more likely to relapse during a 9-month followup period than patients who did not show these symptoms during the family discussions. Relapse was also associated with high rates of harshly critical and directly supportive statements by relatives. Patients' odd thinking and relatives' harsh criticism were significantly more likely to be correlated when patients relapsed (r = .53) than when they did not relapse (r = .12). Results suggest that bipolar patients who show increased signs of residual symptomatology during family transactions during the post-hospital period are at increased relapse risk. The data also suggest that relatives of relapsing patients cope with these symptoms by increasing both positive and negative affective behaviors. Moreover, a bidirectional, interactional relationship between patients' symptoms and relatives' coping style seems to capture best the role of the family in predicting relapse in bipolar disorder.
The cyclic GMP modulators YC-1 and zaprinast reduce vessel remodeling through antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects.

Guanosine-specific cyclic nucleotide signaling is suggested to serve protective actions in the vasculature; however, the influence of selective pharmacologic modulation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-synthesizing soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) or cyclic GMP-degrading phosphodiesterase (PDE) on vessel remodeling has not been thoroughly examined. In this study, rat carotid artery balloon injury was performed and the growth-modulating effects of the sGC stimulator YC-1 or the cGMP-dependent PDE-V inhibitor zaprinast were examined. YC-1 or zaprinast elevated vessel cyclic GMP content, reduced medial wall and neointimal cell proliferation, stimulated medial and neointimal cellular apoptosis, and markedly attenuated neointimal remodeling in comparable fashion. Interestingly, sGC inhibition by ODQ failed to noticeably alter neointimal growth, and concomitant zaprinast with YC-1 did not modify any parameter compared to individual treatments. These results provide novel in vivo evidence that YC-1 and zaprinast inhibit injury-induced vascular remodeling through anti-mitogenic and pro-apoptotic actions and may offer promising therapeutic approaches against vasoproliferative disorders.
A Warm Welcome to a New T-ED Editor

The Editor-in-Cheif is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Chandan Sarkar of Hong Kong University, Hong Kong, China, to the TED Editorial Board, in the area of MOS devices and technology. Chandan is a recognized expert in this field and a welcome addition to that group of subject area editors. A short biography of Chandan's accomplishments is provided.
Susceptibility of laughing gulls (Larus atricilla) to H5N1 and H5N3 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses.

SUMMARY. This investigation detailed the clinical disease, gross and histologic lesions, and distribution of viral antigen in juvenile laughing gulls (Larus atricilla) intranasally inoculated with either the A/tern/South Africa/61 (H5N3) (tern/SA) influenza virus or the A/chicken/Hong Kong/220/97 (H5N1) (chicken/HK) influenza virus, which are both highly pathogenic for chickens. Neither morbidity nor mortality was observed in gulls inoculated with either virus within the 14-day investigative period. Gross lesions resultant from infection with either virus were only mild, with the tern/SA virus causing decreased lucency of the air sacs (2/6), splenomegaly (2/6), and pancreatic mottling (1/6) and the chicken/HK virus causing only decreased lucency of the air sacs (2/8) and conjunctival edema (2/8). Histologic lesions in the tern/SA-inoculated gulls included a mild to moderate heterophilic to lymphoplasmacytic airsacculitis (6/6), mild to moderate interstitial pneumonia (3/6), and moderate necrotizing pancre...
Performance of Adaptive Beam Nulling in Multihop Ad-Hoc Networks under Jamming

In a multihop ad hoc network, end-to-end data transmissions traverse through multiple inter-node wireless links. A jammer can disrupt the entire data transfer of a network by intentionally interfering with links between a subset of nodes. The impact of such attacks is escalated when the jammer is moving. While the majority of current ad hoc protocols consider omnidirectional transmission and reception, adaptive antennas can be utilized for spatial filtering of the jamming signal. This paper investigates the performance of employing adaptive beam nulling as a mitigation technique against jamming attacks in multihop ad hoc networks. Considering a moving jammer, the survivability of links and connectivity in such networks are studied by simulating various node distributions and different mobility patterns of the attacker. In addition, the impact of errors in estimation of direction of arrival and beamforming on the overall network performance are also examined. The results indicate a significant improvement in retaining connectivity under jamming when adaptive beam nulling is applied.
On the emergence of grammatical language as a means of bypassing the limitations of working memory capacity: Comment on "Interaction between lexical and grammatical language systems in the brain" by Alfredo Ardila.

Ardila [1] has produced a provocative and interesting description of two different language dimensions, lexi-cal/semantic and grammatical, and he speculated as to their different timings in evolutionary record. I shall takeissue with the latter. Ardila relied primarily on Bickerton’s [2] arguments on the nature of a protolanguage. I do notdisagree with Bickerton’s contention that a protolanguage probably existed in the earliest
Surgical Anatomy of the Neck

Surgical treatment of diseases of the neck requires precise knowledge of anatomy. The neck has distinct facial layers that facilitate the extirpation of metastatic cancer as well as the treatment of infections. Knowledge of the course of the facial nerve enables safe removal of parotid tumors.
Phenotypic and Functional Analysis of Fas (CD95) Expression in Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma of Patients With Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

The poor prognosis associated with patients afflicted with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and primary central nervous system lymphoma (AIDS-PCNSL) is due in part to the intrinsic resistance of this Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated tumor to conventional antineoplastic therapy. Fas (CD95) is a transmembrane protein receptor that transmits an intracellular signal leading to rapid programmed cell death following ligation with its natural ligand or anti-Fas antibodies. Fas expression and function were assessed in AIDS-PCNSL biopsy samples and in EBV+ human B-cell tumors that spontaneously developed in severe combined immune deficient (SCID) mice engrafted with human lymphocytes (hu-PBL-SCID mice). All tumors samples showed high-density surface expression of Fas by flow cytometry or immunohistochemical staining. Cells from two AIDS-PCNSL biopsy samples that did not express pan B-cell markers did not express Fas antigen. All tumors examined were susceptible to Fas-mediated apoptosis, as measured by standard assays for endonucleolytic cleavage of DNA. The response to Fas-mediated apoptosis was dependent on log-fold increases in the concentration of immobilized anti-Fas antibody, but could also be induced with a mobilized anti-Fas antibody. No evidence for intrinsic resistance to Fas-mediated apoptosis (ie, secreted or truncated forms of Fas) could be shown. Radiation-induced apoptosis of neoplastic EBV+ B cells was enhanced by activation of Fas, and prolonged exposure to interleukin-2 increased both Fas expression and Fas-induced apoptosis. As the normal brain parenchyma appears to have either low-density or absent expression of Fas, and antineoplastic therapy can be selectively delivered to the CNS with little systemic toxicity, local delivery of Fas-activating molecules could prove to be a useful component in the multimodal treatment of AIDS-PCNSL.
Pediatric palliative care - The role of the patient's family.

Whenever a child suffers, what does she or he cry Mother! What does that mean Palliative care is not a type of medicine based on objective evidence or statistics. The only relevant standard is the very individual quality of life. Nobody knows better what this actually means but the patient himself. Thus, if the mother’s presence has the biggest impact on a child’s wellbeing or comfort, she herself is the most valuable treatment modality. In nearly every publication dealing with pediatric palliative care, it is stated that palliative care does not only imply care for the sick child but also for the parents and the whole family. Usually, it is pointed out that they are suffering a lot as well. But helping them does also mean: helping the child! Of course, it means higher efforts, obligations and costs for the healthcare system. Thus the justification of this effort may be put in question; in particular, it may be argued that disorders of family members should, if necessary, be treated as such. But this is only one side of the coin! In the following, we will, based on published literature, look at the role of mothers, fathers, and siblings for the wellbeing of an ill or even dying child. As a conclusion, we will learn that if it is our task to give a dying child the best available care, helping mothers, fathers and sibling is an inevitable part of it.
Aging and Ovarian Δ5-3β-Hydroxysteroid Dehyrogenase in Rats1

SummaryOvarian Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity and protein content were determined in Long-Evans rats 1-24 mo of age. Activity of the enzyme per milligram of protein was maximal between 2 and 4 mo of age and declined thereafter. Ovarian enzyme activity of the 24-mo old rat was significantly less than that of the prepubertal animal. Total ovarian enzyme activity was maximal in 4-mo old rats. A decline in ovarian protein was noted between 4 and 24 mo of age.
Synthesis of Biobased Terephthalic Acid from Cycloaddition of Isoprene with Acrylic Acid

A reaction sequence has been elaborated that could enable the 36 × 109 kg/y of terephthalic acid currently synthesized from p-xylene and used in the manufacture of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) to instead be synthesized via cycloaddition of biobased acrylic acid and biobased isoprene. A central challenge in this cycloaddition is isoprene polymerization catalyzed by acrylic acid that is accelerated by the same Lewis acid catalysts needed to improve para selectivity in the cycloaddition. Esterifying acrylic acid to avoid diene polymerization while enabling Lewis acid catalyzed cycloaddition is not atom economical. A solution has been found with TiCl4 (2 mol %) catalyzed cycloaddition of acrylic acid and isoprene. At room temperature and in the absence of solvent, cycloaddition (94% yield) gives a 23:1, para:meta selectivity. Pd(0)-catalyzed aromatization (77% yield) of the para cycloaddition product affords p-toluic acid that is converted (94% yield) into terephthalic acid with a Co2+/Mn2+-catalyzed O2...
Observational study of family member presence for pediatric emergency department procedures.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to observe the proportion of family members who choose to remain present during children’s pediatric emergency department procedures in actual clinical situations.MethodsFamily members of a convenience sample of children undergoing invasive procedures in a pediatri
Modeling and simulation of power flow control for VSC-HVDC based on PSASP/UPI

Based on the nodal current-injection method,this paper proposes a novel alternate solution algorithm which is applied to power flow calculation of AC-DC hybrid power system with two-terminal VSCHVDC. AC system and VSC-HVDC system are interfaced through the injected currents and realize alternate solution. According to the different control modes,VSC-HVDC system calculates the corresponding injected currents. For constant AC bus voltage control mode,the problem that the reference value of AC bus voltage is not directly given in AC system power flow calculation is solved by using the reactive injected current feedback control method. Using the User Program Interface( UPI) function of Power System Analysis Software Package( PSASP),the power flow control calculation of VSC-HVDC is achieved. The results of New England system verify the feasibility and validity of the proposed method. No change of the VSC-HVDC bus type of both sides is needed in the method,which makes the control flexible. No need to modify the Jacobian matrix during VSC-HVDC power flow calculation makes the program convenient with clear AC-DC interface and good versatility. This method is instructive for using commercial software to calculate the power flow control of real-world systems equipped with the VSC-HVDC.
Low-Cost Plug-and-Play Optical Sensing Technology for USVs’ Collision Avoidance

In the field of marine robotics it is particularly important to endow the robot with a safe and highly reliable Navigation Guidance and Control (NGC) system which enables the Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) to safely navigate even in presence of human activities such as commercial and recreational traffic, swimmers, rowers, etc...A key aspect to achieve a safe autonomous navigation is the ability of the robot to recognize well in advance the presence of an unexpected, potentially moving, obstacle. This function represents the base brick for the development of a collision avoidance systems smart enough to reactively detect unexpected obstacles and perform the necessary avoidance maneuvers to prevent collisions. The present article describes the design of an a innovative obstacle detection sensor, combining both passive and active optical devices and based on a new concept of optronic system. It is specifically conceived for collision avoidance tasks in marine environments and it is designed to be easily mounted on small-medium sized USVs.
MEDICATIONS DEVELOPMENT FOR ALCOHOL USE DISORDERS

There are substantial differences between the objectives and processes of normal grant-funded research and those of commercial pharmaceutical development. These differences are explained with respect to clinical trials design in alcohol addiction, strategies for maximizing the success of controlled trials in drug development in this area, and avoidance of problems in the conducting of clinical trials subject to audit. Also discussed are possible new pharmacological interventions in alcohol use disorders and the need to recognize the usefulness of medications across the whole range of clinical presentations.
Glycol Methacrylate for Histology: Problems and Solutions

Four years of experience with plastic-embedded tissue sections are reported. A procedure for eliminating heat artifact, some modifications of staining procedures, and a consistently reliable and reproducible connective tissue trichrome stain for glycol methacrylate sections are described.
Sequence Homology Between Light Harvesting Polypeptides of Plants and the Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum

Many proteins of the photosynthetic apparatus are evolutionarily conserved. Regions of the chlorophyll (chl) a, b binding (Cab) light harvesting (LH) proteins in higher plants and green algae are highly conserved and probably have similar functions (1). Both the PS I and PS II Cab polypeptides have molecular masses generally of between 21 and 29 kDa and bind chl a, b and xanthophylls. Recently, the major LH complex from the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum was isolated and characterized (2,3). It is associated with PS II and contains three polypeptides of molecular masses 18, 19 and 19.5 kDA that bind chl a, c and fucoxanthin. The polypeptides of the complex are translated on 80S cytoplasmic ribosomes as higher molecular weight precursors (3), as are Cab polypeptides of higher plants. The presequence is probably required for the transport of the polypeptides into the plastid. To test for similarities among LH proteins from diverse photosynthetic organisms, polyclonal antibodies to the fucoxanthin, chl a, c binding (Fac) proteins of P. tricornutum (3) were reacted with LH proteins of several different photosynthetic organisms, and used to isolate fac genes. A region of approximately 60 amino acids is homologous between Fac and Cab polypeptides.
An Overview of Inland Aquatic Habitats

Publisher Summary This chapter presents an overview of inland aquatic habitats. While the percentage contribution of inland fresh and saline waters to the planet's total biospheric water is insignificant (
Probing the Mechanism of Aqueous CO2 Reduction on Post-Transition-Metal Electrodes using ATR-IR Spectroelectrochemistry

The role of metastable surface oxides in the reduction of CO2 on lead, bismuth, tin, and indium electrodes was probed using in situ attenuated total reflectance infrared (ATR-IR) spectroelectrochemistry. The effect of the surface oxide on the Faradaic efficiency of CO2 reduction to formic acid was studied by etching and anodizing the electrodes, and the results were correlated with respect to the observed spectroscopic behavior of the catalysts. A metastable oxide is observed on lead, tin, and indium cathodes under the electrochemical conditions necessary for CO2 reduction. Spectroscopic evidence suggests that bismuth electrodes are fully reduced to the metal under the same conditions. The dynamics of the electroreduction of CO2 at lead and bismuth electrodes appears to be different from that on on tin and indium electrodes, which suggests that these catalysts act through different mechanistic pathways. The post-transition-metal block can be divided into three classes of materials: oxide-active materials,...
Learning sparsity and structure of matrices with multiscale graph basis dictionaries

Many modern data analysis tasks often require one to efficiently handle and analyze large matrix-form datasets such as term-document matrices and spatiotemporal measurements made via sensor networks. Since such matrices are often shuffled and scrambled, they do not have spatial coherency and smoothness that usual images and photographs possess, and consequently, the conventional wavelets and their relatives cannot be used in practice. Instead we propose to use our multiscale basis dictionaries for graphs, i.e., the Generalized Haar-Walsh Transform. In particular, we build such dictionaries for columns and rows separately, extract the column best basis and the row best basis from the basis dictionaries, and construct the tensor product of such best bases, which turns out to reveal hidden dependency and underlying geometric structure in the given matrix data. Finally, we will demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach using the Science News database.
Impact of technology on functional roles and strategies: illustrative cases in the USA, Japan and France, and lessons learned

This paper discusses: (1) the impact of technology in shaping the roles and strategies of functional management (Research, Development, Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Marketing, Human Resources and Finance) and (2) the innovative contributions of these functions, beyond their normal work responsibilities, for converting technological advantages into worldwide market leadership. Nine cases are utilized as illustrations, all high–technology businesses started within large corporations, that achieved leadership in high–tech markets through strategic focus, technological innovation and functional excellence: GE Project Extra–High–Voltage; GE Plastics; GE Medical Systems: Motorola Communications; Coming; Apple Computer; Toshiba Information Systems; Xerox Non–Impact Printers; and Rhone–Poulenc Agrochemical. The lessons learned and conclusions are that: (1) technology leadership is not enough; (2) functional excellence is a must; (3) all functions must innovate; (4) functional work must be integrated; (5) in future, technological innovations will be integrated with equally innovative advances of all other functions.