cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tunability of Mobility and Conductivity over Large Ranges in Poly(3,3′′′-didodecylquaterthiophene)/Insulating Polymer Composites

Semiconducting polymers are currently being considered as active layers in field-effect transistors, in which high charge carrier mobility and low off conductivity are important. For other applications, such as certain spintronic mechanisms, the opposite characteristics are desirable. Blending such polymers with insulating polymers would be expected to lower the mobility. In this paper, we report that the use of hydrocarbon polymers such as polystyrene as insulators generally raises the mobility when the semiconducting polymer is poly(bisdodecylquaterthiophene). A high mobility value of nearly 0.1 cm2/V·s was obtained for an optimal blend. While this is counterintuitive, it is consistent with a few other recent reports. In order to lower the mobility significantly, a much more polar and irregular blending agent is needed. The further addition of tetrafluorotetracyanoquinodimethane as a dopant gave a rare low mobility/high conductivity combination of properties, with a charge carrier density on the order o...
Selective neuronal vulnerability in the hippocampus--a role for gene expression?

Abstract Proposed mechanisms of neurodegeneration focus generally on the triggering of toxic biochemical pathways by an increased intracellular concentration of Ca 2+ . Recent evidence also suggests that Ca 2+ causes transcriptional activation of so-called ‘cell-death genes'. Efforts to elucidate the basis of selective vulnerability have relied on animal models of delayed neuronal death in the hippocampus. Biochemical and morphological data indicate that delayed neuronal death is a form of programmed cell death, or apoptosis. Observations that specific genes are activated transcriptionally for prolonged times in neuronal populations that are undergoing delayed death suggest that active gene expression is part of the neuronal-death cascade. Although a direct causal role remains to be proven, evidence implicates certain genes in neuronal-death pathways.
Meat consumption and the risk of incident distal colon and rectal adenoma.

Most studies of meat and colorectal adenoma have investigated prevalent events from a single screening, thus limiting our understanding of the role of meat and meat-related exposures in early colorectal carcinogenesis. Among participants in the screening arm of the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial who underwent baseline and follow-up sigmoidoscopy (n=17 072), we identified 1008 individuals with incident distal colorectal adenoma. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for associations between meat and meat-related components and incident distal colorectal adenoma using multivariate logistic regression. We observed suggestive positive associations for red meat, processed meat, haeme iron, and nitrate/nitrite with distal colorectal adenoma. Grilled meat (OR=1.56, 95% CI=1.04–2.36), well or very well-done meat (OR=1.59, 95% CI=1.05–2.43), 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenyl-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) (OR=1.75, 95% CI=1.17–2.64), benzo[a]pyrene (OR=1.53, 95% CI=1.06–2.20), and total mutagenic activity (OR=1.57, 95% CI=1.03–2.40) were positively associated with rectal adenoma. Total iron (diet and supplements) (OR=0.69, 95% CI=0.56–0.86) and iron from supplements (OR=0.65, 95% CI=0.44–0.97) were inversely associated with any distal colorectal adenoma. Our findings indicate that several meat-related components may be most relevant to early neoplasia in the rectum. In contrast, total iron and iron from supplements were inversely associated with any distal colorectal adenoma.
Synthesis in vitro of 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid by dopachrome conversion factor from Cloudman S91 melanoma cells.

The oxidation of dopachrome to melanin occurs spontaneously in vitro but has been shown to be under enzymatic control in vivo. Dopachrome conversion factor, purified from Cloudman S91 melanoma cells, converts dopachrome, which is orange, to a colorless compound. We have purified this colorless compound and identified it as 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid. This compound is generated enzymatically from a solution containing dopa and dopachrome and, under these conditions, is not readily oxidized to melanin in solution at pH 6.8. The synthesis in vitro of 5,6-dihydroxyindole- 2-carboxylic acid suggests that this compound may be an intermediate in the synthesis of melanin.
Adrenal-dependent diurnal modulation of conditioned fear extinction learning.

Abstract Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with altered conditioned fear extinction expression and impaired circadian function including dysregulation of glucocorticoid hormone secretion. We examined in adult male rats the relationship between conditioned fear extinction learning, circadian phase, and endogenous glucocorticoids (CORT). Rats maintained on a 12 h light:dark cycle were trained and tested across 3 separate daily sessions (conditioned fear acquisition and 2 extinction sessions) that were administered during either the rats’ active or inactive circadian phase. In an initial experiment we found that rats at both circadian phases acquired and extinguished auditory cue conditioned fear to a similar degree in the first extinction session. However, rats trained and tested at zeitgeber time-16 (ZT16) (active phase) showed enhanced extinction memory expression during the second extinction session compared to rats trained and tested at ZT4 (inactive phase). In a follow-up experiment, adrenalectomized (ADX) or sham surgery rats were similarly trained and tested across 3 separate daily sessions at either ZT4 or ZT16. ADX had no effect on conditioned fear acquisition or conditioned fear memory. Sham ADX rats trained and tested at ZT16 exhibited better extinction learning across the two extinction sessions compared to all other groups of rats. These results indicate that conditioned fear extinction learning is modulated by time of day, and this diurnal modulation requires the presence of adrenal hormones. These results support an important role of CORT-dependent circadian processes in regulating conditioned fear extinction learning, which may be capitalized upon to optimize effective treatment of PTSD.
Three-dimensional cranial surface reconstructions using high-resolution computed tomography.

Until recently, there has been no satisfactory way for anthropologists to visualize intracranial morphology in more than two dimensions without actually “invading” the skull in some manner. Images provided by conventional x-ray and computed tomography (CT) scans are often abstract, flat, two-dimensional representations that fail to reveal three-dimensional relationships. We describe new computer-imaging techniques that reconstruct three-dimensional images from sequential series of narrowly collimated (1–2 mm), high-resolution CT scans of the skull. These computed images represent three-dimensional surface data and can be viewed from any direction. Depth information is encoded in gray scale. In addition, selected portions of the anatomy can be “removed,” i.e., made transparent, to allow visualization of previously hidden intracranial morphology. Since the geometric data obtained with the CT scanner are precise, parameters such as linear distances, angles, areas, and volumes can be accurately (and instantaneously) generated. The power and versatility of these computer-imaging techniques are demonstrated by examining (1) living subjects with major craniofacial dysmorphology (Treacher-Collins syndrome and unilateral coronal synostosis); (2) an anthropoid osteological specimen (Gorilla); and (3) a fossil mammal skull.
On Processing Optical Images Propagated Through the Atmosphere

The problem of how to process optical images that have propagated through a turbulent atmosphere is considered. It is assumed that either the object or its (free-space) scattered field at the receiving aperture is known, except for unknown parameters that are to be estimated. Isotropic and homogeneous turbulence as discussed by Tatarski and Chernov is assumed. It is assumed that a very short (in time) reception is made, that the turbulence-induced complex phase errors are either small or have a correlation distance short relative to the receiving aperture extent, and that the object is within an isoplanatic region. The method of maximum likelihood (ML) is used as a criterion; its applicability is discussed. The ML image-processing structure is found and is nonlinear. Asymptotic cases are examined; among other conclusions, it is shown that the ML processing of independent receptions is more complex than an ML processing of the sum of the receptions. A coherent optical system that realizes the ML image processor is described; it includes the capability to generate the scattered field. Simplifications are pointed out.
Unravelling the Molecular Genetics of Osteoarthrosis

Osteoarthrosis (OA) is a major component of many osteochondrodysplastic syndromes which follow mendelian modes of inheritance. The use of molecular genetic techniques to unravel the molecular background of OA has therefore become possible. Linkage analysis, positional cloning, and candidate gene analysis have been used to identify genes which, when altered, can lead to syndromic OA. Allele association studies and sib-pair analysis have also made it possible to study the importance of a particular gene or locus in OA at the population level. Furthermore, the creation of transgenic mice and analyses of naturally occurring and chemically or radiologically induced mutations in mice are providing in vivo models for human osteochondrodysplasias and OA.
Electrically driven chloride ion transport in blended binder concretes: Insights from experiments and numerical simulations

Abstract Chloride ion transport driven by electrical potential gradients is discussed in concretes wherein OPC is partially replaced by limestone or a combination of limestone and fly ash/metakaolin at replacement levels of 20% or 35% (volume-basis). The ternary formulations demonstrate non-steady state Cl− migration (NSSM) coefficients that are comparable to or lower than those of the control OPC concretes, with metakaolin blends showing markedly better performance. A pore structure factor extracted through electrical conductivity measurements before the NSSM test is correlated with Cl− penetration depths after the migration test. The transport of all ionic species (Cl−, OH−, Na+, K+) is modeled using an explicit finite element framework via the coupled Poisson–Nernst–Planck (PNP) equation with suitable consideration of: (a) concentration (depth)-dependent diffusion coefficients, (b) pore-structure factor, and (c) Cl− binding. With informed inputs of material properties, the simulations are able to reliably capture Cl− penetration behaviors in plain and blended binder formulations.
SERIATION USING ASYMMETRIC PROXIMITY MEASURES

The data analysis problem of ordering or sequencing a set of objects using an asymmetric proximity function is reviewed, with an emphasis on literature not generally referenced in psychology. In particular, an attempt is made to present some of the more important approaches to the asymmetric seriation task that have been developed independently under a number of different names, for instance, the triangularization of input-output matrices, minimum feedback arc sets, maximum likelihood paired comparison ranking, majority rule under transitivity constraints, and so on. A simple numerical example that illustrates some of the basic concepts is presented in the course of the discussion.
How singular a space can superstrings thread

Many superstring models with N=1 supergravity in 4-dimensional Minkowski space-time involve σ-models with complex 3-dimensional, Ricci-flat target manifolds. In general, inclusion of singular target spaces probes the boundary of the moduli space and completes it. Studying suitably singular σ-models, the author found certain criteria for the severity of admissible singularizations.
Concise, Stereoselective Approach to the Spirooxindole Ring System of Citrinadin A

The spirooxindole ring system of citrinadin A has been synthesized with excellent control over the absolute stereochemistry at the spirocenter. The key step involves a novel diastereoselective DMDO-mediated oxidative rearrangement employing an 8-phenylmenthol chiral auxiliary on the indole nitrogen.
The Use of Autogenous Bone Grafting to Reconstruct a Mandibular Knife Edge Ridge Before Implant Surgery: A Case Report

Abstract Patients can present some anatomic limitations that prevent ideal implant placement, and it might be necessary to reconstruct the alveolar ridge. Intraoral autogenous bone grafts are the ideal source for the reconstruction of small deficiencies. Mandibular symphysis or mandibular ramus area (or both) may be used for bone harvesting. Use of intraoral sites has many advantages compared with the use of extraoral sites.
DO PHYSICAL FACTORS REGULATE PHYTOPLANKTON DISTRIBUTION PATTERNS IN LARGE, SHALLOW LAKES?

Factors that regulate phytoplankton dynamics in shallow, productive lakes are poorly understood, due to their predisposition for frequent algal blooms and sediment resuspension events. In Lake Apopka, greatest phytoplankton biomass reflects wind-induced resuspension of algae (meroplankton) that exists on the aphotic lake bottom in a layer approximately 5 cm thick; this assemblage is dominated by diatoms (>60% of total biomass) that can occur in resting stages. Once exposed to moderate light, meroplankton are capable of growth and photosynthetic rates comparable with surface populations. In Lake Okeechobee, remote sensing was used to assess the basin-wide distribution of suspended particles. Satellite reflectance values agreed well with in situ particle densities at 20 in-lake stations (average r2; LANDSAT = 0.81, AVHRR = 0.53), and maps of algal blooms (r2 = 0.79, p ≤ 0.01). The greatest chlorophyll concentrations occurred in the vicinity of tributary nutrient inputs at the lake's perimeter, while turbidity increased towards the center of the lake reflecting predominant water circulation patterns. These results underscore the importance of physical-biological interactions in lakes.
FLORA OF THE BRANDON LIGNITE. IV. ILLICIACEAE

Illicium avitum is described from the Early Oligocene Brandon Lignite of Vermont. The remains consist of immature fruiting axes, preserved shortly after fertilization. The short pedicel terminates in a torus bearing 13 conduplicate carpels in a single whorl. These are surrounded by two whorls of approximately 20 to 30 staminal scars each, which are in turn surrounded by 24-40 perianth scars. The immature seeds within the carpels possess developing embryos and seed coats. Although comparisons with certain modern species are possible, the available characters are not sufficient to permit its association with any one modern species or group of species. The fossil material provides limited evidence for a reduction in the numbers of floral parts through time in Illicium.
Heil’s Two-Category Ontology and Causation

In his recent book, The Universe As We Find It, John Heil offers an updated account of his two-category (substance and property) ontology. One of his major goals is to avoid including relations in his basic ontology. While there can still be true claims positing relations, such as those of the form “x is taller than y” and “x causes y,” they will be true in virtue of substances and their monadic, non-relational properties. That is, Heil’s two-category ontology is deployed to provide non-relational truthmakers for relational truths. This paper challenges the success of Heil’s project with respect to causation. The arguments here are not entirely negative, however. An option is made available to Heil’s ontology so that it might, at least to some extent, regain non-relational causings.
Lagrangian Bond Graphs for Solid Continuum Dynamics Modeling

The limitations of existing continuum bond graph modeling techniques have effectively precluded their use in large order problems, where nonrepetitive graph structures and causal patterns are normally present. As a result, despite extensive publication of bond graph models for continuous systems simulations, bond graph methods have not offered a viable alternative to finite element analysis for the vast majority of practical problems
Olfactory and hormonal influences on the basal forebrain of the male rat

Abstract 1. Single units in the medial forebrain bundle and elsewhere in the preoptic area of anesthetized male rats responded to electrical shocks of the olfactory bulb and to odors. The odor responses were mediated by the olfactory bulb. Inhibitory responses were recorded more often in the preoptic area than in the olfactory bulb and were mainly recorded from units located in more ventral and posterior parts of the basal forebrain than units with excitatory responses. 2. Responses to odors were recorded from single units in the mesencephalic reticular formation, and in the EEG. 3. Changes in firing rates of units in the mesencephalic reticular formation were more closely associated with changes in the EEG than firing rates of units in the preoptic area or olfactory bulb. 4. Administration of testosterone directly into the preoptic area or by systemic injection influenced the electrical activity of preoptic units. Direct preoptic administration increased the magnitude of single unit responses to electrical shock of the olfactory bulb and to odors. Systemic administration had more complex effects, including increases in response magnitude and reversals of response direction. 5. Testosterone effects were also detected in single unit recording in the olfactory bulb and the mesencephalic reticular formation, in olfactory bulb wave activity and in the EEG.
A 12-μW to 1.1-mW AIM Piezoelectric Energy Harvester for Time-Varying Vibrations With 450-nA $I_{\bm Q}$

Continuing advancements in low power VLSI systems have enabled the use of self-powered wireless sensor nodes (WSNs) for many industrial applications. To alleviate WSN battery maintenance requirements, piezoelectric devices are implemented to harvest vibration energy. However, significant challenges remain unresolved with regard to harvesting from time-varying vibrations in environments where harvestable energy is unpredictable. This paper presents a new integrated piezoelectric energy harvesting system. An adaptive impedance matching maximum power point tracking technique is proposed to improve harvesting efficiency. An adaptive on-time dc-dc controller with pulse skipping modulation is also employed. To retain reasonable efficiency in such low power applications, the controller is designed with ultralow power analog circuits and zero bias current dynamic circuits, with a total quiescent current of only 450 nA. The design is fabricated and verified on a 0.25-μm CMOS process. It is capable of harvesting time-varying piezoelectric energy ranging of 12 μW to 1.1 mW. In comparison with quasi-resistive impedance matching, a harvesting improvement of more than two times is achieved. Thanks to the low power design effort, it achieves greater than 70% efficiency from 80 μW to 1.1 mW.
End of life in the nursing home: redefining roles.

In this issue of the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, Waldrop and Nyquist present the results of a recent study on end-of-life care in the nursing home. 1 They interviewed staff to understand perceptions and experiences in caring for nursing home residents who are in transition from chronic to end-of-life care. Theirfindingssupportand expand on similar findings from 2 previous studies that found that reports of nursing home staff indicate they are able to identify residents facing endoflifeaswellasunderstandingtheunique needs of dying residents. 2,3 Finally, all 3 studies identify tension between traditional long-term care and care needed at the end of life. Despite an overwhelming amount of research on endof-life care in the nursing home, 4 the tensions between chronic care and end-of-lifecare in this setting remain.Policy initiatives have been introduced 5 and several interventions have been attempted, yet challenges still exist. The ability to identify the appropriate time to change the goals of care from rehabilitation and maintenance to palliative and comfort care are keys to understanding what is needed at the end of life. New models of care have been outlined to balance these 2 approaches, but implementation does not appear forthcoming. 6 Despite consistent evidence outlining the need to improve care for dying residents in the nursing home, successful intervention and change still appear to be a distant dream. Policy has moved forward that supports quality end-of-life care. The financing of additional resources (hospice) to support the delivery of specialized end-of-life care has had an impact 7 ; however, evidence continues to show less than desirable results. This speaks to a cultural tradition that ignores the reality of death and dying. For new models of care to emerge, the American way of dying and, more specifically, attitudes toward it in the nursing home are in need of major change. One description of the cultural tension between caring for the chronically ill and the dying 8 was presented in 2000.
Nominations sought for inaugural Gilbert F. White Lecture

Nominations for the first Gilbert F. White Distinguished Lecture Award, sponsored by AGU's Natural Hazards Focus Group, are due 1 May. The lecture, established last year, will be given during the 2012 AGU Fall Meeting in San Francisco, 3–7 December. The lecture is named for Gilbert F. White (1911–2006), an AGU Fellow who was internationally known for his significant contributions to natural hazards research. Some of White's most notable work involved the identification and classification of adjustment mechanisms for flooding in the United States, perceptions of natural hazards, and the importance of sound water management in contemporary society. White advocated, where feasible, adaptation to or accommodation of food hazards rather than the “structural” solutions (e.g., dams, levees, and foodwalls) that dominated policy in the early twentieth century
The Effects of Memory Set Accessibility and Relevance on the Use of Memory Information During Product Choice

The Accessibility-Relevance framework provides a useful perspective to consider the retrieval and use of memory information during product decision making (Alba, Lynch, and Hutchinson, 1990; Lynch, Marmorstein, and Weigold, 1989). However, it considers accessibility on an individual brand basis, while actual product choice often includes information across multiple alternatives. Thus, memory set accessibility (MSA), the relative accessibility across memory brands, is introduced as a potentially important but unexplored issue within the Accessibility-Relevance research stream. This study 1) provides an explanation for how MSA may produce results which significantly expand the current Accessibility-Relevance conceptualization and 2) considers the effects of MSA and relevance on both brand processing and choice.
Nitric oxide scavenging causes remodeling of the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and mitochondria in pulmonary arterial endothelial cells

The dependence of the structure and function of cytoplasmic organelles in endothelial cells on constitutively produced intracellular nitric oxide (NO) remains largely unexplored. We previously reported fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus in cells exposed to NO scavengers or after siRNA-mediated knockdown of eNOS. Others have reported increased mitochondrial fission in response to an NO donor. Functionally, we previously reported that bovine pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (PAECs) exposed to the NO scavenger 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (c-PTIO) developed a prosecretory phenotype characterized by prolonged secretion of soluble proteins. In the present study, we investigated whether NO scavenging led to remodeling of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Live-cell DAF-2DA imaging confirmed the presence of intracellular NO in association with the BODIPY C5-ceramide-labeled Golgi apparatus. Untreated human PAECs displayed a pattern of peripheral tubulo-reticular ER with a juxtanuclear accumulation of ER sheets. Cells exposed to c-PTIO showed a dramatic increase in ER sheets as assayed using immunofluorescence for the ER structural protein reticulon-4b/Nogo-B and the ER-resident GTPase atlastin-3, live-cell fluorescence assays using RTN4-GFP and KDEL-mCherry, and electron microscopy methods. These ER changes were inhibited by the NO donor diethylamine NONOate, and also produced by L-NAME, but not D-NAME or 8-br-cGMP. This ER remodeling was accompanied by Golgi fragmentation and increased fibrillarity and function of mitochondria (uptake of tetramethyl-rhodamine, TMRE). Despite Golgi fragmentation the functional ER/Golgi trafficking unit was preserved as seen by the accumulation of Sec31A ER exit sites adjacent to the dispersed Golgi elements and a 1.8-fold increase in secretion of soluble cargo. Western blotting and immunopanning data showed that RTN4b was increasingly ubiquitinated following c-PTIO exposure, especially in the presence of the proteasomal inhibitor MG132. The present data complete the remarkable insight that the structural integrity of three closely juxtaposed cytoplasmic organelles – Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria – is dependent on nitric oxide.
Capacitance-voltage properties of thin Ta2O5 films on silicon

Abstract A comprehensive study of the high frequency (1 MHz) capacitance-voltage ( C-V ) properties of Al/Ta 2 O 5 /p-Si capacitors is described. The dependence of the dielectric constant of thermally oxidized Ta 2 O 5 on the oxidation temperature and the silicon substrate temperature during the deposition of tantalum metal was studied. Charge trapping or generation processes in the Ta 2 O 5 bulk or in the Ta 2 O 5 -Si interface region were investigated on the basis of shifts in the flat-band voltage of 1 MHz C-V curves. Attempts to measure the quasi-static or static C-V characteristics of the Al/Ta 2 O 5 /p-Si capacitors by the ramp voltage or charge-voltage method were unsuccessful since the leakage current of the capacitors is higher than the displacement current for most gate voltages. The Ta 2 O 5 thin films on p-type silicon substrates were prepared by thermal oxidation at 430–675°C of electron-beam-deposited tantalum. The silicon substrate temperature during tantalum evaporation was either close to room temperature or 150°C. The effective dielectric constant of Ta 2 O 5 films formed from tantalum which had been deposited onto silicon substrates heated to 150°C is in the range 22–23, the value depending on the oxidation temperature. It is higher than that of comparable Ta 2 O 5 films formed from tantalum deposited onto silicon substrates close to room temperature which varies from 18–26. The sign and magnitude of the flat-band voltage depends on the oxidation temperature. It is about +1 V for Ta 2 O 5 formed at 430°C and decreases monotonically with increasing oxidation temperature to about -1.5 V for Ta 2 O 5 formed at 675°C. The flat-band voltage exhibits an instability with respect to voltage-time stresses at room temperature because of charge trapping and/or generation phenomena either in the Ta 2 O 5 bulk or in the Ta 2 O 5 -Si interface region. At least three different charge trapping and/or generation processes have been observed.
Over-prescribing of antibiotics and imaging in the management of uncomplicated URIs in emergency departments

Unnecessary use of resources for common illnesses has substantial effect on patient care and costs. Evidence-based guidelines do not recommend antibiotics or imaging for uncomplicated upper respiratory infections (URIs). The objective of the current study was to examine medical care providers’ compliance with guidelines in treating uncomplicated URIs in emergency departments (EDs) in the US. Nationally representative data from the NHAMCS 2007 and 2008 were used. Uncomplicated URIs were identified through ICD-9 codes of nasopharyngitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, URI not otherwise specified and influenza involving upper respiratory tract. Exclusion criteria were concurrent comorbidities, follow-up visits, and age 64 years. Most frequently prescribed classes of antibiotics were identified. Multivariate analyses were conducted to identify the factors associated with the prescribing of antibiotics and use of imaging studies. In 2007 and 2008, there were 2.2 million adult uncomplicated URI visits without any other concurrent diagnoses in EDs in the US. Approximately 52% were given antibiotic prescriptions, over one-third of which were macrolides, and nearly half of the visits performed imaging studies. About 51% had a diagnosis of bronchitis, 35% URI NOS, 9% nasopharyngitis, laryngitis or influenza, and 4% multiple URI diagnoses. The diagnosis of bronchitis, fever at presentation, older ages, male gender, longer waiting time, and metropolitan areas were associated with a greater likelihood of prescribing antibiotics or imaging studies, controlling for confounding factors. Despite the recommendations and campaign efforts by the CDC and many medical associations, the prescribing of antibiotics in treating uncomplicated URIs in the EDs remains prevalent. Furthermore, overutilization of imaging studies is prevalent. Changes at levels of health care system and hospitals are needed to avoid unnecessary resource utilization. In addition, further patient education about antibiotic use in the community may greatly facilitate the transition out of an antibiotic-dependent consumer culture.
Forces on conical-nosed penetrators into targets with constant shear strength

Abstract A closed-form solution for forces on conical-nosed projectiles penetrating geological targets with constant shear strength is developed. The model employs the cylindrical cavity expansion approximation which idealizes the target as thin independent layers normal to the penetration direction and simplifies the analysis to one-dimensional radial wave propagation. Constitutive target description is applicable to concrete and sea ice and consists of a linear hydrostat and a Tresca yield criterion with a tension cutoff. This model has three regions of target response: an elastic region, a region with radial cracks, and a plastic region. Predictions from this theory are compared with other recently developed elastic-plastic models.
DETERMINATION OF THE WATER PERMEABILITY (Lp) OF MOUSE OOCYTES AT −25°C AND ITS ACTIVATION ENERGY AT SUBZERO TEMPERATURES,

Abstract Typically, subzero permeability measurements are experimentally difficult and infrequently reported. Here we report an approach we have applied to mouse oocytes. Interrupted cooling involves rapidly cooling oocytes (50 °C/min) to an intermediate temperature above the intracellular nucleation zone, holding them for up to 40 min while they dehydrate, and then rapidly cooling them to −70 °C or below. If the intermediate holding temperature and holding time are well chosen, high post thaw survival of the oocytes is possible because the freezable water is removed during the hold. The length of time required for the exit of the freezable water allows the water permeability at that temperature to be determined. These experiments used 1.5 M ethylene glycol in PBS and included a transient hold of 2 min for equilibration at −10 °C, just below the extracellar ice formation temperature. We obtain an Lp = 1.8 × 10 −3 μm min −1 atm −1 at −25 °C based on a hold time of 30 min yielding 80% survival and the premise that most of the freezable water is removed during the 30 min hold. If we assume that the water permeability is a continuous function of temperature and that its Ea changes at 0 °C, we obtain a subzero Ea of 21 kcal/mol; higher than the suprazero value of 14 kcal/mol. A number of assumptions are required for these water loss calculations and the resulting value of Lp can vary by up to a factor of 2, depending on the choices make.
Cardiac transplantation in infancy: Donors and recipients

To evaluate the role of orthotopic cardiac transplantation for infants with lethal cardiac disease, we revlewed the results from our first 25 patients. Data on the donors were also reviewed to define the characteristics of a successful cardiac donor. Patients had transplants between November 1985 and November 1988. Several primary cardiac diagnoses were indications for transplantation, including congestive cardiomyopathy, hypoplastic left-heart syndrome, and other types of native and postoperative complex congenltal heart diseases. The ages ranged from birth to 7 months. Of 25 patients, 21 are still allve (84% survival rate) with follow-up from 4 to 40 months. No late deaths have occurred. Long-term immunosuppression was accomplished with cyclosporine and azathioprine. Rejection surveillance was performed noninvasively; only one child required an endomyocardial biopsy. Donors died from a variety of traumatic and metabolic causes, including sudden infant death syndrome. The majority (72%) of donors had a history of cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscltation. One third were receiving inotropic support at the time of cardiac evaluation. We conclude that orthotopic cardiac transplantation is an effective therapy for infants with lethal heart disease. A larger donor pool is required, and many dying infants, despite cardiac arrest and resuscitation, would be suitable donors.
SDF-1 activates papillary label-retaining cells during kidney repair from injury.

The adult kidney contains a population of low-cycling cells that resides in the papilla. These cells retain for long periods S-phase markers given as a short pulse early in life; i.e., they are lab...
Iodized BODIPY as a long wavelength light sensitizer for the near-infrared emission of ytterbium(III) ion

Novel 8-HOQ–BODIPY–3I was developed as an efficient sensitizer for the near-infrared emission of ytterbium(III) ion at 980 nm under long wavelength excitation.
Ultrasound evaluation of an inguinal mass.

A 33 year-old female presented to the emergency department (ED) with of two weeks of diffuse abdominal pain, right flank pain, and a slowly enlarging right inguinal mass. She had no associated fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. She was evaluated by her primary care physician, and an inguinal ultrasound was obtained prior to referral to the ED. On arrival in the ED, her vital signs were unremarkable, and she was afebrile. On exam, there was no abdominal tenderness, and a 2cm x 2cm non-reducible, mildly tender right inguinal mass was noted. A bedside ultrasound (Figures 1 and 2) was performed in the ED. [West J Emerg Med. 2014;15(7):–0.]
Perceptual learning and the theory of word perception

Abstract Perceptual learning involves the learning of distinctive features and higher-order invariants, learning progressing actively toward the most economical features and structure. Features of words are classified as phonological, graphic, semantic and syntactic. Features of these classes are processed independently and sequentially. Ordering of priorities changes with development, and shifts strategically with the demands of the task. Evidence is presented for priority differences for each class of feature depending on task differences.
Simulated laparoscopic operating room crisis: An approach to enhance the surgical team performance

Diminishing human error and improving patient outcomes is the goal of task training and simulation experience. The fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS) is a validated tool to assess technical laparoscopic skills. We hypothesize that performance in a crisis depends on technical skills and team performance. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a high-fidelity simulation model of a laparoscopic crisis scenario in a mock endosuite environment. To establish the feasibility of the model as well as its face and construct validity, the scenario evaluated the performances of FLS-certified surgeon experts (n = 5) and non-FLS certified novices (n = 5) during a laparoscopic crisis scenario, in a mock endosuite, on a simulated abdomen. Likert scale questionnaires were used for validity assessments. Groups were compared using previously validated rating scales on technical and nontechnical performance. Objective outcome measures assessed were: time to diagnose bleeding (TD), time to inform the team to convert (TT), and time to conversion to open (TC). SAS software was used for statistical analysis. Median scores for face validity were 4.29, 4.43, 4.71 (maximum 5) for the FLS, non-FLS, and nursing groups, respectively, with an inter-rater reliability of 93%. Although no difference was observed in Veress needle safety and laparoscopic equipment set up, there was a significant difference between the two groups in their overall technical and nontechnical abilities (p < 0.05), specifically in identifying bleeding, controlling bleeding, team communication, and team skills. There was a trend towards a difference between the two groups for TD, TT, and TC. While experts controlled bleeding in a shorter time, they persisted longer laparoscopically. Our evidence suggests that face and construct validity are established for a laparoscopic crisis simulation in a mock endosuite. Technical and nontechnical performance discrimination is observed between novices and experts. This innovative multidisciplinary simulation aims at improving error/problem recognition and timely initiation of appropriate and safe responses by surgical teams.
Ovarian Steroid Regulation of 5-HT1A Receptor Binding and G protein Activation in Female Monkeys

Serotonin 5-HT1A receptors play an important role in serotonin neurotransmission and mental health. We previously demonstrated that estradiol (E) and progesterone (P) decrease 5-HT1A autoreceptor mRNA levels in macaques. In this study, we questioned whether E and P regulate 5-HT1A binding and function and Gα subunit protein expression. Quantitative autoradiography for 5-HT1A receptors and G proteins using [3H]8-OH-DPAT and [35S]GTP-γ-S, respectively, was performed on brain sections of rhesus macaques from four treatment groups: ovariectomized controls (OVX), E (28 d), P (28 d), and E (28 d) plus P (the last 14 d) treated. Western blot analysis for Gα subunits was performed on raphe extracts from cynomolgus macaques that were OVX or OVX treated with equine estrogens (EE, 30 months). In the hypothalamus, E or E + P but not P alone decreased postsynaptic 5-HT1A binding sites. In the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN), E, P, and E + P treatments decreased 5-HT1A autoreceptor binding. The Kd values for 8-OH-DPAT were the same for each treatment group. Both the basal and the R-(+)-8-OH-DPAT stimulated [35S]GTP-γ-S binding were decreased during hormone replacement whereas the coupling efficiency between the receptor and G proteins was maintained. Finally, EE treatment reduced the level of Gαi3, but not Gαi1, Gαo, and Gαz in the DRN. In conclusion, these observations suggest that ovarian hormones may increase serotonin neurotransmission, in part, by decreasing 5-HT1A autoreceptors, 5-HT1A postsynaptic receptors, and the inhibitory G proteins for intracellular signal transduction.
Species-specific isotope dilution-based calibration for trace element speciation and its combined uncertainty evaluation: determination of tributyltin in sediment by HPLC-ICPMS.

A method is described for the determination of tributyltin (TBT) in NRCC sediment CRM PACS-2 by isotope dilution (ID) analysis using HPLC−ICPMS. Reverse spike ID analysis was performed to determine the accurate concentration of a 117Sn-enriched TBT spike using a well-characterized natural abundance TBT standard. The accuracy of the latter is critical for obtaining reliable results. A unique approach, using hydride generation GC/MS, was developed to quantify the inorganic Sn and dibutyltin impurities in the natural abundance TBT standard. The true natural abundance TBT standard concentration was obtained following correction for these impurities. The total Sn concentration in the natural abundance TBT standard was determined by ID analysis using an enriched inorganic 117Sn following closed vessel mixed-acid digestion. Calibration of the enriched inorganic 117Sn standard was achieved by reverse ID analysis against a natural abundance inorganic tin standard prepared from the high-purity metal. An overall unc...
Atomistic simulation study of atomic size effects on B1 (NaCl), B2 (CsCl), and B3 (zinc-blende) crystal stability of binary ionic compounds

Ionic compounds exhibit a variety of crystal structures that can critically affect their applications. Traditionally, relative sizes of cations and anions have been used to explain coordination of ions within the crystals. Such approaches assume atoms to be hard spheres and they cannot explain the observed structures of some crystals. Here we develop an atomistic method and use it to explore the structure-determining factors beyond the limitations of the hard sphere approach. Our approach is based upon a calibrated interatomic potential database that uses independent intrinsic bond lengths to measure atomic sizes. By carrying out extensive atomistic simulations, striking relationships among intrinsic bond lengths are discovered to determine the B1 (NaCl), B2 (CsCl), and B3 (zinc-blende) structure of binary ionic compounds.
METHYLATION OF E. COLI TRANSFER RIBONUCLEIC ACIDS BY A tRNA ADENINE‐l‐METHYLTRANSFERASE FROM RAT BRAIN CORTEX AND BULK‐ISOLATED NEURONS

— Brain cortices or bulk-isolated neuronal cell bodies prepared from cortices of 8-day old male rats were used as the source of a l-methyl adenine-specific tRNA methyltransferase (tRNA-AMT). Ammonium sulfate fractionation and chromatography on spheroidal hydroxylapatite and Sephadex G-200 yielded an 80-fold purified enzyme, as determined by using E. coli bulk tRNA as substrate. The kinetic parameters of tRNA-AMT for the substrate S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM) (Km= 6 μM) and the inhibitor, S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH) (Ki= 3.4 μm) were determined and several SAH analogs tested as inhibitors. S-Adenosyl-l-cysteine (SAC) (10-4m) and S-adenosyl-d-homocysteine (SADH) (10-4m) produced a 35 and a 21% reduction in enzyme activity, respectively. The effects of Mg2+, NH4+ acetate and of the polyamines spermine, putrescine and spermidine on the brain tRNA-AMT mimicked the effects of these agents on hepatic tRNA-AMT (Glicket al, 1975). Comparing the ability of cerebral tRNA-AMT to methylate E. coli tRNAglu2, tRNAval, tRNAphe and bulk tRNA revealed tRNAglu2 as the best and tRNAphe as the least effective substrate. tRNA-AMT prepared from neuronal cell bodies showed closely similar characteristics to the cortical enzyme. A comparison of the activities of tRNA-AMT in neurons and glial cells revealed higher values in the former.
Changing testicular histology in AIDS: its implication for sexual transmission of HIV

Objectives The understanding of testicular histology in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is essential, because the sexual route is one of the main means of transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus, which is localized primarily in the germ cells of the testes. It is important to determine whether any changes have occurred in the testicular histologic patterns in the course of the AIDS epidemic. Methods One hundred forty testicular specimens were available from AIDS autopsies during the AIDS epidemic (1981 to 1998). The epidemic was divided into pre-zidovudine (pre-AZT) therapy (1981 to 1987) and antiviral therapy (1988 to 1998) periods; the latter period was further subdivided on the basis of the particular treatment used. Testicular histology was evaluated and correlated with patient age, CD4 T-cell counts, and pathologic findings in other parts of the body. Results Testicular histologic findings were categorized into three groups: hypospermatogenesis (group S), spermatogenic arrest (group A), and Sertoli cell only (group O). The percentage of AIDS patients with group S histologic findings remained constant throughout the study period: 26% in the pre-AZT and 28% in the antiviral therapy periods. However, there was a reversal in the percentages of patients in groups A and O: group A decreased from 48% (pre-AZT) to 28% (antiviral) and group O increased from 26% (pre-AZT) to 44% (antiviral). There was no correlation between testicular histologic results and patient age or CD4 count. Opportunistic infections and testicular neoplasms were also identified. Conclusions This study demonstrates that current therapy and prolongation of survival in AIDS patients are associated with a shift in the histologic findings of testes toward a more pronounced loss of germ cells. However, 28% of patients still show significant spermatogenesis at the time of death from AIDS and this subgroup cannot be identified by age or CD4 T-cell counts. The presence of large numbers of residual germ cells in these patients suggests that they may continue to be infectious throughout their disease course.
Brachytherapy in the treatment of Stage IV carcinoma of the base of tongue.

Abstract Purpose Survival in patients with Stage IV carcinoma of the base of tongue (BOT) treated by surgery and radiotherapy remains poor. External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (BT) have been used as an alternative treatment. Methods and materials Eighteen patients with Stage IV carcinoma of the BOT were treated by EBRT and BT. Results Local control is 89%. The 5-year overall (OS) and disease specific survival (DSS) rates are 52% and 67%. No neck node positive patient implanted in the neck developed cervical metastases. Two patients (11%) developed complications. Conclusions Local regional control, survival, and complications in patients with Stage IV carcinoma of the BOT treated by EBRT and BT have been satisfactory. The use of brachytherapy for nodal metastases has eliminated the need for neck dissection. We recommend this approach in the treatment of Stage IV carcinoma of the BOT.
Low-energy absolute pair-production cross-section measurements in targets of Z = 13, 26, 29, 50, and 82

Absolute cross sections for pair production by photons incident on targets of aluminum, iron, copper, tin, and lead were measured using the internal-source method. The measurements were made for the 1.119- and 2.6145-MeV $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays in the decays of $^{46}\mathrm{Sc}$ and $^{228}\mathrm{Th}$, respectively, and also a composite cross section was measured for the mixture of the 1.1732- and 1.3325-MeV $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays in the decay of $^{60}\mathrm{Co}$. The results are in general agreement with the theoretical predictions of \O{}verb\o{} and those of Tseng and Pratt, and clearly demonstrate the importance of accounting for electron screening of the nuclear Coulomb potential in the calculations.
A performance analysis of subspace-based methods in the presence of model errors. I. The MUSIC algorithm

Application of subspace-based algorithms to narrowband direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation requires that both the array response in all directions of interest and the spatial covariance of the noise must be known. In practice, however, neither of these quantities is known precisely. Depending on the degree to which they deviate from their nominal values, serious performance degradation can result. The performance of the MUSIC algorithm is examined for situations in which the noise covariance and array response are perturbed from their assumed values. Theoretical expressions for the error in the MUSIC DOA estimates are derived and compared with simulations performed for several representative cases, and with the appropriate Cramer-Rao bound. An optimally weighted version of MUSIC is proposed for a particular class of array errors. >