cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel CACNA1A variant in a child with early stroke and intractable epilepsy

Background CACNA1A variants have been described in several disorders that encompass a wide range of neurologic phenotypes, including hemiplegic migraine, ataxia, cognitive delay, and epilepsy. To date, ischemic stroke caused by a CACNA1A variant has only been reported once in the literature. Methods We describe a 4-year-old female with recurrent ischemic strokes beginning at 6 weeks of age, intractable epilepsy, and significant global developmental delay. Exome sequencing (ES) was completed for her evaluation. Results We found a novel de novo, likely pathogenic variant, p.Leu1692Gln in CACNA1A by ES. The substitution affects a leucine residue that is highly conserved in species from fish to primates. Conclusion We present the second case of recurrent ischemic strokes in a patient with CACNA1A mutation. Our findings expand the phenotypic heterogeneity related to Cav 2.1 (P/Q-type) calcium channel dysfunction and suggest consideration of CACNA1A disorder in evaluation of pediatric strokes.
Spatial Cognition: Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and the Memory Puzzle

We navigate through space using the coordinated activity of spatially sensitive cells in the hippocampus. A new study shows that moderate prenatal alcohol exposure alters multiple features of hippocampal spatial responses, leading to inflexible and less precise representations of our surroundings.
Sex difference in cerebral blood flow velocity during exercise hyperthermia.

Abstract Introduction Cerebral blood flow and thermal perception during physical exercise under hyperthermia conditions in females are poorly understood. Because sex differences exist for blood pressure control, resting middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAVmean), and pain, we tested the hypothesis that females would have greater reductions in MCAvmean and increased thermal perceptual strain during exercise hyperthermia compared to males. Methods Twenty-two healthy active males and females completed 60 min of matched exercise metabolic heat production in a 1) control cool (24.0 ± 0.0 °C; 14.4 ± 3.4% Rh) and 2) hot (42.3 ± 0.3 °C; 28.4 ± 5.2% Rh) conditions in random order, separated by at least 3 days while MCAvmean, thermal comfort, and preference was obtained during the exercise. Results Compared to 36 °C mean body temperature (Mbt), as hyperthermia increased to 39 °C Mbt, females had a greater reduction in absolute (MCAvmean), and relative change (%Δ MCAvmean) and conductance (%Δ MCAvmean conductance) in MCAVmean compared to males (Interaction: Temperature x Sex, P ≤ 0.002). During exercise in cool conditions, absolute and conductance MCAvmean was maintained from rest through exercise; however, females had greater MCAVmean compared to males (Main effect: Sex, P Conclusions In summary, females exercise cerebral blood flow velocity is reduced to a greater extent (25% vs 15%) and the initial reduction occurs at lower hyperthermia mean body temperatures (~38 °C vs ~39 °C) and are under greater thermal perceptual strain compared to males.
Retrotransposon-Based Blood Meal Analysis of Nymphal Deer Ticks Demonstrates Spatiotemporal Diversity of Borrelia burgdorferi and Babesia microti Reservoirs.

Deer tick-transmitted Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (Lyme disease) and Babesia microti (babesiosis) increasingly burden public health across eastern North America. The white-footed mouse is considered the primary host for subadult deer ticks and the most important reservoir host for these and other disease agents. Local transmission is thought to be modulated by less reservoir-competent hosts, such as deer, diverting ticks from feeding on mice. We measured the proportion of mouse-fed or deer-fed host-seeking nymphs from 4 sites during 2 transmission seasons by blood meal remnant analysis using a new retrotransposon-based quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay. We then determined the host that was associated with the infection status of the tick. During the first year, the proportion of mouse-fed ticks ranged from 17% on mainland sites to 100% on an island, while deer-fed ticks ranged from 4% to 24%. The proportion of ticks feeding on mice and deer was greater from island sites than mainland sites (on average, 92% versus 43%). Mouse-fed ticks decreased significantly during year 2 in 3 of 4 sites (most were <20%), while deer-fed ticks increased for all sites (75% at one site). Overall, ticks were more likely to be infected when they had fed on mice (odds ratio [OR] of 2.4 and 1.6 for Borrelia and Babesia, respectively) and were less likely to be infected if they had fed on deer (OR, 0.8 and 0.4). We conclude that host utilization by deer ticks is characterized by significant spatiotemporal diversity, which may confound efficacy tests of interventions targeting reservoir hosts.IMPORTANCE White-footed mice are thought to be the most important reservoir host for the deer tick-transmitted pathogens that cause Lyme disease and human babesiosis because they are the primary host for immature ticks. Transmission would be reduced, however, if ticks feed on deer, which are not capable of infecting ticks with either pathogen. By directly measuring whether ticks had fed on either mice or deer using a new quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay to detect remnants of host DNA leftover from the larval blood meal, we demonstrate that host utilization by ticks varies significantly over time and space and that mice often feed fewer ticks than expected. This finding has implications for our understanding of the ecology of these diseases and for the efficacy of control measures.
C-Reactive Protein and Other Inflammatory Markers in Cardiovascular Disease: Inflammatory Disorders and Atherosclerosis

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a well-studied and widely available biomarker that aids in a variety of clinical conditions. In general, as a marker of inflammation, CRP or high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) can both give substantial insight into a patient’s clinical state and may add utility to risk stratification for predicting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, CRP is influenced by an abundance of physiologic, pathophysiologic, lifestyle, and pharmacologic factors. Thus, despite a plethora of data, debate remains as to hsCRP’s true utility in clinical care. The recent results of anti-inflammatory directed therapies have shed light on the role of inflammation in ASCVD. This chapter will enhance reader understanding in each of these topics, with a goal of improving the ability to leverage hsCRP in clinical practice. We will also touch on the future potential for hsCRP and other inflammatory markers to influence clinical practice.
Recurrent Disease Challenges in Pediatric Kidney Transplantation

Recurrence of disease accounts for 7–8% of graft losses following pediatric kidney transplantation. Transplant planning for a child requires a thorough understanding of the underlying cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), the overall risk of recurrence, and the impact of age, gender, pre- transplant course, native kidney histology, race, native kidney nephrectomy, donor source, HLA typing, and immunosuppression on disease recurrence risk. Our understanding of disease recurrence risk and treatments is limited by the lack of systematic, randomized studies, particularly in pediatric patients. This chapter reviews the nature and frequency of the primary disease, considerations for transplant planning, risk factors for recurrence, and treatment of disease recurrence in the allograft for atypical HUS, C3 glomerulopathy, IgA nephropathy, IgA vasculitis, lupus nephritis, membranous nephropathy, and primary hyperoxaluria type 1. Recurrence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is covered separately in another chapter.
Plus ça change, plus c’est la mȇme chose: foreign policy of new regimes and their leaders -a systemist exposition

This article portrays and diagrammatically analyzes the foreign policies of three different new regimes and their respective leaders. In each instance, the leader enunciated a foreign policy design...
Nonlinear Wave Equations

Invariance Existence Singularities Solutions of small amplitude Scattering Stability of solitary waves Yang-Mills equations Vlasov-Maxwell equations.
16 – Free Vibration of Membranes and Plates

A membrane is a thin unstretchable continuum that lies in a plane when in equilibrium and is subjected to uniform in-plane tension force along its boundary. A membrane has lateral or transverse vibration because of external and initial disturbances. The elastic restoring force comes from the tension in the membrane, which is similar to that of a string in lateral vibration because the membrane has no resistance to bending. The chapter presents free vibration of rectangular and circular membranes, and MATLAB functions for the solution of the related eigenvalue problems. A MATLAB function “ cirmemb ” is employed for computing the eigensolutions of a circular membrane. Once cirmemb is executed, function systinfo can be called at any time to get access to the information on membrane parameters, boundary conditions, and eigensolutions. Also, functions plotmsh2 and animode2 can be used to plot and animate a particular mode.
THE CRISIS IMPACT OF SEXUAL ASSAULT ON THREE VICTIM GROUPS: ADULT RAPE VICTIMS, CHILD RAPE VICTIMS, AND INCEST VICTIMS

The traumatizing effect of rape and other forms of sexual assault on the victim has been documented in a variety of recent studies. The diversity of these studies with respect to their samples, data collcction methods, and measurement procedures makes it difficult to specify with precision (I) the effect of rape on adult vs. child victims, and (2) the cffect of rape vs. incestuous assault on child victims. The purpose of this research was to develop and apply a standardized assault impact assessment to a sample of victims admitted to a rape crisis treatment center. Three comparison groups compose the focus of this study: adult rape victims, child rape victims, and child incest victims. This article deals with the levels of trauma stemming from sexual assault in these groups and the implications of these findings for sexual assault treatment centers.
A Real-Life Experiment in Creating an Agent Marketplace

Software agents help people with time-consuming activities. One relatively unexplored area of application is that of agents that buy and sell on behalf of users. We recently conducted a real-life experiment in creating an agent marketplace, using a slighly modified version of the Kasbah system. Approximately 200 participants intensively interacted with the system over a one-day (six-hour) period. This paper describes the set-up of the experiment, the architecture of the electronic market and the behaviours of the agents. We discuss the rationale behind the design decisions and analyze the results obtained. We conclude with a discussion of current experiments involving thousands of users interacting with the agent marketplace over a long period of time, and speculate on the long-range impact of this technology upon society and the economy.
Endoscopic approach to colloid cyst: what is the optimal entry point and trajectory?

Object An optimal entry point and trajectory for endoscopic colloid cyst (ECC) resection helps to protect important neurovascular structures. There is a large discrepancy in the entry point and trajectory in the neuroendoscopic literature. Methods Trajectory views from MRI or CT scans used for cranial image guidance in 39 patients who had undergone ECC resection between July 2004 and July 2010 were retrospectively evaluated. A target point of the colloid cyst was extended out to the scalp through a trajectory carefully observed in a 3D model to ensure that important anatomical structures were not violated. The relation of the entry point to the midline and coronal sutures was established. Entry point and trajectory were correlated with the ventricular size. Results The optimal entry point was situated 42.3 ± 11.7 mm away from the sagittal suture, ranging from 19.1 to 66.9 mm (median 41.4 mm) and 46.9 ± 5.7 mm anterior to the coronal suture, ranging from 36.4 to 60.5 mm (median 45.9 mm). The distance from ...
Dissipative soliton thulium fiber laser with pulse energy above 10 nJ

Dissipative-soliton operation of a Tm fiber laser yields 11 nJ pulses, which is several times the energy of prior femtosecond Tm fiber lasers. The pulses can be dechirped to 200 fs duration.
Chapter 4 – Intraflagellar Transport

Publisher Summary The discovery of IFT in Chlamydomonas raised many questions. What was being moved? What were the particles made of? What molecular motors were responsible? Was IFT conserved in other ciliated organisms? Perhaps most important of all, what were the functions of IFT? Many answers to these questions have now been uncovered and are summarized in this chapter. Chlamydomonas IFT particles are located between the flagellar membrane and the outer doublet microtubules and vary in length from tens to hundreds of nanometers in the direction of the long axis of the axoneme. Microtubular connections with the particles are likely to include the IFT-motor proteins and the IFT motor and particle proteins found in Chlamydomonas are described here. ChlamydomonasFirst identified in Chlamydomonas, IFT is now known to be an ancient process that has been remarkably well conserved in many ciliated eukaryotes. In addition to ciliogenesis, IFT functions in signaling pathways and as a regulator of the cell cycle.
Kv3.3 potassium channels and spinocerebellar ataxia

The voltage-dependent potassium channel subunit Kv3.3 is expressed at high levels in cerebellar Purkinje cells, in auditory brainstem nuclei and in many other neurons capable of firing at high rates. In the cerebellum, it helps to shape the very characteristic complex spike of Purkinje cells. Kv3.3 differs from other closely related channels in that human mutations in the gene encoding Kv3.3 (KCNC3) result in a unique neurodegenerative disease termed spinocerebellar ataxia type 13 (SCA13). This primarily affects the cerebellum, but also results in extracerebellar symptoms. Different mutations produce either early onset SCA13, associated with delayed motor and impaired cognitive skill acquisition, or late onset SCA13, which typically produces cerebellar degeneration in middle age. This review covers the localization and physiological function of Kv3.3 in the central nervous system and how the normal function of the channel is altered by the disease-causing mutations. It also describes experimental approaches that are being used to understand how Kv3.3 mutations are linked to neuronal survival, and to develop strategies for treatment.
Are Confident Partisans Disloyal? The Role of Defensive Confidence in Party Defection

People who feel comfortable defending their views—defensively confident—may also eventually change those views and corresponding behaviors. National Election Studies surveys showed that defensive confidence predicted defection in the 2006 U.S. House elections, above and beyond the impact of various demographic and political variables. Moreover, defensive confidence was also associated with political knowledge and attention to politics and government affairs, but not attention to the news. Finally, males, more educated citizens, ethnic minorities, and older respondents had higher reported defensive confidence than did females, less educated citizens, European Americans, and younger respondents. Defensive confidence may be a crucial factor for a deeper understanding of political behavior.
Abstract T P299: Effects of Quality Improvement Initiative on Time to Intra-Arterial Therapy in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background: Acute stroke treatment is recognized to be time dependent. We sought to assess the effects of a quality improvement (QI) initiative called “Stroke60” on reducing time to intra-arterial therapy (IAT) for acute ischemic stroke patients transferred from an outside hospital to an academic center. Methods: We reviewed acute ischemic stroke transfer patients who underwent attempted IAT for suspected large vessel occlusion. The time to IAT (tIAT) was defined as time from arrival at our institution to groin puncture. Stroke60 QI protocol entailed early notification of parallel service lines prior to patient arrival. We compared 2 cohorts of patients: pre-Stroke60 (January 1, 2010 to May 1, 2012) and post-Stroke 60 (May 1, 2012 to August 1, 2013). We collected data on demographics, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), frequency of neuroimaging (CT, CT angiogram/perfusion, or MRI brain) prior to IAT, and tIAT. Results: Seventy-nine transfer patients underwent urgent cerebral angiogram for acute ischemic stroke (52 pre-Stroke60, 27 post-Stroke60). The mean age was 60.5 (range, 17 to 84 years) and the mean NIHSS was 19.5. Comparing post-Stroke60 with pre-Stroke60, there was no significant difference in age (p= 0.1), gender (p= 0.2), race (p= 0.8), or NIHSS (0.7). Stroke60 implementation resulted in a reduction of mean tIAT by 18 minutes (52.7 vs. 34.3 min, p= 0.04). Among the entire cohort, 25% (20/79) underwent neuroimaging prior to IAT. Neuroimaging prior to IAT was associated with increased delay of mean tIAT (74 min vs. 37 min, p= 0.0001). The post-Stroke60 cohort was more likely to have imaging prior to IAT compared to the pre-Stroke60 cohort (10% vs. 56%, p< 0.0001). Conclusion: Despite being associated with an increased use of imaging from 10% to 56%, the “Stroke60” QI initiative was associated with a significant reduction in tIAT for acute ischemic stroke transfer patients. Further studies aimed at improving time to acute stroke therapies are warranted.
Definitive chemotherapy and radiotherapy in patients with stage II non-small cell lung cancer: A population-based outcomes study.

Abstract Objectives There is a paucity of data on non-surgical outcomes specific to stage II non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving definitive chemotherapy and radiation therapy (CRT). This study reports population-based outcomes for this subgroup, and investigates a radiation dose–response for overall survival. Materials and methods The National Oncology Data Alliance (NODA), a merging of multiple tumor registries maintained by Elekta ® medical systems, was queried for stage II patients and CRT. Only curative cases (RT doses ≥59Gy) were included. Both sequential and concurrent CRT were allowed. Univariate and Cox multivariate techniques were used to assess factors significant for overall survival. These factors included: gender, age, race, radiation dose, radiation total treatment time, stage, histology, tumor size, and chemotherapy sequence. Results A total of 568 patients were included in the analysis, with a median follow-up of 12.9 months for surviving patients. Patients were treated between 2004 and 2014. Median survival was 20.5 months (95% confidence interval (CI) 18–23 months), with 16% patients alive at 5 years. Only gender was found to be significantly associated with survival in the Cox model. Although median survival was higher in patients receiving greater than 60Gy (21 months, 95% CI 18–24 moths) compared to 59–60Gy (16.5 months 95% CI 10–23 months), this was not statistically significant ( p =0.6). Conclusions This is the first report on outcomes for stage II NSCLC patients receiving CRT as definitive therapy. Survival approximates stage III CRT patients from historical phase III trials. As an increasing aging population may parallel a rise in medically inoperable stage II patients, this study can provide useful information when reviewing treatment options.
Aerosol and precipitation chemistry relationships at big bend national park

Aerosol chemistry, precipitation and visibility parameters are currently being measured at Big Bend National Park in Texas. This is part of a large-scale air resource evaluation program which the National Park Service is sponsoring in several southwestern national parks and monuments to determine the potential impact of local and distant pollutant sources on the environmental quality within these areas. Analysis of aerosol samples collected at six sites in the Southwest indicates that soil-derived components, organic materials and the acid-base ions of sulfate, nitrate, and ammonium are the major constituents of suspended airborne particulate matter in the remote areas of the arid region. Comparison of particulate matter chemistry and precipitation chemistry data at Big Bend National Park shows consistent features which indicate that the airborne alkaline soil material and NH3 largely neutralize the atmospheric acidic species of H2SO4 and HNO3. Given the similarity of the particulate matter composition and loading at the other monitoring sites, it is suggested that the trace chemical composition of precipitation will be similar in many remote regions of the Southwest.
"Stress" polycythaemia and peripheral facial palsy complications of severe hypertension.

. An 11-month-old boy had an episode of generalized convulsions followed by a right peripheral facial palsy, which resolved gradually within 3 weeks. Three months later he had another similar episode of convulsions followed by a left peripheral facial palsy. On both occasions it was found that he had polycythaemia. A careful physical examination discovered that the child had severe hypertension. Extensive laboratory investigations did not reveal a cause for his hypertension. Haematologic investigations showed that the polycythaemia was due to a contracted plasma volume as a result of the hypertension. The peripheral facial palsy most probably was due to a blood clot in the facial canal, below the origin of the nerve to m. stapedius, as audiograms were normal and lacrimation preserved. Control of the hypertension resulted in resolution of the facial palsy within 4 weeks and normal haematocrit readings within 6 weeks. It should be stressed that every patient with peripheral facial palsy should be examined for hypertension.
Race to dot.com and back: Lessons on E-business spin-offs and reintegration

This article describes the experiences of a firm that created a dot.com spin-off, only to reintegrate it with the parent organization the following year. Based on this case study, key considerations for creating and successfully managing an E-business spin-off are identified.
The autopsy: experience of a regional neonatal intensive care unit.

Summary Autopsy rates have declined steadily throughout the 1970s and 1980s. This trend, if not reversed, could negatively affect information provided to families as well as the training of physicians. In the 1980s, low autopsy rates among neonatal deaths, 50–72%, were attributed to limited parental understanding and to physicians’ attitudes. In the early 1990s, alternatives to the routine autopsy, such as limited endoscopic/needle autopsies, were widely popularised, and the physician's education about autopsy vigorously addressed. The effects of these efforts on autopsy rates in the latter part of the 1990s have not been well studied. The study population consisted of 643 infants who died at an Ohio, USA, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) between 1 January 1986 and 31 December 1998. Neonatologists obtained consent for autopsy. Information obtained from the computer database included birth hospital, gestational age, age at death, birth and death weight, race, sex, death year and maternal age, religion, gravidity and parity. The overall autopsy rate during the 13-year study period was 54% [95% CI 44.1%, 63.1%]. There was a trend towards progressive decrease in autopsy rates, 59% in 1986–89, 52% in 1990–94 and 47% in 1995–98 (P = 0.078). Autopsy was associated with increasing gestational age (P 2 compared with ≤2, 95% CI 0.36, 0.99], but not with other variables. Autopsy rates remain suboptimum and may be declining despite efforts at educating the medical and general community about its benefits. Among infants who die in the NICU, autopsy is more likely the more mature the infant at birth and the fewer children the mother has. Physicians need to seek autopsy more conscientiously, with consideration for the emotional well-being of the family, and for its potential diagnostic and research value to science.
A hyperboliod representation of the bone?marrow interface within 3D NMR images of trabecular bone: applications to skeletal dosimetry

Recent advances in physical models of skeletal dosimetry utilize high-resolution NMR microscopy images of trabecular bone. These images are coupled to radiation transport codes to assess energy deposition within active bone marrow irradiated by bone- or marrow-incorporated radionuclides. Recent studies have demonstrated that the rectangular shape of image voxels is responsible for cross-region (bone-to-marrow) absorbed fraction errors of up to 50% for very low-energy electrons (<50 keV). In this study, a new hyperboloid adaptation of the marching cube (MC) image-visualization algorithm is implemented within 3D digital images of trabecular bone to better define the bone–marrow interface, and thus reduce voxel effects in the assessment of cross-region absorbed fractions. To test the method, a mathematical sample of trabecular bone was constructed, composed of a random distribution of spherical marrow cavities, and subsequently coupled to the EGSnrc radiation code to generate reference values for the energy deposition in marrow or bone. Next, digital images of the bone model were constructed over a range of simulated image resolutions, and coupled to EGSnrc using the hyperboloid MC (HMC) algorithm. For the radionuclides 33P, 117mSn, 131I and 153Sm, values of S(marrow←bone) estimated using voxel models of trabecular bone were shown to have relative errors of 10%, 9%, <1% and <1% at a voxel size of 150 µm. At a voxel size of 60 µm, these errors were 6%, 5%, <1% and <1%, respectively. When the HMC model was applied during particle transport, the relative errors on S(marrow←bone) for these same radionuclides were reduced to 7%, 6%, <1% and <1% at a voxel size of 150 µm, and to 2%, 2%, <1% and <1% at a voxel size of 60 µm. The technique was also applied to a real NMR image of human trabecular bone with a similar demonstration of reductions in dosimetry errors.
The use of 18O/SIMS and electrochemical techniques to study the formation of the passive film on Fe-6Cr alloy

The passivation of Fe-6Cr alloy in pH 8.4 borate buffer has been investigated using a combination of electrochemical and surface analytical techniques, and the results have been compared to those previously obtained for pure Fe in the same solution. The electropolish film on Fe-6Cr could not be removed by galvanostatic cathodic reduction. Electrochemical results suggested that it was removed after a sufficiently vigorous potentiostatic cathodic treatment; they were confirmed using the 18O/SIMS technique. A potentiostatic treatment at −1.7 V was used to provide a reproducible, bare, starting surface. 18O/SIMS results indicated that the thickness of the passive film on Fe-6Cr was less than that on Fe. In addition, the Fe-6Cr exhibited a smaller potential range over which the anodic film was stable to air exposure than did pure Fe. A comparison of plots of thickness versus anodic charge for Fe and Fe-6Cr suggested that the composition of the passive film on Fe-6Cr is a function of potential, the film being more Cr-rich at lower anodic potentials.
Experimental determination of portlandite and brucite solubilities in supercritical H2O

Abstract Experimentally reversed portlandite and brucite solubilities were determined between 300° and 600°C and 1 to 3 kbar. In the portlandite runs the molality of Ca decreases with increasing pressure at constant temperature. For instance, at 2 kbar log molalities at 300°, 400°, 500° and 600°C give values of −2.34, −2.71, −3.18 and −4.18, respectively. At 500°C, pressures of 1, 2 and 3 kbar yield values of −4.40, −3.18 and −2.65. Distribution of species in solution can be calculated with the aid of data from Helgeson and co-workers assuming Ca ++ is the dominant Ca species. These calculated Ca concentrations are within ± 0.2 log units of experimental values in most cases. The solubility reaction is, in all likelihood: 2 H + + Ca ( OH ) 2 ↔ a 3 Ca ++ + 2 H 2 O . Although the computed pH's are close to 2 units greater than neutral, the solutions apparently contained no significant Ca(OH) + or Ca(OH) 2 sq . Concentrations of Mg in the brucite runs show a sigmoidal behavior at 2 kbar as a function of temperature with log molalities of Mg of −4.00, −4.28, −4.14 and −4.60 at 350°, 450°, 550° and 600°C, respectively. Values at 1 kbar are lower and decrease monotonically from 350° to 550°C. Based on available thermodynamic data for Mg ++ it appears that Mg(OH) + is the dominant Mg species in solution. The solubility reaction is proposed to be: H + + Mg ( OH ) 2 ↔ a 3 Mg ( OH ) + + H 2 O . With the aid of data of Helgeson and co-workers values of the equilibrium constant for H 2 O + Mg ++ ↔ a 3 Mg ( OH ) + + H + necessary to account for the measured solution compositions can be calculated. These calculations indicate Mg(OH) + becomes dominant at temperatures above 450°C at 2 kbar and above 360°C at 1 kbar at neutral pH.
Work-Life Balance and Cultural Change: A Narrative of Eligibility

Using Schein's (1992) framework of cultural change, this study examined two institutions of higher education that have achieved or attempted a cultural change to understand if and how to develop a culture of work-life balance for faculty and staff. The results identified a narrative of eligibility that arose from the discourse of faculty recruitment/retention, defining work-life for tenured and tenure-track faculty only. Moreover, situating work-life in campus traditions and histories revealed the espoused beliefs of work-life as a gender issue and perpetuated the socio-historical connection of women, pregnancy, and work-life.
PCR as a Confirmatory Technique for Laboratory Diagnosis of Malaria

We compared a nested PCR assay and microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood films for detection and identification of Plasmodium spp. in blood specimens. PCR was more sensitive than microscopy and capable of identifying malaria parasites at the species level when microscopy was equivocal.
Somatotopic organization of corticospinal and corticotrigeminal neurons in the rat

Abstract The method of retrograde axonal transport of horseradish peroxidase was employed to examine the topographic organization of corticospinal and corticotrigeminal neurons in the rat. In both the first somatic sensory (SI) area and the motor (MI) area of the cortex these labeled corticofugal neurons, all of which are found in layer V, are grouped in a well organized, somatotopic pattern. Corticospinal projections which extend to lumbar levels of the spinal cord originate only from neuronal somata located in the hindlimb representation of SI and MI. Those neurons projecting to the cervical enlargement have somata mainly in the forelimb representation of SI and MI and the ventrolateral part of the trunk representation within SI. Cortical projections to the rostral cervical spinal segments appear to originate mainly from the neck and posterior head representations of SI and MI, though this conclusion is clearest for SI. Finally, neurons located exclusively within the head, muzzle, and vibrissal representation of SI project to the spinal trigeminal complex. Corticofugal neurons near the frontal pole and in an area of cortex ventrolateral to SI also project to the spinal cord. The areas involved are probably homologous to the supplementary motor (MII) and second somatic sensory (SII) areas respectively. The corticospinal and corticotrigeminal projections from these areas also appear to be organized in a somatotopic manner. It is concluded that in the rat, as in other species, the corticospinal and corticotrigeminal neurons in the sensorimotor cortex are arranged somatotopically. The somatotopic pattern found correlates remarkably well with that determined by single unit, evoked potential and cortical stimulation techniques.
A survey of communication skills needed and communication methods used in the dissemination of development information

This article reports on the results of a survey conducted on the role of change agents in the communication development process. Change agents working with twenty non-profit development agencies were asked to evaluate the amount of time they spent communicating development information, the communication skills and methods used, and the roles they play as change agents in the development process.
Is there a difference in tipping in restaurant versus non‐restaurant service encounters, and do ethnicity and gender matter?

Purpose – To examine tipping propensities between the races and genders in restaurant and non‐restaurant service encounters.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected on tipping in restaurants and in other service encounters outside the restaurant from consumers across races and genders in the USA.Findings – Analyses showed that tipping in restaurants is different from tipping in other service encounters outside the restaurant industry. While tipping in restaurants may be norm driven, tipping in service encounters outside restaurants may be out of appreciation. It was also found that, unlike in restaurants, ethnicity does not matter in tipping in service encounters outside the restaurant. Furthermore, gender was found to make a marginal difference in tipping in service encounters outside the restaurant industry.Research limitations/implications – The findings are limited to the USA since the samples came from the USA alone. However, kindness and the ability to appreciate good deeds can transcend ge...
Labeling patterns in prodigiosin biosynthesis

Summary Biosynthesis of prodigiosin in Serratia marcescens was studied in two systems. In surface culture of mutant strains, isotope from proline-I- 14 C was incorporated via the non-volatile bipyrrole intermediate only. Pigment of a liquid-cultured wild-type strain was oxidized to maleimides. Isotope from proline-1- 14 C or methionine-methyl- 14 C appeared in methoxymaleimide only; unsubstituted maleimide was labeled by proline-5- 14 C but not by glycine-2- 14 C. Proline thus seems to enter prodigiosin intact, forming the unsubstituted pyrrole ring and the adjacent alpha-carbon of the methoxypyrrole ring.
Fractionation of cricket testis nuclei on gradients of colloidal silica for study of basic protein changes during spermiogenesis.

Abstract Nuclei isolated from testes of the house cricket were centrifuged in a gradient of colloidal silica with a density range of about 1.12 to 1.18 g/ml. Fractions were collected from the bottom to the top of the gradient, and the types of nuclei in them were classified by phase microscopy. The distribution of nuclear types in the gradient indicated relatively large increases in nuclear density during spermatogenesis, and that silica-gradient centrifugation can readily yield fractions enriched for nuclei of specific developmental stages needed to study basic protein changes during sperm development. Basic proteins could be extracted from nuclei spun through silica if they were washed with polyvinylpyrrolidone. The histones in different fractions of nuclei were analysed electrophoretically. Fractions of spermatocyte and early spermatid nuclei contained histones of the somatic types as their only basic proteins. Fractions with mixtures of mid-spermatid and earlier nuclei also yielded somatic histones primarily. Essentially pure samples of late spermatid nuclei were obtained. They lacked somatic histones. In one fraction of late nuclei, the spermatid-specific histones TH1 and TH2 were the major proteins present. In another, two additional histone-like components, not detected in previous studies, were also prominent.
Synthesis and assembly of magnetic nanoparticles for information and energy storage applications

This mini-review summarizes the recent advances in chemical synthesis and assembly of monodisperse magnetic nanoparticles for magnetic applications. After a brief introduction to nanomagnetism, the review focuses on recent developments in solution phase syntheses and assemblies of monodisperse Fe, CoFe, FePt and SmCo5 nanoparticles. The review further outlines the structural and magnetic properties of these nanoparticles for magnetic information and energy storage applications.
A novel microvascular approach to treatment of the high undescended testicle.

Abstract A 9-year-old boy presented for evaluation of bilateral nonpalpable testes. Despite a negative human Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) simulation test, laparoscopy found high undescended testicles on both sides. The authors report the unusual microvascular approach utilized to accomplish testicular transfer into the scrotum and discuss the diagnostic difficulties experienced in this case. J Pediatr Surg 37:1501-1503. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Temperature Profiles in a Cylindrical Model Food During Pulsed Microwave Heating

Cylindrical 2%-agar gel samples were heated by pulsed and continuous microwave applications. The total microwave application time of 3 min was maintained for all experiments. Sample temperature was measured at various depths along the radial dimension to experimentally determine the internal temperature profile as a function of heating time. A local hot spot was observed at the center portion of the sample during the continuous microwave application. This hot spot was less significant during pulsed microwave applications, especially when longer intermittent power-off times were employed. An implicit finite-difference model was used to estimate temperature profiles within the sample during microwave heating. The estimated temperature profiles matched the experimental values well. Estimer les profils de temperature a l'interieur des aliments et des materiaux biologiques soumis a des radiations d'hyperfrequence est tres critique pour le developpement de procedes. Les objectifs de cette etude sont d'estimer les profils de temperatures internes d'un modele alimentaire cylindrique (gelose 2%) chauffe par une application continue de microondes pulsees, et de valider l'estimation du modele par les donnees experimentales. Une application de 3 mn est effectuee pour toutes les experimentations et la temperature est mesuree a differentes profondeurs dans la dimension radiale du cylindre.
Small-molecule diagnostics based on functional DNA nanotechnology: a dipstick test for mercury

Detecting small molecular targets such as metal ions is just as important as detecting large molecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins, but the field of metal ion sensors has not yet been well developed. A good example of a metal ion target is mercury, which is highly toxic, widely distributed in the environment and affects human health. To develop a diagnostic platform for metal ions, we demonstrate that functional DNA-linked gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) can quickly and simply detect and quantify Hg2+ ions in aqueous solution, with high sensitivity and selectivity over competing metal ions. A linker DNA molecule containing thymine residues and sequences complementary to the DNA on the AuNPs was designed to aggregate DNA-functionalized AuNPs. When Hg2+ ions were introduced into this system, they induced the linker DNA to fold by forming thymine–Hg2+–thymine bonds. The linker DNA's folding caused the AuNPs to rapidly disassemble, which caused a discernable color change in the solution from purple to red. The limit of detection for Hg2+ in the present method is 5.4 nM, which is below the 10 nM maximum contaminant level defined by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for drinking water. Our results show that this Hg2+ detection method has excellent selectivity over other divalent metal ions (e.g.Pb2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, Co2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Mg2+, Ca2+, and Ba2+). This system has been converted into a dipstick test using lateral-flow devices, making it even more practical for point-of-care diagnostics.
Predispersal seed predation on five Piper species in tropical rainforest

Absolute number of seeds lost to predispersal seed predators and proportion of total seeds lost per infructescence were compared among five Costa Rican Piper species of different annual fecundities. Mean seed number and mean seed size in the five species were negatively correlated. The impact of predation on these species was inversely related to the number of seeds they produced. The two early successional species had very high fecundities, a combination of many seeds per infructescence, many infructescences per plant, and, in one species, year-round reproduction. Although seed predators destroyed as many or more seeds of these early successional species than they did of the less fecund, late successional species, this loss accounted for a relatively minor proportion (9 and 12%) of the seeds of the early successional species. In contrast, late successional species produced fewer, larger seeds in a smaller number of infructescences and were not continually in fruit. One of these species, which produced intermediate numbers of intermediately sized seeds, lost 30% of the seeds in each infructescence on average. Seed predators destroyed a larger proportion (65 and 76%) of the seeds per infructescence in the two species with fewest seeds per infructescence. High levels of insect damage in these late successional species caused many of their infructescences to abort prematurely. Taken together these factors resulted in annual fecundities several orders of magnitude smaller in shade-tolerant Piper species than the annual fecundities of shade-intolerant, early successional species. Seedlings of the two early successional species were common in large gaps and other sunny clearings and seedlings of the species with 30% seed loss were occasional, whereas no seedlings were seen of the two species with the highest proportional seed loss, suggesting that seed predation on the latter species may limit seedling recruitment.
Recombinant Human Activated Protein C for the Postexposure Treatment of Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever

Background. Infection of primates with Zaire ebolavirus (ZEBOV) leads to hypotension, coagulation disorders, and an impaired immune response and, in many ways, resembles severe sepsis. Rapid decreases in plasma levels of protein C are a prominent feature of severe sepsis and ZEBOV hemorrhagic fever (ZHF). Currently, recombinant human activated protein C (rhAPC [Xigris; Eli Lilly]) is licensed for treating human patients with severe sepsis who are at high risk of death. The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of rhAPC as a potential treatment for ZHF. Methods. Fourteen rhesus macaques were challenged with a uniformly lethal dose of ZEBOV; 11 of these monkeys were treated by intravenous infusion with rhAPC beginning 30-60 min after challenge and continuing for 7 days. Three control monkeys received sterile saline in parallel. Results. All 3 control monkeys died on day 8, whereas 2 of the 11 rhAPC-treated monkeys survived. The mean time to death for the rhAPC-treated monkeys that did not survive ZEBOV challenge was 12.6 days. The difference in survival was significant when the rhAPC-treated monkeys were compared with historical controls. Conclusions. The experimental findings provide evidence that ZHF and severe sepsis share underlying mechanisms and may respond to the same therapies.
Understanding Accessibility to Snap-Accepting Food Store Locations: Disentangling the Roles of Transportation and Socioeconomic Status

Research suggests that spatial inaccessibility to food stores adversely affects the health status of individuals living in predominantly low income or racial minority geographic areas. Previous studies examining geographic accessibility to food stores have focused on defining ‘food deserts’ using a variety of methods to map and quantify inaccessibility. However, the ability to afford and purchase healthy food must also be considered, and a scan of recent research reveals few studies that have accounted for the role of government assistance programs and how this might impact people’s accessibility. In this paper, we analyze specific at-risk populations’ accessibility to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) accepting locations using GIS-based estimates of specific personal transportation costs. In the U.S., the SNAP program attempts to alleviate food insecurity among low-income groups who qualify for assistance. We focus on understanding the relative accessibility of potentially vulnerable demographic populations as captured at the Census block group level and their potential ability to reach SNAP accepting food store locations. A mid-sized city in Florida is used as a test case. Network-based approaches are employed using GIS to gauge accessibility in terms of walking, automobile, and public transit modes. Ultimately, we seek to better understand possible differences in accessibility across socioeconomic groups, emphasizing characteristics such as vehicle ownership, race, and income, while recognizing the importance of the SNAP program. Findings suggest that higher income, high vehicle access, and white populations are more accessible to food opportunities than lower income, low vehicle access, and African American populations and potential policy implications of this work include whether certain transportation costs should be subsidized for individuals receiving SNAP benefits.
Theoretical investigation of sulfur and halogen-substituted carbocations

The stabilization of sulfur, fluorine and chlorine substituted carbocations was studied using hydride exchange reactions at the G2 level of theory; evaluation of the π bonding in these was performed using variation of the dihedral angle in the case of sulfur compounds and NRT and other bond order calculations for all compounds. Resonance contributors were estimated using the NRT method. Sulfur substitution stabilizes carbocations comparable to oxygen substitution covered previously. The stability of trisubstituted carbocations is enhanced over the oxygen analogues. Halogen substitution leads to destabilization, which is more extreme for the fluorine-substituted carbocations.
The oral fistula: Its diagnosis and treatment

Abstract 1. 1. A method of tracing a fistulous tract by means of a fine orthodontic wire is described. 2. 2. A differential diagnosis can be made, whether the fistula is of periapical, periodontal, periosteal, or bone involvement. 3. 3. The diagnostic importance of determining the derivation of the fistula in order that proper treatment may be instituted is stressed. 4. 4. Histologic examinations of fistulous tracts do not reveal the presence of epithelial tissue. Only granulation tissue is present. 5. 5. Clinical observations reveal that fistulas close spontaneously after the first or second treatment in an interval of one to two weeks. 6. 6. Surgical intervention is not necessary to eradicate a fistula. 7. 7. Because of the natural drainage created by a fistula, fewer complications (pain or swelling) follow treatment in cases of fistulization.
The role of dual-degree programs in colleges and schools of pharmacy: The report of the 2008-09 research and graduate affairs committee

According to the Bylaws of AACP, the Research and Graduate Affairs Committee shall provide assistance to the Association in developing its research, graduate education, and scholarship agenda. This assistance may include facilitating colleges and schools in formulating and advancing legislative and regulatory initiatives and nurturing collaborative activities with organizations sharing an interest in issues related to the pharmaceutical sciences. AACP President Victor Yanchick charged the committee with defining the role of dual degree programs within colleges/schools of pharmacy and asked the committee to consider what roles, if any, the Association should play in promoting, recruiting, and describing these programs to prospective students. Additionally, what role should the Association play in documenting the enrollments and graduations from these programs?