First high-convergence cryogenic implosion in a near-vacuum hohlraum.

Recent experiments on the National Ignition Facility [M. J. Edwards et al.

Novel characterization of capsule x-ray drive at the National Ignition Facility.

Indirect drive experiments at the National Ignition Facility are designed to achieve fusion by imploding a fuel capsule with x rays from a laser-driven hohlraum. Previous experiments have been unable to determine whether a deficit in measured ablator implosion velocity relative to simulations is due to inadequate models of the hohlraum or ablator physics. ViewFactor experiments allow for the first time a direct measure of the x-ray drive from the capsule point of view.

Measurement of high-pressure shock waves in cryogenic deuterium-tritium ice layered capsule implosions on NIF.

The first measurements of multiple, high-pressure shock waves in cryogenic deuterium-tritium (DT) ice layered capsule implosions on the National Ignition Facility have been performed. The strength and relative timing of these shocks must be adjusted to very high precision in order to keep the DT fuel entropy low and compressibility high. All previous measurements of shock timing in inertial confinement fusion implosions [T.

Quantifying the impact of deprivation on preterm births: a retrospective cohort study.

Background: Social deprivation is associated with higher rates of preterm birth and subsequent infant mortality. Our objective was to identify risk factors for preterm birth in the UK's largest maternity unit, with a particular focus on social deprivation, and related factors.

Methodology/principal Findings: Retrospective cohort study of 39,873 women in Liverpool, UK, from 2002-2008.

Atrial natriuretic peptide in the preterm newborn.

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), plasma renin and renin substrate concentrations (PRC and PRS) were measured in 31 preterm infants with idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome. Infants were studied at a mean of 1.4 days; 17 infants were also studied 2 days later.

Release of cartilage proteoglycan degrading enzyme activity by thioglycollate stimulated mouse peritoneal macrophages in culture.

Media from cultured mouse peritoneal macrophages were tested for cartilage proteoglycan degrading activity using S35-labelled rabbit ear cartilage. Media samples collected at 2-day intervals contained increasing amounts of activity between days two and six. This activity was activated by trypsin and antagonized by chelating agents.

Topical betamethasone 17-valerate is an anticorticosteroid in the rat. 1. Dermal atrophy.

In the albino rat, topical betamethasone 17-valerate acts as an anticorticosteroid. This steroid is inactive in a dermal atrophy assay over a dose range where betamethasone and hydrocortisone display atrophogenic activity. At appropriate concentrations betamethasone 17-valerate competitively inhibits the atrophogenic effects of both betamethasone and triamcinolone acetonide.

Corticosteroid-induced dermal atrophy in the rat.

Corticosteroid-induced dermal atrophy has been studied in the rat using daily application of ethanolic solutions to small areas of flank skin. After 12 days of treatment, the degree of atrophy was determined by comparing the weights of skin plugs (16 mm diameter) taken from the treated areas with contralaterally paired control areas. Doses can be adjusted so that systemic effects are minimized and only local effects are observed.