cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Architectural changes to CA1 pyramidal neurons in adult and aged mice after peripheral immune stimulation

The expression of several inflammatory cytokines that inhibit synaptic plasticity and hippocampal-dependent learning and memory is higher in the brains of aged mice compared to young adults after peripheral injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In this study we investigated whether the exaggerated inflammatory cytokine response in the hippocampus of aged mice after IP injection of LPS is associated with architectural changes to dendrites of pyramidal neurons in the dorsal CA1 hippocampus. Compared to young adults, aged mice had higher basal expression of MHC class II, lower basal expression of two neurotrophins, nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and a decrease in total dendritic length in both the basal and apical tree. After IP LPS administration, expression of IL-1beta, IL-6, and TNFalpha mRNA was higher in hippocampus of aged mice compared to young adults whereas NGF and BDNF mRNA was reduced similarly in both age groups. The basal dendritic tree was not affected by LPS in either adult or aged mice 72h after treatment; however, length and branching of the apical tree was reduced by LPS in aged but not adult mice. The present findings indicate that a peripheral infection in the aged can cause a heightened inflammatory cytokine response in the hippocampus and atrophy of hippocampal neurons. Architectural changes to dorsal CA1 hippocampal neurons may contribute to cognitive disorders evident in elderly patients with an infection.
A PCGH liquid crystal window to control solar energy

Abstract A preliminary investigation of transmission characteristics of a large number of test cells using dynamic scattering, twisted nematic and guest-host LC mixtures shows that phase change guest-host (PCGH) mixtures are suitable materials for fabricating large size windows to control solar energy. PCGH cells with black dye exhibit a transmission dip near the threshold voltage. The dip is attributed to forward scattering of light during the cholesteric to nematic (or reverse) phase transformation. The nature of the scattering centers created during the transition is not clear at this time. A 6 μm thick 12.5 cm×12.5 cm PCGH LC window has been fabricated. Thickness variation in the liquid cyrstal has been observed to be a major problem in achieving an uniform transmittance throughout the window. However, local transmittance of the window over a small area could be controlled to an accuracy better than 1% using an IBM-personal computer.
The oligopeptide transporter (Pept-1) in human intestine : Biology and function

Abstract The oligopeptide transporter (Pept-1), which is located in the intestinal brush border membrane, provides a major mechanism for protein absorption in the human intestine. Expression cloning of the gene encoding Pept-1 has predicted a 78,810-kilodalton protein consisting of 708 amino acid residues and possessing 12 putative membrane-spanning domains. The characterization of its function by in vivo and in vitro studies has shown that (1) it transports dipeptides and tripeptides but not free amino acids or peptides with more than three amino acid residues, and (2) its driving force for uphill transport requires proton binding and presence of an inside-negative membrane potential. There has also been cloning of a membrane protein (HPT-1) which appears to be associated with the oligopeptide transporter. However, the nature of association has not yet been determined. A human intestinal cell line (Caco-2), which expresses Pept- 1, has been used to investigate the effects of metabolic and pathological factors on dipeptide transport. These studies suggest that the insulin stimulates dipeptide transport by increasing membrane insertion of oligopeptide transporter from a preformed cytoplasmic pool, and cholera toxin decreases dipeptide transport by inhibiting the activity of Pept-1 through an increase in the intracellular concentration of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate. Lastly, Pept-1 seems to play important roles in nutritional and pharmacological therapies; for example, it has allowed the use of oligopeptides as a source of nitrogen for enteral feeding and the use of oral route for delivery of peptidomimetic drugs such as beta-lactam antibiotics. (Gastroenterology 1997 Jul;113(1):332-40)
Applicability of some fuzzy implication operators

This paper examines the maximal errors of seventy-two implication operators with various membership functions in several typical cases and shows five operators which have very good performance in fuzzy inference.
Determination of Dicamba by Reverse-Phase HPLC

Abstract Reverse-phase HPLC methodology was developed for resolution and quantitative analysis of dicamba (3,6-dichloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid) with a C-18 column and acetonitrile-phosphate buffer as the mobile phase under isocratic conditions. This solvent system was also suitable for mixtures containing dicamba, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), and 2-(2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxy)propionic acid (MCPP) and allowed the resolution of these herbicides with the respective retention times of 4.5, 7.1, and 9.5 min. UV-spectroscopy was unsuitable for the resolution of mixtures of dicamba, 2,4-D, and MCPP due to overlapping absorption spectra.
Contrast echocardiography improves the diagnostic yield of transthoracic studies performed in the intensive care setting by novice sonographers.

Background Bedside portable echocardiography in the intensive care department (ICU) is technically difficult, but crucial for directing patient care. Prior studies have shown contrast echocardiography (CE) in the ICU clarifies left ventricular wall motion when performed by experienced sonographers (ESO). However, in most hospitals, ESO are unavailable around the clock, and less experienced cardiovascular fellows or trainees may be asked to perform these examinations. Methods Transthoracic echocardiograms were retrospectively evaluated by level III trained echocardiographers for 213 patients in the ICU. Most were performed to assess left ventricular function (65% or 139 of 213) and were scanned by cardiology fellows (70% or 149 of 213) with less than 3 months echocardiography experience. Contrast agent was used in 29% (62 of 213) of all patients. Results The conversion of suboptimal or diagnostically inadequate apical 4- and 2-chamber views to diagnostically adequate with contrast was statistically significant when performed by both cardiology fellows and ESO (Fischer exact test, P Conclusions CE is effective in improving the diagnostic yield of transthoracic echocardiographic ICU studies performed by both novice sonographers and ESO. Using cardiology fellows to perform CE in this setting can be appropriate, particularly in after-hour situations, when ESO are not always available and the clinical question is left ventricular function. Results also suggest cardiology fellows can easily learn CE.
Bilingual and Bicultural Development of Chinese American Adolescents and Young Adults: A Comparative Study

Speaking the language of one's origin has symbolic importance for maintaining one's ethnic group identity. This study investigates the following question: How does a bicultural identity evolve as Chinese American children grow from the period of adolescence to young adulthood? By conducting in-depth interviews of 10 adolescents and 10 young adults, this study examines the perceived benefits and costs of bilingualism in second-generation Chinese American children who are between 12 and 20 years old. This study illustrates the mixed feelings that these young people experience as they grow from adolescence to young adulthood. These feelings include confusion, uncertainty, pride, and self-affirmation. Specifically, this study finds that young adults, as compared with adolescents, show an increased intrinsic motivation to retain a bicultural identity as they grow older; hence, they perceive the benefits to be greater than the costs in bilingualism and biculturalism.
Substituent constants for predicting aromatic molecular quadrupole moments

Abstract Work in our group has shown a direct relationship between arene–cation binding enthalpies and the aromatic quadrupole moment ( Θ zz ); the more negative the Θ zz value, the greater the arene–cation binding enthalpy. The ability to predict aromatic Θ zz values from the aromatic substitution pattern would therefore allow for the simultaneous prediction of the arene–cation binding enthalpy. Substituent constants were developed for the accurate prediction of Θ zz values for mono-, di-, tri- and tetra-substituted aromatics. The Θ zz values predicted from the developed substituent constants perform very well in determining relative arene–cation binding enthalpies.
Correlates of plant nutrient use among Ohio farmers: Implications for water quality initiatives

Abstract Data were collected from 1,305 land owner-operators in the Scioto River watershed in Ohio to assess plant nutrient use at the farm level. The theoretical perspective used to guide the study was formulated from selected components of social learning theory and the farm structure model. Nutrient use was operationalized as pounds of nitrogen, phosphate and potassium applied per acre for corn, soybeans and wheat. The variance in nutrients per acre was regressed against selected predictive variables. Characteristics of the farm enterprise and measures of learning experiences were used as predictive variables to examine the merits of the theoretical perspective used to guide the investigation. While the study findings were consistent with research expectations, the amount of explained variance demonstrated that the theoretical model had limited utility for predicting nutrient application rates at the farm level. The research findings are discussed in the context of future resource conservation efforts in the study region.
The moral development of medical students: a pilot study of the possible influence of medical education

Medicine endorses a code of ethics and encourages a high moral character among doctors. This study examines the influence of medical education on the moral reasoning and development of medical students. Kohlberg's Moral Judgment Interview was given to a sample of 20 medical students (41.7% of students in that class). The students were tested at the beginning and at the end of their medical course to determine whether their moral reasoning scores had increased to the same extent as other people who extend their formal education. It was found that normally expected increases in moral reasoning scores did not occur over the 4 years of medical education for these students, suggesting that their educational experience somehow inhibited their moral reasoning ability rather than facilitating it. With a range of moral reasoning scores between 315 and 482, the finding of a mean increase from first year to fourth year of 18.5 points was not statistically significant at the P < or = 0.05 level. Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlations at the P < or = 0.05 level between the moral reasoning scores and age, gender, Medical College Admission Test scores, or grade point average scores. Along with a brief description of Kohlberg's cognitive moral development theory, some interpretations and explanations are given for the findings of the study.
Descriptive analysis of undocumented residents with ESRD in a public hospital system

OBJECTIVE It is estimated that 6,000 undocumented residents in the United States require renal replacement therapy. In this work, we sought to evaluate the demographics of the patient population receiving hemodialysis in two Houston public hospitals and an affiliated clinic. METHODS More than 186 undocumented residents receive dialysis in the Houston community. Demographic information was obtained via patient interview and chart review. Comparison was made with a matched cohort from the United States Renal Data System (USRDS) database, and statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS Compared with patients in the USRDS, this patient population is younger and demonstrates lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus (42.6 versus 58.9 years; and 35% versus 68%, respectively; p < 0.01). More than 95% of the patients are Hispanic and only 23% graduated from high school. Most patients had spent more than 30% of their life in the United States before commencing dialysis. Only 3% of the patients had knowledge of their kidney disease prior to immigrating to the United States. DISCUSSION The number of undocumented residents needing hemodialysis in the Houston public hospital system is large and imposes a significant financial burden on the community. Maintenance dialysis and expanded use of peritoneal dialysis are approaches that benefit these patients while containing costs. Adequate solutions require uniform policy nationwide. Dial. Transplant. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acrylic Triblock Copolymer Design for Thermoreversible Gelcasting of Ceramics: Rheological and Green Body Properties

Thermoreversible gelcasting (TRG) is an attractive net-shape powder-based processing technique which relies on the temperature-driven gelation of a polymer solution. This study uses the TRG of alumina to investigate the implications of triblock copolymer design (block length, endblock fraction, and midblock chemistry) on rheological and green body properties. The liquid-to-solid transition and relaxation time in the gel state are controlled by the polymer's endblock length while the total polymer length controls the viscosity at high temperature. Although triblock design and concentration do not affect the green body porosity or sintered density, they do have significant effects on green body behavior. Triblocks with a high fraction of rubbery midblock behave as elastomers and confer significant toughness to the green bodies. In contrast, those with glassy midblocks increase the strength of the body but also behave in a brittle manner. Green body strength increases with increasing triblock concentration and is well described by a model for the strength of ceramic bodies with the binder localized at the particle necks.
Use of ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) as a pressure transducer in the human spine

Currently, it is difficult to measure the pressure distribution and motion within the human spine, for both in vivo and in vitro situations. This study proposed that small thin strips of ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMC) can be used as pressure transducers for the quantification of pressure distributions within the spine. Endo-ionic motion within IPMC sensors produces an induced voltage across the thickness of these sensors when a normal or shear load is applied. A materials testing system (MTS) was used to apply consistent pure compressive loads of 200 N and 350 N across the surface of an IPMC 2 X 2 cm strip. The output pressure response for the 200 N load (73 psi) was 80 mV in amplitude and for the 350 N (127 psi) it was 108 mV. Due to their small size, IPMC sensors have the benefit of being able to fit within small gaps in the spine. These fluid-filled gaps (facet joints) range in thickness from 1 - 3 mm, which is generally too small for typical transducers. The biocompatibility issue is also not of concern since the sensors themselves are biologically inert and, if necessary, can be coated with various flexible biocompatible materials.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Special phase invariant formulas of higher order: Expected values.

Abstract Formulas for the cosines of the higher-order phase invariants that arise in crystal structure analysis are derived as expected values from determinantal joint probability distributions. The values of the cosines of the invariants are expressed in terms of averages over simple functions of known structure factor magnitudes. The formulas are termed “special” to distinguish them from formulas that have more general averages. The latter will be presented in a future publication. The best opportunity for obtaining useful information from these formulas is provided by embedded seminvariants formed from the invariants by use of relationships among the phases that arise from the space group symmetries.
Electromechanical Properties of Porous Piezoelectric Ceramics

A theoretical approach is forwarded to predict the electromechanical properties of porous piezoelectric ceramics. The analysis is able to account for the effects of porosity shape and concentration and is applicable to piezoelectric ceramics of arbitrary material symmetry. By coupling the exact solution for a single ellipsoidal pore embedded in an infinite piezoelectric matrix with an effective medium approximation, the theory considers, in an approximate manner, interaction effects at finite porosity concentrations. The theoretical estimates are developed using a matrix formulation which enables all elastic, dielectric, and piezoelectric moduli of the porous solid to be readily computed. Numerical results are presented to illustrate the effects of the shape and concentration of the porosity on the effective electroelastic moduli and transducer parameters of practical importance. Particular attention is devoted to assessing the sensitivity of the effective electromechanical properties to the accuracy of the input data. Finally, theoretical estimates are shown to be in good agreement with existing experimental results for porous piezoelectric ceramics with various microstructural geometries.
A test of the model to predict unusually stable RNA hairpin loop stability.

To investigate the accuracy of a model [Giese et al., 1998, Biochemistry 37:1094‐1100 and Mathews et al., 1999, J Mol Biol 288:911‐940] that predicts the stability of RNA hairpin loops, optical melting studies were conducted on sets of hairpins previously determined to have unusually stable thermodynamic parameters. Included were the tetraloops GNRA and UNCG (where N is any nucleotide and R is a purine), hexaloops with UU first mismatches, and the hairpin loop of the iron responsive element, CAGUGC. The experimental values for the GNRA loops are in excellent agreement (DG837 within 0.2 kcal/mol and melting temperature (TM) within 4 8C) with the values predicted by the model. When the UNCG hairpin loops are treated as tetraloops, and a bonus of 0.8 kcal/mol included in the prediction to account for the extra stable first mismatch (UG), the measured and predicted values are also in good agreement (DG837 within 0.7 kcal/mol and TM within 3 8C). Six hairpins with unusually stable UU first mismatches also gave good agreement with the predictions (DG837 within 0.5 kcal/mol and TM within 8 8C), except for hairpins closed by wobble base pairs. For these hairpins, exclusion of the additional stabilization term for UU first mismatches improved the prediction (DG837 within 0.1 kcal/mol and TM within 3 8C). Hairpins with the iron-responsive element loop were not predicted well by the model, as measured DG837 values were at least 1 kcal/mol greater than predicted.
Bispectral analysis during cardiopulmonary bypass: the effect of hypothermia on the hypnotic state.

Abstract Study Objective: To evaluate the hypothesis that the bispectral index (BIS) is not affected by the hypothermia that is associated with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Design: Prospective, observational study. Setting: Cardiac surgical operating suite of a university medical center. Patients: 100 patients undergoing cardiac surgery requiring CPB. Interventions: A constant effect site concentration of 2.2 ng/mL for fentanyl and 60 ng/mL for midazolam was maintained throughout surgery using a computer-assisted continuous infusion technique. Measurements: The BIS value, percent isoflurane administered, predicted brain concentrations of midazolam and fentanyl, and nasopharyngeal temperature were recorded before CPB, at 15 minutes after the onset of CPB, at placement of the aortic cross-clamp, at start of rewarming, on separation from CPB, and 15 minutes after the end of CPB. Data were analyzed using a repeated-measures mixed-effects method, taking into account temperature, age, and predicted level of each anesthetic. Main Results: A significant overall association between temperature and BIS was observed independent of patient age, predicted brain midazolam or fentanyl concentration, percent isoflurane administered, and surgical time point ( p 0.001). The BIS is estimated to decrease by 1.12 units for each degree Celsius decrease in body temperature. Conclusions: Hypothermia decreases the BIS by 1.12 units per degree Celsius decline in temperature.
Effectiveness and neural mechanisms associated with tDCS delivered to premotor cortex in stroke rehabilitation: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background More than 60% of stroke survivors experience residual deficits of the paretic upper limb/hand. Standard rehabilitation generates modest gains. Stimulation delivered to the surviving Primary Motor Cortex in the stroke-affected hemisphere has been considered a promising adjunct. However, recent trials challenge its advantage. We discuss our pilot clinical trial that aims to address factors implicated in divergent success of the approach. We assess safety, feasibility and efficacy of targeting an alternate locus during rehabilitation- the premotor cortex. In anticipating variance across patients, we measure neural markers differentiating response from non-response.
LEUKEMIA EVOKED WITH 7, 8, 12-TRIMETHYLBENZ(A)ANTHRACENE IN RAT : I. CHANGES IN SPLEEN AND THYMUS

An early sign of erythroblastic leukemia in rat was nodule formation in the spleen. Hyperplastic foci of stem cells, indistinguishable histologically from leukemic stem cells, were found in the red pulp whereas the malpighian corpuscles were uninvolved. Anemia is a normal phenomenon in immature rats and the spleen of the prepubertal rat possesses considerable hemopoietic potential. Pulse-doses of 7, 8, 12-trimethylbenz(a)anthracene prevented the physiologic hematological development of maturing rats and was associated with subsequent development of leukemic stem cells in the red pulp of the spleen. Significant enzyme changes were observed in leukemic spleens. Compared with the spleens of normal littermates, the concentration of lactate dehydrogenase rose while that of malate dehydrogenase fell; the content of alkaline phosphatase rose whereas acid phosphatase fell. Increased alkaline phosphatase activity in leukemic spleen was attributed to nonleukemic foci of myelopoiesis.
A method for the analysis of biaxial graded-index optical fibers

The problem of wave propagation in a biaxial graded-index fiber with circular symmetry is considered. The problem is formulated in terms of four first-order differential equations for the tangential components of the electric and magnetic fields. A general solution method for solving systems of differential equations is presented. This solution method is then used to solve the system of equations for a particular example of a biaxial graded-index fiber. Numerical results for the propagation constant in the fiber are given. >
Effects of Primary Care Team Social Networks on Quality of Care and Costs for Patients With Cardiovascular Disease

PURPOSE Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the United States. Primary care teams can be best suited to improve quality of care and lower costs for patients with cardiovascular disease. This study evalu- ates the associations between primary care team communication, interaction, and coordination (ie, social networks); quality of care; and costs for patients with cardiovascular disease. METHODS Using a sociometric survey, 155 health professionals from 31 teams at 6 primary care clinics identified with whom they interact daily about patient care. Social network analysis calculated variables of density and centralization repre- senting team interaction structures. Three-level hierarchical modeling evaluated the link between team network density, centralization, and number of patients with a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease for controlled blood pressure and cho- lesterol, counts of urgent care visits, emergency department visits, hospital days, and medical care costs in the previous 12 months. RESULTS Teams with dense interactions among all team members were associ- ated with fewer hospital days (rate ratio (RR) = 0.62; 95% CI, 0.50-0.77) and lower medical care costs (-$556; 95% CI, -$781 to -$331) for patients with car- diovascular disease. Conversely, teams with interactions revolving around a few central individuals were associated with increased hospital days (RR = 1.45; 95% CI, 1.09-1.94) and greater costs ($506; 95% CI, $202-$810). Team-shared vision about goals and expectations mediated the relationship between social network structures and patient quality of care outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Primary care teams that are more interconnected and less central- ized and that have a shared team vision are better positioned to deliver high- quality cardiovascular disease care at a lower cost.
Monitoring techniques in shock

Abstract Monitoring of a variety of cardiovascular functions is necessary to make the diagnosis of shock and to select and follow the response to appropriate therapy. The adequacy of peripheral perfusion is assessed by the measurement of hourly output of urine, auscultatory blood pressure and arterial blood gases and by bedside evaluation of the adequacy of cerebral, coronary and cutaneous blood flow. Elucidation of the hemodynamic mechanism of shock primarily involves the differentiation between inadequacy of venous return to the heart and impairment of cardiac function. Use of a properly functioning catheter to monitor central venous pressure and judicious use of infusions of dextran are the most effective means of making this distinction. Accurate measurement of arterial and venous pressure often requires the use of a strain gauge transducer. Monitoring of the response to therapy requires that a knowledgeable and attentive physician frequently assess arterial and venous pressures, heart rate and rhythm, urinary output, blood gases, skin temperature and sensorium.
Management of failed stress urinary incontinence surgery.

With the increasing volume of surgery being performed for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI), especially with the widespread use of midurethral slings (MUS), recurrent urinary incontinence is becoming an increasingly common condition. Various preoperative and intraoperative factors have been associated with failed SUI surgery. Treatment options for failed SUI surgery include conservative management and/or surgical management, which include pubovaginal sling, MUS, retropubic suspension, periurethral bulking agents, and artificial sphincters. The choice of treatment option will depend on the etiology of the patient’s failure, patient comorbidities, and patient preference.
The Sua5 protein is essential for normal translational regulation in yeast.

The anticodon stem-loop of tRNAs requires extensive posttranscriptional modifications in order to maintain structure and stabilize the codon-anticodon interaction. These modifications also play a role in accommodating wobble, allowing a limited pool of tRNAs to recognize degenerate codons. Of particular interest is the formation of a threonylcarbamoyl group on adenosine 37 (t6A37) of tRNAs that recognize ANN codons. Located adjacent and 3′ to the anticodon, t6A37 is a conserved modification that is critical for reading frame maintenance. Recently, the highly conserved YrdC/Sua5 family of proteins was shown to be required for the formation of t6A37. Sua5 was originally identified in a screen by virtue of its ability to affect expression from an aberrant upstream AUG codon in the cyc1 transcript. Together, these findings implicate Sua5 in protein translation at the level of codon recognition. Here, we show that Sua5 is critical for normal translation. The loss of SUA5 causes increased leaky scanning through AUG codons, +1 frameshifting, and nonsense suppression. In addition, the loss of SUA5 amplifies the 20S RNA virus found in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, possibly through an internal ribosome entry site-mediated mechanism. This study reveals a critical role for Sua5 and the t6A37 modification in translational fidelity.
Connective tissue response to fluorosed bone.

SummaryA group of rats were placed on a high fluoride diet for 28 days. Portions of their scapulae were then removed and devitalized, and in the meantime the animals were put on a diet of normal F content. A control group of animals were similarly treated, but did not get a high F diet. The scapulae were implanted subcutaneously into the respective donor animals and removed after 2 or 4 weeks, and examined histologi-cally and chemically. Despite an F content 7 to 10 times higher in the experimental compared to the control animals'scapulae, the tissue responses were identical: a fibrous capsule formed around the implants and giant cells appeared and began to resorb the bone. No necrosis or degeneration was seen. It is concluded that, under these conditions, F does not exert any toxic action.
When Is Ankle Arthroscopy Indicated in Ankle Instability

Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries encountered in work and sport, with well over 2 million individuals experiencing ankle ligament trauma each year in the United States. Although most of these respond well to conservative management, acute ankle sprains are frequently associated with pathology resulting in chronic symptoms, including pain and instability, which persist beyond the expected recovery period. Although it is generally accepted that arthroscopy can be very helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of many ankle injuries and joint disorders, there is still some controversy regarding specific indications and effectiveness for its use. Given that these therapeutic and diagnostic indications are still being defined, the purpose of this article was to review the use and indications of arthroscopy or periarticular endoscopy as an adjunct to treating ankle instability at the time of open ligamentous stabilization. Ankle arthroscopy before lateral ligaments reconstruction will aid the surgeon in assessing for additional damage while conferring minimal additional time or morbidity. Surgically amenable lesions (ie, chondral lesions, loose bodies, associated instabilities, synovitis, impingements, ossicles, and peroneal tendon pathologies) can then be addressed, and the patient can be more accurately counseled regarding the condition of his ankle. Although it is likely that preoperative arthroscopy will improve outcomes in surgically stabilized ankles, there is a lack of controlled prospective studies that can truly assess its efficacy.
Incertae sedis no more: the phylogenetic affinity of Helicosporidia

The Helicosporidia are a unique group of pathogens found in diverse invertebrate hosts. They have been considered to be either protozoa or fungi, but have remained incertae sedis since 1931. Following the isolation of a Helicosporidium sp. in Florida, we showed that the Helicosporidia are non-photosynthetic green algae. Phylogeny reconstruction inferred on several housekeeping genes (including actin and b-tubulin) consistently and stably grouped Helicosporidium sp. among member of Chlorophyta. Additionally, nuclear SSU rDNA phylogenies identified Helicosporidium as a sister taxa to another parasitic, non-photosynthetic algal genus: Prototheca (Chlorophyta, Trebouxiophyceae). Comparison of mitochondrial (cox3) and chloroplast (rrn16) genes confirmed that Helicosporidium and Prototheca have arisen from a common photosynthetic ancestor, and suggested that Helicosporidia contain Prototheca-like organelles, including a vestigial chloroplast (plastid). In an effort to better characterize the biology of Helicosporidium sp., a cDNA library has been constructed and expressed sequences tags (ESTs) have been generated. Most of these ESTs exhibited similarity with algal and plant genes. Significantly, the EST library provided with additional evidence that Helicosporidium sp. does have a plastid, as numerous nuclear-encoded, plastid-targeted genes were identified. Characterization of the plastid is currently underway: several chloroplast-like genes (rrn16, rrn23, tufA) have been cloned and their sequences are being used to isolate the entire plastid genome. Similar to the situation described in Prototheca, the Helicosporidium plastid may be reduced, as most of the genes involved in photosynthesis likely have been lost during the course of evolution.
CMOS 1.6 GHz Bandwidth 12 Bit Time Interleaved Pipelined ADC

A CMOS ADC architecture is presented that combines pipelined low pass ADCs with time interleaving to obtain sampling frequencies in the 3 to 6 GHz range with bandwidths of 1.5 to 3 GHz and 10-12 bits of resolution. The schematic design and performance simulations are included for a 180 nm CMOS process. The Time Interleaved Pipelined (TIP) ADC samples at 3.2 GHz with inputs in either the first or second Nyquist region and has 12 bits resolution while consuming 900 mW of power with 1.8 v power supply.
Information Sharing and Oligopoly in Agricultural Markets: The Role of the Cooperative Bargaining Association

We study incentives for information sharing among agricultural intermediaries in imperfectly competitive markets for farm output. Information sharing always increases expected grower and total surplus, but may reduce expected intermediary profits. Even when expected profits increase with information sharing, intermediary firms face a prisoner's dilemma where it is privately rational to withhold information, given that other firms report truthfully. This equilibrium can be avoided if firms' information reports are verifiable, and if firms commit to an ex ante contract that enforces participation in information sharing. We show how agricultural bargaining legislation can implement such a contract with the bargained farm price representing a sufficient statistic of all information held by intermediary firms.
Design reflection for optimal test-chip implementation

A new type of logic characterization vehicle (LCV) that optimizes design, test, and diagnosis for yield learning has been recently described and is called the Carnegie-Mellon Logic Characterization Vehicle (CM-LCV). The CM-LCV is a product-like test chip that uses constant-testability theory and regularity to create a parameterized design that targets the physical characteristics of a product design or family of designs. The logic function of the CM-LCV is, by construction, designed to exhibit near-optimal test and diagnosis characteristics. The physical characteristics however should reflect those found in actual customer designs. In this work, we describe a unique and straight-forward methodology for measuring the physical characteristics of a design and more importantly how to impose or reflect those same characteristics into a CM-LCV. Experiments using both benchmark and industrial designs demonstrate the efficacy of this approach. Specifically, we develop a flow using available tools that can automatically synthesize a scalable CM-LCV in very little time with standard-cell characteristics that are nearly identical to product designs. For example, in the best case, we demonstrate the complete design of a scalable CM-LCV that matches the standard-cell usage of a family of benchmark designs with less than 0.25% error in about 2 hours of compute time.
The effects of precipitation, river discharge, land use and coastal circulation on water quality in coastal Maine.

Faecal pollution in stormwater, wastewater and direct run-off can carry zoonotic pathogens to streams, rivers and the ocean, reduce water quality, and affect both recreational and commercial fishing areas of the coastal ocean. Typically, the closure of beaches and commercial fishing areas is governed by the testing for the presence of faecal bacteria, which requires an 18–24 h period for sample incubation. As water quality can change during this testing period, the need for accurate and timely predictions of coastal water quality has become acute. In this study, we: (i) examine the relationship between water quality, precipitation and river discharge at several locations within the Gulf of Maine, and (ii) use multiple linear regression models based on readily obtainable hydrometeorological measurements to predict water quality events at five coastal locations. Analysis of a 12 year dataset revealed that high river discharge and/or precipitation events can lead to reduced water quality; however, the use of only these two parameters to predict water quality can result in a number of errors. Analysis of a higher frequency, 2 year study using multiple linear regression models revealed that precipitation, salinity, river discharge, winds, seasonality and coastal circulation correlate with variations in water quality. Although there has been extensive development of regression models for freshwater, this is one of the first attempts to create a mechanistic model to predict water quality in coastal marine waters. Model performance is similar to that of efforts in other regions, which have incorporated models into water resource managers9 decisions, indicating that the use of a mechanistic model in coastal Maine is feasible.
MORPHOLOGICAL DISCRIMINATION OF NOTURUS STIGMOSUS AND N. ELEUTHERUS (SILURIFORMES: ICTALURIDAE) IN THE OHIO RIVER BASIN

In the Ohio River basin, the northern madtom, Noturus stigmosus Taylor, is morphologically similar to and sympatric with the mountain madtom, Noturus eleutherus Jordan. Although recognized as distinct sympatric (and syntopic) species, N. stigmosus and N. eleutherus are difficult to distinguish in streams where they are associated, based on previously defined characters. Sheared principal component analysis (PCA) of morphometric data revealed characters that more effectively differentiate the two species. Noturus stigmosus differs from N. eleutherus in having longer pectoral fins and spines, a longer dorsal fin and spine, a shorter and higher adipose fin, and a longer first dorsal saddle. As juveniles (20-30 mm standard length), N. eleutherus more closely resembles N. stigmosus on the basis of morphometry and pigmentation, but differs from the former in lacking a distinct dark adipose blotch. Meristic comparisons indicate that the two species differ most consistently at sizes > 30 mm SL in the numbers of caudal fin rays (usually > 48 in N. stigmosus vs. < 47 in N. eleutherus) and preoperculomandibular (POM) pores (modally 11 in N. stigmosus vs. 10 in N. eleutherus).
Stochastic Mechanics of Particles and Fields

The configuration space of a physical system is a differentiable manifoldi¾? $$M$$ . The state of a system is given by a pointi¾? $$x$$ ini¾? $$M$$ and a tangent vectori¾? $$v$$ ati¾? $$x$$ , the velocity of the configuration. Call the tangent bundlei¾? $$TM$$ ofi¾? $$M$$ the state space of the system though the phrase "velocity phase space" is often used. A dynamical variable is a possibly time-dependent function on state space.
The transcription factors Slug (SNAI2) and Snail (SNAI1) regulate phospholipase D (PLD) promoter in opposite ways towards cancer cell invasion

Slug (SNAI2) and Snail (SNAI1) are master regulatory transcription factors for organogenesis and wound healing, and they are involved in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of cancer cells. We found that the activity of phospholipase D isoform 2 (PLD2) is highly increased in cancers with larger size and poor prognosis (MDA-MB-231 versus MCF-7 cells), so we determined if Snail or Slug were responsible for PLD2 gene transcription regulation. Unexpectedly, we found that PLD2 expression was positively regulated by Slug but negatively regulated by Snail. The differential effects are amplified in breast cancer cells over normal cells and with MDA-MB-231 more robustly than MCF-7. Slug putatively binds to the PLD2 promoter and transactivates it, which is negated when Slug and Snail compete with each other. Meanwhile, PLD2 has a negative effect on Snail expression and a positive effect on Slug, thus closing a feedback loop between the lipase and the transcription factors. Further, PA, the product of PLD2 enzymatic reaction, has profound effects on its own and it further regulates the transcription factors. Thus, we show for the first time that the overexpressed PLD2 in human breast tumors is regulated by Slug and Snail transcription factors. The newly uncovered feedback loops in highly invasive cancer cells have important implications in the process of EMT.
Dating Violence and African Immigrant Youth

ABSTRACTResearch documents a high prevalence of dating violence among U.S. youth. This violence is linked to a host of negative mental and physical health consequences and high-risk behaviors. African immigrants comprise about 3.9% of all immigrants in the United States and recent trends suggest this population is rapidly increasing. Despite this, limited research exists on dating violence among African immigrant youth. This article summarizes the literature on dating violence in Africa, then highlights the dearth of research on African immigrant youth. The literature suggests that African immigrant girls are in a uniquely vulnerable position that increases their risk for dating violence and other abuses, warranting our attention to the issue. Future research directions and service implications with this population are presented.
Augmentation of Gonad Stimulating Hormone of the Hypophysis by Copper

In a recent report1 it was shown that zinc sulphate in combination with antuitrin S augmented the weights of the ovaries of immature rats above that obtained with antuitrin S alone. In contrast to this, zinc sulphate had no augmentative effect when given in combination with pituitary implants. Copper, on the other hand, seems to differ from zinc in certain of these ovarian augmentative reactions. Fevold, et al.,2 obtained ovulation in rabbits by intravenous injections of copper salts but failed to do so with zinc. In these rabbits the copper may have altered the response of the gonad stimulating hormones present in the blood. It, therefore, seems likely that a similar mechanism might be induced in immature rats by combinations of copper salts and pituitary implants. The data on this point are described in the present study.The recipients were albino rats of approximately 38 gm. body weight. All donors were normal adult male rats. The pituitary implants were made in the abdominal cavity under ether anesthe...
Life History Studies of Pergamasus crassipes and Amblygamasus septentrionalis (Acarina: Parasitidae)

Specimens of these two mites, both of which occur throughout Europe, were obtained from soils from Tully Forest, Tully, N. Y. Their separation from one another and from other related mites, as well as specific pairing of males and females, is practicable on the basis of size differences, shape of the tectum, characters of the modified setae on the pedipalpal genu, and morphological characters of the female genitalia and the male leg II. Both species have essentially similar life histories, and both prey largely on certain Collembola, Oribatei, and Aphidae, and to a lesser extent upon certain Mesostigmata and other Arachnida. Copulation is not necessary for subsequent egg production. Eggs are produced and laid singly. At laboratory temperatures of 20° C. and near 90% r.h., larvae hatch 24 to 36 hours after oviposition, transform after 2 days to protonymphs, which are succeeded by deutonymphs after another week. Adults appear 3 weeks after the eggs are deposited. All developmental stages of both species are described and figured. Probably there are four or five generations a year in the field. The A. septentrionalis (Oudem.) studied were of the “variety” norvegicus Berlese, 1905. Both P. crassipes (L.) and its varietal form longicornis Berlese, 1905, were included in this study.
Direct and Residual Kill of the Boll Weevil with ULV Sprays of Azinphosmethyl

Tests in field plots showed that size of spray droplets, dose, and volume of ULV azinphosmethyl applied per acre were all highly significant in determining mortality of Anthonomus grandis Boheman when exposed to the residues. As volume applied per acre was increased, kill decreased. Kill by direct impingement of the droplets was less than 32%. The overall ratio between kill by residue and by direct impingement was over 4.0. With spray droplets in the size range of 100–200 μm, kill by direct impingement is less important than kill by residue.
Propagation of Vorticity and Turbulence in 2-D and 3-D Rough-Wall Turbulent Boundary Layers

The present article examines the flow structure in and around roughness elements in various 2-D and 3-D rough-wall turbulent boundary layers by means of the examination of the distributions of three components of mean vorticity and the turbulence kinetic energy (TKE). This study was made possible by the extensive measurements of mean velocities and fluctuating quantities (Reynolds stresses and the triple products) made on a fine grid (5 × 25 × 10) of measurement points in a 3-D volume space, around the roughness elements, in 2-D and 3-D boundary layers. The rough-wall for both boundary layers uses the same upstream fetch of cylinders distributed in square patterns. The effects of the distributed roughness elements are seen in the generation of a large vertical component of mean vorticity. Significant amounts of streamwise vorticity are also created; although, the mechanism of its generation is starkly different from that which governs its generation in the case of an isolated element. The effects of flow three-dimensionality are seen in the considerable skewing of the distributions of vorticity and turbulence. The distributed rough wall generates large amounts of TKE close to element heights and aft of them. With the introduction of mean flow threedimensionality, considerably enhanced levels of TKE are obtained. For both 2-D and 3-D rough-wall cases, the transport-rate budget of TKE reveals that the dominant terms are production, diffusion and dissipation.
Membranous Nephropathy: A Journey From Bench to Bedside

Lessons from an animal model that faithfully resembles human membranous nephropathy (MN) have informed our understanding of the pathogenesis of this organ-specific autoimmune disease and common cause of nephrotic syndrome. After it was established that the subepithelial immune deposits that characterize experimental MN form in situ when circulating antibodies bind to an intrinsic podocyte antigen, it was merely a matter of time before the human antigen was identified. The M-type phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R) represents the major target antigen in primary MN, and thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A) was more recently identified as a minor antigen. Serologic tests for anti-PLA2R and kidney biopsy specimen staining for PLA2R show >90% specificity and 70% to 80% sensitivity for the diagnosis of primary MN in most populations. The assays distinguish most cases of primary MN from MN associated with other systemic diseases, and sequential anti-PLA2R titers are useful to monitor treatment response. A positive pretransplantation test result for anti-PLA2R is also helpful for predicting the risk for posttransplantation recurrence. Identification of target epitopes within PLA2R and the genetic association of primary MN with class II major histocompatibility and PLA2R1 variants are 2 additional examples of our evolving understanding of this disease.