cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ionizing radiation fluctuations and large-scale structure in the Lyman-alpha forest

We investigate the large-scale inhomogeneities of the hydrogen ionizing radiation field in the Universe at redshift z=3. Using a raytracing algorithm, we simulate a model in which quasars are the dominant sources of radiation. We make use of large scale N-body simulations of a LambdaCDM universe, and include such effects as finite quasar lifetimes and output on the lightcone, which affects the shape of quasar light echoes. We create Lya forest spectra that would be generated in the presence of such a fluctuating radiation field, finding that the power spectrum of the Lya forest can be suppressed by as much as 15 % for modes with k=0.05-1 Mpc/h. This relatively small effect may have consequences for high precision measurements of the Lya power spectrum on larger scales than have yet been published. We also investigate another radiation field probe, the cross-correlation of quasar positions and the Lya forest. For both quasar lifetimes which we simulate (10^7 yr and 10^8 yr), we expect to see a strong decrease in the Lya absorption close to other quasars (the ``foreground'' proximity effect). We then use data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey First Data Release to make an observational determination of this statistic. We find no sign of our predicted lack of absorption, but instead increased absorption close to quasars. If the bursts of radiation from quasars last on average 10^4yr and < 10^6 yr could reconcile these two facts.
Determination of the Boundaries of the Compressible Strata When Conducting Engineering Surveys

Purpose of research. Errors and inaccuracies in the preparation of deliverables based on the results of engineering surveys which are an integral and important part of the design and estimate documentation, can lead to irreversible consequences and significantly reduce the life of buildings and structures. The main difficulty in investigating soil physical and mechanical properties at a construction site is to determine the depth of excavation. This is due to the fact that an increase in the calculated depth leads to the increase in the cost of work, and its decrease leads to the risk of inaccuracies and errors in the design of foundations of buildings and structures. In accordance with the current regulatory documents, the excavation depth during soil investigation should be 1-2 meters below the boundary of the compressible strata. The condition on the basis of which the specified boundary is determined is provided. The development of a technique that allows determining the depth of the compressible strata at the stage of engineering surveying with adequate accuracy is an important task from a practical standpoint. Methods. Determining natural stress Ϭ zg,0 as the product of foundation depth d and the specific gravity of the soil above the base ɣ′ ІІ , , taking into account the fact that the average pressure tends to the value of the estimated resistance of the soil, it is shown that physical-mechanical structure of the base soil exerts the main influence on the parameters of the compressible strata, and correspondingly, to the excavation depth value. In this case, the stresses transferred by the foundation of a building or structure have an indirect effect. Results. The maximum values of the depth of excavation for engineering and geological surveying for tight coarse sand, medium density and fineness sand, and fine sand and sandy loam are determined. Conclusion. It is concluded that the given technique allows determining the depth of excavation during engineering and geological surveying with an adequate accuracy.
Relationship Between Vaccination Status and Biopsychosocial Characteristics in Sheltered Adolescents.

Introduction Homeless youth are a vulnerable population. A volunteer clinic supported by medical students in northeastern Pennsylvania provides shelter and healthcare to adolescents seeking refuge. We set out to determine the immunization status of youth in the shelter and evaluate for associations of immunization deficiency with demographics or biopsychosocial factors. Methods After IRB approval, a retrospective cohort study was performed from existing clinical records at the shelter 2/2015-9/2019. Chart abstraction included variables such as demographics (including age, sex, and race/ethnicity), biopsychosocial factors (including childhood trauma/abuse history, substance abuse history, and sexual activity), and immunization history. Results A total of 440 charts were analyzed. When comparing demographics of patients that had complete vaccine regimens versus those who did not, the race was statistically significant (p=.006). The most prominent difference in race was seen for Black/African American patients; only 19.57% had a completed vaccine regimen documented. Regarding immunization history, vaccine schedules of hepatitis B, measles mumps rubella (MMR), inactivated polio vaccine (IPV), and varicella were most likely to be complete; pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) 13, rotavirus, influenza, and human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV) were least likely. There was no association found between a completed vaccine regimen and biopsychosocial variables. A larger portion of females (37.35%) completed the HPV vaccine compared to males (23.14%) (p=.009). Conclusions In this single-site study, this vulnerable, at-risk population of sheltered adolescents lacked the vaccinations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Racial disparities further compounded this vulnerability for Black/African American teens. Additionally, a significantly greater number of female patients received the HPV vaccine compared to males.
Book Review: 'Saffron Shadows and Salvaged Scripts: Literary Life in Myanmar Under Censorship and in Transition' by Ellen Wiles. New York: Columbia University Press, 2015.

Book review of Saffron Shadows and Salvaged Scripts: Literary Life in Myanmar Under Censorship and in Transition. By Ellen Wiles. New York: Columbia University Press, 2015. 288 pp. $50 cloth.
MRI Fusion Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Instructions and Troubleshooting.

MRI fusion transperineal prostate biopsy is becoming more utilized because of its increased detection of clinically significant prostate cancer and decreased risk of sepsis. We present a video guid...
From Bacteria to Man, the Evolution of Mutagenicity Testing

In a little over a decade the field of toxicology has seen an unprecendented growth in the sub-area known as Genetic Toxicology or Molecular Toxicology. In the early development of this field, a great deal of optimism was generated as a result of identification of mutagen-carcinogenic agents in simple bacterial tester strains. This optimism has slowly given way to a more realistic understanding of the area, and the realization of a need for more complex studies that can be conducted with microorganisms. In recent years, the need to evaluate the effects of chemicals on the complex organization of DNA in mammalian systems, and the necessity of intact animal studies, where pharmacokinetic effects and relevant host metabolic pathways can be taken into account, is generally accepted as a pre-requisite for chemical evaluation. In addition to animal procedures, we now have the unique capability of detecting potential carcinogens in man by a variety of short-term procedures. The unique contribution of this field to the fundamental understanding of the modification of the genetic process by chemicals and its potential for alleviating some of the major afflictions occuring in man, however, remains unchallenged.
Systems Biology and TOR: Past, Present, and Future

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the systems biology and target of rapamycin (TOR). A wide variety of genome-scale tools, such as global transcriptional analysis, systematic genetic screens, genetic interaction studies, and mass spectrometry based determination of global protein levels and modifications have provided a comprehensive itemization of the components and interactions within signaling networks, particularly in the yeast Saccharomyces . New computational tools have allowed integrating these genome-wide observations and organizing them in an accessible and intuitive manner. Additional computational approaches are beginning to provide the means of developing predictive, in silico models of biological processes. The chapter describes the recent results from these genome-wide approaches as applied to the TOR signaling network in yeast. The chapter also attempts to integrate and reconcile genome-wide studies from multiple groups. Investigators have made substantial strides in applying these genomic tools as a means of developing a comprehensive description of the organization of the rapamycin-sensitive signaling network in yeast. The chapter describes the future outlooks for TOR with an emphasis on the application of systems-level understanding to personalized treatment in cancer.
Correlates of loneliness among midwestern adolescents

The extent of loneliness among midwestern adolescents was investigated in relation to depression, self-esteem, family strengths, parent-adolescent communication, age, and gender. The study sample consisted of 156 adolescents, ranging in age from 11 to 18 years, who were attending public schools in four midwestern communities. It was found that the subjects had high loneliness scores, and that older adolescents were lonelier than younger adolescents. There was a significant relationship between loneliness and depression. Loneliness was negatively related to self-esteem, family strengths, and mother-adolescent communication. The implications of these results for delineating the underlying dimensions of loneliness in adolescents are discussed.
The central projections of the stretch receptor neurons of crayfish: segmental gradients of synaptic probability and strength.

The 20 stretch receptor neurons (SRs) of the crayfish abdomen send axons into the CNS that then project both to the brain and to the last abdominal ganglion, G6 (Bastiani and Mulloney, 1988). In G6, we recorded intracellularly from different kinds of neurons postsynaptic to SR axons. In a sample of 100 postsynaptic neurons, 59 synapsed with both SR1 and SR2 axons, 19 synapsed only with SR1 axons, and 22 synapsed only with SR2 axons. Most monosynaptic connections in G6 were excitatory and behaved like typical chemical synapses. The EPSPs showed moderate facilitation but could be depressed about 50% by protracted stimulation at 20 Hz or more. In individual postsynaptic neurons, comparisons of synapses made by SRs that originated from different abdominal segments and from each side of the abdomen revealed gradients of probability of synaptic connection and of relative sizes of EPSPs; SRs originating in anterior segments were less likely to synapse with most postsynaptic neurons than were SRs originating in posterior segments, and the EPSPs caused by these anterior SRs tended to be smaller. Similarly, SRs contralateral to the postsynaptic neuron were less likely to make a connection, and the EPSPs they caused tended to be smaller than those caused by ipsilateral SRs. Some local interneurons in G6 had reversed anterior-posterior gradients in EPSP amplitude. Calculations of shape indices for PSPs from SRs originating in different segments and measurements of the maximum shunting by preceding PSPs from other SR axons indicated that neither electrotonic decrement in the postsynaptic neurons nor shunting could account fully for the observed gradients in PSP strength.
Pediatric case of mesalazine-induced interstitial nephritis with literature review

We present the case of a 14-year-old boy with ulcerative colitis who was diagnosed with mesalazine-induced interstitial nephritis (M-IIN). Improvement in renal function occurred with discontinuation of mesalazine and corticosteroid therapy. We systematically searched the literature for pediatric cases of M-IIN. There were eight cases. Majority of the cases were boys (75%) with ulcerative colitis (75%). Average duration of mesalazine use prior to the diagnosis of interstitial nephritis was 24 ± 18 months. The median dose was 1.5 g/day. M-IIN appears to be an idiosyncratic reaction without any relation to dose or duration of mesalazine use. Although there are no guidelines to recommend routine surveillance of renal function, monitoring of serum creatinine in patients on mesalazine remains an inexpensive and non-invasive test that may lead to early detection and treatment of renal injury.
Observation of an energy threshold for large ΔE collisional relaxation of highly vibrationally excited pyrazine (Evib=31 000–41 000 cm−1) by CO2

Energy dependent studies of the collisional relaxation of highly vibrationally excited pyrazine through collisions with CO2 were performed for initial pyrazine energies Evib=31 000–35 000 cm−1. These studies are presented along with earlier results for pyrazine with Evib=36 000–41 000 cm−1. High-resolution transient IR laser absorption of individual CO2 (0000) rotational states (J=56–80) was used to investigate the magnitude and partitioning of energy gain into CO2 rotation and translation, which comprises the high energy tail of the energy transfer distribution function. Highly vibrationally excited pyrazine was prepared by absorption of pulsed UV light at seven wavelengths in the range λ=281–324 nm, followed by radiationless decay to pyrazine’s ground electronic state. Nascent CO2 (0000) rotational populations were measured for each UV excitation wavelength and distributions of nascent recoil velocities for individual rotational states of CO2 (0000) were obtained from Doppler-broadened transient linewid...
Health coaching for glaucoma care: a pilot study using mixed methods.

Introduction Adherence to glaucoma medications is essential for successful treatment of the disease but is complex and difficult for many of our patients. Health coaching has been used successfully in the treatment of other chronic diseases. This pilot study explores the use of health coaching for glaucoma care. Methods A mixed methods study design was used to assess the health coaching intervention for glaucoma patients. The health coaching intervention consisted of four to six health coaching sessions with a certified health coach via telephone. Quantitative measures included demographic and health information, adherence to glaucoma medications (using the visual analog adherence scale and medication event monitoring system), and an exit survey rating the experience. Qualitative measures included a precoaching health questionnaire, notes made by the coach during the intervention, and an exit interview with the subjects at the end of the study. Results Four glaucoma patients participated in the study; all derived benefits from the health coaching. Study subjects demonstrated increased glaucoma drop adherence in response to the coaching intervention, in both visual analog scale and medication event monitoring system. Study subjects' qualitative feedback reflected a perceived improvement in both eye and general health self-care. The subjects stated that they would recommend health coaching to friends or family members. Conclusion Health coaching was helpful to the glaucoma patients in this study; it has the potential to improve glaucoma care and overall health.
Making Decisions That Matter: How People Face Important Life Choices

Contents: Preface. Introduction and Overview. Setting Goals and Making Plans. Gathering Information. Structuring the Decision. Making a Final Choice. Making Different Kinds of Decisions. Developing Decision-Making Skills, Expertise, and Style. Group and Organizational Decision Making. Improving Decision Making.
Malignant melanoma with melanosis. Ultrastructural and histological studies.

Ultrastructural and histological investigations were performed on a case of generalized melanosis associated with superficial spreading melanoma. The hyperpigmentation of the general body surface, mucous membranes and nail beds was associated with deposition of melanin in macro-phages in the dermis, together with some hyperactivity of epidermal melanocytes. Melanin granules were observed lying free in the stroma, suggesting pigment incontinence and phagocytosis by macrophages. Giant melanosomes were noted in melanocytes, keratinocytes and melanophages in the hyperpigmented skin. No evidence was found to suggest dissemination of individual malignant cells throughout the skin. Subcutaneous nodules of malignant melanoma were, however, present, as well as metastases to the iris, liver and to other organs.
Quantification of endocytosis using a folate functionalized silica hollow nanoshell platform

A quantification method to measure endocytosis was designed to assess cellular uptake and specificity of a targeting nanoparticle platform. A simple N -hydroxysuccinimide ester conjugation technique to functionalize 100-nm hollow silica nanoshell particles with fluorescent reporter fluorescein isothiocyanate and folate or polyethylene glycol (PEG) was developed. Functionalized nanoshells were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy and the maximum amount of folate functionalized on nanoshell surfaces was quantified with UV-Vis spectroscopy. The extent of endocytosis by HeLa cervical cancer cells and human foreskin fibroblast (HFF-1) cells was investigated in vitro using fluorescence and confocal microscopy. A simple fluorescence ratio analysis was developed to quantify endocytosis versus surface adhesion. Nanoshells functionalized with folate showed enhanced endocytosis by cancer cells when compared to PEG functionalized nanoshells. Fluorescence ratio analyses showed that 95% of folate functionalized silica nanoshells which adhered to cancer cells were endocytosed, while only 27% of PEG functionalized nanoshells adhered to the cell surface and underwent endocytosis when functionalized with 200 and 900 μg , respectively. Additionally, the endocytosis of folate functionalized nanoshells proved to be cancer cell selective while sparing normal cells. The developed fluorescence ratio analysis is a simple and rapid verification/validation method to quantify cellular uptake between datasets by using an internal control for normalization.
Intraluminal brachytherapy without stenting in intrahepatic papillary cholangiocarcinoma: a case report.

Abstract A 46-year-old female patient, with mild cholestasis by a large papillary cholangiocarcinoma involving the left hepatic duct, received intraluminal brachytherapy (50 Gy at 1 cm from the source axis) with the aim to relieve biliary obstruction without stent positioning. The patient presented with haemobilia and vegetant lesions in the left main biliary duct, and thus she had a high risk of early stent obstruction. Eighteen months after the treatment the patient presented tumour progression in the controlateral hepatic lobe, but had a patent left hepatic duct, without signs of cholestasis and/or cholangitis. Based on this and other published reports, intraluminal brachytherapy may be tested in a setting different from standard setting with the aim to safely palliate jaundice in patients with intraductal tumour growth in the biliary tract.
Note on enumeration of partitions contained in a given shape

Abstract Carlitz, Handa, and Mohanty proved determinantal formulas for counting partitions contained in a fixed bounding shape by area. Gessel and Viennot introduced a combinatorial method for proving such formulas by interpreting the determinants as counting suitable configurations of signed lattice paths. This note describes an alternative combinatorial approach that uses sign-reversing involutions to prove matrix inversion results. Combining these results with the classical adjoint formula for the inverse of a matrix, we obtain a new derivation of the Handa–Mohanty determinantal formula.
Cavity length effect on lasing mode of a dielectrically apertured Fabry-Perot microcavity

The lasing mode characteristics of planar and dielectrically-apertured one-wave and two-wave Fabry-Perot microcavities are analyzed theoretically using a semiclassical model, in the limit that the dielectric apertures are optically thin. Idealized cavities based on single interface and constant reflectivity mirrors are studied, though the model can be applied to more realistic cavities based on distributed Bragg reflectors or vertical cavity surface emitting lasers. The analysis shows that shortening the cavity length can lead to better confined modes with lower threshold, especially for very small aperture sizes.
Suppression of fibroblast metalloproteinases by ajulemic acid, a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid acid

Production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in joint tissue of patients with inflammatory arthritis facilitates cartilage degradation and bone erosion, and leads to joint deformities and crippling. Thus, MMPs are important targets for agents designed to treat inflammatory arthritis. Oral administration of ajulemic acid (AjA), a synthetic, nonpsychoactive cannabinoid acid, prevents joint tissue injury in rats with adjuvant arthritis. AjA binds to and activates PPARγ directly. Therefore, we investigated the influence of AjA on MMP production in human fibroblast-like synovial cells (FLS), and examined the role of PPARγ in the mechanism of action of AjA. FLS, treated or not with a PPARγ antagonist, were treated with AjA then stimulated with TNFα or IL-1α. Release of MMPs-1, 3, and 9 was measured by ELISA. The influence of AjA on MMP-3 release from stimulated PPARγ positive (PPAR+/−) and PPARγ null (PPAR−/−) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) was also examined. Addition of AjA to FLS suppressed production of MMPs whether or not PPARγ activation was blocked. Secretion of MMP-3 was also suppressed by AjA in both TNFα- and IL-1α-stimulated PPARγ+/− and PPARγ−/− MEF. Suppression of MMP secretion from FLS by AjA appears to be PPARγ independent. Prevention by AjA of joint tissue injury and crippling in the rat adjuvant arthritis model may be explained in large part by inhibition of MMPs. These results suggest that AjA may be useful for treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. J. Cell. Biochem. 100: 184–190, 2007. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Use of a Fat Probe to Assess Variation in Abdominal Fat in Broilers

Abstract Four trials were conducted to compare the fat probe measure of abdominal fat with that of actual abdominal fat weights and percentage abdominal fat. Various ages, diets, and genetic groups were used to provide experimental chickens with a wide range in body weights and abdominal fat percentages. Mean values obtained by two operators using the probe on the same bird were similar (correlations of .70 to .79). Considering all comparisons, the arithmetic mean of the correlations between fat probe values and percentage abdominal fat was .24; values ranged from .01 to .44. In five comparisons of groups differing significantly in percentage abdominal fat, there were no significant differences in probe values, and correlations between fat and probe values were low. In three other comparisons of groups differing significantly in percentage abdominal fat, differences between probe values were significant and correlations between fat and probe values were moderate. In the comparison groups in which there was an association between probe and fat values, the magnitude of the differences in fat values was about four times as great as that of differences in probe values and the correlations were moderate (.28 to .44). In the comparisons in which higher abdominal fat was associated with higher probe values, higher body weight was associated with higher percentage abdominal fat. In comparisons where higher probe values were not associated with higher abdominal fat, higher body weights were not associated with higher percentage fat.
Maternal diet during pregnancy and its association with medulloblastoma in children: A Children's Oncology Group study (United States)

Fruit, vegetables, vitamin C, and folate during pregnancy have been suggested as protective factors for medulloblastoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET), a common brain tumor in children. The authors sought to replicate these findings and investigate other aspects of diet. Mothers of 315 cases under age six at diagnosis and 315 controls were interviewed about their pregnancy diet. The authors observed modest, inverse associations for fruits/juices (odds ratio (OR) for highest compared to lowest category = 0.6, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.3, 1.1) and vitamin C (OR = 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4, 1.1). In contrast to the previous study, folate and vegetables showed no association. As hypothesized, cured meats were not associated with medulloblastoma/PNET, in contrast to other childhood brain tumors. An inverse association with nonfresh peaches and similar fruits (OR = 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3, 0.8) and a positive association with nonchocolate candy (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.0, 3.0) replicated previous findings. French fries (OR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2, 4.9) and chili peppers (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.0, 3.0) were associated with medulloblastoma/PNET. The results suggest that some aspects of diet are worthy of further research.
Topological Defects and Gapless Modes in Insulators and Superconductors

We develop a unified framework to classify topological defects in insulators and superconductors described by spatially modulated Bloch and Bogoliubov de Gennes Hamiltonians. We consider Hamiltonians $\mathcal{H}(\mathbf{k},\mathbf{r})$ that vary slowly with adiabatic parameters $\mathbf{r}$ surrounding the defect and belong to any of the ten symmetry classes defined by time-reversal symmetry and particle-hole symmetry. The topological classes for such defects are identified and explicit formulas for the topological invariants are presented. We introduce a generalization of the bulk-boundary correspondence that relates the topological classes to defect Hamiltonians to the presence of protected gapless modes at the defect. Many examples of line and point defects in three-dimensional systems will be discussed. These can host one dimensional chiral Dirac fermions, helical Dirac fermions, chiral Majorana fermions, and helical Majorana fermions, as well as zero-dimensional chiral and Majorana zero modes. This approach can also be used to classify temporal pumping cycles, such as the Thouless charge pump, as well as a fermion parity pump, which is related to the Ising non-Abelian statistics of defects that support Majorana zero modes.
Limits of periodic smoothing splines

The 2m — 1'st degree 1-periodic smoothing splines for a fixed data vector y possess a limit as m approaches infinity if and only if the smoothing parameter approaches zero essentially as t2m. This limit, when it exists, is the least squares projection of the (proximal) trigonometric interpolant onto the trigonometric polynomials of degree at most [12πt], with respect to the (semi-) inner product given by evaluation at the data points.
Multiple state stochastic models for the long-range transport and removal of atmospheric tracers

We discuss a general mathematical framework for modelling long-term average concentration and deposition patterns for atmospheric tracers which are subject to removal and transformation. For a generalized ‘particle’ which can exist in a finite number of states, the joint statistics of random particle transport and interstate transformation can be used to calculate long-term mean fields for deposition and concentration. We show that a number of models presented in the recent literature can be considered as simple cases of this formulation. These models generally assume a weak statistical relationship between vertical transport, horizontal transport and removal processes. We consider a general approach to linking these processes, based on calculating approximate transport statistics conditional on particle states. We demonstrate this approach with a rather schematic, but almost analytically solvable, stochastic model which allows for the linkage of transport and removal processes. We use these ideas to construct a two-layer model of the transport and removal of sulphur in a region of convective precipitation, demonstrating how the correlation of vertical transport and precipitation can change the precipitation statistics in the particles' Lagrangian frame and hence affect deposition patterns.
Synchronization of sacral skin blood flow oscillations in response to local heating

Local heating causes an increase in skin blood flow by activating sensory axon reflex and metabolic nitric oxide controls. It has been observed that the remote skin area without temperature changes also shows a slightly increase in blood flow. The responsible mechanism of this indirect vasodilation remains unclear. We hypothesized that the remote skin area will have enhanced synchronization of blood flow oscillations (BFO), thus inducing a vasodilatory response. We studied BFO in two sites separated 10cm of the sacral skin in 12 healthy people. Ensemble empirical mode decomposition method was used to decompose blood flow signals into a set of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs), and an IMF was selected to quantify each of myogenic, neurogenic, and metabolic modes of BFO. Then the instantaneous phase of the mode was calculated using the Hilbert transform. From the time series of phase difference between a pair of characteristic modes, we detected the epochs of phase synchronization and estimated the level of statistical significance using surrogate time series. The results showed that phase synchronization between neurogenic BFO was significantly higher in the period of the maximal vasodilation. We also observed a weak synchronization between myogenic BFO of the two skin sites. Our results suggested that synchronization of BFO may be associated with the changes in skin blood flow at the non-heated site.
Modeling and suppression of amplitude artifacts due to z motion in MR imaging

Artifacts due to patient motion in the slice-selection direction (Z motion) have been a major source of MR image degradation for many years but have not been addressed as much as in-plane motion due to the complexity of modeling and correcting for the motion. In this paper we present a model and a detection and correction scheme for amplitude aberrations due to motion in the slice-selection direction. 1.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Hepatitis C--associated glomerular disease in liver transplant recipients.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may be associated with extrahepatic illness including renal disease. We investigated the clinical and virological characteristics of three patients who developed a mesangial proliferative and sclerosing glomerulopathy alone or in association with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis after liver transplantation for end-stage liver disease secondary to HCV infection. Using polymerase chain reaction technology and the IgM RIBA assay, viral load, genotype and IgM antibody response to HCV in the setting of glomerulonephritis was evaluated. Within 1 year of transplantation, the patients showed decreased renal function, proteinuria and recurrent hepatitis C liver disease. Likewise, HCV viral load increased following transplantation, whereas the viral genotypes remained unchanged. Although the first patient presented with classic type II cryoglobulinemia in association with glomerulonephritis, the second patient developed an IgM directed specifically against the hepatitis C core antigen. The third patient developed a lowtitered IgM directed against the hepatitis C core antigen with rheumatoid factor activity but without cryoglobulinemia. All of the patients show IgM in glomerular capillary walls by biopsy. One patient has shown a clinical response to interferon (IFN) alfa-2b therapy without evidence of hepatic allograft rejection. The second and third patients have not responded to IFN or developed hepatic rejection. This study suggests that HCV-associated glomerulonephritis may complicate liver transplantation in conjunction with the production of increased amounts of IgM of variable specificity. The posttransplant setting may provide a unique situation in which to investigate the specific requirements for the onset of renal disease Copyright © 1995 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.
The problem of vascular shotgun injuries: diagnostic and management strategy.

This report details our diagnostic and management protocol derived from experience with 11 consecutive shotgun injuries. The injured vessels in nine men and one woman were: brachial artery (6), femoral artery (2), iliac artery (1), tibioperoneal trunk (1), and axillary vein (1). All those with arterial injuries had evidence of distal ischemia; 60% had absent distal pulses. Preoperative arteriography was obtained in seven who were stable and proved useful in outlining the local extent of their vascular injury as well as delineating available distal run-off vessels. Routine chest x-ray revealed evidence of pulmonary or cardiac missile emboli in three. Patients underwent primary repair (4), saphenous vein graft (4), and prosthetic graft (1). Associated venous disruption was noted in all patients with primary arterial injuries; this was either repaired (5/10) or ligated (4/10). Five patients had completion arteriograms, two of which revealed unsuspected distal arterial-arterial emboli. Associated soft tissue destruction included seven nerve injuries and three instances of extensive compartment injury which required fasciotomy. Average follow-up time was nine months, with the majority of complications due to associated nerve damage or soft tissue loss. We have evolved the following strategy: 1) After hemodynamic resuscitation, stable patients undergo arteriography to define the anatomic origin of complex injuries; 2) Surgery commences with rapid proximal and distal control of disrupted segments; 3) Following vessel debridement, continuity is restored either by primary repair or by an autogenous graft which is placed to allow coverage by viable muscle or by soft tissue; 4) On-table completion arteriograms evaluate patency and provide evidence of distal arterial emboli; 5) Fractures are stabilized and disrupted nerves isolated for subsequent repair; and 6) Fasciotomy Is performed in the presence of distal swelling or prolonged ischemia.
Characteristics of Effective Teachers of Gifted Students: Teacher Background and Personality Styles of Students

This study was designed to explore characteristics of exceptional teachers of gifted students. Participants included 63 teachers and 1,247 highly able students. Teachers responded to 2 measures: a background questionnaire and the Myers Briggs Type Inventory (MBTI), a self-report personality inventory. Students also completed the MBTI. In response to the background questionnaire, the majority of teachers reported holding advanced degrees in a content area; most were not certified to teach and reported completing no formal coursework in gifted education. Results from the MBTI indicated that exemplary teachers were more likely to prefer N (intuition) and T (thinking), as compared to a normative teacher sample. The personality types of teachers were in many ways similar to the personality types of the gifted students. These findings suggest that teachers who are judged to be highly effective in working with gifted students prefer abstract themes and concepts, are open and flexible, and value logical analysis ...
Detection of large gene rearrangements in X-linked genes by dosage analysis: identification of novel α-galactosidase A (GLA) deletions causing Fabry disease†

For most Mendelian disorders, targeted genome sequencing is an effective method to detect causative mutations. However, sequencing PCR-amplified exonic regions and their intronic boundaries can miss large deletions or duplications and mutations that lead to PCR failures in autosomal dominant disorders and in heterozygote detection for X-linked diseases. Here, a method is described for detecting large (>50 bp) deletions/duplications in the X-linked α-galactosidase A (GLA) gene, which cause Fabry disease. Briefly, multiplex PCR mixtures were designed to amplify each GLA exon and an unrelated internal control exon to normalize GLA exonic amplicon peak heights. For each normalized GLA amplicon, the normal control female to male peak-height ratios were 1.8 to 2.2 (expected 2.0), whereas the expected ratios for deletions or duplications would be ∼1.0 or 3.0, respectively. Using this method, three novel deletions, c.369+3_547+954del4096insT, c.194+2049_369+773del2619insCG, and c.207_369+651del814ins231, were detected in unrelated women with signs and/or symptoms suggestive of Fabry disease, but no "sequencing-detectable" mutations. The deletions were confirmed by sequencing their respective GLA RT-PCR products. This method can identify gene rearrangements that may be cryptic to genomic DNA sequencing and can be readily adapted to other X-linked or autosomal dominant genes.
Examples of unsteady CFD validation system response quantities in a cylinder array

a b s t r a c t A validation study for several CFD models of the time-varying flow through a confined bank of cylinders is presented. The geometry is cylinders arranged on equilateral triangles with pitch to diameter ratio of 1.7 to represent a scaled subsection of the lower plenum of a high temperature reactor. Time-resolved Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) measurements, coupled with time-varying pressure measurements along the facility walls, are compared to the Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) k − ω model and two variations of a Detached Eddy Simulation (DES) model. Spatial and temporal validation system response quantities (SRQs) on both the local and global scales were used for validation. The DES model accurately predicted frequencies present in the pressure along the walls next to the cylinders in the first and the last cylinder, yet predicted other dominant frequencies in the remaining cylinders that were not found in the experiment. As expected, the temporal behavior of the DES was generally far superior to that of the URANS model. A grid convergence study shows typical global quantities (such as pressure losses) converge well while temporal quantities converge poorly for the same grids. © 2011 Published by Elsevier B.V.
Native vacancy migrations in zircon

Abstract Energy minimization methods were used to simulate the migration of Zr, Si, and O vacancies in zircon (ZrSiO 4 ). Two sets of interatomic potentials were employed for comparison: one with O–Si–O three-body terms for the SiO 4 , and one without. Results for Si were inconclusive, but consistent with maintaining the integrity of the SiO 4 molecular units. Both Zr and O vacancies can migrate on three-dimensional sublattice networks, thus supporting the experimentally observed diffusional isotropy. The predicted Zr vacancy migration energy (1.16–1.38 eV) was in good agreement with experiment if supplemented by Zr vacancy formation via Schottky or Frenkel defects (6.21–12.28 eV/defect). Oxygen vacancy migration energies were predicted to be 0.99–1.16 eV, somewhat lower than the experimental value of 4.64 eV measured in natural zircons, which thus may include significant contributions from vacancy formation mechanisms at 3.31–6.52 eV/defect.
Measurement properties of subjective magnitude estimates of word frequency

Stevens' subjective magnitude estimation (SME) method was used in obtaining estimates of relative word frequency from two adult groups (15 lexicographers, 13 other adults) for 60 words ranging widely in objective frequency. Lexicographers rendered more reliable estimates, and their averaged data correlated more highly (.970) with objective log frequency than those of the second group (.923). The objective frequency of the first stimulus considered in the SME task is not related to an S's overall accuracy in predicting objective frequency. but accuracy is related to the S's tendency to perceive frequency ratios as relatively large. Subjective estimates measures something slightly different from what is indexed by currently available objective counts, and may be more valid measures of true word probability.
Neuropeptide Y blocks and reverses interleukin-1 beta-induced anorexia in rats.

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) increases feeding by direct action in the central nervous system (CNS). Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), on the other hand, induces anorexia when administered ICV at estimated pathophysiological (e.g., yielded by 1.0 ng/rat dose) and pharmacological (> or = 4.0 ng) concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In the present study, we investigated NPY/IL-1 beta interactions using the ICV administration. ICV microinfusion of NPY (5.0 micrograms) significantly increased 2-h food intake (by 89%), whereas IL-1 beta decreased 2-h food intake (32% decrease with 1.0 ng/rat; 53% with 4.0 ng/rat; and 51% with 8.0 ng/rat). NPY (5.0 micrograms) blocked the anorexic effect induced by all doses of IL-1 beta when both compounds were administered concomitantly. Central infusion of NPY was also able to induce feeding in IL-1 beta-pretreated rats exhibiting marked anorexia. The results show that ICV-administered NPY blocks and reverses the anorexia induced by estimated pathophysiological and pharmacological concentrations of IL-1 beta in rats. A second interpretation of a data subset is that IL-1 beta attenuates or blocks NPY-induced increase in feeding depending on the IL-1 beta dose used. Blockage and reversal of IL-1 beta-induced anorexia by NPY suggest the importance in studying cytokine-peptide interactions in the regulation of feeding behavior. Understanding these endogenous interactions may produce strategies with potential therapeutic implications for chronic diseases associated with long-term anorexia.
Technique of CO2 laser arthroscopic surgery

The CO 2 laser was selected for arthroscopic surgery due to its availability in the hospital high power output and excellent absorption by unpigmented tissues. During the course of this study 4 generations of laser instruments were tested. These include the focused beam delivered via a handpiece the (3 mm O.D.) macrowaveguide the (1.5 mm Q.D.) microwaveguide and the flexible waveguide. The latter two devices complement each other in that the microwaveguide will tolerate and retain up to a 30 degree(s) curve. The flexible waveguide will clear narrow joint tolerances without creating lesions in the articular surface. CO 2 laser arthroscopic tissue ablation must be done under gaseous joint distention but this presents no undue difficulties. At the completion of the procedure saline irrigation must be done for char removal.
Untreated HIV infection is associated with higher blood alcohol levels.

BACKGROUND Alcohol abuse has been associated with HIV/AIDS progression, but the effects of HIV infection and treatment on alcohol exposure have not been explored to date. This pilot study examines the relationship of untreated HIV infection to blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) relative to BAC after initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART). METHODS Fifteen volunteers with untreated HIV/AIDS participated in 2 sets of alcohol or alcohol placebo administration studies before and after initiation of ART. Oral alcohol (1 g/kg) or alcohol placebo was administered, participants were followed for pharmacokinetics, subjective responses, and cognitive effects over 8 hours. After initial alcohol studies, the ART regimen selected by participant clinicians was instituted. Observed ART dosing took place for at least 2 weeks. Participants then returned for a second set of alcohol/placebo administration studies while on ART. RESULTS Participants had significantly higher BAC (P < 0.001) before ART than after ART administration. Alcohol area under the curve was significantly higher in untreated HIV disease (P = 0.011) with significantly higher C(max) (P = 0.015) and C(min) (P = 0.05). The elimination rate was not different between pre-ART and post-ART conditions. Despite declines in BAC after ART initiation, no differences in subjective responses were observed with alcohol administration. CONCLUSIONS Untreated HIV infection is associated with risk for higher BAC than that observed after ART. These findings indicate that patients with untreated HIV disease who ingest alcohol are at greater risk for alcohol associated adverse events and toxicities and underscores the need for simultaneous treatment of alcohol use disorders and HIV in patients with co-occurring conditions.
800 MeV protons as probes of neutron transition densities

Angular distribution data for 800 MeV $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}(p, {p}^{\ensuremath{'}})$ (2.61 MeV, ${3}^{\ensuremath{-}}$) are analyzed to determine the sensitivity of the analysis to the neutron component of the transition density. The analysis employs the first order Kerman, McManus, and Thaler optical potential model (distorted wave Born approximation together with the impulse approximation). The total error in the multipole moment of the deduced transition density, ${M}_{n}(E3)$, is computed based on uncertainties in (1) the elastic and inelastic scattering data, (2) the geometry of the transition density, (3) the nucleon-nucleon amplitudes, (4) the proton transition density, (5) correlation corrections, and (6) medium modifications to the effective interactions. Under the presumption of an accurate theoretical model, the minimal uncertainty in ${M}_{n}(E3)$ is \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}8.5%. Such accuracy permits meaningful comparisons with results from nuclear structure theory.
Actin puts on the squeeze.

Compensatory endocytosis retrieves membrane and proteins that are deposited at the plasma membrane during exocytosis. A new study reveals that actin filaments assemble into structures that compress membrane-bound endocytic compartments formed after exocytosis. This suggests that compressive forces generated by actin polymerization might remodel membranes during secretory and endocytic traffic.
Measurement of Nitric Acid in Smog

The formation of nitric acid (HONO2) in the polluted atmosphere has been monitored using a newly developed analyzer. The analytical method, the operation and performance of the analyzer and some results of recent applications are described. The analysis consists of sample conditioning in combination with a Mast micro-coulomb detection cell adapted for sensing acids rather than oxi-dants. Results of calibration and interference testing are presented. The sensitivity of the instrument to HONO2 is about 2 ppb. Application of the analyzer for smog chamber and atmospheric studies is demonstrated. In simulated smog experiments with synthetic auto exhaust, the pattern of HONO2 formation parallels that of ozone formation. A similar formation pattern was observed during ambient sampling. Evidence is presented which suggest that these reactions, may both contribute to HONO2 formation in smog, but the relative importance of the two is yet uncertain. Atmospheric sampling in the Los Angeles area indicated 24 hour aver...
Instability of the localized small polaron in high electric fields

A model is proposed for the effect of high electric fields on low conductivity materials where the major mode of conduction is by hopping of localized small polarons. It is predicted that the mobility increases with the field up to a threshold field where delocalization of the small polaron occurs. At this field the mobility increases discontinuously by a few orders of magnitude, and the conduction mode is in a polaronic band. Observation of the instability has been made on polycrystalline spinel Co1+χCr2−χO4 and on single crystal Co0.994Li0.006O. The I−V characteristics have been determined by dc and ac at 60 Hz and by repetitive pulsing at low repetition rates. Thick specimens were used (0.01 to 0.10 mm) to assure the bulk nature of the transition. The instability consists of a transition from a non-ohmic low conductivity state at low fields to a high conductivity state when a breakdown field Eb is attained. The high conductivity is sustained until the field is lowered below a minimum field Em, at which point the low conductivity state is restored. The model can be applied to amorphous semiconductors as well, under the assumption that the low conductivity mechanism is small polaron hopping, rather than very low concentration of charge carriers in a high mobility band. The intrinsic conduction of these materials can be attributed then to the activation energy of the hopping motion.