cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anthropocene Knowledge Practices in McKenzie Wark’s Molecular Red and Kim Stanley Robinson’s Aurora

Through a close reading of McKenzie Wark’s theoretical treatise Molecular Red (2015) and Kim Stanley Robinson’s novel Aurora (2015), this essay examines how Anthropocene knowledge practices challenge our conceptions of human agency in provocative and potentially productive ways. For example, our knowledge of climate science arises through global material infrastructures. As material components of Anthropocene knowledge practices, these infrastructures reveal the material labors and cyborg structures by means of which our knowledge is produced. Wark sees the heterogenous materiality of Anthropocene knowledge practices as evidence for the value of ‘low theories’ based on a ‘labor point of view.’ At the same time, Anthropocene knowledge practices reveal ‘eco-logical’ complexities and fundamental recognitions of the ‘intra-action’ of entangled matter. These complexities produce very estranged views of human agency. Robinson’s novel highlights the eco-logical implications of contemporary knowledge practices by imagining an interstellar ship that must function as a completely artificial ecosystem for a 170-year voyage to another solar system. The significance of knowledge practices and eco-logical complexity is most evident when failures or crises arise, and Aurora tells the story of many such failures. However, I argue that Robinson’s novel and Wark’s ‘low theory’ ultimately function as hopeful accounts of Anthropocene knowledge practices. Among other things, these practices show the material importance of storytelling and point the way toward more complexly realist theories of human agency.
Language and simplexity: A powers view

Abstract The notion of simplexity is that complex problems are often solved by novel combinations of simple mechanisms. These solutions aren't simple; they're simplex. Language use, as a complex behavior, is ripe for simplex analysis. In this paper, I argue that the notion of powers—an organism's capacity to instigate or undergo change—is doubly useful. First, powers, as opposed to mental representations, are a suitable object for simplex analysis. So conceptualizing languaging in terms of powers gets us one step closer to a simplex analysis of language. But thinking of languaging in terms of powers has an additional payoff. Berthoz asserts that the concept of simplexity is related to the concept of meaning. How they're related is unclear. Conceptualizing languaging in terms of powers injects meaningfulness into lived world of the organism. Consequently, the concept of powers can act as a bridge between the concepts of meaningfulness and simplexity.
The Epidemiologic Approach to the Study of Protease Inhibitors

Protease inhibitors differ from other cancer-related dietary items in that the weight of the evidence of their protective effects is based on experimental and in vitro models rather than on studies in humans. For that reason the present comments focus on how to approach the issue from an epidemiologic point of view, with the purpose of establishing whether or not there is a causal association between protease inhibitors and human cancer. The multifactorial etiology of human cancer is a generally accepted scientific proposition. Protease inhibitors, therefore, may be just one of the factors in a complex interplay of carcinogenic and anticarcinogenic influences.
The relationship between total motile sperm count and the successof intrauterine insemination

Objectives To determine if the total motile sperm count is predictive of IUI success and to apply life-table analysis to a large database of IUI procedures. Design Contingency table and life-table analyses were used to analyze a large group of couples (n = 546) undergoing 1,205 cycles of therapeutic IUI with husband’s sperm. Setting Clinical infertility practice at a medical school referral center. Patients Five hundred forty-six couples with varying etiologies of infertility. Results There was a trend toward an increasing percentage of conception with increasing total motile sperm count. Significance was reached when the total motile sperm count used for IUI exceeded 20 × 106. The cumulative pregnancy rate calculated from this data reached 52% after the sixth attempted cycle of IUI.
Microtubule destabilization caused by particulate matter contributes to lung endothelial barrier dysfunction and inflammation.

Abstract Exposure to particulate matter (PM) associated with air pollution remains a major public health concern, as it has been linked to significant increase in cardiopulmonary morbidity and mortality. Lung endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction is one of the hallmarks of cardiovascular events of lung exposure to PM. However, the role of PM in acute lung injury (ALI) exacerbation and delayed recovery remains incompletely understood. This study tested a hypothesis that PM augments lung injury and EC barrier dysfunction via microtubule-dependent mechanisms. Our data demonstrate that in pulmonary EC PM caused time- and dose-dependent remodeling of actin cytoskeleton and considerable destabilization of the microtubule (MT) network. These events led to the weakening of cell junctions and formation of actin stress fibers, resulting in disruption of lung EC monolayer and increased permeability. PM also caused ROS-dependent activation of MT-specific deacetylase, HDAC6. Suppression of HDAC6 activity by pharmacological inhibitors or siRNA-based depletion of HDAC6 abolished PM-induced EC permeability increase, which was accompanied by reduced activation of stress kinase signaling, inhibition of Rho cascade, decreased IL-6 production and suppressed activation of its downstream target STAT3. Pretreatment of pulmonary EC with IL-6 inhibitor led to inhibition of STAT3 activity and decreased PM-induced hyper-permeability. Because one of the major activators of Rho-GTPase, GEF H1, is localized on the MT, we examined its involvement in PM-caused EC barrier compromise. Inhibition of GEF-H1 activation significantly attenuated PM-induced permeability increase. Moreover, combined inhibition of IL-6 and GEF-H1 signaling exhibited additive protective effect. Taken together, these results demonstrate a critical involvement of MT-associated signaling in the PM-induced exacerbation of lung EC barrier compromise and inflammatory response.
Fluid-driven resetting of titanite following ultrahigh-temperature metamorphism in southern Madagascar

Abstract LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dates and EPMA trace-element maps of titanite were collected from calc-silicate gneisses of the Ikalamavony (peak T: 750–800 °C) and Anosyen (peak T: 900–950 °C) domains in southern Madagascar to evaluate how titanite responds to high-temperature metamorphism, cooling, and retrogression. Fluid-mediated replacement of precursor titanite by titanite domains of different composition (interface-coupled dissolution-precipitation, ICDR) was the primary mechanism by which titanite was reset following high-grade metamorphism. Comparison of titanite U-Pb dates (530–490 Ma) with independent petrology and thermochronology indicates that the alteration occurred at temperatures as low as 300–500 °C. Apparent Zr temperatures (temperatures calculated assuming titanite–quartz–zircon equilibrium) in altered titanite are less than or equal to the metamorphic peak, but higher than the inferred alteration temperature, implying that Zr was removed, but that titanite–quartz–zircon equilibrium was not achieved during alteration. Although evidence for ICDR was observed in titanite samples separated by 10's to ~100 km, differences in U-Pb dates among samples, and even among titanite grains in the same thin section suggest that alteration at any given time was localized.
The coming-of-age of nucleocytoplasmic transport in motor neuron disease and neurodegeneration

The nuclear pore is the gatekeeper of nucleocytoplasmic transport and signaling through which a vast flux of information is continuously exchanged between the nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments to maintain cellular homeostasis. A unifying and organizing principle has recently emerged that cements the notion that several forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and growing number of other neurodegenerative diseases, co-opt the dysregulation of nucleocytoplasmic transport and that this impairment is a pathogenic driver of neurodegeneration. The understanding of shared pathomechanisms that underpin neurodegenerative diseases with impairments in nucleocytoplasmic transport and how these interface with current concepts of nucleocytoplasmic transport is bound to illuminate this fundamental biological process in a yet more physiological context. Here, I summarize unresolved questions and evidence and extend basic and critical concepts and challenges of nucleocytoplasmic transport and its role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as ALS. These principles will help to appreciate the roles of nucleocytoplasmic transport in the pathogenesis of ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases, and generate a framework for new ideas of the susceptibility of motoneurons, and possibly other neurons, to degeneration by dysregulation of nucleocytoplasmic transport.
The impact of defect density, grain size, and Cu orientation on thermal oxidation of graphene-coated Cu

Abstract Graphene has been shown to be a promising barrier for thermal corrosion due to its low gas and liquid permeability; however, there have been contradictory reports in the literature regarding the mechanisms of oxidation of graphene-coated Cu. This work systematically investigates the effect of chemical vapor deposited graphene grain size, point defect density, and underlying Cu orientation on the thermal oxidation of the underlying Cu in air. For graphene with either small grain size (~0.04–0.4 μm2) or large point defect density (~800 μm−2), oxidizers have relatively unhindered access through these defects to corrode the underlying Cu, and the corrosion is relatively independent of Cu orientation. For graphene with low defect density, the rate of Cu oxidation depends on the Cu crystal orientation on which the graphene is synthesized. Graphene-coated Cu (110) is completely corroded in just 2 min of thermal oxidation at 250 °C, while no surface oxidation for graphene-coated Cu (111) is observed for the same conditions. Thus, corrosion of graphene that is synthesized to achieve large grain size (>~170 μm2) is limited by the weakest graphene/Cu orientation interaction, not the size of the graphene grains, as was previously assumed.
Strategically Accessing External Technological Knowledge: The Case of Foreign Subsidiaries in China

Adopting a differentiated network view of multinational corporations (MNCs), this study investigates how recently formed subsidiaries access diversified technological knowledge that allows them to ...
11 Induction of vasculitic lesions in lupus-prone mice: A model for lupus-associated peripheral vascular disease

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disorder that affects many organs. Many patients develop vasculitis in skin and internal organs. There is no effective treatment for lupus-associated vasculitis. Research on the pathogenesis of lupus vasculitis has been hampered due to lack of appropriate model systems. Many patients with lupus develop chronic changes in skin, kidney and other organs, characterized by fibrosis. To understand the induction and mechanisms of fibrosis in lupus, we injected lupus-prone mice with bleomycin that is known to induce fibrotic disease in otherwise normal C57/Bl6 mice, and monitored the animals for disease phenotype. Methods We injected MRL-MpJ-Fas lpr/lpr (MRL-lpr) mice with bleomycin (100 µg, subcutaneously on upper back) or PBS daily for 14 days. Following which, animals were monitored daily for 14 days. Photographs were taken for skin lesions. On day 28, skin, paws, lung, liver, and kidneys were harvested and tissues sectioned for H and E and Masson Trichrome staining. Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect blood vessels and endothelial cells, namely -smooth muscle actin (SMA) and CD31, respectively. Experiments were repeated in MRL-MpJ-Fas +/+ (MRL+/+) mice. Results Around day 10 of injections, the tips of front and hind paw digits of 7 of 10 bleomycin-injected MRL-lpr and 3 of 3 bleomycin-injected MRL+/+mice developed erythematous lesions that ulcerated. None of the controls (5 PBS-injected MRL-lpr, 3 PBS-injected MRL+/+, and 3 bleomycin-injected C57/Bl6 mice) developed such lesions. Such lesions have also not been observed in over 50 unmanipulated MRL-lpr and MRL+/+mice or over 30 bleomycin-injected C57/Bl6 mice in our animal colony in previous studies. Histological and immunohistochemistry analyses showed increased infiltration, fibrosis, tissue destruction, and CD31 expression in bleomycin-injected MRL-lpr mice as compared to control animals. Massons trichrome staining revealed significantly increased dermal fibrosis in bleomycin-injected MRL-lpr mice as compared to PBS-injected MRL-lpr mice. Preliminary analysis shows increased alveolar hemorrhage in bleomycin-injected MRL-lpr mice as compared to control mice. Conclusions The vasculitic lesions that we observed in the digits of bleomycin-injected MRL-lpr and MRL+/+mice mimics vasculitic lesions seen in patients with lupus. Thus, bleomycin injection in lupus-prone mice can serve as a model for chronic vascular changes seen in lupus and other systemic rheumatic diseases. Funding Source(s): None
The Role of the Pericardium in Heart Failure: Implications for Pathophysiology and Treatment

Highlights •The pericardium exerts a compressive contact force on the surface of the heart that becomes exaggerated in various forms of HF where cardiac volumes increase. •The resulting increase in pericardial restraint influences ventricular function and contributes to the hemodynamic changes that occur in HF, including the responses to vasodilation and decongestion with medical therapies. •The right atrial pressure is a reliable surrogate for pericardial pressure and provides a clinically relevant estimate of the degree of pericardial restraint. •A number of therapies in HF work in part through relief of relative pericardial restraint, and direct therapies including anterior pericardiotomy are undergoing investigation.
Controlling Diffusive Network Dynamics using a Stochastically-Mobile Sensor-Actuator Platform

Abstract Control of a diffusive network process using measurements and actuation from a stochastically-circulating platform is studied. A network-diffusion model is extended to represent a mobile platform with circulates in the network in a Markov fashion, and applies a local proportional-integral-derivative (PID) feedback control. A statistical analysis of the closed-loop dynamics is undertaken using a Markov jump-linear system reformulation. For the proportional-control case, formal results on regulation and on the settling time are established. Simulations are also used to compare proportional and PID controls.
NATO enlargement and US foreign policy: the origins, durability, and impact of an idea

Since the Cold War, NATO enlargement has moved from a contentious issue in US foreign policy debates to an accepted plank in US strategy. What explains this development—why has support for enlargement become a focal point in US foreign policy? After first reviewing US policy toward NATO enlargement, this article evaluates a range of hypotheses from international relations theory and policy deliberations that might explain the trend. It finds that no one factor explains the United States’ enlargement consensus. Instead, pervasive US support for enlargement reflects the confluence of several international and domestic trends that, collectively, transformed NATO expansion into a lodestone of US foreign relations. Regardless, the development carries a range of consequences for US national security; although enlargement afforded the United States significant oversight of European security and political developments, it came at the cost of increased tensions and diminished flexibility with Russia, allied cheap-riding, and US overextension.
Characterizing attendance patterns at a multidisciplinary pediatric obesity clinic

Participants (N = 1050; ages 1–19) were from a multidisciplinary pediatric obesity clinic. There were no significant associations between patient characteristics and attrition from the initial visi...
d + 1 formalism in Einstein-scalar-Gauss-Bonnet gravity

We present the $d+1$ formulation of Einstein-scalar-Gauss-Bonnet (ESGB) theories in dimension $D=d+1$ and for arbitrary (spacelike or timelike) spacetime foliations. We first build an action which generalizes those of Gibbons-Hawking-York and Myers to ESGB theories, showing that they can be described by a Dirichlet variational principle. We then generalize the Arnowitt-Deser-Misner (ADM) Lagrangian and Hamiltonian to ESGB theories, as well as the resulting $d+1$ decomposition of the equations of motion. Unlike general relativity, the canonical momenta of ESGB theories are nonlinear in the extrinsic curvature. This has two main implications: (i) the ADM Hamiltonian is generically multivalued, and the associated Hamiltonian evolution is not predictable; (ii) the ``$d+1$'' equations of motion are quasilinear, and they may break down in strongly curved, highly dynamical regimes. Our results should be useful to guide future developments of numerical relativity for ESGB gravity in the nonperturbative regime.
Assessing the incidence of skin and soft tissue infection in patients on biologics.

Background Biologic agents may predispose patients to skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs). Guidelines recommend discontinuing the agent preoperatively; the true risk of infection is unclear. Objectives To assess the incidence of SSTIs in patients receiving biologic agents for all clinical indications. A secondary aim was to assess those undergoing surgery to determine postoperative SSTI risk. Methods A retrospective medical record review was conducted at 2 urban tertiary care hospitals. Biologic agent use ranged from June 2013 to June 2018. Data were extracted on biologic agent injections, surgical procedures, and patient characteristics. Results Hypertension, former smoking, and corticosteroid use were significantly associated with SSTI risk (P Limitations This study is limited by its retrospective design. Conclusions There was no increased risk of either postoperative or nonperioperative SSTI risk among biologic agents. Concomitant corticosteroid use increased SSTI risk. Current guidelines regarding stopping biologic agents before surgery warrant re-evaluation, because there was no difference in SSTI risk in patients who did so.
Astronomically forced sequence development of terrestrial massive sand-sheet, inland sabkha and palustrine units, Lower Miocene Hadrukh Formation, eastern Saudi Arabia

Abstract The Lower Miocene (lower Aquitanian) Hadrukh Formation (30–65 m thick), Al-Lidam area, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, was cored to examine sequence development within a non-marine siliciclastic-prone coastal plain in a semi-arid distal foreland setting. Facies are dominated by structureless quartz sands (terrestrial sand-sheets/shrub-coppice dunes or nebkhas), along with gypsiferous/calcareous quartz sands and gypsites (inland sabkhas), brecciated and sheet-cracked sandy carbonates/calcareous sands (palustrine), and some coarse lithic-clast quartz sands (fluvial) and associated paleosol-capped red and green-gray mudrock (interfluves). However, they lack the intercalated eolian laminated and cross-bedded sands of this hyper-arid region today, reflecting semi-arid Early Miocene conditions. Spectral analysis of core gamma-ray logs shows astronomical forcing within the eccentricity, obliquity and precessional bands. Tuning indicates the Hadrukh Formation is a composite sequence (~1.3 myr duration) containing three (400 kyr) major sequences and eight minor sequences. Fluvial facies are locally developed at the base and near the top of the composite sequence. Massive sand sheet facies dominate the sequences, and sandy evaporitic facies and palustrine sandy carbonates are best developed in upper parts of sequences but interfinger within short distances with other facies. Subsidence and differential warping caused thickness and facies variation but the succession shows a strong astronomical signal. Astronomical forcing controlled semi-arid vs. more humid phases of deposition, as well as the position of base level, elevation of the ground-water table and presumably density of shrub cover. The three major sequence boundaries developed during 400 kyr eccentricity minima and cooling, while minor sequence boundaries formed during short eccentricity (100 kyr) cooling events.
Prospective Study of Systemic Yttrium-90 Elution during Radioembolization of Hepatic Metastases.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate total blood radioactivity (BR) after SIR-Spheres yttrium-90 (90Y) radioembolization and differences in BR based on delivery method. Materials and Methods Twenty participants with hepatic metastases undergoing first radioembolization were prospectively enrolled from December 2017 to June 2018. Blood samples were drawn at baseline and 0, 10, 20, 60, and 120 minutes after 90Y administration. BR was measured with a γ-counter and scaled by estimated blood volume. Percentage of instilled radioactivity in the bloodstream was calculated as area under the fitted curve, and differences between delivery methods were examined with nonparametric statistical tests. Results In 10 participants, resin microspheres were instilled with 50% Isovue 300 diluted in saline solution in the D line, and 10 others were treated with dextrose 5% in water (D5W) in the D line. Median administered activities were 944 MBq (range, 746–1,993 MBq) and 1,213 MBq (range, 519–2,066 MBq), respectively. Fraction of 90Y in blood was significantly higher with dilute contrast agent than with D5W (median, 0.5% of injected activity vs 0.2%; P = .001). Among all participants, the maximum activity delivered was 2,066 MBq, and a maximum of 1% of administered radioactivity was measured as free 90Y in blood. Assuming these highest-case values and complete decay of all free 90Y in bone, a dose to red marrow of 132.3 mGy was calculated by Organ Level INternal Dose Assessment/EXponential Modeling. Conclusions Blood sampling after radioembolization allowed for estimation of the time–activity curve and BR. Delivery with 50% contrast agent in saline solution resulted in a significant increase in BR vs D5W, even though the total BR for both groups was nominal.
Weakly supervised temporal model for prediction of breast cancer distant recurrence

Efficient prediction of cancer recurrence in advance may help to recruit high risk breast cancer patients for clinical trial on-time and can guide a proper treatment plan. Several machine learning approaches have been developed for recurrence prediction in previous studies, but most of them use only structured electronic health records and only a small training dataset, with limited success in clinical application. While free-text clinic notes may offer the greatest nuance and detail about a patient’s clinical status, they are largely excluded in previous predictive models due to the increase in processing complexity and need for a complex modeling framework. In this study, we developed a weak-supervision framework for breast cancer recurrence prediction in which we trained a deep learning model on a large sample of free-text clinic notes by utilizing a combination of manually curated labels and NLP-generated non-perfect recurrence labels. The model was trained jointly on manually curated data from 670 patients and NLP-curated data of 8062 patients. It was validated on manually annotated data from 224 patients with recurrence and achieved 0.94 AUROC. This weak supervision approach allowed us to learn from a larger dataset using imperfect labels and ultimately provided greater accuracy compared to a smaller hand-curated dataset, with less manual effort invested in curation.
Optimal imaging strategy for surveillance in children with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract Background Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a diverse disease with a wide spectrum of presentations and clinical course. Sudden cardiac death remains the most visible and high-profile complication of HCM, and in many studies it is the most common cause of SCD in high school and young adult athletes. Cardiovascular imaging plays a key role in initial diagnosis, phenotypic characterization, and baseline risk stratification of patients. Aim of review To review the various considerations in developing the optimal non-invasive imaging strategy in children with HCM, including the pros and cons of transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. To describe the newer techniques with advanced imaging that will improve our ability to discriminate higher risk children with HCM. Key scientific concepts of review Transthoracic echocardiography remains widely available and does not require sedation in the pediatric population. A comprehensive echocardiography examination can establish the diagnosis, determine the hypertrophy pattern, evaluate left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, mitral valve function, and evaluate for the presence and severity of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and concomitant mitral regurgitation. While CMR has traditionally played a complementary or supportive role to echocardiography, CMR has the ability to characterize the composition of the myocardium. Myocardial scarring can be visualized and quantified by CMR using a technique known as late gadolinium enhancement. Late gadolinium enhancement has emerged as an important risk factor in predicting outcomes. Accessibility and need for sedation remain barriers to expanded use in the pediatric population.
Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Findings in CNGB3-Associated Achromatopsia and Therapeutic Implications

We describe the spectral domain OCT findings in two siblings with CNGB3-associated achromatopsia. A 33-year-old female and her 31-year-old sibling were evaluated for mild nystagmus and decreased visual acuity which had been present since childhood. They were each evaluated with full field Ganzfeld electroretinography which demonstrated flat photopic responses and preserved rod function. Genetic testing performed at Carver lab at the University of Iowa confirmed a diagnosis of achromatopsia with identical mutations in the CNGB3 gene. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography was performed which revealed foveal changes in both siblings, with slight phenotypic variations in these genotypically identical siblings. OCT findings in achromatopsia emphasize the importance of early identification and treatment in this disorder.
Sample Preparation Techniques for Filtration Testing of Fly Ash with Nonwoven Geotextiles

A laboratory investigation was conducted to evaluate the applicability of five preparation techniques of fly ash/geotextile specimens for the gradient ratio (GR) test. These techniques included the current ASTM method, a modified ASTM method, a vibro-prep technique, a dry preparation, and slurry method. Using the ASTM method for preparation, measured specific discharge and GR across the fly ash-geotextile systems were 8.0 {times} 10{sup {minus}4} cm/sec and 1.25, respectively. However, during the placement of the fly ash in the permeameter some intrusion of the particles into the geotextile openings took place. A technique for placing fly ash in the permeameter was modified after ASTM D5101. Using this modified method, the specific discharge and GR were measured to be 6.8 {times} 10{sup {minus}4} cm/sec and 0.80, respectively. The specimens prepared using the slurry method exhibited a relatively stable behavior. The specific discharge had an average value of 2.5 {times} 10{sup {minus}4} cm/sec after 600 hours of testing. The GR decreased from 1.52 to 1.37 during this period. The extent of piping under different testing conditions was quantified in this investigation. The specimens prepared using dry method exhibited an unsteady behavior and piping was observed to be dominant. Although piping of fine particlesmore » through the geotextile system was less than the suggested limit of 0.25 g/cm{sup 2} for soils, it is proposed that in the case of fly ash specimens with geotextile, stable systems should be categorized as those with piping rate less than 0.03 g/cm{sup 2}.« less
The Effect of Hypertext Annotation Presentation Formats on Perceived Cognitive Load and Learner Control

The impact of hypertext presentation formats on learner con trol and cognitive load was examined in this study using Campbell and Stanley’s (1963) Posttest Only Control Group design. One hundred eighty-six undergraduate students were randomly assigned to read a web-based text with no annota tions, online glossary annotations, embedded annotations, rollover annotations, or annotations with multiple formats. One of the findings from this study is that the embedded annotation presentation format was ranked the lowest in learnercontrolamongthedifferentpresentationformats;that is, embedded annotation seemed to provide less control or choices to students in accessing annotations. Moreover, a negativerelationshipwasrevealedbetweentheoverallcogni tive load and learner control as generated by different anno tation presentation formats.
Chorus and Community

Reviewed Medium: book Year: 2006 Pages: 336 Details: Compact disc attached Publisher: University of Illinois Press ISBN: 0-252-03037-0 (hard cover). Prices: $65.00 USD(hard cover).
Teaching Digital Citizenship

As technology advances, so do the techniques for abusing it. While traditional crime has not increased in some countries, cyber crime are becoming increasingly common and steadily growing. One of the duties of educators is to teach the learning community about digital citizenship so everyone can understand, address, and prevent technology abuse. This paper defines digital citizenship, discusses its ramifications on individuals and the learning community at large, and recommends strategies for digital citizenship education.
Metabolic and histologic effects of recombinant canine somatotropin on bone healing in dogs, using an unstable ostectomy gap model

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of recombinant canine somatotropin (STH) on the metabolic and histologic aspects of bone healing in dogs, using an unstable ostectomy gap model. ANIMALS 8 mature dogs. PROCEDURE A 3-mm ostectomy of the mid portion of the radius was performed in all dogs. Implants designed to release STH at a rate of 4 mg/d were placed SC in 4 dogs (treated group [STHG]), and another 4 dogs received no implants (control group [CG]). Serum concentrations of STH, insulin-like growth factor I, and osteocalcin were determined before surgery, and weekly for 8 weeks. Scintigraphic evaluation of the ostectomy sites was performed before surgery, and at weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8 after surgery. Histologic evaluation ofthe ostectomy sites was performed at the conclusion of the study at week 8. RESULTS Significant (P < 0.05) increases in serum STH, insulin-like growth factor I, and osteocalcin concentrations were observed in dogs of the STHG during the 8-week study period. Scintigraphic activity of the ostectomy sites was increased in dogs of both groups, but dogs of the STHG had significantly (P < 0.05) greater activity, compared with dogs of the CG. Coalescence of nuclear activity across the ostectomy site was observed in dogs of the STHG, whereas dogs of the CG maintained 2 distinct areas of metabolic activity. Histologically, dogs of the STHG had bridging calluses with areas of endochondral ossification and ongoing osteogenic activity, whereas dogs of the CG had nonossified fibrocartilage typical of nonunion fractures. CONCLUSION Using the ostectomy gap model, recombinant canine STH enhanced the metabolic and histologic aspects of bone healing in dogs.
Overview: Particle acceleration by waves and turbulence

Waves and turbulence are frequently invoked as a mechanism to accelerate particles. This overview will describe the importance of this form of acceleration and introduce the papers on this subject that are included in this volume.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency: A paradigm for prenatal diagnosis and treatment

21-Hydroxylase deficiency is the most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), an inherited disorder of steroidogenesis. In its severe form, CAH causes genital ambiguity in females. Molecular genetic analysis of fetal DNA obtained by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling is used to diagnose steroid 21-OHD deficiency in utero. Large ongoing studies show that appropriate prenatal treatment of pregnant mothers with dexamethasone is effective and safe for both the fetus and the mother. It reduces ambiguous genitalia in the female affected fetus and thus avoids unnecessary genitoplasty in the newborn female.
N/D unitary isobar model of NN-NN∗ (II)

Abstract The effect of the complex singularity of the NN → NN ∗ OPE production amplitude on NN elastic scattering amplitudes is determined in an extended N/D method due to Ball-Frazer-Nauenberg and Cook-Lee. Calculations are reported for S-wave interaction, no spin or isospin for a variety of interaction strengths and resonance widths. Comparisons are made with the usual N/D and determinantal methods.
Hibernation “trigger”: Opioid-like inhibitory action on brain function of the monkey

Abstract A hibernation “trigger” factor derived from the blood of the hibernating woodchuck acts to suppress vital physiological processes in the primate. When infused into the cerebral ventricle of the conscious monkey, the factor induced hypothermia, behavioral depression, bradycardia and aphagia. The opiate antagonists, naloxone and naltrexone, either reverse of retard these behavioral and physiological signs. We hypothesize that the “trigger” molecule is an endogenous opioid-like peptide which may be unique to the hibernator. Moreover, the non-hibernating primate apparently possesses receptor sites in the brain that are capable of responding to this potent molecule.
Effects of 13-cis retinoic acid therapy on human antibody responses to defined protein antigens.

Abstract We have evaluated the in vivo effects of 13-cis retinoic acid (13-cis RA) on human antibody responses to immunization with tetanus toxoid (TT) and keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH). Subjects with severe cystic acne were immunized with suboptimal doses (10μg) of KLH 7 d and 3 months after starting retinoid therapy (13-cis RA, 1 mg/kg/day for 4 mo). A standard booster immunization with TT was given along with the initial KLH sensitization. A control group of acne patients received identical immunization regimens, but no 13-cis RA. Plasma retinoid levels were evaluated by reverse-phase HPLC and confirmed that blood-level concentrations of 13-cis RA and metabolites in these acne patients reached values previously demonstrated to be immunomodulatory in vitro. The retinoid had no effect on responses to TT as reflected by the characteristics of increased anti-TT IgG levels or the isotype distribution of the antibody. In contrast, the anti-KLH response was significantly enhanced in the 13-cis-RA-treated group. Whereas anti-KLH antibody was detected in only 4 of 13 control subjects after the secondary immunization, 10 of 13 retinoid-treated subjects had measurable levels ofanti-KLH IgG (p
Intrinsic Bayes factor approach to a test for the power law process

Abstract The versatile new criterion called the intrinsic Bayes factor (IBF), introduced by Berger and Pericchi [J. Amer. Statist. Assoc. 91 (1996) 109–122], has made it possible to perform model selection and hypotheses testing using standard (improper) noninformative priors in a variety of situations. In this paper, we use their methodology to test several hypotheses regarding the shape parameter of the power law process, which has been widely used to model failure times of repairable systems. Assuming that we have data from the process according to the time-truncation sampling scheme, we derive the arithmetic IBFs using four default priors, including the reference and Jeffreys priors. We establish the frequentist probability matching properties of these priors. We also identify two priors that are justifiable under both time-truncation and failure-truncation schemes, so that the IBFs for both schemes can be unified. Deducing the intrinsic priors of a certain canonical form, as the time of truncation tends to infinity, we show that the arithmetic IBFs correspond asymptotically to actual Bayes factors. We also discuss the expected IBFs, which are useful with small samples. We then use these results to analyze an actual data set on the interruption times of a transmission line, summarizing our results under the default priors.
Torsion of intra-abdominal seminoma of testis.

Abstract Torsion of an intra-abdominal seminoma was discovered in an eighteen-year-old man who had abdominal pain. Review of the literature disclosed 21 similar cases. The risk of testicular torsion and malignant tumor is greatly increased by testicular maldescent.
Atmospheric Transmission For Remote Temperature Sounding

Calculations of atmospheric radiances are compared with observations made in the 15 pm and 4.3 pm spectral regions by the HIRS/2 on TIROS-N. Differences between calculation and observation lead us to make empirical corrections in calculations of atmospheric transmittances. The largest correction is required in the HIRS/2 interval at 690 cm-1. Corrections arealso required in the intervals centered at 703, 2210, and 2270 cm-1. At NOAA's National Environmental Satellite Service, several studies of laboratory spectra show good agreement between observation and calculation in these spectral regions. However, in the 15 μm CO2 Q-branch, classical theory underestimates the observed temperature dependence of widths of spectral lines.© (1979) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Significance of perivesical lymph nodes in radical cystectomy for bladder cancer

Abstract Objective The location of positive lymph nodes (LNs) is important for bladder cancer staging. Little is known regarding the impact of perivesical (PV) lymph node (PVLN) involvement on survival. This study characterized PVLN identified after radical cystectomy (RC) and analyzed their impact on recurrence and survival. Materials and methods We reviewed our institutional review board–approved database including all patients who underwent RC with pelvic lymphadenectomy for curative intent for urothelial carcinoma. Clinical and pathologic data were obtained. Patients were analyzed in groups according to the location of positive LNs: PV+/other LN (ON)+, PV+/ON−, and PV−/ON+. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to estimate recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Multivariable Cox regression (including pathologic T category, number of positive LNs, highest level of positive LNs, chemotherapy, and margin status) was performed to evaluate associations between PVLN status and survival. Results In total, 2,017 patients met inclusion criteria and 465 (23%) were LN+. PVLNs were identified in 936 patients (47%), positive in 197 patients (10%), and represented isolated LN+disease in 101 patients (5%). On univariate analysis, RFS and OS were significantly worse in the PV+/ON+group compared with the PV+/ON− and PV−/ON+ groups. There were no significant differences in RFS or OS between the PV+/ON− and PV−/ON+ groups. On multivariable analysis, PV+/ON+disease was independently associated with worse RFS and OS when compared with PV−/ON+ disease. Conclusions PVLNs were identified in a significant number of patients after RC. Positive PVLN, when in combination with other positive LNs, portends worse survival even when correcting for the number of positive nodes.
Comparative education research framed by neo-institutional theory: a review of diverse approaches and conflicting assumptions

The rise in globalisation studies in comparative education places neo-institutional theory at the centre of many debates among comparative education researchers. However, uncertainty about how to interpret neo-institutional theory still persists among educational comparativists. With this uncertainty comes misinterpretation of its principles, variations and explanatory power. Two problematic misconceptions prevail: (1) the belief that the ‘world culture’ strand is the only version of neo-institutional theory applicable to comparative education research; and (2) the assumption that the global homogenisation of society, culture and schooling is a goal of researchers applying neo-institutional theory to comparative education phenomena. This article addresses these misconceptions, elucidating neo-institutional theory and its applicability to comparative education research. Our findings suggest that neo-institutional frameworks for comparative education research are useful, but that complementary approaches an...
Median Nerve Mistaken for Palmaris Longus Tendon: Restoration of Function with Sensory Nerve Transfers

Intraoperative iatrogenic nerve injuries occur despite vigilance in the operating room. Most of these injuries occur as a result of patient positioning, traction or pressure injury, hematoma, or technical error. The median nerve is especially susceptible to injury during carpal tunnel release. A rare but devastating injury of the median nerve is complete transection. The number of devastating injuries is not well known, as few of the injuries are documented or publicized. We report a case where the median nerve was harvested instead of the palmaris longus tendon. We present a review of the literature and suggest an alternative treatment to median nerve grafting using sensory nerve transfers in the hand.
Optimizing center performance through coordinated data staging, scheduling and recovery

Procurement and the optimized utilization of Petascale supercomputers and centers is a renewed national priority. Sustained performance and availability of such large centers is a key technical challenge significantly impacting their usability. Storage systems are known to be the primary fault source leading to data unavailability and job resubmissions. This results in reduced center performance, partially due to the lack of coordination between I/O activities and job scheduling. In this work, we propose the coordination of job scheduling with data staging/offloading and on-demand staged data reconstruction to address the availability of job input data and to improve center-wide performance. Fundamental to both mechanisms is the efficient management of transient data: in the way it is scheduled and recovered. Collectively, from a center's standpoint, these techniques optimize resource usage and increase its data/service availability. From a user's standpoint, they reduce the job turnaround time and optimize the allocated time usage.
Retroperitoneal laparoscopic marsupialization of periureteral urinoma.

Retroperitoneal laparoscopy has been applied to varicocelectomy, renal biopsy, pyelolithotomy, ureterolithotomy, nephrectomy, nephropexy, adrenalectomy, pyeloplasty and decortication of a renal cyst.' We report the use of outpatient retroperitoneal laparoscopy to marsupialize an obstructing upper periureteral urinoma. CASE REPORT A 41 year-old man experienced acute left flank pain after a fall from a barstool. He denied a history of flank pain, urinary tract infection or renal calculus disease. Radiographic evaluation demonstrated a narrowing of a 6 cm. segment of the proximal ureter. Obstruction and pain were relieved by placement of an indwelling ureteral stent. The long tapered narrowing of the proximal ureter was suspicious of extrinsic compression. Computerized tomography (CT) demonstrated a cystic mass compressing the upper left ureter (see figure). Ultrasound guided percutaneous aspiration provided 30 cc straw colored fluid, and biochemical analysis was consistent with urine. Bacterial cultures and cytology were negative. Percutaneous drainage through a 12F catheter failed to result in complete resolution of the lesion, and the flank pain recurred after removal of the indwelling ureteral stent. Repeat CT scan confirmed reaccumulation of the urinoma. Options of continued observation, repeat percutaneous drainage, laparoscopic versus open drainage and urinoma excision were discussed. An indwelling ureteral stent was placed to facilitate intra
A Comparison of Primary Care Systems in the USA, Denmark, Finland and Sweden: Lessons for Scandinavia?

In the United States large corporately owned health care delivery institutions, some of which are known as health maintenance organizations (HMOs), are assuming an increased prominence in the provision of primary care (PC). These private organizations are similar in many ways to the public-sector providers that have functioned for decades within the Scandinavian systems. This article explores the similarities and differences between these two PC approaches. This is accomplished by contrasting the governance, organization, financing and staffing of the PC systems of three Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, and Sweden) to that of the US. Also provided is a critical analysis of the extent to which each model attains the ideal attributes of PC including; 1) accessibility, 2) comprehensiveness, 3) coordination and continuity, and 4) sensitivity to the patient's social milieu. For each facet of PC assessed, the American models offer approaches that are worthy of consideration by Scandinavian clinicians and planners. These include innovations in the areas of coordination between primary and secondary care, preventive care for adults and incentives for financial efficiency. Also, although successful in attaining many attributes of PC, this article discusses some perceived weaknesses of the Scandinavian systems.
A robust xenotransplantation model for acute myeloid leukemia.

Xenotransplantation of human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in immunocompromised animals has been critical for defining leukemic stem cells. However, existing immunodeficient strains of mice have short life spans and low levels of AML cell engraftment, hindering long-term evaluation of primary human AML biology. A recent study suggested that NOD/LtSz-scid IL2Rγc null (NSG) mice have enhanced AML cell engraftment, but this relied on technically challenging neonatal injections. Here, we performed extensive analysis of AML engraftment in adult NSG mice using tail vein injection. Of the 35 AML samples analyzed, 66% showed bone marrow engraftment over 0.1%. Further, 37% showed high levels of engraftment (>10%), with some as high as 95%. A 2–44-fold expansion of AML cells was often seen. Secondary and tertiary recipients showed consistent engraftment, with most showing further AML cell expansion. Engraftment did not correlate with French–American–British subtype or cytogenetic abnormalities. However, samples with FLT3 mutations showed a higher probability of engraftment than FLT3 wild type. Importantly, animals developed organomegaly and a wasting illness consistent with advanced leukemia. We conclude that the NSG xenotransplantation model is a robust model for human AML cell engraftment, which will allow better characterization of AML biology and testing of new therapies.