cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Oil field-produced water discharges into wetlands: Benefits and risks to wildlife

Wyoming is one of a few states that allow the discharge of produced water from oil fields into surface waters for beneficial use by livestock and wildlife. Oil field discharges of produced water create wetlands that provide habitat for aquatic migratory birds and other wildlife. Wetlands surveyed in Wyoming from 1996 to 1999 showed that inefficient oil-water separation contributed to the discharge of oil into some wetlands receiving produced water. Over 62% of the sites surveyed had inadequate measures to exclude wildlife, particularly migratory birds, from entering skim pits used to separate oil from produced water. The risk of oil discharges into wetlands can be reduced significantly by proper maintenance of equipment used to separate oil from produced water; immediate removal of oil from production skim pits or tanks to prevent overflow into the receiving wetlands; installation of secondary or tertiary containment ponds or tanks to capture any oil accidentally discharged from the primary or secondary pits or tanks; or construction of wetland-based treatment systems for removing metals, radionuclides, and hydrocarbons from the produced water prior to discharge into natural wetlands. Wildlife mortality in skim pits can be prevented using closed containment systems, eliminating pits or keeping oil off open pits or ponds, or using effective and proven wildlife exclusionary devices.
Should They Work or Should They Not? Low-Income Kurdish Migrant Mothers’ Beliefs and Attitudes About Child Labor

Purpose As part of a larger ethnographic study, this article explored Kurdish mothers’ beliefs and attitudes about child labor. Methods Twenty-sevenlow-incomeKurdishmigrantmothers in an inner-city neighborhood of Istanbul in Turkey were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected through demographic surveys, semistructured in-depth interviews, and participant observations. Demographic surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Through repeated readings of transcribed interviews and field notes, themes and patterns were identified using analytic induction techniques.
Transient atrial mechanical dysfunction (stunning) after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation and flutter

Abstract Background Conversion of atrial fibrillation (AFib) and flutter (AFlt) to sinus rhythm results in a transient mechanical dysfunction of atria (atrial stunning). Methods used as a means of assessing atrial stunning, atrial stunning after conversion of atrial fibrillation/flutter, and the cause, mechanisms, determinants of the extent, and drugs affecting atrial stunning were examined. Methods Studies on the subject, identified through a comprehensive literature search, were thoroughly evaluated. Results and Conclusions Left atrial (LA) stunning has been reported with all modes of conversion of AFib/AFlt to sinus rhythm. The incidence of LA stunning is 38% to 80%. Spontaneous echocardiographic contrast, LA appendage (LAA) flow velocities and emptying fraction, transmitral inflow velocity of atrial wave (A-wave), time-velocity integral of A-wave, and atrial filling fraction have been used as means of assessing LA stunning. The data on right atrial (RA) stunning are limited, but parallel findings have been reported in the right atrium. Atrial stunning does not develop after the unsuccessful attempts of cardioversion or on delivery of electric current to the heart without AFib/AFlt, and it is a function of the underlying AFib/AFlt manifesting at the restoration of sinus rhythm. Tachycardia-induced atrial myopathy and chronic atrial hibernation are suggested mechanisms. Duration of preceding AFib/AFlt, atrial size, and underlying heart disease are determinants of the extent of atrial stunning. Verapamil, dofetilide, and acetylstrophenathidine have been shown to attenuate or protect from atrial stunning in animal or small human studies. A comprehensive knowledge of atrial stunning would be helpful in selecting the patients for, and the duration of, anticoagulation therapy after cardioversion. (Am Heart J 2002;144:11-22.)
Quantification of 3-D soil macropore networks in different soil types and land uses using computed tomography

Summary The importance of soil macropores as preferential pathways for water, air, and chemical movement in different soils has long been recognized. However, quantification of complex macropore structures and their relationships to soil types and land uses remains elusive. The objectives of this study were to (1) quantify 3-D macropore networks in intact soil columns using an improved approach and (2) investigate the effects of soil type and land use on soil macropore characteristics. Two soils with contrasting textures and structures (Hagerstown silt loam and Morrison sand) from two land uses (row crop and pasture) were investigated. Intact soil columns, 102 mm in diameter and about 350 mm in length, were taken for each soil type-land use combination. The soil columns were scanned using X-ray computed tomography at a voxel resolution of 0.234 mm × 0.234 mm × 2.000 mm. After reconstruction, characteristics of macropore networks were quantified, including continuous macroporosity change along depth, macropore size distribution, network density, surface area, length density, length distribution, mean hydraulic radius, tortuosity, inclination (angle), and connectivity (path number and node density). The approach we developed provided an improved quantification of complex 3-D macropore networks. The analysis of variance indicated that soil type, land use, and their interaction significantly influenced macroporosity, network density, surface area, length density, node density, and mean angle. The interaction of soil type and land use also influenced mean tortuosity and hydraulic radius. Within the same soil type, the soils under pasture land use had greater macroporosity, length density, and node density than that under row crop, especially in the subsoil. This was due to greater organic matter content and more biota activities in the pasture. Within the same land use, the Morrison sand displayed lower overall macroporosity than the Hagerstown silt loam because of weaker structure and higher amount of rock fragments in the Morrison soil and thus less suited for biota activities. The results from this study provide improved quantitative evaluation of a suite of soil macropore features that have significant implications for non-equilibrium flow prediction and chemical transport modeling in field soils.
New travelling wave solutions of different physical structures to generalized BBM equation

Abstract New ansatze that involve hyperbolic functions are introduced to handle the generalized Benjamin–Bona–Mahony (BBM) equation. The tanh–sech method and the sine–cosine method are applied as well. A set of new solitons, kinks, and periodic solutions is formally established. The work introduces useful guidance for other related nonlinear evolution equations.
Therapeutic intervention with complement and β-glucan in cancer

Complement (C) has two major effector systems available for host defense. The membrane attack complex (MAC) generated from components C5-C9 can form membrane-penetrating lesions that lead to cell death by causing a rapid loss of cytoplasmic components. The MAC is only effective against pathogens with outer phospholipid membranes, and cannot kill gram-positive bacteria or yeast whose membranes are protected by cell walls. The most important effector mechanism of C is the opsonization of microbial pathogens with the serum protein C3 that leads to their high avidity attachment to the C3-receptors of phagocytic cells. Pathogens that activate complement are first coated with the C3b fragment of C3, which is rapidly proteolyzed into the iC3b fragment by serum factor I. These iC3b fragments serve to promote the high avidity attachment of the 'iC3b-opsonized' pathogens to the iC3b-receptors (CR3, CD11b/CD18) of phagocytic cells and natural killer (NK) cells, stimulating phagocytosis and/or cytotoxic degranulation. Host cells, including neoplastic tumor cells, have been endowed with natural mechanisms for self-protection against both the MAC and the cytotoxic activation of CR3. This review discusses a novel type of immunotherapy for cancer that uses soluble yeast beta-glucan to override the normal resistance of iC3b-opsonized tumor cells to the cytotoxic activation of phagocyte and NK cell CR3, allowing this important effector mechanism of the C system to function against tumor cells in the same way that it normally functions against bacteria and yeast. Moreover, the cytotoxic activation of beta-glucan-primed NK cell CR3 by iC3b-opsonized tumors is shown to be accompanied by a tumor-localized secretion of the cytokines TNFalpha, IFNalpha, IFNgamma, and IL-6.
Advances in the Modeling and Measurement of Drained Compressibility

We have re-examined the analysis of centrifugal consolidation experiments for the determination of drained compressibility. Existing models for centrifugation of ceramic powder suspensions are prone to error, because they do not fully account for spatial variations of both the centrifugal acceleration and packing density. We present a new model that accounts for these two effects. We also derive dimensionless parameters that separately describe the error contributions that result from the heterogeneities of both the centrifugal acceleration and packing density. These dimensionless parameters make it no longer necessary to determine drained compressibility by the complicated method of nondestructively measuring the density profiles of centrifuge cakes and then substituting these profiles into a complex mathematical equation that is difficult to solve. Instead, one can evaluate drained compressibility by applying a correction factor to a simple experimental method of measuring the cake height during multispeed centrifugation. In turn, this procedure provides a valuable, new tool to characterize the effects of ceramic processing variables on their tendency to produce density gradients during powder consolidation.
AlGaN/GaN double heterostructure channel modulation doped field effect transistors (MODFETs)

AlGaN/GaN double heterostructure channel modulation doped field effect-transistors (DHCMODFETs) with a 1.5–1.75 µm gate length and a 3 µm channel length exhibiting record transconductances and saturation current levels have been demonstrated. The maximum normalised drain current and transconductance are ~1100 mA/mm and 270 mS/mm, respectively, at room temperature. Near pinch-off, the drain breakdown voltage is ~80 V. At an elevated temperature of 300°C, the maximum drain source current and extrinsic transconductance of the device are ~500 mA/mm and 120 mS/mm, respectively.
Minimally invasive surgery in colon cancer patients leads to improved short-term outcomes and excellent oncologic results

Abstract Background Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques are beneficial compared with open techniques. There is a paucity of data of the potential advantages of MIS in colon cancer surgery for veterans. Therefore, we hypothesize that use of MIS in colon cancer resections in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center will lead to improved short-term outcomes without compromising oncologic outcomes. Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was performed. We compared surgical, short-term, and oncologic outcomes in MIS versus open surgery. Results MIS patients had significantly less blood loss, surgical time, days to return of bowel function, and hospital and intensive care unit stays. Also, they had a greater and more adequate lymphadenectomy, and were less likely to experience a postoperative complication. Survival analyses showed no difference in overall and disease-free survival. Conclusions The use of MIS in colon cancer leads to improved short-term outcomes and similar oncologic outcomes when compared with open surgery.
Teacher stress: An expert appraisal

Two hundred twenty-six experts on teacher stress and burnout were surveyed to determine the relevance of 49 teacher stress items to their overall concepts of teacher stress. Relevance ratings for all items fell within the relevant-to-quite-relevant range, and all items were retained for inclusion in the Teacher Stress Inventory. The most relevant items dealt with feeling unable to cope and experiencing physical exhaustion; the least were related to student motivation problems. Overall, the experts were congruent to a significant degree in the way they rated the items. When the group was compared in terms of background variables, the younger respondents, those who present stress management workshops, and those who conduct qualitative or quantitative stress research perceived some of the stress factors as being more relevant to teacher stress than did the older respondents, those not publishing, and those conducting combinations of qualitative and quantitative stress research.
The Ecology of Early Childhood Risk: A Canonical Correlation Analysis of Children’s Adjustment, Family, and Community Context in a High-Risk Sample

The ecology of the emergence of psychopathology in early childhood is often approached by the analysis of a limited number of contextual risk factors. In the present study, we provide a comprehensive analysis of ecological risk by conducting a canonical correlation analysis of 13 risk factors at child age 2 and seven narrow-band scales of internalizing and externalizing problem behaviors at child age 4, using a sample of 364 geographically and ethnically diverse, disadvantaged primary caregivers, alternative caregivers, and preschool-age children. Participants were recruited from Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children sites and were screened for family risk. Canonical correlation analysis revealed that (1) a first latent combination of family and individual risks of caregivers predicted combinations of child emotional and behavioral problems, and that (2) a second latent combination of contextual and structural risks predicted child somatic complaints. Specifically, (1) the combination of chaotic home, conflict with child, parental depression, and parenting hassles predicted a co-occurrence of internalizing and externalizing behaviors, and (2) the combination of father absence, perceived discrimination, neighborhood danger, and fewer children living in the home predicted child somatic complaints. The research findings are discussed in terms of the development of psychopathology, as well as the potential prevention needs of families in high-risk contexts.
Biological, psychological and environmental predictors of the alcoholism risk: a longitudinal study.

Objective: This article reviews results from an ongoing prospective study of 453 sons of alcoholics and controls, and presents new data from the 15-year follow-up. Method: Drinking, but not alcohol dependent, 20-year-old sons of alcoholics and controls were evaluated for their level of response (LR) to alcohol and were subsequently followed, through personal interviews, 10 years and 15 years later. Results: The 10-year follow-up of 450 (99.3%) men and provisional analyses from the first 127 subjects at 15 years revealed that a low LR at about age 20 predicted subsequent alcoholism, even after considering the original quantity and frequency of drinking and six additional domains of influence. Regarding the latter, behavioral undercontrol and work stress appear to interact with LR, with alcohol expectancies, coping mechanisms and aspects of the drinking in the environment also appearing to add to the model, while other aspects of life stress and the social support network do not. Conclusions: The prospectiv...
Detumbling and Partial Attitude Stabilization of a Rigid Spacecraft Under Actuator Failure

We consider the problem of attitude and angular velocity stabilization of a rigid spacecraft subject toa single actuator failure. Only two pairs of gas jet actuators are available to perform the control objectives.Various controllers have been proposed for this problem in the case that the spacecraft is axisymmetric aboutone of its axis. In this paper the spacecraft under consideration is a rigid body that is almost axisymmetricabout its body 3-axis. A small parameteregives a measure of the non-symmetry of the spacecraft about thisaxis. A control law is introduced for a special subsystem of the complete dynamical system under consideration.This control law can be used either alone for detumbling maneuvers of nearly symmetric spacecraft, or as partof a more general control strategy to stabilize the complete attitude of non-symmetric spacecraft. Numericalexamples demonstrate the success of the theoretical developments.
Identification of clinical factors predicting Pleurx® catheter removal in patients treated for malignant pleural effusion

Objective: The objective of the study was to review the clinical records of patients undergoing insertion of a Pleurx W catheter in the management of malignant pleural effusions. In particular, clinical parameters were analyzed for their influence on catheter removeability. Methods: Between January 1998 and July 2006, 263 patients underwent insertion of 295 Pleurx W catheters for malignant pleural effusion(s). Patients were allocated to one of four groups based upon the site of the primary tumor: group 1 (breast), group 2 (lung), group 3 (gynecologic), and group 4 (all others). A history of prior chest irradiation, cytologic analysis (positive or negative for malignant cells), and incidence of trapped lung were also studied to determine if, in addition to the primary site, these influenced the incidence of pleurodesis. Results: Overall, 58.6% of Pleurx W catheters were removed prior to death. The incidence of spontaneous symphysis and catheter removal in groups 1 (69.6%) and 3 (72.5%) was significantly higher than in groups 2 and 4 (p < 0.001). In addition, absence of a history of chest wall irradiation, cytologic positivity and a trapped lung all influenced catheter removeability to a significant degree (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Pleurx W catheters effectively relieve patients of dyspnea by evacuating the pleural space. Spontaneous pleural symphysisand catheter removal is more likely in patients with breast or gynecologic primary tumors, absence of chest wall irradiation, cytologic positivity, and complete re-expansion of the underlying lung. # 2007 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
A Chick Bone Model for Evaluating Radial Bone Growth 1. Effects of Vitamin D3 Deficiency

Abstract Vitamin D3 is essential for calcification and normal bone development in chicks. In its absence, calcification is reduced but the volume (and mass) of bone increases. In vitamin D3-deficient chicks, this study shows the major defect to be in bone resorption rather than formation. Bone formation measured serially by the apposition of periosteal matrix was normal, whereas bone resorption measured by dissolution at the endosteal surface was dramatically reduced. Bone cells, therefore, would appear to retain their capacity to synthesize a collagenous matrix in the absence of vitamin D3 but lose their capacity to resorb bone. Calcification and its putative dependence on bone resorption (and vitamin D) remain to be elucidated. The vitamin D3-deficient chick provides a convenient and easily quantifiable model in which the morphological and biochemical effects of vitamin D3 can be further studied.
Comparing attitudes about legal sanctions and teratogenic effects for cocaine, alcohol, tobacco and caffeine: A randomized, independent samples design

Establishing more sensible measures to treat cocaine-addicted mothers and their children is essential for improving U.S. drug policy. Favorable post-natal environments have moderated potential deleterious prenatal effects. However, since cocaine is an illicit substance having long been demonized, we hypothesized that attitudes toward prenatal cocaine exposure would be more negative than for licit substances, alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. Further, media portrayals about long-term outcomes were hypothesized to influence viewers' attitudes, measured immediately post-viewing. Reducing popular crack baby stigmas could influence future policy decisions by legislators. In Study 1, 336 participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 conditions describing hypothetical legal sanction scenarios for pregnant women using cocaine, alcohol, nicotine or caffeine. Participants rated legal sanctions against pregnant women who used one of these substances and risk potential for developing children. In Study 2, 139 participants were randomly assigned to positive, neutral and negative media conditions. Immediately post-viewing, participants rated prenatal cocaine-exposed or non-exposed teens for their academic performance and risk for problems at age18. Participants in Study 1 imposed significantly greater legal sanctions for cocaine, perceiving prenatal cocaine exposure as more harmful than alcohol, nicotine or caffeine. A one-way ANOVA for independent samples showed significant differences, beyond .0001. Post-hoc Sheffe test illustrated that cocaine was rated differently from other substances. In Study 2, a one-way ANOVA for independent samples was performed on difference scores for the positive, neutral or negative media conditions about prenatal cocaine exposure. Participants in the neutral and negative media conditions estimated significantly lower grade point averages and more problems for the teen with prenatal cocaine exposure than for the non-exposed teen beyond .0001 alpha level. The positive media program closed estimated grade point average differences and risks of later problems to a non-statistically significant margin, p >.05. Ratings for prenatal cocaine were more negative than comparable ratings for alcohol, nicotine or caffeine exposure. Stereotypes can be reduced, showing viewers that positive postnatal environments ameliorate potential teratogenic effects of cocaine. Reducing negative stereotypes for crack babies may be a requisite for substantive changes in current policy.
69. NPC2 facilitates bidirectional transfer of cholesterol between NPC1 and lipid bilayers, a potential step in cholesterol egress from lysosomes ☆

Egress of lipoprotein-derived cholesterol from lysosomes requirestwo lysosomal proteins, polytopic membrane-bound Niemann–PickC1 (NPC1) and soluble Niemann–Pick C2 (NPC2). The reason for thisdual requirement is unknown. Previously, we showed that the solu-ble luminal N-terminal domain (NTD) of NPC1 (amino acids 25–264)binds cholesterol. This NTD is designated NPC1(NTD). We and othersshowed that soluble NPC2 also binds cholesterol. Here, we establishan
Review of pimecrolimus cream 1 % for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis

Abstract Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a pruritic and inflammatory skin disease affecting at least 28 million people in the United States. During an AD flare, the skin becomes inflamed and intensely pruritic. A "major flare" is characterized by persistent or uncontrollable pruritus, intense erythema, extensive excoriation, and potential oozing and crusting. The overall goal of AD treatment is to minimize the frequency and severity of disease flares. Long-term management involves multiple treatment strategies, including identifying and eliminating triggers, routine moisturization, antipruritic therapy, and use of topical anti-inflammatory agents (topical corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors). Pimecrolimus cream 1% is a topical calcineurin inhibitor developed specifically for patients with AD. Objective: The aim of this review was to assess the current literature (clinical trials and postapproval studies) on the efficacy and safety of pimecrolimus cream 1% in the treatment of AD. Methods: A literature search was performed using the National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE), EMBASE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Current Contents, and SciSearch databases (1980–2006) with the search term pimecrolimus . Selected studies comprised randomized, vehicle-controlled trials of topical pimecrolimus cream 1%, focused on efficacy and safety, and complied with the pimecrolimus cream 1% indication (study participants were aged ≥2 years with mild to moderate AD). Results: When used in appropriately identified pediatric and adult patients with mild to moderate AD, pimecrolimus cream 1% improved the signs and symptoms of AD and delayed time to a major flare. The most commonly seen adverse events in clinical trials were application-site reactions (10.4%–14.5%) and nasopharyngitis (10.1%–28.9%), headache (13.9%–23.0%), cough (11.6%–19.3%), pyrexia (7.5%–15.4%), influenza (3.0%–14.6%), and bronchitis (0.4%–13.2%), which overall were not significantly different from patients treated with vehicle cream. Pimecrolimus cream 1% was not associated with skin atrophy (supporting its use on sensitive areas of the skin such as the face, neck, and skinfolds). In addition, a review of the literature identified no reports of cumulative irritation or photosensitivity potential, no substantial increases in the incidence of common bacterial and viral skin infections compared with vehicle cream (placebo), and no effects on the systemic immune system, including delayed-type hypersensitivity. Conclusion: Pimecrolimus cream 1% is a valuable treatment option for mild to moderate AD in adults and children aged ≥2 years.
Adaptive QoS routing based on prediction of local performance in ad hoc networks

We propose an adaptive QoS routing scheme based on the prediction of the local performance in ad hoc networks. It is implemented by a link performance prediction strategy. Integrated QoS performance in each local area is estimated based on translating the effects of the lower layer parameters into the link state information. Corresponding to the prediction approach, several mechanisms are built to complete the location information management process (i.e., information monitoring, collecting and updating functions). The node movement is characterized by the probabilities of the link state and the prediction of local QoS performance. The QoS routing proposed is adaptive to its node's mobility, and also scalable due to the distributed structure. Theoretical computation and simulation results are presented and discussed.
Peace Protest and Policy

The tremendous fluctuations in public mobilization against United States nuclear weapons policy, a relatively stable policy over four decades, present a difficult riddle to social scientists. Since the dawn of the nuclear age small groups of activists have consistently protested both the content of United States national security policy and the process by which it is made. Only occasionally, however, has this protest spread beyond a handful of relatively marginal groups, generated substantial public support, and reached mainstream political institutions. This article examines the political cycles of peace movement engagement and quiescence, and their relation to external political context, particularly public policy. I begin with a brief review of the relevant literature on the origins of the movements, noting parallels in the study of interest groups. Building on recent literature on political opportunity structure. I suggest a theoretical framework which emphasizes the interaction between activists choices and political context. I then describe the cycles of peace movement activism and quiescence on nuclear weapons issues in the United States using mass media sources to delineate periods of mobilization. I outline a number of policy variables which may help explain protest mobilization. My conclusions address the importance of policy and political context in explaining movement cycles and the potential influence of protest movements on policy.
Allogeneic islet transplantation

Significant progress has been made in the field of beta-cell replacement therapies by islet transplantation in patients with unstable Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Recent clinical trials have shown that islet transplantation can reproducibly lead to insulin independence when adequate islet numbers are implanted. Benefits include improvement of glycemic control, prevention of severe hypoglycemia and amelioration of quality of life. Numerous challenges still limit this therapeutic option from becoming the treatment of choice for T1DM. The limitations are primarily associated with the low islet yield of human pancreas isolations and the need for chronic immunosuppressive therapies. Herein the authors present an overview of the historical progress of islet transplantation and outline the recent advances of the field. Cellular therapies offer the potential for a cure for patients with T1DM. The progress in beta-cell replacement treatment by islet transplantation as well as those of emerging immune interventions for the restoration of self tolerance justify great optimism for years to come.
Total and Peak Energy Consumption Minimization of Building HVAC Systems Using Model Predictive Control

This article addresses the challenge of realizing the building automation and control system using a distributed network of embedded computers. A specification methodology and design space exploration framework are proposed to raise the level of abstraction at which building control systems are designed, to reduce design effort, and to lower implementation cost.
EPLIN regulates actin dynamics by cross-linking and stabilizing filaments

Epithelial protein lost in neoplasm (EPLIN) is a cytoskeleton-associated protein encoded by a gene that is down-regulated in transformed cells. EPLIN increases the number and size of actin stress fibers and inhibits membrane ruffling induced by Rac. EPLIN has at least two actin binding sites. Purified recombinant EPLIN inhibits actin filament depolymerization and cross-links filaments in bundles. EPLIN does not affect the kinetics of spontaneous actin polymerization or elongation at the barbed end, but inhibits branching nucleation of actin filaments by Arp2/3 complex. Side binding activity may stabilize filaments and account for the inhibition of nucleation mediated by Arp2/3 complex. We propose that EPLIN promotes the formation of stable actin filament structures such as stress fibers at the expense of more dynamic actin filament structures such as membrane ruffles. Reduced expression of EPLIN may contribute to the motility of invasive tumor cells.
Optical measurement of thermal deformation of multilayer optics under synchrotron radiation

An in situ optical technique to visualize surface distortions of the first monochromator crystal under synchrotron beam heat loading has been developed and applied to measure surface profiles of multilayer optics under white wiggler beam at the CHESS A2 beamline. Two identical multilayer structures deposited on Si and SiC substrates have been tested. Comparison of the reconstructed 3D heatbump profiles showed the surface distortions of the multilayer on SiC a factor of two smaller than the same multilayer on a Si substrate.
A review of the economic impact of counterfeiting and piracy methodologies and assessment of currently utilized estimates

Product counterfeiting is growing internationally in scope, scale, and threat. The economic impact is believed to be in hundreds of billions of dollars. There is growing awareness of the developed ...
Efficient coding by neuro-fuzzy clustering in vector quantization of wavelet decomposed signals

Multiresolution representation of wavelets in image decomposition and coding shows potential of developing an efficient image compression technique with minimum distortion when vector quantization (VQ) is used. This paper presents a multiresolution and adaptive approach to VQ codebook generation by employing a fuzzy distortion measure embedded in a self-organizing neural network ensuring fast convergence and minimum distortion. Multiresolution codebooks are generated for the wavelet decomposed images using neuro-fuzzy clustering algorithms resulting in significant improvement in the coding process. The signal transformation and vector quantization stages together yield at least, 64:1 bit rate reduction with good visual quality and acceptable peak signal to noise ratio and mean square error. The performance of this new VQ coding technique has been compared to that of the well-known Linde, Buzo, and Gray-VQ for a variety of image classes. In each case, the new VQ technique demonstrated superior ability for fast convergence with minimum distortion at similar bit rate reduction than the existing VQ techniques.
Essay Review of Geoffrey R. Stone, Perilous Times: Free Speech in Wartime from the Sedition Act of 1798 to the War on Terrorism

This essay reviews and comments upon Dean Stone’s historical review and analysis of the interplay between national security concerns and the First Amendment in the context of six episodes of the wartime regulation of freedom of speech.
Abstract 5510: Tamoxifen induces estrogen receptor-independent bioenergetic stress: A synthetic lethality approach to target tumor metabolism

Proceedings: AACR 106th Annual Meeting 2015; April 18-22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA Tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) is clinically used for adjuvant treatment of estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer. Recent data from our lab has shown that tamoxifen inhibits oxygen consumption at high, yet clinically relevant, doses. We hypothesize that this occurs through a non-ER dependent, direct effect on the mitochondria, and causes metabolic and signaling changes that can be exploited for therapeutic benefit. ER+, MCF7 breast cancer cells have a higher basal respiratory rate and lower glycolytic rate than ER, MDA231, cells. However, tamoxifen inhibited oxygen consumption to a similar degree in both cell lines Pharmacological inhibition of ERα expression or CRISPR-Cas9 mediated knock out of the ERα did not affect the ability of tamoxifen to decrease oxygen consumption. In response to tamoxifen inhibition of oxygen consumption, tumor cells increased dependence on glycolysis. Glucose deprivation or treatment with glycolytic inhibitors, 2-deoxy glucose (2DG) or 3-bromo-pyruvate significantly sensitized breast cancer cells to tamoxifen treatment. Tamoxifen combined with glucose deprivation or treatment with 2-DG led to robust activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Knockout of AMPKα1 in breast cancer cells ameliorated cytotoxicity. Based on these data we’ve also demonstrated clinical usefulness of tamoxifen in a non-breast cancer model. BRAF inhibitor resistant melanoma exhibits a higher rate of oxidative phosphorylation over to the BRAF inhibitor sensitive melanoma cells. Tamoxifen-induced inhibition of oxygen consumption increased cytotoxicity in the OxPhos-addicted, BRAF inhibitor-resistant, population compared to the BRAF inhibitor sensitive cells. Our results indicate a new and unanticipated mechanism of action for tamoxifen in ER+ and ER-breast cancers. Moreover, since this effect is not ER dependent, tamoxifen may have clinical use in a wider spectrum of cancers especially when combined with inhibitors of glycolysis. Citation Format: Natalie A. Daurio, Stephen Tuttle, Constantinos Koumenis. Tamoxifen induces estrogen receptor-independent bioenergetic stress: A synthetic lethality approach to target tumor metabolism. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 5510. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-5510
A Method of Predicting the Degree of Functional Correction of the Metatarsus Primus Varus with a Distal Lateral Displacement Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus

Metatarsus primus varus may be an important pathologic component in hallux valgus deformity. The correction of the pathologic intermetatarsal angle M1 M2 is essential for providing an acceptable alignment of the hallux. The distal lateral displacement osteotomy of the first metatarsal (Chevron or Mitchell) provides correction of the intermetatarsal angle M1 M2. The present paper describes a simple method of calculating preoperatively the maximum possible correction through such osteotomies. This method, based on the measurement of the length of the first metatarsal and the width at the osteotomy site, projects the amount of correction and, furthermore, provides the limits of angular correction through such osteotomies performed distally.
Microorganism detection in central air conditioning ventilation systems in hotels of Wenzhou

Objective:To investigate sanitary condition of the central air conditioning ventilation system in hotels of Wenzhou.To provide a basis for sanitary control,prevention and control of air pollution caused by bacteria as well as the spread of respiratorytract infection and popular.Methods: 20 units with central air conditioning ventilation system have been investigated through detection and evaluation of the following indexes: the content of the dust,total count of fungi and bacteria,β-hemolytic streptococcus on the surface of air duct,PM10,the total number of bacteria and fungi in wind sending outlet,Legionella pneumophila of condensed water and cooling water.Results: The qualified rate of PM10,total bacterial count and total fungi count were 40%(8/20),100%(20/20) and 95%(19/20),respectively.β-hemolytic Streptococcus were not detected.On the surface of airduc,the qualified rate of dust accumulation was 30%(6/20).The qualified rate of total bacterial count and total fungi count were 95% and 50%,respectively.The contamination rate of Legionella pneumophila in condensed water was 5%(1/20) while the contamination rate of Legionella pneumophila in cooling water reached to 45%(9/20).Conclusion: It has a certain degree of contamination in centralized air ventilation system in some hotels of Wenzhou,especially Legionella pneumophila contamination in cooling water.Effective measures should be strengthened,including disinfection and health supervision in centralized air-conditioning system.
Characteristics of Dry Matter Accumulation in Genetic Improvement of Rice Varieties in Jilin Province

The changes of dry matter production characteristics and its relationship with yield traits of fourteen rice varieties released from 1958 to 2004 were investigated.The results showed that yield,biomass and harvest indexes increased significantly with the increase of release year,by 66.9%,28.1% and 14.8% respectively during 47 years.Dry matter accumulation after heading increased significantly and was positively correlated with grain yield,and contribution of dry matter accumulation after heading to grain ranged from 58.3% to 99.0%.There was no significant correlation between dry matter accumulation after heading and yield,but contribution of remobilized pre-heading assimilation to grain ranged from 1.0% to 41.7%.Net biomass accumulation of single stem from tillering to heading was significantly positively correlated(r=0.656* *) with yield.Panicle weight increase rate and net assimilation rate 10 days after heading were significantly positively correlated with release years and yield.The results suggest that dry weight of single stem can act as a utility appreciation index,whether there is suitable population structure at early growth stage of rice or not,and improvement in yield should focus on increasing post-heading dry matter productivity in Jilin province.
Chemical diversity and pharmacological significance of the secondary metabolites of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.)

Nutmeg is a valued kitchen spice that has been used for centuries all over the world. In addition to its use in flavoring foods and beverages, nutmeg has been used in traditional remedies for stomach and kidney disorders. The antioxidant, antimicrobial and central nervous system effects of nutmeg have also been reported in literature. Nutmeg is a rich source of fixed and essential oil, triterpenes, and various types of phenolic compounds. Many of the secondary metabolites of nutmeg exhibit biological activities that may support its use in traditional medicine. This article provides an overview of the chemistry of secondary metabolites isolated from nutmeg kernel and mace including common methods for analysis of extracts and pure compounds as well as recent approaches towards total synthesis of some of the major constituents. A summary of the most significant pharmacological investigations of potential drug leads isolated from nutmeg and reported in the last decade is also included.
Sample Reduction Strategy for SVM Large-scale Training Data Set Using PSO

A PSO algorithm reduction strategy was proposed to a SVM large-scale training samples by updating the velocity and location of the particles,each particle was corresponding to the status of the training samples,the ideal status included the smallest number of sv,the new training sample has reduced some nsv which are not effect the SVM classification,so as to reduce the size of the training data sets.A practice of the remote session image classification has proved that the strategy not only has reduced samples,but also enhanced the efficiency of the large-scale data sets training.
Mean-Variance Spanning Tests: The Fiduciary Case in 401(k) Plans

We use regression-based tests for mean-variance spanning to justify a systematic implementation of efficient and prudent default fund selections in 401(k) plans. Though our approach ultimately rests on recommending two funds, it differs from the classical two-fund theorem, as the funds are not required to be efficient. In essence, our results illustrate the difference between, on one hand, theoretical mean-variance efficiency, and on the other, empirical mean-variance spanning. Furthermore, we address collinearity and the preponderance of numerical instability in regression-based testing for mean-variance spanning. Finally, we show that published statistical hypotheses for mean-variance testing of 401(k) plans are incorrectly specified.
Estrogen plus progestin increased risk for breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Source Citation Chlebowski RT, Hendrix SL, Langer RD, et al. Influence of estrogen plus progestin on breast cancer and mammography in healthy postmenopausal women: the Women’s Health Initiative Ran...
The impact of para-professional social workers and community health care workers in Côte d'Ivoire: contributions to the protection and social support of vulnerable children in a resource poor country

Background Research indicates a disproportionate impact of HIV and AIDS in sub-Saharan African countries, leading to many vulnerable families and children. Many of these communities have limited resources to support these vulnerable families, especially orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). Study aims and objective This study set out to investigate how para-professional social workers and community health workers (PSWCHW) impact the provision of services and the psychosocial wellbeing and protection of vulnerable children in the community. Methods This quasi-experimental research study used data from an independent Save the Children program evaluation study in Cote d'Ivoire. We compared the health and psychosocial wellbeing of identified vulnerable children supported by para-professionals (n = 334) and children not receiving para-professional support (n = 213). Findings Support services and activities provided by PSWCHW included encouraging the children to be part of psychosocial support groups. Many of the children reported legal issues that ranged from getting a birth certificate issued to fighting or quarrelling with adults, disputes, public insults, beatings, and refusing to go to school. We found that the engagement of PSWCHW helped three out of four children go to school (compared to only one in four of the children without PSWCHW). PSWCHW also helped the children improve access to health care services. Conclusions Communities in sub-Saharan Africa should continue to consider the integrated utilization of para-professional social workers and community health care workers to support and improve psychosocial wellbeing of orphaned and vulnerable children which, in turn, enhances child protection services and access to healthcare. Language: en
Measurement of the lifetime of the 2 3 P 2 state in heliumlike krypton using a two-foil target

The lifetime of the 2 $^{3}$${\mathit{P}}_{2}$ level in heliumlike krypton has been measured by an alternative method involving the use of a two-foil target. The experiment demonstrates the potential of this method which allows the standard beam-foil time-of-flight technique to be extended to shorter lifetimes. We measured a lifetime of 9.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.9 ps, which is in reasonable agreement with current theoretical calculations.
Postcesarean Section Pain Prevention and Relief

Summary In this young and healthy group of patients, exceptional changes have occurred to improve overall maternal and infant outcome. Yet there is still room to improve individual analgesia following cesarean section, improve the satisfaction with the child-bearing experience, and augment the resumption of normal activity. Many recent advances in pain management directly benefit the parturient during labor, during delivery, and after her cesarean section. For pain relief during labor, when compared with local anesthetic alone, patients receiving both local anesthetics and low-dose opiates report a more rapid onset of analgesia, more profound analgesia, longer duration of analgesia, and less motor blockade compared with traditional local anesthetic alone. During and following cesarean section, intraspinal opiates, both epidural and intrathecal, provide superior analgesia with tolerable side effects. PCA devices reliably produce sustained pain control with fewer bothersome side effects and are at least equally satisfactory to patients compared with epidural analgesia. In the future, intravenous PCA may deliver improved labor analgesia with insignificant fetal effects accompanied with improved maternal satisfaction. Epidural PCA may receive wider application in the future, both for labor and postoperative analgesia. New drugs are currently under development. Ongoing investigative efforts aim to anatomically target the action of the drug to specific opiate receptors when administered into the intrathecal and epidural space. The future strives to achieve an intraspinal drug with strong analgesic action without production of neonatal effects, maternal respiratory depression, somnolence, nausea, or tolerance.