cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preparation of the HIV-infected Traveler to the Tropics.

Pre-travel advice and planning can help the HIV-infected traveler minimize the unavoidable risks of tropical travel. Issues to cover: the diagnosis, staging, and stabilization of HIV infection and its sequelae; adequacy of the supply of medications currently used; optimal sources of medical care in planned destinations; potential HIV-related legal restrictions on travel; special risks associated with the medical geography of the traveler’s route and planned activities; the need to avoid food-, water-, and vectorborne diseases; any appropriate vaccination, chemoprophylaxis, and antimicrobial agents; and arrangement for adequate medical follow-up upon the traveler’s return.
Adding stream processing system flexibility to exploit low-overhead communication systems

Previously, we demonstrated that we can build a real-world financial application using a stream processing system running on commodity hardware. In this paper, we propose making stream processing systems more flexible and demonstrate how this flexibility can be used to exploit low-overhead communication systems to speed up streaming applications. With our prototype, we now have an options market data processing system that can achieve less than 30 µsec average latency at 30x the February 2008 OPRA rate on a cluster of blades using InfiniBand. Across shared memory, this system can achieve less than 20 µsec average latency at 25x the February 2008 OPRA rate on a single machine.
Selectivity and Si-load in deep trench etching

Time dependent measurements of etch rates and mask erosion rates for a variety of different features were carried out utilizing [email protected] ground rule masks with different silicon loads. A small loading effect for the silicon etching and a strong secondary loading effect for the mask erosion were observed leading to a time dependent selectivity. RIE lag effects for oval trenches and long grooves were quantified by least square fits. Both feature types have essentially the same etch rate and RIE lag.
Nucleoprotein Autoantibodies in Lupus Erythematosus

Autoantibodies against deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) proteins are commonly detected in patients with lupus erythematosus (LE). Antibodies against native DNA are frequently detected in a subset of LE patients with a high prevalence of renal disease. Single-stranded DNA antibodies are also commonly detected in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) but recent evidence indicates that approximately 25% of patients with benign, cutaneous (discoid) lupus also possess single-stranded DNA IgM autoantibodies. LE patients also frequently possess antibodies directed against a variety of ribonuclear proteins (RNP). These RNA protein autoantibodies are generally divided into two groups. One group is termed snRNPs (small nuclear ribonuclear protein); the other is termed scRNPs (small cytoplasmic ribonuclear protein). Anti-RNA protein autoantibodies occur as frequently in patients with SLE as do native DNA antibodies. Furthermore, in contradistinction to nDNA antibodies, lupus patients generally make large quantities (detected by gel precipitin techniques) of anti-RNP antibodies. The anti-RNP antibodies are directed against proteins that bind with specific RNA nucleotides. The best evidence at present indicates that these RNA proteins containing the specific RNA nucleotides are involved in RNA processing and post-translational activities such as protein synthesis. Furthermore, these SLE autoantibodies are now being employed, together with other autoantibody systems detected in other connective tissue diseases, to define the biological role of the respective RNA proteins.
Investigating Adult Literacy Programs through Community Engagement Research: A Case Study

This article presents findings from a case study of an adult literacy program. The author conducted this IRB-approved study as part of a three-year, research-based, community-engagement project that partnered the literacy program with a writing center at a large public research university. The author argues that the participatory methods afforded by community-engagement research can allow researchers to achieve insight into particular programs while contributing to local literacy. The author also argues that understanding the characteristics of particular programs can contribute to knowledge of the field of adult literacy education and help collaborators develop engagement projects that support adult literacy.
Finding Hidden Allosteric Sites in Proteins

The substantial dynamics that folded proteins undergo creates the potential for hidden allosteric sites-unexpected pockets capable of altering a protein's activity via long-range communication with the active site-that could be valuable drug targets. Unfortunately, identifying these sites and targeting them with drugs remains a profound challenge, typically requiring resource intensive screening of large libraries of small molecules. Here, I will present a combination of computational and experimental tools for identifying hidden allosteric sites without having to consider specific ligands. First, we use atomically-detailed Markov state models of a ligand-free protein to identify potential allosteric sites based on two signature structural fluctuations: (i) the presence of a pocket in a non-trivial fraction of the protein population and (ii) the presence of correlated motions allowing communication between residues surrounding the pocket and the active site where chemistry is performed. Second, we use labeling experiments to test the existence of proposed pockets. Application of this approach to TEM-1 β-lactamase-an important drug target for overcoming antibiotic resistance-demonstrates that these methods are capable of recovering known hidden allosteric sites. Moreover, our approach reveals a new allosteric site in β-lactamase that may serve as a valuable drug target. Therefore, we propose our methods will be a powerful means of identifying additional hidden allosteric sites in other proteins.
Interaction of phospholipid vesicles with cultured myogenic cells. Effects on cell fusion.

Abstract The effects of defined acyl chain, unilamellar phosphatidylcholine vesicles on the development of cultured embryonic chick muscle was studied. An inhibition of myoblast fusion was observed when vesicles were incubated with cells below the vesicle gel-liquid crystalline phase transition temperature (T c ). This inhibition could be at least partially reversed by culturing the vesicletreated cells above the T c of vesicles. Evidence supporting adhesion as the mechanism of vesiclecell interaction mediating inhibition of myoblast fusion was derived from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) which demonstrated the presence of vesicle-like particles on the cell membrane under conditions in which myoblast fusion was inhibited. Pretrypsinization of myoblasts before their incubation with vesicles prevented this fusion inhibition, suggesting that vesicles may interact with cell membrane proteins which are involved in the myoblast fusion and/or recognition process.
A dynamic model of learning in the septo-hippocampal system

Abstract Gluck and Myers (Hippocampus 3 (1993) 491–516) modeled the hippocampus as an auto-encoder; Myers et al. (Neurobiol. Learning Memory 66 (1996) 51–66) argued that the cholinergic input from medial septum modulates learning rate in this auto-encoder. Neurophysiological evidence suggests the hippocampus self-regulates septal acetylcholine release in response to novel stimuli (Hasselmo and Schnell, J. Neurosci. 14 (1994) 3898–3914). We have extended our earlier model of septohippocampal modulation to include such a feedback loop. The resulting dynamic model learns faster and better than the earlier version on phenomena such as blocking and shift reversal. It can also be applied to data regarding the effects of the anticholinergic drug scopolamine.
In utero development of a warm-reactive autoantibody in a severely jaundiced neonate.

BACKGROUND: The fetus and neonate are widely considered to be immunologically immature. However, there are rare case reports of RBC alloantibody and autoantibody development. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This report describes the case of a severely jaundiced full-term boy neonate presenting at birth with an IgG warm-reactive autoantibody. RESULTS: Mother and neonate were both blood group A, D+. The mother had a negative antibody screen at 18 weeks' gestation and a negative DAT and antibody screen at the time of delivery. The neonate was born with a strongly reactive DAT (IgG) and a panreactive eluate. The serum also contained a panreactive antibody, and all crossmatches were incompatible. The neonate had a bilirubin of 12.5 mg per dL at birth, which peaked at 22.5 mg per dL. However, there was no overt evidence of hemolysis, as evidenced by normal serial Hct levels and reticulocyte counts. The neonate responded well to phototherapy and did not require either simple or exchange transfusion. The neonate's warm-reactive autoantibody maintained its original strength of reactivity on follow-up testing performed at 2 weeks and 2 months of age. CONCLUSIONS: This report describes a rare case of apparent in utero RBC autoantibody development. The fetal/neonatal immune response to blood group antigens is reviewed.
Through-wafer electrical interconnect for multilevel microelectromechanical system devices

This article reports the design, fabrication, and experimental demonstration of through-wafer interconnects capable of allowing direct electrical access to the interior of a multilevel microelectromechanical system device. The interconnects exploit the ability to conformally coat a high aspect ratio trench with a thick layer of tetraethylorthosilicate to isolate a through-wafer silicon plug that can provide electrical contact across two sides of a low resistivity wafer. They hold the potential of a tenfold reduction in the parasitic capacitance of previously reported through-wafer vias, and are shown to make reliable contacts to the back side of a polysilicon resistive element. The high temperature capability of the interconnects is also examined, however, their application is found to be limited to temperatures below 1000 °C due to localized degradation near the isolating trenches.
Mechanical separators, Ferrier design

Abstract The original set of Ferrier mechanical separators was logically, thoroughly, and expertly developed. When these instruments are constructed according to specifications, they are an excellent and indispensable part of the restorative dentist's armamentarium. They are fine instruments, and should be cared for as such safe, simple, standardized technique for their use has been described. Acknowledgment is made to those whose contributions made them available to the profession.
Association of lymphadenectomy and survival in stage I ovarian cancer patients.

OBJECTIVE:To estimate the survival impact of lymphadenectomy in women diagnosed with clinical stage I ovarian cancer.METHODS:Demographic and clinicopathologic information were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program between 1988 and 2001. Data were analyzed using Kaplan-
Efficient Extraction of Fuel Oil Hydrocarbons from Concrete

A strategy is presented for the efficient extraction of hydrocarbons from concrete to enable their monitoring. Both polar and non-polar solvents were examined with the application of several techniques: cold solvent extraction with shaking, Soxhlet, and ultrasound-assisted extraction. The impacts of sample aging and inundation with water on the extraction efficiency were investigated to elucidate the nature of analyte-matrix interactions. Organic matrix-destructive solvents that partially disintegrate concrete (ethyl acetate, methanol, and acetonitrile) were most efficient for all considered scenarios, yielding recoveries in a range of 95-100% upon a two-step, four-day, cold solvent extraction or 24-h Soxhlet extraction even for highly contaminated and aged samples.
Comparison of antimicrobial activity in the epidermal mucus extracts of fish.

The mucus layer on the surface of fish consists of several antimicrobial agents that provide a first line of defense against invading pathogens. To date, little is known about the antimicrobial properties of the mucus of Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), brook trout (S. fontinalis), koi carp (Cyprinus carpio sub sp. koi), striped bass (Morone saxatilis), haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) and hagfish (Myxine glutinosa). The epidermal mucus samples from these fish were extracted with acidic, organic and aqueous solvents to identify potential antimicrobial agents including basic peptides, secondary metabolites, aqueous and acid soluble compounds. Initial screening of the mucus extracts against a susceptible strain of Salmonella enterica C610, showed a significant variation in antimicrobial activity among the fish species examined. The acidic mucus extracts of brook trout, haddock and hagfish exhibited bactericidal activity. The organic mucus extracts of brook trout, striped bass and koi carp showed bacteriostatic activity. There was no detectable activity in the aqueous mucus extracts. Further investigations of the activity of the acidic mucus extracts of brook trout, haddock and hagfish showed that these fish species had specific activity for fish and human pathogens, demonstrating the role of fish mucus in antimicrobial protection. In comparison to brook trout and haddock, the minimum bactericidal concentrations of hagfish acidic mucus extracts were found to be ∼ 1.5 to 3.0 times lower against fish pathogens and ∼ 1.6 to 6.6 folds lower for human pathogens. This preliminary information suggests that the mucus from these fish species may be a source of novel antimicrobial agents for fish and human health related applications.
Optical absorption by rare gas monomers and dimers in alkali hosts: A solvable one-electron model

Abstract The Kittler-Falicov model of Cs 1− x Xe x alloys is solved exactly in the limit of x →0. The resulting Xe absorption spectrum has a nearly linear, ramp-like lineshape ∝( E − E T ) immediately above the Fermi threshold energy, similar to the observed anomalous rare gas absorption lineshape in alkali metals. However, this appears not to be the proper explanation of the observations, but an artifact of the model.
Generalized wavelet transforms and their applications

Continuous wavelet transform and linear time-frequency transforms are coefficients of continuous unitary group representations of the affine and Heisenberg groups. Many properties of these transforms that are important for wideband radar and sonar signal processing follow directly from group representation theory. These properties include volume invariance and variance of narrowband and wideband ambiguity functions and wavelet transform domain implementations of detects and signal estimators. For several radar, sonar, and array processing applications, the basic definition of wavelet and time-frequency representations must be generalized by using unitary representations of other groups and using reproducing kernel Hilbert space (RKHS) inner products in the definition of the linear transforms. The general definition then leads to weighted continuous wavelet transforms where the RKHS is determined by a nonstationary covariance function; generalized wideband ambiguity functions also follow from this general definition along with other important generalizations that arise in wideband array processing and model based signal processing in complex scattering and propagation media. This paper presents the generalized wavelet transform along with the weighted wavelet transforms. The classical narrowband and wideband ambiguity functions are then special cases. The application of generalized transform to multidimensional transforms for space-time processing are also presented, along with the application to conformal groups for detections and estimation of accelerating scatterers.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Magnitude of national ED visits and resource utilization by the uninsured.

Abstract Background For nearly 51 million persons in the United States who lack health care insurance, the emergency department (ED) functions as a safety net where no patient is denied care based on ability to pay, and much public rhetoric has characterized ED utilization by uninsured patients. We estimated national ED utilization by uninsured patients and compared uninsured and insured ED patients in terms of demographics, diagnostic testing, disposition and final diagnoses. Methods We analyzed data from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (2006-2009) stratified by insurance status. Demographic data, diagnoses, testing, and procedures performed in the ED were tabulated for each visit. Weighted percentages provided by National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey were used to estimate national rates for each variable, and multivariate models were constructed for predicting testing, procedures, and admission. Results The 135 085 ED visits represent 475 million patients visits, of which 78.9 million (16.6%) were uninsured. Compared with insured patients, uninsured patients were more often male (51.1% vs 44.3%) and younger (age 18-44 years, 66.2% vs 35.4%). Uninsured patients had lower rates of circulatory/cardiovascular (7.5% vs 4.1%) and respiratory diagnoses (14.6% vs 11.8%). Uninsured patients had fewer diagnostic tests and procedures and fewer hospital admissions than those with insurance. In our multivariate models, insurance status was predictive of testing and procedures but not hospital admission. Conclusions Uninsured patients account for approximately 20 million or 1 in 6 ED visits annually in the United States and have differences in demographics, diagnoses, and ED utilization patterns from those with insurance.
Shapes of heavy transition nuclei in a self-consistent anisotropic oscillator model

The second- and fourth-order mass moments of the even-neutron transition nuclei /sup 178/ - /sup 188/W, /sup 182/ /sup 194/Os, /sup 187/ - /sup 195/Ir, /sup 186/ - /sup 198/Pt, /sup 191/ - /sup 199/Au, and /sup 194/ - /sup 206/Hg have been calculated using a self-consistent version of the anisotropic oscillator model. A structural basis is found for possible asymmetric intrinisc nuclear shapes in the transition regio, particularly in some of the Os and Pt nuclei and the Ir and Au nuclei nearest to even neighbors with large deformations. The calculations predict large negative fourth-order moments for this region.
A Rare Mutation in the Primer Binding Region of the Amelogenin Gene Can Interfere with Gender Identification

PCR amplification of part of the X-Y homologous amelogenin gene with a single primer pair has been used as a sex identification test because it generates different length products from the X and Y chromosomes. Using a commercially available kit that contains amelogenin primers, we report a single phenotypically normal Caucasian male out of 327 males tested to date that failed to show an X chromosome-specific PCR product. Using alternative amelogenin primers external to but encompassing the initial amplicon, an X chromosome-specific product was seen. Sequence analysis of this X-specific PCR product revealed a C to G mutation at the most 3′ base of the initial reverse amelogenin PCR primer. An alternative reverse PCR primer with this most 3′ base deleted showed X- and Y-specific products from the case study male. Rare mutations that result in a failure to amplify sex chromosome-specific products can result in incorrect gender identification.
Application of the full-spectrum k-distribution method to photon Monte Carlo solvers

Accurate prediction of radiative heat transfer is key in most high temperature applications, such as combustion devices and fires. Among the various solution methods for the radiative transfer equation (RTE), the photon Monte Carlo (PMC) method is potentially the most accurate and the most versatile. The implementation of a PMC method in multidimensional inhomogeneous problems, however, can be limited by its demand for large computer storage space and its CPU time consumption. This is particularly true if the spectral absorption coefficient is to be accurately represented, due to its irregular behavior. On the other hand, the recently developed full-spectrum k-distribution (FSK) method reorders the irregular absorption coefficient into smooth k-distributions and, therefore, provides an efficient and accurate scheme for the spectral integration of radiative quantities of interest. In this paper the accuracy of the PMC method in solving the RTE and the efficiency and storage advantage provided by the FSK method are combined. The advantages of the proposed PMC/FSK method is described in detail. The accuracy and the efficiency of the method are demonstrated by sample calculations that consider inhomogeneous problems.
An Examination of Item Response Theory Item Fit Indices for the Graded Response Model

The current study examined the Type I error rates and power of several item response theory (IRT) item fit indices used in conjunction with the graded response model (GRM). Specifically, S — χ2, χ2...
Dynamic photorefractive self-amplified angular-multiplex 2-D optical beam-array generation

A real-time 2-D angular-multiplex beam-array holographic storage and reconstruction technique using electrically-addressed spatial light modulators(E-SLM's) and photorefractive crystals is described. Using a liquid crystal television (LCTV) spatial light modulator (SLM) for beam steering and lithium niobate photorefractive crystal for holographic recording, experimental results of generating large and complicated arrays of laser beams with high diffraction efficiency and good uniformity are presented.
Age-dependent cleavage at the C-terminal region of lens βB2 crystallin

A previous study has demonstrated that in vivo, the peptide bonds at the C-terminal region of the alpha-A crystallins were cleaved in an age-dependent manner, between the two hydroxyl-containing amino acids in the sequence -PS(T)S ( Takemoto, 1995 ). Bovine β B2 crystallin also contains the sequence — PSS at its C-terminus. To determine if this specific site of cleavage occurred in other lens proteins besides alpha-A crystallin, β B2 crystallin was prepared from total proteins of young versus adult bovine lens fiber cells. After cleavage by cyanogen bromide, the C-terminal fragments were characterized by mass spectrometry. The results showed that peptide cleavage also occurred between the two hydroxyl-containing amino acids in the sequence -PSS of β B2 crystallin from older fiber cells, demonstrating that age-dependent cleavage of this peptide bond occurs in multiple proteins of the aging lens.
Value-Sensitive Design and Health Care in Africa

In this paper, we describe our approach of using value-sensitive design to guide the design, development, and implementation of health information systems for use in rural areas of two developing countries in Africa. By using shared conceptual investigation, we are able to create a generalized list of stakeholders and values that span multiple projects without losing any of the power of the conceptual investigation. This process can be applied to other projects to develop a stronger set of stakeholders and values. We also present a technical investigation of a vaccine delivery project in Sub-Saharan Africa and plans for an upcoming empirical investigation for a mobile-phone-based support tool for community health workers in East Africa.
GRIN lens and lens array fabrication with diffusion-driven photopolymer

We introduce a new method to make gradient index (GRIN) lenses and GRIN lens arrays by exposing diffusion-driven photopolymers using a low-power CW laser. By changing the size and power of the laser beam and the exposure time the index profile of the GRIN lens can be controlled. Combined with the self-developing nature of the photopolymer, this enables rapid “on-demand” printing of arbitrary micro-optics. We also introduce a new form of scanning phase microscopy that is conveniently integrated into the lens exposure hardware, providing accurate process monitoring.
The Role of Mothers in the Lives of Outstanding Scholars A Guest Editorial

Social science studies tend to provide information on linkages between achievement of male offspring and fathers. Usually, nothing is said about mothers. The idea that mothers may be fundamental in the achievement of their children was advanced as a hypothesis. Particular attention was given to the association, if any, between the education of mothers and the achievement of male offspring. Based on an analysis of the achievement of five outstanding black scholars, a conclusion was reached that the encouragement of mothers was a constant experience.
Using qualitative methods to assess academic success and retention programs for underrepresented minority students

The author discusses the importance of qualitative assessment for programs created primarily to serve minority students in higher education, associated benefits and challenges, and procedures for conducting culturally competent program assessments.
Food for High-Altitude Expeditions: Pugh Got It Right in 1954—A Commentary on the Report by L.G.C.E. Pugh: “Himalayan Rations With Special Reference to the 1953 Expedition to Mount Everest”

An examination of the nutritional recommendations at altitude by L.G.C.E. Pugh made in the early 1950s reveals that his approaches to feeding and hydration at altitude are still ascribed to today, 50 years later. We can forgive his one perhaps overstatement concerning the "craving" for carbohydrates at altitude if we simply acknowledge that he was generally correct about the benefits of carbohydrates for work at altitude. Pugh's emphasis on adequate energy intake and fluid intake at altitude is as sound today as it was in 1954.
An enhanced multilevel routing system

In this paper, we present several novel techniques that make the recently published multilevel routing scheme (J. Cong et al, Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on CAD, pp. 396-403, 2001) more effective and complete. Our contributions include: (1) resource reservation for local nets during the coarsening process, (2) congestion-driven, graph-based Steiner tree construction during the initial routing and the refinement process and (3) multi-iteration refinement considering the congestion history. The experiments show that each of these techniques helps to improve the completion rate considerably. Compared to the authors' previous work, the new routing system reduces the number of failed nets by 2/spl times/ to 18/spl times/, with less than 50% increase in runtime in most cases.
Effect of Dose of Prostaglandin F2α on Steroidogenic Components and Oligonucleosomes in Ovine Luteal Tissue

Abstract To determine whether prostaglandin (PG) F2α had a dose-dependent effect upon secretion of progesterone, oligonucleosome formation, or loss of luteal weight, ewes on Day 9 or 10 of the estrous cycle were administered 0, 3, 10, or 30 mg PGF2α per 60 kg BW (i.v.), and luteal tissue was collected 9 and 24 h after injection. All doses of PGF2α decreased (P < 0.05) concentrations of progesterone in sera by 9 h; however, in ewes treated with 3 mg PGF2α, concentrations of progesterone were similar to control values at 24 h and higher (P < 0.05) than those in the 10- or 30-mg groups. Concentrations of progesterone in sera over all dose levels were highly correlated to luteal concentrations of mRNA encoding steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (P < 0.001), cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage (P < 0.02), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (P < 0.01). Corpora lutea collected at 24 h from ewes treated with the 10- and 30-mg doses of PGF2α weighed less (P < 0.05) than those from controls. Oligonucleosomes w...
‘These Happen To Be My Own’: The loss of childhood identity and the idea of a self

AbstractScholars of childhood and child-centered education draw attention to the multiple accounts of the child that have attended its brief history. In this article I read George Orwell’s ‘Such, such were the joys’ as a demonstration of the contradictions inherent in our notions of childhood, but also as a possible model for understanding how conflicted definitions of childhood contribute to the modern subject’s sense of identity. Following Orwell’s claim that he can hold two contradictory accounts of his childhood because ‘these happen to be my own memories’, I demonstrate his reliance on well-established ideas about childhood that are clearly not his own, but that nonetheless shape the way he understands his own childhood. Developing the inherent opposition between these two strands of thought on the child, I argue that holding both at once allows the modern subject to maintain a sense of self against the othering forces of formal education.
Progression and Recapitulation of the Chondrocyte Differentiation Program: Cartilage Matrix Protein Is a Marker for Cartilage Maturation

During endochondral bone formation, chondrocytes in the cartilaginous anlage of long bones progress through a spatially and temporally regulated differentiation program before being replaced by bone. To understand this process, we have characterized the differentiation program and analyzed the relationship between chondrocytes and their extracellular environment in the regulation of the program. Our results indicate that, within an epiphyseal growth plate, the zone of proliferating chondrocytes is not contiguous with the zone of hypertrophic chondrocytes identified by the transcription of the type X collagen gene. We find that the postproliferative chondrocytes which make up the zone between the zones of proliferation and hypertrophy specifically transcribe the gene for cartilage matrix protein (CMP). This zone has been termed the zone of maturation. The identification of this unique population of chondrocytes demonstrates that the chondrocyte differentiation program consists of at least three stages. CMP translation products are present in the matrix surrounding the nonproliferative chondrocytes of both the zones of maturation and hypertrophy. Thus, CMP is a marker for postmitotic chondrocytes. As a result of the changes in gene expression during the differentiation program, chondrocytes in each zone reside in an extracellular matrix with a unique macromolecular composition. Chondrocytes in primary cell culture can proceed through the same differentiation program as they do in the cartilaginous rudiments. In culture, a wave of differentiation begins in the center of a colony and spreads to its periphery. The cessation of proliferation coincides with the appearance of CMP and eventually the cells undergo hypertrophy and synthesize type X collagen. These results reveal distinct switches at the proliferative-maturation transition and at the maturation-hypertrophy transition during chondrocyte differentiation and indicate that chondrocytes synthesize new matrix molecules and thus modify their preexisting microenvironment as differentiation progresses. However, when "terminally" differentiated hypertrophic chondrocytes are released from their surrounding environment and incubated in pellet culture, they stop type X collagen synthesis, resume proliferation, and reinitiate aggrecan synthesis. Eventually they cease proliferation and reinitiate CMP synthesis and finally type X collagen. Thus they are capable of recapitulating all three stages of the differentiation program in vitro. The data suggest a high degree of plasticity in the chondrocyte differentiation program and demonstrate that the progression and maintenance of this program is regulated, at least in part, by the extracellular environment which surrounds a differentiating chondrocyte during endochondral bone formation.
Genetically identical irises have texture similarity that is not detected by iris biometrics

As the standard iris biometric algorithm ''sees'' them, the left and right irises of the same person are as different as irises of unrelated people. Similarly, in terms of iris biometric matching, the eyes of identical twins are as different as irises of unrelated people. The left and right eyes of an individual or the eyes of identical twins are examples of genetically identical irises. In experiments with human observers viewing pairs of iris images acquired using an iris biometric system, we have found that there is recognizable similarity in the left and right irises of an individual and in the irises of identical twins. This result suggests that iris texture analysis different from that performed in the standard iris biometric algorithm may be able to answer questions that iris biometrics cannot answer.
The imaging properties and sensitivity of the facial pits of pitvipers as determined by optical and heat-transfer analysis

SUMMARY It is commonly assumed that the facial pit of pitvipers forms relatively sharp images and can detect small differences in environmental surface temperatures. We have visualized the temperature contrast images formed on the facial pit membrane using a detailed optical and heat transfer analysis, which includes heat transfer through the air in the pit chambers as well as via thermal infrared radiation. We find the image on the membrane to be poorly focused and of very low temperature contrast. Heat flow through the air in the pit chambers severely limits sensitivity, particularly for small animals with small facial pit chambers. The aperture of the facial pit appears to be larger than is optimal for detecting small targets such as prey at 0.5 m. Angular resolution (i.e. sharpness) and image strength and contrast vary complexly with the size of the pit opening. As a result, the patterns of natural background temperatures obscure prey items and other environmental features, creating false patterns. Consequently, snakes cannot simply target the strongest signal to strike prey. To account for observed behavioral capabilities, the sensory endings on the pit membrane apparently must respond to temperature contrasts of 0.001°C or less. While neural image sharpening likely enhances imaging performance, it appears important for foraging snakes to select ambush sites offering uniform backgrounds and strong thermal contrasts. As the ancestral facial pit was likely less sensitive than the current organ, objects with strong thermal signals, such as habitat features, were needed to drive the evolution of this remarkable sense.
Modèles de présentation d'informations audio 3D pour les usagers mobiles

With the emergence of the mobile Internet combined with wearable personal computing, we are now entering a new information era where PCs are self-adapting their resources to human bodies, minds and preferences, prevailing a more effective work environment. In this new world, working effectively is inextricably related to accessing reliable information sources anytime and anywhere. In this paper, we propose innovative UI news presentations based on three-dimensional (3-D) audio modeling.We illustrate how news, weather and business reports are extracted, spatialized and presented to mobile users wearing permissive earsets.
RNA structure experimental analysis--chemical modification.

Abstract The purpose of this protocol is to identify ‘footprints’ of protein on RNA. However, it can also be used to analyze the secondary structure of RNA. This protocol is optimized for large RNA molecules; however, it can be adapted for the study of small RNAs.
Mortality Trends of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in the United States from 1999 to 2013

Rationale: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an acute hypoxemic respiratory failure seen in critically ill patients after an inciting injury. The burden of ARDS mortality in the United States in recent years is not well characterized.Objectives: In this study, we aimed to describe trends in the annual incidence of ARDS mortality in the United States from 1999 to 2013. We also describe demographic characteristics, geographic and seasonal trends, and other associated underlying causes of death in this population.Methods: Data on all deceased U.S. residents are available through the Multiple Cause of Death (MCOD) database of the National Center for Health Statistics. ARDS-related deaths were identified in the MCOD database using International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision.Measurements and Main Results: Aggregate annual crude and age-adjusted mortality rates and mortality rate ratios were used to compare various demographic subpopulations. Over the 15-year period, the national ARDS-rel...
Closure operators with prescribed properties

The notion of closure operator on a category is explored, utilizing the approach of Dikranjan and Giuli. Conditions on the underlying factorization structure are given, which allow the construction of closure operators satisfying a variety of extra conditions.
Embryology and anatomy of the cranial base

This article provides an overview of the complex embryologic development and anatomic relationships of the cranial base. The processes of neural cell migration, and chondrocranial base formation and ossification are discussed. In addition, the relative sectional anatomy is addressed with the goal of providing a functional review for clinicians dealing with cranial base disorders. The complex influences of the surrounding matrix and diffusible factors involved in skull base development are sources of continuing investigation. Through elucidation of the mechanisms of basal cranial development, the understanding of congenital and pathologic disorders of this area as well as cranial base influence on facial growth will be enhanced greatly.
Volatile Compounds in UHT-Sterilized Milk During Fluorescent Light Exposure and Storage in the Dark

When ultra-high-temperature sterilized milk (140 C for 3.5 sec) was exposed to fluorescent light over a 30-day period at 22 C, acetaldehyde, propanal, pentanal, and hexanal increased in concentration. On storage of the milk in the dark, after a 2-week period of light exposure, these same compounds decreased in concentration. No characteristic patterns were noticed in the other chromatographic peaks. When a five-fold diluted distillate of light-exposed milk was added to normal milk, a taste-panel criticized the milk as pronounced oxidation, tallowy or oily.
464. Clinical Development of Gene Therapy for Neurotransmitter Deficiency Disorder

Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency is a rare genetic disorder in which recessive inactivating mutations in the gene encoding the AADC enzyme lead to deficient synthesis of dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine and serotonin. This disease causes prominent motor symptoms, including hypokinesia, hypotonia, oculogyric crises, and dystonia. Additional symptoms include emotional lability, sleep disturbance and cognitive impairment. Because of the specific step at which AADC functions in the monoamine neurotransmitter biosynthetic pathway, patients do not respond to therapy with levodopa. There is no cure for AADC deficiency and most patients derive little symptomatic benefit from currently available medical therapies. In children with AADC deficiency, midbrain neurons that normally express AADC are intact. Gene replacement therapy, targeted to substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA), should result in significant clinical benefit in pediatric patients. We expect that delivery of a small quantity of AAV2-hAADC to these discrete midbrain regions will result in AADC production that can directly activate the full biosynthetic pathway. The therapeutic intervention we have devised involves highly precise, MRI-guided infusion of vector into SNc and VTA and this presented significant technical challenges. In addition, the severely impaired patient population required intensive logistical and ethical considerations in the development of the clinical protocol. We recently obtained Investigational New Drug (IND) approval (#16127) for a Phase I/II study to treat AADC pediatric deficiency with AAV2-hAADC. In this presentation, we will discuss the technical, medical and regulatory challenges that were resolved as we assembled this gene transfer protocol.
Constraints on supersymmetric dark matter for heavy scalar superpartners

We study the constraints on neutralino dark matter in minimal low energy supersymmetry models and the case of heavy lepton and quark scalar superpartners. For values of the Higgsino and gaugino mass parameters of the order of the weak scale, direct detection experiments are already putting strong bounds on models in which the dominant interactions between the dark matter candidates and nuclei are governed by Higgs boson exchange processes, particularly for positive values of the Higgsino mass parameter $\ensuremath{\mu}$. For negative values of $\ensuremath{\mu}$, there can be destructive interference between the amplitudes associated with the exchange of the standard $CP$-even Higgs boson and the exchange of the nonstandard one. This leads to specific regions of parameter space which are consistent with the current experimental constraints and a thermal origin of the observed relic density. In this article, we study the current experimental constraints on these scenarios, as well as the future experimental probes, using a combination of direct and indirect dark matter detection and heavy Higgs and electroweakino searches at hadron colliders.
Direct quantification of autophagic flux by a single molecule-based probe

Macroautophagy/autophagy remains a rapidly advancing research topic, and there continues to be a need for constantly evolving methodology to investigate this pathway at each individual step. Accordingly, new assays to measure autophagic flux in a robust and reliable manner are essential to understand the mechanism and physiological roles of autophagy. Kaizuka et al. recently reported a new fluorescence probe, GFP-LC3-RFP-LC3ΔG to directly demonstrate autophagic flux without being combined with lysosomal inhibitors (see the Kaizuka et al. punctum in this issue of the journal). When expressed in cells, the probe is cleaved into a degradable/quenchable part, GFP-LC3, and stable/cytosolic part, RFP-LC3ΔG. The latter serves as an internal control and a decrease of the GFP:RFP ratio indicates the occurrence of autophagy. Since the key index of this probe is the degradation of GFP-LC3, it can be used to measure the cumulative effect of basal autophagy. The assay is applicable to high-throughput drug discovery as well as in vivo analysis.
ETHNIC, NATIONAL AND REGIONAL CHALLENGE TO PEACE KEEPING AND DEVELOPMENT IN WEST AFRICA; ECOMOG IN FOCUS

The Liberian crisis which is the subject of this study was one of such cases in which the measures was applied to maintain peace by the Economic Community of West Africa State (ECOWAS). The Liberians crisis escalated in 1980 when Samuel Doe staged a coup that brought the ethnic majority of the Liberian to power. The conflict assumed a wider dimension following the involvement of other extraneous forces around Liberians, a situation which the ECOWAS leaders thought would lead to the war spreading to other countries in the sub-region. This study examined the operations of the peacekeeping body- the ECOMOG which ECOWAS established for the purpose of securing peace in Liberia. For its explanatory tool, the study adopted the theory of collective Security. The major findings of the study include the fact that the domination of political power by the Afro-America Liberians is at the root of the conflict in the country. The study also discovered that poor funding and the colonial orientations of the various forces contributing states in ECOWAS adversely affected the operation of ECOMOG in Liberia. The study recommends that the Leaders of ECOWAS should establish more integrated peacekeeping forces with training in language and cultures of the Nations in the sub-region.
Use of UAV for support of intensive agricultural management decisions: from science to commercial applications

Even in the nascent stage of unmanned aerial vehicles, it was projected that UAV technologies would closely integrate into agriculture activities at a fast pace and become a ubiquitous and low-cost tool for farming operations. Nevertheless, several years later, it is widely recognized that available UAV technology has not yet integrated into agriculture as expected despite multiple UAV platform offerings. In this paper, we discuss several concepts related to the commercial integration of UAV technology for agriculture, along with expected or existing solutions that can further its development and acceptance, especially in the US. Examples from the AggieAir UAV Research Group, at Utah State University, are included to provide a better understanding of the presented concepts.
An experimental study of quasi-synchronous multiuser communications in cluttered scenarios at low VHF

Reliable, ad hoc communication among multiple users is a crucial objective in complex tactical scenarios. A major challenge is that synchronization mechanisms (such as GPS) are intermittent and fixed centralized coordinators (e.g., base stations) are infeasible. Classical approaches to multiuser communications relying on tight time synchronization and/or power control are impractical in such scenarios. Furthermore, state-of-the-art systems operating at microwave frequencies suffer from lack of penetration and multipath effects causing significant channel variability and exacerbating the near-far effect. In this paper, we investigate the potential advantages of the favorable channel characteristics of the lower VHF band for reliable multiuser communications in highly cluttered environments among near ground nodes. We focus on a class of code division multiple access (CDMA) strategies known as quasi-synchronous (QS) direct sequence (DS) CDMA and use moderate to high QAM constellations. A key aspect of QS CDMA codes is their robustness to coarse inter-user time synchrony and power mismatch, which greatly relaxes the rate that nodes must re-synchronize with each other. Our study experimentally explores the possibilities of multiuser communications in harsh environments among near-ground nodes. Our measurements involve three canonic indoor-to-outdoor, indoor-to-indoor and through-building channels characterized by obstacles and clutter that represent very difficult propagation environments, especially at microwave frequencies. We also study the spatial and temporal variability of our system and characterize the impact of frequency offset on code orthogonality with simulations and experiments. We show that our system has strong potential for excellent multiuser performance in infrastructure-poor regimes.
Repurposed Narratives: The Battle of Ṣiffīn and the Historical Memory of the Umayyad Dynasty

The Battle of Ṣiffīn (36/657) is the flash point in the emergence of sects within Islam. The presentation of the Ṣiffīn story in Arabic historical writing therefore changed over time as the sectarian split among Sunnīs and Shīʿites became increasingly defined. This paper will trace the development of the presentation of the Ṣiffīn story in Arabic histories across developing Sunnī and Shīʿite identity crystallization and the region of origin of their authors, as well as literary and stylistic developments in the field of Arabic historical writing. The specific historians examined have been chosen in part because they demonstrate a particular chronological progression of the Ṣiffīn story from a fundamentally pro-ʿAlid episode of the first fitna to something approaching an pro-Umayyad apologetic, but also in part because they represent a broad spectrum of historiographical styles. This article will demonstrate that in these successive generations of historians, small (or large) changes in the presentation of the story, the main characters, and the style of narration reflect the regionally diverse and evolving sectarian memories, of Ṣiffīn in particular and the first fitna in general.