cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using Genetic Markers as Individual Tags: a Case Study of a Mark–Recapture Estimate of Adult Muskellunge Population Size

AbstractTag retention, tag reporting rate, misreading of tags, and other issues are common concerns with traditional tagging methods when marking fish for various stock assessments. These concerns have prompted the development and evaluation of alternative marking techniques by fisheries scientists. Wildlife scientists have overcome these obstacles by using genetic samples in lieu of tagging when studying rare, elusive, and capture-sensitive species. Recent technological advances facilitate similar alternatives for fisheries stock assessment. Muskellunge Esox masquinongy populations exist at low density and are difficult to sample; the Muskellunge is therefore an appropriate species to use in assessing this tool. We used microsatellite DNA analysis of samples from two connected lakes in north-central Minnesota to estimate adult population size using mark–recapture techniques. In total, 178 unique fish were identified during a trap-net marking period; 59 individuals were identified within an electrofishing...
Parametric drive of a toroidal MEMS rate integrating gyroscope demonstrating < 20 PPM scale factor stability

In this paper, we report parametric drive of a MEMS rate integrating gyroscope for reduction of drifts induced by drive electronics. A Toroidal Ring Gyroscope (TRG) with 100k Q-factor at 1760 µm diameter was fabricated in epitaxial silicon encapsulation (EpiSeal) process. Device was operated in rate integrating mode using a FPGA based control system. In contrast to the conventional amplitude control architecture, the central star electrode of the gyroscope, connected to a single drive channel was utilized for amplitude control of both modes. Due to the parametric pumping effect, energy added to each (x and y) mode is proportional to the existing amplitude of the respective mode. As a result, errors associated with finding the orientation of the standing wave and x-y drive gain drift are bypassed. Compared to conventional x-y drive architecture, as high as 14× improvement in scale factor stability was observed with parametric pumping, resulting in better than 20 ppm scale factor stability without any compensation or temperature stabilization.
Factors influencing arthrodesis rates in a rabbit posterolateral spine model with iliac crest autograft

Purpose The rabbit posterolateral intertransverse spine arthrodesis model has been widely used to evaluate spinal biologics. However, to date, the validity and reproducibility of performance of iliac crest bone graft, the most common and critical control group, has not been firmly established. We evaluated original research publications that utilized this model, identified which experimental conditions affected fusion rates, and developed an algorithm to predict fusion rates for future study designs.
Optimized FPGA based implementation of particle filter for tracking applications

Particle filter has been proven to be a very effective method for identifying targets in non-linear and non-Gaussian environment. However, particle filter is computationally intensive. So, particle filter has been implemented on FPGA by exploiting parallel and pipelining approaches to reduce the computational burden. Our optimized FPGA implementation improves up to twelve times speed up. Also more speed ups are achieved with increasing number of particles.
Raman spectroscopy, vibrational analysis, and heating of buergerite tourmaline

Polarized Raman spectra were collected for single crystal buergerite (NaFe3Al6(BO3)3Si6O18(O0.92(OH)0.08)3F) from room temperature to near 1,375°C. Vibrational assignments to features in the room temperature spectra were determined by lattice dynamics calculations, where internal BO3 motions dominate modes near 1,300 cm−1, internal SiO4 displacements dominate modes between 900 and 1,200 cm−1, while less localized displacements within the isolated Si6O18 ring mix with motions within Na, Fe, Al, F, and BO3 environments for fundamental modes below 780 cm−1. At elevated temperatures, most buergerite Raman features broaden and shift to lower frequencies up to 900°C. Above this temperature, the lattice mode peaks evolve into broad bands, while OH stretch modes near 3,550 cm−1 disappear. According to Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential thermal analysis, and scanning electron microscopy, buergerite undergoes a complex transition that starts near 700°C and extends over a 310°C interval, where initially, Al and Fe probably become disordered within the Y- and Z-sites, and most F and all OH are later liberated. A reversible crystal-to-amorphous transition is seen by Raman for buergerite fragments heated as high as 930°C. Buergerite becomes permanently altered when heated to temperatures greater than 930°C; after cooling to room temperature, these altered fragments are comprised of mullite and Fe-oxide crystals suspended in an amorphous borosilicate matrix.
Oddity learning in rats reinforced with brain stimulation

In massive training sessions using intracranial reinforcement, four rats reached 70–80% correct in three-position simple oddity learning. Results suggest that Ss learned specific configurations rather than an oddity principle.
Stress-induced susceptibility to bacterial infection during cutaneous wound healing.

Psychological stress delays wound healing and decreases immune/inflammatory responses required for bacterial clearance. To determine if stress increases the susceptibility to wound infection, female SKH-1 mice were subjected to restraint stress (RST) beginning 3 days prior to the placement of cutaneous wounds. Viable bacteria were quantified from harvested wounds. RST delayed healing by 30% and caused a 2- to 5-log increase in opportunistic bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) when compared to wounds from control animals (p <.05). By day 7, 85.4% of the wounds from RST mice had bacterial counts predictive of infection compared to 27.4% from control mice (p <.001). To assess the role of RST-induced glucocorticoids in bacterial clearance, mice were treated with the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist RU486. RU486 reduced opportunistic bacteria by nearly 1 log in wounds from RST mice (p <.05). Thus, stress impairs bacterial clearance during wound healing, resulting in a significant increase in the incidence of opportunistic infection.
The safety of carotid endarterectomy in patients with preoperative renal dysfunction

Recent published data suggest that performing carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in patients with renal dysfunction is associated with a prohibitively high perioperative stroke and death rate. On the basis of our experience, we hypothesized that CEA is a safe procedure in patients with renal insufficiency. A retrospective review of one surgeon's CEA experience from 1988 to 1998 was performed. A total of 398 procedures performed on 370 patients were reviewed for patient demographics and adverse events in the 30–day perioperative period. Risk factors, indications for procedure, and degree of stenosis, as well as intraoperative use of shunts, patch angioplasty, drains, completion angiography, and EEG monitoring were compared. Patients were categorized by preoperative creatinine (Cr) levels as normal (Cr 1.5). All data were subjected to statistical analysis. Our results showed that CEA can be performed safely in patients with renal dysfunction with no increase in perioperative stroke or death rate. Performing CEA in patients with renal insufficiency does require preoperative cardiac evaluation and close cardiac monitoring, as there appears to be an increased rate of myocardial infarction in our series.
CELL FORM AND SURFACE PATTERNS IN CHROOMONAS and CRYPTOMONAS CELLS (CRYPTOPHYTA) AS REVEALED BY SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY

Fifteen freshwater cryptomonad species were freeze-dried and examined with the scanning electron microscope. Surveys of cell surfaces revealed four general cell types. Chroomonas type cells lack a furrow but possess a shallow vestibular depression where the flagella are inserted. The presence of a gullet could not be detected. Cryptomonas spp. displayed three morphological types, all lacking gullets. The first type of Cryptomonas has a simple, shallow furrow with ridges that apparently can close to form a raphe but an oval opening or stoma remains at the posterior end and an opening from the vestibulum is formed at the anterior end. The second Cryptomonas type consists of a complex furrow with furrow ridges and folds that extend almost two-thirds of the cell length. A sloma is present in the central region of the closed furrow. The folds apparently can separate thereby exposing the underlying furrow. The third type of Cryptomonas possesses a simple, non-closing furrow. At the anterior end there is a vestibular ligule which extends from the dorsalleft side of the cell and covers the region of the vestibulum where the contractile vacuole discharges.
Team segmentation at the Big Ten Wrestling Championships

Purpose – The purpose of the research is to identify strategies to maximize fan attendance at the Big Ten Wrestling Championships through the creation of segmented markets based on consumers' team affiliation.Design/methodology/approach – The research utilized a survey methodology to examine the motives for attendance at the Big Ten Wrestling Championships. The surveys were distributed at each of the three sessions in order to obtain a representative sample (n=140).Findings – The results of the study demonstrated that fans responded most favorably to sport‐related motives. Additionally, the data also revealed that fans had varying motives for attendance based on their team affiliation.Research limitations/implications – The ability to segment markets based on team affiliation allows sport managers to create effective promotional strategies to maximize attendance at future conference tournaments.Originality/value – The results allow the Big Ten Conference to create positive team relationships with media ou...
A Voltammetric Investigation of Ethylamine Oxidation at Ag, Au and Au80Ag20 Electrodes in Alkaline Media

A voltammetric comparison is presented for the anodic response of ethylamine at Ag, Au and Au80Ag20 rotated disk electrodes (RDEs) in carbonate buffer (pH 11.2). This study is part of a systematic search for unique anodic response mechanisms at binary alloy electrodes that are not existent at electrodes made from the pure component metals. The primary anodic response for ethylamine at the Au RDE corresponds to oxidative desorption of reactant concomitantly with formation of surface oxide (AuO) during the positive potential scan. For the Ag RDE, ethylamine enhances the anodic wave corresponding to formation of surface oxide (Ag2O) during the positive scan; however, the majority of this current enhancement is attributed to chemical stripping of Ag2O by the amine with formation of additional surface oxide. Evidence for this anodic stripping mechanism includes rapid roughening of the electrode surface. The response for ethylamine obtained at the Au80Ag20 RDE is concluded to correspond to the superposition of the response characteristic of Au electrodes with a response at the Ag sites that is dramatically different from the response observed at the pure Ag RDE. Data obtained by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicate that the surface composition of the Au80Ag20 electrode does not change as a result of exposure to ethylamine. Therefore, it is apparent that the Au matrix stabilizes the Ag atoms thereby preventing their dissolution from the Au80Ag20 electrode. The voltammetric response for ethylamine at the Ag sites observed during the positive scan is independent of rotational velocity; however, for the negative scan, an inverse Levich behavior is observed. Consideration is given to possible mechanisms to explain the ethylamine response at the Ag sites in the alloy electrode.
Concentration-Dependent Electron Spin Resonance

A number of workers have studied the decrease of the intensity of a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) line as one adds impurities to the specimen. Usually the intensity of the line is $\ensuremath{\propto}{(1\ensuremath{-}c)}^{n}$, where $c=\mathrm{the}\mathrm{concentration}\mathrm{of}\mathrm{the}\mathrm{impurities}$ and $n$ is the so-called wipe-out number, i.e., if the impurity is within a sphere containing $n$ neighboring positions its effect is large enough so as to cause a nuclear quadrupole splitting of the host nuclei so that they no longer contribute to the NMR line. Experimentally one can determine $n$. The extension of this type of experiment into the domain of electron spin resonance (ESR), in a very simple way, is described. Also, the wipe-out number for ${\mathrm{Mn}}^{2+}$ in two systems, $({\mathrm{Zn}}_{1\ensuremath{-}c}+{\mathrm{Cd}}_{c})\mathrm{S}$ and $\mathrm{Zn}({\mathrm{S}}_{1\ensuremath{-}c}+{\mathrm{Se}}_{c})$, is measured. One finds $n=157 \mathrm{and} 270$, respectively.
Geophysical evidence of a late Pleistocene glaciation and paleo-ice stream on the Atlantic Continental Shelf offshore Massachusetts, USA

Abstract Interpretations of seismic reflection data collected offshore Massachusetts, USA, reveal the first conclusive geophysical evidence of a pre-Wisconsinan glaciation that extended beyond the limits of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) in the region. The data image numerous glacial geomorphic features that define the extent of a paleo-ice stream, including: (1) a regionally distributed erosion surface that forms a 50 km wide trough, with steeply eroded sidewalls (4°–18°) and nearly 100 m in relief at the margins; (2) a network of sub-ice sheet meltwater channels; and (3) a transparent, glacigenic seismic unit. The orientation of the paleo-ice stream trough indicates that the ice stream flowed to the south-southwest, toward the shelf break. This suggests that the ice stream formed further to the north, where it appears that Georges Bank (southeast of the Gulf of Maine, USA) redirected ice flow. Limited well data constrain the glacial erosion event (up to 300 m below sea-level) to occur within the Pleistocene. The glacial event represents a time of larger ice volume on the northern Atlantic continental shelf, as compared to the LGM; thus, we suggest that the event corresponds to marine oxygen isotope stage 12 (late Pleistocene) when the first major Pleistocene shelf-crossing glaciation began offshore southeastern Canada. These geophysical constraints on a late Pleistocene glaciation offshore Massachusetts have important implications for: (1) models of the Laurentide Ice Sheet, as the geomorphic evidence of pre-LGM ice streams are difficult to characterize yet account for most of the ice sheet's mass flux; and (2) the pore water salinity pattern offshore New England, as sedimentary basins near an ice sheet margin often contain large volumes of glacially emplaced freshwater.
Shock tube measurements of methane, ethylene and carbon monoxide time-histories in DME pyrolysis

Abstract High temperature dimethyl ether (DME) pyrolysis was studied behind reflected shock waves by measuring time-histories of CO, CH4 and C2H4 in mixtures of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% DME in argon respectively. Experiments were conducted at temperatures of 1300–1600 K and pressures near 1.5 atm. A direct absorption strategy with a fixed wavelength (2193.359 cm−1) using a quantum cascade laser (QCL) was used to measure CO concentration time histories. A mid-IR scanned-wavelength laser absorption diagnostic with a difference frequency generation (DFG) laser near 3.43 μm was used to measure CH4 concentration time histories. C2H4 was measured using a two-wavelength absorption scheme at 10.532 μm and 10.675 μm with a CO2 laser. The mechanism of Curran et al. with a constant volume gasdynamic model was used to calculate temperature and pressure profiles and to infer the mole fractions of CO, CH4 and C2H4. The concentration time-histories of CO, CH4 and C2H4 were all found to be strongly sensitive to the DME decomposition rate k1 (CH3OCH3 (+M) → CH3 + CH3O (+M)), which was recently measured by Cook et al. at conditions similar to the current work. This measured k1 value was incorporated into two major DME decomposition mechanisms of Curran et al. and Zhao et al. The modified Curran et al. mechanism was found to predict the time histories of CH4 and C2H4 significantly better than the modified Zhao et al. mechanism.
Anterior callosal section is useful for the removal of large tumors invading the dorsal part of the anterior third ventricle: operative technique and results

Large tumors invading the dorsal part of the anterior third ventricle are difficult to manage. The anterior transcallosal approach is usually used to manage these tumors. In our clinic, anterior callosal section was combined with the anterior interhemispheric (AIH) translamina terminalis approach for these tumors with excellent results. The AIH approach is useful for removing tumors in and around the anterior part of the third ventricle. However, AIH alone is insufficient for large tumors invading the dorsal part of the anterior third ventricle. In such situations, simple anterior callosal section enables the neurosurgeon to extirpate the caudal part of the tumors deeply hidden from operative field, sparing the foramen of Monro, fornix, etc. We treated four large tumors (malignant teratoma, recurrent chordoid glioma, recurrent papillary tumor of pineal region occupying the third ventricle, and paraventricular meningioma) without major complications. The malignant teratoma case exhibited no recurrence with >10 years follow-up. The chordoid glioma and papillary tumor of pineal region were totally removed. The meningioma was subtotally removed except only a small tumor around the bilateral anterior cerebral artery. This simple technique is a new way to manage difficult large lesions in and around the third ventricle.
Quantitative thermal desorption spectrometry of ionically implanted inert gases—I. Fundamental aspects

Quantitative thermal desorption spectrometry can be carried out if the doses are below limits to avoid (7) the creation of surface disorder, (2) the interaction of gas atoms during the desorption cycle, (3) the retrapping of helium during the desorption cycle, and (4) the multiple occupation of traps by helium. These limits are quantified, and it is shown that in general small amounts of gas have to be detected. The accuracy with which the energy E and frequency factor v can be extracted from a measured 1st order desorption peak is ultimately limited by shot noise in the mass spectrometer. This noise is quantified for both the static and dynamic modes of operation. For the dynamic case, the noise is minimized if Δt/τ≈√2 with Δt the sample time and τ the vacuum time constant.In both modes, the error in the derived value of E has the form ΔE/E = C/N o⋅ L/S 1/2 ⋅ (1 + β#x0002F;2β c ) 1/2 with V o the total number of particles in the peak, L the background leak rate, S the (new concept of) system sensitivity and β c dependent on background pressure, peak temperature, L and N o . For the dynamic mode, C is much smaller (10 to 67 times) than for the static mode. The error in E thus decreases monotonically with β and reaches a plateau value for β ≪ β c . Some examples are given showing that accuracies of ∼1% can be obtained for peaks with N o ∼ 10 8 particles for practically achievable values of L and S .
Degradation of performance due to sleep deprivation: a field test

During a 72 h field test, two groups of elite, “ranger type” soldiers were evaluted five times (during the first 8 h, after 30 h of continuous field duty, after a rest period, after 30 more h of continuous field duty, and after a second rest). One group (7 soldiers) received two rests of 3 h each. The second group (6 soldiers) received two rests of 6 h each. Five military tasks (map reading, decoding messages, vehicle/aircraft recognition, assembly and disassembly of the M-16 rifle, and preparation of an AN/PRC radio for operation) were used. These tasks were considered by the commander to be representative of duties that the soldiers would do and were considered to be completely familiar to the soldiers. In addition, a peg into pegboard task and a subjective evaluation of fatigue questionnaire were given.There was no significant effect of time or difference between the two groups. The soldiers completed these tasks of short duration (less than 3 min) without decreasing performance—even after extended per...
Finite-Cloud Effects in Longwave Radiative Transfer

Abstract As numerical weather and climate prediction models demand more accurate treatment of clouds, the role of finite-cloud effects in longwave radiative transfer clearly warrants further study. In this research, finite-cloud effects are defined as the influence of cloud shape, size, and spatial arrangement on longwave radiative transfer. To show the magnitude of these effects, radiometer data collected in 1992 during the Atlantic Stratocumulus Transition Experiment (ASTEX) were analyzed. The ASTEX data showed that radiative transfer calculations that ignored the vertical dimensions of the clouds underestimated the longwave cloud radiative surface forcing by 30%, on average. To study further these finite-cloud effects, a three-dimensional 11-µm radiative transfer model was developed. Results from this model, which neglected scattering, agreed with the measurements taken during ASTEX on 14 June 1992. This model was also used to reiterate that, for optically thick clouds, knowledge of cloud macrophysical...
Early male partnership patterns, social support, and sexual risk behavior among young men who have sex with men

Few data exist on the early sexual behavior patterns of contemporary young men who have sex with men (YMSM), the social context of these patterns, and which of these factors influence risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). We enrolled 94 YMSM (age 16–30) into a 1-year cohort study with serial online retrospective surveys and HIV/STI testing. The first three partnerships of YMSM were characterized by relatively high rates of unprotected anal sex and a rapidly expanding sexual repertoire, but also increasing rates of HIV status disclosure. During follow-up, 17 % of YMSM reported any nonconcordant unprotected anal intercourse (NCUAI) and 15 % were newly diagnosed with HIV/STI. Sex education in high school and current maternal support were protective against HIV/STI, while isolation from family and friends was associated with recent NCUAI. Social support—including from parents, peers, and school-based sex education—may help mitigate HIV/STI risk in this population.
Thermal performance and reliability characterization of bonded interface materials (BIMs)

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are an important enabler for low thermal resistance and reliable electronics packaging for a wide array of applications. There is a trend towards bonded interface materials (BIMs) because of their potential for low thermal resistance (<;1 mm 2 -K/W). However, due to coefficient of thermal expansion mismatches between various layers of a package, thermomechanical stresses are induced in BIMs and the package can be prone to failures and integrity risks. Deteriorated interfaces can result in high thermal resistance in the package and degradation and/or failure of the electronics. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) Thermal Management Technologies (TMT) Program has addressed this challenge, supporting the development of mechanically compliant, low resistivity nano-thermal interface (NTI) materials. Prior development of these materials resulted in samples that met DARPA's initial thermal performance and synthesis metrics. In this present work, we describe the testing procedure and report the results of thermal performance and reliability characterization of an initial sample set of three different NTI-BIMs tested at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Kinetics of long-wavelength infrared stimulation of donor-acceptor pair luminescence in ZnS

This paper describes some experimental kinetic and spectroscopic studies in ZnS of photoluminescence stimulated by 8.8 and 10.6-\ensuremath{\mu}m infrared radiation. The results of a theoretical model of the stimulation process are also presented. The model is based on the donor-acceptor pair-luminescence theory and the assumption that the infrared radiation induces donor-level-to-conduction-band transitions. The model results are in good qualitative agreement, and fair quantitative agreement with the experimental observations.
A quantitative study of spermatogonial population in organ culture of human testis

Zusammenfassung Quantitative Studie der Spermatogonien-Population in einer Organkultur des menschlichen Hodens Es wurde an menschlichem Hodengewebe eine quantitative Analyse der dunklen Spermatogonien (Typ Ad) und der hellen (Typ Ap) vorgenommen, nachdem das Hodengewebe in Organkultur fur unterschiedliche Zeitperioden erhalten worden war. Mit Verlangerung der Kulturperiode zeigte das Verhaltnis Ap:Ad eine progressive Veranderung zugunsten der Ap-Spermatogonien. Die Quantifizierung der Spermatogonien pro einheitliche Lange (100 μ) des Perimeters der Tubuli seminiferi und Untersuchung des Verhaltnisses von Spermatogonien zu Sertolizellen zeigten eine Abnahme der Zahl an Ad-Spermatogonien, wohingegen Ap-Spermatogonien und Sertoli-Zellen wahrend einer 7-Wochen-Kulturperiode unverandert blieben. Kulturen, die 3 Stunden lang H3-Thymidin ausgesetzt wurden, zeigten Markierung einiger Ap-Spermatogonien uber die gesamte Periode von 7 Wochen. Die Ad-Spermatogonien wurden unter diesen Bedingungen nicht markiert. Dies legt die Uberlegung nahe, das die Ad-Spermatogonien moglicherweise nicht die Stammzellen sind, aus denen die Ap-Spermatogonien entstehen. Resumen Estudio cuantitativo de la poblacion espermatogonica en cultivo organico de testiculo humano Se realiza un analisis cuantitativo de espermatogonias tipo oscuro A (Ad) y palido (Ap), en tejido testicular humano, despues de mantener el tejido en cultivo organico durante un cierto tiempo. Con periodos de cultivo crecientes, la relacion Ap:Ad demostro un cambio progresivo en favor de la espermatogonia Ap. La cuantificacion de las espermatogonias por unidad de longitud (100 μ) del perimetro tubular seminifero y examen de la relacion de espermatogonias con celulas de Sertoli (relacion de celulas de Sertoli SCR), mostro un descenso en el numero de espermatogonias Ad, mientras que tanto las espermatogonias Ap como las celulas de Sertoli permanecian inalteradas durante un periodo de cultivo de 7 semanas. Los cultivos expuestos a estimulos de 3 horas de H3-thymidina, mostraron el marcado de algunas espermatogonias Ap, a lo largo del periodo de cultivo de 7 semanas. Las espermatogonias Ad no fueron marcadas bajo estas condiciones. Ello nos sugiere que las espermatogonias Ad pueden no ser las celulas madre germinales que dan paso a espermatogonias Ap.
Quantitative Assessment of Single Molecule Motility In Vivo

In vitro single molecule motility assays allow for the direct characterization of molecular motor properties including stepping velocity and characteristic run length. While application of these techniques in vivo is feasible, the challenges involved in sample preparation as well as the added complexity of the cell and its systems result in reduced ability to collect large datasets, as well as difficulty in simultaneous observation of the components of the motility system, namely motor and track. To address these challenges, we have developed simulations to characterize motility datasets in order to understand data behavior and the effects of undersampling. We introduce the use of a simple bootstrapping technique that allows for the quantification of measurement uncertainty and a Monte Carlo permutation resampling scheme for the measurement of statistical significance and the estimation of required sample size. In addition, we have modeled motility collected in the absence of simultaneous track observation and developed a theoretical framework for the determination of characteristic run length in systems where motility and track length must be characterized sequentially, which shows good agreement with in vitro motility experiments on two kinesin constructs walking on microtubules stabilized by either paclitaxel or the GTP analog GMPCPP.
ADJUNCTIVE THERAPY FOR MEN WITH HIGH RISK LOCALIZED AND LOCALLY ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER: TARGETING DISSEMINATED TUMOR CELLS

ABSTRACTPurpose: Our research into the pathophysiology of micrometastatic dissemination and cancer recurrence has resulted in the initiation of a clinical trial for men with clinically localized and locally advanced disease.Materials and Methods: We describe the development of this trial, which exploits anti-angiogenesis therapy, and delineate how our understanding of prostate cancer metastasis influenced its design.Results: Prostate cancer is a heterogeneous disease. Although many men can be cured with local therapy, a large majority with clinically localized disease will experience a relapse usually at a distant site. This result is most likely due to micrometastatic dissemination early in the disease process. Therefore, successful contemporary treatment of many men with prostate cancer should include a combination of local and systemic therapies. Fortunately, cellular, molecular and genetic features that may predict which men are most in need of this therapeutic approach are being identified and charac...
How should parents be informed about major procedures? An exploratory trial in the neonatal period

The current doctrine of informed consent in medical practice may require the provision of more information than is understandable or desired by some parents. We conducted an exploratory trial comparing: (1) detailed risk/benefit disclosure provided both verbally and in writing and (2) flexible disclosure consisting of a brief verbal description supplemented with detailed verbal and written disclosure if desired by the mother. Information about mechanical ventilation was presented to 26 mothers of newborns at risk for respiratory failure. Of the 13 mothers in the flexible disclosure group, seven (54%) desired only brief verbal disclosure. Despite poor recall of information, most mothers were satisfied with the information provided. There was no evidence that the detailed disclosure group had greater maternal satisfaction or less maternal anxiety. Flexible disclosure as evaluated in this study had no important disadvantages relative to detailed disclosure. Methods of providing information to better meet the wants and needs of parents deserve further study.
Distribution and Environmental Persistence of the Causative Agent of White-Nose Syndrome, Geomyces Destructans, in Bat Hibernacula of the Eastern United States

ABSTRACT White-nose syndrome (WNS) is an emerging disease of hibernating bats caused by the recently described fungus Geomyces destructans. First isolated in 2008, the origins of this fungus in North America and its ability to persist in the environment remain undefined. To investigate the correlation between manifestation of WNS and distribution of G. destructans in the United States, we analyzed sediment samples collected from 55 bat hibernacula (caves and mines) both within and outside the known range of WNS using a newly developed real-time PCR assay. Geomyces destructans was detected in 17 of 21 sites within the known range of WNS at the time when the samples were collected; the fungus was not found in 28 sites beyond the known range of the disease at the time when environmental samples were collected. These data indicate that the distribution of G. destructans is correlated with disease in hibernating bats and support the hypothesis that the fungus is likely an exotic species in North America. Additionally, we examined whether G. destructans persists in infested bat hibernacula when bats are absent. Sediment samples were collected from 14 WNS-positive hibernacula, and the samples were screened for viable fungus by using a culture technique. Viable G. destructans was cultivated from 7 of the 14 sites sampled during late summer, when bats were no longer in hibernation, suggesting that the fungus can persist in the environment in the absence of bat hosts for long periods of time.
Apolipoprotein A-I and A-II Kinetic Parameters as Assessed by Endogenous Labeling With [2H3]Leucine in Middle-Aged and Elderly Men and Women

Abstract—The purpose of our study was to investigate high density lipoprotein (HDL) apolipoprotein (apo) A-I and apoA-II kinetics in a state of constant feeding after a primed-constant infusion of [5,5,5-2H3]l-leucine in 32 normolipidemic older men and postmenopausal women (aged 41 to 79 years). ApoA-I and apoA-II were isolated from plasma HDL, and enrichment was determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The fractional secretion rate was obtained by using a monoexponential equation calculated with the SAAM II program (Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle). Mean HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) and total triglyceride levels were 23% higher and 27% lower, respectively, in women than in men. Mean plasma apoA-I levels were 10% greater in women than in men, whereas mean apoA-II levels were similar. HDL size, estimated by gradient-sizing gels and by the HDL-C/apoA-I+apoA-II ratio, was significantly higher in women than in men. Mean apoA-I secretion rates (SRs) were similar in men and...
Effect of fly ash replacement level on the fracture behavior of concrete

The production of portland cement-the key ingredient in concrete-generates a significant amount of carbon dioxide. However, due to its incredible versatility, availability, and relatively low cost, concrete is the most consumed manmade material on the planet. One method of reducing concrete’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is the use of fly ash to replace a significant amount of the cement. This study presents the results of an experimental investigation that evaluates effect of fly ash replacement level on the fracture energy of concrete. This study includes four mixes with 0%, 30%, 50%, and 70% fly ash as a cement replacement. This experimental program consisted of 32 fracture beams to study the fracture behavior of concrete. The experimental fracture energies were compared with the fracture energy provisions of different design codes and also different analytical equations. Furthermore, statistical data analyses (parametric and non-parametric) were performed to evaluate whether or not there is any statistically significant difference between the experimental fracture energies of different mixes. Results of these statistical tests show that the mix with higher level of fly ash replacement level has higher fracture energy.
Motor proteins: Myosin V – the multi-purpose transport motor

Studies in yeast and mice suggest that myosin V participates in the directed transport of a number of distinct cargos to polarized regions of the cell; myosin V has also been implicated in the provision of materials for filopodial extension in neurons.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of atenolol in children

The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of intravenous atenolol were studied in 10 children during cardiac electrophysiologic studies. The intravenous pharmacokinetic data were best described by a two-compartment model and revealed the following (mean +/- SD): total body clearance, 0.15 +/- 0.06 L/hr/kg; volume of the central compartment 0.33 +/- 0.06 L/kg; volume of distribution at steady state, 0.83 +/- 0.15 L/kg; distributive elimination half-life, 0.29 +/- 0.08 hour; and terminal elimination half-life, 4.56 +/- 1.05 hours. The data suggest that children have a slightly shorter terminal elimination half-life than that of adults. Pharmacodynamic data showed a significantly (p less than 0.01) increased sinus cycle length and an increase in His to ventricle conduction time (p less than 0.05). Further studies are necessary to determine the optimal oral dose and dosing frequency of atenolol and to access the response of children to long-term treatment.
Limiting diameter of pancake ice

[1] Two mechanisms have been hypothesized to limit the diameter of pancake ice, one due to bending failure and the other due to tensile failure. We conducted two series of laboratory experiments to monitor pancake ice growth from an open water condition in indoor wave tanks. One used urea doped water and the other used salt water with concentration similar to ocean conditions. The final size of the pancakes and the wave conditions are reported here. The laboratory data suggest that in the growth stage, pancake ice floe diameter is limited by tensile failure, in contrast to the bending failure control of floe diameter in ice breakup by waves. The final diameter of the pancake floes is proportional to the wavelength. The proportionality is controlled by wave amplitude and freezing conditions. For wave amplitude A, the proportionality obtained from data agrees closely with the tensile failure theoretical prediction of 1/A0.5.
On the computational significance of the strain space formulation of plasticity theory

The strain space and traditional stress space formulations of plasticity theory are compared. We show how plasticity theory has been implemented numerically to solve static and dynamic problems, and conclude that the numerical loading criteria that have been used for two decades are identical to the strain space loading criteria proposed by Naghdi and co-workers.
Pathologic stage T2a and T2b prostate cancer in the recent prostate-specific antigen era: implications for unilateral ablative therapy.

BACKGROUND Early detection of small volume prostate cancer (PCa) has led to the concept of focal therapy to treat in an organ-sparing manner. We evaluated trends in pathologic staging among patients with localized PCa undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP), defining the frequency of unilateral cancers during 1988–1995, 1996–2000 and 2001–2006. METHODS Data were abstracted from the Duke Prostate Cancer Outcome database selecting 3,676 men with available pathology treated with RP. Based on surgical pathology, trends in as pathological T (pT) stage, pathological Gleason Score (pGS), and percent tumor involvement (PTI) were evaluated. RESULTS pT2a increased from 2.8% of men undergoing RP in 1988–1995 to 13.0% during 2001–2006 (P < 0.0005). PTI analysis shifted towards low volume disease, e.g. PTI ≤ 5% increased from 10% during 1988–1995, to 37% in 2001–2006 (P < 0.005). Of all pT2a disease throughout 1988–2006, an increase in proportion of pT2a tumors from 10% during 1988–1995 to 69.4% during 2001–2006 was identified. Over three eras, pT2a had minimal (65% had PTI ≤ 5%) or small volume (14% had PTI 5.01–10.00) disease, and 59% were low grade (pGS ≤ 6). Using a Cox Hazard model, pT2a versus pT2b disease, surgical margins, PTI, and PSA statistically contributed to PSA disease-free survival in the contemporary era 2001–2006. CONCLUSIONS The increasing prevalence of unilateral pT2a/T2b PCa characterizes a growing proportion of men recently electing RP. These tumors are associated with lower PTI, pGS ≤ 7, and demonstrated better PSA-free survival in the 2001–2006 era. These low risk pathologic characteristics may allow for unilateral focal therapy in carefully selected patients. Prostate 68: 1380–1386, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Effect of Two‐Dimensional Pressure on the Permittivity of Fine‐ and Coarse‐Grained Barium Titanate

The effect two-dimensional pressure on the permittivity of fine- and coarse-grained ceramic BaTiO3 was investigated. It was shown that, unlike coarse-grained (10° or above) barium titanate, the permittivity of the fine-grained (1μ mean) material increased with the increase in two-dimensional compression perpendicular to the electrode, whereas for an intermediate grain size, the permittivity was almost independent of pressure. The apparent anomalous effect of the fine grain size on the pressure coefficient of permittivity was explained satisfactorily on the basis of an internal stress model using a modified Devon-shire thermodynamic treatment.
Interactive information services using World-Wide Web hypertext

Most World-Wide Web information servers provide simple browsing access to collections of static text or hypertext files. This paper describes some interactive World-Wide Web servers that produce information displays and documents dynamically rather than just providing access to static files. The PARC Map Viewer uses a geographic database to create and display maps of any part of the world on demand. The Digital Tradition folk music server provides access to a large database of song lyrics and melodies. These applications take advantage of the multimedia capabilities of World-Wide Web to deliver graphical and audio content as well as formatted text. Hypertext links are used not only for navigation, but also for setting search and presentation parameters. In these applications the HTML format and the HTTP protocol are used like a user interface tool kit to provide not only document retrieval but a complete custom user interface specialized for the application.
Access to, and Protection of, Children

Ever since history has been recorded, the issue of who gets access to the baby has captivated the interest of the courts. In King Solomon’s day the custody battle was between two women who claimed to be the child’s mother. Solomon gave the child to the mother who was most willing to give him up to the other woman in order that he might live. Today, it is more likely to be a battle between divorcing parents who claim ownership of the child. Rarely is a judge as courageous as was King Solomon, preferring instead to split the baby in half. Sometimes the battleground is drawn between the state and the biological parent. The state has the right to enter into a dispute only when it is necessary to protect the child. In most cases, where parents cannot decide custody and arrangements for each to have access to the child by themselves, family court will intervene and require a psychologist or other mental health professionals to assist in making the final decision which almost always is a recommendation that both parents stop fighting and learn to share. Rarely will the state, through its social service agencies as described in the next chapter, act by itself unless the lethal danger to the child is unmistakable. Even in some of the most horrendous abuse cases, the state is hesitant to interfere with parental rights.
Integrating Social Neuroscience and Social Work: Innovations for Advancing Practice-Based Research

Throughout the social work profession, there is ongoing interest in building a social science agenda that can address the complex practice-based questions faced by social work professionals today. Methodological innovations and unique funding opportunities have already significantly advanced research on social work practice. Still, there is enthusiastic discussion of how to ensure that such capacity development helps the profession move forward in ways that make use of the biological sciences and that facilitate social work-specific contributions to the larger interdisciplinary scientific community. This article describes how the social work profession can make use of biomedical knowledge and technological advances from social neuroscience to inform psychosocial treatment development, and it illustrates an application to social work practice by giving an example of a substance abuse treatment development process built on social neuroscientific research.
Commentary: Biopolitical injustice and contemporary capitalism

How is big industry linked to rising obesity in the United States? This issue is tangentially explored in the article that I consider. My commentary expands on this point to apprehend the role of corporations and industries in producing and profiting from population health problems. Taking the cases of obesity and cigarette smoking together, I examine how corporations claim social-responsibility values as a strategic means of forestalling criticism and protecting their markets while shifting accountability for the risks and harms that are related to consumption onto consumers themselves. These dynamics reveal the centrality of biopolitical injustice to the workings of contemporary capitalism.
Biomineralization: Peptide‐Mediated Synthesis of Materials

Biomineralization provides many examples of the ambient synthesis of materials. Often associated with these systems are peptide templates. Synthetically, these templates offer tunable entities that can be altered in ways that affect the resulting composition, size, and morphology of the desired material. The development of peptide-display methods has aided in the expansion of this approach to include many types of abiological substances. Accordingly, this review focuses on the identification and use of peptides involved in the syntheses of a number of different types of materials (metal oxides, calcium carbonate, metallic nanostructures). Covering only the most recent of advances (2004–2007), we examine the control exhibited by peptides free in solution and the ability of researchers to address and alter that control. The effects demonstrated as a result of immobilizing the peptide on a nanostructured or biological surface are discussed. Finally, the future of biomimetic synthesis of nanomaterials is considered in an attempt to gauge where biomineralization is headed and what possibilities it might offer down the road. Keywords: biomineralization; biomimetics; peptide-scaffold; metal oxide; peptide display; peptide-mediated materials synthesis
OVERCOMING THE FEAR OF DEATH: PHYSICAL BODY AND COMMUNITY IN HEBREWS

The writer of Hebrews draws an analogy to athletic competition in exhorting his audience to imitate Christ’s example of enduring suffering and death. The analogy to athletic competition is rhetorically significant because of the manner in which it evokes knowledge of values and ideals associated with a prominent social arena and cultural institution of the Mediterranean world. The Hebrews audience is expected to “see” points of similarity between Greek athletic games and the way of life to which they are called. The “contest” to which the Hebrews audience is called differs from those common in Greek athletic games with respect to the nature of the struggle. What the two contests share in common is the expectation of contestants to demonstrate fearlessness in the face of death. Fearlessness in the face of death is thus regarded as a virtue, and those who publicly embody it receive special honour and become models to be imitated. The athletic analogy in Hebrews unifies the exhortation of 12:1-13.
Molecular Assays for Detection of Falcon Adenovirus

Falcon adenovirus is a newly recognized member of the family Aviadenoviridae and includes 2 closely related strains that are pathogenic to several species of falcons. Peregrine falcons appear to be one of the primary reservoirs, but recent outbreaks suggest that other carrier species probably exist. To allow screening of captive birds for virus shedding and investigations of disease outbreaks, conventional and real- time, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays and an in situ hybridization technique were developed. The diagnostic protocols were used on tissue and fecal samples from 7 species or subspecies of falcons infected with adenovirus as well as adenoviruses from other birds and mammals. The assays were specific for falcon adenovirus and detected both strains of virus in fecal samples from living animals or frozen and formalin-fixed, paraffinized tissues. Together with established serologic tests for falcon adenovirus, these molecular assays are valuable tools for management and conservation of falcons in captivity and the wild.