cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Correspondence Between Causal and Traditional Mediation Analysis: the Link Is the Mediator by Treatment Interaction

Mediation analysis is a methodology used to understand how and why behavioral phenomena occur. New mediation methods based on the potential outcomes framework are a seminal advancement for mediation analysis because they focus on the causal basis of mediation. Despite the importance of the potential outcomes framework in other fields, the methods are not well known in prevention and other disciplines. The interaction of a treatment (X) and a mediator (M) on an outcome variable (Y) is central to the potential outcomes framework for causal mediation analysis and provides a way to link traditional and modern causal mediation methods. As described in the paper, for a continuous mediator and outcome, if the XM interaction is zero, then potential outcomes estimators of the mediated effect are equal to the traditional model estimators. If the XM interaction is nonzero, the potential outcomes estimators correspond to simple direct and simple mediated contrasts for the treatment and the control groups in traditional mediation analysis. Links between traditional and causal mediation estimators clarify the meaning of potential outcomes framework mediation quantities. A simulation study demonstrates that testing for a XM interaction that is zero in the population can reduce power to detect mediated effects, and ignoring a nonzero XM interaction in the population can also reduce power to detect mediated effects in some situations. We recommend that prevention scientists incorporate evaluation of the XM interaction in their research.
Addressing Ambiguous Loss Through Group Therapy

When children are placed out of the home, state child protective service departments continue to voice their desire to place these children with relatives rather than in traditional foster care. Re...
PINK1 Activation Attenuates Impaired Neuronal-Like Differentiation and Synaptogenesis and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease Trans-Mitochondrial Cybrid Cells.

Background Mitochondrial dysfunction, bioenergetic deficit, and extensive oxidative stress underlie neuronal perturbation during the early stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previously, we demonstrated that decreased PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) expression is associated with AD pathology in AD-affected human brains and AD mice. Objective In the present study, we highlight the essential role of PINK1 in AD-relevant mitochondrial perturbation and neuronal malfunction. Methods Using trans-mitochondrial "cybrid" (cytoplasmic hybrid) neuronal cells, whose mitochondria are transferred from platelets of patients with sporadic AD, we observed the effect of PINK1 in neuronal-like differentiation and synaptogenesis and mitochondrial functions. Results In AD cybrid cells, the downregulation of PINK1 is correlated to the alterations in mitochondrial morphology and function and deficit in neuronal-like differentiation. Restoring/increasing PINK1 by lentivirus transduction of PINK1 robustly attenuate mitochondrial defects and rescue neurite-like outgrowth. Importantly, defective PINK1 kinase activity fails to reverse these detrimental effects. Mechanistically, AD cybrid cells reveal a significant decrease in PINK1-dependent phosphorylated mitofusin (Mfn) 2, a key mitochondrial membrane protein that participates in mitochondrial fusion, and an insufficient autophagic activity for clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria. Overexpression of PINK1, but not mutant PINK1 elevates phosphorylation of Mfn2 and autophagy signaling LC3-II. Accordingly, PINK1-overexpressed AD cybrids exhibit increases in mitochondrial length and density and suppressed reactive oxygen species. These results imply that activation of PINK1 protects against AD-affected mitochondrial dysfunction and impairment in neuronal maturation and differentiation. Conclusion PINK1-mediated mitophagy is important for maintaining mitochondrial health by clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria and therefore, improves energy homeostasis in AD.
Stock Return Outliers

Standard deviations and market-betas based on winsorized rates of return predict their own future realizations better than equivalents based on unwinsorized rates of returns. A good prescription is to winsorize rates of return around plus and minus 10- 15%, especially for samples of all CRSP stocks. There is no meaningful predictive gain using stocks’ own means and standard deviations and/or contemporaneous market rates of return; and eliminating or zeroing returns rather than winsorizing them. Winsorizing is better than not winsorizing. This note then investigates two simple research questions using treated returns: 1. Winsorized log-volatility estimates perform much better than unwinsorized log- volatility estimates in forecasting, and they add marginal predictive power to option-implied volatility forecasts. 2. Annual average stock return predictions with past averages can be very sensitive to winsorization choices (including not winsorizing, which is also implicit in common monthly rates of returns). This evidence suggests that the seemingly second-order innocuous choice of where to winsorize (or not) can unfortunately have important inference consequences.
Opportunities for flexible electricity loads such as hydrogen production from curtailed generation

Abstract Variable, low-cost, low-carbon electricity that would otherwise be curtailed may provide a substantial economic opportunity for entities that can flexibly adapt their electricity consumption. We used historical hourly weather data over the contiguous U.S. to model the characteristics of least-cost electricity systems dominated by variable renewable generation that powered firm and flexible electricity demands (loads). Scenarios evaluated included variable wind and solar power, battery storage, and dispatchable natural gas with carbon capture and storage, with electrolytic hydrogen representing a prototypical flexible load. When flexible loads were small, excess generation capacity was available during most hours, allowing flexible loads to operate at high capacity factors. Expanding the flexible loads allowed the least-cost systems to more fully utilize the generation capacity built to supply firm loads, and thus reduced the average cost of delivered electricity. The macro-scale energy model indicated that variable renewable electricity systems optimized to supply firm loads at current costs could supply ∼ 25% or more additional flexible load with minimal capacity expansion, while resulting in reduced average electricity costs ( ∼ 10% or less capacity expansion and ∼ 10% to 20% reduction in costs in our modeled scenarios). These results indicate that adding flexible loads to electricity systems will likely allow more full utilization of generation assets across a wide range of system architectures, thus providing new energy services with infrastructure that is already needed to supply firm electricity loads.
Acoustic Loss of GHz Higher-Order Lamb Waves in Thin-Film Lithium Niobate: A Comparative Study

This work reports a comparative study of acoustic loss between different Lamb waves at GHz in thin-film lithium niobate (LiNbO₃). The propagation loss (PL) of higher-order Lamb waves in thin-film LiNbO₃ is studied for the first time using acoustic delay line (ADL) testbeds. The acoustic wave attenuation and quality factors (Q) of different Lamb waves are extracted, showing higher Qs for higher-order Lamb modes than fundamental modes in air and vacuum at room temperature. The extracted Qs are higher than those reported in thin-film LiNbO₃ resonators, implying the electrode and anchor-induced loss as the dominant loss factors. The ADL-based loss analysis framework is readily extendable to acoustic damping study in other microwave acoustic platforms. [2021-0165]
Variability in Rehabilitation Protocols after Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior Surgical Repair

Introduction Rehabilitation after a superior labral anterior posterior (SLAP) repair is an important aspect of patient outcomes; however, no standardized rehabilitation protocol has been defined. The purpose of this paper is to assess the variability of rehabilitation after a SLAP repair to understand the need for standardization to improve patient outcomes. Methods Protocols for SLAP repairs were collected through a search for Academic Orthopedic Programs and a general Google search using the terms "[Program Name (if applicable)] SLAP Repair Rehab Protocol". Protocols were compared by sling, range of motion (ROM), physical therapy, return to sport (RTS), return to throwing, and biceps engagement and tenodesis recommendations. Protocols for non-operative or generalized shoulders were excluded. Results Sixty protocols were included. A total of 61.7% (37/60) recommended a sling for four to six weeks and 90% (54/60) included a full ROM recommendation, but time was variable. There were different exercises recommended, but pendulum swings were recommended by 53% (32/60), submaximal isometrics by 55% (33/60), and scapular strengthening by 65% (39/60). Of the sixty protocols, 33% (20/60) recommended return to sports in 24 weeks and 38.3% (23/60) recommended allowing throwing in 16 weeks. Conclusions There was variability in protocols for SLAP repair, especially time until full ROM, RTS, and biceps strengthening. Time in sling and scapular strengthening were the least variable. A lack of specificity within protocols in what return to throwing meant for functional ability made it difficult to compare protocols. Considering the large number of orthopedic programs, a relatively small number had published protocols. Further studies are needed to evaluate a standardized post-operative rehabilitation for SLAP repairs to improve outcomes.
Interpretation of epsilon Aurigae. III

The light curve expected from the eclipse of a star by a companion possessing a semitransparent disk has been investigated. Two computational procedures for deriving the light curve based on the geometrically thin-disk model are given here. Using these procedures, we have calculated the light curves of epsilon Aur based on different sets of parameters including those given previously by Wilson. We have also studied the light curve of epsilon Aur based on a geometrically thick disk model, and have advanced two proposals in order to understand the change in the shape of the light curve from one eclipse to the next, namely, (1) the rapid evolution that occurs in the disk and (2) the density waves in the disk and/or individual condensations that are revolving around the secondary each in an independent way.
Local Influence of Cell Viability on Stretch-Induced Permeability of Alveolar Epithelial Cell Monolayers

Ventilator induced lung injury (VILI), often attributed to over-distension of the alveolar epithelial cell layer, can trigger loss of barrier function. Alveolar epithelial cell monolayers can be used as an idealized in vitro model of the pulmonary epithelium, with cell death and tight junction disruption and permeability employed to estimate stretch-induced changes in barrier function. We adapted a method published for vascular endothelial permeability, compare its sensitivity with our previously published method, and determine the relationship between breeches in barrier properties after stretch and regions of cell death After 4-5 days in culture, primary rat alveolar epithelial cells seeded on plasma treated polydimethylsiloxane membrane coated with biotin-labeled fibronectin, or fibronectin alone were stretched in the presence of FITC-tagged streptavidin (biotin-labeled membrane) or BODIPY-ouabain. We found that the FITC-labeling method was a more sensitive indicator of permeability disruption, with significantly larger positively stained areas visible in the presence of stretch and with ATP production inhibitor Antimycin-A. Triple-stained images with Hoescht (nuclei), Ethidium Homodimer (EthD, damaged cell nuclei) and FITC (permeable regions) were used to determine that within permeable regions intact cells were positioned closer to damaged cells than in non-permeable regions. We concluded that local cell death may be an important contributor to barrier integrity.
Funambulus pennanti (Indian five-striped squirrel)

These karyotypes are gifts of Drs. T. Sharma and G. S. Garg, Varanasi, India, and were prepared from bone marrow. A total of 3 males and 3 females was studied from Varanasi. The X chromosome is 5.8%, the Y is 1.47% of the haploid set. Manna and Talukdar (2) have described 56 chromosomes as the diploid number of this species, and others found different morphology of this species coming from different areas in India. Element #11 has satellites on the short arms.
Vitamin D deficiency in pediatric epilepsy

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that effects individuals of all ages, but can be particularly devastating to a developing child. The consequences of epilepsy can extend beyond the occurrence of seizures, with adults and children experiencing fractures 2-6 times more frequently than the general population. Vitamin D deficiency and its effects on bone health in children with epilepsy is becoming an increasingly recognized health care concern. In addition, vitamin D deficiency may lead to other significant health problems, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, asthma and type 1 diabetes. Evidence has accumulated implicating antiepileptic drugs, particularly when used for long durations and in combination with each other, in depletion of bone mineral density and hypovitaminosis D. This review will focus on the current data demonstrating an association between vitamin D deficiency and the chronic use of antiepileptic drugs in children with epilepsy with a particular emphasis on bone health. Potential mechanisms underlying antiepileptic drug-induced osteopenia and vitamin D deficiency are reviewed.
Advanced semiconductor fundamentals

(NOTE: Each chapter concludes with References and Problems.) 1. Basic Semiconductor Properties. General Material Properties. Crystal Structure. 2. Elements of Quantum Mechanics. The Quantum Concept. Basic Formalism. Simple Problem Solutions. 3. Energy Band Theory. Preliminary Considerations. Approximate One-Dimensional Analysis. Extrapolation of Concepts to Three Dimensions. 4. Equilibrium Carrier Statistics. Density of States. Fermi Function. Supplemental Information. Equilibrium Concentration Relationships. Concentration and E F Calculations. 5. Recombination-Generation Processes. Introduction. Recombination-Generation Statistics. Surface Recombination-Generation. Supplemental R-G Information. 6. Carrier Transport. Drift. Diffusion. Equations of State. Index.
Time-dependent aldosterone metabolism in toad urinary bladder.

Aldosterone (Aldo) metabolism was examined in the toad bladder. Bladders were incubated with [3H]aldosterone (10(-7) M) for 5 h, 1 h, or 10 min. Tissues were analyzed for metabolites using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). In separate experiments, Na+ transport was assessed by the short-circuit current (SCC) technique. Following a 5-h tissue incubation, about 25% of the [3H]-aldosterone was converted into metabolites including a polar monosulfate metabolite, 20 beta-dihydroaldo (20 beta-DHAldo), small quantities of 5 beta-reduced products, and a variety of 5 alpha-reduced Aldo products including 5 alpha-DHAldo, 3 alpha,5 alpha-tetrahydroaldo (3 alpha,5 alpha-THAldo), and 3 beta,5 alpha-THAldo. Tissues metabolized approximately 10% of the labeled hormone into the same compounds by 1 h. Measurable quantities of these metabolites were also synthesized by bladders exposed to Aldo for only 10 min and then incubated in buffer for an additional 50 min without Aldo. Bladders pretreated with the spironolactone, K+-canrenoate (3.5 X 10(-4) M), and stimulated with Aldo (10(-7) M) generated a peak SCC 44 +/- 6% of that observed in matched pairs stimulated with Aldo (P less than 0.001; n = 6). K+-canrenoate also markedly diminished [3H]aldosterone metabolism at both 5 and 1 h. Thus, metabolic transformation of Aldo begins prior to hormone-induced increases in Na+ transport. Both the generation of certain metabolites (e.g., 5 alpha-reductase pathway products) and the increase in Na+ transport can be selectively inhibited by K+-canrenoate.
Considerations in HPJava Language Design and Implementation

This paper discusses some design and implementation issues in the HPJava language.Th e language is briefly reviewed, then the class library that forms the foundation of the translation scheme is described. Through example codes, we illustrate how HPJava source codes can be translated straightforwardly to ordinary SPMD Java programs calling this library.Th is is followed by a discussion of the rationale for introducing the language in the first place, and of how various language features have been designed to facilitate efficient implementation.
Structural analysis of ribosomal 28 S ribonucleic acid of Novikoff hepatoma cells.

The primary sequence of nucleotides was determined for the 99 nucleotide B3-9 subcomponent of 28 S rRNA of Novikoff hepatoma ascites cells; this fragment was purified from the 500 nucleotides GC-rich B3 fragment that is produced by partial cleavage of 28 S rRNA with T1 RNAase. This unique sequence, which is the longest defined thus far for 28 S rRNA, is: see PDF for sequence The only Ap residue is in the 5′-terminal end. The italicized polypyrimidine sequences which have chain lengths of 17, 14, and 21, respectively, are unique markers since they appear only once in 28 S rRNA ot its nucleolar precursors.
Improvement of High-Resolution Tropical Cyclone Structure and Intensity Forecasts using COAMPS-TC

Abstract : The long-term goal of this project is to develop a robust and hardened high-resolution air-ocean coupled tropical cyclone (TC) data assimilation and prediction system that is able to assimilate the wide variety of available in-situ and remotely-sensed observations in order to analyze and predict TC structure and intensity changes in an operational environment. Significant gains have been made in TC track prediction over the past three decades. This considerable achievement is due, in large part, to the steady improvement of numerical models, especially the global scale prediction systems, and the judicial utilization of multi-model ensemble results. In contrast, the TC intensity forecast by numerical models has shown very little improvement during the same time period, and remains a formidable forecast problem. Advanced statistical prediction models nowadays are able to predict the trend for intensification, but as statistical tools, they inherently cannot predict the rapid intensity changes, as evident in Katrina of 2005, and Roke in the W. Pacific in 2011. It is generally accepted now that while advancements in data assimilation and modeling have resulted in better analyses and predictions of steering flows, the processes that affect the structure and intensity of tropical cyclones are much more difficult for current numerical models to capture and reproduce. Physical processes in tropical cyclones that can affect their structure and intensity include enthalpy and mechanical interchanges with the underlying ocean and land surfaces, shallow and deep atmospheric convection in the convectively unstable tropical atmosphere with vertical and horizontal wind shears, and internal multi-scale nonlinear dynamic interactions. Current prediction systems have been shown to be able to reproduce rapid intensification in case studies involving complex upper tropospheric and oceanic conditions in a carefully conducted simulation model.
Antibacterial-coated tracheal tubes cleaned with the Mucus Shaver : a novel method to retain long-term bactericidal activity of coated tracheal tubes.

To assess the long-term benefit from antibacterial coatings of the tracheal tube (ETT), and to keep clean the lumen of the ETT. Experimental animal study. USA National Institutes of Health. Twelve sheep. Twelve ETTs were internally dip-coated with a silver-sulfadiazine in polyurethane. We developed a concentric inflatable silicone rubber “razor”, the Mucus Shaver (MS), to shave the ETT lumen free of mucus. In a single pass, we cleaned all mucus from the internal surface of the ETT. Control group: Five intubated sheep were mechanically ventilated for 72 h. The ETT was suctioned every 6 h. Study group: Six sheep were intubated and mechanically ventilated for 72 h. The ETT was suctioned and cleaned with the MS every 6 h. An additional sheep was intubated and mechanically ventilated for 168 h. Bacteriologic studies and scanning electron microscopy were performed to assess bacterial colonization and thickness of secretions on the internal surface of the ETT. In the control group, the ETT was always heavily colonized: median debris thickness was 380 μm, range 270–550 μm. In the study group, there was no colonization and no secretions in the ETT, except for three ETT that were colonized solely at the very tip. Silver-based coating of ETT cleaned with the MS every 6 h significantly reduces accumulation of mucus/secretion and bacterial growth within the ETT following 72 h of mechanical ventilation.
Identifying structural mechanisms in standard genetic programming

This paper presents a hypothesis about an undiscovered class of mechanisms that exist in standard GP. Rather than being intentionally designed, these mechanisms would be an unintended consequence of using trees as information structures. A model is described that predicts outcomes in GP that would arise solely from such mechanisms. Comparisons with empirical results from GP lend support to the existence of these mechanisms.
Escherichia coli gene purR encoding a repressor protein for purine nucleotide synthesis: cloning, nucleotide sequence, and interaction with the purF operator

The Escherichia coli gene purR, encoding a repressor protein, was cloned by complementation of a purR mutation. Gene purR on a multicopy plasmid repressed expression of purF and purF-lacZ and reduced the growth rate of host cells by limiting the rate of de novo purine nucleotide synthesis. The level of a 1.3-kilobase purR mRNA was higher in cells grown with excess adenine, suggesting that synthesis of the repressor may be regulated. The chromosomal locus of purR was mapped to coordinate 1755-kb on the E. coli restriction map (Kohara, Y., Akiyama, K., and Isono, K. (1987) Cell 50, 495-508). Pur repressor bound specifically to purF operator DNA as determined by gel retardation and DNase I footprinting assays. The amino acid sequence of Pur repressor was derived from the nucleotide sequence. Pur repressor subunit contains 341 amino acids and has a calculated Mr of 38,179. Pur repressor is 31-35% identical with the galR and cytR repressors and 26% identical with the lacI repressor. These four repressors are likely homologous. Amino acid sequence similarity is greatest in an amino-terminal region presumed to contain a DNA-binding domain. A similarity is also noted in the operator sites for these repressors.
Advancing social justice through clinical practice.

Contents: Albee, Foreword. Preface. Part I: Steps Toward a Social Justice Therapeutic Practice. Aldarondo, Rekindling the Reformist Spirit in the Mental Health Professions. Prilleltensky, Dokecki, Frieden, Wang, Counseling for Wellness and Justice: Foundations and Ethical Dilemmas. Gerber, Lessons Learned in the Integration of Social Justice Concerns Into Clinical Practice. Part II: Liberating Visions of Clinical Practice. Roy, Radical Psychiatry: An Approach to Personal and Political Change. Comas-Diaz, Ethnopolitical Psychology: Healing and Transformation. Green, Gay and Lesbian Couples in Therapy: A Social Justice Perspective. Packman, Risk Reduction and the Politics of Social Justice in Mental Health Care. Almeida, DelVecchio, Parker, Social Justice Based Therapy: Critical Consciousness, Accountability, and Empowerment. Kamya, Narrative Therapy, Culture, and Social Justice. Part III: Community Building for Wellness and Justice. Doherty, Carroll, Family-Centered Community Building: The Families and Democracy Project. Rojano, The Practice of Community Family Therapy. Goodman, Bohlig, Weintraub, Green, Walker, Applying Feminist Theory to Community Practice: A Multi-Level Empowerment Intervention for Low-Income Women With Depression. Perilla, Lavizzo, Ibanez, Towards a Community Psychology of Liberation. Kenny, Sparks, Jackson, Striving for Social Justice Through Interprofessional University-School Collaboration. Blustein, Perry, Kenna, DeWine, The Psychology of Working and the Advancement of Social Justice. Ackerson, Korr, Mental Health Policy and Social Justice. Part IV: Teaching and Training for Social Action. Vera, Speight, Prevention, Outreach, and Advocacy Strategies: Integrating Social Action Roles in Professional Training. McWhirter, McWhirter, Towards an Emancipatory-Communitarian Approach to Psychology Training. McWhirter, McWhirter, Grounding Clinical Training and Supervision in an Empowerment Model. Arredondo, Rosen, Applying Principles of Multicultural Competencies, Social Justice, and Leadership in Training and Supervision. Reeser, Educating for Social Change in the Human Service Professions.
Confronting the complexity of CNT materials.

The morphology of commercially available carbon nanotube materials is often much more complex than the term “carbon nanotube” (CNT) would imply. Commercial CNT materials are typically composed of roughly spherical CNT domains having a highly ramified internal structure and a size on the order of microns. Clearly, such structures cannot reasonably be modeled as “rods”. To address this problem, we first perform molecular dynamics simulations (MD) to generate structures similar to those measured experimentally, based on the presumptions that CNT domains are composed of worm-like cylinders having observed persistence lengths and that these CNTs are confined to spherical domains having the observed average domain size. This simple model generates structures remarkably similar to those observed experimentally. We then consider numerical path-integral computations to calculate the self-capacitance C and intrinsic conductivity [σ]∞ of these CNT rich domains. This information is then incorporated in a generalized effective medium theory to estimate the conductivity of bulk composite materials composed of these complex-shaped “particles”. We term these CNT structures “tumbleweeds”, given their evident morphological similarity to this naturally occurring growth form. Based on this model, we find that the conductivity percolation threshold of the tumbleweeds can be quite low, despite their quasi-spherical average shape. We also examine the structure factor S(q) of the CNT-rich domains as function of the number N of CNTs within them, to aid in the structural characterization of CNT nanocomposites. The structure factor S(q) of our model tumbleweed is found to resemble that of hyperbranched, star and dendrimer polymers, and also domain structures observed in polyelectrolytes. Commercial CNT materials at high loading should then have physical features in common with suspension of “soft” colloidal particles by virtue of their deformability and roughly spherical shape.
Analysis of the transcriptome of CD4 T-Lymphocytes from young Non-Obese Diabetic (NOD) mice suggests a key role for cytokines and apoptosis

Background The earliest histological signs of autoimmunity in female NOD mice occur at approximately 4 weeks of age. We hypothesized that defects associated with these events may be evident in the molecular signatures of spleen leukocytes. To gain a detailed insight into these early molecular defects we analyzed the transcriptomes of CD4 Tlymphocytes, the predominant leukocyte subset involved in autoimmune diabetes.
A comparison of nonreferred, learning-disabled, and mildly mentally retarded students utilizing the Social Skills Rating System.

The assessment of social skills deficits has received wide support. Recently, the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS) has been developed to assist professionals in assessing social skills. In this study, the Social Skills Rating System was used to compare students who had already been classified as learning disabled (n = 20) and mildly mentally retarded (n = 20) with a group of nonreferred students (n = 20). The results showed that as a group students with disabilities scored significantly lower than the nonreferred group on social skills and significantly higher in problem behaviors. A discriminant analysis revealed that the SSRS was able to predict group membership broadly (e.g., handicapped versus nonhandicapped) but not specifically (e.g., learning disabled, mentally retarded). Moderate Pearson correlations between parents and teacher ratings indicated some consistencies between raters. However, low kappa coefficients showed that parents and teachers are likely to identify different students as having social skills deficits and problem behaviors. Suggestions are given for utilizing the SSRS with other techniques such as interviews and observations in the assessment and remediation of social skills problems.
The radiographic incidence of multiple roots and canals in human mandibular premolars.

Summary The aim of this study was to Investigate the incidence in mandibular premolars of multiple roots and root canals that could be demonstrated radiographically. The images of mandibular premolar teeth as seen on intra-oral full-mouth radiographic surveys (547) taken with the paralleling technique were examined. In 99 patients (18.1%) there was at least one premolar tooth with either divided canals or roots. First premolars were involved in 15.7% of patients, and second premolars in 7%.
Hydrogel-embedded endothelial progenitor cells evade LPS and mitigate endotoxemia

Sepsis and its complications are associated with poor clinical outcomes. The circulatory system is a well-known target of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Recently, several clinical studies documented mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) during endotoxemia, with the probability of patients' survival correlating with the rise in circulating EPCs. This fact combined with endotoxemia-induced vascular injury led us to hypothesize that the developing functional EPC incompetence could impede vascular repair and that adoptive transfer of EPCs could improve hemodynamics in endotoxemia. We used LPS injection to model endotoxemia. EPCs isolated from endotoxemic mice exhibited impaired clonogenic potential and LPS exerted Toll-like receptor 4-mediated cytotoxic effects toward EPCs, which was mitigated by embedding them in hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels. Therefore, intact EPCs were either delivered intravenously or embedded within pronectin-coated HA hydrogels. Adoptive transfer of EPCs in LPS-injected mice improved control of blood pressure and reduced hepatocellular and renal dysfunction. Specifically, EPC treatment was associated with the restoration of renal microcirculation and improved renal function. EPC therapy was most efficient when cells were delivered embedded in HA hydrogel. These findings establish major therapeutic benefits of adoptive transfer of EPCs, especially when embedded in HA hydrogels, in mice with LPS-induced endotoxemia, and they argue that hemodynamic and renal abnormalities of endotoxemia are in significant part due to developing incompetence of endogenous EPCs.
RENAL ACTIONS OF ENDOTHELIN-1 UNDER ENDOTHELIN RECEPTOR BLOCKADE BY BE-18257B

AbstractPurpose: Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a peptide produced by the vascular endothelium, causes profound renal vasoconstriction by binding to ET-A receptors. The present study examined the renal actions of ET-1 after ET-A receptors were blocked by BE-18257B to unmask the functions of ET-B receptors.Materials and Methods: Renal hemodynamics and clearance measurements were obtained in anesthetized dogs after intrarenal infusion of BE-18257B at 100 ng./kg./min. (Group 1), after intrarenal infusion of ET-1 at 2 ng./kg./min. (Group 2), or after intrarenal infusion of ET-1 superimposed on BE-18257B (Group 3).Results: In Group 1, BE-18257B infusion did not alter arterial pressure, renal blood flow (RBF), GFR or tubular function. In Group 2, ET-1 infusion led to a significant decrease in RBF and GFR (37 and 40%, respectively) without altering arterial pressure. Urinary volume and sodium excretion were not changed but osmolality decreased significantly. In Group 3, BE-18257B infusion significantly attenuated the decr...
Soft tissue reaction to an autologous root implant

D espite decades of research,‘.’ intraoral endosseous implants are not successful on a long-term basis. Johns‘ indicates that three distinct regions require consideration: intraoral, transitional, and intraosseous. The transitional region, where dental implants penetrate the oral epithelium, has proven to be the major obstacle to success.“.“ Obtaining a soft tissue attachment around n dental implant should enhance its long-term success by the prevention of bacterial infiltration and subsequent inflammation. In theory the placement of an autologous root segment around the neck of an endosseous implant should allow reattachment of the soft tissues. In two studies that have tested this hypothesis, severe inflammation of the soft tissues prevented successful attachment” In this study the entire root segment and endosseous implant were covered by the gingival tissues during the healing period in an attempt to prevent inflammation and thereby achieve reattachment of the connective tissues. A successful connective tissue attachment was considered if the collagen fibers kJCX?mIe embedded in cementum and were continuous with the surrounding connective tissue.
5-Aminolevulinic acid formation from glutamate via the C5 pathway in Clostridium thermoaceticum

A cell-free extract of the anaerobic eubacterium, Clostridium thermoaceticum, catalyses the synthesis of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) from glutamate via the C5 pathway. The enzyme reaction resembles that of higher plants and algae in cofactor requirements and sensitivity to ribonuclease. From the phylogenetic distribution it is proposed that the C5 pathway evolved earlier than the ALA synthase pathway.
The Tower Flight Data Manager prototype system

The Tower Flight Data Manager (TFDM) will serve as the next generation air traffic control tower automation platform for surface and local airspace operations. TFDM provides three primary enhancements over current systems: consolidation of diverse data and information sources into a single platform; electronic data exchange, including flight data entries, within and outside the tower cab; and a suite of decision support capabilities leveraging TFDM's access to external data sources and systems. This paper describes a TFDM prototype system that includes integrated surveillance, flight data, and decision support display components. Enhancements in airport configuration management, runway assignment, taxi routing, sequencing and scheduling, and departure route assurance are expected to yield significant benefits in delay reduction, fuel savings, additional capacity, improved access, enhanced safety, and reduced environmental impact. Data are provided on system performance and air traffic controller acceptance from simulation studies and a preliminary field demonstration at Dallas / Ft. Worth International Airport.
Oral Dermatological Conditions: A Clinical Study

Oral cavity consists of a small vestibule and a larger oral cavity proper. A wide number of dermatological conditions can affect the oral cavity. The clinical characteristics of the same were studied in patients attending departments of Dermatology/ENT Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Dehradun. To delineate and identify the various patterns of oral dermatological conditions in this part of the country. One hundred and fifty patients were included in the study having oral lesions irrespective of age, sex and duration. Clinical examination including cutaneous examination and simple investigations like routine blood, urine, stool, blood sugar, KOH mount and scraping, Tzanck test, and on certain cases biopsy were carried out. Out of 11,840 patients attending Dermatology/ENT OPD, HIMS, Dehradun from April 2008 to March 2009, 150 patients were having various disorders with oral manifestations. The incidence of oral cavity dermatoses in this study was 1.26%, male to female ratio was 2:3. (Out of 150 patients, 60 were males and 90 were females). Aphthous ulcer (28.57%) and pemphigus vulgaris (26.60%) formed the major bulk of patients followed by SLE (17.02%), oral candidiasis (16.07%), DLE (13.83%), lichen planus (12.77%) and others.
Automatic problem formulation using the metric properties of space

The use of metric tensors as inputs to computer programs designed to formulate engineering and scientific problems is considered as an alternative to the use of coordinate transformation equations.
The lead uptake by perennial ryegrass and radishes from air, water and soil.

Abstract Grass and radishes were grown in a specially constructed growth chamber with either normal or filtered air, while either distilled or lead-containing water was applied either to the leaves or to the soil surface. The experimental design was randomized complete block with factorial arrangement of treatments while the results were analyzed by the associated analysis of variance technique. The lead content of grass grown in filtered air was 2.5 μg/g while that grown in unfiltered air was 5.2 μg/g. These values are different at the 1% level of significance. The uptake of lead from the water applied either to the foliar parts or to the soil surface was not significant at the 5% level. The lead concentration of either radish leaves or edible parts did not differ greatly for any treatment at the 5% level, and was the same as for grass grown in filtered air. These measurements indicate that half of the lead content of grass and nearly all of that in radishes was obtained from the soil with little adsorption from simulated rainfall.
Neuronal accumulation and metabolism of 3H-1-norepinephrine in rat portal vein: evidence in relation to possible uneven alpha receptor distribution.

The rate of accumulation and metabolism of3H-1-norepinephrine in the neuronal plexus of rat portal vein produces a small transmitter concentration gradient across the longitudinal smooth muscle layer which cannot account for the prejunctional supersensitivity observed and suggests localization of the alpha-adrenergic receptors adjacent to the nerve plexus.
Global analysis of the strangeness vector and axial form factors of the nucleon and their uncertainties

We have studied the strangeness contribution to the elastic vector and axial form factors of the nucleon, using all available electroweak elastic scattering data sensitive to these contributions. Specifically, we combine νp and \(\bar{\nu} p\) elastic scattering cross sections from Brookhaven E734 with parity-violating asymmetries in elastic ep scattering, and quasi-elastic ed and e 4He scattering, observed in the SAMPLE, HAPPEx, G0 and PVA4 experiments. We are able not only to determine these form factors at individual values of momentum-transfer (Q2), as has been done recently, but also to fit the Q2-dependence of these form factors using simple functional forms. We present the results of these fits using existing data.
EFFECTS OF CARBON DIOXIDE AND NITROGEN ATMOSPHERES ON THE QUALITY OF MECHANICALLY DEBONED CHICKEN MEAT DURING FROZEN AND NON‐FROZEN STORAGE

The effects of different storage atmospheres (100% CO2, 30% CO2, N2, or air) on several characteristics of high-fat and low-fat mechanically deboned chicken meat (MDCM) were investigated. Samples were stored at 5°C for up to 10 days or at −20°C for 2 months. The use of 100% CO2 repressed the total aerobic bacterial numbers of MDCM when held at 5°C. Numbers of anaerobic organisms were reduced for only the high-fat MDCM stored at 5°C. TBA values of high-fat MDCM stored under N, at 5°C and −20°C were lower than those of all other treatments. Storage under CO2 -enriched atmospheres caused significant (P > 0.05) decreases in pH. However, this effect was not apparent after prolonged storage. Gardner L values of samples exposed to 100% CO1 were higher and a+ values were lower than other treatment samples. Percent metmyoglobin in high-fat MDCM increased with storage time at −20°C. None of the samples showed any detectable metmyoglobin reducing activity. Oxygen uptake rate after addition of high-fat MDCM homogenates decreased with time; no effect was observed with low-fat MDCM. Samples frozen immediately after treatment with the various gases had better keeping quality than those held for 3 days at 5°C prior to freezing.
Manipulation of processing and memory for prose through expectation and uncertainty

This experiment investigated the assumption that children’s learning and retention of prose material can be differentially affected by varying discrepancy from expectation (as established by an advance organizer). It was hypothesized that intermediate levels of discrepancy should produce better learning and retention than either the control or the completely discrepant extremes. Completely disorganized passages should seriously debilitate comprehension and retention. From the data obtained, it was found that there was no significant effect on comprehension and retention due to passage condition. The retention interval effect was significant, indicating that forgetting took place. There was also a significant interaction between comprehension type (literal vs. inferential) and retention, suggesting that the learning characterized by one type of question was retained to a greater extent than the other or that probably the original learning of material relevant to one question type was greater than that for the other type. The results were discussed in relation to recall vs. recognition paradigms and recent developments in schema theory.
Effect of parathyroidectomy on cardiovascular reactivity in rats with mineralocorticoid-induced hypertension.

Abstract Previous work has shown that parathyroidectomy protected Sprague-Dawley rats against mineralocorticoid hypertension. 2 In order to explain this protection, we studied vascular reactivity to noradrenaline and angiotensin II in several groups of rats with and without their parathyroid and thyroid glands. Work was performed in vagotomized, anaesthetized rats after ganglionic blockade with pentolinium, and atropine sulphate. 3 The reactivity to noradrenaline was significantly lower in parathyroidectomized rats, especially at the beginning of mineralocorticoid treatment. 4 Autotransplantation of parathyroid glands in thyroparathyroidectomized rats re-established normal cardiovascular reactivity and development of hypertension. 5 Cardiovascular reactivity to angiotensin II was not affected in parathyroidectomized rats and was lowered in thyroparathyroidectomized thyroxine-treated rats.
The association of individual and facility characteristics with psychiatric hospitalization among nursing home residents.

Objective To examine resident and facility characteristics associated with psychiatric hospitalizations (PH) for Medicaid enrolled nursing home (NH) residents. Methods Participants were all Medicaid enrolled NH residents (n = 32,604) from all Medicaid certified nursing homes in Florida (n = 584) with complete data. We used individual demographic and diagnostic characteristics, as well as facility characteristics, to explore risk of psychiatric hospitalization in this dataset. Results Using generalized estimating equations, we found that younger age, male gender, poor physical health, serious mental illness, dementia, and drug use disorder were associated with risk of psychiatric hospitalization. Most notably, residents under 65 were more than three times more likely to undergo psychiatric hospitalization and dementia was associated with a three-fold increase in the risk of psychiatric hospitalization. Predictors of PH differed somewhat for younger and older residents. Among facility characteristics, greater facility size, low proportion of those paying via Medicare and high proportion of residents with serious mental illness were associated with increased risk of psychiatric hospitalization, whereas, low proportion of residents paying via Medicaid, high proportion of residents paying via Medicare, and low proportion of resident with serious mental illness were associated with reduced risk. Conclusions Both resident and facility characteristics impact risk for psychiatric hospitalization. Attention to identified predictors may reduce risk and improve outcomes for nursing home residents. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Cost of World War Ii to the Soviet People: A Research Note

Although the total real cost of World War II to the Soviet people has yet to be fully tallied, there can be little doubt that it exceeds that of any other major participant, per capita as well as absolutely. The objective of this paper is to compare and evaluate the real war costs reported by the Soviets with those implied by Soviet pronouncements and those using Soviet national income data. Our purpose is to determine the reasonableness of the Soviet claim that World War II cost the Soviet economy two Five-Year Plans.
Cr profiles in semi-insulating GaAs after annealing with and without SiO2 encapsulants in a H2-As4 atmosphere

The redistribution of Cr in semi‐insulating GaAs upon annealing at 860 °C can be greatly reduced by eliminating the use of a SiO2 encapsulant. The annealing schedule utilized a controlled atmosphere technique which insured the thermodynamic stability of the GaAs surfaces and had no tendency to getter Cr. The sample annealed with a SiO2 encapsulant showed a secondary‐ion‐mass‐spectroscopy‐measured minimum Cr concentration which was lower by a factor of 20–25 than the original, whereas the comparison of an annealed sample without the SiO2 cap had a minimum Cr concentration which was smaller by a factor of 2. The conversion near the surfaces of semi‐insulating Cr‐doped GaAs to moderately high‐conductivity n type upon annealing can be minimized by using the above technique without an encapsulant.
Low Lying Spin Excitation in the Spin Ice, Ho2Ti2O7

The high flux and low background of the new backscattering spectrometer at the SNS combine to produce an excellent signal to noise ratio, allowing us to investigate a low lying weak excitation never seen before in the spin ice, Ho2Ti2O7. This non-dispersive excitation has been observed at E = 26.3 ?eV below 100 K but is resolution limited only below ~ 65 K. It is indifferent to magnetic fields below ?0H = 4.5 T, at 1.6 K. These characteristics help us to identify the excitation as due to the nuclear spin system.
Self-Diffusion and Ionic Conductivity in Sodium Bromide

The self-diffusion coefficient ${D}_{\mathrm{Br}}$ of radioactive bromide ions in sodium bromide (melting point 755\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C) has been measured in the temperature range 360-688\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, and the ionic conductivity of sodium bromide in the range 340-600\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. At high temperatures, above 450\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, the results of the diffusion measurements are quantitative and are expressible as ${D}_{\mathrm{Br}}=50{e}^{\ensuremath{-}\frac{2.02}{\mathrm{kT}}}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/sec. A comparison of diffusion and conductivity measurements yields the following results. The activation energy for migration of a Na-ion vacancy is 0.80\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03 ev. The activation energy for the formation of a separated Na-ion vacancy and a Br-ion vacancy is 1.68 ev. The activation energy for the migration of a Br-ion vacancy is 1.18 ev. The transport numbers for the salt can be expressed as ${n}_{\mathrm{Br}}=11.5{e}^{\ensuremath{-}\frac{0.36}{\mathrm{kT}}}$. At lower temperatures the diffusion coefficient contains a large experimental uncertainty. It is shown, however, that the measured values can only be higher than the actual diffusion coefficients. Comparison of the measured diffusion coefficient of the bromide ion with the diffusion coefficient of the sodium ion calculated from the ionic conductivity shows that the diffusion coefficient of the bromide ion is not more than 2-3 percent as large as the diffusion coefficient of the sodium ion, whence it must be concluded that in the whole temperature range investigated there is no evidence for the presence of pairs of vacancies.