cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What Are the Functional Results and Complications From Allograft Reconstruction After Partial Hemipelvectomy of the Pubis

Background In patients undergoing hemipelvectomies including resection either of a portion of the pubis or the entire pubis from the symphysis to the lateral margin of the obturator foramen while sparing the hip (so-called Dunham Type III hemipelvectomies), reconstructions typically are not performed given the preserved continuity of the weightbearing axis and the potential complications associated with reconstruction. Allograft reconstruction of the pelvic ring may, however, offer benefits for soft tissue reconstruction of the pelvic floor and hip stability, but little is known about these reconstructions.
Accurate absorbing boundary conditions for anisotropic elastic media. Part 2: Untilted non-elliptic anisotropy

With the ultimate goal of devising effective absorbing boundary conditions (ABCs) for general elastic media, we investigate the accuracy aspects of local ABCs designed for untilted non-elliptic anisotropy in the frequency domain (time-harmonic analysis). While simple space-time transformations are available to treat the wavemodes with opposing phase and group velocities present in elliptic anisotropic media, no such transformations are known to exist for the case of non-elliptic anisotropy. In this paper, we use the concept of layer groupings along with an unconventional stretching of the finite element mesh to guarantee the accuracy of local ABCs designed to treat all propagating wavemodes, even those with opposing phase and group velocities. The local ABC used here is the perfectly matched discrete layer (PMDL) which is a simple variant of perfectly matched layers (PMLs) that is also equivalent to rational approximation-based local ABCs (rational ABCs); it inherits the straightforward approximation properties of rational ABCs along with the versatility of PML. The approximation properties of PMDL quantified through its reflection matrix allow us to (a) show that it is impossible to design an accurate PMDL with wavenumber-independent parameters, (b) theoretically demonstrate the ability of wavenumber-dependent parameters to ensure accuracy, and finally (c) design a practical though unconventional stretching of the finite element PMDL mesh that facilitates the implementation of wavenumber-dependent parameters. The validity of this work is demonstrated through a series of numerical experiments.
Cadmium-induced alterations in the Siberian hamster epididymis

The epididymis of sexually mature Siberian hamsters was found to consist of eight histologically distinct zones that were similar, in most respects, to those reported for other species. The notable exception to this is the presence of two types of tubules in zone 6; the typical major tubules predominate but are accompanied by smaller, contiguous, minor tubules. Following a single parenteral injection of cadmium chloride, the testes became necrotic and exhibited generalized sloughing of the seminiferous epithelium. The epididymis, on the other hand, retained their integrity following cadmium administration, although foci of degenerating cells were observed in the more proximal portions of the organ-i.e., zones 1-3. Vacular compromise is believed to be responsible for these necroses because of the severe edematous changes observed in the interstitial spaces. Evidence is presented for the localized degradation and elimination of necrotic cells from the testes as well as the epididymis.
The effect of changes in Social Security on bequests

The net effect on intergenerational transfers of an increase in Social Security benefits will depend on how much of the increase is consumed and how much bequeathed. I show analytically that the marginal propensity to consume an increase in Social Security benefits is indeterminate: it could range from zero to 1.0 or even larger. At one extreme bequests would fully offset the increase in benefits; at the other bequests would fall. According to simulations based on an estimated model of life-cycle behavior, consumption increases by slightly more than the increase in Social Security benefits, causing bequests to fall. That is, bequests do no offset at all an increase in transfers from the younger generation to the older.
The architecture and programming of the Ametek series 2010 multicomputer

During the period following the completion of the Cosmic Cube experiment [1], and while commercial descendants of this first-generation multicomputer (message-passing concurrent computer) were spreading through a community that includes many of the attendees of this conference, members of our research group were developing a set of ideas about the physical design and programming for the second generation of medium-grain multicomputers.Our principal goal was to improve by as much as two orders of magnitude the relationship between message-passing and computing performance, and also to make the topology of the message-passing network practically invisible. Decreasing the communication latency relative to instruction execution times extends the application span of multicomputers from easily partitioned and distributed problems (eg, matrix computations, PDE solvers, finite element analysis, finite difference methods, distant or local field many-body problems, FFTs, ray tracing, distributed simulation of systems composed of loosely coupled physical processes) to computing problems characterized by “high flux” [2] or relatively fine-grain concurrent formulations [3, 4] (eg, searching, sorting, concurrent data structures, graph problems, signal processing, image processing, and distributed simulation of systems composed of many tightly coupled physical processes). Such applications place heavy demands on the message-passing network for high bandwidth, low latency, and non-local communication. Decreased message latency also improves the efficiency of the class of applications that have been developed on first-generation systems, and the insensitivity of message latency to process placement simplifies the concurrent formulation of application programs.Our other goals included a streamlined and easily layered set of message primitives, a node operating system based on a reactive programming model, open interfaces for accelerators and peripheral devices, and node performance improvements that could be achieved economically by using the same technology employed in contemporary workstation computers.By the autumn of 1986, these ideas had become sufficiently developed, molded together, and tested through simulation to be regarded as a complete architectural design. We were fortunate that the Ametek Computer Research Division was ready and willing to work with us to develop this system as a commercial product. The Ametek Series 2010 multicomputer is the result of this joint effort.
The effect of acute moderate-intensity exercise on the accuracy of air-displacement plethysmography in young adults

The effect of acute moderate-intensity exercise on the accuracy of air-displacement plethysmography in young adults
The Deaths of God in Hegel and Nietzsche and the Crisis of Values in Secular Modernity and Post-secular Postmodernity

Although declarations of the death of God seem to be provocations announcing the end of the era of theology, this announcement is actually central to the Christian revelation in its most classic forms, as well as to its reworkings in contemporary religious thought. Indeed provocative new possibilities for thinking theologically open up precisely in the wake of the death of God. Already Hegel envisaged a revolutionary new realization of divinity emerging in and with the secular world through its establishment of a total order of immanence. However, in postmodern times this comprehensive order aspired to by modern secularism implodes or cracks open towards the wholly Other. A hitherto repressed demand for the absolute diff erence of the religious, or for "transcendence," returns with a vengeance. is difference is what could not be stated in terms of the Hegelian System, for reasons that post-structuralist writers particularly have insisted on: all representations of God are indeed dead. Yet this does not mean that they cannot still be powerful, but only that they cannot assign God any stable identity. Nietzsche's sense of foreboding concerning the death of God is coupled with his intimations of the demise of representation and “grammar” as epistemologically bankrupt, but also with his vision of a positive potential for creating value in the wake of this collapse of all linguistically articulated culture. He points the way towards the emergence of a post-secular religious thinking of what exceeds thought and representation.
A dose-titration trial of guanadrel as step-two therapy in essential hypertension.

The efficacy and safety of low-dose guanadrel sulfate were evaluated in 20 patients with essential hypertension based on seated diastolic blood pressures (SDBP) ranging from 95 to 115 mm Hg despite a trial dosage of hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/d for up to five weeks. These patients had been resistant to, or intolerant of, one or more step-two antihypertensive drugs in the past (i.e., methyldopa, beta-adrenergic blocking agents, clonidine, or prazosin). The majority of patients demonstrated a satisfactory response (SDBP 95 mm Hg or reduction in SDBP of 10 mm Hg) to guanadrel. Nine patients responded at a low dosage, 10 to 20 mg/d and remained free from adverse effects throughout the study (up to 12 weeks of treatment). Of the remaining 11 patients titrated to higher dosages of guanadrel (30 to 60 mg/d), three had no discernible response while six developed adverse effects. The results of the study suggest that guanadrel has an acceptable benefit-to-risk ratio only when used in low dosages (10 to 30 mg/d) and may be successfully employed as step-two antihypertensive therapy in patients resistant to, or intolerant of, other step-two agents.
Enhanced thermal transport of hexagonal boron nitride filled polymer composite by magnetic field-assisted alignment

High thermal conductivity, electrical insulating polymer composite has a wide range of applications in electronic packaging. We report the magnetic alignment of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) in epoxy composite and the greatly enhanced thermal conductivities of the composites. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are used to modify the surface of hBN, making it responsive to the external magnetic field. The orientation of modified hBN can be controlled by applying an external magnetic field during the curing of epoxy resin. The thermal conductivity of 20 wt% vertically aligned hBN-epoxy composite is found to be 104 % higher than the randomly aligned counterpart. This dramatically enhanced thermal conductivity is theoretically studied by effective medium approximation. The linear coefficient of thermal expansion for 20 wt% vertically aligned hBN-epoxy along the alignment direction is as low as 28.7 ppm/K due to the magnetic alignment and anisotropic thermomechanical and mechanical properties of hBN. Moreover, the polymer composites still possess an excellent processibility. These results suggest the promising application of magnetically aligned hBN-based polymer composites in electronic packaging.
State Transitions in the TORC1 Signaling Pathway and Information Processing in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

TOR kinase complex I (TORC1) is a key regulator of cell growth and metabolism in all eukaryotes. Previous studies in yeast have shown that three GTPases—Gtr1, Gtr2, and Rho1—bind to TORC1 in nitrogen and amino acid starvation conditions to block phosphorylation of the S6 kinase Sch9 and activate protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). This leads to downregulation of 450 Sch9-dependent protein and ribosome synthesis genes and upregulation of 100 PP2A-dependent nitrogen assimilation and amino acid synthesis genes. Here, using bandshift assays and microarray measurements, we show that the TORC1 pathway also populates three other stress/starvation states. First, in glucose starvation conditions, the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK/Snf1) and at least one other factor push the TORC1 pathway into an off state, in which Sch9-branch signaling and PP2A-branch signaling are both inhibited. Remarkably, the TORC1 pathway remains in the glucose starvation (PP2A inhibited) state even when cells are simultaneously starved for nitrogen and glucose. Second, in osmotic stress, the MAPK Hog1/p38 drives the TORC1 pathway into a different state, in which Sch9 signaling and PP2A-branch signaling are inhibited, but PP2A-branch signaling can still be activated by nitrogen starvation. Third, in oxidative stress and heat stress, TORC1-Sch9 signaling is blocked while weak PP2A-branch signaling occurs. Together, our data show that the TORC1 pathway acts as an information-processing hub, activating different genes in different conditions to ensure that available energy is allocated to drive growth, amino acid synthesis, or a stress response, depending on the needs of the cell.
MIMO radio signals over fiber in picocells for increased WLAN coverage

We show that separating base station antennas in an optically-fed 2×3 MIMO WLAN system increases the overall coverage area in picocells. A peak throughput of 130 Mb/s was measured for antenna spacings of both 16 cm and 7 m.
THEORIES OF DREAM FORMATION AND RECENT STUDIES OF SLEEP CONSCIOUSNESS.

Some of the implications of recent electrophysiological stud.es of sleep for dream theory, especially the theory of dream formation, are considered. Studies showing a variety of mentation in all stages of sleep fail to confirm Freud's belief that mental activity suddenly attracts consciousness at dream onset. The nature of predream merit ition, however, supports Freud's concept of day residues, and there is also evidence to support his position that dream-work processes distort these day residues into sometimes barely recognizable components, of bizarre dream episodes. Adler's insistence on the continuity of wakinj; and sleeping thought finds support in the nature and extent of nondreaming mentation in sleep. Both Freud and Adler are challenged on the alleged traumatic affective instigation of dreams; emotional complexes may take advantage of the dreaming state, but they seem neither to precipitate that state nor to determine its initial perceptual-ideational content.
Underconnectivity of the superior temporal sulcus predicts emotion recognition deficits in autism

Neurodevelopmental disconnections have been assumed to cause behavioral alterations in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Here, we combined measurements of intrinsic functional connectivity (iFC) from resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with task-based fMRI to explore whether altered activity and/or iFC of the right posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) mediates deficits in emotion recognition in ASD. Fifteen adults with ASD and 15 matched-controls underwent resting-state and task-based fMRI, during which participants discriminated emotional states from point light displays (PLDs). Intrinsic FC of the right pSTS was further examined using 584 (278 ASD/306 controls) resting-state data of the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE). Participants with ASD were less accurate than controls in recognizing emotional states from PLDs. Analyses revealed pronounced ASD-related reductions both in task-based activity and resting-state iFC of the right pSTS with fronto-parietal areas typically encompassing the action observation network (AON). Notably, pSTS-hypo-activity was related to pSTS-hypo-connectivity, and both measures were predictive of emotion recognition performance with each measure explaining a unique part of the variance. Analyses with the large independent ABIDE dataset replicated reductions in pSTS-iFC to fronto-parietal regions. These findings provide novel evidence that pSTS hypo-activity and hypo-connectivity with the fronto-parietal AON are linked to the social deficits characteristic of ASD.
The Importance of Training for Interactive Trade Space Exploration: A Study of Novice and Expert Users

Thanks to recent advances in computing power and speed, engineers can now generate a wealth of data on demand to support design decision-making. These advances have enabled new approaches to search multidimensional trade spaces through interactive data visualization and exploration. In this paper, we investigate the effectiveness and efficiency of interactive trade space exploration strategies by conducting human subject experiments with novice and expert users. A single objective, constrained design optimization problem involving the sizing of an engine combustion chamber is used for this study. Effectiveness is measured by comparing the best feasible design obtained by each user, and efficiency is assessed based on the percentage of feasible designs generated by each user. Results indicate that novices who watch a 5-min training video before the experiment obtain results that are not significantly different from those obtained by expert users, and both groups are statistically better than the novices without the training video in terms of effectiveness and efficiency. Frequency and ordering of the visualization and exploration tools are also compared to understand the differences in each group's search strategy. The implications of the results are discussed along with future work.
Discrete state space fitting algorithm for digitally recorded impulse parameter evaluation

Lightning impulse tests are performed on power apparatus to assess its insulation integrity when exposed to over voltage of atmospheric origin. For the evaluation of the test results it is imperative to determine the impulse parameters according to the standards. For the parameter evaluation of the digitally recorded impulse, the eigensystem realization algorithm (ERA) which produces a discrete state space model has been applied to the impulse curve fitting. With appropriate system order, the dynamic state space model is suitable for all types of impulse waveforms. Transforming the identified discrete state space model to the modal coordinates, it is possible to extract the oscillation or overshoot components from the original waveform in analytic function with high accuracy. Depending on the identified oscillation frequency or overshoot duration, the unwanted components can be removed for the construction of the mean curve without significant distortions in the original waveform. This paper demonstrates that ERA is a potentially valuable analytical tool for the evaluation of the impulse parameters.
On the basis‐set dependence of local and integrated electron density properties: Application of a new computer program for quantum‐chemical density analysis

A new computer program for post-processing analysis of quantum-chemical electron densities is described. The code can work with Slater- and Gaussian-type basis functions of arbitrary angular momentum. It has been applied to explore the basis-set dependence of the electron density and its Laplacian in terms of local and integrated topological properties. Our analysis, including Gaussian/Slater basis sets up to sextuple/quadruple-zeta order, shows that these properties considerably depend on the choice of type and number of primitives utilized in the wavefunction expansion. Basis sets with high angular momentum (l = 5 or l = 6) are necessary to achieve convergence for local properties of the density and the Laplacian. In agreement with previous studies, atomic charges defined within Bader's Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules appear to be much more basis-set dependent than the Hirshfeld's stockholder charges. The former ones converge only at the quadruple-zeta/higher level with Gaussian/Slater functions.
Greater Working Memory Load Results in Greater Medial Temporal Activity at Retrieval

Most functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies examining working memory (WM) load have focused on the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and have demonstrated increased prefrontal activity with increased load. Here we examined WM load effects in the medial temporal lobe (MTL) using an fMRI Sternberg task with novel complex visual scenes. Trials consisted of 3 sequential events: 1) sample presentation (encoding), 2) delay period (maintenance), and 3) probe period (retrieval). During sample encoding, subjects saw either 2 or 4 pictures consecutively. During retrieval, subjects indicated whether the probe picture matched one of the sample pictures. Results revealed that activity in the left anterior hippocampal formation, bilateral retrosplenial area, and left amygdala was greater at retrieval for trials with larger memory load, whereas activity in the PFC was greater at encoding for trials with larger memory load. There was no load effect during the delay. When encoding, maintenance, and retrieval periods were compared with fixation, activity was present in the hippocampal body/tail and fusiform gyrus bilaterally during encoding and retrieval, but not maintenance. Bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal activity was present during maintenance, but not during encoding or retrieval. The results support models of WM predicting that activity in the MTL should be modulated by WM load.
Muslim feminism: Citizenship in the shelter of corporatist Islam 1

It appears that Muslim feminists the world over are struggling against both Islamic patriarchy and authoritarian governments that are unwilling or unable to grant women social equality. Yet, Malaysia, a developing country in Southeast Asia, seems to be an exception. There, Islam is a patchwork of the most liberal as well as radical strands of Islam, a collage that is represented in cities by Muslim women in full purdah mingling with others in body‐conscious dresses and jeans. This contrast is reflected in the struggle between a small group of feminists called Sisters in Islam and resurgent ulamas over issues of marriage, domesticity, and public life. Feminist groups seek not only to express a female voice in Islam but also to renegotiate a wide range of issues pertaining to Islamic kinship codes, male‐female relations, and citizenship. This paper will argue that local feminism is shaped by the wider structure of state power as the national elite seeks to position itself in relation to global capital.
Application of the inoperability input—output model (IIM) for systemic risk assessment and management of interdependent infrastructures

Our modern era is characterized by a large-scale web of interconnected and interdependent economic and infrastructure systems, coupled with threats of terrorism. This paper demonstrates the value of introducing interdependency analysis into various phases of risk assessment and management through application of the Inoperability Input–Output Model (IIM). The IIM estimates the cascading inoperability and economic losses that result from interdependencies within large-scale economic and infrastructure systems. Based on real data and the Nobel Prize-winning W. Leontief economic model, the IIM is a computationally efficient, inexpensive, holistic method for estimating economic impacts. Three illustrative case studies are presented. The first and second illustrate how the supply- and demand-side IIM is used to calculate higher-order effects from attacks to vulnerabilities and implementation of risk management policies in large-scale economic systems. The final case study illustrates a more general use for interdependency analysis: to evaluate risk management options against multiple objectives. This study calculates a Pareto-optimal or efficient frontier of solutions by integrating a simplified model of the costs of recovery to the Power sector derived from open-source data with the IIM. Through these case studies, which use a database from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, we illustrate the value of interdependency analysis in the risk assessment and management process as an integral part of systems engineering. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 8: 323–341, 2005
SUPPORTING SOFTWARE PROCESS DECISIONS USING BI-DIRECTIONAL SIMULATION

In this paper, we present a "forward-looking" decision support framework that integrates timely metrics data with a simulation based defect model of the software development process in order to support software project management decisions regarding product quality. These predictions are evaluated using Outcome Based Control Limits (OBCLs) and Bi-Directional (both forward and reverse) simulation models of the software development process. The Bi-Directional models provide useful guidance to the program manager when evaluating possible corrective actions on a project that has gone outside the OBCLs. The forward model predicts the potential performance impacts of the proposed corrective actions. The reverse simulation models are new and take the desired system outcome as the starting point and represent the system as it evolves backward in time to identify the necessary starting point to achieve the desired outcome. The approach is presented using an illustrative example.
Simple MPLS-based flow aggregation scheme for providing scalable quality of service

Providing Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities in IP networks is the focus of much research in the Internet community today. The Intserv architecture proposed by IETF for supporting QoS in IP networks is known not to scale well to large networks due to the per-flow mechanisms it uses. While connection-less approach has been the central design paradigm of IP networks, many researches today believe connection-oriented mechanisms similar to virtual-circuits in ATM must be incorporated in IP networks in order to provide scalable QoS. Towards this end, the MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) technology has been put forward by the IETF. A crucial scaling issue with MPLS is that large number of LSPs (Label Switched Paths) may be required in the routers resulting in increase of state size in the routers. In this paper, we introduce the notion of Label-Switched Multipaths (LSMPs) and propose a simple technique for aggregating LSP into LSMPs such that the number of labels required in the routers is significantly reduced. Based on LSMPs we describe an architecture for providing deterministic guarantees that is far more scalable than architectures based on simple LSPs or those that use only multipoint-to-point LSP aggregation.
Actuator Position Control Basics

In Chap. 3, the hardware characteristics for representative actuators such as the AX-12 and MX-28 were described and the key information was on the rotational encoders that were used for the AX-12/18 (a variable potentiometer, restricted to a 300° range) and for the MX-28/64 (a magnetic field detector allowing a full 360° range). In this chapter, the programming aspects for controlling such actuators via the TASK and MOTION EDITOR (V.1) tools are described. The capabilities of the newer R+MOTION (V.2.1) tool will be discussed in Chap. 11 using the DARWIN-MINI and the XL-320.
Evidence that a Metabolic Microcompartment Contains and Recycles Private Cofactor Pools

Microcompartments are loose protein cages that encapsulate enzymes for particular bacterial metabolic pathways. These structures are thought to retain and perhaps concentrate pools of small, uncharged intermediates that would otherwise diffuse from the cell. In Salmonella enterica, a microcompartment encloses enzymes for ethanolamine catabolism. The cage has been thought to retain the volatile intermediate acetaldehyde but allow diffusion of the much larger cofactors NAD and coenzyme A (CoA). Genetic tests support an alternative idea that the microcompartment contains and recycles private pools of the large cofactors NAD and CoA. Two central enzymes convert ethanolamine to acetaldehyde (EutBC) and then to acetyl-CoA (EutE). Two seemingly peripheral redundant enzymes encoded by the eut operon proved to be essential for ethanolamine utilization, when subjected to sufficiently stringent tests. These are EutD (acetyl-CoA to acetyl phosphate) and EutG (acetaldehyde to ethanol). Obligatory recycling of cofactors couples the three reactions and drives acetaldehyde consumption. Loss and toxic effects of acetaldehyde are minimized by accelerating its consumption. In a eutD mutant, acetyl-CoA cannot escape the compartment but is released by mutations that disrupt the structure. The model predicts that EutBC (ethanolamine-ammonia lyase) lies outside the compartment, using external coenzyme B12 and injecting its product, acetaldehyde, into the lumen, where it is degraded by the EutE, EutD, and EutG enzymes using private pools of CoA and NAD. The compartment appears to allow free diffusion of the intermediates ethanol and acetyl-PO4 but (to our great surprise) restricts diffusion of acetaldehyde.
Between Student and Teacher: Learning to teach as translation

In this article, I propose that teacher educators use the metaphor of translation to illuminate the process of preparing to teach. Drawing on my analysis of the experience of preservice teachers enrolled in a methods course required for certification to teach at the secondary level, I explain how a project based in that class supports the preservice teachers' translations. Through a weekly exchange of letters with selected students who attend a local public high school, and ongoing reflection on that exchange, preservice teachers enrolled in this methods course face two challenges: to translate what it means to be a teacher as they translate themselves into teachers, and to translate the language they use with students as they interact with those students.
Determining Mycotoxins in Baby Foods and Animal Feeds Using Stable Isotope Dilution and Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry

We developed a stable isotope dilution assay with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) to determine multiple mycotoxins in baby foods and animal feeds. Samples were fortified with [13C]-uniformly labeled mycotoxins as internal standards ([13C]-IS) and prepared by solvent extraction (50% acetonitrile in water) and filtration, followed by LC–MS/MS analysis. Mycotoxins in each sample were quantitated with the corresponding [13C]-IS. In general, recoveries of aflatoxins (2–100 ng/g), deoxynivalenol, fumonisins (50–2000 ng/g), ochratoxin A (20–1000 ng/kg), T-2 toxin, and zearalenone (40–2000 ng/g) in tested matrices (grain/rice/oatmeal-based formula, animal feed, dry cat/dog food) ranged from 70 to 120% with relative standard deviations (RSDs) <20%. The method provides sufficient selectivity, sensitivity, accuracy, and reproducibility to screen for aflatoxins at ng/g concentrations and deoxynivalenol and fumonisins at low μg/g concentrations in baby foods and animal feeds, without using co...
Human AML cells in NOD/SCID mice: engraftment potential and gene expression.

Most cases of human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) engraft in irradiated non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice. Intravenous transfer of as few as 105 human AML cells resulted in engraftment. Cases with poor prognosis clinical features, including FLT3 mutations, tended to engraft efficiently. Nevertheless, AML cells obtained from patients at relapse did not engraft more efficiently than cells obtained from the same patients at initial diagnosis. One passage of human AML cells in NOD/SCID mice did not appear to select for increased virulence, as measured by serial transplantation efficiency. Finally, cDNA microarray analyses indicated that ∼95% of genes were expressed at similar levels in human AML cells immunopurified after growth in mice, as compared to cells assessed directly from patients. Thus, the growth of human AML cells in NOD/SCID mice could yield large numbers of human AML cells for direct experimental use and could also function as a renewable, potentially unlimited source of leukemia cells, via serial transplantation.
Processing and characterization of Ti-B-based functionally graded materials produced by microwave-activated combustion synthesis

Single as well as graded compositions were fabricated in the Ti–B system using a microwave-activated combustion synthesis (MACS) process. When synergistically combined with microwave processing, combustion synthesis offers great potential for the fabrication of ceramic structures and composites. Combustion waves were triggered using a SiC susceptor to initially absorb microwaves. The effects of processing variables, such as thermal insulation, and atmosphere on the process were investigated. Examination of reacted samples by means of x-ray diffraction indicated the presence of titanium monoboride and diboride along with unreacted titanium. Compared with conventional combustion synthesized products, MACS resulted in smaller pores. However, the total amount of porosity remained almost the same. The microstructure of the graded layers and interfaces were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Over the entire cross section, the interfaces were continuous and crack free.
Polygons of Greatest Area Inscribed in an Ellipse

(1944). Polygons of Greatest Area Inscribed in an Ellipse. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 51, No. 4, pp. 205-209.
Early Stages of Oxygen Clustering and Its Influence on Electrical Behavior of Silicon

Our knowledge of phenomena connected to the early stages of oxygen clusters, especially their electrical activity is reviewed. In addition to the well-known 450°C thermal donors, ‘new oxygen donors’, which occur in ca. 650°C annealing, have emerged in conjunction with low temperature processing for VLSI and are discussed. The existing models of thermal donors are reviewed. In a new model of thermal donor formation, thermal donors are viewed as metastable oxygen clusters which lower the compressive strain of the surrounding silicon matrix via bonding of 2p oxygen lone pair orbitals. It is shown how this bonding can result in shallow double donor states.
A Neurochemically Distinct Dorsal Raphe-Limbic Circuit with a Potential Role in Affective Disorders

The serotonergic system arising from the dorsal raphe nucleus (DR) has long been implicated in psychiatric disorders, and is considered one site of action of classical anxiolytic and antidepressant agents. Recent studies implicate the DR as a site of action of novel anxiolytic and antidepressant agents that target neuropeptide systems, such as corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and neurokinin 1 (NK1) antagonists. The present study identified unique characteristics of the dorsomedial DR that implicate this particular subregion as a key component of a circuit, which may be targeted by these diverse psychotherapeutic agents. First, it was observed that a cluster of CRF-containing cell bodies was present in the dorsomedial DR of colchicine-treated rats. Dual-labeling immunohistochemistry revealed that almost all CRF-containing neurons were serotonergic, implicating CRF as a cotransmitter with serotonin in this subpopulation of DR neurons. Moreover, dendrites laden with immunoreactivity for NK1 had a striking topographic distribution surrounding and extending into the dorsomedial subregion of the DR, suggesting that NK1 receptor ligands may selectively impact the dorsomedial DR. Finally, anterograde tract tracing from the dorsomedial DR combined with CRF immunohistochemistry revealed that CRF-containing axons from this subregion project to CRF-containing neurons of the central nucleus of the amygdala. Taken together, the present results reveal a circuit whereby NK1 receptor activation in the dorsomedial DR can impact on limbic sources of CRF that have been implicated in emotional responses. This circuit may be relevant for understanding the mechanism of action of novel psychotherapeutic agents that act through NK1 or CRF receptors.
Classroom Quality in Infant and Toddler Classrooms: Impact of Age and Programme Type.

ABSTRACTThis study examined differences in classroom quality, assessed by the Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ITERS-R), in 287 infant and 479 toddler classrooms. Classroom quality was compared across classroom age group (infant compared to toddler classrooms) as well as across programme type (for-profit compared to not-for-profit programmes). Classroom quality was assessed using four ITERS-R factors identified in previous research, including Materials/Activities, Safety/Organization, Language/Interactions, and Parents/Staff factor scores. Results indicate that infant classrooms scored higher on the Safety/Organization and Language/Interactions factors than toddler classrooms, and toddler classrooms scored higher on Materials/Activities than infant classrooms. Classrooms in not-for-profit programmes scored higher on Safety/Organization and Parents/Staff factors. Differences in Safety/Organization, Language/Interactions, and Parents/Staff factor scores were found based on teachers’ educatio...
A phylogenetic reassessment of African fossorial skinks in the subfamily Acontinae (Squamata: Scincidae): evidence for parallelism and polyphyly

The Acontinae is a well-supported clade of limbless skinks from sub-Saharan Africa for which three fossorial genera⎯Acontias, Acontophiops, and Typhlosaurus⎯have been traditionally recognized. However, recent phylogenetic analyses demonstrate conflicting support for the monophyly of Acontias and Typhlosaurus, despite limited taxon sampling for the latter genus. We re-investigate acontine evolutionary relationships, including all currently recognized species of Typhlosaurus, in phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial (Cytb, Co1, 16s) and nuclear (Rag1) gene sequences. Our results show that Typhlosaurus is polyphyletic and represented in three distinct clades, one of which constitutes the sister lineage to other acontines. The remaining typhlosaurs form strongly-supported clades with either Acontophiops or the recently-described genus Microacontias (formerly Acontias lineatus and A. litoralis). We use this new phylogenetic framework to revise acontine taxonomy. Typhlosaurus is restricted to five species from southwestern Africa, all characterized by an attenuate body form. Acontias is expanded to include the former T. aurantiacus, T. cregoi, and T. lineatus groups as well as Acontophiops and Microacontias. Species transfer between acontine genera created two secondary homonyms; thus the affected taxa are assigned replacement names.
Fault Analysis and Processing Countermeasure of 500 kV Tripping Failureat Dashengguan Yangtse River Crossover

In allusion to continuous two breaker trips happened in 500 kV Chaqiao 5296 line at Dashengguan Yangtse River crossover,many conditions which include equipment running and checking,insulator configuration,salt density measuring,meteorology and dirty and so on are analyzed deeply.And processor countermeasures are ruled.
Emerging Insights on Brazilian Pepper Tree (Schinus terebinthifolius) Invasion: The Potential Role of Soil Microorganisms

Invasive plant species constitute a major ecological and economic problem worldwide, often distorting trophic levels and ecosystem balance. Numerous studies implicate factors ranging from environmental plasticity, competition for nutrient and space, and allelopathy in the success of invasive species in general. The Brazilian Pepper tree (BP) was introduced to the United States in the 1800s and has since become a category one invasive plant in Florida. It has aggressively spread to about 3000 km2 of terrestrial surface, fueled in part by the prevalence of the hybrid genotypes and environmental perturbations. It displays some of the well-established invasive mechanisms but there is a serious dearth of knowledge on the plant-microbe-soil interactions and whether the rhizobiome plays any roles in the displacement of native flora and the range expansion of BP. Several control measures, including chemical, mechanical and biological antagonism have been used with limited success while restoration of natives in soils from which BP was removed has proved problematic partly due to a poorly understood phenomenon described as the “BP legacy effect”. Emerging evidence suggests that allelopathy, selective recruitment of beneficial soil microbes, disruption of microbial community structure and alteration of nutrient cycling, exhibited by many other invasive plant species may also be involved in the case of BP. This brief review discusses the well-established BP invasion mechanisms and highlights the current understanding of the molecular, below-ground processes. It also points out the gaps in studies on the potential role of microbial interactions in the success of BP invasion. These hitherto poorly studied mechanisms could further explain the aggressive spread of BP and could potentially contribute significantly to effective control measures and enable appropriate strategies for restoring native plants. The review advocates for the use of cutting-edge techniques in advancing the plant microbiome science. Ultimately, comparing metagenomic analyses of the rhizobiome of invasive plants grown in native and non-native soils could lead to a better understanding of the microbial determinants of biotic resistance, potentially empowering environmental managers with some predictive power of future trends of plant invasion.
Cloudy with a Chance of Heat Balls: The Portrayal of Global Warming on The Daily Show and The Colbert Report

This study investigates how The Daily Show and The Colbert Report portray global warming in their satirical news segments and guest interviews. Quantitative content analysis is used to examine the explicit claims made regarding the reality, causes, and severity of global warming; the intended targets of the shows’ satirical critiques about global warming; and how the issue is framed. Results show that a large majority of segments on both programs explicitly affirmed the reality of global warming, and the most frequent targets of global warming humor were climate skepticism, in general, as well as specific individuals and groups associated with skepticism. Although the programs were most likely to frame global warming in terms of political conflict, a majority of coverage simultaneously critiqued this frame.
The Role of Platelet Activation and Inflammation in Early Brain Injury Following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

Early brain injury (EBI) following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is an important predictor of poor functional outcome, yet the underlying mechanism is not well understood. Animal studies suggest that platelet activation and inflammation with subsequent microthrombosis and ischemia may be a mechanism of EBI. A prospective, hypothesis-driven study of spontaneous, SAH patients and controls was conducted. Platelet activation [thromboelastography maximum amplitude (MA)] and inflammation [C-reactive protein (CRP)] were measured serially over time during the first 72 h following SAH onset. Platelet activation and inflammatory markers were compared between controls and SAH patients with mild [Hunt–Hess (HH) 1–3] versus severe (HH 4–5) EBI. The association of these biomarkers with 3-month functional outcomes was evaluated. We enrolled 127 patients (106 SAH; 21 controls). Platelet activation and CRP increased incrementally with worse EBI/HH grade, and both increased over 72 h (all P < 0.01). Both were higher in severe versus mild EBI (MA 68.9 vs. 64.8 mm, P = 0.001; CRP 12.5 vs. 1.5 mg/L, P = 0.003) and compared to controls (both P < 0.003). Patients with delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) had more platelet activation (66.6 vs. 64.9 in those without DCI, P = 0.02) within 72 h of ictus. At 3 months, death or severe disability was more likely with higher levels of platelet activation (mRS4–6 OR 1.18, 95 % CI 1.05–1.32, P = 0.007) and CRP (mRS4–6 OR 1.02, 95 % CI 1.00–1.03, P = 0.041). Platelet activation and inflammation occur acutely after SAH and are associated with worse EBI, DCI and poor 3-month functional outcomes. These markers may provide insight into the mechanism of EBI following SAH.
Is narcissism associated with baseline cortisol in men and women

Abstract Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by feelings of grandiosity, a craving for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Although there are reasons to expect that narcissism might have adverse physiological and health implications, very little research has directly assessed such claims. Moreover, prior research specifically assessing links between narcissism and basal levels of the stress hormone cortisol yields mixed evidence. In an attempt to reconcile previously inconsistent findings, we examined narcissism and basal cortisol in a sample of 366 young adults. We found little evidence for an association between narcissism and cortisol. We discuss how narcissism may be related to physiological outcomes over time and across situations.
CHAPTER 14 – Biochemical Markers of Bone Metabolism

This chapter discusses the biochemical markers of bone metabolism used in pediatrics. Biochemical markers of bone metabolism are compounds that are released from bone tissue into the circulation and can be quantified in serum or urine samples. Although primarily designed for diagnosis and follow-up of metabolic bone diseases in adults, these biochemical markers are employed in pediatric settings as well. Bone metabolism in children is the sum of three different physiologic mechanisms: bone elongation, increase in bone circumference, and bone remodeling. The longitudinal growth of most bones occurs by endochondral bone formation that involves two steps. First, cartilage tissue is added to the growth zones of a bone (the growth plates). Second, this cartilaginous scaffold is transformed into bone tissue in the adjacent metaphyses. This second step involves degradation of most of the cartilage matrix and the rapid secretion and mineralization of woven bone matrix adjacent to the remaining columns of chondrocytes. The resulting primary spongiosa is successively removed and replaced by mature secondary spongiosa, which no longer contains cartilaginous remnants and the conversion of primary into secondary spongiosa is often referred to as remodeling.
Evolving Responsibility for SAGES-TAVAC

Currently, there are no concise federal regulations regarding innovative surgical procedures or the use of new technology and devices in surgery. The Council of Medical Specialty Societies has defined a code for medical society interactions with companies in order to maintain high ethical standards. These guidelines were utilized in the development of the Technology and Value Assessment Committee (TAVAC). The aim of the TAVAC is to evaluate devices and technology that have been recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for safety, efficacy, and to assess the value that these new technologies bring to patients. To ensure that this process is not biased, TAVAC review panel members are carefully selected so as to not have real or perceived bias, and full disclosure is always required. With the development of new devices and products, education and training on the particular device or technology is necessary to safely introduce the product into clinical practice. Maintaining ethically sound relationships between professional medical associations and the industries developing new devices and technologies is essential to the safe dissemination of new information and devices to the practicing physician. The TAVAC, with the help of expert surgeons, evaluates new technology and devices and gives guidance as to the proper place and value for these new technologies. This guidance is particularly valuable because it is free of commercial bias, and conflict of interest is managed through peer review. Maintaining an ethical and fair review of new medical devices and technology is essential.