cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Orientation of macromolecules in the walls of elongating carrot cells

When round cells from a carrot cell suspension culture are diluted into fresh medium without auxin, the cells elongate to almost 50 times their original diameter within three days. This process of elongation is accompanied by changes in both the composition and the orientation of cell wall polymers. We have obtained information on the orientation of wall polymers in elongating cells by two complementary techniques, one using microscopy and one spectroscopy. Images obtained by the fast-freeze, deep-etch, rotary-shadowed replica technique show that walls of round carrot cells have no net orientation of cellulose microfibrils, and that many thin fibres can be seen cross-linking microfibrils. Walls of elongated carrot cells, in contrast, show a marked net orientation of microfibrils at right angles to the axis of elongation. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra obtained from defined areas of single cell walls show that walls of round carrot cells contain more protein, esters and phenolics in a given area (10 microns × 10 microns) than walls of elongated carrot cells, that contain proportionally more carbohydrate. The orientation of particular functional groups, with respect to the direction of elongation of the cell, can be determined by inserting a polariser into the path of the infrared beam, before it passes through a cell wall sample mounted on the stage of the microscope accessory. In the walls of elongated cells, ester bands, amide bands characteristic of proteins, and stretching frequencies in the carbohydrate region of the spectrum all show a net orientation transverse to the long axis of the cells. In the walls of round carrot cells, however, there is no such net orientation of polymers. Spectra obtained from 25 microns-thick fresh sections of the etiolated stem of a carrot seedling show that different wall components are polarised in different tissue types. These techniques have therefore enabled us to define differences in both the composition and the architecture of walls of elongating cells at the level of a single cell, and to suggest that polymers not previously thought to be ordered, such as pectin and protein, are strictly oriented in some wall types.
Late endoleak after endovascular repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm with multiple proximal extender cuffs

Late onset graft or attachment site-related endoleaks may be hazardous, and early identification of patients at risk is important. We describe a patient who underwent implantation of a bifurcated stent graft 5.5 cm below the renal arteries because of a technical error with three extender cuffs implanted proximally to bridge the gap. During the 1st year, aneurysm diameter decreased from 68 to 52 mm. After 1 year, the patient had an acute endoleak develop, which originated between two of the extender cuffs and which was accompanied by severe abdominal pain and reexpansion of the aneurysm. This endoleak was treated with insertion of an additional bifurcated stent graft within the extender cuff segment. The patient has been subsequently followed for 6 months and has had no endoleak or symptoms, and aortic diameter has decreased once again to 55 mm.
Spindle and Chromosomal Alterations in Metaphase II Oocytes

The spindle apparatus is a vital structure and must be structurally intact for proper segregation of the oocyte’s genetic material during metaphase II. Endometriosis, oxidative stress, and cryopreservation can all adversely affect the structural integrity of the spindle, potentially resulting in aneuploidy and spontaneous abortion of the embryo. Advances in spindle imagery have made it possible to visualize the effects of environmental stresses on spindle structure. Deviation from an oocyte’s normal environment can seriously impair the positioning and integrity of the spindle. Oocytes cryopreservation causes depolymerization and repolymerization of the spindle. Oocytes can also be preserved in an immature state for later in vitro maturation. A comprehensive understanding of the spindle behavior is paramount for the effective manipulation of oocytes in an assisted reproductive setting.
Initiation of vagal control of heart rate in the embryonic chick.

The objective was to determine on what day of development the vagal complex i.e., dorsal motor nucleus in the floor of the fourth ventricle, vagus nerve and post synaptic neuron assumes functional control of the heart rate in the chick embryo. Adapting a technique used by Armstrong ('35) for the Fundulus embryo, 0.003 ml of Tyrode solution containing 0.03 μg of acetylcholine was injected into the fourth ventricles of 16 chick embryos at four days of age, 25 at five and 15 at six days of age. Heart rates were taken before and after injection. Analyzed statistically no significant changes in heart rate occurred following injection of acetylcholine into four day embryos but at five days a significant average drop from 106 to 95 beats per minute occurred. The same was true in six-day-old embryos where the average drop in rate was from 108 before to 84 after injection. As proof that the acetylcholine injected into the brain ventricle acted by stimulating the vagal mechanism and not by diffusing into cerebral blood vessels and being carried to the heart we found that corresponding amounts of acetylcholine injected into omphalomesenteric veins had no significant effect on heart rate. Also 0.003 ml of plain Tyrode solution injected into the fourth ventricle elicited no significant response. These observations justify the conclusion that the vagal pathway to the heart becomes functional between five and six days of development in the chick embryo.
Ordering in Ni4Mo: an APFIM/TEM/HVEM study

Analyse des processus de mise en ordre a partir de l'etat desordonne jusqu'a un etat ordonne a longue distance total
60GHz single-chip CMOS digital radios and phased array solutions for gaming and connectivity

In this paper, we present four examples of highly integrated 60 GHz single-chip CMOS 90 nm digital radios and phased array solutions. These solutions include for the first time digital-to-analog/analog-to-digital conversion and embedded multi-gigabit mixed signal modem requiring no external processing. This convergence of 60 GHz CMOS digital radio, low power multi-gigabit mixed-signal processing and digital signal processing on a single chip offers the lowest energy per bit transmitted wirelessly at multi-gigabit rate to meet the very stringent low-power specifications for battery operated consumer electronic portable devices. Layout and temperature dependent 60 GHz CMOS 90 nm model development and critical high performance analog and mixed building blocks are presented as fundamental enablers for single chip integration. The designs have been optimized for robustness against process variation and temperature, and verified by measurement results.
Interferometric image fusion: interferometry in space

Image fusion and information extraction from multiple spacecraft can occur after each image is sampled and digitized. A more tantalizing, but difficult, approach would be to optically phase multiple spacecraft flying in formation. Phasing of multiple spacecraft allows for coherent addition of imagery resulting in an optical system with a synthetic aperture as large as distance between the spacecraft. Thus, space based optical imaging systems approaching 100's of meters could theoretically be achieved; ultimately allowing for resolution of the solar disks of stars and resolution of extra-solar planets around these stars. The methods and techniques for systems of this type, as well as a number of optical testbeds for proof of principle and validation of the methods are currently under study at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. In this work we give an overview of the underlying principles, the technology required and the state of development of the various testbeds involved.
Towards Fully Three-Dimensional Virtual Stirling Convertors For Multi-Physics Analysis and Optimization

The desire for fast, low-cost, and reliable Stirling convertor design decisions has motivated the development of a comprehensive in-house Stirling analysis capability. One of the predominant goals ...
Cellulose Studies: III. Hyperoxidation of Cellulose with Concentrated Sodium Hypobromite Solutions. A Simple Method for the Deter mination of Hypobromite and Bromate Ions in the Presence of Each Other

Oxidation of cotton by somewhat concentrated alkaline hypobromite solutions is non-selective and approaches the extent of a wet combustion. A method is pro posed for rapid determination of the composition of hypobromite-bromate mixtures.
Hif1a Deletion Reveals Pro-Neoplastic Function of B Cells in Pancreatic Neoplasia

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with an exceedingly low 5-year survival rate. PDAC tumors are characterized by an extensive desmoplastic stromal response and hypovascularity, suggesting that tumor hypoxia could regulate PDAC initiation and/or progression. Using a well-defined, autochthonous Kras G12D-driven murine model, as well as human tumors, we demonstrate that hypoxia and stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α), a principal mediator of hypoxic adaptation, emerge early during preinvasive stages of PDAC. Surprisingly, pancreas-specific Hif1a deletion drastically accelerated Kras G12D-driven pancreatic neoplasia and was accompanied by significant increases in intrapancreatic B lymphocytes, featuring prominent influx of a rare “B1b” B-cell subtype. Finally, treatment of HIF1α-deficient mice with B cell–depleting αCD20 monoclonal antibodies inhibited progression of pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN). Our data reveal a previously unrecognized role for B cells in promoting pancreatic tumorigenesis and implicate HIF1α as a critical regulator of PDAC development. Significance: We show here that pancreas-specific Hif1a deletion promotes PDAC initiation, coincident with increased intrapancreatic accumulation of B cells, and that B-cell depletion suppresses pancreatic tumorigenesis. We therefore demonstrate a protective role for HIF1α in pancreatic cancer initiation and uncover a previously unrecognized function of B cells. Cancer Discov; 6(3); 256–69. ©2015 AACR . See related commentary by Roghanian et al., [p. 230][1] . See related article by Pylayeva-Gupta et al., [p. 247][2] . See related article by Gunderson et al., [p. 270][3] . This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, [p. 217][4] [1]: /lookup/volpage/6/230?iss=3 [2]: /lookup/volpage/6/247?iss=3 [3]: /lookup/volpage/6/270?iss=3 [4]: /lookup/volpage/6/217?iss=3
Cooperation and Competition, Psychology of

There are three major theoretical orientations to the study of cooperation and competition: cognitive-developmental, behavioral-learning, and social interdependence. Of the three, social interdependence theory has generated the most research and application. There are two types of interdependence: positive (cooperation) and negative (competition). The absence of interdependence results in individualistic efforts. The basic premise of social interdependence theory is that the type of interdependence structured in a situation determines how individuals interact with each other which, in turn, determines outcomes. Positive interdependence tends to result in promotive interaction in which individuals encourage and support each other's efforts. Negative interdependence tends to result in oppositional interaction in which individuals block and obstruct each other's efforts. No interdependence results in an absence of interaction. The hundreds of studies that have been conducted indicate that cooperation, compared with competitive and individualistic efforts, tends to result in higher achievement and productivity, more positive interpersonal relationships, and greater psychological health. There are, however, competitive and individualistic efforts which result in constructive outcomes.
Efficient Algorithms for Analysis and Improvement of Flexible Manufacturing Systems

This paper is devoted to modeling, analysis, and improvement of flexible manufacturing systems with asynchronous exponential machines and finite nondedicated buffers. In such systems, each machine may process multiple types of products with different speeds, and buffers are shared for all products. Efficient algorithms to evaluate the system performance are developed. Formulas are derived to calculate line throughput in one- and two-machine lines, and a convergent recursive algorithm is introduced for longer lines. The numerical results show that the method leads to a high accuracy in performance evaluation. Using such a model, bottleneck analysis has been carried out to identify the machine or product whose improvement will lead to the largest improvement in system throughput. Indicators based on the collected data to identify bottleneck machine and product are derived without complete calculation of the partial derivatives of system performance. Such efficient algorithms provide a quantitative tool for analysis and improvement of flexible manufacturing systems.
Measurement of Modulated Autofluorescence Signals in Flow Cytometry

In flow cytometry autofluorescence from cells often interferes with dim exogenous emission and presents signal-overlap problems during complex multi-color, multi-intensity, and/or low-density antigen experiments. An alternative to intensity measurements in flow is to capture the fluorescence lifetime, or the average time a fluorophore spends in an excited state before decay. The lifetime can discriminate between two emission signals independently of intensity and fluorophore concentration. Thus, in order to distinguish between overlapping autofluorescence signals and other dim emissions, we present phase-sensitive flow cytometry (PSFC) experiments and investigate the average autofluorescence lifetime of a variety of cell types. We demonstrate lifetime fluctuations with cell cycle, vitality, and differing excitation wavelengths. Establishing a catalog of intrinsic lifetimes motivates future PSFC filtering studies in which the intrinsic lifetime is used to subtract out background autofluorescence noise. Since it is the case that in any given cellular condition, a varying level of intrinsic fluorophores are present, determining the average decay times in a high-throughput manner is ideal for separating cytometry signals on a cell-to-cell basis.
Elevated Slit2 Activity Impairs VEGF-Induced Angiogenesis and Tumor Neovascularization in EphA2-Deficient Endothelium.

Angiogenic remodeling during embryonic development and in adult tissue homeostasis is orchestrated by cooperative signaling between several distinct molecular pathways, which are often exploited by tumors. Indeed, tumors upregulate proangiogenic molecules while simultaneously suppressing angiostatic pathways to recruit blood vessels for growth, survival, and metastatic spread. Understanding how cancers exploit proangiogenic and antiangiogenic signals is a key step in developing new, molecularly targeted antiangiogenic therapies. While EphA2, a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), is required for VEGF-induced angiogenesis, the mechanism through which these pathways intersect remains unclear. Slit2 expression is elevated in EphA2-deficient endothelium, and here it is reported that inhibiting Slit activity rescues VEGF-induced angiogenesis in cell culture and in vivo, as well as VEGF-dependent tumor angiogenesis, in EphA2-deficient endothelial cells and animals. Moreover, blocking Slit activity or Slit2 expression in EphA2-deficient endothelial cells restores VEGF-induced activation of Src and Rac, both of which are required for VEGF-mediated angiogenesis. These data suggest that EphA2 suppression of Slit2 expression and Slit angiostatic activity enables VEGF-induced angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, providing a plausible mechanism for impaired endothelial responses to VEGF in the absence of EphA2 function. Implications: Modulation of angiostatic factor Slit2 by EphA2 receptor regulates endothelial responses to VEGF-mediated angiogenesis and tumor neovascularization. Mol Cancer Res; 13(3); 524–37. ©2014 AACR.
Applying National Critical Care Pharmacy Recommendations to Practice

The aim of the article is to share how a pharmacist with postgraduate pharmacy residency training in critical care and work-related experience can be incorporated into an academic medical center in...
Causes and Management of Brain Abscess

The microbiology and recent developments in the diagnosis and management of brain abscess in children are reviewed from Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC.
Bilateral Renal Parenchymal Malacoplakia Presenting as Fever of Unknown Origin: Case Report and Review

Malacoplakia is a rare inflammatory disorder seen most often in the urinary tract, where it is highly associated with coliform infection. Although first recognized by pathologists in 1902, it has received little attention from the infectious disease community. While there remains much uncertainty regarding the specific cause of malacoplakia, it appears to be associated with a defect in intracellular killing of ingested microorganisms by macrophages. We report a case of bilateral renal parenchymal malacoplakia that presented as fever of unknown origin, and we review 33 previously identified cases. Renal malacoplakia has traditionally been associated with high morbidity and mortality. More recently, treatment with antimicrobial agents such as trimethoprim or ciprofloxacin has yielded a better outcome than had been documented with other therapy. Malacoplakia should be considered in the evaluation of fever of unknown origin or of relapsing or refractory urinary tract infection. Therapy with antimicrobial agents capable of intracellular penetration is recommended.
Proton Pump Inhibitors as a Risk Factor for Clostridium Difficile-Associated Diarrhea

OBJECTIVE:To assess the possibility that proton pump inhibitors treating the patients with acid-associated diseases had other risk factors for C. difficile infection. METHODS :To review recent literatures for an analysis. RESULTS: Cohort study showed that C. difficile diarrhea occurred in about 6.8% of the inpatients who used antibiotics. A multivariate analysis indicated that C. difficile diarrhea was significantly associated with the use of proton pump inhibitors. CONCLUSION: Disruption of the normal intestinal flora is generally considered to be the risk factor for inducing clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Reduced gastric acidity has been suggested as a risk factor. Proton pump inhibitors, because of their strong acid-inhibiting effect, may be an independent risk factor for this problem.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis produces small noncoding RNAs during infections to regulate mycobacterial and eukaryotic gene expression

Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( Mtb ) presently infects 1/3 of the World’s population, causing both active and latent pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). The pathogenic mechanisms used by Mtb remain poorly defined. We used a small RNA sequencing strategy on RNA extracted from Mtb -infected THP-1 macrophages to characterize the changes in eukaryotic microRNAs (miRs) and identify any mycobacterially-encoded small RNAs. A large number of mammalian microRNAs were differentially regulated during the infection course. Target prediction programs indicated that the mRNAs regulated by the miRs were involved in immune processes, metabolic pathways, cell communication, and developmental events. In addition, 35 Mtb -encoded small RNAs (18–30 nucleotides, mRs) were discovered. Several of the Mtb -encoded mRs were detected in lung tissue biopsies from TB infected monkeys. The 100–150 nucleotides surrounding the 35 Mtb -encoded small RNAs had extensive secondary RNA folding capabilities, including hairpins and antisense stretches more characteristic of eukaryotic pre-microRNAs. Two such small RNAs, Mtb -mR-1 and Mtb -mR-6 were transcribed in Mycobacterium avium complex and Mtb in a hairpin loop and antisense sequence-dependent manner. These mRs were not expressed in Mycobacterium smegmatis, revealing a restricted expression to pathogenic strains. Mtb- encoded mR-1 and mR-6 modulated both prokaryotic and eukaryotic gene expression. Taken together, our findings reveal potentially novel pathogenic processes utilized by Mtb during infections.
How to Create Your Package for Promotion

Institutions play an important role in providing an environment in which faculty can thrive such that they are recognized and rewarded for achievements through advancement in rank. While institutions have support systems in place to facilitate promotions, it is ultimately the responsibility of faculty to manage their career trajectory. Therefore, faculty need to understand that part of their academic responsibilities is to invest time and effort in preparing their materials for promotion review. The pathway to the promotion review begins with the hiring decision and continues through the early foundational years of appointment, the milestone of the midterm review, and the subsequent years in which the case for promotion is built and presented for consideration. By the time that the promotion package is submitted, the curriculum vitae, candidate’s statement, sample publications, educator portfolio, and related materials should reflect a record of achievement in satisfaction of promotion criteria. This chapter focuses on institutional and candidate responsibilities regarding the expectations for promotion, long-term planning for the promotion review, and the effective presentation of the promotion package.
Analysis of amphetamine and methamphetamine in municipal wastewater influent and effluent using weak cation‐exchange SPE and LC‐MS/MS

Amphetamine and methamphetamine are emerging contaminants—those for which no regulations currently require monitoring or public reporting of their presence in our water supply. In this research, a protocol for weak cation-exchange (WCX) solid-phase extraction (SPE) coupled with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed for determination of emerging contaminants amphetamine and methamphetamine in a complex wastewater matrix. Gradient LC parameters were adjusted to yield baseline separation of methamphetamine from other contaminants. Methamphetamine-D5 was used as the internal standard (IS) to compensate for sample loss during SPE and for signal loss during mass spectrometry (matrix effects). Recoveries were 102.1 ± 7.9% and 99.4 ± 4.0% for amphetamine and methamphetamine, respectively, using WCX sorbent. Notably, methamphetamine was determined to be present in wastewater influent at each sampling date tested. Amphetamine was present in wastewater influent on two of four sampling dates. Amphetamine concentrations ranged from undetectable to 86.4 ng L−1 in influent, but it was undetectable in wastewater effluent. Methamphetamine was detected in influent at concentrations ranging from 27.0–60.3 ng L−1. Methamphetamine concentration was reduced but incompletely removed at this facility. Although absent in one post-UV effluent sample, concentrations of methamphetamine ranged from 10.8–14.8 ng L−1. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
Boom and Bust

When commercial fishing begins along some coastal region, this sets in motion an investment in fishing gear that continues to increase to exploit what initially appears to be an ample natural resource, and within a few years a sizable fleet plies the waters. As fish stocks dwindle and prices rise, the competition among fishermen intensifies, and even more aggressive fishing tactics may be the response. Certain species of fish swim in schools that favor their detection and bulk harvest, but, in biological terms, their ability to breed may be diminished by low population densities. This implies that an overly exploited species can have a diminished capacity to recruit new adults. A nonlinear differential equation model is presented that combines both economic and biological considerations and that exhibits how the sudden collapse of just such a species becomes possible as a critical level of harvesting is reached. Also discussed are periodic fluctuations, in which an unstable equilibrium gives way to a Hopf bifurcation .
Yellow Fever and the Emotional Consequences of Untreatable Epidemic Disease

Yellow fever terrorized communities in tropical and urban settings during its height in the nineteenth-century American south. Carried by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water, the virus infects humans fervently and is most known for its symptoms of jaundice and vomito negro, a dark vomit of coagulated blood. During the near-annual outbreaks of yellow fever, caregivers struggled to cope with the emotional consequences of failing medicine, sometimes leaving behind clues to their confusion in treating the disease and offering salient reflections on their inadequacies. The disease ravaged the Gulf region for decades. Records of the health workers’ feelings of futility reflect their questions of what to do for others and what to do for themselves, offering a new perspective on yellow-fever scholarship and insight into contemporary clinical practice and research.
Genetics in Inherited Bone Marrow Failure Disorders

The classical Inherited Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes (IBMFS) such as Fanconi anemia, Dyskeratosis Congenita, Shwachman-Diamond syndrome, and Diamond-Blackfan anemia are a heterogeneous group of disorders, all of which are characterized by impaired hematopoiesis, varying degrees of peripheral cytopenias and marrow hypoplasia and dysplasia. Many of these are associated with an increased risk of clonal dominance and evolution to myelodyplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). For the purposes of this talk, the familial MDS and acute leukemia predisposition syndromes are also included in the broad term IBMFS. The genes responsible for a subset of IBMFS have been identified and will be reviewed. However, the causative mutations in many patients presenting with seemingly inherited marrow failure remain unknown. Gene discovery in IBMFS has been difficult in large part due to the phenotypic heterogeneity of these syndromes. Some patients with IBMFS display a distinct clinical phenotype with associated syndromic abnormalities, others are variable and overlap with one another or with acquired MDS or idiopathic acquired aplastic anemia, and additional cases are more obscure and have evaded classification altogether. Accurate diagnosis of IBMFS inform patient care as it allows appropriate screening of siblings to avoid choosing an affected donor if marrow transplant is indicated and the selection of an appropriate transplant conditioning regiment to avoid undue toxicity. Additionally, accurate diagnosis allows appropriate medical monitoring and early intervention to successfully treat disease-specific non-hematologic medical complications. The application of next generation sequencing approaches for comprehensive genetic screening of IBMFS, including these cryptic or atypical presentations will be reviewed. In addition to providing accurate diagnoses in a subset of patients, genetic characterization in small family kindreds or even in single individuals presents unique opportunities to discover new genes and pathways contributing to dysfunctional hematopoiesis and clonal progression. The frequency of inherited mutations in known IBMFS genes among seemingly idiopathic acquired aplastic anemia patients or pediatric and younger adults with MDS referred for hematopoietic stem cell transplant will be reviewed. Future genetic studies are needed to characterize the secondary genetic events that lead to disease progression in IBMFS. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Sparse recovery for clutter identification in radar measurements

Most existing radar algorithms are developed under the assumption that the environment, data clutter, is known and stationary. However, in practice, the characteristics of clutter can vary enormously in time depending on the operational scenarios. If unaccounted for, these nonstationary variabilities may drastically hinder the radar performance. It is essential that the radar systems dynamically detect changes in the environment, and adapt to these changes by learning the new statistical characteristics of the environment. In this paper, we employ sparse recovery for clutter identification, specifically we identify the statistical profile the clutter follows. We use Monte Carlo simulations to simulate and test clutter data coming from various distributions.
How Are Neonatology Fellows Trained for Antenatal Periviability Counseling

Background Studies have shown rates of life-sustaining treatments for periviable newborns vary by center, centers' differing periviability approaches affect trainees' views, and formal communication training for neonatology fellows is uncommon. Parents of imperiled newborns report unmet emotional and spiritual needs. This study sought to understand how fellows learn to support parents and their periviable newborns through exposure to institutional clinical approaches and by formal curriculum. Methods All the U.S. neonatology fellowship program directors were invited to complete an online anonymous survey. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Results In this study, 56 of 98 directors (57%) responded. Training centers differed in delivery room options offered and recommended for periviable newborns. Providing parents written information and neonatology and obstetrics co-counseling were uncommon. Directors reported weaknesses in training fellows to support parents' spiritual and emotional needs, and Conclusion Training programs exposed fellows to different periviability care approaches, identified weaknesses in teaching support provision for parents' needs, and appeared to miss opportunities for clinical modeling of counseling and comfort care provision.
MODELING PARTICLE SIZE AND INITIAL TEMPERATURE EFFECTS ON SHOCK INITIATION OF TATB-BASED EXPLOSIVES

ABSTRACT The statistical model of shock initiation of heterogeneous solid explosives treats explicitly the shock induced locally heated regions (hot spots) that can thermally diffuse out or chemically react to become local reaction sites which then grow in a linearly pressure dependent process to consume the remaining unreacted explosive. Calculations with this model are presented which accurately simulate the available experimental data on the effects of particle size distribution, initial temperature, and initial density on the shock sensitivity of triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB)-based explosive.
(S)He's Gotta Have It: Emotion Regulation, Emotional Expression, and Sexual Risk Behavior in Emerging Adult Couples

Emotion regulation and emotional expression may be important factors which contribute to sexual risk behavior among emerging adults, yet research exploring their relation is limited. Further, the influence of a romantic partner is unclear. The current study aims to a) investigate association between emotional difficulties and sexual risk behavior (e.g. sexual compulsivity and sensation-seeking) and b) explore the influence of a romantic partner on individual sexual risk. Participants were 49 couples (n=98) participating in a randomized control pilot intervention. Results demonstrated that individual and partner emotional difficulties were associated with sexual risk behavior. Results did not vary by gender.
Long-chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation of Preterm Infants

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the role of essential fatty acids and the factors that influence the ultimate accumulation of their LCPUFAs in biomembranes. Arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid are the predominant membrane LCPUFAs. Three primary factors determine the final accumulation of docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid in any given tissue or organ of an infant: the supply of α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid and the synthesis of LCPUFAs from them by the fetus/infant; the intrauterine transfer of LCPUFAs from mother to fetus; and the postnatal transfer of LCPUFAs from mother to infant in human milk. The chapter also reviews the evidence that contributed to the first randomized trials of n-3 LCPUFAs in infants and their results. The objective of the trials was to determine the influence of dietary n-3 LCPUFAs on the outcomes; to determine the ages at which specific sensory and cognitive outcomes were sensitive to differences in n-3 LCPUFA status; and to determine relationships between sensory and cognitive outcomes. Visual acuity was higher in the infants fed formula with n-3 LCPUFAs, even though the control formulas contained recommended amounts of α-linolenic acid. The Fagan Test of Infant Intelligence was used to study the visual attention of the infants. It proved that higher docosahexaenoic acid status early in infancy had persistent effects on later cognition. The trials also examined the changes in incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and the effects of bronchopulmonary dysplasia on visual and cognitive outcomes and the effects of n-3 LCPUFA supplementation on retinal function of preterm infants.
Visualizing the inner product space Rm×nin a MATLAB-assisted linear algebra classroom

This linear algebra note offers teaching and learning ideas in the treatment of the inner product space in a technology-supported learning environment. Classroom activities proposed in this note demonstrate creative ways of integrating MATLAB technology into various properties of Frobenius inner product as visualization tools that complement the algebraic approach. As implemented in linear algebra lessons in a university in the Unites States, the article also incorporates algebraic and visual work of students who experienced these activities with MATLAB software. The connection between the Frobenius norm and the Euclidean norm is also emphasized.
Unrecognized Cardiovascular Emergencies Among Medicare Patients.

Importance The Institute of Medicine described diagnostic error as the next frontier in patient safety and highlighted a critical need for better measurement tools. Objectives To estimate the proportions of emergency department (ED) visits attributable to symptoms of imminent ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, aortic dissection, and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) that end in discharge without diagnosis; to evaluate longitudinal trends; and to identify patient characteristics independently associated with missed diagnostic opportunities. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a retrospective cohort study of all Medicare claims for 2006 to 2014. The setting was hospital EDs in the United States. Participants included all fee-for-service Medicare patients admitted to the hospital during 2007 to 2014 for the conditions of interest. Hospice enrollees and patients with recent skilled nursing facility stays were excluded. Main Outcomes and Measures The proportion of potential diagnostic opportunities missed in the ED was estimated using the difference between observed and expected ED discharges within 45 days of the index hospital admissions as the numerator, basing expected discharges on ED use by the same patients in earlier months. The denominator was estimated as the number of recognized emergencies (index hospital admissions) plus unrecognized emergencies (excess discharges). Results There were 1 561 940 patients, including 17 963 hospitalized for ruptured AAA, 304 980 for AMI, 1 181 648 for stroke, 19 675 for aortic dissection, and 37 674 for SAH. The mean (SD) age was 77.9 (10.3) years; 8.9% were younger than 65 years, and 54.1% were female. The proportions of diagnostic opportunities missed in the ED were as follows: ruptured AAA (3.4%; 95% CI, 2.9%-4.0%), AMI (2.3%; 95% CI, 2.1%-2.4%), stroke (4.1%; 95% CI, 4.0%-4.2%), aortic dissection (4.5%; 95% CI, 3.9%-5.1%), and SAH (3.5%; 95% CI, 3.1%-3.9%). Longitudinal trends were either nonsignificant (AMI and aortic dissection) or increasing (ruptured AAA, stroke, and SAH). Patient characteristics associated with unrecognized emergencies included age younger than 65 years, dual eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid coverage, female sex, and each of the following chronic conditions: end-stage renal disease, dementia, depression, diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Conclusions and Relevance Among Medicare patients, opportunities to diagnose ruptured AAA, AMI, stroke, aortic dissection, and SAH are missed in less than 1 in 20 ED presentations. Further improvement may prove difficult.
Factors Predicting Decisions About Technology Adoption Among Older Adults.

Background and objectives Numerous technology applications are available that have the potential to improve the quality of life (QoL) of older adults. However, older adults are less likely to adopt new and emerging technologies and reap the potential benefits. This study examines factors that influence older adults' decisions about the adoption of new technology. Research design and methods Fifty-two older adults participated in a mixed-method procedure, which entailed: (1) observing presentations detailing nine differing technologies, (2) assessing the technologies using tailored questionnaires, and (3) participating in focus group discussions. Participants were assigned into one of seven groups separated by age (65-74, 75+) and language (English, Spanish). The outcome was willingness to adopt technology. Predictors included self-assessed abilities (e.g., numeric ability), computer/Internet skills and knowledge, technology readiness, age, language, and technology ratings (e.g., perceived value). Analyses included Spearman's ρ, t-tests, and regression analysis. Focus group discussions were examined for supportive examples. Results Self-assessed abilities and computer/Internet skills were predictive of willingness to adopt technologies although the relationship varied according to the technology examined. Technology readiness, age, and language group showed weak associations with the outcome. Of the technology ratings, perceived value, confidence in ability to learn the technology, and the perceived impact on QoL were the most robust predictors of willingness to adopt technology. Discussion and implications Findings indicate that various stakeholders in technology adoption among older adults must be cognizant of a technology's functionality and complexity as well as the characteristics and abilities of older adults. However, certain factors such as perceptions about the value of the technology and potential impact on QoL are also critically important to decisions regarding technology adoption among older people.
IMPACT OF MODERATE/SEVERE TRICUSPID REGURGITATION ON SURVIVAL OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT

Treatment of significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in patients undergoing surgery for mitral and/or aortic valve disease is common. Whether patients with severe aortic valve stenosis and TR exhibit clinical benefits with amelioration of heart failure symptoms after transcatheter aortic valve
Effects of Social Media Involvement, Context, and Data-Type on Opinion Formation

Social media is a pervasive and ubiquitous form of digital communication and serves as a primary source of information for many individuals. At present, little is known about the effect of social media information on opinion formation. In a sample of 2222 individuals, we examined three elements that can affect opinion formation about information that is shared via social media. The context of the information, source of the information, and social media information type (i.e., image, video, or message) were all significantly related to opinion formation. A unique social media involvement score was covaried in secondary analyses, which demonstrated that frequency of social media use, duration of social media use, perceived influence in social media network, and the diversity of one's social media network can impact opinion formation thresholds. The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed.
An American Experience: Transition to the Dedicated Education Unit Clinical Education Model

This chapter describes the transformation of the traditional clinical teaching model at the University of Portland, Oregon, into an American version of the Dedicated Education Unit. The authors place a major focus on the relationships established with the University’s clinical partners and the Oregon State Board of Nursing, the process of creating a new educational experience, and the lessons learned along the way. They explain how the urgent need to increase the number of graduates despite a dearth of faculty led to development of the Portland concept of the Dedicated Education Unit and detail key elements for successful implementation, including processes for developing strong partnerships, major roles and responsibilities, an implementation timeframe, and acknowledging the challenges to successful implementation. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the evaluation, outcomes, and future possibilities of Portland Dedicated Education Units. Here, the authors make particular mention of the significant increase in the number of nursing students and graduates per year with no additional clinical faculty for the medical-surgical clinical experiences and the role of Dedicated Education Units in Magnet hospital accreditation.
Electromagnetic Sensors and Measurement Techniques

This paper reviews a subject which has developed over the past two decades: the optimal design of sensors for transient (or broadband) electromagnetic measurements and proper installation of the sensors involving concepts from topology and symmetry.
A framework and an analysis of current proposals for the case-based organization and representation of procedural knowledge

Case-based reasoning refers to the class of memory-based problem solving methods which emphasize the adaptation of recalled solutions (explanations, diagnoses, plans) over the generation of solutions from first principles. CBR has become a popular methodology, resulting in a proliferation of case organization and representation proposals. The goal of this paper is to sort through some of these proposals. Using the formal models of "procedure" and "case-based reasoning" introduced in Zito-Wolf and Alterman (1992), we compare three current proposals for the organization of procedural case-bases: individual cases, microcases, and multi cases. We give a worst-case analysis that shows the advantages of the multi case in terms of case storage and retrieval costs. The model predicts that multi cases reduce case storage and retrieval costs as compared to the other two models. We then provide some empirical evidence from an implemented system that suggests that the trends observed in the formal model are also observable in case bases of practical size.
Neuroactive Steroids and Perinatal Depression: a Review of Recent Literature

The purpose of this review is to provide a theoretical explanation and a review of the recent literature concerning the role of neuroactive steroids in perinatal depression, and to use this information to suggest future directions of research. The bulk of the evidence on neuroactive steroids in perinatal depression concerns allopregnanolone. Recent studies have been mixed, with some studies finding a direct correlation between lower levels of allopregnanolone and increased depressive symptoms but other studies finding no relationship. Evidence concerning other neuroactive steroids and perinatal depression is sparse. Additional research is needed with larger sample sizes and better characterization across the perinatal period (rather than cross-sectionally). Because some studies point to a lag between neuroactive steroid dysregulation and subsequent symptoms, future research should consider interactions with other aspects of neuroactive steroid physiology, such as synthetic enzymes or receptor plasticity.
Effects of timing of food intake and fat/carbohydrate ratio on insulin sensitivity and preconditioning against renal ischemia reperfusion injury by calorie restriction

Background Dietary restriction (DR) improves lifespan, metabolic fitness and resilience in many organisms, but the role of dietary macronutrient composition and timing of food intake in specific benefits remains unclear. Objective We sought to compare the effects of two isocaloric DR regimes differing in the timing of food intake - every other day (EOD) fasting/feeding vs. daily calorie restriction (CR) - at two different fat/carbohydrate ratios on two well-established DR benefits, improved glucose homeostasis and protection from renal ischemia reperfusion injury in mice. We hypothesized that both EOD fasting and isocaloric CR would result in similar improvements in glucose homeostasis and stress resistance independent of macronutrient composition. Methods Six groups of mice were fed either semi-purified low-fat diet (LFD, 10% calories from fat) or high-fat diet (HFD, 60% calories from fat) and randomized into one of three dietary regimens: 1) ad libitum (AL), 2) EOD feeding/fasting, or 3) pair-fed daily to the average daily EOD intake within LFD or HFD feeding group resulting in daily CR. After 6 weeks, the following assessments were made: fasting blood glucose, glucose and insulin tolerance, and resistance to bilateral renal ischemia reperfusion injury using serum urea as a marker of renal function. Within the EOD group, the effects of prior day feeding (EODfed vs. EODfast) were also assessed. Results EOD mice ate ∼20-25% less food over time than AL mice on the corresponding LFD or HFD. EOD and CR mice displayed changes in body weight, fasting blood glucose levels and glucose tolerance commensurate with total calorie intake. No significant differences were observed in circulating IGF-1 levels. Insulin sensitivity improved independent of fat/carbohydrate ratio on daily CR and EODfast regimens, but not EODfed. HFD increased susceptibility to renal ischemia reperfusion in AL mice, while CR and EOD regimens gave significant protection independent of dietary fat content or fed or fasted day in the EOD group. Conclusions Reduced food intake protects mice against renal ischemia reperfusion injury within 6 weeks independent of timing of food intake (CR, EODfast, EODfed) or fat content of diet (10% vs. 60%). Neither circulating IGF-1 levels (unchanged) nor whole-body insulin sensitivity (improved upon daily CR and EODfast but not EODfed) correlated with protection, so are unlikely to be involved mechanistically.
Learning Outside the Classroom: How Principals Define and Prepare to Be Instructional Leaders

This qualitative study surveyed 50 practicing principals in a Rocky Mountain state to explore what elements of their responsibilities these educational leaders identified as part of their instructional leadership roles. The study also examined what experiences these principals identified as helpful in preparing them to assume the role of school instructional leader, specifically in the areas of teacher supervision and evaluation, the use of technology to support student learning, and the use of data to inform instructional practices. These areas have been identified through research as significant elements of instructional leadership. By identifying the specific actions that principals identify as their instructional leadership responsibilities, programs that prepare school leaders and state and district personnel who provide professional development for principals can develop learning experiences that could more effectively support principals’ success as instructional leaders.
Regiospecific alkylation of histidine and histamine at C-2

Abstract Series of 1-alkyl histidines and histamines have been synthesized by the alkylation of the corresponding 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-5-oxoimidazo[1,5-c]pyrimidines with alkyl halides in aprotic solvents. The method of conversion of the intermediate quaternary salt to the amino acid or amine depends on the nature of the alkyl group.
A facile synthesis of 3-substituted indoles

1-Benzoyl-3-bromomethylindole (2a) or 1-benzenesulfonyl-3-bromomethylindole (2b) reacts with C, N, O, and P-containing nucleophiles to give potential intermediates for the synthesis of a wide range of indole alkaloids and pharmacologically important substances, in good to excellent yields.