cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation of the machining induced residual stress tensor under mechanical loading

Abstract Residual stress induced by machining is complex and difficult to predict, since it involves mechanical loads, temperature gradients or phase transformation in the generation mechanism. In this work, an experiment with a statistical design for the residual stress tensor was performed to investigate the residual stress profile on a machined surface. In order to understand the generation mechanism of residual stress in machining, three variables and workpiece materials were carefully selected to focus on the mechanical loads and avoid the temperature gradients and phase transformation on the machined surface. The mechanical loads considered here included the chip formation force at the primary shear zone and the plowing force at the tool tip–workpiece contact. Depths of cut and rake angles were selected to alter the chip formation force, and the tool tip radius was designed to emphasize the plowing effect. The workpiece material was aluminum 3003. The experimental results showed that the chip formation force provides basic shapes of the residual stress profile for a machined surface. It decides the depth of the peak residual stress below the surface. However, the plowing force was the dominating effect on the surface residual stress, causing high stresses on the surface. The plowing force can shift the surface stress from tensile to compressive. Additionally, the measured stress tensor proved that in-plane shear stress exists for the machined surface.
Identification of distinct target-specific subsets of NK cells in peripheral blood of normal donors

One major issue in studies on natural killer activities centers around the concept of heterogeneity of effector cells in the NK population. In this study Ficoll-Hypaque fractionated PBL from normal adult donors were used as effectors against a variety of tumor targets in in vitro chromium release assays with the goal of substantiation of the existence of NK subsets. Effectors with common or distinct specificities were demonstrated by the cold target inhibition assays as well as by immunoadsorption studies using tumor cell monolayers. In particular, a distinct subset of NK effectors, with the unique ability of killing a myeloma cell line (FRV), hitherto an NK-resistant tumor target, was demonstrated with the PBL of one normal donor (LP). Separation of this unique subpopulation based on differential light scatter property was achieved using flow cytometry (FACS III). The unique FRV killers were larger than the effectors which lyse K562 and they resemble the activated NK cells in the mouse system.
Progress in the Self-Similar Turbulent Flame premixed combustion model

This paper is devoted to premixed combustion modeling in turbulent flow. First, we briefly remind the main features of the Self-Similar Turbulent Flame model that was more extensively developed in a former paper. Then, we carefully describe some improvements of the model. The determination of the turbulent flame velocity is based on the observed self-similarity of the turbulent flame and uses the local flame brush width as a fundamental parameter, which must be retrieved. With respect to the former version, we now derive more rigorously how the density variation has to be taken into account in the width retrieving function. We reformulate the diffusion term as a classical flux divergence term. We enforce the compatibility of the model for the limit of weak turbulence. We include a contracting effect of the source term, thus allowing to give a stationary mono-dimensional asymptotic solution with a finite width. We also include in a preliminary form, a stretch factor, which proves to be useful for controlling the flame behavior close to the flame holder and near the walls. The model implementation in the Star-CD CFD code is then tested on three different flame configurations. Finally, we shortly discuss the model improvements and the simulation results.
A Comparative Study of Terminally Ill Hospice and Hospital Patients.

This study investigated differences between twenty-eight hospice and twenty-eight hospital patients who died within a specified time period in one county of Northeastern Ohio. The comparison found that hospice patients were younger, had more people living in the home, and had a shorter disease history. Age, the number of people living in the home, and primary cancer site significantly discriminated between the hospice and hospital patients and predicted group membership with a 76.8 percent overall accuracy rate.
RNA Synthesis in Poliovirus-Infected Cells.

Abstract Evidence is presented which indicates that only one type of RNA—the entire RNA molecule of mature virus particles—is made in large amounts in poliovirus-infected cells. Cellular RNA synthesis is depressed at the time of onset of viral RNA synthesis, whereas cellular protein synthesis is interrupted earlier.
Synthesis of NCA [carbonyl‐11C]amides by direct reaction of in situ generated [11C]carboxymagnesium halides with amines under microwave‐enhanced conditions

No-carrier-added (NCA) aromatic and aliphatic [carbonyl-11C]amides were rapidly (<5 min) synthesized in one pot in useful radiochemical yields (20–65%, decay-corrected) by directly coupling amines with NCA [11C]carboxyhyphenmagnesium halides generated in situ from Grignard reagents and cyclotron-produced [11C]carbon dioxide. In this system cyclohexylcarboxymagnesium chloride (1b) is more reactive than 4-fluorophenylcarboxymagnesium bromide (2b) and primary amines (e.g. aniline, aminopyridines) far more reactive than secondary amines (e.g. 2-(methylamino)pyridine). The scope of the reaction was widened considerably by the application of microwaves, which allowed reactions to be carried out at much higher temperature than the boiling point of the solvent (i.e. tetrahydrofuran, b.p. 67°C). Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Support of the Critical Thinking Process in Synchronous Online Collaborative Discussion Through Model-Eliciting Activities

As online education becomes common, it is essential to identify activities that support critical thinking in this environment. This paper describes the use of a model-eliciti ng activity (MEA) solved by groups in a synchronous online discussion. The participants displayed their thinking processes and solutions consistent with successful face-to-f ace (F2F) MEAs. Each group’s discussion showed evidence of critical thinking and incorporated quality logical arguments. This demonstrates that MEAs may be also used in an online environment to successfully support application of critical thinking skills.
Number-splitting with shift-and-add decomposition for power and hardware optimization in linear DSP synthesis

Most DSP synthesis tools perform limited architectural transformations to optimize hardware and power, Multiplications are often implemented with shift and-add operations for hardware efficiency, In this paper, we propose an optimization that combines a numerical transformation called number-splitting with a shift-and-add decomposition scheme. The numerical transformation "globally" changes the constant multipliers and the data flow-graph of the system under design, enabling implementations with fewer shifts and adds. The decomposition of multiplications into shifts and adds is such that as much intermediate computation results (partial products) can be reused as possible. The total number of operations can be reduced to 30% for two's complement encoding, yielding significant power and hardware saving.
Impact of missing data on analysis of postoperative cognitive decline (POCD).

Background There are a variety of techniques to handle missing data, such as removing observations with missing data from the analyses or estimating the missing values using various imputation algorithms. Dropping subjects from standard regression models and analyzing only completers, however, may bias results from the true value of reality. Likewise, ‘last-observation-carried-forward’ may not be an appropriate technique for studies measuring a particular variable over time.
The Role of Cyclic AMP in the Regulation of Smooth Muscle Cell Contraction in the Uterus

Many substances have been shown to affect the smooth muscle cell contractions in the uterus e.g. catecholamines oxytocin prostaglandins angiotension 2 and acetylcholine have been implicated. The sole action of adenosine cyclic 35 monophosphate (cAMP) is thought to be the activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase(s). These enzymes catalyze the transfer of the gamma-phosphate of ATP to a serine or threonine residue of specific protein substances. cAMP-dependent protein kinases are widespread and are present in both the endometrium and myometrium. They are composed of regulatory and catalytic subunits. cAMP binds to the regulated subunit dissociating the complex to yield the active catalytic subunit. Isoproterenol in isolated myometrium increased cAMP levels decreased unsaturated cAMP binding sites and increased cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity but decreased total protein kinase activity as measured in thepresence of cAMP. The protein kinase activity could be resotred by treatment with noionic detergent Triton X-100. Maximal detergent-dependent protein kinase activity has been found to be associated with the 20000-50000 XG ultracentrifugal sediment. This fraction consisted of a mixture of membranes and was enriched in ATP-dependent C++ transport activity. Both cytosol and membrane protein kinase activity were Mg++-dependent but the membrane form required a 5-fold concentration. The membrane form was almost totally dependent on the nonionic detergent Triton X-100 for activity. At concentrations greater than .1% Triton X-100 progressively inhibited membrane protein kinase activity. A similar pattern of detergent inhibition was shown for the cytosol enzyme. In the absence of Triton X-100 the membrane fraction completely suppressed enzyme activity present in the cytosol. Expected activity was recovered in the presence of Triton X-100. Subsequent experiments showed that the process was temperature-dependent. The migration of protein kinase from the cytosol to nuclear sites as a result of cAMP activation has been described in other tissues ovary adrenal and liver. This translocation may be the mechanism by which the protein kinase localizes its physiological substrates. Other studies suggest a central role in Ca++ transport a mechanism for the control of muscle contraction at the membrane level. Results of other studies show tractile apparatus and the ATP-ase activity in smooth muscle cells. A sequence of events as envisioned in the hormonal regulation of myometrial contractility at the molecular level is presented. Study of the process of parturition suggests that agonists have redundant self-enhancing stimulatory mechansims to ensure that coordinated powerful uterine contractions are generated causing the fetus to be delivered.
Bison Exploitation in the Wyoming Basin at the Middle/Late Holocene Transition: A View from the Graham Ranch Site

Wyoming Basin archaeojaunas dating to the Middle/Late Holocene transition typically lack bison remains and instead suggest a focus on a wide range of smaller prey species. Excavations along the Sweetwater River at the Graham Ranch site produced an extensive assemblage of highly fragmented bison bones representing the remains of at least two bison that were intensively processed for meat, marrow, and grease. We use a patch use model, in combination with data from 49 Wyoming Basin archaeofaunas to explore the reasons why ancient butchers might expend the effort to extract hard to obtain within-bone nutrients. Our study suggests that prey abundance, possibly linked to climate driven trends in forage communities, may have been one factor that conditioned processing decisions across the Holocene in the Wyoming Basin.
Capsule Biosynthesis and Basic Metabolism in Streptococcus pneumoniae Are Linked through the Cellular Phosphoglucomutase

Synthesis of the type 3 capsular polysaccharide of Streptococcus pneumoniae requires UDP-glucose (UDP-Glc) and UDP-glucuronic acid (UDP-GlcUA) for production of the [3)-β-d-GlcUA-(1→4)-β-d-Glc-(1→]n polymer. The generation of UDP-Glc proceeds by conversion of Glc-6-P to Glc-1-P to UDP-Glc and is mediated by a phosphoglucomutase (PGM) and a Glc-1-P uridylyltransferase, respectively. Genes encoding both a Glc-1-P uridylyltransferase (cps3U) and a PGM homologue (cps3M) are present in the type 3 capsule locus, but these genes are not essential for capsule production. In this study, we characterized a mutant that produces fourfold less capsule than the type 3 parent. The spontaneous mutation resulting in this phenotype was not contained in the type 3 capsule locus but was instead located in a distant gene (pgm) encoding a second PGM homologue. The function of this gene product as a PGM was demonstrated through enzymatic and complementation studies. Insertional inactivation of pgm reduced capsule production to less than 10% of the parental level. The loss of PGM activity in the insertion mutants also caused growth defects and a strong selection for isolates containing second-site suppressor mutations. These results demonstrate that most of the PGM activity required for type 3 capsule biosynthesis is derived from the cellular PGM.
Effects of short-term and prolonged bed rest on the vestibulosympathetic reflex

The mechanism(s) for post-bed rest (BR) orthostatic intolerance is equivocal. The vestibulosympathetic reflex contributes to postural blood pressure regulation. It was hypothesized that muscle sympathetic nerve responses to otolith stimulation would be attenuated by prolonged head-down BR. Arterial blood pressure, heart rate, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), and peripheral vascular conductance were measured during head-down rotation (HDR; otolith organ stimulation) in the prone posture before and after short-duration (24 h; n = 22) and prolonged (36 ± 1 day; n = 8) BR. Head-up tilt at 80° was performed to assess orthostatic tolerance. After short-duration BR, MSNA responses to HDR were preserved (Δ5 ± 1 bursts/min, Δ53 ± 13% burst frequency, Δ65 ± 13% total activity; P < 0.001). After prolonged BR, MSNA responses to HDR were attenuated ∼50%. MSNA increased by Δ8 ± 2 vs. Δ3 ± 2 bursts/min and Δ83 ± 12 vs. Δ34 ± 22% total activity during HDR before and after prolonged BR, respectively. Moreover, these results were observed in three subjects tested again after 75 ± 1 days of BR. This reduction in MSNA responses to otolith organ stimulation at 5 wk occurred with reductions in head-up tilt duration. These results indicate that prolonged BR (∼5 wk) unlike short-term BR (24 h) attenuates the vestibulosympathetic reflex and possibly contributes to orthostatic intolerance following BR in humans. These results suggest a novel mechanism in the development of orthostatic intolerance in humans.
Global Gene Expression Responses to Cadmium Toxicity in Escherichia coli

Genome-wide analysis of temporal gene expression profiles in Escherichia coli following exposure to cadmium revealed a shift to anaerobic metabolism and induction of several stress response systems. Disruption in the transcription of genes encoding ribosomal proteins and zinc-binding proteins may partially explain the molecular mechanisms of cadmium toxicity.
Noise-induced transitions

In this paper I will deal with the effect of external random perturbations, “noise”, on chemical systems and other open nonlinear systems. As a concrete example let us consider a CSTR. This is an open system and as such subject to external constraints, namely the concentrations of the chemical species in the feed streams, the flow rate, the stirring rate, the temperature, and the incident light intensity in the case of a photochemical reaction. These external constraints characterize the state of the environment of the open system and will, in general, fluctuate more or less strongly. Such environmental fluctuations are particularly important for natural systems; here random fluctuations are always present and their amplitude is not necessarily small as in laboratory systems. In the latter systems the experimenter will of course try to minimize the effect of random perturbations, though it is impossible to eliminate noise completely. Clearly, random external noise is ubiquitous in open systems, but this fact by itself would hardly warrant a systematic study of the effects of external fluctuations. The question is whether noise is more than a mere nuisance we have to live with. Is there any hope of finding interesting physics? The intuitive, and wrong, answer would be negative: The system averages out rapid fluctuations and the only trace of external noise would be a certain fuzziness in the state of the system. Of course, if the state of the system becomes unstable, the fluctuations initiate the departure from the unstable state. Then the dynamics of the system take over and the system evolves to a new stable state.
Built-in test of RF components using mapped feature extraction sensors

At low frequencies, alternate testing is based on sampling the test response using an A/D converter and analyzing the digitized response in the external tester. In order to use alternate test at frequencies in the multi-GHz range, where the above is not possible, the test waveforms need to be very simple and the evaluation of the test response needs to be handled by on-chip analog test response "feature extractors". In this work, specialized functions of the output response from an alternate test are computed using built-in feature extraction sensors, which measure a complex function of the response waveform and output a DC signature. Different sensor structures are evaluated based on their performance in the presence of environmental effects and process shifts It is seen that very simple sensing circuitry can predict high quality alternate test for RF components.
Friendship and Happiness Among Middle-Aged Adults

Mid-life is a developmental stage characterized by changing social, health, and intrapersonal factors that influence the relationship between friendship and happiness. However, research in this area is sparse because prior studies have tended to focus on young and/or older adults. The purpose of this review is to summarize the more recent theoretical and empirical investigations on friendship and happiness among middle-aged adults. Taken together, findings suggest that the relative benefit of friendship and its relationship to happiness during this particular developmental stage is sensitive to the context in which these exchanges take place, gender, and even the specific age range within the broader mid-life distinction. Future research is needed to identify both the moderators of the association between friendship and happiness, in addition to the mediators that can illuminate the specific mechanisms through which friendships are related to well-being.
Chemotherapy in Premenopausal Breast Cancer Patients

Evidence has long demonstrated that premenopausal women obtain the greatest benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy overall, with risk reduction increasing with decreasing age. The chemoendocrine effect of chemotherapy has only more recently been documented as impacting on outcomes for women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, and recent data have elucidated the optimal strategies for manipulating the menopausal status to improve disease outcomes, without necessarily including cytotoxic chemotherapy. Still, many premenopausal women will require adjuvant cytotoxic chemotherapy, and the effects of treatment on women diagnosed with breast cancer in the premenopausal setting can have important implications both on their breast cancer outcomes and on comorbidities and psychosocial outcomes. This article describes the most recent information and issues surrounding the indications, effects, and special considerations for adjuvant chemotherapy in premenopausal women with breast cancer, in an effort to inform their care.
Hyperabsorption of Na+ and raised Ca(2+)-mediated Cl- secretion in nasal epithelia of CF mice

We investigated the effect of homozygous genetic disruption of the murine cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene on regulation of the rates of Na+ absorption and Cl- secretion by nasal epithelia in cystic fibrosis (CF) mice. The basal in vivo nasal potential difference (PD; -28.8 +/- 1.8 mV, n = 10) and amiloride-sensitive PD (delta 13.8 +/- 1.0 mV, n = 10) were raised in CF mice compared with controls [-7.8 +/- 0.8 mV, n = 14 (basal); delta 4.5 +/- 0.7 mV, n = 14 (amiloride)], consistent with raised Na+ transport. In vitro studies of freshly excised nasal epithelia confirmed that CF epithelia exhibited a greater basal equivalent short-circuit current (Ieq; 63.5 +/- 12 microA/cm2, n = 15) vs. control (30.2 +/- 7.2 microA/cm2, n = 16) and amiloride-sensitive Ieq (delta 46.2 +/- 12.5 microA/cm2) vs. control (delta 11.3 +/- 4.5 microA/cm2). Tissue from normal mice failed to secrete Cl- in response to ionomycin (delta Ieq: -1.2 +/- 1.9 microA/cm2, n = 18), whereas CF murine tissue responded with a large rise in Ieq (delta 55.1 +/- 19.1 microA/cm2, n = 13). We conclude that CF murine nasal epithelia exhibit Na+ hyperabsorption, providing strong evidence for a regulatory link between CFTR and Na+ channel activity in airway epithelia. We speculate that upregulation of the Ca(2+)-mediated Cl- secretory pathway buffers the severity of airway disease in the CF mouse.
Giant lymphoid hyperplasia presenting as a highly vascularized parapharyngeal mass

Giant lymph node hyperplasia is a rare, benign tumor infrequently occurring in the head and neck. A 31-year-old woman with this disorder, present as a large submucosal parapharyngeal mass, is presented and the literature reviewed. Radiographic evidence of the extreme vascularity of this lesion was remarkable, emphasizing the value of arteriographic evaluation of masses located in this region. Preoperative embolization facilitated its complete resection, and follow-up examination has shown no evidence of recurrence, which is commonly the course of the disease elsewhere in the body. Consideration of this rare entity is warranted in the workup of parapharyngeal masses.
Some Results of Governmental Attempts to Foster Recovery

Since early in 1930, a large part of the energy of high officials of the Federal Government has been devoted to the problem of fostering recovery. Many supposedly helpful devices have been utilized. What have been the net results ? Both the Hoover and the Roosevelt administrations have repeatedly tried to bring about recovery by assuring the public that, the worst of the depression being past, everyone should proceed at once to buy goods, hire labor, and prepare for the prosperity just around the corner. There is no evidence that all of these campaigns combined have, in any degree, furthered the recovery of business. These campaigns have failed for the simple reason that the buying power of an individual is usually tied closely to his income. It follows that, if he buys more of one article, he buys less of another; if he enlarges his purchases this week, he curtails them next week. The only way to expand materially the total volume of purchases over any considerable period of time is to induce large numbers of persons to buy more than their respective incomes. They can do this only if they buy on credit, and, in time of depression, few people both can and will take this risk.
A comparative evaluation of the translucency of zirconias and lithium disilicate for monolithic restorations

Abstract Statement of problem Studies comparing the translucency of zirconias and lithium disilicates are limited. Purpose The purpose of this in vitro study was to measure the translucency of recently developed translucent zirconias and compare them with lithium disilicate. Material and methods Five types of zirconia, Prettau Anterior (Zirkonzahn GmbH), BruxZir (Glidewell Laboratories), Katana HT, Katana ST, and Katana UT (Kurary Noritake Dental Inc), and 1 type of lithium disilicate, e.max CAD LT (Ivoclar Vivadent AG), were assessed. Non-colored zirconia test specimens (n=5) were prepared as rectangles with dimensions of 15×10×0.5 and 15×10×1.0 mm. The shade of lithium disilicate was B1. A spectrophotometer (Evolution 300 UV-Vis) with an integrating sphere was used to evaluate the total transmittance of light as a percentage (T t %) at a wavelength of 555 nm for comparison among groups. The Welch robust test for equality of means was used to compare group means (α=.025) and post hoc pairwise comparisons among groups were performed with the Dunnett T3 method. Results For the 0.5 mm thickness groups, the T t % was 31.90 ±0.49 for Prettau Anterior, 28.82 ±0.22 for BruxZir, 28.49 ±0.14 for Katana HT, 31.67 ±0.24 for Katana ST, 33.73 ±0.13 for Katana UT, and 40.32 ±0.25 for e-max CAD LT. Post hoc tests indicated that all groups were significantly different from each other, except for between BruxZir and Katana HT, and between Prettau Anterior and Katana ST. Katana UT was significantly more translucent than all other zirconias, and e-max CAD LT was significantly more translucent than all zirconias. For the 1.0 mm thickness groups, the Tt% was 22.58 ±0.41 for Prettau Anterior, 20.13 ±0.22 for BruxZir, 20.18 ±0.39 for Katana HT, 21.86 ±0.39 for Katana ST, 23.37 ±0.27 for Katana UT, and 27.05 ±0.56 for e-max CAD LT. Post hoc tests indicated that all materials were significantly different from each other, except for between BruxZir and Katana HT, and among Prettau Anterior, Katana ST and Katana UT which were significantly more translucent than all other zirconias and less translucent than e-max CAD LT. Conclusion At a thickness of 0.5 mm, Katana UT was significantly more translucent than all other zirconias, and e-max CAD LT was significantly more translucent than all zirconias. At a thickness of 1.0 mm, Prettau Anterior, Katana ST, and Katana UT were significantly more translucent than all other zirconias and less than e-max CAD LT.
Tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of a new mitogen-activated protein (MAP)-kinase cascade in human neutrophils stimulated with various agonists

The presence of a novel 38 kDa protein that is tyrosine phosphorylated in human neutrophils, a terminally differentiated cell, upon stimulation of these cells with low concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in combination with serum has been demonstrated. This 38 kDa protein was identified as the mammalian homologue of HOG1 in yeast, the p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. This conclusion is based on the experimental findings that anti-phosphotyrosine (anti-PY) antibody immunoprecipitates a 38 kDa protein that is recognized by anti-p38 MAP kinase antibody, and conversely, anti-p38 MAP kinase antibody immunoprecipitates a 38 kDa protein that can be recognized by anti-PY antibody. Moreover, this tyrosine phosphorylated protein is found associated entirely with the cytosol. It was also found that this p38 MAP kinase is activated following stimulation of these cells with low concentrations of LPS in combination with serum. This conclusion is based on three experimental findings. First, soluble fractions isolated from LPS-stimulated cells phosphorylate heat shock protein 27 (hsp27) in an in vitro assay, and this effect is not inhibited by protein kinase C and protein kinase A inhibitor peptides. This effect is similar to the effect produced by the commercially available phosphorylated and activated MAPKAP kinase-2 (MAP kinase activated protein kinase-2). Secondly, a 27 kDa protein that aligns with a protein recognized by anti-hsp27 antibody is phosphorylated upon LPS stimulation of intact human neutrophils prelabelled with radioactive phosphate. Lastly, immune complex protein kinase assays, using [gamma-32P]ATP and activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) as substrates, showed increased p38 MAP kinase activity from LPS-stimulated human neutrophils. The phosphorylation and activation of this p38 MAP kinase can be affected by both G-protein-coupled receptors such as platelet-activating factor (PAF) and non-G-protein-coupled receptors such as the cytokine-coupled receptors for granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). The effect of low concentrations of PAF is greatly increased in cells pretreated with LPS. The tyrosine phosphorylation of the p38 MAP kinase is not restricted to stimuli that mediate their actions through membrane-associated receptors, but it can be affected by agents that bypass membrane-associated receptors such as the protein translation blocker anisomycin. While anisomycin is known to increase the tyrosine phosphorylation of the 54 kDa SAPK (stress-activated protein kinase), this is the first report that shows that anisomycin also tyrosine phosphorylates the p38 MAP kinase. Cytokine receptors that increase the tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of the erk1 and erk2 MAP kinases have less effect on this p38 MAP kinase than those that do not affect the erk1 and erk2 MAP kinases. The possible role of the p38 MAP kinase in the phosphorylation of cytosolic phospholipase A2 is discussed.
Microstructural and histochemical changes in Acer platanoides rhytidome caused by Dendrothele acerina (Aphyllophorales) and Mycena meliigena (Agaricales).

Rhytidome blocks from Acer platanoides were incubated in vitro with Dendrothele acerina or Mycena meliigena mycelia in order to describe resultant microstructural and histochemical changes using pa...
Spectral solution of delayed random walks

We develop a spectral method for computing the probability density function for delayed random walks; for such problems, the method is exact to machine precision and faster than existing approaches. In conjunction with a step function approximation and the weak Euler-Maruyama discretization, the spectral method can be applied to nonlinear stochastic delay differential equations (SDDE). In essence, this means approximating the SDDE by a delayed random walk, which is then solved using the spectral method. We carry out tests for a particular nonlinear SDDE that show that this method captures the solution without the need for Monte Carlo sampling.
Mechanics of cell division. I. The living spindle.

SummaryThe observation that exposure to X irradiation causes partial dissolution of cell spindles and that chromosomes in the destroyed area become pycnotic led to this study of the living spindle. Photographs of grasshopper testis, living cells that have been immersed in Belar solution show spindle fibers and the attachment of some of these fibers from the centrosome to the chromosome. The reality of the spindle in fixed tissue, as revealed by phase contrast microscopy, is emphasized as a result of these studies. Prior to this experiment, Schmitt and Belar were also able to show the birefringence of spindle fibers.
Removal of unexploded ordnance from patients: a 50-year military experience and current recommendations

Background: Retained unexploded ordnance in a patient presents the surgeon with unique emotional and technical challenges. This report is a compilation of data to determine management strategies for these potentially catastrophic injuries. Methods: All identified military cases from World War II to the present were reviewed. Cases were reviewed for site of injury, type of munition, personnel and equipment precautions, and outcome. Interviews were conducted with available involved surgeons. Results: Thirty-six patients were identified with retained ordnance. Four were moribund upon arrival and died before operation. All of the remaining 32 patients survived the removal of the unexploded ordnance. Thirteen injuries involved the trunk, 4 involved the head and neck, and 18 involved extremities. The majority of missiles (51%) were 40-mm projectiles. No incident was identified in which a round exploded during transportation, preparation, or removal. Explosive Ordnance Disposal assistance was available to the surgical team for all but one patient during and after the Vietnam War. Measures used to reduce the chance of premature explosion are discussed. Conclusions: Isolation of the operating room and protection of personnel and equipment are essential. Patients should be triaged in the delayed category, because most are not moribund on arrival and all patients operated on survived. Explosive Ordnance Disposal expertise should be used. Knowledge of and adherence to several basic principles will protect personnel and equipment while permitting optimal patient care.
Neural network modelling of Cryptosporidium and Giardia concentrations in the Delaware River, USA.

Artificial neural networks are brain-like structures used in mathematical modelling that excel in pattern recognition. In this research, a simple feed-forward artificial neural network, trained by error back-propagation algorithm, was used as a tool to relate peak Cryptosporidium and Giardia concentrations with other biological, chemical and physical parameters in surface water. Multiple water quality parameters at a water treatment plant intake on the Delaware River, New Jersey, USA, collected in 1996, were provided to the authors for recognition analysis. Water samples were classified as ‘background’ and ‘above background’ based on the concentrations of full and empty oocysts and cysts of Cryptosporidium and Giardia . The results of this preliminary effort were encouraging. Parameters significant to the identification of each protozoa were identified, eight for Cryptosporidium and seven for Giardia by a stepwise elimination technique. Data withheld from the model training was used to validate the trained models and evaluate the most effective internal architecture. In both cases, the best prediction performance was found when the number of internal nodes was twice that of the input parameters in single hidden-layer architecture. Predictions for the classification of the verification data set resulted in no false-negatives (mis-prediction of above background protozoa concentrations) when the models were optimally trained.
Pulse-shape analysis of neutron-induced scintillation light in Ni-doped 6 LiF/ZnS

Alternatives to 3He are being investigated for gamma-ray insensitive neutron detection applications, including plutonium assay. One promising material is lithium-6 fluoride with silver activated zinc sulfide 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) in conjunction with a wavelength shifting plastic. Doping the 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) with nickel (Ni) has been proposed as a means of reducing the decay time of neutron signal pulses. This research performed a pulse shape comparison between Ni-doped and non-doped 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) neutron pulses. The Ni-doped 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) had a 32.7% ± 0.3 increase in neutron pulse height and a 32.4% ± 0.3 decrease in neutron pulse time compared to the non-doped 6LiF/ZnS(Ag). Doping 6LiF/ZnS(Ag) with nickel may allow neutron detector operation with improved signal to noise ratios, and reduced pulse pileup affects, increasing the accuracy and range of source activities with which such a detector could operate.
County-Level Variation in Cardiovascular Disease Mortality in the United States in 2009–2013: Comparative Assessment of Contributing Factors

We examined factors responsible for variation in cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality across US counties in 2009-2013. We linked county-level census, survey, administrative, and vital statistics data to examine 4 sets of features: demographic factors, social and economic factors, health-care utilization and features of the environment, and population health indicators. County-level associations of these features (standardized to a mean of 0 with a standard deviation of 1) with cardiovascular deaths per 100,000 person-years among adults aged 45-74 years was modeled using 2-level hierarchical linear regression with random intercept for state. The percentage of CVD mortality variation (intercounty disparity) modeled by each set of features was quantified. Demographic composition accounted for 36% of county CVD mortality variation, and another 32% was explained after inclusion of economic/social conditions. Health-care utilization, features of the environment, and health indicators explained an additional 6% of CVD mortality variation. The largest contributors to CVD mortality levels were median income (-23.61 deaths/100,000 person-years, 95% CI: -26.95, -20.26) and percentage without a high school education (20.71 deaths/100,000 person-years, 95% CI: 16.48, 24.94). In comparison, the largest health-related contributors were health-care utilization (19.35 deaths/100,000 person-years, 95% CI: 16.36, 22.34) and CVD risk factors (4.80 deaths/100,000 person-years, 95% CI: 2.14, 7.46). Improving health-care access and decreasing the prevalence of traditional CVD risk factors may reduce county CVD mortality levels, but improving socioeconomic circumstances of disadvantaged counties will be required in order to reduce CVD mortality disparities across counties.
Role of EUS in patients with suspected Barrett’s esophagus with high-grade dysplasia or early esophageal adenocarcinoma: impact on endoscopic therapy

Background and Aims Endoscopic therapy is the standard treatment for high-grade dysplasia and some cases of T1a esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), but it is not appropriate for deeply invasive disease. Data on the value of EUS for patient selection for endoscopic or surgical resection are conflicting. We investigated the outcome of esophageal EUS for the staging and treatment selection of patients with treatment-naive, premalignant Barrett's esophagus (BE) and suspected superficial EAC. Methods We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent EUS for staging of treatment-naive, suspected premalignant BE and superficial EAC from January 2006 to June 2014. All patients referred for endoscopic therapy routinely underwent EUS. Patients with esophageal masses, squamous cell cancers, previous neoadjuvant therapy, or unrelated pathologies were excluded. Each patient's final diagnosis was verified by EMR, esophagectomy, or forceps biopsy sampling. Test characteristics of EUS were calculated. Results Three hundred thirty-five patients (mean age, 68 years; 86% male) with BE, a Prague C mean of 2.8 cm, and a Prague M mean of 4.5 cm were staged (pT0, 78% [6% nondysplastic, 24% low-grade dysplasia, 42% high-grade dysplasia]; pT1a, 14%; pT1b, 7%; and pT2, 1%). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy for patient selection to endoscopic (T1aN0 or less) or surgical therapy with EUS TN staging were 50%, 93%, 40%, 95%, and 90%, respectively. Comparable rates were achieved for patients with nodular BE. Overstaging occurred in 7% of patients, and EUS selected 11% for incorrect treatment modalities compared with pathologic staging. Conclusions This study confirms the limited value of EUS suggested in the latest American College of Gastroenterology guidelines for BE management.
Gender differences in sleep problems: The mediating role of co-rumination and depressive symptoms

Abstract Co-rumination is a dyadic tendency in which two members excessively discuss and revisit problems while focusing on negative feelings. Co-rumination is more prominent among female friends than male friends, which helps to account in part for gender differences in depressive symptoms. The current study adopted a socioemotional perspective to examine whether gender differences in sleep problems could be mediated by co-rumination in friendships and depressive symptoms. A sample of 172 young adults (Mage = 19.15) participated in a self-report study. Mediation analysis showed that females reported higher co-rumination and depressive symptoms, both of which were related to more sleep problems. Moderated mediation analysis further revealed that the mediational role of depressive symptoms between co-rumination and sleep problems was stronger for females compared to males.
Walking after spinal cord injury. Goal or wish

Less than a third of patients walk again after a spinal cord injury, whereas every one of them wants to try. Residual function, energy expenditure, the extent of orthotic support needed, and patient motivation will determine the outcome. Functional electrical stimulation and other new orthotic designs have not notably increased the number of persons able to walk after a spinal injury. Rehabilitation professionals can use patient education, illustrating relearning to walk with examples of infants' and toddlers' progress, to assist patients in understanding their abilities and limitations. The final decision on ambulation and orthotic prescriptions can be made in stages after a patient adjusts to a wheelchair-independent level.
A viral protease relocalizes in the presence of the vector to promote vector performance

Vector-borne pathogens influence host characteristics relevant to host-vector contact, increasing pathogen transmission and survival. Previously, we demonstrated that infection with Turnip mosaic virus, a member of one of the largest families of plant-infecting viruses, increases vector attraction and reproduction on infected hosts. These changes were due to a single viral protein, NIa-Pro. Here we show that NIa-Pro responds to the presence of the aphid vector during infection by relocalizing to the vacuole. Remarkably, vacuolar localization is required for NIa-Pro's ability to enhance aphid reproduction on host plants, vacuole localization disappears when aphids are removed, and this phenomenon occurs for another potyvirus, Potato virus Y, suggesting a conserved role for the protein in vector-host interactions. Taken together, these results suggest that potyviruses dynamically respond to the presence of their vectors, promoting insect performance and transmission only when needed.
Body mass index (BMI) influence on survival in adult patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML)/high-risk MDS: Retrospective study of 130 patients from a single institution.

e18011 Background: The incidence of obesity is increasing worldwide and is associated with numerous adverse health outcomes. In AML high body mass index (BMI) is associated with increased risk of t...
Bisphosphonate's and Intermittent Parathyroid Hormone's Effect on Human Spinal Fusion: A Systematic Review of the Literature

There has been a conscious effort to address osteoporosis in the aging population. As bisphosphonate and intermittent parathyroid hormone (PTH) therapy become more widely prescribed to treat osteoporosis, it is important to understand their effects on other physiologic processes, particularly the impact on spinal fusion. Despite early animal model studies and more recent clinical studies, the impact of these medications on spinal fusion is not fully understood. Previous animal studies suggest that bisphosphonate therapy resulted in inhibition of fusion mass with impeded maturity and an unknown effect on biomechanical strength. Prior animal studies demonstrate an improved fusion rate and fusion mass microstructure with the use of intermittent PTH. The purpose of this study was to determine if bisphosphonates and intermittent PTH treatment have impact on human spinal fusion. A systematic review of the literature published between 1980 and 2015 was conducted using major electronic databases. Studies reporting outcomes of human subjects undergoing 1, 2, or 3-level spinal fusion while receiving bisphosphonates and/or intermittent PTH treatment were included. The results of relevant human studies were analyzed for consensus on the effects of these medications in regards to spinal fusion. There were nine human studies evaluating the impact of these medications on spinal fusion. Improved fusion rates were noted in patients receiving bisphosphonates compared to control groups, and greater fusion rates in patients receiving PTH compared to control groups. Prior studies involving animal models found an improved fusion rate and fusion mass microstructure with the use of intermittent PTH. No significant complications were demonstrated in any study included in the analysis. Bisphosphonate use in humans may not be a deterrent to spinal fusion. Intermittent parathyroid use has shown early promise to increase fusion mass in both animal and human studies but further studies are needed to support routine use.
Deleuze, Bergson, and a Document Scanner: Investigating Duration and Perception:

In this arts-based exploration, the author experiments with nonstandard time registers and perception via the possibilities opened up by the unconventional use of a handheld document scanner. Thank...
Completing the Educational Career: High School Graduation, Four-year College Enrollment, and Bachelor’s Degree Completion among Black, Hispanic, and White Students:

Using data from the Education Longitudinal Study, the author investigates racial disparities in high school graduation, four-year college enrollment, and bachelor’s degree completion. In addition, ...
miR-128-induced LINE-1 restriction is dependent on down-regulation of hnRNPA1

ABSTRACT The majority of the human genome is made of transposable elements, giving rise to interspaced repeats, including Long Interspersed Element-1s (LINE-1s or L1s). L1s are active human DNA parasites involved in genomic diversity and evolution, but can also contribute to genomic instability and diseases. L1s require host factors to complete their life cycles, whereas the host has evolved numerous mechanisms to restrict L1-induced mutagenesis. Restriction mechanisms in somatic cells include methylation of the L1 promoter, anti-viral factors and RNA-mediated processes such as small RNAs. microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) are small non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally repress multiple target genes often found in the same cellular pathways. We have recently established that the interferon-inducible miR-128 function as a novel restriction factor inhibiting L1 mobilization in somatic cells. We have further demonstrated that miR-128 function through a dual mechanism; by directly targeting L1 RNA for degradation and indirectly by inhibiting a cellular co-factor which L1 is dependent on to transpose to new genomic locations (TNPO1). Here we add another piece to the puzzle of the enigmatic L1 life cycle. We show that miR-128 also inhibits another key cellular factor, hnRNPA1, by significantly reducing mRNA and protein levels through direct interaction with the coding sequence (CDS) of hnRNPA1 mRNA. Furthermore, we demonstrate that repression of hnRNPA1 using shRNA significantly decreases de novo L1 retrotransposition and that induced hnRNPA1 expression enhances L1 mobilization. Finally, we determine that hnRNPA1 is a functional target of miR-128 and that induced hnRNPA1 expression in miR-128-overexpressing cells can partly rescue the miR-128-induced repression of L1’s ability to transpose to different genomic locations. Thus, we have identified an additional mechanism by which miR-128 represses L1 retrotransposition and mediate genomic stability.
Changes in Problematic Anger, Shame, and Disgust in Anxious and Depressed Adults Undergoing Treatment for Emotion Dysregulation

Emotion dysregulation, the pervasive difficulty managing negative emotions, is a core problem across mood and anxiety disorders. Anger, shame, and disgust are particularly problematic emotions, impacting both disorder severity and treatment outcome. We previously found that a 16-week dialectical behavior therapy skills training group (DBT-ST) was superior to an activities-based support group (ASG) in decreasing emotion dysregulation in 44 adults with high emotion dysregulation who met diagnostic criteria for an anxiety or depressive disorder. We presently examine these participants' changes in anger, shame, disgust, and distress using self-reports collected over 6 months during and after treatment. Hierarchical linear modeling analyses show that DBT-ST was superior to ASG in decreasing anger suppression (d = 0.93) and distress (d = 1.04). Both conditions significantly reduced shame, disgust propensity, and disgust sensitivity, but neither was superior for these outcomes. The treatments did not significantly reduce anger expression. Mediation analyses suggest that condition indirectly influenced 4-month anger suppression, shame, and distress through its effect on 2-month emotion dysregulation. These findings suggest that DBT-ST is efficacious for certain problematic emotions and distress in depressed and anxious adults and that common factors may account for some, but not all, of its benefits.