cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biodegradable Pericardial Implants for Bladder Augmentation: A 2.5-Year Study in Dogs

Bladder augmentation using biodegradable pericardial tissue was evaluated in canine bladders. Acetic acid and acetic anhydride treated pericardial tissue grafts were stored in 75% ethanol for 18 to 27 months before implant. Ten dogs weighing 20 to 25 kg. were subjected to a 50% partial cystectomy. After careful separation of the mucosa, bladder muscle and adventitial layers a pericardial graft volumetrically equivalent to the portion of the bladder removed was sutured to the bladder remnant in 2 layers. In 1 control dog the bladder was opened, 50% of the bladder was removed and the bladder was closed primarily. In another control dog the excised bladder was replaced with fresh chemically treated patch material that was never subjected to ethanol storage. Excretory urography and cystography were performed on all dogs. Urodynamics with filling pressures and bladder volumes measured before and after the operation at intervals of up to 36 months confirmed that adequate bladder capacity was achieved. There were no operative complications. Postmortem histological evaluations revealed a smooth epithelialized inner surface with no traces of any surface irregularities or suture lines. The bladder apex showed an intact epithelium and the absence of a smooth muscle layer. The biodegradable acetylated tissue provides an intact structural reservoir for urine and serves as a template for epithelial regeneration. This permits volumetric bladder enlargement while the graft is progressively reabsorbed with time.
Origin and development of hydrogen peroxide disinfection systems.

The discovery of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by Thenard in 1818, and the early phase of its development, are discussed. A brief description is given of the uses of this compound for purposes other than contact lens care. A detailed description of the first application of H2O2 to hydrophilic contact lenses is provided. A review of toxicologic and microbiologic issues and concerns follows, with specific emphasis on the decimal reduction rate (D-value) for H2O2 and the contribution of elements test as applied to any disinfection system. The role of pH and increasing concentrations of H2O2 in inducing ocular discomfort is described. After the introduction of the first H2O2 system, a number of competitive methods reached the marketplace. The unique qualities of one neutralization technique are noted. Hydrogen peroxide will continue for some time as a popular contact lens disinfection mechanism.
Secreted trophic factors of mesenchymal stem cells support neurovascular and musculoskeletal therapies.

Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a subject of intense experimental and biomedical interest. Recently, trophic activities of MSCs have become the topic of a number of revealing studies that span both basic and clinical fields. In this review, we focus on recent investigations that have elucidated trophic mechanisms and shed light on MSC clinical efficacy relevant to musculoskeletal applications. Innate differences due to MSC sourcing may play a role in the clinical utility of isolated MSCs. Pain management, osteochondral, nerve, or blood vessel support by MSCs derived from both autologous and allogeneic sources have been examined. Recent mechanistic insights into the trophic activities of these cells point to ultimate regulation by nitric oxide, nuclear factor-kB, and indoleamine, among other signaling pathways. Classic growth factors and cytokines—such as VEGF, CNTF, GDNF, TGF-β, interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8), and C-C ligands (CCL-2, CCL-5, and CCL-23)—serve as paracrine control molecules secreted or packaged into extracellular vesicles, or exosomes, by MSCs. Recent studies have also implicated signaling by microRNAs contained in MSC-derived exosomes. The response of target cells is further regulated by their microenvironment, involving the extracellular matrix, which may be modified by MSC-produced matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitor of MMPs. Trophic activities of MSCs, either resident or introduced exogenously, are thus intricately controlled, and may be further fine-tuned via implant material modifications. MSCs are actively being investigated for the repair and regeneration of both osteochondral and other musculoskeletal tissues, such as tendon/ligament and meniscus. Future rational and effective MSC-based musculoskeletal therapies will benefit from better mechanistic understanding of MSC trophic activities, for example using analytical “-omics” profiling approaches.
Compact Wide swath Imaging Spectrometer (CWIS): alignment and laboratory calibration

The Compact Wide Swath Imaging Spectrometer (CWIS) is a pushbroom imaging spectrometer for the solar reflected spectrum (380-2510 nm) with wide swath (1600/1280 elements), fast optical speed (F/1.8), and high uniformity (≥95%). CWIS is currently being tested at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and is intended to address the need for high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compact imaging spectrometer systems for the visible to short wave infrared wavelength (VSWIR) range. We give an overview of the instrument functionality, describe the spectrometer alignment and system integration and report laboratory data that include spatial, spectral and radiometric calibration.
Akodon urichi (Vole mouse)

Among the autosomes, one pair is distinctly longer than all others. The minute chromosomes appear biarmed also. Identification of the X chromosomes is easy by the distinctly unequal arms, and identification of the Y chromosome is unequivocal.
Fokker-Planck analysis of transverse collective instabilities in electron storage rings

We analyze single bunch transverse instabilities due to wakefields using a Fokker-Planck model. We first expand on the work of T. Suzuki, Part. Accel. 12, 237 (1982) to derive the theoretical model including chromaticity, both dipolar and quadrupolar transverse wakefields, and the effects of damping and diffusion due to the synchrotron radiation. We reduce the problem to a linear matrix equation, whose eigenvalues and eigenvectors determine the collective stability of the beam. We then show that various predictions of the theory agree quite well with results from particle tracking simulations, including the threshold current for transverse instability and the profile of the unstable mode. In particular, we find that predicting collective stability for high energy electron beams at moderate to large values of chromaticity requires the full Fokker-Planck analysis to properly account for the effects of damping and diffusion due to synchrotron radiation.
Conjugated Ladder Polymers by a Cyclopentannulation Polymerization.

We report a nontraditional synthesis of cyclopentafused-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon embedded ladder polymers using a palladium catalyzed cyclopentannulation polymerization followed by a cyclodehydrogenation reaction. Donor–acceptor type polymers containing a cyclopenta[hi]aceanthrylene acceptor groups can be synthesized by a palladium catalyzed copolymerization between 9,10-dibromoanthracene and a variety of bis(arylethynyl)arenes to give polymers with molecular weights (Mn) of 9–22 kDa. The bis(arylethynyl)arenes were composed of benzene, thiophene, or thieno[3,2-b]thiophene moieties, which provided access to a series of four donor–acceptor copolymers. The polymers were subjected to cyclodehydrogenation with FeCl3 to access rigid ladder type polymers with the conversion investigated by 13C NMR of isotopically labeled polymers. The ladder polymers possess broad UV–Vis absorptions and narrow optical band gaps of 1.17–1.29 eV and are p-type semiconductors in organic field effect transistors.
Hotspot cooling with jumping-drop vapor chambers

Hotspot cooling is critical to the performance and reliability of electronic devices, but existing techniques are not very effective in managing mobile hotspots. We report a hotspot cooling technique based on a jumping-drop vapor chamber consisting of parallel plates of a superhydrophilic evaporator and a superhydrophobic condenser, where the working fluid is returned via the spontaneous out-of-plane jumping of condensate drops. While retaining the passive nature of traditional vapor-chamber heat spreaders (flat-plate heat pipes), the jumping-drop technique offers a mechanism to address mobile hotspots with a pathway toward effective thermal transport in the out-of-plane direction.
Theorizing the radical right: Directions for social movements research on the right-wing social movements

Most current social movement theory has been built by observing movements on the left. This poses a number of problems when we try to port those theories over to social movements on the right. This paper examines how existing social movement theory falls short in explaining the rise of right-wing social movements and their profound influence in the Republican Party. This paper combines a critical literature review with an eye toward adapting and synthesizing existing theoretical frameworks on social movements in ways that account for the unique aspects of right-wing movements.
TEACHING: Study abroad: validating the factor analysis of student choices

As universities seek to increase enrollment in study abroad programs, nationally less than 2 percent of all students participate. Understanding how university students view study abroad opportunities will help program developers and promoters to design programs that draw more students. This study seeks to validate results from an earlier factor analytic study into the causes of, and obstacles to students’ study abroad participation. Emergent factors in the current study, which accounted for approximately 50 percent of the variance, included Fear of the Unknown, Curricular Issues, and Financial Concerns. Results were similar to those of the earlier study.
Wavelengths and Lifetimes of Paper Autofluorescence: A Simple Substrate Screening Process to Enhance the Sensitivity of Fluorescence-Based Assays in Paper

Porous media made of nitrocellulose and glass fiber are common “paper” substrates for lateral flow assays, microfluidic paper analytical devices and other point-of-care diagnostic assays. Such assays commonly use optical labels such as gold nanoparticles, latex beads, or fluorescent nanoparticles to visualize the presence of analytes. Fluorescent labels are commonly used in bioassays to enhance sensitivity, but autoluminescence of the paper substrate worsens signal-to-noise ratios of fluorescence-based assays. To date, there exists no systematic investigation of autoluminescence wavelengths or lifetimes of porous membranes used in lateral flow assays. In response, we quantified the autoluminescence of commonly used porous materials across the visible spectrum via excitation–emission spectroscopy and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, and demonstrate that autoluminescence is solely due to autofluorescence with lifetimes of about 5 ns in the visible spectrum. Counterintuitively, we found that spectros...
Frequency analysis of catecholamine axonal morphology in human brain. I. Effects of postmortem delay interval.

Abstract The diverse morphologies of catecholamine axons in the human brain were examined by using tyrosine hydroxylase immunocytochemistry. Human brain tissue was obtained by either rapid autopsy (mean postmortem delay
Applying Tools From Human-Centered Design to Social Marketing Planning:

In this “Tools From the Field” paper, we report our experiences using human-centered design (HCD), a process for using innovation as a means of developing more effective marketing offerings. The co...
Ryanodine Receptor Structure and Function in Health and Disease.

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are ubiquitous intracellular calcium (Ca2+) release channels required for the function of many organs including heart and skeletal muscle, synaptic transmission in the brain, pancreatic beta cell function, and vascular tone. In disease, defective function of RyRs due either to stress (hyperadrenergic and/or oxidative overload) or genetic mutations can render the channels leaky to Ca2+ and promote defective disease-causing signals as observed in heat failure, muscular dystrophy, diabetes mellitus, and neurodegerative disease. RyRs are massive structures comprising the largest known ion channel-bearing macromolecular complex and exceeding 3 million Daltons in molecular weight. RyRs mediate the rapid release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum (ER/SR) to stimulate cellular functions through Ca2+-dependent processes. Recent advances in single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) have enabled the determination of atomic-level structures for RyR for the first time. These structures have illuminated the mechanisms by which these critical ion channels function and interact with regulatory ligands. In the present chapter we discuss the structure, functional elements, gating and activation mechanisms of RyRs in normal and disease states.
If There Were Responsibility, It Wouldn’t Do Much Work (Responsibility and Internalism)

In this chapter, I assume that, contrary to the above argument, individuals are morally responsible and then explore how narrow responsibility would be. Here I argue for internalism in moral responsibility. My argument is that connection and control are what make people morally responsible. Because connection and control consist of, and only of, reasoning (and mental states) that a person is phenomenally aware of, what makes someone responsible is such reasoning. Because such reasoning is an internal feature of a person, internalism in responsibility is true. Internalism in this context leads to a very narrow scope for responsibility. It is so narrow, for example, the people are at most blameworthy for akrasia. I then explore the implications of this argument with regard to principal-agent responsibility, negligence, attempted versus completed crimes, and akrasia. If the above analysis is correct, then our everyday judgments of moral responsibility are unreliable.
Ecosystem services and judge-made law: A review of legal cases in common law countries

Abstract This paper reviews the prevalence and usage of the concept of “ecosystem services” in American and other common law legal systems. Our review suggests that this concept is rarely relied upon by courts and other adjudicatory bodies. We have identified 113 cases in seven common law countries, including a handful in the United States, the majority of which discuss ecosystem services and related concepts in only a peripheral manner, indicating that adjudicating bodies are hearing cases that consider ecosystem services in broad strokes rather than as central issues. Where ecosystem services are considered substantively, the cases view those services through the lens of interpreting and applying existing environmental laws and regulations, including laws that require environmental valuations. We identify several recurring trends in cases discussing ecosystem services and recommend courses of action for environmental agencies and litigants interested in furthering ecosystem services protection through the court systems of common law countries.
Parameterized model checking of fine grained concurrency

Concurrent data structures are provided in libraries such as Intel Thread Building Blocks and Java.util.concurrent to enable efficient implementation of multi-threaded programs. Their efficiency is achieved by using fine grained synchronization which creates less constrained interaction between the threads. This leads to a large number of possible interleavings and makes concurrent data structures hard to verify. In this paper, we describe our key insights from Murphi based parameterized model checking of these data structures. In particular, we describe the first model checking based framework to handle an unbounded number of threads for these data structures. This framework uses the CMP (CoMPositional) method which has been used in verifying cache coherence protocols. The CMP method requires the user to supply lemmas for abstraction refinement. A further contribution of our work is to show how a significant subset of these lemmas can be generated automatically.
Rest Frame Properties of the Proton

The proton is modeled as three quarks of smallcurrent quark mass. The threebody Dirac equation issolved with spin-independent central diagonal linearconfining potentials with an attractive Coulombic term in a relativistic threequark model.Hyperspherical coordinates are used, and the bound stateis found analytically. After integrating over thehyperangles, the Hamiltonian is an 8 by 8 matrix ofcoupled first-order differential equations in onevariable, the hyperradius. These are analytically solvedin hypercentral approximation. For the(1/2+)3 ground-state configurationin the nonrelativistic large-quark-mass limit, there are no nodes in the wave function.However, in the extreme relativistic limit of smallcurrent quark masses of a few MeV, the expectation valueof the number of nodes is about 1.30 when the potential parameters are chosen to reproducethe proton rms charge radius. The quarks are assumed topossess a Pauli anomalous magnetic moment, like that ofthe electron and muon of (α/2π)(e/m). Assuming all three quarks have equal mass, one can fitthe rest energy, magnetic moment, rms charge radius, andaxial charge of the proton with this relativisticthree-body Dirac equation model. The solution found shows the necessity of including all componentsof the composite three-quark wave function, as the uppercomponent contributes only 0.585 to the norm.
Limiting parents' rights in medical decision making.

Parents' ability to make medical decisions for their children can be limited by state law if it is determined that the child's best interest is not being met. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
Evaluation of a thermomechanical model for prediction of residual stress during laser powder bed fusion of Ti-6Al-4V

Abstract The build-up of residual stresses in a part during laser powder bed fusion provides a significant limitation to the adoption of this process. These residuals stresses may cause a part to fail during a build or fall outside the specified tolerances after fabrication. In the present work a thermomechanical model is used to simulate the build process and calculate the residual stress state for Ti–6Al–4V specimens built with continuous and island scan strategies. A layer agglomeration, or lumping, approach is used to speed up the computations. A material model is developed to naturally capture the strain-rate dependence and annealing behavior of Ti–6Al–4V at elevated temperatures. Results from the thermomechanical simulations showed good agreement with synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurements used to determine the residual elastic strains in these parts. However, the experimental measurements showed higher residual strains for the specimen built with an island scan strategy; a trend not fully captured by the simulations. Parameter studies were performed to fully understand the advantages and limitations of the current simulation methodology. Reasons for both the computational and experimental findings are discussed.
Extracellular Matrix Degradation

Many processes are included within the scope of the term matrix degradation. Specialized matrices such as bone and cartilage, which provide structural support for the animal, are dynamic structures that resorb or expand in response to hormonal stimuli. The enzymatic machinery for the degradation of large quantities of collagen and other matrix components must be under the appropriate transcriptional regulation in the controlling cell type. Similarly, if a whole organ or tissue is removed, such as during uterine and mammary involution, enzymes are required that are capable of lysing basement membranes and interstitial matrix and processing cellular debris so that all the components can be absorbed by scavenging cell types. Matrix degradation is also a part of invasive cellular migration, when cells displace gels of interstitial molecules or cross basement membranes, the natural barriers to cell migration. In contrast to the involution reaction, lysis associated with cell motility is a limited reaction that leaves the bulk of the matrix intact and is directed only at the “structural kingpins,” those molecules that constitute a barrier to cell displacement. Cell growth, division, and expansion also demand flexibility in the growth matrix, such as that associated with tissue regeneration and during development. Matrix is also a reservoir of growth factors and possible morphogens, and rather specific cleavage reactions directed against carrier molecules like vitronectin and heparan sulfate may have a role in determining the course of further cell growth and proteolysis.
Respiratory Physiology and Heart Rate of Pomacea maculata in Water, Air, and during Aestivation

Louisiana's wetlands and crops are presently under invasion by Pomacea maculata (Perry, 1810). Insight into the physiology of ampullariids is vital to informing threat assessment, developing effective control measures, and enhancing our understanding of the physiological adaptations that facilitate successful introductions of invasive species. This paper addresses the respiratory physiology and heart rate of P. maculata submersed in water, during initial and extended (aestivation) emersion in air. Invasive P. maculata in Louisiana possess fully functional lungs and gills, permitting survival in air without access to water, and reciprocally, survival in water with no access to air. The aquatic respiration rate measured as V O2 (∼19 µL/g/h) was significantly lower than the initial aerial respiration rate (∼ 63 µL/g/h) for P. maculata, while the heart rate was similar in both water (∼37 bpm) and during initial emersion in air (∼34 bpm). Small snails ( 60 g) snails. A substantial reduction in heart rate (86%), body weight (24%), and V 02 (94%) was observed in P. maculata after 58 days of aestivation in air. Periodic changes in the rate of oxygen uptake and cardiac arrhythmia were regularly observed in snails during emersion in air.
Stepparent–Child Relationship Quality and Couple Relationship Quality: Stepfamily Household Type as a Moderating Influence:

Stepparent–child relationships and new couple relationships are core pillars of stepfamily functioning and well-being. Although research generally indicates that stepparent–child relationship quali...
Transcription factor-mediated regulation of the BCRP/ABCG2 efflux transporter: a review across tissues and species

Introduction: The breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP/ABCG2) is a member of the ATP-binding cassette superfamily of transporters. Using the energy garnered from the hydrolysis of ATP, BCRP actively removes drugs and endogenous molecules from the cell. With broad expression across the liver, kidney, brain, placenta, testes, and small intestines, BCRP can impact the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of xenobiotics.Areas covered: The purpose of this review is to summarize the transcriptional signaling pathways that regulate BCRP expression across various tissues and mammalian species. We will cover the endobiotic- and xenobiotic-activated transcription factors that regulate the expression and activity of BCRP. These include the estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor, constitutive androstane receptor, pregnane X receptor, nuclear factor e2-related factor 2, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor.Expert opinion: Key transcription factors regulate BCRP expression and function in response to hormones and xenobiotics. Understanding this regulation provides an opportunity to improve pharmacotherapeutic outcomes by enhancing the efficacy and reducing the toxicity of drugs that are substrates of this efflux transporter.
Cognitive instructional principles in elementary mathematics classrooms: a case of teaching inverse relations

Instructional principles gleaned from cognitive science play a critical role in improving classroom teaching. This study examines how three cognitive instructional principles including worked examp...
Randomized Trial of a Physical Activity Intervention for Latino Men: Activo.

Introduction Latino men experience disproportionately high rates of diseases related to low physical activity, yet they are poorly represented in physical activity intervention trials. Efforts to promote physical activity in Latina women show promising results, yet such interventions are yet to be extended to Latino men. This study tested a computer expert system‒tailored, text messaging-supported physical activity intervention for underactive Spanish-speaking Latino men compared with a control group matched for contact time. Potential predictors of intervention success were also explored. Study design Randomized trial. Participants were randomized to receive a Tailored Physical Activity Intervention (Intervention) or a Wellness Control (Control). Data were collected in 2015–2017 and analyzed in 2018–2019. Setting/participants Insufficiently active Latino men (n=46). Intervention Intervention participants received a baseline counseling session and then, individually tailored print materials and text messages on a tapered schedule for 6 months. Control participants received printed wellness materials and text messages on the same schedule. Main outcome measures Primary outcome was a change in weekly moderate to vigorous physical activity from baseline to 6 months measured by accelerometers. Self-reported moderate to vigorous physical activity measured by the 7-day Physical Activity Recall Interview was a secondary outcome. Results For Intervention participants, median accelerometer-measured moderate to vigorous physical activity increased from 10.0 minutes/week at baseline to 57.5 minutes/week at 6 months, whereas for Control participants, it increased from 21.0 minutes/week at baseline to 23.0 minutes/week at 6 months (p Conclusions Findings suggest that an individually tailored intervention can successfully increase moderate to vigorous physical activity in underactive Latino men. Such technology-supported interventions have the potential for broad dissemination. Trial registration This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT02512419.
Critically Evaluating Youth Body Mass Index Trajectories: Implications for Health Versus Stigma

For these reasons, it would be helpful to replicate Wang et al 's work based on standardized scores and, furthermore, to adjust for important potential confounding factors that may explain findings, including socioeconomic status, diet, physical activity, presence of chronic illness, and family history of cardiovascular disease The CDC specifically recommends that clinicians use BMI in combination with information on youth diet, physical activity, family history, and other health screens rather than as a diagnostic tool [ ]population health initiatives are already widespread to reduce youth overweight and obesity in the clinical, community-based organization, and school arenas 6-8 Any limitations in precision do not negate the important message ofthe work: child health matters for long-term health Steep declines in youth physical activity are routinely observed in adolescence9 and serve as a key rationale for widespread efforts to promote physical activity opportunities in the elementary school years to reduce obesity and promote fitness 8 Consistent with this literature, Wang et al observed that the preadolescent years are an important intervention period to support the establishment of healthy behaviors and reduce the risk of hypertension associated with high BMI [ ]across the United States, youths participate in annual fitness tests, such as the Presidential Physical Fitness Test and the FitnessGram by The Cooper Institute, which include anthropometric and fitness batteries to assess current and future health, support youths and their families in monitoring fitness progress, and provide opportunities foryouth population health surveillance 10 However, the authors' use of terms such as "early warning period" before the "explosion of overweight" perhaps should be reconsidered, particularly in light of the dynamic nature of youth BMI throughout development
Carbohydrate-Induced Insulin Signaling Activates Focal Adhesion Kinase: A Nutrient and Mechanotransduction Crossroads.

Research has suggested that nutrient, exercise, and metabolism-related proteins interact to regulate mammalian target of rapamycin complex one (mTOR) post-exercise and their interactions needs clarification. In a double-blind, cross-over, repeated measures design, ten participants completed four sets to failure at 70% of 1-repitition maximum (1-RM) with 45 s rest on angled leg press with or without pre-exercise maltodextrin (2 g/kg) after a 3 h fast. Vastus lateralis biopsies were collected at baseline before supplementation and 1 h post-exercise to analyze Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK), ribosomal protein S6 kinase beta-1 (p70S6K), insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. FAK and IRS-1 activity were only elevated 1 h post-exercise with carbohydrate ingestion (p 0.05). We conclude that FAK does not induce mTOR activation through PI3K crosstalk in response to exercise alone. In addition, FAK may not be regulated by AMPK catalytic activity, but this needs further research. Interestingly, carbohydrate-induced insulin signaling appears to activate FAK at the level of IRS-1 but did not enhance mTOR activity 1 h post-exercise greater than the placebo condition. Future research should investigate these interactions under different conditions and within different time frames to clearly understand the interactions between these signaling molecules.
Nonhuman primate models for SARS-CoV-2 research: Infrastructure needs for pandemic preparedness

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has significantly increased the demand for nonhuman primates (NHPs), the preclinical model most predictive of disease and treatment outcomes in humans, and for biocontainment laboratory spaces adjacent to facilities housing NHPs. Accompanying this requirement for biocontainment and research laboratory space is the need for skilled personnel to work in these facilities.
Interfacial Fracture Toughness of PCB/Epoxy Interfaces Under Three Point and Four Point Loading with Sustained High Temperature Exposure

Electronic components used in defense and aerospace applications may be exposed to extreme thermo-mechanical shock loading and high-g shock forces. Reinforcing surface mount electronic components with epoxy potting and underfills, has shown to improve survivability under harsh extreme environments. Potting of electronic components has been shown to offer structural support, shock damping and protection for the components from environmental conditions such as moisture. Interfacial delamination is a dominant failure mode in high-g shock loading of electronic assemblies and often a precursor for solder joint failures. Exposure to sustained storage in non-climate-controlled conditions has been shown to influence the interfacial reliability. Mechanics of interface delamination and fracture toughness of the epoxy potted PCB assemblies under sustained high-temperature storage has been studied. PCB/Epoxy specimens are prepared, and their fracture behavior is observed under both quasi-static three-point and four-point bend loading owing to the difference in the deformation mechanics. In three-point bending, the peak-stress acts at the midpoint of the specimen. In four-point bend loading, the peak stress is along whole area of the specimen under load (load span). The curing temperature providing the best fracture resistance is selected and followed throughout the study. The samples are exposed to 100°C for 30 days and 60 days. The experimental results have been used to provide the peak critical load, from which the fracture toughness parameters are calculated. A comparison has been made on fracture toughness and crack initiation of the PCB/Epoxy systems, based on flexure method and thermal aging.
Vortex flow adjacent to a stationary surface

The radius of transition from an inner core of solid body rotation to an outer free vortex motion was determined via the momentum integral method.
Revisiting Jewish Occupational Choice and Urbanization in Iraq under the Early Abbasids

Scholarly consensus currently holds that with the rise of Islam and particularly with the establishment of Abbasid rule, the Jews of Babylonia overwhelmingly shifted from agricultural pursuits to crafts and trade, and that this occupational shift was accompanied by a move to urban environments, particularly to Baghdad. In this article, I challenge this understanding by reviewing and reinterpreting the geonic evidence on which this conjecture is based. I support my view with additional detail both from the geonim themselves and from current research concerning the Abbasid environment in general. I conclude that Jews continued to be involved in agricultural pursuits in rural Iraq well into the Abbasid period. This conclusion may also have implications for those who believe that Jewish urbanization in the seventh and eighth centuries led to a subsequent westward migration from Iraq to the Islamic Mediterranean.
Brachial Plexus , Supraclavicular Exposure

The supraclavicular brachial plexus includes the roots and the trunks. The brachial plexus is usually formed by the ventral rami of the spinal nerves from C5 to T1. Contribution is very common from C4 (prefixed) and uncommon from T2 (postfixed). It forms between the scalenus anterior and scalenus medius muscles and lies in the posterior triangle of the neck (bound by the sternocleidomastoid [SCM], the trapezius, and the clavicle). C5 and C6 join to make the upper trunk, C7 continues as the middle trunk, and C8 and T1 join to make the lower trunk. The suprascapular nerve (C5, C6) is the largest branch at the root/trunk level. It arises from the cranial aspect of the upper trunk, close to the divisions. The dorsal scapular nerve (to rhomboids and levator scapulae) comes off the C5 ventral ramus; the long thoracic nerve (to serratus anterior) comes off the C5, C6, and occasionally C7 ventral rami and usually runs through the scalenus medius muscle. The nerve to subclavius (C5, C6) comes off the upper trunk.
Variable Carbon Sinks

Over half of the anthropogenic carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere is partially absorbed by carbon sinks. As Fung explains in this Perspective, determining the location and magnitude of these sinks remains a major challenge. Bousquet et al. find that regional and global terrestrial carbon sinks are much more variable than their oceanic counterparts and that the tropical land masses may play a major role. Given that the land sink is so variable, it is uncertain how it will repond to climate change.
In Vitro Mammalian Cytogenetic Tests

In vitro cytogenic tests are undertaken in any cancer risk assessment process for exposures to environmental chemicals. Hazard identification is the first step in the cancer risk assessment process. A hazard is considered to be represented by genetic alterations assessed as gene mutations or chromosomal alterations. This article focuses on the numerical and structural induction of chromosomal alterations. Keywords: In vitro cytogenic tests; chromosomal alteration; cancer risk assessment; cancer–research; gene mutations
Automatic Object Modeling for 3D Virtual Environment

3D object modeling is an important issue in the construction of virtual environment. This paper presents an automatic modeling approach for the construction of curved object models. The model is generated from the contours on orthographic planes of images taken from known viewpoints, and represented with a set of superquadric primitives. The parameters of model are determined automatically by first utilizing a global fitting procedure where the silhouettes of the object are fitted to the parametric model, and then a local fitting strategy where some deformable parameters are adjusted to the object edges to refine the parametric model. Combining these fitting parameters, the geometric shape description of 3D objects can be obtained.
Lack of effectiveness of oral mexiletine in patients with drug-refractory paroxysmal sustained ventricular tachycardia. A study utilizing programmed stimulation.

Abstract Recent studies indicate that oral administration of mexiletine is useful in the therapy of recurrent ventricular tachycardia (VT). To further define the clinical usefulness of this drug, mexiletine was administered to 13 men and 4 women with a mean age ± standard deviation of 62 ± 8 years who had drug-refractory paroxysmal sustained VT associated with chronic ischemic heart disease in 14, valvular heart disease in 1, and primary myocardial disease in 1. One patient had no heart disease. All 17 patients had inducible sustained VT during the control electrophysiologic study and during serial electrophysiologic study on conventional drugs. Eleven patients tolerated a mean maximal daily dose of 1,073 ± 149 mg of mexiletine and underwent programmed ventricular stimulation; sustained VT was inducible in 10 patients and nonsustained VT in 1. in 10 patients with inducible sustained VT on mexiletine, the VT cycle length was longer during mexiletine therapy than during control (mean ± standard error of the mean, 342 ± 22 versus 268 ± 14 ms, respectively) (p
Dynamics of nuclear fluid: (I). Foundation

Abstract Starting with the time-dependent Hartree-Fock (TDHF) formulation of the many-body problem, we cast the equation into a set of conservation laws of classical type. Besides the equation of continuity, TDHF leads to an equation of motion which is analogous to the Euler equation in classical fluid dynamics. The forces do not come from the collective kinetic stress alone, but also from a density-dependent chemical potential, the surface tensional force which depends on density differences and the Coulomb interaction. With an assumed Navier-Stokes generalization of the stress tensor, such a set of differential equations provides a powerful tool for the study of complicated collective motions of nuclear systems such as those involved in heavy-ion reactions and nuclear fission. In the static case, the equation of motion leads to the Thomas-Fermi model of a finite nucleus as formulated by Bethe.
Fermentation of glucose, fructose, and xylose by Clostridium thermoaceticum: effect of metals on growth yield, enzymes, and the synthesis of acetate from CO 2

Clostridium thermoaceticum ferments xylose, fructose, and glucose with acetate as the only product. In fermentations with mixtures of the sugars, xylose is first fermented, then fructose, and last, glucose. Fructose inhibits the fermentation of glucose, and this inhibition appears to be due to a repression of the synthesis of an enzyme needed for glucose utilization. Addition of metals to the culture medium increases the cell yield drastically from about 7 to 18 g per liter, and Y(glucose) values between 40 and 50 are obtained. According to the postulated pathways of the fermentation of glucose and synthesis of acetate from CO(2) by C. thermoaceticum, 3 mol of ATP are available as energy for growth. Thus a Y(adenosine 5'-triphosphate) of 13 to 16 is obtained. Because the normal Y(ATP) value is 10.5, this could mean that an additional source of ATP is available by an unknown mechanism. The addition of metals also increases the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-dependent formate dehydrogenase activity, the overall reaction ((14)CO(2) --> acetate), and the incorporation of the methyl group of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate into acetate. These reactions are catalyzed very efficiently by cells harvested in early growth, whereas cells obtained at the end of a fermentation have very low formate dehydrogenase activity and capacity to incorporate CO(2) into acetate. The following enzymes involved in the synthesis of acetate from CO(2) and in the metabolism of pyruvate are present in extracts of C. thermoaceticum: 10-formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase, 5,10-methenyltetrahydrofolate cyclohydrolase, 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase, 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, phosphate acetyltransferase, and acetate kinase. These enzymes are not or are very little affected by the addition of metals to the growth medium. The amount of corrinoids in cells from early growth is low, whereas it is high in cells harvested late in growth. The opposite is found for the activity of delta-aminolevulinate dehydratase, which is high at the beginning of growth and low at the end.
A Darwinian Legacy to Understanding Human Infancy Emotional Expressions as Behavior Regulators

Darwin's influence on the study of emotional responding has largely centered on the study of the production of facial movement pat- terns. In this paper, we present evidence on the importance of considering facial and vocal patterns as signals that powerfully regulate behavior in in- fancy and early childhood. We review a series of studies showing that facial expressions and vocal expressions alone can regulate the behavior of in- fants and, in the case of vocal expressions, do so at ages earlier than most researchers have acknowledged. We also review studies on the enduring ef- fects of social signals, documenting that even 8.5-month-olds show minimal retention of the effects of social signals, some 10-month-olds can retain the effects of social signals for 25 minutes, and 14-month-old can do so for a period of one hour after only two trials of signal exposure. Social signals not only regulate behavior, they also are part and parcel of an important and relatively unstudied phenomenon called affect sharing, which is evi- dent by 11.5 months of age. Finally, we speculate on the constitutive role of social signals, especially those linked to what Ekman has called "basic emotions" in the generation of new emotions, such as pride, shame, and guilt.
Abstract 350: The Pro-atherosclerotic Milieu Converts a Sub-population of Murine Peripheral T Regulatory Cells to a Non-suppressive Th1-like Foxp3+IFNγ+ Phenotype.

CD4+ T cell subsets play diverse roles in inflammation but may also display limited plasticity. The existence of a population of Foxp3+ T regulatory (Treg) cells that co-expresses Interferon-γ (IFNγ) has been demonstrated in several models of inflammation. In atherosclerosis, circulating Treg content inversely corresponds with atherogenesis, suggesting that inflammation might affect peripheral Treg (pTregs) maintenance. Thus, we sought to examine the fate of pTregs within atherosclerotic Apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe-/-) mice. Foxp3+IFNγ+ T cells were elevated within the aorta, spleen, and peripheral lymph nodes (PLNs) of atherosclerotic Apoe-/- versus C57BL/6 mice. Further phenotyping of Foxp3+IFNγ+ T cells revealed variable expression of Treg and Th1 markers, including low CTLA4, GITR, CD25 expression, equivalent PD1, CD73, FR4, expression and elevated Tbet, CD119, CXCR3, and CCR5 expression. To determine whether Foxp3+IFNγ+ T cells arise from de novo differentiation or peripheral conversion, we performed fate tracking experiments with co-adoptively transferred naive T cells and pTregs, or lineage tracing Foxp3yfp-cre+ R26RtdTomato+ pTregs, to aged Apoe-/- mice. Naive T cells failed to generate Foxp3+IFNγ+ T cells. In contrast, adoptively transferred Tregs maintained Foxp3 expression (50-60%) or adopted a Foxp3+IFNγ+ T phenotype (40-50%) within the spleen, peri-aortic lymph nodes, and aorta. To test the functionality of IFNγ+ Tregs, we isolated IFNγ+ pTregs, IFNγ- pTregs, and Foxp3GFP+ Tregs for T cell suppression assays. While IFNγ- pTregs and Foxp3GFP+ pTregs were equivalently suppressive, IFNγ+ pTregs failed to adequately suppress T cell proliferation. Together these results demonstrate that atherogenic inflammation affects the maintenance of pTregs, resulting in the generation of a subset of dysfunctional Foxp3+IFNγ+ T cells.
Real-time in vivo imaging of stem cells following transgenesis by transposition

Previous studies have identified Sleeping Beauty transposons as efficient vectors for nonviral gene delivery in mammalian cells. However, studies demonstrating the usefulness of transposons as gene delivery vehicles into adult stem cells are lacking. Multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPC) are nonhematopoietic stem cells with the capacity to form most, if not all, cell types of the body and as such hold great therapeutic potential. The whole-body biodistribution and persistence of MAPC are unknown, and such data would help direct clinical applications. We have nucleofected murine MAPC with two plasmid-based Sleeping Beauty transposons encoding the red fluorescent protein (DsRed2) and firefly luciferase. Transgenic euploid MAPC clones maintained their characteristic multilineage differentiation potential in vitro. DsRed2 and luciferase expression allowed for MAPC detection in vivo and in tissue sections. To confirm that transgenesis occurred by transposition into the genome of MAPC, we mapped Sleeping Beauty transposon integration sites in two MAPC clones using splinkerette PCR. This novel dual-reporter imaging approach based on the transgenesis of MAPC with Sleeping Beauty transposons sheds light on the homing patterns of MAPC and paves the way for quantification of MAPC engraftment in real time in vivo.
Telecommunications, an instrument of radical change for both the 20th and 21st centuries

Abstract This paper compares and contrasts how entrepreneurial disruptions, firm innovations, foreign market expansion and government restraint interact during three distinct periods to create and dramatically expand one service—telecommunications. Because this service has the ability to help business overcome the frictions of time, it has become both an enabling and lead technology in the dramatic economic growth. Telecommunications was instrumental in ushering in the formation of the third Kondratieff long Wave upswing at the beginning of the 20th century and appears to be important in jumpstarting the emerging information economy in the fifth Kondratieff Wave at the end of the 20th century.
Functional neuroimaging of reward circuitry responsivity to monetary gains and losses in posttraumatic stress disorder.

Background Clinical impressions and preclinical work suggest that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) might be associated with dysfunctional reward processing. To pursue this issue, we administered a validated passive-viewing monetary reward task during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to subjects with chronic PTSD and to mentally healthy individuals. Methods The protocol evaluated fMRI signal changes that anticipated or accompanied monetary gains and losses under varying conditions of controlled expectation. The “expectancy phase” entailed presentation of a promising, unpromising, or intermediate Wheel of Fortune–type spinner, whereas the “outcome phase” was defined by the arrow landing on one of three sectors of that spinner, thereby determining the subjects' gain or loss for that trial. Results Neuroimaging data from 20 PTSD and 26 healthy subjects withstood quality control procedures and were included. In voxelwise and anatomically defined region-of-interest analyses, when gains were contrasted to losses, between-group comparison revealed smaller bilateral striatal activations in the PTSD subjects. In the PTSD group, less striatal activation to gains versus losses was associated with more self-reported motivational and social deficits. Conclusions The present data support the hypothesis that PTSD is associated with abnormal processing of monetary outcomes and that this alteration might be related to some aspects of emotional numbing.
Simulating the variability of actual outcomes

A method is described for simulating the variability of outcomes encountered in a variety of settings. Outcome values falling within a specified range are randomly generated and presented across subjects and trials, so that, over time, the average values seen by all subjects in a condition are the same. Randomly varying reinforcement dimensions (such as magnitude) over trials for each subject is recommended to enhance both the internal and the external validity of laboratory results. In addition, it can be used to study the effects of the variability or uncertainty of outcome dimensions such as magnitude and duration in investigations of behaviors such as matching, melioration, and behavioral momentum.