cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Phrase-Based Statistical Machine Translation by Learning Phrase Representations Using Long Short-Term Memory Network

Phrases play a key role in Machine Translation (MT). In this paper, we apply a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model over conventional Phrase-Based Statistical MT (PBSMT). The core idea is to use an LSTM encoder-decoder to score the phrase table generated by the PBSMT decoder. Given a source sequence, the encoder and decoder are jointly trained in order to maximize the conditional probability of a target sequence. Analytically, the performance of a PBSMT system is enhanced by using the conditional probabilities of phrase pairs computed by an LSTM encoder-decoder as an additional feature in the existing log-linear model. We compare the performance of the phrase tables in the PBSMT to the performance of the proposed LSTM and observe its positive impact on translation quality. We construct a PBSMT model using the Moses decoder and enrich the Language Model (LM) utilizing an external dataset. We then rank the phrase tables using an LSTM-based encoder-decoder. This method produces a gain of up to 3.14 BLEU score on the test set.
Relationships between mediolateral trunk-pelvic motion, hip strength, and knee joint moments during gait among persons with lower limb amputation.

Abstract Background Repeated exposures to larger lateral trunk-pelvic motion and features of knee joint loading likely influence the onset of low back pain and knee osteoarthritis among persons with lower-limb amputation. Decreased hip abductor strength can also influence frontal plane trunk-pelvic motion and knee moments; however, it is unclear how these are inter-related post-amputation. Methods Twenty-four participants with unilateral lower-limb amputation (14 transtibial; 10 transfemoral) and eight uninjured controls walked at 1.3 m/s while full-body biomechanical data were captured. Multiple linear regression and Cohen's f2 predicted (P Findings There were no group differences in hip strength, peak knee adduction moment or pelvis acceleration (p > 0.06). The combination of hip strength, and mediolateral trunk and pelvic motion did not predict (F(5,29) = 2.53, p = 0.06, adjusted R2 = 0.27, f2 = 0.08) peak knee adduction moment. However, the combination of hip strength and trunk and pelvis acceleration predicted knee adduction moment loading rate (F(7,29) = 3.59, p = 0.008, adjusted R2 = 0.45, f2 = 0.25), with peak trunk acceleration (β = 0.72, p = 0.008) and intact hip strength (β = 0.78, p = 0.008) significantly contributing to the model. Interpretation These data suggest increased hip abductor strength counteracts increased lateral trunk acceleration, concomitantly influencing the rate at which the ground reaction force vector loads the intact knee joint. Persons with lower-limb amputation perhaps compensate for increased intact limb loading by increasing trunk motion, thereby increasing demand on hip abductors to attenuate this preferential loading.
Cannabis Exposure is Associated With a Lower Likelihood of Neurocognitive Impairment in People Living With HIV

Background:Aging and HIV have adverse effects on the central nervous system, including increased inflammation and neural injury and confer risk of neurocognitive impairment (NCI). Previous research suggests the nonacute neurocognitive effects of cannabis in the general population are adverse or null
REBOA in Nontraumatic Cardiac Arrest

Nontraumatic cardiac arrest (NTCA) is a significant public health problem, affecting between 166,000 and 310,000 people annually in the United States. The probability of survival to hospital discharge remains low. Despite significant advances in care, the proportion of people surviving to hospital discharge has only minimally improved. In cardiac arrest patients, balloon occlusion of the aorta can be used in the critically ill as a method of temporizing the shock state and acting as a bridge to more definitive therapy such as the cardiac catheterization laboratory. During cardiac arrest, preclinical evidence demonstrates that the occlusion blood flow to the distal aorta effectively redirects the patient’s blood supply toward the heart and the brain, helping to preserve their function. Increased flow to these vital organs improves coronary and cerebral perfusion and oxygenation. A significant body of preclinical evidence dating back to the early 1980s supports the balloon occlusion of the aorta during NTCA as an adjunct to improve traditional advanced cardiac life support (ACLS); however, human trials have been limited to case series. Recent advances in percutaneous balloon technology have broadened this technique’s feasibility and set the stage for promising research into its role as an adjunct to ACLS.
FDG-PET in mTOR inhibitor therapy (mTOR Rx): A study of the relationship between Akt/mTOR and glycolytic pathways

4966 Background: The Akt/mTOR pathway is a target for anti-cancer therapy but there is a lack of predictive biomarkers for response to guide the clinical development of mTOR inhibitors. [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose - positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) is a non-invasive means to evaluate glycolysis in neoplasm. We investigated the role of FDG-PET in predicting response to mTOR Rx in preclinical and clinical models and correlated the findings with changes in Akt/mTOR and glycolytic pathways. Methods: Six sets of human derived tumor xenograft (xeno)-bearing nude mice models were developed and treated with daily temsirolimus (mTOR inhibitor, TEM) and vehicle (control) for 2 weeks. Each set had 6 tumors in control and TEM-treated groups respectively (n=12 in each set). Tumor growths were measured and harvested at the end of experiment. Preclinical FDG-PETs were obtained at baseline and after 1 week, and quantified as SUVmax. Δ%SUVmax was calculated as {[(SUVmax at 1 week - SUVmax at baseline)/(SUVmax at baseline)] x 100}, and TEM xenos were compared to controls within each set. Tumor expression of pAkt, pp70 and GLUT1 were investigated by Western Blot (WB) and immunochemistry (IHC) and compared to control. Serial clinical FDG-PET scans of cancer patients (pts) treated with mTOR Rx on clinical trial were correlated with clinical response to validate preclinical findings. Results:Preclinical models identified 4 sets of xenos that were TEM-resistant (TR) and 2 -sensitive (TS). The SUVmax of controls in all xeno sets increased after 1 week of vehicle treatment (Δ%SUVmax > 0%). Among the 4 TR xenos, 2 had stable/increased SUVmax after 1 week of treatment (Δ%SUVmax >= -10%)(PET resistant, PET-R) and 2 had decreased SUVmax (Δ%SUVmax
Clinical analysis on a tracheal intubation assist device in the application of cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Objective to investigate the clinical significance of a tracheal intubation assist device in the application of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Methods In 15 cases of cardiopulmonary resuscitation which can not be saw the glottis by laryngoscope were applied the device to assist tracheal intubation,Then to Record the success rate of tracheal intubation, the time-consuming and to observe the occurrence of complications. Results Successful intubation in 15 patients within 1 minute, no major complications. Conclusions The device was a safe, fast and effective way to improve the successful rate of tracheal intubation. Key words: Tracheal intubation; Laryngoscope; Cardiopulmonary resuscitation; Glottis
Examining the Anti-Tumor Activity of Dp44mT-Loaded Nanoparticles In Vitro

We have recently reported encapsulating an antitumor iron chelator, Dp44mT (Di-2-pyridylketone-4,4dimethyl-3-thiosemicarbazone), in nanoparticles (NPs) of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). In this paper, we examine the effectiveness of this nano-formulation, referred to as Dp44mT-NPs, against several cancer cell lines in vitro; specifically, we evaluate the cytotoxicity of this formulation in glioma (U87, U251), breast (MCF7), and colorectal (HT29) cancer cell lines. Cell viability results from treatment of glioma cells with Dp44mT-NPs for 24-72 hrs revealed that these NPs were highly toxic towards these malignant cells with very low IC 50 values ( 50 of 135-210 nM). Dp44mT-NPs were also toxic towards breast MCF7 and colorectal HT29 cells, but at higher dosages (IC 50 >1 µM) compared to glioma cells. Addition of PEG to these NPs, again lowered their toxicity in these cells. Varying the percentage of PEG on NPs resulted in changes in their cytotoxicity, highlighting the necessity of further optimization of this parameter. This study, overall, demonstrates the therapeutic potential of Dp44mT-NPs against different malignant cells, with particularly promising results in highly-aggressive glioma tumor cells.
Single-strand DNA-nanorod conjugates – tunable anisotropic colloids for on-demand self-assembly

Directed self-assembly uses different stimuli to initiate and control the interaction between nanocrystals. Protonation at reduced pH represents a convenient stimulus for initiating self-assembly. Prior work has focused on protonation-induced hydrogen bonding between peptide or amino acid functionalized nanocrystals for reversible cycling between dispersed and aggregated states. Here, we discuss a fundamentally different approach, in which changes in pH modify the nonspecific interparticle interaction between Au nanorods conjugated with single-stranded (ss) DNA. While electrostatic repulsion stabilizes dispersed suspensions at neutral pH, protonation in acidic solution modifies the DNA corona, turning the interaction between the rods attractive and triggering their self-assembly. Analysis of in-situ electron microscopy of ssDNA-Au nanorods in solution is consistent with a van der Waals attraction of charge-neutral monomers at acidic pH. The results demonstrate ssDNA-conjugated anisotropic nanostructures as versatile building blocks with stimuli-programmable interactions for on-demand self-assembly.
Short Gamma-Ray Bursts and Binary Mergers in Spiral and Elliptical Galaxies: Redshift Distribution and Hosts

To test whether the short GRB rates, redshift distribution and host galaxies are consistent with current theoretical predictions, we use avery large database of population synthesis calculations to examine BH-NS and NS-NS merger rates in the universe, factoring in (i) the star formation history of the universe, (ii) a heterogeneous population of star-forming galaxies, including spirals and ellipticals, and (iii) a simple flux-limited selection model for short GRB detection. When we require our models reproduce the known short GRB rates and redshift measurements (and, for NS-NS, the merger rates extrapolated from binary pulsars in the Galaxy), a small fraction of models reproduce all observations, both when we assume a NS-NS and a BH-NS origin for bursts. Most commonly models produce mergers preferentially in spiral galaxies if short GRBs arise from NS-NS mergers alone. Model universes where present-day binary mergers occur preferentially in elliptical galaxies necessarily include a significant fraction of binaries with long delay times between birth and merger (often $O(10{\rm Gyr})$). Though long delays occur, almost all of our models predict that a higher proportion of short GRBs should occur at moderate to high redshift (e.g., $z>1$) than has presently been observed, in agreement with recent observations which suggest a selection bias towards successful follow-up of low-redshift short GRBs. Finally, if only a fraction of BH-NS mergers have the right combination of masses and spins to make GRBs, then at best only a small fraction of BH-NS models could be consistent with all {\em current} available data. (Abridged)
Usability, Usefulness, and Acceptance of a Novel, Portable Rehabilitation System (mRehab) Using Smartphone and 3D Printing Technology: Mixed Methods Study.

Background: Smart technology use in rehabilitation is growing and can be used remotely to assist clients in self-monitoring their performance. With written home exercise programs being the commonly prescribed form of rehabilitation after discharge, mobile health technology coupled with task-oriented programs can enhance self-management of upper extremity training. In the current study, a rehabilitation system, namely mRehab, was designed that included a smartphone app and 3D-printed household items such as mug, bowl, key, and doorknob embedded with a smartphone. The app interface allowed the user to select rehabilitation activities and receive feedback on the number of activity repetitions completed, time to complete each activity, and quality of movement. Objective: This study aimed to assess the usability, perceived usefulness, and acceptance of the mRehab system by individuals with stroke and identify the challenges experienced by them when using the system remotely in a home-based setting. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used with 11 individuals with chronic stroke. Following training, individuals with stroke used the mRehab system for 6 weeks at home. Each participant completed surveys and engaged in a semistructured interview. Participants’ qualitative reports regarding the usability of mRehab were integrated with their survey reports and quantitative performance data. Results: Of the 11 participants, 10 rated the mRehab system between the 67.5th and 97.5th percentile on the System Usability Scale, indicating their satisfaction with the usability of the system. Participants also provided high ratings of perceived usefulness (mean 5.8, SD 0.9) and perceived ease of use (mean 5.3, SD 1.5) on a 7-point scale based on the Technology Acceptance Model. Common themes reported by participants showed a positive response to mRehab with some suggestions for improvements. Participants reported an interest in activities they perceived to be adequately challenging. Some participants indicated a need for customizing the feedback to be more interpretable. Overall, most participants indicated that they would like to continue using the mRehab system at home. Conclusions: Assessing usability in the lived environment over a prolonged duration of time is essential to identify the match between the system and users’ needs and preferences. While mRehab was well accepted, further customization is desired for a better fit with the end users. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04363944; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04363944
A Review on Trust in Human-Robot Interaction.

Due to agile developments in the field of robotics and human-robot interaction, prospective robotic agents are intended to play the role of teammates and partner with humans to perform operations, rather than tools that are replacing humans helping humans in a specific task. this notion of partnering with robots raises new challenges for human-robot interaction (HRI), which gives rise to a new field of research in HRI, namely human-robot trust. Where humans and robots are working as partners, the performance of the work can be diminished if humans do not trust robots appropriately. Considering the impact of human-robot trust observed in different HRI fields, many researchers have investigated the field of human-robot trust and examined various concerns related to human-robot trust. In this work, we review the past works on human-robot trust based on the research topics and discuss selected trends in this field. Based on these reviews, we finally propose some ideas and areas of potential future research at the end of this paper.
Cognition in heart failure: An overview of the concepts and their measures

Purpose: To review cognitive impairment and explore current measurement concerns faced by nurse practitioners caring for individuals with heart failure. Data sources: Review of peer-reviewed research articles published on the topic. Conclusions: Cognitive impairment is prevalent among individuals with heart failure. Impairment frequently involves one or more domains, including attention, memory, and executive function. No gold standard screening measure was identified from the reviewed literature. Implications for practice: It is imperative that clinicians are aware of cognitive impairment and its implications for their patients with heart failure. Cognitive impairment likely contributes to multiple clinical implications, including a decreased ability to attend to and comprehend patient education materials and an inability to appropriately assess and self-manage symptoms.
Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

UNLABELLED This article will focus on a review of the history and current status of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease in infants and children. METHODS Review of the available current literature concerning laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in infants and children. Information regarding the current approach for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children will be reviewed in addition to the indications for surgical antireflux operation; application and safety of laparoscopy; and the outcomes of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in both normal and neurologically impaired children. Finally, the reported data regarding the learning curve in performing the procedure and short-term and long-term complications of laparoscopic Nissen procedure will be discussed. Compared to open antireflux operations, the laparoscopic Nissen approach in infants and children is safe; durable; provides better cosmetic results; and allows for earlier institution of feedings. The established ''learning curve'' for safe and competent performance of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is from 25-50 cases. Neurologically impaired patients may indeed benefit from a minimally invasive approach to GERD and enteral access related to improvement of quality of life. Better nutrition and decreased complications related to malnutrition and a decreased incidence of aspiration pneumonia may be realized for these patients. The laparoscopic Nissen approach to GERD is well accepted and widely utilized in infants and children. Prospective randomized multi-institutional studies will be necessary to accurately determine whether this therapeutic approach to GERD in both neurologically impaired and neurologically normal children is the superior option compared to continued medical therapy or gastrojejunal feeding tube approaches to GERD.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase-2 Controls Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cell Cycle Progression and Is Downregulated in Adult Oligodendrocyte Progenitors

Proliferation of oligodendrocyte progenitor (OP) cells is a crucial process controlling myelination in the CNS. Previous studies demonstrated a correlation between OP proliferation rate and cyclin E/cyclin-dependent kinase-2 (cdk2) activity. To establish a causal link between cyclin E/cdk2 activity and OP proliferation, we selectively modulated cdk2 activity in vitro by transfection of cultured OP cells. Dominant-negative (Dn)-cdk2 overexpression inhibited mitogen-induced OP cell proliferation, whereas wild-type (wt)-cdk2 prevented cell cycle arrest caused by anti-mitotic signals. Dn-cdk2- or wt-cdk2-mediated regulation of G(1)/S transition, per se, did not influence initiation of OP differentiation. To study the function of cyclin E/cdk2 in OP cells during development in vivo, we analyzed cdk2 and cyclin E expression in cells acutely isolated from transgenic mice expressing the green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of the 2'-3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase gene promoter. Both cyclin E/cdk2 protein levels and activity were decreased in GFP(+) oligodendrocyte lineage cells between postnatal days 4 and 30. Immunostaining of NG2(+)/GFP(+) OP cells in brain tissue sections showed a 90% decrease in overall cell proliferation and cdk2 expression between perinatal and adult cells. However, cdk2 expression within the proliferating (i.e., expressing the proliferating cell nuclear antigen) OP cell population was maintained throughout development. Our data indicate that: (1) cyclin E/cdk2 activity plays a pivotal function in OP cell cycle decisions occurring at G(1)/S checkpoint; (2) initiation of OP differentiation is independent of cyclinE/cdk2 checkpoint, and (3) intrinsic differences in cyclin E/cdk2 expression and activity may underlie the slowly proliferative state that characterizes so-called "quiescent" adult OP cells in vivo.
My tongue shall speak: the voices of the psalms

This article examines the poetics of voice in early modern psalm translation. Translations always complicate poetic voice, since in these poems one must, somehow, hear both the voice of the original poet and the voice of translator. The voices of the psalms are further complicated when they are read or sung by Christians, either individually or collectively. Writers since the patristic period have encouraged Christians to speak the psalms as if the words are one's own, but how does this happen? Whose voices do we hear in congregational singing? Are God's, David's, the translator's, and the singer's voices blended in harmonious polyphony? Or can they sometimes clash or drown each other out? Thinking about voice is important for understanding how the psalms are written, read, sung, and ventriloquized by early modern Christians, but thinking about the psalms will have implications for the study of secular poetry as well, especially in translation.
Inflation Forecasts: How Good Are They?

Forecasts of inflation affect decision-making in many segments of the economy. But in the early 1980s, economists found that forecasts in surveys taken over the past 20 years systematically underpredicted inflation. As a result, many economists stopped paying attention to forecasts. However, they may have abandoned them too quickly. In this article, Dean Croushore takes a closer look at survey forecasts and, after considering some relevant factors, concludes that inflation forecasts may not be as bad as you think
On the suitability of 802.11a/RA for high-mobility DSRC

The 802.11a standard has been considered and applied to DSRC (dedicated short-range communication) in the 5.9 GHz band. Among the parameters of the DSRC are support for data transfers during high-mobility applications. Given that the 802.11a standard was designed for relatively low speed (3 MPH) wireless LAN applications, it is necessary to analyze the suitability of the standard in outdoor high-speed mobility applications. We present an analysis of the error rate of 802.11a in high-speed mobile applications. It is shown that 802.11a/RA communication exhibits high packet error rates and consequently lower channel capacity. An example is submitted and discussed.
The hoxZ gene of the Azotobacter vinelandii hydrogenase operon is required for activation of hydrogenase.

The roles of the product of the hoxZ gene immediately downstream of the hydrogenase gene (hoxKG) in Azotobacter vinelandii were investigated by constructing and characterizing a mutant with the center of the hoxZ gene deleted. The strain lacking the functional hoxZ gene product exhibited a low rate of H2 oxidation with O2 as the electron acceptor relative to that of the wild-type strain. Nevertheless, when the enzyme was exogenously activated and methylene blue was used as the electron acceptor from hydrogenase, rates of H2 oxidation comparable to those in the wild-type strain were observed. These results suggest that the gene product of hoxZ plays a role in activating and maintaining hydrogenase in a reduced active state. The product of hoxZ could also be the linkage necessary for transfer of electrons from H2 to the electron transport chain. Images
Bilingualism as a meaning-making resource for learning engineering

Part of a large-scale study on Hispanic engineering students at a university on the U.S./Mexico border, this paper focuses on participants' reported use of language in learning activities in engineering. Specifically, we call attention to the meaning-making resources that engineering undergraduates brought to learning activities. Semiotic (or meaning-making) resources include oral and written language (in one or more languages) as well as visual, gestural, or auditory modalities. Whereas border Hispanic students could be (and often are) positioned from a deficit perspective, we highlight the wealth of resources that participants avail themselves to in learning engineering. Drawing on ethnographic interviews and observations over a two-year period, we examine participants' reported multimodal and multilingual resources. We found that participating students 1) have a wide variety of language and literacy practices; 2) show a high awareness of language itself and how they use it and learn it; and 3) use bilingualism and biliteracy as a resource for learning in engineering.
Multipixel imaging of interfering photon density waves

A gain-modulated image intensifier with a CCD array was developed and used to simultaneously acquire multi-pixel modulation amplitude and phase images of the interference pattern within 0.5% intralipid solution and resulting from two 5 mW near infrared sources modulated 180 degrees out-of-phase at frequencies between 10 and 120 MHz. Gain modulation was achieved by modulating the voltage between the image intensifier's photocathode and multichannel plate input. Homodyning the gain modulation and source signals enabled images of the interference pattern to be obtained with total exposure times on the order of 3 seconds or less. A strongly absorbing, embedded heterogeneity could be localized in two dimensions by its deflection of the interference plane between two out-of-phase sources.
Computer understanding and generalization of symbolic mathematical calculations: a case study in physics problem solving

An artificial intelligence system that learns by observing its users perform symbolic mathematical problem solving is presented. This fully-implemented system is being evaluated as a problem solver in the domain of classical physics. Using its mathematical and physical knowledge, the system determines why a human-provided solution to a specific problem suffices to solve the problem, and then extends the solution technique to more general situations, thereby improving its own problem-solving performance. This research illustrates a need for symbolic mathematics systems to produce explanations of their problem-solving steps, as these explanations guide learning. Although physics problem solving is currently being investigated, the results obtained are relevant to other mathematically-based domains. This work also has implications for intelligent computer-aided instruction in domains of this type.
Effect of N-Alkyl and N-Alkenyl Substituents in Noroxymorphindole, 17-Substituted-6,7-dehydro-4,5α-epoxy-3,14-dihydroxy-6,7:2‘,3‘-indolomorphinans, on Opioid Receptor Affinity, Selectivity, and Efficacy

The N-alkyl analogues (N-ethyl through N-heptyl), branched N-alkyl chain analogues (N-isopropyl, N-2-methylpropyl, and N-3-methylbutyl), and N-alkenyl analogues ((E)-N-3-methylallyl (crotyl), N-2-methylallyl, and N-3,3-dimethylallyl) were prepared in the noroxymorphindole series (17-substituted-6,7-dehydro-4,5alpha-epoxy-3,14-dihydroxy-6,7:2',3'-indolomorphinans), and the effect of the N-substituent on opioid receptor affinity, selectivity, and efficacy was examined using receptor binding assays, [(35)S]GTPgammaS efficacy determinations, and smooth muscle functional assays (electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens and guinea pig ileum). All of the compounds acted as opioid antagonists, including those with N-substituents which usually confer either weak agonist-antagonist behavior (N-ethyl) or potent opioid agonist activity (N-pentyl) in morphinan-like ligands which interact with the mu-receptor. Several N-substituted noroxymorphindoles were found to be more mu/delta-selective than naltrindole (NTI). The N-2-methylallylnoroxymorphindole, in particular, was found to be more selective than NTI in receptor binding assays (mu/delta = 1700 vs 120; kappa/delta = 810 vs 140), as an antagonist in the GTPgammaS assay (mu/delta = 170 vs 140; kappa/delta = 620 vs 160), and considerably more selective than NTI in the functional assays (mu/delta > 2200 vs 90). It also had high affinity for the delta-opioid receptor (K(i) = 4.7 nM in the binding assay) and high antagonist potency (1.2 nM in the GTPgammaS assay; 8.9 nM in the MVD assay).
Role of the Melanocyte in Epidermal Inflammatory and Immune Responses

The epidermis is composed of four major cell types in the mouse. In addition to keratinocytes and Langerhans cells, there are also melanocytes and Thyl+ lymphocytes. We propose that for the epidermis to maintain homeostasis, all four cell types must interact together in an integrated fashion. Vitiligo is a form of depigmentation that affects human subjects. Depigmentation is common in the animal kingdom. In at least several animal species, depigmentation is accompanied by loss of responsiveness of the epidermis to potent contact allergens like dinitrofluorobenzene. The C57Bl/Ler vit/vit mouse spontaneously depigments and is phenotypically similar to humans with vitiligo. We have studied this species extensively and have found that it has an isolated immune defect to contact allergens. In this report, we document that there is loss of epidermal melanocytes. Although there is a loss of epidermal contact sensitivity in this animal, other immune parameters such as dermal delayed-type hypersensitivity are normal. We attribute this loss of immune sensitivity in the epidermis to be associated with loss of the melanocyte. We report and review in detail the many peptides and other types of inflammatory mediators that affect both melanocyte function as well as immune responsiveness.
Evaluation of the Sagittal Saw Blade as an Intraoperative Fomite During Diabetic Foot Surgery

Surgical site infection is a major potential complication of all operative interventions, and the diabetic foot is particularly at risk for bacterial recontamination and infectious sequelae. The objective of this study was to identify whether the sagittal saw blade used during partial foot amputations and diabetic foot debridements carries the potential to serve as a bacterial fomite. We physically cultured the sagittal saw blade during 20 foot debridements involving the resection of bone in patients diagnosed with a diabetic foot infection. The culture was taken after the initial debridement and during the irrigation phase of the procedure. We observed 16 positive routine intraoperative culture results, with positive saw blade culture results in 15 (93.8%; 15/16) of these cases. In 14 (93.3%; 14/15) of these cases, the saw blade culture grew at least one of the same bacteria as our other routine intraoperative cultures. We observed 4 negative routine intraoperative culture results, with negative saw blade culture results in 3 (75.0%; 3/4) of these cases. This results in agreement between routine intraoperative cultures and saw blade culture of 85.0% (17/20). The results of this investigation demonstrate that the sagittal saw blade used for osseous resection during diabetic foot debridements and partial foot amputations carries the potential for intraoperative bacterial transmission. We recommend changing at least the sagittal saw blade if more bone is resected following irrigation, particularly if it is used to obtain a "clean margin" for microbiological or histological examination.
Primary psoas abscess complicating a normal vaginal delivery.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Psoas abscess is a rare and potentially dangerous complication of normal delivery. CASE: We describe a case of primary psoas abscess after normal vaginal delivery. A young woman presented with fever, left back pain, left lower abdominal pain, and hip pain starting on postpartum day 2. Computed tomography demonstrated a large retroperitoneal collection. Aspiration drainage of the abscess under computed tomography guidance isolated Streptococcus viridans , which responded to antibiotic therapy and percutaneous drainage with complete resolution. CONCLUSION: A high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosis of psoas abscess, which should be considered in postpartum patients with pyrexia, back and hip pain, and a normal neurologic examination. Computed tomography is effective for diagnosis and allows percutaneous drainage of the abscess.
Serological characterization of humoral lectins from the freshwater prawn Macrobrachiumrosenbergii

We have detected and partially characterized multiple lectins present in the serum of the freshwater prawn Macrobrachiumrosenbergii. Since agglutination of erythrocytes (RBC) is not abolished by treatment with Vibriocholerae neuraminidase (VCN), Macrobrachium shows an agglutination pattern different from that of other sialic acid-specific lectins such as Limuluspolyphemus lectin. However, after absorption with primate and bird VCN-treated RBC, Macrobrachium serum exhibits high titers with untreated and pronase-treated RBC and no agglutination of VCN-treated RBC, suggesting a typical sialic acid specific lectin agglutination profile. Hemagglutination-inhibition tests indicate that sialic acid containing compounds are the best inhibitors for Macrobrachium lectins. Subterminal sugars and type of linkage are probably important for the lectin binding since bovine submaxillary mucin (containing mainly terminal NANA-α-2 6-GalNAc-) is a better inhibitor than fetuin (containing mainly terminal NANA-α-2→3-Gal-) and colominic acid (-NANA-α-2→8-NANA-) is a weak inhibitor.
Partially coherent phonon heat conduction in superlattices

In this paper, the phonon thermal conductivity of semiconductor superlattices is calculated with the use of a modified lattice dynamics model, in which an imaginary wave vector is added. The mean free path caused by diffuse interface scattering is included in the imaginary wave vector. This model combines the effects of phonon confinement and diffuse interface scattering on the thermal conductivity in superlattices, and is applicable to phonon transport in the partially coherent regime, where bulk and superlattice phonon modes mix up. The theoretical results for the GaAs/AlAs superlattices are compared with the experimental data. The period thickness dependence and temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity in the GaAs/AlAs superlattices can be well explained by this model.
Bosentan preserves endothelial function in mice overexpressing APP.

Abstract This study was designed to test the hypothesis that Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with endothelial dysfunction and that chronic endothelin-1 antagonism preserves endothelial function in mice overexpressing the AD amyloid precursor protein (APP). Three groups of mice were studied: C57BL/6 (normal control, n = 6), transgenic mice overexpressing APP (Tg2576, n = 5), and Tg2576 mice fed Bosentan (100 mg/(kg day) −1 ), a combined endothelin A and B receptor antagonist, for 4 months (Tg2576+Bosentan, n = 5). Mice were sacrificed at the age of 7 months. In vitro, the endothelium-dependent aortic vasorelaxation was significantly attenuated in Tg2576 mice as compared to C57BL/6 and Tg2576+Bosentan mice. In contrast, Tg2576+Bosentan and C57BL/6 mice showed similar endothelium-dependent aortic vasorelaxation. Similarly, endothelium-dependent carotid vasorelaxation was significantly attenuated in Tg2576 mice compared to C57BL/6 and Tg2576+Bosentan mice. There was no difference between the three groups in the response to nitroprusside. The current study demonstrates the presence of endothelial dysfunction in both carotid and aortic arteries in mice overexpressing APP and suggests a pathophysiological role for the endogenous endothelin system in AD.
Nonparametric classes of weight functions to model publication bias

SUMMARY This paper addresses the use of weight functions to model publication bias in metaanalysis. Since publication bias is hard to gauge, a nonparametric s-contamination class of weight functions is introduced. Sensitivity of conclusions to the specification of the weight function is explored by examining the range of results for the entire 8-contamination class. First, lower bounds are found on the coverage of confidence intervals. If little publication bias is suspected, results are robust even when considered over the entire 8contamination class. However, if more substantial publication bias is suspected, then the coverage provided by the usual interval estimator is not robust. In this case, an alternative interval estimator is suggested. Secondly, for the case in which prior information is available, upper and lower bounds are found on posterior quantities of interest.
MOLAR VERSUS MOLECULAR AS A PARADIGM CLASH

The molar view of behavior arose in response to the demonstrated inadequacy of explanations based on contiguity. Although Dinsmoor's (2001) modifications to two-factor theory render it irrefutable, a more basic criticism arises when we see that the molar and molecular views differ paradigmatically. The molar view has proven more productive.
Genetic Recombination in a Common-B Cross of Schizophyllum commune

THIS communication reports the synthesis of stable common-B heterokaryons in Schizophyllum commune, and the occurrence of normal genetic recombination in fruit-bodies derived therefrom. Although common B heterokaryosis and the normal segregation of the A-factor in common-B fruit-bodies have been reported in other tetrapolar species1–3, these phenomena in S. commune have not been demonstrated with certainty4,5. The nature of production of spores in such fruit-bodies, however, has not been fully determined, and “It appears uncertain, whether such fruit-bodies are apomictic or functionally bipolar”6.
Effect of d-amphetamine on post-error slowing in healthy volunteers.

Rationale Post-error slowing has long been considered a sign of healthy error detection and an important component of cognitive function. However, the neuropharmacological processes underlying post-error slowing are poorly understood.
Interprofessional education in medical school.

Summary The opinions of entering medical students regarding interprofessional education (IPE), and their reasons, are described in this article. More female than male students favour IPE, 49 as compared to 25%. Students who endorse IPE give different reasons for their position than students who oppose it. The former group refer to increased communication and respect among health professionals, increased knowledge about mutual roles and function, greater equality among members of the health team and improved patient care. The opposing group fear that IPE would lower the quality of education by increasing class size and slow the pace of instruction to accommodate students with limited scientific backgrounds. Students also protest against having to study irrelevant subjects and acquire irrelevant skills. The opposing group is concerned primarily with IPE's effect on medical students; the group in favour is concerned more with the effect on patients and interprofessional relations. It seems that opinions about IPE are part of a basic attitudinal structure that medical students bring with them when they enter medical school. The implications for IPE in medical school are discussed.
Regulator of Calcineurin 1 Controls Growth Plasticity of Adult Pancreas

Background & Aims Growth of exocrine pancreas is regulated by gastrointestinal hormones, notably cholecystokinin (CCK). CCK-driven pancreatic growth requires calcineurin (CN), which activates Nuclear Factor of Activated T cells (NFATs), but the genetic underpinnings and feedback mechanisms that regulate this response are not known. Methods Pancreatic growth was stimulated by protease inhibitor (PI)-containing chow, which induces secretion of endogenous CCK. Expression profiling of PI stimulation was performed on Affymetrix 430A chips, and CN was inhibited via FK506. Exocrine pancreas-specific overexpression of CN inhibitor Regulator of Calcineurin 1 (Rcan1) was achieved by breeding elastase-Cre(estrogen receptor [ER]) transgenics with "flox-on" Rcan1 mice. Results CN inhibitor FK506 blocked expression of 38 genes, as confirmed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The CN-dependent genes were linked to growth-related processes, whereas their promoters were enriched in NFAT and NFAT/AP1 sites. Multiple NFAT targets, including Rcan1, Rgs2, HB-EGF, Lif, and Gem, were validated by chromatin immunoprecipitation. One of these, a CN feedback inhibitor Rcan1, was induced >50 fold during 1–8 hours course of pancreatic growth and strongly inhibited (>99%) by FK506. To examine its role in pancreatic growth, we overexpressed Rcan1 in an inducible, acinar-specific fashion. Rcan1 overexpression inhibited CN-NFAT signaling, as shown using an NFAT-luciferase reporter and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Most importantly, the increase in exocrine pancreas size, protein/DNA content, and acinar proliferation were all blocked in Rcan1 overexpressing mice. Conclusions We profile adaptive pancreatic growth, identify Rcan1 as an important new feedback regulator, and firmly establish that CN-NFAT signaling is required for this response.
Applying the transtheoretical model to cancer screening behavior.

Objective To provide a comprehensive review of published research on the application of the transtheoretical model (TTM) to cancer screening behavior. Methods Studies were categorized by design, given an internal validity rating where appropriate, and rated. Results Forty-two studies were reviewed. Stage-matched mammography interventions were supported; however, the body of literature was of limited size. Research on the TTM as it applies to other cancer screenings is sparse. Conclusions Stage-of-change and decisional balance appear to apply to mammography. More validation research is needed on the application of the TTM to all cancer screening behaviors.
Photocatalytic patterning of monolayers for the site-selective deposition of quantum dots onto TiO2 surfaces.

A novel photochemical mechanism is reported for the site-selective deposition of quantum dots onto nanocrystalline TiO2 films. The patterning mechanism involves the combination of surfactant-mediated self-assembly and monolayer photolithography. In the self-assembly process, CdS and CdSe quantum dots were attached to TiO2 surfaces through bifunctional mercaptoalkanoic acid (MAA) linkers. MAAs were adsorbed to the TiO2 surface as the deprotonated carboxylates, primarily through monodentate coordination to Ti4+ sites. CdSe quantum dots were bound to the terminal thiol groups of surface-adsorbed MAAs, with a surface adduct formation constant, Kad, of (2.1 ± 0.7) × 104 M-1. The color and optical density of the quantum dot-functionalized TiO2 films were tunable. Monolayer photopatterning involved the TiO2-catalyzed oxidative degradation of surface-adsorbed mercaptohexadecanoic acid (MHDA). A mechanism is proposed wherein MHDA degradation occurs through both oxidative decarboxylation and the formation of interc...
An infeasible-interior-point algorithm for linear complementarity problems

We modify the algorithm of Zhang to obtain anO(n2L) infeasible-interior-point algorithm for monotone linear complementarity problems that has an asymptoticQ-subquadratic convergence rate. The algorithm requires the solution of at most two linear systems with the same coefficient matrix at each iteration.
mHealth @ UAH: computing infrastructure for mobile health and wellness monitoring

New health care systems that integrate wearable sensors, personal devices, and servers promise to fundamentally change the way health care services are delivered and used.
Relationship between Arterial Pressure and Negative U Waves in Electrocardiograms

Direct correlation exists between arterial pressure levels and negativity of U waves in electrocardiograms of hypertensive patients; lowering of arterial pressure results in conversion of negative to positive U waves in the majority of hypertensive patients. Presence of negative U waves does not necessarily indicate organic myocardial changes or a grave prognosis; when their polarity remains unchanged following antihypertensive treatment, it may indicate unsatisfactory control of arterial pressure.
Biogeography of the Andean metaltail hummingbirds: contrasting evolutionary histories of tree line and habitat‐generalist clades

Aim To assess geographical and temporal patterns of diversification in Metallura hummingbirds, particularly with respect to topographical barriers and climatic variation between different populations. Location Tropical Andes. Methods We estimated a multilocus phylogeny for all nine species of Metallura and evaluated phylogeographical patterns within Metallura tyrianthina using mitochondrial DNA sequences from across its range (n = 192). We tested mechanisms of diversification using climatic classification of sampling sites, coalescent-based dating, lineages-through-time plots and dispersal–vicariance analysis. Results Metallura consists of two main clades: (1) the tree line specialists in the M. aeneocauda superspecies; and (2) a habitat-generalist clade that includes M. tyrianthina and M. iracunda. Metallura phoebe was recovered as sister to the tree line clade in some analyses. In both clades, there was marked genetic structure across topographical barriers and almost no structure between climatically distinct regions in the absence of barriers. The tree line clade exhibited deeper divergences in the Central Andes than elsewhere, and a south-to-north history of diversification, whereas the habitat-generalist clade showed deeper divergences in the Northern Andes and a history of southward expansion. A pure-birth model explained the steady net rate of diversification of Metallura hummingbirds through the Pliocene and the Pleistocene. Main conclusions Isolation across topographical barriers best explained the genetic structure in M. tyrianthina. The two Metallura clades expanded from opposite ends of the Andes, leading to asynchronous divergence across common topographical barriers. Cycles of expansion followed by isolation may explain the preponderance of idiosyncratic area relationships that are typical of Andean clades. Geoclimatic dynamism during the Pleistocene caused Metallura and other Andean bird clades to undergo radical range shifts, including dispersal across topographical barriers, that became key to their diversification.
Disposition of leucovorin and its metabolites in the plasma, intestinal epithelium, and intraperitoneal L1210 cells of methotrexate-pretreated mice.

Leucovorin (LV or 5-CHOFH4) has had longstanding clinical use as a rescue agent from the systemic toxic effects of methotrexate (MTX). Because the mouse has been the animal model most used to investigate MTX therapy, direct tissue assessment of LV and its reduced-folate metabolites was undertaken in the plasma, intestinal epithelium, and intraperitoneal L1210 cells of MTX-pretreated mice using a ternary-complex-based assay method. The results show that total folate accumulation and depletion in tissues is closely related to plasma levels, with somewhat greater persistence occurring in tissues, presumably due to polyglutamylation. Examination of individual folates in plasma showed that the combined 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate (CH2FH4) plus tetrahydrofolate (FH4) pool was the most extensively elevated pool other than that of the parent compound [S]-5-formyltetrahydrofolate ([S]-5-CHOFH4). The dihydrofolate (FH2) also became elevated, whereas the 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-CH3FH4) remained unchanged. Individual folates that were elevated in tissues were generally the same as those elevated in plasma, the exception being a significant accumulation of 10-formyltetrahydrofolate (10-CHOFH4) in both intestinal epithelial and L1210 cells. The elevation of FH2 in L1210 cells was greater and persisted longer than that in intestinal epithelium, whereas the opposite was true for CH2FH4+FH4. This differential effect in tumor versus epithelial tissue is consistent with the selective rescue of normal tissue by LV.