cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Non-invasive, Focused Ultrasound-Facilitated Gene Delivery for Optogenetics

Optogenetics, a widely used technique in neuroscience research, is often limited by its invasive nature of application. Here, we present a noninvasive, ultrasound-based technique to introduce optogenetic channels into the brain by temporarily opening the blood-brain barrier (BBB). We demonstrate the efficiency of the method developed and evaluate the bioactivity of the non-invasively introduced channelrhodopsin channels by performing stimulation in freely behaving mice.
Analytical investigation of the effect of thermodynamic and geometric parameters on the performance of a direct injection turbocharged diesel engine

The thermodynamic performance of a diesel engine with heat transfer and friction term losses is analysed. This study deals with the numerical simulation and performance prediction of a turbocharged diesel engine with six-cylinder direct injection. To predict the engine performances, we developed a computer program for simulating the operation of a turbocharged diesel engine, and used the commercial GT-Power software to validate the simulation results. The range of variation of the rotational speed of the diesel engine chosen extends from 800 rpm to 2100 rpm. In this paper, we studied the influence of several engine parameters on the brake power and effective efficiency. Moreover, it puts in evidence the existence of two optimal points in the engine, one relative to maximum power and another to maximum efficiency; it was found that if the injection time is advanced, then the maximum levels of pressure and temperature in the cylinder are high.
Triboelectric nanogenerator for Mars environment

Abstract Consistent and reliable power supply is critical for interplanetary exploration missions and habitats on Mars. Abundant wind, strong dust storms and surface vibrations on Mars are attractive mechanical sources to convert into electrical energy. Conventional electromagnetic generators are unsuitable for planetary exploration due to the heavy weight of permanent magnets and metal coils and high launch costs. Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) yielding high output power per mass is a potential alternative. The impact of Mars environment on triboelectricity generation is an unknown but critical issue, which is investigated here using a Mars analogue weather chamber. Individual and combined effects of environmental factors such as atmospheric pressure, atmospheric composition, temperature, ultraviolet and gamma radiations on the performance of TENG are analyzed. The potential of TENG for Mars exploration is addressed based on the experimental results and scientific implication.
Nanoparticle size-specific actin rearrangement and barrier dysfunction of endothelial cells

AbstractIn this work, we evaluated the impact of gold nanoparticles on endothelial cell behavior and function beyond the influence on cell viability. Five types of gold nanoparticles were studied: 5 nm and 20 nm bare gold nanoparticles, 5 nm and 20 nm gold nanoparticles with biocompatible polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating and 60 nm bare gold nanoparticles. We found that all tested gold nanoparticles did not affect cell viability significantly and reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in endothelial cells. Only 20 nm bare gold nanoparticles caused an over 50% increase in endothelial barrier permeability and slow recovery of barrier function was observed after the gold nanoparticles were removed. This impairment in endothelial barrier function was caused by unbalanced forces between intracellular tensions and paracellular forces, actin microfilament rearrangement, which occurred through a Rho/ROCK kinase-dependent pathway and broke the force balance between intracellular tensions and paracellular ...
Nanoantenna-enhanced absorption in thin infrared detector layers

The noise performance of infrared detectors can be improved through utilization of thinner detector layers which reduces thermal and generation-recombination noise currents. However, some infrared detector materials suffer from weak optical absorption and thinning the detector layer can lead to incomplete absorption of the incoming infrared photons which reduces detector quantum efficiency. Here, we show how subwavelength metallic nanoantennas can be used to boost the efficiency of photon absorption for thin detector layers, thereby achieving overall enhanced detector performance.
Kaporos: Multiculturalism, Ethics, and Anymals

Kaporos is a Jewish ritual of atonement in which chickens suffer and are ultimately slaughtered. In a handful of ways, Kaporos fails to comply with core religious ethics and foundational secular ethics. Multiculturalism defends cultural traditions, but what stand might multiculturalists take with regard to traditions that breach fundamental moral dictates? More specifically, when forced to decide between the protection and preservation of religious traditions and the lives and welfare of anymals, where does multiculturalism stand?
Classroom demonstration of acoustic landmine detection using a clamped soil plate oscillator

In landmine detection some mines (constructed out of plastic) are difficult to detect using ground penetrating radar. In acoustic landmine detection, one can detect a vibration profile across the surface of the soil (sand) due to the interaction between the soil column and the elastic top plate. Table top classroom demonstrations can bring to life idealized field experiments. The soil plate oscillator (SPO) apparatus models an idealization of an acoustic landmine detection experiment. The clamped circular elastic plate models the top plate of a plastic buried mine while the soil column supported by the elastic plate models the burial depth. An amplified sinusoidal chirp from a sweep spectrum analyzer drives an AC coil placed below a small magnet attached to the underside of the clamped plate—causing vibration. A laser Doppler vibrometer measured the rms particle velocity at 13 scan locations across the 4.5 inch diameter soil surface in sweeps between 50 Hz and 850 Hz. Results show a fundamental mode shape...
STIMULATORY AND INHIBITORY ANALOGS OF LH-RH

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on stimulatory and inhibitory analogs of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH–RH). Histidine and tryptophan in the LH–RH molecule exert a functional effect and provide receptor binding capacity, and the remaining amino acids in the LH–RH molecule are involved mainly in binding to the receptors and in preserving the configuration of the molecule at the receptor. In view of paradoxical antifertility effects of large doses of LH–RH and its long-acting superactive analogs, the parenteral doses of analogs should be restricted to 1–40 μg daily or on alternate days, when the intent is to stimulate fertility. Development of suitable clinical regimens for parenteral and intranasal administration, based on small doses of analogs given on alternate days, can lead to increasingly successful use of long-acting superactive analogs for induction of follicular maturation and ovulation and for treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, oligospermia, cryptorchidism, and delayed puberty. A delicate interplay between the hypothalamus, the pituitary, and the gonads is essential for the maintenance of the reproductive processes. Inhibitory analogs of LH–RH provide another approach to contraception. Potent synthetic antagonists of LH–RH can be synthesized. Such synthetic polypeptides are designed to be devoid of LH–RH activity and to compete with endogenous LH–RH for binding to the pituitary receptors and to decrease LH and FSH secretion.
Assessment and Management of the Pediatric and Adolescent Patient with Low Back Pain

This article focuses on the causes of pediatric back pain likely to be seen and managed in an outpatient setting. The unique susceptibilities of the pediatric spine to injury have direct implications for clinical evaluation and treatment. The special demands of caring for back pain in a young patient are highlighted by contrasting clinical management in children and adults. Reviewing specific examples of mechanical conditions emphasizes the importance of precise, pathomechanical diagnosis and a comprehensive rehabilitation program aimed at restoring normal function
The IL-10-/- mouse as a model of chronic Lyme arthritis. (169.16)

IL-10 suppresses the development of arthritis in Borrelia burgdorferi infected mice. Infected IL-10-/- mice were previously found to have a robust and sustained interferon-inducible response in joint tissue, and elevated IFN-γ in sera. Treatment of IL-10-/- mice with anti-IFN-γ reduced arthritis severity and suppressed interferon-inducible transcripts to wild type levels, thereby linking dysregulation of IFN-γ to disease in the IL-10-/- mouse. Arthritis in IL-10 deficient mice was associated with elevated numbers of NK cell, NKT cell, α/β T cell, and macrophage infiltration of the infected joint. FACS lineage sorting revealed NK cells and CD4+ T cells as sources of IFN-γ in the joint tissue of IL-10-/- mice. These findings suggest the presence of a positive feedback loop in the joint tissue of infected IL-10-/- mice, where production of inflammatory chemokines, infiltration of IFN-γ producing cells, and additional production of inflammatory cytokines result in arthritis. This mechanism of arthritis is in contrast to that seen in C3H mice, where arthritis development is linked to transient production of Type I interferon, and develops independently of IFN-γ. Due to the sustained interferon response driven by NK cells and T cells, we propose the IL-10-/- mouse as a potential model to study the prolonged symptoms observed in some human Lyme disease patients.
Making Interactions Between Domestic and International Students Meaningful

The purpose of this practitioner narrative is to identify ways in which meaningful interaction can take place between English learners (ELs) and domestic students in a university setting. In order to learn English effectively, ELs require situations in which they can participate equally in an interaction with a domestic student capable of modifying their English so that it is comprehensible. We created a series of joint classes between teacher candidates and Japanese exchange students in an ESL class. In the class, the first author instructs the teacher candidates on strategies for teaching content to ELs. Second, the teacher candidates teach mini-lessons in their content area to Japanese students. The use of simplified English and visual aids allow ELs to gain confidence and the ability to participate more actively. Third, the Japanese students evaluate the teacher candidates in Japanese. Last, the first author translates the evaluations into English so the teacher candidates can gain meaningful feedback on their performance. The process effectively creates a balance of power that both educates teacher candidates in how to instruct nonnative English speakers and promotes meaningful communication and language growth in ELs. The conditions for meaningful interactions identified in this practice further contribute to the field of effective English learning for international students
Evaluation of Risk Factors for Antipsychotic Polypharmacy in Inpatient Psychiatry Units of a Community Hospital: A Retrospective Analysis

Antipsychotic polypharmacy (APP) is a common practice while treating severe mental illness but the benefits of APP over antipsychotic monotherapy is controversial. This is a retrospective analysis comparing risk factors for people on APP and those on non-APP in inpatient psychiatry units. Two years data with 72 people in non-APP group and 82 people in APP group were analyzed quantitatively. The diagnoses of schizoaffective disorder (OR 11.5), schizophrenia (OR 4.65) and depression (OR 0.31), and history of > 2 psychiatric admissions (OR 3.2) and > 2 psychiatric emergency visits (OR 2.87) in 2 years were studied as potential risk factors for APP. Similarly, history of violence (OR 1.7) and history of substance abuse (OR 0.51) were also studied. Schizophrenia spectrum disorder, higher number of psychiatric hospitalizations, and psychiatric emergency visits were positively associated while depression and substance abuse were negatively associated with APP in our study.
Prevention and Management of Patient Dissatisfaction After Primary Cosmetic Procedures

Noninvasive cosmetic dermatologic procedures are generally safe and well tolerated when used by well-trained physicians; however, undesirable outcomes and adverse reactions are possible. This chapter focuses on both common and rare adverse outcomes of dermatologic cosmetic procedures with a focus on the most common procedures performed: Botulinum toxin injections, filler injections, and laser treatments. We will review the available evidence, the epidemiology of these adverse events, patient selection, prevention methods, and management.
The effects of the invasive thief ant, Solenopsis papuana, on ground-dwelling invertebrates in mesic forests of Hawaiʻi

Invasive predators are often hypothesized to negatively affect native invertebrates, but impacts have not been measured for most invaders. We quantified the effects of Solenopsis papuana, an invasive thief ant that is widespread in Hawaiʻi, on invertebrate communities via an experimental manipulation study. We established six pairs of plots in the Waiʻanae Mountains of Oʻahu, suppressed S. papuana in half of the plots, and measured the responses of invertebrates 6 months and 1 year later. Leaf litter and pitfall sampling revealed that ground-dwelling invertebrate communities were highly invaded, with native species comprising 24% of the taxa and only ~ 1–2% of the individuals captured. Relatively few taxonomic groups increased significantly in abundance following suppression of S. papuana, and responses were generally inconsistent between the two sampling periods. Significant increases in species richness in ant-suppressed plots were more common, particularly in pitfall samples. Most of the significant changes involved non-native species, but several native species also appear to be impacted by S. papuana. Although statistically significant responses were relatively uncommon, nearly all taxonomic groups exhibited non-significant increases in abundance and species richness in response to S. papuana suppression, and there were no significant decreases in either abundance or species richness for any taxonomic group. This suggests that in their current highly invaded states, mesic forest ground-dwelling invertebrate communities are broadly but relatively weakly affected by S. papuana. This conclusion may be tempered by the difficulty of accurately measuring effects on rare species, many of which may now be absent from these communities.
Secondhand Smoke Induces Liver Steatosis through Deregulation of Genes Involved in Hepatic Lipid Metabolism

We investigated the role of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure, independently of diet, in the development of chronic liver disease. Standard diet-fed mice were exposed to SHS (5 h/day, 5 days/week for 4 months). Genome-wide gene expression analysis, together with molecular pathways and gene network analyses, and histological examination for lipid accumulation, inflammation, fibrosis, and glycogen deposition were performed on the liver of SHS-exposed mice and controls, upon termination of exposure and after one-month recovery in clean air. Aberrantly expressed transcripts were found in the liver of SHS-exposed mice both pre- and post-recovery in clean air (n = 473 vs. 222). The persistent deregulated transcripts (n = 210) predominantly affected genes and functional networks involved in lipid metabolism as well as in the regulation of the endoplasmic reticulum where manufacturing of lipids occurs. Significant hepatic fat accumulation (steatosis) was observed in the SHS-exposed mice, which progressively increased as the animals underwent recovery in clean air. Moderate increases in lobular inflammation infiltrates and collagen deposition as well as loss of glycogen were also detectable in the liver of SHS-exposed mice. A more pronounced phenotype, manifested as a disrupted cord-like architecture with foci of necrosis, apoptosis, inflammation, and macrovesicular steatosis, was observed in the liver of SHS-exposed mice post-recovery. The progressive accumulation of hepatic fat and other adverse histological changes in the SHS-exposed mice are highly consistent with the perturbation of key lipid genes and associated pathways in the corresponding animals. Our data support a role for SHS in the genesis and progression of metabolic liver disease through deregulation of genes and molecular pathways and functional networks involved in lipid homeostasis.
Attitudes towards male partner HIV testing among low-income, minority pregnant women and their partners.

Abstract Objective Primary prevention of maternal HIV seroconversion requires knowledge of the HIV status of sexual partners, but testing rates, particularly among urban minority heterosexual males, remain low. This study was initiated to understand the attitudes of pregnant women and their partners surrounding partner HIV testing. Methods This was a qualitative study of pregnant women receiving publicly-funded prenatal care in a large urban hospital located in a high HIV prevalence area and their partners. Participants underwent in-depth individual interviews about HIV testing. Semi-structured interview guides were used to elicit participant attitudes. Transcripts were analyzed using the constant comparative method to determine themes and subthemes; analysis was organized by whether participants desired or declined partner testing. Results Of 51 participants, 29 were pregnant women and 22 were male partners of female participants. Reasons for desiring or declining HIV testing aligned within three major themes: risk perception, logistical considerations, and testing history. An individual’s perception of risk included evaluations of fetal safety as well as partner autonomy and fidelity. Logistical considerations included cost, test availability, and male partner geographic location. Individuals’ recent testing histories also influenced testing preferences. One cross-cutting theme was of the pregnant woman taking responsibility for family health, which could serve as a motivator to test or reason to decline. Conclusion Pregnant women are often the linchpin of prevention of HIV transmission in the family unit. These data inform strategies to engage pregnant women and their partners to improve implementation of partner HIV testing in the prenatal setting.
Paradoxical eruptions to targeted therapies in dermatology: A systematic review and analysis.

Background Antibody-based therapies that inhibit proinflammatory cytokine signaling are commonly used in dermatology. Paradoxically, these medications may induce or exacerbate inflammatory disorders. Objective To summarize the spectrum of manifestations, incidence, timing, potential mechanisms of, and general management approaches to paradoxical cutaneous reactions induced by cytokine-targeted antibodies in dermatology. Methods We performed a systematic review and analysis of published cases of cutaneous paradoxical reactions (PRs) reported in association with tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin (IL) 12/23 (p40), IL-17A/17R, IL-23 (p19), and IL-4Rα inhibitors. Results We identified 313 articles reporting 2049 cases of PRs. Tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors resulted in 91.2% (1869/2049) of all cases, followed by IL-17/17R (3.5%), IL-4Rα (2.7%), IL-12/23 (2.4%), and IL-23 (0.01%) inhibitors. Psoriasiform and eczematous eruptions were the most commonly reported, but a wide spectrum of patterns were described. Phenotypically overlapping reaction patterns were common. Time to onset typically ranged from weeks to months but could occur more than a year later. Improvement or resolution upon discontinuation of the inciting drug was common. Limitations This was a retrospective analysis. Conclusions Familiarity with the clinical features of PRs from cytokine-blocking antibodies may facilitate efficient recognition and management.
Collaboration in crowdsourcing contests: how different levels of collaboration affect team performance

With the advances in internet technologies and the emergence of crowdsourcing, organisations are now increasingly looking outside their boundaries for solving problems. Yet, the success of crowdsou...
Diabetes in People with HIV

To discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and complications of diabetes in people with HIV (PWH) and to review HIV-related factors that may contribute to the development of diabetes or alter decisions in the care and treatment of PWH with diabetes. For those patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and/or chronic kidney disease, GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors should be considered for use. Evidence for this recommendation is, however, based on studies that were not conducted in populations consisting solely of PWH. Diabetes is a significant comorbidity in PWH and adds to their already heightened risk of cardiovascular disease. HIV-specific factors, including interactions of antiretroviral therapy with medications that either treat diabetes and/or prevent cardiovascular disease, should be evaluated.
Matric Formulation of Slope-Deflection Equations

Simple systematic way to write slope-deflection equations in matrix form; with use of electronic computer, method will expedite exact analysis of complex rigid frames under many loading conditions,...
Pathwise Concentration Bounds for Misspecified Bayesian Beliefs

We show that the probability that Bayesian posteriors assign to the outcome distributions that do not ``best fi t" the empirical distribution (in terms of Kullback-Leibler divergence) converges to zero at a uniform and exponential rate, even when the prior does not have full support. This extends the uniform convergence result of Diaconis and Freedman (1990), which assumes a full support prior, and lets us provide a rate of convergence for Berk (1966)'s result that the posterior concentrates around the Kullback-Leibler minimizers with respect to the true data generating process. We also extend Diaconis and Freedman (1990) to the case where outcomes are perceived to have a Markov structure.
Improvements in SARS-CoV-2 Testing Cascade in the US: Data from Serial Cross-sectional Assessments.

Background SARS-CoV-2 testing is critical for monitoring case counts, early detection and containment of infection, clinical management, and surveillance of variants. However, community-based data on the access, uptake, and barriers to testing have been lacking. Methods We conducted serial cross-sectional online surveys covering demographics, COVID-19 symptoms, and experiences around SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing to characterize the SARS-CoV-2 testing cascade and associated barriers across 10 US states (California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin), between July 2020 to February 2021. Results In February 2021, across 10 US states, 11% (895) of respondents reported wanting a diagnostic test in the prior 2 weeks, 63% of whom got tested with limited variability across states. Almost all (97%) who got tested received their results; 56% received their results within 2 days. In MD, FL, and IL where serial data were available at four time points, 56% were tested the same day they wanted/needed a test in February 2021 compared to 28% in July 2020, and 45% received results the same day as opposed to 17% in July 2020. Wanting a test was significantly more common among younger, non-white respondents and participants with a history of symptoms or exposure. Logistical challenges including not knowing where to go were the most frequently cited barriers. Conclusions There were significant improvements in access and turnaround times across US states; yet barriers to testing remained consistent across states underscoring the importance of a continued focus on testing, even amidst mass vaccination campaigns.
Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Thyonella gemmata (Echinodermata: Cucumariidae)

Thyonella gemmata , also known as the Green sea cucumber, is a biomedically and ecologically important species. In this study, the complete mitogenome of T. gemmata (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) c...
Drug-drug interaction between cannabidiol and phenobarbital in healthy dogs.

Objective To assess drug-drug interactions between cannabidiol (CBD) and phenobarbital (PB) when simultaneously administered to healthy dogs. Animals 9 healthy, purpose bred Beagles. Procedures A 3-phase prospective, randomized pharmacokinetic (PK) interaction study of CBD and PB was performed as follows: phase 1, CBD PK determination and evaluation of CBD tolerability by 3 single-dose CBD (5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 20 mg/kg) protocols followed by 2-week CBD dosing; phase 2, a single-dose, 3-way, crossover PK study of CBD (10 mg/kg), PB (4 mg/kg), or CBD (10 mg/kg) administration plus PB (4 mg/kg); and phase 3, evaluation of chronic PB (4 mg/kg, q 30 d) administration followed by single-dose CBD (10 mg/kg) PK study. Results Although there were variations in CBD PK variables in dogs receiving CBD alone or in conjunction with PB, significance differences in CBD PK variables were not found. No significant difference was observed in PB PK variables of dogs receiving PB alone or with CBD. During chronic CBD administration, mild gastrointestinal signs were observed in 5 dogs. At daily CBD doses of 10 to 20 mg/kg/d, hypoxia was observed in 5 dogs and increased serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities (range, 301 to 978 U/L) was observed in 4 dogs. A significant increase in ALP activity was observed with chronic administration of CBD during phase 1 between day 0 and day 14. Conclusions and clinical relevance No significant PK interactions were found between CBD and PB. Dose escalation of CBD or adjustment of PB in dogs is not recommended on the basis of findings of this study.
Determining the Salience of Relevant Referents

How the elicitation question wording suggested by Fishbein for determining relevant referents affects the set of relevant referents and how these sets differ in predicting Fishbein’s subjective norm were examined. Elicitation question wording affected the types of and frequency w.ith wh.ich referents were elicited. No differences in the ability of these sets to predict the subjective norm were found.
Skipping into the E2F1-destruction pathway.

F-box proteins act as specificity factors for the ubiquitination, and thus degradation, of target proteins. New results point to the importance of F-box proteins in controlling the transcriptional programs that regulate development and the cell cycle.
The Role of Interfacial Reactions on the Mechanical Properties of Ceramic Brazements

Many promising applications for structural ceramics require that the ceramic be joined to a similar or different ceramic or to metal alloys. Such applications include, for example, the attachment of an insulating ceramic cap to a cast iron piston for uncooled diesel engines, the bonding of ceramic wear pads in that same engine, or the joining of a ceramic rotor to an iron- or nickel-base alloy shaft for an advanced gas turbine. In other applications a complex or large assembly might be fabricated by joining simpler or smaller components. Although service conditions of stress, temperature, and atmosphere differ widely in the various applications, the general requirements are for joints that are strong, reliable, and relatively inexpensive to manufacture. The ceramic materials of major current interest include alumina and alumina-matrix composites, partially stabilized zirconia, silicon carbide, and silicon nitride.
Tobin's q and monopoly power: A capital asset pricing perspective

Abstract This note discusses, in the light of the capital asset pricing model, the appropriateness of using Tobin's q as a measure of monopoly power. It is shown that without knowledge of the underlying stochastic structure of the environment faced by a firm, the knowledge of q does not provide information about the extent of market power of the firm. First, the systematic risk of a firm affects Tobin's q in the same manner as the extent of market power. Moreover, Tobin's q also varies with each firm's capital efficiency, and thus efficiency and market power may be confused. Finally, since the systematic risk may be negatively related to average cost [and thus to size, e.g., Binder (1983)], larger firms may have higher q 's, making it even more difficult to infer market power from Tobin's q .
Fall Risk is Not Black and White

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether previously reported racial differences in fall rates between White and Black/African American is explained by differences in health status and neighborhood characteristics. DESIGN: Prospective cohort. SETTING: Community. PARTICIPANTS: The study included 550 White and 116 Black older adults in the Greater Boston area (mean age: 78 years; 36% men) who were English-speaking, able to walk across a room, and without severe cognitive impairment. MEASUREMENTS: Falls were prospectively reported using monthly fall calendars. The location of each fall and fall-related injuries were asked during telephone interviews. At baseline, we assessed risk factors for falls, including sociodemographic characteristics, physiologic risk factors, physical activity, and community-level characteristics. RESULTS: Over the mean follow-up of 1,048 days, 1,539 falls occurred (incidence: 806/1,000 person-years). Whites were more likely than Blacks to experience any falls (867 versus 504 falls per 1,000 person-years; RR [95% CI]: 1.77 [1.33, 2.36]), outdoor falls (418 versus 178 falls per 1,000 person-years; 1.78 [1.08, 2.92]), indoor falls (434 versus 320 falls per 1,000 person-years; 1.44 [1.02, 2.05]), and injurious falls (367 versus 205 falls per 1,000 person-years; 1.79 [1.30, 2.46]). With exception of injurious falls, higher fall rates in Whites than Blacks were substantially attenuated with adjustment for risk factors and community-level characteristics: any fall (1.24 [0.81, 1.89]), outdoor fall (1.57 [0.86, 2.88]), indoor fall (1.08 [0.64, 1.81]), and injurious fall (1.77 [1.14, 2.74]). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that the racial differences in fall rates may be largely due to confounding by individual-level and community-level characteristics. Language: en
Improving Query Evaluation with Approximate Functional Dependency Based Decompositions

We investigate how relational restructuring may be used to improve query performance. Our approach parallels recent research extending semantic query optimization (SQO), which uses knowledge about the instance to achieve more efficient query processing. Our approach differs, however, in that the instance does not govern whether the optimization may be applied; rather, the instance governs whether the optimization yields more efficient query processing. It also differs in that it involves an explicit decomposition of the relation instance. We use approximate functional dependencies as the conceptual basis for this decomposition and develop query rewriting techniques to exploit it. We present experimental results leading to a characterization of a well-defined class of queries for which improved processing time is observed.
Mercury Methylation by Interspecies Hydrogen and Acetate Transfer between Sulfidogens and Methanogens

Cocultures of Desulfovibrio desulfuricans and Methanococcus maripaludis grew on sulfate-free lactate medium while vigorously methylating Hg2+. Individually, neither bacterium could grow or methylate mercury in this medium. Similar synergistic growth of sulfidogens and methanogens may create favorable conditions for Hg2+ methylation in low-sulfate anoxic freshwater sediments.
The infestation and dispersion patterns of Carcinonemertes spp. (Nemertea) on their crab hosts

Seasonal changes in the infestation and dispersion patterns of egg predatory nemerteans on their crab hosts were analyzed. Marked differences in the seasonal patterns of infestation were noted between worm species, yet, common patterns in the aggregation of the worms were found. Worm aggregation increased at the onset of the reproductive seasons of the hosts, and at the nadirs of the reproductive seasons for those hosts with year round breeding. The aggregation patterns of two worm species fluctuated with the physical environment of their estuarine hosts. Salinity changes as a result of seasonal rains may have caused changes in the underlying dispersion patterns of Carcinonemertes epialti on Hemiarapsus oregonensis, and C. mitsukurii on Portunus pelagicus. Lastly, the embryogenic cycle of the host species was significant in shaping the infestation and aggregation patterns of C. epialti on Cancer anthonyi and C. regicides on Paralithodes camtschaticus. Worm immigration and emigration were linked to crab embryogenesis and directly influenced the dispersion patterns of the worms.
Epithelial sodium channel is regulated by SNAP-23/syntaxin 1A interplay

Sodium-selective amiloride-sensitive epithelial channel (ENaC) located in the apical membrane is involved in the reabsorption of sodium in tight epithelia. The soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive attachment receptors (SNAREs) mediate vesicle trafficking in a variety of cell systems. Syntaxin (a t-SNARE) has been shown to interact with and functionally regulate a number of ion channels including ENaC. In this study, we investigated the role of SNAP-23, another SNARE protein, on ENaC activity in the HT-29 colonic epithelial cell system and Xenopus oocytes. Recording of amiloride-sensitive currents in both systems suggest that SNAP-23 modulates channel function, though a much higher concentration is required to inhibit ENaC in Xenopus oocytes. The introduction of Botulinum toxin A (a neurotoxin which cleaves SNAP-23), but not Botulinum toxin B or heat-inactivated Botulinum toxin A, reversed the inhibitory effect of SNAP-23 on amiloride-sensitive currents. However, syntaxin 1A and SNAP-23 combined portray a complex scenario that suggests that this channel interacts within a quaternary complex. Synaptotagmin expression neither interacts with, nor showed any effect on amiloride-sensitive currents when co-expressed with ENaC. Pull down assays suggest mild interaction between ENaC and SNAP-23, which gets stronger in the presence of syntaxin 1A. Data further suggest that SNAP-23 possibly interacts with the N-terminal alphaENaC. These functional and biochemical approaches provide evidence for a complex relationship between ENaC and the exocytotic machinery. Our data suggest that SNARE protein interplay defines the fine regulation of sodium channel function.
Radiation Detectors in High Energy Physics

Spark chambers, scintillation and Cerenkov detectors are used extensively in high energy physics experiments. The potential usefulness of semiconductor detectors is being investigated. There is a need for detectors which will identify very high energy particles. The various types of spark chambers are briefly reviewed, including narrow gap, wide gap and filmless chambers. Applications of scintillation detectors are discussed, together with remarks on light pipes, localization of particles by time-of-flight, use of multiparameter pulse height analysis, hodoscopes and on-line computers. The use of Cerenkov counters is summarized. Several new types of detectors are considered which may be suitable for identification of particles of very high energy, hundreds of BeV, including transition radiation detectors and semiconductor devices.
Characterization of ambient aerosol from measurements of cloud condensation nuclei during the 2003 Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Aerosol Intensive Observational Period at the Southern Great Plains site in Oklahoma

Measurements were made by a new cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) instrument (CCNC3) during the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program's Aerosol Intensive Observational Period (IOP) in May 2003 in Lamont, Oklahoma. An inverse aerosol/CCN closure study is undertaken, in which the predicted number concentration of particles available for activation (N_P) at the CCNC3 operating supersaturations is compared to that observed (N_O). N_P is based on Kohler Theory, with assumed and inferred aerosol composition and mixing state, and the airborne aerosol size distribution measured by the Caltech Dual Automatic Classified Aerosol Detector (DACAD). An initial comparison of N_O and N_P, assuming the ambient aerosol is pure ammonium sulfate ((NH_4)_2SO_4), results in closure ratios (N_P/N_O) ranging from 1.18 to 3.68 over the duration of the IOP, indicating that the aerosol is less hygroscopic than (NH_4)_2SO_4. N_P and N_O are found to agree when the modeled aerosol population has characteristics of an external mixture of particles, in which insoluble material is preferentially distributed among particles with small diameters (<50 nm) and purely insoluble particles are present over a range of diameters. The classification of sampled air masses by closure ratio and aerosol size distribution is discussed in depth. Inverse aerosol/CCN closure analysis can be a valuable means of inferring aerosol composition and mixing state when direct measurements are not available, especially when surface measurements of aerosol composition and mixing state are not sufficient to predict CCN concentrations at altitude, as was the case under the stratified aerosol layer conditions encountered during the IOP.
Duplicated ectopic hydroureter presenting as a hydrosalpinx, with chronic pelvic pain and recurrent urinary infections

Objective To present a case of a patient with a duplicated left ureter presenting preoperatively as unilateral hydrosalpinx, chronic pelvic pain, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Design Case report. Setting A large university-affiliated infertility center. Patient(s) A 37-year-old woman, para 1, with an 18-year history of recurrent UTIs associated with coitus, and chronic pelvic pain with a unilateral hydrosalpinx. Main Outcome Measure(s) Resolution of recurrent UTIs and left flank pain. Result(s) The patient has remained symptom free after laparoscopic resection of the duplicated ureter and portion of the bladder at its point of insertion. Conclusion(s) We show a rare case of a duplicated left ureter presenting as chronic pelvic pain and recurrent UTIs, demonstrating the importance of a thorough chronic pelvic pain workup.
Presentation of Mexican Americans to a Memory Disorder Clinic

Despite the rapidly growing nature of the Mexican American population in the United States, relatively little is known regarding cognitive aging among this minority group compared to non-Hispanic, white individuals. The current study was conducted to describe the nature of cognitive and affective characteristics of Mexican American patients with dementia or other cognitive disorders on initial presentation to a Memory Disorder Clinic. Archival data were reviewed from this specialty clinic for 219 patients who were evaluated for the first time over a 2-year period. Twenty-two Mexican American patients were identified, and a sample of 22 matched non-Hispanic white patients was derived for comparison. When compared to non-Hispanic white patients, Mexican Americans were found in fewer numbers, reported higher levels of anxiety and depression, and produced lower scores on neurocognitive assessments. Results support the notion that Mexican American patients present for cognitive assessment and treatment at a greater stage of impairment severity as compared to non-Hispanic whites.
Single-exposure conventional and computed radiography. The hybrid cassette revisited.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES The authors constructed and evaluated a hybrid cassette for single-exposure extremity imaging with storage-phosphor plates and conventional radiographic film. METHODS A hybrid cassette was constructed using a fine radiographic screen and a storage-phosphor plate. Exposures of a Lucite step wedge and a line pair gauge were made with the hybrid cassette, a conventional radiographic cassette, and a storage-phosphor cassette. The spatial resolution and imaging speeds of the hybrid and standard systems were compared. RESULTS Spatial resolution loss was less than 0.5 line pairs per mm with the hybrid cassette. Speed loss was characteristic of the hybrid cassette, requiring approximately 40% greater exposure to produce the same film density as standard cassettes. CONCLUSIONS The speed difference between this and a previous study is probably due to differences in film-screen choice, kilovolt peak, and storage-phosphor plate generations. The sensitivity spectrum of our film and the emission spectrum of our screens were more closely matched than were the spectra in the previous study; we used lower kilovolt peak, and our storage-phosphor plates were a later, more efficient, generation. Despite slight speed losses, the hybrid cassette appears to be a better choice for obtaining matched images for clinical trials than the alternative of two separate exposures.
Implementation of a primary care physician network obesity management program.

Most primary care physicians do not treat obesity, citing lack of time, resources, insurance reimbursement, and knowledge of effective interventions as significant barriers. To address this need, a 10-minute intervention delivered by the primary care physician was coupled with individual dietary counseling sessions delivered by a registered dietitian via telephone with an automated calling system (House-Calls, Mobile, AL). Patients were seen for follow-up by their physician at weeks 4, 12, 24, 36 and 52. A total of 252 patients (202 women and 50 men) were referred by 18 primary care physicians to the program. The comorbid conditions reported for all patients at baseline included low back pain, 29% (n = 72); hypertension, 45% (n = 113); hypercholesterolemia, 41% (n = 104); type 2 diabetes, 10% (n = 26); and sleep apnea, 5% (n = 12). When offered a choice of meal plans based on foods or meal replacements, two-thirds of patients (n = 166) chose to use meal replacements (Ultra Slim-Fast; Slim-Fast Foods Co., West Palm Beach, FL) at least once daily. Baseline weights of subjects averaged 200 ± 46 lb for women (n = 202) and 237 ± 45 lb for men (n = 50). Patients completing 6 months in the program lost an average of 19.0 ± 4.0 lb for women (n = 94) and 15.5 ± 8.2 lb for men (n = 26). Physicians reported a high degree of satisfaction with the program, suggesting that a brief, effective physician-directed program with nutritionist support by telephone can be implemented in a busy primary care office.
CONTROL OF INVERSE GAUSSIAN PROCESSES

[This abstract is based on the author's abstract.] Typically, control charts used to monitor process centrality and dispersion either assume normally distributed output or appeal to the viability of the central limit theorem. The appeal is often ma..
Experimental Evidence for the Reaction d+T-->He 3 +n+n-3 Mev

A continuum of doubly charged particles has been observed from the interaction of 12- and 14-Mev deuterons with tritium. They are shown to arise from the ${\mathrm{H}}^{3}(d, 2n){\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ reaction. Absolute differential cross sections are obtained. No evidence for the formation of a dineutron in a bound state, or in a well-defined virtual state, was found.
Chronic ethanol inhibits receptor-stimulated phosphoinositide hydrolysis in rat liver slices.

The effects of chronic ethanol feeding on norepinephrine (NE)- and arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-stimulated phosphoinositide (PI) hydrolysis in rat liver slices was determined. The maximum NE-stimulated PI response was significantly reduced by 40% in liver slices from 8-month-old rats which had been treated for 5 months with a liquid diet containing ethanol compared to pair-fed controls. The maximum AVP-stimulated PI response was decreased by 39% in liver slices from the ethanol-fed rats compared to control. EC 50 values for NE- and AVP-stimulated PI hydrolysis in liver slices were not affected by the chronic ethanol treatment. Similar reductions in the maximal NE- and AVP-stimulated PI hydrolysis (28% and 27%, respectively) were found in 22-month-old rats which had been maintained on an ethanol containing diet for 5 months compared to pair-fed controls. The binding of [ 3 H]prazosin and [ 3 H]AVP to liver plasma membranes from 8-month-old ethanol-fed rats was not significantly different from binding to liver membranes from sucrose-fed controls. Our data suggest that chronic ethanol ingestion may lead to a reduction in PI-linked signal transduction in liver.
Management of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia

Patients with herpes zoster experience severe pain and potential lasting complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, ophthalmic disease/damage, and, rarely, skin complications (eg, infection of rash area). Treatment for acute zoster aims to accelerate healing, control pain, and, when possible, reduce the risk of complications. Early intervention with antivirals can accelerate rash healing, reduce rash severity, and reduce the risk of some complications. The addition of corticosteroids to antiviral medication may further alleviate short-term zoster pain, but is associated with an increased risk of serious adverse effects, especially among older adults. If a patient does develop postherpetic neuralgia, gabapentin, pregabalin, opioids, tricyclic antidepressants, lidocaine patch 5%, and capsaicin may all be considered as palliative treatments. For individuals with treatment-refractory postherpetic neuralgia, nonpharmacologic approaches may be considered and a pain-management specialist should be consulted. There is a need for more effective agents to treat herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia.
Constraints to Changing Pedagogical Practices in Higher Education: An example from Japanese lesson study

This article describes a qualitative study of college mathematics and science faculty (n = 6) and their engagement in a reform-based program, Japanese lesson study (LS), to change their teaching practices. LS is a process in which a team of four to six teachers jointly design, teach, observe, analyze, and revise a single class lesson. A series of semi-structured, open-ended, interviews was completed with each of the faculty participants. Two sets of assertions were developed from analyses of the data and examples and explanations corroborating each assertion are provided. The results of the study identified issues related to organizational and faculty changes that need to be addressed if faculty responses to pedagogical innovations are to succeed. Implications of the findings for practice and future research are discussed.
Beam Position Monitor System for the Fermilab Tevatron

A dual microprocessor Beam Position Monitor (BPM) system was developed to protect the superconducting magnets used in the Fermilab Tevatron from beam induced quenches, and to aid in beam tuning and operation of the accelerator. The two processors and other data acquisition hardware work together to monitor the position of the beam at over 200 locations around the main ring to an accuracy of .15 mm. A history of the beam's position is recorded and fed back to the host computer to allow it to make corrections to the beam. This system is capable of causing an alarm to the host computer if the beam begins to vary, or an abort of the beam should it exceed preset limits. Included in the Tevatron hardware with the BPMs are Beam Loss Monitors (BLMs) which protect the magnets from radiation induced quenches. This article discusses operational hardware and software as well as diagnostic hardware and software for the Beam Position and Beam Loss monitoring systems. Details of the design specs have been covered in detail elsewhere (1), (2).