cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Combined Extradural-Intradural Technique for an En Bloc Anterior Petrosectomy: A Cadaveric Feasibility Study.

Introduction The anterior petrosectomy approach is among the most popular for exposure of the petroclival region. However, the complexity of the anatomy, drilling time required, and risk of injury to neurovascular structures have made this procedure especially challenging. We have proposed a novel combined extradural–intradural technique for en bloc anterior petrosectomy—or one-piece Kawase—and have charted the landmarks that define its surgical boundaries. Methods The approach was performed on 14 embalmed specimens. The one-piece Kawase approach consists of 3 extradural drilling steps, followed by incision of the dura and skeletonization of the superior petrosal sinus. The procedure culminates with 2 intradural drilling steps. The bone piece was then removed en bloc, and the maximum anteroposterior, superoinferior, and mediolateral lengths were recorded. The linear distances between the main neurovascular landmarks were also measured using a stereotactic navigation system. Results The mean measurements were 17.6 ± 2.6 mm for the anteroposterior distance, 10.5 ± 2.3 mm for the superoinferior distance, and 9.5 ± 2.6 mm for the mediolateral distance. The medial linear distance from the mandibular nerve/greater superficial petrosal nerve to the internal carotid artery was 6.8 ± 1.3 mm, to the facial hiatus was 11.6 ± 2.2 mm, and to the lateral internal acoustic canal was 17.9 ± 1.8 mm. The average distance from the porus trigeminus to the medial internal acoustic canal was 19.4 mm. Conclusions The advantages of this technique include the wide exposure of the petroclival region, extensive visualization of critical structures via extradural and intradural corridors, and minimization of bone drilling, which could reduce heat damage. Clinical application of the illustrated technique is required to test its reliability in different pathological subsets.
Unmastering the Script: Education, Critical Race Theory, and The Struggle to Include the Haitian Other in Dominican Identity

Un-Mastering the Script: The Struggle to Include the Haitian Other in Dominican Identity, examines how negative, culturally entrenched attitudes toward Haiti held by Dominicans shape school-based representations of Dominican identity and history. This book argues that textbooks used in the Dominican Republic falsely represent Dominican and Haitian identity as diametric opposites by situating Haiti and Haitians as the “other” in order to construct the fundamental elements of Dominican identity. Through the lens of critical race theory, this book analyzes the construction of Dominican identity via the Haitian other master script through curricula mediums in Dominican elementary schools. As applied to curriculum and instruction in the Dominican Republic, critical race theory guides us to an understanding that textbooks serve as a medium to communicate the master script of the existence of a pigmentocracy and the supposed superiority of whiteness. Critical race theory informs this book’s thesis, which is the pigmentocracy and white European superiority - black African inferiority narrative in Dominican curriculum is aimed at framing, communicating, and reinforcing the Haitian other master script in the Dominican Republic.
Race, Criminal Records, and Certificates of Relief: An Experimental Pilot Study

In recognition of the importance of securing employment for successful reentry, several states have introduced certificates of relief, which are intended to aid ex-offenders in their job search by ...
PROGRESS IN THE SPECTROSCOPY OF THE RARE GAS DIMERS

Abstract Rydberg ← Rydberg state transitions have been observed in Ne2, Ar2 and. Kr2 by laser excitation spectroscopy. Molecular Rydbergs converging to the dimer ion electronic ground state (A2∑+½u) and with principal quantum numbers as large as 26 for Ar2 and 17 for Ne2 have been recorded despite the predissociative nature of these states. Several vibrational bandheads have been rotationally resolved and vibrational autoionization (in competition with predissociation) has also been observed in Ne2.
Planning, Development, and Implementation of a University‐Led, Low‐Cost Employee Wellness Program in a preK‐12th‐Grade Public School District

Background A healthy preK-12th-grade school environment is critical to student well-being and success. As role models, school employees play a significant part in creating a healthy environment. Research suggests that employee wellness programs (EWPs) may help school employees adopt healthier lifestyles and, therefore, be healthier, more productive, and serve as healthy role models for students. This article describes the process by which a school district in central Texas partnered with a local university to plan, develop, and implement an affordable EWP. Methods A university-led leadership team sought input from employees, including administrators, and conducted a 4-week trial. These resulted in an EWP that provided health risk appraisals, fitness testing, group exercise classes, education seminars, online wellness resources, and blood draws/analysis. Results During the first 4 years, membership ranged from 107 to 384 (10-37%), and the annual cost of the program ranged from $49 to $116 per participating employee. Conclusions University-led EWP programs can support, at a low cost, the health of school employees. Despite low employee engagement, need was demonstrated and feedback was positive. Challenges identified include time demands and lack of principals' support. Future considerations include targeting principals, utilizing the Human Resources Office, and strategically building a culture of health.
Software and Data Resources to Advance Machine Learning Research in Electroencephalography

The Neural Engineering Data Consortium at Temple University has been providing key data resources to support the development of deep learning technology for electroencephalography (EEG) applications [ 1 – 4 ] since 2012. We currently have over 1,700 subscribers to our resources and have been providing data, software and documentation from our web site [5] since 2012. In this poster, we introduce additions to our resources that have been developed within the past year to facilitate software development and big data machine learning research.
Delta-9 THC can be detected and quantified in the semen of men who are chronic users of inhaled cannabis.

The purpose of this proof-of-concept study was to determine whether delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and THC metabolites (11-OH THC and THC-COOH) can be detected in semen. Twelve healthy men aged 18–45 years who identified as chronic and heavy users of inhaled cannabis were recruited. THC and THC metabolite levels were measured in serum, urine, and semen of the participants. Semen analyses were performed. Serum reproductive hormones were measured. The median age and BMI of participants were 27.0 years and 24.7 kg/m2, respectively. Over half the participants were daily users of cannabis for over 5 years. Serum reproductive hormones were generally within normal ranges, except prolactin, which was elevated in 6 of 12 participants (mean 13.9 ng/mL). The median sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were 75.5 million/mL, 69.5%, and 5.5%, respectively. Urinary THC-COOH was detected in all 12 participants, and at least one serum THC metabolite was present in 10 of 12 participants. Two semen samples had insufficient volume to be analyzed. THC was above the reporting level of 0.50 ng/mL in the semen of two of the remaining participants. Seminal THC was moderately correlated with serum levels of THC (r = 0.66), serum 11-OH THC (r = 0.57), and serum THC-COOH (r = 0.67). Seminal delta-9 THC was not correlated with urinary cannabinoid levels or semen analysis parameters. This is the first study to identify and quantify THC in human semen, demonstrating that THC can cross the blood-testis barrier in certain individuals. Seminal THC was found to be moderately correlated with serum THC and THC metabolites.
The potential contribution of soil moisture to fog formation in the Namib Desert

Abstract Fog is considered as an important source of water in many drylands, and the knowledge of possible sources of its formation is essential to make future predictions. Prior studies have suggested the presence of locally generated fog in drylands; however, its formation mechanism remains unclear. There have been studies on the effects of fog on soil moisture dynamics. On the contrary, no research has yet been conducted to understand the potential contribution of soil moisture to fog formation. This study, therefore, for the first time intends to examine such possibility in a fog-dominated dryland ecosystem, the Namib Desert. The study was conducted at two sites representing two different land forms (sand dunes and gravel plains) in the Namib Desert. We first examined evidence of fog formation through water vapor movement using field observations, and then simulated water vapor transport using HYDRUS-1D model. In the first part of the study, soil moisture, soil temperature and air temperature data were analyzed, and the relationships between these variables were taken as one of the key indicators for the linkage between soil water and fog formation. The analysis showed that increase in soil moisture generally corresponded to similar increase in air or soil temperature near the soil surface, which implied that variation in soil moisture might be the result of water vapor movement (evaporated soil moisture) from lower depths to the soil surface. In the second part of the study, surface fluxes of water vapor were simulated using the HYDRUS-1D model to explore whether the available surface flux was sufficient to support fog formation. The surface flux and cumulative evaporation obtained from the model showed positive surface fluxes of water vapor. Based on the field observations and the HYDRUS-1D model results, it can be concluded that water vapor from soil layers is transported through the vadose zone to the surface and this water vapor likely contributes to the fog formation in fog-dominated drylands, like the Namib Desert.
Combined Protein- And Ligand-Observed NMR Workflow to Screen Fragment Cocktails against Multiple Proteins: A Case Study Using Bromodomains

As fragment-based drug discovery has become mainstream, there has been an increase in various screening methodologies. Protein-observed 19F (PrOF) NMR and 1H CPMG NMR are two fragment screening assays that have complementary advantages. Here, we sought to combine these two NMR-based assays into a new screening workflow. This combination of protein- and ligand-observed experiments allows for a time- and resource-efficient multiplexed screen of mixtures of fragments and proteins. PrOF NMR is first used to screen mixtures against two proteins. Hit mixtures for each protein are identified then deconvoluted using 1H CPMG NMR. We demonstrate the benefit of this fragment screening method by conducting the first reported fragment screens against the bromodomains of BPTF and Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) GCN5 using 467 3D-enriched fragments. The hit rates were 6%, 5% and 4% for fragments binding BPTF, PfGCN5, and fragments binding both proteins, respectively. Select hits were characterized, revealing a broad range of affinities from low µM to mM dissociation constants. Follow-up experiments supported a low-affinity second binding site on PfGCN5. This approach can be used to bias fragment screens towards more selective hits at the onset of inhibitor development in a resource- and time-efficient manner.
18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/ computed tomography of giant cell arteritis with lower extremity involvement in association with polymyalgia rheumatica

An 80-year-old man presented with new-onset pain in the shoulders and lower extremities and elevated serum inflammatory markers. A clinical diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) was made, but there was a suboptimal response to glucocorticoid therapy, prompting further evaluation.18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) revealed intense FDG uptake in the arteries of the bilateral lower extremities, head, and neck, but sparing the aorta, suggestive of an uncommon pattern of giant cell arteritis (GCA). There were also imaging signs consistent with PMR, including FDG uptake in the synovium of large joints. This case highlights the uncommon manifestation of GCA with lower extremity involvement and sparing of the aorta. The combination of FDG PET imaging features and elevated serum markers obviated the need for invasive biopsy. One might also conclude that standard FDG PET/CT imaging protocols covering orbits/vertex to thighs incompletely evaluate the extent of arterial distribution of GCA.
Genetic background impacts the timing of synaptonemal complex breakdown in Drosophila melanogaster

Experiments performed in different genetic backgrounds occasionally exhibit failure in experimental reproducibility. This is a serious issue in Drosophila where there are no standard control stocks. Here, we illustrate the importance of controlling genetic background by showing that the timing of a major meiotic event, the breakdown of the synaptonemal complex (SC), varies in different genetic backgrounds. We assessed SC breakdown in three different control stocks and found that in one control stock, y w; svspa-pol, the SC broke down earlier than in Oregon-R and w1118 stocks. We further examined SC breakdown in these three control backgrounds with flies heterozygous for a null mutation in c(3)G, which encodes a key structural component of the SC. Flies heterozygous for c(3)G displayed differences in the timing of SC breakdown in different control backgrounds, providing evidence of a sensitizing effect of this mutation. These observations suggest that SC maintenance is associated with the dosage of c(3)G in some backgrounds. Lastly, chromosome segregation was not affected by premature SC breakdown in mid-prophase, consistent with previous findings that chromosome segregation is not dependent on full-length SC in mid-prophase. Thus, genetic background is an important variable to consider with respect to SC behavior during Drosophila meiosis.
Radiographic Assessment of Meningiomas

Meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumor in adults, and, as such, we have a vast amount of knowledge and experience with the radiographic findings in these patients. For the majority of patients, standard imaging techniques of CT and MRI can reliably diagnose a meningioma as the differential diagnosis includes much rarer entities that often are suspected more on the basis of the clinical history. Even though one can reliably suspect a meningioma, there is still very limited data on any reliable biomarkers to predict grade or aggressivity of the tumor which would be helpful in stratifying patients who require early therapy versus those that do not. In this chapter we will discuss standard imaging including its limitations, as well as advanced techniques, in particular PET imaging and MR perfusion, which may hold promise for advancing treatment for these patients in the future.
Effects of BNO 1016 on ciliary transport velocity and cell culture surface liquid height of sinonasal epithelial cultures

BNO 1016 is an ethanolic extract of a mixture of five herbs that has been sold in different formulations for decades in the European market and more recently, in the United States market as an over-the-counter treatment for rhinosinusitis. Previous studies indicated activation of chloride secretion and increase in ciliary beat frequency by BNO 1016 but the functional consequences on mucociliary transport velocity and airway surface liquid homeostasis are unknown. This study intends to examine the effects of BNO 1016 on these properties in vitro. Human sinonasal epithelial cells were grown at an air-liquid interface, with addition of BNO 1016 basolaterally in each experiment. Polystyrene fluorescent microspheres were added to the apical surface of the culture, and distance traveled across the surface of the culture over a fixed time period was measured using live imaging. BNO 1016 concentrations of 50 μg/ml and 500 μg/ml were tested. Basolateral application of compound resulted in a non-dose-dependent increase in culture surface liquid height compared to controls at 30 min, and this effect persisted through the one-hour duration of the experiment (p < 0.01). Basolateral application of BNO 1016 also resulted in a non-dose-dependent increase in microsphere transport velocity at 45 and 60 min following compound application (p < 0.01). Basolateral application of BNO 1016 at a concentration mimicking post-ingestion serum levels appears to elicit increases in cell culture surface liquid height and mucociliary clearance, as assessed by microsphere transport velocity. These properties can potentially be leveraged for therapeutic efficacy in diseases affecting mucus production and mucociliary transport.
The Election Purchaser

Language is important. Apart from smoke signals, hand gestures, facial expressions, it is the only known way we have of communicating with each other. Thus it is important to be ever vigilant in protecting this vital resource of ours.
Blindness and Children: An Individual Differences Approach

The book is a summary and interpretation of the research literature on infants and children with visual impairments. It concludes that many aspects of 'delayed' development are not the result of visual impairment itself, but rather of environmental variables that tend to accompany visual impairment. Thus many of the typical developmental delays may be ameliorated or avoided by the appropriate structuring of the child's experiences. The book is developmentally oriented and treats all of the major areas of child development. The author makes the premise that a truly useful body of knowledge about the development of children with visual impairments must not just characterize normative development, but must account for the factors that are associated with relatively good or poor developmental progress. Existing research literature is searched for evidence of variables that may account for individual differences, particularly variables related to the child's several environments.
A Note on Homebuyer Attitudes Toward a Nuclear Repository

The U.S. Government has identified Yucca Mountain in southern Nevada (110 miles northwest of Las Vegas) as a primary location for a high-level nuclear waste repository. This study investigates the attitude of recent home purchasers toward the establishment of a high-level nuclear repository and the transportation of nuclear materials through the community. The findings indicate that homebuyers are concerned about the potential risk, but that those who are most knowledgeable have less concern than those who are less knowledgeable.
Intermediate Energy Neutron Beams from the MURR

Several reactors in the United States are potential candidates to deliver beams of intermediate energy neutrons for NCT. At this time, moderators, as compared to filters, appear to be the more effective means of tailoring the flux of these reactors. The objective is to sufficiently reduce the flux of fast neutrons while producing enough intermediate energy neutrons for treatments. At the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURK), the code MCNP has recently been used to calculate doses in a phantom. First, “ideal” beams of 1, 35, and 1000 eV neutrons were analyzed to determine doses and advantage depths in the phantom. Second, a high quality beam that had been designed to fit in the thermal column of the MURR, was reanalyzed. MCNP calculations of the dose in phantom in this beam confirmed previous calculations and showed that this beam would be a nearly ideal one with neutrons of the desired energy and also a high neutron current. However, installation of this beam will require a significant modification of the thermal column of the MURR. Therefore, a second beam that is less difficult to build and install, but of lower neutron current, has been designed to fit in MURR port F. This beam is designed using inexpensive Al, S, and Pb. The doses calculated in the phantom placed in this beam show that it will be satisfactory for sample tests, animal tests, and possible initial patient trials. Producing this beam will require only modest modifications of the existing tube.
Atrial septation: II. Formation of the foramina secunda in the chick☆

Abstract Chick hearts were prepared for light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy by conventional methods, the purpose being to investigate the developing foramina secunda in the atrial septum. As the growing septum approaches and fuses with the endocardial cushions, small perforations (foramina secunda) are formed in the middorsal portion of the septum. During Days 5 and 6 the number and size of these foramina increase significantly. Formation of foramina creates thin cords of endocardium-covered tissue. Two varieties of endocardial cells are associated with the atrial septum during this period. The endocardial cells on the surface of the septum, some distance from the foramina secunda, are flattened and possess long, attenuated processes. Conversely, the endocardium in the rough portion of the septum near the foramina is characterized by the presence of numerous rounded cells which project notably into the atrial chambers. These rounded endocardial cells resemble phagocytic cells and possess thin cytoplasmic processes which extend into the septal core, gradually separating the cells of the core, resulting in an isolation of a portion of septal tissue. Once a transseptal communication is established the cytoplasmic processes separate, creating a new foramen secundum. The rounded endocardial cells are also responsible for maintaining the integrity of the endocardium-covered septum throughout the remodeling process. The origin of the rounded cells is unknown at this time. The most likely sources are differentiation from existing endocardial cells or circulating phagocytes.
Determining the best evolution path for export industries using product spaces

A deterministic method was developed in finding the best evolution path through which a country’s particular export industry will evolve into another export industry. The problem was framed as a shortest-path problem particularly known in graph theory literature. A concept on a typical probability graph was defined and a shortest-path algorithm was formulated for this purpose. The data used by Hidalgo et al. [2007] were used and reconstructed using the probability graph concept to derive the maximum joint probability path of export industry evolution given an originating export industry and a target export industry. JEL classification: A12, C63, O21
Setting Cut Scores

This chapter discusses the process of setting cut scores and other performance standards in contexts in which employment equity or litigation may be a concern. The chapter begins by discussing key definitions and concepts relevant to setting cut scores. The chapter also describes key considerations in the cut-score setting process, and the legal context in which cut scores are critiqued. Major decision points relating to selection and implementation of standard-setting processes are presented, as well as an overview of common standard-setting methods. Finally, the chapter presents three case studies illustrating how a cut-score-setting process can be implemented in a equity-sensitive environment.
On the road: fifty years later

This essay concerns itself with issues surrounding the 50th anniversary of the initial publication of Jack Kerouac's novel On the road. Attention is paid to aspects of the novel's publication history, diverse commemorative events planned for this anniversary, and problems arising from Kerouac's own difficult relationship with the very counterculture that he is thought to have engendered. Kerouac's role as a prophetic voice in American fiction is set against his equally powerful position as a cultural icon and literary celebrity.
Analysis of control‐output interactions in dynamic systems

A general theory for examining the dynamic as well as static interactions among inputs and outputs in a multivariable control system has been developed. Both state space and frequency domain approaches are used, and at steady state the interaction equations assume the same form as the relative gain array developed by Bristol. Implications of selecting input-output pairings with regard to steady state vs. dynamic consideration are discussed. The application of the method of analysis to a distillation column control system is presented.
Thiamin Content of Freshly Prepared and Leftover Italian Spaghetti Served in a University Cafeteria Foodservice

This study was undertaken to determine the effect of preparation and service, particularly reheating methods, on the thiamin content of freshly prepared and leftover Italian spaghetti in a university cafeteria foodservice. The processes studied include hot steam-table holding, 4 wk of frozen storage, and reheating by microwave and conventional ovens. No significant losses occurred in thiamin content of the Italian spaghetti after hot-holding, freezing, microwave or conventional reheating. Thus it can be concluded that the thiamin losses of Italian spaghetti prepared and served in cafeteria-style foodservices are not significant.
A Self-Regulated Learning Perspective on Middle Grades Classroom Assessment

The authors used self-regulated learning (SRL) as a lens for examining teachers' conceptions of assessment and their classroom assessment practices. Fifteen upper-elementary and middle school teachers participated in semistructured interviews designed to uncover their beliefs about the forms and functions of classroom assessment. Observational data were collected in the teachers' classrooms. The findings show that while teachers have complex understandings of classroom assessment, their assessment environments are not optimal for supporting students' development of SRL habits. Teachers tend to see themselves as the initiators and controllers of assessment opportunities, prioritize attainment of content information, and value written assessment products over practices that generate intangible data. The authors describe these trends as consequences of the competing audiences teachers have to satisfy with their assessment practices.
NH4Cl activation of the fluorescence yield in CO2-starved Chlorella pyrenoidosa

Abstract The addition of NH 4 Cl to Chlorella deprived of CO 2 , raises the fluorescence yield about 2.5-fold. This effect does not appear to be related to nitrate reduction, and is specific for NH 4 + . Concentration curves, at varying pH, indicate that the unprotonated ammonia is responsible for this effect.
Matted nodes: poor prognostic marker in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma independent of HPV and EGFR status.

Background. Despite better prognosis, there is a group of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) human papillomavirus (HPV)þ patients who experience treatment failure and succumb to distant metastasis. Methods. Seventy-eight previously untreated patients nested in a concurrent chemoradiation protocol were reviewed to correlate patterns of local-regional tumor extent to distant metastasis. Biomarker assessment was: HPV in situ hybridization and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) immunointensity. Results. The 3-year disease-specific survival (DSS) for patients presenting with and without matted nodes was 69% and 94%, respectively (p ¼ .003). Matted nodes were a poor prognostic factor independent of T classification, HPV, EGFR, and smoking status. For patients who were HPVþ, 7 of 11 died of distant metastasis and 6 of 7 with distant metastasis had matted nodes. Conclusion. Matted nodes are a novel marker of poor prognosis in oropharyngeal SCC independent of established prognostic factors. Matted nodes may identify patients at risk for the development of distant metastasis who could benefit from systemic therapy, whereas patients without matted nodes may be candidates for de-escalation of therapy. V C 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 34: 1727-1733, 2012
Tilting and Wobble of Myosin V by High-Speed Single-Molecule Polarized Fluorescence Microscopy

Myosin V is biomolecular motor with two actin-binding domains (heads) that take multiple steps along actin by a hand-over-hand mechanism. We used high-speed polarized total internal reflection fluorescence (polTIRF) microscopy to study the structural dynamics of single myosin V molecules that had been labeled with bifunctional rhodamine linked to one of the calmodulins along the lever arm. With the use of time-correlated single-photon counting technology, the temporal resolution of the polTIRF microscope was improved ∼50-fold relative to earlier studies, and a maximum-likelihood, multitrace change-point algorithm was used to objectively determine the times when structural changes occurred. Short-lived substeps that displayed an abrupt increase in rotational mobility were detected during stepping, likely corresponding to random thermal fluctuations of the stepping head while it searched for its next actin-binding site. Thus, myosin V harnesses its fluctuating environment to extend its reach. Additional, less frequent angle changes, probably not directly associated with steps, were detected in both leading and trailing heads. The high-speed polTIRF method and change-point analysis may be applicable to single-molecule studies of other biological systems.
The effect of poly(vinyl chloride) blends on the mechanical properties of highly plasticized membranes

Abstract Solvent polymeric ion-selective electrode membranes are composed primarily of 33% polymer and 66% plasticizer. Puncture tests were conducted on membranes that incorporated blends of poly(vinyl chloride)s (PVCs), fractionated and whole, with different molecular-weight distributions. The extent to which the minor membrane component determines eight modified mechanical properties, i.e. four elastic parameters (elastic limit, tangent stiffness, resilience, flexibility) and four failure parameters (strength, secant stiffness, toughness, ductility), was investigated. The mechanical properties of fractionated and whole blends were not substantially different. Membrane ductility was always independent of thickness. Elastic parameters showed no effect of polymer number-average molecular weight, M n . Two of the failure parameters, however, showed a linear blending relationship based on the blend M n . From that relationship, the per mer contributions of PVC to the membrane strength/thickness and toughness/thickness equalled 0.96 mg μm −1 and 0.78 mg mm μm −1 , respectively.
The cervicocranium : Its radiographic assessment

Acute injuries of the cervicocranium (from the occiput to the second cervical intervertebral disk) may be radiographically obscure due to minimal displacement of fracture fragments, minor alterations of normal anatomic relationships (occipitoatlantal subluxation), or superimposition of normal skeletal structures. With the nasooropharynx adequately distended with air, the normal cervicocranial prevertebral soft-tissue contour is congruent with the anterior cortical margin of the cervicocranium; namely, concave above, convex anterior to, and concave below the anterior tubercle of C1. Alterations of the normal cervicocranial prevertebral soft-tissue contour due to hemorrhage into the retropharyngeal fascial space from subtle fractures or ligamentous injuries should prompt further assessment of the cervicocranium by means of computed tomography (CT). Cervicocranial CT prompted by an abnormal cervicocranial prevertebral soft-tissue contour has yielded a 16% positive injury rate, approximately three times the r...
Atmospheric particulate mass monitoring with a β radiation detector

Abstract The use of a commercial β radiation detector for semi-continuous atmospheric particulate matter monitoring was investigated Gravimetric calibration using sodium chloride, cigarette smoke and atmospheric aerosols indicated a consistent linear relationship between aerosol mass concentration and β radiation attenuation. The precision of detection is ±10 μg which at an ambient particulate concentration of 100 μg m−3 permits the mass concentration measurement every h. The aerosol stability on the filter and the effect of r.h. on deposited samples of sodium chloride was studied.
Juvenile angiofibroma: Histology and anatomical considerations

Juvenile angiofibromas are benign neoplasms that arise in the region of the sphenopalatine foramen in adolescent males. Despite their benign appearance, they can be highly aggressive and locally destructive. They typically present with epistaxis and nasal obstruction. Their radiologic appearance on computed tomography (CT) scan and angiogram is diagnostic. Juvenile angiofibromas are composed of a fibrous stroma with vascular channels. The vessels lack a muscular layer. Most tumors are treated by surgical excision, but radiation is an option.
The dynamics of open precipitation tubes.

When a flowing fluid is channeled by chemical or physical precipitation, then tubular structures form. These patterns are common in nature, however, there have been few quantitative studies of their formation. Here, we report measurements of the radius, length, and internal pressure, as functions of time and flow rate, for precipitation tubes growing in chemical gardens. Using these measurements we develop models for how single tubes grow and also for how multiple tubes interact with each other. In particular, when multiple tubes grow from the same source they compete for resources; short/wide tubes have less resistance to flow, and so consume more of the resources, “killing” the growth of long/narrow tubes. These tube interactions are described by an equation similar to an unstable logistic equation.
Dielectric nonlinearity and stochastic effects in strontium titanate

We report on experiments using compact coplanar waveguide devices, incorporating thin-film superconducting YBa2Cu3O7 electrodes. The substrate is strontium titanate, whose nonlinear dielectric properties are dependent on temperature and applied electric field. Close to zero dc bias, the frequency-doubled microwave power output increases by several orders of magnitude with modest broadband noise input. Experimental results are supported by analytical and numerical calculations based on a nonlinear wave equation.
Replication-compromised cells require the mitotic checkpoint to prevent tetraploidization

Replication stress often induces chromosome instability. In this study, we explore which factors in replication-compromised cells promote abnormal chromosome ploidy. We expressed mutant forms of either polymerase α (Polα) or polymerase δ (Polδ) in normal human fibroblasts to compromise DNA replication. Cells expressing the mutant Polα-protein failed to sustain mitotic arrest and, when propagated progressively, down-regulated Mad2 and BubR1 and accumulated 4N-DNA from the 2N-DNA cells. Significantly, a population of these cells became tetraploids. The Polα mutant expressing cells also exhibited elevated cellular senescence markers, suggesting as a mechanism to limit proliferation of the tetraploids. Expression of the Polδ mutant also caused cells to accumulate 4N-DNA. In contrast to the Polα mutant expressing cells, the Polδ mutant expressing cells expressed sufficient levels of Mad2, BubR1, and cyclin B1 to sustain mitotic arrest, and these cells had normal chromosome ploidy. Together, these results suggest that replication-compromised cells depend on the mitotic checkpoint to prevent mitotic slippage that could result in tetraploidization.
Information retrieval from digital libraries in SQL

Information retrieval techniques have been traditionally exploited outside of relational database systems, due to storage overhead, the complexity of programming them inside the database system, and their slow performance in SQL implementations. This project supports the idea that searching and querying digital libraries with information retrieval models in relational database systems can be performed with optimized SQL queries and User-Defined Functions. In our research, we propose several techniques divided into two phases: storing and retrieving. The storing phase includes executing document pre-processing, stop-word removal and term extraction, and the retrieval phase is implemented with three fundamental IR models: the popular Vector Space Model, the Okapi Probabilistic Model, and the Dirichlet Prior Language Model. We conduct experiments using article abstracts from the DBLP bibliography and the ACM Digital Library. We evaluate several query optimizations, compare the on-demand and the static weighting approaches, and we study the performance with conjunctive and disjunctive queries with the three ranking models. Our prototype proved to have linear scalability and a satisfactory performance with medium-sized document collections. Our implementation of the Vector Space Model is competitive with the two other models.
Biochemical and biophysical approaches to improving the anticancer effectiveness of ara-adenine

Abstract Ara-C at very low dosage has been reported to decrease the host toxicity of ara-AMP or ara-A in combination with 2′-deoxycoformycin, a potent adenosine deaminase inhibitor, while increasing the toxicity to intracerebral L1210 leukemia. The possibility of increasing the selectivity of ara-A by prior administration of ara-C is explored. The importance of deoxynucleoside kinases, some of which may be cancer-induced, in obtaining selective anticancer effects is discussed. The possibility of a conformational basis for the differing degrees of selectivity and activity of various novel arabinosyl nucleosides is evaluated. The levels of cyclic nucleotides, which have opposing effects on leukemia, may possibly be manipulated to interfere with the growth of cancer cells. Approaches to minimizing major metabolic distortions, such as the progressive accumulation of dATP associated with the use of potent adenosine deaminase inhibitors and which limit the therapeutic effects of ara-A, are proposed.
Exaggerated cholestasis and hepatic fibrosis following simultaneous administration of chlorpromazine and sodium valproate.

Un malade recoit 2 medicaments hepatotoxiques, de la chlorpromazine et du valproate sodique. L'interaction des 2 medicaments peut avoir eu un effet nefaste synergique responsable de l'evolution prolongee et grave des troubles fonctionnels hepatiques, de la lesion des voies biliaires, de la cholostase et de la fibrose
Note on a Theorem of Bloch Concerning Possible Causes of Superconductivity

Attention is called to a theorem of Bloch, from which it is shown that even when interelectronic interactions are taken into account, the state of lowest electronic free energy corresponds to a zero net current. This result contradicts the hypothesis that superconductivity is caused by spontaneous currents.
Review applications of capillary electrophoresis to the analysis of biotechnology-derived therapeutic proteins

The number of proteins produced by recombinant DNA technology continues to grow at a rapid pace. In this review, the emphasis is on proteins that are of therapeutic interest. Aspects of protein analysis, such as glycoform separation of proteins produced in mammalian cells and the separation of oligosaccharides for structure elucidation, are covered. The use of antibodies as therapeutic proteins is growing and currently antibodies are the largest class of proteins produced by biotechnology. This has merited a separate section on analysis of antibodies by capillary electrophoresis (CE). Applications of mass spectrometry as an ancillary technique, used in conjunction with CE, are also covered briefly. This review covers the literature since 1999.
A novel scoring system for assessing Chiari malformation type I treatment outcomes.

Background Outcome assessment for the management of Chiari malformation type 1 is difficult because of the lack of a reliable and specific surgical outcome assessment scale. Such a scale could reliably correlate postoperative outcomes with preoperative symptoms. Objective We developed a novel scoring system and applied it retrospectively to 146 patients treated at our institution in order to create and verify a simple and quantifiable assessment of Chiari outcomes. Methods The Chicago Chiari Outcome Scale (CCOS) uses 4 postoperative outcome categories (pain, nonpain symptoms, functionality, and complications) graded 1 to 4 for a total possible score of 16. As a comparison with current Chiari outcome methodology, each patient was also placed into a gestalt outcome group of "improved," "unchanged," or "worse" (I/U/W). Patients were stratified by CCOS scores and by I/U/W group. Results Stratifying patients by total CCOS scores showed that patients who achieved CCOS scores between 13 and 16 were predominantly in the I/U/W improved group (n = 101, 69%); scores between 9 and 12 were predominantly I/U/W unchanged (n = 39, 27%), and scores between 4 and 8 were I/U/W worse (n = 6, 4%). Symptom subscore results provided insight into the specifics of the overall outcome in addition to the more quantitative nature of the 16-point scale. Conclusion We describe a CCOS that assigns higher scores to patients judged improved by gestalt I/U/W ratings and lower scores to those who were unchanged or worse while defining outcome in 4 specific subcategories. As such, this CCOS should allow for a more unified and quantifiable outcome assessment after Chiari surgery.
Differential effects of growth temperatures on inactivation and mutation of Candida albicans by ultraviolet radiation

Candida albicans exhibits greater susceptibility to inactivation by ultraviolet (uv) radiation if grown before or after irradiation at 37° C rather than 25° C. Caffeine, acriflavin or amino acid analogues potentiate inactivation during postirradiation growth at 37° C but have little effect at 25° C. In contrast to inactivation, mutation induction by uv is unaffected by pre- or postirradiation growth temperatures or by metabolic antagonists. These findings are not explicable in terms of possible effects of growth temperatures on known mechanisms for repair of uv damaged DNA. They are consistent, however, with a previous proposal that a temperature dependent mechanism for dark recovery exists in C. albicans which involves synthesis of protein essential for repair of lethal, non-genetic uv damage.
CP-96,345, a substance P antagonist, inhibits rat intestinal responses to Clostridium difficile toxin A but not cholera toxin.

Abstract Toxin A from Clostridium difficile mediates acute inflammatory enterocolitis in experimental animals, while cholera toxin causes noninflammatory secretory diarrhea. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether an antagonist to the peptide substance P, a constituent of primary sensory neurons known to participate in inflammatory responses, would inhibit toxin A-mediated enteritis in the rat ileum. Pretreatment of rats with CP-96,345 (2.5 mg per kg of body weight), a substance P antagonist, dramatically inhibited fluid secretion (P < 0.01) and mannitol permeability (P < 0.01) in ileal loops exposed to toxin A. The protective effects, which were dose dependent, caused a significant reduction of inflammation in the lamina propria, reduction of the necrosis of intestinal epithelial cells, and complete inhibition of toxin A-mediated release of rat mast cell protease II, a specific product of rat mucosal mast cells. An inactive enantiomer of the substance P antagonist, CP-96,344, had no effect. In contrast, pretreatment with CP-96,345 had no inhibitory effect on the intestinal effects caused by administration of cholera toxin into the ileal loops. From these data, we conclude that the peptide substance P is involved in the secretory and inflammatory effects of toxin A but not of cholera toxin.
On Modeling of Turbulent Vapor Condensation With Noncondensable Gases

The objectives of this technical note are to review the formulation of DLM (diffusion layer model), assess the express and implied assumptions leading to its derivation, and compare it with SFM (stagnant film model)
Place and Sexual Partnership Transition Among Young American Indian and Alaska Native Women

Multiple challenges expose American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) women to high-risk sexual partnerships and increased risk for HIV/STI. Using a unique sample of sexually-active young AIAN women (n = 129), we examined characteristics of last three partners and whether transitional partnerships were associated with different risk profiles, including where partners met, lived, and had sex. Respondents were more likely to have met their previous or current secondary partner (P2) at a friend’s or family setting (versus work or social setting) (AOR = 3.92; 95 % CI 1.31, 11.70). Condom use was less likely when meeting a partner at friend’s or family settings (AOR = 0.17; 95 % CI 0.05, 0.59). Sexual intercourse with P2 (compared to P1) usually took place in “riskier” settings such as a car, bar, or outside (AOR = 4.15; 95 % CI 1.59, 10.68). Perceived “safe” places, e.g., friend’s or family’s house, were identified with risky behaviors; thus, homogeneous messaging campaigns may promote a false sense of safety.
A single intravenous dose of endotoxin rapidly alters serum lipoproteins and lipid transfer proteins in normal volunteers.

Endotoxemia is associated with rapid and marked declines in serum levels of LDL and HDL by unknown mechanisms. Six normal volunteers received a single, small intravenous (iv) dose of endotoxin (Escherichia coli 0113, 2 ng/kg) or saline in a random order, cross-over design. After endotoxin treatment, volunteers had mild, transient flu-like symptoms and markedly increased serum levels of tumor necrosis factor and its soluble receptors, interleukin-6, cortisol, serum amyloid A, and C-reactive protein. Triglyceride (TG), VLDL-TG, and nonesterified fatty acid increased (peak at 3–4 h), then TG declined (nadir at 9 h), and then cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B (apoB), and phospholipid declined (nadirs at 12–24 h). HDL cholesterol and apoA-I levels were not affected, but half of the decrease in phospholipid was HDL phospholipid. Lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) rose 3-fold (peak at 12 h), with smaller and later decreases in the activities of phospholipid transfer protein and cholesteryl ester transfer protein. In conclusion, a decline in LDL was rapidly induced in normal volunteers with a single iv dose of endotoxin. The selective loss of phospholipid from HDL may have been mediated by LBP and, after more intense or prolonged inflammation, could result in increased HDL clearance and reduced HDL levels.
Is Obesity Associated With Anemia of Chronic Disease? A Population-based Study

Obesity is characterized by chronic, low-grade, systemic inflammation, which, in turn, has been associated with anemia of chronic disease. We hypothesized that obesity may be associated with the features of anemia of chronic disease, including low hemoglobin concentration, low serum iron and transferrin saturation (TS), and elevated serum ferritin. We compared normal-weight to overweight and obese adult participants of the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey with respect to hemoglobin concentration and levels of serum iron, TS, and ferritin. Measured BMI was used to categorize participants into normal weight (BMI or = 40 kg/m(2), n = 465). After adjustment for age, gender, menstruation, race/ethnicity, education, alcohol consumption, smoking, blood donation, and dietary iron intake, serum ferritin was progressively higher with increasing BMI category, whereas serum iron and TS were progressively lower. However, compared to normal-weight persons, those in all other higher BMI categories did not have a significant change in hemoglobin concentration after adjustment for the above-mentioned confounders. Overweight and obesity were associated with changes in serum iron, TS, and ferritin that would be expected to occur in the setting of chronic, systemic inflammation. However, overweight and obese persons were not more likely to be anemic compared with normal-weight persons.