cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fate of phosphorus in Florida Spodosols contaminated with cattle manure

Abstract Phosphorus loading from dairies and beef ranches in the Lake Okeechobee watershed and the subsequent movement of the P into the drainage waters is a major factor influencing the eutrophication of Lake Okeechobee. The soils of this area are mainly Spodosols with the watertable lying between surface and spodic horizons for extended periods each year. In this study, the quantity of total P (TP) within the soil profile (A, E, Bh and Bw horizons) of dairies and beef ranches in the Lake Okeechobee basin was determined to evaluate the magnitude of P loading in these soils. The effect of cattle density was evident in TP concentrations throughout the soil profile. In the A horizon, mean TP concentrations were 1680, 165, and 34 kg P ha −1 for high, low, and nonimpacted areas, respectively. The same trend, although at lower concentrations, was evident in the E, Bh, and Bw horizons. The quantity of P considered to be potentially mobile under leaching conditions (water-soluble P, Mehlich I extractable or NH 4 Cl extractable), also followed similar trends as the TP concentrations. Based on chemical fractionation data, nearly 80% of TP in the A horizon of the highly impacted soils may be considered leachable. We calculated hat about 4000 kg P ha −1 would be available for leaching in the soil profile of the high intensity areas immediately adjacent to the dairy barns. This “labile P” appears to be solubilized slowly over a long period of time (likely several years). There seems to be no natural mechanism whereby the P is stabilized through the formation of minerals, and even if such processes do take place, a vast amount of P still remains in a form in which it is readily transported along with the drainage water. The A and E horizons had poor P retention capacities while the retention capacity of the Bh horizon varied with the soil type, Myakka ≥ Immokalee > Pomello. Due to the Low P-retention capacity in the upper horizons of these soils, there is potential for significant subsurface lateral P transport.
Central Activation of the A1 Adenosine Receptor (A1AR) Induces a Hypothermic, Torpor-Like State in the Rat

Since central activation of A1 adenosine receptors (A1ARs) plays an important role in the induction of the hypothermic and hypometabolic torpid state in hibernating mammals, we investigated the potential for the A1AR agonist N6-cyclohexyladenosine to induce a hypothermic, torpor-like state in the (nonhibernating) rat. Core and brown adipose tissue temperatures, EEG, heart rate, and arterial pressure were recorded in free-behaving rats, and c-fos expression in the brain was analyzed, following central administration of N6-cyclohexyladenosine. Additionally, we recorded the sympathetic nerve activity to brown adipose tissue; expiratory CO2 and skin, core, and brown adipose tissue temperatures; and shivering EMGs in anesthetized rats following central and localized, nucleus of the solitary tract, administration of N6-cyclohexyladenosine. In rats exposed to a cool (15°C) ambient temperature, central A1AR stimulation produced a torpor-like state similar to that in hibernating species and characterized by a marked fall in body temperature due to an inhibition of brown adipose tissue and shivering thermogenesis that is mediated by neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract. During the induced hypothermia, EEG amplitude and heart rate were markedly reduced. Skipped heartbeats and transient bradycardias occurring during the hypothermia were vagally mediated since they were eliminated by systemic muscarinic receptor blockade. These findings demonstrate that a deeply hypothermic, torpor-like state can be pharmacologically induced in a nonhibernating mammal and that recovery of normothermic homeostasis ensues upon rewarming. These results support the potential for central activation of A1ARs to be used in the induction of a hypothermic, therapeutically beneficial state in humans.
Endobronchial Pneumocystis carinii infection in a Patient with the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

We report a case of endobronchial Pneumocystis carinii infection in a patient who most likely had the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Although many unusual manifestations of Pneumocystis pneumonia have been reported in patients with AIDS, this is the first case of P carinii presenting as an endobronchial mass.
Oncogenic functions of tumour suppressor p21Waf1/Cip1/Sdi1: association with cell senescence and tumour-promoting activities of stromal fibroblasts

p21(Waf1/Cip1/Sdi1) is best known as a broad-specificity inhibitor of cyclin/cyclin-dependent kinase complexes, but p21 also interacts with many other regulators of transcription or signal transduction. p21 induction, which is mediated by p53 and by p53-independent mechanisms, is essential for the onset of cell cycle arrest in damage response and cell senescence. The effects of p21 knockout in mice and its expression patterns in human cancer are consistent with a role for p21 as both a tumour suppressor and an oncogene. Several functions of p21 are likely to promote carcinogenesis and tumour progression. These include endoreduplication and abnormal mitosis that develop in tumour cells after release from p21-induced growth arrest, the ability of p21 to inhibit apoptosis through several different mechanisms, and its ability to stimulate transcription of secreted factors with mitogenic and anti-apoptotic activities. The latter effects of p21 show close resemblance to paracrine activities of senescent cells and to tumour-promoting functions of stromal fibroblasts. Therapeutic strategies targeting the oncogenic consequences of p21 expression may provide a new approach to chemoprevention and treatment of cancer.
Centesimus Annus: Towards a New Capitalism?

The encyclical Centesimus Annus was published by Pope John Paul II in commemoration of Rerum Novarum, written 100 years ago by Leo XIII. That encyclical initiated a century of Catholic social teaching consisting, by now, of six encyclicals. Together, they are intended to represent a unified system of thought, the Church′s social vision. Its basic themes all centre on the God‐ordained dignity of man. The Pope calls for a modified, “corrected” capitalism, a “Society of free work, of enterprise and of participation”. The economic activities of man are to be reoriented towards the common good, with the ultimate goal of eradicating poverty, exploitation, and alienation. Rejects the economic proposals of the Pope as lacking of substance and internal consistency. Its assumption that man can enjoy all the advantages of free markets while also correcting for their less‐desirable effects at will reveals that, despite some modifications, Catholic social thought is still inspired by what has been termed the “unconstr...
Varied access to intravenous methamphetamine self-administration differentially alters adult hippocampal neurogenesis.

Background Chronic abuse of methamphetamine produces deficits in hippocampal function, perhaps by altering hippocampal neurogenesis and plasticity. We examined how intravenous methamphetamine self-administration modulates active division, proliferation of late progenitors, differentiation, maturation, survival, and mature phenotype of hippocampal subgranular zone (SGZ) progenitors. Methods Adult male Wistar rats were given access to methamphetamine 1 hour twice weekly (intermittent short), 1 hour daily (short), or 6 hours daily (long). Rats received one intraperitoneal injection of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) to label progenitors in the synthesis (S) phase, and 28-day-old surviving BrdU-immunoreactive (IR) cells were quantified. Ki-67, doublecortin (DCX), and activated caspase-3 (AC-3) were used to visualize and quantify proliferating, differentiating, maturing, and apoptotic cells. Terminal corticosterone was measured to determine changes in adrenal steroids. Results Intermittent access to methamphetamine increased Ki-67 and DCX-IR cells, but opposing effects on late progenitors and postmitotic neurons resulted in no overall change in neurogenesis. Daily access to methamphetamine decreased all studied aspects of neurogenesis and reduced hippocampal granule neurons and volume, changes that likely are mediated by decreased proliferative and neurogenic capacity of the SGZ. Furthermore, methamphetamine self-administration relative to the amount of methamphetamine intake produced a biphasic effect on hippocampal apoptosis and reduced corticosterone levels. Conclusions Intermittent (occasional access) and daily (limited and extended access) self-administration of methamphetamine impact different aspects of neurogenesis, the former producing initial pro-proliferative effects and the latter producing downregulating effects. These findings suggest that altered hippocampal integrity by even modest doses of methamphetamine could account for pronounced pathology linked to methamphetamine abuse.
Mixed orthogonal frequency coded SAW RFID tags

Orthogonal frequency coded (OFC) SAW radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags are currently being explored as a multi-sensor platform because of their passive spread-spectrum operation, low loss, and resilience in harsh environments. Ongoing research continues to search for robust device embodiments that increase the number of identifiable codes, in the presence of intersymbol interference, while maintaining reasonable device lengths. This paper presents a technique that shortens the SAW response length while preserving code diversity and bandwidth by utilizing a multi-track SAW configuration. These new devices allow the time response of multiple OFC chips to overlap and yield a mixed-frequency chip having the sum of the chip bandwidths but shorter overall time response. The theoretical development is presented and examples are discussed for these new mixed orthogonal frequency coded (MOFC) SAW devices. Experimental results for MOFC sensors, fabricated on YZ-LiNbO3, with a 7% fractional bandwidth and five chip frequencies in three cells, provide a good contrast to similar OFC designs. Experimental results are presented for the simultaneous operation of eight wireless temperature sensors-four OFC and four MOFC-in a 915-MHz wireless correlator receiver system, highlighting the ability of these devices to operate in the same system.
An effective manual deboning method to prepare intact mouse nasal tissue with preserved anatomical organization

The mammalian nose is a multi-functional organ with intricate internal structures. The nasal cavity is lined with various epithelia such as olfactory, respiratory, and squamous epithelia which differ markedly in anatomical locations, morphology, and functions. In adult mice, the nose is covered with various skull bones, limiting experimental access to internal structures, especially those in the posterior such as the main olfactory epithelium (MOE). Here we describe an effective method for obtaining almost the entire and intact nasal tissues with preserved anatomical organization. Using surgical tools under a dissecting microscope, we sequentially remove the skull bones surrounding the nasal tissue. This procedure can be performed on both paraformaldehyde-fixed and freshly dissected, skinned mouse heads. The entire deboning procedure takes about 20-30 min, which is significantly shorter than the experimental time required for conventional chemical-based decalcification. In addition, we present an easy method to remove air bubbles trapped between turbinates, which is critical for obtaining intact thin horizontal or coronal or sagittal sections from the nasal tissue preparation. Nasal tissue prepared using our method can be used for whole mount observation of the entire epithelia, as well as morphological, immunocytochemical, RNA in situ hybridization, and physiological studies, especially in studies where region-specific examination and comparison are of interest.
Nonlinear H_infinity Control Designs with Axisymmetric Spacecraft Control

In this paper, we study nonlinear control of a spacecraft symmetric about its principal axis with two control torques. Using a computationally efficient H ∞ control design procedure, attitude stabilization and command tracking problems of the axisymmetric spacecraft are solved locally. The proposed nonlinear H ∞ control approach uses higher order Lyapunov functions and reformulates the difficult Hamilton―Jacobian―Isaacs inequalities as semidefinite optimization conditions. Sum-of-squares programming techniques are then applied to obtain computationally tractable solutions, from which nonlinear control laws will be constructed. The nonlinear H ∞ control designs for spacecraft are capable of exploiting the most suitable forms of Lyapunov functions for performance improvement.
SA Microfabric Study of Calcite, Dolomite, and Quartz around Papoose Flat Pluton, California

Post-crystalline strain features were studied in quartzite and dolomite-bearing marble around the Papoose Flat pluton to compare various hypotheses regarding stress orientations obtained from deformation lamellae in quartz, calcite, and dolomite. Analyses of twin lamellae in calcite and dolomite yield maxima of “compression” (C) and “tension” (T) axes that are not symmetrically related to the foliation, lineation, or patterns of preferred orientations of minerals. The C-T maxima are oriented consistently with respect to geographic coordinates and record a post-crystalline state of stress considerably different than the para-crystalline stress previously inferred for the same rocks. The quartz deformation lamellae are unusual in their crystallographic orientation: most of them are inclined between 20° and 80° to the {0001} planes; no near-basal and few prismatic lamellae are present. Statistically, the lamellae define two planes in most specimens, and are believed to have formed in planes of high shear stress, consistent with experimental evidence. The acute and obtuse bisectrices of the two planes of lamellae are parallel to the maxima of C- and T-axes, respectively, determined from twinning in calcite and dolomite. Thus, these axes derived from the orientation of nonbasal quartz lamellae appear to reflect the orientation of the principal stresses during their formation, as other investigators have demonstrated for the more common near-basal lamellae. The maximum principal (compressive) stress was horizontal and NNE, and the least principal stress was horizontal and WNW. These orientations are consistent with those determined from a conjugate system of faults which also formed soon after emplacement of the pluton.
Shear Band Patterns in Metallic Glasses under Static Indentation, Dynamic Indentation, and Scratch Processes

The deformation structure in terms of shear band patterns in bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) under static indentation, dynamic indentation, and dynamic scratch tests has been investigated. The evolved shear band patterns appear to be a strong function of loading rate, although the plastic regions beneath the loading surface have similarities in shape irrespective of loading type. Comparison of currently available modeling estimates with experimental measurements has revealed that these models predict the plastic zone size reasonably well at low loads but deviate considerably at higher loads. The variation in spacing of shear bands is rationalized on the basis of the shear displacement accommodated by the shear bands formed under different loading rates, which results from a proposed shear-band formation mechanism based on the momentum diffusion model.
Global three-dimensional constituent fields derived from profile data

The success of three-dimensional simulations of stratospheric constituent variability depends critically on the initialization of the constituent fields within the global model. This paper describes a technique for generating global three-dimensional fields from vertical constituent proflies. The technique uses potential vorticity (q) and potential temperature (theta) to map the profiles onto the global domain. The profiles used here are obtained from a two-dimensional model calculation that reproduces the relationship between theta, q, N2O and O3 observed during the Airborne Arctic Stratospheric Expedition. The method is verified by comparison with satellite data, aircraft data, and model simulations.
Infantile myoclonic seizures:An evaluation of ACTH and corticosteroid therapy

Summary The results of corticosteroid and corticotropintherapy of infantile myoclonic seizures as recorded in the literature have been reviewed and 24 additional cases are presented. Of 283 infants (259 reported in medicalliterature; 24 in the series recorded here), complete seizure control was achieved in 34 per cent and another 28 per cent showed significant improvement. Factors pertaining to the success or failure of therapy are discussed. Despite the gloomy ultimate prognosis of infantile myoclonic seizures at the present stage of our understanding of the syndrome, the immediate salutary effects of corticotropin on seizure frequency and on improvement of the EEG in a significant number of children appear to warrant its trial in every infant with this very serious disorder.
Degradation of tomatine to 3β-hydroxy-5α-pregn-16-en-20-one by ripe tomatoes

Abstract Tomatine-4- 14 C was prepared by foliar administration of cholesterol-4- 14 C and silicone oil to tomato plants. Chromatographically homogeneous tomatine-4- 14 C in 96% ethanol, when incubated in whole, ripe tomatoes was rapidly converted to 3β-hydroxy-5α-pregn-16-en-20-one in combined form. The identity of this steroid and its acetyl derivative was established by comparing their TCL mobilities with reference materials and by recrystallizing them to constant specific activity.
JCHIMP: A proud 4 year old with the best yet to come

No abstract available! (Published: 25 November 2014) Citation: Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives 2014, 4 : 26425 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/jchimp.v4.26425
Improving the measurement of the top quark mass.

Two possible ways to improve the mass resolution for observing hadronic top quark decay {ital t}{r_arrow}{ital b}{ital W}{r_arrow}3 jets are studied: (1) using fixed cones in the rest frames of the {ital t} and {ital W} to define the decay jets, instead of the traditional cones in the rest frame of the detector; and (2) using the jet angles in the top rest frame to measure {ital m}{sub {ital t}}/{ital m}{sub {ital W}}. By Monte Carlo simulation, the second method is found to give a useful improvement in the mass resolution. It can be combined with the usual invariant mass method to get even better mass resolution. The improved resolution can be used to make a more accurate determination of the top quark mass, and to improve the discrimination between {ital t{bar t}} events and background for studies of the production mechanism. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Synchronization from second order network connectivity statistics

We investigate how network structure can influence the tendency for a neuronal network to synchronize, or its synchronizability, independent of the dynamical model for each neuron. The synchrony analysis takes advantage of the framework of second order networks (SONETs), which defines four second order connectivity statistics based on the relative frequency of two-connection network motifs. The analysis identifies two of these statistics, convergent connections and chain connections, as highly influencing the synchrony. Simulations verify that synchrony decreases with the frequency of convergent connections and increases with the frequency of chain connections. These trends persist with simulations of multiple models for the neuron dynamics and for different types of networks. Surprisingly, divergent connections, which determine the fraction of shared inputs, do not strongly influence the synchrony. The critical role of chains, rather than divergent connections, in influencing synchrony can be explained by a pool and redistribute mechanism. The pooling of many inputs averages out independent fluctuations, amplifying weak correlations in the inputs. With increased chain connections, neurons with many inputs tend to have many outputs. Hence, chains ensure that the amplified correlations in the neurons with many inputs are redistributed throughout the network, enhancing the development of synchrony across the network.
Second plateau observed in solutions of gum rubbers containing gels

Viscoelastic behavior of solutions of rubbers containing macro‐gel and micro‐gel were examined. Macro‐gel is a giant molecule of the rubber having many long branches. Micro‐gel is also a giant molecule but a cross‐linked particle. The sample of macro‐gel was butadiene‐acrylonitrile copolymer (NBR) and the solvent was a plasticizer, dibutylphthalate (DBP). The latter was polyethylacrylate (ACM) in diethylphthalate (DEP). Both rubbers contained about 70% gel, which swelled in the solvent. The rubber concentration was 20%, 10%, and 5%. The frequency range was from 10−2 to 102 rad/s. Measurements were made at room temperature. At 20% and 10% concentration, the storage modulus, G′, and the loss modulus, G″, had the following relation; with NBR‐DBP, G′ was slightly lower than G″ and with ACM‐DEP they were about equal. The gels in the former solution had a degree of swelling lower than did those in the latter. The behavior persisted over the entire range of the frequency. The swollen gel particles are touching e...
Comments on ‘Study of molecular interactions in binary mixtures of formamide with 2-methoxyethanol and 2-ethoxyethanol at varying temperatures’

Communication shows that there are several errors in the experimental density and excess molar volume data reported in the article, as well as errors associated with the computation of the infinite dilution partial molar volumes of formamide, 2-methoxyethanol and 2-ethoxyethanol.
Modulation of the prolactin response to thyrotropin releasing hormone by ovarian steroids in ovariectomized turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo)

The effect of thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) administered intramuscularly (im) on serum levels of prolactin (Prl) in ovariectomized (ovx) adult turkeys before and following the onset of photostimulation, before and during daily administration (im) of progesterone (P; 0.1, 0.4, or 1.0 mg/kg), estradiol benzoate (EB; 0.01, 0.1, or 0.2 mg/kg), or their combination (1.0 mg/kg EB + 0.1 mg/kg P) were studied. Ovariectomy reduced Prl levels in the serum of photostimulated turkeys, and blunted the Prl response to TRH administration. Progesterone treatment had no effect on basal serum Prl levels but the Prl response to TRH was higher in P-treated turkeys than in non-treated ovx turkeys. Basal serum Prl levels were higher (P less than 0.05) in the EB-treated ovx turkeys than in the untreated birds. The Prl response to TRH in ovx EB-treated turkeys was greatly increased (P less than 0.05). Progesterone treatment of EB-primed ovx turkey did not alter the basal levels of serum Prl or the Prl response to TRH administration. These results suggest that ovarian steroids may be responsible for the increased Prl secretion in the female turkey associated with laying.
Variety of 2,4-D metabolic pathways in plants; its significance in developing analytical methods for herbicides residues.

2,4-D in plants very rapidly undergoes various transformations and its predominant metabolic pathways and rates vary with different plant species. In bean and soybean plants major 2,4-D metabolites are 4-O-Β-D-glucosides of 4-hydroxy-2,5-dichloro- and 4-hydroxy-2,3-dichloro-phenoxy-acetic acids; in addition, considerable amounts ofN-(2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetyl)-L-aspartic andN-(2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetyl)-L-glutamic acids are accumulating in them. Among 2,4-D metabolites in cereals there prevailed 1-O-(2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetyl)-Β-D-glucose while the glycoside of 2,4-dichlorophenol prevailed in strawberry plants.
WE-E-BRB-07: Direct 3D Fluence Calculation from Machine Beam Parameters for VMAT Delivery Verification.

Purpose:MLC dynamic log files have been clinically used for quality assurance for years. The logged machine parameters and the derived beam 2D fluence maps can be compared to the ones obtained in the treatment plans in order to evaluate the accuracy and consistency of IMRT beam deliveries. In this study, we propose a computationally efficient method, called Direct 3D Fluence Calculation or D3DFC, to extend 2D fluence map derivation to 3D fluence volume computation. The aim is to extend dynalog‐based QA from fixed‐gantry IMRT to rotational‐gantry VMAT. Methods: D3DFC calculates the 3D volume of photon fluence distribution directly from the machine parameters (gantry angles, jaw positions, MLC positions, collimator rotation angle, MU) contained in the dynamic log files or DICOM plans, without converting to 2D fluence maps per gantry angle in order to allow higher computation speed and accuracy. For testing, results were verified with film‐in‐air measurements. 3D fluence volumes computed from VMAT delivery records (with artificially introduced delivery errors) are compared to ones computed from the treatment plans to determine if these delivery errors can be identified. Results: D3DFC is implemented in MATLAB and supports the DICOM plans, Varian MLC dynamic logs and Varian Truebeam machine logs. Computation takes 10 to 20 seconds for a single‐arc VMAT plan or delivery records. The results showed that 1 mm MLC errors can be clearly detected using delivery‐to‐plan fluence volume comparison. Conclusions: Direct computation from machine parameters allows higher computation speed and accuracy. These advantages are useful for beam delivery verification purposes for which (slower) full patient CT based dose computation is less necessary. The calculated 3D photon fluence volume is useful to detect and visually present the VMAT delivery discrepancies.
Hard Lessons for Soft Selection

The relative stringencies of hard and soft selection in protecting an allele in a geographically structured population is an important question in the maintenance of genetic variability. Here we show for the generalized two-deme case that hard selection is expected to be less stringent than soft selection roughly half of the time. This is in sharp contrast to the widely held view that hard selection is almost always more stringent than soft selection. I argue that hard selection is usually expected to be less stringent than soft selection in the n-deme case when those demes in which the allele is favored are more fit than in those demes where the allele is at a disadvantage. This results from reduced migration into the favored demes under hard selection compared with soft selection, enhancing the protection of the allele.
Breaking global temperature records after Mt. Pinatubo

The probability of setting global temperature records is reconsidered in light of cooling due to the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. The cooling ‘resets’ temperature by moving it away from the top of its 100-year range. Depending on the statistical model for temperature, this ‘reset’ can lead to a much lower probability for a record in the next few years. The exercise illustrates how record setting depends on the underlying model, the current record value, and - if there is serial correlation- the current temperature.
Loss of miR-200 Inhibition of Suz12 Leads to Polycomb-Mediated Repression Required for the Formation and Maintenance of Cancer Stem Cells

In an inducible oncogenesis model, the miR-200 family is inhibited during CSC formation but not transformation, and inhibition of miR-200b increases CSC formation. Interestingly, miR-200b directly targets Suz12, a subunit of a polycomb repressor complex (PRC2). Loss of miR-200 during CSC formation increases Suz12 expression, Suz12 binding, H3-K27 trimethylation, and Polycomb-mediated repression of the E-cadherin gene. miR-200b expression or Suz12 depletion blocks the formation and maintenance of mammospheres, and in combination with chemotherapy suppresses tumor growth and prolongs remission in mouse xenografts. Conversely, ectopic expression of Suz12 in transformed cells is sufficient to generate CSCs. The miR-200b-Suz12-cadherin pathway is important for CSC growth and invasive ability in genetically distinct breast cancer cells, and its transcriptional signature is observed in metastatic breast tumors. The interaction between miR-200 and Suz12 is highly conserved, suggesting that it represents an ancient regulatory mechanism to control the growth and function of stem cells.
‘Our Little Secret’: How Publicly Heterosexual Women Make Meaning From Their ‘Undercover’ Same-Sex Sexual Experiences

The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender community is well aware of the phenomenon of ‘straight girls’ seeking out and engaging in intimate sexual relationships with women. However, there is a dearth of research on women who openly identify themselves as heterosexual, and even participate in relationships with men, yet seek out secret relationships with other women. This pilot study examined the experiences and meaning-making of women who are ‘undercover’ in this way and the factors that shape their construction of their sexual identity and compel them to live a secret, compartmentalized life. Four major themes emerged: a desire to remain married, the belief that ‘girls don't count’ as extramarital partners, shame, and ‘on and off the wagon.’ For the women in this study, the decision to act on their desire for sexual contact with another woman was fraught with internal conflict, shame, and guilt. The data reveal that the constraints around one's sexuality are not nearly as powerful culturally as the constr...
Factors Distinguishing Exceptional Performance on the Uniform CPA Exam.

Abstract The Uniform Certified Public Accounting (CPA) exam has been used to define what an accounting professional should know before beginning practice. This study examined the factors associated with passing all parts of the CPA exam on the first attempt. Results of a discriminant analysis, for which we used a cross-validation hold-out sample methodology, indicate three variables (i.e., CPA review course grade, high school class rank, high school class size) contribute to the discriminatory power of the discriminant function. Interpretations, implications, and directions for future research are discussed.
Preparing medical students for obstetrics and gynecology milestone level one: a description of a pilot curriculum

Background : The implementation of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Milestones in the field of obstetrics and gynecology has arrived with Milestones Level One defined as the level expected of an incoming first-year resident. Purpose : We designed, implemented, and evaluated a 4-week elective for fourth-year medical school students, which utilized a multimodal approach to teaching and assessing the Milestones Level One competencies. Methods : The 78-hour curriculum utilized traditional didactic lectures, flipped classroom active learning sessions, a simulated paging curriculum, simulation training, embalmed cadaver anatomical dissections, and fresh-frozen cadaver operative procedures. We performed an assessment of student knowledge and surgical skills before and after completion of the course. Students also received feedback on their assessment and management of eight simulated paging scenarios. Students completed course content satisfaction surveys at the completion of each of the 4 weeks. Results : Students demonstrated improvement in knowledge and surgical skills at the completion of the course. Paging confidence trended toward improvement at the completion of the course. Student satisfaction was high for all of the course content, and the active learning components of the curriculum (flipped classroom, simulation, and anatomy sessions) had higher scores than the traditional didactics in all six categories of our student satisfaction survey. Conclusions : This pilot study demonstrates a practical approach for preparing fourth-year medical students for the expectations of Milestones Level One in obstetrics and gynecology. This curriculum can serve as a framework as medical schools and specific specialties work to meet the first steps of the ACGME's Next Accreditation System. Keywords: ACGME Milestones; flipped classroom; active learning (Published: 26 November 2014) Citation: Med Educ Online 2014, 19 : 25746 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/meo.v19.25746
The analysis of the double resonance spectrum of N-methylformamide

Abstract The double resonance technique is used to decouple N14 nuclei from protons in various amides. A complete analysis of the spectrum of N-methylformamide as an ABX3 system is then possible. The coupling constant between the carbonyl proton and the amide proton increases when N-methylformamide is diluted with water. This indicates that the planar form of the amide is favored by interaction with the water solvent.
Development and validation of a shelf inventory to evaluate household food purchases among older adults with diabetes mellitus.

Abstract Objective Valid measures of behavioral outcomes are needed to evaluate interventions. The purpose of this research was to validate a shelf inventory and evaluate food purchases using the inventory among older adults with diabetes. Design A 166-item shelf inventory of household food was assessed for face, content, and criterion validity. The sensitivity and specificity of the inventory were determined by comparing participant- and interviewer-completed inventories. A randomized pretest/post-test control group design was used to evaluate household food purchases following an intervention. Setting The intervention was held in an outpatient setting. Participants Study participants were ≥ 65 years old with type 2 diabetes mellitus for ≥ 1 year. Intervention The intervention included 10 weekly group sessions and emphasized applying food label information to food purchases. Main Outcome Measures Each food on the inventory was defined as “encouraged” or “discouraged” according to intervention messages. Analysis Inventory sensitivity was the proportion of foods present in households that were accurately identified on the self-reported inventory as present; specificity was the proportion of foods not present that were accurately identified as not present. Two-sample t tests compared intervention scores for encouraged/discouraged foods by treatment group. Results Overall sensitivity and specificity were .90 and .97, respectively. Intervention results found more encouraged than discouraged foods present at post-test (t [91] = 2.3, P = .02). Conclusions and Implications The shelf inventory is a sensitive, specific, and valid tool for assessing household food purchases and can be used to evaluate food choice interventions among older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Prophylactic and therapeutic mastectomy in BRCA mutation carriers: can the nipple be preserved?

Use of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is increasing. We sought to look at the role of NSM in BRCA mutation carriers. Tissue from women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation who underwent mastectomy between March 1987 and June 2009 at a single institution was reviewed. The entire nipple–areolar complex (NAC) was excised and histologically evaluated. The presence of terminal duct lobular units (TDLUs) and premalignant or malignant lesions in the NAC was noted. Sixty-two NACs from 33 women (25 BRCA1, 8 BRCA2) were studied. TDLUs were present in 15 (24%) NAC specimens. No evidence of atypical hyperplasia, carcinoma in situ, or invasive carcinoma was found in any of the 33 prophylactic mastectomy specimens. Among the 29 breasts with cancer and available tissue, 2 (7%) had malignant findings and 1 (3%) had atypia in the NAC. One woman who underwent bilateral mastectomy for bilateral invasive carcinoma had one nipple with tumor within lymphatics, and her contralateral nipple had atypical lobular hyperplasia. A second woman had ductal carcinoma in situ involving a single major lactiferous duct. The probability of nipple involvement by premalignant or malignant lesions in the NAC of BRCA mutation carriers is low at time of prophylactic mastectomy, but higher (10%) in women undergoing therapeutic mastectomy. NSM may be appropriate and oncologically safe for selected women with BRCA mutations. However, 24% of NACs contained TDLUs, with only 8% found in the nipple papilla; the significance of this for long-term risk is unknown.
Prompt emanation of astatine and radon

Abstract We have observed prompt and copious emanation of 0·032-sec 217 At from lanthanum stearate and of 0·035-sec 218 Rn from both uranyl and lanthanum stearates. At room temperature the emanating power for 217 At is about 0·2 3 , and for 218 Rn about 0·4 8 . Our data give the first published information on the emanation of astatine from a soap, and show a convenient way to prepare a volatile compound of astatine. Sticking coefficients for several materials, and as a function of temperature suggest strongly that the emanating species is HAt. From the temperature dependence of radon emanation in vacuum we find that the prompt (temperature-independent) component is larger than previously observed in experiments at atmospheric pressure. At room temperature > 65 per cent of the emanated 218 Rn is prompt, and escapes from the solid phase in
Study of lipid peroxide and lipid profile in diabetes mellitus.

The study was designed to find out the correlation between lipid peroxidation, lipoprotein levels to severity and complication of diabetes mellitus. Degree of lipid peroxidation was measured in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) along with lipid profile and blood glucose in diabetes mellitus. It is categorised into insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and diabetes mellitus(DM) with complication. Total 112 known diabetic patients and 52 non-diabetic controls were studied. These patients were grouped as per the concentration of fasting blood glucose level i.e. controlled, poorly controlled, and uncontrolled group. There are significant increase in the lipid peroxide (MDA) and lipid profile except HDL cholesterol which is decreased, has been found in all groups as compared to controls In NIDDM group lipid peroxidation was markedly increased than IDDM group and it was higher in DM with complications. Other finding observed was that the level of lipid peroxide increased as per the increase in concentration of blood glucose. The increase lipid peroxidation in the hyperglycemic condition may be explained, as the superoxide dismutase enzyme which is antioxidant becomes inactive due the formation of superoxide radical within the cell. Maximum lipid peroxidation leads to the damage of the tissue and organs which results into complication in diabetic patients. High levels of total cholesterol appear due to increased cholesterol synthesis. The triglyceride levels changes according to the glycemic, control. The increase may be due to overproduction of VLDL-TG. It is concluded that good metabolic control of hyperglycemia will prevent in alteration in peroxidation and the lipid metabolism, which may help in good prognosis and preventing manifestation of vascular and secondary complication in diabetes mellitus.
The B cell antigen receptor in B-cell development

During B-cell development, immature and mature forms of the B cell antigen receptor complex are deployed in a regulated fashion; thus, B cell antigen receptor complexes play essential roles in the transit of cells through ontogeny. The past year has seen progress in our understanding of how antigen receptor gene assembly is controlled and in defining the requirements for antigen receptor mediated signaling at specific developmental stages. The discovery that a defective protein tyrosine kinase is responsible for X-linked agammaglobulinemia in man and X-linked immunodeficiency in the mouse is particularly interesting, as it may provide the means to link a specific intracellular signaling pathway with a particular step in B-cell development.
Suramin inhibits glioma cell proliferation in vitro and in the brain

Suramin is a novel anticancer agent that blocks the binding of growth factors, including basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), to their receptors. Prior studies showed human and experimental gliomas to upregulate and respond to autocrine stimulation by bFGF, the antiproliferative effects of suramin were therefore studied on glioma cell turnoverin vitro and in the brain. Suramin inhibited the growth of rat (C6,9L) and human (U-118, U-138, A-172, T98G) glioma cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Suramin significantly reduced the bromodeoxyuridine (BUdR) labeling index of cultured glioma cells at 250 µg/ml, P < 0.0001. DNA flow cytometry revealed a significant decrease in the percentage of suramin-treated glioma cells in S-phase, P < 0.01. Using intracerebral rat C6 glioma modelin vivo, suramin, 10–60 mg/kg, i.p., produced a dose-dependent reduction of BUdR labeling in both the glioma and endothelial cell subpopulations. Suramin, 200 mg/kg i.V., however, led to intratumoral hemorrhages that reduced survival. Electron microscopy revealed membranous inclusion bodies in the cytoplasm of C6 glioma and endothelial cells, an indication of excess glycosaminoglycans. Moreover, 46% of endothelial cells within the C6 glioma tumor treated with suramin, 60 mg/kg, i.p., developed membrane blebs. Suramin, in clinically relevant doses, significantly inhibits glioma cell growth and cytokinetics. The risk of intratumoral hemorrhage, possibly related to injury of endothelial cells or the accumulation of anticoagulant glycosaminoglycans, constitutes a major side effect and caution should be exercised in consideration of clinical application for intracerebral tumors.
Novel sample preparation methods and field testing procedures used to determine the chemical basis of cocaine detection by canines

The use of canines to signal money associated with drug trafficking is a major point of contention among dog handlers, forensic scientists, and the legal community particularly in light of recent reports that a significant amount of money in circulation is contaminated with detectable amounts of cocaine. The questions raised include: What exactly are the dogs alerting to? How selective are the dogs? How sensitive are the dogs? How reliable are the dogs? Tests with various volatile cocaine by-products confirm that the dominant chemical in cocaine odor is methyl benzoate. Field tests on fifteen different drug detector dogs with varying breeds, ages and training regimes show a consistent threshold level of 1 (mu) g of methyl benzoate spiked along with cocaine on U.S. currency required to initiate an alert. The majority of the canines did not alert to pharmaceutical grade cocaine even at levels as high as 1 g. Methyl benzoate is shown to evaporate rapidly from individual bills and is a function of the available surface area for wrapped currency. The canines tested were remarkably selective and reliable even under varying test conditions and using different delivery devices.
Enhancing the electro-optical properties of liquid crystal nanodroplets for switchable Bragg gratings

Electrically switchable Bragg reflection gratings, comprised of periodic monolayers of liquid crystal nanodroplets embedded in a polymer, have historically displayed limited diffraction efficiency (< 90%). Attempts to increase diffraction efficiency by increasing the liquid crystal concentration lead to undesirable levels of incoherent scattering. We have developed a model of liquid crystal Bragg gratings to study and predict these properties for reflection filters. Examining the effective medium theory of inhomogeneous nanodroplet layers, we have investigated the enhancement of properties that lead to higher diffraction efficiency without increasing incoherent scattering. In particular, we focus on properties of nanodroplet ensembles that contribute to the permittivity modulation of the grating, leading to coherent diffraction, and permittivity variance, leading to incoherent scattering. Using the liquid crystal BL037 in a commercially available polymer as an example, we illustrate how a diffraction efficiency of 99% can be achieved, without simultaneously increasing the level of incoherent scattering, and compare this to the previous state of the art with these materials. We then demonstrate this approach experimentally, confirming the viability of the technique and the predictions of the model.
Longitudinal Associations among Fathers' Perception of Coparenting, Partner Relationship Quality, and Paternal Stress during Early Childhood

This study examined the longitudinal and concurrent associations among fathers' perceptions of partner relationship quality (happiness, conflict), coparenting (shared decision making, conflict), and paternal stress. The sample consisted of 6,100 children who lived with both biological parents at 24 and 48 months in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Birth Cohort data set. The results showed that there are significant and concurrent associations between fathers' perceptions of the coparenting relationship and paternal stress, and between partner relationship quality and paternal stress. There was also a positive direct longitudinal association between partner relationship conflict and paternal stress. However, we found only one longitudinal cross-system mediation effect: fathers' perception of coparenting conflict at 48 months mediated the association between partner relationship conflict at 24 months and paternal stress at 48 months. The family practice implications of these findings are discussed.
Composition of marsh gases in the central and eastern United States

Abstract Summer samples of marsh gases in Minnesota (fresh-water), Louisiana, and Delaware (fresh-water and brackish-water) yielded 50–85% methane, 3–52% “excess nitrogen”, 4–15% carbon dioxide, and small amounts of traces of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, propane, hydrogen sulfide, and C 4 –C 7 hydrocarbons. These types of gas flows were found to decrease drastically in winter periods of sampling, and large amounts of “air” accumulate in some marsh and lake sediments. Carbon dioxide decreases in the winter samples, but carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide showed relative increases. Ethane is present in several, and butane in one, sample from Minnesota in the fall. There is a drop in “excess nitrogen” (non-air N 2 ) in the winter as compared to summer samples. Specimens of marsh plants were placed in culture flasks with mud from each collecting locality and allowed to culture for several months. In composition, the cultured gases are predominantly methane, carbon dioxide, and “excess nitrogen”. Hydrogen, ethane, propane, and hydrogen sulfide are minor components. Carbon monoxide was not detected, in contrast to marsh gases. Phragmites from industrially polluted Delaware Bay evolved many additional hydrocarbons in culture, pH and Eh were monitored for Typha in culture; pH remained near 7 and Eh near − 100 mV after stabilization. Carbohydrate analyses of marsh plants indicate xylans exceed cellulose as a major source of methane in these samples; mannose, galactose, and arabinose are also important potential contributors. Delta carbon-13 values of methane from marsh gases sampled are more negative than those from laboratory-cultured source plants, whereas delta deuterium values from methane from marsh gases are less negative than those of cultured source plants.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the retina: from mice to men

This mini-review provides an overview of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) applications to study rodent, cat, non-human primate, and human retinas. These techniques include T(1) - and T(2) -weighted anatomical, diffusion, blood flow, blood volume, blood-oxygenation level dependent, manganese-enhanced, physiological, and functional MRI. Applications to study the retinas in diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and retinal degeneration are also reviewed. MRI offers some unique advantages compared with existing imaging techniques and has the potential to further our understanding of physiology and function in healthy and diseased retinas.