cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Epidermal regeneration by micrograft transplantation with immediate 100-fold expansion.

Background Major loss of skin following burns or trauma requires skin grafting for repair. In addition, chronic wounds frequently require skin grafts. Current treatments are either cumbersome, limited in possible expansion ratio, costly, or require extensive time for treatment. This study investigates a new way of regenerating skin after major burns and other trauma, providing 100-fold expansion of a split-thickness skin graft. Methods Submillimeter micrografts were created by controlled mincing of a split-thickness skin graft and transplanted to porcine full-thickness wounds. By creating an incubator-like microenvironment using wound chambers, the micrografts provide reepithelialization whether placed dermal side up or dermal side down. Results Transplantation of micrografts in a 1:100 expansion ratio results in complete epithelialization of both healthy and diabetic wounds within 14 days. In comparison, nontransplanted wounds showed 62 percent reepithelialization in healthy pigs and 49 percent in diabetic pigs at the corresponding time point. Conclusions Minced skin micrografts are very effective in wound repair and can provide 100-fold expansion of a skin graft. Early clinical results confirm the utility of this technique.
A simple semi-automated method of immunoelectrophoresis.

Abstract A system of semi-automated immunoelectrophoresis is described, based on the utilization of agar-coated Cronar and Mylar sheets and processing equipment normally applied in the photographic processing laboratory for handling photographic film. Utilization of standard size 5″ × 7″ film hangers, developing tanks, and drying ovens lend themselves well to bulk immunoelectrophoretic analysis. The combination of agar-coated thin plastic and photographic processing offers speed and consistency of results. The ease of filing and recording of information represents one of the additional advantages of the system.
Preparation of high Jc YBCO coated conductors on non-magnetic Ni–W substrates

We report on the preparation of high Jc YBCO coated conductors on non-magnetic Ni?W substrates. In order to minimize the deleterious effects of tungsten oxide formation on the epitaxial growth of oxide buffer layers and YBCO films, an electrodeposition approach has been developed to epitaxially grow an about 2??m Ni layer (Ed?Ni layer) on Ni?3?at%?W tapes. With this method, the surface for epitaxy of the first oxide seed layer is not exposed to the Ni?W surface, and high quality CeO2/yttria-stabilized zirconia/CeO2 buffer layers and YBCO films have been grown on the Ed?Ni/Ni?3?at%?W substrates by pulsed laser deposition. A critical current density, Jc, of 1.49?MA?cm?2 has been achieved at 75.2?K and in a magnetic field of 83?mT.
No Arithmetic Cyclic Quadrilaterals.

(2006). No Arithmetic Cyclic Quadrilaterals. The College Mathematics Journal: Vol. 37, No. 2, pp. 110-113.
The radio radius of the Sun at millimeter and centimeter wavelengths

The radio radius of the Sun is determined from an analysis of the radio contact times of the 7 March, 1970 and 10 July, 1972 solar eclipses from λ = 3 mm to λ = 31 cm. Agreement with other eclipse measurements is good. A best fit curve through the several points gives the radio radius to within approximately ±0.01 of the photosheric radius below λ∼-5 cm.
Articulating knowledge sharing processes in multinational e-business product design

A grounded-theory case study method was applied to a profitable multinational e-business company in the mobile communication service/product industry. The objective was to examine how new product development (NPD) subject matter specialists learned and acquired knowledge to produce innovative designs. An overarching research motive was to determine why it seemed this multinational organisation and its NPD community of practice did not apparently value contemporary university education. A brain storming technique was used in a focus group (n = 17) to capture and contrast the NPD knowledge acquisition process with educational psychology theories applied in similar e-businesses studies. Three models were created to externalise the tacit NPD processes. The unique features in the NPD models were: a knowledge continuum (innate, tacit, and explicit); and a knowledge acquisition methodology that contained three similar phases when compared to a common educational psychology theory, but the phases were ordered differently and in the opposite direction.
The ambiguity of “having sex”: The subjective experience of virginity loss in the united states

Ambiguity surrounds virginity loss as defined and interpreted by young people in the contemporary United States. Drawing on in‐depth case studies of 61 women and men of various sexual orientations, ages 18 to 35, I explore the influence of that ambiguity on conduct and identity. Although uniformly agreeing that virginity loss could occur through first coitus, most respondents claimed that other kinds of genital sex could also sometimes result in virginity loss. Many argued that virginity could not be lost through rape. Respondents offered three primary interpretations of virginity—as a gift, stigma, or part of a process—which were associated with distinctive presentations of self, choices of virginity‐loss partner, and contraceptive practices. Different definitions and interpretations of virginity loss gave distinctive shape to individuals ‘ choices about the transitions from virgin to nonvirgin identity. Understandings of virginity loss were further patterned by gender and sexual orientation.
Studies of the effect of dimethylsulfoxide on permeability of dermal connective tissue.

SummaryDimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) did not enhance tissue permeability at concentrations of 0.2, 2 and 5% when tested by the spreading method. In contrast, a slight inhibition of permeability (about 6%) was observed at a concentration of 0.2%. Its enhanced effect on skin “permeability” at a concentration of 50% was apparently due to tissue damage.
Developmental regulation of a plant encoded inhibitor of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α phosphorylation

An inhibitor of elF-2a phosphorylation was identified in various plant species. The plant protein (termed PKI) specifically cross-reacts with monoclonal antiserum that recognizes the glycosylated, active form of a Mr 67 kD protein analog (p67) from reticulocytes. Northern blot analysis using a probe to the reticulocyte inhibitor cDNA further supports the presence of analogous transcripts in plant tissue. PKI specifically inhibits the phosphorylation of the plant encoded elF-2α kinase (pPKR) as well as plant and human elF-2α phosphorylation. The interaction between PKI and pPKR is indicated by their copurification on dsRNA agarose, despite evidence showing that PKI does not bind dsRNA. Further, wheat PKI inhibits human PKR phosphorylation but activity is recovered by immunodepletion of PKI from wheat germ fractions. PKI is temporally regulated during plant growth and development. It is maximally present in extracts from dormant seeds, however, it is not detectable soon after leaf emergence at approximately 48 h post-imbibition. PKI levels are again detectable at the mid-milk stage in seed development. Protein levels of pPKR in ribosomal salt wash and cytosolic extracts from healthy plant tissue remain essentially constant throughout the life cycle. In contrast, pPKR activity levels based upon autophosphorylation vary significantly and are inversely correlated with PKI protein levels. Phosphorylation of elF-2α is a classical mechanism for the downregulation of protein synthesis suggesting that inhibition of pPKR activity by PKI may contribute to the dramatic and rapid increase in protein synthesis observed during seed germination.
Development of a Clinical Registry-Based 30-Day Readmission Measure for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery

Background—Reducing readmissions is a major healthcare reform goal, and reimbursement penalties are imposed for higher-than-expected readmission rates. Most readmission risk models and performance measures are based on administrative rather than clinical data. Methods and Results—We examined rates and predictors of 30-day all-cause readmission following coronary artery bypass grafting surgery by using nationally representative clinical data (2008–2010) from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Database linked to Medicare claims records. Among 265 434 eligible Medicare records, 226 960 (86%) were successfully linked to Society of Thoracic Surgeons records; 162 572 (61%) isolated coronary artery bypass grafting admissions constituted the study cohort. Logistic regression was used to identify readmission risk factors; hierarchical regression models were then estimated. Risk-standardized readmission rates ranged from 12.6% to 23.6% (median, 16.8%) among 846 US hospitals with ≥30 eligible cases and ≥90% o...
Inelastic neutron scattering from amorphous solids. II. Interpretation of measurements

The one-phonon scattering law for a disordered harmonic system is related to a frequency-dependent displacement-displacement correlation function. We suggest a means of investigating this correlation function by means of a suitable transformation of inelastic neutron scattering data for such systems.
Immunologic markers as potential predictors of systemic autoimmune disease in patients with idiopathic scleritis.

Purpose To determine the clinical value of serological testing in patients with idiopathic scleritis. Design Retrospective case series. Methods Medical records of patients with scleritis seen at an institutional referral center over an 11-year period were reviewed. Results Of 119 patients with scleritis seen at the University of Illinois Uveitis Clinic, 91 (76.5%) patients had no known etiology at initial presentation. Seventy of the 91 patients were tested for rheumatoid factor (RF), 19 (27.1%) of whom had a positive result. Ten (52.6%) of these RF positive patients were subsequently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during a mean follow-up of 10.6 months (range, zero to 72 months), whereas only one of 51 (2.0%) RF negative patients developed RA, producing an odds ratio for developing RA in RF positive patients of 55.6 (95% confidence interval (CI) 7.8 to 369.8, P = .00001). Of the 70 patients who were tested for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA), seven (10.0%) tested positive. Three (42.9%) of the ANCA positive patients subsequently developed Wegener granulomatosis (WG), whereas only two of 63 ANCA negative patients (3.2%) developed WG during a mean follow-up of 8.4 months (range, zero to 72 months). The odds ratio for developing WG in patients with idiopathic scleritis and a positive ANCA screen compared with a negative ANCA was 22.9 (95% CI 3.4 to 154.2, P = .006). Conclusions The likelihood of patients with idiopathic scleritis developing RA and WG was increased if they had a positive RF or ANCA, supporting the role of immunologic marker testing in patients who present without systemic disease.
Anthropometric measures and their relation to incident primary open-angle glaucoma.

Purpose To assess the relation between anthropometric measures and incident primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Design Prospective cohort study. Participants Included were 78 777 women in the Nurses' Health Study and 41 352 men in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Methods Females and male health professionals were followed prospectively from 1980 through 2004 and 1986 through 2004, respectively. Eligible participants were 40 years of age or older, did not have POAG at baseline, and reported undergoing eye examinations during follow-up. Information regarding anthropometric measures, potential confounders, and ophthalmic status was updated using biennial questionnaires. During follow-up, 980 POAG cases were identified. Main Outcome Measures Multivariate rate ratios (MVRR) of POAG and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results There was no significant relation between cumulatively averaged body mass index (BMI) in kilograms per meter squared and POAG overall ( P = 0.06, for trend). However, in relation to POAG with intraocular pressure (IOP) of 22 mmHg or less at diagnosis, each unit increase in BMI was associated with a 6% reduced risk in women (MVRR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.91–0.98; P = 0.01), but not for men (MVRR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.96–1.09; P = 0.57); this gender difference was significant ( P = 0.03, for heterogeneity). In multivariate analyses to explore the independent effects of height and weight, weight (as height-adjusted weight residuals; P = 0.002, for trend), but not height ( P = 0.10, for trend) seemed to account for most of the inverse association between BMI and POAG with IOP of 21 mmHg or less at diagnosis in women. There was no association between BMI and POAG with IOP of more than 21 mmHg at diagnosis for either gender ( P ≥0.26, for trend). Among women, analyses found that the relations between anthropometric parameters and both POAG subtypes (POAG with IOP≤21 mmHg vs. POAG with IOP >21 mmHg when diagnosed) were significantly different ( P ≤0.0001). Conclusions Among women, higher BMI was associated with a lower risk of POAG with IOP of 21 mmHg or less at diagnosis. The factors contributing to this tendency may yield insight into the pathogenesis of POAG. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Recent Results from Clinical Trials Using SERMs to Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer

Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are used for the treatment of invasive breast cancer. Chemoprevention is the use of specific natural or synthetic chemical agents to reverse, suppress, or prevent the progression of premalignant lesions to invasive carcinoma. The finding of a decrease in contralateral breast cancer incidence following tamoxifen administration for adjuvant therapy led to its use in breast cancer prevention. Four large trials have used tamoxifen, the prototypical SERM, as a breast cancer chemopreventive agent with differing results. In the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project's (NSABP) Breast Cancer Prevention Trial (BCPT), tamoxifen reduced the risk of invasive breast cancer by 49%. Tamoxifen also reduced the incidence of benign breast disease as well as the number of breast biopsies in the treated women. Three other randomized prevention trials comparing tamoxifen with placebo have been reported and show a reduction in breast cancer incidence of 38%. Serum levels of estrone sulfate and testosterone are significantly associated with breast cancer risk, and estradiol appears to be more strongly associated with breast cancer in high-risk women. Raloxifene is comparable to tamoxifen in its ability to reduce the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal, high-risk women and has fewer side effects, as shown in the study of tamoxifen and raloxifene. Several ongoing and planned studies will evaluate the ability of aromatase inhibitors to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women at increased risk.
Impact of pharmacists in mental health over the past decade

Purpose: As healthcare moves towards an interdisciplinary approach to improve clinical outcomes, it has become increasingly important for health care providers to collaboratively work together. Pharmacists have been working with psychiatrists for several decades to improve patient outcomes. However, their utility in psychiatry has not been recently elucidated. The purpose of this article is to describe and evaluate the impact of pharmacists in psychiatric settings over the past ten years. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed and CINAHL Plus with Full Text. Studies published between 2002 and 2011 were included. Additional studies were identified through references contained within the studies. Case reports and case series were excluded. Results: Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria: 15 studies in outpatient settings, two in inpatient settings. Outcomes measured included: patient symptoms, economic outcomes, medication adherence, and patient satisfaction. The majority of studies f...
Meltblown Structures Formed by a Robotic and Meltblowing Integrated System: Impact of Process Parameters on Fiber Orientation and Diameter Distribution:

In a previous publication, we described a novel system that forms three-dimensional (3D) structures on 3D molds and two-dimensional (2D) structures on a rotating drum through proper integration of a laboratory scale meltblown unit with a small die and a six-axis robot. In this paper, we investigate the impact of take-up speed. die-to-collector distance (DCD). polymer throughput rate. and attenuating air pressure on the fiber orien tation and diameter distribution of 2D structures formed by the system. We introduce a new parameter, the fiber stream approach angle, which can be precisely controlled by the robot, and discuss its impact on the meltblown structure. In the experimental range studied, fiber orientation and diameter distribution are significantly impacted by the parameters. Among these parameters. the fiber stream approach angle shows the highest effect on fiber orientation distribution.
Age-related changes in prefrontal cortex of Macaca mulatta: Quantitative analysis of dendritic branching patterns

Abstract Age-related changes in the dendritic branching pattern were observed in nine Macaca mulattas from 7 to 28 years of age. Morphometric measurements made with the computerized graphic digitizer revealed signficant age-related differences at various designated branch orders in both the centrifugal and centripetal ordering methods. It appeared that there was continued branching and growth of the apical dendrites in adulthood. Basal dendrites of adult Macaca mulattas did not show any added complexity, but rather growth of existing terminal branches continued. Data obtained from the three oldest animals suggested a preferential loss of whole dendritic branches on the apical portion of the dendritic tree, whereas basal dendrites seemed to manifest more of the distoproximal-type degeneration process.
Patterns of Gastrointestinal Recovery after Bowel Resection and Total Abdominal Hysterectomy: Pooled Results from the Placebo Arms of Alvimopan Phase III North American Clinical Trials

Background Postoperative ileus (POI), a transient cessation of coordinated bowel motility, occurs to some extent after all major abdominal operations. This analysis examines gastrointestinal (GI) recovery and hospital discharge history in patients undergoing partial bowel resection (BR) or total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) by laparotomy in the placebo arms of recent phase III alvimopan trials. Study Design This was a pooled post hoc analysis of placebo groups from randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, multicenter trials. All patients were uniformly managed with a standardized accelerated postoperative care pathway to facilitate GI recovery. Results Of the 727 BR patients and 140 TAH patients included in this analysis, POI as an adverse event was reported in approximately 14.7% of BR patients and 2.9% of TAH patients, and postoperative nasogastric tube insertion was required in 11.5% of BR patients and 0.8% of TAH patients. Time to first toleration of solid food was almost 2 days longer for BR patients than for TAH patients (BR, 4.1 days; TAH, 2.5 days). Approximately 34.4% of BR patients and 4.2% ofTAH patients had discharge orders written 7 days or more after operation. Nearly half (40%) of patients undergoing TAH were discharged from the hospital before GI recovery was complete. Mean postoperative lengths of hospital stay after BR and TAH were 6.6 days and 3.4 days, respectively. Conclusions Despite the relatively fast recovery observed with standardized accelerated postoperative care pathway use, POI as an adverse event was still reported in approximately 15% of BR patients and 3% of TAH patients. This analysis provides important clinical insight into the differences in GI recovery patterns and the incidence and impact of POI after BR and TAH.
Eimeria nieschulzi: Glucose absorption in infected rats

Abstract Liquid scintillation spectrophotometry was employed to determine absorption of 3 H-glucose by rats infected with the coccidium Eimeria nieschulzi . In vivo studies showed increased uptake of label into small intestinal tissue and hepatic portal plasma at 3 days postinoculation and decreased absorption at 8 days postinfection compared to uninfected control animals. Observations of tissues incubated in labeled glucose in vitro confirm in vivo findings of increased uptake early in infection and malabsorption coinciding with the observation of clinical disease symptoms.
Biotransformation of chlordecone by Pseudomonas species.

1. Six-month chlordecone enrichment cultures with added chlordecone yielded several Gram-negative micro-organisms that were resistant to and/or degraded chlordecone.2. Three Pseudomonas spp. were further characterized for their chlordecone degrading ability.3. Chlordecone and two derivatives, Mirex and Kelevan, supported growth of these strains.4. All three Pseudomonas spp. decreased the concentration of chlordecone in the medium after 14 days incubation, as determined by h.p.l.c. analysis when it was added either as sole carbon source or in the presence of medium supplements.
Reproduction and the mechanism of meiotic restitution in the parthenogenetic lizard Cnemidophorus uniparens.

Gross details of the reproductive cycle and the cytology of oogenesis were studied in 155 egg clutches produced by 69 captive individuals of the triploid parthenogenetic lizard Cnemidophorus uniparens. The mean clutch cycle lasted 23 days. The mean number of ova per clutch was 3.3, and the mean number of oocytes per right and left ovaries was 1.65 and 1.70, respectively. Comparison of the size of the oocytes at ovulation (9–10 mm) with the estimated mean duration of vitellogenesis (8.8 days) gave an average of approximately 1 mm yolk deposition per day. The mean time for the retention of eggs in the oviducts was 9.3 days. The germinal disc of the oocyte consists of a series of layers formed by the arrangement of various cytoplasmic and yolk particles in the polar region. In a mature oocyte the germinal vesicle is located immediately below the vitelline membrane and lies at the center of the germinal disc. The germinal vesicle is characterized by a dense disc-like cluster of diplotene chromosomes. Diplonema extends until near ovulation when the oocytes have attained a size of about 9 mm. Diakinesis and metaphase I occur rapidly and immediately prior to ovulation. Counts of approximately as many bivalents as there are somatic chromosomes were obtained from oocytes at diakinesis and metaphase I. The second division occurs almost immediately before or at the precise moment of ovulation. The chromosomes of the first polar body consist of dyads, of which there are as many as the triploid number of 69. A metaphase II plate obtained in polar view also revealed dyad chromosomes, of which there were approximately as many as the triploid somatic number. The second telophase is normal as evidenced by formation of the second polar body. Chromosomes from the opposing telophase plates show a monad structure. The presence of as many bivalents in the first division as the triploid somatic number of 69 indicates that the 3N condition of C. uniparens was doubled prior to meiosis. This is further supported by the occurrence of two maturation divisions each giving rise to a polar body, by the dyad structure of the chromosomes in the first polar body and the second metaphase, and by the presence of monochromosomes at telophase II. Thus, parthenogenesis in these lizards is of the meiotic type. The somatic number of chromosomes is doubled early in oogenesis presumably by a premeiotic endoduplication, and the 3N level is restored by two subsequent maturation divisions.
The mixing effect on the free radical MMA solution polymerization

Mathematical models of reactors for the polymerization of methylmethacrylate (MMA) have been developed and analyzed to elucidate reactor dynamics and to determine conditions for improved operation. The effects of mixing and heat transfer in an MMA polymerization reactor system have been explored by the development of an imperfect mixing model. To model imperfect mixing in polymerization, a reactor configuration using two tanks in parallel was used. Bifurcation diagrams developed using numerical analysis of the model have been drawn with two variable parameters, an exchange ratio, σ, and a volume ratio, κ. We use feed and coolant temperatures as bifurcation parameters. If variable parameters are small, the lower solution branch of the steady state solutions is quite different from that of a simple model that assumes perfect macro-mixing as bifurcation parameters change. If σ increases (κ=0.1, σ=1.0), the shape of a steady state solution curve differs significantly from that of a simple model as the feed temperature decreases.
Experiments concerning resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization probe measurements of flame-species profiles.

Resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) detection of radical species in low-pressure laboratory flames is a promising tool for the development and refinement of combustion models. For accurate REMPI species concentration measurements in flame zones with inherently high background ionization levels, an understanding of the influence of plasma sheaths on REMPI probe response is required. Proper probe response is found to depend on careful control of probe-biasing and laser-focusing conditions. Only negatively biased probes are suitable, because of the influences of secondary ionization on the response of positively biased probes. In situ probe calibration procedures with the (2 + 2) REMPI of N2 at 270.6 nm are described. Detection of O atoms in a stoichiometric 20-Torr methane-oxygen flame permits a precise comparison of both laser-induced fluorescence and REMPI measurements with flame-modeling results.
New Spatiotemporal Clustering Algorithms and their Applications to Ozone Pollution

Spatiotemporal clustering is a process of grouping a set of objects based on their spatial and temporal similarities. In this paper we propose two new spatiotemporal clustering algorithms, called Spatiotemporal Shared Nearest Neighbor clustering algorithm (ST-SNN), and Spatiotemporal Separated Shared Nearest Neighbor clustering algorithm (ST-SEP-SNN), to cluster overlapping polygons that can change their locations, sizes and shapes over time. Both ST-SNN and ST-SEP-SNN are based on well established generic density-based clustering algorithm Shared Nearest Neighbor (SNN), which can find clusters of different sizes, shapes, and densities in high dimensional data. New similarity functions are proposed for computing spatiotemporal similarities between spatiotemporal polygons as well. We evaluate and demonstrate the effectiveness of our approaches in a case study involving ozone pollution events in the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria (HGB) area. The experimental results show that both ST-SNN and ST-SEP-SNN algorithms can find interesting spatiotemporal patterns from ozone pollution data.
Single-shot spiral image acquisition with embedded z-shimming for susceptibility signal recovery.

Purpose To efficiently and effectively recover the susceptibility-induced signal losses for functional MRI (fMRI) experiments. Materials and Methods The signal losses near air/tissue interfaces at the ventral brain regions introduce difficulties in the neuroimaging studies concerned with brain functions such as memory, emotion, and olfaction processes. The z-shimming technique has been introduced in fMRI image acquisition to recover such losses. One significant drawback of such an approach is its time consuming nature. In this report, a single-shot spiral imaging method, which combines spiral-in and spiral-out acquisitions along with embedded z-shimming gradient, was proposed and implemented to achieve signal recovery without sacrificing temporal resolution. Results Using the proposed method, final images were shown in the ventral brain regions. The images were acquired with a throughput of 16 slices/second and demonstrated effectiveness and efficiency in signal recovery near air/tissue interfaces. Conclusion Uniform recovery can be achieved efficiently near air/tissue interfaces where susceptibility-induced spatial gradients are pronounced. We anticipate that our method would be well suited for fMRI studies involving the ventral brain areas. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2003;18:389–395. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An ultrastructural study of the transport pathways across arcuate, interlobar, hilar, and capsular lymphatics in the dog kidney

Abstract The ultrastructurally visible transport pathways across arcuate, interlobar, hilar, and capsular lymphatics were studied in canine kidneys with unimpeded lymph and urine flow. The four types of vessels were lined by a nonfenestrated endothelium resting on a discontinuous basal lamina and contained valves. Stereological techniques were applied to determine the volume and numerical densities for cytoplasmic vesicles (80–90 nm in diameter). Values for those parameters increased sequentially in the direction of lymph flow from the kidney. Thus, vesicular volume density rose from 6% of endothelial cytoplasm in arcuate lymphatics to 14% in hilar vessels, and the numerical density increased from 11 vesicles/μm 3 to 33 vesicles/μm 3 . Most of the vesicles lay apparently free within the cytoplasm, the remainder were evenly dispersed along the luminal and abluminal cell borders. Three varieties of interendothelial cell contacts were present: end-to-end, overlap, and interdigitation. Specialized junctional complexes associated with these contacts were either fasciae occludentes or fasciae adhaerentes, although in many instances neither were present. In general, arcuate and interlobar lymphatics had more cell contacts which lacked junctional specializations than did hilar and capsular lymphatic vessels. Only one example out of 676 cell contacts could be classified as “open” (greater than 30-nm gap along the entire contact length). It was concluded that (1) the four types of lymphatic vessels in the present study have ultrastructural features of lymph-forming (as opposed to simple collecting) vessels, (2) the ultrastructurally visible transport pathways in the four types of vessels studied are through “normal” (5- 30-nm wide) intercellular channels and via cytoplasmic vesicles, (3) arcuate and interlobar lymphatics have a structure which is consistent with the formation of lymph from medullary interstitial fluid, (4) hilar and capsular lymphatics may have a role in extrarenal lymph formation, and (5) “open” contacts are not involved normally in translymphatic transport in the kidney.
Ectopic pancreas located in the major duodenal papilla: Case report and review ☆

The term ectopic pancreas indicates the presence of well-developed and normally organized pancreatic tissue outside the pancreas without anatomic or vascular connections with the pancreas proper. Most occurrences of ectopic pancreas are located in the stomach, duodenum, or jejunum. However ectopic pancreas sometimes can be found in unusual sites such as Meckle diverticulum, gallbladder, umbilicus, mediastinum, and the fallopian tube.1 Ectopic pancreas rarely produces clinical symptoms but occasionally it can result in symptoms that vary according to its location, size, and the involvement of overlying mucosa.2 An unusual case of ectopic pancreas in the major duodenal papilla is presented here. The patient presented with vague epigastric pain and bile duct dilatation. Published reports are reviewed with respect to imaging, diagnosis, and management of ectopic pancreas of the papilla.
Development of a scale to assess faculty motivation for internationalising their curriculum

Faculty members are instrumental in internationalising the curriculum in a higher education institution. Their favourable or unfavourable orientation toward global education initiatives might significantly affect their engagement in internationalising the curriculum. The purpose of this study was to develop the Motivation for Internationalizing Curriculum Scale (MICS), which aims to assess college professors' motivation toward internationalising the curriculum. The MICS was informed by Herzberg's two-factor motivation theory, involving intrinsic (motivator) and extrinsic (hygiene) factors of motivation. The MICS includes 20 items, and was administered to a national random sample of 418 college professors in the United States. Cronbach's coefficient alpha values were .90 for intrinsic motivation, .92 for extrinsic motivation, and .94 for the final 20-item MICS total scale. All 20 items in the newly developed scale have excellent Cronbach's alpha values. The findings revealed that a combination of dominant ...
Discussion of The Book‐to‐Price Effect in Stock Returns: Accounting for Leverage

The primary contribution of the conference paper by Penman, Richardson, and Tuna [2007] (hereafter, PRT) is the theoretical deconstruction of the book-to-market ratio into two components: a net operating asset component (interpreted as operating, enterprise, or asset risk) and financial leverage. This separation is intuitive, has links to theoretical asset pricing models, and formalizes ideas discussed in the prior research with respect to the source of the book-to-market effect. In a traditional asset pricing framework, the effect of leverage is quite clear: For a given level of operating/asset risk, greater leverage should increase the required rate of return for an equity holder. However, PRT find that financial leverage has a negative relation with future returns after controlling for the firm's asset risk. This negative relation contradicts theoretical predictions, is robust across numerous specifications and controls for known risk factors, and is consistent with the inverse relation found between future returns and broader measures of financial distress and bankruptcy risk in different contexts (e.g., Dichev [1998], Campbell, Hilscher, and Szilagyi [2006], Demers andJoos [2006]). The authors remain agnostic about the likely explanation for this inverse relation. The first part of this discussion provides background on the paper's contribution to the extant literature. The second part highlights the concerns
Theoretical Analysis of the Starvation Response under Substrate Pulses

A simulation model was constructed in which two model bacteria competed with each other in a closed system to which periodic substrate additions were made. One bacterium responded to starvation by entering into a dormant state characterized by a decreased death rate; the other bacterium did not make this transition. The periodicity of substrate addition was varied, and the magnitude of selection for one bacterial type was calculated. For model parameters typical of those measured in Escherichia coli, positive selection for the bacterium capable of the starvation response only occurred if the time interval of substrate addition exceeded 54 times the minimum doubling time of the bacterium. The magnitude of the selection coefficient was most sensitive to two model parameters: the time constant for conversion of dormant cells back to actively growing ones, and the magnitude of the death rate of cells which did not undergo the starvation response.
Flame Propagation Measurements and Energy Feedback Analysis for Burning Cylinders

Abstract Flame spreading velocity measurements were made using PMMA cylinders as fuel rods. The diameter of the rods varied from 1½10; to 1½2 inch, and burning was observed at angles of orientation from θ = −90° (vertically downward burning) θ = +40°. The length of the pyrolysis zone was measured and used to calculate an average surface regression rate. For the axisymmetric case of vertically downward burning, surface temperatures were measured in the pyrolysis zone and in front of the flame; internal temperatures were measured in front or the flame. The measured temperatures were used to evaluate a number of energy balances. As a result, values were obtained for the energy feedback from the flame to the fuel by the various modes of heat transfer.
The expression of calretinin and cytokeratins in canine acanthomatous ameloblastoma and oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and canine acanthomatous ameloblastoma (CAA) represent two epithelium-derived neoplasms that affect the oral cavity of dogs. The expression of cytokeratins (CKs) and calretinin has been previously established in the canine tooth bud and odontogenic tumours. The aim of this study was to characterize the CK and calretinin expression profile of OSCC in comparison to CAA and canine tooth bud tissues. Samples from 15 OSCC and 15 CAA cases, as well as 6 tooth buds and 2 normal gingival tissues were examined. OSCC CK expression was consistent with the CK expression profile of CAA and canine tooth bud tissue. Calretinin was positively expressed in 10 of 15 OSCC cases, with 5 cases demonstrating high staining intensity. Only 2 of 15 CAA cases demonstrated mild-moderate staining intensity. The statistically significant difference in staining pattern and intensity of calretinin in OSCC and CAA can help distinguish between these two tumour types.
Mastering Virtual Teams

The article presents a review of the book “Mastering Virtual Teams,” by Deborah L. Duarte and Nancy Tennant.
A Review of Power Strategies for DFT and ATPG

This paper presents a review of power topics for DFT and ATPG. The issue of increasing power in ASIC design is an important topic.in terms of power management and CMOS power consumption has been considered as low-power. The related issues of power and test have been discussed, but often in the fairly narrow context of limiting power during scan test. This topic is becoming increasingly important as power management strategies within chips become more common and complex and at-speed test becomes more important for detecting defects which escape the classical stuck-at model. Increasingly chips incorporate features to allow active power management.
The listening dimension of evaluation

Listening is essential to understanding, and understanding is the basis of competent evaluation. Systematic client consultation is on the way to becoming a primary ingredient of project identification and design. Systematic listening provides feedback needed for accurate and relevant evaluation.
Adaptive particle swarm optimization learning in a time delayed recurrent neural network for multi-step prediction

In this study we propose the development of an adaptive particle swarm optimization (APSO) learning algorithm to train a non-linear autoregressive (NAR) neural network, which we call PSONAR, for short term time series prediction of ocean wave elevations. We also introduce a new stochastic inertial weight to the APSO learning algorithm. Our work is motivated by the expected need for such predictions by wave energy farms. In particular, it has been shown that the phase resolved predictions provided in this paper could be used as inputs to novel control methods that hold promise to at least double the current efficiency of wave energy converter (WEC) devices. As such, we simulated noisy ocean wave heights for testing. We utilized our PSONAR to get results for 5, 10, 30, and 60 second multistep predictions. Results are compared to a standard backpropagation model. Results show APSO can outperform backpropagation in training a NAR neural network.
Clinical impact of biologic therapy in the treatment of SLE

Biologic therapies have generated substantial research interest for treating autoimmune diseases, resulting in several US Food and Drug Administration approvals. However, clinical trial results in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) populations have failed to meet efficacy expectations, primarily owing to methodological flaws in design, especially outcome measures. To address these issues, the US Food and Drug Administration published a guidance document for clinical trial design in SLE that included specific efficacy endpoints for measuring disease severity. Belimumab was the first biologic approved for SLE based on positive responses measured with the SLE Responder Index, which required a decrease in inflammation, no new organ domains being involved, and improvement in physician global assessment. Trials of other biologics have used other versions of SLE Responder Index responder indices. In addition to belimumab, a score of other biologic agents are being investigated, primarily those targeting T cells, B cells, complement, and tolerogen-targeting agents. Their development stages and clinical trial results vary. Belimumab has generated the greatest amount of clinical trials, as investigators try to further define its role in clinical practice. Results have been shared in many forums, including annual meetings of the American College of Rheumatology and European League Against Rheumatism, along with publications in the medical literature. These findings indicate that belimumab is effective in patients with more active disease who are able to wait up to 3 months for improvement. Additionally, it can be considered for patients with active disease despite therapy with NSAIDs, antimalarials, immunosuppressives, or corticosteroids, especially if the benefits of treatment outweigh its risks or if the patient is intolerant to steroids or immunosuppressives. Additional file 1 contains an edited transcript of the full presentation.
The predictability of high-risk zones for heat-related mortality in seven US cities

Heat-related mortality remains a public health challenge in the United States. The objective of this study was to determine the temporal consistency of high-risk zones for heat-related mortality using historical georeferenced mortality data from seven US cities. A generalized additive model was used to identify city-specific threshold temperatures associated with increased mortality, and then the mortality rate on threshold-exceeding days was calculated for each postal code comprising each study city. This process was iterated by withholding subsets of data from the model and assessing predictability via cross-validation. In all cities, the average mortality rate in postal codes targeted for intervention by the statistical model was higher than that in non-targeted areas. Targeted areas for interventions in the study data accounted for 50 % of excess heat-related deaths despite only accounting for 25 % of total mortality. Focusing intervention measures at certain geographical zones within urban areas could be an effective means of combating heat-related mortality because there is temporal consistency in places where the death rate is most sensitive to heat.
Differentiation of Phase I and Phase II Coxiella Burnetii by Equilibrium Density Gradient Sedimentation

Differentiation of Phase I and Phase II Coxiella Burnetii by Equilibrium Density Gradient Sedimentation
Arbusculin-D from Artemisia arbuscula ssp. Arbuscula☆

Abstract Abstract-Arbusculin- D (I), a new eudesmanolide, has been isolated from Artemisia arbuscula Nutt. ssp. arbuscula and is present also in A. arbuscula Nutt. ssp. thermopola Beetle. It represents a structural variant in the lactone grouping.
Carbon dioxide laser system with zero small signal gain

The design and performance of a small multipass CO2 laser system that has been fully stabilized against parasitic oscillations are described. By the use of a multicomponent gas isolator mixture, the round-trip small-signal gain of the system is reduced to zero, while the output power remains at 40% of its nonstabilized value.
Batch foam fractionation of kudzu ( Pueraria lobata ) vine retting solution

The aqueous protein solution from kudzu (Pueraria lobata) vine retting broth, without the addition of other surfactants, was foam-fractionated in a vertical tubular column with multiple sampling ports. Time-varying trajectories of the total protein levels were determined to describe the protein behavior at six positions along the 1-m column. The lowest two trajectories of this batch process represented a loss of proteins from the bulk liquid and tended to merge and decay together in time; the other trajectories displayed a gain in proteins in the foam phase. These upper column port protein concentration trajectories generally increased in time up to 45 min, followed by a decrease, reflecting the removal of proteins from the column ports. The foam became dryer as it passed up the column to the top port. The protein concentration was about 5–8 × higher in the top port foam than in the initial bulk solution, mainly as a result of liquid drainage from the foam along the column axis. This concentration increase in the collected foam was dependent on the initial pH of the bulk solution. The mol-wt profile of the proteins in the concentrated foam effluent was determined by one-dimensional gel electrophoresis. An analysis of the gel electropherograms indicated that the most abundant proteins could be cellulases and pectinases.
Trace metal requirements of Azotobacter.

SummaryMolybdenum, iron and calcium ions have been shown to be specifically required when Azotobacter vinelandii O is fixing atmospheric nitrogen. Ammonium ion eliminates the need for molybdenum and calcium and has a sparing action on the requirement for iron. High levels of iron stimulate the knallgas reaction of A. vinelandii O fixing N2 in the presence of H2, but molybdenum in the range tested had no effect on this reaction. Low concentrations of calcium ions in a nitrogen-fixing culture result in an extended lag phase of growth. Decrease in the concentration of phosphate in the presence of low levels of calcium brings about a further increase in the lag, but this increase is not observed if the calcium supply is adequate.
Earning the Right to Indulge: Effort as a Determinant of Customer Preferences toward Frequency Program Rewards:

Abstract Although frequency programs (FPs) have become ubiquitous in the marketplace and a key marketing-mix tool for promoting customer relationship and loyalty, little is known about the factors that determine how such programs are evaluated by consumers. The authors investigate the impact of the level of effort participants must invest to obtain the reward on the types of rewards they prefer and, consequently, on the decision to join the FP. In particular, the authors propose that higher required effort shifts consumer preferences from necessity to luxury rewards, because higher efforts reduce the guilt that is often associated with choosing luxuries over necessities. A series of studies with approximately 3100 consumers demonstrated that (1) higher program requirements shift preferences in favor of luxury rewards, (2) this effect is also observed when consumers choose between luxury and necessity rewards (of the same value) that they themselves proposed, and (3) the effect of program requirements on r...
Analysis of excimer migration observations in molecular crystals

Abstract The applicability of the concepts of polaron motion to the analysis of experiments on excimer migration is examined with particular reference to pyrene.
THE CONTENT OF PROTEIN NITROGEN AND OF NUCLEIC ACIDS IN THE EPITHELIUM OF THE ECTOCERVIX OF WOMEN

Most of our information about the cyclic changes in the epithelial cells of the female reproductive tract deals with modifications of morphology. The chemical analysis of these cells has been limited mainly to histochemical observations on the content of iron, phosphatase, and the degree of basophilia (Wislocki, 1945) and the content of glycogen in the endometrium and in the epithelium of the cervix and vagina (Papanicolaou 1948). In order to obtain information about quantitative changes in the chemical constituents of the epithelium of the ectocervix we have attempted to follow the changes in protein nitrogen, ribosenucleic acid (RNA) and desoxyribosenucleic acid (DNA) in this tissue during the phases of the menstrual cycle. The data obtained in these analyses are reported in this paper. materials and methods Preparation of tisstie: In the present investigation only the epithelium of the human ectocervix was used. The greater number of samples came from specimens obtained through hysterectomies, but a fe...