cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Indirect detection constraints on s- and t-channel simplified models of dark matter

Recent Fermi-LAT observations of dwarf spheroidal galaxies in the Milky Way have placed strong limits on the gamma-ray flux from dark matter annihilation. In order to produce the strongest limit on the dark matter annihilation cross section, the observations of each dwarf galaxy have typically been ``stacked'' in a joint-likelihood analysis, utilizing optical observations to constrain the dark matter density profile in each dwarf. These limits have typically been computed only for singular annihilation final states, such as $b\overline{b}$ or ${\ensuremath{\tau}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\tau}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$. In this paper, we generalize this approach by producing an independent joint-likelihood analysis to set constraints on models where the dark matter particle annihilates to multiple final-state fermions. We interpret these results in the context of the most popular simplified models, including those with s- and t-channel dark matter annihilation through scalar and vector mediators. We present our results as constraints on the minimum dark matter mass and the mediator sector parameters. Additionally, we compare our simplified model results to those of effective field theory contact interactions in the high-mass limit.
Polynomial-based approximate solutions to the Boussinesq equation near a well

Abstract This paper presents a method for constructing polynomial-based approximate solutions to the Boussinesq equation with cylindrical symmetry. This equation models water injection at a single well in an unconfined aquifer; as a sample problem we examine recharge of an initially empty aquifer. For certain injection regimes it is possible to introduce similarity variables, reducing the original problem to a boundary-value problem for an ordinary differential equation. The approximate solutions introduced here incorporate both a singular part to model the behavior near the well and a polynomial part to model the behavior in the far field. Although the nonlinearity of the problem prevents decoupling of the singular and polynomial parts, the paper presents an approach for calculating the solution based on its spatial moments. This approach yields closed-form expressions for the position of the wetting front and for the form of the phreatic surface. Comparison with a highly accurate numerical solution verifies the accuracy of the newly derived approximate solutions.
Optimal classification with multivariate losses

Multivariate loss functions are extensively employed in several prediction tasks arising in Information Retrieval. Often, the goal in the tasks is to minimize expected loss when retrieving relevant items from a presented set of items, where the expectation is with respect to the joint distribution over item sets. Our key result is that for most multivariate losses, the expected loss is provably optimized by sorting the items by the conditional probability of label being positive and then selecting top k items. Such a result was previously known only for the F-measure. Leveraging on the optimality characterization, we give an algorithm for estimating optimal predictions in practice with runtime quadratic in size of item sets for many losses. We provide empirical results on benchmark datasets, comparing the proposed algorithm to state-of-the-art methods for optimizing multivariate losses.
Down-Shifting Phosphor Layer Enhancement in Optically Active and Inactive Thin-Film Solar Module Regions

The enhancement of photovoltaic efficiency by incorporation of down-shifting phosphor materials in optically active and inactive regions of solar modules is presented. Thin film photovoltaic modules suffer from various optical losses, including front glass reflectance, thermalization loss of absorbed high energy photons, window layer absorption, and the loss of photons to scribe regions. There have been various efforts to improve the performance of solar modules by application of down-shifting (DS), down-converting, and up-converting materials systems. Here we show results towards the development of a low-cost phosphor film system tuned to the solar spectrum and specifically designed for CdTe thin film modules.
Deconstructing the Online Grooming of Youth: Toward Improved Information Systems for Detection of Online Sexual Predators

The aggressive online solicitation of youth by online sexual predators has been established as an unintended consequence of the connectedness afforded individuals through social media. Computer science research that has focused on the detection of online sexual predators is scant and absent behavioral theory. We address this gap through examining what behavioral patterns emerge regarding how online sexual predators use language inside of social media to groom youth. Through a grounded theory analysis of ninety Perverted Justice (PVJ) transcripts, of conversations between convicted online sexual predators and PVJ volunteers who posed as youth, we identified five categories of online predator behavior inside of text during victimization of children. Those categories are: assessment, enticements, cybersexploitation, control and self-preservation. The aim of the research is twofold: (a) to improve pattern recognition programming for automated detection software, and (b) to improve educational tools for youth, parents, guardians, educators, and law enforcement.
What Can We Learn About Mental Health Needs From Tweets Mentioning Dementia on World Alzheimer's Day?

Background Twitter can address the mental health challenges of dementia care. The aims of this study is to explore the contents and user interactions of tweets mentioning dementia to gain insights for dementia care. Methods We collected 35,260 tweets mentioning Alzheimer’s or dementia on World Alzheimer’s Day, September 21st in 2015. Topic modeling and social network analysis were applied to uncover content and structure of user communication. Results Global users generated keywords related to mental health and care including #psychology and #mental health. There were similarities and differences between the UK and the US in tweet content. The macro-level analysis uncovered substantial public interest on dementia. The meso-level network analysis revealed that top leaders of communities were spiritual organizations and traditional media. Conclusions The application of topic modeling and multi-level network analysis while incorporating visualization techniques can promote a global level understanding regarding public attention, interests, and insights regarding dementia care and mental health.
Diffraction and radiation loads on open cylinders of thin and arbitrary shapes

We study the effects of having an opening in a vertical cylinder of an arbitrary cross-sectional shape when subjected to incident waves from the outside field. Both the diffraction and radiation problems of linear potential-flow theory are addressed. The cylinders considered are bottom-mounted with vanishing thickness and the problem is formulated as a hypersingular boundary-integral method. A simple higher-order procedure is presented to handle the strong singularity. Comparisons are made between the hydrodynamic properties of open and closed cylinders, and the effects of increasing the opening size are discussed and explained. Results for square, circular and elliptical open cylindrical shells, presented as examples, indicate that wave loads on the structures could be dramatically decreased to zero (effectively) at certain frequencies and opening sizes. This leads to the surprising conclusion that directing an open structure into the incident-wave field results in lower loads on the structure. A model of an open harbour with a frontal breakwater in a wave field, inspired by the idea of the Portunus Project, is also analysed.
Per-Flow Cardinality Estimation Based On Virtual LogLog Sketching

Flow cardinality estimation is the problem of estimating the number of distinct elements in a data flow, often with a stringent memory constraint. It has wide applications in network traffic measurement and in database systems. The virtual HyperLogLog (vHLL) algorithm proposed by Xiao, Chen, Chen and Ling [1] estimates the cardinalities of a large number of flows with a compact memory. This paper explores two new estimation algorithms based on the same compact memory used in [1]. Firstly, we propose and investigate a family of estimators that generalizes the original vHLL estimator. Secondly, we derive an approximate maximum-likelihood estimator. Empirical evidence suggests the near-optimality of the original vHLL estimator for per-flow estimation, analogous to the near-optimality of the HyperLogLog estimator for single-flow estimation. We also propose weighted square error, a single-value metric that quantifies the performance of an estimator.
Genetic algorithm variant based effective solutions for economic dispatch problems

Economic dispatch (ED) is a nonconvex, nonlinear and nondifferentiable optimization problem in power systems to improve the cost effectiveness of power generation. In order to solve the complex ED problem with prohibited operating zones (POZ), valve point effect (VPE), multi-fuel options (MFO), and transmission line losses, genetic algorithm (GA) variant based methods are proposed. In particular, the proposed GA variants are beeder GA (BGA), fast navigating GA (FNGA), twin removal GA (TRGA), kite GA (KGA), and united GA (UGA). Three benchmark test systems having 6-units, 10-units, and 15-units are used to study the efficacy of the proposed algorithms for solving the ED problem. The simulation results show how each GA method performs for each case study, and which of the variants outperform other algorithms presented in recent literature.
Abstract 1073: Nitric Oxide Improves Bifunctional Echogenic Immunoliposome Delivery into the Arterial Wall

Background: We have successfully demonstrated that nitric oxide (NO) containing echogenic immunoliposomes (ELIP) can enhance endothelial permeability. Bifunctional ELIP (BF-ELIP) can bind to stem cells, directing them to inflammatory components of atheroma. We hypothesized that NO can improve targeted delivery of BF-ELIP into the arterial wall. Methods: Rhodamine-labeled NO-BF-ELIP composed of phospholipids and cholesterol were prepared and conjugated to antibodies specific for human/mouse ICAM-1 and CD34 via a thioether linkage. Carotid and femoral arteries of two Yucatan miniswine were collected and placed in to an ex vivo perfusion system. Acoustic enhancement of the arterial wall was monitored and imaged using a 40 MHz transducer (Vevo 770, VisualSonics Inc.) 5 minutes after each ELIP administration. The association of rhodamine-labeled BF-ELIP to the arterial wall was determined by fluorescent microscopy. NO-BF-ELIP was compared to non-specific binding (IgG-ELIP) and air-BF-ELIP. Results: Both air-BF-ELIP and NO-BF-ELIP demonstrated increased penetration into the intimal and adventitial layers compared to baseline (p Conclusion: NO can effectively improve endothelial permeability thus facilitating BF-ELIP delivery to inflammatory components in the arterial wall. This methodology allows directed targeted stem cell delivery to active atheroma.
Surveying the current landscape of assessment structures and resources in US schools and colleges of pharmacy.

Abstract Introduction Expectations for assessment in higher education have increased in recent decades, prompting institutions to invest additional resources in this area. This study aimed to determine the resources, structure, and perception of assessment resources in United States schools and colleges of pharmacy (S/COPs). Methods Assessment personnel in S/COPs were surveyed electronically. Information collected included S/COP demographics, composition of assessment positions, experience and training of assessment personnel, and structure and responsibilities of committees engaged in assessment. Respondents’ perception of their S/COPs having sufficient assessment personnel, recent changes in assessment, and the factors that prompted assessment changes were also surveyed. Results Respondents included individuals from 113 S/COPs (84% response rate). Most S/COPs had 1–2 assessment positions and 1–2 assessment-related committees. The most common assessment position titles were assistant/associate dean, director, coordinator/specialist, and administrative assistant. Dean-level administrators typically had worked in assessment the longest, whereas directors were more likely to have formal assessment training. Most respondents (75%) agreed they had sufficient assessment personnel to meet the 2007 Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education Standards. Nearly two-thirds of respondents agreed they had sufficient personnel to meet the 2016 Standards and support their current assessment plan/process. Most S/COPs had a formal assessment committee (93%) and an average of two committees overseeing assessment. Conclusion Most S/COPs reported having sufficient resources to support assessment activities. Although there were some consistent themes, there does not appear to be a single model for structuring assessment resources or committees. Effectiveness of various assessment structures represents an area for future research.
Preparing Interns to Use Functional Story-Based Instruction to Teach Students With a Severe Intellectual Disability in Rural Schools:

The primary purpose of this study was to prepare special education interns to implement two-task analyses to teach elementary students with severe intellectual disability (SID) emergent literacy an...
Considerations on Preclinical Neuromuscular Disease Gene Therapy Studies

Numerous neuromuscular and non-neuromuscular diseases are amenable to gene therapy. Rigorously designed and carefully conducted preclinical studies are essential to translate these muscle gene therapies to human patients. Many general guidelines have been published in recent years on how to enhance reproducibility and improve predictive value of preclinical studies. These are excellent guidelines to follow in preclinical gene therapy studies. However, they are not tailed specifically for muscle gene therapy. In this chapter, I discuss considerations in the design of a preclinical neuromuscular disease gene therapy study based on our experience in the preclinical development of adeno-associated virus (AAV) micro-dystrophin gene therapy. I also discuss adapting the design of phase III clinical trials to animal studies to improve their reproducibility. This chapter is not intended to be all-inclusive and to cover all possible scenarios. Due to the complexity of the candidate diseases that can be treated by muscle gene therapy, it is critical to consider disease-specific issues in the design of each preclinical muscle gene therapy study.
A computational model for learning from repeated trauma

Abstrac Traumatic events can lead to lifelong inflexible adaptations in threat perception and behavior which characterize posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This process involves associations between sensory cues and internal states of threat and then generalization of the threat responses to previously neutral cues. However, most formulations neglect adaptations to threat that are not specific to those associations. In order to incorporate non-associative responses to threat, we propose a computational theory of PTSD based on adaptation to the frequency of traumatic events using a reinforcement learning momentum model. Recent threat prediction errors generate momentum that influences subsequent threat perception in novel contexts. This model fits data acquired from a mouse model of PTSD, in which unpredictable footshocks in one context accelerate threat learning in a novel context. The theory is also consistent with epidemiological data showing that PTSD incidence increases with the number of traumatic events, as well as the disproportionate impact of early life trauma. Since the theory proposes that PTSD relates to the average of recent threat prediction errors rather than the strength of a specific association, it makes novel predictions for the treatment of PTSD.
Empirical Models of Spatial Inter‐Dependence

In this paper, we discuss the substantive range of spatial interdependence in political and related social sciences. We offer a generic theoretical model demonstrating that interdependence arises whenever utilities of one actor depend on the choices of other actors - i.e., inter alia, in all strategic settings. We discuss Galton's problem of distinguishing empirically spatial correlation from spatial interdependence, and then we introduce, demonstrate, and discuss the specification and estimation of spatial and spatio-temporal models, the spatial probit model of binary-outcomes, spatial-model testing, and the presentation of estimated spatial and spatio-temporal effects with certainty estimates.
The United States’ Regulatory Environment Is Evolving to Accommodate a Coming Boom in Gene Therapy Research:

Introduction:A dramatic increase in the number of clinical trials involving gene-modified cell therapy and gene therapy is taking place. The field is on the verge of a boom, and the regulatory envi...
Click and photo-release dual-functional nucleic acid nanostructures

We functionalize nucleic acid nanostructures with click chemistry (for attachment of cargos) and a photocleavable linker (for release). We demonstrate cargo attachment using a fluorescein dye and release using UV trigger from an RNA three-way junction, a DNA star motif and a DNA tetrahedron. Such multifunctional nucleic acid nanostructures have potential in targeted drug delivery.
Computational screening of nanoparticles coupling to Aβ40 peptides and fibrils

Blocking the formation, growth, and breaking of amyloid fibrils by synthetic nanosystems could provide a treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. With this in mind, here atomistic molecular dynamics simulations are used to screen for nanoparticles (NPs), covered with different mixtures of ligands, including positively and negatively charged ligands, Aβ40-cut-peptide, and synthetic inhibitor ligands, in their selective coupling to Aβ40 peptides and their fibrils. The simulations reveal that only Aβ40-cut-peptide-covered NPs have strong and selective coupling to Aβ40 monomers. On the other hand, positive, positive-neutral, Janus, and peptide NPs couple to the beta sheet surfaces of Aβ40 fibrils and only the negative-neutral NPs couple to the fibril tips.
Using failure cases to promote veterinary students’ problem-solving abilities: a qualitative study

Failure is an inevitable human experience, which can offer great learning opportunities. Yet, in current educational contexts, failure has largely been eschewed to minimize students’ frustration and confusion. Such a failure-avoidance approach is also reflected in the cases used for instruction. To maximize learning, more studies are needed to explore effective ways to better utilize failure cases for educational purposes. This qualitative study aimed to explore how students perceived their experience of learning a case-based online module that uses failure cases and discover in what ways using failure cases in the module impacted students' perceived learning experience. To answer the research questions, 16 3rd-year veterinary students were recruited for individual interviews. Learning experience survey data and students' written responses to reflection and review questions embedded in the module were collected from 38 students. Through thematic analysis of the interview data and students' written responses, three themes regarding students' learning experience were identified, including engaged in the module both cognitively and emotionally, enjoyed listening to experts' feedback, and eye-opening and reassuring experience of hearing experts' failure stories, which were supported by survey results. Regarding the impact of using failure cases on students' perceived learning experience, four major themes are identified including enhancing engagement, emotional reassurance and confidence builder, creating bigger impact, and encouraging improvement. Based on the discussions of the findings of the study, implications for instructional design regarding the use of failure cases are provided to help educators create more effective case-based learning environments.
Polarization and American Jews: The Partisan Debate Over Attribution of Blame and Responsibility for Rising Anti-Semitism in the United States

Objective The research considers the relative influence of political ideology and partisan vote choice on perceptions of Democratic versus Republican responsibility for the level of anti-Semitism in the United States and the perception of anti-Semitic threat posed by the extreme political right versus the extreme political left Methods Analysis of data from the American Jewish Committee's 2019 American Jewish Attitudes About Anti-Semitism Survey (N = 1,283 Jewish Americans ages 18+) Results Hierarchical OLS regression shows that attributions of Democratic versus Republican blame or responsibility for anti-Semitism and perceptions of threat are primarily explained by political ideology and partisan vote choice over and above awareness, engagement, or personal experience with anti-Semitism Conclusion The implications of the findings are considered in light of the contemporary political context shaped by Donald Trump's December 2019 ?Executive Order on Combating Anti-Semitism,? the rise of anti-Semitic violence in the United States, and the increasing support for the Boycott, Divest, Sanctions movement
School-Based Secondary Obesity Prevention for Eight- to Twelve-Year-Olds: Results from the Students, Nurses, and Parents Seeking Healthy Options Together Randomized Trial

Objective: The primary aim of this randomized controlled trial, conducted in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota (2014–2019), was to evaluate the effects of a school-based, school nurse-delivered, seco...
Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging Classification of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee: A Reliability Study.

Background Current advanced imaging classification systems for osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee grade severity of disease by identifying certain lesion characteristics. The most widely used are the Hefti and Nelson systems. A novel classification presents a simpler 3-group approach to diagnose knee OCD by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), compared with the Hefti (5-group) and Nelson (4-group) classifications. The purpose of this study was to compare the reliability of this novel classification with that of the more complex, established systems-an initial step in establishing validity and clinical utility. Methods In total, 120 standardized knee MRIs of patients with established knee OCD were preselected to capture the spectrum of lesion types, with regard to both progression and location of the lesion. Each of the MRIs were independently classified by 2 readers into the novel, Hefti, and Nelson classification systems. A random sample was rereviewed by 1 rater 6 weeks after initial review. The inter-rater and intrarater agreements were evaluated by estimating Krippendorff α. Results In total, 106 knees were classified by the novel, Hefti, and Nelson classification systems, as 14 of the knees lacked the necessary MRI sequences. There were no differences in inter-rater and intrarater agreement across classification systems. Krippendorff α for inter-rater agreement was 0.51 (95% confidence interval, 0.33-0.66) for the Hefti classification, 0.50 (0.34-0.64) for the Nelson classification, and 0.49 (0.32-0.65) for the novel classification. The intrarater agreement was 0.88 (0.75-0.97) for the Hefti classification, 0.94 (0.86-0.99) for the Nelson classification, and 0.98 (0.94-1.00) for the novel classification system. Conclusions The novel classification for knee OCD demonstrated near-perfect intrarater agreement and moderate inter-rater agreement, consistent with the current, well-established classification systems. Pending a subsequent study on validity and clinical utility, this simpler classification system may offer an alternative, noninvasive diagnostic method to guide clinical treatment. Level of evidence Level IV.
Effect of Repeating Simulation Scenarios on Student Knowledge, Performance, Satisfaction and Self-Confidence

Abstract Background Nursing students must master a variety of skills and learn to make sound clinical decisions to safely and effectively care for patients in a variety of settings. Methods We examined if there was a difference in knowledge, clinical performance, satisfaction and self-confidence in learning when students repeated a simulation scenario after observing the scenario versus being an active participant. Results Our findings indicated that nursing students (n = 159) exhibited enhanced clinical knowledge when repeating a scenario. Similarly, clinical performance among the active participants improved substantially from the first to the second run of the scenario. The degree of improvement was significantly higher for those who remained in the same role relative to those who switched roles. Finally, students expressed high levels of satisfaction with the repeating scenarios, regardless of whether they remained in the same role or shifted between being an observer and active participant. Conclusions Students should have the opportunity to repeat scenarios, ideally remaining in the same active participant role, because it affords them the opportunity to improve their own performance.
The centrality of relationships in context: a comparison of factors that predict the sexual and non-sexual victimization of transgender women in prisons for men

This research draws on original data to empirically assess how an array of factors – including features of the self, the prison environment, and prisoners’ interactions with each other – shape the ...
ISOLATED MPFL RECONSTRUCTION VS. TIBIAL TUBERCLE OSTEOTOMY AND MEDIAL RETINACULAR PLICATION FOR RECURRENT PATELLAR INSTABILITY: A MATCHED, COHORT ANALYSIS OF CLINICAL OUTCOMES COMPARING TWO TECHNIQUES:

Background:Historically, the most commonly utilized technique to address recurrent patellofemoral instability (PFI) was a combined proximal and distal realignment, specifically the tibial tubercle ...
Forward-viewing estimation of 3D blood flow velocity fields by intravascular ultrasound: Influence of the catheter on velocity estimation in stenoses.

Abstract Coronary artery disease is the most common type of cardiovascular disease, affecting > 18 million adults, and is responsible for > 365 k deaths per year in the U.S. alone. Wall shear stress (WSS) is an emerging indicator of likelihood of plaque rupture in coronary artery disease, however, non-invasive estimation of 3-D blood flow velocity and WSS is challenging due to the requirement for high spatial resolution at deep penetration depths in the presence of significant cardiac motion. Thus we propose minimally-invasive imaging with a catheter-based, 3-D intravascular forward-viewing ultrasound (FV US) transducer and present experiments to quantify the effect of the catheter on flow disturbance in stenotic vessel phantoms with realistic velocities and luminal diameters for both peripheral (6.33 mm) and coronary (4.74 mm) arteries. An external linear array ultrasound transducer was used to quantify 2-D velocity fields in vessel phantoms under various conditions of catheter geometry, luminal diameter, and position of the catheter relative to the stenosis at a frame rate of 5000 frames per second via a particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) approach. While a solid catheter introduced an underestimation of velocity measurement by > 20% relative to the case without a catheter, the hollow catheter introduced
Expertise based skills management system to support resource allocation.

Skills Management is an essential concept of human resource management in which a skill inventory may be created for each employee and managers can assign tasks to workers based on worker’s abilities. This concept is not fully practiced for two reasons: i) employee’s skills are not effectively evaluated and documented, ii) tool support is deficient to manage this complex task. Ineffective skill management of an organization fizzle tasks assigned to the incompetent employees and this may lead to project failure. To fill up this gap, a survey is conducted across various software organizations to find out the best practices for the skill management and to gather requirements for skills management framework. Based on survey findings, a mathematical framework is proposed that calculates the soft and hard skills of employees automatically based on time and achievements as skill increases or decreases over time. In this framework, the Skills Calculation Engine (SCE) is developed for the managers to enhance the capacity of appropriate decisions making in assigning tasks to the rightly skilled workers. This framework is also useful for organizations as it can increase profitability as tasks are assigned to the most appropriate employees. The SCE is implemented as a Windows-based application to calculate skills, store skills in skills inventory, and assign tasks based on an employee’s skills. The skills management tool is evaluated in a facilitated workshop; furthermore, a feature-wise comparison of the tool is also made with existing tools.
The Implementation Frontier: Impact on Cardiovascular Health in Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations

Research advances in the prevention, detection, evaluation, and treatment of cardiovascular disease have contributed to the remarkable declines in cardiovascular mortality rates observed over the last half century. Although these improvements have been seen in both men and women and in all racial and ethnic groups at the national level, important differences exist at the sub-national level, especially for population groups defined by race, ethnicity, gender, geography, income, education, and other social and environmental determinants of health. Recent evidence suggests that cardiovascular health disparities remain pervasive. The reasons for these disparities are numerous and include unequal treatment and other important differences in the quality of healthcare delivered to different racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Impediments to the sustained delivery of evidence-based practices constitute an “implementation frontier” characterized by the underuse of high-value, evidence-based interventions, as well as the overuse of ineffective or low-value interventions—a scenario characterized as a “double jeopardy” often seen in African American and Hispanic populations. This chapter reviews the challenges inherent in the implementation frontier and proposes a framework for exploring strategies to address these challenges. Selected examples used to demonstrate challenges at the frontier include the treatment and control of hypertension; referrals for cardiac catheterization and invasive coronary procedures; utilization and outcomes of structural heart disease interventions; prevention and treatment of heart failure; and anticoagulation for the primary and secondary prevention of ischemic stroke in atrial fibrillation. This chapter concludes with the role that implementors can play in addressing the implementation frontier challenges and the implications for clinical practice and research.
SOME ULTRASTRUCTURAL FEATURES OF SEGMENTAL DEMYELINATION AND MYELIN REGENERATION IN PERIPHERAL NERVE.

Publisher Summary In the experiment described in the chapter, the myelin breakdown with relative sparing of axons (segmental demyelination), which occurs in experimental diphtheritic neuritis, was studied electron microscopically for clarifying the mechanism of myelin destruction and formation in Schwann cells. Focal alterations in the lamellar pattern of myelin were present at the onset of clinical symptoms. Then, the myelin sheath became discontinuous. Intracytoplasmic membranes separated the myelin fragments from the axon. Later, the axon and myelin remnants occupied opposite margins of the Schwann cell. Finally, the myelin breakdown products appeared in isolated islands of Schwann cell cytoplasm adjacent to macrophages. During remyelination of the surviving axon by the Schwann cell, the arrangement of mesaxons and cytoplasmic organelles was frequently complex. The variations in contour of newly formed myelin were similar to those observed in normal nerve fibers during myelinogenesis.
Characterization of Mycoplasma pulmonis Variants Isolated from Rabbits II. Basis for Differentiation of Antigenic Subtypes

The antigen composition of Mycoplasma pulmonis variants was studied by complement-fixation, agar-gel diffusion, and growth-inhibition tests. Two classes of complement-fixing antigens were demonstrated for M. pulmonis strains 47 and 63: (i) cross-related, heat-labile, water-soluble antigens, and (ii) high-titered, subtype-specific, heat-stable, water-soluble antigens. Lipid antigens prepared by organic solvent fractionation were low-titered antigens and showed little specificity. With the aid of agar-gel double-diffusion plates, the subtype-specific antigens were found to be precipitated by trichloroacetic acid and to be stable to periodate, but they were inactivated by pronase. Pronase-stable, periodate-labile precipitating antigens were observed as common components between the two variants. Antisera prepared with boiled antigens were found to be serologically active on gel diffusion but lacked neutralizing ability in growth-inhibition tests. Each of three strains of M. pulmonis (47, 63, ATCC 14267) could be identified as a variant because each strain possessed immunologically distinct heat-stable subtype-specific antigen(s).
Processes and conditions affecting elevated arsenic concentrations in groundwaters of Tulare Basin, California, USA

Abstract High concentrations of arsenic (As) in the shallow and deep groundwaters of the Tulare Basin in California, USA, pose a hazardous risk to drinking water supplies. Both natural processes and anthropogenic activities affect As concentrations and movement in groundwater in this region. Agricultural activities, particularly irrigation and drainage, enhance As mobilization; and high evapotranspiration rates concentrate As in surface and shallow groundwaters. The complexities of interactions among multi aquifers and water flow present challenges in identifying the source of As and its movement. Important biogeochemical processes affecting As solubility and mobility include adsorption/desorption and redox reactions. The later processes, which transform inorganic arsenate [As(V)] to arsenite [As(III)], remain poorly understood as to what extent they affect As concentration and its mobilization into groundwater. The presence of impermeable clay layers, e.g., E-clay, and their roles in potentially retarding As movement into deeper aquifers are also not well understood because significant increase of vertical leakage was predicted by computer modeling due to drilling of many irrigation wells penetrating impermeable clay layers. Future research on the reactivity of As with sediments through biogeochemical processes under natural physical setting conditions, as well as reactive transport modeling are necessary to better our understanding of As mobility and contamination in the groundwaters of the Tulare Basin.
Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

The National High Blood Pressure Education Program Working Group on High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy has defined four categories of hypertension in pregnancy: chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and preeclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension. A maternal blood pressure measurement of 140/90 mm Hg or greater on two occasions before 20 weeks of gestation indicates chronic hypertension. Pharmacologic treatment is needed to prevent maternal end-organ damage from severely elevated blood pressure (150 to 180/100 to 110 mm Hg); treatment of mild to moderate chronic hypertension does not improve neonatal outcomes or prevent superimposed preeclampsia. Gestational hypertension is a provisional diagnosis for women with new-onset, nonproteinuric hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation; many of these women are eventually diagnosed with preeclampsia or chronic hypertension. Preeclampsia is the development of new-onset hypertension with proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. Adverse pregnancy outcomes related to severe preeclampsia are caused primarily by the need for preterm delivery. HELLP (i.e., hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count) syndrome is a form of severe preeclampsia with high rates of neonatal and maternal morbidity. Magnesium sulfate is the drug of choice to prevent and treat eclampsia. The use of magnesium sulfate for seizure prophylaxis in women with mild preeclampsia is controversial because of the low incidence of seizures in this population.
Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma (Sarcoma Botryoides) of the Anus

Summary A case of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (sarcoma botryoides) of the anus, probably congenital, has been presented. Review of the literature and brief comments on the nature of the neoplasm were made.
Effects of oral temazepam on sleep spindles during non-rapid eye movement sleep: A high-density EEG investigation

Benzodiazepines are commonly used medications that alter sleep spindles during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, however the topographic changes to these functionally significant waveforms have yet to be fully elucidated. This study utilized high-density electroencephalography (hdEEG) to investigate topographic changes in sleep spindles and spindle-range activity caused by temazepam during NREM sleep in 18 healthy adults. After an accommodation night, sleep for all participants was recorded on two separate nights after taking either placebo or oral temazepam 15 mg. Sleep was monitored using 256-channel hdEEG. Spectral analysis and spindle waveform detection of sleep EEG data were performed for each participant night. Global and topographic data were subsequently compared between temazepam and placebo conditions. Temazepam was associated with significant increases in spectral power from 10.33 to 13.83 Hz. Within this frequency band, temazepam broadly increased sleep spindle duration, and topographically increased spindle amplitude and density in frontal and central-posterior regions, respectively. Higher frequency sleep spindles demonstrated increased spindle amplitude and a paradoxical decrease in spindle density in frontal and centroparietal regions. Further analysis demonstrated temazepam both slowed the average frequency of spindle waveforms and increased the relative proportion of spindles at peak frequencies in frontal and centroparietal regions. These findings suggest that benzodiazepines have diverse effects on sleep spindles that vary by frequency and cortical topography. Further research that explores the relationships between topographic and frequency-dependent changes in pharmacologically-induced sleep spindles and the functional effects of these waveforms is indicated.
Longitudinal Study of Urban American Indian 12-Step Attendance, Attrition, and Outcome

Objective:Strong opinions have been voiced about the “fit” between 12-step treatment, community-based 12-step practices, and American Indian beliefs and values. Little is known, however, about the relative benefit of 12-step programs for urban American Indians, although they are the most widely accessed type of treatment by American Indians. This study investigated rates of 12-step attendance, attrition, and substance use outcomes for American Indians for 9 months relative to non-Hispanic White participants.Method:This study compared urban American Indian (n = 63) and non-Hispanic White (n = 133) 12-step attendance, attrition, and substance use over 9 months. The sample was formed by merging data from two prospective single-group longitudinal studies investigating behavior change in community-based 12-step programs. Participants were interviewed at baseline and at 3-, 6-, and 9-month follow-ups. No intervention was provided. Participants were recruited from Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in the community a...
Effects of ethanol and GABAB drugs on working memory in C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice

It has been suggested that GABAB receptors may be part of a neural substrate mediating some of the effects of ethanol. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate, in mice, the effects of ethanol on working memory in a delayed matching-to position (DMTP) task, and additionally to determine if these effects were modulated by GABAB receptors. Female C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice were trained in the DMTP task, and after asymptotic levels of performance accuracy were achieved, injections (IP) of ethanol, baclofen, or phaclofen were administered. Baclofen or phaclofen were then co-administered with ethanol. Each test was repeated twice. Ethanol caused deficits in working memory at 2.0 g/kg and higher. The highest dose (2.5 g/kg) produced additional non-specific effects, indicative of sedation. Baclofen increased performance accuracy (2.5 mg/kg), while decreasing the total number of trials completed. When combined with ethanol (1.5 g/kg), baclofen increased memory deficits at the highest dose (7.5 mg/kg). Phaclofen increased performance accuracy at 10 and 30 mg/kg but had no effect on the total number of trials completed. When combined with ethanol (2.5 g/kg), phaclofen did not significantly alter ethanol-induced deficits in performance. Analyses of performance accuracy, total trials completed and variables indexing bias and motor impairment indicated that GABAB drugs modulate working memory in a behaviorally specific manner. Overall, these receptors may be part of a neural substrate that modulates some of the effects of ethanol.
Performance on a verbal learning task by subjects of heavy past marijuana usage.

Human, male subjects (Ss) from our heavy usage category were given paired associate learning in a 2×2 state-dependent learning design. No significant effects were found between marijuana and placebo groups on trials to criterion, and recall of the task seven days later was not found to be state-dependent. The results were compared to a previous study using light usage subjects that reported a state-dependent effect. The effects of Ss' past-marijuana usage history and the drug's acute effects on learning and recall were discussed.
Recent Controversy in Human Development: A Historical View

Why has the field of human development become so controversial in recent decades? Various factors in the science’s history since the 1870s are explored within the confines of three distinct ages of American culture. For human development’s history, these ages are defined as those of child welfare (1870–1920), child development (1920–1950), and human development (since 1950). Each age had its own distinctive world view. Those of the first two ages, which assumed no individual could develop apart from a group in the social taxonomy, tended to make issues of individual and group development only occasionally controversial. The world view of our own age, dispensing entirely with such prior notions of historical determinism, encourages debate, discussion, and controversy far beyond the science’s setting.
Activation of methionine synthase: further characterization of flavoprotein system.

Abstract Two homogeneous flavoproteins (R and F components) which, in conjunction with catalytic amounts of NADPH and adenosylmethionine, comprise an efficient system for activation of the B 12 -containing methionine synthase (M component) from Escherichia coli K-12, have been characterized with respect to oxidation-reduction properties and participation in the activation process. The flavin (FAD) of R component is reduced to FADH 2 by NADPH. Reduced R, in turn, reduces the flavin (FMN) of F component to a blue semiquinone (FMNH ·). Reduction potentials (at pH 7.0) for R and F are −0.30 and −0.29 V, respectively. Various other compounds such as ferricyanide, 2,6-dichlorophenol-indophenol, menadione, and -cytochrome c can also serve as electron acceptors for reduced R, but only F can efficiently mediate the NADPH- and R-dependent activation of M component. Activation is assumed, therefore, to involve the sequence: NADPH → R → F → M. During operation of the complete system, the amount of NADPH consumed is less than 2% of the amount of methionine synthesized.
Climate exposure of US national parks in a new era of change.

US national parks are challenged by climate and other forms of broad-scale environmental change that operate beyond administrative boundaries and in some instances are occurring at especially rapid rates. Here, we evaluate the climate change exposure of 289 natural resource parks administered by the US National Park Service (NPS), and ask which are presently (past 10 to 30 years) experiencing extreme ( 95th percentile) climates relative to their 1901–2012 historical range of variability (HRV). We consider parks in a landscape context (including surrounding 30 km) and evaluate both mean and inter-annual variation in 25 biologically relevant climate variables related to temperature, precipitation, frost and wet day frequencies, vapor pressure, cloud cover, and seasonality. We also consider sensitivity of findings to the moving time window of analysis (10, 20, and 30 year windows). Results show that parks are overwhelmingly at the extreme warm end of historical temperature distributions and this is true for several variables (e.g., annual mean temperature, minimum temperature of the coldest month, mean temperature of the warmest quarter). Precipitation and other moisture patterns are geographically more heterogeneous across parks and show greater variation among variables. Across climate variables, recent inter-annual variation is generally well within the range of variability observed since 1901. Moving window size has a measureable effect on these estimates, but parks with extreme climates also tend to exhibit low sensitivity to the time window of analysis. We highlight particular parks that illustrate different extremes and may facilitate understanding responses of park resources to ongoing climate change. We conclude with discussion of how results relate to anticipated future changes in climate, as well as how they can inform NPS and neighboring land management and planning in a new era of change.