cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improving cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) plant resistance to reniform nematodes by pyramiding Ren1 and Ren2

With 4 tables Abstract Reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) has become a major pest of cotton in the mid-south area of the United States. Resistance genes, Ren1 and Ren2 from Gossypium longicalyx and Gossypium aridum, respectively, have been identified and introduced into Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). We developed an F2 population of 184 progeny plants by crossing Ren2 -containing plants with a LONREN-2 plant that had the resistance gene Ren1. The F2 plants were evaluated for their resistance to reniform nematodes in a growth chamber. Microsatellite markers BNL2662 and BNL3279 were analysed to assist the selection of proper parental plants and F1 progeny and to study the segregation of the resistance genes in the F2 population. Our results suggested that Ren1 and Ren2 were duplicate genes with Ren1 residing on chromosome 11 (A subgenome) and Ren2 on chromosome 21 (D subgenome). F2 plants containing either Ren1 or Ren2 had significantly fewer nematodes than the susceptible Upland cotton genotype. No significant difference in nematode resistance was found between plants containing Ren1 and those having Ren2, indicating that these two genes may have similar resistance mechanisms. Plants containing both Ren1 and Ren2 appeared to have higher resistance than those with just one of the genes, and pyramiding these two genes may be a valuable tool to cotton breeders when managing this pest.
Current-Density Dependence on Ag eFUSEs With TiN Underlayers

Silver-based metallization has been studied for a potential application as an electrically programmable fuse (eFUSE) device by local Joule heating induced at high current densities. Three different line widths (3.8, 6.3, and 10 mum) are investigated by subjecting them to extremely high current-density conditions. Based on short median lifetime and the topography of the failure sites, the dominant failure mechanism in Ag eFUSEs with TiN barrier layer under these current densities is examined. Evaporation times have also been calculated to correlate the Ag properties with the median failure time. The barrier layer has an important role to play in determining the failure time in these types of eFUSEs.
An experimental study of sulfur and NOx fluxes over grassland

Three independent sulfur sensors were used in a study of sulfur eddy fluxes to a field of wheat stubble and mixed grasses, conducted in Southern Ohio in September, 1979. Two of these sensors were modified commercial instruments; one operated with a prefilter to measure gaseous sulfur compounds and the other with a denuder system to provide submicron particulate sulfur data. The third sensor was a prototype system, used to measure total sulfur fluxes. The data obtained indicated that the deposition velocity for gaseous sulfur almost always exceeded that for particulate sulfur; average surface conductances were about 1.0 cm s - ' for gaseous sulfur in the daytime and about 0.4 cm s - ' for particulate sulfur. The data indicate that nighttime values were probably much lower. The total sulfur sensor provided support for these conclusions. The boundary-layer quantity ln(z,/z,) was found to be 2.75 f 0.55, in close agreement with expectations and thus providing some assurance that the site was adequate for eddy flux studies. However, fluxes derived using a prototype NO, sensor were widely scattered, partially as a consequence of sensor noise but also possibly because of the effects of nearby sources of natural nitrogen compounds.
Effective translation of current dietary guidance: understanding and communicating the concepts of minimal and optimal levels of dietary protein

Dietitians and health care providers have critical roles in the translation of the dietary guidance to practice. The protein content of diets for adults can be based on the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 0.80 g/kg per day. Alternatively, the most recent Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for macronutrients reflect expanded guidance for assessing protein needs and consider the relative relation of absolute amounts of protein, carbohydrate, and fat to total energy intake in the context of chronic disease prevention. The Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) reflects the interrelation between the macronutrients and affords dietitians and clinicians additional flexibility in diet planning. Accounting for the caloric value of RDAs for carbohydrate and fat, "flexible calories" emerge as an opportunity to create varied eating plans that provide for protein intakes in excess of the RDA but within the AMDR. Protein Summit 2.0 highlighted the growing body of scientific evidence documenting the benefits of higher protein intakes at amounts approximating twice the RDA, which include promotion of healthy body weight and preservation of lean body mass and functional ability with age. The essential amino acid (EAA) density of a food also emerged as a novel concept analogous to "nutrient density," which can enable the practitioner to calculate the caloric cost associated with a specific protein source to attain the daily requirement of EAAs to accomplish various health outcomes because these indispensable nutrients have a significant role in protein utilization and metabolic regulation. Tailoring recommendations unique to an individual's varying goals and needs remains a challenge. However, flexibility within the application of DRIs to include consideration of the AMDR provides a sound framework to guide practitioners in effective translation of current dietary guidance with a specific regard for the documented benefits of higher protein intakes.
Complement inhibition attenuates brain edema and neurological deficits induced by thrombin

The present study examined whether thrombin activates the complement cascade in the brain and whether N-acetylheparin, an inhibitor of complement activation, attenuates brain injury induced by thrombin. There were three sets of studies. In the first set, rats had an intracerebral infusion of either five-unit thrombin or a needle insertion. Brains were sampled at 24 hours for Western blot analysis and immuno-histochemistry. In the second set, rats received either five-unit thrombin+saline, five-unit thrombin+25 µg N-acetylheparin or five-unit thrombin+100 µg N-acetylheparin infusion. Brains were sampled 24 hours later for water content measurement. In the third set, rats received either five-unit thrombin+saline or five-unit thrombin+100 µg N-acetylheparin. Behavioral tests sensitive to unilateral striatal damage were carried out for two weeks. Western blotting demonstrated that complement C9 and clusterin levels increase 24 hours after thrombin infusion (P<0:01). Both C9 and clusterin positive cells were found around the injection site. High-dose (100-µg) but not low-dose (25-µg) N-acetylheparin attenuated thrombin-induced brain edema (81.5 ± 0.4% vs. 83.7 ± 0.3% in the vehicle, P<0:05). Behavior was also significantly improved by N-acetylheparin (P<0:05). In conclusion, thrombin-induced edema formation and neurological deficits were both reduced by N-acetylheparin. This suggests that inhibition may be a novel treatment for the thrombin-induced brain injury that occurs in intracerebral hemorrhage.
Effect of selective gastric intrinsic denervation on gastric motility in turkeys

Abstract The effect of selectively denervating portions of the myenteric plexus on gastroduodenal (GD) motility was examined in domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). The neural network beneath the lateral or medial side of the isthmus between the glandular stomach and the muscular stomach was denervated by application of 1% benzalkonium chloride (BC). Image intensification radiology (IIR) was performed postsurgically on the research subjects to observe GD contractions and to analyze aberrations. Two trials were performed. The first employed temporal controls by checking GD motility in all treated birds before and after BC had taken effect. The second trial controlled for the trauma associated with the surgical procedure by applying 0.9% saline solution in lieu of BC in four turkeys. The normal GD contractions sequence as confirmed by these controls was thin muscle contraction, duodenal contraction and outflow, thick muscle contraction, and, finally, glandular stomach contraction. Ablation of the nerves beneath the medial or lateral side of the isthmus resulted in the same abnormality in GD motility, namely a lack of thick muscle contractions. These results indicate that the entire myenteric plexus associated with the isthmus must remain intact for proper GD motility to take place. Furthermore, it can be inferred that initiation and regulation of the thick muscle pair acts via nerves encircling the isthmus. Secondary regulatory mechanisms controlling GD motility may exist and should be tested through future investigation.
Interactive patterns and conceptual convergence during student collaborations in science

This study examines cognitive and social processes in group interactions that shape collaborative learning in science classrooms. Three small groups of students were observed while working collaboratively on explaining the burning of a candle under a jar. The learning environment served as a context for examination of conceptual convergence, a process wherein students construct shared meanings for science concepts through gradual refinement of ambiguous, partial meanings presented in group space. Despite engaging in the same activity with very similar instructional supports, the groups displayed very different patterns of interaction and achieved varied degrees of conceptual convergence. One group collaborated effectively and displayed evidence of individual conceptualizations of science content converging to establish a more well-informed shared conceptualization. The other groups were not as successful, each for unique reasons. Problems demonstrated in one group included lack of self-confidence, poor monitoring of group learning, and active avoidance of potentially fruitful conceptual conflicts. The other group struggled primarily because of a combative social context. The major educational significance of this study was the identification of social context and interactive patterns, group approaches to conceptual conflicts, and instructors' roles in collaborative activities as crucial aspects of productive group learning. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 45: 634–658, 2008
Surface-Thin Film Analysis by Ultrasoft X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy

Abstract The use of x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XFS) using hard x-rays (λ 10 A). This finding is particularly surprising since, as discussed below, one could expect USXFS to be able to characterize surface-thin films with t values below 103A.
Translating Marie NDiaye

he forays of novelists into the world of theatre can have mixed results. For every Beckett, Genet, and Handke there are a score of others whose efforts remain page-bound, never finding their way onto the stage. To be sure, the transition from fiction to drama is almost never graceful; it requires a thorough reorientation of the writer's imagination to accommodate the rigors and freedoms of theatre. While adjustments from one fictional landscape to another require the practiced skills of a long-distance traveler-differences in time, language, culture, and habit exert their own considerable demands on both reader and writer-moving between genres can seem like the equivalent of an interstellar voyage: dangerous, fascinating, and subject to an entirely foreign gravitational force.
An anchored restriction-mapping approach applied to the genetic analysis of the Anopheles gambiae malaria vector complex 1.

*Laboratory of Malaria Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and TDepartment of Biology, Yale University We introduce here a simple approach for rapidly determining restriction maps for a number of regions of a genome; this involves “anchoring” a map with a rare restriction site (in this case the seldom-cutting EagI) followed by partial digestion of a frequent-cutting enzyme (e.g., Sau 3A). We applied this technology to five species of the Anuphefes gambiae complex. In a single Southern blot we obtained about a 1%kb restriction map each for the mtDNA, rRNA gene, and a scnDNA region for each of five species. Phylogenetic analyses of these regions yield trees at odds with the more traditional chromosome inversion-based trees. The value of the approach for systematic purposes is the ease with which several large, independent regions of the genome can be quickly assayed for molecular variation.
LC/ESI-MS/MS detection of FAs by charge reversal derivatization with more than four orders of magnitude improvement in sensitivity

Quantitative analysis of fatty acids (FAs) is an important area of analytical biochemistry. Ultra high sensitivity FA analysis usually is done with gas chromatography of pentafluorobenzyl esters coupled to an electron-capture detector. With the popularity of electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometers coupled to liquid chromatography, it would be convenient to develop a method for ultra high sensitivity FA detection using this equipment. Although FAs can be analyzed by ESI in negative ion mode, this method is not very sensitive. In this study, we demonstrate a new method of FA analysis based on conversion of the carboxylic acid to an amide bearing a permanent positive charge, N-(4-aminomethylphenyl)pyridinium (AMPP) combined with analysis on a reverse-phase liquid chromatography column coupled to an ESI mass spectrometer operating in positive ion mode. This leads to an ∼60,000-fold increase in sensitivity compared with the same method carried out with underivatized FAs. The new method is about 10-fold more sensitive than the existing method of gas chromatography/electron-capture mass spectrometry of FA pentafluorobenzyl esters. Furthermore, significant fragmentation of the precursor ions in the nontag portion improves analytical specificity. We show that a large number of FA molecular species can be analyzed with this method in complex biological samples such as mouse serum.
Proximal tibial fractures: Current treatment, results, and problems

Fractures of the proximal tibia can present unique treatment challenges. Reduction and stability are dependent on control of the proximal fragment. Soft tissue compromise can present as a component of the injury, or can result from surgical dissection. Treatment protocols aimed at addressing these issues have included closed treatment, external fixation, intramedullary nailing, and plating. The issues of accurate reduction, proximal fragment stabilization, and soft tissue protection are discussed with an emphasis on the individual challenges of each of the treatment modalities.
Evaluation of Spillover and Partial Volume Effect Compensation for Quantitative Accuracy in Cardiac SPECT Perfusion Imaging

The aim of the study was to determine the accuracy with which spillover and the partial volume effect (PVE) compensation can restore the local concentration of activity in the myocardium during cardiac perfusion imaging when co-registered high-spatial resolution anatomical information from a state-of-the-art CT system is available. We evaluated a voxel-specific template-projection-reconstruction algorithm which uses a 3D binary image of each organ segmented from aligned anatomical maps to generate projections that modeled the physical characteristics of the gamma camera excluding Compton scatter. Voxel specific compensation for spillover is obtained by subtracting from the voxel count in the heart the spillover fraction obtained from reconstruction of the neighboring structures times the average count in each neighboring structure. The counts in the heart are then divided by the voxel specific recovery coefficient for the heart obtained from the reconstruction of the projections of the heart anatomy, weighted by the fractional presence of an organ in the emission voxels determined by the anatomy. Investigation was made of MCAT phantoms with a normal LV distribution, and also with impaired blood flow in the inferior and anterior walls of the LV. The rescaled block iterative (RBI) reconstruction of data included compensation for attenuation, Compton scatter, and distance dependent resolution. Circumferential profiles were used to evaluate the accuracy of the method. We observed a significant improvement in the accuracy of the estimated concentration in reconstructed slices of normal myocardium. In areas of impaired blood flow (decreased concentration), the algorithm failed to remove the bias created by the spillover of activity from within the myocardial wall. A further bias is introduced when the areas of impaired flow also exhibit a decrease in motion and thickening in the CT slices. Spillover and partial volume compensation evaluated in this study is an excellent method to accurately represent an increase in activity concentration compared to background (hot spot imaging), but there is a residual bias when the activity concentration is lower than its immediate surroundings (cold spot imaging).
An X-ray mapper for the Mu2e experiment

Abstract We report on the construction and performance of a scanner using a collimated x-ray beam to find the positions of wires, straws, slots and spheres. The technique is based on measuring the transmission rate of the beam, and their positions can be determined ~25 μm accuracy. The spheres or slots attached to the detector can also be optically surveyed externally to transfer the coordinates of wires and straws to other detector systems. The scanner was developed for the Mu2e straw tracker but may have a wide range of applications.
High intensity anticoagulation for cardioversion of atrial arrhythmias? The shocking truth.

Direct current (DC) cardioversion is now a common, accepted, outpatient procedure that treats a growing number of patients with symptomatic atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation (AF), but complications can occur. Stroke following cardioversion is the most feared consequence of this beneficial and
Data Bases and Statistical Systems: Crime Measurement

In this article, the various sources used to measure criminal victimization will be examined including police report data compiled by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, surveys conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, and other surveys sponsored by the National Institute of Justice and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. After the basic differences across these types of data collection are examined, several crimes that are more difficult to measure will be examined including rape and sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and stalking.
Comments About Phase-Only Holograms

A photograph records the light amplitude, a hologram the amplitude and the phase, and a so-called “phase-only hologram” contains only the phase, not the amplitude, of the wavefront. Sometimes it is easier to make a phase-only hologram rather than an ordinary hologram. Here we comment about the quality of an image which is reconstructed from a phase-only hologram.
Abstract W P403: Interleukin-6 Is Regulated By Let7 In Ischemic Stroke

Background: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is increased in ischemic stroke and associated with increased mortality and morbidity. microRNA are important regulators of inflammation and may be central to IL-6 expression in stroke. In this study we evaluated the regulation of IL-6 by microRNA in ischemic stroke. Methods: IL-6 and microRNA were evaluated in circulating leukocytes of patients with ischemic stroke (n=106) and vascular risk factor controls (n=106). In a culture model of monocyte activation following stroke, the effect of let7 transfection on IL-6 expression was evaluated. Results: In patients with ischemic stroke let7 microRNA was found to be decreased compared to risk factor controls (corrected p<0.01, fold change<1.4). This decrease correlated with an increase in IL-6 gene expression. In culture, stimulated monocytes expressed increased IL-6. Transfection of let7 mimic decreased IL-6 expression, whereas let7 inhibitor increased IL-6 expression. This effect was dependent on toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) ac...
Division of labor among workers ofPolistes metricus (Hymenoptera: Vespidae): Laboratory foraging activities

Division of labor in foraging activities of workers was studied in laboratory colonies ofPolistes metricus. Individual foraging activity was strongly affected by the foraging activities of nestmates. Usually the oldest worker of a colony became the principal forager. Other workers, in the presence of an active forager, did relatively little foraging regardless of age. Relatively inactive workers showed increased foraging rates when the older, active foragers were either removed or became less active with age, or when colony needs were greater (as evidenced by a marked rise in larval numbers). There was no temporal change in distribution of foraging tasks. The only indication of permanent task specialization was for paper collecting. All workers foraged for prey, water and honey but collection of paper was confined almost exclusively to the oldest workers of the colony.
Direct Laser Writing of Graphene Electronics

One of the fundamental issues with graphene for logic applications is its lack of a band gap. In this issue of ACS Nano, Shim and colleagues introduce an effective approach for modulating the current flow in graphene by forming p-n junctions using lasers. The findings could lead to a new route for controlling the electronic properties of graphene-based devices. We highlight recent progress in the direct laser synthesis and patterning of graphene for numerous applications. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities in translating this remarkable progress toward the direct laser writing of graphene electronics at large scales.
POLLEN AND GENE DISPERSAL: THE INFLUENCES OF COMPETITION FOR POLLINATION

Pollinators that forage indiscriminately can transfer pollen from one species to another, reducing the amount that reaches conspecific flowers. I present evidence that the presence of another plant species visited by the same pollinators can also reduce pollen dispersal distances and outcrossing. This has the potential to influence gene flow and reproductive success. Pollen carryover and movement patterns were measured for the shared insect pollinators of Stellaria pubera and Claytonia virginica in North Carolina. Bee flies deposited similar amounts of Stellaria pollen on a series of pistillate Claytonia flowers as on a series of pistillate Stellaria flowers. In arrays of potted plants, flies and solitary bees visited most flowers on a plant before leaving and then flew to a nearby plant chosen independently of species; 95% of moves were to one of 12 nearest neighbors. These measures of pollen carryover and movement patterns were used in a set of computer simulations to predict pollen dispersal distances. The simulations suggested that C. virginica substantially reduces outcrossing and pollen flow in S. pubera. These predictions were tested by tracking dye movement from anthers in populations of potted plants. Addition of C. virginica reduced the mean squared distance moved by dye to receptive S. pubera flowers by 23% and reduced the amount of dye moved by 51%. The estimated pollen component of gene flow was also much lower in a natural population of 5. pubera mixed with C. virginica than in the synthetic single-species populations.
Electrodynamic pressure modulation of protein stability in cosolvents.

Cosolvents affect structural stability of proteins in aqueous solutions. A clear understanding of the mechanism by which cosolvents impact protein stability is critical to understanding protein fol...
Marmosets: A Neuroscientific Model of Human Social Behavior

The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) has garnered interest recently as a powerful model for the future of neuroscience research. Much of this excitement has centered on the species' reproductive biology and compatibility with gene editing techniques, which together have provided a path for transgenic marmosets to contribute to the study of disease as well as basic brain mechanisms. In step with technical advances is the need to establish experimental paradigms that optimally tap into the marmosets' behavioral and cognitive capacities. While conditioned task performance of a marmoset can compare unfavorably with rhesus monkey performance on conventional testing paradigms, marmosets' social behavior and cognition are more similar to that of humans. For example, marmosets are among only a handful of primates that, like humans, routinely pair bond and care cooperatively for their young. They are also notably pro-social and exhibit social cognitive abilities, such as imitation, that are rare outside of the Apes. In this Primer, we describe key facets of marmoset natural social behavior and demonstrate that emerging behavioral paradigms are well suited to isolate components of marmoset cognition that are highly relevant to humans. These approaches generally embrace natural behavior, which has been rare in conventional primate testing, and thus allow for a new consideration of neural mechanisms underlying primate social cognition and signaling. We anticipate that through parallel technical and paradigmatic advances, marmosets will become an essential model of human social behavior, including its dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disorders.
Effective Treatments of Late-Life Depression in Long-Term Care Facilities: A Systematic Review

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to identify effective treatment to manage the depression of older residents.Methods:Using Klein and Bloom’s criteria, we analyzed the number of subjects, desig...
The Effect of 900 MHz Microwave on Heart of Chick Embryos

Objective To study the biological effect induced by microwave(900 MHz)on heart rate,SOD activity and mRNA level of HSP70 of chick embryos. Methods 28 chick embryos were randomly and evenly divided into control group and exposure group. Embryos in exposure group were irradiated under 900 MHz microwave 4 h per day from day 5 to day 20 of the incubation of the embryo. Electrocardiogram(ECG)of chick embryos was measured by a noninvasive technique. The SOD activity and mRNA level of HSP70 of heart tissue of the embryo were examined on day 13 and day 20. Results Compared to the control group,heart rate of exposure group had no significant change on the 15th day,but degraded on the 20th day. On the 13th day,compared to the control group,the SOD activity in the exposure groups decreased significantly and the mRNA level of HSP70 increased. On the 20th day,the SOD activity and mRNA level of HSP70 were not significantly changed,compared to the control group. Conclusion Microwave could induce stress reaction and have effect on heart rate of chick embryo.
The contingent effects of board independence and audit committee effectiveness on internal audit reliance: a pre-SOX perspective

The period leading up to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) witnessed criticism levelled against the auditors regarding audit failures, but limited research exists exploring the positive effects of auditor judgements during the pre-SOX period. This paper explores one such context by examining whether external auditors' judgements relating to internal audit were affected by the audit committee governance strength and accounting expertise, and the level of board independence. Results indicate that the greater the governance strength and accounting expertise of the audit committee, the greater the assessed quality of internal audit, and the greater the overall level of coordination between internal and external audit. Findings also indicate that the positive effects of audit committee characteristics on the external audit process may be attenuated by board independence. Collectively, findings reveal the contingent effects of board independence and audit committee governance and accounting expertise on the relationship between internal and external auditors.
To Shock or Not to Shock: That is the Question; Is There an Answer?: Answers to the January 2011 Journal Club Questions

Editor’s Note: You are reading the 19th installment of Annals of Emergency Medicine Journal Club. The questions and the article they are about (Stiell et al. Ann Emerg Med. 2011;57: 13-21) were published in the January 2011 issue. Information about journal club can be found at http://www.annemergmed.com/content/journalclub. Readers should recognize that these are suggested answers. We hope they are accurate; we know that they are not comprehensive. There are many other points that could be made about these questions or about the article in general. Questions are rated “novice,” ( ) “intermediate,” ( ) and “advanced” ( ) so that individuals planning a journal club can assign the right question to the right student. The “novice” rating does not imply that a novice should be able to spontaneously answer the question. “Novice” means we expect that someone with little background should be able to do a bit of reading, formulate an answer, and teach the material to others. Intermediate and advanced questions also will likely require some reading and research, and that reading will be sufficiently difficult that some background in clinical epidemiology will be helpful in understanding the reading and concepts. We are interested in receiving feedback about this feature. Please e-mail journalclub@acep.org with your comments.
Mass spectrometric evidence for demethylated homologs occurring at trace levels in trichothecene standards.

Compounds with molecular weights 14 a.m.u. lower than their corresponding parent compounds have been detected in trichothecene standards during gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. The positive ion chemical ionization mass spectra indicated that these compounds were trichothecene homologs lacking a methyl group on the isovaleroxy substituent at the C-8 position. Demethylated derivatives have been found in the standards of T-2, HT-2, and T-2 triol prepared in our laboratory and those obtained from a commercial source.
Solid solution in the celadonite family; the new minerals ferrosceladonite, K2Fe (super 2+)2Fe (super 3+)2Si8O20(OH)4, and ferroaluminoceladonite, K2Fe (super 2+)2Al2Si8O20(OH)4

Celadonite-family mica minerals occurring in the Triassic Gavenwood Tuffs, Murihiku Supergroup, Hokonui Hills, Southland, New Zealand, have been analyzed by XRD, TEM, AEM, and EMPA. Packets a few unit cells to several hundred nanometers thick are intimately intergrown with chlorite, berthierine, and corrensite. Analyses of homogeneous packets, combined with analyses from the literature, imply complete or nearly complete solid solution between end-members of the celadonite family defined by octahedral exchange involving MgFe (super 3+) , Fe (super 2+) Al, Fe (super 2+) Fe (super 3+) , and probably MgAl, and show that EMPA analyses are commonly contaminated by mixtures. Two new minerals of the celadonite family are defined: ferroceladonite, K 2 Fe (super 2+) 2 Fe (super 3+) 2 Si 8 O 20 (OH) 4 , and ferroaluminoceladonite, K 2 Fe (super 2+) 2 Al 2 Si 8 O 20 (OH) 4 . The former occurs largely as submicrometer ( 3 . The calculated densities are 3.045 (3) and 2.928 (2) g/cm 3 for ferroceladonite and ferroaluminoceladonite, respectively. Celadonite mineral-aluminous clay mineral and celadonite mineral-Ca-rich zeolite assemblages of the zeolite facies are related to illite-chlorite+ or -pumpellyite assemblages of higher grade by dehydration reactions, not necessarily under closed-system conditions.
Government 101: how an idea becomes law.

1. James T Griffith, PhD CLS(NCA)[⇑][1] 1. is Chancellor Professor and Chairperson; Department of Medical Laboratory Science at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 1. Address for correspondence: James T Griffith PhD CLS(NCA), Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth,285 Old Westport Road, Dartmouth Massachusetts 02747-2300. (508) 999-8328, (508) 999-8418 (fax). JGriffith{at}UMassD.edu The passing of a law is frequently accompanied by media attention and citizen apathy. In today's healthcare delivery situation, we should understand how a bill becomes law and what happens to the idea that engenders that process. Laws arise from the recommendations of ordinary citizens, but the recommendations follow a complicated process developed by the writers of our constitution to prevent abuses. Laws begin as ideas, they become bills considered by the legislature, they are expanded and enforced by the executive branch, and they are further interpreted by the judiciary branch. The laws governing healthcare issues are particularly complex, as most arise from the state legislatures. “What were ‘they’ thinking of when ‘they’ passed this law?” How often has one heard this question? In fact, every law represents considerable thought, and many begin with citizens' recommendations. Where do laws come from? Virtually all laws begin as individual ideas, but often the citizen who started the idea may say, “How did my idea end up looking like that ?” The US republic has at its base the Greek concept of democros —the people. This means: In the end, whether we are to be a country reflective of the ancient Roman meaning of democros —the mob —or of Thomas Paine's “the great populist wellspring of common sense” is up to us, or up to you .1 Moving through this system is both our duty and opportunity, as decreed in the 1641 Massachusetts… [1]: #corresp-1
Determination of trans fat in edible oils: current official methods and overview of recent developments

The adverse effects of dietary trans fat on biomarkers of chronic disease are well documented. Regulatory authorities in many countries have enacted legislation aimed at reducing trans fat content of their food supplies, either by requiring trans fat labeling on pre-packaged foods or by limiting the amount of trans fat in oils used for food production. Increased use by the food industry of oils with a low trans fat content necessitates reevaluation of official methods used by the food industry and regulatory agencies for the determination of total trans fat. Attenuated total reflection–Fourier-transform infrared (ATR–FTIR) spectroscopy and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC–FID) are two techniques used in official methods approved by method-endorsing organizations, for example AOAC International and the American Oil Chemists’ Society. Here, we review current official ATR–FTIR and GC–FID methods for determination of trans fat, with a focus on factors affecting quantification of low levels of trans fat. We include new data on method performance that have only recently become available, and provide an overview of notable recent developments in lipid analysis (e.g. IR spectroscopy procedures, ionic-liquid GC columns, and multidimensional chromatographic techniques) that have the potential to substantially improve the accuracy, sensitivity, and/or speed of trans fat determination.
Adherence to Insulin Pump Behaviors in Young Children With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

Background:Parents of young children are responsible for daily type 1 diabetes (T1DM) cares including insulin bolusing. For optimal insulin pump management, parents should enter a blood glucose result (SMBG) and a carbohydrate estimate (if food will be consumed) into the bolus advisor in their child’s pump to assist in delivering the recommended insulin bolus. Previously, pump adherence behaviors were described in adolescents; we describe these behaviors in a sample of young children.Methods:Pump data covering between 14-30 consecutive days were obtained for 116 children. Assessed adherence to essential pump adherence behaviors (eg, SMBG, carbohydrate entry, and insulin use) and adherence to 3 Wizard/Bolus Advisor steps: SMBG–carbohydrate entry–insulin bolus delivered.Results:Parents completed SMBG ≥4 times on 99% of days, bolused insulin ≥3 times on 95% of days, and entered carbohydrates ≥3 times on 93% of days, but they corrected for hyperglycemia (≥250 mg/dl or 13.9 mmol/l) only 63% of the time. Parent...
Endoluminal Therapy in Colorectal Cancer

Appropriate endoscopic resection for colorectal polyps can present a challenge to endoscopists, as these lesions may harbor malignancy. With recent advances in endoscopy, however, we are now entering an exciting frontier of endoscopic therapy for gastrointestinal lesions. These techniques include endoluminal mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection, which may be utilized on several colonic lesions. This article will discuss these principle endoscopic techniques, their outcomes, and briefly highlight their influence on endoscopic interventions, including transanal endoscopic microsurgery and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery.
Surface heterogeneity in KTaO3 (001)

Abstract Surface heterogeneity in Ar + ion bombarded samples of (001) oriented KTaO 3 was studied using (in-situ) electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Ion bombardment results in surface damage as well as in off-stoichiometry of K and Ta due to the large differences in atomic radii of the two constituent elements and hence different dry etching rates. Subsequent annealing of such samples reduces the potassium content via vaporization and results in the formation of tantalum-rich secondary phases on the surface. The phase that segregates on the surface is dependent on the oxygen partial pressure, annealing temperature as well as K:Ta stoichiometry. However, samples etched with chemical means to remove lattice damage and surface disorder prior to annealing exhibit little to no surface heterogeneity.
Observer-based adaptive control of piezoelectric actuators without velocity measurement

In this paper, we present an adaptive controller of piezoactuators without velocity measurement for microelectromechanical systems. The adaptive control scheme uses a Lyapunov-based adaptation law to track the system's parameters. Then, a reduced-order observer is used in a feedback loop to estimate velocity, hysteresis and disturbance. Unlike many observer-based controllers, the observer performance is taken into account in the system's stability analysis. Therefore, the controller achieves accurate displacement tracking with hysteresis/disturbance uncertainties. Furthermore, stability is guaranteed for the closed-loop system. The proposed controller's performance in coping with hysteresis and disturbance is highlighted in various simulation conditions.
Cartilage Defects, Osteochondritis, and Osteonecrosis

The diagnosis and treatment of articular cartilage defects can be a challenging task for the treating physician. In most instances a thorough trial of nonoperative conservative treatment strategies should be employed before considering surgical interventions. In cases where surgical treatment is necessary, algorithms based on the lesion location, size, and status of the subchondral bone should all be considered when choosing the most appropriate technique.
Diplopia in Graves Disease

In view of our inability to reverse the orbital pathology of Graves disease, clinical experience has shown us that it is prudent to defer, insofar as possible, the surgical repair of the residual p...
Examining the Feasibility of Ecological Momentary Assessment Using Short Message Service Surveying with Homeless Youth: Lessons Learned.

We assessed the feasibility of ecological momentary assessment using short message service (SMS) surveying with 150 homeless youth. We found that on average, participants completed 18.8 days of tex...
Treatment of brain metastases from bladder cancer

The records of 28 patients with transitional cell cancer who had brain metastases were retrospectively reviewed. Data from 19 patients were considered suitable for analysis and were included in this study. One patient was treated with surgery alone, 10 with radiation alone and 7 with radiation and surgery, while 1 received no treatment. Mean and median survival times, respectively, were 57 and 42 months from the initial diagnosis, and 11 and 4 months from diagnosis of central nervous system metastases. Patients treated with surgery and radiation demonstrated a mean survival time of 19 months compared to 6 months for patients treated with radiation alone (p = 0.03). There were 2 long-term survivors in the combined modality group at 50 and at 12 months. Enthusiasm for combined modality treatment should be tempered by the fact that selection bias favored the combined modality group; 13 patients with single lesions demonstrated a mean survival of 14 months compared to 3 months for 6 patients with multiple lesions (p = 0.009) and only patients with solitary lesions underwent surgical resection. Brain metastases have an ominous prognosis in patients with bladder cancer primaries. Considering the sum of the retrospective and prospective reports, we recommend that patients with solitary brain lesions and good performance status be aggressively managed with surgical resection and postoperative radiation therapy.
Optimization of 3D printing parameters of Screw Type Extrusion (STE) for ceramics using the Taguchi method

Abstract Minimizing the variation of the discharging volume becomes a critical point to control the 3D printability of non-Newtonian ceramics and precise control of pressure, shear rates, and time-dependent viscosity become important factors. Taguchi method was used to obtain a constant linear-velocity by optimizing the printing parameters: A L9 orthogonal array (OA), magnitude, signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio, and extent of the impact of independent variables, which are water content in material (WC), revolutions per minute (RPM), and diameter of the nozzle tip (TIP). This data is employed to improve the 3D printability and linear-velocity of discharged ceramics. Bowls, pottery, and patterns of 2.5D and 3D structures have been successfully printed in various sizes with ceramic materials under optimal conditions. The Taguchi method optimizes the Screw Type Extrusion (STE) process and provides 3D printing data on precise control of ceramics as biomaterials.
All-metal Dual Frequency RHCP High Gain Antenna for the Extreme Environments of a Potential Europa Lander

A new all-metal dual-frequency RHCP high gain antenna is under development at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory for a potential Europa Lander. The antenna is mainly made of metal so it could survive the harsh environment conditions of Europa (i.e. very low temperature and high radiation and ESD levels). The antenna is flat to meet drastic volume constraints and has efficiencies higher than 80% at both the uplink and downlink X-band Deep Space frequency bands. This antenna is a key component for the potential mission enabling Direct Link to Earth (DTE) without any relying on an Orbiter to relay the data.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease and the Risk of Prostate Cancer

Abstract Background There are limited data examining the risk of prostate cancer (PCa) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Objective To compare the incidence of PCa between men with and those without IBD. Design, setting, and participants This was a retrospective, matched-cohort study involving a single academic medical center and conducted from 1996 to 2017. Male patients with IBD (cases = 1033) were randomly matched 1:9 by age and race to men without IBD (controls = 9306). All patients had undergone at least one prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening test. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models, stratified by age and race, evaluated the relationship between IBD and the incidence of any PCa and clinically significant PCa (Gleason grade group ≥2). A mixed-effect regression model assessed the association of IBD with PSA level. Results and limitations PCa incidence at 10 yr was 4.4% among men with IBD and 0.65% among controls (hazard ratio [HR] 4.84 [3.34–7.02] [3.19–6.69], p Conclusions Men with IBD had higher rates of clinically significant PCa when compared with age- and race-matched controls. Patient summary This study of over 10 000 men treated at a large medical center suggests that men with inflammatory bowel disease may be at a higher risk of prostate cancer than the general population.
Identification of two rds/peripherin homologs in the chick retina.

PURPOSE. To identify possible homologs of mammalian rds/peripherin in chick photoreceptors. METHODS. An embryonic day-15 chick retinal library was screened by polymerase chain reaction with degenerate oligonucleotide primers derived from conserved segments of the mammalian retinal degeneration slow (rds) mRNA. The resultant amplification products were used to isolate cl)NAs, containing complete coding regions. These clones were studied by nucleotide sequence, Northern blot, and in situ hybridization analyses. RESULTS. Two new homologs of rds/peripherin were discovered : crdsl and crds2. The predicted crdsl protein is 78%, and the predicted crds2 protein is 54%, identical to mammalian rds/peripherin. The crds1 mRNA is an abundant 4.4-kb species present in photoreceptors. The crds2 mRNA is of similar size but is much rarer. No homologs of roml were identified in our screen. Developmentally, the crds1 mRNAs were first detectable at embryonic day 18. CONCLUSIONS. Crds 1 likely represents the chick ortholog of mammalian rds/peripherin, whereas crds2 is a more distant homolog. Both share an elongated C-terminal domain, an unusual feature compared with other members of the rds family.
Selective Support Vector Machines

Selective support vector machines are a generalization of support vector machine (SVM) classifiers. In the selective SVM classification, there are n mutually exclusive sets Xi, i = 1, …, n, of positive and negative labeled pattern vectors of dimension d, such that all pattern vectors xi, k,k = 1, …, |Xi| have the same class label yi ∈ {1, − 1}. Only one pattern vector from each set is to be chosen such that the margin between the selected positive and negative pattern vectors is maximized. This problem can be formulated as a quadratic mixed 0-1 programming problem, which is a generalization of the standard SVM classification formulation and it is NP-hard. An alternative convex quadratic programming formulation based on the restricted free slack concept can be used to find good solutions. The alternative formulation provides flexibility to the separating hyperplane and helps identify the pattern vectors with a large margin. This formulation can be used in an iterative elimination or a direct selection method with applications for simulated and real-life data. Keywords: classification; support vector machines; quadratic mixed 0–1 programming
Lawyer Advertising: The Unique Relationship between First Amendment and Antitrust Protections

Applying the First Amendment to lawyer advertising can help cure information deficiencies about our increasingly complex legal system.