cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Acetate esters of saturated and unsaturated alcohols (C12–C20) are major components in Dufour glands of Bracon cephi and Bracon lissogaster (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), parasitoids of the wheat stem sawfly, Cephus cinctus (Hymenoptera: Cephidae)

Abstract Chemistry of Dufour glands associated with the venom complex in Bracon cephi (Gahan) and Bracon lissogaster Muesebeck (Hymenoptera; Braconidae), two parasitoids of the wheat stem sawfly, Cephus cinctus Norton (Hymenoptera: Cephidae), was examined by solid phase micro-extraction (SPME) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Homologous series of five chemical classes were detected in individual glands from each species. Major classes included: (1) acetate esters of saturated and unsaturated primary alcohols with parent chain lengths from C 12 to C 20 . Hexadecanyl acetate, octadecanyl acetate, and octadecenyl acetate were major components in B. cephi . The composition of the acetate series in B. lissogaster was similar except that the octadecanyl acetate was only a minor component. (2) A homologous series of monoenes from C 23:1 to C 35:1 were detected in both species, with C 29:1 , C 31:1 and C 33:1 being the major components. Dienes from C 31:2 to C 35:2 and trienes (C 33:3 –C 35:3 ) were also detected in both species. (3) A homologous series of n -alkanes from C 19 to C 31 was detected in both species. n -Tricosane was the major component. Minor components in both species included homologous series of both mono- and dimethyl branched alkanes. The Dufour gland hydrocarbon components in both B. cephi and B. lissogaster have some similarities to the composition of cuticular hydrocarbons of their host C. cinctus , a species with a complex pheromonal signaling system.
Radar imaging of multiple moving targets

In this paper, we discuss the issue of radar imaging of multiple moving targets. When multiple moving targets are close to each other, the return signals from these targets are overlapped in time. Thus, by applying conventional motion compensation algorithms, when targets have rotational motion or maneuvering, multiple targets may not be resolved and each individual target cannot be clearly imaged. However, in cases where each individual target has its own velocity and moving direction different from others, then the different Doppler histories can be utilized to separate targets from each others. First we describe multiple target resolution. Then, we introduce the time-frequency based phase correction algorithm and discuss its limitation. Based on our previous work on time-frequency image formation, we propose a new method for radar imaging of multiple moving targets. With the new method, targets can be either point or extended targets, and target's motion can be either translational or rotational motion. Some examples are given for comparing the new method with the conventional Fourier method and time-frequency based phase correction methods.
New pathologic aspects of primary carcinoma of the prostatic urethra.

Two cases of an extremely rare tumor, the primary transitional-cell carcinoma of the male prostatic urethra, are presented. The diagnostic problems of the 2 cases are emphasized in relation to a special group of elderly long-term patients in a hospital for chronic diseases. In addition, one of the patients had two primary carcinomas and mixed widespread metastases. It is the first such case. This report of the 2 cases and the discussion of their pathologic aspects may help in the diagnosis of other primary urethral tumors in an early stage.
Reoperative hysteroscopic surgery in the management of patients who fail endometrial ablation and resection.

Abstract Study Objective To determine the safety and efficacy of reoperative hysteroscopic surgery for women who fail endometrial ablation and resection. Design Retrospective chart review and follow-up (Canadian Task Force classification II–2). Setting Private office practice. Patients Twenty-six women who had undergone endometrial ablation or resection and experienced failure characterized by intolerable pain, bleeding, or asymptomatic hematometra. Intervention Sonographically guided hysteroscopic endomyometrial resection. Measurements and Main Results Mean length of time from initial treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding and reoperative hysteroscopic surgery was 41.2 ± 47.9 months. Five (19.2%) women required simple dilatation and 21 (80.8%) required endocervical resection to achieve access to the uterine cavity. There were no operative complications. Mean operating time was 20.3 ± 9.5 minutes. Mean specimen weight was 6.7 ± 4.9 g. Adenomyosis was present in 15 (57.7%) specimens. Women were followed for a mean of 23.2 ± 22.7 months. Twenty-three (88.5%) achieved satisfactory results and avoided hysterectomy. Three women (11.5%) eventually required hysterectomy because of recurrent pain or bleeding. Conclusion Reoperative hysteroscopy is useful in managing women after failed endometrial ablation and resection. It produces excellent results in achieving amenorrhea and relief of cyclic pelvic pain, thereby avoiding hysterectomy in most patients.
Effect of limited digestion by proteolytic enzymes on Escherichia coli β-galactosidase

Summary It has been shown that native β -galactosidase ( β - D -galactoside galactohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.23) can be digested with chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.4.5), trypsin (EC 3.4.4.4), and papain (EC 3.4.4.10) to produce a number of fragments. In the case of trypsin and papain digestion at 25°, the fragmented enzyme retains essentially native enzymic activity, antigenicity, and sedimentation behavior. The preparation and isolation of such fragments of β -galactosidase might be useful in structural studies and may permit the examination of biological activities such as complementation 7 or antigenicity in the separated fragments.
Quantitative Reasoning in the Contemporary World, 3: Assessing Student Learning

In this third paper in a series describing the Quantitative Reasoning in the Contemporary World course, the authors provide an adaptation of the Association of American Colleges and Universities quantitative literacy VALUE rubric. Describing achievement levels in six core competencies (interpretation, representation, calculation, analysis/synthesis, and communication), the resulting Quantitative Literacy Assessment Rubric (QLAR) is applicable to grading student work and has exhibited a high degree of reliability in two separate scoring tests (97% and 88% respectively). The distribution of the six core competencies across the 24 case studies in the authors’ quantitative reasoning casebook shows that interpretation, calculation, and analysis/ synthesis were present in most all of the case studies. In addition to acting as a reliable scoring tool, the QLAR can improve teaching, learning, and curricular materials.
High retention of N P nutrients, soil organic carbon, and fine particles by cover crops under tropical climate

Soil and water conservation is a major challenge for the development of sustainable agriculture. Leaching and runoff of soil nutrients and fine particles negatively impact soil fertility, soil quality, and contribute to surface water eutrophication and sediment accumulation. Such issues are especially critical in a tropical or subtropical region, such as in south Florida with high rainfall and shallow aquifer. So far, little is known about soil particle and nutrient retention by cover cropping under contrasting rainfall intensity. Here, a pot experiment was conducted with four cover crops and two simulated rainfall rates, a low rate of 5.8 mm day−1 and a high rate of 11.6 mm day−1, to study the transport of N, P, and fine soil particles down the soil profile. The cover crops were sunn hemp, velvetbean, cowpea, and sorghum sudangrass in contrast to weedy fallow as a control. Results show that under low rainfall rate, total N in leachates of 0.5–1.9 kg ha−1 for cover crops was much lower than 10.2 kg ha−1 for fallow. Under high rainfall rate, total N in leachates ranged from 3.4 to 16.1 kg ha−1 for cover crops and 8.8 kg ha−1 for fallow. Cover cropping with sunn hemp was the most effective at retaining soil nutrients because of its large plant biomass production. Indeed sunn hemp biomass accumulated 376 and 247 kg N ha−1 and 27 and 22 kg P ha−1 under high and low rainfall rates. We also found that soil organic carbon associated with fine soil particles in the root zone under sunn hemp and sorghum sudangrass was 5–7% greater than soil organic carbon in fallow. This study demonstrates that growing sunn hemp and sorghum sudangrass cover crops can conserve soil fine particles and nutrients against leaching and reduce adverse impacts on surface water.
Fluid transport, ATP level and ATPase activities in isolated rabbit corneal endothelium.

Abstract The effect of certain biochemical parameters on transendothelial fluid transport has been studied. Cellular ATP level and (Na+ + K+)-activated as well as Mg2+-activated ATPase activities were measured by ultramicrotechniques using individual rabbit corneal endothelium after they had been subjected to in vitro perfusion with solutions fully supplemented or deficient singly or severally in glucose, adenosine and glutathione (GSH). With the complete medium, the transport system operates in vitro for approx. 6 h. Deletion of glucose alone, glucose and adenosine or glucose, adenosine and GSH brings about a cessation of fluid transport after 3.5 h, 2 to 2.5 h and 0.5 to 1 h, respectively. A marked decrease (62%) of the endothelial ATP level, however, occurs only when all metabolites are omitted. The favorable effect of GSH on transport activity is attributable to its capacity to sustain cellular ATP rather than to protect the functionality of (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase. Adenosine, in the presence of GSH, maintains normal ATP levels and, additionally, exerts a protective effect on Mg2+-activated ATPase and possibly also on (Na+ + K+)-activated ATPase.
Analysis of dark current in IR detectors on thinned p-type HgCdTe

A model for the diffusion dark current in MIS IR detectors on thinned bulk p-type HgCdTe is discussed. The model includes trap-assisted tunneling mechanisms in the back-side depletion region as well as the effects of fast surface states. Expressions for the net recombination rate are developed for situations in which trap-assisted tunneling transitions are allowed. Calculations for 12- mu m optical cutoff detectors operating at liquid-nitrogen temperature show that the properties of the back side, including surface fixed charge density, depletion region trap density, fast surface-state density, and majority carrier concentration, have a strong influence on the dark current levels of detectors on thin material. It is predicted that typical as-fabricated surface parameters will not result in large dark current densities. Calculations for detectors with surface parameters common to stressed (degraded) back surfaces, however, show dark current densities which would significantly affect detector performance. >
Fluorescence Lifetime Techniques in Medical Applications

This article presents an overview of time-resolved (lifetime) fluorescence techniques used in biomedical diagnostics. In particular, we review the development of time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy (TRFS) and fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) instrumentation and associated methodologies which allow in vivo characterization and diagnosis of biological tissues. Emphasis is placed on the translational research potential of these techniques and on evaluating whether intrinsic fluorescence signals provide useful contrast for the diagnosis of human diseases including cancer (gastrointestinal tract, lung, head and neck, and brain), skin and eye diseases, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Correspondence re: M. Leone et al., Cancer prevention by tea polyphenols is linked to their direct inhibition of antiapoptotic Bcl-2-family proteins. Cancer Res 2003;63:8118-21.

I read with great interest the article by Leone et al. [(1)][1] showing a strong link between the anticancer activities of tea polyphenols and inhibition of Bcl-2 family of proteins, which are implicated in the development of many human malignancies. However, it is disappointing to note that the
A synthesis of (+)-7-Epiaustraline and (−)-7-Epialexine

Reducttve cycliration of the aztdo epoxides 19a and 19/3followed by &protection afforded the HN rnkbttor (+)-7-eptatutraline 7 ar(d (-)-'l-epialextne 9. The formatwn of 7 proceeded with an unusual tnverston of configuratton at C-7. Polyhydroxylated indolizidine alkaloids such as castanospermine 1 and swainsonine 2 have attracted considerable interest in recent years due to their ability to inhibit glycosidases.1 In addition to their use in the study of glycoprotein-processing enzymes, such alkaloids are promising anticancer and antrretrovnal agents. More recently, polyhydroxylated pyrrolizidine alkaloids with similar biological activities have emerged from the independent investigations of research teams in the U.K. and the U.S.A. The isolation of alexine 3 from Alexa leiopetala was reported in 1988.2 The isolation of similar alkaloids from Castanospetmwn australe quickly followed, including 3,7a-diepialexine (or 3-epiaustraline) 4,3,4 australine 5,5 I-epiaustraline (or 1,7a- dieptalexine) 6,6*7 and 7,7a-diepialexme (or 7-epiaustraline) 7 .7 While alexine 3 and 3-eptaustraline 4 are generally poor inhibitors of glucosidases and galactosidases,*,4 they display a m lo y g lucostdase inhibition which is on par with that of castanospermine,7 and alexine is an effective thioglucosidase inhibitor.8 Compounds 5-7 are also good amyloglucosidase inhibitors. 5,779 Australine 5 inhibits glucosidase I, but not glucosidase II,9 and has recently been shown to exhibit antiviral activity. 10 Modest glucosidase I, g-glucosidase, and rx-mannosidase inhibition was observed for I-epiaustraline 6.6 but it displayed good acttvity in a mouse gut digestive a- glucosidase assay, as did 7-epiaustmliie 7. 7.11 An exciting recent report shows that australme 5, l- epiaustraline 6, and 7-epiaustraline 7 inhibit HIV-induced syncytia formation in N cells1 1 The potential of the polyhydroxylated pyrrolizidine alkaloids as selective glycosidase inhibitors and as antiviral and antiretrovtral agents makes them attractive targets for synthesis. In particular, the ability to prepare alternative stereoisomers of these alkaloids would be desirable, since the biological activity of these compounds varies substantially with their stereochemistry. We wish to report our initial efforts in this area, which have led to the synthesis of the naturally occurring alkaloid (+)-7-epiaustraline 7 (also known as 7,7a_diepialexme) which shows anti-HIV
The adult ball-and-socket ankle joint: surgical management of late ankle and subtalar arthritis.

Background: We review the surgical management of 4 adult patients with ball-and-socket ankle deformity who developed end-stage subtalar and/or ankle joint arthritis. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed a series of 4 adult patients with ball-and-socket ankle configurations who underwent surgical treatment for either end-stage tibiotalar or subtalar arthritis, with either subtalar arthrodesis or total ankle replacement (TAR). Clinical outcome, including subjective pain assessment, limitation of activities, and difficulty with shoe wear, were assessed at follow- up. Results: A total of 5 ankles in 4 patients were identified that met the inclusion criteria. There were 3 subtalar arthrodeses in 2 patients and 2 primary TARs in 2 patients. At an average follow-up of 30.5 (range = 17 to 59) months, there were no failures, although 1 patient who underwent TAR was considered an impending failure with aseptic component loosening. Of the 4 patients, 3 resumed normal activity with minimal pain and were very pleased with their overall outcome. Conclusion: Standard surgical interventions for ankle and subtalar arthritis, such as total ankle arthroplasty and subtalar arthrodesis, can be successfully performed in patients with ball-and- socket ankles; clinical outcome and survivorship, however, may be inferior to that in patients with normal ankle configurations.
A robust active noise control algorithm without identifying secondary path

It has been shown that active noise control (ANC) can be done without identifying the secondary path. However, the method given in based on the cumulative error power is ad-hoc, slow, and not general. In this paper, we propose a new algorithm that is more robust to the ANC-without-identifying-secondary-path problem based on a more general secondary-path decomposition and step-size adaptation.
Fitting matrix-valued variogram models by simultaneous diagonalization (Part I: Theory)

Suppose that ¯(x1),...,¯Z(xn). are observations of vector-valued random function ¯(x). In the isotropic situation, the sample variogram γ*(h) for a given lag h is $$\bar \gamma ^ * (h) = \frac{1}{{2N(h)}}\mathop \sum \limits_{s(h)} (\overline Z (x_1 ) - \overline Z (x_1 )) \overline {(Z} (x_1 ) - \overline Z (x_1 ))^T $$ where s(h) is a set of paired points with distance h and N(h) is the number of pairs in s(h)..
A two-node beam element including transverse shear and transverse normal deformations

A variational higher-order theory for bending and stretching of linearly elastic orthotropic beams including the deformations due to transverse shearing and stretching of the transverse normal fibre is presented. The theory assumes a linear distribution for the longitudinal displacement and a parabolic variation of the transverse displacement across the thickness. Additionally, independent expansions are introduced for the through-thickness displacement gradients with the requirement of a least-square compatibility for the transverse strains and the satisfaction of exact stress boundary conditions at the top/bottom beam surfaces. The theory is shown to be well suited for finite element development requiring simple C0- and C−1- continuous displacement interpolation fields. To demonstrate the computational utility of the theory, a simple two-node stretching-bending finite element is formulated. The analytic and finite element results are obtained for a simple bending problem for which an exact elasticity solution is available. It is shown that the inclusion of the transverse normal deformation in the present theory enables improved displacement, strain and stress predictions, particularly, in the analysis of deep beams.
The Citizen Participation-Representation Roles of American Ombudsmen:

Providing increased opportunity for citizen access to the administrative system is the principal goal of those who urge the adoption of ombudsmen. Although several state and local jurisdictions in the United States have created ombudsmen, empiricalstudies of their roles in encouraging citizens to appeal administrative decisions and in representing those appeals are only beginning. This article compares questionnaire responses of the American ombudsmen with those of a group of "quasi-ombudsmen" on these subjects; but the focus is on the ombudsman's role. Reportedly, substantial numbers of citizens-including many of society's "underclass"—bring many problems-including information requests, demands for service, and grievances-that concern a wide range of policy areas and agencies to the ombudsmen. Furthermore, ombudsmen believe they are effective in helping citizens and in performing the role of impartial investigator. Thus, the office increases political participation, defined both as instrumental action an...
Synthesis and properties of solid solutions of hexagonal YCu0.5Ti0.5O3 with YMO3 (M = Mn, Cr, Fe, Al, Ga, and In)

Abstract Solid solutions of the type Y(Cu0.5Ti0.5)1−xMxO3 with a hexagonal structure were prepared for M = Mn, Fe, Cr, Al, Ga, and In. A complete solid solution could be obtained only in the case of M = Mn. The green color of YCu0.5Ti0.5O3 was found to be enhanced by small substitutions of Al, Ga, and In. All compositions containing Mn were black in color. Suppression of magnetic transitions is observed upon co-doping of Cu/Ti into YMnO3. Measurements of dielectric constant suggest some magneto-electric coupling may be present in the Y(Cu0.5Ti0.5)1−xMnxO3 solid solution.
Reduction of thermal conductivity in phononic nanomesh structures

Controlling the thermal conductivity of a material independently of its electrical conductivity continues to be a goal for researchers working on thermoelectric materials for use in energy applications and in the cooling of integrated circuits. In principle, the thermal conductivity κ and the electrical conductivity σ may be independently optimized in semiconducting nanostructures because different length scales are associated with phonons (which carry heat) and electric charges (which carry current). Phonons are scattered at surfaces and interfaces, so κ generally decreases as the surface-to-volume ratio increases. In contrast, σ is less sensitive to a decrease in nanostructure size, although at sufficiently small sizes it will degrade through the scattering of charge carriers at interfaces. Here, we demonstrate an approach to independently controlling κ based on altering the phonon band structure of a semiconductor thin film through the formation of a phononic nanomesh film. These films are patterned with periodic spacings that are comparable to, or shorter than, the phonon mean free path. The nanomesh structure exhibits a substantially lower thermal conductivity than an equivalently prepared array of silicon nanowires, even though this array has a significantly higher surface-to-volume ratio. Bulk-like electrical conductivity is preserved. We suggest that this development is a step towards a coherent mechanism for lowering thermal conductivity.
Invasive hemodynamic monitoring

Abstract Invasive hemodynamic monitoring has enjoyed widespread popularity in the care of critically ill patients. An understanding of the indications, limitations, and complications of invasive hemodynamic monitoring is essential for all physicians in clinical practice. Although newer technologies eventually may supplant invasive hemodynamic monitoring, invasive monitoring will remain an important tool in patient management. This review outlines the use of invasive hemodynamic monitoring as it relates to general clinical practice.
Reaction Behavior of Biodegradable, Photo-Cross-Linkable Polyanhydrides

The polymerization behavior of a new class of dimethacrylated anhydride monomers that react to form highly cross-linked degradable networks was investigated using various photoinitiation schemes. Polymerizations occurred in seconds to minutes depending on the initiating conditions, and conversions in excess of 0.95 were achievable. A photobleaching visible light initiating system was used to improve the depth of cure for the production of polymers with appreciable dimensions. One potential application for the proposed multifunctional monomers is in vivo curing of high-strength, degradable polymers for fracture fixation or filling of trabecular bone defects.
Downregulation of microglial activation by apolipoprotein E and apoE-mimetic peptides.

Abstract Apolipoprotein E plays an important role in recovery from acute brain injury and risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. We demonstrate that biologically relevant concentrations of apoE suppress microglial activation and release of TNFα and NO in a dose-dependent fashion. Peptides derived from the apoE receptor-binding region mimic the effects of the intact protein, whereas deletion of apoE residues 146–149 abolishes peptide bioactivity. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that apoE modulates microglial function by binding specific cell surface receptors and that the immunomodulatory effects of apoE in the central nervous system may account for its role in acute and chronic neurological disease.
Pathophysiology of obstructive nephropathy

Obstruction of the urinary tract is a common and often reversible cause of renal failure. Partial chronic obstruction of the urinary tract may lead to progressive atrophy and destruction of nephrons resulting in chronic renal failure; in contrast complete obstruction occurring suddenly may result in the development of acute renal failure. The mechanisms by which obstructive diseases affect renal function are incompletely understood. Much information has been obtained using animals models of obstruction, ranging from studies using whole animal to those using single nephrons. In this review, the effect of either unilateral or bilateral obstruction on renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate and tubular function is presented. The possible involvement of angiotensin II, thromboxan A2, macrophage-derived products and platelet-activating factor in the pathophysiology of obstruction is discussed.
Multisystemic Treatment of Criminality and Violence in Adolescents

ABSTRACT Objective To discuss the emergent success of multisystemic therapy (MST). a family-based therapeutic approach that has been viewed as a promising treatment for violence and other serious antisocial behaviors in adolescents. Method The empirical underpinnings, theoretical foundation, and clinical features of MST are described, followed by a brief review of studies of MST effectiveness with serious juvenile offenders. Results The theoretical foundation and clinical features of MST draw upon empirical findings regarding the multidetermined nature of serious antisocial behavior as well as upon social-ecological models of behavior in which the youth and family's school, work, peers, and neighborhood are viewed as interconnected systems with dynamic and reciprocal influences on the behavior of family members. In controlled studies with serious juvenile offenders, MST has demonstrated long-term reductions in criminal activity, violent offenses, drugrelated arrests, and incarceration. Conclusions The success of MST can be attributed primarily to (1) the match between MST intervention foci and empirically identified correlates/causes of criminality and violence in adolescents (e.g., parental discipline, family affective relations, peer associations, school performance) and (2) the flexible use of well-validated intervention strategies in the natural environment.
True North Groups: A big idea for developing leaders

Today's leaders must develop their emotional intelligence to overcome the crisis of leadership of the past decade. George explains how leaders can become truly authentic through aligning, empowering, serving, and collaborating. A valuable setting for their development can take place in small, intimate peer groups George dubs the “True North Group.” Participants “can share their experiences, challenges, and frustrations and get honest feedback.” They can thus grow as people and as leaders, develop confidence and self-compassion, and accept their own strengths and weaknesses.
Stability of CdS nanocrystals in glass

We have measured and analyzed optical and x-ray-absorption spectra of CdS nanocrystals grown by solid-state reaction in a borosilicate glass, with average crystallite radii from 1.4 to 5 nm. The first (Cd-S) and second (Cd-Cd) neighbor distances are within 0.2% of the bulk values in all cases. We establish an upper bound for the interfacial tension of 0.15 N/m. Such low interface tension suggests that glass-embedded nanocrystals are inherently quite stable.
Effects of isolated and enriched rearing on response inhibition

Rats reared socially in an enriched environment exhibited lower response rates and higher efficiency scores on a DRL-20 task than littermates reared in social isolation. A second experiment showed that differential rearing did not alter response rates for food reward on CRF. These findings support the hypothesis that early social isolation impairs the capacity to inhibit irrelevant responses.
Central and primary visceral afferents to nucleus tractus solitarii may generate nitric oxide as a membrane-permeant neuronal messenger.

An anatomical basis was sought for the postulated roles of nitric oxide (NO) as a labile transcellular messenger in the dorsal vagal complex (NTS-X). The diaphorase activity of NO synthase was used as a marker of neurons in NTS-X that are presumed to convert L-arginine to L-citrulline and NO. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate diaphorase (NADPHd) staining patterns in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) were spatially related to terminal sites of primary visceral afferents from 1) orosensory receptors (e.g., rostral-central nucleus); 2) soft palate, pharynx, larynx, and tracheobronchial tree (e.g., dorsal, intermediate, and interstitial nuclei); 3) esophagus (nucleus centralis); 4) stomach (nucleus gelatinosus); 5) hepatic and coeliac nerves (nucleus subpostrema); and 6) carotid body and baroreceptors (medial commissural and dorsal-lateral nuclei). Primary visceral afferents were identified as sources of NADPHd-stained fiber plexuses in the NTS-X based on three findings: 1) the presence of NADPHd in nodose ganglion cells with morphological features of first-order sensory relay neurons; 2) retrograde transport of Fluoro-Gold (FG) or cholera toxin B (CT-B) from NTS-X to NADPHd-positive nodose ganglion neurons; and 3) striking reductions of NADPHd-stained processes within primary vagal projection fields ipsilateral to unilateral nodose ganglionectomy. A central origin of NADPHd-stained processes in NTS-X was identified in the medial parvicellular subdivision of the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus. We conclude that NO of peripheral and central origin may modulate viscerosensory signal processing in the NTS-X and autonomic reflex function. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Performance of Cross-Cooled Desiccant Dehumidifiers

A cross-cooled silica gel desiccant dehumidifier model was designed, built and tested. The performance of the unit was studied as a function of inlet process stream dew point, process stream and cooling stream flowrates and regeneration stream temperature and dew point. The tests were also simulated by a computer program and were compared to the experimental results.
Morbidity of pediatric dog bites: A case series at a level one pediatric trauma center

Abstract Background Pediatric dog bite injuries are common and vary in severity. We sought to characterize predisposing factors, required interventions, and morbidity. Methods A prospective clinical database at a level one pediatric trauma center was reviewed for dog bite injuries over 74 consecutive months ending December 2013. This included all patients brought in by ambulance and/or seen by the trauma team. Results Of 650 dog bite incidents, 282 met the criteria for inclusion in the trauma database. Median age was 5years (range, 2months to 17years) and 55% (154/282) of patients were male. Pit bulls were most frequently responsible, accounting for 39% (83/213) of incidents in which dog breed was documented. Fifty-three percent (150/282) of dogs belonged to the patient's immediate or extended family. Sixty-nine percent (194/282) of patients required operative intervention: 76% laceration repairs, 14% tissue transfers, and 2% neurosurgical interventions. The most severe injuries were depressed skull fractures, intracranial hemorrhage, laryngotracheal transection, and bilateral orchiectomy. Median length of stay was 1day (range, 0 to 25days). There were no mortalities. Conclusions Pediatric dog bites span a wide range of ages, frequently require operative intervention, and can cause severe morbidity. Dog familiarity did not confer safety, and in this series, Pit bulls were most frequently responsible. These findings have great relevance for child safety. Summary Statement Pediatric dog bites are common and can vary in severity from superficial wounds to life-threatening injuries. Dog familiarity may confer a false sense of safety. A national dog bite prevention and education campaign should be developed with the goal of decreasing the incidence of pediatric dog bites.
The uniformization of rectangles, an exercise in Schwarz's lemma

INTRODUCTION. This note concerns Riemann mappings of rectangles onto the unit disk in the complex plane. Let's fix some notation for the discussion. For the unit circle and unit disk we'll use, respectively, S1 and D. For the rectangle parallel to the coordinate axes, centered at the origin 0 E C with height 1 and base length a > 0, so that the corners are at (?a/2, ? 1/2), we'll use R(a). In particular, it will be convenient to have R(b) c R(a) if b < a. Riemann's mapping theorem says that every simply connected plane domain Ql not equal to the whole plane can be mapped conformally one-to-one onto D. Thus this certainly holds for the interior of rectangles. These maps are thoroughly well understood from several points of view, primarily using the Schwarz-Christoffel formula (elliptic functions in a not too subtle disguise). The purpose of this note is to show that rectangles with different modulus (different values of a) can be seen as conformally different and completely characterized by sets of four distinct points on S with very little machinery. In fact, our only tools will be the Schwarz reflection principle, the Schwarz lemma (in other words, Schwarz seemed to have a pretty good sense about this sort of thing), some elementary conformal mappings, and the concept of normal families of analytic functions. Perhaps then the real purpose of this note is to serve as a reminder of the power of the profound, beautiful, and essentially elementary maximum modulus principle. The only reference necessary for this discussion is [A]. The theorem of Lowner may also be found in [C]. The proof given there is of a somewhat different flavor, and Lowner's proof [L] was roughly the same as the one given here.
Technology for Multispectral Infrared Laser Integration on Silicon

We propose an integrated silicon photonic multispectral infrared platform for combining laser power spanning the ultraviolet to the mid-wave infrared from hybrid silicon III-V lasers by spectral beam combining with a novel ultra-broadband combiner.
Reciprocity on the hardwood: passing patterns among professional basketball players.

Past theory and research view reciprocal resource sharing as a fundamental building block of human societies. Most studies of reciprocity dynamics have focused on trading among individuals in laboratory settings. But if motivations to engage in these patterns of resource sharing are powerful, then we should observe forms of reciprocity even in highly structured group environments in which reciprocity does not clearly serve individual or group interests. To this end, we investigated whether patterns of reciprocity might emerge among teammates in professional basketball games. Using data from logs of National Basketball Association (NBA) games of the 2008–9 season, we estimated a series of conditional logistic regression models to test the impact of different factors on the probability that a given player would assist another player in scoring a basket. Our analysis found evidence for a direct reciprocity effect in which players who had “received” assists in the past tended to subsequently reciprocate their benefactors. Further, this tendency was time-dependent, with the probability of repayment highest soon after receiving an assist and declining as game time passed. We found no evidence for generalized reciprocity – a tendency to “pay forward” assists – and only very limited evidence for indirect reciprocity – a tendency to reward players who had sent others many assists. These findings highlight the power of reciprocity to shape human behavior, even in a setting characterized by extensive planning, division of labor, quick decision-making, and a focus on inter-group competition.
On a finite element method for three‐dimensional unsteady compressible viscous flows

In this article we analyze a finite element method for three-dimensional unsteady compressible Navier-Stokes equations. We prove the existence and uniqueness of the numerical solution, and obtain a priori error estimates uniform in time. Numerical computations are carried out to test the orders of accuracy in the error estimates. Blend function interpolations are applied in the calculation of numerical integrations. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 20: 432–449, 2004.
Experimental Analysis of a Zebra Battery Based Propulsion System for Urban Bus under Dynamic Conditions

Abstract In this paper preliminary results on a Zebra battery based propulsion system for urban bus applications are presented. The analysis is carried out with the support of a laboratory 1:1 scale test bench, focusing the attention on a 65 kW electric drive, specifically designed for urban bus applications, supplied by two 20 kWh Zebra batteries working in parallel. The electric power train is connected, through a fixed ratio gear box, to a 100 kW regenerative electric brake provided with speed and torque controls, in order to evaluate the propulsion system performance in steady state and dynamic operative conditions. On the base of the architecture of a urban bus, powered by the same electric propulsion system studied in laboratory, a Matlab-Simulink model has been carried out to assess the dynamic behavior of the full electric urban bus and also other possible hybrid configurations, working on standard and real driving cycles, taking into account the resistant forces represented by proper vehicle/road/aerodynamic parameters. For the above configurations an evaluation of the expected real vehicle performance, in different operative road conditions, can be validated through the laboratory dynamic test bench.
Thermal Excursion Can Cause Bond Problems

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the failure mode caused by thermal deformation and how thermal deformation affects bond integrity. Wedge bonding in small-signal transistors, microcircuits and LSI circuits is the subject of this work. Repeated switching of the devices between high and low power at a rate that allows thermal expansion and contraction in the interconnecting wire causes the wire to flex at the point of reduced cross-sectional area until finally the wire breaks due to metal fatigue. It was observed that the thermal deformation was related to many factors such as device power dissipation, current density in the wire, wire dress and length, thermal time constant and frequency of operation.
Three Topics in Online List Coloring

In online list coloring (introduced by Zhu and by Schauz in 2009), on each round the set of vertices having a particular color in their lists is revealed, and the coloring algorithm chooses an independent subset to receive that color. The paint number of a graph G is the least k such that there is an algorithm to produce a successful coloring with no vertex being shown more than k times; it is at least the choice number. We study paintability of joins with complete or empty graphs, obtaining a partial result toward the paint analogue of Ohba’s Conjecture. We also determine upper and lower bounds on the paint number of complete bipartite graphs and characterize 3-paintcritical graphs.
Gene Expression Profiling Identifies Matriptase Overexpression in Malignant Mesothelioma

Study objective We investigated the gene expression profiles of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) specimens to identify novel genes that are potentially involved in the oncogenic transformation of human pleural cells. Design Complementary DNA (cDNA) microarray transcriptional profiling studies of 10 MPM cell lines and 4 MPM primary tumor specimens were performed using hierarchic clustering. To confirm microarray data, we used real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting. Results Cluster analysis differentiated among epithelial (E), sarcomatoid, and biphasic MPM variants. Expression profiling identified common overexpressed or underexpressed genes in MPM. Notably, matriptase messenger RNA was found to be overexpressed by 826-fold in E MPM, with protein expression subsequently confirmed by immunoblot analysis. This recently characterized trypsin-like serine protease has been implicated in tumor invasion and metastasis of E-derived cancers, but has not been described until now in MPM. We also identified other novel genes, such as insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 and a cDNA clone similar to proteolipid MAL2. Conclusions Thus, further large-scale profiling of MPM may elucidate previously unrecognized molecular mechanisms by identifying novel genes that are involved in malignant transformation. Our study has now found matriptase to be one of these mesothelioma-associated genes, with potential pathogenic and therapeutic significance.
Segmentation-based coding of motion difference and motion field images for low bit-rate video compression

A motion compensated video coding system that minimizes the overall system output bit rate by jointly compressing motion compensated difference (MCD) and motion displacement field (MDF) images is proposed. The MDF constructed from the set of motion vectors is treated as a vector-pixel image and coded to reduce the number of displacement vectors. The bit rates needed to adequately represent MCD and MDF images are interdependent. Thus, for optimal performance a motion compensated coding systems, both MCD and MDF images should be treated as a single unit. Based on the characteristics of these two types of images, a segmentation-based coder is developed. A split-and-merge segmentation algorithm is developed in a graph theoretic context to minimize a coding distortion function. Simulation results have demonstrated excellent performance from this coding system. >
Ability of the Vector Tick Boophilus microplus To Acquire and Transmit Babesia equi following Feeding on Chronically Infected Horses with Low-Level Parasitemia

The protozoan parasite Babesia equi replicates within erythrocytes. During the acute phase of infection, B. equi can reach high levels of parasitemia, resulting in a hemolytic crisis. Horses that recover from the acute phase of the disease remain chronically infected. Subsequent transmission is dependent upon the ability of vector ticks to acquire B. equi and, following development and replication, establishment of B. equi in the salivary glands. Although restriction of the movement of chronically infected horses with B. equi is based on the presumption that ticks can acquire and transmit the parasite at low levels of long-term infection, parasitemia levels during the chronic phase of infection have never been quantified, nor has transmission been demonstrated. To address these epidemiologically significant questions, we established long-term B. equi infections (>1 year), measured parasitemia levels over time, and tested whether nymphal Boophilus microplus ticks could acquire and, after molting to the adult stage, transmit B. equi to naive horses. B. equi levels during the chronic phase of infection ranged from 103.3 to 106.0/ml of blood, with fluctuation over time within individual horses. B. microplus ticks fed on chronically infected horses with mean parasite levels of 105.5 ± 100.48/ml of blood acquired B. equi, with detection of B. equi in the salivary glands of 7 to 50% of fed ticks, a range encompassing the percentage of positive ticks that had been identically fed on a horse in the acute phase of infection with high parasitemia levels. Ticks that acquired B. equi from chronically infected horses, as well as those fed during the acute phase of infection, successfully transmitted the parasite to naive horses. The results unequivocally demonstrated that chronically infected horses with low-level parasitemia are competent mammalian reservoirs for tick transmission of B. equi.
White matter tract injury and cognitive impairment in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals.

Approximately half of those infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) exhibit cognitive impairment, which has been related to cerebral white matter damage. Despite the effectiveness of antiretroviral treatment, cognitive impairment remains common even in individuals with undetectable viral loads. One explanation for this may be subtherapeutic concentrations of some antiretrovirals in the central nervous system (CNS). We utilized diffusion tensor imaging and a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation to investigate the relationship of white matter integrity to cognitive impairment and antiretroviral treatment variables. Participants included 39 HIV-infected individuals (49% with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]; mean CD4=529) and 25 seronegative subjects. Diffusion tensor imaging indices were mapped onto a common whole-brain white matter tract skeleton, allowing between-subject voxelwise comparisons. The total HIV-infected group exhibited abnormal white matter in the internal capsule, inferior longitudinal fasciculus, and optic radiation; whereas those with AIDS exhibited more widespread damage, including in the internal capsule and the corpus callosum. Cognitive impairment in the HIV-infected group was related to white matter injury in the internal capsule, corpus callosum, and superior longitudinal fasciculus. White matter injury was not found to be associated with HIV viral load or estimated CNS penetration of antiretrovirals. Diffusion tensor imaging was useful in identifying changes in white matter tracts associated with more advanced HIV infection. Relationships between diffusion alterations in specific white matter tracts and cognitive impairment support the potential utility of diffusion tensor imaging in examining the anatomical underpinnings of HIV-related cognitive impairment. The study also confirms that CNS injury is evident in persons infected with HIV despite effective antiretroviral treatment.
On asymptotically optimal sequential lossless coding for memoryless switching sources

Two strategies are used to exploit a set D/sub n/ of dormant nodes. The first creates /spl sigma/ nodes each time a new node should be created. One node with reset occurrence counts, while the others assume counts of all dormant nodes. When sufficient data is available, all new nodes but the one that is likely to represent a true state are eliminated. The second strategy creates only one instance, but when sufficient data is available, the occurrence counts of the new node are changed to those of the most likely dormant state, if such exists. If some mild regularity conditions hold, and only the most recent /spl sigma/ states may repeat, both strategies are asymptotically optimal. In practice, the strategies vary in complexity and performance.
Production of photovoltaic devices

This paper will provide a broad overview of present and future activities important for the production of Photovoltaic modules. First, the current methods for production will be reviewed, then a study of the techniques for further development will lead to an attempt to describe the factory of the future for Photovoltaic device production. The paper will look at the issues and technologies for the conversion from high purity quartz to silicon substrates and will then analyze processes from substrates to finished solar cells, and finish by reviewing the concepts for the manufacturing of the Photovoltaic modules.
A Bio‐inspired Approach for Chromophore Communication: Ligand‐to‐Ligand and Host‐to‐Guest Energy Transfer in Hybrid Crystalline Scaffolds

Efficient multiple-chromophore coupling in a crystalline metal–organic scaffold was achieved by mimicking a protein system possessing 100 % energy-transfer (ET) efficiency between a green fluorescent protein variant and cytochrome b562. The two approaches developed for ET relied on the construction of coordination assemblies and host–guest coupling. Based on time-resolved photoluminescence measurements in combination with calculations of the spectral overlap function and Forster radius, we demonstrated that both approaches resulted in a very high ET efficiency. In particular, the observed ligand-to-ligand ET efficiency value was the highest reported so far for two distinct ligands in a metal–organic framework. These studies provide important insights for the rational design of crystalline hybrid scaffolds consisting of a large ensemble of chromophore molecules with the capability of directional ET.