cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reduced tongue force and functional swallowing changes in a rat model of post stroke dysphagia

Abstract Purpose Dysphagia is a common problem after stroke that is often associated with tongue weakness. However, the physiological mechanisms of post-stroke tongue muscle weakness and optimal treatments have not been established. To advance understanding of physiological mechanisms of post stroke dysphagia, we sought to validate the unilateral transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model of ischemic stroke as a translational model of post stroke dysphagia. Our goal was to establish clinically relevant measures and chronicity of functional deficits; criteria that increase the likelihood that findings will translate to the clinic. We hypothesized that MCAO would cause tongue weakness and functional swallowing changes. Methods Maximum voluntary tongue forces and videofluoroscopic swallowing studies were collected in 8-week old male Sprague-Dawley rats prior to receiving either a left MCAO (N = 10) or sham (N = 10) surgery. Tongue forces and VFSS were reassessed at 1 and 8 weeks post-surgery. Results Maximum voluntary tongue force, bolus area, and bolus speed were significantly reduced in the MCAO group at the 1 and 8-week timepoints. Conclusion Clinically relevant changes to swallowing and tongue force support the use of the MCAO rat model as a translational model of post stroke dysphagia. This model will allow for future studies to improve our understanding of the physiology contributing to these functional changes as well as the impact of therapeutic interventions on physiological targets and function.
A Review of Pedicled Perforator Flaps for Reconstruction of the Soft Tissue Defects of the Leg and Foot

Lower extremity soft tissue defects frequently result from high-energy trauma or oncological resection. The lack of suitable muscle flap options for the distal leg and foot makes defects in these locations especially challenging to reconstruct and free tissue transfer is commonly used. Another option that has become more popular in the past two decades are pedicled perforator flaps. Based on a thorough literature review and the authors’ experience on leg perforator flaps for over a decade, this article presents a historical review, the anatomical basis of common perforator flaps of the leg and foot, patient selection, wound selection, perforator selection, flap design, surgical techniques, refinements, and postoperative care. A review of the clinical outcomes and complications of these flaps was also performed and was noted to be comparable to the outcomes of free tissue transfer with significantly lower total flap failure rate. It is hoped that this review will assist surgeons in the formulation of a comprehensive step-by-step guide in performing pedicled perforator flap reconstruction of the lower extremity.
Static beam placement and frequency plan algorithms for LEO constellations

Summary LEO satellites are growing rapidly in number, but also in configurability of the payload, which presents new challenges of how to allocate the satellite's resources. We present an algorithm...
One-dimensional Ising ferromagnet [( CH 3 ) 3 NH] FeCl 3 ⋅2 H 2 O: Magnetic properties, crystal structure, and Mössbauer spectroscopy

The crystal structure of [(${\mathrm{CH}}_{3}$${)}_{3}$NH]${\mathrm{FeCl}}_{3}$\ensuremath{\cdot}${2\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O,FeTAC, has been determined and found to be isomorphous to that of the cobalt and nickel analogs, CoTAC and NiTAC. The structure consists of chains of bichloride-bridged ${\mathrm{Fe}}^{2+}$ ions extending along the b axis of the orthorhombic unit cell [space group Pnma, a=16.711(3) A\r{}, b=7.361(1) A\r{}, c=8.140(1) A\r{}, R=0.0488, ${R}_{w}$=0.0674]. These chains are linked into a two-dimensional (2D) network in the c direction by hydrogen bonding; the resulting planes are well isolated in the a direction by the organic molecules. The low-temperature magnetic susceptibilities are highly anisotropic with the greatest susceptibility along the b axis. Susceptibility data along b can be fit to the 1D Ising model with a small molecular-field correction giving a ferromagnetic intrachain exchange (${J}_{b}$/k=17.4 K).The molecular-field correction shows the total interchain exchange to be negative and small (z'J'/zJ\ensuremath{\approxeq}-2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3}$), making FeTAC the most one-dimensional magnet of this series. Antiferromagnetic ordering is observed in both the susceptibility data and the M\"ossbauer spectra near 3.12 K. Analysis of both polycrystalline and single-crystal M\"ossbauer spectra show that ${V}_{\mathrm{zz}}$ is positive, corresponding to an orbital singlet ${(}^{5}$B) ground term based on the real ${d}_{\mathrm{xy}}$ orbital. This analysis also shows the easy axis of magnetization to lie in the ab plane. Low-field magnetization data show metamagnetic transitions when small fields are applied along the b axis. The metamagnetic phase diagram indicates the critical field is 90 Oe at T=0 K. High-field magnetization data up to 15 T indicate the presence of spin canting. Extraction of interchain exchange constants consistent with all the experimental data has not been possible. One possible description finds ${z}_{c}$${J}_{c}$/k=-0.04 K, with ${z}_{a}$${J}_{a}$/k=0 K by symmetry, making FeTAC an example of a rectangular 2D Ising system in the ordered state.
IMPAIRED INDUCTION OF HEPATIC CYTOCHROME P-450 IN SELENIUM DEFICIENCY

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the impaired induction of hepatic cytochrome P-450 in selenium deficiency. Phenobarbital (PB)-mediated induction of rat hepatic cytochrome P-450 is impaired in Se-deficiency despite adequate synthesis of its constitutive moieties heme and apocytochrome P-450. In this study, male Holtzman rats were fed a semisynthetic diet deficient either in Se or vitamin E from the time of weaning. Control rats were fed the same diet, supplemented with both Se and vitamin E. Microsomal cytochrome P-450, protein, and MHO activity were determined. Hemin-mediated reconstitution of apocytochrome P-450 in vivo was examined in liver homogenates and mitochondria-RER preparations. Hepatic heme content was deliberately increased by treating Se-deficient and control rats with the following: (1) Tryptophan, which is known to increase heme synthesis without affecting cytochrome P-450 content, (2) Allylisopropylacetamide, which increases heme synthesis, apparently, in response to its selective destruction of cytochrome P-450-heme, or (3) heme itself as methemalbumin in doses insufficient to ordinarily induce hepatic MHO. Following tryptophan, hepatic MHO activity was increased threefold in Se-deficient rats, and was not affected in controls in the initial four-hour period.
Recent fishing footprint of the high-seas bottom trawl fisheries on the Northwestern Hawaiian Ridge and Emperor Seamount Chain: A finer-scale approach to a large-scale issue

Abstract A standing data gap for management of high-seas seamounts of the Northwestern Hawaiian Ridge and Emperor Seamounts (ES-NHR) by the North Pacific Fisheries Commission is the footprint of fisheries activities on these seamounts. Using satellite AIS data and the algorithms of the publicly available Global Fishing Watch database, a spatial map of trawling in a 0.01-degree latitude by 0.01-degree longitude square grid was created to review the data available to map this footprint. From 2012 to 2018 much of the trawling effort for all countries focused on Koko, Yuryaku, Kammu, and Colahan Seamounts at depths between 400 m (summits) and the depth limit currently set by the North Pacific Fisheries Commission of 1500 m. Additional seamounts with fishing activity included Annei (North Koko), Kinmei, Jingu, and Suiko. The remaining ES-NHR seamount locations show no trawling in those years. Bottom contact fishing was predominately carried out by ships with flag states of Japan and Korea. To date there appears to be compliance with the recent small-scale closures on C–H seamount and Koko. An additional source of data comes from scientific Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) surveys in 2014 and 2015 from three of these seamounts, in which scars from bottom contact gear are readily visible. These cover a smaller spatial area and depth range than the satellite data, but indicate the full footprint is not encompassed by the satellite data, suggesting either the fishing footprint is not fully captured by the AIS approach or that the footprint has shifted through time. AUV surveys also provide data on areas where abundant megafauna occur, which can provide candidate starting points for VME management efforts and further closures, similar to ones already in effect in the ES-NHR. The combination of satellite and AUV data provide a finer-scale fisheries footprint for this region that can aid in management of these sites.
Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease

This chapter focuses on the immune-mediated aspects of the pathogenesis of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). Alcohol not only directly injuries the liver but also exerts profound effects on other organs, which indirectly contribute to liver damage. Here, we will discuss the cellular effects of alcohol and its metabolites, innate and adaptive immune responses, and intracellular signaling pathways involved in ALD. Finally, an overview of current and emerging therapeutics will be reviewed, with a focus on immune-targeted approaches. Many of these therapies aim to translate new insights in pathogenesis of ALD into clinical treatment.
Tunable Long-Range Interactions between Self-Trapped Beams driven by the Thermal Response of Photoresponsive Hydrogels

Spiropyran-functionalized hydrogels are a promising platform for nonlinear optical materials. These gels show an unprecedented combination of reversibility and processability while requiring low la...
The Grey Area: How Regulations Impact Autonomy in Computational Journalism

Computational journalists who use new technological methods in news production face an uncertain legal and policy landscape. Through data collected from eighteen in-depth interviews with journalist...
Democratizing long-read genome assembly.

De novo assembled genomes serve as the backbone for modern genomics. In an article in this issue of Cell Systems, Ekim et al. present the mdBG assembler that can assemble genomes 100-fold faster than previous methods, including a human genome in under 10 min, which unlocks pan-genomics for many species.
Comparison of the Safety, Efficacy, and Procedural Characteristics Associated with Proximal and Distal Radial Access for Diagnostic Cerebral Angiography.

Abstract Objectives Radial access is an increasingly popular approach for performing cerebral angiography. There are two sites for radial artery puncture: proximal transradial access (pTRA) in the wrist and distal transradial access (dTRA) in the snuffbox. These approaches have not been directly compared. Materials and methods Consecutive diagnostic cerebral angiograms performed at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Outcomes included fluoroscopy time, radiation dose, contrast volume, time to obtain access, procedure duration, and time to discharge home. Success rates as well as minor and major complication rates associated with each approach were also compared. Multivariate linear regression models were used to determine the relationship between access site and outcomes while adjusting for covariates. Results A total of 287 angiograms on 244 patients met the inclusion criteria. pTRA was associated with shorter fluoroscopy time (s -2.54, 95% CI -4.18 - -0.9, p = 0.003) and lower radiation dose (s -242.89, 95% CI -351.55 - -134.24, p Conclusion dTRA and pTRA are associated with similarly high rates of safety and efficacy. Procedure duration, time to obtain access, and time to discharge did not differ between approaches.
Substance abuse and HIV-gp120: are opiates protective?

A bstract. There has long been a popular conceptual linkage between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) a cquisition and substance abuse involving “ needles” . Indeed, in vitro studies demonstrate that these substances promote the replication of HIV. Included in these in vitro studies is a linkage or association of tissue damage and viral load with the actions HIV envelope protein gp120 with substances of abuse. However, detailed epidemiological studies have not supported this association of substance abuse and HIV acquisition, viral load and exacerbated tissue damage. It is with this understanding that we undertake a reevaluation of t he in vitro studies w ithin the context of the microvascular immune environment. In this regard, a counter-intuitive hypothesis emerges, namely, that specific substances of abuse may afford a degree of protection from HIV infection. This new hypothesis involves the neural, immune, and vascular signaling molecule nitric oxide.
Toxicity of pentachlorophenol to six species of white rot fungi as a function of chemical dose.

The growth of six species of white rot fungi was a function of pentachlorophenol (PCP) dose, expressed as mass of PCP per mass of mycelia, at PCP doses ≤35 μg mg of mycelium-1, and not concentration. At higher doses, Inonotus dryophilus, Perenniporia medulla-panis, and Ganoderma oregonense removed less PCP than three other species of white rot fungi. Phanerochaete chrysosporium grown under nitrogen-deficient conditions was inactivated at PCP doses that under nitrogen-sufficient conditions resulted in only 2-day lag periods in growth. Trametes versicolor was the fastest-growing species that remained viable at higher PCP doses. Both Trametes versicolor and Phellinus badius were able to degrade PCP at higher PCP doses.
Out of Step? Voters and Social Issues in U.S. Presidential Elections

Recent political commentary has argued that the Republican Party is “out of step” with voters on social issues, costing Republicans the 2012 presidential election. This dramatic claim is deserving ...
Snapshots of an oxidatively induced α-hydrogen abstraction reaction to prepare a terminal and four-coordinate titanium imide

One electron oxidation of the bis-anilido titanium(III) complex (Nacnac)Ti(NHAr)2 (Nacnac− = ArNC(CH3)CHC(CH3)NAr, Ar = 2,6-(CHMe2)2C6H3) with AgOTf affords the cation [(Nacnac)Ti(NHAr)2][OTf] which is isolated and shown to gradually transform, by α-hydrogen abstraction, to the terminal and four-coordinate titanium imide (Nacnac)TiNAr(OTf).
Control of Live Load on Bridges

Application of field testing for an efficient evaluation and control of live-load effects on bridges is described. A system is considered that involves monitoring of various parameters, including vehicle weight, dynamic load component, and load effects (moment, shear force, stress, strain) in bridge components, and verification of the minimum load-carrying capacity of the bridge. Therefore, an important part of the study is development of a procedure for measuring live-load spectra on bridges. Truck weight, including gross vehicle weight, axle loads, and spacing, is measured to determine the statistical parameters of the actual live load. Strain and stress are measured in various components of girder bridges to determine component-specific load. Minimum load-carrying capacity is verified by proof load tests. It has been confirmed that live-load effects are strongly site specific and component specific. The measured strains were relatively low and considerably lower than predicted by analysis. Dynamic load...
Syndrome of opsoclonus‐myoclons caused by coxsackie B3 infection

Coxsackie B3 was cultured from 2 children who presented within two weeks of each other from the Cape Cod, Massachusetts, area showing opsoclonus and myoclonus. The organism was recovered from the cerebrospinal fluid of 1 patient and from the stools of both. Both children had cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis and gradual, spontaneous resolution of their symptoms.
Global insights into energetic and metabolic networks in Rhodobacter sphaeroides

Background Improving our understanding of processes at the core of cellular lifestyles can be aided by combining information from genetic analyses, high-throughput experiments and computational predictions.
Proactive approaches to audit pedestrian safety locations, a model for developing countries

This paper presents a pedestrian safety hotspot analysis to identify and prioritize specific road segments and intersections with high crash locations using Geographic Information System (GIS) which can be applied in sub-Saharan countries. The approach can well be applied in developing countries which are coupled with high traffic accident rates and injury severities. The identification process uses GIS environment through Getis-Ord Gi-star hotspot analysis tool. The goal is to examine the existence of a spatial pattern for pedestrian crashes associated with roadway geometry, socioeconomic, population distribution and other related factors. This methodology ranks high crash locations based on: crash frequency; weighted crash frequency by injury severities (EPDO); crash rates calculated per vehicle miles of travel (VMT), total population, and mean household income within a defined boundaries. The identified high crash locations and the rankings enable agencies to properly invest and prioritize funds to improve safety. It assists in identifying suitable locations for safety audits.
Digestion and assimilation of protein by Mytilus trossulus (Bivalvia : Mollusca) fed mixed carbohydrate/protein microcapsules

Cross-linked walled protein microcapsules have previously been developed and shown to be ingested, digested and assimilated by suspension-feeding bivalves. In this study, we examined the effect of adding carbohydrate to protein capsules on the utilization of encapsulated protein by mussels (Mytilus trossulus) in a series of in vitro enzyme incubations and an in vivo feeding experiment. Two types of carbohydrate (amylose and maltodextrin) were separately encapsulated at a carbohydrate to protein ratio of 1:1 by weight. In vitro carbohydrate and protein leakage rates from mixed carbohydrate/protein capsules were low [e.g. <4% (24h)-1] compared to previously reported leakage rates for protein capsules [e.g. 5 to 20% (24h)-1]. Proteolytic breakdown of mixed carbohydrate/protein capsules by mussel-style extracts was similar to that for protein capsules, when the encapsulated carbohydrate was amylose, a straight-chain (α-1,4-linkage) polysaccharide; however, capsules containing maltodextrin, which is partially comprised of α-1,6-linkages, were not as readily digestible in vitro. In contrast to results from in vitro enzyme assays, maltodextrin/protein capsules were utilized in vivo by mussels with similar efficiencies to those for protein and amylose/protein capsules. These findings demonstrate that utilization of microencapsulated protein by mussels cannot be accurately predicted from results of in vitro enzyme assays. Importantly, up to 50% of the dry weight of cross-linked walled protein microcapsules can be replaced with carbohydrate without significantly affecting encapsulated protein digestion and assimilation efficiencies for M. trossulus.
The Use of the Time Domain Analyzed EEG in Conjunction with Cardiovascular Parameters for Monitoring Anesthetic Levels

A simple time domain method of EEG analysis based upon the computation of the frequency and the amplitude of the zeroth, first, and second derivative of the EEG wave has been developed for monitoring the anesthetic level of patients undergoing general anesthesia. This study explores the effectiveness of this EEG analytical system working in conjunction with cardiovascular parameters in discriminating among commonly used anesthetic dosages. EEG features and cardiovascular features were used as variables in a stepwise discriminant analysis on two patient group sets each using a light, medium, and deep dosage level of the agents halothane/nitrous oxide and enflurane/nitrous oxide, respectively. The best overall discriminant prediction of the three 30-patient groups using halothane and nitrous oxide was 86.7 percent correct. The best overall discriminant prediction of the three 30-patient groups using enflurane and nitrous oxide was 90 percent correct. It was felt that these accuracies were sufficient to continue development of this sytem, the next step being the determination of a suitable anesthetic depth scale based upon the use of these and perhaps additional physiological features.
Mechanochemical degradation of atrazine adsorbed on four synthetic manganese oxides

Abstract Atrazine is an important contaminant of world water systems with effects on aquatic life and humans. Thus, its reactivity with soil minerals is an important issue. We have studied the mechanochemical degradation of atrazine (2-chloro-4-ethylamino-6-isopropylamino-s-triazine) adsorbed on synthetic pyrolusite (β-MnO2), birnessite (δ-MnO2), and cryptomelane types I and II (α-MnO2, α-MnO2) using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and spectroscopy. The overall transformation kinetics of atrazine on cryptomelane type II after light grinding does not appear to follow first order kinetics. However, first order kinetics seems to apply to birnessite at 30°C. The three decomposition products detected under mechanochemical degradation and incubation were DEA, DIA, and DDA, Mn(II) and CO2, but no consumption of gaseous oxygen was detected. A positive correlation was found between Mn(II) produced and CO2 evolved only for cryptomelane II, suggesting that the decomposition of atrazine on this mineral surface involves the oxide substrate as a source of oxygen and yields Mn(II).
CREB Modulates the Functional Output of Nucleus Accumbens Neurons A CRITICAL ROLE OF N-METHYL-d-ASPARTATE GLUTAMATE RECEPTOR (NMDAR) RECEPTORS

Nucleusaccumbens(NAc)mediumspinyneuronscyclebetween two states, a functionally inactive downstate and a functionally active upstate. Here, we show that activation of the transcription factor cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), a common molecular response to several drugs of abuse, increases both duration of the upstate and action potential firing during the upstate. This effect of CREB is mediated by enhanced N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor (NMDAR) function: increased CREB activity increases both NMDAR-mediated synaptic currents and surface level of NMDARs, while inhibition of NMDARs abolishes the effect of CREB on upstate duration. Furthermore, mimicking the effect of CREB by pharmacological enhancement of NMDAR function in the NAc in vivo suppressed novelty- and cocaine-elicited locomotor activity. These findings suggest that by enhancing NMDAR-mediated synaptic transmission, CREB activation promotes the proportion of time NAc neurons spend in the upstate. This effect, along with the CREB enhancement of NAc membrane excitability (Dong, Y., Green, T., Saal, D., Marie, H., Neve, R., Nestler, E.J., and Malenka, R.C.(2006)Nat. Neurosci.9,475–477), may counteract drug-induced maladaptations in the NAc and thus ameliorate the addictive state.
Comparative Research on Language Learning

This paper integrates the research concerns of two language-learning populations, adults acquiring a second language and children learning to correct functional (nonorganic) speech sound errors. Phonology was specifically examined with regard to four areas of mutual concern and benefit: (a) characterization of the sound system, (b) selection of aspects of the target sound system to be taught, (c) projection of learning during instruction, and (d) application of research findings to classroom and clinic. This comparative research indicated that basic theoretical and pedagogical aims overlap for both populations. Also, research on both populations has resulted in similar findings about language, learning, and instruction. Moreover, the study of each population has shown certain advances that may contribute to, and shape the direction of, language learning research for the other population. Integrated research efforts of this type have potential for isolating properties that are necessary and specific to language from those that are unique to acquisition, and further, for differentiating these universal properties from those that are specific to given language-learning populations.
Potential and current distributions along resistive electrodes

A simple theory of current and potential distributions along resistive electrodes is re-examined and generalized for non-linearized Tafel behavior. A model of a passivating electrode is discussed and the generalized theory extended to derive expressions for the current and potential profiles along a partially passivated electrode. The relevant expressions permit a predictive analysis of the feasibility of using the electrochemical passivation method for etch-stop control in fabrication of thin, single crystal silicon structures produced by anisotropic deep etching.
Clinical assessment of glass ionomer cements as Class III restorations: a one-year report

Abstract The clinical performance of 2 glass ionomer cements used as Class III restorations were compared to a conventional composite resin used as Class III restorations. One operator placed 72 restorations using the glass ionomer cements, Chelon and Ketac-fil, and the composite resin, Adaptic. Patients were recalled at the end of one year and the restorations were evaluated using the USPHS criteria. In addition, casts (made from impressions) were examined by SEM. From the clinical evaluation as well as the evaluation of the casts and SEM pictures, it was concluded that the clinical performance of the glass ionomer cements was comparable to that of the composite resin. In addition, no post-operative sensitivity was reported.
VLSI design and CAD technology in Korea

An overview is given of Korean VLSI and CAD technology, which did not develop naturally as it did in more advanced countries. Korean engineers had no electronic systems developed domestically for studying bipolar and MOS IC design. Consequently, they had to apply reverse engineering to the problem, which slowed development considerably. In 1982, the Korean government initiated the national project specifically to speed the progress of electronic technology development. Since then, VLSI design and CAD technology have begun to spread throughout the country. A prototype CAD system, called EDAS, was developed this year, and the project's goal has become the establishment of fully domestic VLSI CAD technology by 1991. >
Où en sont les mathématiques

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Two-Channel Laser Vibrometer Techniques for Vibrational Intensity Measurements: Part 1—Flexural Intensity

A laser technique which measures vibrational energy flow (intensity) via propagating bending waves is described. A pair of scanning laser beams from a two-channel laser vibrometer is used to provide a nonintrusive measurement of the intensity at various points on a vibrating beam. Results are shown to compare well with those of two additional techniques. These techniques, used for validation, employ a single laser beam and can only be used at resonance frequencies in beams or rods. The two-channel laser technique described can be applied to two-dimensional intensity measurements, is not limited to single frequency excitation, and has an inherent capability to facilitate phase error elimination via a photodetector switching technique which is also described.
An approach to web services oriented modeling and validation

Web services provide a language-neutral, loosely-coupled, and platform independent way for linking applications within organizations or enterprises across the Internet. Web services communicate with each other via XML format messages. This paper presents a web service architecture model, Service-Oriented Software Architecture Model (SO-SAM), which is an extension of SAM (SoftwareArchitecture Model[16]) to the web service applications, as well as a validation of the model and a case study. SO-SAM is an executable architectural model incorporating Predicate Transition Nets with the style and understandability of component-based concepts. SO-SAM describes each web service in terms of component and service composition in terms of connector separately. We believe that SO-SAM facilitates the verification and monitoring of web services integrationsince SO-SAM fits the distributed nature of modern composite web services. In order to validate the model against system properties, we rewrite the SO-SAM into the XMLformat, and validate SO-SAM using a SAM support tool, SAM parser. Finally, a case study of the validation of the model is demonstrated.
Chronic Effects of Toxic Environmental Exposures on Children's Health

Children have unusual patterns of exposure to environmental chemicals, and they have vulnerabilities that are quite distinct from those of adults. Increasingly, children's exposures to chemicals in the environment are understood to contribute to the causation and exacerbation of certain chronic, disabling diseases in children including asthma, cancer, birth defects, and neurobehavioral dysfunction. The protection of children against environmental toxins is a major challenge to modern society.
Cover Picture: Residual Stresses, Thermomechanical Behavior and Interfaces in the Weld Joint of Ni-based Superalloys (Adv. Eng. Mater. 3/2006)

The cover shows in the background a typical X-ray polychromatic microdiffraction (PXM) image obtained from the heat affected zone of a Ni-based superalloy weld with strong plastic deformation, while the inserts show a PXM image of the nondeformed material (upper insert) and the strong oscillations of the geometrically necessary dislocation slip systems and densities across the weld (lower inserts). More about X-ray polychromatic microdiffraction together with orientation imaging microscopy, electron scanning microscopy, and optical microscopy for studying residual stresses, thermomechanical behavior and interfaces in the weld joint of Ni-based superalloys can be found in the paper by O. M. Barabash et al on page 202.
Recycle or die: The role of autophagy in cardioprotection

Autophagy is a highly conserved cellular process responsible for the degradation of long-lived proteins and organelles. Autophagy occurs at low levels under normal conditions, but is upregulated in response to stress such as nutrient deprivation, hypoxia, mitochondrial dysfunction, and infection. Upregulation of autophagy may be beneficial to the cell by recycling of proteins to generate free amino acids and fatty acids needed to maintain energy production, by removing damaged organelles, and by preventing accumulation of protein aggragates. In contrast, there is evidence that enhanced autophagy can contribute to cell death, possibly through excessive self-digestion. In the heart, autophagy is essential role for maintaining cellular homeostasis under normal conditions and increased autophagy can be seen in conditions of starvation, ischemia/reperfusion, and heart failure. However, the functional significance of autophagy in heart disease is unclear and controversial. Here, we review the literature and discuss the evidence that autophagy can have both beneficial and detrimental roles in the myocardium depending on the level of autophagy, and discuss potential mechanisms by which autophagy provides protection in cells.
Ventricular filling patterns of the right and left ventricles in normally grown fetuses: A longitudinal follow-up study from early intrauterine life to age 1 year

Abstract Objective: Our goal was to determine the effects of advancing age on the Doppler diastolic filling indexes from early gestation to 1 year of life. Study Design: Seventy-nine fetuses were studied. Initial Doppler studies were started at about the 16th week of gestation and repeated every 4-6 weeks until term, on postnatal day 1 and 2, and at ages 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. A minimum of 5 returning Doppler waveforms were traced and analyzed for (1) peak early flow velocity, (2) late peak atrial flow velocity, (3) total area area under the curve, and (4) the acceleration and deceleration phases. The stiffness of the ventricles was estimated. Slopes of the curves for each of the parameters were analyzed for differences across time periods and between right and left ventricles. Results: (1) Heart rate significantly decreased with advancing age. (2) Left ventricular and right ventricular peak early flow velocity and late peak atrial flow velocity significantly increased during fetal life but not during the 1st year. (3) Atrial predominance was found during fetal life but not during the first year. (4) The deceleration phase of filling significantly increased during the fetal period. (5) Ventricular stiffness progressively decreased during the fetal period. (6) Increased ventricular filling shifted from a right-sided dominance in utero to a left-sided dominance after birth. Conclusions: (1) Fetuses have stiffer fetal ventricles than neonates. (2) The diastolic filling patterns in normally grown fetuses mimic those of the diseased adult heart. We speculate that this maturation process may be affected in fetuses born prematurely or small for gestational age. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1999;180:849-58.)
Negative Ion Sources Equipped with Continuous Annular and Spherical Geometry Surface Ionizers

Axial geometry negative ion sources have been designed, developed, and evaluated for use in conjunction with tandem accelerator applications. These sources utilize continuous surface solid tungsten ionizers in either annular or spherical geometries to effect ionization of cesium vapor, which in turn is used to sputter a negatively biased probe containing the material of interest. The annular ionizer geometry source been incorporated as an "on-line" source for routine operation of the Holifield Heavy Ion Research Facility (HHIRF) tandem accelerator. Both test stand and tandem accelerator operational experience indicate that such sources are reliable, long lived, stably operating and prolific producers of a wide spectrum of negative ions. To date these sources have been used to produce more than 18 negative ion species including Ag-, Au-, B-, CaH3-, Cl-, CrH2-, Cu-, Lu-, MgH3-, Mo-, Ni-, O-, S-, Si-, Sn-, TiH3-, Tm-, and Yb-. Details of the mechanical design features and computational techniques utilized in arriving at the final electrode configuration are presented in the text. Examples of data pertinent to source operation, the dependence of negative ion yields on certain source operational parameters and of intensities typical of a particular negative ion source are also given.
Glial solute carrier transporters in drosophila and mice

Glia regulate brain physiology primarily by regulating the movement and concentration of substances in the extracellular fluid. Therefore, one approach to understanding the role of glia in brain physiology is to study what happens when glial transporters are removed or modified. The largest and most highly conserved class of transporter is solute carrier (SLC) proteins. SLC proteins are highly expressed in brain, and many are found in glia. The function of many SLC proteins in the brain--particularly in glia--is very poorly understood. SLC proteins can be relatively easily knocked out or modified in genetic model organisms to better understand glial function. Drosophila are popular genetic model organisms that offer a nice balance between genetic malleability and brain complexity. They are ideal for such an endeavor. This article lists and discusses SLC transporter family members that are expressed in both mouse and Drosophila glia, in an effort to provide a foundation for studies of glial SLC transporters using Drosophila as a model.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy After Therapy for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Abstract Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a lethal degenerative disorder of the central nervous system caused by reactivation of latent polyomavirus JC in the immunosuppressed host. Although the condition is most prevalent among individuals with HIV, it also occurs in association with other diseases and therapies that compromise immune function, including lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs) treated with chemotherapy. Herein, the clinical course of an individual with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who developed PML after treatment with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab is described. The report highlights diagnostic challenges posed by nonspecific neurologic symptoms and radiographic findings that can be associated with PML. The ensuing discussion describes important discoveries that have contributed to the understanding of PML, clinical and diagnostic characteristics of the disease, specific features of LPD-associated PML, and treatment strategies for this condition.
Focus, funding, phonics—What's the point?: A reply to Pressley and Allington

Abstract In this paper, we reply to Pressley and Allington's (1999) contention that research supported by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in recent years has been narrowly focussed. We point out that their criticisms of this agency are opaque because they do not take account of the fact that research priorities of virtually all funding agencies are necessarily constrained by their unique missions. We also express our befuddlement over the apparent inconsistency, on the part of at least one of the co-authors, between the point of view expressed in this paper compared with the point of view expressed in a previous paper as to the weight given to phonological skills in early literacy instruction. Finally, we point out that Pressley and Allington's criticisms of recent intervention studies supported by NICHD are fraught with errors and misleading characterizations, and we use their criticism of an intervention study we have recently completed as a prime example.
Plasmid amplification-promoting sequences from the origin region of Chinese hamster dihydrofolate reductase gene do not promote position-independent chromosomal gene amplification.

Initiation of DNA synthesis occurs with high frequency at oris, a region of DNA from the amplified dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) domain of Chinese hamster CHOC 400 cells that contains an origin of bidirectional DNA replication (OBR). Recently, sequences from DHFR oris/OBR were shown to stimulate amplification of cis-linked plasmid DNA when transfected into murine cells. To test the role of oris/OBR in chromosomal gene amplification, linearized plasmids containing these sequences linked to a DHFR expression cassette were introduced into DHFR- CHO DUKX cells. After selection for expression of DHFR, cell lines that contain a single integrated, unrearranged copy of the linearized expression plasmid were identified and exposed to low levels of the folate analog, methotrexate (MTX). Of seven clonal cell lines containing the vector control, three gained resistance to MTX by 5 to 15-fold amplification of the integrated marker gene. Of 16 clonal cell lines that contained oris/OBR linked to a DHFR mini-gene, only 6 gained resistance to MTX by gene amplification. Hence, sequences from the DHFR origin region that stimulate plasmid DNA amplification do not promote amplification of an integrated marker gene in all chromosomal contexts. In addition to showing that chromosomal position has a strong influence on the frequency of gene amplification, these studies suggest that the mechanism that mediates the experiment of episomal plasmid DNA does not contribute to the early steps of chromosomal gene amplification.
The Rhetoric of Suffering, Hope, and Redemption in Masters of the Dew: A Rhetorical and Politico-Theological Analysis of Manuel as Peasant-messiah and Redeemer:

Jacques Roumain’s 1944 peasant novel, Gouverneurs de la rosee (Masters of the Dew, 1947) is not only a testament to stunning literary skill but also a masterwork of profound theological and philoso...
Low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP) is a heparin-dependent adhesion receptor for connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in rat activated hepatic stellate cells

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a cysteine-rich, extracellular matrix-associated heparin-binding protein implicated in a variety of fibrotic disorders. CTGF is initially synthesized as a mosaic protein containing four discrete structural modules (CTGF(1-4)) but this is susceptible to proteolytic cleavage yielding isoforms comprising modules 3 and 4 (CTGF(3-4)) or module 4 alone (CTGF(4)). In this study, we show that cultured rat hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) produce CTGF(1-4) and CTGF(3-4) following treatment with transforming growth factor-beta and that CTGF is a cell adhesion factor for activated HSCs. Low density lipoprotein receptor-associated protein (LRP) is a receptor for CTGF(1-4) or CTGF(3-4), but not CTGF(4), whereas cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are binding sites for all CTGF isoforms. Prior occupancy of LRP with other LRP ligands, receptor associated protein, anti-LRP, or a thrombospondin type I peptide (TEWSACSKTCG) resulted in a 50% decrease in the adhesion of activated HSCs to CTGF(1-4) or CTGF(3-4) whereas there was no effect on CTGF(4)-mediated adhesion. Co-incubation of CTGF with heparin or perturbation of cell surface HSPGs with heparinase or sodium chlorate completely blocked adhesion of activated HSCs to all CTGF isoforms. Freshly isolated HSCs demonstrated only weak binding to CTGF but strong binding to fibronectin. Thus HSC adhesion is at least partially promoted by CTGF through its binding to LRP, a process that is heparin-dependent. CTGF-LRP interactions are likely mediated by module 3 and CTGF-heparin interactions occur principally in module 4, although additional motifs may account for the heparin-dependency of LRP binding. These data show that LRP and HSPGs are utilized by HSCs for binding to CTGF and suggest that these cell surface molecules may be involved in mediating CTGF activity or adhesive signaling during the activation process.
Color and the Academy

Over the last century, one of the more contested issues in academe has been the epistemological battle about the nature of knowledge. Put simply, if truth is absolute and not created, then the standards used to admit students, and hire and promote faculty may be divorced from the identity of the person or the social context in which they operate. Decontextualized, objective criteria may be developed and employed to assess the qualifications of an individual; consequently, ideas such as merit become the cornerstone of academic life. Given this view, whether a student merits admission
Elective single embryo transfer trends and predictors of a good perinatal outcome--United States, 1999 to 2010.

Objective To assess trends in elective single ET and identify factors associated with a good perinatal outcome. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Clinic-based data. Patient(s) A total of 886,686 fresh, nondonor cycles reported to the National Assisted Reproductive Technology Surveillance System during 1999–2010, of which 17,166 met criteria for elective single ET. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Rates of elective single ET and good perinatal outcome (term, singleton infant with normal birth weight). Result(s) In 2010, elective single ET comprised 5.6% of all fresh transfers, representing an eightfold increase since publication of first guidelines in 2004 recommending elective single ET. Compared with other ETs, elective single ETs were nearly twice as likely to result in a good perinatal outcome (37.1% vs. 18.9%, respectively). Among women using elective single ET, those aged Conclusion(s) Between 1999 and 2010, national rates of elective single ET increased. Given the frequency of good perinatal outcomes among women aged 35–37 years, guidelines for elective single ET could be expanded to include patients in this age group with favorable prognoses.
Economic feasibility of producing ethanol from lignocellulosic feedstocks

A mathematical programming model is built to analyze the economic feasibility of producing ethanol from lignocellulosic feedstocks. The optimal size of an ethanol plant is determined by the trade-off between increasing transportation costs for feedstocks versus decreasing average plant costs as the plant size increases. The ethanol plant is modeled under the assumption that it utilizes recent technological advancements in dilute acid hydrolysis. Potential feedstocks include energy crops, crop residues and woody biomass. It is found that the recent technological advancements appear to make ethanol competitive with gasoline, but only if higher valued chemicals are produced as co-products with the ethanol. The low cost and chemical composition of crop residues make them attractive as a feedstock.
Word production and comprehension in Alzheimer's diseáse: The breakdown of semantic knowledge

Relatively mildly impaired patients with suspected Alzheimer's disease (N = 14; Verbal IQ = 96) and normal controls of similar age and education (N = 11) were administered tests requiring production (naming and fluency) and comprehension of single words. Word comprehension was assessed on a superordinate level (rating words for degree of "pleasantness") and on a more specific level (matching abstract pictorial representations with printed words denoting objects, action, emotions, and modifiers). Performance on standardized measures of semantic knowledge (Vocabulary and Similarities subtests of the WAIS) was also evaluated. The naming and fluency abilities of the Alzheimer's patients were found to be highly correlated (r = .80) and impaired. Naming errors often consisted of semantic field errors which were either hierarchically or linearly related to the target name. In comparison with normals, verbal fluency was characterized by a tendency to generate proportionally more category names concurrent with reduced production of items within a category. Single-word comprehension was also impaired, except when judgments of affective meaning were required. It was argued that these results suggest that Alzheimer's disease may lead to a specific disruption in semantic knowledge characterized by a difficulty in differentiating between items within the same semantic category concurrent with the relative preservation of broader categorical information.
Prostate boundary detection and volume estimation using TRUS images for brachytherapy applications

Objective: Authors propose a semi-automatic segmentation algorithm for three-dimensional prostate boundary detection from trans-rectal ultrasound images. As a part of brachytherapy treatment with seeds for early stage prostate cancer, a patient’s prostate is scanned using a trans-rectal ultrasound probe, its boundary is manually outlined, and its volume is estimated for dosimetry purposes. Proposed algorithm requires a reduced amount of radiologist’s input, and thus speeds up the surgical procedure.