cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Emerging Role of Pathology in Infectious Diseases

Due to increased awareness of infectious diseases, there has been renewed interest and revitalization in infectious disease pathology. Recent experience at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other institutions has shown that use of a combination of traditional morphology with immunologic and molecular pathology techniques is an extremely useful approach for the confirmation of diagnoses for patients with otherwise unexplained illnesses. Visualization of microbial antigens or nucleic acids in the context of pathology allows the pathologist to assess the clinical significance of serologic test results or microbial isolation. By comparison, the use of molecular pathology techniques offers several distinct advantages over traditional microbiologic methods, including speed, sensitivity, reduced risk of exposure of laboratory personnel to the agent, and tissue localization of pathogens. Epidemiologic, clinical, and histopathologic findings enable CDC pathologists to use the most appropriate initial immunologic and molecular pathology tests. The chapter highlights some of the contributions of CDC pathologists in addressing some of the challenges posed by new, emerging, and reemerging infectious diseases. Historically, pathologists and the discipline of pathology have played pivotal roles in the discovery and characterization of the rickettsioses and, more recently, the ehrlichioses. Disease recognition by infectious disease pathologists can play a key role in the study of emerging infectious diseases. The chapter provides several examples of the frontline role of pathology in guiding the early phases of epidemiologic investigations of infectious diseases.
Fractal modeling and analysis of Poisson processes

This paper describes a new fractal modeling and analysis approach for a point processes based on a previously proposed multiscale model for Poisson processes. A new Bayesian hypothesis testing framework is proposed for detecting or classifying fractal characteristics of an intensity based on observations of the associated point process. The test statistics can be expressed in closed-form, and asymptotic analysis reveals a simple mechanism at work. Applications to photon-limited image edge detection are discussed.
Turning Over Turnover: The Evaluation of a Staff Scheduling System in a Community-Based Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities.

Abstract Human service programs often have major problems ensuring that all direct-care staff positions are filled and keeping staff members after they are hired. Work schedules may have an effect on maintaining the longevity of staff. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a revised direct-care staff-scheduling system in community homes serving adults with developmental disabilities. The revised direct-care staffing system, which used shift-style schedules, was compared on a variety of measures to existing staffing systems and to a staffing model using married couples and adaptations of the Teaching-Family Model (called Family-Teaching homes). The revised staff-scheduling system was evaluated before and after its implementation and then compared to the Family-Teaching homes using direct-care employee measures of: (1) turnover; (2) position vacancies; (3) number of different employees paid within a pay period; (4) average hourly wages; (5) number of hours worked; (6) average cost for emp...
Review of Michael N. Jagessar and Stephen Burns, Christian Worship: Postcolonial Perspectives. Cross Cultural Theologies. Sheffield: Equinox Publishing, 2011.

This is a book review of Michael N. Jagessar and Stephen Burns, Christian Worship: Postcolonial Perspectives. Cross Cultural Theologies. Sheffield: Equinox Publishing, 2011.
Further studies of the distribution of CDF/LIF mRNA.

Differentiation choices in the haemopoietic and nervous systems are controlled in part by instructive factors. The cholinergic differentiation factor (CDF, also known as leukaemia inhibitory factor, LIF) affects the development of cultured cells from both systems. To understand the role of CDF/LIF during normal development in vivo, we have begun to localize its mRNA in the late fetal and postnatal rat. Application of reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and RNase protection methods reveals that CDF/LIF mRNA levels are developmentally modulated in both haemopoietic and neural tissues. A target tissue of cholinergic sympathetic neurons, the footpads that contain the sweat glands, express high levels of this mRNA (relative to mRNA for actin and β2-microglobulin). Levels in targets of noradrenergic neurons are lower, but do undergo significant changes during development. Signals are also detected in selective regions of the adult brain, and in embryonic skeletal muscle. This finding in muscle may be significant for motor neurons, because CDF/LIF is a trophic factor for these neurons in culture. Embryonic liver, neonatal thymus and postnatal spleen express CDF/LIF mRNA, and expression in gut is the highest of all tissues examined. The selective tissue distribution and developmental modulation of CDF/LIF mRNA expression support a role for this factor in the normal development of several organ systems.
Vasoconstrictive effects of prostaglandins in sheep placental circulations

Abstract Changes in the uterine and umbilical circulations after intra-aortic injection of prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) or prostaglandin F 2α (PGF 2α ) to either the fetus or the mother have been examined in 13 ewes at late gestation. PGF 2α given to either the fetus or the mother is vasoconstrictive in both uterine and umbilical circulations. PGE 2 given to the fetus results in a dissociated response with vasodilation of the uterine circulation and vasoconstriction of the umbillcal circulation. PGE 2 given to the mother causes a uterine contraction that precludes specific hemodynamic analysis. Therefore, exposure of either maternal or fetal ovine circulation to exogenous prostaglandins is associated with acute changes in both placental circulations. Similar responses to pertubations in endogenous prostaglandin levels may exist in pregnant sheep.
Educando Jovens Sem-Tetono Texas, Estados Unidos

O presente artigo discute jovens sem-teto nos EUA com foco em questoes educacionais levantadas durante a implementacao da Lei de Melhorias no Auxilio a Educacao de Sem-Teto McKinney-Vento de 2001 (McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance mprovements Act of 2001). Essa lei requer que os estados assegurem que todas as criancas sem-teto tenham o mesmo acesso a educacao publica. Alem disso, a lei requer que os estados identifiquem e removem obstaculos a educacao de criancas sem-teto, tais como exigencias de historicos escolares anteriores e prova de residencia. Seguindo a descricao da condicao de sem-teto, questoes educacionais, e barreiras para jovens sem- eto, a Lei McKinney-Vento e descrita conforme sua aplicacao no Texas. Finalmente, o artigo conclui que mais desenvolvimento, educacao, e comprometimento de fornecedo- es de servicos em escolas e outras agencias comunitarias sera necessario para melho- ar os resultados desses jovens altamente vulneraveis.
Metastatic Liver Disease Associated with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Controversies in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach.

Background Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most frequent mesenchymal lesions of the GI tract. They are considered to originate from neoplastic transformation of either the intestinal pacemaker cells of Cajal or the precursor pluripotential stem cells. The genetic basis of GIST growth is an activating mutation of two receptor tyrosine kinases. Recentepidemiologicstudiesdemonstratethatthe GIST prevalence is approximately 20/1000000/year. Although GISTs developineverypartoftheGItract,stomachremainsthemost common localization. About 80 % of the patients experience tumor recurrence or hepatic metastasis after radical resection. GIST liver metastases are usually multiple, large in diameter, and localized in both lobes. In addition, GISTs are usually completely asymptomatic, discovered incidentally. Symptoms are not typical and depend on the location, size, and aggressiveness of the tumor. Discussion Diagnostic evaluation is based on imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and endoscopic ultrasound. Despite recent research on the therapeutic strategies against GISTs, surgical resection appears the only potentially curative approach. For the advanced metastatic disease, imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been proposed neoadjuvantly with the surgery performed after the adequate reduction of tumor burden. The aim of this review was to evaluate the results of surgical treatment for metastatic GIST with special reference to the extent of its histological spread and to present the recent literature in order to provide an update on the current concepts of advanced surgical management of this entity.
Re-configurable spacecraft software: demands and solution

This paper outlines a software infrastructure for next generation re-configurable spacecraft. A new approach to software architecture is required to support a long-term operation of the spacecraft, which changes missions and hardware configurations often. Traditional spacecraft software development technology takes for granted the stability of the operational environment including hardware, configuration, and mission. Re-configurable spacecraft does not, by definition, remain static in mission or organization. The proposed approach to system software for re-configurable spacecraft focuses on the use of a virtual machine, executed on all participating node control processors. Each node control processor runs an instance of the virtual machine with the same instruction set, memory topology, input-output access, and mechanisms for guaranteed performance. In addition to enabling the basic re-configurable spacecraft mission, a properly implemented virtual machine itself adds new capability to the platform. This paper explores the advantages of a virtual machine based software system for the re-configurable spacecraft.
Physiology Of The Soybean

Publisher Summary During the rapid expansion of production of soybean in recent years there has been coordinated and concentrated research in breeding and genetics, and to a smaller extent in pathology, of soybean. There has been relatively much less work in physiology, except in specialized fields, such as photoperiodism and nitrogen fixation, and practically no coordination or evaluation of work on soybean physiology in terms of production problems. Soybean seeds lack a specific light requirement for germination, but they are no less dependent than other seeds on suitable conditions of moisture, temperature, and aeration. Suitable internal-conditions-available food material, metabolic systems for using it, proper balances of growth regulators, and a structure that facilitates the transport required for life and growth are also required. Germination involves mobilization and utilization of food and energy reserves, in contrast to seed development, in which there is a net accumulation of energy materials.
Brain-stem auditory evoked potentials in different types of hepatic diseases.

Abstract Brain-stem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) were studied in 69 patients with different types of hepatic diseases. BAEPs were normal in viral hepatitis, but the peak V and interpeak I–V latencies were prolonged in liver cirrhosis. Prolongation in peaks III, IV and V and interpeaks I–III, III–V and I–V were observed in both alcoholic liver disease and Wilson's disease with the latter more severely affected. The present data indicate that BAEPs may be used to study the effect of various hepatic diseases on the CNS.
Library Instruction and Themed Composition Courses: An Investigation of Factors that Impact Student Learning

Abstract Many academic libraries partner with English composition in order to teach first year students skills related to academic research and writing. Due to the partnership between information literacy and first-year writing programs, it is important to evaluate how these programs can best support one another. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of two factors on student information literacy skill development: library instruction and section theme—defined here as class sections of the English 102 (ENG 102) program developed around a central topic selected by the instructor. A random sample of annotated bibliographies from 95 sections of ENG 102 were scored with two information literacy rubrics in order to find out if scores differed between sections based on the variables of library instruction and theme. The results of this study indicate that sections of the ENG 102 program that attended an information literacy instruction session scored significantly higher on the annotated bibliography assignment than sections that did not attend. We also found that themed sections of ENG 102 scored marginally higher on the annotated bibliography than non-themed sections of ENG 102. Implications for further research are discussed, including the potential impact of theme-based writing on information literacy learning.
Water savings, nutrient leaching, and fruit yield in a young avocado orchard as affected by irrigation and nutrient management

This project was designed to determine the effect of fertilizer rate and irrigation scheduling on water use, nutrient leaching, and fruit yield of young avocado trees (Persea americana Mill. cv. Simmonds). Seven nutrient and irrigation management practices were evaluated: (1) irrigation based on crop evapotranspiration (ET) with 50% fertilizer at a standard rate (FSR); (2) ET irrigation with FSR (typical for avocado production in the area); (3) ET irrigation with 200% FSR; (4) irrigation based on exceedance of 15-kPa (SW) soil water suction with 50% FSR; (5) SW with FSR; (6) SW with 200% FSR; and (7) irrigation at a set schedule (based on timing and frequency typically used in local avocado production) with FSR. The SW with FSR treatment saved 87% of the water volume applied and reduced total phosphorus leached by 74% compared to the set schedule irrigation with FSR. The SW with FSR treatment had higher avocado fruit production, tree water-use efficiency, and fertilizer-use efficiency than the other six treatments. Thus, the use of soil water monitoring for irrigation management can substantially increase sustainability of young avocado orchards in southern Florida.
Seasonal effects of dehydration on glucose mobilization in freeze-tolerant chorus frogs (Pseudacris triseriata) and freeze-intolerant toads (Bufo woodhousii and B. cognatus)

It has been hypothesized that freeze-tolerance in anurans evolved from a predisposition for dehydration tolerance. To test this hypothesis, we dehydrated summer/fall-collected and winter acclimated freeze-tolerant chorus frogs and dehydration-tolerant, but freeze-intolerant, Woodhouse's and Great Plains toads to 25% and 50% body water loss (BWL). Following treatments, we measured glucose, glycogen, and glycogen phosphorylase and glycogen synthetase (summer/fall only) activities in liver and leg muscle. Hepatic glucose levels were not significantly altered by dehydration in either summer/fall-collected frogs or toads. Conversely, winter acclimated frogs did show an increment (2.9-fold) in hepatic glucose with dehydration, accompanied by a reduction in hepatic glycogen levels. Winter acclimated toads did not mobilize hepatic glucose in response to dehydration. Further, hepatic glycogen and phosphorylase activities did not vary in any consistent manner with dehydration in winter toads. Mean leg muscle glucose values were elevated at 50% BWL relative to other treatments, significantly so compared to 25% BWL for summer/fall-collected frogs. The pattern of hepatic glucose mobilization with dehydration in winter frogs is consistent with that in other freeze-tolerant frog species, and provides additional support for the hypothesis that freezing tolerance evolved from a capacity for dehydration tolerance. However, the lack of hepatic glucose mobilization in response to dehydration in fall frogs suggests that a seasonal component to dehydration-induced regulation of glucose metabolism exists in chorus frogs. Furthermore, the absence of a dehydration-induced mobilization of hepatic glucose at both seasons in toads suggests that this dehydration response is not universal for terrestrial anurans.
Targeting the bone marrow microenvironment in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by clonal expansion of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow (BM). Despite the significant advances in treatment, MM is still a fatal malignancy. This is mainly due to the supportive role of the BM microenvironment in differentiation, migration, proliferation, survival, and drug resistance of the malignant plasma cells. The BM microenvironment is composed of a cellular compartment (stromal cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells) and a non-cellular compartment. In this review, we discuss the interaction between the malignant plasma cell and the BM microenvironment and the strategy to target them.
More than Meets the Eye?: Pedagogic Implications of a Visually Effective Geographic Metaphor.

Abstract We are teaching the television generation in our college classrooms and if we can't beat' em, we should certainly join' em. Visual images can, indeed, be effective teaching tools in geography. Three uses of a “classic” concealed image of Jesus Christ in a melting snowfield are discussed. First, the image serves as an example of the geographer's search for spatial regularities. On a more interpretative level, the concealed image becomes a metaphor for the quasi-religious quest for scientific truth. If we aren't careful, this quest can devolve into Ideological explanation. Finally, the mysterious origin of the Jesus image is akin to an urban legend. Its origin may be used to illustrate the fallibility of scientific citation as can the image entitled “My Wife and My Mother-in-Law” incorrectly cited by the geographer William Kirk. Whether the Jesus image was a natural event or a product of human creation is an object lesson in the pitfalls of imputed intentionality.
History of Biological Effects and Medical Applications of Microwave Energy

Though this Special Issue is devoted to the history of microwaves, an appreciation of the history of the interaction of microwaves with biological systems would not be complete without also covering the role that lower frequencies have played in research directed toward the improvement of human health. Licht and Susskind provide an excellent history of the medical applications and biological effects of electromagnetic energy at submicrowave frequencies.
Chemoradiotherapy for anal carcinoma: What is the optimal radiation dose?

A dose-response analysis was undertaken in a group of patients with clinically node-negative carcinoma of the anal canal treated with a sphincter-sparing approach. Twenty-three patients underwent biopsy of the primary tumor, followed by concurrent radiation and chemotherapy. The chemotherapy regimen of 5-fluorouracil and mitomycin C and radiation technique were uniform in all patients. The total radiation dose, given in daily fractions of 180–200 cGy, was escalated over the years as an institutional policy. The total radiation dose was ≤5,200 cGy (mean 4,550 cGy) in 11 cases treated before September 1989 and >5,200 cGy (mean 5,572 cGy) in 12 cases treated subsequently. The 3-year actuarial local control rates were 53% vs. 100% for the low vs. high dose groups, respectively (P = 0.015). The 3-year actuarial overall survival rates were 82% vs. 100% in the 2 groups, respectively. No increase in late toxicity in the high dose group has been observed compared to the low dose group. These results, albeit based on limited patient numbers, suggest that total radiation dose is an important determinant of long-term tumor control in patients with localized anal canal carcinoma. A total radiation dose of approximately 5,500 cGy has led to excellent tumor control and sphincter function. © Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Days lost from work due to injuries in U.S. underground bituminous coal mines, 1975–1981

Abstract Bennett, J.D. and Passmore, D.L., 1984. Days lost from work due to injuries in U.S. underground bituminous coal mines, 1975–1981. Journal of Occupational Accidents , 5: 265–278. Relationships among mine and injured miner characteristics and days lost from work are examined from 82,705 injuries in underground bituminous coal mines in the U.S.A. from 1975 through 1981. Injury severity varies by the injured miner's job classification and age, location in the mine where the injury occurs, the mining system used, and the year that the injury happened. Injury severity is not related to the injured miner's total mining experience, job experience, and experience in the mine in which the injury occurs. Time elapsed from the start of the shift to injury occurrence is not related to injury severity. Injuries that result in days lost from work can happen over a range of mine and injured miner characteristics… not merely to miners working at the spot where coal is removed from its natural deposit, as is commonly believed.
A different method in quantum field theory: Strong coupling and the infrared structure of φ4 theory☆

Abstract An expansion procedure is defined wherein any process described by quantum field theory is expanded in terms of the number of possible “hard” interactions, with the lowest-order, non- perturbative approximation including all numbers of “soft”, or infrared (IR) interactions. The method can be defined independently in different n-point functions, which necessitates a change of procedure when calculating renormalization effects. Applied λφ44 theory, one finds that the IR structure generates for the renormalization group β-function of the unrenormalized theory β(λ)∣λ⪢1∼−κλ ln2 λ, in contrast to the usual perturbative result β(λ)∣λ⪡1∼+cλ2. The first “hard” correction to the large coupling limit is explicitly shown to leave unchanged this asymptotic form of β.
Interaction of valinomycin with cations at the air-water interface.

Abstract A high surface potential is obtained when a valinomycin monolayer is spread upon a subphase containing KCl, RbCl or CsCl at concentration > 0.5 M . The observed selectivity pattern Rb + ⩾ K + > Cs + is the same as observed for valinomycin in bilayer conductance and partition experiments. Force-area curves of valinomycin at the air-water interface in the presence of 1.0 M K+ or Rb+ show a surface pressure transition that coincides with the rise in surface potential. This translation which is presumed to represent the association of valinomycin with the cation occurs at successively lower surface pressures as the cation concentration is increased. Collapse occurs at 165 A2 and 26–28 dynes/cm. In the absence of the cation, the force-area curve lacks the transition plateau and collapses at 24.5 dynes/cm and 185–190 A2. These data suggest that when valinomycin complexes a cation at the membrane-water interface, it undergoes a rearrangement that is evident from a decrease in surface area of approximately 20–25 A2.
Cognitive susceptibility to smoking and initiation of smoking during childhood: a longitudinal study.

Background.The earlier the onset of cigarette smoking the greater the risk of addictive smoking. Because smoking initiation is occurring at ever younger ages, early onset of smoking is primarily a childhood phenomenon. In this study cognitive susceptibility to smoking was examined as a risk factor for childhood onset of cigarette smoking. This was the first prospective investigation of cognitive susceptibility to smoking as a predictor of smoking initiation by children. Methods.Three annual surveys were completed by 788 children who, at baseline, were in the third or fifth grade and had never puffed on a cigarette. Results.At baseline, 51% of children had either single or multiple indicators of susceptibility to smoking. Over 2 years, children with single indicators of susceptibility were 80% more likely to initiate smoking, and children with multiple indicators of susceptibility were four times as likely to initiate smoking as nonsusceptible peers. Susceptibility was a stronger predictor of initiation than all other predictors examined, including exposure to family members and friends who smoke cigarettes. Conclusion.Among abstinent children ages 8 to 10 years, cognitive susceptibility to smoking was a significant predictor of whether they initiated smoking prior to adolescence. Reducing children's susceptibility to smoking could strengthen efforts to prevent early onset of cigarette smoking.
Experimental and statistical investigation of changes in surface roughness associated with spray quenching

Abstract Surface contact profilometry data measured on aluminum surfaces were statistically analyzed to investigate the changes in surface roughness which occur during heat treatment. The tested samples included commercially pure aluminum (Al-1100) with polished, particle blasted, and milled finishes; and aluminum alloy Al-2024 with polished, particle blasted and extruded finishes. Statistical results along with scanning electron microscope photographs indicate each heat-quench cycle was accompanied by measurable changes in surface roughness, whose magnitude was dependent upon initial surface finish and alloy composition. The changes included both small scale roughness features, which influence cooling rate by increasing the number of bubble nucleation sites during transition and nucleate boiling, and, more importantly, large features which influence the impact and spreading of spray drops as well as the Leidenfrost temperature for spray quenching. The primary cause for roughness was determined to be a hydrogen diffusion phenomenon resulting from breakdown of water vapor at high temperatures inside moisture laden furnaces.
Broadcasting in faulty hypercubes

Abstract We propose a non-redundant broadcasting algorithm for hypercubes with faulty nodes. The concept of unsafe node is introduced to identify those non-faulty nodes that will cause a detour or backtracking because of their proximity to faulty nodes. It is assumed that each healthy node, safe or unsafe, knows the status of all the neighboring nodes. The broadcasting is optimal, namely, a message is sent to each node via Hamming distance path if the broadcasting is initiated from a safe node. We also show that when the source node is unsafe and there is an adjacent safe node then the broadcasting can be achieved with only one more time step than the fault-free case.
Comparison of hand emergency triage before and after specialty templates (2007 vs. 2012)

Emergency hand service is a national problem both for civilian and veteran patients. The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health system began coordinating emergency hand coverage within the plastic surgery service in 2008. Consult templates were designed to facilitate access to the appropriate service. Trainees were taken out of transfer decisions. Clinic templates were designed to fast track urgent patients to 8 a.m. appointments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of our templates and triage system. All consults completed by the plastic surgery service were reviewed retrospectively. Emergent and urgent hand consults were identified. Time from consult submission to the patient being seen by the plastic surgery provider was recorded. Time frames were categorized as same day, next day, within 2 days, less than or equal to 7 days, and greater than 7 days. Type of emergency (trauma or infection) and treatment plan were noted. There were 1,090 consults in 2007 and 1,868 consults in 2012 that were completed by the plastic surgery service. We found the number of urgent and emergent hand consults increased by a factor of 6 (49 to 294). Furthermore, 16.3 % (8/49) of patients were seen greater than 1 week after consult submission in 2007, compared with 8.1 % (24/294) of patients in 2012. Only one patient from 2007 and two patients from 2012 went to the OR after regular operating room hours. A well-coordinated effort to speed access for hand emergencies can minimize expenses and improve quality of care
Did You Get It? Factors Influencing Subjective Comprehension of Visual Metaphors in Advertising

This research examines how the degree of incongruity of a metaphor, need for cognition (NFC), and type of processing affect the subjective comprehension of visual metaphor ads. Across three studies, involving different manipulations of incongruity, we find an inverse relationship between the degree of incongruity in a visual metaphor and subjective ad comprehension, as well as a positive relationship between NFC and subjective ad comprehension. Furthermore, we show that NFC becomes more consequential for subjective ad comprehension at higher levels of incongruity. Similarly, the beneficial effects of relational (versus item) processing on subjective ad comprehension are greater for higher incongruity visual metaphor ads.
What are the risks of the assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and how can they be minimized

Although assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have become established procedures performed around the world, there are still many unanswered questions regarding safety. Possible risks associated with infertility and ART include (1) those inherent to pregnancy, delivery, and childhood; (2) those associated with the infertility itself and its causes; and (3) risks iatrogenic to ART. Although there are many potential risks associated with ART, it has become clear that the major risk is multiple pregnancy and its consequences. Major efforts are warranted to reduce the risk of multiple gestations with IVF, but it is also clear that single-embryo transfer is not the solution in all cases. Moreover, several studies have now documented that perinatal outcomes are somewhat poorer in IVF singleton infants than in spontaneously conceived singletons, but it is not clear if this increased risk is due to the ART or the infertility. Concerns about the impact of abnormalities in genomic imprinting persist at this time, as do risks associated with the culture conditions and even our environment. Only time will tell if children born following ART are at any increased risk of developing certain chronic diseases as they age. In any case, the risks to IVF children and mothers are likely to remain higher than those for children and mothers conceived spontaneously without medical assistance. However, since there have been over 5 million births after ART worldwide, and the vast majority of pregnancies and children have been essentially “normal”, it is obvious that any excess risk must be relatively small. The normality of most pregnancies mandates that extreme care be exercised in making any changes to current practice.
Harnessing molecule–solid duality of nanoclusters/nanoparticles for nanoscale control of size, shape and alloying

This report demonstrates a molecule–solid duality concept for nanoscale control of size, shape and alloying by showing novel evolution of binary copper and gold nanoclusters or nanoparticles towards alloy nanocubes, as evidenced by in situ real time synchrotron X-ray diffraction characterization.
CRITERIA FOR RECOMMENDING SURGERY IN TOTAL ANOMALOUS PULMONARY VENOUS DRAINAGE.

Abstract Patients with mild dyspnea and cyanosis due to total anomalous pulmonary venous return should be treated medically until later childhood or early adult life when open corrective surgery can be performed with the aid of extracorporeal circulation. Infants experiencing severe dyspnea, cyanosis and congestive failure soon after birth should be considered surgical emergencies, since medical therapy is usually inadequate to support life until childhood. Early diagnosis and aggressive surgical therapy are, therefore, mandatory for survival in the critically ill infant with total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage.
High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of nafazatrom in human plasma using fluorescence detection.

Abstract A rapid, sensitive, and selective high-performance liquid chromatographic assay was developed for determination of the pyrazole derivative nafazatrom (Bay g 6575, NFZ) in human plasma. Separation was obtained using a normal-phase Si-60 column and a mobile phase of methylene chloride—methanol (90:10, v/v) containing 0.25% water. The fluorescence of NFZ was monitored at excitation and emission wavelengths of 232 and 362 nm, respectively. The recovery of NFZ extracted from plasma with methylene chloride was 109 ± 5% (mean ± S.D.) in the concentration range from 5.0 to 500 ng/ml. The assay was applied to the determination of plasma concentrations of NFZ following administration of the compound to patients in a Phase I clinical trial.
Software adaptation patterns for service-oriented architectures

This paper describes the concept of software adaptation patterns and how they can be used in software adaptation of service-oriented architectures. The patterns are described in terms of a three-layer architecture for self-management. A software adaptation pattern defines how a set of components that make up an architecture pattern dynamically cooperate to change the software configuration to a new configuration. In our approach, adaptation connectors are introduced to encapsulate adaptation state machine models so that the adaptation patterns can be more reusable. A change management model for dynamically evolving service-oriented applications is also described with a case study.
Utilizing low-cost 3U single-sensor satellites for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance mission capabilities

Leveraging low cost launch carriers for small satellites with the functionality required for DoD and intelligence missions realizes a hidden potential capability. The Multi-Mission Bus Demonstration (MBD) is a Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) program to demonstrate military operational relevance in a 3U CubeSat form factor. The MBD spacecraft caters to mission versatility and responsive launch capabilities with a standardized bus and interchangeable payload interface design. MBD embraced the challenge of building two space vehicles on an extremely aggressive timeline and demanding budget, causing the development team to evaluate every step of the process to maximize efforts with minimal manpower and cost. MBD is providing a classified DoD payload capability that is truly operationally relevant and may revolutionize the mission area. As a single instrument or payload satellite, also called a SensorSat, MBD is a spacecraft of realizable ISR benefits including effective remote sensing, simplified engineering design and program requirements, and reduced time to launch, all yielding an appealing cost per unit. The SensorSat has potential to detect sufficient information that will act as a complementary component to tactical commanders in heightening battlefield awareness. Recent advancements in technology has put capabilities such as precision navigation, communication intelligence, signal intelligence, tactical warning, environmental intelligence, and a wide variety of ground imaging, at the tip of culmination in a small, economical package. This paper reviews the high functionality of the MBD spacecraft in the miniaturized footprint of 10 cm by 10 cm by 30cm which allows the mission to leverage inexpensive launch opportunities.
Hydrogen peroxide measurements in recreational marine bathing waters in Southern California, USA

Abstract Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) was measured in the surf zone at 13 bathing beaches in Southern California, USA. Summer dry season concentrations averaged 122 ± 38 nM with beaches with tide pools having lower levels (50–90 nM). No significant differences were observed for ebb waters at a salt marsh outlet vs. a beach (179 ± 20 vs. 163 ± 26 nM), and between ebb and flood tides at one site (171 ± 24 vs. 146 ± 42 nM). H 2 O 2 levels showed little annual variation. Diel cycling was followed over short (30 min; 24 h study) and long (d) time scales, with maximum afternoon concentration = 370 nM and estimated photochemical production rate of 44 nM h −1 . There was no correlation between the absorbance coefficient at 300 nm (used as a measure of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) levels) and H 2 O 2 . H 2 O 2 concentrations measured in this study are likely sufficient to inhibit fecal indicator bacteria in marine recreational waters through indirect photoinactivation.
Demography for actuarial students

Abstract One purpose of this paper is to draw attention to several ideas from demography, which could be useful to an actuary. An actuarial course of study might not have considered these concepts at great length. The ideas are: (1) stable populations and pension applications; (2) population statistics and their uses; (3) analytic expressions for P(t), the population at time t; (4) probabilistic models in demography; (5) population projections; and (6) finding probabilities from observed rates. A second purpose is to focus on several excellent demography-based papers which could serve an actuary. They are illustrative of works which could strengthen the professional work of an actuary. A third purpose is to provide a list of references for study by actuarial students.
Management effects on soil CO2 efflux in northern semiarid grassland and cropland

Abstract Soil respiration is a process influenced by land use, management practices, and environmental conditions. Our objectives were to evaluate relationships between management-induced differences in soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil CO 2 efflux from continuous no-till spring wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.), spring wheat-fallow under no-till, and a native mixed-grass prairie with grazing near Mandan, ND. A Werner–Sen–Chama soil complex (Entic Haplustoll, Typic Haplustoll, and Typic Calciustoll) was present at the grassland site and a Wilton silt loam (Pachic Haplustoll) at the cropping sites. Soil chambers were used to measure soil CO 2 effluxes about every 21 days starting 14 May 2001 to 1 April 2003. Soil water and soil temperature were measured at time of CO 2 efflux measurements. Soil organic carbon, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and above and belowground plant biomass were measured in mid-July each year. Root biomass to 0.3 m depth of the undisturbed grassland was significantly greater (12.3 Mg ha −1 ) than under continuous wheat (1.3 Mg ha −1 ) and wheat-fallow (0.3 Mg ha −1 ). Grassland SOC content of 84 Mg ha −1 to 0.3 m soil depth was 1.2 times greater than continuous wheat and 1.3 times greater than wheat-fallow. The MBC of the grassland was 2.2 Mg ha −1 , or 3.6 times greater than continuous wheat and 7.2 times greater than wheat-fallow treatments. Soil CO 2 efflux averaged 2.8 g CO 2 –C m −2 day −1 for grassland, compared to 1.9 g CO 2 –C m −2 day −1 for wheat fallow and 1.6 g CO 2 –C m −2 day −1 for continuous wheat treatments. Although these CO 2 efflux rates were based on measurements made at intervals of about 21 days, the differences among treatments with time were rather consistent. Differences in soil CO 2 efflux among treatments could be attributed to differences in SOC and MBC, suggesting that land use plays a significant role in soil CO 2 efflux from respiration.
The ecology of Erwinia rubrifaciens and the development of phloem canker of Persian walnut

SUMMARY A requisite for development of bacterial phloem canker caused by Erwinia rubrifaciens is the presence of the highly susceptible Hartley cultivar; when interplanted with Hartley, the Franquette and Payne cultivars are sometimes attacked by the disease. The recently developed cultivars, Gustine and Howe, developed active cankers when inoculated, but not as extensive as those in Hartley. The age of the plant part is important in the disease. One-year-old Hartley trees and twigs of the current season on mature trees did not develop active cankers. The complete disease syndrome occurs only on trunks and primary (scaffold) branches. Extension of the cankers was most rapid during the summer when the temperature was high. This was correlated with the effect of temperature on growth of the bacterium in culture. At midday in summer the temperature of the cambial area of a shaded trunk was as much as 10dF (5.6 dC) below ambient temperature but it was commonly a few degrees above ambient at night. Breaks in the thick phelloderm of the trunks and branches are necessary for penetration of the pathogen to the inner bark. Of the several types of breaks commonly occurring, those produced by mechanical harvesting equipment and by sap-sucking birds were found to be infection sites. Bacteria occur in large numbers in a slimy substance which exudes through cracks and accumulates on the bark of infected trees. They survived for at least 123 days in the exudate and were disseminated laterally as far as 20 ft (6.1 m) in wind-blown rain. Bacteria were also transmitted from tree to tree in exudate contaminating the pads of mechanical harvesting equipment.
Animated graphical interfaces using temporal constraints

Algorithm animation has an acknowledged and growing role in computer aided algorithm design, as well as in documentation and technology transfer, since the medium of interactive graphics is a broader, richer channel than text by which to communicate information. Since an animation constitutes the interface between a user and an algorithm, a kit that facilitates the construction of such has all the basic elements of a User Interface Management System. Constraint languages are useful in constructing such an interface construction kit, whereby consistency is maintained among the elements of a structure and among those of a view of that structure presented to the user. But constraints specify only static state in current implementations. To specify the evolution of structures and views by discrete time increments, as in animation, requires a extension to current constraint languages to allow expression of specifications of temporal behavior.
Alejo Carpentier: The Pilgrim at Home

Alejo Carpentier: The Pilgrim at Home. Roberto Gonzalez Echevarria. Austin: The University of Texas Press, 1990. 334 pp. $14.95 (paper). ISBN 0–292–70417–8.
Upside-down differentiation and generation of a 'primordial' lower mantle.

Cin-Ty Lee and colleagues put forward the hypothesis that a necessary by-product of whole-mantle convection during the Earth's first billion years was deep and hot melting, resulting in the generation of dense liquids that crystallized and sank into the lower mantle. As melt extraction concentrates incompatible elements, such as the heat-producing elements uranium, thorium and potassium, as well as the noble gases, into the melt, they propose that such sunken lithologies would have 'primordial' chemical signatures, despite having a non-primordial origin. This might explain the 'primordial' signature now observed in ocean island basalts. For the first billion years or so of the Earth's history, there may have been whole-mantle convection, but after this period differentiation of the Earth's mantle has been controlled by solid-state convection. Many trace elements — known as 'incompatible elements' — preferentially partition into low-density melts and are concentrated into the crust, but half of these incompatible elements should be hidden in the Earth's interior. It is now suggested that a by-product of whole-mantle convection is deep and hot melting, resulting in the generation of dense liquids that sank into the lower mantle. Except for the first 50–100 million years or so of the Earth’s history, when most of the mantle may have been subjected to melting, the differentiation of Earth’s silicate mantle has been controlled by solid-state convection1. As the mantle upwells and decompresses across its solidus, it partially melts. These low-density melts rise to the surface and form the continental and oceanic crusts, driving the differentiation of the silicate part of the Earth. Because many trace elements, such as heat-producing U, Th and K, as well as the noble gases, preferentially partition into melts (here referred to as incompatible elements), melt extraction concentrates these elements into the crust (or atmosphere in the case of noble gases), where nearly half of the Earth’s budget of these elements now resides2. In contrast, the upper mantle, as sampled by mid-ocean ridge basalts, is highly depleted in incompatible elements, suggesting a complementary relationship with the crust. Mass balance arguments require that the other half of these incompatible elements be hidden in the Earth’s interior. Hypotheses abound for the origin of this hidden reservoir3,4,5,6. The most widely held view has been that this hidden reservoir represents primordial material never processed by melting or degassing. Here, we suggest that a necessary by-product of whole-mantle convection during the Earth’s first billion years is deep and hot melting, resulting in the generation of dense liquids that crystallized and sank into the lower mantle. These sunken lithologies would have ‘primordial’ chemical signatures despite a non-primordial origin.
Pertussis toxin blocks the effects of α2-agonists and antagonists on locus coeruleus activity in vivo

Abstract This study assessed the effects of pertussis toxin, which is known to inactivate G proteins and therefore to block receptors linked to G proteins, on electrophysiological activity of the locus coeruleus in vivo. Pertussis toxin was injected into the lateral cerebral ventricle of rats, and locus coeruleus activity was then recorded. Compared to vehicle-injected control animals, pretreatment with pertussis toxin markedly increased the spontaneous firing rate of locus coeruleus neurons. In addition, the α 2 -antagonist idazoxan was no longer able to augment either spontaneous or evoked locus coeruleus activity after pretreatment with pertussis toxin. Finally, pretreatment with pertussis toxin made locus coeruleus neurons resistant to inhibition by the α 2 -agonist clonidine. These results are consistent with the view that pertussis toxin blocks α 2 -receptors, receptors linked to G proteins, in vivo.
Effects of n-Alkanols on the membrane fluidity of chick embryo heart microsomes

The n-alkanols from butanol through octanol are membrane perturbing agents that fluidize the microsomal membranes of 20-day-old chick embryo hearts as measured by the fluorescence depolarization of 1,6-diphenylhexatriene. In terms of the aqueous concentrations of n-alkanols the fluidizing effect increases with increasing number of carbons per n-alkanol. In terms of the membrane concentrations of n-alkanols the fluidizing effect is roughly equivalent for all the n-alkanols studied.
The moral economy of biotechnical facility

Early programmatic statements about the future of synthetic biology primed the figure of the transformed biologist and the invention of facilities through which that transformation could be actualized. Ten years on from those manifestos, it seems worth posing the question of what facilities have actually been put into play as part of the making of the synthetic biologist, and how these subjectivational spaces – material, digital, and conceptual – are inflecting the economies of life, labor, and power within which synthetic biology continues to be imagined and elaborated.