cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cultivation and Isolation of Gonococci

This work was undertaken to find, if possible, a simple medium which would give uniform results and at the same time prolong the life of the gonococcus in culture. We used 15 strains of gonococci from recent cases of gonorrhea. Numerous mediums were tried for isolating gonococci. The medium used most is made as follows: Beef or veal infusion-agar is prepared containing 1.6^ agar; adjusted to a Ph of 7.6. This is divided in 100 c c quantities in Erlenmeyer flasks and sterilized. These flasks are kept as stock medium for making the plates. A flask containing the infusion-agar is heated until the agar is melted; while it is still hot (90-100 C.) 30 cc of beef serum is added and thoroughly mixed so that the serum, coagulated in small particles, is distributed evenly through the medium; this is then poured into petri dishes, covered with porous terra-cotta lids and placed in the incubator over night (about 18 hours) ; the terra-cotta lids are replaced by glass lids at the end of this time, and the plates are ready for inoculation. The type of serum used seems to have little influence?human, rabbit, sheep, and calf serum all giving about the same results. On plates that were quite moist we generally found a good growth but it is short lived. On the other hand there was a degree of dryness which appeared to inhibit growth ; if the terra-cotta lids were left on for a period longer than 24 hours, the results were not satisfactory, and if the drying with the porous lids was continued as long as 72 hours, before the inoculation was made, the growth was uncertain, scanty and short lived. Varying proportions of serum were used, but it was found that 30 c c of serum to 100 c c of the infusion-agar gave the best results. In isolating the culture of gonococcus the discharge was taken from the patient directly on a sterile platinum loop and freaked thinly over the surface of the plates. The plates were warmed to body temperature before the inoculation was made and were immediately transferred to the incubator. The colonies of gonococcus appeared
Asset Impairment,Disclosure Format and Information Content——Empirical Evidence on China Statement of Asset Impairment Subsidiary

In 2006 China government not only changed the contents of the asset impairment that should be accrued and reserved,but also cancelled the disclosure requirement of subsidiary statement of asset impairment.That is,the total asset impairment replaces the subsidiary of asset impairment in the financial statements and the detailed information of asset impairment is only required in notes.The paper bases on the data of listed companies from 2001 to 2006 and compares the information contents of the total asset reserve with the eight asset reserve respectively.Our results show that the information content of eight asset impairment is significantly more than that of the total asset impairment and the ability of forecasting and explaining of different asset impairment is different.Therefore,we conclude that the cancellation of the statement of subsidiary of asset impairment reduces the information content of the financial report.
Endonasal (Closed) Rhinoplasty Technique Securing Spreader Grafts With Barbed Suture

Spreader grafts are used for aesthetic and functional enhancement of the middle nasal vault in rhinoplasty. The spreader graft was originally described by Sheen as an endonasal (closed) rhinoplasty technique.1 More recently, most variations of the spreader graft have been described as anadjunct in theexternal rhinoplasty approach.2-4 The external approach allows improved visualization and access to the middle vault, which aids in accurately positioning and securing spreader grafts. In endonasal rhinoplasty, the correct placement and fixationof spreader grafts is typicallymorechallenging.4Knotless, “barbed” suture is a relativelynew technology that eliminates the need to tie knotswhile securing tissue. To our knowledge, we provide the first description of securing spreader grafts using barbed suture in endonasal rhinoplasty (Figure). The technique can be viewed in the Video.
Neuroanatomy and Neurochemistry of Mouse Cornea

There has been a renewed interest in studying corneal nerves in recent years, due in part to the fact that corneal nerves are routinely injured after refractive surgical procedures and to the recognition that corneal innervation plays a central role in the maintenance of a healthy ocular surface.1–10 Several animal models have been used for studying corneal neurobiology.6–16 Of these models, the mouse is the most popular because it is relatively inexpensive, easy to reproduce, and because animals reach adulthood quickly compared with other models. An important advantage is that mice can be genetically manipulated, and there is an extensive array of antibodies that are reactive to mouse tissues. In addition, 99% of the genes are equivalent to those in humans,17 making mice ideal for studying the function of human genes as well as specific diseases. Several groups have used immunochemical methods to study mouse corneal innervation,14–16,18,19 but none of them have provided an entire map of its innervation or the content of the most abundant neuropeptides, calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP), and substance P (SP). A transgenic mouse expressing neuro-specific yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) has been used for studying nerve regeneration.20 It has proven to be a good model for visualization of corneal nerves in vivo and could provide a whole-mount view of the entire corneal innervation.21–23 However, only half of the subbasal nerves in this mouse model are YFP-labeled.20 Using a modified method of immunofluorescence and imaging developed in our laboratory,24–28 we characterize the whole corneal nerve architecture of the mouse from early postnatal age to adulthood in this study. We also investigate the distribution of the main sensory neuropeptides CGRP and SP.
Beat-to-beat measurements of [Ca2+]i and force in ferret cardiac muscle after chemical loading of aequorin

This communication reports the development of a modified procedure for chemical loading of aequorin in small multicellular cardiac preparations, with special emphasis directed toward the implementation of a new method for computer-controlled low-photon counting and digital processing and analysis of the data to obtain intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). In eight ferret right ventricular trabeculae, we measured the mechanical performance and found that, at 1.25 mM extracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]o), resting tension, developed tension, and time to peak tension were unchanged by the loading procedure. Estimated resting and peak systolic [Ca2+]i were 299 +/- 65 and 766 +/- 131 nM, respectively. Thirty minutes after raising the [Ca2+]o to 5 mM, there was a robust increase in mechanical performance, with peak systolic [Ca2+]i averaging 1,218 +/- 222 nM. The diastolic [Ca2+]i remained unchanged. In four other trabeculae, exposure to a low-Na(+)-containing superfusate demonstrated a remarkable beat-to-beat correspondence of increases in diastolic [Ca2+]i and resting tensions. The same beat-to-beat concordance was also observed between the rapidly changing amplitudes of peak [Ca2+]i and developed tension. In additional experiments, simultaneous recordings of [Ca2+]i and force transients were obtained during rapid pace pause maneuvers. These studies showed distinct and quantifiable fluctuations of [Ca2+]i in a 1:1 relation to the mechanical record to a frequency of at approximately 300 beats/min. These results demonstrate that beat-to-beat measurements of [Ca2+]i and tension transients can be obtained with good resolution in multicellular cardiac preparations.
Normal Cerebellar Development by Qualitative and Quantitative MR Imaging: From the Fetus to the Adolescent

This article presents an overview of published studies using conventional and quantitative MR imaging to describe normal development of the cerebellum prenatally and postnatally through 18 years of age. Normal cerebellar development and maturational processes are described here within the context of MR imaging morphology, microstructure, metabolism, and functional connectivity. In addition, strengths and weaknesses of these reviewed studies are critically appraised and new directions for future cerebellar MR imaging investigation are made.
Metabolic, morphologic and electrophysiologic profiles of human temporal lobe foci: an attempt at correlation.

In attempting to understand the relationship between brain damage and recurrent seizures, Hughlings Jackson, as early as 1872, pioneered the concept of hyperexcitable tissue adjacent to frontal cortex tumors or infarcts (Jackson, 1931a). He adopted the same explanation to partial complex seizures in which there was an intellectual aura, only slight movements and a ‘dreamy state’ defect in consciousness (Jackson, 1931b). These partial seizures were localized to the temporal lobe when the necropsy reports identified a temporo-sphenoidal tumor in one epileptic (Jackson and Beevor, 1890) and a softening of the uncinate gyrus in another (Jackson and Coleman, 1898). These cases confirmed earlier correlations of partial seizures and temporal lobe pathologies (Sanders, 1874; Hamilton, 1882; Anderson, 1887). Hence, the Jacksonian concept of hyperexcitable tissue adjacent to neocortical damage was accepted; however, that concept was not extended to the mesial temporal lobe (archicortex), where damage was well -established in epileptics.
Measuring diffuse, direct, and global irradiance using a sky imager

Abstract Sky imaging systems are commonly used for aerosol characterization, cloud detection, and solar forecasting. We present an algorithm for measuring full-sky radiance with a range that exceeds the normal dynamic range of the camera system in question. Extended dynamic range over most of the sky is achieved with multiple exposures and High Dynamic Range (HDR) imaging, while solar beam intensity is estimated using CCD smear. Smear measurements are calibrated to match reference GHI based on pixel position on the sensor, and resulting irradiance measurements are validated. Global horizontal irradiance RMSE (root-mean-square error) for a year-long data set is in the 9–11% range for per-image data and 6–9% for hourly-averaged data when compared against a solid-state pyranometer. In addition, Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) measurements for clear skies during a five-month period are compared to a non-co-located SPN1 DNI sensor, with RMSE of 8%.
Comparison of Novovoronezh Unit 5 NPP and South Ukraine Unit 1 NPP Level 1 PRA Results

This paper describes a study undertaken to explain the risk profile differences in the results of PRAs of two similar VVER-1000 nuclear power plants. The risk profile differences are particularly significant in the area of small steam/feedwater line breaks, small-small LOCAs, support system initiators and containment bypass initiators. A top level (limited depth) approach was used in which we studied design differences, major assumptions, data differences, and also compared the two PRA analyses on an element-by-element basis in order to discern the major causative factors for the risk profile differences. We conclude that the major risk profile differences are due to differences in assumptions and engineering judgment (possibly combined with some design and data differences) involved in treatment of uncertain physical phenomena (primarily sump plugging in LOCAs and turbine building steaming effects in secondary system breaks). Additional major differences are attributable to support system characteristics.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Sub-system based reliability assessment for distribution transformer

Implementation of Smart Grid into the power system has made our grid more robust and reliable. Due to integration of two-way, real time communication it is possible to monitor equipment through sensors. Continuous monitoring will help to predict the state of the equipment. Due to this fact and also to ensure the system performance, time based maintenance can be replaced by condition or reliability based maintenance. Contribution of this work is to identify the appropriate standards for to be used for the transformer subcomponents and develop appropriate Weibull distribution parameters for each subcomponent for a modified series-parallel topology of distribution transformer. This modification is done based on the available measurements and standards. Using the developed reliability model, Monte Carlo simulation was performed to evaluate the behavior of these parameters.
High-energy radiography of dense material with high flux Inverse-Compton x-ray source (Conference Presentation)

We report the high energy radiography of dense material using MeV all-optical-driven inverse Compton x-ray source. The properties of the inverse-Compton x-ray source are controlled by means of electron energy, electron charge, scattering beam focal spot size and pulse duration to obtain optimized x-ray energy and high flux for dense material radiography. In this experiment, the x-ray has a photon energy of 8 MeV for maximal steel penetration depth, and a flux of 1011 x-ray photons per shot. With this novel x-ray source, we are able to demonstrate radiography of a 10 cm thick “kite” object through a steel shielding with thickness up to 40 cm in a single exposure. The radiography image of the “kite” object though the 40 cm steel has signal to noise ratio of 2 and image contrast of 0.1, and the “kite” object can be clearly distinguished in the image. Combining its tunability, ultrafast pulse duration and micron meter resolution, the all-optical-driven inverse Compton x-ray source provides unique capacities for flash radiography of dense material, and is of interest for ultrafast nuclear physics study.
A model-based acoustic reconstruction algorithm for deep tissue clinical photoacoustic imaging of cancerous tissues labeled with contrast agents (Conference Presentation)

Molecular photoacoustic imaging of targeted agents in vivo can be a valuable tool for biopsy guidance, tumor detection and delineation. Recently, our group has developed a prototype clinical, side looking, photoacoustic and ultrasonic system based on capacitive micro-machined ultrasound transducers. The system was used for imaging both fresh ex vivo pancreatic cancer samples labeled with functionalized IRDye-800 as well as in vivo trans-rectal imaging of prostate cancer patients with and without Indocyanine green contrast agent. Beamforming algorithms were used to provide real-time imaging albeit their low contrast to background ratio. To improve the quality images, presented here is a model-based acoustic reconstruction technique. The model is adapted to a sector scanning convention common in ultrasonography, compensates for the effects of non-ideal element directivity, impulse response and uneven responsivity as well as the ultrasound’s time dependent gain and the medium’s acoustic attenuation. Despite the low element count and the very limited viewing angle of the transducer, this technique was capable of reconstructing high-quality photoacoustic images both ex vivo and in vivo with a significant increase in contrast compared to the commonly used Universal back-projection algorithm. For ex vivo imaging, the results are also compared with fluorescence imaging showing a high degree of correlation. This study demonstrates the feasibility and the potential of the model based reconstruction approach for real-time visualization of contrast agents in vivo deep within the tissue, either intraoperatively or in routine imaging. Thus, such approach opens avenues for better cancer detection, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring.
Reducing Impulsive Choice: V. The Role of Timing in Delay-Exposure Training

Abstract Impulsive decision-making is common in addiction-related disorders, with some research suggesting it plays a causal role in their development. Therefore, reducing impulsive decision-making may prevent or reduce addiction-related behaviors. Recent research shows that prolonged experience with response-contingent delayed reward (delay exposure [DE] training) reduces impulsive choice in rats, but it is unclear what behavioral mechanisms underlie this effect. The present study evaluated whether improvements in interval timing mediate the effects of DE training on impulsive choice. Thirty-nine Long-Evans rats were randomly assigned to groups completing DE, immediacy-, or no-exposure training, followed by impulsive-choice and timing tasks (temporal bisection). Despite replicating the DE effect on impulsive choice, timing accuracy and precision were unaffected by DE training and unrelated to impulsive choice. The present findings did not replicate previous reports that timing precision and impulsive choice are related, which may be due to between-laboratory differences in impulsive choice tasks. Continued research to identify candidate behavioral mechanisms of DE training may assist in improving training efficacy and facilitating translational efforts.
The Face-to-Face Interaction Paradigm

The face-to-face interaction paradigm is a dynamic experimental model from which researchers have extracted an abundance of data pertaining to the infant’s early cognitive and affective development. Perhaps the most compelling finding emerging from face-to-face paradigm studies is the identification of a mutual regulation system forged between mother and infant in the early weeks of life. Thus, Stern (1974b) referred to the “common goal” shared by mothers and infants, permitting the “maintenance of … attention and arousal within some optimal range,” while Lester, Hoffman, and Brazelton (1985) commented on the behavioral periodicities modulating mother-infant interaction. Brazelton, Koslowski, and Main (1974) coined the phrase “rhythms of exchange” to describe the interactions of the dyadic model.
Geometric Aspects of Controllability for a Swimming Phenomenon

We investigate how the geometric shape of the swimming object affects the forces acting upon it in a fluid, particularly, in the case when the object at hand consists of either small rectangles or discs.
A nucleosome-free region locally abrogates histone H1–dependent restriction of linker DNA accessibility in chromatin

Eukaryotic genomes are packaged into linker-oligonucleosome assemblies, providing compaction of genomic DNA and contributing to gene regulation and genome integrity. To define minimal requirements for initial steps in the transition of compact, closed chromatin to a transcriptionally active, open state, we developed a model in vitro system containing a single, unique, "target" nucleosome in the center of a 25-nucleosome array and evaluated the accessibility of the linker DNA adjacent to this target nucleosome. We found that condensation of H1-lacking chromatin results in ∼60-fold reduction in linker DNA accessibility and that mimics of acetylation within all four core histone tail domains of the target nucleosome synergize to increase accessibility ∼3-fold. Notably, stoichiometric binding of histone H1 caused >2 orders of magnitude reduction in accessibility that was marginally diminished by histone acetylation mimics. Remarkably, a nucleosome-free region (NFR) in place of the target nucleosome completely abrogated H1-dependent restriction of linker accessibility in the immediate vicinity of the NFR. Our results suggest that linker DNA is as inaccessible as DNA within the nucleosome core in fully condensed, H1-containing chromatin. They further imply that an unrecognized function of NFRs in gene promoter regions is to locally abrogate the severe restriction of linker DNA accessibility imposed by H1s.
The impact of alopecia areata on sexual quality of life

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by patches of hair loss that can cause decreased quality of life. This study evaluates the sexual quality of life for patients with AA. Methods: We surveyed patients in the National Alopecia Areata Foundation patient registry using an online version of the validated Sexual Quality of Life for Females (SQOL-F) and Sexual Quality of Life for Males (SQOL-M) questionnaires. Main Outcome Measures: Patient sexual quality of life was measured using the SQOL-F and SQOL-M instruments. Results: Eighty-one participants with AA (64 females and 17 males) completed the surveys. The mean age was 39.7 ± 13.8 years for women and 37.4 ± 9.9 years for men. Women had a decreased sexual quality of life with mean SQOL-F score of 51.3 ± 22.9. Men had a decreased sexual quality of life with mean SQOL-M score of 62.7 ± 33.9 (higher scores indicate greater sexual quality of life). No statistical difference was found between these two cohorts (P = 0.12). In discussing negative aspects of their sexuality, women strongly identified with emotional statements such as “I feel embarrassed” (n = 48, 75.0%) while men strongly identified with emotional statements such as “I feel anxious” (n = 7, 46.7%). Both cohorts strongly identified with “I feel like I have lost something” (n = 48, 76.2% and n = 7, 43.8%, respectively). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that AA has a negative impact on the patient's sexual quality of life.
Pipeline Embolization of an Infectious Basilar Artery Aneurysm in a 2-Year-Old Child: Case Report, Discussion of the Literature and Perioperative Considerations

Background and importance Flow diversion of intracranial aneurysms has been rarely described in the pediatric population. Here we discuss the technical and perioperative complexities inherent in the flow diversion of an infectious basilar apex aneurysm in a 2-yr-old child with significant medical comorbidities. Clinical presentation Following judicious oral administration of dual anti-platelet agents and intra-arterial administration of calcium channel blockers to treat vasospasm, standard endovascular procedures were used to place a flow diverting stent across the neck of a rapidly enlarging infectious aneurysm of the basilar apex.Following the uncomplicated procedure, the patient demonstrated progressive thrombosis of the previously noted basilar apex aneurysm over a 3-mo period. The patient was therefore felt to be safe to proceed with, and eventually underwent, uncomplicated orthotopic heart transplant. Conclusion Flow diversion of complex intracranial aneurysms in pediatric patients with significant medical comorbidities is feasible and safe; however, considerations have to be made in the pre- and perioperative care of these patients given the propensity for low-weight and complicated systemic disease processes.
Sunscreen or simulated sweat minimizes the impact of acute ultraviolet radiation on cutaneous microvascular function in healthy humans.

NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? Are ultraviolet radiation (UVR)-induced increases in skin blood flow independent of skin erythema? Does broad-spectrum UVR exposure attenuate NO-mediated cutaneous vasodilatation, and does sunscreen or sweat modulate this response? What are the main findings and their importance? Erythema and vascular responses to UVR are temporally distinct, and sunscreen prevents both responses. Exposure to UVR attenuates NO-mediated vasodilatation in the cutaneous microvasculature; sunscreen or simulated sweat on the skin attenuates this response. Sun over-exposure may elicit deleterious effects on human skin that are separate from sunburn, and sunscreen or sweat on the skin may provide protection. ABSTRACT Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) may result in cutaneous vascular dysfunction independent of erythema (skin reddening). Two studies were designed to differentiate changes in erythema from skin vasodilatation throughout the 8 h after acute broad-spectrum UVR exposure with (+SS) or without SPF-50 sunscreen (study 1) and to examine NO-mediated cutaneous vasodilatation after acute broad-spectrum UVR exposure with or without +SS or simulated sweat (+SW) on the skin (study 2). In both studies, laser-Doppler flowmetry was used to measure red cell flux, and cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) was calculated (CVC = flux/mean arterial pressure). In study 1, in 14 healthy adults (24 ± 4 years old; seven men and seven women), the skin erythema index and CVC were measured over two forearm sites (UVR only and UVR+SS) before, immediately after and every 2 h for 8 h post-exposure (750 mJ cm-2 ). The erythema index began to increase immediately post-UVR (P < 0.05 at 4, 6 and 8 h), but CVC did not increase above baseline for the first 4-6 h (P ≤ 0.01 at 6 and 8 h); +SS prevented both responses. In study 2, in 13 healthy adults (24 ± 4 years old; six men and seven women), three intradermal microdialysis fibres were placed in the ventral skin of the forearm [randomly assigned to UVR (450 mJ cm-2 ), UVR+SS or UVR+SW], and one fibre (non-exposed control; CON) was placed in the contralateral forearm. After UVR, a standardized local heating (42°C) protocol quantified the percentage of NO-mediated vasodilatation (%NO). The UVR attenuated %NO compared with CON (P = 0.01). The diminished %NO was prevented by +SS (P < 0.01) and +SW (P < 0.01). Acute broad-spectrum UVR attenuates NO-dependent dilatation in the cutaneous microvasculature, independent of erythema. Sunscreen protects against both inflammatory and heating-induced endothelial dysfunction, and sweat might prevent UVR-induced reductions in NO-dependent dilatation.
Distinct Catalytic Reactivity of Sn Substituted in Framework Locations and at Defect Grain Boundaries in Sn-Zeolites

Measurements of turnover rates of gas-phase bimolecular ethanol dehydration to diethyl ether (404–438 K) on a suite of hydrophobic and hydrophilic Sn-zeolites (Sn-Beta, Sn-BEC, Sn-MFI) of varying S...
Changes in Hemoglobin and Hematocrit May Predict Mortality in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes.

Abstract 3171 Introduction: Changes in plasma volume, the intravascular portion of the extracellular fluid volume, can be estimated by measuring changes in the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit in the blood. In addition to hemoglobin & hematocrit levels, we are also able to use standard dilution techniques with radiolabeled albumin to accurately measure plasma volume changes. It is not known if plasma volume changes influence outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndromes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of plasma volume changes in patients presenting with the acute coronary syndromes. Methods: Consecutive patients presenting to a single tertiary care center from January 2001 to December 2010 with non ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) or ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) were enrolled. Admission hemoglobin (Hbpre) & hematocrit (Hctpre) and discharge hemoglobin (Hbpost) and hematocrit levels (Hctpost) were obtained. Plasma volume changes were measured and a validated formula (ΔPV = ((Hbpre/Hbpost) × (100-Hctpost/100-Hctpre)-1) × 100%) was used to calculate the changes in plasma volumes. A detailed chart review was performed to collect information about baseline variables such as age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking status, and congestive heart failure. The Framingham Risk score was also calculated for each individual. Survival analysis was carried out for plasma volume changes of -20% - 0%, 0 – 20%, and ≥20%. Mortality data was collected from the social security death index for the first 60 days post-discharge. Results: A total of 9770 patients with confirmed NSTEMI or STEMI (mean age 61.8 ± 4.8 years, 48.8% women) were included in the final analysis. Mean pre admission hemoglobin (Hbpre) was 10.2 ± 1.4 g/dl and post admission hemoglobin (Hbpost) was 10.4 ± 1.3 g/dl. Change in plasma volume, ΔPV, was categorized into one of four categories, with 131 (1.3%) ≤20%, 6126 (62.7%) -20% - 0%, 3393 (34.7%) 0 – 20%, and 120 (1.2%) ≥20%. There were 509 deaths within 60 days of discharge. Change in plasma volume was found to be an independent predictor of mortality (HR 5.71; 95% CI 4.75 – 6.86, p = 0.0001) in a Cox proportional hazard model. Most of the deaths occurred during the first thirty days as demonstrated by the Kaplan – Meier9s survival curve (Figure 1). Receiver operating curve showed an area under the curve of 0.876 for changes in plasma volume. Conclusion: This study shows that hemoglobin and hematocrit, although simple tests, can provide important prognostic information strongly predictive of short term mortality in patients with acute coronary syndromes. Further studies are required to see if monitoring of plasma volume and correction with pharmacological agents such as diuretics may lead to better outcomes. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Hymenasplenium volubile: documentation of its gametophytes and the first record of a hemiepiphyte in the Aspleniaceae.

Background and aims Through careful field examination of the growth habit of the gametophytes and sporophytes of Hymenasplenium volubile across an ontogenetic series, we aim to understand better the evolution of epiphytism in this poorly understood group of ferns. Methods We made field observations of H. volubile sporophytes and gametophytes, and brought specimens back to the lab for microscopic analysis. In the field, sporophytes at each ontogenetic stage were photographed to document the species' growth habit. We used an existing phylogeny to optimize growth form of New World Hymenasplenium. Key results Young sporophytes were at first fully epiphytic and produced one or two long feeding roots that extend to the soil where they branch profusely. The feeding roots remain in contact with the soil throughout the life of the plant. Thus, H. volubile is a hemiepiphyte. While immature, gametophytes are appressed to the tree trunk, but, as their gametangia mature, their lower margin lifts upward, imparting a shelf-like appearance to the thallus. The thallus attaches to the substrate by branched rhizoids produced along the margin of the thallus in contact with the substrate. Conclusions Hemiepiphytes are a key link in the evolution of epiphytic ferns and may act as a bridge between the forest floor and the canopy. Our finding is the first report of hemiepiphytism in Aspleniaceae, a large lineage with many epiphytic and terrestrial taxa. This work serves as an important model to understand the evolution of epiphytism in this group specifically and in ferns in general. The majority of our understanding of fern gametophyte biology is derived from laboratory studies. Our efforts represent a fundamental contribution to understanding fern gametophyte ecology in a field setting.
Elastic and Plastic Characteristics of Sodium Metal

Sodium metal holds promise as an anode material for rechargeable batteries due to its large theoretical charging capacity, low electrochemical potential, earth abundance, and low cost. However, a n...
Qualification of the Offence: Practice

It has already been suggested that in the absence of agreement as to what constitutes a political offence and what constitutes conditions that may be termed “urgent,” a solution could be found in agreement upon which party to a controversy has the right to decide the question definitively. It has been insisted on more than one occasion that there is a customary rule of law in Latin America which provides that the state granting asylum may unilaterally qualify the nature of the offence. The clearest statement of this view was presented by the Colombian government in the oral proceedings before the International Court of Justice in connection with the Colombian-Peruvian Asylum Case. Referring to the principles laid down in the Montevideo Convention of 1933, and particularly to the right of the state granting asylum to qualify unilaterally the nature of the offence, Colombia presented the following argument.
In vitro assessment of a synergistic combination of gemcitabine and zebularine in pancreatic cancer cells.

Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers with an extremely poor prognosis. Gemcitabine (Gem) is still the mainstay drug for the treatment of PDAC. However, rapid inactivation by cytidine deaminase (CDA) present in pancreatic cancer cells severely limits anticancer efficacy of Gem. In this study, we investigated the effect of a CDA inhibitor - Zebularine (Zeb) on anticancer activity of Gem in pancreatic cancer cell lines MiaPaCa-2, BxPC-3, and Panc-1. Zeb treatment synergistically increased Gem-induced cytotoxicity in all three pancreatic cancer cell lines. The strongest synergistic activity was found at 1:10 M ratio of Gem/Zeb (combination index 0.04–0.4). Additionally, Gem + Zeb treated cells showed marked decreased in the expressions of anti-apoptotic protein including Bcl-2 and survivin while significantly increased the cleaved caspase-3, and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential was observed. Multicellular 3D spheroids of MiaPaCa-2 cells treated with combination showed significant reduction (25–60%) in spheroid size, weight compared to single drug and control group. Live/dead cell imaging showed that Gem + Zeb treated spheroids exhibited a highly distorted surface with significantly higher number of dead cells (red). The results of the present study confirm that this synergistic combination is worthy of future investigations as a potential approach for the treatment of PDAC.
Treatment decisions after interdisciplinary evaluation for nonarthritic hip pain: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND Physical therapy and hip arthroscopy are two viable treatment options for patients with nonarthritic hip pain (NAHP); however, patients may experience considerable decisional conflict when making a treatment decision. Interdisciplinary evaluation with a physical therapist and surgeon may better inform the decision-making process and reduce decisional conflict. OBJECTIVE To identify the extent to which an interdisciplinary evaluation between a surgeon, physical therapist, and patient influences treatment plans and decisional conflict of persons with NAHP. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING Hip preservation clinic. PARTICIPANTS Adults with primary NAHP. INTERVENTIONS Participants were randomized to receive a standard (surgeon) or interdisciplinary (surgeon+physical therapist) evaluation. Surgeon evaluations included patient interview, strength and range-of-motion examination, palpation, gross motor observation, and special testing. Interdisciplinary evaluations started with the surgeon evaluation, then a physical therapist evaluated movement impairments during sitting, sit-to-stand, standing, single-leg stance, single-leg squat, and walking. All evaluations concluded with treatment planning with the respective provider(s). OUTCOME MEASURES Treatment plan and decisional conflict were collected pre- and postevaluation. Inclusion of physical therapy in participants' postevaluation treatment plans and postevaluation decisional conflict were compared between groups using chi-square tests and Mann-Whitney U tests, respectively. RESULTS Seventy-eight participants (39 in each group) met all eligibility criteria and were included in all analyses. Sixty-six percent of participants who received an interdisciplinary evaluation included physical therapy in their postevaluation treatment plan, compared to 48% of participants who received a standard evaluation (p = .10). Participants who received an interdisciplinary evaluation reported 6.3 points lower decisional conflict regarding their postevaluation plan (100-point scale; p = .04). The interdisciplinary and standard groups reduced decisional conflict on average 24.8 ± 18.9 and 23.6 ± 14.6 points, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Adding a physical therapist to a surgical clinic increased interest in physical therapy treatment, but this increase was not statistically significant. The interdisciplinary group displayed lower postevaluation decisional conflict; however, both groups displayed similar reductions in decisional conflict from pre- to postevaluation. This study also demonstrated the feasibility of an interdisciplinary evaluation in a hip preservation clinic.
Without mandatory high-risk HPV co-testing, are we inadequately screening for adenocarcinoma of the cervix?

Objectives: High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) is an important co-factor in the development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (AC) of the cervix. Screening with the Papanicolaou test is more effective for SCC compared to AC, creating a missed opportunity for early detection if hrHPV co-testing is not performed. We sought to evaluate the effect of HPV status, as well as other risk factors, on the development of adenocarcinoma in situ (ACIS) and AC. Methods: We conducted a single-institution, retrospective case-control study. Cases consisted of women diagnosed with ACIS or AC of the cervix between 2007-2017. Controls consisted of patients without the diagnosis of ACIS or AC, randomly selected from a pool of potential control patients via a random number generator, with a cases to control ratio of 1:3. Univariable tests were applied on the basis of whether the variable of interest was distributed normally (ie, t test, analysis of variance) test with a 0.05 two-sided significance level. Results: A total of 118 cases (47 AC and 71 ACIS) and 289 controls were identified for inclusion in this study. The average age was 42.5 years (cases 39.7, controls 34.3, p=0.0001). 29% of AC patients were post-menopausal at time of diagnosis (14/47), 17% ACIS (12/71) and 33% controls (97/289) (p=0.0215). 34% of AC patients (16/47) and 24% of ACIS patients (17/71) had a significant smoking history compared to 18% of controls (53/289), (p=0.0309). 29% AC and 49% ACIS (35/71) patients had a co-existing preinvasive squamous a lesion at time of diagnosis compared to 26% of controls (76/289), (p=0.0024). Nulliparity was not significantly associated with AC/ACIS vs. controls (p=0.0696). 86% of AC patients (31/36) and 91% ACIS (63/69) were hrHPV positive at the time of diagnosis compared to 28% of controls (83/279) (p Conclusions: Patients with AC and ACIS were significantly more likely to be pre-menopausal, a current or former smoker, and have a co-existing HSIL/LSIL lesion. High-risk HPV status was positive in 90% of AC/ACIS patients whereas Pap cytology was normal in 26% of ACIS/AC patients preceding diagnosis. Pap cytology with mandatory hrHPV co-testing may be more effective screening for early detection of AC/ACIS. Download : Download high-res image (203KB) Download : Download full-size image
Small worlds or worlds apart? Using network theory to understand the research-practice gap

Abstract The implementation of effective community interventions can be challenging for many reasons, including financial and time costs, lack of infrastructure, local contextual variations, and barriers to fidelity. But, prior to all of these is the challenge of limited information exchange between the researchers developing interventions and the practitioners implementing them, or the so-called research-practice gap. In this paper, we use network theory and review a dozen small world experiments to understand the research-practice gap, identifying three key lessons: (1) spatial and social distances are related to the severity of the gap, (2) social boundaries may lead to echo chambers and closed loops, and (3) wider gaps reduce the likelihood of successful information exchange. From these lessons, we recommend that researchers and practitioners should rely on the assistances of information brokers who know people they do not know and who are different from themselves.
Video event detection as matching of spatiotemporal projection

Detection of events and actions in video entails substantial processing of very large, even open-ended, video streams. Video data presents a unique challenge for the information retrieval community because it is hard to find a way to properly represent video events. We propose a novel approach to analyze temporal aspects of video data. We consider the video data as a sequence of images that form a 3-dimensional spatiotemporal structure, and multiview orthographic projection is performed to transform the video data into 2-dimensional representations. The projected views allow a unique way to represent video events, and we apply template matching using color moments to detect video events.
HYPERURICEMIA IN NEOPLASTIC DISEASE IN CHILDREN: PREVENTION WITH ALLOPURINOL, A XANTHINE OXIDASE INHIBITOR

Allopurinol [4-hydroxypyrazolo (3,4-d)-pyrimidine] was used in the treatment or prevention of hyperuricemia in 21 children with various neoplastic diseases in whom there was severe hyperuricemia or in whom it might have been expected as a result of the anti-neoplastic therapy to be employed. Allopurinol was effective in reducing hyperuricemia and in preventing the hazard of uric acid nephropathy in each patient. Previous experience with such patients had been characterized by the frequent occurrence of hyperuricemia and uric acid nephropathy. Allopurinol has produced no toxicity, except for the occasional occurrence of a mild skin rash. It is considered a useful agent in the treatment or prevention of uric acid nephropathy in children with leukemia and lymphoma.
Vista: a microstorage architecture that implements file systems and object databases

Vista is a system for storing, retrieving and manipulating data that supports a new generation of applications that provide more powerful features for end users. Vista does not directly implement these end user features, but it provides technology that allows applications to easily implement them. To understand the design of Vista, it is important to first understand these end user features. Although most of these features can be implemented in a file system, they are not simply extensions to files. They also apply to other storage models, and some fit more closely with other, more powerful, storage models. Vista and the microstorage architecture extends the popular idea of separating policy from mechanism to storage architectures by separating the storage model from the underlying storage mechanism. Until now, file systems, databases, and object stores were viewed as separate systems with their own semantics and implementation. Data in one system could not be used in another, and applications were designed to work with only one system. Vista unifies these system, by implementing them on a common substrate so they share data seamlessly. In Vista, different applications or different parts of the same application may use different storage models to manipulate the same data. >
Experimental bases for the different hepatotoxicity of erythromycin preparations in man

Abstract Erythromycin estolate is more cytotoxic than erythromycin base or stearate on Chang cell cultures, as measured by viability and by leakage of lactate dehydrogenase and β-glucuronidase in tissue culture media. This difference correlates with their known hepatotoxic potential in patients. Erythromycin estolate is made by the combination of sodium lauryl sulfate and erythromycin propionate. We compared the in vitro cytotoxicity of these compounds independently and in combination at different concentrations. Erythromycin estolate and propionate are the only derivatives with cytotoxic potential and certain doses of sodium lauryl sulfate added to erythromycin propionate have a potentiating cytotoxic effect. Erythromycin estolate has the greatest surfactant activity of all the other derivatives tested, in vitro. Oral administration of erythromycin estolate or 14 C-labeled sodium lauryl sulfate to human volunteers and rats resulted in considerable absorption and bile excretion of the latter, hitherto assumed to be a nonabsorbable drug. The greater hepatotoxic potential or erythromycin estolate in man might be related to single or synergistic effect of its components depending on the concentrations achieved in the liver of hypersensitive patients.
Azad’s Mecca: On the Limits of Indian Ocean Cosmopolitanism

In recent years, historians and postcolonial critics have illuminated several trends of universalist thought among a group of Indian intellectuals and activists who articulated forms of humanist anti- imperialism within the circuits of publication and translation in the transregional Indian Ocean public sphere. While this recent work has done much to open up a discursive space for forms of non- Western universalism, it has, whether intentionally or not, reiterated the claims of a transcendent liberal secular humanism in a new guise. But what would this Indian Ocean cosmopolitanism look like when grounded in the politics of place rather than in the domain of the transcendent? Willis’s article considers the heated debate over the future of Mecca after the Sa‘udi occupation in 1924, both from its discursive position as a quintessential cosmopolitan “open city” and as the site of a material struggle over urban space. In particular, it considers the writings of the South Asian scholar and activist Abul Kalam Azad, a major figure in the Indian Khilafat movement and the Indian National Congress, who was simultaneously a critic of the nation form and communalism (on the basis of universal humanism) and a vocal supporter of Ibn Sa‘ud’s conquest and government of the holy cities. While Azad has been lauded in South Asian historiography as a paragon of secular humanism, how do we reconcile his cosmopolitanism with his support of the exclusionary religious policies of the Sa‘udi state?
Stress Corrosion Cracking of Welded 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel in Sulfide-containing Caustic Solution

Duplex stainless steel (DSS) grades are used in pulp mills for their superior properties and resistance to general corrosion. However, stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of DSS equipment has been experienced in different pulp mills. The susceptibility of DSS grades to SCC can be mainly attributed to the various heating processes involved during the manufacturing of industrial equipments, especially welding. It is generally understood that heating cycles during welding may affect the dual microstructure (ferrite/austenite ratio) of the steel, making it more prone to cracking in aggressive environments such as chlorides and caustics and further exposure to high temperatures. Welded 2205 DSS failed in white liquor (mainly NaOH + Na2S) was examined for SCC crack morphology and microstructure. Heat-treated 2205 DSS samples were tested in simulated white liquor to see the effect of microstructure on SCC susceptibility. Austenite is more susceptible to SCC than ferrite, but the SCC susceptibility primarily depends on the composition of the alloy and the chemistry of the exposure environment.
Randomized Generalized Laws of the Iterated Logarithm

We consider independent and identically distributed random variables {X,X n ,n≥1} with density f X (x)=c(log x) λ x −2 I(x>1), where λ>−1. Hence EX=∞. We examine which type of random weights {a n ,n≥1} that will allow us to establish our generalized one-sided laws of the iterated logarithm for sums of the form
Altered tracheal smooth muscle activities in an animal model of human myotonic dystrophy

Abstract Although the 20,25 Diazacholesterol-treated rat exhibits several pathological changes involving skeletal muscle and other tissues resembling those seen in human myotonic dystrophy patients, this animal has not hitherto been examined as a model for studying smooth muscle involvement in this human disease. Rats were therefore treated chronically with 20, 25-D and comparisons made with control animals of dose-response curves of tracheal strip preparations to carbamylcholine, before and after partial irreversible blockade of cholinergic receptors by Dibenamine. Tracheas from myotonic animals exhibited diminished contractility and an increased ED 50 . The dissociation constant for the carbamylcholine-cholinergic receptor interaction was decreased and the percentage receptor occupancy for a given contractile response was increased. These results indicate that tracheal smooth muscle function is altered after 20,25-D administration and suggest that such animals may constitute a model for studying smooth muscle function in human myotonic dystrophy.