cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Public Health Practice-Driven Research to Improve HIV Prevention in the United States.

BACKGROUND The evidence-practice gap in HIV prevention and the care continuum in the United States often reflects a mismatch between the perspectives of researchers and public health practitioners. The traditional research paradigm of sequential progress from efficacy research to implementation in practice and widespread scale-up is not well-aligned with the reality of health department program implementation. SETTING This article focuses on public health practice carried out by state and local health departments in the United States and the research intended to inform it. METHODS AND RESULTS In this narrative review, we discuss approaches to HIV prevention and care continuum research that are shaped by and responsive to public health practice implementation priorities and what is needed to promote productive and successful university-health department research partnerships. We review research methods of particular relevance to health departments to evaluate the effectiveness of HIV prevention and care continuum interventions and how these approaches diverge from traditional research approaches. Finally, we highlight the roles of federal agencies in supporting practice-driven HIV implementation research. CONCLUSIONS Health departments are key stakeholders, consumers, and generators of the evidence base for public health practice. High-impact research to improve HIV prevention and the care continuum is informed by health department priorities and current practice from the start. Long-term, equitable relationships between universities and health departments are crucial to advance practice-driven research.
Disentangling the Research Literature on Number Sense: Three Constructs, One Name:

In this article, we review research literature concerning number sense from several related fields. Whereas other authors have pointed to difficulty defining number sense or to some degree of incon...
Chapter 10 – Radiation Detectors†

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the important features of a few popular types of detectors. Most of them are based on the ionization produced by incoming radiation. The detector may operate in one of two modes: current, in which an average electrical flow is measured, as with an ammeter; and pulse, in which the electrical signals produced by individual particles or rays are amplified and counted. A detector operating in this mode is known as a counter. The detection of radiation and the measurement of its properties are required in all aspects of the nuclear field. In gas counters, the ionization produced by incoming radiation is collected. Depending on the voltage between electrodes, counters detect all particles or distinguish between types of particles. Neutrons are detected indirectly by the products of nuclear reactions—for slow neutrons by absorption in boron or uranium-235, for fast neutrons by scattering in hydrogen. Scintillation counters release measurable light on bombardment by charged particles or gamma rays. Solid-state detectors generate a signal from the motion of electron-hole pairs created by ionizing radiation. Pulse-height analysis yields energy distributions of particles. Statistical methods are used to estimate the uncertainty in measured counting rates. Advanced specialized detectors are used in high-energy physics research. Detectors of nuclear radiation play a vital role in the United States counterterrorism programs.
Deterioration of Glutaraldehyde Crosslinked Heterograft Biomaterials due to Advanced Glycation End Product Formation and Serum Albumin Infiltration

Bioprosthetic heart valves (BHV) are fabricated from glutaraldehyde cross-linked heterograft tissue, such as bovine pericardium (BP) or porcine aortic valves. BHV develop structural valve degeneration (SVD), often with calcification, requiring BHV replacement. Advanced glycation end products (AGE) are post-translational, nonenzymatic carbohydrate protein modifications. AGE are present in SVD-BHV clinical explants and not detectable in unimplanted BHV. Here, we studied the hypothesis that BHV susceptibility to AGE formation and serum protein infiltration results in deterioration of both leaflet collagen structure and mechanical properties. In vitro experiments studied BP and porcine collagen sponges (CS) for susceptibility to AGE formation using 14C-glucose and 14C-glyoxal with and without bovine serum albumin (BSA), as a model serum protein. The results showed AGE formation is a rapid and progressive process. BSA co-incubations reduced glyoxal and glucose uptake by BP and CS. Incubating BP in BSA caused a substantial increase in BP mass, enhanced by glyoxal co-incubation. Per two-photon microscopy, BP with AGE formation and BSA infiltration each induced significant disruption in collagen microarchitecture, with loss of collagen alignment and crimp. These effects are cumulative with the greatest disruption occurring when there was both AGE formation and BSA infiltration. Uniaxial testing of CS demonstrated that AGE formation, together with BSA uptake compared to controls, caused a significant deterioration in mechanical properties with a loss of viscoelastic relaxation and increased stiffness. It is concluded that AGE-BSA associated collagen structural disruption and deterioration of mechanical properties contribute to SVD.
Exposure to air pollution in indoor walkways of a suburban city

Abstract Indoor walkways are often connected to sources of indoor pollutants such as retail stores, restaurants, and parking garages. To measure the air quality within indoor skyways and subways in downtown Rochester, MN, a mobile monitoring platform was deployed at least once per month for one year. Nineteen segments of each walkway type were measured for 5-min intervals twice per sampling day. Adjacent storefront or building type did not significantly impact air pollution concentrations measured in walkway segments; however, trends were observed in some spatial comparisons. Segments adjacent to restaurants had elevated PM2.5, TVOC, and CO2 concentrations, while elevated O3 and PM10-2.5 concentrations occurred adjacent to parking garages and streets. Inhalation dose was simulated for a range of walking routes for a baseline distribution of exposure, estimated for a healthy middle-aged adult male walking all identified routes. Compared to this baseline case, exposure increased by 179–457% (p
Application of dual energy CT in the diagnosis of amiodarone lung toxicity as a cause of lung mass.

Abstract Background Diagnosis of amiodarone lung toxicity on computerized tomography (CT) can be challenging especially in the presence of mass-like consolidation. Additional causes of mass-like consolidation including malignancy and pneumonia should be excluded, sometimes requiring tissue sampling. Case Here we present a case of amiodarone lung toxicity, with diagnosis suspected based on patient's history of chronic cardiac disease, amiodarone treatment, and imaging characteristics. Evaluation with dual energy CT demonstrated high iodine content in the mass-like consolidation further supporting the diagnosis. Biopsy of the mass-like consolidation confirmed amiodarone toxicity. Conclusion Dual energy CT has potential utility in differentiating mass-like consolidation from other etiologies such as malignancy or pneumonia.
Incidence of new-onset atrial fibrillation in COVID-19 is associated with increased epicardial adipose tissue.

Coronary artery calcium (CAC) and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) can predict AF in the general population. We aimed to determine if CAC and EAT measured by computed tomographic (CT) scanning can predict new-onset AF in patients admitted with COVID-19 disease. We performed a retrospective, post hoc analysis of all patients admitted to Montefiore Medical Center with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis from March 1st to June 23rd, 2020, who had a non-contrast CT of the chest within 5 years prior to admission. We determined ordinal CAC scores and quantified the EAT volume and examined their relationship with inpatient mortality. A total of 379 patients were analyzed. There were 16 events of new-onset AF (4.22%). Patients who developed AF during the index admission were more likely to be male (75 vs 47%, p < 0.001) and had higher EAT (129.5 [76.3–197.3] vs 91.0 [60.0–129.0] ml, p = 0.049). There were no differences on age (68 [56–71] vs 68 [58–76] years; p = 0.712), BMI (28.5 [25.3–30.8] vs 26.9 [23.1–31.8] kg/m2; p = 0.283), ordinal CAC score (3 [1–6] vs 2 [0–4]; p = 0.482), or prevalence of diabetes (56.3 vs 60.1%; p = 0.761), hypertension (75.0 vs 87.3%, p = 0.153), or coronary artery disease (50.0 vs 39.4%, p = 0.396). Patients with new-onset AF had worse clinical outcomes (death/intubation/vasopressors) (87.5 vs 44.1%; p = 0.001). Increased EAT measured by non-contrast chest CT identifies patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at higher risk of developing new-onset AF. Patients with new-onset AF have worse clinical outcomes.
Distant Reading in Russian Formalism and Russian Formalism in Distant Reading

Abstract This article argues that both the Russian Formalists and Digital Humanists infer meaning from patterns of development in literature. Key to this comparison is the figure of Boris Iarkho, whose statistics- and biology-driven methodology based on large corpora of texts anticipated Digital Humanities by more than a half century. One of the main tasks of the article is to contextualize Iarkho’s work. By comparing Iarkho with Franco Moretti, Matthew Jockers, and other Digital Humanists, I hope to demonstrate the relevance of Russian Formalism and Digital Humanities to one another. The former offers theoretical and methodological depth, the latter the opportunity to carry on with the projects launched by Iarkho and other Russian Formalists. At the same time, the comparison with Digital Humanities reveals some fundamental discrepancies within Russian Formalism, namely, between Iarkho and the group of Viktor Shklovskii. I show that they were diametrically opposed to each other in their understanding of literary evolution and form. I argue that these divergences, distinguishable in Russian Formalism thanks to Digital Humanities, can enrich our dialogue about the value, status, and meaning of literature.
Children Persist Less When Adults Take Over.

Children need to learn to persist through challenges, yet adults sometimes step in to solve problems for them. Here, we looked at how adult taking over related to children's persistence. In an observational study (N = 34, ages 4-8), we found that parents who took over more often during a challenging puzzle task rated their children as dispositionally less persistent. To establish whether taking over can cause reduced persistence, we ran two preregistered experiments (N = 150, ages 4-5). Children assigned to a taking over condition persisted less on a subsequent task compared to those in a teaching or a baseline condition. Reframing the context did not ameliorate the negative impact of taking over. The results suggest that taking over impairs children's persistence.
Utilizing trans-scrotal percutaneous cystolitholapaxy in the case of massive inguinoscrotal herniation of the bladder with concomitant bladder calculi

Abstract Background Massive herniation of the bladder presents a rare diagnostic challenge. Rarely, bladder herniation is complicated by the development of bladder calculi. We present a therapeutic approach for this situation. Case presentation A 90-year-old presented with recurrent urinary tract infections secondary to bladder calculi in the setting of inguinoscrotal bladder herniation. He subsequently underwent successful trans-scrotal percutaneous cystolitholapaxy as a creative approach to an unusual presentation. Conclusion Massive inguinoscrotal herniation of the bladder is a rare clinical entity with significant morbidity and mortality. Intervention requires a balance of patient health status and anatomy, lending to creative approaches as necessary.
Vibrations of Beams and Plates: Review of First Closed-Form Solutions in the Past 250 Years

This paper is dedicated to derivation of eigenvalues of structures that possess modulus of elasticity and/or material density that vary from point to point. There is a large selection of methods that can deal with such a structures’ vibration spectra. In very rare circumstances one has a possibility to obtain an exact solution, usually in terms of transcendental functions (hypergeometric, Bessel, Lommel, and other special functions).
Hormonal status and age differentially affect tolerance to the disruptive effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) on learning in female rats

The effects of hormone status and age on the development of tolerance to D9-THC were assessed in sham-operated (intact) or ovariectomized (OVX) female rats that received either intraperitoneal saline or 5.6 mg/kg of D9-THC daily from postnatal day (PD) 75 to 180 (early adulthood onward) or PD 35 to 140 (adolescence onward). During this time, the 4 groups for each age (i.e., intact/saline, intact/THC, OVX/saline, and OVX/THC) were trained in a learning and performance procedure and dose-effect curves were established for D9-THC (0.56-56 mg/kg) and the cannabinoid type-1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist rimonabant (0.32-10 mg/kg). Despite the persistence of small rate-decreasing and error-increasing effects in intact and OVX females from both ages during chronic D9-THC, all of the D9-THC groups developed tolerance. However, the magnitude of tolerance, as well as the effect of hormone status, varied with the age at which chronic D9-THC was initiated. There was no evidence of dependence in any of the groups. Hippocampal protein expression of CB1R, AHA1 (a co-chaperone of CB1R) and HSP90β (a molecular chaperone modulated by AHA-1) was affected more by OVX than chronic D9-THC; striatal protein expression was not consistently affected by either manipulation. Hippocampal BDNF expression varied with age, hormone status, and chronic treatment. Thus, hormonal status differentially affects the development of tolerance to the disruptive effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC) on learning and performance behavior in adolescent, but not adult, female rats. These factors and their interactions also differentially affect cannabinoid signaling proteins in the hippocampus and striatum, and ultimately, neural plasticity.
Oscillatory behavior in a spatiotemporal neuron

In this paper, the time varying threshold of a spatiotemporal neuron (STEN) is explored. The computer simulation of time varying threshold shows that output of a STEN produces oscillations similar to a biological neuron. Further these oscillations differ in frequency when the inputs are spatially and temporally related. These distinctive frequencies provide STEN its 'directional' and 'temporal' sensitivity. This oscillatory behavior of STEN we believe will be important in building neural networks capable of processing complex time varying, spatiotemporal signals. >
Automated Segmentation of Brain Exterior in MR Images Driven by Empirical Procedures and Anatomical Knowledge

This work demonstrates encouraging initial results for increasing the automation of a practical and precise MR brain image segmentation method. The intensity threshold for segmenting the brain exterior is automatically determined by locating the choroid plexus. This is done by finding peaks in a series of histograms taken over regions specified using anatomical knowledge. Intensity inhomogeneities are accounted for by adjusting the global intensity to match the white matter peak intensity in local regions. The results from 20 different brain scans (over 1000 images) obtained under different conditions are presented to validate the method which was able to determine the appropriate threshold in approximately 80% of the data.
Partial Protection against Plasmodium vivax Blood-Stage Infection in Saimiri Monkeys by Immunization with a Recombinant C-Terminal Fragment of Merozoite Surface Protein 1 in Block Copolymer Adjuvant

ABSTRACT Merozoite surface protein 1 is a candidate for blood-stage vaccines against malaria parasites. We report here an immunization study ofSaimiri monkeys with a yeast-expressed recombinant protein containing the C terminus of Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein 1 and two T-helper epitopes of tetanus toxin (yP2P30Pv20019), formulated in aluminum hydroxide (alum) and block copolymer P1005. Monkeys immunized three times with yP2P30Pv20019 in block copolymer P1005 had significantly higher prechallenge titers of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against the immunogen and asexual blood-stage parasites than those immunized with yP2P30Pv20019 in alum, antigen alone, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (P 0.05). Three of the five animals in this group also had low parasitemia (peak parasitemia, ≤20 parasites/μl of blood). Partially protected monkeys had significantly higher levels of prechallenge antibodies against the immunogen than those unprotected (P
Unusual cytologic manifestations of parakeratotic lesions of the uterine cervix.

Abstract Abnormal cells which are usually associated with invasive epidermoid cervical cancer were found in the cervical scraping smears taken from 4 asymptomatic women whose cervices did not exhibit gross evidence of cancer. In cone biopsy specimens examined by step serial seections there was a pronounced degree of parakeratotic lesions but no evidence of invasive cervical cancer. The abnormal cells observed in the cervical smears included tadpole, fiber, and keratinized cells which are presently considered to be malignant cells derived from invasive epidermoid carcinoma of the uterine cervix. The cytologic classification of IV or V, based on these abnormal squamous cells, is not always indicative of the presence of invasive epidermoid cervical cancer. This demonstrates one of the reasons why cervical cellular preparations cannot be used for definitive diagnosis of cervical neoplasia. Histologic examination of multiple sections prepared by serial sections seems to be the only method that can be employed as a diagnostic tool.
Enhancement of successive discrimination reversal learning by methamphetamine.

Rats were trained to bar press for a sucrose solution reward in the presence of either a light or a tone. After a criterion had been reached, the relevance of the cues was reversed. Testing continued over eight reversals. Prior to the start of Reversal 2, subjects received a single i.p. injection of saline, 0.5 mg/kg or 2.0 mg/kg methamphetamine. Compared with the saline controls, both drug groups demonstrated a considerable reduction in the number of trials to criterion by reducing the number of nonrewarded (S−) responses on all successive reversals. Except for a reduction of rewarded (S+) responses by the highest dose group on Reversal 2, the percentage of S+ responses was approximately the same in all treatment groups. As the superior performance in terms of all measures persisted over the remaining experimental periods after the drug treatment was discontinued, the drug effect was not easily attributable to a transient enhancement of performance.
Quasielastic transfer of a neutron between 58Ni and 208Pb at bombarding energies of 598 and 1011 MeV.

Measurements have been made of single-neutron stripping and pickup in the system $^{58}$Ni${+}^{208}$Pb at 10.3 and 17.4 MeV/nucleon. The complex spectra observed are found to be dominated by transfers from the valence shell of the donor to bound and unbound shells of the recipient. The data were analyzed with the distorted-wave Born approximation together with a dynamic polarization potential. The suggestion is made that the large yields seen at forward scattering angles may arise from increases in the real nuclear potential which might occur when a neutron jumps to an unoccupied major shell.
WorldCat Local and Information Literacy Instruction: An Exploration of Emerging Teaching Practice

Since the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) unveiled its WorldCat Local library catalog discovery layer in 2008, library instructors have debated how to incorporate this tool into their teaching. WorldCat Local's faceted searching brings both educational benefits and unexpected challenges to the classroom. Instructors frequently hold formal and informal discussions on such topics as which search features are most effective during teaching and which patron groups benefit most from this tool. The authors of this article surveyed instruction librarians at U.S. academic libraries that are using WorldCat Local in order to gather and organize this feedback. This article presents the findings of this survey.
Experimental validation of passive permafrost cooling systems

In areas of warm permafrost, the thawing of interstitial ice in the permafrost layer can cause man-made infrastructure to suffer from thaw settlement damage and failure. For highway and railway embankments, thermosyphons and air convection embankment (ACE) layers are two methods that can be used to reduce embankment and foundation soil temperatures and prevent thaw settlement. These techniques utilize the low air temperature during winter to enhance freezing of the foundation soils and maintain the thermal integrity of the permafrost foundation. In the present paper we report on the application of these techniques in a full-scale field application, carried out as part of a new road building project near Fairbanks, Alaska. Three separate cooling techniques were utilized in the project, including hairpin thermosyphons, horizontal ACE layers, and ventilated shoulders in three different configurations. Each of the three configurations was instrumented with a thermal monitoring system in an effort to evaluate the cooling effectiveness and predict the long-term impact on underlying permafrost temperatures. This paper describes the cooling systems that were used in the project including the thermal monitoring system, and presents performance results for the first year of operation.
Blue and infrared stimulated emission from alkali vapors pumped through two-photon absorption

The 5 2D3/2, 5 2D5/2, and 7 2S1/2 states of rubidium and the 7 2D3/2, 7 2D5/2, and 9 2S1/2 states of cesium were populated at low pressure by two photon excitation using a pulsed dye laser. Blue beams from the Rb 6 2P3/2, 1/2–5 2S1/2 and Cs 7 2P3/2, 1/2–6 2S1/2 transitions were observed. In addition, infrared beams were observed arising directly from the pumped 2D states, establishing a collisionless cascade mechanism. Threshold is modest at about 0.3 mJ/pulse or 2×105 W/cm2. Slope efficiencies increase dramatically with alkali concentration and peak at 0.4%, with considerable opportunity for improvement. This versatile system might find applications in both underwater communications and for infrared counter measures.
The role of the MDR1 (p-glycoprotein) gene in multidrug resistance in vitro and in vivo

This review describes the studies that address the role of the MDR1 (P-glycoprotein) gene in multidrug resistance in cell lines selected in vitro and in clinical cancer. Molecular genetic studies have demonstrated that expression of P-glycoprotein, an efflux pump acting at diverse lipophilic compounds, is sufficient to provide resistance to a large number of lipophilic drugs in tissue culture. The MDR1 gene is expressed in several normal human tissues associated with secretory or barrier functions and in some bone marrow and blood cells, including hematopoietic progenitor cells. MDR1 expression in clinical cancer is often found in untreated tumors of different types. Several studies showed a correlation between MDR1 expression and tumor resistance to combination chemotherapy. MDR1 expression in untreated tumors may reflect their origin from MDR1-positive normal cells or cellular changes associated with neoplastic transformation or progression. MDR1 expression in some types of cancer may be a marker of a more aggressive subpopulation of tumor cells, possessing multiple mechanisms for resistance to treatment.
Respiratory control and ADP:O coupling ractions of isolated chick heart mitochondria

Heart mitochondria isolated from 14- to 21-day-old chicks are highly coupled and often have respiratory control ratio (RCR) values exceeding 100. This paper presents data from a study of some of the properties of these mitochondria. The studies show that: (a) The ADP:O ratios and the state 4 rates of respiration are highly dependent upon the concentration of mitochondria at which these parameters are measured. (b) The mitochondrial isolate is contaminated with at least two divalent cation-stimulated ATPase, of which one is the F1F0-ATPase of broken mitochondria. (c) The oligomycin-sensitive component of state 4 respiration is completely inhibited by ethylene glycol bis(beta-amino-ethylether) N,N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA). This inhibition is biphasic and attributable to the differential affinity of EGTA for Ca(II) and Mg(II). (d) Ca(II) and Mg(II) stimulate state 4 respiration, thereby depressing RCR values. These cations also decrease ADP:O ratios from greater than or equal to 3.25 to 3.0 for some NAD-linked substrates. (e) Uncoupled (i.e., oligomycin-insensitive) state 4 respiration can be abolished by treating the mitochondria with Nagarse and by preincubating mitochondria with exogenous substrate. (f) The ADP:O ratios obtained when these heart mitochondria oxidize pyruvate/malate, alpha-ketoglutarate, and beta-hydroxybutyrate are fractional and significantly greater than 3.0.
Vitamin D status of county hospital patients assessed by the DiaSorin LIAISON® 25-hydroxyvitamin D assay.

Abstract Background Vitamin D is an essential nutrient, and there is a growing appreciation of its clinical significance. In addition, there has recently been a discussion as to the best method of measuring this analyte in serum: immunoassay, HPLC or LC–MS/MS. Due to the increased interest in vitamin D, there has been an exponential increase in the number of clinicians testing their patients and therefore also in the volume of this test run in clinical laboratories. Methods Vitamin D levels were determined by chemiluminescence immunoassay in a reference laboratory and a subset by LC–MS/MS at San Francisco General Hospital. Results We developed a robust and rapid LC–MS/MS assay to detect 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 and D2 in serum for use in the routine clinical laboratory. Additionally, we determined that 71% of patients served by San Francisco General Hospital have insufficient serum vitamin D levels (≤ 29 ng/ml) and that these levels are significantly associated with parathyroid hormone levels, total calcium concentration, age and ethnicity. Conclusions The high degree of vitamin D insufficiency at San Francisco General Hospital may be reflective of the status of the patients served by this county hospital; largely an underserved, multi-ethnic urban population.
Symbolic loss in horizontal relating: Defining the role of parentification in addictive/ destructive relationships

The authors examine the concept of “addictive” relationships through the lens of the phenomenon referred to as parentification of children, using in particular the concepts of Contextual Family Therapy. The dynamic of parentification, they conclude, affects the manner in which meaning about self and other is constructed, which may influence the way in which the character of the individual is formed and the fashion in which the individual's relationships are conducted. Aspects of addictive relationships are portrayed and interventions for treatment are discussed.
Packer-Induced Stresses During Hydraulic Well Fracturing

Well bore stresses induced by inflatable packers during hydraulic fracturing operations are investigated. The geologic formation is modeled as an unbounded homogeneous isotropic linear elastic solid containing an infinitely long circular cavity, while the packer is modeled as a semi-infinite thin-walled circular cylindrical shell. For given packer properties, these induced stresses are shown to depend on the difference between packer pressure and fracturing pressure and can become significant. Typical numerical results are obtained and presented graphically. Analytical approximations for the maximum values of these stresses are also presented. 11 refs.
In the Midst of a Storm: Distress of Kerala Women

For the past few decades, Kerala, India, has been heralded as the model of development and has attracted significant media and academic attention. Among its most noteworthy achievements are its literacy, life expectancy, and mortality rates and state government spending on social welfare. However, these macrorealities mask many unpleasant microrealities, such as subjugating cultural practices and violence against women. This article explores the social system of Kerala to identify the invisibility of highly literate women in Kerala. The objectives are to deconstruct the gender paradox in Kerala and to discuss strategies to transform the dominant discourse including social work.
Intense winds and shears in the equatorial lower thermosphere measured by high-resolution nonspecular meteor radar

Large horizontal winds and wind shears have been measured in the lower thermosphere by rockets, lidars, and nonspecular meteor radars. This paper describes a detailed analysis of three multihour nonspecular meteor radar data sets collected at the Jicamarca Radio Observatory. This provides some of the highest-resolution sustained measurements in this part of the atmosphere. These show (1) intense wind speeds, maintaining 180 m/s for half an hour and 160 m/s for another half an hour; (2) winds structured in layers that move up or, more commonly, down in the predawn hours at rates of a few kilometers per hour; (3) intense wind shears that typically persist at around 50 m/s/km but, in one instance, sustains values approaching 100 m/s/km for a few hours.
A TEM-EELS study of hole concentrations near strongly and weakly coupled grain boundaries in electromagnetically characterized YBa2Cu3O7−δ bicrystals

Abstract High-spatial-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy in a transmission electron microscope (TEM-EELS) was used to obtain hole-concentration profiles near grain boundaries in flux-grown YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ bicrystals with misorientation relationships of 7°, 12°, 28°, and 31° about their common [001] rotation axes. A key aspect of the work is that the electromagnetic properties and coupling character of each of the bicrystals also were determined explicitly. The 28° and 31° bicrystals showed Josephson-junction-like weak coupling, and evidence for severe hole depletion at the boundary was present in the oxygen K near-edge fine structure (ELNES) of the EELS spectra obtained from them. The hole-deficient zone extended 20 to 40 nm into each crystal. In striking contrast, the 7° and 12° bicrystals were strongly coupled and dramatically less hole depleted at the grain boundary. These results show that the boundary region within which the electronic structure differs from that of the bulk is substantially wider than both the YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ coherence length and the grain-boundary structural and compositional width suggested by high-resolution TEM images and cation non-stoichiometry studies. They also suggest a continuous transition from strongly to weakly coupled character.
Extra lines in rare earth crystal spectra

Abstract We estimate the magnitude of expected shifts that would be observed as ‘extra’ lines in rare earth sharp line spectra due to an impurity ion near the rare earth. The results ( ∼ 10–20cm −1 ) support the suggestion and experiment of Faulhaber and Hufner. In disagreement with these authors we show that the experimental results can not be used to investigate covalency and that symmetry changes do result and can have important consequences. We also suggest that the many extra lines observed at times in electron paramagnetic resonance studies arise for the same reason as in the optical case.
Application of a radial basis function neural network to sensor design

One of the important tasks in sensor design is the development of a model for a sensing phenomena. Artificial neural networks are ideal for such a task because of their capability for representation of the mapping functions describing the processes and phenomena which are mathematically difficult or even intractable. We examined a radial basis function (RBF) neural network for modeling of acoustical properties of colloidal TiO2 slurry. The colloidal slurry is a very complex multiphase medium. The RBF network with a set of local Gaussian functions was trained using the data from the earlier developed physical model of TiO2 slurry. Next the TiO2 neural model was used for a prediction of the TiO2 particle size distribution. The resulting prediction accuracies of the RBF network were 99.8% for the data used in the training process and 88% for the data not used in the training. Compared to other available techniques neural networks can offer an effective and time efficient approach for the modeling of complex materials.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Black American women and work: A historical review—1619–1920

Abstract This paper reviews the work experience of Black American women from the Slave Period to World War I. However, the paper begins the discussion with the work of West African women because this is the area of Africa from which most African Americans came. As slaves they worked in the tobacco, rice, indigo and cotton fields and were skilled artisans, midwives, industrial workers and business women. Although Black women gained freedom after the Civil War their capabilities were not recognized and they were limited to the same work opportunities afforded them during slavery. In spite of the limitation and against unsurmountable odds a few Black American women during and after slavery achieved success in professions such as education, law, medicine, the arts and various businesses. It is clear from the presentation that Black American women have always been a part of the workforce of America and have contributed to its growth and development in the world. The work experience of the present day African American women has been influenced by these past generations of Black women and examplify the efforts of Black women to acquire freedom and options in their work opportunities.
Quality of life (QOL) in women treated for gynecologic malignancies with radiation therapy: A literature review of patient - reported outcomes

Abstract Objective To summarize the literature on quality of life for patients treated with definitive radiation for gynecologic cancers, with a specific focus on patient reported outcomes. Methods A literature review was performed to summarize studies about patient-reported outcomes and quality of life in women with gynecologic malignancies who were treated with definitive radiation therapy. Summaries are by disease site, including endometrial, cervical and vulvar cancers. Results Over 20 different survey instruments have been used to describe patient-reported outcomes for women treated with radiation for gynecologic cancer. Regardless of disease site, all patients describe a degree of compromise in physical and social functioning, as well as sexual dysfunction. Specific symptoms which are most bothersome for patients vary by disease site, such as bowel concerns predominating for endometrial cancer patients, while body image is more concerning for cervical cancer patients. Conclusions Several quality of life concerns exist for women treated with radiation therapy for gynecologic malignancies. Significant overlap exists in the QOL issues affecting these patients. Whether to combine or separate surveys by diagnosis, treatment type, age, or time point should be explored further. Assessing patients' psychological, emotional, and physical concerns helps to understand long-term adjustment, enabling incorporation of these domains into future trials that will ultimately improve patient well-being.
Compatibility of Silicon gates with hafnium-based gate dielectrics

Silicon gate compatibility problems with hafnium-basd gate dielectrics are reported. It generally can be stated that chemical vapor deposition (CVD) silicon gates using silane deposited directly onto polycrystalline HfO2 at conventional temperatures (near 620°C) results in (1) a low density ot large inhomogeneous polycrystalline-silicon (poly-Si) grains, (2) electrical properties much worse compared to similar HfO2 films using metal gates or silicon gates with low temperature deposition. However, depositing conventional CVD poly-Si gates directly onto Al2O3-capped, hafnium-silicate-capped, or physical vapor deposition (PVD) silicon-capped HfO2 resulted in the absence of large inhomogeneous poly-Si grains and well behaved capacitors with leakage reduction greater than 103 times compared to the poly-Si/HfO2 and poly-Si/SiO2 controls of similar electrical thickness. The two observed adverse phenomena for conventional poly-Si deposited directly on HfO2 are attributed to a partial reduction of the HfO2 by the poly-Si deposition ambient. In the first case (1) the partial reduction occurs locally on the HfO2 surface, forming Hf-Six bond(s) which act as nucleation points for crystalline silicon growth while in the second case (2) the partial reduction occurs along grain boundaries resulting in electrical traps that increase film leakage. In addition, it is postulated that similar adverse interactions with conventionally deposited CVD poly-Si may occur with any transition metal oxide whose metal can form stable silicides.
Nanosphere-based SERS immuno-sensors for protein analysis

We have developed and optimized novel nanosphere-based silver coated SERS substrates for the detection of proteins. These SERS substrates were optimized for silver thickness, number of silver layers, and extent of silver oxidation between layers. Immuno-nanosensors capable of being inserted into individual cells and non-invasively positioned to the sub-cellular location of interest using optical tweezers were constructed from monodisperse silica nanospheres. Silica nanospheres ranging in diameter from 100 to 4500 nm were condensed from tetraalkoxysilanes in an alcoholic solution of water and ammonia. By varying the reaction conditions, accurate control of the silica nanospheres’ diameter was achieved. Silica sphere sizes were optimized for SERS signal response. Nanosphere-based SERS substrates were made by depositing multiple layers of silver on the nanospheres, followed by binding of the antibody of interest to the silver. In binding the antibodies, different crosslinkers were characterized and compared. On one end, each of these crosslinkers contained sulfur or isothiocyanate groups which bound to the silver surface, while the other end contained a carboxylic or primary amine group which reacted readily with the antibodies. In order to evaluate these substrates, SERS spectra of different proteins, such as insulin and interleukin-2 (IL-2), were obtained. By using silver, as the metal surface for SERS, red and near-infrared excitation wavelengths (i.e., 600-700 nm) can be used. Excitation in this range helps to avoid photodamage to cells and reduces any autofluorescence background. Evaluation of these SERS substrates was performed using a 10 mW HeNe laser, operating at 632.8 nm, in a collinear excitation/detection geometry. The SERS signals were filtered with a holographic notch filter, dispersed by 1/3 meter spectrometer and detected using an intensified charge coupled device (ICCD). This paper discusses the fabrication and optimization of these nanosensors, as well as their potential applications.
Tetherin antagonism by Vpu protects HIV-infected cells from antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity

Tetherin is an IFN-inducible transmembrane protein that inhibits the detachment of enveloped viruses from infected cells. HIV-1 overcomes this restriction factor by expressing HIV-1 viral protein U (Vpu), which down-regulates and degrades tetherin. We report that mutations in Vpu that impair tetherin antagonism increase the susceptibility of HIV-infected cells to antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), and conversely that RNAi knockdown of tetherin, but not other cellular proteins down-modulated by Vpu, decreases the susceptibility of HIV-infected cells to ADCC. These results reveal that Vpu protects HIV-infected cells from ADCC as a function of its ability to counteract tetherin. By serving as link between innate and adaptive immunity, the antiviral activity of tetherin may be augmented by virus-specific antibodies, and hence much greater than previously appreciated.
Symptomatic Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Acute Ischemic Stroke After Thrombolysis With Intravenous Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator: A Review of Natural History and Treatment

Importance Intravenous thrombolysis remains the mainstay treatment for acute ischemic stroke. One of the most feared complications of the treatment is thrombolysis-related symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), which occurs in nearly 6% of patients and carries close to 50% mortality. The treatment options for sICH are based on small case series and expert opinion, and the efficacy of recommended treatments is not well known. Objective To provide an overview on the rationale and mechanism of action of potential treatments for sICH that may reverse the coagulopathy before hematoma expansion occurs. Evidence Review Evidence-based peer-reviewed articles, including randomized trials, case series and reports, and retrospective reviews, were identified in a PubMed search on the mechanism of action of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator and the rationale of various potential treatments using the coagulation cascade as a model. The search encompassed articles published from January 1, 1990, through February 28, 2014. Findings The current treatments may not be sufficient to reverse coagulopathy early enough to prevent hematoma expansion and improve the outcome of thrombolysis-related hemorrhage. Conclusions and Relevance Given the mechanism of action of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, clinical studies could include agents with a fast onset of action, such as prothrombin complex concentrate, recombinant factor VIIa, and e-aminocaproic acid, as potential therapeutic options.
Promotion effect of Pt on a SnO2–WO3 material for NOx sensing

Abstract Metal-oxide nanocomposites were prepared over screen-printed gold electrodes to be used as room-temperature NO x (nitric-oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 )) sensors. Various weight ratios of SnO 2 –WO 3 and Pt loadings were used for NO sensing. The sensing materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and BET surface analysis. The NO-sensing results indicated that SnO 2 –WO 3 (1:2) was more effective than other materials were. The sensor response ( S =resistance of N 2 /resistance of NO= R N 2 / R NO ) for detecting 1000 ppm of NO at room temperature was 2.6. The response time ( T 90 ) and recovery time (TR 90 ) was 40 s and 86 s, respectively. By further loading with 0.5% Pt, the sensor response increased to 3.3. The response and recovery times of 0.5% Pt/SnO 2 –WO 3 (1:2) were 40 s and 206 s, respectively. The linearity of the sensor response for a NO concentration range of 10–1000 ppm was 0.9729. A mechanism involving Pt promotion of the SnO 2 –WO 3 heterojunction was proposed for NO adsorption, surface reaction, and adsorbed NO 2 desorption.
Shelf-life prediction: theory and application

Abstract Although most food companies have a distinct interest in the shelf-life of their food products, little has been done to determine true shelf-life as a function of variable environmental conditions. Research efforts are generally aimed at improving quality with respect to a longer shelf-life. For true shelf-life prediction, especially for refrigerated foods, knowledge of predictive microbiology is needed. Models that describe influences of temperature and water activity on microbial deterioration are compared and the square-root model is found to be the best based on the criteria of r2 and mean square error. Appropriate approaches are presented for prediction of remaining quality or shelf-life of foods undergoing fluctuating temperature conditions. Finally, the Weibull hazard analysis technique for determination of shelf-life is introduced.
The use of methoxyflurane for small animal anesthesia

Abstract We have found that methoxyflurane (Penthrane) is a remarkably safe and easy agent for anesthesia of the laboratory mouse or rat. A simple and effective method of administration is described which can virtually eliminate anesthetic mortality.
Neuropeptide Y-induced constriction in small resistance vessels of skeletal muscle

Abstract The in vivo responsiveness of small arterioles and venules in the rat cremaster muscle to topical administration of neuropeptide Y was assessed using closed-circuit television microscopy. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital (50 mg/kg) and the cremaster muscle was exposed to increasing bath concentrations of neuropeptide Y (10−10–10−7 M). Neuropeptide Y produced dose-dependent constrictions in first ( 90±8 μ m ), second ( 50±6 μ m ) and third ( 21±4 μ m ) order arterioles. Arteriolar reactivity to the peptide was inversely related to vessel diameters. Venules were relatively unresponsive to neuropeptide Y. Exposure to the alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonist, phentolamine (10−6 M), failed to modify the arteriolar constrictor responses to neuropeptide Y, while pretreatment with the sympathetic neuronal blocking agent, guanethidine (10−5 M), produced a small, but significant, reduction in sensitivity. These data suggest that neuropeptide Y causes constriction of arterioles of skeletal muscle, primarily by acting directly on vascular smooth muscle to induce contraction, and not via release of endogenous norepinephrine.
Spectral characteristics of human fetal adrenal microsomes.

Abstract Investigations of human fetal adrenal gland microsomes indicated that a carbon monoxide binding pigment had an absorption maximum of 446 to 448 nm. This pigment, upon heat treatment at 37°C was degraded to the form of cytochrome p-420. NADPH reduced cytochrome p-450 slowly and completely. Typical concentrations of 0.75 and 0.16 nmoles/mg protein cytochrome P-450 and b 5 , respectively, were observed. Reduced ethylisocyanide spectra were similar to those of rat hepatic microsomes with absorption maxima at 430 as well as 454 nm. Typical type I spectral changes were observed with progesterone, 17-α-OH-progesterone, pregnenolone and androstenedione when these steroids were added to the sample cuvettes. Androstenedione exhibited an apparent spectral dissociation constant (K S ) of 5×10 −6 M pregnenolone and progesterone exhibited higher affinities with apparent dissociation constants of 1.1×10 −7 M and 1.8×10 −7 M, respectively. The maximal absorbance change induced by androstenedione was lower (Emax = 0.027 per mg protien) than the changes in absorbance maxima induced by pregnenolone or progesterone (Emax = 0.060 and 0.047 per mg protein, respectively) when saturating concentrations of these steroids were added to the sample cuvettes. Ethylmorphine and aminopyrine (10 −3 M final concentrations) did not exhibit observable spectral changes; however, type II spectra could be elicited with aniline and nicotinamide and apparent dissociation constants of 3.5×10 −2 M and 2.5×10 −2 M, respectively, were obtained.