cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Targeting metabolic dependencies in pediatric cancer.

Purpose of review In an attempt to identify potential new therapeutic targets, efforts to describe the metabolic features unique to cancer cells are increasingly being reported. Although current standard of care regimens for several pediatric malignancies incorporate agents that target tumor metabolism, these drugs have been part of the therapeutic landscape for decades. More recent research has focused on the identification and targeting of new metabolic vulnerabilities in pediatric cancers. The purpose of this review is to describe the most recent translational findings in the metabolic targeting of pediatric malignancies. Recent findings Across multiple pediatric cancer types, dependencies on a number of key metabolic pathways have emerged through study of patient tissue samples and preclinical modeling. Among the potentially targetable vulnerabilities are glucose metabolism via glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, amino acid and polyamine metabolism, and NAD metabolism. Although few agents have yet to move forward into clinical trials for pediatric cancer patients, the robust and promising preclinical data that have been generated suggest that future clinical trials should rationally test metabolically targeted agents for relevant disease populations. Summary Recent advances in our understanding of the metabolic dependencies of pediatric cancers represent a source of potential new therapeutic opportunities for these diseases.
Meerwaarde en barrières van methode palliatieve thuiszorg

Palliatieve Thuiszorg (PaTz) is een methode om de palliatieve zorg in de eerste lijn te verbeteren via regionale registratie- en gespreksbijeenkomsten van huisartsen en wijkverpleegkundigen. Uit dit retrospectieve vragenlijstonderzoek blijkt dat PaTz-deelnemers betere samenwerking en deskundigheid in de palliatieve zorg ervaren. PaTz-deelname is geassocieerd met een toename in communicatie over levenseindeonderwerpen. De tijdsinvestering is een belangrijke barriere voor deelname. Om huisartsen verder te enthousiasmeren voor de PaTz-methode bevelen we nader effectonderzoek en een structurele vergoeding voor PaTz-deelname aan.
The association of age with glycaemic and cholesterol control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVE To find the risk of dyslipidaemia in diabetic patients of different age groups. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted at Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi, and Pakistan Ordnance Factories Hospital, Wah Cantonment, Pakistan, from February to July 2014, and comprised type 2 diabetic patients. Patients' body mass index was calculated and biochemical tests were performed for high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride and glucose. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. RESULTS Of the 40 patients, 17(42.5%) were men and 23(57.5%) women. The blood glucose control of younger age group (30-40 years) was 234±90.37mg/dl compared to older age group (60-70 years) with a mean of 173.4±54.2 mg/dl. Serum triglyceride levels of the youngest age group (30-40 years) were the highest with a mean value of 216±137 mg/dl. There was a significant association between age and triglyceride levels (p=0.03) , while the serum high-density lipoprotein level of this group was lowest with a mean of 29.6±13.4 mg/dl. CONCLUSIONS There was a significant association between triglyceride levels in the youngest age group of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Long-memory traces in $$\hbox {PM}_{10}$$ PM 10 time series in Athens, Greece: investigation through DFA and R/S analysis

This paper investigates the existence of chaos in concentration dynamics of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to $$10\,\upmu \hbox {m}$$ ( $$\hbox {PM}_{10}$$ ) in the greater Athens area (GAA), Greece. It reports findings on three 16-year $$\hbox {PM}_{10}$$ time series recorded by three different air pollution monitoring stations located in GAA and examines if critical fractal epochs with long memory exist. Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (DFA) and Rescaled Range (R/S) Analysis were used via sliding windows of approximately 1-month duration. In all $$\hbox {PM}_{10}$$ time series, several segments were found with critical fractal behaviour and hidden long-memory patterns. All these segments exhibited Hurst exponents above 0.75 and DFA exponents above 1.75. Twelve $$\hbox {PM}_{10}$$ segments with fractality and long memory were commonly identified by both techniques. In one case, long memory was identified concurrently across all three air pollution monitoring stations and in another case, across two stations. The importance of the agreement between two different and independent chaos-analysis techniques is discussed in association with the proper selection of threshold values. This is the second time to address chaos in $$\hbox {PM}_{10}$$ data series in GAA, and the first time to combine two widely accepted techniques, DFA and R/S analysis.
Immune Suppression of Glia Maturation Factor Reverses Behavioral Impairment, Attenuates Amyloid Plaque Pathology and Neuroinflammation in an Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an irreversible progressive neurodegenerative disorder recognized by accumulation of amyloid-plaques (APs) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and eventually loss of memory. Glia maturation factor (GMF), a neuroinflammatory protein first time isolated and cloned in our laboratory plays an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. However, no studies have been reported on whether anti-GMF antibody administration could downregulate neuroinflammation and attenuate amyloid pathology in AD brain. We investigated the potential effect of single dose of (2 mg/kg b.wt/mouse) intravenously (iv) injected with anti-GMF antibodyon cognitive function, neuroprotection, neuroinflammation and Aβ load in the brain of 9-month-old 5XFAD mice. Following 4 weeks of anti-GMF antibody delivery in mice, we found reduced expression of GMF, astrocytic glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and microglial ionizing calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) as well as improvement inneuroinflammatory response via inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) production and amyloid pathology in the cerebral cortex and hippocampal CA1 region of 5XFAD mice. Correspondingly, blockade of GMF function with anti-GMF antibody improved spatial learning, memory, and long-term recognition memory in 5XFAD mice. The present study demonstrates that the immune checkpoint blockade of GMF function with anti-GMF antibody coordinates anti-inflammatory effects to attenuate neurodegeneration in the cortex and hippocampal CA1 region of 5XFAD mouse brain. Further, our data suggest, that pharmacological immune neutralization of GMF is a promising neuroprotective strategy totherapeutically target neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in AD.
The First Reported Case of Hyperreninemic Hypoaldosteronism Due to Mucopolysaccharidosis Disorder.

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are rare genetic lysosomal storage disorders caused by a deficiency of enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of glycosaminoglycans. MPS-III, also known as Sanfilippo syndrome, is caused by a deficiency of one of four enzymes that catalyze heparan sulfate proteoglycan degradation. MPS-IIIA results from a deficiency of heparan sulfatase. The natural history of MPS-IIIA is marked by progressive neurodegeneration. A nine-year-old boy with developmental delay presented with progressive three-month functional decline culminating in emergency department presentation for lethargy and immobility. Laboratory workup revealed hepatic and renal failure, coagulopathy, pancytopenia, hypernatremia, and uremia requiring emergent dialysis. He developed hyperkalemia during the second month of hospitalization, the workup of which led to a diagnosis of hyperreninemic hypoaldosteronism with normal cortisol. Blood chemistry consistent with renal hypoperfusion prompted exploration of adrenal ischemia, specifically affecting the zona glomerulosa and sparing the zona fasciculata, to explain low aldosterone with normal cortisol. Heparan sulfate (HS) normally acts as a storage site for basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), a paracrine stimulator of aldosterone, but accumulates in MPS-IIIA due to deficiency of heparan sulfatase. If bFGF is sequestered in HS deposits in MPS-III, then paracrine signaling is reduced, accounting for the state of hypoaldosteronism. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of hyperreninemic hypoaldosteronism caused by an MPS disorder.
Multi-institutional collaborative mock oral (mICMO) examination for cardiothoracic surgery trainees: Results from the pilot experience

Abstract Objective The American Board of Thoracic Surgery–certifying examination is challenging for applicants. Single institutions have reported good results with a mock oral examination (MOE) for trainees. General surgery literature has demonstrated success with in-person multi-institutional MOE examinations. Due to small numbers of cardiothoracic training programs and significant geographic variability, we hypothesized that a multi-institutional, collaborative remotely administered MOE (mICMO) pairing faculty with trainees from different institutions would provide an important educational experience. Methods mICMOs were conducted via the Zoom virtual platform across 6 institutions. Descriptive results via post-experience survey were analyzed and reported. Results In total, 100% of trainees found mICMO useful. The majority would recommend to a peer, and 100% of faculty examiners found mICMO useful and would participate in another examination. Conclusions Faculty and trainees found the experience to be effective with respect to creating a high-stakes environment, educationally beneficial, and productive. These results support the continued use of mICMO and encourage expansion and collaboration with additional institutions across the country.
Unintended ICD discharge in a patient undergoing bladder tumor resection utilizing monopolar cautery and full‐body return electrode

Patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) devices frequently present for surgical procedures. If electrocautery is used, careful planning is needed to avoid inappropriate device function or device damage. Published consensus statements suggest that if the surgery is below the umbilicus, interference is typically minimal, and therefore it is not recommended to reprogram or disable the CIED. When these guidelines were published, full-body return electrodes were not commonly used in clinical practice, and therefore were not addressed in the recommendations. A 76-year-old male with a single chamber ICD underwent bladder surgery under general anesthesia. Monopolar cautery was used with a full-body return electrode. The patient had undergone a similar procedure multiple times prior utilizing a traditional thigh adhesive return electrode without any inappropriate ICD discharges. During the procedure, the patient's movement was noted with electrocautery use which was suspected to be an inappropriate discharge of his ICD. Device interrogation was performed confirming two antitachycardia pacing therapies and four defibrillations due to interference from the electrocautery. This case examines inappropriate ICD discharge related to interference from electrocautery when utilizing a full-body return electrode, despite a subumbilical location of surgery. Current consensus statement guidelines do not recommend device reprogramming or magnet used when surgery is below the umbilicus, however, these full-body return electrodes were not routinely used when these guidelines were published. Based on these results, the authors avoid full-body return electrodes in patients with CIEDs.
Genetic basis of chemical communication in eusocial insects

Social behavior is one of the most fascinating and complex behaviors in humans and animals. A fundamental process of social behavior is communication among individuals. It relies on the capability of the nervous system to sense, process, and interpret various signals (e.g., pheromones) and respond with appropriate decisions and actions. Eusocial insects, including ants, some bees, some wasps, and termites, display intriguing cooperative social behavior. Recent advances in genetic and genomic studies have revealed key genes that are involved in pheromone synthesis, chemosensory perception, and physiological and behavioral responses to varied pheromones. In this review, we highlight the genes and pathways that regulate queen pheromone-mediated social communication, discuss the evolutionary changes in genetic systems, and outline prospects of functional studies in sociobiology.
Feasibility of an Innovative Absorbable Ventilation Tube Designed to Provide Intermediate-Term Middle Ear Ventilation.

Myringotomy with ventilation tube placement is a common surgical procedure performed in children and adults to remove fluid buildup behind the tympanic membrane. However, retention of tubes beyond ...
Impacts of hydroclimatic variability on surface water and porewater dissolved organic matter in a semi-arid estuary

Abstract Hydroclimatic disturbances, like flooding, may greatly impact dissolved organic matter (DOM) composition in coastal waters by altering hydraulic gradients, groundwater residence times, and seafloor recirculation. This study provides new evidence regarding seasonal molecular DOM changes, in a submarine groundwater discharge influenced semi-arid estuary , across different hydroclimatic conditions: from flood peak (summer) to flood recession (fall), to typical dry (winter) to semi-wet (spring) conditions. DOM molecular characterization of seasonal surface- and pore- water samples was conducted using PPL solid phase extraction and UPLC-Orbitrap Fusion mass spectrometry, in positive mode. The proportion of CHO compounds present was lowest during flooding (34%), increased during fall flood recession (39%), and was highest under semi-wet baseflow (spring) conditions (42%). While CHON compounds increased from the flood and flood recession events (27% and 22%, respectively) to dry and semi-wet conditions (35% and 34%, respectively), sulfur and phosphorous containing compounds decreased (flood ~34% and flood recession ~6%; dry DOC and DON showed porewater influence. Baseflow characteristics were highly similar, with low saturation and high likelihood of rings or double bonds. It was evident that the influence of riverine inputs decreased within six months from the flood peak, which also showed the limited fresh riverine inputs outside extreme wet precipitation events when benthic fluxes became one of the major drivers of DOM characteristics. Thus, surface water DOM molecular characteristics showed significant responses to hydrologic changes , due to surface runoff inputs and benthic fluxes, which reflect changes in source and processing of OM within the estuary.
Room Temperature Excitonic Nonlinear Absorption in GaAs/AlGaAs Multiple Quantum Well Structures Grown by Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD)

Room temperature excitonic nonlinear absorption in multiple quantum wells (MQW) has great potential for making low-power high-speed optical switching devices. The required ultrathin multilayers have been grown by both molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Efficient, narrow-linewidth luminescence and low-threshold laser operation have been achieved in MQW’s with both techniques. However, virtually all of the reported work to date dealing with nonlinear optical properties has employed MBE-grown materials CHEMLA /1/, CHEMLA /2/, MILLER /3/. The implementation of arrays of photonic switches in optical computing and processing systems will require large area devices with uniformity that exceeds the capability of current technology. The potential advantages of MOCVD for large area, multiple wafer growth of these complex structures provides motivation to explore this technique for their fabrication. In this paper, the growth by MOCVD of GaAs/AlGaAs MQW structures that exhibit narrow-line, room temperature excitonic absorption are reported. We further describe the linear and nonlinear optical properties of these structures and discuss the implications of this work for the construction of large area arrays of switches.
Coordinated Control with Distributed Observations

A model for coordinated control with distributed observations is proposed. M observers answer the questions of one coordinator about their observations of a Markov process. The optimization problem is to dynamically select the optimal questions so as to maximize some performance function.
Trends and Determinants of Up-to-date Status with Colorectal Cancer Screening in Tennessee, 2002-2008

Background: Screening rates for colorectal cancer (CRC) are increasing nationwide including Tennessee (TN); however, their up‑to‑date status is unknown. The objective of this study is to determine the trends and characteristics of TN adults who are up‑to‑date status with CRC screening during 2002‑2008. Methods: We examined data from the TN Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System for 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2008 to estimate the proportion of respondents aged 50 years and above who were up‑to‑date status with CRC screening, defined as an annual home fecal occult blood test and/or sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy in the past 5 years. We identified trends in up‑to‑status in all eligible respondents. Using multivariable logistic regression models, we delineated key characteristics of respondents who were up‑to‑date status. Results: During 2002‑2008, the proportion of respondents with up‑to‑date status for CRC screening increased from 49% in 2002‑ 55% in 2006 and then decreased to 46% in 2008. The screening rates were higher among adults aged 65‑74 years, those with some college education, those with annual household income ≥$35,000 and those with health‑care access. In 2008, the respondents who were not up‑to‑date status with CRC screening included those with no health‑care coverage (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33‑0.63), those aged 50‑54 years (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.46‑0.82) and those with annual household income <$25,000 (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.52‑0.82). Conclusions: TN adults who are up‑to‑date status with CRC screening are increasing, but not across all socio‑demographic subgroups. The results identified specific subgroups to be targeted by screening programs, along with continued efforts to educate public and providers about the importance of CRC screening.
The Transition in Central and Eastern Europe: The Experience of Two Resident Representatives

This essay reflects the thoughts and experience of two staff members. Mark Allen has been a resident representative in both Poland (1990-93) and Hungary (1996-1998), two countries that have moved well along the road of transformation. Rick Haas was the resident representative in Belarus (1996-98), a country where much remains to be done. In some respects they had similar experiences, in others very dissimilar ones. In what follows they describe the circumstances they found themselves in, the advice they gave, the lessons they learned, and they recount some of their experiences as resident representatives. Copyright 2002, International Monetary Fund
Nanocarrier-based antioxidant therapy: promise or delusion?

Introduction: Oxidative stress has generally been recognized as an important factor in the pathogenesis of human diseases, making antioxidant therapy a plausible strategy to either prevent or treat human disorders. Yet so far, numerous antioxidant-based clinical trials aimed at developing clinically approved protocols have been disappointing and many reasons for their failure are being discussed, including the limited bioavailability of most antioxidants. To overcome the hurdles associated with the direct administration of antioxidant molecules, a variety of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems are being developed. All the strategies currently being explored, however, appear in our opinion to underappreciate the crucial role reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RO/NS) play in the regulation of the metabolome, as revealed by recent progress made in redox biology.Areas covered: We briefly review antioxidant-based clinical trials and discuss the functions of RO/NS as crucial intracellular messengers. ...
On Detecting the X-Ray Silhouette of a Damped Lyα System

We explore the possibility of resolving an image of a damped Lyα (DLA) system in absorption against an extended, diffuse, background X-ray source. Typical columns of neutral hydrogen in DLA systems are high enough to block out up to ~30% of the soft X-ray flux at an observed photon energy of 0.5 keV, and we find that ~1% of the area of extended X-ray sources at z 1 have their 0.5 keV flux reduced by at least 20% because of intervening DLA systems. We discuss the observability of such absorption and find that 300 photons per angular resolution element are required in the 0.3-8 keV band for its detection and in order to distinguish it from intrinsic surface brightness fluctuations. For the surface brightness of the currently known high-redshift extended X-ray sources, this requires an integration time of a few megaseconds on Chandra, if the maps are smoothed spatially to ≈2'' resolution. The exact required integration time depends on the DLA system's column density, metallicity, and, most strongly, its redshift. Current X-ray telescopes are likely to detect DLA systems with N < 1022 cm-2 only out to z ≈ 2.3. The availability of DLA systems with a suitably high column density for a silhouette detection is currently poorly known. We suggest that at low redshifts archival data of bright X-ray point sources may be useful in constraining the high-N end of the column density distribution. We briefly discuss an alternative strategy of searching for extended X-ray sources behind known DLA systems. Although with current X-ray telescopes the detections are challenging, they will be within the reach of a routine observation with a next generation X-ray telescope, such as the X-Ray Evolving Universe Spectrometer (XEUS) or Generation-X, and will deliver novel constraints on the nature of protogalaxies.
An automatic method for generating sense tagged corpora

The unavailability of very large corpora with semantically disambiguated words is a major limitation in text processing research. For example, statistical methods for word sense disambiguation of free text are known to achieve high accuracy results when large corpora are available to develop context rules, to train and test them.This paper presents a novel approach to automatically generate arbitrarily large corpora for word senses. The method is based on (1) the information provided in WordNet, used to formulate queries consisting of synonyms or definitions of word senses, and (2) the information gathered from Internet using existing search engines. The method was tested on 120 word senses and a precision of 91% was observed.
Graaskamp and the Definiton of Rigorous Research

James A. Graaskamp is renowned as one of the great “gurus” of the academic real estate profession, but he stimulated sharp differences of opinion between devotees and nonbelievers. The divided evaluations of Graaskamp’s contributions were more than personal and reflected deep divisions in the philosophy of science and knowledge, including the proper relations between science and profession and centering on the notion of rigor. His career was positioned at the transition from urban land economics to the field that became known as the unew urban economics.” This was a transition from inductive problem solving to a deductive scientific mode. Accompanying this transition were changing notions of rigor, shifting from emphasis on thoroughness to more focused, mathematical precision. Today, scholars are learning to embrace elements of both traditions. Placed within this broader intellectual history, Graaskamp’s contributions can be better understood.
Sensor-Based Online Process Fault Detection in Additive Manufacturing

The objective of this work is to identify failure modes and detect the onset of process anomalies in Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes, specifically focusing on Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF). We accomplish this objective using advanced Bayesian non-parametric analysis of in situ heterogeneous sensor data. The proposed method can ultimately lead to intelligent decision making and closed loop control in AM processes. Experiments are conducted on a desktop FFF machine (MakerBot Replicator 2X) instrumented with a heterogeneous sensor array including thermocouples, accelerometers, an infrared temperature sensor, and a real-time miniature video borescope. FFF process failures are detected online using the non-parametric Bayesian Dirichlet Process (DP) mixture model and evidence theory based on the experimentally acquired sensor data. This sensor data-driven defect detection approach facilitates real-time identification and correction of FFF process drifts with an accuracy and precision approaching 85% (average F-score). In comparison, the F-score from existing approaches, such as Probabilistic Neural Networks, Naive Bayesian Clustering, Support Vector Machines, and Quadratic Discriminant Analysis was in the range of 55% to 75%.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Motivation to Report Sensitive Behaviors on Surveys: Evidence From a Bogus Pipeline Experiment1

We examined the effects of a procedure designed to increase motivation to give accurate reports of socially sensitive behaviors frequently collected in surveys. Respondents were assigned at random to a bogus pipeline condition, in which they were told that inaccurate answers could be detected by a physiological recording device, or to a control condition. Respondents in both conditions were interviewed with a questionnaire that contained 19 items ranging from smoking and exercise frequency to number of sexual partners and illicit drug use. While the bogus pipeline procedure generally increased the reporting of sensitive behavior, in one instance it reduced the proportion of respondents who reported a socially desirable behavior (exercising), indicating that respondents were motivated to respond accurately and not just to report more occurrences.
Interpretation of the vibrational spectra of spinels

Abstract The vibrational spectrum of the spinel structure is treated by a factor group analysis. Four IR active and five Raman active bands are predicted in agreement with observation. The various types of ordering which can take place in the spinel structure are examined theoretically and the predicted changes in the infrared spectra are compared with literature data.
Radial instability of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb. A biomechanical investigation.

Human cadaver thumbs were tested to evaluate stability of the radial side of the MP joint. The contributions of the dorsal capsule, radial collateral ligament, accessory collateral ligament, and volar plate were examined with the joint in 0° and 30° of flexion. At 0° flexion, the average joint angulation increased 4° following isolated radial collateral ligament transection and 6° following isolated accessory collateral ligament transection. Release of both the accessory and radial collateral ligaments produced marked instability with joint angulation of at least 46°. The accessory collateral ligament helped to stabilize the extended MP joint. There were no significant contributions to stability from the dorsal capsule and volar plate when the collateral ligaments were intact. In the laboratory setting, radial-side instability of the MP joint of the thumb requires transection of both the proper and accessory radial collateral ligaments.
Optomechanical imaging system for breast cancer detection

Imaging studies of the breast comprise three principal sensing domains: structural, mechanical, and functional. Combinations of these domains can yield either additive or wholly new information, depending on whether one domain interacts with the other. In this report, we describe a new approach to breast imaging based on the interaction between controlled applied mechanical force and tissue hemodynamics. Presented is a description of the system design, performance characteristics, and representative clinical findings for a second-generation dynamic near-infrared optical tomographic breast imager that examines both breasts simultaneously, under conditions of rest and controlled mechanical provocation. The expected capabilities and limitations of the developed system are described in relation to the various sensing domains for breast imaging.
Transient and permanent cavitation in collagen gels by laser-induced thermoelastic pressure waves

Laser-induced cavitation inside model objects--gels with various collagen concentrations (10 - 20%) was studied. Cavitation was produced by thermoelastic pressure waves generated under stress-confined conditions. Gel slabs were irradiated in air by nanosecond laser pulses from both sides. Under these conditions bipolar pressure pulses with compressional and tensile phases were generated on each side of the gel slabs. Due to interaction of these pressure pulses transient compression and tension with the amplitude two times higher are produced in the middle of the gel slabs. The tensile phase can induced cavitation. Two types of cavitation were found: transient (with bubble collapse) and permanent leading to formation of stable bubbles. To measure threshold of transient and permanent cavitation two methods were proposed. Transient cavitation was detected by scattering of a He-Ne probe beam from the cavitation bubbles and observed only for gels with low collagen concentration. Transient cavitation threshold for the gel with 10%-concentration amounts 28 bar. Transient cavitation lasts for approximately 3 microsecond(s) (approximately 1 microsecond(s) --growth for cavitation bubbles and approximately 2 microsecond(s) --collapse). Permanent cavitation threshold and total volume of permanent bubbles were studied by optical microscopy. Permanent cavitation can be divided into three types: cavitation with the following collapse accompanied by rupture and formation of small residual cavitation bubbles for gels with low (approximately 10%) collagen concentration; cavitation without collapse and with coalescence resulting in large bubble formation for gels with approximately 14% collagen concentration; cavitation without coalescence for gels with high approximately 20% collagen concentration.
Evaluation of pharmacologically induced renal vasodilatation

Summary In 47 experiments on anesthetized dogs the renal effects of the following vasodilatory agents have been determined: acetylcholine, isopropylarterenol, bradykinin, kallidin, tetraethylammonium chloride (TEAC) and hexamethonium chloride. The results were compared under test conditions utilizing both direct renal arterial and systemic intravenous infusions. Vasoactive peptides such as kallidin and bradykinin and other agents such as acetylcholine and isopropylarterenol exerted transient increases in renal blood flow and decreases in renal resistance. When given systemically the specific renal effects were often secondarily obliterated. Differences among these drugs in alteration of urine flow rate, renal vein pO2 and renal venous pressure were compared and their physiological basis defined under the limits of the experimental setting. Renal hemodynamic alterations were produced during renal vasodilatation with two ganglionic blocking agents: TEAC and hexamethonium. Renal vasodilatation produced by systemic TEAC did not reduce renal blood flow in contrast to hexamethonium. Both agents reduced renal resistance longer than the other compounds employed. TEAC produced small increases in renal venous pO2 even in the absence of increased blood flow. Hexamethonium exerted a more pronounced augmentative renal hemodynamic effect when given into the renal artery and produced a greater fall in blood pressure by both routes.
Separation of homologous series of dinitrophenyl amines by thin-layer partition chromatography

Abstract A thin-layer partition system is described for separating the first 10 members of the dinitrophenyl derivatives of n-primary and the first five members of symmetrical secondary amines. Polyethylene glycol 400 and heptane are used as the stationary and mobile phases, respectively. A mixture of Celite 545 and deactivated magnesia is used as the support. Complete separation is effected in about 1 hour. Spraying the finished plate with a mixture of alcoholic KOH and nitromethane gives pink to lavender spots which permit the detection of 10−3μmole. A procedure is also described for the preparation of as little as 10−3μmole of a dinitrophenyl amine at the origin of a chromatoplate.
Relax, its only a Blap!

A 67 year old female with past history of breast cancer treated with lumpectomy and post surgical radiation presented for evaluation of new papules over the breast. She was sent by her oncologist to rule out breast cancer metastases to the skin. Punch biopsy of one of the papules showed dilated vascular spaces located in the papillary dermis lined with plump endothelial cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and a hobnail like appearance. The lumen of the vascular spaces was filled with pink amorphous eosinophilic material and mitoses were not present. The stroma contained a moderately dense lymphohistiocytic infiltrate with a variable number of plasma cells. Given these features a diagnosis of benign lymphangiomatous papules of the skin (BLAP) was made. BLAPs are well reported in both the general pathology and surgical literature but have yet to be publicized in the dermatopathological literature. It is important that dermatopathologists be aware of and able to differentiate this condition from other vascular lesions, most notably well differentiated angiosarcomas.
Practical method for full curved-wave theory analysis of experimental extended x-ray-absorption fine structure

Recent work has indicated that the single-scattering theory of x-ray absorption may be valid down to much closer to the edge than previously thought. It is in this region that the plane-wave approximation used in the standard extended x-ray-absorption fine structure analysis breaks down. Using a simple reformulation, we obtain modified backscattering amplitude and phase-shift functions which are similar to those of Teo and Lee but which use the full curved-wave theory for single scattering. These can then be used to analyze experimental data without any modification of those programs that presently use the functions of Teo and Lee. We also present results of using this method to compare experimental data with theoretical calculations for copper metal and NiO.
Optical design study for the 1-5 μm spectral band

The increased desire for multispectral infrared optical systems in compact packages significantly complicates the optical design of such systems. Add in the fact that multiple spectral bands are now imaging on the same detector, and the optical designs become quite challenging. The availability of materials over the desired multiple spectral bands that transmit well with the desired dispersion properties further complicates the design. Designing optics for good performance in the SWIR (1.0 - 2.0μm) and the MWIR (3.5 - 5.0μm) bands is an example where this challenge can be significant. Many of the preferred optical materials in the MWIR start to cut off prior to reaching 1μm, or have dispersions that are very difficult to control over this broad of a spectral band. Reflective designs are often limited because of packaging limitations. In this paper, multiple approaches are designed and examined to find the best balance between risk, performance, and size. The analyzed design studies include the use of traditional MWIR materials, harmonic diffractive lenses, and alternative materials that will require further development to be used in a tactical environment.
Distribution of contractible elements in 2-connected matroids

An element e in a 2-connected matroid M is contractible if its contraction M/e is 2-connected. The existence of contractible elements provides a very useful induction tool. In this paper, we study the distribution of contractible elements in simple 2-connected matroids.
Interdependence of pH and electrolyte concentration optima for acid deoxyribonuclease activity.

Abstract The pH and electrolyte requirements of mouse spleen acid DNase were studied by the methyl green and acid-soluble degradation product methods. The two determinants were found to be interdependent, so that with decrease in pH the concentration of electrolyte required for maximal activation increased. Analysis of this interdependence led to description of the combination of pH and electrolyte concentration which provides maximal possible activation. Different cations and anions differ in their activation effects; in general, bivalent cations are more effective than univalent, and univalent anions are more effective than bivalent. Within each group, systematic differences were observed.
Exact operator Hamiltonians and interactions in the droplet bosonization method

We derive the exact form of the bosonized Hamiltonian for a many-body fermion system in one spatial dimension with arbitrary dispersion relations, using the droplet bosonization method. For a single-particle Hamiltonian polynomial in the momentum, the bosonized Hamiltonian is a polynomial of one degree higher in the bosonic ``boundary'' field and includes subleading lower-order and derivative terms. This generalizes the known results for massless relativistic and nonrelativistic fermions (quadratic and cubic bosonic Hamiltonians, respectively). We also consider two-body interactions and demonstrate that they lead to interesting collective behavior and phase transitions in the Fermi sea.
Challenging the established diagnosis in psychiatric practice: is it worth it?

A major source of clinical errors is inaccurate diagnosis. The authors stress the importance of a thorough work-up in establishing a reliable diagnosis and the need to challenge and correct erroneous diagnoses to avoid inadequate response, reduced adherence to treatment, medication errors, increased
Influence of deposition parameters on diamond thermal plasma chemical vapor deposition with liquid feedstock injection

Abstract A global three-dimensional two-phase model for thermal plasma chemical vapor deposition with liquid feedstock injection developed in our group [1,2] has been used for a simulation of diamond production from acetone, ethanol and methane in argon-hydrogen plasmas. In this study, the influence of precursor type, gas and liquid flow rates, atomizing probe location and characteristics, and catalytic reactor chamber is discussed. The main finding is that deposition utilizing liquid precursors offers a distinct new deposition mechanism—liquid droplet penetration of the substrate boundary layer followed by a rapid droplet evaporation and a local increase in the surface deposition rates. Although the overall deposition rate does not exceed that of gasphase precursors, it is believed that further optimization will lead to a deposition rate increase.
RELIGIOUS FREEDOM: GOOD FOR WHAT AILS US?

Abstract People worldwide desire freedom to practice their religion, but religion is implicated in many of today's most urgent security problems. Multinational statistical data indicate that a bundled commodity of human freedoms, including religious freedom, augments socio-economic wellbeing. The protection of fair religious competition leads to less religious violence and energizes productive participation. Research supports the concept of a religious freedom cycle, wherein religious freedom prompts religious participation which fuels positive social and political outcomes as grievances are removed. These outcomes reinforce religion's role in a healthy society. Conversely, social and government restrictions can lead to religious violence, perpetuating those restrictions.
AARMS: The African American Relationships and Marriage Strengthening Curriculum for African American Relationships Courses and Programs

African American Relationships and Marriage Strengthening (AARMS), a curriculum that consists of 10 core areas, was developed to be used for relationships, premarital, and marriage education courses and programs. This paper provides an overview of the rationale for each component of the AARMS curriculum, with the specific goal of providing a framework and strategies for developing an African American relationships course that can be taught at the university or college level or for relationship, premarital, or marriage education for community and faith-based organizations.
Cosmopolitanism: Extending Our Theoretical Framework for Transcultural Technical Communication Research and Teaching

The effects of globalization on communication products and processes have resulted in document features and interactional practices that are sometimes difficult to describe within current theoretical frameworks of inter/transcultural technical communication. Although it has been recognized in our field that the old theoretical frameworks and assumptions are no longer adequate by themselves in the global workplace, to date no comprehensive theoretical framework has been suggested that is capable of encompassing hybrid characteristics of transcultural technical communication that emerge as a result of increased contact and connectivity. This article provides an interdisciplinary overview of Cosmopolitan theory and suggests that applying the cosmopolitan framework of Ulrich Beck to our research and the Dialogical Cosmopolitanism approach of Suresh Canagarajah to our pedagogical practices can move us towards a deeper understanding of global phenomena.
Medical Care for the Final Years of Life: “When you're 83, it's not going to be 20 years”

The case of an 83-year-old man who has had a fall-related injury and continues to be the sole caregiver for his wife who has dementia exemplifies a common situation that clinicians face--planning for the final years of an elderly individual's life. To appropriately focus on the patient's most pressing issues, the approach should begin with an assessment of life expectancy and incorporation of evidence-based care whenever possible. Short-term issues are focused on efforts to restore the patient to his previous state of health. Mid-range issues address providing preventive care, identifying geriatric syndromes, and helping him cope with the psychosocial needs of being a caregiver. Long-term issues relate to planning for his eventual decline and meeting his goals for the end of life. Unfortunately, the workload and inefficiencies of primary care practice present barriers to providing optimal care for older patients. Systematic approaches, including team care, are needed to adequately manage chronic diseases and coordinate care.
Determination of rosuvastatin in rat plasma by HPLC : validation and its application to pharmacokinetic studies

A specific, accurate, precise and reproducible high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed for the estimation of rosuvastatin (RST), a novel, synthetic and potent HMG-CoA inhibitor in rat plasma. The assay procedure involved simple liquid-liquid extraction of RST and internal standard (IS, ketoprofen) from a small plasma volume directly into acetonitrile. The organic layer was separated and evaporated under a gentle stream of nitrogen at 40 degrees C. The residue was reconstituted in the mobile phase and injected onto a Kromasil KR 100-5C18 column (4.6 x 250 mm, 5 microm). Mobile phase consisting of 0.05 m formic acid and acetonitrile (55:45, v/v) was used at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min for the effective separation of RST and IS. The detection of the analyte peak was achieved by monitoring the eluate using a UV detector set at 240 nm. The ratio of peak area of analyte to IS was used for quantification of plasma samples. Nominal retention times of RST and IS were 8.6 and 12.5 min, respectively. The standard curve for RST was linear (r2 > 0.999) in the concentration range 0.02-10 microg/mL. Absolute recoveries of RST and IS were 85-110 and >100%, respectively, from rat plasma. The lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) of RST was 0.02 microg/mL. The inter- and intra-day precisions in the measurement of quality control (QC) samples, 0.02, 0.06, 1.6 and 8.0 microg/mL, were in the range 7.24-12.43% relative standard deviation (RSD) and 2.28-10.23% RSD, respectively. Accuracy in the measurement of QC samples was in the range 93.05-112.17% of the spiked nominal values. Both analyte and IS were stable in the battery of stability studies, viz. benchtop, autosampler and freeze-thaw cycles. RST was found to be stable for a period of 30 days on storage at -80 degrees C. The application of the assay to determine the pharmacokinetic disposition after a single oral dose to rats is described.
Effects of surgical removal of interscapular brown adipose tissue on food intake and amphetamine anorexia

Adult male albino rats underwent surgical removal of interscapular brown adipose tissue (IBATX) or sham surgery. After recovery from surgery, daily 60-min feeding tests were conducted to evaluate the potential effect of IBATX on amphetamine anorexia. d-Amphetamine sulfate, at 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg/kg (ip), induced dose-dependent but comparable anorexia in both IBATX and sham-surgery control rats. The implications of these data for the notion that amphetamine induces satiety, in part, via stimulation of BAT thermogenesis are discussed.
Differential distribution and subcellular localization of ryanodine receptor isoforms in the chicken cerebellum during development.

Abstract The distribution of ryanodine receptor (RyR) isoforms was examined using isoform-specific monoclonal antibodies in the developing chicken brain, from E18 through adulthood, using light and electron microscopic immunocytochemistry. Monoclonal antibody 110F is specific for the α-skeletal muscle form of RyR, while monoclonal antibody 110E recognizes both the β-skeletal muscle and cardiac isoforms, but does not distinguish between the two. Significant differences in the distribution of the α- and β/cardiac forms were observed. Labeling for the α-form was restricted to cerebellar Purkinje neurons while the β/cardiac form was observed in neurons throughout the brain. A major finding was the presence of labeling for the β/cardiac in presynaptic terminals of the parallel fibers in the molecular layer and the mossy fiber terminals in the granular layer glomeruli in late development and during adulthood. Labeling for the β/cardiac, but not the α-form, underwent a major redistribution in the cerebellum during the course of development. At 1 day of age, β/cardiac labeling was present mainly in Purkinje neurons. From 1 day to 4 weeks, immunolabeling for the β/cardiac form gradually disappeared from Purkinje neurons, but increased in granule cells. Within the molecular layer, the labeling pattern changed from being primarily within Purkinje dendrites to a more diffuse pattern. Electron microscopic examination of the cerebellar molecular layer of 2-week-old chicks revealed that β/cardiac-labeling was mainly present in the axons and presynaptic processes of the parallel fibers. No developmental changes were observed in other brain regions. This study represents the first demonstration of ryanodine receptor immunoreactivity in presynaptic boutons and suggests that the ryanodine receptor may modulate neurotransmitter release through local regulation of intracellular calcium in the parallel fiber synapse.