cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthetic Jet Flow Field Database for CFD Validation

An oscillatory zero net mass flow jet was generated by a cavity-pumping device, namely a synthetic jet actuator. This basic oscillating jet flow field was selected as the first of the three test cases for the Langley workshop on CFD Validation of Synthetic Jets and Turbulent Separation Control. The purpose of this workshop was to assess the current CFD capabilities to predict unsteady flow fields of synthetic jets and separation control. This paper describes the characteristics and flow field database of a synthetic jet in a quiescent fluid. In this experiment, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV), and hot-wire anemometry were used to measure the jet velocity field. In addition, the actuator operating parameters including diaphragm displacement, internal cavity pressure, and internal cavity temperature were also documented to provide boundary conditions for CFD modeling.
Immunomodulatory role of probiotics in poultry and potential in ovo application.

Recently, there has been an increasing debate regarding the use of sub-therapeutic antibiotics in animal feed. This stems from worries that this practice may result in microbial resistance to human antibiotics employed in treating infections, thus causing a human health concern. Due to this tension, the poultry industry is under mounting pressure to reduce the use of these agents as feed additives and alternative control methods have taken the forefront in the research community. Investigators are searching for the latest alternative that will protect flocks from disease, while not hindering performance or negatively impacting profit margins. Probiotic supplementation is one option currently being explored as a means of improving performance and reducing the amount and severity of enteric diseases in poultry, and subsequent contamination of poultry products for human consumption. Probiotics are live, nonpathogenic microorganisms known to have a positive effect on the host by beneficially modifying gut mic...
Investigation of the potential for radon mitigation by operation of mechanical systems affecting indoor air

Mitigation of radon gas and radon progeny in buildings is based largely on reducing the pressure difference between the point of the radiation source and the point of entry to indoor air. This study identifies the influence of mechanical systems, of air-conditioning and 'wet' systems of central heating as potential remediation agents in the control of radon and progeny concentrations. Air-conditioning was found to reduce radon levels in a systematic way within a few hours of start-up, to a low fraction of the immediately preceding concentration. Central heating reduced the level by around 40% of the preceding high within a few hours of start-up. Importantly for health concerns, under operating conditions of both types of system the level of radon progeny was reduced to a greater extent than the radon progenitor.
Evidence against an abnormal hepatic microsomal lipid matrix as the primary genetic defect in the jaundiced Gunn rat

Abstract The congenitally jaundiced Gunn rat does not conjugate bilirubin but does conjugate bilirubin dimethyl diester. Partial defects in conjugating p-nitrophenol and demethylating aminopyrine are also evident. A proposed mechanism to explain this combination of findings is a defective microsomal membrane. To examine the ‘matrix’ of Gunn microsomal membranes, hepatic microsomes were isolated from Gunn (jj) and outbred Wistar (JJ) rats and were studied by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy of 7-doxylstearic and 12-doxylstearic acid probes, fluorescence polarization of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene, glucose-6-phosphatase activity vs. temperature, and lipid analysis. The data indicate several factors related to lipid bilayer order do not differ in microsomes from jj and JJ.
Sticky Rice Balls or Lemon Pie: Enjoyment and ethnic identities in No-No Boy and Obasan

The element which holds together a given community cannot be reduced to the point of symbolic identification: the bond linking together its members always implies a shared relationship toward a Thi...
Optimal clocking and enhanced testability for high-performance self-resetting domino pipelines

We describe a method to clock the domino pipeline at the maximum rate by using soft synchronizers between pipeline stages and thus allowing "time borrowing" i.e., allowing input signals to arrive at a pipe stage after the clock tick. We show a robust way of placing "roadblocks" (equivalent to slave latches) in each pipe stage to maintain the optimal clock rate. As explicit latches are not required at the pipe stage boundaries, the latch overhead is eliminated. We use the self-resetting scheme to circumvent often performance-limiting precharge timing requirements. We also address several issues regarding the testability of self-resetting domino circuits including scan register design and multiple stuck fault testing.
Infrared imagery of an air/CO2 axisymmetric jet

This experiment uses an infrared imaging system to investigate a subsonic, non-isoenergetic, air/CO2 axisymmetric jet. The classical limitations of using IR imagery with hot gases are presented and a novel approach to overcome these limitations is proposed. The results suggest that radial and axial irradiant profiles measured with the IR imager, when non-dimensionalized, collapse onto curves of similarity. This behavior could allow temperature, velocity, and concentration profiles to be deduced from the IR image.
The dianion Claisen rearrangement of β-hydroxy esters

Abstract Claisen rearrangement of β-hydroxy allylic ester dianions provides stereocontrolled access to three contiguous chiral centers on an acyclic framework; an unambiguous method has been developed for assessing diastereoselectivity.
Efficacy of human salivary mucin MUC7-derived peptide and histatin 5 in a murine model of candidiasis

MUC7 16-mer (residues 36-51 of human salivary mucin, MUC7) and histatin 5 possess potent in vitro antifungal activity. In the present study, we have evaluated the efficacy of these peptides in vivo using the experimental model of murine vulvo-vaginal candidiasis. The treatment groups included MUC7 16-mer, histatin 5, clotrimazole (all in pluronic F127 gel), and placebo (gel alone). Mice were treated intravaginally for 7 consecutive days. At the end of the treatment, anticandidal activities were assessed by colony counts and by histological examination. All groups except clotrimazole presented positive cultures; no statistically significant differences were found in fungal burden amongst placebo and any treatment group except clotrimazole. Histopathological findings confirmed the microbiological results; all groups with the exception of clotrimazole showed variable signs of infection.
Evidence is lacking to support pelvic examinations as a screening tool for non-cervical cancers or other conditions

Commentary on : Bloomfield HE, Olson A, Greer N, et al. Screening pelvic examinations in asymptomatic, average-risk adult women: an evidence report for a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 2014;161:46–53.[OpenUrl][1][CrossRef][2][PubMed][3][Web of Science][4] The pelvic examination (PE) includes a visual examination of external genitalia, the speculum examination, and the bimanual examination (BME).1 Coupled with the Pap test, the PE is considered part of the annual well-woman examination. This systematic review evaluated the evidence for the PE to detect non-cervical cancers and benign conditions such as fibroids. This evidence review approach differs from those conducted by the US Preventive Services Task Force, which considers a particular examination or test for the prevention of a specific disease.2 This systematic review assessed … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DAnn%2BIntern%2BMed%26rft.issn%253D0003-4819%26rft.volume%253D161%26rft.spage%253D46%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.7326%252FM13-2881%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F24979449%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=10.7326/M13-2881&link_type=DOI [3]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=24979449&link_type=MED&atom=%2Febmed%2F20%2F1%2F31.atom [4]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=000338419700005&link_type=ISI
Prostaglandins and hypertension

Generalized arteriolar vasoconstriction is the dominant element in essential hypertension. Although the proximate cause of this process remains elusive, several lines of evidence suggest that abnormalities in prostaglandin and thromboxane metabolism may contribute to the pathophysiology of hypertension. Diminished endogenous synthesis of vasodilator prostaglandins and enhanced formation of the vasoconstrictor thromboxane may participate in this process, particularly in the kidney. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, may aggravate blood pressure control, especially when used with certain diuretics and other antihypertensive medications. Attempts to enhance endogenous synthesis of prostaglandin metabolites expressing potent vasodilator properties by supplementation of the diet with polyunsaturated fatty acids may provide a new strategy to control blood pressure.
Massive initial prostaglandin impact in postconceptional therapy.

Abstract The abortifacient effect of an initial PG F2α impact has been examined in 10 obstetrically normal first trimester pregnant patients. Sedated patients were given extraamniotically an average initial dose of 8.1±0.8mg PG F2α during a 10 minute instillation. Side effects occurred occasionally but were minimal. Uterine contracture developed rapidly reaching an average pressure of 83.2±11.3mm Hg in about 20 minutes, and then slightly declined with time. Superimposed on the contracture response were gradually increasing cyclic changes in intrauterine pressure which reached a magnitude of 129.8±12.2mm Hg by 10 hours after initial treatment. Initial therapy was augmented in some cases by an average of 4mg PG F2α; only 4 patients required oxytocin supportive therapy. The patients aborted in an average of 10.9±2.0 hours. Seven aborted completely, 2 left behind small placental residues and one retained the placenta during a period of 11.5 hours. An abortion score (AbS) of 92 was obtained in the study which is the highest in 6 consecutive studies using various methods of PG F2α administration. Plasma estradiol-17⨿ and progesterone levels decreased continuously during the instillation abortion time in the complete aborters, while the incomplete aborters showed lesser changes. It is concluded that massive intrauterine PG F2α injection is a more efficacious and acceptable form of postconceptional therapy than protracted treatment. Such therapy appears to convert the refractory uterus into a spontaneously active and pharmacologically reactive organ by inducing vasoconstriction, myometrical stretch, and feto-placental insufficiency.
Targeting the BH3 Domain Mediated Protein−Protein Interaction of Bcl-xL through Virtual Screening

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, forms an important part of the cellular regulation machinery. The Bcl-2 protein family, comprising of proapoptotic and antiapoptotic members, forms an important part of the cells internal apoptotic pathway. Overexpression of the antiapoptotic members of the family in a number of cancer cell lines renders them immune to apoptosis and the ability to survive under conditions of cellular stress. Inhibition of the antiapoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family are, therefore, an interesting target for the development of anticancer therapy. An innovative structure-based virtual screening strategy was developed to identify inhibitors of Bcl-xL, an antiapoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family. Various innovative filters, such as receptor-based pharmacophore, cascade docking approach, cross-docking, and composite scoring with docking pose based descriptors were designed through exhaustive validation studies and implemented in the screening funnel. The 1.8 million ‘big-n-greasy’ subset f...
Fatal complication from central venous cannulation in a paediatric liver transplant patient

We report a fatal complication from central venous cannulation in a child undergoing heterotropic liver transplantation. Following the attempted placement of a cannula in the left internal jugular vein, extravasation of blood products via the cannula resulted in haemothorax, hypotension and eventual brain death. Possible causes and strategies for prevention of this complication are discussed.
MAELSTROM: efficient simulation-based synthesis for custom analog cells

Analog synthesis tools have failed to migrate into mainstream use primarily because of difficulties in reconciling the simplified models required for synthesis with the industrial-strength simulation environments required for validation. MAELSTROM is a new approach that synthesizes a circuit using the same simulation environment created to validate the circuit. We introduce a novel genetic/annealing optimizer, and leverage network parallelism to achieve efficient simulator-in-the-loop analog synthesis.
Clouds at Arctic Atmospheric Observatories. Part II: Thermodynamic Phase Characteristics

Abstract Cloud phase defines many cloud properties and determines the ways in which clouds interact with other aspects of the climate system. The occurrence fraction and characteristics of clouds distinguished by their phase are examined at three Arctic atmospheric observatories. Each observatory has the basic suite of instruments that are necessary to identify cloud phase, namely, cloud radar, depolarization lidar, microwave radiometer, and twice-daily radiosondes. At these observatories, ice clouds are more prevalent than mixed-phase clouds, which are more prevalent than liquid-only clouds. Cloud ice occurs 60%–70% of the time over a typical year, at heights up to 11 km. Liquid water occurs at temperatures above −40°C and is increasingly more likely as temperatures increase. Within the temperature range from −40° to −30°C, liquid water occurs in 3%–5% of the observed cloudiness. Liquid water is found higher in the atmosphere when accompanied by ice; there are few liquid-only clouds above 3 km, although ...
The triphenylmethyl group as thiol protection during ruthenium-promoted synthesis of tetraalkyl-p-phenylenediamine systems having alkanethiol side chains

Abstract The use of triphenylmethyl as thiol protecting group during the construction of thioalkyl-substituted tetraalkyl-p-phenylenediamine derivatives, via arene–ruthenium chemistry, is reported.
Linearization of class D amplifiers

Signal dependent propagation delay and supply modulation are among the major sources of performance deterioration in class D amplifiers. More so in the case where the control of the common-mode EMI of a Class D amplifier utilizes DSP-based signal spreading techniques and requires the switching amplifier to be “linear” to avoid folding the high frequency spectrum into the audio band. This paper reviews the sources of nonlinearity and describes two original solutions based on analog feedback techniques for a 3W audio amplifier that were implemented in a 110 nm CMOS process.
Role of spinal NMDA and non-NMDA receptors in the pressor reflex response to abdominal ischemia.

Abdominal ischemia induces a pressor reflex caused mainly by C-fiber afferent stimulation. Because excitatory amino acids, such as glutamate, bind to N -methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and non-NMDA [ dl -α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionate (AMPA)] receptors and serve as important spinal neurotransmitters, we hypothesized that both receptors play a role in the abdominal ischemia pressor reflex. In chloralose-anesthetized cats, NMDA receptor blockade with 25.0 mM dl -2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoate did not alter the pressor reflex (33 ± 9 to 33 ± 7 mmHg, P > 0.05, n = 4), whereas AMPA receptor blockade with 4.0 mM 6-nitro-7-sulfamylbenzo( f )quinoxaline-2,3-dione significantly attenuated the reflex (29 ± 5 to 16 ± 4 mmHg, P < 0.05, n = 6). Because several studies suggest that anesthesia masks the effects of glutamatergic receptors, this experiment was repeated on decerebrate cats, and in this group, NMDA receptor blockade with 25.0 mM dl -2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoate significantly altered the pressor reflex (36 ± 3 to 25 ± 4 mmHg, P < 0.05, n = 5). Our combined data suggest that spinal NMDA and AMPA receptors play a role in the abdominal ischemia pressor reflex.
Role of a Multidisciplinary Clinic in the Management of Patients with Pancreatic Cysts: A Single-Center Cohort Study

Background Incidental pancreatic cysts are common, a small number of which are premalignant or malignant. Multidisciplinary care has been shown to alter management and improve outcomes in many types of cancers, but its role has not been examined in patients with pancreatic cysts. We assessed the effect of a multidisciplinary pancreatic cyst clinic (MPCC) on the diagnosis and management of patients with pancreatic cysts.
Arthropods of a semi-natural grassland in an urban environment: the John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York

Semi-natural grassland habitat fragments, such as those found on airports, might be important for arthropod conservation and biodiversity in urban ecosystems. The objectives of this study were to: (1) describe the arthropod communities present within the grasslands on the John F. Kennedy International Airport and (2) assess spatial and temporal variation in those arthropod communities. We collected arthropods using a vacuum sampler during 2003 and using sweep-net collection methods during 2003 and 2004. During 2003, a total of 1,467 arthropods, representing 17 orders and 68 families were found in vacuum samples. A total of 3,784 arthropods, representing 12 orders and 94 families were collected in sweep-net samples during 2003. In 2004, a total of 3,281 arthropods, representing 12 orders and 85 families were collected in sweep-net samples. Hemiptera, Orthoptera, and Diptera were the most abundant taxa, accounting for 47, 18, and 14% of all arthropods captured, respectively. We found evidence of spatial and temporal variation in arthropod abundance, in particular as noted by fluctuations in Orthoptera: Acrididae and Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha. Hemipteran family diversity was also influenced by habitat type. Grassland habitats on airfields, although influenced by anthropogenic factors (e.g., mowing), have the potential to provide abundant and diverse arthropod communities and might serve as a refugium for such species within urban ecosystems.
The Wrist Insufflation Test: A Confirmatory Test for Detecting Intercarpal Ligament and Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Tears

Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of the wrist insufflation test based on mean radiocarpal and midcarpal joint space volumes. Methods Twenty-nine patients underwent 3-4 portal radiocarpal and radial midcarpal portal insufflation before wrist arthroscopy. The volume remaining in the radiocarpal space at equilibrium was recorded, and the contour of the dorsal wrist and distal radioulnar joint was palpated for a fluid wave. After insufflation, wrist arthroscopy was performed and diagnoses were recorded. The mean volumes of the intact radiocarpal and midcarpal spaces were then compared with those of the compromised radiocarpal and midcarpal spaces to determine the overall sensitivity and specificity of the test. Results A total of 29 patients (18 male and 11 female) underwent wrist insufflation before wrist arthroscopy. The mean age of the patients was 42 years (range, 17 to 69 years). Intact radiocarpal spaces accepted a mean of 3.5 ± 0.16 mL of fluid, whereas compromised radiocarpal spaces accepted a mean of 5.5 ± 0.48 mL of fluid ( P P Conclusions Complete scapholunate interosseous ligament and triangular fibrocartilage complex tears can be detected when there is an increased radiocarpal joint space volume with insufflation through the 3-4 portal combined with a fluid wave over the radial midcarpal space or the distal radioulnar joint. Complete scapholunate interosseous ligament and lunotriquetral interosseous ligament tears can also be detected when there is an increased midcarpal space volume with insufflation through the radial midcarpal portal combined with a fluid wave over the radial radiocarpal space or the ulnar radiocarpal space. Level of Evidence Level IV, therapeutic case series.
Electron Beam Induced Oxygen Disordering in Yba2cu307-X Superconductors

Thin foils of bulk YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7–x (YBCO) superconductors were subjected to electron irradiation in a Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). The resulting disordering of the oxygen atoms and vacancies in the Cu-0 planes was monitored by measuring the splitting of the (110) diffraction spots in the [001] diffraction pattern. Samples were irradiated at 83K with 100, 150, 200 and 300kV electrons. The 100kV electrons did not cause any disordering, even after prolonged irradiation. The results of the higher energy irradiations showed an excellent fit to a disordering model, indicating a lack of radiation assisted reordering at 83K. This was further confirmed by the insensitivity of the disordering to the dose rate of 300kV electrons at 83K. However, at 300K, an increase in the dose rate of 300kV electrons increased the disordering rate, indicating that radiation assisted reordering was occuring at that temperature.
A modified differential evolution algorithm for damage identification in submerged shell structures

Obtaining good estimates of structural parameters from observed data is a particularly challenging task owing to the complex (often multi-modal) likelihood functions that often accompany such problems. As a result, sophisticated optimization routines are typically required to produce maximum likelihood estimates of the desired parameters. Evolutionary algorithms comprise one such approach, whereby nature-inspired mutation and crossover operations allow the sensible exploration of even multi-modal functions, in search of a global maximum. The challenge, of course, is to balance broad coverage in parameter space with the speed required to obtain such estimates. This work focuses directly on this problem by proposing a modified version of the Differential Evolution algorithm. The idea is to adjust both mutation and cross-over rates, during the optimization, in a manner that increases the convergence rate to the desired solution. Performance is demonstrated on the challenging problem of identifying imperfections in submerged shell structures.
Vagal tone protects children from marital conflict

In a previous article we reported linkages between marital hostility and children's externalizing behavior problems (Katz & Gottman, 1993). In this paper we examined whether individual differences in children's ability to regulate emotion (as indexed by vagal tone, a physiological measure of parasympathetic nervous system activity) could buffer children from the deleterious effects of marital hostility. Observational data was collected on 56 families during marital interaction when the children were 5 years-old. Baseline recordings of children's cardiac interbeat interval were also obtained for computations of vagal tone. Teacher ratings of children's behavior problems were obtained 3 years later when the children were on average 8 years old. Results indicated that children with low vagal tone showed a strong link between the amount of marital hostility displayed by their parents and subsequent displays of children's externalizing behavior. There was no relationship between marital hostility and children's externalizing for children with high vagal tone, suggesting that high vagal tone can buffer children from the negative effects of marital hostility.
Balloon-augmented carotid artery sacrifice with Onyx: a proof of concept study in a swine model

Introduction Carotid sacrifice remains a valuable tool in the treatment of select vascular lesions. Neurointerventionalists have relied on coil embolization as their primary means of carotid sacrifice, a procedure that can be lengthy and expensive with long fluoroscopy times. We investigated a novel technique for carotid sacrifice in a swine model using temporary balloon occlusion to achieve proximal flow arrest in the carotid artery while embolizing the vessel with a liquid embolic agent. Methods A total of 10 common carotid artery sacrifices were performed in pigs under fluoroscopic guidance. Various balloons were employed to achieve near total proximal flow arrest to allow an Onyx cast to accumulate in the target vessel. Results The technique for sacrifice was modified during the experiment with the final procedures yielding successful sacrifice using Onyx through a dimethylsulfoxide-tolerant catheter (Echelon 14) with the assistance of two fibered coils and a 5 mm×30 mm Hyperglide balloon resulting in a 2.5 cm long cast. Conclusion Carotid artery sacrifice using commercially available non-adhesive liquid embolic agents is feasible with balloon assistance, allowing for reduced radiation and material costs. Coils may be beneficial in providing an anchor point for liquid embolic deposition, as well as reducing the volume of liquid embolysate required to achieve vessel occlusion.
Hypoperfusion causes increased production of interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α in the isolated, dually perfused placental cotyledon

Abstract Objective: Our purpose was to determine whether exposure of the isolated, perfused human placental cotyledon to different fetal circuit perfusion rates, and to concomitant pressure differences, alters placental production of interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α. Study Design: The maternal and fetal circulations of 2 cotyledons from 5 placentas were perfused for 4 hours. The fetal circulation of 1 cotyledon was perfused at a low rate of 1 mL/min, and the other at a high rate of 10 mL/min. The maternal circulation of each cotyledon was perfused at 10 mL/min. Effluents from the fetal circulation were collected at hourly intervals, and concentrations of interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Concentrations of interleukin 6, obtained from a prior study with an estimated physiologic fetal circulation rate of 4 mL/min, were compared with the low and high perfusion rate results. Results: Concentrations of interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α were greater at the perfusion rate of 1 mL/min, in comparison with the perfusion rate of 10 mL/min, with statistically significant differences achieved at 2 and 4 hours for interleukin 6 and at 4 hours for tumor necrosis factor α. Concentrations of both cytokines increased exponentially with time. Placental perfusion pressures were significantly greater at the perfusion rate of 10 mL/min. Conclusion: Placental hypoperfusion results in an increased production of both interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor α. This finding links placental perfusion abnormalities to the myriad of disorders associated with elevated concentrations of inflammatory cytokines, including cerebral palsy. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000;183:863-7.)
Expression of inhibin alpha and inhibin/activin beta A subunits in the granulosa layer of the large preovulatory follicles of the hen.

The expression of the mRNA for the inhibin/activin subunits (α and β A ) in the granulosa layer of the five largest preovulatory follicles of the hen was investigated. Total RNA from the granulosa layer of the F 5 (the fifth largest) to F 1 (the largest) follicles was extracted and analyzed by Northern blot analysis using homologous chicken inhibin α and β A subunit cDNA probes. RNA loading was quantified by a cDNA probe of bovine 18S rRNA. Results showed that for the chicken inhibin α subunit mRNA signals (n = 3), the mean relative intensity for the F 1 , F 2 , F 3 , and F 4 follicles was 0.50 ± 0.10 (± SEM,), 0.52 ± 0.08, 0.59 ± 0.06, and 0.81 ± 0.04, respectively, compared to a mean relative intensity of 1.00 (p < 0.05) for the F 5 follicle. For the β A subunit mRNA signals (n = 3), the mean relative intensity for the F 5 , F 4 , F 3 , and F 2 follicles was 0.25 ± 0.06, 0.28 ± 0.15, 0.40 ± 0.17, and 0.48 ± 0.10, respectively, compared to a mean relative intensity of 1.00 (p < 0.05) for the F 1 follicle. The inhibin α subunit was also estimated to be more abundantly expressed among follicles in the granulosa layer than was the β A subunit. Our data indicate that the expression of inhibin α and β A subunits is differentially regulated in the hen granulosa layer during follicular development. Expression of the α subunit is reduced with follicular development whereas inhibin β A subunit expression is dramatically enhanced. In addition, the granulosa layer of the large preovulatory follicles may produce more inhibin α subunit than β A subunit, and the F 1 follicle may be the primary source of the β A subunit for dimeric inhibin and/or activin in the hen.
Research on Rural Caregiving: A Literature Review

The goals of this article are to present a systematic review of rural caregiving research and provide suggestions for future research efforts. The review, conducted through a search of databases, w...
A Systems-Based Computational Model for Dose-Response Comparisons of Two Mode of Action Hypotheses for Ethanol-Induced Neurodevelopmental Toxicity

Investigations into the potential mechanisms for ethanolinduced developmental toxicity have been ongoing for over 30 years since Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) was first described. Neurodevelopmental endpoints are particularly sensitive to in utero exposure to alcohol as suggested by the more prevalent alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND). The inhibition of proliferation during neurogenesis and the induction of apoptosis during the period of synaptogenesis have been identified as potentially important mechanisms for ARND. However, it is unclear how these two mechanisms quantitatively relate to the dose and timing of exposure. We have extended our model of neocortical neurogenesis to evaluate apoptosis during synaptogenesis. This model construct allows quantitative evaluation of the relative impacts on neuronal proliferation versus apoptosis during neocortical development. Ethanol-induced lengthening of the cell cycle of neural progenitor cells during rat neocortical neurogenesis (G13‐G19) is used to compute the number of neurons lost after exposure during neurogenesis. Ethanol-induced dose-dependent increases in cell death rates are applied to our apoptosis model during rat synaptogenesis (P0‐P14), when programmed cell death plays a major role in shaping the future neocortex. At a human blood ethanol concentration that occurs after 3‐5 drinks (~150 mg/dl), our model predicts a 20‐30% neuronal deficit due to inhibition of proliferation during neurogenesis, while a similar exposure during synaptogenesis suggests a 7‐9% neuronal loss through induction of cell death. Experimental in vitro and in vivo dose-response research and stereological research on long-term neuronal loss after developmental exposure to ethanol is compared to our model predictions. Our computational model allows for quantitative, systems-level comparisons of mechanistic hypotheses for perturbations during specific neurodevelopmental periods.
An integrated engineering workstation for automated guided vehicle systems design

A method for performing preliminary, or rough-cut, design and analysis of automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems in which a large number of alternatives can be examined is described. The procedures are based on analytic models and are combined into an integrated engineering workstation environment. Also included in the workstation is a simulation/animation module which is used after the preliminary analysis is performed. The resulting system allows a complete study of an AGV system to be accomplished. >
Acute alcohol effects on impulsivity: associations with drinking and driving behavior.

AIMS: Although drink drivers exhibit higher levels of trait impulsivity, no studies have tested the hypothesis that drink drivers experience increased impulsivity while intoxicated. We tested this hypothesis for two impulsivity constructs: delay discounting and behavioral inhibition. DESIGN: A within-subjects study comparing performance of drink drivers and non-drink drivers on behavioral measures of impulsivity in alcohol and no-beverage sessions. SETTING: A laboratory setting at the University of Missouri. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-nine young adults who were at least moderate drinkers were recruited from the local community and the University of Missouri. MEASUREMENTS: Impulsivity was assessed using the Two Choice Impulsivity Paradigm (TCIP) and the Stop-Signal Task. Participants also completed self-report measures of binge drinking and trait impulsivity. FINDINGS: In the no-beverage session, TCIP impulsive choices did not differ between drinking and driving groups (p =.93). In the alcohol session, drink drivers made more TCIP impulsive choices on both the ascending (p Language: en
Teachers' Decisions To Transfer From Special To General Education

We investigated why some special education teachers choose to stay in teaching, but leave their special education assignments. In addition, we identified deterrents and potential incentives that might lead former special educators to reconsider teaching positions in special education. Questionnaires from 286 respondents were analyzed. The primary reasons cited for leaving special education suggest that teachers transfer from special to general education because of administrative factors and the stress involved in working with special education students. Implications for educational agencies are addressed.
Waking Life, Dream Life, and the Construction of Reality

Enigmatic, anomalous dream reports challenge the Western philosophical worldview, hence they are ignored or derided by most mainstream philosophers and scientists. Nevertheless, there is compelling evidence from research in parapsychology that at least some of these reports have consensual validation and waking life consequences. Shamanic models of reality (which reflect shamanic philosophies) provide anecdotal evidence, congruent with parapsychological data, and need to be reconsidered by the dominant Western academies because these model encompass anomalous dreams, and because they furnish provocative data.
Latex Antigens: Identification and Use in Clinical and Experimental Studies, Including Crossreactivity with Food and Pollen Allergens

Learning objectives The purpose of this review is to introduce the reader to the range of latex allergens that have been identified by polypeptide sequencing. This knowledge is important for the assessment of clinical latex hypersensitivity, including crossreactivity with food and aeroallergens. Data sources MEDLINE search and relevant publications and reviews from the English medical literature since 1989. Results Of the more than 150 polypeptides in natural latex rubber, 35 or more can act as allergens and are recognized by IgE antibodies in the sera of latex-sensitive subjects. Complete or partial amino acid sequence data have now been obtained for 20 or more allergens, and have facilitated cloning of genes and development of allergen-specific antibodies. In latex-sensitive adults, hevein (Hev b6), rubber elongation factor (Hev b1) and Hev b5 are reported as major allergens, while in children with spina bifida, latex particle proteins are important allergens. Although incomplete, the data for finished latex products indicate that the number as well as diversity of latex antigens are limited compared with the allergen profile of natural rubber latex. Latex allergen sequence data allows epitope mapping, which establishes the molecular basis for understanding crossreactivity between latex, food, and aeroallergens. Conclusion The identification of latex allergens is paving the way for studying the molecular basis of immunoreactivity to these proteins, including crossreactivity with food and other allergens. The development of reagents to detect and measure anigen-specific responses will increase diagnostic specificity of allergic reactions to latex products.
Development, growth, propagation, and angiographic utilization of the rabbit VX2 model of liver cancer: a pictorial primer and "how to" guide

The VX2 tumor is a leporine anaplastic squamous cell carcinoma characterized by rapid growth, hypervascularity, and facile propagation in the skeletal muscle. Since its introduction over 70 years ago, it has been used to model a variety of malignancies, and is commonly employed by interventional radiologists in preclinical investigations of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, despite the widespread and lasting popularity of the model, there are few technical resources detailing its use. Herein, we present a comprehensive pictorial outline of the technical methodology for development, growth, propagation, and angiographic utilization of the rabbit VX2 liver tumor model.
Brazilian Abolition in Comparative Perspective (1988)

On the eve of the age of abolition, even intellectuals who were morally opposed to slavery were far more impressed by its power and durability than by its weaknesses. Adam Smith reminded his students that only a small portion of the earth was being worked by free labor, and that it was unlikely that slavery would ever be totally abandoned. Across the channel, the Abbe Raynal could envision the end of New World slavery only through a fortuitous conjuncture of philosopher-kings in Europe or the appearance of a heroic Spartacus in the Americas. No historical trend toward general emancipation could be assumed.1
Confirmation of dermatophytes in nail specimens using in-office dermatophyte test medium cultures. Insights from a multispecialty survey.

Using data from a multicenter nationwide multispecialty survey, the authors investigated the efficacy of in-office dermatophyte test medium (DTM) and central laboratory cultures used to confirm onychomycosis across samples collected by podiatric, dermatologic, and primary-care physicians. The samples collected by podiatric physicians were both positive or both negative in 43% and 27% of patients, respectively. Samples harvested by dermatologists were both positive in 37% of patients and both negative in 32%, while the samples collected by primary-care physicians were both positive in 28% of patients and both negative in 38%. The accuracy of DTM and central laboratory tests is dependent on the proper collection of nail samples, and the accuracy of mycologic test results varied significantly across nail specimens harvested by podiatric, dermatologic, and primary-care physicians. DTM culture was found to be an effective and convenient method of confirming dermatophyte infections in patients with signs of ony...
Pynchon and Glenn Miller

We noted in passing in a recent article a subtle musical allusion in Gravity's Rainbow to Glenn Miller–actually a cluster of allusions we would like to expand on here, for they are of more consequence than might first appear. When Slothrop penetrates the Potsdam Conference, he hears "a dance band with a mammoth reed section" (382) playing "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree." The vocals the band accompanies are a close cover of the Andrews Sisters' Top-20 recording from the 1942 film Private Buckaroo, but the reed-dominated melody line derives from Glenn Miller's Spring 1942 Number-1 hit (Bluebird 11474). Later in Gravity's Rainbow, aboard the Anubis, Slothrop hears another famous Miller song: "the saxman is playing 'Chattanooga Choo Choo'" (468). By 1944, that song and Miller were synonymous; the Miller version (Bluebird 11230) charted Number 1 for nine weeks in 1941, and became the first certified million seller in American recording history.
Genetics and genomics in cardiovascular gene discovery

The cardiovascular system is an integrated physiological entity whose development, structure, and functions are determined through the actions of numerous types of RNAs and proteins encoded by hundreds to thousands of genes that make up the “cardio-genome”. Consequently, mutations in the coding sequence and regulatory elements of these genes can have widespread cardiovascular, and other physiological, effects. Genomic resources such as the human genome sequence, the genome sequences of numerous model organisms, catalogs of human sequence variants, and catalogs of regulatory elements, together with the technologies to examine the structure and function of all human genes in patients with specific cardiovascular phenotypes, now make it possible to identify all of the contributory genes, even in the absence of knowledge on their specific biology. This chapter reviews the current status of human genomics and the current status of cardiovascular gene discovery, and the progress we are making in understanding the biological processes underlying cardiovascular structure and function.
A simple model for the prediction of AC-DC difference of multi-junction thermal converters

This paper describes a simple model for planar multi-junction thermal converters based on physical dimensions and properties of the converter chip and all wire bonds. The model was used to explain extremely low (< 700 μV/V) AC-DC differences at 100 MHz. Two designs of multi-junction thermal converters (MJTC) were tested against the model and the results are presented.
Change Detection for Measuring Attention Allocation A New Approach for Capturing Situation Awareness

Attention allocation is an important component of situation awareness and is often assessed with eye tracking. A series of pilot studies were performed to examine a novel approach to evaluating attention in complex three dimensional environments that pose challenges to eye tracking methodologies. This novel approach involves integrating change detector objects into an existing interface to assess attention allocation within the interface. Three pilot studies examined the effectiveness of prototype change detector objects in conjunction with a primary manual tracking task. Change detection accuracy and response times were measured between change detectors located at systematically varying distances from the manual tracking task locus of attention. The results provide evidence for this approach to differentiate between interface regions and their associated attention allocation while completing a primary task. Future efforts will focus on examining the effectiveness of these change detectors in assessing at...
Sequence-Defined Backbone Modifications Regulate Antibacterial Activity of OligoTEAs

In response to the urgent need for new antibiotic development strategies, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and other synthetic polymers are being actively investigated as promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Although most AMPs display lytic activity against several types of bacteria, they have poor toxicology profiles and are susceptible to proteolysis in vivo. While many synthetic variants have been created to mimic AMPs by tuning the hydrophobic to cationic ratio of the side-chain groups, few have decoupled the effects of charge from hydrophobicity in discrete systems, and none have investigated the effect of backbone hydrophobicity. We recently developed a rapid and efficient approach for the assembly of synthetic sequence-defined oligothioetheramides (oligoTEAs) that are resistant to protease activity. Our oligoTEA assembly scheme allows direct access to the oligomer backbone, which enables precise tuning of oligoTEA hydrophobicity while keeping charge constant. In this study, we synthesize...
THE SALT WEDGE

The "salt wedge" is an idealized model of a phenomenon encountered in some estuaries. It consists of a layer of fresh river water flowing over and past an underlying layer of heavier salt water. The following study is an attempt to predict the shape of the salt wedge and its length measured from some significant point in the estuary in terms of quantities, such as the densities of the fresh and salt water, the average river depth and velocity, etc., which are usually available.
Abstract LB-B05: Targeting IDH1 inhibits survival and growth of pancreatic cancer cells

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) cells have elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to adjacent normal cells. Although ROS play a role in pancreatic carcinogenesis, the accumulation of excess ROS at later stages of cancer development threaten PDA cell viability. Therefore, adaptive mechanisms to neutralize excess ROS are critical for PDA cell survival. Recently, we discovered the regulatory RNA binding protein, HuR (ELAVL1), protects PDA cells under oxidative stressors, like chemotherapy and nutrient deprivation, by upregulating the NADPH-generating enzyme, isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) through post-transcriptional stabilization of the RNA transcript. This action enhances PDA reductive power under oxidative stress. We hypothesized that IDH1 would be an effective target to treat PDA under its native harsh microenvironment. We deleted IDH1 from isogenic PDA cells using CRISPR gene editing technology and studied the phenotypic impact under physiologic stress. Under both normal culture conditions and nutrient deprivation, IDH1-/- cells had increased ROS as measured by a DCFDA assay, and decreased cell viability as measured by the PicoGreen DNA quantitation assay. Furthermore, IDH1-/- cells were more susceptible to chemotherapy treatment in vitro (gemcitabine or 5-FU) compared with control cells. In vivo experiments revealed that IDH1-/- cells have reduced ability to engraft and grow as xenografts. Taken together, these results suggest that targeting wild type IDH1 is a compelling therapeutic strategy to treat PDA cells, particularly in the context of their extreme and austere microenvironment. Citation Format: Ali Vaziri-Gohar, Katerina Dukleska, Jonathan R. Brody, Jordan M. Winter. Targeting IDH1 inhibits survival and growth of pancreatic cancer cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2017 Oct 26-30; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2018;17(1 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-B05.
Submucosal Fluid Cushion Injection Fluid: Western Perspective

The success and safety of mucosal resection, whether localized or widespread, is dependent on the submucosal fluid cushion (SFC) created by needle catheter injection. A wide range of materials have been used, including saline, complex carbohydrates, glycerine, hyaluronic acid, methylcellulose, and blood products. The search for the ideal SFC solution continues, with no specific material universally agreed upon. This chapter explores our work in the Mayo Clinic Developmental Endoscopy Unit searching for the ideal solution, along with the work of others. Additionally, investigations into an adjunctive material to the SFC, mesna, which can facilitate mucosal dissection, are presented.
Lo que dicen las paredes y... ¿cuándo no hay paredes? A propósito de la cultura material: derroteros de la exclusión

A partir de la narracion de un docente, se inicia la deconstruccion de la escena siguiendo una linea argumental que permite el desarrollo de una serie de hipotesis para discernir sobre la desigualdad de oportunidad que deviene de una escuela que funciona a la intemperie, generando el derrotero de la exclusion y el estado de desamparo de docentes y alumnos que, pese a todo, accionan para intentar continuar con la tarea de educar. Es el proposito interpelar a los lectores en la busqueda de alternativas a la situacion planteada, involucrandolos y contando que este planteo sea lo suficientemente movilizador para que estas voces silenciadas encuentren , por este medio, la expresion de su palabra como grito cuyo eco expandido llegue a las clases e instituciones, a los docentes y a las familias, a la escuela de barrio y a la escuela del centro... y sobre todo, a aquellos niveles politicos en los que pareciera que la capacidad de escucha ha sido reemplazada por un discurso que mucho promete y poco compromete.