cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimizing intraocular lens power calculations in eyes with axial lengths above 25.0 mm

Purpose To evaluate the accuracy of refractive prediction of 4 intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas in eyes with axial length (AL) greater than 25.0 mm and to propose a method of optimizing AL to improve the accuracy. Setting Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA, and Department of Ophthalmology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Design Case series. Methods Refractive prediction errors with the Holladay 1, Haigis, SRK/T, and Hoffer Q formulas were evaluated in consecutive cases. Eyes were randomized to a group used to develop the method of optimizing AL by back-calculation or a group used for validation. Further validation was performed in 2 additional data sets. Results The optimized AL values were highly correlated with the IOLMaster AL (R2 from 0.960 to 0.976). In the validating group, the method of optimizing AL significantly reduced the mean numerical errors for IOLs greater than 5.00 diopters (D) from +0.27 to +0.68 D to −0.10 to −0.02 D and for IOLs of 5.00 D or less from +1.13 to +1.87 D to −0.21 to +0.01 D, respectively (all P Conclusions The proposed method of optimizing AL significantly reduced the percentage of long eyes with a hyperopic outcome. Updated optimizing AL formulas by combining all eyes from the 2 study centers are proposed. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Operational system model based on social network analysis and simulation

To assess the combating performance of complex operational system dynamically, and to fix quantify various performance parameters of system, a evolving topological model based on the interacting and non-linear priority growth of new nodes and internal edges which substitutes real military system and the dynamic development has been abstracted, with reference to social network an complex network theory, such as Transit-Stub model based on hierarchical structure, BA model based on the degree of node, GLP and PFP models and multi-local world model. And this model was established and simulated by MATLAB software according to various rules defined in model. Many topological properties are discussed after evolving with different conditions and time. Finally, evolvement process of system's characters is acquainted and applied to the practice of military construction. By analytical-numerical method and experimental simulation, it draws the conclusion that operational system is a scale free network while the feature of small world is unobvious. This may because the military is a well-organized system, and has a stronger self-adapting power compared with Internet.
Development of the PedsQL™ sickle cell disease module items: qualitative methods

Purpose The objective of this qualitative study was to develop the items and support the content validity of the PedsQL™ Sickle Cell Disease Module for pediatric patients with sickle cell disease (SCD).
His Name Was Don Francisco Muro: Reconstructing an Image of American Imperialism

Visual culture played a significant role in the debates surrounding American colonialism in the Philippines in the early twentieth century. One of the most important photographers working the Philippines at that time was Dean Conant Worcester, who also served as a colonial administrator. Worcester's three-part sequence of photographs supposedly showing an Igorot man becoming civilized through his contact with Americans is one of the more iconic sets of images from that time period. In recent years, many historians have reprinted the "Igorot sequence" to illustrate American imperial ideologies. However, neither the identity of the subject, nor the circumstances surrounding the creating of the sequence has been published, and different historians have traced the sequence to different points of origin. Understanding the history of the sequence provides a way to better understand both the history of American colonialism in the Philippines and the challenges of using photographs as historical evidence.
Special Issue—Materials and Manufacturing Processes on Multifunctional Micro- and Nano-Structures

In recent years, there has been considerable progress in the development of micro- and nano-structures for multiple functions. These include thin films, micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), and...
Robert S. Daniel: A Man Dedicated to Teaching.

Robert S. Daniel is an influential contributor to the teaching of psychology. This article (a) highlights some aspects of his life and career; (b) documents the emergence and development of Teaching of Psychology; and (c) provides insights concerning the joys and frustrations of teaching from, the founding editor of this journal, who is truly a dedicated teacher.
EFFECTS OF FAKING INSTRUCTIONS ON THE TAV ADJECTIVE CHECK LIST

The TAV Selection System (Morman, 1968) is a battery designed to measure three interpersonal orientations of moving Toward, Away from, and Versus people as described by Karen Horney. Characterized by Crites (1969) as "Unique in its conception and item content," the battery includes seven main subtests and is intended as a selection device and counseling aid. The present study investigated fakability of the TAV Adjective Check List subtest, which seemed to Crites (1969) ". . . the most appropriate for working with adolescents and adults." Two groups were tested. The first included 46 students in undergraduate psychology classes, half of whom received instructions to be honest and forthright (control) and the other half asked to fake so as to make the best impression they could (experimental). The second group was composed of 48 graduate students in counseling and guidance who were enrolled in a course in tests and measurements. Both groups responded anonymously in regular class sessions. Initially, data were analyzed separately for the two groups. Significance of the difference between control and experimental means on the three orientations was determined for each group by t tescs for independent groups. None of the six comparisons approached significance. Subsequently, data for the two groups were pooled, resulting in composite control group (N = 47) means of 36.96, 23.21, and 25.11 for T, A, and V respectively, and SDs of 14.00, 12.30, and 13.00. For the comparable composite experimental group (N = 47) means were 38.53, 20.83, and 29.21, with SDs of 11.00, 8.56, and 11.70. None of the t values (0.60, 1.08, and 1.59) attained significance at the .05 level. These results indicate that scores on the TAV Adjective Check List were not significantly affected by the general good-impression faking instructions used in this study. The device appears worthy of further research to determine the behavioral correlates of TAV scores.
Computer simulation of field ion images

Abstract A computer model has been developed which gives very good agreement with a field ion image. The present studies use the geometrical environment (number and type of neighbors) of a surface atom as the imaging criteria. The volume element of each atomic environment that must be considered appears to be a direct function of the spacing of atoms on a particular plane. The analysis assumes that the tip has a constant radius over a small surface sector. The work to date has been done using a fcc point lattice and all correlations have been made with experimentally obtained images of platinum. Results in the neighborhood of the (931) plane are reported here. The correlation is exact. There also appears to be good correlation between the relative intensity distribution on a single plane and the variation in the local sublimation energy.
Bioenergetics and mechanical actuation analysis with membrane transport experiments for use in biomimetic nastic structures

Nastic structures are synthetic constructs capable of controllable deformation and shape change similar to plant motility, designed to imitate the biological process of nastic movement found in plants. This paper considers the mechanics and bioenergetics of a prototype nastic structure system consisting of an array of cylindrical microhydraulic actuators embedded in a polymeric plate. Non-uniform expansion/contraction of the actuators in the array may yield an overall shape change resulting in structural morphing. Actuator expansion/contraction is achieved through pressure changes produced by active transport across a bilayer membrane. The active transport process relies on ion-channel proteins that pump sucrose and water molecules across a plasma membrane against the pressure gradient. The energy required by this process is supplied by the hydrolysis of adenosine triphosphate. After reviewing the biochemistry and bioenergetics of the active transport process, the paper presents an analysis of the microhydraulic actuator mechanics predicting the resulting displacement and output energy. Experimental demonstration of fluid transport through a protein transporter follows this discussion. The bilayer membrane is formed from 1-Palmitoyl-2-Oleoyl-sn-Glycero-3-[Phospho-L-Serine] (Sodium Salt), 1-Palmitoyl-2-Oleoyl-sn-Glycero- 3-Phosphoethanolamine lipids to support the AtSUT4 H+-sucrose cotransporter.
Introduction to the minimal access colorectal surgery supplement of Techniques in Coloproctology

I am delighted to introduce our readers to this special supplemental issue of Techniques in Coloproctology. This issue is comprised of contributions from some of the world’s most respected leading luminaries in minimally invasive surgery. It opens with a beautiful description of laparoscopic right hemicolectomy by Dr. Jason Wong and Dr. Maher Abbas. The step-by-step description is accompanied by a cogent explanation of why and how the authors perform these procedures. In a similar manner, Dr. Amit Khanna discusses laparoscopic total mesorectal excision. Dr. John Migaly and coauthors detail the history and current status of minimally invasive surgery for diverticulitis, and Dr. Meagan Costedio and Dr. Feza Remzi very deftly elucidate the current status of laparoscopic single-port colectomy. Dr. Mario Morino and coauthors provide an elegant overview of the development and resurgence of interest in transanal endoscopic microsurgery. Dr. Morris Franklin and coauthors detail not only the development and rationale behind natural orifice surgery, but also describe their own large personal series of natural orifice specimen extraction procedures. Along with his coauthors, Dr. Peter Marcello discusses his widely acclaimed technique of hand-assisted laparoscopic colorectal surgery and argues very compellingly for its adoption. Dr. Seth Stein and Dr. Roberto Bergamaschi offer us a comprehensive description of both intracorporeal and extracorporeal anastomosis and explain their own personal preferences. Dr. Seon Hahn Kim and Dr. Jung Myun Kwak expertly describe robotic total mesorectal excision. I would like to extend an extra note of appreciation to Drs. Khanna, Morino, Marcet, and Remzi, all of whom provided highquality videos which further enhance the educational value of this volume. I wish to thank each and every author for their energy, efforts, time, and devotion to their respective subject matter. Together, they have elegantly created this issue which offers just the right amount of overlap to ensure complete comprehension while minimizing unnecessary redundancy. I am quite confident that every surgeon will enjoy reading this issue as much as I have enjoyed editing it. I wish to also thank my editor-in-chief, Dr. Mario Pescatori, and his co-editors Drs. Alberto Arezzo and Giuseppe Gagliardi for entrusting me with this important task. Lastly, I express my appreciation to my good friend, alumnus, and colleague Dr. Fabio M. Potenti for his invaluable assistance and expertise.
Quantum inequality for a scalar field with a background potential

Quantum inequalities are bounds on negative time averages of the energy density of a quantum field. They can be used to rule out exotic spacetimes in general relativity. We study quantum inequalities for a scalar field with a background potential (i.e., a mass that varies with spacetime position) in Minkowski space. We treat the potential as a perturbation and explicitly calculate the first-order correction to a quantum inequality with an arbitrary sampling function, using general results of Fewster and Smith. For an arbitrary potential, we give bounds on the correction in terms of the maximum values of the potential and its first three derivatives. The techniques we develop here will also be applicable to quantum inequalities in general spacetimes with small curvature, which are necessary to rule out exotic phenomena.
Recent measurements of mobile source emission factors in North American tunnels

Results of recent tunnel studies in the Cassiar, Tuscarora, Fort McHenry, and Caldecott tunnels are described, along with the methodology for calculating vehicle emissions in these studies. Results for Cassiar, Fort McHenry and Tuscarora generally agree within ±50% with the model predictions and the emissions ratios are also in good agreement with the models. These results contrast with the 1987 Van Nuys experiment, wherein the CO and HC were greatly underpredicted, as were the CO/NO x and HC/NO x ratios by factors of two and more. The 1994 Caldecott CO/NO x results deviate significantly from model predictions and are similar to those seen in the 1987 Van Nuys study, although the HC/NO x ratio is in agreement with the model prediction. Possible explanations for differences or lack of differences between the observed tunnel emissions and model predictions may include the evolution of the models and the increase in the basic emission factors incorporated in the models, differences in the tunnel fleet, manner of driving (lack of speed variability in some of the tunnels), and the impact of grade. None of these explanations, however, can adequately account for the range of deviations between on-road observations and model predictions.
MORTALITY RISKS IN ALCOHOLISM AND EFFECTS OF ABSTINENCE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT

The mortality rate from alcoholism and related comorbidities is high. Studies show multiple causes of premature death from alcoholism. Several studies showed that abstinence had a positive effective on the overall survival of alcoholics. Alcoholics who abstained from alcohol, particularly continuously, showed reduced mortality rates and increased years of longevity than alcoholics who relapsed to alcohol consumption. The sources of the findings tend to be derived from treatment populations, in which abstinence is expected to occur in higher rates than in the general population.
Using Multilevel Random Coefficient Modeling to Analyze Social Interaction Diary Data

This article provides a rationale for using multilevel random coefficient modeling (MRCM) to analyze social interaction diary data, and describes how to conduct such analyses. This description includes how to examine relationships between individual differences in social interaction and other trait-level individual differences such as personality scales. Analyzing relationships among different ratings of interactions and analyzing differences among types of interactions are also described, including techniques to examine how relationships between trait-level individual differences and reactions to interaction vary across different types of interactions (e.g., interactions with different relational partners). Different types of analyses are illustrated using data from actual studies. Although this article focuses on the analysis of data collected using variants of the Rochester Interaction Record, the techniques described can be used to analyze data collected using other methods and protocols.
Abstract 674: Cooperative induction of apoptosis through p53 signaling and mTOR inhibition in neuroblastoma

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC The use of MDM2 inhibitors (e.g. Nutlin 3a) to stabilize p53 and induce apoptosis is an attractive therapeutic approach for neuroblastoma which is predominantly p53 wild-type at diagnosis and relapse. We sought to identify additional pathways to potentiate the p53 response. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is active in neuroblastoma and mTOR inhibition has antiproliferative effects in vivo in neuroblastoma. It was recently demonstrated that two p53 target genes, Sestrin1 and Sestrin2, inhibit mTOR activity, linking genotoxic stress, p53 and the mTOR signaling pathway. We investigated the role of Sestrin1 and Sestrin2 in p53-mediated apoptosis in neuroblastoma and the interaction of mTOR and p53 pathways after their simultaneous blockade using the mTOR inhibitor, Temsirolimus and the MDM2 inhibitor, Nutlin 3a. We show here that stabilization and activation of wt-p53 through MDM2 inhibition result in significant and rapid p53-dependent apoptosis. Using microarray analysis in primary tumor line and RT-PCR in several neuroblastoma lines, we demonstrate that the global transcriptional response is p53-dependent and that Sestrin1 and Sestrin2 are significantly up-regulated in response to Nutlin. With MTT and Tunnel assays we demonstrate a p53-dependent synergistic effect of combined Nutlin 3a and Temsirolimus treatment on cell growth and apoptosis. Flow cytometric analysis of the phospho-S6 ribosomal protein demonstrates a profound dephosphorylation of S6 in vitro when low dose Nutlin 3a is combined with Temsirolimus. Additional in vivo studies suggest that mTOR inhibition reduces tumor burden and proliferation of neuroblastoma xenografts in nude mice. We conclude that MDM2 inhibition and p53 driven Sestrin1 and Sestrin2 activation enhance the apoptotic response to mTOR inhibition. Thus the therapeutic strategy of combined MDM2 and mTOR inhibition may represent a clinically potent approach to de novo and relapsed neuroblastoma. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 674.
The effect of potassium bromide and sodium carbonate on coal char combustion reactivity

The addition of halogens, particularly iodine, to the gas during coal char oxidation has been used in previous studies to quench gas-phase chemistry, thereby allowing one to separate the effects of homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions. Halogen addition suppresses the gas-phase radicals to near-equilibrium levels. A similar effect can be expected from other compounds with high efficiency as fire suppressants, such as alkali metals. The effectiveness of the use of additives in distinguishing homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions during char oxidation relies on the assumption that radicals are suppressed while heterogeneous reactions occurring on the char surface are not affected. The present work tests this assumption for potassium bromide (KBr) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) reacting with a pulverized eastern bituminous coal char during oxidation. An increase in CO and a slight reduction in particle temperature were observed with the addition of KBr, consistent with known effects of halogens on gas-phase chemistry. An increase in particle size was also observed with the KBr addition. This observation and the results of model calculations suggest that there is significant incorporation of liquid KBr on the char surface under the conditions examined. With Na2CO3 addition, the particle temperature did not change, the particle size showed a slight decrease, and CO production increased. Although the mechanisms for Na interaction with radicals at combustion conditions are not well established, char oxidation modeling suggests that a decrease in OH concentration in the particle boundary layer is the cause for the observed increase in CO production. It is concluded that Na2CO3 has clear advantages over KBr for inhibiting gas-phase chemistry without affecting char oxidation for the conditions investigated here.
Can protein kinase C inhibition and vitamin E prevent the development of diabetic vascular complications

Hyperglycemia causes vascular complications of diabetes possible by the activation of protein kinase C (PKC). We have provided substantial evidence that activation of PKC can lead to a whole host of vascular dysfunction in diabetes. The activation of PKC induced by hyperglycemia appears to be due to an increase in diacylglycerol (DAG) levels, a physiological activator of PKC. Studies involving cultural cells, animal models of diabetes and patients have shown that inhibition of PKC by specific PKC inhibitor was able to reverse many of the vascular dysfunctions in the retina, kidney and cardiovascular systems induced by either hyperglycemia or diabetes. In addition high doses of vitamin E were shown to decrease the level of DAG and PKC induced by diabetes or hyperglycemia. Thus animal and clinical studies have shown that high doses of vitamin E treatment can apparently reverse some of the changes in the retinal and renal vessels.
Selection of spectral bands for interpretation of hyperspectral remotely sensed images

Technological improvements in optical sensors have resulted in the collection of spectral information across hundreds of very narrow bands thereby giving analysts detailed spectral signatures not available a few years ago. While useful for identifying materials in a laboratory, the detailed spectral signatures of current hyperspectral sensors present much more information than required for discrimination between materials on the Earth's surface. The sheer volume of spectral information can be overwhelming and has lead to research efforts aimed at selecting only those features useful for the task at hand. In this paper, a method based on maximizing the Bhattacharyya distance to select an optimal subset of spectral bands is presented and applied in discriminating between several mineral classes from the USGS Spectral Library database.
Responsible Action Research for the Pursuit of Justice.

The pursuit of justice has concerned human beings for centuries and, despite its importance, often remains outside the boundaries of our educational systems. This article reports on a study of an action research seminar for a group of teacher leaders in a position to instigate positive change within their educational context, and make their actions occasions for justice. In order to better understand the textual data generated by the teacher leaders, we devised an analytical lens that draws from modern rabbinical scholarship, eco-political (socio-political) studies, and existentialism. We found at this intersection that, despite the teacher leaders recognizing injustice, and at times protesting against it, their ability to act, formulate solutions, and conduct action research – and even their very concept of justice – was heavily influenced and constrained by the dominant political regime of the US educational system. An explanatory framework emerged that sheds light on the dynamic interplay among justice...
Phagocytic ability declines with age in adult Drosophila hemocytes

Most multicellular organisms show a physiological decline in immune function with age. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying these changes. We examined Drosophila melanogaster, an important model for identifying genes affecting innate immunity and senescence, to explore the role of phagocytosis in age-related immune dysfunction. We characterized the localized response of immune cells at the dorsal vessel to bacterial infection in 1-week- and 5-week-old flies. We developed a quantitative phagocytosis assay for adult Drosophila and utilized this to characterize the effect of age on phagocytosis in transgenic and natural variant lines. We showed that genes necessary for bacterial engulfment in other contexts are also required in adult flies. We found that blood cells from young and old flies initially engulf bacteria equally well, while cells from older flies accumulate phagocytic vesicles and thus are less capable of destroying pathogens. Our results have broad implications for understanding how the breakdown in cellular processes influences immune function with age.
Continuous chip formation in drilling

The formation of coil continous chips in drilling often leads to chip disposal problems. This paper investigates the drill chip formation process of continuous chips (spiral chips and string chips). Chip removing motions and forces are analyzed. Two models are developed to predict the spiral and string chip formation, respectively. Based on the level of bending due to the chip generation at the cutting edge and deflection by the flute, these models qualitatively investigate relationship of the point angle and flute helix angle on the average chip length. Drilling experiments validate the chip length for spiral and string chip predicted by both models.
Characteristics of AVIRIS bands measurements in agricultural crops at Blythe area, California: III. Studies on Teff Grass

AVIRIS data from Blythe were acquired in June 1997 to study the agricultural spectra from different crops and for identification of crops in other areas with similar environmental factors and similar spectral properties. In this respect; the main objectives of this study are: 1) to compare the spectral and radiometric characteristics of AVIRIS data from agriculture crops with the spectra measured by FieldSpec ASD radiometer; 2) to explore the use of AVIRIS images in identifying agricultural crops; 3) to study the impact of environmental factors on selected crops and; 4) to build a spectral library for the crops that were studied. A long-term goal is to extend the spectral library for different vegetation or crops in different stages of growth. In order to support our study, on July 18-19, 2000 we collected spectra using the FieldSpec spectrometer from selected fields planted with different crops at Blythe area, California (at the Longitude 114° 33.28 W and Latitude 33° 25.42 N to Longitude of 114° 44.53 W and 33° 39.77 N Latitude. The teff grass spectra were studied. Teff grass fields were treated with different types of irrigation (i.e. wet to dry conditions). Additional parameters were studied such as the soil water content (WC), pH, organic matter (OM) and nitrogen (N%). The results of this study showed that there is a significant correlation between the data that were collected by AVIRIS image scene in 1997 and spectral data collected by the FieldSpec spectrometer. This correlation allowed us to build a spectral library to be used in ENVI-IDL software. This leads to identification of different crops and in particular the visible part of the spectra. AVIRIS data are in agreement with FieldSpec data. Using IDL algorithms of Spectral Angle Mapper classification (SAM), Spectral Feature Fitting (SFF) and Spectral Binary Encoding (SPE) showed that there is an excellent agreement between the predicted and the actual crop type (i.e. the correlation is between 85 - 90% match). Further use of the AVIRIS images can be of a value to crops identification or crops yield for commercial use. The yield data of Teff grass were correlated significantly with the spectral data from the AVIRIS and from the hand-held radiometer and it showed the impact of irrigation on the yield of the crop.
POSTGLACIAL FORESTS IN SOUTH CENTRAL ALBERTA, CANADA

Peat sections were obtained from four bogs along the Edmonton-Jasper highway in west central Alberta. These bogs lie at distances of about 30, 55, 85, and 125 miles west of Edmonton. More specifically they are located about 4 miles north of Duffield, 4 miles east of Entwhistle, near the town of McKay, and about 5 miles west of Edson, respectively. Hereafter they will be referred to as the Duffield, Entwhistle, McKay, and Edson sections or bogs. All sites lie within the westernmost border of the Keewatin drift. Although the Cordilleran glaciers descended the east slope of the Rocky Mountains in this latitude, the relationships between the two ice sheets and the borders of their drifts are uncertain. It is evident, however, that the Keewatin ice was more extensive in this region, because the Cordilleran glaciers were probably limited by the relatively low precipitation on the east slope of the mountains. One stage of the Cordilleran glaciers descended the eastern flanks of the Rockies to points 50 miles east of the mountains in the vicinity of Calgary, and still farther east in the latitude of Edmonton (Flint 1947). During one or more stages the Cordilleran and Keewatin ice may have coalesced, but there is no evidence that their fronts were joined during the Late Wisconsin (Mankato) stage in west central Alberta. It seems probable that the last glacier in the region was of Keewatin origin. Keewatin boulders have been noted as far west as Edson, although no end moraines have been observed in this area (Erdtman & Lewis 1931). The eastern border of the Altamont moraine, which is dated as terminal Late Wisconsin, lies about 75 miles east of Edmonton (Bretz 1943). It is considered to be equivalent to the Mankato maximum of the Minnesota-Iowa region. West of the Altamont moraine in the general latitude of Edmonton are older Keewatin moraines. The westernmost and oldest of these is the Duffield moraine, whose eastern border lies about 25 miles west of Edmonton. Although the Duffield moraine is older than the Altamont, its topography is much more youthful than the Early Wisconsin (Iowan) drift in Montana (Bretz 1943). In a previous paper (Hansen 1949) it was suggested that the Duffield was equivalent to the Tazewell or Cary of the eastern ice, although geologists have not recog-
OLEDS For Lighting: New Approaches

In this presentation, we will first review the requirements necessary to create a lighting source using OLED technology, and discuss some of our previous efforts in building demonstration white light sources.
On the Use of Active Learning in Engineering Design

Active learning refers to the mechanism of querying users to accomplish a classification task in machine learning or a conjoint analysis in econometrics with minimum cost. Classification and conjoint analysis have been introduced to design research to automate design feasibility checking and to construct marketing demand models, respectively. In this paper, we review active learning algorithms from computer and marketing science, and establish the mathematical commonality between the two approaches. We compare empirically the performance of active learning and static D-optimal design on simulated classification and conjoint analysis test problems with labelling noise. Results show that active learning outperforms D-optimal design when query size is large or noise is small.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Synthetically Tractable Click Hydrogels for Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Formed Using Tetrazine–Norbornene Chemistry

The implementation of bio-orthogonal click chemistries is a topic of growing importance in the field of biomaterials, as it is enabling the development of increasingly complex hydrogel materials capable of providing dynamic, cell-instructive microenvironments. Here, we introduce the tetrazine–norbornene inverse electron demand Diels–Alder reaction as a new cross-linking chemistry for the formation of cell laden hydrogels. The fast reaction rate and irreversible nature of this click reaction allowed for hydrogel formation within minutes when a multifunctional PEG-tetrazine macromer was reacted with a dinorbornene peptide. In addition, the cytocompatibility of the polymerization led to high postencapsulation viability of human mesenchymal stem cells, and the specificity of the tetrazine–norbornene reaction was exploited for sequential modification of the network via thiol–ene photochemistry. These advantages, combined with the synthetic accessibility of the tetrazine molecule compared to other bio-orthogona...
HLA-Mismatched, Noninherited Maternal Antigen–Matched Unrelated Cord Blood Transplantations Have Superior Survival: How HLA Typing the Cord Blood Donor's Mother can Move the Field Forward

From the National Cord Blood Program of the New York Blood Center, New York, NY, and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY. Financial disclosure: See Acknowledgment on page 1775. Correspondence and reprint requests: Andromachi Scaradavou, MD, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065 (e-mail: scaradaa@mskcc.org). Received October 8, 2012; accepted October 10, 2012 2012 American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation 1083-8791/$36.00 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.bbmt.2012.10.009 Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 18:1771-1775, 2012 1773 HLATyping the Cord Blood Donor’s Mother
ON THE MECHANISM OF THE BRO + CH2O REACTION

The mechanism of the reaction of BrO + CH{sub 2}O has been examined using density functional and quadratic configuration interaction molecular orbital methods. The most favorable pathway is found to be the abstraction of hydrogen from CH{sub 2}O by BrO radicals. The activation energy barrier for the process is estimated as 219 {+-} 3 kcal mol{sup {minus}1}. Results from discharge flow/mass spectroscopy experiments support the finding that the major products of the reaction are HOBr and HCO radicals. The rate of the BrO + CH{sub 2}O reaction has been estimated by using transition state theory.
Pervasive nanoscale deformation twinning as a catalyst for efficient energy dissipation in a bioceramic armour

To ensure survival, the exoskeletons of biological species are required to minimize the spatial extent of damage following attack or multi-hit events. Now, nanoindentation experiments on a transparent bivalve shell, which is made up of layered, diamond-shaped calcite crystals, show an increased energy dissipation density compared with single-crystal calcite, resulting in penetration resistance and deformation localization. The detailed mechanisms of this enhanced energy dissipation are revealed and include nanoscale deformation twinning around the penetration zone.
Effects of anti‐CD154 treatment on B cells in murine systemic lupus erythematosus

Objective To determine the immunologic effects of anti-CD154 (CD40L) therapy in the (NZB × NZW)F1 mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus. Methods Twenty-week-old and 26-week-old (NZB × NZW)F1 mice were treated with continuous anti-CD154 therapy. Mice were followed up clinically, and their spleens were studied at intervals for B and T cell numbers and subsets and frequency of anti–double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA)–producing B cells. T cell–dependent immunity was assessed by studying the humoral response to the hapten oxazolone. Results IgG anti-dsDNA antibodies decreased during therapy and disease onset was delayed, but immune tolerance did not occur. During treatment, there was marked depletion of CD19+ cells in the spleen; however, autoreactive IgM-producing B cells could still be detected by enzyme-linked immunospot assay. In contrast, few IgG- and IgG anti-dsDNA–secreting B cells were detected. Eight weeks after treatment cessation, the frequency of B cells producing IgG anti-dsDNA antibodies was still decreased in 50% of the mice, and activation and transition of T cells from the naive to the memory compartment were blocked. Anti-CD154 treatment blocked both class switching and somatic mutation and induced a variable period of relative unresponsiveness of IgG anti-dsDNA–producing B cells, as shown by decreased expression of the CD69 marker and failure to generate spontaneous IgG anti-dsDNA–producing hybridomas. Treated mice mounted an attenuated IgM response to the hapten oxazolone and produced no IgG antioxazolone antibodies. Conclusion Anti-CD154 is a B cell–depleting therapy that affects multiple B cell subsets. Activation of both B and T cells is prevented during therapy. After treatment cessation, autoreactive B cells progress through a series of activation steps before they become fully competent antibody-producing cells. The general immunosuppression induced during treatment will need to be taken into account when using B cell–depleting regimens in humans.
THE ANTIDIURETIC POTENCY OF ARGININE AND LYSINE VASOPRESSINS IN THE PIG WITH OBSERVATIONS ON PORCINE RENAL FUNCTION

In the dog intravenous arginine vasopressin is a much more potent anti-diuretic agentin terms of its vasopressor activity than lysine vasopressin. Ar-ginine vasopressin appears to be the antidiuretic hormone of the dog and many other mammals whereas lysine vasopressin is the antidiuretic hormone of the pig. In the pig lysine vasopressin is as potent if not more potent than arginine vasopressin when either hormone is administered to unanesthetized animals by intravenous injection. Renal function studies were also performed in the pig which can excrete about 20 per cent of the glomerular filtrate during water diuresis. The glomer-ular filtration rate (CIN), therenal plasma flow (CPAH) and the maximal transfer of para-aminohippurate (TmpAH) are all much higher in the pig than in most) other mammals. The clearance of endogenous creatinine was lower than that of inulin.
Neocentromere-mediated chromosome movement in maize.

Neocentromere activity is a classic example of nonkinetochore chromosome movement. In maize, neocentromeres are induced by a gene or genes on Abnormal chromosome 10 (Ab10) which causes heterochromatic knobs to move poleward at meiotic anaphase. Here we describe experiments that test how neocentromere activity affects the function of linked centromere/kinetochores (kinetochores) and whether neocentromeres and kinetochores are mobilized on the spindle by the same mechanism. Using a newly developed system for observing meiotic chromosome congression and segregation in living maize cells, we show that neocentromeres are active from prometaphase through anaphase. During mid-anaphase, normal chromosomes move on the spindle at an average rate of 0.79 μm/min. The presence of Ab10 does not affect the rate of normal chromosome movement but propels neocentromeres poleward at rates as high as 1.4 μm/min. Kinetochore-mediated chromosome movement is only marginally affected by the activity of a linked neocentromere. Combined in situ hybridization/immunocytochemistry is used to demonstrate that unlike kinetochores, neocentromeres associate laterally with microtubules and that neocentromere movement is correlated with knob size. These data suggest that microtubule depolymerization is not required for neocentromere motility. We argue that neocentromeres are mobilized on microtubules by the activity of minus end–directed motor proteins that interact either directly or indirectly with knob DNA sequences.
Sphincterotome Stricturoplasty for Ampullary Stenoses and Biliary Strictures

Abstract Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) is performed frequently during therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). 1 On cholangiogram, long ampullary stenoses and fibrotic distal biliary strictures are not encountered infrequently and they are defined as a significant narrowing of the common bile duct (CBD) from the level of duodenal wall into CBD after initial ES. 2 The upstream CBD is dilated. Despite adequate ES, the contrast drainage is poor due to the downstream stricture. Instead of balloon stricturoplasty and stenting, 3,4 these strictures can be managed with sphincterotome stricturoplasty (SS) during the initial ERCP. 2 The SS is performed using the same sphincterotome in a slightly bowed position under endoscopic and fluoroscopic guidance. The cutting wire is placed parallel to the superior border within the stricture and incising the stenosis. In cases of relatively long strictures, during initial SS, the majority of the cutting wire is inside the biliary opening. This differs from ES where about one-third to one-half of the length of cutting wire is outside the ampulla. Compared with balloon stricturoplasty ± biliary stenting, SS is a simple and cost-effective alternative option in managing long ampullary stenosis and/or distal fibrotic biliary stricture during the initial ERCP. This article is part of an expert video encyclopedia.
Deep-sea paleotemperature record of extreme warmth during the Cretaceous

Oxygen isotope analyses of well-preserved foraminifera from Blake Nose (30°N paleolatitude, North Atlantic) and globally distributed deep-sea sites provide a long-term paleotemperature record for the late Albian–Maastrichtian interval that is difficult to reconcile with the existence of significant Cretaceous ice sheets. Given reasonable assumptions about the isotopic composition of Cretaceous seawater, our results suggest that middle bathyal water temperatures at Blake Nose increased from ∼12 °C in the late Albian through middle Cenomanian to a maximum of 20 °C during the latest Cenomanian and earliest Turonian. Bottom waters were again ∼12 °C during the middle Campanian and cooled to a minimum of 9 °C during the Maastrichtian. Correlative middle bathyal foraminifera from other ocean basins yield paleotemperature estimates that are very similar to those from Blake Nose. Comparison of global bottom-water temperatures and latitudinal thermal gradients suggests that global climate changed from a warm greenhouse state during the late Albian through late Cenomanian to a hot greenhouse phase during the latest Cenomanian through early Campanian, then to cool greenhouse conditions during the mid-Campanian through Maastrichtian.
Using data mining technique to diagnosis heart disease

Medical diagnose is a promise application that exploits data mining techniques. The physicist diagnose, represented by human expertise, can be incurrence to fail. In contrast the data mining can recruit the extracted knowledge from huge of clinical data though data mining and produce a predictive model, use the classification task to achieve the diagnostic. Different methods exist in this field, to produce the classifier. One of them is naive bays. In this paper, we will present and discuss the experiment that was executed with naive bayes technique in order to built predictive model as an artificial diagnose for heart disease based on data set which contains set of parameters that were measured for individuals previously. Then compare the results with other techniques according to using the same data that were given from UCI repository data.
Long descending projections of the hypothalamus in the pigeon, Columba livia

An autoradiographic analysis was performed on the descending projections of nucleus periventricularis magnocellularis (PVM) of the hypothala-mus in the pigeon. A PVM-medullospinal pathway was observed coursing posteriorly through the lateral hypotlialamus, ventrolateral midbrain teg-mentum, and into the spinal lemniscus (ls) in the ventrolateral pons and medulla. In the pons, some fibers course dorsomedially from ls and terminate at the lateral border of 1 he locus coeruleus. At medullary levels, fibers from ls sweep dorsomedially in the plexus of Horsley and project to certain regions of the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (NX). Specifically, PVM fibers project heavily into NTS subnuclei medialis superficialis, medialis ventralis, and lateralis (sulcalis) dorsalis as well as into the ventral parvocellular subnucleus of NX. Fibers in ls were traced caudally into the lateral funiculus as far as upper cervical levels of the spinal cord. Although autoradiographs of lower cervical or thoracic spinal cord sections were not available, PVM fibers do descend to thoracic spinal cord levels, as evidenced by the retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase. In addition to the medullospinal pathway, the autoradiographs demonstrated PVM projections to septum, diencephalon, and midbrain. Labeled PVM fibers are found in the lateral septal nucleus, nucleus of the anterior pallial commisure, dorsomedial thalamic nucleus, dorsolateral anterior tha-lamic nucleus (pars ventralis), median eminence, medial and lateral hypo-thalamus, medial mammillary area, and nucleus intercollicularis and central gray of the midbrain. The projection of fibers to medullospinal regions and median eminence suggests that PVM is homologous to the mammalian par a ventricular nucleus. These projections to specific subnuclei of NTS and NX denote hypo-thalamic control over certain autonomic functions.
The procedural entrapment of mass incarceration Prosecution, race, and the unfinished project of American abolition

More than 95 per cent of criminal convictions in the USA never go to trial, as the vast majority of defendants forfeit their constitutional rights to due process in the pervasive practice of plea b...
Indian Auto-Component Supply Chain at the Crossroads

We trace the evolution of the auto-component supply chain in India beginning with the opening of the economy in 1990 by using a combination of data on firm and sector performance, customer-satisfaction surveys, and interviews with experts. During the past decade, the industry has made remarkable progress on multiple fronts. This is particularly true with regard to quality---10 firms in this industry have won the coveted Deming prize during the past six years. Surprisingly, we first observe that the financial performance of the firms that won the Deming prize (i.e., Deming firms) shows no definitive differences from the performance in the rest of the industry. We then analyze the productivity growth at the firm level across two five-year intervals using a total-factor productivity model. Our results suggest that productivity improved much more during the second period, which is the interval in which most of the firms won the Deming prize. We also analyze the impact of winning the award on profitability and suggest that new firms were able to grow faster in the improving business environment. To “externally” validate our findings, we compare the auto sector in India with that in China. Despite a 10-year disadvantage because of costs that are beyond the control of the firm, the auto sector in India seems to be competitive with that sector in China on all firm-specific factors. In summary, we suggest that firms in this sector have taken the first step by becoming competitive in the areas of cost and quality. We suggest that they are now at a crossroads and must make several choices to leverage these quality gains into a profitable, global supply chain strategy.
Resistivity minima in Au sub1-x Ni x alloys (0.30 ≤x≤ 0.42)

To permit the interpretation of the experimentally observed low-temperature resistivity minima in ${\mathrm{Au}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Ni}}_{\mathrm{x}}$ alloys in the range 0.30\ensuremath{\le}x\ensuremath{\le}0.42, a model of the dilute spin cluster is proposed. With use of the experimentally determined lattice resistivity, the contribution due to magnetic scattering is separated. It is shown that this magnetic contribution fits with the Kondo description very well.
A Closing Switch Shunted by a Triggered Vacuum Gap for Precis Current Initiation

This paper describes a device which will provide precise control in the initiation of very high currents required for testing circuit breakers and other power system components. A triggered vacuum gap is used for initiation of current and is then quickly shunted by an electromechanical device for continuous conduction. Application of this device and test results are discussed in detail.