cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rights or Wishes? Conflicting Views over Human Rights and America’s Involvement in the Nicaraguan Contra War

ABSTRACTNon-governmental organisations [NGOs] sought to expand American conceptions of human rights and contributed to shaping the American debate over Nicaragua policy in the 1980s. Progressive NG...
Pra-Based Data Analysis for Use in Computerized Decision Aids

The purpose of this paper is to develop a methodology for the analysis of data that could be used in a knowledge based software tool for maintenance scheduling. This tool would assist plant management in planning and scheduling preventive and corrective maintenance in advance, based on deterministic constraints (refueling outages, technical specifications, etc.) and probabilistic decision rules and data (failure rates, maintenance cost and duration, etc.) related to various objects. The objects that the tool deals with are components and systems of a (nuclear) plant. One type of relationship among those objects is a TYPE-OF relationship (e.g. between the objects PUMP and MOTOR-DRIVEN-PUMP), which is conveniently modeled in a frame based system.
On Regret-Optimal Learning in Decentralized Multiplayer Multiarmed Bandits

We consider the problem of learning in single-player and multiplayer multiarmed bandit models. Bandit problems are classes of online learning problems that capture exploration versus exploitation tradeoffs. In a multiarmed bandit model, players can pick among many arms, and each play of an arm generates an i.i.d. reward from an unknown distribution. The objective is to design a policy that maximizes the expected reward over a time horizon for a single-player setting and the sum of expected rewards for the multiplayer setting. In the multiplayer setting, arms may give different rewards to different players. There is no separate channel for coordination among the players. Any attempt at communication is costly and adds to regret. We propose two decentralizable policies, $\tt E^3$ ( $\tt E$ - $\tt cubed$ ) and $\tt E^3$ - $\tt TS$ , that can be used in both single-player and multiplayer settings. These policies are shown to yield expected regret that grows, at most, as $O(\log ^{1+\delta } T)$ (and $O(\log T)$ under some assumption). It is well known that $O(\log T)$ is the lower bound on the rate of growth of regret even in a centralized case. The proposed algorithms improve on prior work where regret grew at $O(\log ^2 T)$ . More fundamentally, these policies address the question of additional cost incurred in decentralized online learning, suggesting that there is, at most, an $\delta$ -factor cost in terms of the order of regret. This solves a problem of relevance in many domains and had been open for a while.
Effect of sex misclassification on the skeletal biological profile

Abstract It is often suggested that sex estimation should be conducted first when constructing a skeletal biological profile. Methods for other components are commonly sex-specific, and interpretations may be influenced by prior sex information. This chapter discusses the theoretical potential for error in the biological profile resulting from misclassification of sex and presents data from several positively identified forensic cases from the Mercyhurst University. Depending on the methods utilized, misclassification of sex does impact other parameters of the biological profile; however, this impact is relatively small and is unlikely to have significant practical implications for other profile components in most cases. Using established methods, the effect of sex misclassification on age and stature estimation seems to be small and the effect on ancestry estimation is more or less null. Arguably, the most significant error introduced by sex misclassification is incorrect sex assessment itself.
A conceptual framework to understand the role of built environment on traffic safety.

Abstract Introduction Many U.S. cities have adopted the Vision Zero strategy with the specific goal of eliminating traffic-related deaths and injuries. To achieve this ambitious goal, safety professionals have increasingly called for the development of a safe systems approach to traffic safety. This approach calls for examining the macrolevel risk factors that may lead road users to engage in errors that result in crashes. This study explores the relationship between built environment variables and crash frequency, paying specific attention to the environmental mediating factors, such as traffic exposure, traffic conflicts, and network-level speed characteristics. Methods: Three years (2011–2013) of crash data from Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, were used to model crash frequency on surface streets as a function of built environment variables at the census block group level. Separate models were developed for total and KAB crashes (i.e., crashes resulting in fatalities (K), incapacitating injuries (A), or non-incapacitating injuries (B)) using the conditional autoregressive modeling approach to account for unobserved heterogeneity and spatial autocorrelation present in data. Results: Built environment variables that are found to have positive associations with both total and KAB crash frequencies include population, vehicle miles traveled, big box stores, intersections, and bus stops. On the other hand, the number of total and KAB crashes tend to be lower in census block groups with a higher proportion of two-lane roads and a higher proportion of roads with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the plausible mechanism of how the built environment influences traffic safety. The variables found to be significant are all policy-relevant variables that can be manipulated to improve traffic safety. Practical Applications: The study findings will shape transportation planning and policy level decisions in designing the built environment for safer travels.
Multiscale Modeling: Explanation and Emergence

I discuss two extreme views about emergence and explanation in the face of the following facts. The continuum equations of fluid mechanics and material behavior (bending of beams) are remarkably successful. They continue to be used for engineering and building purposes despite the fact that they almost completely ignore lower scale structure and detail. In fact, they treat fluids and steel beams as continuous blobs with no lower scale (atomic/molecular) structure whatsoever. The explanatory question is how such equations can be so successful. Extreme reductionists views expect that a bottom-up explanation from the actual fundamental lower scale structure will answer this explanatory question. Extreme emergentist views deny such reductionist pictures and hold that no bottom-up explanation is possible. The paper argues for a more sophisticated analysis that recognizes the importance of structures at scales intermediate between the atomic and the continuum. It is an analysis that appeals to sophisticated mathematics called “homogenization theory.” One can, in fact, provide a nonreductive explanation of the relative autonomy of the continuum equations from the lower scale details.
Neonatal heart transplant outcomes: A single institutional experience

Abstract Objective Neonatal orthotopic heart transplantation was introduced in the 1980s as a treatment for complex congenital heart disease. Progress in single-ventricle palliation and biventricular correction has resulted in a decline in neonatal heart transplant volume. However, limited reports on neonatal heart transplants have demonstrated favorable outcomes. We report the long-term outcomes of patients with neonatal heart transplants at our institution spanning nearly 30 years. Methods A retrospective analysis of neonatal heart transplants and neonates listed for transplant was performed at Children's Hospital Colorado. Primary outcomes were early and late survival. Secondary outcomes were rejection episodes, retransplantation, and development of cardiac allograft vasculopathy or post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease. Results A total of 21 neonates underwent orthotopic heart transplantation at our institution. Among these, 10 neonates were transplanted from 1991 to 2000, 8 neonates were transplanted from 2001 to 2010, and 3 neonates were transplanted from 2011 to 2020. The average age of these patients was 17 days, and the average weight was 3.43 kg. Early survival was 95.2%. Survival at 1 and 5 years was 85.7% (confidence interval [CI], 61.9%-95.2%) and 75% (CI, 45.6%-85.5%), respectively. Of eligible patients, the 10-year and 20-year survival was 72.2% (CI, 45.1%-85.3%) and 50% (CI, 25.9%-70.1%), respectively. Conclusions Our institution reports favorable outcomes of neonatal heart transplantation. These results should be considered within the context of outcomes for patients awaiting transplant and the limited donor availability. However, the successful nature of these procedures suggest it may be necessary to reevaluate the indications for neonatal heart transplantation, particularly where risk of mortality and morbidity with palliative or corrective surgery is high.
Echocardiographic findings in children with obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review.

Abstract Objective To systematically review the incidence of cardiac abnormalities in pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in order to assess the utility of preoperative echocardiographic evaluation for patients undergoing surgery. Study design A systematic literature review was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines. Data sources were searched from January 1, 1980 to March 25, 2020. Studies that examined echocardiographic findings and polysomnographic data for patients between birth and 18 years of age with polysomnogram-confirmed OSA were included. Studies that included patients with preexisting cardiac, metabolic, or hematologic disorders that could affect hemodynamic parameters were excluded. Included studies were assessed for quality and risk of bias using the U.S. National Institute of Health's Quality Assessment Tools. Results Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria. Five studies were categorized as high risk of bias, three were categorized as medium risk, and five were categorized as low risk. Study design varied considerably between studies, including heterogeneous classifications of OSA severity, discrepant reporting of echocardiographic parameters, and differing estimations of pulmonary hemodynamics. Significant disagreement regarding the effect of OSA on cardiac function was found between all included studies. Conclusion Data demonstrating significant associations between OSA and cardiac abnormalities in children is inconsistent. Echocardiographic abnormalities are inconsistently found and, when present, their clinical significance remains poorly understood. Assessing the utility of preoperative echocardiography in children with OSA requires further investigation with prospective studies utilizing standardized classifications of OSA severity, reporting of echocardiographic parameters, and estimations of pulmonary hemodynamics.
The Characteristics and Risk Factors of Web-Based Sexual Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Eastern China: Cross-sectional Study

Background: Finding casual sex partners on the internet has been considered a huge challenge for HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. Objective: This study aimed to identify the characteristics and risk factors of finding causal sex partners on the internet among MSM in Zhejiang Province, China. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Participants were enrolled by 4 community-based organizations (CBOs) and 10 Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) clinics through advertisements in bathrooms, bars, and gay hook-up apps from June to December 2018. A CBO- or physician-assisted survey was conducted to collected information on finding casual sex partners, perceived HIV infection, and HIV risk behaviors. Results: Among 767 participants, 310 (40.4%) reported finding causal sex partners on the internet. Factors associated with finding casual sex partners on the internet included watching pornographic videos on the internet more than once a week (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.881, 95% CI 1.201-2.948), discussing “hooking-up online” with friends (aOR=4.018, 95% CI 2.910-5.548), and perceiving that the likelihood of HIV infection among casual sex partners sought on the internet was “medium” (aOR=2.034, 95% CI 1.441-2.873) or “low” (aOR=2.548, 95% CI 1.524-4.259). Among the participants who reported finding casual sex partners on the internet, 30.2% (91/310) reported having unprotected sex with casual sex partners encountered on the internet in the past 6 months. On multivariate logistic regression analyses, knowing the HIV infection status of casual sex partners sought on the internet was significantly associated with performing inserted intercourse (aOR=1.907, 95% CI 1.100-3.306) and a decreased risk of inconsistent condom use (aOR=0.327, 95% CI 0.167-0.642). Conclusions: Web-based casual sexual behavior is becoming more prevalent, and the rate of unprotected sex among MSM in Zhejiang Province is high. Future HIV prevention approaches should emphasize the importance for MSM to proactively determine the HIV infection status of potential casual sex partners sought on the internet.
A modified laryngoplasty approach promoting ankylosis of the cricoarytenoid joint.

Objective: To perform a modification to the standard laryngoplasty procedure in vivo that would result in ankylosis of the cricoarytenoid (CA) joint, and determine the stability provided to the abducted arytenoid in vitro. Study Design: Experimental study. Animals: Horses (n=8). Methods: Horses were assigned to either control laryngoplasty (n=3) or modified laryngoplasty (5) procedure. Endoscopic upper airway evaluations were used to measure right:left quotients 1 day and 3 months postoperatively to assess maintenance of abduction. Horses were euthanatized 3 months after surgery and larynges collected for measurement of translaryngeal impedance and histologic evaluation of CA joint ankylosis. Each specimen was exposed to increasing negative pressure with the sutures intact or cut while translaryngeal impedance was recorded. Data were analyzed using ANOVA with significance set at P<.05. Results: Loss of left arytenoid cartilage abduction at 3 months was greater in the control laryngoplasty group. Overall, impedance was significantly lower for the modified laryngoplasty group compared with the control laryngoplasty group and lower with the sutures intact than cut. Histologic evaluation of the joints confirmed fibrous bridging of the left CA joints of the modified laryngoplasty group. Conclusions: A modified laryngoplasty approach promotes ankylosis of the CA joint and decreases the loss of abduction of the arytenoid.
High Amylose White Rice Reduces Post-Prandial Glycemic Response but Not Appetite in Humans

The present study compared the effects of three rice cultivars on postprandial glycemic control and appetite. A single-blind, randomized, crossover clinical trial was performed with 18 healthy subjects, nine males and nine females. Three treatments were administered at three separate study visits: commercially available conventional white rice (short grain), specialty high amylose white rice 1 (Dixiebelle), and specialty high amylose white rice 2 (Rondo). Postprandial capillary blood glucose, venous blood glucose and insulin measurements, and appetite visual analog scale (VAS) surveys were done over the course of two hours. The capillary blood glucose concentrations were significantly lower for Rondo compared to short grain rice at 30 min, and for Dixiebelle and Rondo compared to short grain rice at 45, 60, and 120 min. Capillary blood glucose area under the curve (AUC) was significantly lower for Dixiebelle and Rondo compared to short grain rice. Subjects were significantly more hungry at 30 min after Dixiebelle intake than Rondo intake, but there were no other significant effects in appetite ratings. The present study determined that intake of high amylose rice with resistant starch (RS) can attenuate postprandial blood glucose and insulin response in comparison to short grain rice.
First Measurements from a New Broadband Vibrothermography Measurement System

We report on the construction and development of a broad‐spectrum vibrothermography (Sonic IR) measurement system at the Center for NDE. The new system uses a broadband actuator instead of an ultrasonic welder to generate vibration and induce heating of cracks. A high‐resolution infrared camera captures the IR signature of a crack, and a reconfigurable data acquisition software system acquires and processes the IR images and vibrometry waveforms in real time. We present and discuss results from initial experiments with this system, including the frequency dependence of vibrothermographic heating of flaws in a jet turbine stator vane and an analysis of the correlation of heating with vibration frequency in a cracked test specimen.
Measurements of the Chemical Characteristics of Polymers and Rubbers by Vibrational Spectroscopy

Infrared and Raman spectroscopy are widely used to determine the chemical characteristics of polymers and rubber compounds. The purpose of this chapter is to review the use of these powerful vibrational spectroscopic techniques for determining characteristics such as branching, end groups, degradation reactions, stereoregularity, conformation, rotational isomers, hydrogen bonding, polyene formation, and cross-linking reactions. A wide range of polymers is considered to illustrate the applications of infrared and Raman spectroscopy to polymers and rubbers. They include materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polybutadiene, poly(methyl methacrylate), polyoxymethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyurethanes, polycarbonate, poly(vinyl chloride), and sulfur-vulcanized natural rubber compounds. Keywords: infrared spectroscopy; Raman spectroscopy; polymers; rubbers; branching; end groups; degradation; oxidation; stereoregularity; conformation; isomerism; hydrogen bonding, polyenes
Magnetic Quantum Oscillations in Tetramethyltetraselenafulvalenium Hexafluorophosphate [ ( TMTSF ) 2 P F 6 ]

The metallic (high-pressure) phase of ${(\mathrm{TMTSF})}_{2}$P${\mathrm{F}}_{6}$ exhibits Shubnikov---de Haas resistance variations at low temperatures. A single frequency of 0.76 MG has been recorded. A large anisotropy in the transverse magnetoresistance is also observed. Our results imply a two-dimensional Fermi surface under pressure, with compensated electron and hole sections oriented along the crystal $c$ axis. Some unusual and physically significant anomalies associated with the oscillations are discussed.
Molecular Structure of an Fe(IV) Species: {[Fe(TTP)]2N}SbCl6

The molecular structure of the formal iron(IV) porphyrinate derivative, {[Fe(TTP)]2N}SbCl6 (TTP = tetratolylporphyrinate), is reported. The structural parameters are compared to the previously reported species [Fe(TPP)]2N, in which the iron oxidation state is +3.5. Both the equatorial and axial bond distances in {[Fe(TTP)]2N}SbCl6 are slightly shortened and consistent with an increased formal charge on iron. The value for the axial Fe−N distance is 1.6280(7) A, and the average value of the equatorial Fe−Np distances is 1.979(5) A. The Mossbauer isomer shift decreases upon oxidation, again consistent with an increase in formal charge. Values for the isomer shift at room temperature are −0.13 mm/s for {[Fe(TTP)]2N}SbCl6 and 0.04 mm/s for [Fe(TTP)]2N. Crystal data for {[Fe(TTP)]2N}SbCl6 are as follows: orthorhombic, space group Fddd, Z = 8, a = 23.689(2) A, b = 31.056(3) A, c = 22.7788(18) A.
A prospective trial of real-time magnetic resonance-guided catheter placement in interstitial gynecologic brachytherapy.

Abstract Purpose To present outcome and toxicity results of the first real-time intraoperative MRI-guided interstitial approach to gynecologic cancer. Methods and Materials From February 2004 to December 2006, 25 patients with gynecologic malignancies were enrolled and treated in a prospective clinical trial of real-time MRI-guided interstitial brachytherapy. This was followed by a confirmatory CT imaging scan. Statistical analyses included Kaplan–Meier estimates for overall and relapse-free survival. Results MRI visualization of needles during placement permitted accurate placement with no inadvertent insertions. This prevented unnecessary normal-tissue perforation as confirmed by CT simulation. With a mean followup of 3.8 years (range, 2–6.8), 1-, 2-, and 3-year overall survival rates were 80%, 60% and 43%, respectively; corresponding relapse-free survival rates were 79%, 65%, and 59%, respectively. Actuarial acute toxicity rates for any grade were 0% at 0–14 days and 80% (all grade 1) at 14–90 days. Long-term (>180 days) actuarial toxicity rates were 8% gastrointestinal, 4% bladder and 4% vaginal. Conclusions Real-time MRI guidance during insertion of interstitial needles followed by 3D-planning maximized opportunities for tumor targeting and sparing of normal tissues. Although image guidance requires additional anesthesia time, clinical outcomes indicate potential for a successful reduction in toxicity using 3D image-guided in addition to 3D image-planned brachytherapy.
Metabolic and Tissue-Specific Regulation of Acyl-CoA Metabolism

Acyl-CoA formation initiates cellular fatty acid metabolism. Acyl-CoAs are generated by the ligation of a fatty acid to Coenzyme A mediated by a large family of acyl-CoA synthetases (ACS). Conversely, acyl-CoAs can be hydrolyzed by a family of acyl-CoA thioesterases (ACOT). Here, we have determined the transcriptional regulation of all ACS and ACOT enzymes across tissues and in response to metabolic perturbations. We find patterns of coordinated regulation within and between these gene families as well as distinct regulation occurring in a tissue- and physiologically-dependent manner. Due to observed changes in long-chain ACOT mRNA and protein abundance in liver and adipose tissue, we determined the consequence of increasing cytosolic long-chain thioesterase activity on fatty acid metabolism in these tissues by generating transgenic mice overexpressing a hyperactive mutant of Acot7 in the liver or adipose tissue. Doubling cytosolic acyl-CoA thioesterase activity failed to protect mice from diet-induced obesity, fatty liver or insulin resistance, however, overexpression of Acot7 in adipocytes rendered mice cold intolerant. Together, these data suggest distinct modes of regulation of the ACS and ACOT enzymes and that these enzymes act in a coordinated fashion to control fatty acid metabolism in a tissue-dependent manner.
Ultra-low latency video codec for video conferencing

Video codec (e.g. HEVC, H.264, H.263, H.261) are used for real time video conferencing over internet. The amount of latency from end to end (or round trip) has significant impact on perceived quality of video call. This paper explains overall latency for entire signal chain with focus especially on video codec. The paper explains typical configuration to optimize overall latency of video processing down to range of 1 video frame processing time. The paper proposes new sub-frame based data flow to cut down overall latency to significantly to fraction of video frame. The paper proposes new design for video codec engine to enable sub-frame based data flow consisting of novel way of exchanging data between entropy engine and application, pre-fetching of video data without stalling video performance and sending of partial video output to network. The overall design enables reduction of processing latency of video engine from multiple frames to few lines of video. The overall solution on TI's Davinci series (DM816x) device achieves latency up-to 2 msec compared to prior art measurement of 33 msec resulting in better user experience due to large improvements in perceived visual quality.
Displacement in French/Displacement of French: The Reggae and R'n'B of Tiken Jah Fakoly and Corneille

This paper examines the work and situations of two francophone singer-songwriters from Africa, Tiken Jah Fakoly and Corneille, through the notion of displacement. I attempt to answer important questions regarding language, identity, and the social role of the African pop artist in France and the francophone world. Tiken Jah Fakoly and Corneille embody the mediation between publics from two continents and the global music industry in a particular geopolitical context. They also belong to a generation of artists whose productions signal a shift in French popular music representations of Africa and Africans. Discussing these artists’ choice to sing in French will also allow us to reflect on the position of the French language African artist in the English-dominated world of pop music.
Long-range correlations in Boltzmann-Langevin model

The average phase-space density described by the Boltzmann-Langevin model can largely deviate from the one provided by the Boltzmann-Uhling-Uhlenbeck model, due to the non-linear evolution of density fluctuations. This aspect is investigated for long-wavelength, small density fluctuations in the framework of a memory incorporated Boltzmann-Langevin model. It is shown that the correlations associated with density fluctuations yield a collision term describing coupling between the collective vibrations and the single-particle degrees of freedom, which may play an important role in damping of collective motion in both the stable and unstable regions.
Spin-polarized tunneling spectroscopic studies of the intrinsic heterogeneity and pseudogap phenomena in colossal magnetoresistive manganite La 0.7 Ca 0.3 MnO 3

Spatially resolved tunneling spectroscopic studies of colossal magnetoresistive (CMR) manganite La_(0.7)Ca_(0.3)MnO_3 (LCMO) epitaxial films on (LaAlO_3)_(0.3)(Sr_2AlTaO_6)_0.7 substrate are investigated as functions of temperature, magnetic field and spin polarization by means of scanning tunneling spectroscopy. Systematic surveys of the tunneling spectra taken with Pt/Ir tips reveal spatial variations on the length scale of a few hundred nanometers in the ferromagnetic state, which may be attributed to the intrinsic heterogeneity of the manganites due to their tendency toward phase separation. The electronic heterogeneity is found to decrease either with increasing field at low temperatures or at temperatures above all magnetic ordering temperatures. On the other hand, spectra taken with Cr-coated tips are consistent with convoluted electronic properties of both LCMO and Cr. In particular, for temperatures below the magnetic ordering temperatures of both Cr and LCMO, the magnetic field-dependent tunneling spectra may be quantitatively explained by the scenario of spin-polarized tunneling in a spin-valve configuration. Moreover, a low-energy insulating energy gap ~0.6 eV commonly found in the tunneling conductance spectra of bulk metallic LCMO at T → 0 may be attributed to a surface ferromagnetic insulating phase, as evidenced by its spin-filtering effect at low temperatures and vanishing gap value above the Curie temperature. Additionally, temperature-independent pseudogap (PG) phenomena existing primarily along the boundaries of magnetic domains are observed in the zero-field tunneling spectra. The PG becomes strongly suppressed by applied magnetic fields at low temperatures when the tunneling spectra of LCMO become highly homogeneous. These findings suggest that the occurrence PG is associated with the electronic heterogeneity of the manganites. The observation of lateral and vertical electronic heterogeneity in the CMR manganites places important size constraints on the development of highdensity nanoscale spintronic devices based on these materials.
Field study investigations of the impact of shape, size and orientation on dry deposition induced corrosion of galvanized steel

Abstract A controlled field study was conducted at Research Triangle Park, NC, to determine how shape, size and orientation of galvanized steel structures affect (1) dry deposition of SOx and NOx compounds and (2) dissolution of Zn corrosion products resulting from such deposition. Thirteen structures of various shapes, sizes and orientations were exposed to dry deposition only for 100 weeks, during which they were rinsed with deionized water every 2 weeks and the rinses were analysed for Zn, Ca, and their ionic contents. The rinse data are consistent with size, orientation and exposure history affecting dry deposition of SO2−4 precursors such as SO2. Dry deposition of precursors of surface NO−3, including HNO3, is affected by structure size. A model regression equation is presented that shows that Zn dissolution can be explained in terms of the SO−24 and NO−3 rinse concentrations. The experimental results suggest that there is likely to be some error associated with extrapolating galvanized steel test panel results to actual structures.
Heterogeneity in head and neck IMRT target design and clinical practice

Purpose To assess patterns of H&N IMRT practice with particular emphasis on elective target delineation.
Settling onto the Main Sequence: ROSAT Observations of H and χ Persei

We have studied X-rays from the double cluster h and χ Per with an 11 ks ROSAT position-sensitive proportional counter (PSPC) observation. Emission is concentrated toward the two cluster centers. Whether the emission is diffuse emission or from a population of unresolved faint sources is uncertain because the resolution is poor at the distance of the clusters (2.4 kpc). Twenty-three sources were found with an X-ray luminosity of log L = 31.5 ergs s-1 or greater. These sources were found in the cluster nuclei, between the clusters, and in a halo around the cluster pair. The ROSAT PSPC error circle is too large for the identification of X-ray sources with individual optical objects. However, because of a lack of correlation between X-ray sources and B stars, we conclude that the X-rays are produced by late spectral type pre-main-sequence stars. The X-ray sources are brighter than all but the very brightest sources in the younger Orion Nebula cluster, which makes them important in tracing the final stages approaching the main sequence.
Potential of spice-derived phytochemicals for cancer prevention

Although spices have been used for thousands of years and are known for their flavor, taste and color in the food, they are not usually recognized for their medicinal value. Extensive research within the last two decades from our laboratory and others has indicated that there are phytochemicals present in spices that may prevent various chronic illnesses including cancerous, diabetic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological and autoimmune diseases. For instance, the potential of turmeric (curcumin), red chilli (capsaicin), cloves (eugenol), ginger (zerumbone), fennel (anethole), kokum (gambogic acid), fenugreek (diosgenin), and black cumin (thymoquinone) in cancer prevention has been established. Additionally, the mechanism by which these agents mediate anticancer effects is also becoming increasingly evident. The current review describes the active components of some of the major spices, their mechanisms of action and their potential in cancer prevention.
Body mass normalisation for ultrasound measurements of lumbar multifidus and abdominal muscle size.

The purpose of this study was to determine if ratio scaling or allometric scaling is the more appropriate method for normalising ultrasound measurements of lumbar multifidus and abdominal muscle size to body mass. In a convenience sample of 62 male career firefighters, cross-sectional area and thickness of the lumbar multifidus, as well as, thicknesses of the external oblique, internal oblique, and transverse abdominal muscles were assessed with ultrasonography. Ratio scaling entailed dividing muscle size by body mass, while allometric scaling entailed dividing muscle size by body mass raised to a power. Significant positive correlations (r = 0.25 to 0.49, p 0.05). The current study provides allometric parameters that can be used to normalise muscle size measurements to body mass in male firefighters. Future research is needed to establish reference databases of population-specific allometric parameters in other groups.
Hyperthyroidism attributable to a hyperfunctioning thyroid carcinoma.

The historical, clinical, and laboratory data of a 6-year-old girl with unilateral goiterand hyperthyroidism are presented. Both the goiter and the hyperthyroid status were attributed to a hyperfunctioning carcinoma.
Effect of Innovar upon the autonomic control of the heart in intact dog.

This experiment compares the regulation of cardiac function in dogs before and after administration of a drug (Innovar-Vet, 0.05 ml/kg) that produces a state of ‘neuroleptanalgesia’. All animals (n = 21) were chronically instrumented to measure arterial blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR); left ventricular pressure (LVP, n = 10) and ascending aortic flow (n = 4) were also recorded in some animals. After Innovar, the dogs became somnolent and tolerated minor surgical procedures. The paO2 decreased (95 ± 11 vs 90 ± 8 mm Hg, pre- vs post-Innovar, mean ± S.D.; P < 0.05) while paCO2 increased (33 ± 5 vs 36 ± 5 mm Hg; P < 0.05) when measured (n = 6) 10 min after drug administration. The changes in HR and BP during a 5-min, left circumflex coronary artery occlusion (n = 15) were virtually identical in the awake and sedated states; likewise, no significant differences were detected in the occlusion-induced changes in BP, HR, d(LVP)dt and stroke volume in the subset of more fully instrumented dogs. However, some significant effects were seen when the Innovar dose was increased to 5 times normal. The effects of bilateral carotid occlusion and dobutamine infusion (8, 16 and 30 mg/kg) were tested in another 7 dogs. Once again, the analysis of variance interaction terms testing the reflex or drug-induced changes in HR, BP and d(LVP)dt before vs after sedation were not statistically significant. This sedative/analgesic agent has minimal deleterious effects on many aspects of autonomic regulation of the circulation; those effects which can be demonstrated may be tolerable in the study of the regulation of circulation when the totally awake subject cannot be used.
Murine trophoblast cells are not killed by tumor necrosis factor-α

Purified midgestation murine trophoblast cannot be killed by a variety of cell-mediated effector mechanisms, with the exception of highly lytic effectors such as lymphokine-activated killer cells. We now report that this trophoblast population is also resistant to tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha.
The prevalence of perianal and anal abnormalities in a pediatric population referred for gastrointestinal complaints

Abstract Anal abuse is a common form of sexual assault against children and should be considered a potential cause of perianal injury. Unfortunately, anal and perianal injuries are sometimes inappropriately dismissed by physicians as being associated with common bowel disorders. The current study documented that very few children evaluated for gastrointestinal disorders show perianal or anal abnormalities. Although such abnormalities are not always the result of sexual abuse, we suggest that when perianal abnormalities are detected, further evaluation may be required to protect a potential child-victim from further abuse.
Creative Movement from Children's Storybooks: Going beyond Pantomime

Abstract Acting out stories provides a cross-disciplinary entree to the creative-dance experience.
Multiphoton spectral analysis of benzo[a]pyrene uptake and metabolism in breast epithelial cell lines

Quantification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and their metabolites within living cells and tissues in real time using fluorescence methods is complicated due to overlaping excitation and/or emission spectra of metabolites. In this study, simultaneous analysis of several metabolites of a prototype carcinogenic PAH, benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) in undifferentiated (MCF10A) and differentiated (MCF10CA1h) breast cancer cells was performed using single-cell multiphoton spectral analysis. The two cell types were selected for this study because they are known to have differences in BaP uptake and metabolism and induction of aryl hydrocarbon receptor-dependent ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity. Multiphoton microscopy spectral analysis performed in cells exposed to BaP for 24 hr identified 5 major peaks of fluorescence that were monitored within spectral bands. A comparison of the fluorescence peaks within these bands to those of BaP metabolite standards indicated that a peak in the spectral range of 393-415 nm matched benzo[a]pyrene-r-7,t-8-dihydrodiol-t-9,10-epoxide(±),(anti) (BPDE), the ultimate carcinogenic BaP metabolite. In addition, the 426-447 nm band matched the major metabolites 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene (3-OH BaP) and 9-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene (9-OH BaP); the 458-479 nm band corresponded to the secondary metabolite benzo[a]pyrene-3,6-dione (3,6 BPQ); and a peak at 490-530 nm matched the parent compound, BaP. Multiphoton spectral analysis also revealed differences in fluorescence intensities between MCF10A and MCF10CA1h cells within three spectral bands: 393-415 nm, 426-447 nm and 458-479 nm which were partially reversed with cyclosporine A suggesting differences in efflux mechanisms between cell lines. These results demonstrate the feasibility of analyzing BaP metabolism in situ by multiphoton spectral analysis and also identifying cell-type differences in BaP accumulation and metabolism.
Prerelease Buzz Evolution Patterns and New Product Performance

This study examines the dynamics of online buzz over time before product release. Employing functional data analysis, we treat the curve of prerelease buzz evolution trajectory as the unit of analysis and find that the shape of the curve significantly adds power in predicting new product performance compared with using product characteristics and firm advertising alone. Moreover, daily prerelease buzz evolution data enable accurate sales forecasting long before product release, which allows sufficient time for managers to adjust product design and/or marketing strategy. For example, the forecasting accuracy using an early buzz evolution curve ending on the 61st day before product release is not only higher than that using accumulated buzz volume until then but also higher than that using the total volume of all buzz up until product release. Beyond the sales outcome, we find that prerelease buzz is quickly reflected in firm stock returns before product release and reduces the absolute amount of postrelease stock price correction. The model accounts for endogeneity, and the results are robust after controlling for buzz sentiment. We also explore the factors influencing prerelease buzz evolution patterns, thus generating insights into how to manage prerelease buzz dynamics to enhance new product performance.
Pluralism, imagination, and estrangement

This paper argues that the diversity of conflicting comprehensive doctrines in liberal pluralist societies raises a problem of estrangement between citizens and the basic structure of society that Rawls' version of political liberalism does not successfully solve. 'Political estrangement' occurs when someone refuses to accept a political outcome that favors a comprehensive doctrine she rejects, based on what she imagines, correctly or incorrectly, to be true of her fellow citizens' comprehensive doctrines and their effect on political outcomes. Rawls argues that the political conception of justice and the use of public reason ensure the incompatibility of our comprehensive doctrines will not undermine our willingness to to accept political decisions contrary to our own values. However, public reason does not guarantee this result. Imagination can allow us to see that the influence of some reasonable comprehensive doctrines can lead to oppressive political outcomes and public reason restricts us from addressing this fact. Yet, widening public reason to account for this problem is likely to increase the conditions that cause estrangement. The paper concludes that the political conception of justice and public reason may sometimes fail to adequately justify political outcomes in the sense Rawls hopes.
Antibodies to plasma proteins: an association with platelet transfusion refractoriness

We hypothesized that antibodies to HLA-linked polymorphic plasma proteins could be involved in platelet refractoriness by an 'innocent bystander' or immune complex mechanism. Employing a kinetic enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique the ability of IgG from the plasma of refractory patients to bind to albumin, fibrinogen, complement components C2 and C4 was measured. As compared with controls a high percentage of refractory patients had increased IgG capable of binding to all four plasma proteins: C2 (83%), C4 (83%), albumin (75%), fibrinogen (34%). In the presence of exogenous plasma proteins these antibodies mediated increased deposition of IgG onto normal donor platelets. The plasma protein binding IgG consisted both of monomeric IgG and a broad range of high molecular weight complexes. IgG anti-plasma protein antibody could be eluted from platelets of refractory patients. The development of anti-plasma protein IgG was studied during the course of platelet transfusion therapy and found to increase progressively so that by the 20th transfusion greater than 90% of samples were positive. The presence of plasma protein binding activity correlated with the development of increased levels of platelet bound IgG and refractoriness. Multiple platelet transfusions lead to sensitization to polymorphic determinants on C2 and C4 as well as the formation of high molecular weight complexes. These antibodies and complexes contribute to the deposition of IgG on platelets and may contribute to refractoriness.
Use of Penning Ionization Electron Spectroscopy in Plasma for Measurements of Environmental Gas Constituents

A breadboard GC detector based on Penning ionization electron spectroscopy in plasma (PIES) was investigated. The PIES detector was set up in series with a gas chromatograph and a thermal conductivity detector. Two-dimensional PIES chromatograms were recorded for carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and methane. The analytes were identified independently of the GC retention time, and their concentrations were measured in a range between 1 and 100 ppm. PIES spectra for methane were observed for the first time and displayed two characteristic peaks with electron energies of 7.1 and 5.4 eV. Rate coefficients for Penning ionization due to collisions between 23S helium metastable atoms and analyte molecules under study were found to be k*CO = (0.7 ± 0.2) × 10−10, k*CO2 = (1.8 ± 0.7) × 10−10, k*7.1 CH4 = (4.7 ± 0.6) × 10−10, and k*5.4 CH4 = (8 ± 2) × 10−10 cm3/s. The work provides the basis for the development of a portable and robust analytical platform capable of in situ real-time monitoring of greenhouse gases, ...
Semirational design of (north)-methanocarba nucleosides as dual acting A1 and A3 adenosine receptor agonists : Novel prototypes for cardioprotection

Ring-constrained adenosine analogues have been designed to act as dual agonists at tissue-protective A1 and A3 adenosine receptors (ARs). 9-Ribosides transformed into the ring-constrained (N)-methanocarba-2-chloro-5‘-uronamides consistently lost affinity at A1/A2AARs and gained at A3AR. Among 9-riboside derivatives, only N6-cyclopentyl and 7-norbornyl moieties were extrapolated for mixed A1/A3 selectivity and rat/human A3AR equipotency. Consequently, 2 was balanced in affinity and potency at A1/A3ARs as envisioned and dramatically protected in an intact heart model of global ischemia and reperfusion.
The unfolded protein response.

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a principal site for folding and maturation of transmembrane, secretory and ER-resident proteins. Perturbations that alter ER homeostasis can lead to accumulation of unfolded proteins (UPs), which is a threat to all living cells. To cope with the stress, cells
Benomyl, aldehyde dehydrogenase, DOPAL, and the catecholaldehyde hypothesis for the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease.

The dopamine metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL) is detoxified mainly by aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). We find that the fungicide benomyl potently and rapidly inhibits ALDH and builds up DOPAL in vivo in mouse striatum and in vitro in PC12 cells and human cultured fibroblasts and glial cells. The in vivo results resemble those noted previously with knockouts of the genes encoding ALDH1A1 and 2, a mouse model of aging-related Parkinson’s disease (PD). Exposure to pesticides that inhibit ALDH may therefore increase PD risk via DOPAL buildup. This study lends support to the “catecholaldehyde hypothesis” that the autotoxic dopamine metabolite DOPAL plays a pathogenic role in PD.
Inhibition of αβ Epithelial Sodium Channels by External Protons Indicates That the Second Hydrophobic Domain Contains Structural Elements for Closing the Pore

We have examined the effect of extracellular protons on the activity of epithelial sodium channels (ENaCs). We found that alphabeta channels, but not alphabetagamma or alphagamma channels, are inhibited by low extracellular pH. External protons induced short and long closed states that markedly decreased the open probability of alphabeta channels. External protons did not change the single-channel conductance or amiloride binding. Analysis of the proton-induced changes on the kinetics of single channels indicates that at least two protons sequentially bind to the extracellular domain at sites that are not in the ion pathway. Conformational changes induced by protonation of those sites are transmitted to the second hydrophobic domain (M2) of the subunits to induce closure of the pore. The results suggest that elements located in the carboxy-terminal half of M2 participate in the gating mechanism of ENaCs.
FRAMING THE ABORTION DEBARTE: Organizational Resources, Media Strategies, and Movement‐Countermovement Dynamics

This study examines how ideologically opposed social movement organizations, the National Organization for Women (NOW) and Concerned Women for America (CWA), get media coverage during critical mome...
Family Relationships and Children's Emotional Adjustment as Correlates of Maternal and Paternal Differential Treatment: A Replication with Toddler and Preschool Siblings

Recent behavioral genetic research emphasizes the nonshared family environment as an important contributor to psychological differences between siblings raised in the same family. Most studies of nonshared sibling experiences have examined the effects of differential maternal and paternal treatment separately and have not examined family-level processes. This study attempted to replicate the findings of McHale, Crouter, McGuire, and Updegraff and also of Volling in which relations between family patterns of differential parental treatment, child outcomes, and family functioning were examined. Questionnaire data were collected from 60 maritally intact families with toddler and preschool siblings. Congruence in mothers' and fathers' reports of differential treatment (i.e., similar treatment from both mother and father) was most frequent. Parents' reports of differential enjoyment were related to differential favoritism, whereas their reports of differential discipline were not. Both mothers and fathers were more likely to discipline the older sibling than the younger toddler. Sibling and marital harmony characterized families in which the father disciplined the older sibling more and mothers disciplined the two children equally. Incongruent patterns of differential favoritism (i.e., one parent treats the children equally while the other favors one child) were associated with marital distress. Preschool siblings exhibited greater internalizing and externalizing symptoms when both mothers and fathers disciplined them more than their younger sibling. The findings of this study with very young siblings differ in some respects from those with older children and suggest that future research needs to examine differential parental treatment as a developmental process across childhood.