cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU‐FF‐T‐40: A Novel Phantom for Use in 3‐Dimensional in Vitro Cell Experiments

Purpose: To describe and characterize a novel IMRT phantom for use in 3‐dimensional in vitro cell experiments. Methods and Materials: A cylindrical IMRT phantom was designed and fabricated from a commercially available system (CIRS Inc., Norfolk, VA). The phantom is composed of water‐equivalent plastic and contains a rectangular bore which, in combination with a set of water‐equivalent plastic inserts, can be adjusted to fit 1–3 well plates. In these initial studies, the phantom was loaded with a stack of three well plates (96 individual wells/plate), and an IMRT plan was created for two separate PTVs, each receiving a scalable uniform dose. The ratio of doses between the PTVs was fixed at 2:1. Using PTV doses of 50 and 100 cGy, measurements from TLDs placed at five locations within each PTV were compared to the expected doses. For the same irradiation technique, dose distributions were acquired from films placed above and below each well plate and compared with the treatment plan using the γ‐index. Head and neck tumor cell lines were also irradiated in this phantom and cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. Results:TLD measurements yielded doses of 100.3 +/− 4.6 cGy and 51.0 +/− 2.3 cGy for 100 cGy and 50 cGy PTVs, respectively. Calculations of γ were performed using a dose difference of 3.0 mm and distance to agreement of 3.0 %. The γ indices ranged from 0.18 +/− 0.13 to 0.51 +/− 0.35 in each of the PTVs. Cell irradiation experiments showed uniform viability within each of the PTVs. Conclusion: The consistency between measurements obtained from the TLDs and film with the calculated dose distributions, along with uniform cell viability within each irradiation region, show that the phantom is a novel tool for 3‐dimensional in vitro cell experiments. Conflict of Interest: Supported by a grant from MedImmune.
A comparison of gradient zone pumping and rising pond maintenance techniques for gradient zone stabilization

Abstract Two gradient zone maintenance methods for solar ponds are examined relative to stability constraints in the internal gradient zone region and at the convection interface region. The results show that both “rising pond” and gradient zone pumping methods allow similar overall gradient zone thicknesses to be maintained. Gradient zone pumping allows one to adjust the upper gradient zone strength in a more controlled manner. The rising pond method tends to maintain stronger stability conditions throughout the interior region of the gradient zone. Salt transport rates across the gradient zone region are also similar for both gradient zone maintenance methods.
Measurement and instrumentation science—An analytical review

Abstract The paper reviews the state and trends of Measurement and Instrumentation Science viewed broadly as the generic transferable principles of measurement, and of the instrumentation by which it is performed. It regards measurement as an information process and instruments as information machines. It treats Measurement and Instrumentation Science as a coherent part of the sciences of information, systems, and computing, with distinctive features which it discusses. The paper provides an analytical review of the development of Measurement and Instrumentation Science and provides references to key literature.
The behaviour of Drosophila adult hindgut stem cells is controlled by Wnt and Hh signalling

The intestinal tract maintains proper function by replacing aged cells with freshly produced cells that arise from a population of self-renewing intestinal stem cells (ISCs). In the mammalian intestine, ISC self renewal, amplification and differentiation take place along the crypt-villus axis, and are controlled by the Wnt and hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathways. However, little is known about the mechanisms that specify ISCs within the developing intestinal epithelium, or about the signalling centres that help maintain them in their self-renewing stem cell state. Here we show that in adult Drosophila melanogaster, ISCs of the posterior intestine (hindgut) are confined to an anterior narrow segment, which we name the hindgut proliferation zone (HPZ). Within the HPZ, self renewal of ISCs, as well as subsequent proliferation and differentiation of ISC descendants, are controlled by locally emanating Wingless (Wg, a Drosophila Wnt homologue) and Hh signals. The anteriorly restricted expression of Wg in the HPZ acts as a niche signal that maintains cells in a slow-cycling, self-renewing mode. As cells divide and move posteriorly away from the Wg source, they enter a phase of rapid proliferation. During this phase, Hh signal is required for exiting the cell cycle and the onset of differentiation. The HPZ, with its characteristic proliferation dynamics and signalling properties, is set up during the embryonic phase and becomes active in the larva, where it generates all adult hindgut cells including ISCs. The mechanism and genetic control of cell renewal in the Drosophila HPZ exhibits a large degree of similarity with what is seen in the mammalian intestine. Our analysis of the Drosophila HPZ provides an insight into the specification and control of stem cells, highlighting the way in which the spatial pattern of signals that promote self renewal, growth and differentiation is set up within a genetically tractable model system.
Preparation and properties of a microsomal DPNH-cytochrome c reductase.

Abstract The preparation of a microsomal DPNH-cytochrome c reductase has been described. Its susceptibility to heat and to various inhibitors is shown, and also the effect of various buffers in the pH range 5–10. This enzyme is demonstrated to require intact sulfhydryl groups for activity, but it is doubtful if it is a flavoprotein. The Michaelis constants are 3.5 × 10 −6 M for DPNH and 7 × 10 −7 M for cytochrome c. The relationships of this enzyme with other similar enzymes are discussed.
Mössbauer-Effect Determination of the Crystalline Electric Field Parameters in Thulium Metal

By measuring the temperature dependence of the nuclear quadrupole splitting of the 8.42-keV M\"ossbauer transition in the paramagnetic state of thulium metal, a determination of the crystalline electric field (CEF) parameters of elemental thulium has been obtained. The nuclear quadrupole interaction was studied within the temperature range 59 to 156\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. It was found that a zero-order calculation was sufficient to fit theory to experiment, and that in particular only $C_{2}^{0}$, ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{1}$ and $\ensuremath{\rho}_{2}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ (where the $\ensuremath{\rho}$'s account for shielding constants and the temperature-independent contributions to the electric field graident at the nucleus) were needed to fit the theory to the data. The remaining CEF parameters, $C_{4}^{0}$, $C_{6}^{0}$, and $C_{6}^{6}$, were constrained to equal zero in the fitting routine. The over-all splitting of the $^{3}H_{6}$ ground multiplet was found to be 76.1 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. This study also includes a determination of electronic shielding factors for thulium. The atomic Sternheimer factor ${R}_{Q}$ was found to be 0.16; and the constant ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{2}$, which represents the shielding of the $4f$ shell from the CEF by the closed outer shells, was found to be 0.34. The latter quantity was obtained under the assumption that screening of the ${\mathrm{Tm}}^{+3}$ ions by the conduction electrons can be neglected. The direct lattice contribution and the conduction-electron contribution to the net electric field gradient at the Tm nucleus were found to be positive and of the same order of magnitude.
From Schoolgirl to Mother: The Effects of Education on Navajo Women

Navajo children are usually removed from their homes at age six or seven to be educated in federally operated boarding schools. This study found that the educational experiences encountered in middle childhood have detrimentally affected the adult self-esteem and maternal attitudes of Navajo women. The women were living in an urban area at the time of the study and are raising the first generation of city-born Navajo children. It was found that the mother's background also affected the child's adjustment.
Acquisition and organization of new items in the free recall of random lists

Subjects were required to recall lists of words presented in an incremental manner, i.e., by adding one new item to the list on each trial. Word order of old words was random, and new words were added either at the beginning, the end, or in the middle of the list. New items occurred early in output, even when they were added in the middle or at the end of input. As expected, input order on any given trial was unrelated to the organization of the output on that trial, but the output order did reflect in part the order of addition of new words to the random lists.
Amino acid-based dithiazines: synthesis and photofragmentation of their benzaldehyde adducts.

α-Amino acids and GABA are functionalized with dithiazine rings via reaction with sodium hydrosulfide in aqueous formaldehyde. The resulting dithiazines are lithiated at −78 °C and reacted with benzaldehyde furnishing amino acid-based 2,5-bis-substituted dithiazines. These adducts undergo externally sensitized photofragmentation with quantum efficiency comparable to that of the parent dithiane adducts, thus offering a novel approach to amino acid-based photolabile tethers.
Strategies for the prevention of low birth weight.

Summary Many health problems faced by Americans are not solely medical. They have social underpinnings and consequences. Medicine is essential to the final resolution of many of these pressing health problems, but they must be dealt with in a social context. Some health problems will be responsive as much to social change as to medical interventions. These should go hand in hand; however, the medical profession must not only follow but help lead the way.
COMT-dependent protection of dopaminergic neurons by methionine, dimethionine and S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) against L-dopa toxicity in vitro.

Abstract l -dopa may be toxic to dopamine neurons, possibly due to catechol-autoxidation. Catechols are O -methylated by catechol- O -methyltransferase (COMT) in a SAM consuming reaction, preventing the initiation of catechol autoxidation. We hypothesized that SAM or SAM-precursors ameliorate l -dopa neurotoxicity, in a COMT-dependent fashion. We tested this hypothesis in primary mesencephalic cultures by adding 200 μM l -dopa with 2 mM methionine or 1 mM dimethionine or 0.5 mM SAM with or without 0.2 μM of the COMT-inhibitor 2′, 5′-dinitrocatechol (OR 486). l -dopa was found to be neurotoxic as the surviving neurons had fewer and shorter processes. Methionine, dimethionine and SAM all protected DA neurons against damaged induced by l -dopa. The COMT inhibitor dinitrocatechol (DNC) completely abolished the protective effect against l -dopa toxicity. We conclude that supplementation with methionine, dimethionine or SAM ameliorates l -dopa neurotoxicity to dopamine neurons, while inhibition of COMT may aggravate or unmask l -dopa neurotoxicity.
Depot Leuprolide Acetate Dosage for Sexual Precocity

Twenty-one children with early puberty have been evaluated to determine adequate dosage of depot leuprolide acetate. The minimal dosage of depot leuprolide acetate required, using intervals of 1.5 mg or less when given every 28 days, was determined. This dosage, as determined by suppression of gonadotropin responses to GnRH stimulation, was 4.14 +/- 1.33 mg (mean +/- SD) and 0.15 +/- 0.07 mg/kg.28 days. The dosage correlates with bone age and pubertal stage and is larger among patients with more advanced puberty. Five patients required a larger dosage from 5-10 months after initial suppression. Therefore, to monitor suppression, GnRH testing should be repeated at least at 6-month intervals. Samples 20 and 40 min after GnRH stimulation are sufficient to indicate adequacy of treatment, so an abbreviated test could be used.
Low photosynthesis of treeline white spruce is associated with limited soil nitrogen availability in the Western Brooks Range, Alaska

Summary The prevailing hypothesis states that treeline positions are defined by the direct effects of cold temperatures on cell division and tree growth. Meanwhile, photosynthesis is thought to be relatively unrestricted in treeline trees. Support for this hypothesis comes from the global correlation between temperature and treeline position, the observation that many treelines have advanced in response to recent warming and the frequent use of increment cores from treeline trees to reconstruct past climates. However, studies of the physiology of trees at the Arctic treeline are rare, and this hypothesis remains largely untested. To improve our understanding of the relationships between temperature and performance of white spruce near the Arctic treeline, we made measurements of needle gas exchange, needle nutrition and soil nutrient availability over 2 years in three contrasting habitats: riverside terrace, hillslope forest and treeline. The sites had similar above-ground microclimates, but very different soil conditions. Soils were warm and dry on the terrace, cool and moist in the forest and cold and seasonally wet the treeline. Photosynthesis, needle nitrogen (N) concentration and soil N availability declined from the terrace to the forest to the treeline. Low N availability at the treeline was likely a consequence of limited microbial activity in the cold and seasonally wet soils. Soils at the treeline were colder than the terrace during the growing season and colder than the forest in winter, when the treeline maintains a shallow snowpack. Our results highlight the potential for an indirect effect of temperature on the growth of trees at the Arctic treeline and suggest that treeline responses to changes in climate may be more complex than previously thought.
Determinants of Consumer Acceptability of Bovine Somatotropin

Following much investigation and debate, on November 5, 1993, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of bovine somatotropin (bST) to increase milk production in lactating dairy cows. A Congressional moratorium on the sale of bST expired on February 3, 1994. The FDA concluded that because there was no significant difference between milk from treated and untreated cows, it did not have the authority to require special labelling for milk from bSTtreated cows. However, the FDA ruling did not preclude the labelling of products from untreated animals, provided such labelling was truthful and not misleading (United States Food and Drug Administration). A number of supermarket chains have indicated that they will not carry milk from treated animals and at least one ice cream manufacturer (Ben & Jerry's) refuses to use milk from treated animals. Since consumers will effectively have a choice between milk products from bST-treated or untreated animals, the commercial success or failure of this new technology will depend critically on consumer reaction. To date, the most common means of investigating consumer concerns about issues such as bST have been surveys. McGuirk and Kaiser conducted a survey of consumers in New York and Virginia. About one-quarter of their respondents expressed some doubt about the safety of "bST milk," and respondents in both states indicated they would decrease their purchases of fluid milk by 18 to 20 percent if bST were introduced. Smith and Warland summarized the results of a number of consumer
Studies in tropical American Leguminosae&#x2014;IX

Eleven new species of mostly caesalpinioid legumes are described:Dicymbe paruensis, Eperua praesagata, Jacqueshuberia loretensis, Macrolobium defloccatum, M. hartshornii, M. schinifolium, Swartzia acreana, S. aureosericea, S. bahiensis, S. bombycina, andS. oriximinaensis. In addition, a note is provided onPaloveopsis emarginata.
Extent of vegetation-free zone necessary for silvopasture establishment of eastern black walnut seedlings in tall fescue

Silvopasture—the integration of trees, forage, and livestock can be established by planting trees in existing pastures. Successful tree establishment and acceptable tree growth in existing tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.] pastures requires a vegetation-free zone near the tree base. This study was conducted to determine how large a vegetation-free zone was necessary for the establishment of black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) in tall fescue pastures. Half-sib black walnut seeds were planted in seven different-sized vegetation-free zones [0.0 (control), 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, 1.5, and 1.8 m radii] that were created and maintained by applying glyphosate. The study included two consecutive planting years at two locations, one in central Missouri and another in north-central Missouri. The central Missouri site was underlain with well drained, deep soil while the other site was underlain with a poorly drained soil with a defined argillic horizon. Tree height growth was greatest in 0.9-m or larger vegetation-free zones. Diameter growth was greatest in 1.2-m vegetation-free zones and larger. The results suggest that a minimum of a 1.2-m vegetation-free zone in tall fescue pastures should be used to maximize black walnut height and diameter growth in the critical first years of tree establishment.
Computer-aided lymph node segmentation in volumetric CT data

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to develop and validate a computer-aided method for the 3D segmentation of lymph nodes in CT images. The proposed method can be utilized to facilitate applications like biopsy planning, image guided radiation treatment, or assessment of response to therapy. Methods: An optimal surface finding based lymph node segmentation method was developed. Based on the approximate center point of a lymph node of interest, a graph is generated, which represents the local neighborhood around the lymph node at discrete locations (graph nodes). A cost function is calculated based on a weighted edge and region homogeneity term. By means of optimization, a surface-based segmentation of the lymph node is derived. In addition, an interactive segmentation refinement algorithm was developed, which allows the user to quickly correct segmentation errors, if needed. For assessment of segmentation accuracy, 111 lymph nodes of mediastinum, abdomen, head/neck, and axillary regions from 35 volumetric CT scans were utilized. For accuracy analysis, lymph nodes were divided into three test sets based on lymph node size and spatial resolution of the CT scan. The average lymph node size for test set I, II, and III was 1056, 1621, and 501 mm3, respectively. Spatial resolution of test set II was lower than for test sets I and III. To generate an independent reference standard for comparison, all 111 lymph nodes were segmented by an expert with a live wire approach. Results: All test sets were segmented with the proposed approach. Out of the 111 lymph nodes, 40 cases (36%) required computer-aided refinement of initial segmentation results. The refinement typically required 10 s per lymph node. The mean and standard deviation of the Dice coefficient for final segmentations was 0.847 ± 0.061, 0.836 ± 0.058, and 0.809 ± 0.070 for test sets I, II, and II, respectively. The average signed surface distance error was 0.023 ± 0.171, 0.394 ± 0.189, and 0.001 ± 0.146 mm for test sets I, II, and II, respectively. The time required for locating the approximate center point of a target lymph node in a scan, generating an initial OSF segmentation, and refining the segmentation, if needed, is typically less than one minute. Conclusions: Segmentation of lymph nodes in volumetric CT images is a challenging task due to partial volume effects, nearby strong edges, neighboring structures with similar intensity profiles and potentially inhomogeneous density of lymph nodes. The presented approach addresses many of these obstacles. In the majority of cases investigated, the initial segmentation method delivered results that did not require further processing. In addition, the computer-aided segmentation refinement framework was found to be effective in dealing with potentially occurring segmentation errors.
Independent component analysis-processed electronic nose data for predicting Salmonella typhimurium populations in contaminated beef

Abstract The changes in the headspace from stored beef strip loins inoculated with Salmonella typhimurium and stored at 20 °C were detected using an electronic nose system. Once the data was obtained six area-based features were extracted from the collected sensor data pertaining to the six metal oxide sensors present in the electronic nose. These extracted features were next dimensionally reduced by principal component analysis (PCA) and the independent components (IC) were extracted by FastICA package. The extracted independent components and principal components (PC) were compared by plotting them individually against the Salmonella population counts. A stepwise linear regression prediction model with the IC and PC as inputs was also built. The prediction model with IC as input performed better with an average prediction accuracy of 82.99%, and root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.803. For the model using the PC as the input, the average prediction accuracy was 69.64% and the RMSE was 1.358. The results obtained suggest that the use of higher-order statistical techniques like ICA could help in extracting more useful information than PCA and could help in improving the performance of the sensor system. Further analysis needs to be carried out on larger datasets, and by using non-parametric data analysis techniques like artificial neural networks to build the prediction models from the ICA extracted components.
Fields of quotients of lattice-ordered domains

It is not known whether the field of fractions of an integral domain with a compatible lattice order has a compatible lattice order that extends the given order on the integral domain. The polynomial ring $$\mathbb{R}[x,x^{ - 1} ]$$ over the real numbers $$\mathbb{R}$$ has a natural compatible lattice order, viz, the coordinatewise order ≥. We describe circumstances in which the field of fractions of $$(\mathbb{R}[x,x^{ - 1} ], + , \cdot , \geq )$$ has no archimedean lattice order that extends ≥.
Evolutionary, clinical and molecular cytogenetics in water buffalo: an update.

Cytogenetics represents one of the modern biotechnologies applied to the genetic improvement of livestock, including the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), one of the most important economic species raised in the world, especially in the East Countries. Cytogenetics covers several aspects of the genetic improvement. In the present paper, an update on the evolutionary, clinical and molecular cytogenetics of the water buffalo is reported. Evoluzionary cytogenetics: Two main types of buffaloes are present in the world: the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and the Asiatic buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). The latter has two subspecies: the river type (2n=50) and the swamp type (2n=48). These two species diverged by a tandem fusion translocation involving river buffalo chromosomes 4 and 9 (telomere of 4p and centromere of 9). This fusion was accompanied by loss of the nucleolus organizer regions (NORs) present in river buffalo chromosome 4p, and large portions of constitutive heterochromatin (HC) present in river buffalo chromosome 9. River and swamp buffaloes are normally crossbreed, especially to increase milk production in swamp buffaloes. The hybrid (2n=49) could have a lower fertility due to unbalanced chromosome embryos. Further informations differentiating tribe bovinae (cattle and water buffalo) from the remaining ones belonging to bovidae family will be given. Clinical cytogenetics: The study of water buffalo karyotype is very important because several studies have demonstrated that about 20% of females with reproductive problems (lack of oestrus in fertility age or large delay in the return in oestrus) show sex chromosome abnormalities and almost of them have been found to be sterile for serious damages occurring in internal sex adducts. In Italy, in collaboration with the National Buffalo Breeder Association (ANASB), cytogenetic controls of bulls and males addressed to the reproduction, as well as on some females with reproductive problems, have been performed to eliminate the carriers of chromosome abnormalities, adding economic value to river buffalo breeding. These studies are routinely performed by using both CBA- and RBA-banding techniques. Specific cases are also studied by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) technique and specific molecular markers (generally bovine BAC-clones). Molecular cytogenetics: The availability of specific molecular markers containing coding sequences (generally bovine or ovine BAC-clones) and the use of the FISH-technique have opened the door to the molecular cytogenetics also for water buffalo. Indeed, cytogenetic maps with specific and detailed location of loci
Ca2+-binding proteins in the retina: Structure, function, and the etiology of human visual diseases

The complex sensation of vision begins with the relatively simple photoisomerization of the visual pigment chromophore 11-cis-retinal to its all-trans configuration. This event initiates a series of biochemical reactions that are collectively referred to as phototransduction, which ultimately lead to a change in the electrochemical signaling of the photoreceptor cell. To operate in a wide range of light intensities, however, the phototransduction pathway must allow for adjustments to background light. These take place through physiological adaptation processes that rely primarily on Ca(2+) ions. While Ca(2+) may modulate some activities directly, it is more often the case that Ca(2+)-binding proteins mediate between transient changes in the concentration of Ca(2+) and the adaptation processes that are associated with phototransduction. Recently, combined genetic, physiological, and biochemical analyses have yielded new insights about the properties and functions of many phototransduction-specific components, including some novel Ca(2+)-binding proteins. Understanding these Ca(2+)-binding proteins will provide a more complete picture of visual transduction, including the mechanisms associated with adaptation, and of related degenerative diseases.
Use of Ubiquitin Fusions to Augment Protein Expression in Transgenic Plants

A major goal of plant biotechnology is the production of genetically engineered crops that express natural or foreign proteins at high levels. To enhance protein accumulation in transgenic plants, we developed a set of vectors that express proteins and peptides as C-terminal translational fusions with ubiquitin (UBQ). Studies of several proteins in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) showed that: (a) proteins can be readily expressed in plants as UBQ fusions; (b) by the action of endogenous UBQ-specific proteases (Ubps), these fusions are rapidly and precisely processed in vivo to release the fused protein moieties in free forms; (c) the synthesis of a protein as a UBQ fusion can significantly augment its accumulation; (d) proper processing and localization of a protein targeted to either the apoplast or the chloroplast is not affected by the N-terminal UBQ sequence; and (e) single amino acid substitutions surrounding the cleavage site can inhibit in vivo processing of the fusion by Ubps. Noncleavable UBQ fusions of β-glucuronidase became extensively modified, with additional UBQs in planta. Because multiubiquitinated proteins are the preferred substrates of the 26S proteasome, noncleavable fusions may be useful for decreasing protein half-life. Based on their ability to augment protein accumulation and the sequence specificity of Ubps, UBQ fusions offer a versatile way to express plant proteins.
Mainstreaming Gerontology in the Policy Arena

Aging has come of age and is now one of the important domestic issues facing the United States. What we do or don't do in the 1990s will determine what type of aging society we will have in the next century. The challenge we face as gerontologists is to think about new ways to help broaden the debate about preparing for an aging society in a comprehensive manner that takes into account the diverse disciplines and interest groups that will increasingly shape aging-related issues. Those who have labored in the field of aging when it was a relatively cloistered profession should delight in the new-found respect and recognition of their work by the larger society. On the other hand, this mainstreaming of aging will create new challenges and opportunities, as we look ahead to the new aging.
Environmental induction of the fetal epigenome

The healthy adult is the result of successful interaction between the maternal environment and the developing fetal epigenome. The Barker hypothesis first suggested that in utero exposure to the maternal environment impacts adult health and disease. Since the origin of this theory, numerous studies have lent further support. Epigenomic alteration involves DNA methylation and histone modifications. Pregnancy, when the epigenome is typically actively programmed, is a vulnerable time, when exposures may have the most profound epigenetic effect. Recent advances have allowed an understanding of the extent and mechanism by which environmental exposures alter the epigenome of the fetus. Healthcare providers who treat and counsel reproductive-age women are in a unique position to protect against these epigenetic alterations and therefore prevent adverse impact on the developing fetus that may manifest throughout life.
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy matters in daily life.

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy is a neuro-cognitive dysfunction which occurs in an epidemic proportion of cirrhotic patients, estimated as high as 80% of the population tested. It is characterized by a specific, complex cognitive dysfunction which is independent of sleep dysfunction or problems with overall intelligence. Although named “minimal”, minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) can have a far-reaching impact on quality of life, ability to function in daily life and progression to overt hepatic encephalopathy. Importantly, MHE has a profound negative impact on the ability to drive a car and may be a significant factor behind motor vehicle accidents. A crucial aspect of the clinical care of MHE patients is their driving history, which is often ignored in routine care and can add a vital dimension to the overall disease assessment. Driving history should be an integral part of care in patients with MHE. The lack of specific signs and symptoms, the preserved communication skills and lack of insight make MHE a difficult condition to diagnose. Diagnostic strategies for MHE abound, but are usually limited by financial, normative or time constraints. Recent studies into the inhibitory control and critical flicker frequency tests are encouraging since these tests can increase the rates of MHE diagnosis without requiring a psychologist. Although testing for MHE and subsequent therapy is not standard of care at this time, it is important to consider this in cirrhotics in order to improve their ability to live their life to the fullest.
Temperature imaging in a supersonic free jet of combustion gases with two-line OH fluorescence

Temperature measurements were performed in a shock-tunnel-generated free jet of hydrogen/oxygen reaction products diluted in argon with a nonsimultaneous, two-excitation-line planar laser-induced fluorescence technique with the hydroxyl radical (OH) as a tracer. Single-shot images were obtained with broadband excitation of isolated transitions in the A2Σ+ ← X2Π(1, 0) band of OH near 282 nm, with broadband, temporally integrated detection of the resulting nonresonant emission. A measurement of the fluorescence lifetime in the free jet showed no variation with excited rotational level, allowing the rotational temperature to be obtained from the ratio of single-shot images with laser excitation of different rovibronic transitions.
Brain Evolution and Comparative Neuroanatomy

Brains have many diverse forms in different animal groups, from complex layered structures to simple nerve nets. The range of different brain forms is reflective of the huge variety of environmental niches and lifestyles in which organisms have been successful. Both simple and elaborate brains are adaptive, depending on the selective pressures to which organisms are subjected. In vertebrates, a basic plan can be recognised across groups, especially in the brainstem, but the forebrain of birds and mammals is much more elaborate than those of other vertebrates. Elaborate nervous systems have developed independently in some molluscs, arthropods and vertebrates. Correlated with this elaboration is the capacity for complex learning, which is highly developed in some molluscs, arthropods and birds and mammals. The presence of elaborated brains in disparate groups illustrates that evolution of the brain has not shown a trend from simple to complex, but rather has occurred independently in different lineages. Key Concepts: Two structures are homologous if they can be traced to a common ancestor. Because brains do not fossilise, establishment of brain homologies requires as much information as possible about the similarities between brains of different groups. There is no trend in the evolution of the brain. Specialisations in brain traits develop in response to the demands of various environmental selective pressures. Many animals with simple nervous systems are very successful. Two major groups of invertebrates can be distinguished: those with radial symmetry and those with bilateral symmetry. Those with radial symmetry have simple nervous systems with a ring of neurons, while bilaterally symmetrical organisms have concentrations of neurons in the head region. Octopi, insects and crustaceans have elaborate brains, well-developed eyes and extensive learning ability, rivalling that of mammals. The brains of the earliest chordate ancestors of vertebrates had bilateral eyes, a diencephalon and hindbrain. All vertebrates have the same subdivisions of the brain: the hindbrain, midbrain and forebrain (the diencephalon and telencephalon). The hindbrain is relatively conservative, retaining a recognisable structure in spite of many variations, whereas the forebrain shows more variability among vertebrate groups. Twenty-five cranial nerves can be recognised in vertebrates, innervating muscles of the head and specialized sense organs, including lateral line organs and taste buds on the body surface. The vertebrate telencephalon includes a dorsal pallial area which differentiates into the cerebral cortex in mammals, but there is disagreement about the homologous areas in nonmammals. Brains have evolved to enable organisms to compete successfully in different environmental niches and the adaptations they show reflect the demands of those environments. Keywords: evolution of brain; insect brain; nerve net; octopus; vertebrate brain; telencephalon; fish; reptile; bird; pallium
10% efficiency solar cells with 0.5 µm of CdTe

Fabricating high-efficiency CdS/CdTe solar cells with ultra-thin (below 1µm) absorber layers is a challenging yet highly desirable step in improving CdTe technology. Typically solar cell performance decreases due to shunting, incomplete absorption (deep penetration loss), fully depleted CdTe layers or interference between the main and the back contact junction when the CdTe layer thickness approaches a certain limit. While some of these losses are fundamental, others can be minimized by careful optimization of the fabrication steps. We present the results of such optimization.
Up‐regulation of MKK4, MKK6 and MKK7 during prostate cancer progression: an important role for SAPK signalling in prostatic neoplasia

Identification of the signalling cascades that are differentially activated during prostatic tumourigenesis is a crucial step in the search for future molecular targets in this disease. The stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) signalling cascade culminates in the phosphorylation of the JNK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Recently, the upstream activators of these proteins, the MAPK kinases (MKKs), have been implicated as inhibitors of tumour progression in a variety of clinical and experimental tumour models. This study evaluates MKK4, MKK6 and MKK7 expression during prostate cancer progression in humans and in the transgenic adenocarcinoma of a mouse prostate (TRAMP) model of prostate tumourigenesis. Benign prostate, prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) lesions and tumour tissues were collected from 37 TRAMP mice. Additionally, six tissue microarrays were constructed with tumours from a matched group of 102 men who underwent radical prostatectomy. Tissues from 20 patients with extensive high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) were also analysed. For all samples, immunohistochemical staining for MKK4, MKK6 and MKK7 was scored in normal and neoplastic glands. Staining intensities of MKK4, MKK6 and MKK7 were significantly increased in HGPIN and prostate cancer compared to surrounding normal glands in both the TRAMP and human samples (p < 0.0001 for all markers). Increased levels of MKK4 or MKK7 correlated with higher pathological stage at prostatectomy (p = 0.01 and p = 0.04). Using multivariate analysis, there was no association between protein levels and time to biochemical recurrence in the human samples. The up-regulation of MKK4, MKK6 and MKK7 during prostate cancer progression in both TRAMP and human tissues highlights an important role for the SAPK signalling cascade in prostatic neoplasia. The finding that higher MKK4 and MKK7 expression is associated with higher-stage prostatic tumours underscores the dynamic regulation of these proteins during prostatic tumourigenesis.
STRUCTURAL EMBEDDEDNESS AND SUPPLIER MANAGEMENT: A NETWORK PERSPECTIVE*

The concept of structural embeddedness refers to the importance of framing suppliers as being embedded in larger supply networks rather than in isolation. Such framing helps buying companies create more realistic policies and strategies when managing their suppliers. Simply put, the performance of a supplier is dependent on its own supply networks. By adopting the concept of structural embeddedness, we learn that a buying company needs to look at a supplier's extended supply network to arrive at a more complete evaluation of that supplier's performance. By doing so, a buying company may do a better job of selecting suppliers for long-term relationships and may also find value in maintaining relationships with poorly performing suppliers who may potentially act as a conduit to other companies with technological and innovative resources.
Infaunal burrow densities and sediment monomethyl mercury distributions in Boston Harbor, Massachusetts

We investigated the relationship between infaunal population density and monomethyl mercury (MMHg) accumulation in Boston Harbor sediments. Two hypotheses were addressed: 1) the depth of maximum MMHg concentration is positively correlated with infaunal burrow density, and 2) maximum MMHg inventories occur at intermediate burrow densities. These hypotheses were based on a model for MMHg production in which Hg methylation occurs primarily in a narrow zone characterized by relatively low concentrations of pore water sulfide. The presence of burrows indirectly influences MMHg production and accumulation by controlling the geometry of this Hg methylation zone. The observed patterns of burrow density, bulk sediment MMHg and pore water oxygen and sulfide concentration profiles were consistent with both hypotheses. The observed decrease in MMHg inventory at very high burrow density could also be explained by enhanced efflux of MMHg from the most densely populated site.
DAIRY FARM SIZE, ENTRY, AND EXIT IN A DECLINING PRODUCTION REGION

As with most agricultural industries, the U.S. dairy industry has evolved into a structure including fewer yet larger firms. In Louisiana, total milk production has declined along with dairy farm numbers since 1972. This study addresses the impact of alternative policies, macroeconomic factors, and technology on the structure of the Louisiana dairy industry using a micro-data non-stationary Markov chain analysis. Results indicate that a number of factors have affected the structure of the industry in Louisiana, including but not limited to prices, milk supply reduction programs, technology and interest rates.
Strength Degradation of Sapphire Fibers During Pressure Casting of a Sapphire-Reinforced Ni-Base Superalloy

Copyright 1998 ASM International. This paper was published in Metallurgical and Materials Transactions A: PhysicalMetallurgy and Materials Science, Vol. 29.5, 1527-1530 and is made available as an electronic reprint with the permissionof ASM International. One print or electronic copy may be made for personal use only. Systematic or multiplereproduction, distribution to multiple locations via electronic or other means, duplications of any material in this paperfor a fee or for commercial purposes, or modification of the content of this paper are prohibited.Available on publisher's site at:http://www.asminternational.org/portal/site/www/AsmStore/ProductDetails/?vgnextoid=743cc777b3426210VgnVCM100000621e010aRCRD.
Plasma membrane deformation by circular arrays of ESCRT-III protein filaments

Endosomal sorting complex required for transport III (ESCRT-III) proteins function in multivesicular body biogenesis and viral budding. They are recruited from the cytoplasm to the membrane, where they assemble into large complexes. We used “deep-etch” electron microscopy to examine polymers formed by the ESCRT-III proteins hSnf7-1 (CHMP4A) and hSnf7-2 (CHMP4B). When overexpressed, these proteins target to endosomes and the plasma membrane. Both hSnf7 proteins assemble into regular approximately 5-nm filaments that curve and self-associate to create circular arrays. Binding to a coexpressed adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis–deficient mutant of VPS4B draws these filaments together into tight circular scaffolds that bend the membrane away from the cytoplasm to form buds and tubules protruding from the cell surface. Similar buds develop in the absence of mutant VPS4B when hSnf7-1 is expressed without its regulatory C-terminal domain. We demonstrate that hSnf7 proteins form novel membrane-attached filaments that can promote or stabilize negative curvature and outward budding. We suggest that ESCRT-III polymers delineate and help generate the luminal vesicles of multivesicular bodies.
Breaking wave-induced response and instability of seabed around caisson breakwater

SUMMARY Breaking-wave-induced dynamic response and instability of seabed around a caisson breakwater are investigated. A seabed-rubble-breakwater system is modeled using finite elements. The impact response of the porous seabed and rubble foundation is assumed to be governed by the coupled Biot equations, and three possible formulations are considered with respect to the inclusion of inertial terms. The response is presented in terms of shear stress and pore pressure distributions at three locations underneath the breakwater. The effect of seabed and wave parameters and the inertial terms on the impact response is investigated through parametric studies. Analyses show that usually partly dynamic formulation yields the largest response amplitudes as compared to the fully dynamic formulation, which is the most complete form. The instability of seabed and rubble mound as a result of instantaneous liquefaction is also studied. Breaking wave-induced pressures in some cases are found to cause liquefaction in the rubble and the seabed. The effect of some parameters on the instability is found to be significant. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Screening soldiers in outpatient care for mental health concerns

ABSTRACT Significant recent effort has been directed toward screening and describing military populations in relation to deployment. Missing from these recent efforts is information describing screened mental health symptoms for the population of active duty military that are seen for mental health services. This article presents mental health screening data for 2,882 soldiers seeking services at a military facility outpatient behavioral health clinic. Screening positive for multiple symptom domains was common, with >60% of the sample screening positive for more than one clinical symptom domain. Post-traumatic stress disorder and depression were among the most commonly identified disorders, followed by alcohol abuse. This screening data, gathered using measures similar to those used in published deployment-related screening efforts, suggest differences that exist between the clinical population and the overall military population, providing some insights into the rates of clinical symptomatology within th...
On the status of Simocephalus riggenbachi Sternfeld 1910

Abstract Comparison of the type of Simocephalus riggenbachi Sternfeld 1910 with material from Nigeria and Ghana suggests that it is based on a peripheral variant of Mehela crossi (Boulenger 1895) and should therefore be placed in synonymy. Although the type locality was given as ‘Ubac, Kamerun’, this apparently refers to the village of Ubao, near the upper reaches of the Benue River.
Further Developments in Treebank Error Detection Using Derivation Trees

This work describes how derivation tree fragments based on a variant of Tree Adjoining Grammar (TAG) can be used to check treebank consistency. Annotation of word sequences are compared both for their internal structural consistency, and their external relation to the rest of the tree. We expand on earlier work in this area in three ways. First, we provide a more complete description of the system, showing how a naive use of TAG structures will not work, leading to a necessary refinement. We also provide a more complete account of the processing pipeline, including the grouping together of structurally similar errors and their elimination of duplicates. Second, we include the new experimental external relation check to find an additional class of errors. Third, we broaden the evaluation to include both the internal and external relation checks, and evaluate the system on both an Arabic and English treebank. The evaluation has been successful enough that the internal check has been integrated into the standard pipeline for current English treebank construction at the Linguistic Data Consortium
Housing, Housing Policy, and Housing Finance: Time for a Re-Assessment

Although the topic of housing – housing prices, housing policy, housing finance – has largely fallen by the wayside as a “hot” news item, these issues remain largely unresolved. This paper reviews the recent history of housing finance and housing policy, examines the realistic policy choices, and offers some recommendations.
Insemination of Protogynes of Aculus cornutus from Spermatophores and Description of the Sperm Cell

Protogynes (summer-form females) of Aculus cornutus (Banks) (Acari: Eriophyidae), were observed to exhibit a characteristic behavior during which they locate, visit, and become inseminated from spermatophores. Insemination involves the removal of sperm from the globose sperm reservoir in the distal region of the head of the spermatophore and its subsequent deposition in one of a pair of short-ducted spermathecae in the posterior region of the genitalia. When the spermatheca is filled with sperm, it assumes a spheroid shape, and its size corresponds closely to that of the sperm reservoir of the spermatophore. The sperm cells from spermatophores (≤1 day old) are spheroid, nonflagellate, and measure about 2 µ in diameter.
LEFT VENTRICULAR VORTEX FORMATION AND ALTERED FLOW ENERGETICS IN DIASTOLIC DYSFUNCTION

The diastolic vortex in the left ventricle (LV) acts as a kinetic energy reservoir for facilitating propulsion and redirection of blood flow in systole. We hypothesized that diastolic dysfunction is characterized by breakdown of vortex with increased dissipation of the stored energy which eliminates