cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Erratum to “In-situ investigation of partially deuterated fatty acid and phospholipid monolayers at the air-water interface by IR reflection-absorption spectroscopy” [thinsolid films284–285 (1996) 428–431]

Abstract Partially deuterated fatty acid and phospholipid Langmuir films were examined by infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy, thereby permitting a conformational analysis of different regions of the film-forming molecules from the frequencies of the CH2 and CD2 stretching vibrations. For hexadecanoic acid-d 17 , half-deuterated at the tail end, the observed CH 2 -stretching frequencies of ∼ 2 915 and 2 849 cm −1 were considerably lowered from thoseof completely protiated hexadecanoic acid, indicating that the conformational order adjacent to the headgroup is much higher than at the tail end. With the half-deuterated fatty acid as the acyl chain component in DPPC-d34, it was possible to probe different partsof the hydrocarbon moiety of phospholipid monolayers at the air-water interface. Results similar to thosefor the fatty acids were noted, with greater conformational disorder occurring toward the bilayer center.
REVISITING THE HIGH YIELD BOND MARKET: MATURE BUT NEVER DULL

Ten years ago the author of this article wrote a piece for this journal reviewing the history of the “junk” bond market from its start in the mid-1970s through the collapse of the leveraged restructuring movement at the end of the 1980s. In the summer of 1990, the high yield market was at a critical point in its development. With defaults high and still rising, the yield spreads over Treasuries of junk bonds had jumped to over 700 basis points and the new issue market had all but dried up. Drexel Burnham Lambert had recently filed for Chapter 11, and Michael Milken had been indicted. At that time, when many market observers were pronouncing the junk bond market “finished,” the author of this article said that the market performed a valuable economic function and, despite investor losses, would weather the crisis. In describing the remarkable recovery of the high yield market in 1990s, this article notes some important changes in the market. And, although there are now troubling similarities (including rising default rates and spreads) to conditions in the early ‘90, there are also important differences that are likely to make the start of this decade a better one for investors.
Ayurvedic treatment for jaundice in Nepal

This paper describes beliefs and practices associated with jaundice and its treatment by ayurvedic physicians (vaidyas) in Kathmandu. It documents continuity of ancient ayurvedic ideas and practices as well as syncretism between ayurvedic and allopathic (Western, biomedical) traditions in modern Nepal. Popular beliefs about the cause of jaundice appear to have evolved to fit therapeutic practices adopted by vaidyas from allopathy. An implication of this finding is that beliefs about causation do not necessarily precede and channel therapeutic choices; they may also function to rationalize and provide meaning to experiences of illness and therapy. The data also suggest a number of hypotheses about the efficacy of ayurvedic treatment for jaundice.
MULTIFACTORIAL STUDY OF HAZE FORMATION IN MODEL WINE SYSTEMS

A multifactorial design was used to study the role of protein (Pro), polyphenols (PP), sucrose (Suc), pectin (Pec), potassium (K), and pH in the formation of haze in wine. Model wines (32) containing two levels of each factor plus yeast and nutrients were made and allowed to ferment to 0 Brix. Measurements of transmission at 633 nm (%T) following heating showed that PP, Pro, Pro * PP, Pec, and PP * Pec were all significant factors affecting turbidity. Molecular weight and size determinations by size-exclusion chromatography-laser light scattering indicated that molecular weight depended on Suc * Pec, Pro * PP * pH, and Pro * Pec * pH while molecular radius depended on PP * Suc * Pec, Pro, PP * Pec, and Suc * pH. Measurement of protein after filtration showed that Pro, PP, Pro * PP, and Pro * PP * pH were all factors. Laser diffraction studies showed three primary peaks in the range 0.05 - 800 μm. The smallest size range had Pro * pH as a significant factor, while the largest had Pec and Pro * K as factors. These results indicate that a variety of factors are important to haze formation and that measurement of particle size, distribution, and interactions depends upon the instrument used to measure it. Une etude multifactorielle est utilisee pour evaluer le role des proteines (Pro), des polyphenols (PP), du saccharose (Suc), de la pectine (Pec), du potassium (K) et du pH dans la formation du trouble dans le vin. Les resultats montrent que les facteurs PP, Pro, Pro * PP, Pec, et PP * Pec affectent la turbidite du vin. Ils indiquent aussi que la mesure de la taille des particules, la distribution et les interactions dependent de l'instrument utilise pour les mesurer.
Synthesis, Characterization and Anti-Melanoma Activity of Tetra-O-substituted Analogs of Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid

Synthesis of seven semi-synthetic analogs of NDGA is described. An approach to NDGA derivatization is described in which the ortho-phenolic groups are tethered together by one atom, forming a 5-membered heterocyclic ring. The analogs were evaluated for cytotoxicity in four cancer cell lines and compared to NDGA and tetra-O-methyl-NDGA (M4N) (1a). NDGA bis-cyclic sulfate (2a), NDGA bis-cyclic carbonate (2b), and methylenedioxyphenyl-NDGA (2d) and NDGA tetra acetate (1b) showed anti-cancer activity in vitro. Two compounds, (1b) and (2b), were evaluated for anticancer activity in a mouse xenograft model of human melanoma and showed dose-dependent activity.
Line tension of a collapsed linear plateau border

Abstract A collapsed linear Plateau border is the common line of intersection of three thin liquid films that arises when the contact angle θ at the film perimeter exceeds 30°. Such a border may terminate in a Q-point, where it intersects three film perimeter, or a T-point, where it intersects three other collapsed linear Plateau borders at tetrahedral angles of 109.47°. In a Q-point, the angle α between the collapsed border and each of the intersecting film perimeters is given by cosα = cotθ /√3, so that a force balance at a Q-Point leads to the following simple expression for the line tension, τ c , of a collapsed linear Plateau border: τ c = τ√3 cotθ (θ > 30°) where τ is the line tension of a film perimeter which can, in principle, be measured. Consideration is also given to the microscopic cross-sectional profile of the collapsed border, which is governed by short-range interfacial interaction forces. Although the line tension may, in principle, be obtained from a detailed knowledge of this profile, our current level of understanding of interaction forces is insufficient for this purpose.
Note on kω without separation

Abstract Some published questions about description of k ω spaces with or without separation axioms are fully answered.
Knowledge and adoption of radiographic quality assurance guidelines by general dentists in North Carolina

Objectives/Study Design A random survey of equal proportions of urban and rural North Carolina general dentists was conducted to assess their knowledge and adoption of radiographic quality assurance guidelines of the American Dental Association. Results
Can plasma B-type natriuretic peptide levels predict need for mechanical ventilation after injury?

Abstract Background B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a neurohormone released from cardiomyocytes in response to volume expansion and increased ventricular wall distension. Increased plasma BNP levels are associated with mortality in critically ill patients cared for in medical intensive care units (ICUs). Additionally, plasma BNP levels may serve as a biomarker for excessive fluid resuscitation after injury. The utility of plasma BNP levels as a prognosticator of outcomes after injury has not been previously described. The purpose of this study was to describe the change in plasma BNP levels over the first 48 hours after injury and determine if there was a correlation between plasma BNP levels and clinical outcomes. Methods In this prospective observational cohort trial, plasma BNP levels were followed in injured patients admitted to a surgical ICU. Levels were obtained at admission to the emergency room (baseline) and at 12, 24, and 48 hours. Change in plasma BNP levels from baseline were calculated for each time point (ΔBNP). Demographic information was collected, including age, gender, injury severity score, ventilator days, ICU length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, net fluid balance at 24 hours, and in-hospital mortality. Spearman's rank-order correlation coefficients were determined for plasma ΔBNP levels and outcome measures (days ventilated, ICU LOS, hospital LOS, and mortality). Results Forty-four ICU patients were prospectively enrolled. Thirty-six patients (82%) were male, and 30 patients (68%) required mechanical ventilation. The mean age was 40.3 years. The median injury severity score was 19.5 (range, 9–29), and overall mortality was 14%. The mean baseline BNP level was 48 ± 66 pg/mL (range, 10–274 pg/mL). Mean ΔBNP at 24 hours was 74 ± 147 pg/mL. Net fluid balance at 48 hours after admission ranged from −1.6 to 15.6 L. Plasma ΔBNP levels at 24 and 48 hours did not correlate with net resuscitation volume at their respective time points of 24 and 48 hours. ΔBNP at 24 hours correlated with the number of days on mechanical ventilation (Spearman's ρ = .428, P = .007). ΔBNP at 24 hours also correlated with Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores (Spearman's ρ = .430, P = .046). Patients with increases in plasma BNP of ≥75 pg/mL at 24 hours were nearly 3 times more likely to be ventilated for >3 days (relative risk, 2.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–7.7). Conclusions Changes in plasma BNP levels over the first 24 hours after ICU admission may have prognostic value in determining the need for mechanical ventilation in patients admitted to ICUs after injury. Additionally, the correlation between plasma BNP levels at 24 hours and mechanical ventilation requirements is not due solely to resuscitation volume. Further studies examining the prognostic value of plasma BNP levels after injury are warranted.
Dependence of intertrabecular permeability on flow direction and anatomic site.

The structure-function relationships for the permeability of trabecular bone may have relevance for tissue engineering, total joint replacements, and whole bone mechanics. To investigate such relationships, we used a constant flow rate permeameter to determine the intrinsic permeability of trabecular bone specimens, oriented longitudinally or transversely to the principal trabecular orientation, from the human vertebral body (n=20), human proximal femur (n=12), and bovine proximal tibia (n=24). Overall, the intertrabecular permeability ranged from 2.68 × 1011 to 2.00 × 108 m2. Significant negative nonlinear relations between intertrabecular permeability and volume fraction were found for each group except the longitudinal bovine proximal tibial specimens (r2=0.34-0.80). The average permeability ratio, a measure of the anisotropy, was 2.05, 6.60, and 23.3 for the human vertebral body, bovine tibia, and human femur, respectively. The permeability depended strongly on flow direction relative to the principal trabecular orientation (p < 0.0001) and anatomic site (p < 0.0001). In addition to providing a comprehensive description of intertrabecular permeability as a function of anatomic site and flow direction, these data provide substantial insight into the underlying structure-function relationships. © 1999 Biomedical Engineering Society. PAC99: 8719-j
novel Rare-Earth-containing Lead-Free Solders with Enhanced ductility*

Severallead-free material systems are availableas replacements for traditional lead-based solders in microelectronic packaging, including near-eutectic combinations oftin-rich alloys. Although these materials have superior mechanical properties as compared to the Pb-Sn system, much work remains in developing these materials for electronic packaging. Small additions of rare-earth elements have been shown to refine the microstructure of several lead-free solder systems, thus improving their mechanical properties. This study investigated the effect of the addition of lanthanum on the melting behavior, microstructure, and shear strength of an Sn-3.9Ag-0.7Cu alloy. The influence of LaSn3 intermetallics on microstructural refinement and damage evolution in these novel solders is discussed.
FUNDAMENTAL STUDY OF CLAY: IV, SURFACE AREA AND ITS EFFECT ON EXCHANGE CAPACITY OF KAOLINITE

Six monodisperse fractions of kaolinite were prepared, and the exchange capacity was determined from the viscosity relations on additions of NaOH to the electrodialyzed fractions. A linear relationship is shown to exist between the surface area and the base-exchange capacity for all of the sizes studied.
Nonholonomic Trajectory Optimization and the Existence of Twisted Matrix Logarithms

Summary. The problem studied here is a shortest path problem of the type encountered in sub-Riemannian geometry. It is distinguished by special structures related to its Lie group setting and the Z 2 graded structure on the relevant Lie algebra. In spite of the fact that the first order necessary conditions lead to differential equations that are integrable in terms of elementary functions, in this case there remain questions related to the existence of appropriate values for the parameters which appear. In this paper we treat the problem in some generality but establish the existence of suitable parameter values only in the case of the general linear group of dimension two.
Carbon-based ocean productivity and phytoplankton physiology from space

carbon(C)andchlorophyll(Chl)biomassandshowthatderivedChl:Cratioscloselyfollow anticipated physiological dependencies on light, nutrients, and temperature. With this new information, global estimates of phytoplankton growth rates (m) and carbon-based NPP are made for the first time. Compared to an earlier chlorophyll-based approach, our carbonbased values are considerably higher in tropical oceans, show greater seasonality at middle and high latitudes, and illustrate important differences in the formation and demise of regional algal blooms. This fusion of emerging concepts from the phycological and remote sensing disciplines has the potential to fundamentally change how we model and observe carbon cycling in the global oceans.
STUDIES ON ISOLATED CELL COMPONENTS : II. THE RELEASE OF A NUCLEAR GEL BY HEPARIN

1. The addition of heparin to rat liver, kidney, or brain nuclei has been found to bring about the release of a gel. Chemical analysis and histochemical studies on whole homogenates and isolated nuclei demonstrated that the material released by heparin contained desoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and protein. The action of heparin on nuclei is interpreted as the result of a combination with the basic proteins of the nucleus with a consequent displacement of DNA. 2. The addition of heparin to a finely divided dilute liver homogenate prepared in a phosphate-sucrose solution at pH 7.1 brings about a marked increase in viscosity which reaches a maximum in 6 to 8 minutes at 23 degrees and then declines. 3. The concentration threshold for the viscosity effect was 0.1 mg. per 100 mg. fresh rat liver, with further increases in viscosity at higher heparin concentrations. Over a period of several hours a marked decrease in response to heparin was observed in homogenates stored at 0 degrees . 4. Fractionation of the homogenate demonstrated that the viscosity increase was due to the presence of the nuclei alone, other components showing no effect. Microscopic observation showed that the increase in viscosity was associated with the appearance of a clear gel around nuclei treated with heparin. 5. Heparin brought about the release of DNA from the nuclei of incubated rat liver, kidney, and brain homogenates. In some instances over half the DNA is found in the supernatant after high speed centrifugation (20 minutes, 21,000 x g). 6. No correlation was found between anticoagulant activity of heparin preparations and their effectiveness in causing an increase in the viscosity of liver homogenates. Desulfated heparin produced none of the results described here for heparin.
A new StaRT-PCR approach to detect and quantify fish Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia virus (VHSv): enhanced quality control with internal standards.

Abstract Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia virus (VHSv) causes one of the world's most important finfish diseases, killing >80 species across Eurasia and North America. A new and especially virulent strain (IVb) emerged in the North American Great Lakes in 2003, threatening fisheries, baitfish, and aquaculture industries. Weeks-long and costly cell culture is the OIE and USDA-APHIS approved diagnostic. A new Standardized Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (StaRT-PCR) assay that uniquely incorporates internal standards to improve accuracy and prevent false negatives was developed and evaluated for its ability to detect and quantify VHSv. Results from StaRT-PCR, SYBR® green real time qRT-PCR, and cell culture were compared, as well as the effects of potential PCR inhibitors (EDTA and high RNA). Findings show that StaRT-PCR is sensitive, detecting a single molecule, with 100% accuracy at six molecules, and had no false negatives. In comparison, false negatives ranged from 14 to 47% in SYBR® green real time qRT-PCR tests, and 47–70% with cell culture. StaRT-PCR uniquely controlled for EDTA and RNA interference. Range of VHSv quantitation by StaRT-PCR was 1.0 × 100–1.2 × 105 VHSv/106 actb1 molecules in wild caught fishes and 1.0 × 100–8.4 × 105 molecules in laboratory challenged specimens. In the latter experiments, muskellunge with skin lesions had significantly more viral molecules (mean = 1.9 × 104) than those without (1.1 × 103) (p
Quantitative evaluation of 2-deoxy-2-[18F] fluoro-D-glucose uptake in hepatic metastases with combined PET-CT: iterative reconstruction with CT attenuation correction versus filtered back projection with 68Germanium attenuation correction.

Purpose: Iterative reconstruction (IR) is a statistical reconstruction method that may be influenced by high background activity such as in the liver. Recently developed combined positron emission tomography (PET) and computerized tomography (CT) instrumentation utilizes CT attenuation correction that may also differ compared to 68Germanium (68Ge) segmented attenuation correction (IR SAC). Quantitative differences could affect the clinical interpretation of metastatic foci and subsequent response to therapy. The purpose of this study is to characterize potential quantitative differences specifically in hepatic metastases. Procedures: Thirty-three metastatic liver lesions in 23 patients were evaluated. Whole-body 2-deoxy-2[18F]fluoro-D-glucose(FDG) PET images were obtained on a dedicated PET-CT device and reconstructed with IR and CT measured attenuation correction (IR CT MAC), IR and 68Ge segmented attenuation correction, and also with filtered back-projection and segmented attenuation correction (FBP SAC). Regions of interest over the liver lesions (L) and liver background (B) were drawn on FBP SAC images and superimposed on the co-registered IR CT MAC and IR SAC images for comparison. To identify the individual effects of IR and CT attenuation correction, IR SAC was first compared to FBP SAC, followed by a comparison of IR CT MAC and IR SAC. Differences were expressed as bias (%) and compared to FBP SAC. Results: Compared to FBP SAC, IR SAC showed significantly lower liver lesion (mean bias −7.1%; P < 0.00001), significantly higher liver background (mean bias −3.5%; P = 0.005), and significantly lower L/B ratio (mean bias −10.1%; P < 0.00001). Compared to IR SAC, the IR CT MAC showed small but not statistically significant increases in liver lesion (mean bias 3.0%; P = 0.1) and liver background (mean bias 4.3%; P = 0.09), and no significant difference in L/B ratio (mean bias −1.3%; P = 0.5). The overall effect of IR CT MAC compared to FBP SAC was a significant decrease in liver lesion (mean bias −4.2%; P = 0.002), significant increase in liver background (mean bias 8.7%; P = 0.002), and significantly lower L/B (mean bias −11.1%; P < 0.00001) compared to FBP SAC. Conclusion: Compared to FBP, IR resulted in significantly lower mean hepatic tumor activity, higher mean liver background activity, and lower L/B activity, but these differences were modest. These differences were similarly seen in the CT corrected IR CT MAC when compared to FBP SAC. CT attenuation correction did not result in significant differences when compared to 68Ge correction. Although the differences in IR CT MAC were modest, consistent reconstruction methods are important to decrease the measurement variability and improve reproducibility.
Acute silver toxicity to seawater‐acclimated rainbow trout: Influence of salinity on toxicity and silver speciation

While there is considerable information on freshwater toxicity of Ag to fish, little is known about the toxicity of Ag in marine systems. In the present study, standard 96-h acute toxicity tests were performed on seawater-acclimated rainbow trout in water at 25‰salinity. Toxicity tests were repeated in various salinities (15, 20, 25, and 30‰) at the 50% lethal concentration (LC50) for Ag in 25‰ to investigate the influence of salinity on toxicity. Computer speciation modeling by MINEQL+ was performed in order to gain insight into the variation of Ag species over a range of salinities from freshwater to oceanic seawater at S2–-free conditions. At 25‰salinity the LC50 was determined to be 3.75 μM (401 μg/L) Ag. No mortality was observed at this Ag concentration in 15 or 20‰ salinities. Mortality increased to 50% in 25‰ seawater and again to 67% at 30‰. Based on the results of speciation modeling, an increase in a more toxic AgCln species is unlikely. The increased toxicity with salinity may instead be linked to an incomplete hypoosmoregulatory ability of the rainbow trout.
Introspective judgments predict the precision and likelihood of successful maintenance of visual working memory

Working memory serves as an essential workspace for the mind, allowing for the active maintenance of information to support short-term cognitive goals. Although people can readily report the contents of working memory, it is unknown whether they might have reliable metacognitive knowledge regarding the accuracy of their own memories. We investigated this question to better understand the core properties of the visual working memory system. Observers were briefly presented with displays of three or six oriented gratings, after which they were cued to report the orientation of a specific grating from memory as well as their subjective confidence in their memory. We used a mixed-model approach to obtain separate estimates of the probability of successful memory maintenance and the precision of memory for successfully remembered items. Confidence ratings strongly predicted the likelihood that the cued grating was successfully maintained, and furthermore revealed trial-to-trial variations in the visual precision of memory itself. Our findings provide novel evidence indicating that the precision of visual working memory is variable in nature. These results inform an ongoing debate regarding whether this working memory system relies on discrete slots with fixed visual resolution or on representations with variable precision, as might arise from variability in the amount of resources assigned to individual items on each trial.
Plakoglobin expression in fibroblasts and its role in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is an interstitial fibrotic lung disease of unknown origin and without effective therapy characterized by deposition of extracellular matrix by activated fibroblasts in the lung. Fibroblast activation in IPF is associated with Wnt/β-catenin signaling, but little is known about the role of the β-catenin-homologous desmosomal protein, plakoglobin (PG), in IPF. The objective of this study was to assess the functional role of PG in human lung fibroblasts in IPF. Methods: Human lung fibroblasts from normal or IPF patients were transfected with siRNA targeting PG and used to assess cellular adhesion to a fibronectin substrate, apoptosis and proliferation. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test with Mann–Whitney post-hoc analyses and results were considered significant when p< 0.05. Results: We found that IPF lung fibroblasts expressed less PG protein than control fibroblasts, but that characteristic fibroblast phenotypes (adhesion, proliferation, and apoptosis) were not controlled by PG expression. Consistent with this, normal fibroblasts in which PG was silenced displayed no change in functional phenotype. Conclusions: We conclude that diminished PG levels in IPF lung fibroblasts do not directly affect certain phenotypic behaviors. Further study is needed to identify the functional consequences of decreased PG in these cells.
Use and Possible Functions of The Primary and Sustained Songs of Male Grasshopper Sparrows

Ascertaining the functions bird song requires information about when and where a song or, for males with multisong repertoires, songs are used. Because the need for and type of communication with mates and conspecifics changes with breeding stage and social context, detailed observations may reveal differential use of song or of different song types. Our objective was to examine the use, and determine the possible functions, of the two song types (primary and sustained) in the repertoire of male grasshopper sparrows (Ammodramus savannarum) by observing males throughout the breeding season and in different behavioral contexts in Madison County, Kentucky. For primary songs, rates varied among breeding stages and were highest before pairing, suggesting that primary song plays a role in mate attraction. However, male Grasshopper Sparrows continued to use primary songs after pairing, and likely functions include territory defense. The use of sustained songs also varied among breeding stages, with none uttered before pairing and rates highest during nest building and incubation. Male grasshopper sparrows also uttered more sustained songs when being observed (with one of us in their territories) then when not (neighboring males). These results suggest that sustained songs may serve to alert females to the presence of potential predators while simultaneously distracting such predators. Songs with such functions appear to be uncommon and have been reported in few other species.
Stem cell transplantation for non-hodgkin's lymphomas

Both autologous and allogeneic transplants have been extensively studied in the management of non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas and may offer a chance of a long-term cure for some patients. Autologous stem cell transplantation is considered standard therapy for patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma in chemotherapy-sensitive relapse. It is also widely applied for patients with T cell histologies both as consolidation of first remission and in the salvage setting. It is also often used in patients with other histologic subtypes like follicular lymphoma, primary central nervous system lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation also confers an immune-mediated graft-versus-lymphoma effect which can produce long-term remissions in selected patients in settings where autologous transplants may not be effective. However, when compared to autologous transplants, allogeneic transplants are associated with higher complication rates and higher transplant-related mortality rates. This is primarily due to the toxicity of the high-dose regimen, acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease, and the associated risk of infections. Therefore, allogeneic transplants have ­historically been restricted to patients who are young and have a good performance status. There is recent interest in non-myeloablative or reduced-intensity conditioning regimen allogeneic transplants as a means of exploiting the graft-versus-lymphoma effect with less toxicity and lower regimen-related mortality. Several trials in lymphoma have been published evaluating the role of high-dose therapy and comparing the outcomes of allogeneic or autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In this chapter, we review the use of autologous and allogeneic transplants for the common subtypes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Bioengineering and the Ovarian Follicle

Three-dimensional scaffolds are widely used in the field of tissue engineering, which combines the principles and methods of the life sciences with those of engineering to provide a fundamental understanding of structure–function relationships in normal and diseased tissues, to develop materials and methods to repair damaged or diseased tissues, and to create entire tissue replacements [1]. A synthetic scaffold can serve as a stroma that creates a cellular environment designed to provide the factors that stimulate maturation of ovarian follicles, but lacks the factors found in the native stroma that inhibit follicle maturation. In the area of follicle maturation, synthetic scaffolds have been employed to maintain the appropriate size, shape, and architecture of the tissue while providing the necessary signals to direct cellular responses [2–7]. These scaffolds maintain the intimate physiological connections between the oocytes and somatic cells within the follicle, which are essential for normal development. Additionally, a three-dimensional scaffold is more durable and poses fewer concerns regarding jolting the cultures, which can be problematic in two-dimensional systems [5]. Finally, the scaffold-encased follicle can be individually manipulated, providing an extraordinary level of control. The development of scaffold materials, in combination with basic studies of follicle biology, will ultimately lead to the development of a synthetic ovarian stroma and the optimal media conditions to support follicle development and maturation in vitro, which will enable women to preserve their fertility in the face of various insults, including chemotherapy- or radiation therapy-induced infertility. In this chapter, we discuss the application of bioengineering principles to the emerging field of oncofertility. We will summarize current knowledge of and achievements in the development of in vitro systems for culture of preantral follicles. Then, we will discuss the concept of application of biomaterials on in vitro follicle development and principles of hydrogel selection and modification. Finally, we will address the transplantation of ovarian tissue as an alternative to in vitro maturation. Though the approach is early in its development, it has successfully yielded live offspring. Biomaterial scaffolds, combined with drug delivery technology, may facilitate engraftment and function of the transplanted tissue [8,9].
A Comparative Study on Payment Schemes For Watershed Services in New York City and Beijing

Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES), also known as Payment for Environmental Services, has become an increasingly popular economic approach to address environmental problems. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), watershed is among the services that are currently receiving most funds and interest worldwide. The author compares two distinctive watershed PES programs, namely the New York City Watershed Program and Beijing Watershed Program in China, discusses their different levels of success due to approach towards the program, program framework and watershed economic gains and program management and operation, and put forward suggestions for program improvement for similar PES projects.
Treatment and Prevention of Dyspigmentation in Patients with Ethnic Skin

Ethnic skin, also referred to as skin of color, is primarily composed of Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI and encompasses many racial and ethnic groups, including African-Americans, Asians, and Hispanics. Body rejuvenation can be successfully completed for these patients, but it requires knowledge of adverse reactions in darker skin. The increased melanin in richly pigmented skin can lead to greater susceptibility to postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), particularly from an underlying inflammatory cutaneous disorder or secondary to an irritation from therapeutic interventions (Fig. 33.1). Prevention of inciting inflammation, sun avoidance, and topical depigmenting agents are the mainstay of therapy for dyspigmentation in ethnic skin.
The safety and efficacy of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors for primary angioplasty: more options to choose and more time to decide.

In this issue of the Journal , Gurm et al. ([1][1]) present observational data showing no apparent difference in early outcome among primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) patients receiving the small-molecule platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa inhibitor eptifibatide versus those
The economic impacts of HIV/AIDS on households and economies.

The following papers address the methods and assessment of microeconomic (household) and macroeconomic impacts of HIV/AIDS focusing on Nigeria Botswana and Cambodia. Quantifying the impacts of HIV/AIDS even in the absence of treatment has a number of policy and programmatic benefits. First it can act as a good advocacy tool for greater prevention efforts. Second it can usefully inform targeting strategies for HIV prevention and care to mitigate economic effects when impacts are shown to be largest. Third the economic cost of HIV/AIDS to an individual household community or economy provides a useful baseline from which to assess the economic savings of a prevention or care programme. We now have a wealth of studies that show the economic impacts of HIV/AIDS on households in many countries and settings. Rather than further quantifying impact however studies that systematically compare interventions in terms of their impact on the quality of life of families and communities will be of great use to policymakers and programmers. (excerpt)
Giant Cell Arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis or cranial arteritis, is a common form of systemic vasculitis involving large and medium-sized arteries. Cellular infitrate includes lymphocytes, macrophages and multinucleated giant cells. Common symptoms include headache, neck pain and scalp tenderness. Diagnosis includes temporal artery biopsy and blood flow studies with fluorescein angiography. Immediate treatment with corticosteroids is essential to avoid blindness and minimize ischemic complications.
Oxygen Tension of Healing Fractures in the Rabbit

True appreciation of the structure and function of the knee joint meniscus is a relatively recent occurrence. Even decades after studies were published documenting the detrimental effects of meniscectomoy such as osteoarthritis, many physicians continued to advocate total meniscectomy for even minor meniscal pathology. Fortunately, the clinical approach to these problems has undergone dramatic change over the past 20 years. A review of the anatomy and ultrastructure of the meniscus, and its relationship to normal function in terms of load transmission, shock absorption, joint stability, lubrication, and nutrition will enable a better understanding of the rationale for meniscus preservation techniques, including meniscal repair and meniscal transplant.
FLEET Boundary Layer Velocity Profile Measurements

Femtosecond Laser Electronic Excitation Tagging (FLEET) was introduced recently (Michael, J., Edwards, M., Dogariu, A. and Miles, R., “Femtosecond laser electronic excitation tagging for quantitative velocity imaging in air,” Applied Optics, Vol. 50, No. 5158, 2011) and is employed to measure velocity profiles in an over-expanded supersonic jet. A laser pulse is focused to within approximately 20 microns of a curved razor surface at the nozzle exit where it dissociates a line of molecular nitrogen in air. The atomic nitrogen recombines in an elevated electronic energy state and the subsequent fluorescence is tracked by an intensified-CCD camera over tens of microseconds. Assuming one-dimensional flow, the velocity is calculated by determining the displacement of the tagged line center and dividing by the camera shutter delay. The data is averaged over a series of laser pulses and fluctations between single shots are used to quantify measurement uncertainty. Both the transverse and perpendicular velocity profiles are compared to laminar and turbulent boundary layer models with the Meador-Smart reference temperature for compressibility and Van Driest transformed velocity to account for wall heat transfer. Transition from a laminar to turbulent boundary layer is apparent across the curvature of the surface while interaction with the shock cone and shear layer downstream may explain deviation from expected behavior.
Free-Surface Microfluidics/Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for Real-Time Trace Vapor Detection of Explosives

The dominant physical transport processes are analyzed in a free-surface microfluidic and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) chemical detection system. The analysis describes the characteristic fluid dynamics and mass transport effects occurring in a microfluidic detection system whose analyte absorption and concentration capability is designed to operate on principles inspired by canine olfaction. The detection system provides continuous, real-time monitoring of particular vapor-phase analytes at concentrations of 1 ppb. The system is designed with a large free-surface-to-volume ratio microfluidic channel which allows for polar or hydrophilic airborne analytes to readily be partitioned from the surrounding gas phase into the aqueous phase for detection. The microfluidic stream can concentrate certain molecules by up to 6 orders of magnitude, and SERS can enhance the Raman signal by 9–10 orders of magnitude for molecules residing in the so-called SERS “hot spots”, providing extremely high detectio...
WHAT MAKES A GREAT MATHEMATICS TEACHER? THE CASE OF AUGUSTUS DE MORGAN

(1999). What Makes a Great Mathematics Teacher? The Case of Augustus De Morgan. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 106, No. 6, pp. 534-552.
Influence of nanoparticle processing and additives on PES casting solution viscosity and cast membrane characteristics

Abstract Nanoparticle stabilizer type, casting solution additives, and nanoparticle processing by centrifugal or magnetic separation were varied, and specific membrane characteristics were evaluated. Specifically, membrane casting solution viscosity, cast membrane thickness, pure water flux, and internal morphology were evaluated. While the addition of the additives ethanol and polyvinylpyrrolidone to a polyethersulfone-dimethylacetamide solution causes an expected increase in viscosity, the addition of nanoparticles can cause an increase or decrease in viscosity depending on the ligand stabilizer used during nanoparticle synthesis and casting solution additive concentration. Viscosity can also be affected by nanoparticle separation method, but again, changes are also dependent on casting solution composition. Varying changes in membrane thickness are observed and can be correlated to viscosity. Pure water flux decreases for all samples when nanoparticles are added, but the extent of the change is affected by casting solution composition. Internal morphology can partially explain the decrease in flux for nanoparticle-embedded membranes.
QTL ANALYSIS FOR YIELD TRAITS OF RICE IN EXCLUSION OF MAJOR EFFECT

This study was conducted to detect quantitative traits loci(QTL) for yield traits in the exclusion of major QTLs.In a previous mapping of QTLs for heading date and yield traits using Zhong 156/Gumei 2 recombinant inbred line(RIL) population of rice,a major QTL was located in the interval RM2-RM214 on chromosome 7.Two lines showing the Gumei 2 genotype in this interval were selected and crossed to derive a new RIL population.A total of 25 QTLs were detected,of which 8 also had significant effect in the previous study and the direction of the additive effect always remained unchanged,6 more were located in two of the common QTL regions but significant effects were detected for 3 more traits in each region,respectively.The remaining 11 QTLs were located in regions where no QTL for yield traits were detected in the previous study.Two QTLs detected in the previous population was not detected in the present study,of which one had been shown to exhibit no effect in the background of Gumei 2 genotype in the RM2-RM214 interval,and the other had a minor contribution of 0.55% to the phenotypic variance in the previous study.Comparison between the two RIL populations showed that efficiency of the QTL detection could be greatly improved by eliminating the effect of major QTL.
Neurologic manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus infections.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection causes both central and peripheral nervous system dysfunction. Primary HIV infection, as well as opportunistic infections, cause these neurologic syndromes. Effective therapy is available for several of these disorders.
A clinical trial of University of Wisconsin solution for pulmonary preservation

Suboptimal pulmonary preservation with modified Euro-Collins solution (9/90 to 4/91) prompted us to change to University of Wisconsin solution (4/91 to 4/92). Between September 1990 and April 1992, 94 patients received 100 pulmonary allografts (13 heart-lungs, 45 double lungs, 42 single lungs) that were flushed and preserved with either Euro-Collins (n = 30) or University of Wisconsin (n = 70) solution. Selection of donors and procurement and storage of donor lungs were identical. Bilateral single lung transplantation was performed more often in the University of Wisconsin group and resulted in a significantly longer graft ischemic time (University of Wisconsin group; 303 ± 62 minutes; Euro-Collins group; 260 ± 62 minutes; p = 0.007, t test). The use of cardiopulmonary bypass was not statistically significantly different. Preservation injury identified by the radiograph on day 1 was more severe (p = 0.036; Mann-Whitney U test) in the Euro-Collins group than in the University of Wisconsin group. In double lung and heart-lung recipients gas exchange of the allografts was evaluated by the arterial/alveolar oxygen tension ratios at nine intervals during the first 72 hours. The mean arterial/alveolar oxygen tension ratio was 0.62 ± 0.26 in the University of Wisconsin group and 0.46 ± 0.23 in the Euro-Collins group, but this difference did not reach significance (p = 0.119, analysis of variance). Despite the longer ischemic time, pulmonary preservation achieved by University of Wisconsin solution appears to be comparable with that achieved by Euro-Collins solution.
Craniofacial Computerassisted Surgical Planning and Simulation

Computer-assisted planning and simulation of craniofacial surgery has progressed from development, through validation, and into clinical use. CT scans are transferred from the radiology department to a graphics workstation in the surgeon’s office or laboratory, where data postprocessing and visualization for anatomic evaluation and surgical simulation are performed. Quantitative and qualitative comparative analyses between the plan/simulation and the actual postoperative result provide the feedback that validates or refutes the preoperative assessment and simulated intervention. The optimum surgical solution can be chosen from many possibilities. Interactive computer-assisted surgical simulation is also useful for morbidity-free training of inexperienced surgeons.
Insurance status and race affect treatment and outcome of traumatic brain injury

Abstract Background There is increasing evidence that race and socioeconomic factors affect patient outcomes after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Our goal was to assess the effect of race, ethnicity and insurance status on hospital length of stay, procedures performed, mortality, and discharge disposition after TBI. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study using the National Trauma Data Bank (2002-2012) to analyze patients aged 14-89 y with one of five closed head injuries. Univariate regressions identified demographic and injury characteristics that were significant predictors of outcomes. These variables were then included in multivariate regression models. Results We analyzed 187,354 TBI patients. The sample was 78% white, 9% black, 9% Hispanic, 3% Asian, and 1% native American, and included 42% Medicare, 30% private insurance, 12% uninsured, 8% other insurance, and 8% Medicaid. Compared with white patients, black and Hispanic patients were more likely to have a TBI procedure (blacks odds ratio [OR] = 1.19, P P P P P = 0.006; Hispanics OR = 0.90, P = 0.007), and more (black OR = 1.09, P = 0.001) or less likely (Hispanic OR = 0.76, P P = 0.001), had longer hospital stays (coeff = 0.24, P P P Conclusions Race/ethnicity and insurance status significantly affect TBI patient outcomes, even after controlling for demographic and injury characteristics.
Optimizing a Menu of Multiformat Subscription Plans for Ad-Supported Media Platforms

AbstractMedia content distribution has changed extensively in the past decade. Content that was once distributed through traditional formats such as television, radio, and print is now available through contemporary digital formats such as smartphone and tablet apps, with many possible versions (e.g., presence or absence of ads). Consequently, many media firms that face heterogeneous markets of consumers with varying content consumption preferences are now offering “menus” of multiformat and multiversion subscription bundles for their customers to choose from. Yet, little systematic model-based guidance exists for configuring and pricing menu options. Moreover, most media firms are audience-building platforms that serve at least two distinct customer groups (content consumers and advertisers) with interrelated demands. Therefore, constructing a menu of content subscription bundles that maximizes total profit from both consumers and advertisers is a formidable challenge. This research proposes a theory-dri...
Voluntary Second Opinions in Pediatric Bone and Soft Tissue Pathology A Retrospective Review of 1601 Cases From a Single Mesenchymal Tumor Consultation Service

The diagnosis of bone and soft tissue tumors in children is challenging. These lesions are especially difficult for general pathologists. We reviewed our experience with pediatric mesenchymal tumor...
Culturally Responsive School Mental Health in Rural Communities

When a reader selects a book about cultural competence or responsiveness, the characteristics that typically come to mind are race and ethnicity. The saliency of race and ethnicity is understandable given that by the year 2050 nearly 50 % of the population of the United States will be comprised of racial and ethnic minority populations (U.S. Census Bureau, 2010). However, in recent years, culture is being conceptualized more broadly to include the culture of gender, age, economic status, location (e.g., urban, rural), and community (e.g., military). Thus, it is important that school mental health (SMH) services are sensitive to these diverse cultures and contexts. The goals of this chapter are to highlight some of the unique challenges associated with SMH service provision in rural contexts and to discuss strategies for advancing culturally responsive care in rural SMH. In particular, we focus on issues related to limited access to services, interpersonal connections, and ethical challenges specific to rural contexts (i.e., competence and dual relationships). We also develop a vignette throughout the chapter to help these issues come to life. We begin with a few contextual comments.
Traceability of vector network analyzer measurements

Measurement traceability is NOT just a requirement in ISO quality standards. It is a necessity to ensure the accuracy of any measurement system. For vector network analyzers (VNA), the traceability of S-parameter measurements is not obvious. The latest generation of VNA is also capable of making measurements beyond S-parameters. This paper will present the latest developments in VNA measurement traceability chain, the key traceable parameters, calibration and verification standard traceability and some verification techniques and results.