cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Technique of posterior atlantoaxial arthrodesis with transarticular facet screw fixation and interspinous wiring

The combination of posterior C1-2 transarticular facet screw fixation and interspinous wiring represents an excellent method for treating atlantoaxial instability. The technique provides immediate rigid internal stabilization of the atlas and axis that facilitates the development of a solid long-term osseous union.
Cytogenetic studies of a diffuse mixed cell lymphoma of T cell origin

The chromosome finding obtained from a lymph node of a patient with T cell lymphoma is described. Two different abnormal clones were found; one of them had a t(14;18)(q32;q21), along with other structural and numerical abnormalities, including 1p+q-,1p-,2p+q+, der(11),t(11;?)(q13;?),+20,+21,22p+. The other clone contained der(13),t(13;?)(q22;?).
LongNbrs and palindromes: an interesting application of a class

What started off as an enrichment assignment for a third grader has developed into a rich source of programming assignments. The long integers, needed to determine whether a number eventually becomes a palindrome under the process of reversal and addition, can be described as an abstract data type and implemented as a C++ class. There are intriguing open questions which call for great creativity and efficiency in terms of data structures. Even graphics have been employed to illuminate the problem. The next step is probably parallel processing.
Differential effect of a synthetic polyribonucleotide complex on spontaneous and transplanted leukemia in mice.

Abstract Poly I:C, a potent interferon inducer, neither prevented spontaneous leukemia in AKR/J mice nor prolonged their lifespan. In contrast, Poly I:C resistant leukemias when transplanted to weanling recipients became Poly I:C sensitive. This finding clearly proves biological activity of Poly I:C under the conditions of our experiments. The principles of laboratory animal care as promulgated by National Society for Medical Research are observed at this Laboratory. This investigation was supported in part by NIH Contract PH 43-67-744 from the National Cancer Institute.
A mechanistic study of the high-temperature oxidation of organic matter in a carbon analyzer

Abstract This study examines the mechanism of oxidation of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in a high-temperature combustion (HTC) carbon analyzer. The HTC analyzer, which is commonly used to measure the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in seawater, is still largely empirical in its operation, and little information is yet available on the chemical and physical mechanisms responsible for oxidation of DOM. To examine the role of water, which has been hypothesized to be a source of reactive oxidants in HTC analyzers, several experiments were conducted using gaseous hexane samples and several wet/dry carrier gases. Because the quantity of O 2 (g) needed to oxidize an injected sample of DOM is quite small, a substantial effort has been made to exclude O 2 (g) from the combustion furnace of the HTC instrument. In this modified, “air-tight” instrument, the efficiency of conversion of hexane into CO 2 was greatest in dry O 2 and slightly lower in moist O 2 . Hexane was only slightly oxidized in dry N 2 , but it was largely converted into CO 2 when moist N 2 was used as the carrier gas. These experiments confirm that water provides reactive oxidizing species (perhaps hydroxyl radical) that rapidly convert hexane into CO 2 in the combustion tube of a carbon analyzer. Additional experiments with aqueous solutions of potassium hydrogen phthalate and a variety of carrier gases support this basic hypothesis.
Exploring the Therapeutic Potentials of iNKT Cells for Anti-HBV Treatment

CD1d-restricted invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are a group of innate-like regulatory T cells that recognize lipid antigens. Both mouse modeling experiments and human clinical studies have suggested a key role for iNKT cells in anti-HBV immunity and these potent T cells can be explored as a novel therapeutic target for anti-HBV treatment. We aim to humanize mice in the CD1d/iNKT cell lipid presentation system and provide new research tools for identifying novel anti-HBV agents.
Co-expression of enhanced spreading, ingestion, and inhibition of tumor cell proliferation by macrophages from lipopolysaccharide-injected mice

Macrophages harvested at various times from lipopolysaccharide-treated mice were shown simultaneously to inhibit the in vitro proliferation of tumor target cells and to exhibit enhanced spreading and the ingestion of C3b-coated erythrocytes. The capacity to limit target cell proliferation was shown to be transient, since macrophages harvested from lipopolysaccharide-treated mice lost the ability to inhibit tumor cell proliferation after 24 h in culture. Nonetheless, the expression of enhanced spreading and ingestion was maintained throughout the culture period for all doses of lipopolysaccharide and times of macrophage harvest.
Nanoparticle-stabilized carbon dioxide-in-water foams with fine texture.

The concept of hydrophilic/CO2-philic balance (HCB) was extended to describe stabilization of carbon dioxide-in-water (C/W) foams (also called emulsions) with silica nanoparticles adsorbed at the CO2–water interface. Opaque, white C/W foams (bubble diameter <100 μm) were generated with either PEG-coated silica or methylsilyl modified silica nanoparticles in a beadpack with CO2 densities between 0.2 and 0.9 g mL−1. For methylsilyl modified silica nanoparticles, 50% SiOH modification provided an optimal HCB for generation and stabilization of viscous C/W foams with high stability. The apparent viscosity measured with a capillary tube viscometer reached 120-fold that of a CO2–water mixture without nanoparticles, a consequence of the small bubble size and the energy required to deform a high density of aqueous lamellae between CO2 bubbles. Air-in-water (A/W) foams stabilized with nanoparticles were used to gain insight into the relationship between nanoparticle surface properties and adsorption of the nanoparticles at various types of interfaces. With suitable nanoparticles, A/W foams were stable for at least 7 days and C/W foams were stable for at least 23 h. The ability to achieve long term stability for nanoparticle stabilized C/W foams could offer an alternative to conventional surfactants, which are known to have much lower adsorption energies.
Effects of chronic lithium on enkephalin systems and pain responsiveness.

Abstract We have recently undertaken an extensive examination of the effects of chronic dietary lithium treatment on levels of brain leucine-enkephalin immunoreactivity (1-enk-IR), release of endogenous 1-enk-IR from globus pallidus prisms in vitro and behavioral responsiveness to pain. Two LiCl containing diets were used. Rats on the lower strength diet attained brain Li levels of 0.40–0.55 mEq/L, while those on the higher strength diet attained levels of 0.70–1.0 mEq/L. In one series of experiments, we sought to relate alterations of K+-stimulated, Ca++-dependent release of 1-enk-IR to alterations of the content of the peptide. After 1 week on the lower strength diet, neither measure was affected in any of the brain regions examined. Following 2 or 3 weeks of feeding with the lower strength diet, 1-enk-IR levels in the globus pallidus and nucleus accumbens were elevated. However, 3 weeks of the high strength Li diet did not lead to alterations of 1-enk-IR content. In contrast, the release of 1-enk-IR was potentiated but only in subjects in which the brain lithium exceeded a threshold level. In another series of studies, we observed that hot-plate escape latency was significantly elevated in rats fed the high strength Li diet for 3 weeks. Also, the Li-treated animals had a greater morphine-induced elevation of escape latency than controls; this effect was less effectively blocked by naltrexone. These findings suggest that chronic exposure to Li leads to transiently elevated levels of 1-enk, and, when brain Li levels are greater than 0.5 mEq/L, to a potentiation of endogenous enkephalin release. The analgesia in Li-treated subjects may eventually be related to these influences of the anti-manic drug on enkephalinergic neurotransmission.
Application Of Rotationally Non-Symmetrical Electron Lenses to T.V. Image Reproduction

Recent developments in the art have dictated the division of this paper into two component parts. The first deals with a quadrapolar, magnetic lens of rotational non-symmetry used to achieve scan magnification with a television cathode ray tube. The second concerns the development of a negative, electrostatic, gauze lens exhibiting full rotational symmetry which is also used to provide scan magnification.
Microring-resonator filter with doubled free-spectral-range by two-point coupling

Two-point coupling is used to double the free-spectral-range (FSR) of a microring-resonator filter. The filter, designed using rigorous electromagnetic simulations and fabricated using e-beam lithography, demonstrates 22 dB resonance suppression yielding a 40.8 nm FSR
Experiments inside a box lead to out-of-the-box ideas on cellular organization

Microtubules are biopolymers that assemble from tubulin dimers into hollow tubes and play an important role in cellular organization. Their fascinating properties and variety of functions, like for example chromosome segregation, sperm propagation and polarity establishment, have made them a popular subject of study. In this perspective I focus on the contribution of minimal in vitro systems to our understanding of microtubule organization within the physical confinement of a cell.
Post-sphincterotomy bleeding: fully-covered metal stents for hemostasis.

Background/objectives : In endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, post-sphincterotomy bleeding (PSB) is a common complication of biliary sphincterotomy. Recently, the temporary placement of fully-covered metal stents (FCMS) into the biliary tree in order to achieve a tamponade effect has been described as an additional therapeutic option for PSB. The aim of this article is to review the literature on FCMS for hemostasis in PSB and update the treatment algorithm for this complication. Methods : A PubMed literature search was conducted using the search terms post-sphincterotomy, bleeding, and stent. 33 articles were reviewed, along with their references, and four were found to describe the use of FCMS for hemostasis in PSB. Results : A total of 21 patient cases were described in the four articles. All patients received FCMS for PSB hemostasis following the application and subsequent failure of traditional therapies (conventional pharmacologic injection, thermal or electrocoagulation, and mechanical therapy (balloon tamponade or endoclip)). Successful hemostasis was achieved in all patients through FCMS placement. No major complications were observed. Conclusion : These 21 cases demonstrate that FCMS are a viable therapeutic option for PSB. It is reasonable to consider stent placement for patients in which traditional interventions fail in order to avoid the need for angiographic or surgical hemostasis.
Electron Spin Resonance Study of Electron Transfer in DNA: Inter-Double-Strand Tunneling Processes

In this work, we employ frozen glassy aqueous (D2O) solutions of DNA at various concentrations in order to test for inter-DNA-double-strand electron transfer, i.e., transfer from one DNA double strand to another. Electrons generated by radiation are trapped on DNA and transfer to a randomly interspersed intercalator, mitoxantrone (MX). The monitoring of the buildup of the ESR signal of the MX radicals and the loss of the ESR signal of the DNA radicals with time at 77 K allows for the direct observation of the rate of electron transfer (ET). The fraction of MX radicals and the apparent ET distances after irradiation are found to increase with the concentration of DNA as well as with time. A model that assumes transfer both along and between DNA double strands (ds's) is proposed and found to fit experimental results for the concentration dependence of apparent ET distances. Values for β and the ET distances found are in good agreement with our previous results for dilute aqueous glassy media. We find that e...
SU‐GG‐T‐617: Contura Balloon Rotations and Its Impact on Patient Dosimetry for APBI

Purpose: To determine rotations of Contura™ multilumen HDR balloons from axial CT scanimages and coronal or sagittal reconstructions and their impact in the dosimetry of Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI) patients. Methods and Materials: A methodology for calculating device rotation angles based on matrix rotations was utilized in order to evaluate setup variations. This is especially important for patients with small balloon‐skin distance. Catheter 1 and 5 positions in the axial and coronal images were employed to determine the rotations. A phantom was built in order to assess the accuracy of the calculation and dosimetry. The calculated rotation angles were compared with measured ones from phantom scans and from patient data as determined using the treatment planning system (BrachyVision). Dwell position and time data from patient plans were used to evaluate dosimetric changes as a function of balloon rotation. Relative dose differences and distance‐to‐agreement between the original and rotated dose distributions were performed using DoseLab as well as using the treatment planning system. Results: The comparison between calculated and measured rotation angles show good agreement, with an average deviation of 1.2 degrees and 3.2 degrees of absolute deviation on average for the cases studied. Dosimetric differences depend on the degree of asymmetry of the dose distribution which is related to the distance between the balloon and dose limiting structures such as the skin and the chest wall. The maximum skin dose is sensitive to the balloon rotation with maximum point dose differences of up to 64% for 180 degrees rotations. PTV coverage is less sensitive to rotations. Conclusions: A methodology to evaluate and track Contura balloon rotations was devised and its accuracy evaluated. Patient dosimetry can be seriously affected if large rotations are allowed.
Synapsis promoted by ustilago rec1 protein

Abstract Ustilago recl protein pairs homologous DNA molecules by promoting both synapsis and strand transfer. Complexes formed with recl protein and a homologous combination of single-stranded and duplex DNA that appear to be synaptic structures can be detected by use of a nitrocellulose filter assay. The nascent heteroduplex formed during synapsis is a paranemic joint in which the single-stranded DNA pairs, but does not interwind with its complement in the duplex molecule. Formation of the paranemic joint is accompanied by duplex unwinding and genesis of left-handed Z-DNA.
Could a motor action that has no direct relation to expected perturbation be associated with anticipatory postural adjustments in humans

Anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) in standing subjects were studied using different motor actions. We tested the hypothesis that a direct relation between the forthcoming perturbation and motor action is needed to trigger robust anticipatory postural adjustments. The same postural perturbation of a standard load release was induced by either a shoulder abduction, utilizing a motor action with a direct relation, or a biting or blowing action that had an indirect relation with the forthcoming perturbation. Electromyogram activity of trunk and leg muscles as well as the displacement of the center of pressure was recorded. Reduced APAs were observed in experimental trials using motor actions with an indirect relation to a perturbation as compared to the control series with perturbations induced by shoulder abduction. These results suggest that a direct relation between motor action and expected perturbation is important in the generation of anticipatory postural adjustments.
Photoperiod-induced changes in hemolymph vitellogenins in female lobsters (Homarus americanus)

Abstract 1. 1. The course of changes of vitellogenin (VG) concentrations in the hemolymph of female lobsters, Homarus americanus , was studied following a photoperiodic stimulation of secondary vitellogenesis. 2. 2. Two immunochemically related VGs were found, each corresponding to an ovarian lipovitellin (LV). 3. 3. Indirect quantification of VGs was possible by virtue of their relationship of partial immunological identity in quantitative immunoelectrophoresis. 4. 4. Changes in VG hemolymph concentration could be related to photoperiodic schedule, and to the occurence of molting, egg extrusion, ovarian resorption, and to VG clearance from the hemolymph. 5. 5. Both VG influx from an extraovarian source and uptake by the ovary appeared to be episodic in nature and not closely correlated in time. 6. 6. The two VGs appear to be produced in the same amounts (stoichiometrically), perhaps as subunits of a larger precursor which differ from one another mainly in astaxanthin content or state and in tertiary or quaternary configuration. 7. 7. During the weeks of vitellogenesis hemolymph VG 1 appears to change slowly into VG 2 l in the oocytes this change appears to be arrested. 8. 8. Clearance and ovarian uptake and resorption all seem to be unbiased with respect to VG species.
Cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of dimethylnitrosamine in mammalian cells (CHO/HGPRT system); enhancement by calcium phosphate.

The cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) was determined in the CHO/HGPRT system. Metabolic activation of the promutagen was achieved by use of a liver homogenate supernatant (S9) prepared from Aroclor 1254-induced Sprague-Dawley rats. The cytotoxic and mutagenic effects of DMN were enhanced by the inclusion of calcium chloride in the incubation mix, and this enhancement was dependent on the presence of sodium phosphate. Under conditions that yielded maximal activity (10 mM calcium chloride, 10 mM magnesium chloride, 50 mM sodium phosphate), an apparent calcium phospate precipitate was observed. DMN activity increased with increasing amounts of S9 protein over the range 0.3-3.0 mg/ml in the S9 mix and appeared to plateau at higher concentrations. The mutagenicity of DMN can be described as 110 mutants/10/sup 6/ cells per mM DMN per mg/ml S9 protein per hour.
Multiple-bit long-term data storage by backward-stimulated echo in Eu(3+):YAlO(3).

We have observed faithful storage and retrieval of multiple data pulses for up to 5 h in Eu3+:YAlO3 crystal by using the backward-stimulated echo. We find no loss of echo fidelity as the storage time is increased. Furthermore the lack of cross talk between the input data pulses suggests that faithful long-term storage and retrieval of a large number of data pulses are possible. Our measured echo-storage lifetime of 3.8 h is to our knowledge the longest reported thus far.
The heterozygote reeler mouse as a model for the development of a new generation of antipsychotics

Neurochemical and structural prefrontal cortex abnormalities, including decreased reelin and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)(67) expression, decreased thickness, increased neuronal packing density and decreased neuropil and dendritic spine number, are characteristics of schizophrenia neuropathology. Reelin is an extracellular matrix protein secreted by GABAergic interneurons that, acting through pyramidal neuron integrin receptors, provides a signal for dendritic spine plasticity. Heterozygous reeler mice that exhibit a 50% downregulation of reelin expression (mRNA and protein) replicate the dendritic spine and GABAergic defects described in schizophrenia. This genetic mouse model may be of value to reveal those GABAergic and integrin receptor signal transduction mechanisms that are likely to be downregulated by reelin deficiency in the brain of schizophrenia patients. An understanding of the epigenetic regulation of reelin gene expression and of the possible pathogenetic role of reelin deficiency in schizophrenia, may become a major focus that will open new avenues for the treatment of this disease.
Identifying Therapeutic Action in an Attachment-Centered Intervention with High Risk Families

This paper describes an attachment-based intervention for mothers known to Child Welfare Services where past and current trauma complicates family preservation and promotion of child well being. The first part of the paper describes the innovative Attachment-Centered Parent–Child Therapy service that has been delivered to high-risk families with children from 0 to 3 years of age. The intervention uses a group format that has the added benefits of enhancing social support and being highly cost effective. The intervention also integrates video filming both in terms of capturing essential features of the group intervention for review and supervision of clinical staff, and is fundamental in the observation-based empirical assessments. Quantitative data from an initial pilot study supporting the efficacy of the intervention is presented. As well, qualitative data is presented including a case study that highlights therapeutic action shown to positively impact the quality of the mother–child relationship.
Genome-wide host responses against infectious laryngotracheitis virus vaccine infection in chicken embryo lung cells

Infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV; gallid herpesvirus 1) infection causes high mortality and huge economic losses in the poultry industry. To protect chickens against ILTV infection, chicken-embryo origin (CEO) and tissue-culture origin (TCO) vaccines have been used. However, the transmission of vaccine ILTV from vaccinated- to unvaccinated chickens can cause severe respiratory disease. Previously, host cell responses against virulent ILTV infections were determined by microarray analysis. In this study, a microarray analysis was performed to understand host-vaccine ILTV interactions at the host gene transcription level. The 44 K chicken oligo microarrays were used, and the results were compared to those found in virulent ILTV infection. Total RNAs extracted from vaccine ILTV infected chicken embryo lung cells at 1, 2, 3 and 4 days post infection (dpi), compared to 0 dpi, were subjected to microarray assay using the two color hybridization method. Data analysis using JMP Genomics 5.0 and the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) program showed that 213 differentially expressed genes could be grouped into a number of functional categories including tissue development, cellular growth and proliferation, cellular movement, and inflammatory responses. Moreover, 10 possible gene networks were created by the IPA program to show intermolecular connections. Interestingly, of 213 differentially expressed genes, BMP2, C8orf79, F10, and NPY were expressed distinctly in vaccine ILTV infection when compared to virulent ILTV infection. Comprehensive knowledge of gene expression and biological functionalities of host factors during vaccine ILTV infection can provide insight into host cellular defense mechanisms compared to those of virulent ILTV.
Minimally invasive resection for mediastinal ectopic parathyroid glands.

Background We reviewed our experience with ectopic mediastinal parathyroidectomy. Methods Between March 1980 and September 2010, mediastinal parathyroidectomy was performed in 33 patients with hypercalcemia secondary to hyperparathyroidism. Results Primary hyperparathyroidism was the main diagnosis in 32 patients (97%). Technetium-sestamibi scan was used in 23 (70%) for preoperative localization. Minimally invasive resections were performed in 18 patients (55%), and 15 (45%) underwent open surgery. The most common minimally invasive surgery approach was video-assisted thoracoscopy in 9 patients (27%); the most common open approach was median sternotomy in 11 (33%). Intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring was used in 22 patients (67%). The ectopic glands were intrathymic in 15 patients (45%), in the aortopulmonary window in 7 (21%), and in other intrathoracic locations in the remaining 11 (33%). Parathyroid adenomas were identified in 21 patients (64%); parathyroid hyperplasia and carcinoma were identified in 9 (27%) and 3 (9%), respectively. No early mortality occurred in either group. Reoperation was required in 1 patient in the minimally invasive surgery group because of hemothorax. Morbidity occurred in 8 patients (24%), the most common of which was hypocalcemia in 4 (12%). The mean length of stay was significantly shorter in the minimally invasive surgery group (2 versus 6 days; p p = 0.05). Mean follow-up was 3 ± 3.7 years. Conclusions Minimally invasive mediastinal parathyroidectomy has similar outcomes to open surgery, with significantly shorter length of hospital stay.
Comparative Effectiveness of Smoking Cessation Medications to Attenuate Weight Gain Following Cessation.

ABSTRACTObjective: To compare the postcessation weight gain following the use of different FDA-approved smoking cessation medications among obese smokers. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the General Electric (GE) electronic medical record database (2006–2011). The cohort consisted of obese adult smokers newly initiating use of an FDA-approved smoking cessation medication (i.e., bupropion vs. varenicline). The outcome variable was weight change at 3, 6, or 12 months following the first prescription. Descriptive analyses and t-tests were conducted to assess the frequency distribution of sample characteristics and their association with the postcessation weight change. Multivariate linear regression models were carried out to compare the weight change among the FDA-approved smoking cessation medications and to identify predictors of weight change at 3, 6, and 12 months after assessing the model assumptions. Results: The mean weight gain was 1.14 pounds (±17.26), 2.06 pounds (±18.46)...
Cytochrome rC552, formed during expression of the truncated, Thermus thermophilus cytochrome c552 gene in the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli, reacts spontaneously to form protein-bound 2-formyl-4-vinyl (Spirographis) heme.

Expression of the truncated (lacking an N-terminal signal sequence) structural gene of Thermus thermophilus cytochrome c552 in the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli yields both dimeric (rC557) and monomeric (rC552) cytochrome c-like proteins [Keightley, J. A., et al. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 12006−12016], which form spontaneously without the involvement of cytochrome c maturation factors. Cytochrome rC557 is comprised of a dimer and has been structurally characterized [McRee, D., et al. (2001) J. Biol. Chem. 276, 6537−6544]. Unexpectedly, the monomeric rC552 transforms spontaneously to a cytochrome-like chromophore having, in its reduced state, the Qoo transition (α-band) at 572 nm (therefore called p572). The X-ray crystallographic structure of rC552, at 1.41 A resolution, shows that the 2-vinyl group of heme ring I is converted to a [heme-CO-CH2-S-CH2-Cα] conjugate with cysteine 11. Electron density maps obtained from isomorphous crystals of p572 at 1.61 A resolution reveal that the 2-vinyl group has been...
Acute experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in the mouse: Immunopathology of the developing lesion

Abstract To investigate the sequence of immunopathologic events during lesion formation in acute experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), SJL/J mice were inoculated with isogeneic spinal cord in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) and with Bordetella pertussis on Days 1 and 3 postinoculation (PI). Mice were sampled at different time points PI and T cells, T-cell subsets, Ia+ cells, Ig+ cells, albumin, and Ig deposits were localized in frozen sections by the avidinbiotin complex (ABC) method and direct fluorescence. Furthermore, samples were stained for Ia antigen, myelin basic protein (MBP), and galactocerebroside (GC) localization on endothelial cells by the ABC technique. Clinical and pathologic observations were correlated with the immunopathologic results. It was found that early in the disease process myelin and Ia-antigens were demonstrable on endothelial cells within the central nervous system (CNS). Simultaneously, damage to the blood-brain barrier was apparent, as indicated by albumin deposits, and small numbers of infiltrating T cells, T-cell subsets, and Ia+ cells were found. With time PI, the density of infiltrating total T cells (Thy-1.2+), helper/inducer (Lyt-1+), and suppressor/cytotoxic (Lyt-2+) T cells increased; Lyt-1+ and Lyt-2+ cells were detectable in meningeal as well as parenchymal infiltrates, while later on, Lyt-1+ cells showed some predilection for the CNS parenchyma and Lyt-2+ cells for meninges. Ia+ cells (B cells, macrophages, activated T cells) were present in small numbers only. Ig+ cells (B cells and macrophages) appeared shortly before onset of signs and persisted in moderate numbers. These results reconfirm the importance of early T-cell involvement for the development of EAE; they might also indicate a secondary role for Ig+ cells and are consistent with the concept that presentation of myelin antigens to T cells might occur locally on Ia-bearing endothelial cells within the CNS.
A vessel noise budget for Admiralty Inlet, Puget Sound, Washington (USA)

One calendar year of Automatic Identification System (AIS) ship-traffic data was paired with hydrophone recordings to assess ambient noise in northern Admiralty Inlet, Puget Sound, WA (USA) and to quantify the contribution of vessel traffic. The study region included inland waters of the Salish Sea within a 20 km radius of the hydrophone deployment site. Spectra and hourly, daily, and monthly ambient noise statistics for unweighted broadband (0.02-30 kHz) and marine mammal, or M-weighted, sound pressure levels showed variability driven largely by vessel traffic. Over the calendar year, 1363 unique AIS transmitting vessels were recorded, with at least one AIS transmitting vessel present in the study area 90% of the time. A vessel noise budget was calculated for all vessels equipped with AIS transponders. Cargo ships were the largest contributor to the vessel noise budget, followed by tugs and passenger vessels. A simple model to predict received levels at the site based on an incoherent summation of noise from different vessels resulted in a cumulative probability density function of broadband sound pressure levels that shows good agreement with 85% of the temporal data.
CRT-83 Trends And Learning Curve In Characteristics And In-hospital Outcomes During Initiation Of A Trans-radial Coronary Intervention Program

Trans-radial approach for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is gaining acceptance with larger numbers of operators undergoing conversion to this approach. However, there is limited data regarding the learning curve of transformation for trans-radial approach. The aim of the present study was
Basic studies of blow molding of talc‐thermoplastic compounds

An experimental study of the blow molding of talc-polyethylene and talc-polypropylene compounds is presented. These compounds are found not to exhibit zero shear viscosity but rather yield stresses, below which there is no flow. The annular swell of the compositions is greatly reduced compared to the neat thermoplastics, but extrusion sag is minimized. Blow molded bottles of talc-thermoplastic compounds were found to have much greater thickness uniformity than blow molded neat polyolefins. The talc particles were determined, by X-ray diffraction, to be oriented with the flake surfaces parallel to the mold surface or equivalently to the bottle surface.
Understanding the effects of nanocarbons on flexible polymer chain orientation and crystallization: Polyethylene/carbon nanochip hybrid fibrillar crystal growth

Polyethylene (PE)/carbon nanochip fibers (CNCF) fibrillar crystals were grown under shear flow. The fibrillar crystals ranged from 25 to 200 nm in diameter and bundled to form PE/CNCF macro-fibers. The PE/CNCF fibers were further processed by hot-drawing near the PE melting temperature. On the basis of small-angle X-ray analysis, it was found that during drawing the presence of CNCF led to continuous extended-chain PE crystal growth. DSC melting peaks associated with transformation of the orthorhombic to a hexagonal lattice phase in the PE crystal structure (i.e., increased ordering and extension of the polymer chain along the fiber axis) was also observed for drawn hybrid PE/CNCF fibrillar crystals. The orientation factor for the extended-chain (i.e., shish) crystals in the hybrid as compared to the control fibers improved from 0.88 to 0.93. This work shows the direct evidence that these nanocarbon fillers can promote extended-chain polymer crystal growth under shear. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40763.
Water stress preconditioning and cotton root pressure-flux relationships

Because little is known about the effects of water stress preconditioning on the pressure-flux relationships of cotton roots, we investigated some of these relationships using detopped root systems of potted cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) plants. Water stress preconditioning decreased root pressure flux by 51% compared to the well-watered control. Preconditioning had no effect on the exponential nature of the increasing pressure-flux relationship, but did displace the curve such that the flux was lessened at all increasing and decreasing pressures applied. We suggest that the exponential flux response to increasing pressure was by infiltration of intercellular air spaces in the root cortex at higher pressures. With inverted water potential gradients, preconditioning resulted in significantly less water flowing from the roots to the soil. These effects of previous water stress history on the various flux relationships might be associated with an increased root resistance following the stress, and it is suggested that the controlling mechanism is located in the endodermis.
Effects of cyclosporin A on rat osteoblasts (ROS 17/2.8 cells) in vitro.

The effects of the immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A (CsA) were evaluated on ROS 17/2.8 cells in vitro. ROS cells were treated with CsA (0, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 μg/ml) for 3 days with and without bovine parathyroid hormone (bPTH) (1–34) 10 nM. CsA at 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 μg/ml without PTH and at 5.0 μg/ml in the presence of PTH significantly inhibited proliferation, as determined by a tetrazolium colorimetric assay. In addition, ROS cell number was significantly reduced at 3 and 4 days with CsA (5.0 μg/ml) without affecting cell viability. Incorporation of [3H]-thymidine into DNA was significantly reduced by 3.0 and 5.0 μg/ml CsA after 12 and 24 hours exposure. Basal and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-stimulated alkaline phosphatase levels in confluent ROS cells were reduced (P<0.05) with CsA (1.0 and 3.0 μg/ml). Pretreatment of ROS 17/2.8 cells with CsA did not alter PTH-stimulated cAMP levels or [125I]-PTHrP binding to ROS cells. CsA treatment of ROS 17/2.8 cells induced a spindle-shaped appearance with loss of attachment in confluent cultures. When ROS cells were cultured in CsA-containing media, cellular attachment at 6 and 12 hours was reduced (P<0.05) compared with untreated ROS cells. These findings indicate that CsA was capable of inhibiting proliferation, cell number, mitogenesis, alkaline phosphatase levels, and cell attachment of ROS cells without affecting PTH binding or cAMP levels. This direct effect of CsA on osteoblasts may be important in changes of bone remodeling observed in CsA-treated humans and animals.
The neurovascular outcome of scapulothoracic dissociation

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to define the role of acute revascularization in the management of scapulothoracic dissociation (SD), a rare injury of the upper extremity in which severe traction to the shoulder girdle results in combined arterial, brachial plexus, and musculoskeletal injury. Methods: The results of a retrospective study of 11 patients with SD who were compared with 41 patients from the literature are presented. Results: All 11 patients were involved in high-speed accidents. All patients had chest wall hematoma, absent radial pulse, and complete brachial plexus palsy. All patients had subclavian or axillary occlusion shown by angiography; one patient with simultaneous brachial artery injury had limb-threatening ischemia. No patient had active bleeding from the injured artery. Six limbs were revascularized, five were not. All five non-revascularized limbs remained viable. No patient had delayed hemorrhage. No patient had significant neurologic recovery; all limbs remained insensate and functionless. Two viable arms underwent late amputation because of neurologic dysfunction. Conclusion: The infrequent occurrence of delayed hemorrhage and limb-threatening ischemia and the dismal functional outcome of the brachial plexus injury suggest a conservative policy toward revascularization for the arterial injury in SD. (J VASC SURG 1993;17:1083-9.)
Control of convection during directional solidification in terrestrial and low gravity

The key parameters controlling the interference of convection with segregation are examined. A numerical model was developed to evaluate the suitability of the Peclet number and the Segregation number for predicting segregation behavior in microgravity. The model demonstrates the drawbacks of the Peclet number. The recently proposed Segregation number includes the equilibrium segregation coefficient k and the growth rate R and therefore appears to be a more appropriate scaling parameter for predicting segregation behavior in space experiments. On earth, diffusion-controlled growth is possible only in very small melts, under special conditions. When diffusion-controlled growth is not feasible, controlled stirring is preferred to the free convection. The advantages of steady forced convection over the unsteady unpredictable natural convection are discussed.
Generalization of the Breit-Wigner Formula to Nonzero Temperature and Density

Abstract A formula is derived for the production rate of unstable particles that are produced in a thermalized region but whose decay products interact so weakly that they escape without thermalizing. The Bose-Einstein or Fermi-Dirac distribution is found to apply to unstable particles but modified by a Breit-Wigner distribution in the invariant mass.
Composition, Structure, Dynamics, and Evolution of Saturn's Rings

Cassini observations confirm that Saturn’s rings are predominantly water ice. The particles in Saturn’s rings cover a range of sizes, from dust to small moons. Occultation results show the particles form temporary elongated aggregates tens of meters across. Some of the ring structure is created by moons, others by various instabilities. Data from future Cassini measurements can help investigators decide if the rings are remnants of the Saturn nebula or fragments of a destroyed moon or comet.
Detailed Investigation of Mode-Field Adapters Utilizing Multimode-Interference in Graded Index Fibers

We present a detailed study of mode-field adapters (MFA) based on multimode interference in graded index multimode fibers. We have fabricated and characterized MFAs from a selection of commercially available single-mode and graded index fibers. Compared to existing techniques, the presented MFAs can be fabricated very quickly and are not limited to certain fiber types. Insertion losses of <; 0.5 dB over a spectral range of several hundred nanometers have been obtained, which is comparable or better than the industry standard.
Is emergency contraception murder

Hormonal emergency contraception (EC) is engendering fierce moral disagreement that is bleeding over into politics and policy. This paper considers Catholic positions on this issue, as they are the fullest and best developed. Its most extreme opponents, such as representatives of the Vatican, hold that EC is an abortifacient that should be banned. Moderates like Sulmasy believe that it should be available to women who have been raped when a negative pregnancy test suggests that fertilization has not yet taken place, and liberals, like Catholics for Free Choice, believe that it should be available to all women regardless of its mode of action. These positions depend in part on underlying philosophical presuppositions about when valuable life begins and scientific assumptions about how EC works. I argue that there are good reasons for rejecting the criterion of fertilization, and that the best current evidence strongly suggests that EC has no post-fertilization effects. These points by themselves undermine key objections to EC. I also show that none of the remaining considerations are sufficiently compelling to warrant overriding women's right to exercise religious, moral, and political agency in preventing undesired pregnancies.
A family of splice variants of CstF-64 expressed in vertebrate nervous systems.

Alternative splicing and polyadenylation are important mechanisms for creating the proteomic diversity necessary for the nervous system to fulfill its specialized functions. The contribution of alternative splicing to proteomic diversity in the nervous system has been well documented, whereas the role of alternative polyadenylation in this process is less well understood. Since the CstF-64 polyadenylation protein is known to be an important regulator of tissue-specific polyadenylation, we examined its expression in brain and other organs.
Evaluating the use of profiling by a region-based register allocator

In a region-based compilation framework, the compiler builds regions to provide the best compilation unit for scheduling and optimization. The compiler uses execution frequency information gained from profiling to place frequently executed blocks in the same region. This paper investigates the use of profiling in a region-based compilation framework and measures its impact on the register allocation phase. The profiling information can be used by the register allocator to assign values to physical registers based on the execution frequency of the regions. Register allocation can be performed on the most frequently executed regions first so that any spilling that occurs causes memory accesses in less frequently executed regions. The experimental study indicates that profile assisted region formation and register allocation can result in code that executes faster than the code that was compiled without using profiling information and the amount of spill code executed can be reduced significantly.
Elopements of Bosnian Women

Drawing upon the work of Victor W. Turner on the liminal period of a rite of passage, this study examines the elopements of women in Bosnia. During the elopement, an adolescent woman is between two states of being, one as an unmarried girl, “cura,” and another as a married woman, “žena.” For a brief period she is “betwixt and between.” The finding is that after elopements marriages gain an achieved rather than an ascribed status. While elopements occur within traditional, patriarchal social structures, they defy parental authority over a young person’s marriage decision. This study is based on in-depth interviews with Bosnjak (Muslim) and Serbian Orthodox women in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Keywords: elopement, agency, liminality, Bosnia, gender, ethnicity
Structure of proteins involved in synaptic vesicle fusion in neurons.

▪ Abstract The fusion of vesicles with target membranes is controlled by a complex network of protein-protein and protein-lipid interactions. Structures of the SNARE complex, synaptotagmin III, nSec1, domains of the NSF chaperone and its adaptor SNAP, and Rab3 and some of its effectors provide the framework for developing molecular models of vesicle fusion and for designing experiments to test these models.
Patterns of nocturnal rehydration in root tissues of Vaccinium corymbosum L. under severe drought conditions.

Although roots in dry soil layers are commonly rehydrated by internal hydraulic redistribution during the nocturnal period, patterns of tissue rehydration are poorly understood. Rates of nocturnal rehydration were examined in roots of different orders in Vaccinium corymbosum L. ‘Bluecrop’ (Northern highbush blueberry) grown in a split-pot system with one set of roots in relatively moist soil and the other set of roots in dry soil. Vaccinium is noted for a highly branched and extremely fine root system. It is hypothesized that nocturnal root tissue rehydration would be slow, especially in the distal root orders because of their greater hydraulic constraints (smaller vessel diameters and fewer number of vessels). Vaccinium root hydraulic properties delayed internal water movement. Even when water was readily available to roots in the wet soil and transpiration was minimal, it took a whole night-time period of 12 h for the distal finest roots (1st to 4th order) under dry soil conditions to reach the same water potentials as fine roots in moist soil (1st to 4th order). Even though roots under dry soil equilibrated with roots in moist soil, the equilibrium point reached before sunrise was about –1.2 MPa, indicating that tissues were not fully rehydrated. Using a singlebranch root model, it was estimated that individual roots exhibiting the lowest water potentials in dry soil were 1st order roots (distal finest roots of the root system). However, considered at the branch level, root orders with the highest hydraulic resistances corresponded to the lowest orders of the permanent root system (3rd-, 4th-, and 5thorder roots), thus indicating possible locations of hydraulic safety control in the root system of this species.
Bladder preservation strategies

Although cystectomy remains the standard for treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer in the United States, there exist potentially curative alternatives for a selected subset of these patients in organ preservation using concurrent chemotherapy with radiation following an aggressive transurethral resection of the tumor. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy in combination, with salvage cystectomy for invasive recurrence, have produced 10-year disease-specific survival rates of 60% to 65% with overall survival similar to that of cystectomy in selected patients. Fine-tuning of the chemoradiotherapy sequencing, timing, and fractionation has been reported in both single-center and cooperative group publications from North America and Europe.
Application of the bendler-shlesinger generalization of the vogel equation to ion-conducting polymers

Previously published audio frequency electrical conductivity results for ion-conducting polymers have been reanalyzed in terms of the Bendler-Shlesinger (BENSH) generalization of the Vogel equation. The materials studied include poly (propylene oxide) (PPO), amorphous poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO), poly (dimethylsiloxane-ethylene oxide) (PDMS-EO), and polyphosphazene (MEEP) -based material. The BENSH equation provides a better fit of both vacuum and high-pressure data for PPO and PDMS-EO than does the Vogel equation. For MEEP, for which the data are of a lower accuracy, and PEO, for which the data are over a narrower range of temperatures, the Vogel equation provides a better fit. However, for the most reliable data, a systematic difference between the VTF equation and the data is found, while the BENSH equation fits all portions of the data equally well. It is concluded that the BENSH equation, and hence the defect-diffusion model, provides an excellent description of the electrical conductivity for ion-conducting polymers.