cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
3D echocardiographic evaluation of right ventricular function and strain: a prognostic study in paediatric pulmonary hypertension

Aims To evaluate right ventricular functional indices using 3D echocardiography (3DE) between normal children and paediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients, and to evaluate these indices as outcome predictors in children with PH. Methods and results Ninety-six paediatric PH patients from 2014 to 2016 were compared with 40 normal controls. All patients underwent 3DE and off-line analysis generated 3D end-diastolic volume, 3D end-systolic volume, 3D stroke volume, 3D right ventricular (RV) ejection fraction (EF), RV longitudinal strain (LS) free wall and septum, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and fractional area change (FAC). PH patients had higher RV volumes, lower RV EF, lower free wall and septal RVLS, lower TAPSE, and lower FAC compared with normal controls (all P < 0.001). 3D RV EF, free wall RVLS, and FAC are predictors of adverse clinical outcomes [hazard ratio (confidence interval) 0.1 (0.03-0.27], P < 0.001; 0.17 (0.07-0.45), P < 0.001; 0.08 (0.03-0.22); P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion Paediatric PH patients have impaired RV function compared with normal children. 3D RV EF, volumes, FAC, and free wall RV strain serve as outcome predictors for paediatric PH patients.
Factors associated with marijuana use and problems among college students in Colorado.

Background: Past studies have shown that heavy marijuana use can impact student outcomes. Frequent use and misuse of marijuana have been associated with a range of psychological and personality fac...
Hydrothermal Corrosion of SiC Materials for Accident Tolerant Fuel Cladding with and Without Mitigation Coatings

As a candidate material for accident-tolerant fuel cladding for light water reactors (LWR), SiCf–SiC composite materials possess many attractive properties. However, prior work has shown that SiC is susceptible to aqueous dissolution in LWR coolant environments. To address this issue, candidate coatings have been developed to inhibit dissolution. For this study, CVD SiC samples were prepared with Cr, CrN, TiN, ZrN, NiCr, and Ni coatings. Uncoated SiC and SiCf–SiC samples were also prepared. The samples were exposed for 400 h in 288 ℃ water with 2 wppm DO in a constantly-refreshing autoclave to simulate BWR–NWC. Cr and Ni coated samples lost less mass than the uncoated SiC sample, indicating an improvement in performance. The CrN coating resisted oxidation, but some of the coating was lost due to poor adhesion. The TiN coated sample gained significant mass due to oxidation of the coating. ZrN and NiCr coatings showed significant corrosion attack. SiCf–SiC ceramic matrix composite materials dissolved much faster than the CVD SiC sample, demonstrating the need for mitigation coatings if CMCs are to be used in LWRs. This work demonstrates the promise of Cr, Ni and CrN coatings for corrosion mitigation in LWRs, and shows that NiCr and ZrN are not promising coating materials.
The Substructure and Properties of Explosively Loaded Cu-8.6 % Ge

The shock-induced defect microstructure in Cu-8.6 at. pct. Ge has been studied with x-ray diffraction. Samples of the alloy were explosively loaded at 100, 180, 350, and 475 kbars with planar shock waves using the driver plate technique. Complete analysis of the x-ray diffraction effects was made on each sample along with measurements of the changes in microhardness, yield strength, and electrical resistivity. The effective particle size decreased in a regular manner with shock pressure. Similarly, the rms microstrains, stacking fault probability, and twin fault probability increased with shock pressure. The twin fault probability was four times as large as the stacking fault probability. Generally, the substructure was more isotropic at higher shock pressures. Semiquantitative relationships have been developed relating the yield strength to the dislocation density and to the various substructure parameters.
Fission, Fusion and the Parfit Revolution

Critique de l'argument de la fission entre identite personnelle et continuite psychologique qui fonde la revolution Parfit affirmant la primaute de la relation-R (definie par la connexion psychologique) sur l'identite. Loin d'aboutir a cette conclusion revolutionnaire, l'A. montre que l'argument de Parfit, illustrant la these de l'identite indeterminee dans le temps, demande a etre complete par l'argument de la fusion physique et mentale avec une autre personne, permettant de distinguer la relation-R de la relation pas definitivement fausse que je dans le cas de la survie ordinaire
Reducing Salmonella on apples with wash practices commonly used by consumers.

The efficacy levels of practices used by consumers to wash smooth-surface fruits and vegetables were compared. Golden Delicious apples were spot inoculated near the blossom end with 50 μl of a cocktail of six serotypes of Salmonella enterica (with a total inoculum level of approximately 109 CFU per apple). The inoculum was dried for 1.5 h, and apples were either treated immediately or held for 24 h prior to treatment. Treatments included wetting with approximately 5 ml of water, vinegar (5% acidity), or a 200-ppm chlorine solution, rubbing for 5 or 30 s, rinsing with 200 to 600 ml of 24 or 43°C water, and drying with a sterile paper towel. Residual populations of Salmonella were determined by rubbing the treated apple for 30 s in 20 ml of Dey-Engley neutralizing broth and plating on tryptic soy agar and bismuth sulfite agar. Rubbing treatments carried out for 5 and 30 s both resulted in a significant reduction in Salmonella populations (1 log10 CFU per apple) relative to populations on samples held for 30...
NKG2C Natural Killer Cells in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Are Associated With Cytomegalovirus Viremia and Poor Outcomes in Lung Allograft Recipients.

Background.Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a risk factor for chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD), which limits survival in lung allograft recipients. Natural killer (NK) cells that express the NKG2C receptor mediate CMV-specific immune responses. We hypothesized that NKG2C+ NK cells respond
Phenotype of vigilin expressing breast cancer cells binding to the 69 nt 3'UTR element in CSF-1R mRNA

Vigilin, a nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein, post-transcriptionally suppresses proto-oncogene c-fms expression (encoding CSF-1R) in breast cancer by binding to a 69 nt cis-acting 3-UTR element in CSF-1R mRNA. CSF-1R is an important mediator of breast cancer development, metastasis, and survival. We confirm that vigilin decreases in vitro reporter luciferase activity as well as the translation rate of target mRNAs. We further explore the mechanism of suppression of CSF-1R. We show that the 69 nt binding element has profound effects on translation efficiency of CSF-1R mRNA, not seen in the presence of mutation of the element. Also, mutation of the 69 nt element in the CSF-1R mRNA 3'UTR both interferes with direct vigilin binding and obviates effect of vigilin overexpression on translational repression of CSF-1R. We show that stable vigilin binding requires the full length 69 nt CSF-1R element, including the 26 nt pyrimidine-rich core. Furthermore, titration of endogenous vigilin and other proteins which bind the 69 nt element, by exogenously introduced CSF-1R mRNA 3'UTR containing the pyrimidine-rich sequence, increases the adhesion, motility, and invasion of breast cancer cells. This phenotypic effect is not seen when the 69 nt element is deleted. Lastly, we are the first to show that human breast tissues exhibit strong vigilin expression in normal breast epithelium. Our pilot data suggest decreased vigilin protein expression, along with shift from the nucleus to the cytoplasmic location, in the transition to ductal carcinoma in situ.
Robotic Component Separation

Component separation techniques to address large ventral hernias have dramatically evolved during the past decade. The touted benefits of a posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release (TAR), with its broad adaptability and favorable wound morbidity/recurrence profile, have led to its wide adoption for large, complex, and multiply-recurrent repairs. Concurrent development of the robotic platform and surgeon ingenuity have more recently culminated in the evolution of a minimally invasive TAR technique made practical and adaptable by robotic technology (rTAR). Here, we provide a detailed explanation of the benefits this technique offers in the context of alternative repairs described during the past 30 years. Though the operation is actively evolving, we will also provide a detailed depiction of our approach. While early retrospective reviews tout a shortened length of hospital stay compared to modern open and laparoscopic counterparts in order to justify the increased cost of the robotic platform, improved patient outcomes unique to the approach may ultimately provide enough value to substantiate the vitality of the operative approach.
Regimes of hearing: Norwegian qualia of quiet and noise as heard through a migrant classroom

Abstract Through an analysis of the way the qualia of noise and quiet are invoked and either given value or stigmatized in a school in Oslo, Norway, this paper traces the ways that people's bodies, their voices, and their material environments are constructed as being either similar or opposed to the ‘us’ of middle-class, majority Norwegians. I build on Inoue (2003)'s argument that modes of hearing are the effect of a particular regime of social power. This attention to qualia allows us to develop clearer insight into the creation of one implicit form of exclusion within the city.
Electrons in Anderson–Mott insulators

The article addresses properties of strongly disordered electronic systems which are Anderson and often also Mott localized Coulomb interactions are important. In the localized regime Coulomb interactions among electrons are important due to poor screening. Parts of the subject have been controversial, in particular with regard to the importance of dynamic many-body effects and of the role the one-particle density of states plays in transport. The main focus here is an attempt to review the current status of the subject and hopefully to contribute to a reduction in the controversies.
Orthotropic-equivalent strain measures and their application to the elastic response of porcine skin

Abstract A Green-elastic response function based on a non-algebraic invariant representation for the in-plane deformation of tissue (porcine skin) is developed. It retains orthotropy and simulates the characteristic bimodal behavior (a very low modulus regime followed by a rapidly stiffening response) with experimentally determinable and meaningful parameters. This is achieved by using a recently developed upper triangular (or QR decomposition) of the deformation gradient using the orthotropy axes and defining physically meaningful ‘equivalent strains’ that are non-algebraic functions of the usual invariants. We demonstrate that the strain energy density can be written as a function of one or more such ‘equivalent strains’ and can be used to model the orthotropic response of such bimodal materials. The model is used to simulate the orthotropic unload-reload response of porcine-skin when loaded in different directions with results that compare well with experiments based on a single orthotropic-equivalent strain measure.
Biomechanical Comparison of Quadriceps and 6-Strand Hamstring Tendon Grafts in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Background:The quadriceps tendon is becoming a popular graft option for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Few studies have examined the biomechanics of the quadriceps tendon compared...
Lattice Thermal Conductivity in Nanowires: Coupling the Bechmann–Kirchhoff Boundary Scattering Model With a Monte Carlo Framework

In this article, the effect of rough surface on phonon transport has been studied for silicon nanowire structures. The diffusive boundary scattering has been treated using the Beckmann–Kirchhoff (B-K) surface roughness scattering (SRS) model, considering the effect of roughness height, correlation length, phonon wavelength, and incident/reflected angles. The model is more comprehensive and accurate than the conventional approaches, where surface roughness is usually modeled based on experimental fitting parameters or only phonon wavelength. The B-K SRS model has been integrated within a particle-based Monte Carlo phonon transport (MCPT) simulator to study the thermal conductivity of different nanowire structures. The simulator is benchmarked against the experimental data for both bulk and nanowire devices. The reduction of thermal conductivity in nanowires as a function of the degree of roughness has been discussed. It is found that for a 70-nm-width, 6- $\mu \text{m}$ -long silicon structure, using 2.3-nm roughness height and 8.9-nm correlation length, 89% reduction in thermal conductivity occurs at 300 K. The sensitivity of the developed simulator with varying degree of roughness and the effect of SRS on different phonon spectral branches have been studied. These observations can be useful in designing materials with low thermal conductivity for thermoelectric cooling applications.
TIGER (PANTHERA TIGRIS) AND DOMESTIC CAT (FELIS CATUS) IMMUNE RESPONSES TO CANARYPOX-VECTORED CANINE DISTEMPER VACCINATION.

Two methods for delivering a canarypox-vectored canine distemper vaccine to tigers (Panthera tigris) and domestic cats (Felis catus) were investigated. Eight tigers were divided randomly into two vaccination groups: subcutaneous injection or topical tonsillar application. Each tiger received 2 ml of canine distemper virus (CDV) vaccine (Merial Ferret Distemper Vaccine). Blood was collected from tigers on days 0, 21, 35 or 37, and 112 post–initial vaccination (PIV). Domestic cats were divided randomly into four treatment groups: saline injection (negative controls), low- and high-dose oral, and subcutaneous vaccinates. Blood was collected from domestic cats on days 0, 7, 21, and 28 and 165 or 208 PIV. Sera were tested for CDV antibodies by virus neutralization. All individuals were seronegative at the beginning of the study. One tiger vaccinated subcutaneously developed a titer of 32 by day 35, which reduced to 16 by day 112. Another tiger vaccinated by tonsillar application developed a titer of 8 on day 112. All other tigers remained seronegative. Cats that received saline injection or oral vaccination remained seronegative at each sampling time. Domestic cats vaccinated subcutaneously developed titers ranging from 4 to >128 by day 28, and those re-bled at day 166 had titers of 16 or 64. The disparity in response between domestic cats and tigers may be due to species differences or it may represent a dose-dependent effect. Subcutaneous vaccination with canarypox-vectored Purevax Ferret Distemper® is safe and elicits persistent antibody titers in domestic cats vaccinated parenterally.
Mindful Opportunity to Reflect on Experience: Interdisciplinary Mind–Body Medicine Skills Training for Health-care Professionals:

Interventions that support employee wellness and resilience hold potential to improve patient care, increase staff engagement, and decrease burnout. This repeat-measures study evaluated whether an ...
Vapor-deposited functional polymer thin films in biological applications

Functional polymer coatings have become ubiquitous in biological applications, ranging from biomaterials and drug delivery to manufacturing-scale separation of biomolecules using functional membranes. Recent advances in the technology of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) have enabled precise control of the polymer chemistry, coating thickness, and conformality. That comprehensive control of surface properties has been used to elicit desirable interactions at the interface between synthetic materials and living organisms, making vapor-deposited functional polymers uniquely suitable for biological applications. This review captures the recent technological development in vapor-deposited functional polymer coatings, highlighting their biological applications, including membrane-based bio-separations, biosensing and bio-MEMS, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. The conformal nature of vapor-deposited coatings ensures uniform coverage over micro- and nano-structured surfaces, allowing the independent optimization of surface and bulk properties. The substrate-independence of CVD techniques enables facile transfer of surface characteristics among different applications. The vapor-deposited functional polymer thin films tend to be biocompatible because they are free of remnant toxic solvents and precursor molecules, potentially lowering the barrier to clinical success.
Inactivation Dynamics of Gram-negative and Gram-positive Microbes in Drinking Water: a Comparative Study of Chlorine and Monochloramine Disinfection

To assure the prevention of microbial contamination and the provision of safe potable water to consumers, efficient disinfection is the final barrier. Chlorine, once a widely applied disinfectant, has essentially been re-considered by many water treatment practitioners. Since the research unveiled chlorine-associated health repercussions, the investigation shifted to more viable disinfection options such as the use of monochloramines, that remains active in the system for relatively long periods. Keeping in view, the present study compared the biocidal competence of chlorine and monochloramine to inactivate the gram-negative Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa along with the gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. A lab-scale testing batch was set up in carefully monitored conditions to investigate the response of these bacterial species to the applied disinfection dosages of 1 and 2 mg/L. Moreover, a referenced batch of control evidenced the accuracy of results. A significant difference in the response to chlorine and monochloramine was recorded both in mixed and mono-cultures of bacteria. The bench-scale inactivation experiments revealed that chlorine and monochloramine greatly damaged K. pneumoniae and S. aureus in monocultures. Whereas these bacterial species revealed greater tolerance when acted together in a mixed-cultures and, hence, an overall lower degree of disinfection was achieved. P. aeruginosa exhibited reduced vulnerability to disinfectants in mixed-cultures, marking K. pneumoniae tolerant to chlorine. Most significant correlation between disinfectant species was found at 30 min of exposure with notable logremoval of K. pneumoniae (p = 0.01), P. aeruginosa (p = 0.003) and S. aureus (p = 0.0001). In conclusion, for prolonged exposures, monochloramine is advisable owing to its immediate microbial inactivation upon contact as well as enhanced stability in drinking water networks. The results could predict the pattern of bacterial inactivation in drinking water distribution networks and fill a major gap in the water sector.
Comparing the Effects of Traditional Education and Root-Cause Analysis on Nursing Students' Attitudes About Safety Culture and Knowledge of Safe Medication Administration Practices: An Experimental Study.

BACKGROUND Root-cause analysis (RCA) has been used for decades to support a culture of safety in health care institutions. Although RCA has been recommended for inclusion in a nursing curriculum, little research has been conducted on educational strategies or outcomes. PURPOSE The study aims were to compare differences in attitudes about safety culture and knowledge of safe medication administration after education about RCA (intervention) versus traditional safe medication administration education (control) and to provide psychometric data for the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ) with nursing students. METHODS An experimental pretest/posttest study was conducted in 3 schools of nursing (N = 117). RESULTS Although there was no significant difference in outcomes between the control and intervention groups, increases in SAQ scores were observed for the intervention group. The Cronbach's α for the SAQ was .93. CONCLUSIONS The SAQ is a reliable instrument for measuring safety culture in schools of nursing.
Sodium NMR Study of the Effects of Additives in Sodium Beta-Alumina Ceramic Samples

Some microscopic effects of various additives in sodium beta-alumina have been observed in the 23Na NMR spectrum. Polycrystalline ceramic samples with varying fractions of the additive such as magnesium, nickel, calcium, lithium, and yttrium were studied.
Video Selection and Microanalysis Approaches in Studies of Urban Science Education

In this chapter I discuss video analysis as a methodological approach for developing deep understandings of relationships and interactions within urban science teaching and learning contexts. I address insights that can be gained from video viewing and (re)viewing and by using methods/micro techniques for studying unconscious and conscious aspects of interactions occurring in science learning environments. I specifically focus upon utilizing a deductive approach for video selection, which is appropriate when the researcher has clear research questions and a strong theoretical orientation. Moreover, through vignettes from an urban high school chemistry classroom, I argue that video microanalysis is crucial for developing better understandings of what happens during classroom interactions and for helping to build successful science learning communities.
A Holocaust-Based Investigative Project: Historical Research for Secondary School Students

Personalizing the Holocaust, that is, moving a study of the event beyond the staggering numbers that often play a central role in units about the Shoah to a focus that is meaningful for students, is a necessary factor in planning effective curricula about the topic. This article outlines an internet-based research project in which a personal bond develops between students and individuals whose lives were changed forever by the Holocaust. In addition, the project allows students to practice research skills that can be transferred to the study of other historical topics.
Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery

The Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at the University of Iowa includes Drs. Catherine Bradley a fellowship trained urogynecologist and a nurse practitioner with advanced clinical training, Diane Elas, ARNP. UIHC Urogynecology clinics focus on the outpatient evaluation and management of female pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and other urinary and defecatory disorders. Outpatient diagnostic testing is available, including urodynamic tests and cystourethroscopy. We offer a wide spectrum of clinical care for pelvic floor disorders, including nonsurgical (e.g. pessaries and behavioral therapies) and surgical therapies. Clinic-based procedures (such as transurethral bulking injections and intra-detrusor botulinum toxin injections) are offered, as well as outpatient and inpatient surgeries. Special clinical initiatives include our minimally-invasive surgery program for urinary incontinence and prolapse, including outpatient slings and robotic hysterectomy and sacrocolpopexy.
Identification and Characterization of the Functional Elements within the Tobacco Etch Virus 5′ Leader Required for Cap-Independent Translation

Translation in plants is highly cap dependent, and the only plant mRNAs known to naturally lack a cap structure (m(7)GpppN) are viral in origin. The genomic RNA of tobacco etch virus (TEV), a potyvirus that belongs to the picornavirus superfamily, is a polyadenylated mRNA that is naturally uncapped and yet is a highly competitive mRNA during translation. The 143-nucleotide 5' leader is responsible for conferring cap-independent translation even on reporter mRNAs. We have carried out a deletion analysis of the TEV 5' leader to identify the elements responsible for its regulatory function and have identified two centrally located cap-independent regulatory elements (CIREs) that promote cap-independent translation. The introduction of a stable stem-loop structure upstream of each element demonstrated that CIRE-1 is less 5' end dependent in function than CIRE-2. In a dicistronic mRNA, the presence of the TEV 5' leader sequence in the intercistronic region increased expression of the second cistron, suggesting that the viral sequence can function in a 5'-distal position. Interestingly, the introduction of a stable stem-loop upstream of the TEV leader sequence or upstream of either CIRE in dicistronic constructs markedly increased their regulatory function. These data suggest that the TEV 5' leader contains two elements that together promote internal initiation but that the function of one element, in particular, is facilitated by proximity to the 5' end.
Rate Equation Approach to Aggregation Phenomena

A general qualitative theory for the mean-field rate equation describing aggregation processes is described. Various exponents describing the cluster-size distribution and its time evolution are derived. It is found that this theory frequently gives a good account of systems with more realistic kinetics, such as cluster-cluster aggregation, but that considerable caution must be exercised to ensure being in the actual asymptotic regime, since very long crossovers are sometimes observed.
Counting the Cost of Deforestation

To halt the dramatic alteration in our climate, there must be a reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases. As [Bonnie and colleagues][1] discuss in their Perspective, conservation of forests will increase carbon sequestration and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. In this issue, a cost-benefit analysis by [ Kremen et al .][2] demonstrates the benefits of forest conservation on a local and global scale. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/288/5472/1763 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/288/5472/1828
Groups of Galaxies

If galaxies in the universe were uniformly distributed we would have had to find another excuse to enjoy ourselves in Trieste. Fortunately groups of galaxies are a sufficiently messy subject to require at least one more meeting.
A Phase Extension Approach to Double Object Constructions – Evidence from Modern Greek*

. This article examines A-movement (a)symmetries in the double object construction in Modern Greek. Two types of double object constructions are attested in this language, the “dative construction” and the “double accusative construction”. These constructions, which are analysed as low applicatives, differ with regard to (i) the Case marking of the Goal, (ii) A-movement properties of Themes and (iii) formation of adjectival passives with Goal externalisation. The article shows that (i)–(iii) are interrelated phenomena in Greek and that they can be accounted for by exploiting recent findings on phases, namely phase extension whereby a phase expands as a result of movement of the phase head. The phase extension approach to double object constructions illustrates that head movement interacts with locality as a narrow syntactic operation and that locality-violating passives can be licensed without phase EPP-features or multiple Specifiers. The article also dwells on the controversial issue concerning the quirky Subject status of fronted dative Goals in Greek and shows that the phase extension approach, in which dative clitics are analysed as phonetic realizations of applicative heads, supports the quirky Subject status of dative Goals.
Diffusion tensor imaging reveals adolescent binge ethanol‐induced brain structural integrity alterations in adult rats that correlate with behavioral dysfunction

Adolescence is characterized by considerable brain maturation that coincides with the development of adult behavior. Binge drinking is common during adolescence and can have deleterious effects on brain maturation because of the heightened neuroplasticity of the adolescent brain. Using an animal model of adolescent intermittent ethanol [AIE; 5.0 g/kg, intragastric, 20 percent EtOH w/v; 2 days on/2 days off from postnatal day (P)25 to P55], we assessed the adult brain structural volumes and integrity on P80 and P220 using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). While we did not observe a long-term effect of AIE on structural volumes, AIE did reduce axial diffusivity (AD) in the cerebellum, hippocampus and neocortex. Radial diffusivity (RD) was reduced in the hippocampus and neocortex of AIE-treated animals. Prior AIE treatment did not affect fractional anisotropy (FA), but did lead to long-term reductions of mean diffusivity (MD) in both the cerebellum and corpus callosum. AIE resulted in increased anxiety-like behavior and diminished object recognition memory, the latter of which was positively correlated with DTI measures. Across aging, whole brain volumes increased, as did volumes of the corpus callosum and neocortex. This was accompanied by age-associated AD reductions in the cerebellum and neocortex as well as RD and MD reductions in the cerebellum. Further, we found that FA increased in both the cerebellum and corpus callosum as rats aged from P80 to P220. Thus, both age and AIE treatment caused long-term changes to brain structural integrity that could contribute to cognitive dysfunction.
Tanycytes of the third ventricle of the neonatal rat: a Golgi study.

The morphology and vascular relations of tanycytes in the walls and floor of the third ventricle (3rd V) of neonatal rats (4–10 days of age) were studied with a modification of the rapid Golgi method (Valverde, '70). Serial frontal sections through the infundibular recess revealed that tanycytes may be assigned to two distinct populations based on location and structure. Tanycytes in the ventral one third of the walls as well as the floor of the third ventricle comprise the first group. The cell body of these tanycytes was subependymal in location and possessed two main processes. A centrally directed short neck-process abutted upon the ventricular lumen and often exhibited one or more protrusions extending into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Issuing from the opposite pole of the cell body, a second smooth, relatively unbranched tail process either projected directly to the ventral surface of the brain or terminated in contact with capillaries of the median eminence. A second group of tanycytes was located more dorsally in the walls of the third ventricle. The somatic apical surface of this group generally abutted directly upon the ventricular lumen and exhibited protrusions of diverse configuration projecting into the ventrical lumen. Tanycytes of the latter group were also characterized by a tortuous tail-process which arched laterally and ventrally to terminate either in the adjacent neuropil or at the surface of the brain. Unlike those of the ventral group, these processes exhibited numerous appendages, varicosities and side branches, many of which ended as expansions in direct contact with blood vessels. In addition, segments of beaded afferent fibers of fine caliber were often seen to contact processes of both groups of tanycytes. The observed relationships between CSF, tanycytes and blood vessels support recent hypotheses of tanycyte involvement in neuroendocrine regulation, CSF composition and neuronal metabolism.
Analysis of crystallization data: The α-naphthol—catechol and picric acid-catechol systems

Abstract Experimental values of diffusion coefficient have been compared with the values computed by eutectic growth models of Chalmers and Jackson, Jackson and Hunt, Nash and Glicksman, and Sato and Sayama for the α-naphthol—catechol and picric acid—catechol systems. Dependence of λ 2 ν on concentration is also discused.
Proton structure corrections to hyperfine splitting in muonic hydrogen

We present the derivation of the formulas for the proton structure-dependent terms in the hyperfine splitting of muonic hydrogen. We use compatible conventions throughout the calculations to derive a consistent set of formulas that reconcile differences between our results and some specific terms in earlier work. Convention conversion corrections are explicitly presented, which reduce the calculated hyperfine splitting by about 46 ppm. We also note that using only modern fits to the proton elastic form factors gives a smaller than historical spread of Zemach radii and leads to a reduced uncertainty in the hyperfine splitting. Additionally, hyperfine splittings have an impact on the muonic hydrogen Lamb shift/proton radius measurement, however the correction we advocate has a small effect there.
Sensory evaluation of jams made from three eastern thornless and marion blackberries

Jams were produced from fruit of eastern thornless blackberries (Black Satin, Chester, Hull Thornless, and Thornfree cultivars) harvested by hand or machine, of a blend of imported fruit from Yugoslavia and Mexico, and of Marion blackberries from Oregon. Jams were evaluated by 12 trained panelists for color, spreadability, consistency, sweetness, blackberry flavor, off-flavor, and seediness. Jams made from hand-harvested Marion, and Black Satin were the most red-purple in color. Machine-harvested Chester fruit yielded the firmest jam and was among the jams rated with the thickest mouthfeel. Jams of hand-harvested Thornfree and Black Satin fruit were rated sweetest. No differences were noted among cultivars in seediness or blackberry flavor. Jam of Marion, Black Satin, and Chester fruit had less off-flavor than the imported fruit blend and Thornfree; however, the intensity of off-flavor was scored low in all jams. Jams made from hand-harvested blackberries were less seedy and had more intense blackberry flavor than machine-harvested fruit.
Spontaneous rupture of renal pelvis after renal transplantation

Abstract Spontaneous rupture of the renal pelvis occurred in 4 cases following renal transplantation. The diagnosis was difficult, and all 4 patients were septic at the time of treatment. Three patients survived, but preservation of the transplant was possible in only 1 case. The cause is uncertain but may be related to functional obstruction or vascular insufficiency.
Evaluating clinical case report data for SAR modeling of allergic contact dermatitis

Clinical case reports can be important sources of information for alerting health professionals to the existence of possible health hazards. Isolated case reports, however, are weak evidence of cau...
Reliable indoor navigation with an unreliable robot: Allowing temporary uncertainty for maximum mobility

In this work we consider a navigation problem for a very simple robot equipped with only a map, compass, and contact sensor. Our prior work on this problem uses a graph to navigate between the convex vertices of an environment. In this paper, we extend this graph with the addition of a new node type and four new edge types. The new node type allows for more uncertainty in robot position. The presence of one of these new edge types guarantees reliable transitions between these nodes. This enhanced graph enables the algorithm to navigate environment features not solvable by our previous algorithm, including T-junctions and long halls. We also present a heuristic to accelerate the planning process by prioritizing the promising edge tests to perform. Our heuristic effectively focuses the search and qualitative data show that it computes plans with much less computational effort than a naive approach. We describe a simulated implementation of the algorithm that finds paths not previously possible, and a physical implementation that demonstrates the feasibility of executing those plans in practice.
Increased sensitivity to alcohol induced changes in ERK Map kinase phosphorylation and memory disruption in adolescent as compared to adult C57BL/6J mice.

Adolescence is a critical period of brain development that is accompanied by increased probability of risky behavior, such as alcohol use. Emerging research indicates that adolescents are differentially sensitive to the behavioral effects of acute ethanol as compared to adults but the neurobiological mechanisms of this effect remain to be fully elucidated. This study was designed to evaluate effects of acute ethanol on extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation (p-ERK1/2) in mesocorticolimbic brain regions. We also sought to determine if age-specific effects of ethanol on p-ERK1/2 are associated with ethanol-induced behavioral deficits on acquisition of the hippocampal-dependent novel object recognition (NOR) test. Adolescent and adult C57BL/6J mice were administered acute ethanol (0 0.5, 1, or 3 g/kg, i.p.). Brains were removed 30-min post injection and processed for analysis of p-ERK1/2 immunoreactivity (IR). Additional groups of mice were administered ethanol (0 or 1 g/kg) prior to the NOR test. Analysis of p-ERK1/2 IR showed that untreated adolescent mice had significantly higher levels of p-ERK1/2 IR in the nucleus accumbens shell, basolateral amygdala (BLA), central amygdala (CeA), and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) as compared to adults. Ethanol (1 g/kg) selectively reduced p-ERK1/2 IR in the dentate gyrus and increased p-ERK1/2 IR in the BLA only in adolescent mice. Ethanol (3 g/kg) produced the same effects on p-ERK1/2 IR in both age groups with increases in CeA and mPFC, but a decrease in the dentate gyrus, as compared to age-matched saline controls. Pretreatment with ethanol (1 g/kg) disrupted performance on the NOR test specifically in adolescents, which corresponds with the ethanol-induced inhibition of p-ERK1/2 IR in the hippocampus. These data show that adolescent mice have differential expression of basal p-ERK1/2 IR in mesocorticolimbic brain regions. Acute ethanol produces a unique set of changes in ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the adolescent brain that are associated with disruption of hippocampal-dependent memory acquisition.
Beryllium Abundances in F and G Dwarfs in the Pleiades and α Persei Clusters from Keck High-Resolution Echelle Spectrometer Observations

While there are many observations of Li in open clusters, there are very few of the companion light element Be. As we have seen in the study of Be in the Hyades by Boesgaard & King, the two elements together provide important and unique information on the extent and nature of interior mixing in solar-like stars. We have obtained high-resolution (45,000) spectra of the Be II resonance lines in the 14 Pleiades and four α Per dwarfs of spectral types F and G with the Keck I telescope and High-Resolution Echelle Spectrometer. The signal-to-noise ratio in the Be spectral region is typically 40 pixel-1. These two clusters have similar ages and have solar metallicity. Abundances of Be were determined by spectrum synthesis using the newest version of MOOG. For the F dwarfs where there is only a weak Li dip, there is no indication of a Be dip as was found in the Hyades in association with its deep Li dip. Thus, the observed light element depletion in the F dwarfs in the Hyades and in field stars is occurring during main-sequence evolution, and Be depletion does not become evident until ages of more than 100 Myr. The Pleiades G dwarfs are apparently undepleted in Be and the mean value for log N(Be/H) + 12.00 in stars cooler than 6000 K is 1.26 ± 0.10, compared to the Hyades mean of 1.31 ± 0.07. The star-to-star dispersion in Be in the Pleiades is comparable to the quoted errors. The four α Per stars have lower Be abundances than the Pleiades with a mean of 1.02 dex. The differences in these two clusters in their Li and Be abundances relative to the Hyades is thought to be due to their younger age and possibly their lower metallicity.
Insights into the receptor transcription and signaling: implications in opioid tolerance and dependence.

Drug addiction has great social and economical implications. In order to resolve this problem, the molecular and cellular basis for drug addiction must be elucidated. For the past three decades, our research has focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms behind morphine tolerance and dependence. Although there are many working hypotheses, it is our premise that cellular modulation of the receptor signaling, either via transcriptional or post-translational control of the receptor, is the basis for morphine tolerance and dependence. Thus, in the current review, we will summarize our recent work on the transcriptional and post-translational control of the opioid receptor, with special emphasis on the μ-opioid receptor, which is demonstrated to mediate the in vivo functions of morphine.
Approximations of the critical region of the fbietkan statistic

The Friedman (1937) test for the randomized complete block design is used to test the hypothesis of no treatment effect among k treatments with b blocks. Difficulty in determination of the size of the critical region for this hypothesis is com¬pounded by the facts that (1) the most recent extension of exact tables for the distribution of the test statistic by Odeh (1977) go up only to the case with k6 and b6, and (2) the usual chi-square approximation is grossly inaccurate for most commonly used combinations of (k,b). The purpose of this paper 2 is to compare two new approximations with the usual x2 and F large sample approximations. This work represents an extension to the two-way layout of work done earlier by the authors for the one-way Kruskal-Wallis test statistic.
Differentially photo-crosslinked polymers enable self-assembling microfluidics

An important feature of naturally self-assembled systems such as leaves and tissues is that they are curved and have embedded fluidic channels that enable the transport of nutrients to, or removal of waste from, specific three-dimensional regions. Here we report the self-assembly of photopatterned polymers, and consequently microfluidic devices, into curved geometries. We discover that differentially photo-crosslinked SU-8 films spontaneously and reversibly curve on film de-solvation and re-solvation. Photolithographic patterning of the SU-8 films enables the self-assembly of cylinders, cubes and bidirectionally folded sheets. We integrate polydimethylsiloxane microfluidic channels with these SU-8 films to self-assemble curved microfluidic networks.
Inflammatory Mechanisms: the Molecular Basis of Inflammation and Disease

Inflammation participates importantly in host defenses against infectious agents and injury, but it also contributes to the pathophysiology of many chronic diseases. Interactions of cells in the innate immune system, adaptive immune system, and inflammatory mediators orchestrate aspects of the acute and chronic inflammation that underlie diseases of many organs. A coordinated series of common effector mechanisms of inflammation contribute to tissue injury, oxidative stress, remodeling of the extracellular matrix, angiogenesis, and fibrosis in diverse target tissues. Atherosclerosis provides an example of a chronic disease that involves inflammatory mechanisms. Recruitment of blood leukocytes characterizes the initiation of this disease. Its progression involves many inflammatory mediators, modulated by cells of both innate and adaptive immunity. The complications of established atheroma, including plaque disruption and thrombosis, also intimately involve inflammation. Mastery of the inflammatory response should aid the development of novel strategies to predict disease susceptibility, target and monitor therapies, and ultimately develop new approaches to the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases associated with aging, such as atherosclerosis.
The Diagnosis of Appendicitis: An Evolving Paradigm

More than 250 000 Americans, 1/4 to 1/3 of which are children, undergo appendectomy annually for the presumptive diagnosis of acute appendicitis.1 Although appendicitis evidence-based guidelines reduce variability and control costs without sacrificing quality,2 sadly, they are used by only a fraction of practicing physicians.3 In the recent past patient and societal costs for the ∼15% “negative” appendectomy and the 33% perforative appendicitis rates were substantial.1 In an effort to enhance outcomes, the last decade has witnessed a renewed focus on improving diagnostic sensitivity, and Pediatrics has been the forum for the publication of several of these important reports.4–8 Body imaging as a diagnostic adjunct for appendicitis has enhanced sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Ultrasound (US) is portable, fast, free of irradiation exposure, and of modest incremental cost; however, it is of limited use in obese adolescents, and it is highly user-dependent.9 Computed tomography … Reprint requests to (M.M.Z.) Children’s Hospital, 1056 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80218
The ethics of psychoactive ads

Many of today's ads work by arousing the viewer's emotions. Although emotion-arousing ads are widely used and are commonly thought to be effective, their careless use produces a side-effect: the psychoactive ad. A psychoactive ad is any emotion-arousing ad that can cause a meaningful, well-defined group of viewers to feel extremely anxious, to feel hostile toward others, or to feel a loss of self-esteem. We argue that, because some ill-conceived psychoactive ads can cause harm, ethical issues must arise during their production. Current pretesting methods cannot identify the potentially psychoactive ads; therefore, we offer some tentative guidelines for reducing the number of viewers harmed by psychoactive ads.
Detection of mutator subpopulations in Salmonella typhimurium LT2 by reversion of his alleles

Abstract Defects in the methyl-directed mismatch repair lead to both the hypermutability phenotype and removal of a barrier to genetic exchange between species. Mutator bacteria carrying such defects occur frequently among bacterial pathogens, suggesting that subpopulations of mutators are contained within pathogen clones and give rise to the genetic variants that are acted upon by selective forces to allow survival or successful infection. We report here on the detection of the mutator subpopulation in Salmonella typhimurium and determination of its frequency in laboratory cultures. The analysis involved screening for mutators among revertants of S. typhimurium histidine auxotrophs selected for the His + phenotype, since the frequency of mutators is expected to be increased in the selected mutant population they helped to spawn. The increases in spontaneous reversion of histidine mutations were first measured in isogenic strains carrying mismatch repair-defective mutH, mutL, mutS , or uvrD alleles, relative to their mismatch repair-proficient counterparts. Screening for the mutator phenotype in nearly 12,000 revertants of repair-proficient strains carrying his mutations highly stimulated for reversion in mutator backgrounds, the base substitution in hisG428 and frameshift in hisC3076 , yielded five mutator strains (0.04%). the his + reversion mutations contained within the newly-arisen mutator strains were characteristic of the predominant nucleotide changes expected in such mutators, as assessed by comparison with the spectra for reversion events in wild-type and mismatch correction-defective backgrounds. The results show that subpopulations of mutators, residing in normal populations at a finite frequency, can be culled from the culture by strong selection for a required phenotype. We calculate that the frequency of mutators in the unselected population of S. typhimurium is 1–4×10 −6 , an incidence of 10-fold lower than that expected based on studies of laboratory cultures of Escherichia coli .
Experimental investigation of microbursts

An isolated dynamic microburst is modelled in the laboratory by releasing an elevated volume of salt water solution which is slightly heavier than ambient fresh water, allowing it to fall onto a horizontal plate and develop into a turbulent microburst vortex ring. This experimental model exhibits many of the features of naturally occurring microbursts which are known to be a hazard to aviation. Flow visualization methods are used to observe the event and a high resolution video camera is used to record it. In the current investigation hot film velocity measurements are made at a number of radial positions near the ground. Realistic estimates of the wind field in real microbursts may be obtained from these measurements by means of a previously developed scaling law. Flow visualization and velocity measurements support a description of the microburst structure in its transition from a vortex dominated flow to a radial gravity current in its late stages.