cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sexual dimorphic expression of TrkB, TrkB-T1, and BDNF in the medial preoptic area of the Syrian hamster

Abstract Neurotrophins regulate many aspects of neuronal function and activity. Specifically, the binding of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to Tyrosine receptor kinase-B (TrkB) or its truncated version, TrkB-T1, can cause growth and differentiation or dominant inhibition of receptor signaling, respectively. There is evidence that these neurotropic effects on nervous tissue, in both the central and peripheral nervous system, behave differently between the sexes. This study used western blots to examine the expression of these neurotrophins in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), a sexually dimorphic region of the hamster brain that controls male sex behavior. We report that TrkB-FL and BDNF show greater expression in male MPOA tissue, when compared to female. On the contrary, TrkB-T1 is expressed in greater abundance in the female MPOA. Our results indicate a clear sexual dimorphism of neurotrophins in the MPOA of the Syrian hamster. Furthermore, the greater expression of TrkB-FL and BDNF in the male MPOA suggests that these neurotrophins could be promoting synaptic growth to facilitate male-typical copulation. In contrast, the greater TrkB-T1 expression in the female MPOA suggests a possible inhibition of synaptic growth, and may contribute to the lack of male-typical copulation. Altogether, our data suggests that neurotrophins may play a larger role sexual differentiation than previously thought.
Through-Space Communication Effects on the Electrochemical Reduction of Partially Oxidized Pillar[5]arenes Containing Variable Numbers of Quinone Units

The electrochemical reduction of five partially oxidized pillar[5]arenes containing variable numbers (1–5) of quinone units was investigated in acetonitrile and dichloromethane solutions. The cathodic voltammetric behavior of all the macrocyclic compounds containing two or more quinone units indicates the existence of detectable levels of electronic communication between them. We have also investigated these compounds and their reduced forms using DFT computations. Our computational results indicate the presence of through-space communication between quinone units.
Trends in Prostate Cancer Incidence Rates and Prevalence of Prostate Specific Antigen Screening by Socioeconomic Status and Regions in the United States, 2004 to 2013

Purpose: To our knowledge it is unknown whether decreases in the prevalence of prostate specific antigen screening and prostate cancer incidence rates following the USPSTF (United States Preventive Services Task Force) recommendations against routine prostate specific antigen screening are similar across socioeconomic groups and United States census regions.Materials and Methods: We analyzed incidence rates and prostate specific antigen screening prevalence by age, race/ethnicity, disease stage, United States region and area level socioeconomic status. Annual percent changes were examined for changes in rates with time. The predicted marginal probability and 95% CIs were calculated to estimate changes in prostate specific antigen screening.Results: Incidence rates in men 50 years old or older decreased in all race/ethnic, regional and socioeconomic status groups. From 2007 to 2013 the overall incidence rates for localized cancer significantly decreased 7.5% per year (95% CI –10.5––4.4) at ages 50 to 74 ye...
HIV-Related Stigma, Social Support, and Psychological Distress Among Individuals Initiating ART in Ethiopia

Recent World Health Organization HIV treatment guideline expansion may facilitate timely antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. However, large-scale success of universal treatment strategies requires a more comprehensive understanding of known barriers to early ART initiation. This work aims to advance a more comprehensive understanding of interrelationships among three known barriers to ART initiation: psychological distress, HIV-related stigma, and low social support. We analyzed cross-sectional interview data on 1175 adults initiating ART at six HIV treatment clinics in Ethiopia. Experience of each form of HIV-related stigma assessed (e.g., anticipatory, internalized, and enacted) was associated with increased odds of psychological distress. However, among those who reported enacted HIV-related stigma, there was no significant association between social support and psychological distress. Interventions to improve mental health among people living with HIV should consider incorporating components to address stigma, focusing on strategies to prevent or reduce the internalization of stigma, given the magnitude of the relationship between high internalized stigma and psychological distress. Interventions to increase social support may be insufficient to improve the mental health of people living with HIV who experienced enacted HIV-related stigma. Future research should examine alternative strategies to manage the mental health consequences of enacted HIV-related stigma, including coping skills training.
Listeria monocytogenes: Synergistic Effects of Ampicillin and Gentamicin

Listeria monocytogenes infections are most common in newborn infants and persons with impaired defense mechanisms. There are reports of successful treatment with ampicillin alone: however, there is uncertainty as to what regimen constitutes the most effective therapy. The purpose of this study was to illustrate the in-vitro synergism between ampicillin and gentamicin against L. monocytogenes. Seven strains of L. monocytogenes isolated from bloods or cerebrospinal fluids of infants and three control strains obtained from the Center for Disease Control were tested. Minimal inhibitory concentrations of ampicillin and gentamicin were determined in Todd-Hewitt broth with an inoculum of 10(5) organisms/ml. Killing curves were determined for ampicillin 6 microgram/ml, gentamicin, 0.5 microgram/ml, and the combination of ampicillin, 6 microgram/ml, plus gentamicin, 0.5 microgram/ml. Incubation of approximately 10(7) organisms/ml with these concentrations of ampicillin and gentamicin caused no significant reduction in the viable bacterial population in 24 hours. The combination, on the other hand, was bactericidal in all seven strains isolated from patients and one control strain. The authors believe the ultimate test of the superiority of this combination to ampicillin alone must come from clinical studies. However, the synergistic and bactericidal effects of ampicillin with gentamicin may be very desirable in treatment of newborns and patients with underlying disease.
Trainee wellness: self-critical perfectionism, self-compassion, depression, and burnout among doctoral trainees in psychology

ABSTRACTTraining to become a therapist is a uniquely challenging process with frequent evaluation and balancing of multiple roles (e.g. student, teacher, researcher, counselor, and supervisee). In ...
Fuzzy logic controller: Application to liquid-level system

The development of liquid-level control algorithms, based on sets of linguistic rules expressing human operator’s “intuitive” control strategies, have been reported. The main objective of the present paper is to illustrate the implementation methodology. The experimental work was done with a 28.3L flotation cell. The control variable (height of pulp in the cell) was controlled by manipulating the outflow rate. The controller algorithms were programmed and implemented using an Apple IIe computer and a Keithley das Series 500 measurement and control interface. It is pointed out that the scheme of fuzzy controllers is simple to use and powerful enough to handle complex and nonlinear systems.
David's Five Smooth Stones: Cloud Technology for the Florida Consumer Lawyer

At least in Florida, sometimes it just might be worth a lawyer’s while to represent David in the saga of David v. Goliath, even if that lawyer does not receive a salary paid by the Legal Services Corporation and cannot afford to offer his services pro bono. The determined lawyer “without a sword in his hand” sometimes may “triumph over the Philistine.” Here we explore that lawyer shepherd’s “New Clio” tunic and five smooth stones of Florida consumer law with which the lawyer may work: contingent fees, fee shifting, statutory damages, reciprocity, and e-discovery. So, armed, there is at least there is a possibility of victory if the LORD is truly on his side.
n → π* Interactions in N-Acyl Homoserine Lactone Derivatives and Their Effects on Hydrolysis Rates.

N-Acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) mediate population-wide behavioral changes in Gram-negative bacteria through quorum sensing (QS), a process shown to regulate virulence, biofilm formation, and other phenotypes that impact human health. AHLs have been proposed to contain an n → π* interaction that reduces the molecules’ susceptibility to signal inactivation via lactone hydrolysis. In this work, seven AHL derivatives were modeled via gas-phase DFT calculations, implicit solvent DFT calculations, and MD simulations. Each derivative was then synthesized and hydrolyzed to probe the relationship between the strength of the orbital interaction and hydrolysis rate. The data obtained support that an increase in n → π* energy (En→π*) correlates to a decrease in the hydrolysis rate constant (kobs). Further, the observed variation in these rates demonstrates that AHL hydrolysis can be modified by manipulating steric and electronic effects that alter the electrophilicity of the lactone carbonyl. These results help to...
Differences Between Founder-Led and Non-Founder-Led Congregations: A Research Note

While sociologists have had a longstanding interest in religious leadership and congregational authority structures, most of the research in this area ignores the fact that many congregational leaders started the congregations they lead. Being in this unique position, founding pastor, likely gives them unusual authority to shape church policy and practice in, as yet, unexamined ways. Using three waves of the National Congregational Study, we examine differences between congregations led by their first (i.e., founding) pastor and congregations led by subsequent pastors hired by or assigned to those congregations. The paper concludes with a discussion of the implications of these differences.
High-throughput and field-portable ptychographic lensless on-chip microscopy based on translated pattern modulation

We discuss two compact, cost-effective, and field-portable ptychographic lensless imaging platforms for quantitative microscopy. In the first implementation, we use a low-cost galvo scanner to rapidly scan an unknown laser speckle pattern on the object. To address the positioning repeatability and accuracy issues, we directly recover the positional shifts of the speckle pattern based on the phase correlation of the captured images. To bypass the resolution limit set by the imager pixel size, we employ a sub-sampled ptychographic phase retrieval process to recover the complex object. In the second implementation, we place a thin diffuser in between the object and the image sensor for light wave modulation. By blindly scanning the unknown diffuser to different x-y positions, we acquire a sequence of modulated intensity images for quantitative object recovery. Different from previous ptychographic implementations, we employ a unit magnification configuration with a Fresnel number of ~50,000, which is orders of magnitude higher than previous ptychographic setups. The unit magnification configuration allows us to have the entire sensor area, 6.4 mm by 4.6 mm, as the imaging field of view. The ultra-high Fresnel number enables us to directly recover the positional shift of the diffuser in the phase retrieval process. In this second implementation, we use a low-cost, DIY scanning stage to perform blind diffuser modulation. We further employ an up-sampling phase retrieval scheme to bypass the resolution limit set by the imager pixel size and demonstrate a half-pitch resolution of 0.78 µm. For both implementations, we validate the imaging performance via various biological samples. The reported platforms provide cost-effective and turnkey solutions for large field-of-view, high-resolution, and quantitative on-chip microscopy. They are adaptable for a wide range of point-of-care-, global-health-, and telemedicine-related applications.
Landau theory of stripe phases in cuprates and nickelates

We consider a Landau theory of coupled charge and spin-density-wave order parameters as a simple model for the ordering that has been observed experimentally in the La{sub 2}NiO{sub 4} and La{sub 2}CuO{sub 4} families of doped antiferromagnets. The period of the charge-density wave is generically half that of the spin-density wave, or equivalently the charges form antiphase domain walls in the antiferromagnetic order. A sharp distinction exists between the case in which the ordering is primarily charge driven (which produces a sequence of transitions in qualitative agreement with experiment) or spin driven (which does not). We also find that stripes with noncollinear spin order (i.e., spiral phases) are possible in a region of the phase diagram where the transition is spin driven; the spiral is circular only when there is no charge order, and is otherwise elliptical with an eccentricity proportional to the magnitude of the charge order. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
A phase II trial of the Wee1 inhibitor adavosertib (AZD1775) in recurrent uterine serous carcinoma.

6009Background: Uterine serous carcinoma (USC) is an aggressive subtype of endometrial carcinoma characterized by TP53 mutations ( > 90%), often concomitantly with oncogenic mutations or amplificat...
Evolution of behavioural resistance in host-pathogen systems.

Behavioural resistance to parasites is widespread in animals, yet little is known about the evolutionary dynamics that have shaped these strategies. We show that theory developed for the evolution ...
Cytological interpretation of p16 immunohistochemistry in head and neck carcinomas: does the choice of fixative matter?

Introduction Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of nodal metastases plays a key role in the diagnosis of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Because of significant clinical implications of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related OPSCC, immunohistochemistry for p16 as a surrogate marker for high-risk HPV is an important ancillary test. After our laboratory switched from CytoLyt to formalin fixative for FNA needle rinses generating cell block (CB) material, we investigated the impact of this protocol change on the accuracy of p16 results. Materials and methods FNA specimens of head and neck lesions with p16 staining performed on CB, from 1 year before and after the implementation of formalin-fixed CB (FCB) were identified. Nuclear and cytoplasmic p16 expression was scored and compared to p16 status on corresponding surgical specimens. Results There were no false-positive results with either fixative. CytoLyt-fixed CB (CCB) had 47% (7 of 15) false-negative cases, whereas FCB had none, with 100% diagnostic accuracy for p16-negative (n = 6) and p16-positive (n = 15) results. False-negative CCB showed 0% to 10% nuclear and 0% to 65% weak cytoplasmic staining, whereas true-positive CCB showed 10% to 85% nuclear and 35% to 90% cytoplasmic staining. p16-negative FCB showed 0% nuclear and cytoplasmic staining, and p16-positive FCB showed 30% to 100% moderate-strong nuclear and cytoplasmic staining. Interobserver variability was greater with CCB. Conclusions In our laboratory, formalin fixation of CB material improved the accuracy of p16 interpretation. Staining in FCB was also more robust than CCB, which showed weaker cytoplasmic and more focal nuclear staining. Therefore, we advocate formalin fixation for head and neck cytology specimens that may require p16 testing.
Impact of Implementing Curriculum for Resident Education in Surgical Technique (CREST): A Train-the-Trainer Simulation Course

Study Objective To evaluate the impact of a platform of educational resources on the surgical curriculum in Ob-Gyn residency programs. Design A website was created to house simulation resources modeling basic laparoscopic skills in preparation for the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Skills (FLS) assessment. A hands-on, simulation-based seminar was developed to demonstrate training and performance of surgical skills while educating participants on optimizing access and use of these resources. Setting Seminars conducted at 7 regional ACOG meetings and 3 national meetings of AAGL, the Council for Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG), and the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics (APGO). Patients or Participants 190 ObGyn residents and 125 residency program directors (PDs) or assistant PDs completed the seminars. Interventions Expectations were assessed before and after training groups of participants. Expert surgeon-trainers coached small groups in laparoscopic surgical tactics, demonstrating the use of text- and video-based resources as well as hands-on experience with skills simulations using commercially available instruments and materials. Participants rotated around six laparoscopy box trainer-stations, practicing each skill set while receiving expert feedback. Measurements and Main Results Participants completed pre- and post-intervention surveys (n=32 and 73, respectively), and were asked to review materials on the website. Before training, needs expressed included desire to learn tips and tricks to train residents (85%), acquire curriculum development skills (74%), and gain exposure to a simulated test environment (65%). Post-intervention, 86% of respondents reported their expectations were met. The average participant rating was 4.3 on a scale of 1 (not at all helpful) to 5 (very helpful). Monitoring of Post-intervention website visits, video review, and resource downloads data suggest continued interest and program sustainability. Conclusion With a reliable needs assessment prior to implementation, appropriate organization, and expert trainers, a well-planned surgical curriculum program can deliver sustainable impact.
Accident tolerant fuels (FeCrAl Cladding & Coating) performance analysis in Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) by the MELCOR 1.8.6 UDGC

Abstract Since the accident at Fukushima, one major goal of reactor safety research has been the development of more accident tolerant technologies that can mitigate or delay fuel degradation during a Beyond Design Basis Accident (BDBA). One major effort has been focused on increasing the capability of the fuel to be more tolerant of damage during an accident, i.e., Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF) materials. In this work, we present the development of a generic BWR plant model, the modification of MELCOR to model ATF materials and the use of ATF materials (specifically FeCrAl alloy) as a coating on Zircaloy cladding or as a substitute material for cladding and fuel assembly canister material and its effect on severe accident progression, specifically, a Station Blackout accident. The analysis indicates that significant fuel degradation via fuel heat-up, clad oxidation, and hydrogen generation was delayed up to an hour if FeCrAl alloy was used as a clad and canister material. And, combined with the passive safety systems (i.e., the Reactor Core Isolation Cooling system, RCIC), the extended operation of these systems delayed fuel degradation further. However, an adverse effect should be emphasized for the monolithic FeCrAl design—it generated more hydrogen than the designs based on the Zircaloy due to the high reaction rate at a high temperature of FeCrAl. The design of the FeCrAl-coated-Zircaloy avoids this defect. Therefore, it is a promising choice to combine some of the beneficial traits of both materials.
Who Takes Intro Computing? Examining the Degree Plans of Introductory Computing Students in Light of Booming Enrollments

This article examines the major and minor degree intentions of undergraduates enrolled in introductory computing courses. Focusing on three primary groups (computing majors, non-computing majors, and undecided majors) we examine specific major choices, double major combinations, and minors. Further, we examine the degree intentions of women and underrepresented racially minoritized students compared to their male and majority counterparts. Findings reveal wide variation in the degree plans of intro students and that degree intentions vary by gender and race/ethnicity in several ways.
Integrating emotive competencies in public affairs education

Emotion is the “how” of NASPAA competencies related to leading and managing in a culturally-conscious manner. In this article, we describe the role of emotion in public service and we detail the me...
Minimal clinically important difference in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive fibrosing lung disease with an estimated median survival of 2–5 years and a significant impact on quality of life (QoL). Current approved medications, pirfenidone and nintedanib, have shown a reduction in annual decline of forced vital capacity but no impact on QoL. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) is a threshold value for a change in a parameter that is considered meaningful by the patient rather than solely relying on statistically significant change in the parameter. This review provides a brief overview of the MCID methodology along with detailed discussion of reported MCID values for commonly used physiological measures and patient-reported outcome measures in IPF. While there is no gold standard methodology for determining MCID, there are certain limitations in the MCID literature in IPF, mainly the choice of death, hospitalisation and pulmonary function tests as sole anchors, and pervasive use of distribution-based methods which do not take into account the patient's input. There is a critical need to identify accurate thresholds of outcome measures that reflect patient's QoL over time in order to more precisely design and evaluate future clinical trials and to develop algorithms for patient-oriented management of IPF in outpatient clinics. Educational aims To understand the concept of MCID and the methods used to determine these values. To understand the indications and limitations of MCID values in IPF. Short abstract Minimal clinically important difference (MCID) values for common physiological and patient-reported outcome measures have been estimated in IPF, but have limitations. MCID research can help advance patient-oriented management of IPF. https://bit.ly/314Q5iH
Does travel time effect genetic testing rates for women with ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancers in a rural catchment area?

Objectives: In 2014, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) published guidelines regarding universal germline testing for women with ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancers (Ov/FT/PC) cancer. The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of referral to- and completion of genetic testing after diagnosis of Ov/FT/PC in patients treated at a rural tertiary care center. The effect of time and distance traveled on completion of genetic consultation was also examined. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of women with a diagnosis of Ov/FT/PC cancers receiving care at the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) from October 2014 to November 2019. Clinical information was obtained from the UVMMC Cancer registry and electronic medical records. Median income by zip code was obtained from US census data while time and distance traveled was based on the Google Application Interface software. Data was analyzed with two-sample Wilcoxon tests and Chi-square analysis. Results: 151 patients were identified. Mean age at diagnosis was 62 years (23 - 88). Median income was $64,611 and BMI was 29. Eighty (53%) patients had a genetics referral placed while 71 (47%) did not. Of the 80 patients referred, 68 (85%) completed their consultation. Referral rates significantly increased over time, (p Conclusions: While referral rates increased steadily over time, nearly half of the patients with Ov/FT/PC cancer were not referred for genetic consultation. The majority of patients, who were referred to genetics, completed their consultation regardless of time or distance traveled. Mechanisms to ensure timely referral for genetic testing need to be implemented as they can affect treatment.
Spectrum and Management of Immune Related Adverse Events Due to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPIs) is expanding rapidly to many cancer subtypes. Clinical practice is dominated by the use of these agents. The spectrum of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) due to ICPIs during cancer treatment is vast. Both anti-PD-1/PD-L1 and anti-CTLA-4 checkpoint inhibitors can have off target effects leading to immune system to attack any organ system. The timing of the toxicity is difficult to predict. The degree of severity is variable but can be fatal. Toxicity therefore needs to be evaluated for early and often during the course of treatment and managed at the earliest present signs to avoid life-threatening organ failure. It is vitally important that practitioners of modern oncology know the underlying basis of toxicity, how to identify and grade severity, and manage organ pathophysiology. In this chapter, a review of the incidence, mechanisms of immune related adverse events, and risk factors will be explored. The focus will be the in-depth review of features and management of toxicity by organ system.
Simulation of Jet Blast Effect on Landing Aircraft

Presents a model to measure the effects of various kinds and sizes of jet blast from an airplane that is taking off on a path at right angle to and traveling away from a jet that is landing. With increasingly powerful engines and growing capacity and frequency of takeoffs and landings, jet blast effects are gaining importance. Throttle management on departing aircraft and separation of takeoffs and landings are two of the operational elements that could be adjusted. Shows the even short exposures (one or two seconds) can affect landing aircraft. However, smaller aircraft may not be as seriously affected in their yaw angle and sideslip. Because it is difficult to set a standard waiting time for all aircraft that optimizes flow, the peak velocity jet blast is the next most reliable benchmark.
Economically Disadvantaged Urban Female Students Who Achieve in Schools.

Recently, researchers at the National Research Center on the Gifted and Talented completed a three-year study of thirty-five economically disadvantaged, ethnically diverse, talented high school students who either achieved or underachieved in their urban high school. In this article, the results are discussed of the case study analysis of nine high-achieving female students who participated in the larger three-year study. Qualitative methods were used to examine the perceptions of students, teachers, and administrators about the reasons that some academically talented students achieve at high levels. Female students who achieved in school acknowledged the importance of being grouped together in honors and advanced classes for academically talented students, and of receiving support and encouragement from each other and from supportive adults, including teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, and mentors. Females who achieved in school participated in multiple extracurricular activities both after school and during the summer. Most high-achieving females in this study chose not to date in order to be able to concentrate their energies on their studies. They also had a strong belief in self and were resilient about negative aspects of their families and their environment. Although parents of students in this study cared deeply about their children, their involvement in their children's high school education was minimal.
Disseminated intravascular coagulation and fibrinolysis as a cause of postextraction hemorrhage: Report of a case

Presented is a case in which severe, prolonged hemorrhage, subsequent to simple dental extractions in an 85-year-old Negro man, was due to disseminated intravascular coagulation, with secondary fibrinolysis resulting from metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate gland. The difficulty and delay in diagnosis, selection of proper therapeutic regimen, and complications encountered during treatment are discussed.
Chapter 3 - The Total Synthesis of (-)-Arisugacin A.

The arisugacin family features a meroterpenoidal structure, or a hybrid of polyketide and terpenoid, that resembles other medicinally important natural products, such as the territrems and pyripyropenes—potent inhibitors of acyl-CoA cholesterol acyltransferase. Arisugacin is a potent and selective inhibitor of acyltransferase (AChE) with an IC 50 of 1 nM, thereby possessing significance in the treatment of dementia diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The cholinergic deficiency hypothesis has been established as the most rational and consistent approach for the therapeutic treatment of AD. This hypothesis links AD to the loss of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for memory and cognitive functions at the hippocampal and cortical levels. Thus, to maintain the concentrations of acetylcholine in AD patients, promising treatment involves the use of reversible and competitive inhibitors of AChE—the enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of acetylcholine. Arisugacin demonstrates impressive potency in inhibiting AChE with an IC 50 value of 1 nM and is well-selective for AChE because >18 μM is required to inhibit butyrylcholinesterase [BuChE]. Structural analysis reveals that arisugacin A contains five rings, two of which are heterocycles, and four contiguous stereocenters—two of which bear angular hydroxyl groups.
The simulation of a PEMFC with an interdigitated flow field design

This paper presents the simulations for a two-dimensional PEMFC with an interdigitated flow channel design using FEMLAB. The multi-species flow of O2, H2, H2O and inert N2 is examined over the entire fuel cell working range. The transportations of these gases in the porous anode/cathode are predicted using the Maxwell-Stefan transport equations and the Fick’s law; the flow field is predicted using the Darcy’s law; and the electrical field is simulated using a conductive media model. The standard current-voltage performance curve, the species concentration of O2, H2, H2O and inert N2, mass fluxes, electrical current and potential distributions have been obtained.
Mitochondrial lineages in Notochthamalus scabrosus as indicators of coastal recruitment and interactions

A significant genetic cline has previously been identified along the Chilean coast in the barnacle Notochthamalus scabrosus. Samples from the previous study, spanning 800 km, were not able to show whether the southern lineage ultimately goes to fixation at higher latitudes. In addition to expanding the geographic sampling of this species, locations that were sampled approximately four to five generations ago were resampled for this study, enabling a temporal comparison of the location and strength of the observed cline. Here, we show that although the cline persists as expected, the tremendous changes in observed lineage frequencies near the clinal boundary are indicative of source-sink dynamics that may be associated with a codistributed biogeographic transition zone. We also find that the southern lineage does not increase in frequency in more southern populations, suggesting that this lineage is maintained through a combination of density-dependent interactions and a coastal fitness gradient.
Human-Computer interaction system with artificial neural network using motion tracker and data glove

A Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) system has been developed with an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) using a motion tracker and a data glove. The HCI system is able to recognize American Sign Language letter and number gestures. The finger joint angle data obtained from the strain gauges in the sensory glove define the hand shape while the data from the motion tracker describe the hand position and orientation. The data flow from the sensory glove is controlled by a software trigger using the data from the motion tracker during signing. Then, the glove data is processed by a recognition neural network.
Suppression of Photoreactivating Enzyme Production in Escherichia coli Grown Under Anaerobic Conditions

Studies with two K-12 mutants of Escherichia coli have indicated that the production of photoreactivating enzyme is suppressed under anaerobic growth conditions. Under no condition tested could the estimated number of photoreactivating enzyme molecules per cell be reduced below an average of one.
Samba in the Night: Spiritism in Brazil

Samba in the Night: Spiritism in Brazil. David Hess. New York: Columbia University Press, 1994. 214 pp. $25.00 (cloth).
Predicting leaf and canopy 15N compositions from reflectance spectra

[1] We explored whether 15N concentration could be predicted from reflectance spectra of fresh leaves, and, if so, whether the spectral features were related to the 15N concentration on a canopy scale. Leaf scale reflectance (R) measurements were conducted in Ghanzi, Botswana using a spectrophotometer in March 2005 and canopy scale leaf R was measured in a series of successional fields in Northern Virginia, USA using the same instrument in September 2005. Results showed that there was a strong correlation between foliar 15N concentration and spectral data in both visible and near-infrared wavelength regions. Stepwise regressions showed that the first-difference of the log1/R [(log 1/R)′] could explain 76 to 92% of the variation in foliar δ15N, providing the most reliable correlations with foliar 15N at bands near 600 and 700 nm. The present study indicates the possibility of estimating fresh leaf 15N abundance from high-resolution reflectance at leaf and canopy levels.
Physicians’ communication of the common-sense self-regulation model results in greater reported adherence than physicians’ use of interpersonal skills

Objectives. Interventions that address patients’ illness and treatment representations have improved patient adherence and outcomes when administered by psychologists and/or health educators and focused on a single chronic illness. The current study assesses the potential feasibility/effectiveness of an intervention based on the common-sense self-regulation model (CS-SRM) when administered by providers in a primary care setting. Design. We designed a prospective, correlational study in order to optimize patients’ and providers’ time and to gain initial evidence of the CS-SRM-approach's feasibility/effectiveness. Methods. Patients (n= 243) were recruited from a primary care waiting room and reported on objective behaviours of their providers (providers’ CS-SRM-related behaviours and interpersonal skills) and other theoretically related measures directly after the medical encounter and reported on adherence, presenting problem resolution, and emergency care usage 1 month later. Results. The more providers gave their patients an adaptive understanding of their presenting problem/treatment (the greater the number of CS-SRM-related behaviours they engaged in), the more adherent were patients in the month following the encounter and the better was their problem resolution 1 month later. The CS-SRM-related behaviours were more predictive of these outcomes and emergency care usage than were the providers’ interpersonal skills. Conclusions. In the time-limited encounter, interventions may have to prioritize theoretical approaches for attaining patient adherence. The current study, although correlational, indicates that addressing the patients’ illness/treatment representations is more important than the providers’ interpersonal skills for attaining patient adherence and provides preliminary evidence that a CSM-based intervention in the primary care setting may be both feasible and effective.
Extension theory of separable metrizable spaces with applications to dimension theory

The paper deals with generalizing several theorems of the covering dimension theory to the extension theory of separable metrizable spaces. Here are some of the main results: Generalized Eilenberg-Borsuk Theorem. Let L be a countable CW complex. If X is a separable metrizable space and K ∗ L is an absolute extensor of X for some CW complex K, then for any map f : A → K, A closed in X, there is an extension f ′ : U → K of f over an open set U such that L ∈ AE(X − U). Theorem. Let K,L be countable CW complexes. If X is a separable metrizable space and K ∗ L is an absolute extensor of X, then there is a subset Y of X such that K ∈ AE(Y ) and L ∈ AE(X − Y ). Theorem. Suppose Gi, . . . , Gn are countable, non-trivial, abelian groups and k > 0. For any separable metrizable space X of finite dimension dimX > 0, there is a closed subset Y of X with dimGiY = max(dimGiX − k, 1) for i = 1, . . . , n. Theorem. Suppose W is a separable metrizable space of finite dimension and Y is a compactum of finite dimension. Then, for any k, 0 < k < dimW − dimY , there is a closed subset T of W such that dimT = dimW − k and dim(T × Y ) = dim(W × Y )− k. Theorem. Suppose X is a metrizable space of finite dimension and Y is a compactum of finite dimension. If K ∈ AE(X) and L ∈ AE(Y ) are connected CW complexes, then K ∧ L ∈ AE(X × Y ).
Process and device considerations for micron and submicron CMOS technology

CMOS has emerged as the most important technology for VLSI, and soon VLSI, circuits. This paper will address some of the major technical issues and approaches used in designing state-of-the-art CMOS devices. These topics include the formation of the body for each type of device, the electrical isolation between the two types of devices, the active-device design, and latchup prevention techniques.
Application of flow cytometry to immunohematology.

Abstract A method is described for applying flow cytometry to the analysis of populations of red blood cells that have been sensitized, in vivo or in vitro, with IgG antibody. Specific insttrument settings and details of the method are given with sufficient explanation for practical use in immunohematologic investigations.
Patterns of growth in weight and length among American Samoan infants

Well baby clinic records on 1, 186 infants born in 1975 to 1976 on the island of Tutuila, American Samoa, form the basis for this study of the growth in weight and length from birth to 12 months. Semi‐longitudinal curves of weight and length indicate that these infants have median weights near the NCHS 75th percentile (boys) and 90th percentile (girls) up to 6 months, falling to just below the 75th percentile by 12 months. Median lengths are between the NCHS 50th and 25th percentile. Weight gain from birth to six months was found to be higher than for any other reported population (4.92 kg, sexes combined). The infant feeding pattern was found to exert a significant influence on rate of weight gain for boys between birth and 1–4 months, with the breast‐fed boys gaining more rapidly than artificial‐fed infants.
Quality of life and psychosocial factors in renal transplant recipients.

Abstract An ideal method for quality of life (QOL) assessment in renal transplant recipients (RTR) has not yet been determined. Present assessments of QOL in RTR are lengthy, cumbersome to administer, and difficult to interpret. We used a previously validated single question QOL scale score (QLS) that directly asks about the patients’ overall assessment of their QOL; “Considering all parts of my life—physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and financial—over the past 2 days the quality of my life has been … ”. The QLS ranges from 0 (“very bad”) to 10 (“excellent”). Patients were contacted prior to their routine office visit when they were free of acute medical problems. Fifty RTR participated. Psychosocial and medical variables included the Beck Depression Inventory, Illness Effects Questionnaire, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, time since transplant, age, creatinine, hemoglobin, and albumin levels. Of the patients, 64% were African-American and 48% were women; 94% of patients had a score >5. Mean QLS was 7.5 ± 2.3. Perception of a better QOL correlated with less perception of depression and illness effects and with perception of greater social support and satisfaction with life (all P
Self-Assembly of Nanostructured Diatom Microshells into Patterned Arrays Assisted by Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Deposition and Inkjet Printing

Individual shells of the diatom Coscinodiscus were self-assembled into a rectangular array on a glass surface that possessed a polyelectrolyte multilayer patterned through inkjet printing. This patterned thin film possessed hierarchical order with nanostructure provided by the diatom biosilica. The process used two polyelectrolytes with opposite electric potentials to control the surface charge of the substrate. The fine features of the diatom frustules were perfectly preserved as a result of the mild conditions of the deposition process. This technique has the potential to enable large-scale device applications that harness the unique properties of functionalized diatom biosilica.
A Test of the Snowball Theory for the Rate of Evolution of Hybrid Incompatibilities

Hybrids between species are often sterile or inviable because the long-diverged genomes of their parents cause developmental problems when they come together in a single individual. According to the Dobzhansky-Muller (DM) model, the number of genes involved in these "intrinsic postzygotic incompatibilities" should increase faster than linearly with the divergence time between species. This straightforward prediction of the DM model has remained contentious owing to a lack of explicit tests. Examining two pairs of Drosophila species, we show that the number of genes involved in postzygotic isolation increases at least as fast as the square of the number of substitutions (an index of divergence time) between species. This observation verifies a key prediction of the DM model.
972. Inhibition of TGF-β by RNA Interference To Modulate Breast Cancer Metastasis

Transforming Growth Factor-|[beta]| (TGF-|[beta]|) has been shown to perform a dual function as both a tumor suppressor in early stage carcinogenesis and a pro-metastatic factor in late-stage tumor progression. Early studies have shown that inhibition of TGF-|[beta]| signaling pathway can alter various aspects of tumor metastasis such as migration, invasion, angiogenesis and immune suppression. While these methods have shown modest success, several limitations prevent the wide spread use of these inhibitors as an anti-metastatic therapy. RNA interference (RNAi) has emerged as an effective tool for gene specific silencing in vitro and in vivo. The central hypothesis of the proposed studies is that adeno-associated virus (AAV) mediated deliver of siRNA sequences targeting TGF-|[beta]|1 in MDA- MB 435 breast cancer cells can alter the metastatic phenotype at defined time-points of tumor progression and/or act as an adjuvant to primary chemotherapies. Several siRNA target sequences have been screened to determine silencing capacity and two specific targets, siRNA4 and siRNA7 showed |[sim]|90% inhibition of TGF|[beta]|1 transcripts by Northern blot and at least a 5-6 fold reduction by RT-PCR analysis. The two siRNA sequences, along with a scrambled sequence, were cloned into a tet-inducible expression vector and used to generate a stable cell line that constitutively expresses this construct. This cell line is being using in various in vitro assays such as migration, invasion and gene expression, to determine the effects of TGF-|[beta]| silencing. This cell line will later be used in an orthotopic breast cancer model to determine the exact time-point at which TGF-|[beta]| silencing is most effective. A second set of studies are proceeding in parallel to determine the transduction of AAV serotypes 1-6 both in vitro and in vivo. Initial in vitro data has shown that AAV2 and AAV6 show transduction efficiencies of 40% |[ndash]| 60% in MDA-MB 435 and MDA-MB 231 cells. In vivo transduction studies, of the primary tumor mass, are ongoing using AAV-|[beta]|gal, Ad-GFP and AAV-GFP. Ongoing studies will determine the effects of inhibition on SMAD-independent signaling pathways that can play a role in detachment, migration, immune-suppression and angiogenesis. This inducible siRNA will allow better insight into the TGF-|[beta]| |[ldquo]|switch|[rdquo]| from tumor suppressor to pro-metastatic factor along disease progression and possible development of a TGF-|[beta]| targeted anti-cancer therapy. If promising, this therapy may also be used in combination with current chemotherapies to provide a synergistic effect against breast cancer metastasis.
Human-cell mutagens in respirable airborne particles in the northeastern United States. 1. Mutagenicity of fractionated samples.

Few studies have characterized the regional scale (300−500 km) variability of the mutagenicity of respirable airborne particles (PM_(2.5)). We previously collected 24-h PM_(2.5) samples for 1 year from background, suburban, and urban sites in Massachusetts (MA) and rural and urban sites in upstate New York (NY) (n = 53−60 samples per site). Bimonthly composites of these samples were mutagenic to human cells. The present report describes our effort to identify chemical classes responsible for the mutagenicity of the samples, to quantify spatial differences in mutagenicity, and to compare the mutagenicity of samples composited in different ways. Organic extracts and HPLC fractions (two nonpolar, one semipolar, and one polar) of annual composites were tested for mutagenicity in the h1A1v2 cells, a line of human B-lymphoblastoid cells that express cytochrome P450 CYP1A1 cDNA. The mutagenic potency (induced mutant fraction per μg organic carbon) of the semipolar fractions was the highest at all five sites, accounting for 35−82% of total mutagenic potency of the samples, vs the nonpolar (4−38%) and polar (14−32%) fractions. These results are consistent with previous studies. While unfractionated extracts exhibited no spatial variations, the mutagenicity of semipolar fractions at the NY sites was ∼2-fold higher than at the MA sites. This suggests there may be significant regional differences in the sources and/or transport and transformation of mutagenic compounds in PM_(2.5). In addition, mutagenic potency was sensitive to whether samples were fractionated and how they were composited: unfractionated annual composite samples at the NY sites were significantly less mutagenic than their semipolar fractions and the annual average of bimonthly composites; spatial differences in the mutagenic potency of bimonthly composites and the semipolar fractions were not apparent in the annual composites.
Global navigation satellite systems

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are satellite constellations that generate signals that can be received virtually anywhere, anytime, and in any weather anywhere in the world. The article discusses the systems that are fully active and those that are still being developed. The systems are intended to be independent, complementary, and interoperable. Most future aviation users are likely to rely on multi-constellation receivers, i.e., receive and process the GNSS signals to complement and enhance each other. The general description of how the systems work concludes with some of the remaining challenges. WIREs Comp Stat 2011 3 383–384 DOI: 10.1002/wics.158 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Stereoselectivity in 6-halopenicillanate grignard reactions

On accroit le controle stereochimique des reactions de Grignard sur les halogenopenicillinates en stabilisant l'intermediaire carbanionique sur la face β de la molecule, en accroissant la taille de l'halogene restant sur le C-6 et/ou en generant des penicilline sulfones ou β-sulfoxydes