cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental and kinetic modeling study of extinction and ignition of methyl decanoate in laminar non-premixed flows

Abstract Methyl decanoate is a large methyl ester that can be used as a surrogate for biodiesel. In this experimental and computational study, the combustion of methyl decanoate was investigated in non-premixed, nonuniform flows. Experiments were performed employing the counterflow configuration with a fuel stream made up of vaporized methyl decanoate and nitrogen, and an oxidizer stream of air. The mass fraction of fuel in the fuel stream was measured as a function of the strain rate at extinction, and critical conditions of ignition were measured in terms of the temperature of the oxidizer stream as a function of the strain rate. A detailed mechanism of 8555 elementary reactions and 3036 species has been developed previously to describe combustion of methyl decanoate. Since it is not possible to use this detailed mechanism to simulate the counterflow flames because the number of species and reactions is too large to employ with current flame codes and computer resources, a skeletal mechanism was deduced from this detailed mechanism using the “directed relation graph” method. This skeletal mechanism has only 713 elementary reactions and 125 species. Critical conditions of extinction and critical conditions of ignition were calculated using this skeletal mechanism and they were found to agree well with experimental data. In general, the methyl decanoate mechanism provides a realistic kinetic tool for simulation of biodiesel fuels.
Hyperfrontality of regional cerebral blood flow distribution in normals during resting wakefulness: Fact or artifact?

Earlier studies with two-dimensional measurement techniques consistently found higher frontal flow in normal subjects during resting wakefulness. However, this finding could not be confirmed by several laboratories with the more modern and technologically more sophisticated three-dimensional measurement techniques. This discrepancy can have strong implications for psychiatric research in which both types of techniques are frequently used. This article reviews the existing literature, discusses possible reasons for the discrepancy, and evaluates evidence from other sources on the activity of the frontal lobe during wakefulness.
Iridoid glycoside content ofEuphydryas anicia (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) and its major hostplant,Besseya plantaginea (Scrophulariaceae), at a high plains colorado site.

The checkerspot butterfly,Euphydryas anicia, utilizes mainlyBesseya plantaginea and only occasionallyCastilleja integra as a larval hostplant at Michigan Hill, a few kilometers from a site whereC. integra is used by over 90% of the butterflies. TheB. plantaginea leaves that are consumed contain 9–22% iridoid glycosides, composed mainly of catalpol and catalpol esters, while larvae from the same plants contain 6–18% iridoids, mainly catalpol and no esters. Field-collected adult butterflies contain 0.5–4.3% iridoids. Laboratory-reared adults secrete iridoids in the meconium upon eclosion and retain similar amounts. The adult and meconium iridoid content is considerably lower than in the larvae, and metabolism in the pupal stage may be occurring.
Ricin A-chain inhibitors resembling the oxacarbenium ion transition state.

Ricin toxin A-chain (RTA) is expressed by the castor bean plant and is among the most potent mammalian toxins. Upon activation in the cytosol, RTA depurinates a single adenine from position 4324 of...
Bruxism in children: Etiology and treatment

Abstract Bruxism is the nonfunctional clenching or grinding of the teeth. These behaviors are relatively common in children and adolescents. The psychologist and pediatrician need help in deciding whether or not this dysfunctional behavior is in need of treatment. The disorder can be defined as a multifaceted problem in which understanding the nature of the symptom (duration, intensity, damage) and the likely theoretical cause may determine the need for treatment. Many theories have not been well supported by comparative research. Hypothesized etiological factors for these behaviors include deviations from ideal occlusion, psychological stress, and various systemic or neurophysiological conditions. Interocclusal appliances, noctural alarms, and various psychological approaches appear to be efficacious in treating the disorder; however, decision making has been haphazard, often based on the clinician's theortical approach or the availability of devices rather than on a functional analyses of the individual's predisposing factors. Most effects of treatment, therefore, are short lived. Suggestions for future research are made to remedy these shortcomings and provide clinicians with assistance in treatment decisions.
ENUMERATION OF TEMPERATURE‐STRESSED Pseudomonas aeruginosa UTILIZING SELECTIVE PROCEDURES

Sublethally stressed cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were enumerated using the plate count procedure with Plate Count Agar (PCA) and several selective media. Exponential phase (5 hr) cultures were stressed at 1 or 5°C in phosphate buffered distilled water for 0, 5 and 30 min and 24 hr. Counts on all media decreased as time of stress increased. Cold-stressed organisms plated on Acetamide Agar (ACE), King's Medium B with cetrimide (KMB), Trypicase Soy Agar with nitrofurantoin (TSN) and Naladixic Acid Cetrimide Agar (NAC) gave lower counts than those obtained on PCA, but KMB and NAC were the only media that gave statistically different counts at the 95% confidence level. Stationary phase (24 hr) cultures were stressed at 55°C in reconstituted milk-solids-not-fat to obtain approx 99% kill. Counts of heat-stressed organisms on ACE, KMB, TSN, NAC and Pseudosel BBL (PSE) were significantly lower than counts on PCA. Incubation of plates at 41°C reduced the count of heat-stressed cells significantly from counts obtained at 35 or 37°C on all media, including nonselective PCA. Only PSE affected counts of unstressed organisms, the counts being significantly lower than those on PCA. Counts of temperature-stressed p. aeruginosa may be substantially decreased when selective procedures are used.
Dopamine receptors in the developing sheep kidney

These studies were designed to characterize dopamine receptor density and affinity in kidneys removed from sheep of varying ages (fetal, newborn, and adult) using radioligand binding methods. Three different radioligands were used: the specific dopamine-1 antagonist3H-SCH 23390, the dopamine-1/dopamine-2 antagonist3H-haloperidol, and the dopamine-2 antagonist3H-spiroperidol. The specific binding of3H-haloperidol and3H-spiroperidol was saturable with time and ligand concentration, being indicative of dopamine receptors. The specific binding of the dopamine-1 selective radioligand3H-SCH 23390 was also saturable with time but displayed several points of saturation with increasing ligand concentration. The specific binding of3H-haloperidol, which had a low affinity and is indicative of dopamine-1 receptors, showed no age-related changes in maximum receptor density or affinity. On the other hand, the maximum receptor density of dopamine-2 receptors measured by3H-spiroperidol decreased with age. The observations that renal dopamine-1 receptor density or affinity do not change with maturation are in agreement with our pervious studies that showed no age-related changes in dopamine-receptor-mediated renal vasodilatation in sheep. The significance of the decrease in renal dopamine-2 receptor density with age remains to be determined.
Molecular cloning of rabbit organic cation transporter rbOCT2 and functional comparisons with rbOCT1.

Multiple organic cation transporters (OCTs) are present in rabbit kidney and may play different functional roles. We cloned rabbit OCT2 (rbOCT2) and compared its function with that of rabbit OCT1 (...
Efficacy of a school-based cardiac health promotion intervention program for African-American adolescents

Abstract Objective African-American adolescents are twice as likely to develop hypertension in early adulthood than adolescents from other racial groups. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of a school-based health promotion intervention. Method Participants were African-American adolescents aged between 14 and 17 years attending an urban high school. The 9-week intervention program focused on the participants' knowledge, diet, exercise, and blood pressure. Conclusions The intervention program was efficacious in knowledge ( p = .0001), exercise ( p = .0001), as well as fruit and vegetable intake ( p = .0001). Differences in systolic ( p = .5548) and diastolic ( p = .9719) blood pressure levels were not significant.
TRPM4 is a Ca2+-activated nonselective cation channel mediating cell membrane depolarization.

Abstract Calcium-activated nonselective (CAN) cation channels are expressed in various excitable and nonexcitable cells supporting important cellular responses such as neuronal bursting activity, fluid secretion, and cardiac rhythmicity. We have cloned and characterized a second form of TRPM4, TRPM4b, a member of the TRP channel family, as a molecular candidate of a CAN channel. TRPM4b encodes a cation channel of 25 pS unitary conductance that is directly activated by [Ca 2+ ]i with an apparent K D of ∼400 nM. It conducts monovalent cations such as Na + and K + without significant permeation of Ca 2+ . TRPM4b is activated following receptor-mediated Ca 2+ mobilization, representing a regulatory mechanism that controls the magnitude of Ca 2+ influx by modulating the membrane potential and, with it, the driving force for Ca 2+ entry through other Ca 2+ -permeable pathways.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of A77 1726 and leflunomide in domestic cats.

Mehl, M. L., Tell, L., Kyles, A. E., Chen, Y.-J., Craigmill, A., Gregory, C. R. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of A77 1726 and leflunomide in domestic cats. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 35, 139–146. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of A77 1726 and leflunomide after intravenous (i.v.) and oral (p.o.) administration were evaluated in adult cats. Three treatments were administered: a single i.v. dose of A77 1726 (4 mg/kg), a single oral dose of leflunomide (4 mg/kg), and multiple oral doses of leflunomide (2 mg/kg). Mean pharmacokinetic parameter values after a single i.v. dose of A77 1726 were distribution (A) and elimination (B) intercepts (15.2 μg/mL and 34.5 μg/mL, respectively), distribution and elimination half-lives (1.5 and 71.8 h, respectively), area under the curve (AUC0∞; 3723 μg*h/mL), mean residence time (MRT; 93 h), clearance (Clobs; 1.1 mL/kg/h), and volume of distribution at steady state (Vdss; 97 mL/kg). Mean pharmacokinetic parameter values after a single oral dose of leflunomide were absorption and elimination rate constants (0.3 1/h and 0.01 1/h, respectively), absorption and elimination half-lives (2.3 and 59.1 h, respectively), AUC0∞ (3966 μg*h/mL), and maximum observed plasma concentration (Cmax; 38 μg/mL). The bioavailability after a single oral dose of leflunomide was 100%. The mean ± SD A77 1726 concentration that inhibited 50% lymphocytes (EC50) was 16 ± 13.5 μg/mL. The mean ± SD maximum A77 1726 concentration (ECmax) was 61.0 ± 23.9 μg/mL.
Coordination of Golgi functions by phosphatidylinositol 4-kinases

Phosphatidylinositol 4-kinases (PI4Ks) regulate vesicle-mediated export from the Golgi apparatus via phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PtdIns4P) binding effector proteins that control vesicle budding reactions and regulate membrane dynamics. Evidence has emerged from the characterization of Golgi PI4K effectors that vesicle budding and lipid dynamics are tightly coupled via a regulatory network that ensures that the appropriate membrane composition is established before a transport vesicle buds from the Golgi. An important hub of this network is protein kinase D, which regulates the activity of PI4K and several PtdIns4P effectors that control sphingolipid and sterol content of Golgi membranes. Other newly identified PtdIns4P effectors include Vps74/GOLPH3, a phospholipid flippase called Drs2 and Sec2, a Rab guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF). These effectors orchestrate membrane transformation events facilitating vesicle formation and targeting. In this review, we discuss how PtdIns4P signaling is integrated with membrane biosynthetic and vesicle budding machineries to potentially coordinate these crucial functions of the Golgi apparatus.
Lakon: a middle-ground approach to high-frequency data acquisition and in-network processing in sensor networks

The need for high-frequency signal acquisition and processing is becoming increasingly prevalent in sensor networks. Applications that require high-frequency data sampling are presently at a disadvantage; applications that only sample at high data rates (and not process any of it locally) end up transmitting large quantities of data, greatly reducing network lifetime. Other applications that do use in-network signal processing rely on power-hungry motes.We present Lakon, a mote architecture capable of onboard signal processing of high-frequency data that provides a middle ground for more general classes of applications that require signal processing. Our design takes advantage of an energy-efficient on-board digital signal processor (DSP) that can be intelligently enabled on demand. Our contribution here is threefold. First, we present a general mote architecture that is more appropriate for applications such as body sensor networks and habitat monitoring. Second, we present a switching scheme for processor scheduling that determines the co-processor's usage. Finally, we demonstrate the use and potential of Lakon in the context of a text-independent speaker recognition system that takes an audio signal as input and performs classification on that signal to identify the owner of the voice.
Adaptive nonlinear burn control in tokamak fusion reactors

There are many challenging control problems critical to the success of burning fusion plasma experiments like ITER. Among them, the most fundamental problem is the control of plasma density and temperature, referred to as the burn condition. While passively stable burn conditions exist, economic and technological constraints may require future commercial fusion reactors to operate at unstable burn conditions. The instability is due to the fact that at low temperatures, the rate of thermonuclear reaction increases as the plasma temperature rises. To stabilize such operating points, it will be essential to have active control of the system. Most existing burn control efforts use control techniques based on linearized models. Such models break down for large perturbations and must be designed around a particular operating point. In this work, we utilize a spatially averaged (zero-dimensional) nonlinear transport model to synthesize a nonlinear feedback controller that can stabilize the burn condition of a fusion reactor. The nonlinear controller guarantees stability of the plasma density and temperature for a much larger range of perturbations than linear designs and is augmented with an adaptive law that guarantees stability despite uncertainty in particle confinement time parameters. A zero-dimensional transport simulation study is presented to show the ability of the controller to bring the system back to the desired equilibrium from a given set of initial perturbations even when there is significant uncertainty in the confinement parameters.
Biologic Scaffold Remodeling in a Dog Model of Complex Musculoskeletal Injury

Background Current treatment principles for muscle injuries with volumetric loss have been largely derived from empirical observations. Differences in severity or anatomic location have determinant effects on the tissue remodeling outcome. Biologic scaffolds composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) have been successfully used to restore vascularized, innervated, and contractile skeletal muscle in animal models but limited anatomic locations have been evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the ability of a xenogeneic ECM scaffold to restore functional skeletal muscle in a canine model of a complex quadriceps injury involving bone, tendon, and muscle. Materials and Methods Sixteen dogs were subjected to unilateral resection of the distal third of the vastus lateralis and medial half of the distal third of the vastus medialis muscles including the proximal half of their associated quadriceps tendon. This defect was replaced with a biologic scaffold composed of small intestinal submucosa extracellular matrix (SIS-ECM) and the remodeling response was evaluated at 1, 2, 3, and 6 mo ( N = 4 per group). Results The initial remodeling process followed a similar pattern to other studies of ECM-mediated muscle repair with rapid vascularization and migration of myoblasts into the defect site. However, over time the remodeling response resulted in the formation of dense collagenous tissue with islands of muscle in the segments of the scaffold not in contact with bone, and foci of bone and cartilage in the segments that were adjacent to the underlying bone. Conclusions SIS-ECM was not successful at restoring functional muscle tissue in this model. However, the results also suggest that SIS-ECM may have potential to promote integration of soft and boney tissues when implanted in close apposition to bone.
Skeptical Reflections on a Europe of Regions: Britain, Germany, and the ERDF

European Community policymaking has been predicated upon the member governments acting as gatekeepers which mediate between their respective domestic political systems and EC institutions. However, the sweeping changes associated with Project 1992 threaten the gatekeeping status of the Twelve. This article explores the domestic and international consequences, which are cast in terms of three scenarios: the maintenance of the status quo, the emergence of a ‘Europe of Regions’, and a variegated set of outcomes. As an attempt to move beyond the realm of pure speculation, concrete lessons are culled from the reform of the European Regional Development Fund since 1979 and its effect on national and subnational interests in Britain and the Federal Republic of Germany. The theoretical premise is that national and subnational actors respond to Community initiatives within a structured context, the domestic policy networks in which they are embedded. These clusters of interorganizational relationships at the domestic level reflect the underlying distribution of resources among actors, and endow them with different capabilities and vulnerabilities as they seek to cope with changes administered to their policy environment by the EC. The findings suggest skepticism of the image of strengthened regions breaking out of the orbit of weakened states with the assistance of the EC. While the ability of member states to retain their roles as gatekeepers varies, this capacity remains strong. Moreover, subnational actors often view the EC as yet another exogenous institutional constraint on action.
Exemplary Care as a Mediator of the Effects of Caregiver Subjective Appraisal and Emotional Outcomes

Purpose: Exemplary care (EC) is a new construct encompassing care behaviors that warrants further study within stress process models of dementia caregiving. Previous research has examined EC within the context of cognitively intact older adult care recipients (CRs) and their caregivers (CGs). This study sought to expand our knowledge of quality of care by investigating EC within a diverse sample of dementia CGs. Design and Methods: We examined the relation between CG subjective appraisal (daily care bother, burden, and behavioral bother), EC, and CG emotional outcomes (depression and positive aspects of caregiving [PAC]). Specifically, EC was examined as a possi ble mediator of the effects of CG subjective appraisals on emotional outcomes. Using a bootstrapping method and an SPSS macro developed by Preacher and Hayes (2008 Asymptotic and resampling strategies for assessing and comparing indirect effects in multiple mediator models), we tested the indirect effect of EC on the relation between CG subjective appraisals and CG emotional outcomes. Results: Overall, EC partially mediates the relation between the subjective appraisal variables (daily care bother, burden, and behavioral bother) and PAC. Results for depression were similar except that EC did not mediate the relation between burden and depression. This pattern of results varied by race/ ethnicity. Implications: Overall, CGs’ perception of providing EC to individuals with dementia partially explains the relation between subjective appraisal and symptoms of depression and PAC. Results of this study suggest that interventions may benefit from training CGs to engage in EC to improve their emotional outcomes and quality
The decline of native coccinellids (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in the United States and Canada

Reviewing published coccinellid surveys we found that the number of adventive species has increased steadily over the last century while the average proportion of native individuals has remained fairly constant until 1987 followed by a rapid decrease between 1987 and 2006. Seven long-term studies indicated that the total density of coccinellids increased by an average of 14% following establishment of adventive species, but this increase was not significant and in 4 of 7 cases the total density of coccinellids actually decreased following establishment. Similarly, no significant difference was found in comparisons of diversity across all studies. These results illustrate that even with multiple long-term data sets it is currently difficult to make any general conclusions regarding the impact adventive coccinellids have had on native coccinellid assemblages. However, it is clear that specific systems and species have seen major shifts in recent years. For example, adventives have become the dominant species in a third of the assemblages where they are found. Focusing on two formerly common native species, Adalia bipunctata and Coccinella novemnotata, we show they have become rare in their former ranges and discuss potential explanations for this phenomenon.
FtsL, an Essential Cytoplasmic Membrane Protein Involved in Cell Division in Escherichia coli

Abstract We have identified a gene involved in bacterial cell division, located immediately upstream of the ftsI gene in the min 2 region of the Escherichia coli chromosome. This gene, which we named ftsL, was detected through characterization of TnphoA insertions in a plasmid containing this chromosomal region. TnphoA topological analysis and fractionation of alkaline phosphatase fusion proteins indicated that the ftsL gene product is a 13.6-kDa cytoplasmic membrane protein with a cytoplasmic amino terminus, a single membrane-spanning segment, and a periplasmic carboxy terminus. The ftsL gene is essential for cell growth and division. A null mutation in ftsL resulted in inhibition of cell division, formation of long, nonseptate filaments, ultimate cessation of growth, and lysis. Under certain growth conditions, depletion of FtsL or expression of the largest ftsL-phoA fusion produced a variety of cell morphologies, including Y-shaped bacteria, indicating a possible general weakening of the cell wall. The FtsL protein is estimated to be present at about 20 to 40 copies per cell. The periplasmic domain of the protein displays a sequence with features characteristic of leucine zippers, which are involved in protein dimerization.
Peripheral neuropathy during etretinate therapy for psoriasis

inhibition of neutrophilic chemotaxis.5 The drug is effective in the oral and genital aphthosis of Behc;et's disease.6 Side effects include teratogenicity and dose-related peripheral neuropathy. Our two patients responded dramatically to thalidomide without side effects and with a prolonged remission. These two cases confirm those previously described.3,4 Contraception in fertile women and repeated neurologic examinations during treatment are mandatory.
Characterizing nitrogen use efficiency in natural and agricultural ecosystems to improve the performance of cereal crops in low-input and organic agricultural systems

Low-input and organic farming systems have notable differences in nitrogen (N) sources, cycling and management strategies compared to conventional systems with high inputs of synthetic N fertilizer. In low-input and organic systems, there is greater reliance on complex rotations including annual and perennial crops, organic N sources, and internal N cycling that more closely mimic natural systems. These differences in farming system practices fundamentally affect N availability and N use efficiency (NUE) and could impact crop traits and breeding strategies required to optimize NUE. We assess genetic and environmental factors that could assist breeders in improving crop performance in low-input and organic farming systems by examining NUE in natural and agricultural ecosystems. Crop plants have often been bred for high N productivity, while plants adapted to low N ecosystems often have lower productivity and higher levels of internal N conservation. Breeders can potentially combine N productivity and N conservation through the use of elite and wild germplasm. Beneficial genetic traits include the ability to maintain photosynthesis and N uptake under N stress and the ability to extract soil N at low concentrations, perhaps through beneficial associations with soil microorganisms. In addition, breeding for specific adaptation to climactic and management practices so that crop uptake patterns match N availability patterns, while minimizing pathways of N loss, will be critical to improving NUE.
When Kids Know Better: Paternalistic Helping in 3-Year-Old Children

Helping others is often more complicated than fulfilling their requests, for instance, when an individual requests something that is not suited to achieving her or his ultimate goal. Are children indiscriminate helpers, responding to any object-directed action or request, or do their helping actions prioritize ultimate goals over specific requests? We examined how 3-year-olds would provide help to an experimenter whose verbal requests were incompatible with the tasks she was trying to accomplish, a situation in which the best way to help was to deny the request and provide an alternative. In Study 1, children were less likely to give the experimenter a requested object when it was dysfunctional and could not allow the experimenter to complete her task than when it was functional. In Study 2, we found that children did not simply prefer functional objects, as they were willing to give the experimenter requested objects regardless of their functionality when the task was to throw objects in the trash. In Study 3, children denied a request for a dysfunctional object when the task could only be achieved using a functional object, but not when the task could be achieved with either object. We also found in Study 3 that children proactively warned an experimenter attempting to use an object not suited to her goal. Our studies show that by at least age 3, children prioritize ultimate goals when helping others, rather than fulfilling any object request.
A method to test contractility of the supraspinatus muscle in mouse, rat, and rabbit

The rotator cuff (RTC) muscles not only generate movement but also provide important shoulder joint stability. RTC tears, particularly in the supraspinatus muscle, are a common clinical problem. Despite some biological healing after RTC repair, persistent problems include poor functional outcomes with high retear rates after surgical repair. Animal models allow further exploration of the sequela of RTC injury such as fibrosis, inflammation, and fatty infiltration, but there are few options regarding contractility for mouse, rat, and rabbit. Histological findings can provide a "direct measure" of damage, but the most comprehensive measure of the overall health of the muscle is contractile force. However, information regarding normal supraspinatus size and contractile function is scarce. Animal models provide the means to compare muscle histology, imaging, and contractility within individual muscles in various models of injury and disease, but to date, most testing of animal contractile force has been limited primarily to hindlimb muscles. Here, we describe an in vivo method to assess contractility of the supraspinatus muscle and describe differences in methods and representative outcomes for mouse, rat, and rabbit.
Learning at the Speed of Readiness: An Express Learning Model

Mainstream higher education classroom practices have not always followed sound pedagogical research. Increased Internet-based accessibility to information and varietal student learning preferences have prompted discourse in opposition to mainstream management education in the business disciplines. The article postulates a learning model that optimizes the time that higher education students spend on a course or unit of teaching. The basis of the conceptual model is found in hospitality and tourism, business, education, and educational psychology theory. The article explores the theoretical and philosophical roots of critical pedagogy and their benefits to hospitality and tourism education. Including critical pedagogy and accelerated learning methods in curricula results in positive outcomes on three levels: individual freedom, social justice, and business management productivity. The model advances learning, instructional, and pedagogical theory, forming the foundation of future empirical studies concerni...
The use of the technique of progressive-resistance exercise in adolescence.

1. This preliminary report suggests the effectiveness of the technique of progressive-resistance exercise in the after-care of knee injuries and low-back strains and in the development of the muscles of the upper trunk and arms of adolescents. 2. The desirability of utilizing a therapeutic-exercise method which will not only restore muscle power, but which will also produce a considerable increase over the strength existing prior to injury, is urged. 3. Further clinical trial of progressive-resistance exercise is suggested in conditions which require that muscle power be increased.
Avatars and Behavioral Experiments: Methods for Controlled Quantitative Social Behavioral Research in Virtual Worlds

3D3C Worlds can support real-time, quantitatively controlled experiments for studying human group behavior. This chapter provides a review of social behavioral research in virtual worlds, their methodologies and goals, such as studies of socio-economical trends, interpersonal communications between virtual world residents, automated survey studies, etc. The chapter contrasts existing research tools in virtual worlds with the goals of studying human group behavior as a complex system—how interacting groups of people create emergent organizations at a higher level than the individuals comprising such groups. Finally, the chapter presents features of virtual world-based group behavior experiments that allow the recreation of controlled quantitative experiments previously conducted in supervised lab sessions or web-based games.
Recent Advances in Si And Ge Zone-Melting Recrystallization

By improving the thermal uniformity and stability of our graphite-strip-heater oven, we have been able to significantly improve the overall quality of ZMR Si films. We have observed unbranched subboundaries and new types of defects that are less extended than the usual sub-boundaries. The overall wafer flatness has been improved so that total warp is less than 4 µm for 3-inch wafers. We have also utilized the ZMR technique for producing thin Ge-on-insulator films.
Observation of Viscoelastic Behavior of Lipid Membrane via Optical Forces

The temporal characterization of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) is achieved via a dual-beam optical trap. The instantaneous and delayed response in membrane surface area strain was observed, implying viscoelastic behavior of the membrane.
EnaBILEing Growth in the Fetal Liver.

Blood stem cells develop at successive sites in the vertebrate embryo, but the functional explanation for this behavior is unknown. Sigurdsson et al. (2016) provide justification for transient fetal liver residence, where select bile acid composition, derived from mother and embryo, provides a protective environment, enabling rapid stem cell expansion.
Surveillance of HIV testing: where should we go next?

The UK national guidelines for HIV testing 2008 recommend testing for HIV in a wide range of settings outside genitourinary medicine (GUM) and antenatal services.1 This includes HIV testing of all patients with clinical HIV indicator conditions and of adults registering in general practice in areas with high HIV prevalence. Monitoring the implementation of the national guidelines is vital to reduce the number of undiagnosed HIV infections in the UK. Therefore, a key recommendation of the guidelines is for audit, not only of the uptake of HIV testing in GUM and antenatal services, but also of the number of tests performed in primary and secondary care and among patients with any of numerous HIV indicator conditions.1 However, audit of HIV testing in these contexts presents significant challenges. Patients with HIV indicator conditions are …
RIGHT VENTRICULAR ENDOCARDIECTOMY FOR LOEFFLER’S ENDOCARDITIS PRESENTING AS CARDIOGENIC SHOCK

Loeffler’s endocarditis can be a devastating manifestation of the hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES); causing necrosis, fibrosis and thrombosis of the ventricles, an overwhelming restrictive physiology and valve deformation. Endocardiectomy is a rare therapy utilized, especially when isolated to the
CALCIUM TRANSFER IN RAT SALIVARY AND LACRIMAL GLANDS.

ABSTRACT The uptake and the rate of equilibration of subcutaneously administered Ca 45 in submaxillary glands of rats are increased by the administration of pilocarpine. Both effects are readily blocked by the administration of atropine. Quantitatively similar effects can also be induced in isolated whole lacrimal glands, in which both the uptake and loss of Ca 45 are increased by parasympathetic stimulants. In contrast to these enhancing effects of parasympathetic stimulants on Ca 45 transfer, the uptake of K 42 after subcutaneous administration and the distribution of intravenous K 42 to submaxillary gland, as compared to kidney, are not changed by the administration of pilocarpine. This lack of an effect on K 42 distribution probably reflects a lack of effect on the blood flow through the gland. Thus, the increase in uptake of Ca 45 produced by pilocarpine probably indicates an effect on some specific cellular mechanism by which calcium enters the gland, since many other substances have not been affected comparably. These include P 32 , Na 22 , 1 131 , Sr 85 , α -aminoisobutyric acid-C 14 , and glucose-C 14 .
Pathophysiologic Approach to Metabolic Acidosis

Evaluation of a presumed metabolic acidosis begins with the clinical history and assessment of potential causes of decreased plasma bicarbonate levels. Calculation of the plasma anion gap is the initial step in the evaluation of metabolic acidosis. The type of metabolic acidosis present can be initially approached by assessing whether plasma anion gap (AG) is normal or elevated and helps differentiate hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis (normal AG) from high AG metabolic acidosis. The relationship between the increase in the anion gap above normal ΔAG and the decrease in serum bicarbonate concentration below normal ΔHCO3 helps uncover the presence of a mixed acid–base disorders. Deviations from the presumed 1:1 ratio in this relationship that is present in a high AG metabolic acidosis can be used to diagnose complex mixed acid–base disorders.
28K antigen in the urothelium.

AbstractWe have been investigating the nature of the mucosal lining of human urinary bladder. Surface material was obtained from bladders at autopsy and used for biochemical analysis. Western immunoblotting and tissue immunochemistry identified a molecule of Mr 28,000. (28K) which is present within surface cells of the urothelium (umbrella cells). Antiserum to 28K stained sections of the bladder of two patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder and other patients with squamous metaplasia. We consider 28K to be a component of the normal human bladder surface that is increased in patients with squamous metaplasia and may also be present in squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder.
Interactions Between Language and Mental Representations

It has long been recognized that language interacts with visual and spatial processes. However, the nature and extent of these interactions are widely debated. The goal of this article is to review empirical findings across several domains to understand whether language affects the way speakers conceptualize the world even when they are not speaking or understanding speech. A second goal of the present review is to shed light on the mechanisms through which effects of language are transmitted. Across domains, there is growing support for the idea that although language does not lead to long-lasting changes in mental representations, it exerts powerful influences during momentary mental computations by either modulating attention or augmenting representational power.
Can the Arrangement of RyR2 in Cardiac Muscle Be Predicted

Members of the two families of endo/sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium release channels, ryanodine receptors (RyRs) and IP3 receptors, share the same general architecture. They consist of an ionic channel domain inserted into an internal cell membrane, coupled to a very large cytoplasmic domain through which the channels are controlled and then interact with each other. RyRs were originally identified and purified based on the high affinity for the plant alkaloid ryanodine, defined by the work of I.
Li-Fraumeni syndrome: a paradigm for the understanding of hereditary cancer predisposition.

Summary Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is a rare cancer predisposing condition caused by germline mutations in TP53, the gene encoding the TP53 transcription factor. LFS is typified by the development of a wide spectrum of childhood and adult-onset malignancies, which includes, among others, the lymphoid and myeloid leukaemias, myelodysplastic syndrome and, to a lesser extent, lymphoma. Accordingly, it is important that haematologists/oncologists be familiar with this pleiotropic hereditary cancer syndrome. The high cancer risk and variability in type and age of cancer onset have raised questions about the underlying biology and optimal treatment approaches for individuals with LFS. Since its description almost 50 years ago, many clinical and basic research investigations have provided insights into the pathogenesis, manifestations, genetic testing and management strategies for individuals with LFS. Here we provide an update on the current state of knowledge regarding LFS with an emphasis, where possible, on information relevant to practicing haematologists.
Americium-beryllium and plutonium-beryllium neutron source relative effectiveness in prompt-γ neutron-activation analysis

Abstract The relative effectiveness of plutonium-beryllium and americium-beryllium isotopic neutron sources are compared for use in prompt-γ neutron-activation analysis. Measurements were performed with a boron trifluoride neutron detector, a Geiger-Muller tube and a sodium iodide scintillation crystal. Relative neutron levels and associated γ-radiation produced by these sources in a standard moderating system are normalized to neutron emission rates. The normalized thermal neutron level for the sources is the same, which verifies the source calibrations. The americium source has a higher γ-radiation level than the plutonium source when normalized to the same neutron emission rate, which is primarily due to the higher energy γ-radiation emitted in the decay of Am 241 . Therefore, for prompt-γ neutron-activation analysis, use of an americium source could be applied to reactions in which a γ-ray of high energy is emitted, so that no interference with the low energy background radiation occurs.
Reduction of Carbonyl Groups by Uranium(III) and Formation of a Stable Amide Radical Anion

Methyl benzoate, N,N-dimethylbenzamide, and benzophenone were reduced by UIII [N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 resulting in uranium(IV) products. Reduction of benzophenone lead to UIV [OC⋅Ph2 )][N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 , (1.1) which forms the dinuclear complex, [N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 UIV (OCPhPh-CPh2 O)UIV [N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 (1.2), through coupling of the ketyl radical species upon crystallization. Reaction of N,N-dimethylbenzamide with UIII [N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 resulted in UIV [OC⋅(Ph)(NMe2 )][N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 (2), a uranium(IV) compound and the first example of a charge-separated amide radical. In the case of methyl benzoate, the reduction resulted in UIV (OMe)[N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 (3) and benzaldehyde as the reduced organic fragment. Compound 2 showed the ability to act as a uranium(III) synthon in its reactivity with trimethylsilyl azide, a reaction that yielded UV (=NSiMe3 )[N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 . Additionally, 2 was reduced with potassium graphite resulting in [U(μ-O)[O=C(NMe2 )(Ph)][N(SiMe3 )2 ]2 ]2 (4), a dinuclear uranium compound bridged by oxo ligands. Reduction of 2 in the presence of 15-crown-5 afforded isolation of the mono-oxo compound, [(15-crown-5)2 K][UO[N(SiMe3 )2 ]3 ] (5). The results expand the reduction capabilities of UIII complexes and demonstrate a strategy for isolating novel metal-stabilized radicals.
Role of large inhomogeneities in initiating liquid sheet breakup in agricultural atomisation

It is known that agricultural emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulations reduce the fraction of fine spray produced during atomisation when compared with water. In recent years researchers inferred why EC formulations spray differently when multiple phases are present. The dispersed phase (e.g., oil drops/solid particles) is responsible for creating holes within the sheet, where the holes grow and merge to form liquid bridge ligaments which stretch and then breakup into droplets. Creating an inhomogeneous formulation of water and oil is a necessary, but not sufficient condition, to reduce the fine droplets produced during atomisation. The dispersed phase must also be of sufficient size and wettability (hydrophobicity) to create holes within the spray sheet emanating from agricultural nozzles. This manuscript describes the mechanics of creating perforations in liquid sheets using inhomogeneities within the spray solution. Perforations alter the sheet breakup mechanism leading to a reduction of very small drops (e.g., driftable fines) when atomised. Therefore, the number and location of perforations within the sheet can be used to control sheet breakup and droplet size distribution upon atomisation, based upon proof-of-concept experimental observations, surface energy minimisation principles, an overview of the various antifoaming agents that have been reported in literature (solids, oil globules, micelles), along with physical mechanisms for hole growth. Understanding the multiphase fluid parameters and atomisation process conditions that lead to hole perforation in liquid sheets (i.e., inhomogeneities) provides the basis for a priori formulation design based solely on physicochemical properties of formulation components.
Culture Shifts: From Cultural to Structural Theorizing in Nursing.

Background As a discipline, nursing emphasizes the importance of culture to care. Cultural competence is seen in nursing practice, education, and research as essential for addressing health disparities—particularly racial and ethnic disparities. There now is broad consensus that the causes for health disparities lie beyond the individual and are found in the structures of society. Current cultural competency theories and conceptual models, however, focus on the individual and do little to address the social/structural determinants of health. Approach Reviewing the literature on cultural competency, current theorizing on culture and healthcare in nursing, and critiques of this theorizing is summarized. Emerging models that highlight the structural features of society influencing health are described. Key Points Cultural competency theorizing has been embraced in nursing, but its effectiveness in reducing health disparities has yet to be demonstrated. A shift in how the discipline addresses health disparities is needed. New theoretical approaches, such as fundamental causes theory, the health impact pyramid, ecological models, and structural competency, emphasize larger social determinants of health and should be more fully utilized in nursing. Implications Nurse theorists need to clarify the usefulness of the emerging theories to the discipline, nurse educators should incorporate structural theories and concepts into curricula, practicing nurses will want to include structural screening assessment tools in their provision of care, and nurse researchers will need to develop skills in conducting and measuring the impacts of structural interventions.
Retrieval of a Micra transcatheter pacing system in a heart with a preexisting lead.

Abstract We report the case of a 74-year-old man with a previously implanted pacemaker lead. He had undergone Medtronic™ Micra Transcatheter Pacing System (TPS, Medtronic plc, MN, USA) implantation because of lead fracture. We implanted a new TPS and retrieved the dislodged one. We used a multiple-loop snare (EN snare®) and an 8.5F steerable sheath (Agilis NXT; St. Jude Medical, St Paul, MN, USA). The TPS was obstructed by the chordae tendineae of the tricuspid valve and the pacemaker lead. We pushed the TPS to the apex site; this enabled us to move the TPS away from the chordae tendineae and pacemaker lead. The TPS body was caught in the inferior vena cava and was successfully retrieved. To our knowledge, this is the first case reporting TPS retrieval in a heart with preexisting lead.
Advances and Applications of Rapid Electrokinetic Patterning

The dynamic manipulation and assembly of colloids enables the advancement of analytical techniques in biotechnology and the development of self-assembled materials. Rapid electrokinetic patterning (REP) is a hybrid optoelectrokinetic technique that simultaneously uses a laser illumination and a uniform AC electric field to yield programmable, dynamic, and non-invasive manipulation of colloidal particles. Since it was introduced, the technique has been applied to microengineering and biological research fields, showing its promising capabilities as a great tool for trapping, aggregating, translating, and sorting single and multiple micro- and nanoparticles, including bacteria. To effectively leverage and enhance these applications, this review paper will highlight its versatility and capability, including REP’s principles, governing physics, different experimental setups, fabrications, applications, and future prospects.