cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deletion of Fmr1 results in sex-specific changes in behavior.

Objective In this study, we used a systemic Fmr1 knockout in order to investigate both genotype- and sex-specific differences across multiple measures of sociability, repetitive behaviors, activity levels, anxiety, and fear-related learning and memory. Background Fragile X syndrome is the most common monogenic cause of intellectual disability and autism. Few studies to date have examined sex differences in a mouse model of Fragile X syndrome, though clinical data support the idea of differences in both overall prevalence and phenotype between the sexes. Methods Using wild-type and systemic homozygous Fmr1 knockout mice, we assessed a variety of behavioral paradigms in adult animals, including the open field test, elevated plus maze, nose-poke assay, accelerating rotarod, social partition task, three-chambered social task, and two different fear conditioning paradigms. Tests were ordered such that the most invasive tests were performed last in the sequence, and testing paradigms for similar behaviors were performed in separate cohorts to minimize testing effects. Results Our results indicate several sex-specific changes in Fmr1 knockout mice, including male-specific increases in activity levels, and female-specific increases in repetitive behaviors on both the nose-poke assay and motor coordination on the accelerating rotarod task. The results also indicated that Fmr1 deletion results in deficits in fear learning and memory across both sexes, and no changes in social behavior across two tasks. Conclusion These findings highlight the importance of including female subjects in preclinical studies, as simply studying the impact of genetic mutations in males does not yield a complete picture of the phenotype. Further research should explore these marked phenotypic differences among the sexes. Moreover, given that treatment strategies are typically equivalent between the sexes, the results highlight a potential need for sex-specific therapeutics.
Air Pollutant 1,2-Naphthoquinone Inhibits Glycolysis Through Peroxide-Mediated Protein Ina ctivation in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells

Ambient particulate matter (PM) exposure is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in humans. PM-linked health outcomes are thought to be mediated by oxidative stress mechanisms, but the specific redox events involved have not been well-characterized. PM-associated quinones, such as 1,2-naphthoquinine (1,2-NQ), can contribute to cellular oxidative stress through reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by redox cycling and direct adduction to proteins. We have previously shown that 1,2-NQ induces production of the H2O2, a potent signaling molecule that can oxidize proteins and inhibit their function. We specifically identified the glycolytic enzyme GAPDH as a target of H2O2 oxidation induced by 1,2-NQ exposure in human epithelial cells and hypothesized that this modification could cause a functional inactivation of the enzyme. GAPDH inactivation by 1,2-NQ leading to inhibition of glycolysis could greatly impair cellular function and growth. Here, we examined the functional effect of 1,2-NQ on glycolysis in the human bronchial epithelial cell line, BEAS-2B. We found that environmentally-relevant doses of 1,2-NQ rapidly inhibited glycolytic function as measured using Seahorse extracellular flux technology. Overexpression of catalase, an enzyme that detoxifies H2O2, reversed the glycolytic inhibition caused by low doses of 1,2-NQ, suggesting an underlying H2O2-dependent mechanism to inactivate glycolytic proteins rather than adduction. To our knowledge, this is the first report that exposure to low doses of an environmental toxicant produced a functional inhibition in glycolysis through peroxide-mediated mechanisms. These results could also inspire novel cancer therapies, as cancer cells are highly reliant on glycolysis for energy production. Ultimately, this study will better inform the mechanistic understanding of PM-induced human health effects and help better predict toxicity of similar PM-associated quinones. THIS ABSTRACT DOES NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT EPA POLICY.
Photoemission EXAFS on outer core levels

The first definitive measurements of EXAFS by monitoring the direct photoelectron emission as a function of photon energy have been made using the Mn 3p and F 2s core levels in evaporated films of MnF2 [1,2]. Good agreement is found with bulk transmission EXAFS obtained with the Mn Is level. This development is important because: (1) Almost all elements have suitable core levels of low binding energy. (2) Since photopeaks from adjacent core levels do not cross as the photon energy is varied, the limitation imposed on other EXAFS techniques by this interference is removed. Auger electrons, which have fixed kinetic energies and so can cross photo-peaks, will generally have low energies if they originate from the outer core levels and be unlikely to appear in the EXAFS region of kinetic energies, i. e., in excess of about 50 eV. (3) VUV light is used, which greatly extends the useable range of photon energies. (4) More than one element in a solid may be studied with the same monochromator.
Small Bowel Amyloidosis

The goal of this paper is to review the literature on small bowel amyloidosis. Our review focuses on the underlying etiology, histopathology, clinical features, endoscopic and radiologic findings, and the mainstay of management. The latest research shows changing epidemiological trends of different types of amyloidosis. It also reveals a better understanding of its pathophysiology and shows improvement in treatment outcomes. Amyloidosis is a group of diseases of multiple etiologies and clinical presentations. It is characterized by pathological deposition of insoluble fibrillar proteins within various organs leading to disruption of their structure and function. The classification of amyloidosis includes primary, secondary, dialysis-related, senile, and hereditary. Amyloidosis can be systemic or localized. The incidence of AA amyloidosis is declining in frequency. If the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is involved, the small intestine is the most commonly affected site. Overall, outcomes among patients with newly diagnosed amyloidosis have improved. This article focuses on small bowel amyloidosis.
Spatio-Temporal-Network Visualization for Exploring Human Movements and Interactions in Physical and Virtual Spaces

In this research, we propose a conceptual framework for spatiotemporal and social network visualization in a three-dimensional context. Based on this framework, new spatio-temporal-network (STN) quantitative metrics (including STN-impact-extent, STN-impact-center, STN-distance, STN-efficiency, and STN-centrality) are introduced to measure the underlying dynamic interactions among entities. The proposed framework aims to help better understand spatiotemporal patterns of human dynamics and social interactions over both physical and virtual spaces simultaneously, as well as explore how emerging events trigger spatial-temporal-social interactions and information diffusion from a process perspective. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate the proposed framework with a case study using geotagged tweets and associated visualization in the ArcScene software. We hope that this research can stimulate new insights on integrating multidisciplinary knowledge to explore human dynamics in a broader way.
Effects of exposure estimation errors on estimated exposure-response relations for PM2.5.

Abstract Associations between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure concentrations and a wide variety of undesirable outcomes, from autism and auto theft to elderly mortality, suicide, and violent crime, have been widely reported. Influential articles have argued that reducing National Ambient Air Quality Standards for PM2.5 is desirable to reduce these outcomes. Yet, other studies have found that reducing black smoke and other particulate matter by as much as 70% and dozens of micrograms per cubic meter has not detectably affected all-cause mortality rates even after decades, despite strong, statistically significant positive exposure concentration-response (C-R) associations between them. This paper examines whether this disconnect between association and causation might be explained in part by ignored estimation errors in estimated exposure concentrations. We use EPA air quality monitor data from the Los Angeles area of California to examine the shapes of estimated C-R functions for PM2.5 when the true C-R functions are assumed to be step functions with well-defined response thresholds. The estimated C-R functions mistakenly show risk as smoothly increasing with concentrations even well below the response thresholds, thus incorrectly predicting substantial risk reductions from reductions in concentrations that do not affect health risks. We conclude that ignored estimation errors obscure the shapes of true C-R functions, including possible thresholds, possibly leading to unrealistic predictions of the changes in risk caused by changing exposures. Instead of estimating improvements in public health per unit reduction (e.g., per 10 µg/m3 decrease) in average PM2.5 concentrations, it may be essential to consider how interventions change the distributions of exposure concentrations.
Cervical pathways for racial disparities in preterm births: the Preterm Prediction Study

AbstractPurpose: Racial disparities in preterm birth have been long recognized, but the social and biological mechanisms for these differences are unclear. Our analysis had three goals: (1) to dete...
Treaty Law: A Primer for Human Rights Lawyers

I am placing this older article (published in 2005) on SSRN for convenience of access. It is a short article introducing the law of treaties to domestic lawyers handling civil liberties cases.
Development of Piagetian Reasoning in Congenitally Blind Children

Reports two phases of a research study that, through use of Piagetian reasoning assessments, provided evidence of significant delays in the cognitive development of congenitally blind subjects in c...
Primat des Gesetzes unter den Rechtsquellen

„Die herrschende Rechtsquellenlehre ist etatistisch. Sie erkennt neben dem staatlichen Gesetz und seinen Derivaten nur die rechtsbildende Gewohnheit als Rechtsquellen im Sinne von Rechtsentstehungsquellen (1) an. Der Staat besitzt das Rechtsquellenmonopol. Alles positive Recht mus auf seine Autoritat zuruckfuhrbar sein. Rechtsquellen sind danach Gesetze, Rechtsverordnungen, autonome Satzungen, Gewohnheitsrecht und Observanzen, haufig in der Formel ‘Gesetz und Gewohnheitsrecht’ abbreviativ zusammengefast. Erganzt wird dieser Ka. a. O. durch allgemeine Verwaltungsvorschriften, denen heute ganz uberwiegend Rechtsquellenrang beigemessen wird“ (2).
Elastic scattering of heavy projectiles by light targets

Explicit relations are derived for the angular distribution in the laboratory of elastically scattered particles, assuming isotropic scattering in the center-of-mass system. Cases considered are mass ratios target/projectile greater than, equal to, and less than unity.
Giving to government: the policy goals and giving strategies of new and old foundations

Scholars have found differences between older and newer foundations and their giving priorities and strategies, especially in education. Foundations founded in recent decades with still-living benefactors have been more vocal, result-oriented, and focused on education initiatives like charter schools and alternative certification than their older counterparts. In this paper, I examine whether these differing patterns hold for new and old foundation grants to state departments of education, leading new foundations to target contexts politically amenable to education reform while old foundations focus less on politics and more on state need. Using data on the largest 1000 foundations, in addition to grants from the Gates and Wallace Foundations, I find that new, but not old, foundations, are more likely to support education reform policies when giving to state education agencies. I also find that new, but not old, foundations support state education agencies possessing political contexts conducive to education reform as well as higher levels of child poverty. I illustrate these findings with the case of Kentucky. These findings suggest that, by taking advantage of state need while seeking out political allies, new foundations behave like interest groups in their grants to government.
Primer hallazgo del género Syscenus Harger, 1880 (Isopoda, Cymothoida, Aegidae), en el Golfo de México, con la descripción de una especie nueva

A new species of deep water isopod of the genus Syscenus is described. This is the first record of a species of this genus for the Gulf of Mexico. A key for the identification of all the species of the genus is also presented.
Effect of print layer height on the assessment of 3D-printed models.

Introduction Many variables can affect the accuracy of 3D-printed orthodontic models, and the effects of different printing parameters on the clinical utility of the printed models are just beginning to be understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of print layer height on the assessment of 3D-printed orthodontic models with the use of the American Board of Orthodontics Cast-Radiograph Evaluation grading system. Methods Twelve cases were scanned using a desktop model scanner and 3D-printed using a stereolithography-based printer at three different layer heights (25, 50, and 100-μm; n = 12 per group). All models were scored by eleven graders using the Cast-Radiograph Evaluation grading system. All models were scored a second time, at least two weeks later. Results No statistically significant effects of print layer height were found on the scoring of the models for any of the grading metrics or total score. 3D-printed models of each layer height were highly positively correlated with stone models for the total score, with the strongest correlation found with models printed at 100-μm. Conclusions 100-μm layer height 3D-printed models are potentially clinically acceptable for the purposes of evaluation of treatment outcomes, diagnosis and treatment planning, and residency training.
A signature predictive of early versus late recurrence after radiation (RT) for breast cancer that may inform the biology of early, aggressive recurrences.

112Background: Unmet clinical needs in breast cancer (BC) management include the identification of patients at high risk to fail locally despite standard local therapy and an understanding of the b...
Conclusion-lessons and regrets

Abstract Since the establishment of the Morrill Act of 1862, universities have recognized the unique position they can play to move scientific research into the hands of practitioners and communities. Evolving from a similar train of thought, the IfSC was formed with an inherent desire to translate research into application, and theory into practice. In this chapter, we conclude the book by identifying the external challenges (including rapidly growing populations exposed to the effects of climate change, growing economic inequalities, limited capacity in disadvantaged communities, recognition of climate-based threats/social opportunities, and more limited accessibility of resilience tools for residents) and opportunities linked to community resilience. We then identify the internal challenges and opportunities related to academe which include faculty advancement, staff involvement and advancement, and educating faculty and administration on the real costs of engagement.
Self-organized criticality in earth systems [Book Review]

Self-Organized Criticality in Earth Systems, by Stefan Hergarten, ISBN 3540434526, Springer-Verlag, 2002, US$89.95, 250 pp.
An experimental and numerical study on heat transfer enhancement of a heat sink fin by synthetic jet impingement

Compared to traditional continuous jets, synthetic jets (jets with oscillatory flow such that the time-average velocity is zero) have specific advantages, such as lower power requirement, simpler structure and the ability to produce an unsteady turbulent flow that is known to be effective in augmenting heat transfer. This study presents experimental and computational results that document heat transfer coefficients associated with impinging a synthetic jet flow onto the tip region of a longitudinal fin used in an electronics cooling system. The effects of different parameters, such as amplitude and frequency of diaphragm movement and jet-to-cooled-surface spacing, are recorded. The computational results show a good match with experimental results. In the experiments, an actual-scale (1 mm jet orifice) system is introduced and, for finer spatial resolution and improved control over geometric and operational conditions, a large-scale mock-up (44 mm jet orifice) is applied in a dynamically-similar way, then tested. Results of the experiments at the two scales, combined with the computational results, describe fin heat transfer coefficients on and near the jet impingement stagnation point. A linear relationship for heat transfer coefficient versus frequency of diaphragm movement is shown. Heat transfer coefficient values as high as 650 W/m2K are obtained with high-frequency diaphragm movement. Cases with different orifice shapes show how jet impingement cooling performance changes with orifice shape.
Medically treated opioid overdoses among New Jersey Medicaid beneficiaries: Rapid growth and complex comorbidity amid growing fentanyl penetration.

Abstract Objective Medically treated opioid overdoses identify a population at high risk of subsequent mortality and need for treatment. This study reports on medically treated opioid overdose trends in a state with rapid fentanyl spread. Methods We conducted stratified trend analysis of medically treated overdose due to heroin, synthetic opioids, methadone, or other natural opioids among New Jersey Medicaid beneficiaries aged 12–64 years (2014–2019); evaluated associations with demographics and co-occurring conditions; and examined trends in fentanyl penetration in suspected heroin seizures from New Jersey State Police data. Results Overdose risk more than tripled from 2014 to 2019, from 120.5 to 426.8 per 100,000 person-years, respectively. Increases primarily involved heroin and synthetic opioids and were associated with co-occurring alcohol and other non–opioid drug disorders, major depressive disorder, and hepatitis C. Concurrent changes in the drug exposure environment (2015–2019) included an increase in fentanyl penetration (proportion of suspected heroin seizures that included fentanyls) from 2% to 80%, and a decrease in the proportion of Medicaid beneficiaries who received opioid analgesic prescriptions from 23% to 13%. Conclusion Results document a rapid increase in overdose risk among individuals with opioid use disorder in an environment in which fentanyl is highly prevalent, and highlight the need for intensified services and engagement of non–treatment seekers, and integrated models to address multiple co-occurring conditions and risk factors.
Intelligent DAE solvers and user friendly design, simulation, and analysis packages

Simulation and design packages are an integral part of many computational systems. However, the current capabilities of many of these systems are limited by their ability to handle naturally posed questions in a user friendly manner. This paper examines what would be required to handle those problems that naturally lead to differential algebraic equations.
Latin American Economic Integration

Ratification of the Protocol of Caracas. LAFTA will soon be faced with a number of complex juridical problems arising from the lack of ratifications to the Protocol of Caracas. The twelve-year period stipulated by the Montevideo Treaty for the free trade area to be brought under full operation expires December 31, 1973. But, since some of the objectives set forth therein have not been achieved as yet, the Protocol of Caracas which can only enter into force when all LAFTA Member States have ratified ithas extended the time limit to 1980. To date, Colombia and Uruguay have failed to ratify the Protocol, and it is doubtful that they will do so, alleging the need for a complete revision of the objectives and mechanisms of the Association.
Monoclonal antibodies directed against gonococcal protein I vary in bactericidal activity.

Monoclonal antibodies (Mab) with specificity for protein I (PI) from Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) were examined for bactericidal activity. Mab 4G5 (gamma 3), ID3 (gamma 2a), and 1G6 (gamma 2a) bound to surface-exposed epitopes on PI of GC strain R11 (IA serotype) as assessed by co-agglutination and 125I protein A uptake. Mab 2H1 (gamma 3) that were directed against IB serotype strains and Mab 2E9 (gamma 2a) were negative in co-agglutination and protein A uptake assays and served as controls for some experiments. Only 4G5 and 1D3 were bactericidal for R11 when presensitized organisms were incubated in 10% absorbed, pooled normal human serum (PNHS) or 10% hypogammaglobulinemic serum (H gamma S) despite binding of nearly equivalent numbers of 4G5, 1D3, and 1G6 to R11 during presensitization, as assessed by 125I-protein A uptake. These Mab activated complement to a similar extent on GC R11, leading to deposition of 56.4 X 10(3), 61.9 X 1093), and 47.1 X 10(3) molecules of C3/organism during incubation in 10% C8-deficient serum. Deposition occurred almost exclusively via the classical complement pathway. Measurement of complement component C9 binding to R11 during incubation in H gamma S showed 35,700 molecules of C9/organism with 4G5, 32,600 C9/organism with 1D3, and surprisingly, 29,600 C9/organism with 1G6. Eight thousand four hundred molecules of C9/organism bound to 2E9-coated organisms, 6000 C9/organism to 2H1-coated bacteria, and 3600 C9/organism to nonpresensitized organisms. The C5b-9 complex deposited by 4G5 had a different sedimentation profile by sucrose density gradient analysis from the C5b-9 complex deposited by 1G6, consistent with a different molecular configuration of the bound complex. Mab 1G6 and 1D3, but not 2E9 or 2H1, were able to compete with 125I-4G5 for binding to GC R11. A Mab (2E6) directed against protein III of GC competed weakly with 125I-4G5 for binding to GC R11. Mab 1G6, but not 1D3, blocked 4G5-dependent killing in a dose-related fashion. Both 4G5 and IG6 reacted weakly with native PI of GC R11 by immunoblotting, but neither Mab recognized the 34,800 m.w. fragment of PI generated by trypsin and chymotrypsin treatment of outer membranes. In contrast, 2E9 reacted strongly by immunoblot with both native and cleaved PI of GC R11, suggesting binding to buried determinants of PI. These experiments show that Mab directed against identical or closely associated, surface-exposed epitopes on gonococcal PI differ markedly in bactericidal activity, despite leading to deposition of nearly equivalent numbers of C3 and C9 molecules per organism.
Using isotopic and chronologic data to fingerprint strata: Challenges and benefits of variable sources to tectonic interpretations, the Paro Formation, Bhutan Himalaya

[1] We combine detrital zircons (DZ) and epsilon neodymium ("Nd) signatures with field mapping in the Paro Formation in western Bhutan. DZ age spectra are strongly variable and display signatures that have been used to uniquely identify both Greater Himalayan (GH) and Lesser Himalayan (LH) strata. DZ age peaks from six quartzite samples require sources for ∼0.5, 0.8, 1.2, 1.4, 1.7, 1.8, and 2.5 Ga zircons in the Paro Formation. The youngest (∼0.5 Ga) zircons argue for a Cambrian maximum deposition age. Two samples have a youngest 1.8 Ga peak typically attributed to Paleoproterozoic LH rocks. A ∼450 Ma crystallization age from two granite samples constrains the minimum deposition age as Ordovician. New "Nd signatures from six detrital samples from the Paro Formation show significant variation with lithology. Schists have "Nd(0) values between −12.0 and −16.9, while quartzite values vary between −18.8 and −24.5. These data imply that the Paro Formation was derived from both young and old sources, with DZ and "Nd values obtained from the same quartzite samples requiring old detritus while the "Nd values obtained from interbedded schist require younger detritus. Using published isotopic and chronologic definitions of Himalayan strata, schist‐rich layers wouldbeconsideredGH,whiletheinterbeddedquartzite
Designing an efficient hardware implication accelerator for SAT solving

This paper discusses the design of a hardware accelerator for Boolean Constraint Propagation (BCP) using Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA). In particular, we describe the detailed implementation of the inference engine, a key component of the accelerator that performs implications. Unlike previous efforts in FPGA assisted SAT solving, our design uses Block RAM (BRAM) to store instance information. This novel design not only facilitates fast lookup and update, but also avoids synthesizing overhead for each SAT instance. We demonstrate that SAT instances can be easily partitioned into multiple groups that can be processed by multiple inference engines in parallel. By exploiting parallelism in hardware, the BCP accelerator can infer implications in 6 to 17 clock cycles for a new variable assignment. In addition, our design supports dynamic insertion and deletion of learned clauses. Cycle accurate simulation shows that our BCP accelerator is 5-16 times faster than the conventional software based approach for BCP.
Imagistic Simulation in Scientific Model Construction

The role of mental simulation in scientific learning processes is poorly understood. This paper examines video taped model construction protocols from an expert and a student to generate initial hypotheses concerning: the relationship between “runnable” schemas and imagery during mental simulation; and how assembling a scientific model from simpler runnable schemas can “transfer runnability” to the model. By the end of their learning episodes both the expert and the student appear to have acquired something more than a new symbolic relationship. They appear to have an imageable, runnable model where the imagability and runnability have been transferred or “inherited” from a source analogue. One source of support for this finding comes from observing similar depictive hand motions as subjects thought about the analogue case and later about the developing target model. Understanding schema driven imagistic simulations may eventually help us resolve the apparent paradox involved in learning from “running a new thought experiment in one’s
Voices of Couples Affected by Alzheimer’s Disease

The purpose of this research was to identify themes in communication between persons with Alzheimer’s disease and their spouse caregivers. Theme identification provides insight so that interventions can be designed to improve communication. The long term goal of this research is to improve quality of life for couples experiencing dementia and increase their satisfaction with their relationship. Thirty transcribed videotaped ten-minute interviews between fifteen couples who consented to participate in a previous study (Principal Investigator: Williams) were analyzed to identify common themes. Themes included Harmony in Spite of a Memory Disorder, Healthy Acceptance, and Discord and Contempt. These themes were further divided into individual subthemes, which included “Loving Affection,” “Bringing up the Past,” “Orienting Spouse to the Situation,” “Giving Assurance,” “Fighting Acceptance of Illness,” and “Bitterness and Frustration.” Understanding the themes generated within the conversations help to further analyze the effects that Alzheimer’s disease has on communication in a relationship.
Soft multiprocessor systems for network applications (abstract only)

Modern network applications require devices that provide high-performance at gigabit line rates with the flexibility to support diverse application standards and services. However, prohibitive product design costs and shrinking market windows restrict the number of ASIC/ASSP design starts to only selective application niches. The FPGA is an alternate cost-effective medium for many applications. However, creating a system solution through programming an FPGA with an HDL is only attractive to few application developers. Designers would prefer a software solution if it can meet their design constraints. An alterative is an FPGA-based soft multiprocessor system: a programmable multiprocessor on the FPGA composed of a network of hard and soft processing cores. Soft multiprocessors provide a software-level abstraction for programming an FPGA. In this study, we evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of soft multiprocessor systems. We compare a soft multiprocessor implementation against FPGA hardware and an ASSP implementation for two network applications: IPv4 packet forwarding and Network Address Translation (NAT). Our study indicates that soft multiprocessors lose only a factor of 2X in performance compared to a custom ASSP, while providing great savings in terms of silicon development costs. Moreover, the presence of architectures and development environments for soft multiprocessor systems could open the FPGA market to the much larger world of embedded system software designers.
Intraoperative assessment of cochlear implant and auditory brainstem implant device function

Intraoperative objective measures play an important role in the treatment of patients who receive cochlear implants. This article will address the recording and interpretation of electrically evoked auditory potentials via traditional and brainstem cochlear implant devices, as well as electrical measures of device function and stapedial reflexes obtained at implant surgery. Several examples of intraoperative electrically evoked compound action potential and electrically evoked auditory brainstem response measures are shown for both the pediatric and adult populations using the three implantable prostheses available in the United States. The effects of stimulating and recording parameters, as well as patient variation that influence the electrophysiologic responses are presented.
Echocardiography's Role in Cardiogenic Shock After Acute Myocardial Infarction:

Cardiogenic shock is an emergent condition that requires immediate diagnosis. Assessment and evaluation of potential complications that often accompany shock must also be made. These complications may be seen individually or in concert. Echocardiography has emerged in the last two decades as the single most important procedure in this effort. The authors reviewed four cases of cardiogenic shock after acute myocardial infarction: two with ventricular septal rupture, one with papillary muscle rupture, and one with severe global left ventricular dysfunction. Each patient was evaluated emergently with echocardiography. Results were compared with electrocardiography, arteriography, right heart catheterization studies, and surgical reports.
COMPARATIVE ORGAN IMAGING: THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

Diagnostic radiology of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, mesentery, and pancreas is reviewed. Survey and contrast radiography remain the principal imaging methods used to evaluate gastrointestinal diseases in animals. Of the other imaging techniques, scintigraphy has potential in assessment of esophageal and gastric motility disorders, and detection of intestinal hemorrhage. Ultrasonography is useful for imaging the pancreas and gastrointestinal mass lesions.
Twin Studies and Their Implications for Molecular Genetic Studies: Endophenotypes Integrate Quantitative and Molecular Genetics in ADHD Research

Objective To describe the utility of twin studies for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) research and demonstrate their potential for the identification of alternative phenotypes suitable for genomewide association, developmental risk assessment, treatment response, and intervention targets. Method Brief descriptions of the classic twin study and genetic association study methods are provided, with illustrative findings from ADHD research. Biometrical genetics refers to the statistical modeling of data gathered from one or more group of known biological relation; it was apparently coined by Francis Galton in the 1860s and led to the "Biometrical School" at the University of London. Twin studies use genetic correlations between pairs of relatives, derived using this theoretical framework, to parse the individual differences in a trait into latent (unmeasured) genetic and environmental influences. This method enables the estimation of heritability, i.e., the percentage of variance due to genetic influences. It is usually implemented with a method called structural equation modeling , which is a statistical technique for fitting models to data, typically using maximum likelihood estimation. Genetic association studies aim to identify those genetic variants that account for the heritability estimated in twin studies. Measurements other than those used for the clinical diagnosis of the disorder are popular phenotype choices in current ADHD research. It is argued that twin studies have great potential to refine phenotypes relevant to ADHD. Results Prior studies have consistently found that the majority of the variance in ADHD symptoms is due to genetic factors. To date, genomewide association studies of ADHD have not identified replicable associations that account for the heritable variation. Possibly, the application of genomewide association studies to these alternative phenotypic measurements will assist in identifying the pathways from genetic variants to ADHD. Conclusion Power to detect associations should be improved by the study of highly heritable endophenotypes for ADHD and by reducing the number of phenotypes to be considered. Therefore, twin studies are an important research tool in the development of endophenotypes, defined as alternative, more highly heritable traits that act at earlier stages of the pathway from genes to behavior. Although genetic variation in liability to ADHD is likely polygenic, the proposed approach should help to identify improved alternative measurements for genetic association studies.
Dynamic models of segregation

Some segregation results from the practices of organizations, some from specialized communication systems, some from correlation with a variable that is non‐random; and some results from the interplay of individual choices. This is an abstract study of the interactive dynamics of discriminatory individual choices. One model is a simulation in which individual members of two recognizable groups distribute themselves in neighborhoods defined by reference to their own locations. A second model is analytic and deals with compartmented space. A final section applies the analytics to ‘neighborhood tipping.’ The systemic effects are found to be overwhelming: there is no simple correspondence of individual incentive to collective results. Exaggerated separation and patterning result from the dynamics of movement. Inferences about individual motives can usually not be drawn from aggregate patterns. Some unexpected phenomena, like density and vacancy, are generated. A general theory of ‘tipping’ begins to emerge.
Energy loss spectra of thin films of Sn on transition metals

Thin films of tin were deposited on niobium, tantalum and molybdenum substrates. The energy spectrum of the reflected electrons was recorded to determine the energy loss mechanisms. The energy loss spectra of the thin films differed from those of the pure metals. Peaks were observed in the loss spectrum of the thin films which could be attributed to the excitation of interface plasmons at the boundary between the tin film and the substrate. The energy of the interface plasmon is a few percent less than the theoretical value calculated for a nearly free electron model.
Optimal design of k‐space trajectories using a multi‐objective genetic algorithm

Spiral, radial, and other nonrectilinear k-space trajectories are an area of active research in MRI due largely to their typically rapid acquisition times and benign artifact patterns. Trajectory design has commonly proceeded from a description of a simple shape to an investigation of its properties, because there is no general theory for the derivation of new trajectories with specific properties. Here such a generalized methodology is described. Specifically, a multi-objective genetic algorithm (GA) is used to design trajectories with beneficial flow and off-resonance properties. The algorithm converges to a well-defined optimal set with standard spiral trajectories on the rapid but low-quality end, and a new class of trajectories on the slower but high-quality end. The new trajectories all begin with nonzero gradient amplitude at the k-space origin, and curve gently outward relative to standard spirals. Improvements predicted in simulated imaging experiments were found to correlate well with improvements in actual experimental measures of image quality. The impact of deviations from the desired k-space trajectory is described, as is the impact of using different phantoms. Magn Reson Med 52:831–841, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The role of prophylactic cholecystectomy during splenectomy in children with hereditary spherocytosis.

Abstract Background/Purpose: Hereditary spherocytosis is an autosomal dominant disorder associated with an intrinsic defect in the red blood cell membrane often necessitating splenectomy to prevent sequestration of spherocytes. When cholelithiasis is present, these patients undergo cholecystectomy at the same surgical setting as splenectomy. After splenectomy alone, it is uncertain whether the amount of hemolysis is adequately decreased to prevent subsequent gallstone formation. This study set out to evaluate the frequency in which symptomatic cholelithiasis subsequently develops in children treated by splenectomy alone. Methods: All patients less than 18 years old with hereditary spherocytosis who underwent splenectomy without cholecystectomy at our institution during the past 27 years were included in this study. A retrospective chart review and telephonic patient follow-up was performed. Gallstones were excluded in these patients either by preoperative ultrasound scan, or by intraoperative palpation of the gallbladder. The main study outcomes of this group included documented cases of cholelithiasis, subsequent need for cholecystectomy secondary to cholelithiasis, and questionnaire to determine the incidence of "subclinical" cholelithiasis (not reported to a physician). Results: Twenty-three subjects were identified who met the inclusion criteria. Complete follow-up data were obtained for 17 of these patients (74%). The mean age at splenectomy was 6.6 ± 0.69 years, and the mean follow-up was 15.65 ± 2.03 years (median, 18 years). None of the patients in this series subsequently have undergone cholecystectomy, nor have any had either clinical or subclinical evidence of cholelithiasis since splenectomy. Conclusion: Prophylactic cholecystectomy at the time of splenectomy is not indicated in patients with hereditary spherocytosis who do not have gallstones.
Temperature dependence of the electric field gradient of Cd in Hg

Abstract We have measured the quadrupole interaction of 107 Cd Hg as a function of temperature. The relatively large temperature variation observed is consistent with the assumption of lattice vibrations as the main source for the temperature dependence of the electric field gradient.
Burn Behavior of a Polyurethane Foam Impact Limiter

We recently studied the burn behavior of a polyurethane (PU) foam-filled impact limiter — a design for both the Mixed-Oxide Fresh Fuel Package and the Hanford Unirradiated Fuel Package (HUFP) that have been certified for shipment of their authorized contents by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the U.S. Department of Energy, respectively. In this paper, we examined the mechanisms of thermal degradation of PU foam by reaction type and flame temperature. Evidence suggests that, for an air-tight impact limiter, the pyrolysis reaction dominates initially in the limiter enclosure. The pyrolysis generates a large amount of highly flammable gases, creating the conditions necessary for a subsequent combustion reaction near the vent holes where air is abundant. The coupled heat release from the combustion of these flammable gases and oxygen drives the jet flames to burn at a very high temperature. The three-dimensional finite-element analysis code, ANSYS Mechanical, was used to model the HUFP package (with the PU foam-filled impact limiters) and compute the temperatures near the seal region of the containment boundary of the package. We examined the effects of various parameters — including fire duration, chimney flow, foam thickness loss, and jet flame temperature — on the thermal performance of the package. The results indicate that, under the simulated conditions, the O-ring seal temperature near the packaging containment boundary rose to varying degrees, but it did not exceed the seal temperature limit of 400°F (204°C). The remaining foam thickness is critical to maintain package safety.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Synthesis of Maus-Elberfeld viral RNA in ascites tumor cells

The synthesis of virus-specific RNA has been studied in ascites tumor cells infected with Maus-Elberfeld virus. Analysis by sucrose density centrifugation revealed a large 35 s component of intact viral RNA plus a smaller amount of slower sedimenting virus-specific RNA, part of which was resistant to hydrolysis by RNase. Methods were developed for fractionating the infected ascites cells into cytoplasmic and nuclear components. At all times following infection, more than 90% of the virus-specific RNA was found in the cytoplasmic fraction from the cells. Of this material, approximately 80% of the total virus-specific RNA and all of the RNase-resistant RNA appeared to be associated with cytoplasmic membranes, much of which adhered tenaciously to the nuclei.
Synthesis of fluorescent probes based on stilbenes and diphenylacetylenes targeting β-amyloid plaques

Three fluorescent probes were synthesized aiming for optical imaging to detect amyloid plaques present in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). These compounds were prepared via Sonogashira coupling of a well-defined fluorophore (4-bora-3a, 4a-diaza s-indacene, BODIPY) with the pharmacophore possessing either a stilbene or a diphenylacetylene moiety. Different polyethylene glycol chain lengths were used as linkers between the fluorophore and the pharmacophore to adjust the lipophilicity of these probes. These compounds exhibit strong fluorescence emission between 665–680 nm and have very high extinction coefficients comparable to the parent fluorophore, BODIPY dye.
Effect of Temperature and Chain Length on the Bimodal Emission Properties of Single Polyfluorene Copolymer Molecules

Fluorescence emission spectra were recorded for isolated polymer chains of the polyfluorene copolymer, F8BT [poly(9,9-di-n-octylfluorene-alt-benzothiadiazole)], at 298 and 20 K for two molecular weights (chain lengths). For long-chain F8BT at 298 K, the observed distribution of single-molecule emission maxima G(Emax) is bimodal, with peaks at ∼2.35 eV (“blue”) and ∼2.25 eV (“red”). Previously, the red forms have been assigned to polymer chains that possess intrachain contacts, which lowers the local singlet exciton energy. At ∼20 K, G(Emax) collapses into a single broad distribution centered at ∼2.3 eV for long-chain F8BT. However, this distribution can be further divided into a high-energy edge that is dominated by the “blue” form, while the remainder of the distribution is composed of the “red” form. Low-molecular-weight F8BT samples emit exclusively from the blue form, and no shift in peak maxima with low temperature was observed. A Franck−Condon analysis reveals a decrease in emitting state displaceme...
Giant, Repeating, Optical Bursts from the Soft X-Ray Transient Aquila X-1

We report the detection of optical bursts during a low-amplitude, flat-topped eruption of the soft X-ray transient Aql X-1. The bursts had amplitudes between 0.17 and 0.35 mag and were variable in duration, some lasting longer than 78 s. On one night they recurred quasi-periodically at a mean interval of 1.01 hr. Regularly repeating optical bursts of this kind have not heretofore been observed from any X-ray binary. The accreting star in Aql X-1 is known to be a neutron star. We propose that the optical bursts are reprocessed type I X-ray bursts; that is, that they are thermonuclear flashes in the envelope of the neutron star.
Preservation of flatness for the product of modules over the product of rings

Abstract {Rλ}L is a collection of rings. We develop conditions equivalent to: If Mλ is a flat right Rλ-module for each λ ϵ L then ΠL Mλ is a flat right ΠL Rλ-module. The key is to find a bound for how much relations in flat modules lengthen as they come from relations in the ring. The bound is determined by the support of certain left ideals. A left module is T supported if finite subsets lie in T generated submodules. Some diagrams from a paper of Chase and measure functions—functions from modules to {0, 1, 2,…} ∪ {∞} which respect exact sequences—are developed and used. Applications to polynomial rings over fields show that products preserve flatness over the product ring if and only if almost all the polynomial rings are in two or fewer variables.
The Role of Tidal Salt Marsh as an Energy Source for Marine Transient and Resident Finfishes: A Stable Isotope Approach

Abstract Stable isotope ratios of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur (δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S) in bay anchovy Anchoa mitchilli and white perch Morone americana from Delaware Bay were a function of capture location and, for restored tidal salt marshes, possibly a function of the relative position of the marsh restoration trajectory. White perch collected in polyhaline restoration and reference (Moore's Beach) sites had stable isotope signatures that reflected contributions from both benthic microalgae and Spartina alterniflora. Isotope values from white perch captured at the reference site were slightly enriched compared with those captured at the restoration sites. At upper estuary oligo–mesohaline locations, Phragmites australis contributed to the isotopic composition of both species. Although P. australis was not dominant at the reference marsh (Mad Horse Creek), it also seemed to influence the flow of nutrients into these species. White perch were not collected in open waters of Delaware Bay, but bay anchovy we...
Use of a colorimetric protein phosphatase inhibition assay and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay for the study of microcystins and nodularins

Microcystins and nodularins are cyclic peptide hepatotoxins and tumor promoters produced by several genera of cyanobacteria. Using a rabbit anti-microcystin-LR polyclonal antibody preparation, the cross-reactivity with 18 microcystin and nodularin variants was tested. A hydrophobic amino acid, 3-amino-9-methoxy-10-phenyl-2,6,8-trimethyl-deca-4(E),6(E)-dienoic acid (Adda), which has the (E) form at the C-6 double bond in both microcystin and nodularin, was found essential for these toxins to express antibody specificity. Modification of -COOH in glutamic acid of microcystin and nodularin did not alter their antigenicity. Antibody cross-reactivity of these toxins was compared with their ability to inhibit protein phosphatase type 1 (PP1). Detection of PP1 inhibition was done by measuring the inhibition effect of the toxins on p-nitrophenol phosphate activity toward PP1. PP1 was obtained as recombinant PP1 expressed in E. coli. The inhibition effect of five microcystins and two nodularins on recombinant PP1 activity toward p-nitrophenol phospate was measured in a microwell plate reader. The concentration of microcystin-LR causing 50% inhibition of recombinant PP1 activity (IC50) was about 0.3 nM, while that of two modified microcystins had a significantly higher IC50. Microcystin-LR and nodularin with the (z) form of Adda at the C-6 double bond or having the monoester of glutamic acid did not inhibit PP1. These three toxins were also nontoxic in the mouse bioassay. These results show the importance of Adda and glutamic acid in toxicity of these cyclic peptides and that PP1 inhibition is related to the toxins' mechanism of action.