cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessing methods for geometric distortion compensation in 7T gradient echo fMRI data

Echo planar imaging (EPI) is widely used in functional and diffusion-weighted MRI, but suffers from significant geometric distortions in the phase encoding direction caused by inhomogeneities in the static magnetic field (B0). This is a particular challenge for EPI at very high field (7T and above), as distortion increases with higher field strength. A number of techniques for correcting geometric distortion exist, including those based on B0 field mapping and acquiring EPI scans with opposite phase encoding directions. However, few quantitative comparisons of distortion compensation methods have been performed using EPI data from the human brain, and even fewer at very high field. In the current study, we compared geometric distortion compensation using B0 field maps and opposite phase encoding scans implemented in two different software packages (FSL and AFNI) applied to 7T gradient echo EPI data from 31 human participants. We assessed the quality of distortion compensation by quantifying the degree of alignment to a T1-weighted anatomical reference scan using Dice coefficients and mutual information. We found that the best distortion compensation was achieved in our dataset using gradient echo scans with opposite phase encoding directions to map the distortion, as compared to B0 field maps or spin echo opposite phase encoding scans. Performance between FSL and AFNI was equivalent. While the ideal geometric distortion compensation approach may vary due to methodological differences across experiments, this study provides a framework for researchers to assess the quality of different distortion compensation methods in their own work.
Paradoxical Low-Flow Low-Gradient Aortic Stenosis: Effect of Low Transvalvular Flow Conditions on Indexed Stroke Volume after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

Paradoxical Low-Flow Low-Gradient Aortic Stenosis: Effect of Low Transvalvular Flow Conditions on Indexed Stroke Volume after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Combination therapy with Treg and mesenchymal stromal cells enhances potency and attenuation of inflammation after traumatic brain injury compared to monotherapy.

The inflammatory response after traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to significant secondary brain injury and chronic inflammation within the central nervous system. Cell therapies, including mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC), have led to improvements in animal models of TBI and are under investigation in human trials. One potential mechanism for the therapeutic potential of MSC is their ability to augment the endogenous response of immune suppressive regulatory T cells (Treg). We have recently shown that infusion of human cord blood Treg decreased chronic microgliosis after TBI and altered the systemic immune response in a rodent model. These cells likely use both overlapping and distinct mechanisms to modulate the immune system; therefore, combining Treg and MSC as a combination therapy may confer therapeutic benefit over either monotherapy. However, investigation of Treg + MSC combination therapy in TBI is lacking. In this study, we compared the ability MSC + Treg combination therapy, as well as MSC and Treg monotherapies, to inhibit the neuroinflammatory response to TBI in vivo and in vitro. Treg + MSC combination therapy demonstrated increased potency to reduce the neuro- and peripheral inflammatory response compared to monotherapy; furthermore, the timing of infusion proved to be a significant variable in the efficacy of both MSC monotherapy and Treg + MSC combination therapy in vivo and in vitro.
Pore-Scale Modeling of Electrokinetics in Geomaterials

Pore-scale finite-volume continuum models of electrokinetic processes are used to predict the Debye lengths, velocity, and potential profiles for two-dimensional arrays of circles, ellipses and squares with different orientations. The pore-scale continuum model solves the coupled Navier–Stokes, Poisson, and Nernst–Planck equations to characterize the electro-osmotic pressure and streaming potentials developed on the application of an external voltage and pressure difference, respectively. This model is used to predict the macroscale permeabilities of geomaterials via the widely used Carmen–Kozeny equation and through the electrokinetic coupling coefficients. The permeability results for a two-dimensional X-ray tomography-derived sand microstructure are within the same order of magnitude as the experimentally calculated values. The effect of the particle aspect ratio and orientation on the electrokinetic coupling coefficients and subsequently the electrical and hydraulic tortuosity of the porous media has been determined. These calculations suggest a highly tortuous geomaterial can be efficient for applications like decontamination and desalination.
Immortal rays: Rethinking random ray neutron transport on GPU architectures

Abstract The Random Ray Method (TRRM) is a recently developed adaptation of the Method of Characteristics for neutral particle transport simulations. TRRM has demonstrated excellent performance on 3D nuclear reactor benchmark problems using CPU-based compute systems. When porting to GPU-based systems, however, new performance challenges arise that are unique to processors targeting massive fine-grained parallelism. For smaller problems, or for large problems that are domain decomposed across many computational nodes, the problem size per node has insufficient parallelism to saturate GPU node resources, thus greatly limiting speedup. In this study, we report on a newly developed “immortal ray” variant of TRRM. The immortal ray technique exposes significantly more fine-grained parallelism by fundamentally reformulating the numerical details of ray discretization, resulting in performance tradeoffs with significant overall benefit on GPUs. For very small 2D simulation problems we found the new immortal ray variant allowed for up to a 4.4x speedup when run on a single GPU. For larger 3D simulation problems we found the new variant improved strong scaling by 3x when run on the Summit supercomputer.
Guildeluëc and the Virgin Mary: Legitimizing the Abbess as Holy Mother

While Eliduc has been interpreted according to the salvation Guildeluec provides through her intervention in Guilliadun’s death, we read her character specifically against the backdrop of the Cult of the Virgin Mary, which was enjoying popular and ecclesiastical participation in the twelfth century. In her tripartite embodiment of virgin, widow, and wife, her non-corporeal “birth” of Guilliadun, and her capacity for healing, Guildeluec, in her role as abbess, parallels the virtues of the Virgin Mary. Marie de France uses the cultural reverence for Mary as mother of God to authorize Guildeluec’s authority, and her rhetorical omission of the paternalistic power structure of the Church enables her readers to consider the spiritual authority of female leadership in the high Middle Ages.
Serum Carboxypeptidase Activity and Genotype-Stratified CA19-9 to Detect Early-Stage Pancreatic Cancer.

Background and Aims Serum diagnostic markers of early-stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are needed, especially for stage I disease. As tumors grow and cause pancreatic atrophy, markers derived from pancreatic parenchyma such as serum carboxypeptidase A (CPA) activity lose diagnostic performance. We evaluated, with CA19-9, serum CPA as a marker of early pancreatic cancer. Methods Serum CPA activity levels were measured in 345 controls undergoing pancreatic surveillance, divided into 2 sets, set 1 being used to establish a reference range. Variants within the CPA1 locus were sought for their association with pancreatic CPA1 expression to determine if such variants associated with serum CPA levels. A total of 190 patients with resectable PDAC were evaluated. Results Among controls, those having 1 or more minor alleles of CPA1 variants rs6955723 or rs2284682 had significantly higher serum CPA levels than did those without (P = .001). None of the PDAC cases with pancreatic atrophy had an elevated CPA. Among 122 PDAC cases without atrophy, defining serum CPA diagnostic cutoffs by a subject’s CPA1 variants yielded a diagnostic sensitivity of 18% at 99% specificity (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.7–26) (vs 11.1% sensitivity using a uniform diagnostic cutoff); combining CPA with variant-stratified CA19-9 yielded a sensitivity of 68.0% (95% CI, 59.0–76.2) vs 63.1% (95% CI, 53.9– 71.7) for CA19-9 alone; and among stage I PDAC cases, diagnostic sensitivity was 51.9% (95% CI, 31.9–71.3) vs 37.0% (95% CI, 19.4–57.6) for CA19-9 alone. In the validation control set, the variant-stratified diagnostic cutoff yielded a specificity of 98.2%. Conclusion Serum CPA activity has diagnostic utility before the emergence of pancreatic atrophy as a marker of localized PDAC, including stage I disease.
Orientation and alignment of the 3p /sup 1/P and 4 d /sup 1/D levels of neutral helium

The alignment and orientation produced by the tilted-foil excitation of He was studied for a wide range of foil tilt angles and outgoing-atom velocities. In particular, two quantum states of different orbital angular momentum (3p /sup 1/P and 4 d /sup 1/D) were investigated and the results were compared with a number of previously proposed models.
Incidence of tetraploidy as related to amniotic fluid cell types

Abstract Human amniotic fluid cells obtained by amniocentesis performed on 7 women during the thirteenth to sixteenth weeks of pregnancy were cultured. Four of the specimens were used for the isolation of the fibroblast-like cells. Epithelial cells were isolated from the 3 remaining specimens. Higher frequencies of tetraploidy were noted in the fibroblast-like, cell cultures when harvested. Two different concentrations of demecolcine ∗ ∗Colcemid. were utilized prior to harvesting. If tetraploid cells originated predominantly from the fibroblast-like cells, then variances in tetraploidy among amniotic fluid specimens could be explained, inasmuch as cell type ratios vary from specimen to specimen. Metabolic variances between the cell types have previously been reported. This investigation shows there is a difference in chromosomal analysis (tetraploid percentage) as related to cell type.
Spirituality, Religion, and Pediatrics: Intersecting Worlds of Healing

Religious practices such as prayer represent the most prevalent complementary and alternative therapies in the United States. However, biomedicine has sometimes viewed faith and related religious worldviews as relevant only when they obstruct implementation of scientifically sound biomedical care. Recent efforts to arrive at a new synthesis raise challenges for pediatricians. This article reviews theories of child faith development, and models of child spirituality from different disciplinary perspectives. It provides sources illustrating how spirituality and religion may inform children's lives; play a part in children's moral formation, socialization, and induction into a sacred worldview; and provide the child with inner resources. It also suggests some of the positive and negative effects of spiritual and religious engagement. Second, this article examines aspects of spirituality and religion that parents may bring to bear in relation to their children's health. Third, this article addresses the spiritual and/or religious identity of the provider. These topics are discussed in the context of cultural competence and the related importance of religious diversity. The authors suggest 1) some approaches for appropriate inclusion of spirituality in clinical practice, 2) challenges for medical education, and 3) areas requiring further research.
Incentive-compatible demand-side management for smart grids based on review strategies

Demand-side load management is able to significantly improve the energy efficiency of smart grids. Since the electricity production cost depends on the aggregate energy usage of multiple consumers, an important incentive problem emerges: self-interested consumers want to increase their own utilities by consuming more than the socially optimal amount of energy during peak hours since the increased cost is shared among the entire set of consumers. To incentivize self-interested consumers to take the socially optimal scheduling actions, we design a new class of protocols based on review strategies. These strategies work as follows: first, a review stage takes place in which a statistical test is performed based on the daily prices of the previous billing cycle to determine whether or not the other consumers schedule their electricity loads in a socially optimal way. If the test fails, the consumers trigger a punishment phase in which, for a certain time, they adjust their energy scheduling in such a way that everybody in the consumer set is punished due to an increased price. Using a carefully designed protocol based on such review strategies, consumers then have incentives to take the socially optimal load scheduling to avoid entering this punishment phase. We rigorously characterize the impact of deploying protocols based on review strategies on the system’s as well as the users’ performance and determine the optimal design (optimal billing cycle, punishment length, etc.) for various smart grid deployment scenarios. Even though this paper considers a simplified smart grid model, our analysis provides important and useful insights for designing incentive-compatible demand-side management schemes based on aggregate energy usage information in a variety of practical scenarios.
A Macro-Social Exploratory Analysis of the Rate of Interstate Cyber-Victimization

This study examines whether macro-level opportunity indicators affect cyber-theft victimization. Based on the arguments from criminal opportunity theory, exposure to risk is measured by state-level patterns of internet access (where users access the internet). Other structural characteristics of states were measured to determine if variation in social structure impacted cyber-victimization across states. The current study found that structural conditions such as unemployment and non-urban population are associated with where users access the internet. Also, this study found that the proportion of users who access the internet only at home was positively associated with state-level counts of cyber-theft victimization. The theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.
Knowledge Intensive Learning: Combining Qualitative Constraints with Causal Independence for Parameter Learning in Probabilistic Models

In Bayesian networks, prior knowledge has been used in the form of causal independencies between random variables or as qualitative constraints such as monotonicities. In this work, we extend and combine the two different ways of providing domain knowledge. We derive an algorithm based on gradient descent for estimating the parameters of a Bayesian network in the presence of causal independencies in the form of Noisy-Or and qualitative constraints such as monotonicities and synergies. Noisy-Or structure can decrease the data requirements by separating the influence of each parent thereby reducing greatly the number of parameters. Qualitative constraints on the other hand, allow for imposing constraints on the parameter space making it possible to learn more accurate parameters from a very small number of data points. Our exhaustive empirical validation conclusively proves that the synergy constrained Noisy-OR leads to more accurate models in the presence of smaller amount of data.
Management of hepatitis B in liver transplant recipients.

Summary. Advances in hepatitis B virus (HBV) antiviral prophylaxis have dramatically improved graft and patient survival for patients undergoing liver transplantation for hepatitis B related end-stage liver disease. In particular, the availability of hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIg) in combination with nucleos(t)ide analogues such as lamivudine and adefovir, have transformed outcomes. The availability of newer antivirals such as adefovir, tenofovir and entecavir either as monotherapy or in combination offer an increasing number of antiviral options. Despite these advances, significant challenges remain. Factors that affect the efficacy of anti-viral therapy include detectable HBV viraemia at the time of transplant and emergence of HBV mutants (especially in patients with prior exposure to lamivudine). HBV prophylaxis protocols are expensive especially with use of high-dose HBIg and newer nucleos(t)ide analogues. This review summarizes current HBV prophylaxis protocols and management of recurrent disease post-transplantation. There is an increasing need for individualization of therapy based on prior drug exposures, level of HBV DNA at time of transplantation and type of prophylaxis used.
Nickel-dependent oxidative cross-linking of a protein

A model protein, ribonuclease A (bovine pancreas), was examined for its ability to coordinate Ni2+ and promote selective oxidation. In the presence of a peracid such as monopersulfate, HSO5-, nicke...
Alkynyl-farnesol reporters for detection of protein S-prenylation in cells

Protein S-prenylation is a lipid modification that regulates membrane-protein and protein-protein interactions in cell signaling. Though sites of protein S-prenylation can be predicted based upon conserved C-terminal CaaX or CC/CXC motifs, biochemical detection of protein S-prenylation in cells is still challenging. Herein, we report an alkynyl-isoprenol chemical reporter (alk-FOH) as an efficient substrate for prenyltransferases in mammalian cells that enables sensitive detection of S-farnesylated and S-geranylgeranylated proteins using bioorthogonal ligation methods. Fluorescent detection alleviates the need to deplete cellular isoprenoids for biochemical analysis of S-prenylated proteins and enables robust characterization of S-prenylated proteins, such as effectors that are injected into host cells by bacterial pathogens. This alkynyl-prenylation reporter provides a sensitive tool for biochemical analysis and rapid profiling of prenylated proteins in cells.
DICOM user conformance profile: proof of concept

A project has been undertaken to prove the feasibility of a DICOM implementation that conforms to the modality interface user conformance profile (UCP). Five application entities have been defined. An implementation is currently underway based on the Radiological Society of North America '93 DICOM demonstration software developed by the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology. Two application entities implement the service class user functions specified by the modality interface UCP. The remaining three application entities implement service class provider functions. Image communication has been segregated from patient and study management functions. Based on preliminary findings we believe the DICOM modality interface User Conformance Profile to be feasible and implementable.
Bending vibration of a simply supported rectangular plate with a crack parallel to one edge

Abstract Natural flexural vibration of a simply supported rectangular plate with a symmetrically located crack parallel to one edge is considered. The problem is analyzed by means of finite Fourier transformation of discontinuous functions. The unknowns of the problem are the discontinuities of the displacement and of the slope across the crack. The singularities of the moments at the tips are “built” in the solution. The conditional equations are obtained by satisfying the boundary conditions at the crack's edge. This requires differentiation of Fourier series representing a discontinuous function. The characteristic equation in form of an infinite determinant is obtained. Numerical data for certain geometries as well as comparison with existing results are included.
Neurophysiological approach as a tool to study the effects of drugs on the central nervous system: dose effect of pentobarbital.

Abstract Average sensory evoked responses were recorded simultaneously from the inferior colliculus, mesencephalic reticular formation, nucleus ventralis lateralis thalami, ventromedial hypothalamus, caudate nucleus, and somatosensory cortex of freely behaving rats. Permanent semimicroelectrodes were implanted in target sites several days before experiments were begun. Several doses of pentobarbital were used; the responses observed were related to the dosage of the barbiturate and the time after injection. Effective doses of pentobarbital caused changes in the evoked responses in all animals and in all six structures. Dependable biphasic changes were observed; low doses increased and high doses attenuated the evoked potentials. The degree of attentuation was different between structures. Use of the same techniques and preparation with different drugs demonstrates different patterns of drug-induced alterations, indicating that this technique detects specific effects of drugs on the central nervous system. The role of the reticular formation as the primary site of barbiturate action is discussed.
COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTS OF AUTOLOGOUS VERSUS HOMOLOGOUS MARROW INFUSION IN THE IRRADIATED DOG.

Summary o 1. A significant number of survivors were obtained with infusion of autologous marrow after lower levels of irradiation, whereas only 4 out of 17 survived at higher levels. 2. Homologous marrow infusion following irradiation at 250 r resulted in one survivor. There were no survivors after 350 r and 400 r. 3. Conditions of irradiation technique and genetic relationship between donor and recipient in the homograft experiment may affect the overall experimental results.
The Influence of Advanced Congestive Heart Failure on Pulsus Alternans

Evidence is presented which indicates that in certain instances pulsus alternans may be abolished or diminished in the presence of advanced congestive heart failure. The observations suggest that in severe congestive failure the ventricular filling pressure may increase to the point where it causes the diastolic stretch of the left ventricle to be more equal from one beat to the next. This in turn would bring about more uniform systolic ejections and hence ventricular alternation would disappear or be lessened in degree.
Removal of chlorofluorocarbons from the troposphere

Summary form only given. It was suggested in 1989 that extremely powerful lasers might be used to break up tropospheric CFC's (chlorofluorocarbons). Vast arrays of pulsed lasers at mountain altitudes would launch intense infrared beams into the atmosphere. The laser beams would then selectively destroy CFC molecules in the atmosphere through multiphoton dissociation. Due to the low atmospheric concentration of the CFC's, any process to remove them must be highly selective and cannot afford to waste energy in reactions involving any of the far more abundant non-CFC molecules in the atmosphere. The suggested laser scheme then depends first upon finding bands of strong laser-light absorption of the laser light by non-CFC molecules in the atmosphere is virtually absent. Computer calculations making use of an extensive atmospheric-gas infrared cross-section database suggest that 90% transmission over 50-kilometer paths would be possible through dry atmospheres. Still, a factor of 10 or 20 greater efficiency for the laser-CFC dissociation process is needed to bring the projected costs down to where the plan would merit serious consideration.
SELECTIVE INHIBITION OF THE WEST NILE VIRUS METHYLTRANSFERASE BY NUCLEOSIDE ANALOGS

Abstract The flavivirus methyltransferase (MTase) sequentially methylates the N-7 and 2′-O positions of the viral RNA cap (GpppA-RNA→m7GpppA-RNA→m7GpppAm-RNA), using S-adenosyl- l -methionine (SAM) as a methyl donor. We report here the synthesis and biological evaluation of a series of novel nucleoside analogs. Two of these compounds can effectively and competitively inhibit the WNV MTase with IC50 values in micromolar range and, more importantly, do not inhibit human MTase. The compounds can also suppress the WNV replication in cell culture.
miR-143 Regulation of Prostaglandin-Endoperoxidase Synthase 2 in the Amnion: Implications for Human Parturition at Term

Background The human amnion plays a pivotal role in parturition. Two of its compartments, the placental amnion and the reflected amnion, have distinct transcriptome and are functionally coordinated for parturition. This study was conducted to determine the microRNA (miRNA) expression pattern and its significance in the placental amnion and the reflected amnion in association with labor at term. Methodology/Principal Findings MicroRNA microarray, real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR), and miRNA in situ hybridization analyses of the placental amnion and the reflected amnion (n = 20) obtained at term were conducted. Luciferase assay, transfection, and qRT-PCR analyses of primary amnion epithelial cells (AECs) and amnion mesenchymal cells (AMCs) were performed. MicroRNA microarray analysis demonstrated differential expression of 32 miRNAs between the placental amnion and the reflected amnion after labor. Thirty-one (97%) miRNAs, which included miR-143 and miR-145, a cardiovascular-specific miRNA cluster, were down-regulated in the reflected amnion. Analyses of miR-143 and miR-145 by qRT-PCR confirmed microarray results, and further demonstrated their decreased expression in the reflected amnion with labor. Interestingly, expression of miR-143 and miR-145 was higher in AMCs than in AECs (p<0.05). Luciferase assay and transfection confirmed miR-143 binding to 3′ UTR of prostaglandin-endoperoxidase synthase 2 (PTGS2) mRNA and miR-143 regulation of PTGS2 in AMCs. Conclusions We report region-specific amniotic microRNAome and miR-143 regulation of PTGS2 in the context of human labor at term for the first time. The findings indicate that miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression machinery in the amnion plays an important role in the compartments (placental amnion vs reflected amnion) and in a cell type-specific manner (AECs vs AMCs) for parturition.
Real-Time Subspace Identification and Optimal Control for Active Noise Cancellation

In this paper, a combination of a novel recursive subspace identification and receding horizon optimal control is developed for real-time implementation, via a digital signal processor (DSP), using only input-output measurements. The proposed recursive strategy can be parameterized in terms of recursive approximation of subspace intersections and adaptive estimation of state sequences. The proposed integrated modeling-control strategy can be implemented, in real time, with minimum knowledge of the controlled system. Actual hardware experiments on feedback active noise control problem in a duct have been carried out in order to verify the performance of the proposed methodology.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Ignition kernel development studies relevant to lean-burn natural-gas engines

In lean-burn premixed natural-gas engines, ignition and combustion can be accelerated by burning a small fraction of the mixture in a pre-chamber. High pressure generated in the pre-chamber results in the discharge of burned products into the main chamber. This creates multiple ignition kernels along the surface of the resulting jet. In this work, lean-burn characteristics of methane under the high pressure and high temperature conditions of a hot-jet ignited combustion chamber are investigated numerically by initializing a kernel of specified composition, temperature and size in a lean premixed gas, and following the development of the flame. In the case of hot-jet ignition the kernel temperature is limited by the temperature of the hot products. The influence of variations in ignition energy, affected by both temperature and size, and equivalence ratio, on the flame development is studied in an initially quiescent gas. It is shown that as long as the available ignition energy is greater than a minimum, the duration in which a steady flame speed is achieved is a strong function of kernel temperature; it is not a function of kernel size.
Feasibility of short-term infusion of magnesium sulfate in pediatric patients with status asthmaticus.

OBJECTIVE This report describes the feasibility of high-dose magnesium sulfate infusion in pediatric patients with status asthmaticus. METHODS Retrospective chart review over a 3-year period of all patients younger than 18 years of age with status asthmaticus who underwent a high-dose magnesium sulfate infusion for 4 hours. All patients were breathing spontaneously but were refractory to conventional therapy. The magnesium sulfate infusion regimen was 50 mg/kg (for patients weighing >30 kg) or 75 mg/kg (for those weighing ≤30 kg) over a period of 30 to 45 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion of 40 mg/kg/hr for 4 hours. Information regarding vital and clinical respiratory signs, serum magnesium (SrMg), ionized magnesium (iMg), electrocardiograms, and cardiac troponin levels were retrieved. We analyzed the relationship between SrMg and iMg by using linear regression analysis. RESULTS Nineteen patients were included. At the end of the infusion, SrMg levels were 4.4 ± 0.8 mg/dL, and iMg levels were 0...
Partitioning of rare earth elements between garnet and andesite melt: an autoradiographic study of P-T-X effects

Abstract High-pressure equilibrium studies were conducted in piston-cylinder apparatus to determine rare earth element (REE) partitioning between garnet and H 2 O-vapor-saturated liquidus, from 20 kbar/980°C to 30 kbar/1060 °C. Ag capsules were employed to eliminate loss of Fe. Partition coefficients ( K D ' s ) were determinined with autoradiographic techniques employing beta-active isotopes of Ce, Sm, and Tm. Major elements in garnet were determined by microprobe analysis. Synthesis and reversal runs of 24 hr or greater duration were used to bracket values of K D ' s within analytical uncertainty. The K D values for all three REE are constant over the radiogenic concentration range of 1 to 350 ppm, suggesting that the high abundance of natural REE in the starting materials may suppress possible deviations from Henry's Law behavior reported in similar autoradiographic studies of synthetic systems with no natural REE. Changes in K D with increasing pressure and temperature at near-liquidus conditions suggest that the dominant control of K D is the average size of cations occupying the 8-fold sites in garnet. Specifically, the substitution of 8-fold Ca for Mg and Fe causes an increase in K D values greater than that attributable to the coincident effects of pressure and temperature. The inverse correlation of increasing K D with REE ionic radius supports the interpretation that the average size of the 8-fold cation controls the relative variation of K D among REE. These experimental K D values produce less relative fractionation in melts between light REE and heavy REE than do previous K D ' s derived from data on coexisting natural garnet phenocryst/rockmatrix pairs. Models for the derivation of orogenic andesites from partial melting of subducted basaltic eclogite are qualitatively improved by these new K D ' s . Existing calculations of K D values necessary for the viability of the eclogite fractionation are also in good agreement with these experimental K D values.
Critical Properties of Rule 22 Elementary Cellular Automata

The one-dimensional elementary cellular automaton “Rule 22” is studied by means of Monte Carlo simulation on the dedicated K2 high-speed computer. If one considers random initialization with probability p for “one”-initialization per site, it is shown that the system behaves like a normal one-dimensional statistical ensemble with critical points atp=0 andp=1. Critical slowing down is exhibited, with a dynamical exponent of 1.0. The standard initialization ofp=0.5 is too far away from the critical point to allow similar observations.
The Federal Judicial Conference

The Conference held its ninth annual meeting in Washington on October 1-3, 1931. Authorized by the Judiciary Act of September 14, 1922, the conference of the senior circuit judges with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Attorney-General has become an established part of the judicial system of the United States. The reports of these conferences are to be found in the annual reports of the Attorney-General, beginning in 1924. The 1922 and 1923 reports may best be found in the Texas Law Review, Vol. II, pages 445 and 448, and in the Journal of the American Judicature Society, Vol. VIII, pages 85 and 92. In view of the general inaccessibility of the reports of the Attorney-General to the legal profession, it has been suggested that they be published in the Supreme Court Reports. The suggestion has not as yet, however, been adopted.
Keeping Up with Technology: Some Resources

Keeping up with current technology is not always the easiest of feats. Change is constant and hundreds of resources are resources are available. This column recommends several different resources for general technology current awareness.
ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC OBSERVATIONS ON PHAGOCYTOSIS OF RABBIT SPERMATOZOA IN THE FEMALE GENITAL TRACT.

La phagocytose intrauterine est un phenomene physiologique et non specifique qui se produit par la presence de divers corps etrangers y-compris les spermatozoides.
The Effect of Dobutamine On Porcine Cardiovascular Function After Respiratory Arrest 213

In an effort to improve circulation in children post respiratory arrest(RA), we examined the effects of dobutamine (D) on the hemodynamic function of piglets.
Human Sexuality in Medical Education and Practice

SYNOPSISThe work of Masters and Johnson has tremendously stimulated an interest in and understanding of human sexuality. These authors have discredited certain myths and erroneous notions about sexual problems, their causes and treatment. More and more couples are turning to their physicians for advice and treatment for sexual problems, but doctors are often in the uncomfortable position of being considered experts, when in fact they have little or no training in this field. For patient and doctor alike, this is an untenable situation which medical educators are only beginning to recognize and remedy.
Bone tissue heterogeneity is associated with fracture toughness: a polarization Raman spectroscopy study

Polarization Raman Spectroscopy has been used to demonstrate microstructural features and collagen fiber orientation in human and mouse bone, concurrently measuring both organization and composition; however, it is unclear as to what extent these measurements explain the mechanical quality of bone. In a cohort of age and gender matched cadaveric cortical bone samples (23-101 yr.), we show homogeneity of both composition and structure are associated with the age related decrease in fracture toughness. 64 samples were machined into uniform specimens and notched for mechanical fracture toughness testing and polished for Raman Spectroscopy. Fingerprint region spectra were acquired on wet bone prior to mechanical testing by sampling nine different microstructural features spaced in a 750x750 μm grid in the region of intended crack propagation. After ASTM E1820 single edge notched beam fracture toughness tests, the sample was dried in ethanol and the osteonal-interstitial border of one osteon was samples in a 32x32 grid of 2μm 2 pixels for two orthogonal orientations relative to the long bone axis. Standard peak ratios from the 9 separate microstructures show heterogeneity between structures but do not sufficiently explain fracture toughness; however, peak ratios from mapping highlight both lamellar contrast (ν1Phos/Amide I) and osteon-interstitial contrast (ν1Phos/Proline). Combining registered orthogonal maps allowed for multivariate analysis of underlying biochemical signatures. Image entropy and homogeneity metrics of single principal components significantly explain resistance to crack initiation and propagation. Ultimately, a combination of polarization content and multivariate Raman signatures allowed for the association of microstructural tissue heterogeneity with fracture resistance.
Studies of Milk as the Sole Constituent in the Diet of the Chick

Abstract WHILE studying nutritional anemia in 1929, workers in this laboratory found that chicks did not survive when fed milk alone. When whole milk powder, fortified with iron and copper, was fed with the liquid whole milk, the chicks grew poorly (Elvehjem and Hart, 1929). Intermittently, since then, experiments have been set up to try to obtain normal growth of chicks on a milk diet. Two recent experiments are reported here. EXPERIMENT 1 Day-old White Leghorn chicks were put in electrically heated cages with raised screen bottoms. The chicks had a constant supply of whole milk powder and fresh homogenized milk, but no water. The by supplementing each 100 grams with 5 grams of grit, 40 mg. of Fe4(P2 O7)3 · 9H2 O, 2 mg. of CuSO4 · 5H2 O, 0.2 mg. of KI and 30 mg. of MnSO4 · H2 O. In the second experiment vitamins A, D, and E were fed by dropper . . .
Ion selectivity in potassium channels.

Abstract Potassium channels are tetrameric membrane-spanning proteins that provide a selective pore for the conduction of K + across the cell membranes. One of the main physiological functions of potassium channels is efficient and very selective transport of K + ions through the membrane to the cell. Classical views of ion selectivity are summarized within a historical perspective, and contrasted with the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations free energy perturbation (FEP) performed on the basis of the crystallographic structure of the KcsA phospholipid membrane. The results show that the KcsA channel does not select for K + ions by providing a binding site of an appropriate (fixed) cavity size. Rather, selectivity for K + arises directly from the intrinsic local physical properties of the ligands coordinating the cation in the binding site, and is a robust feature of a pore symmetrically lined by backbone carbonyl groups. Further analysis reveals that it is the interplay between the attractive ion–ligand (favoring smaller cation) and repulsive ligand–ligand interactions (favoring larger cations) that is the basic element governing Na + /K + selectivity in flexible protein binding sites. Because the number and the type of ligands coordinating an ion directly modulate such local interactions, this provides a potent molecular mechanism to achieve and maintain a high selectivity in protein binding sites despite a significant conformational flexibility.
THE SIMPLE IN VITRO THROMBOGENIC TEST : MODIFIED METHODS FOR SAME PRIMING PUMPS

: The improvement of antithrombogenicity is one of the major objectives for the development of blood pumps. Previously we reported that an in vitro thrombogenic test was useful as a pilot study, especially to predict thrombogenic areas. In this study we modified the method for testing pumps with identical priming volumes by eliminating the blood reservoir. Identical compact mock loops (priming volume of 53 ml. without pump) were constructed and tested with the same priming volume of Nikkiso centrifugal pumps, noncoated verus heparin-coated. Two pumps were run simultaneously using the same source of fresh heparinized human blood (activated clotting time [ACT] 150–250 s) for 4 or 6 h. Results indicated that the heparin-coated pump had a longer thrombus free period than the noncoated one. The thrombi location and forms were consistently in the same places the in vivo study had identified. It is suggested that this modified in vitro thrombogenic test is a feasible pilot study, as well as the one previously reported. The minimal priming volume will allow evaluation of multiple pumps simultaneously with the same source blood.
Investigation of americium-421 metal alloys for target applications

Abstract Several 241 Am metal alloys have been investigated for possible use in the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Radiochemical Diagnostic Tracer Program. Several properties were desired for an alloy to be useful for tracer program applications. A suitable alloy would have a fairly high density, be ductile, homogeneous and easy to prepare. Alloys investigated have included uranium-americium, aluminum-americium, and cerium-americium. Uranium-americium alloys with the desired properties proved to be difficult to prepare, and work with this alloy was discontinued. Aluminum-americium alloys were much easier to prepare, but the alloy consisted of an aluminum-americium intermetallic compound (AmAl 4 ) in an aluminum matrix. This alloy could be cast and formed into shapes, but the low density of aluminum, and other problems, made the alloy unsuitable for the intended application. Americium metal was found to have a high solid solubility in cerium and alloys prepared from these two elements exhibited all of the properties desired for the tracer program application. Cerium-americium alloys containing up to 34 wt% americium have been prepared using both co-melting and co-reduction techniques. The latter technique involves co-reduction of cerium tetrafluoride and americium tetrafluoride with calcium metal in a sealed reduction vessel. Casting techniques have been developed for preparing up to eight 2.2 cm (0.87 in) diameter disks in a single casting, and cerium-americium metal alloy disks containing from 10 to 25 wt% 241 Am have been prepared using these techniques.
Uptake and Translocation of [14C]MSMA in Cotton and MSMA-Resistant and -Susceptible Cocklebur

Abstract Common cocklebur ( Xanthium strumarium L.) is a competitive weed which interferes with cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) production throughout the southeastern United States. In South Carolina, an organic arsenical-resistant cocklebur biotype has been identified. Absorption and translocation studies were conducted comparing monosodium methanearsonate (MSMA)-resistant (R) and -susceptible (S)-cocklebur with tolerant cotton using [ 14 C]MSMA. Radioactivity was distributed throughout all plants and average recovery from plants after 1, 3, and 5 days was 98, 70, and 85%, respectively. Greatest concentrations of 14 C activity were located in the treated leaf, with both acropetal and basipetal translocation occurring. There were no significant differences in radioactivity recovered from the three plant types. Cocklebur absorbed more MSMA than did cotton; most 14 C activity was removed from the treated cotton leaf in the first water rinse. Cotton cuticle appears to play a role in the MSMA tolerance mechanism. No significant 14 C root exudations or 14 CO 2 evolution from intact plants was detected.
Residents' experiences in the aftermath of a HOPE VI revitalization project: A three-pronged, grounded visualization approach

This study advances the use of grounded visualization through a three-pronged approach that provides an enhanced and more nuanced understanding of public housing issues in Louisville, Kentucky, specifically those faced by residents displaced by HOPE VI revitalization projects. We introduce a rich method – “drive-by photography” – a process of acquiring photos and triggering visual memories, which produces more knowledge than qualitative methods alone. We present the salient themes that emerged from a wealth of qualitative data. Our approach helps bridge the gap between theoretical and applied geography and draws upon earlier work in grounded visualization and qualitative GIS.
Covalent labeling of the cerebral cortex α1-adrenergic receptor with a new high affinity radioiodinated photoaffinity probe

A novel high affinity radioiodinated photoaffinity probe, 4-amino-6,7-dimethoxy-2[4-[5(3-[125I]iodo-4-azidophenyl)pentanoyl]-1-piperazinyl]- quinazoline, structurally related to the potent α1-adrenergic antagonist prazosin, was developed and used to covalently label the rat cerebral cortex α1-adrenergic receptor. In the absence of light, this ligand binds to cortex plasma membranes with a dissociation constant of 308 pM and with a maximal number of binding sites of 200 fmol/mg protein. Upon photolysis, the ligand incorporates irreversibly into plasma membrane proteins. Autoradiograms of such membrane samples subjected to sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveal a major specifically labeled polypeptide at Mr = 79,000. The covalent incorporation into the peptide at Mr = 79,000 can be inhibited by several adrenergic receptor ligands with a typical α1-adrenergic receptor specificity and stereoselectivity.
Unsedated Colonoscopy and the Water Method for Minimizing Discomfort in the Unsedated Patients

A decade ago, failure of cecal intubation due to pain in ~20% of scheduled unsedated patients in the author`s veterans practice prompted the search for a less uncomfortable approach. Methods that minimized discomfort or enhance cecal intubation included use of pediatric, variable stiffness, computer-assisted, 3-dimensional magnetic imaging colonoscope, gastroscope, and inhalation of nitrous oxide or insufflation of carbon dioxide; use of hypnosis, music, audio distraction, or simply allowing patients to participate in medication administration. In addition, several water-related techniques (as adjuncts to air insufflation) enhanced speed and success of intubation, reduced discomfort but did not appear to alter the amount of medications used. Because of simplicity, the water-related techniques added to turning off of the air pump were evaluated in a series of trial-and-error modifications. The result was the development of a water infusion in lieu of air insufflation method. Subsequent refinements included suction removal of all residual air to minimize angulations at flexures. Water exchange during insertion was used to suspend and removal feces to clear the luminal view while distention of the colonic lumen was minimize. Observational studies followed by randomized controlled trials confirmed the water method (simplified nomenclature) had significant impacts on discomfort both during and after colonoscopy: reduction of medication requirement; attenuation of insertion-related discomfort, enhancement of cecal intubation, decrease of pain after colonoscopy, increase in reported willingness to repeat unsedated colonoscopy in the patients examined without sedation and reduction of recovery time burden in patients accepting the option of sedation on demand. (Intest Res 2011;9:73-84)
Is blood or bone marrow better

Hematopoiesis that has been ablated with high-dose radiation-chemotherapy can be restored with either autologous peripheral stem cell transplantation (PSCT) or autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT). Characteristics unique to either type of transplant make one preferable to the other in certain clinical situations. When marrow metastases preclude ABMT, blood provides a suitable source of precursors for autografting. Peripheral cells are more time consuming to collect and more labor intensive to process and store. The peripheral autograft product can be manipulated with mobilization techniques (chemotherapy and/or cytokines) to provide more rapid recovery of granulocytes and perhaps red cells and platelets, while transplantation of manipulated marrow autografts has not yet been reported. Further advances in both ABMT and PSCT will provide additional opportunities to improve the outcome of patients treated with high-dose therapy.
Response of guinea pig respiratory tract to inhalation of submicron zinc oxide particles generated in the presence of sulfur dioxide and water vapor.

Abstract Guinea pigs were exposed for 3 hr to submicron zinc oxide aerosols generated in the presence of water vapor and 1 ppm sulfur dioxide. After exposure to the aerosol containing 5 mg/m3 of zinc oxide, the animals developed transient pulmonary edema accompanied by increased permeability of the respiratory epithelium to macromolecules and increased DNA synthesis in the terminal bronchioles, indicated by an elevated labeling index on autoradiographs. Peribronchiolar edema with cellular infiltrates was present after exposure to the aerosol containing 25 mg/m3 of zinc oxide and significant increases in the labeling index were noted for epithelial cells of the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli. The changes coincided with functional abnormalities detected in complementary physiological studies.