cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Models of Blood Coagulation Kinetics

If a mammalian blood vessel is severed, it immediately contracts to limit the flow of blood. Within a few seconds cell-like blood platelets (about 1/8 the diameter of a red cell) touch the cut edges, break down, and aggregate into a plug-like mass. Then, in the stagnant blood near the injury, a complex cascade of proteolytic reactions takes place, resulting in the production of the enzyme thrombin, which changes fibrinogen into fibrin monomer; this polymerizes into fibrin strands which reinforce the platelet plug and form a blood clot. Later the clot contracts and is dissolved, while new cellular growth repairs the wound.
Impairment of tactile responses and Piezo2 channel mechanotransduction in mice following chronic vincristine treatment

Loss of the sense of touch or numbness in fingertips and toes is one of the earliest sensory dysfunctions in patients receiving chemotherapy with anti-cancer drugs such as vincristine. However, mechanisms underlying this chemotherapy-induced sensory dysfunction is poorly understood. Whisker hair follicles are tactile organs in non-primate mammals which are functionally equivalent to human fingertips. Here we used mouse whisker hair follicles as a model system to explore how vincristine treatment induces the loss of the sense of touch. We show that chronic treatment of mice with vincristine impaired in vivo whisker tactile behavioral responses. In vitro electrophysiological recordings made from whisker hair follicle afferent nerves showed that mechanically evoked whisker afferent impulses were significantly reduced following vincristine treatment. Furthermore, patch-clamp recordings from Merkel cells of whisker hair follicles revealed a significant reduction of mechanically activated currents via Piezo2 channels in Merkel cells. Collectively, our results suggest that Piezo2 channel dysfunction in Merkel cells contribute to the loss of the sense of touch following the chemotherapy treatment regimen with vincristine.
Parameterization of Molybdenum Disulfide Interacting with Water Using the Free Energy Perturbation Method

Water contact angles (WCA) are often used to parametrize force field parameters of novel 2D nanomaterials, such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), which has emerged as a promising nanomaterial in many biomedical applications due to its unique and impressive properties. However, there is a wide range of water-MoS2 contact angles in the literature depending on the aging process on the surface of a MoS2 nanosheet and/or substrate material. In this study, we revisit and optimize existing parameters for the basal plane of MoS2 with two popular water models, TIP3P and SPC/E, using the wide range of WCAs from various experiments. We develop and deploy the free energy perturbation method for parametrizing MoS2 with experimentally determined WCAs for both fresh and aged surfaces. Energy decomposition analysis on the simulation trajectories reveals that MoS2-water interaction is dominated by van der Waals interaction, which mainly comes from the top layer of MoS2. We conclude that to describe both fresh and aged MoS2 surfaces it is convenient to only adjust the Lennard-Jones parameter eS (the depth of the potential well of a sulfur atom), which displays a surprisingly linear correlation with WCAs.
Exposure to passive nicotine vapor in male adolescent rats produces a withdrawal-like state and facilitates nicotine self-administration during adulthood

Electronic cigarette use is particularly prevalent in adolescents, but the effects of secondhand exposure to nicotine vapor in adolescents on the propensity to develop nicotine dependence and increase nicotine self-administration in adulthood are poorly known. The present study explored the effects of nicotine vapor exposure on withdrawal-like states (hyperalgesia, spontaneous withdrawal signs, and locomotor activity) in adolescent rats and the vulnerability to acquire intravenous nicotine self-administration in adulthood. Adolescent (postnatal day 38) rats were exposed to intermittent nicotine vapor (14 h/day) for 7 consecutive days in a range of doses (0, 0.4, and 7 mg/m3). The rats were tested for somatic, emotional, and motivational withdrawal symptoms. When the animals reached adulthood, they were allowed to self-administer nicotine (0.03 mg/kg/0.1 ml) intravenously in operant chambers for 1 h/day for 12 consecutive days. Rats that were exposed to nicotine vapor presented moderate to severe signs of spontaneous withdrawal after the cessation of nicotine vapor. No effect on anxiety-like behavior was observed. Rats that were exposed to high levels of nicotine vapor in adolescence had lower pain thresholds and exhibited faster and higher acquisition of nicotine self-administration in adulthood. Chronic exposure to nicotine vapor in adolescent rats produced a withdrawal-like state and facilitated the acquisition of intravenous nicotine self-administration in adulthood. These results suggest that exposure of adolescents to nicotine vapor may confer higher risk of developing nicotine dependence when they become adults.
Development of an Achievability Propellant Limit Algorithm for a Piloted, Lunar Lander

Although all six Apollo lunar landings were successful, the multiple landing site redesignations and landing near hazards suggest crewed planetary landings can be challenging and demand high pilot ...
Chapter 3 – Sets

In this chapter, we emphasize the role that set theory plays in modern mathematics. The basic concepts of sets, along with their operations: union, intersection and complement are included. The basic counting principles for mutually exclusive and non-mutually exclusive events are also included. We illustrate the counting in sets, and their usefulness, with numerous applications.
The Impact of the Big Fish Effect on Investor Reactions to Financial and Nonfinancial Disclosure

Via two experiments, we examine how management’s flexibility in framing its numerical data affects investor judgments. In specific, we examine whether investors are susceptible to a Big Fish effect...
In-Situ Characterization of Dry Surface Contact Using Ultrasound

This paper presents ultrasound as a technique for in-situ characterization of dry surfaces in contact. The key of the method is to accurately determine the degree of acoustic coupling between two bodies forced together. Quantitative values of surface stiffness are determined while a qualitative evaluation of real contact area is obtained. The method is described and applicability demonstrated through results obtained from surfaces of aluminum and from C/C composites in contact. Calculations of contact stiffness were made by implementing an interface model consisting of a set of distributed springs. This model revealed that average contact stiffness is nearly proportional to the square root of the nominal contact pressure when low loads are applied. Hysterisis from load-unload cycles demonstrates the interface is not energy conserving. The mechanisms for loss from the interface are considered to be interface damping from plastic deformation and relative microslipping of surface asperities.
Google's PageRank and the Pedagogy of Linear Dynamic Systems

Google's PageRank offers a captivating platform to teach an array of concepts at the backbone of dynamic systems. A sample curriculum begins with systems of linear equations, and proceeds to eigenanalysis to study transient and steady-state dynamics. Graph theory provides the underlying infrastructure. An instructor who exerts creative license can use PageRank to bring to life seemingly disparate topics in myriad applications, extending even to advanced topics at the graduate level.
Vibration transmission through rolling element bearings. I - Bearing stiffness formulation. II - System studies

How vibratory motion can be transmitted from the rotating shaft to the casing and other connecting structures in rotating mechanical equipment is addressed here by developing a new mathematical model of precision rolling element bearings. A new grating stiffness matrix is proposed in order to demonstrate a coupling between the shaft bending motion and the flexural motion of the casing plate. It is shown that the translational bearing stiffness coefficients currently used in rotor dynamic models are a small subset of the proposed matrix. The theory is validated by examples, and the proposed bearing formulation is then extended to demonstrate its superiority over existing models in vibration transmission analyses. It is shown that the model can easily be incorporated into analytical or numerical models typically used for dynamic analyses.
SU‐E‐T‐628: Predicted Risk of Post‐Irradiation Cerebral Necrosis in Pediatric Brain Cancer Patients: A Treatment Planning Comparison of Proton Vs. Photon Therapy

Purpose: Post-irradiation cerebral necrosis (PICN) is a severe late effect that can Result from brain cancers treatment using radiation therapy. The purpose of this study was to compare the treatment plans and predicted risk of PICN after volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) to the risk after passively scattered proton therapy (PSPT) and intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) in a cohort of pediatric patients. Methods: Thirteen pediatric patients with varying age and sex were selected for this study. A clinical treatment volume (CTV) was constructed for 8 glioma patients and 5 ependymoma patients. Prescribed dose was 54 Gy over 30 fractions to the planning volume. Dosimetric endpoints were compared between VMAT and proton plans. The normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) following VMAT and proton therapy planning was also calculated using PICN as the biological endpoint. Sensitivity tests were performed to determine if predicted risk of PICN was sensitive to positional errors, proton range errors and selection of risk models. Results: Both PSPT and IMPT plans resulted in a significant increase in the maximum dose and reduction in the total brain volume irradiated to low doses compared with the VMAT plans. The average ratios of NTCP between PSPT and VMAT were 0.56 and 0.38 for glioma and ependymoma patients respectively and the average ratios of NTCP between IMPT and VMAT were 0.67 and 0.68 for glioma and ependymoma plans respectively. Sensitivity test revealed that predicted ratios of risk were insensitive to range and positional errors but varied with risk model selection. Conclusion: Both PSPT and IMPT plans resulted in a decrease in the predictive risk of necrosis for the pediatric plans studied in this work. Sensitivity analysis upheld the qualitative findings of the risk models used in this study, however more accurate models that take into account dose and volume are needed.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs): Identification and Scoring

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most abundant DNA sequence variations in the human genome. Numerous methods have been developed to identify and score them. A large set of human SNPs have been identified and mapped to the reference human genome sequence. The SNP markers are useful for the study of the genetic basis of many human diseases. Keywords: single nucleotide polymorphism; SNP genotyping; SNP discovery; genetic mapping
Multivariate statistics applications in scanning transmission electron microscopy X-ray spectrum imaging

Abstract A modern scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) fitted with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) system can quickly and easily produce spectrum image (SI) datasets that contain so much information (hundreds to thousands of megabytes) that they cannot be comprehensively interrogated by a human analyst. Therefore, advanced mathematical techniques are needed to glean materials science and engineering insight into the processing–structure–property relationships of the examined material from the SI data. This review discusses recent advances in the application of multivariate statistical analysis (MVSA) methods to STEM-EDS SI experiments. In particular, the fundamental mathematics of principal component analysis (PCA) and related methods are reviewed, and advanced methods such as multivariate curve resolution (MCR) are discussed. The applications of PCA- and MCR-based techniques to solve difficult materials science problems, such as the analysis of a particle fully embedded in a matrix phase, are discussed, as well as the effects that can confuse the results of MVSA computations. Possible future advances and areas in need of further study are also discussed.
Searching for the Nano-Needle in a Green Haystack: Researching the Environmental, Health, And Safety Ramifications of Nanotechnology

Since its development in the 1980s, nanotechnology, or nanotech, has been heralded as the next great scientific revolution. However, despite its rapid growth nanotechnology has largely been ignored by the average consumer. As a result, nanotechnology has flourished perpetuating the notion of a technology filled with infinite promise and the possibility to reshape our everyday lives for the better, with the creation of nano-medicines, improved manufacturing techniques, and access to greener energy. But, as with most technology, nanotech similarly comes with a darker side. While it is understood that nanomaterials threaten our ecosystem, the precise mechanisms and impact of these harms are largely unknown as are the potential risks to human health. Moreover, in the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework, and due to the highly technical and uncertain nature of the science involved, efforts to research the environmental ramifications of nanotechnology can often prove frustrating. For all of these reasons, a primer focusing on the availability of resources in this area seems a timely and appropriate addition to the existing scholarship in the field. As such, this article provides environmental legal researchers and practitioners with a guide to researching the environmental, health, and safety ramifications of nanotechnology. The article discusses effective strategies for researching this topic in the United States and provides an annotated list of key Internet resources, agencies, reports, monographs, and articles.
Approximate Moving Least-Squares Approximation with Compactly Supported Radial Weights

We use Maz’ya and Schmidt’s theory of approximate approximation to devise a fast and accurate approximate moving least-squares approximation method which does not require the solution of any linear systems. Since we use compactly supported weight functions, the remaining summation is also efficient. We compare our new algorithm with three other approximation methods based on compactly supported radial functions: multilevel interpolation, the standard moving least-squares approximation method, and a multilevel moving least-squares algorithm. A multilevel approximate moving least-squares approximation algorithm is also included.
Dementia Care with Black and Latino Families: A Social Work Problem-Solving Approach, by Delia Gonzalez Sanders and Richard H. Fortinsky

This book provides guidance for social workers working with Black and Latino caregivers and their loved ones, using the ecological framework. In addition, the book provides guidance for social work...
An Efficient Algorithm for the Sparse Mixed Resultant

We propose a compact formula for the mixed resultant of a system of n+1 sparse Laurent polynomials in n variables. Our approach is conceptually simple and geometric, in that it applies a mixed subdivision to the Minkowski Sum of the input Newton polytopes. It constructs a matrix whose determinant is a non-zero multiple of the resultant so that the latter can be defined as the GCD of n + 1 such determinants. For any specialization of the coefficients there are two methods which use one extra perturbation variable and return the resultant. Our algorithm is the first to present a determinantal formula for arbitrary systems; moreover, its complexity for unmixed systems is polynomial in the resultant degree. Further empirical results suggest that this is the most efficient method to date for sparse elimination.
Computer-assisted measurement of the thickness of biological structures☆

Abstract A method utilizing a digitizer tablet and microcomputer to determine the thickness of biological structures is described. The program for the determinations is written in BASIC. The accuracy and reproducibility of the method were confirmed using constructed test models and biological models. The system described is readily available and relatively low in cost.
Temporal characterization of the Stanford mid-IR FEL micropulses by “FROG”

Abstract We present the results of frequency resolved optical gating (FROG) measurements on the Stanford mid-IR FEL. FROG is a recently developed method to acquire complete and uniquely invertible amplitude and phase temporal dependence of optical pulses. Unambiguous phase and amplitude profiles are recovered from the data. Experimental examples of near-transform-limit, chirped, and atmospheric absorption perturbed pulses are discussed.
Expression of recombinant galactose oxidase by Pichia pastoris.

Abstract Galactose oxidase catalyzes the oxidation of a variety of primary alcohols, producing hydrogen peroxide as a product. Among hexose sugars, the enzyme exhibits a high degree of specificity for the C6-hydroxyl of galactose and its derivatives, underlying a number of important bioanalytical applications. Galactose oxidase cDNA has been cloned for expression in Pichia pastoris both as the full-length native sequence and as a fusion with the glucoamylase signal peptide. Expression of the full-length native sequence results in a mixture of partly processed and mature galactose oxidase. In contrast, the fusion construct directs efficient secretion of correctly processed galactose oxidase in high-density, methanol-induced fermentation. Culture conditions (including induction temperature and pH) have been optimized to improve the quality and yield (500 mg/L) of recombinant enzyme. Lowering the temperature from 30 to 25°C during the methanol induction phase results in a fourfold increase in yield. A simple two-step purification and one-step activation produce highly active galactose oxidase suitable for a wide range of biomedical and bioanalytical applications.
A GYMNOSPORANGIUM WITH REPEATING SPORES

The group of rusts now known under the generic designation of Gymnosporangium was the first to receive attention from systematic botanists. The earliest taxonomic record of any rust is that of a species on Juniperus described and figured by the pre-Linnaean author Micheli, to which he gave the generic name Puccinia. For a time this name was used for all rusts having the same general form of teliospore, then became shunted over to rusts of the general characteristics of Puccinia graminis, while the name Gymnosporangium was applied to the cedar rusts. It has been easy to recognize the members of this latter genus in the telial stage by the gelatinous matrix arising from the pedicels of the teliospores coupled with occurrence on Juniperaceae, and in the aecial stage by a distinctive roestelioid peridium enclosing spores with colored walls and evident germ-pores, coupled with occurrence on Malaceae. These generic characters have been taken to indicate a highly specialized development parallel to the group represented by Puccinia graminis. The genus Gymnosporangium has also been especially notable among the rusts by the utter absence of a repeating stage, either of uredinoid or aecidioid nature. The bridging of the gap between the two groups of rusts was recently begun by finding aecia lacking the roestelioid characteristics and possessing all the features of a true Aecidium such as belong with rusts of the P. graminis group, as illustrated by Aecidium Blasdaleanum of the Pacific coast, found by cultures to go to Gymnosporangium Libocedri. This aecidioid form, however, showed its Gymnosporangial relationship by occurring on the Malaceous genera Amelanchier and Crataegus. A further advance was made in finding gradations between the two
Science in the Church

A brief review of the Merton thesis shows that its restriction to England is arbitrary. An example from the historiography of modern physics suggests the possible payoff of an ecumenical Merton thesis and the means to explore it. A summary of the careers of men who practiced science literally in the church – men who built meridian lines in Italian cathedrals – indicates the range of social support of astronomical studies by Catholic institutions in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
Compatibility of Invertebrate Populations and Commercial Fishing for Ocean Quahogs

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine whether fishing for ocean quahogs (Arctica islandica) with hydraulic dredges on the continental shelf off the coast of northeastern United States alters the abundance or species composition of associated benthic macroinvertebrates. Invertebrate populations in three types of ocean quahog beds were sampled with a Smith-McIntyre grab (0.1 m 2) in October 1978, at the end of the reproductive season of most invertebrates. The beds differed in that one had been fished for about a year and then abandoned in May-June 1978, another had been fished for about 2 years and was actively fished during the sampling, and the third bed had never been fished and served as a control. Differences in the mean numbers of total invertebrates and species were not statistically significant and differences in the abundance-weighted species composition were not evident among the beds. Thus, hydraulic dredging for ocean quahogs did not appear to alter the invertebrate populations ...
Multiple forms of rat-liver dihydropteridine reductase identified by their differing isoelectric points.

Abstract Purified rat-liver dihydropteridine reductase is homogeneous by gel filtration ( M r ~ 51,000), sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis ( M r ~ 25,500), and native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, suggesting that the enzyme is composed of two identical subunits. However, analysis by isoelectric focusing has revealed three enzyme forms with approximate isoelectric points of 6.5, 5.9, and 5.7 (designated forms, I, II, and III, respectively). The three forms, isolated in 65% yield by preparative chromatofocusing, are stable in 0.05 m phosphate buffer, pH 6.8, containing 1 Him β-mercaptoethanol and exhibit similar kinetic constants when the catalytic activities of the isolated forms are compared with quinonoid dihydrobiopterin as substrate. All forms generate complexes with the enzymatic cofactor NADH which are also detectable by IEF. When examined further by IEF under denaturing conditions in 6 m urea the enzyme demonstrates a differing subunit composition for its three forms. Two distinct subunits, designated α and β, can be identified, and additional evidence suggests that the native enzyme forms I, II, and III represent the three differing dimeric combinations αα (form I), αβ (form II), and αβ (form III).
A Low-Density Closed Universe.

Matter with an equation of state p = -ρ/3 may arise in certain scalar field theories, and the energy density of this matter decreases as a-2 with the scale factor a of the Universe. In this case, the Universe could be closed but still have a nonrelativistic-matter density Ω0<1. Furthermore, the cosmic microwave background could come from a causally connected region at the other side of the Universe. This model is currently viable and might be tested by a host of forthcoming observations.
Design and control of manufacturing systems: an integrated approach based on modal logic and zonecharts

Abstract This paper proposes an integrated approach to the design and control of dynamic systems drawing on concepts from modal logic, Petri nets, zonecharts, and object-oriented programming. The use of decision rules to reason about systems models is enhanced by procedures for developing and manipulating these models. One component of the integrated approach is the notion of condition/event (C/E) nets from the theory of Petri nets. Another component is the concept of zonecharts, which is developed using C/E net concepts. The composite methodology allows for high-level system descriptions in the form of partial orderings among the elementary processes of the system. These partial orderings are encoded into C/E incidence matrices and manipulated by a partial process planning algorithm. The algorithm is shown to be efficient. It also serves as an implementation technique for the bilevel knowledge-based control scheme proposed earlier by the authors.
High purity and chrome-doped GaAs buffer layers grown by liquid phase epitaxy for mesfet application

High purity GaAs buffer layers of carrier concentration in the low (l-5)×l0l4/cm3 range with 77K electron mobility over 100,000 cm2/V-sec and 300K mobility around 8000 cm?/ V-sec have been grown by liquid phase epitaxy on Cr-doped GaAs substrates using the graphite sliding boat method. The high purity has been achieved with systematic and concurrent long term bake-outs (24 hrs) of both LPE melt and substrate, both exposed to the H2 ambient gas stream at 775‡C, prior to epitaxial growth at 700‡C. Substrate surface degradation was reduced by using Ga:GaAs etch melts that were undersaturated at 700‡C by 5‡ to 40‡C. Best buffer layer morphologies with regard to surface planarity were obtained using etch melts that were saturated by near 85% of weight of GaAs at 700°C. The importance of substrate preconditioning in order to achieve the low ( 1 -2)×l014 was examined and found to be critical. Melt and substrate bake outs at 800‡C, and use of a 40‡C undersaturated etch melt prior to epitaxial growth at 800‡C resulted in a p-type layer of carrier concentration, 1 .9×l0l2/cm3 and resistivity 1×105 ohm-cm. Chromium doping at 700‡C resulted in buffer layers with sheet resistivities greater than 10 ohms/sq and low pinhole densities.
Cost-benefit of laboratory computer systems

The benefits and costs of a computer laboratory information system have been evaluated in three military hospitals, using a pre- and postimplementation comparison of time spent by laboratory and medical staff on information-handling activities, turnaround time for laboratory results, and staff perceptions of performance. The evaluation indicates that the laboratory information system is very cost-effective. A major benefit is the reduction in nursing staff time required to obtain laboratory test status and results.
American stock market development and performance, 1871–1929

Abstract The American stock market played a central role in the allocation of investment funds during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During the same period the market underwent profound institutional change. Tests of market efficiency are employed to characterize the market's performance, and to ascertain what specific institutional features affected that performance. The market receives mixed reviews. At no time was evidence of substantial market inefficiency apparent. However, money market instability before World War I, and the absence of federal regulation after 1900 did cause stock prices to wander modestly from their “efficient market” values. In both cases intervention by the federal government appears to have improved market performance.
Common Genetic Variation and Human Traits

Researchers now know how to properly account for most of the multiple hypothesis testing involved in mining the genome for associations, and most reported associations reflect real biologic causation. But, David Goldstein asks, do they matter?
Automatic tracking NMR system for use in measurement of low energy ion beams with a magnetic spectrometer

Abstract An automatic tracking NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) system is described for use in measurement of low energy (0.2–2.0 MeV) helium ion beams with a magnetic spectrometer. With this instrument, accurate automatic magnetic field measurements can be made with fields of less than 500 G. In addition, the design is oriented toward usage with frequently changing magnetic fields and ease of practical usage. General circuit principles are also discussed, particularly those related to reduction of extraneous noise.
Comparing Hardware Accelerators in Scientific Applications: A Case Study

Multicore processors and a variety of accelerators have allowed scientific applications to scale to larger problem sizes. We present a performance, design methodology, platform, and architectural comparison of several application accelerators executing a Quantum Monte Carlo application. We compare the application's performance and programmability on a variety of platforms including CUDA with Nvidia GPUs, Brook+ with ATI graphics accelerators, OpenCL running on both multicore and graphics processors, C++ running on multicore processors, and a VHDL implementation running on a Xilinx FPGA. We show that OpenCL provides application portability between multicore processors and GPUs, but may incur a performance cost. Furthermore, we illustrate that graphics accelerators can make simulations involving large numbers of particles feasible.
Effects of neonatal serotonin depletion on the development of rat dentate granule cells.

Abstract The appearance of serotonergic (5-HT) neurons and projections early in central nervous system (CNS) development has resulted in the hypothesis that 5-HT is an important factor in neuronal differentiation and synaptogenesis. Studies of the effects of 5-HT on the development of molluscan and mammalian neurons in vitro support this hypothesis, but mammalian in vivo studies have produced equivocal results. The present study reinvestigated the role of 5-HT in CNS development using the dentate granule cell as a model. Dentate granule cells were chosen for this study of the effects of 5-HT depletion on neuronal development because they are generated in the early postnatal period. Thus, 5-HT depletion could be effected by the treatment of rat pups with either parachloroamphetamine (PCA) or 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT) thereby avoiding problems inherent in maternal treatment paradigms. The morphology of Neurobiotin-filled granule cells was studied on P14, P21, P60 and P120 (PO = day of birth). The parameters measured were total dendritic length, number of dendritic segments and dendritic spine density (number of spines/50 μm dendritic length). Granule cells from vehicle-treated controls were similar to those previously reported in studies of normal granule cell development in all respects. In particular, the decrease in dendritic spine density from P14 to P120 observed in Golgi preparations was verified in our population of intracellularly filled granule cells. Transient depletion of 5-HT by neonatal PCA treatment resulted in a decrease dendritic length that was not statistically different from control values. However, dendritic spine density was reduced by about 27% at all ages studied. 5,7-DHT treatment produces a permanent, severe depletion of 5-HT. Spine densities in granule cells from 5,7-DHT-treated pups were also about 38% lower than controls. Total dendritic length in cells from 5,7-DHT-treated rats was reduced to a degree comparable to that observed in PCA-treated pups. The number of granule cell dendritic segments was also less than that observed in control and PCA-treated rats but this difference was not statistically significant. These observations suggest that reduction of 5-HT in the early postnatal period can result in changes in the morphology of dentate granule cells, particularly at the level of the synapse as reflected by the permanent reduction in synaptic spine density. The comparison of results from cases with permanent and transient reduction of 5-HT indicates that the developmental influence of 5-HT is most important during the first three postnatal weeks.
Pigmented cosmetic dermatitis from contact allergy to a toilet soap containing chromium.

A patient experienced repeated episodes of facial dermatitis with subsequent development of facial hyperpigmentation. A positive patch test to potassium dichromate strongly implicated chromium hydroxide, used as a pigment in a commercial toilet soap, as a contact allergen. Pigmented cosmetic dermatitis may result from repeated episodes of facial inflammation, due to contact allergy from cosmetics.
Implementation of model-based multivariable control on DIII–D

Abstract A model-based multivariable controller for plasma shape control has been successfully tested on the DIII–D tokamak. Good steady-state control of plasma boundary shape and X-point position was demonstrated in lower single-null ohmic plasmas. Quality of control for rapid plasma shape variation was mixed, but was robustly stable for all degrees of freedom explored. The control design was based on a linear plasma response model derived from fundamental physics assumptions, which was extensively validated against DIII–D experimental data. A linear controller produced with robust control design methods was tested and improved using results of closed loop simulations prior to experimental tests. A modification of the linear controller which addressed one of several practical DIII–D nonlinear constraints was tested during the experimental discharges.
The neuronal response to electrical constant-amplitude pulse train stimulation: evoked compound action potential recordings

The purpose of this study was to gain a greater understanding of the electrically evoked compound action potential (EAP) responses to pulse train stimulation. Analysis of EAP amplitude responses suggested that an alternating pattern varied depending upon stimulus level, interpulse interval (IPI), stimulus waveform, and stimulus polarity. Stimulus level-dependent recovery was seen in the cat and the guinea pig: higher stimulus level tended to provide faster recovery. Both polarity-dependent recovery and polarity-dependent adaptation were observed in the cat and these stimulus polarity effects were less consistent in the guinea pig. The polarity-dependent recovery effect supports the hypothesis that anodal and cathodal stimuli excite different sites along auditory nerve fibers. Amplitude differences between the response to the second pulse and the steady-state response at the same IPI are significantly greater for anodal stimuli than for cathodal stimuli in all cats. These data suggest that there is a cumulative refractory effect in the auditory nerve of cats, especially in response to anodal stimuli.
Measurement of leucine and α-ketoisocaproic acid fluxes in the fetal/placental unit

Abstract Many investigators are now using stable isotopes in place of radioactive isotopes because of ethical considerations in human research. Our laboratory has had a long history in the development of an ovine model for the study of the physiological and biochemical changes during pregnancy. We wanted to extend some of the hypotheses and experimental protocols developed while using this model system to the human. As a first step in this process, we carried out infusions using a mixture of both 14C and 13C isotopes of the essential amino acid l -leucine. Results from this study showed that turn-over rates calculated using the two isotopes were equal within experimental error (8.99 ± 0.45 and 8.97 ± 0.52 μmol/kg · min, respectively). A key step in the development of the techniques for this study involved the use of tert.-butyldimethylsilyl derivatives for the amino acids. Because of the strong M — 57 peak seen in the mass spectra of these compounds, we were able to use a relatively inexpensive Hewlett-Packard mass-selective detector for these determinations. Enrichments in triplicate measurements of the same sample had a precision of ± 0.03%. Similar precision data were obtained in enrichment measurements of the keto acids derived from the amino acids. The combination of the speed of the analysis and the excellent precision have provided us with the opportunity to study uptake and loss across an organ system (i.e. placenta, liver, etc.). This tool is now being used to study the detailed flow of amino acids across the placenta during both normal and abnormal pregnancies.
Exploring Empirically Supported Treatment Options for Children: Making the Case for the Next Generation of Cultural Research

In the last decade there has been increasing interest in empirically supported treatments for children. Chorpita et al. present an attempt to synthesize the knowledge base in the field and implementation of services. Placing the results in context, the authors make clear the need for an increased awareness of culture by researchers interested in empirically supported treatments. The construct of culture is explored as an active participant in the outcome literature. Furthermore, reasons for the lack of research into culture's influence on treatment outcomes is considered. Lastly, the importance of maintaining a dialog between the scientific and clinical service community is discussed.
Hedgehog signaling controls homeostasis of adult intestinal smooth muscle

The Hedgehog (Hh) pathway plays multiple patterning roles during development of the mammalian gastrointestinal tract, but its role in adult gut function has not been extensively examined. Here we show that chronic reduction in the combined epithelial Indian (Ihh) and Sonic (Shh) hedgehog signal leads to mislocalization of intestinal subepithelial myofibroblasts, loss of smooth muscle in villus cores and muscularis mucosa as well as crypt hyperplasia. In contrast, chronic over-expression of Ihh in the intestinal epithelium leads to progressive expansion of villus smooth muscle, but does not result in reduced epithelial proliferation. Together, these mouse models show that smooth muscle populations in the adult intestinal lamina propria are highly sensitive to the level of Hh ligand. We demonstrate further that Hh ligand drives smooth muscle differentiation in primary intestinal mesenchyme cultures and that cell-autonomous Hh signal transduction in C3H10T1/2 cells activates the smooth muscle master regulator Myocardin (Myocd) and induces smooth muscle differentiation. The rapid kinetics of Myocd activation by Hh ligands as well as the presence of an unusual concentration of Gli sties in this gene suggest that regulation of Myocd by Hh might be direct. Thus, these data indicate that Hh is a critical regulator of adult intestinal smooth muscle homeostasis and suggest an important link between Hh signaling and Myocd activation. Moreover, the data support the idea that lowered Hh signals promote crypt expansion and increased epithelial cell proliferation, but indicate that chronically increased Hh ligand levels do not dampen crypt proliferation as previously proposed.
Sensory detection and population thresholds for sodium tripolyphosphate in cooked ground turkey patties

Sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) at levels of 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5% by weight was added to ground turkey meat to determine if a flavor difference could be detected when STP was present. Detection thresholds for STP in ground turkey meat were determined for 30 female respondents. Two population thresholds were determined using information from the detection thresholds. Two-thirds of the respondents detected a difference between samples with no STP and those with 0.5% STP or less. STP added at less than 0.3% was undetected by more than 50% of the tested population.
Formation of ion pairs under conditions employed in reversed-phase chromatography

Summary The existence of ion pairs under conditions employed in “ion-pair” chromatography has been examined by re-analysis of electrical conductance data reported in the literature for octylamine and octylsulfonate in methanol-water (35:65) solutions as well as by titration experiments with systems containing catecholamines and alkylsulfates. The results indicate that the stability constants of ion pairs formed between these species in aqueous solution range from 10 to 100 M−1. As a consequence such ion pairs may play a significant role in the chromatographic process in contradistinction to assertions put forward in the literature.
Deletion of GAD67 in dopamine receptor-1 expressing cells causes specific motor deficits.

The medium spiny neurons (MSNs), which comprise the direct and indirect output pathways from the striatum, use γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) as their major fact-acting neurotransmitter. We generated mice carrying a conditional allele of the Gad1 gene, which encodes GAD67, one of the two enzymes responsible for GABA biosynthesis, and bred them to mice expressing Cre recombinase at the dopamine D1 receptor locus (Drd1a) to selectively reduce GABA synthesis in the direct output pathway from the striatum. We show that these mice are deficient in some types of motor skills, but normal for others, suggesting a differential role for GABA release from D1 receptor-containing neurons. genesis 46:357–367, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Circulating concentrations of immunoreactive inhibin and FSH during the estrous cycle of mares

Summary A heterologous radioimmunoassay developed to measure inhibin in rat plasma was validated and used to characterize changes in peripheral concentrations of immunoreactive inhibin (ir-inhibin) in relation to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations during the estrous cycle of mares. The primary antiserum used in the assay was developed against a synthetic porcine inhibin α-subunit [(1-26)-Gly-Tyr] fragment. The same synthetic peptide was used for preparation of standards and tracer. Slopes of the dose-response curves for pooled estrus and diestrus mare plasma and equine follicular fluid were similar to the slopes for the porcine inhibin α-subunit standard curve and porcine follicular fluid dose-response curve. Twelve mares were bled once daily beginning when diameter of the largest follicle reached ≤25 mm and continuing until 3 days after the end of an interovulatory interval (ovulation=Day 0). Each of the 12 interovulatory intervals were normalized to the mean length of the interovulatory interval (22.2 days; range, 19 to 26). There was an effect of day for concentrations of ir-inhibin (P
A miniaturized pH and pCO2 intravascular catheter using optical monitoring and a dual concentric-flow microdialysis approach

Abstract Hollow fiber membranes are found to allow the development of extremely small diameter (0.22 mm) probe and catheter-type pH and pCO2 sensors. These types of sensors can be comparable to the size of fiber optic sensors for these analytes. This work employs a concentric-flow geometry to direct a micro-flow of sweep solutions through hollow fiber membranes made of cuprammonium rayon and silicone. The sweep solutions establish a diffusive equilibrium with the external environment and then flow into optical absorbance cells. The optical system, which is remote from the sensor membranes, consists of two separate transparent capillaries, 555-nm surface-mount LEDs and photodetectors to monitor absorbance changes. In buffer, a ±0.01 pH unit resolution is achieved over the range of 7.02–7.87 with a 5-min 90% response time, and a 1.5-mm Hg pCO2 resolution is achieved from 0 to 80 mm Hg with a 15-min 90% response time.
Distributing refinements of a system-level partial behavior model

Early in a system's life cycle, a system's behavior is typically partially specified using scenarios, invariants, and temporal properties. These specifications prohibit or require certain behaviors, while leaving other behaviors uncategorized into either of those. Engineers refine the specification by eliciting more requirements to finally arrive at a complete behavioral description. Partial-behavior models have been utilized as a formal foundation for capturing partial system specifications. Mapping the requirements to partial behavior models enables automated analyses (e.g., requirements consistency checking) and helps to elicit new requirements. Under the current practices, software systems are reasoned about and their behavior specified exclusively at the system level, disregarding of the fact that a system typically consists of interacting components. However, exclusively refining a behavior specification at the system-level runs the risk of arriving at an inconsistent specification, i.e. one that is not realizable as a composition of the system's components. To address this problem, we propose a framework that provides the lacking support: a newly specified requirement implicitly refines the system's underlying partial behavior model; our framework maps the new requirement to components by automatically distributing the system model refinements to the components' underlying models. By doing so, our framework prevents requirements inconsistencies and helps to identify further necessary requirements. We discuss the framework's soundness and correctness, and demonstrate its features on a case study previously used in related literature.
EVALUATION OF EVACUATED PACKAGES AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO BLANCHING FOR FROZEN SPINACH

Unblanched spinach (Spinacia oleracea), held in evacuated and non-evacuated packages, was compared with blanched controls after 1,5,12, and 26 weeks to evaluate storage stability at -18°C. Blanched samples were rated higher than unblanched samples for visual quality, aroma, flavor, and overall acceptability, regardless of packaging treatment. Titratable acidity of unblanched samples was considerably higher than that of blanched samples and was found to increase during the latter stages of storage. Total ascorbic acid and dehydroascorbic acid contents were higher in unblanched samples. Vacuum packaging inhibited conversion to dehydroascorbic acid in unblanched samples.
A Review of Missed Opportunities for Prenatal HIV Screening in a Nationwide Sample of Health Facilities in the Indian Health Service

To better serve our patients, we sought to identify missed opportunities for prenatal HIV screening across Indian Health Service and potential ways to increase screening. Twenty-seven of 161 Federal or Tribal IHS health facilities were randomly selected. Each facility received a standardized set of commands to identify the charts of prenatal patients who were not screened for HIV according to the national Health Information Technology (HIT) platform. We reviewed 598 records at 27 sites of prenatal patients who were identified as not screened for HIV during their pregnancy. According to on-site chart review, nearly half (267/598, 45%) had been screened for HIV, and a slight majority (331/598, 55%) had not been screened. Among the 331 pregnant women not screened for HIV, about half had no HIV screening despite having had ≥2 prenatal care encounters and no screening exclusions (167/331, 50%). A majority of missed opportunities (118/167, 71%) had prenatal testing for other infectious diseases. Based on these results, the National HIV/AIDS program has encouraged increased bundling of HIV with infectious disease tests in prenatal laboratory panels. Improvements in documentation of HIV screening are expected with the IHS transition to electronic health records.
On the demand for nursing labour in hospital pharmacies

One component of hospital production that has received little attention is that of the generalist nurse in the pharmacy. After developing a theoretical model characterising pharmacy nursing demand, we identify and explore two major questions of interest. The first pertains to which factors influence the likelihood that a hospital will choose to allocate generalist nurses to the pharmacy. The second asks, among hospitals that employ generalist nurses in the pharmacy (while simultaneously controlling for those that do not), what factors affect the quantity of nursing FTEs used. We find that the determinants for both decisions are quite similar. Overall, a greater service distribution seems to have a positive impact on pharmacy nursing demand, as does an older patient population. Community characteristics proxies, such as being located in a rural area and the proportion of outpatients insured by Medicaid, appear to negatively affect the quantity of nurses employed in the pharmacy.