cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance bounds on parallel self-initiating discrete-event simulations

This paper considers the use of massively parallel architectures to execute discrete-event simulations of what we term “self-initiating” models. A logical process in a self-initiating model schedules its own state reevaluation times, independently of any other logical process, and sends its new state to other logical processes following the reevaluation. Our interest is in the effects of that communication on synchronization. Using a model that idealizes the communication topology of a simulation, we consider the performance of various synchronization protocols by deriving upper and lower bounds on optimal performance, upper bounds on Time Warp's performance, and lower bounds on the performance of a new consevative protocol. Our analysis of Time Warp includes some of the overhead costs of state saving and rollback; the effects of propogating rollbacks are ignored. The analysis points out sufficient conditions for the conservitive protocol to outperform Time Warp. The analysis also quantifies the sensitivity of performance to message fanout, lookahead ability, and the probability distributions underlying the simulation.
Vascular development and hemodynamic force in the mouse yolk sac

Vascular remodeling of the mouse embryonic yolk sac is a highly dynamic process dependent on multiple genetic signaling pathways as well as biomechanical factors regulating proliferation, differentiation, migration, cell-cell, and cell-matrix interactions. During this early developmental window, the initial primitive vascular network of the yolk sac undergoes a dynamic remodeling process concurrent with the onset of blood flow, in which endothelial cells establish a branched, hierarchical structure of large vessels and smaller capillary beds. In this review, we will describe the molecular and biomechanical regulators which guide vascular remodeling in the mouse embryonic yolk sac, as well as live imaging methods for characterizing endothelial cell and hemodynamic function in cultured embryos.
Impact of Clinical and Dosimetric Factors on Weekly Toxicity Scores During Pelvic Radiation Therapy for Rectal Cancer

Purpose/Objective(s): To identify factors associated with the trajectory of acute gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities during pelvic radiation therapy (PRT) in patients with rectal cancer. Materials/Methods: We analyzed 177 consecutive rectal cancer patients treated in 2007-2010. Clinical information including age, gender, stage, chemotherapy, and weekly diarrhea and proctitis grade (CTCAE 3.0) during PRT was recorded. The bowel (BW), rectum, and anal canal (AC) were contoured on treatment planning CT images. Doses to GI structures were calculated using the original treatment plan, and dose-volume parameters were extracted for modeling using CERR software. Fisher’s exact test was used to analyze the effect of clinical factors on weekly Grade 2+ toxicity scores. Logistic regression models were used to test the association between GI toxicity grade and predictors. Results: The median age was 60; 76 (43%) patients were women; 166 (94%) received concurrent 5-FU based chemotherapy; 99 (56%) were treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and 79 were treated with 3D conformal RT (3DCRT). Grade 2+ diarrhea and proctitis during the entire course of PRT were seen in 44 (25%) and 57 (32%) patients, respectively. A significantly higher rate of Grade 2+ diarrhea was observed in women compared to men during week 4 and 5 of PRT (week 4: 24.2% vs 10.8%, p Z .01; week 5: 33.3% vs 12.2%, p Z .002), as well as in patients treated with 3DCRT vs IMRT (week 4: 22.2% vs 11.5%, p Z .03; week 5: 32.3% vs 10.8%, p Z .001). On multivariate analysis, the normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) model including BW V45 (bowel receiving 45 Gy), female gender, and use of 3DCRT was most predictive of Grade 2+ diarrhea (AUC Z 0.76, Rs Z 0.35, p<.001). Patients treated with IMRT had significantly less bowel volume receiving 45 Gy compared to 3DCRT (10.9% vs 21.7%, p < .001). Women had significantly larger mean irradiated BW volume compared to men (723 cc vs 608 cc, p Z .04; V45: 134 cc vs 73 cc, p < .001). Based on weekly toxicity assessments, patients <60 years of age demonstrated a significantly higher rate of Grade 2+ proctitis compared to patients 60 starting at week 3 (21.1% vs 8.5%, p Z .02; week 4: 34.9% vs 15.8%, p Z .003; week 5: 38.2% vs 23.4%, p Z .03). The model including AC V15, AC minimal dose, and younger age was most predictive of Grade 2+ proctitis (AUC Z 0.67, Rs Z 0.25, p < .001). Conclusions: Women and patients treated with 3DCRT demonstrated higher rates of Grade 2+ diarrhea starting at week 4 of PRT, likely due to the larger irradiated bowel volumes in these populations. Younger patients demonstrated a significantly higher rate of Grade 2+ proctitis starting at week 3. Use of more stringent dosimetric constraints on BW and AC in higher risk patients, such as women and younger patients, should be considered to minimize acute diarrhea and proctitis. Author Disclosure: T. Yang: None. J. Oh: None. C. Son: None. A. Apte: None. A.J. Wu: None. J.O. Deasy: None. K.A. Goodman: None.
Local atomic structure in thin films of silicon nitride and silicon diimide produced by remote plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor deposition

We have grown thin films of silicon nitride by remote plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor deposition and have studied the chemical bonding by infrared absorption, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering, and Auger-electron spectroscopy. Films were grown using two different gases as the source of nitrogen, ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ and ${\mathrm{NH}}_{3}$. We have found that films grown from ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ and deposited at substrate temperatures in excess of 350 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C have a composition corresponding to stoichiometric ${\mathrm{Si}}_{3}$${\mathrm{N}}_{4}$, whereas films deposited from ${\mathrm{NH}}_{3}$ require substrate temperatures in excess of about 500 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C to eliminate bonded H and yield the same stoichiometric composition. In contrast films grown from ${\mathrm{NH}}_{3}$ at temperatures in the range of 50 to 100 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C have a chemical composition corresponding to silicon diimide, Si(NH${)}_{2}$. Films grown from ${\mathrm{NH}}_{3}$ at intermediate substrate temperatures are solid solutions of ${\mathrm{Si}}_{3}$${\mathrm{N}}_{4}$ and Si(NH${)}_{2}$.
Astrophysical maser linewidths considering the effect of elastic collisions

Abstract The astrophysical maser linewidth is an outstanding interesting and important physical quantity to both observation and theory. When the effect of elastic collisions is considered, the linewidth of a saturated maser is smaller than predicted by the traditional standard theory, and it is smaller for stronger elastic collisions. The evolution of linewidths against saturation is shown and detailedly discussed. This may help explain some observed linewidths.
Base-catalyzed destruction of PCBs -- New donors, new transfer agents/catalysts

The use of hydrogen transfer agents and catalysts to improve the base-catalyzed decomposition of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) was investigated. The reaction proceeded only in the presence of base, but the rate of PCB disappearance increased with increasing amount of hydrogen transfer agents and catalysts. Up to 99+% disappearance of 20 000 mg/kg Aroclor 1242 in paraffinic oil was achieved within 1−4 h at 340−350 °C. A three-step mechanism is proposed for the formation of biphenyl, the main product: (1) hydrogen species generated from the paraffin oil; (2) hydrogenation of aromatic catalysts (phenanthrene, anthracene, and alkyl naphthalenes) to form dihydroaromatics, or absorption of hydrogen by hexagonal forms of carbon (graphite or carbon black as present in scrap latex) or transition metals (zero-valent iron and stainless steel); (3) transfer of the hydrogen species to the activated PCBs. The product, biphenyl, may be degraded further or possibly form adducts or polymerize.
A new approach to multinational social responsibility

Multinational business activity has expanded dramatically since the end of World War II. The increased presence of foreign corporations and the generally strategic significance of such presence for host countries, has increasingly confronted both sides with the need to develop guidelines governing the conduct of such operations. The new voluntary approach to guideline development suggested here is based on the proposition that the fundamental aim of business activity is the satisfaction of socially desirable needs. Under this approach, MNC's should attempt to operate in a socially desirable manner in all countries of operations. Social desirability determination will be made on the basis of whether activities in particular countries will be seen, by majority concensus of all publics on which corporate activity impacts, to bring about welfare improvements in the countries concerned. Periodic public opinion polls, or more informal methods in the less developed countries, are seen to provide the necessary inputs for the development of overall corporate guidelines for action, which in turn will influence strategic corporate decisions. The long run benefits resulting from such conduct are seen to outweigh temporary gains that could accrue to corporations through the pursuit of profitable but socially undesirable activities.
Restriction enzyme analysis of a highly diverged satellite DNA from Drosophila nasutoides.

The satellite II DNA of Drosophila nasutoides is a highly diverged repetitive DNA, showing about 17% base changes between repeat units (Cordeiro-Stone and Lee, 1976). This DNA is cleaved by four different restriction enzymes to produce multimeric fragmentation patterns, indicating that their restriction sites are regularly arranged. Moreover, all four enzymes produce identical fragment lengths, the size of a monomer being 96 base pairs. Such multimeric patterns are expected for a diverged repetitive DNA, since many restriction sequences could have undergone changes during sequence divergence. Further restriction analyses of this DNA by double digestions and cloning reveal that there are three different sequences in satellite II DNA with respect to the presence and the arrangement of various restriction sites (Fig. 7). As an example, one sequence contains many EcoRI sites and fewer Hinfl sites (20% of EcoRI sites), which are arranged regularly. These observations suggest that satellite II DNA of D. nasutoides might have evolved through different modes of sequence divergence.
Iterative-Differential-Analyzer Study of Prediction Networks

Iterative-differential-analyzer methods are presented which allow experimental studies of prediction net works to be performed without the use of delay lines. Two classes of problems are examined in this paper:1. Prediction of stochastic signals with no noise present.2. Prediction and filtering of deterministic signals masked by noise. Measurement techniques are de veloped for each case, and experimental verification is included.
The sources of invention and their market consequences

A structured framework is proposed for analysing inventions, focusing on the sources of information utilized in their development These sources involve internal versus external origins, as well as domestic versus international origins Analysis of forty inventions revealed five invention approaches, suggesting that society's inventions emerge through diverse means, with varying motivations, market impacts, and pathologies.
Passive and iontophoretic transport enhancement of insulin through porcine epidermis by depilatories: permeability and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies.

The effect of thioglycolate-based depilatory lotions was studied on the in vitro passive and iontophoretic permeability of insulin through porcine epidermis and biophysical changes in the stratum corneum (SC) lipids and proteins. The porcine epidermis and Franz diffusion cells modified for iontophoresis were used for the in vitro transport studies. Cathodal iontophoresis was performed at 0.2 mA/cm2 current density. Resistance of the control- and depilatory-lotion-treated epidermis was determined according to Ohmslaw. Biophysical changes were studied on porcine SC before (control) and after treatment with the depilatory lotions using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Asymmetric (∼2915 cm−1) and symmetric (∼2848 cm−1) Carbon-Hydrogen (C-H) stretching absorbances were studied to estimate the extent of lipid extraction. Fourier self-deconvolution and second derivative procedures were applied to amide I band (1700–1600 cm−1) in order to estimate quantitatively the changes in the secondary structure of the SC protein. The passive permeability of insulin was significantly (P<.05) increased through depilatory-lotion-treated (ie, Better Off, Marzena, and Sally Hansen) epidermis in comparison to control. Iontophoresis significantly enhanced (P<.05) the permeability of insulin through depilatory-pretreated epidermis in comparison with the control epidermis. Further, we were able to achieve the desired flux of insulin (5.25 U/cm2/d) through Better Off-treated epidermis using 0.2 mA/cm2 current density and 100 U/mL donor concentration of insulin. The SC treated with depilatory lotions showed a decrease in peak areas of C-H stretching absorbances in comparison with untreated SC. Depilatory lotion treatment also decreased (P<.05) the epidermal resistance in comparison with the control epidermis. The decrease in the α-helix conformation and the increase in the random and turn structures were observed in the SC proteins due to depilatory lotion treatment. The changes in the secondary structure of proteins and lipid extraction from the SC are suggested as the cause of the decrease in the epidermal resistance and the increase in the passive and iontophoretic permeability of insulin through depilatory-pretreated epidermis in comparison with the control epidermis.
A Polymer Electrolyte Hydrogen Pump Hydrogenation Reactor

Decene and acetone were hydrogenated over Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, and Au catalysts in a polymer electrolyte hydrogen pump (PEHP) reactor. Water was oxidized over a Pt mesh anode and protons were pumped to the catalysts supported on porous carbon cathodes in contact with an organic liquid phase. The protons are reduced at the cathode to adsorbed hydrogen atoms which hydrogenate adsorbed olefins and carbonyl groups by heterogeneous catalysis. At low current density decene hydrogenation over Pd and Pt increased with the current density to the 1/2 power, indicating the surface reaction of adsorbed hydrogen with adsorbed decene was the rate limiting step. At high current density the reaction rate decreased linearly with current density, indicating adsorbed hydrogen inhibited decene adsorption and decene adsorption was the rate limiting step. Decene hydrogenation at 50 °C was 100 times slower over Ni, Cu, Ag, and Au catalysts compared to Pd and Pt. Acetone hydrogenation over Pt increased linearly with proton curren...
Mobile phase optimization for the reversed-phase liquid chromatography of complex hydroxyl aromatic mixtures

Abstract Mobile phases were optimized for the reversed-phase chromatography of complex hydroxyl aromatic mixtures using a method based on solubility parameter theory. Mixtures of twenty-one monohydroxyl aromatics and fourteen dihydroxyl aromatics were considered separately for the optimization. Optimal separation of teh mono- and dihydroxyl aromatics was achieved with ternary mobile phases. However, complete resolution of the complex mixtures was not possible under the conditions investigated. Therefore, the limitations of the reversed-phase chromatographic systems were also defined.
Respiration in vitro: I. Spontaneous activity.

The present report describes respiratory-like activity recorded from intercostal muscles in the neonatal rat in vitro brain stem-spinal cord, rib-attached preparation. In this preparation from 1- to 4-day-old rats, spontaneous rhythmic and synchronized upward movements of the rib cage coincided with the recorded muscle activity. Spontaneous respiratory-like activity showed a frequency in the range of 0.05-0.2 Hz, with single-, double-, and mixed-burst patterns. Spontaneous activity declined over time, but increased in frequency as temperature increased. Multilevel recordings showed a cephalocaudal order of bursting of intercostal muscles. Brain stem transections at the prepontine level did not affect spontaneous frequency, whereas premedullary transections resulted in an increase in spontaneous respiratory frequency. High spinal transections eliminated spontaneous respiratory-like activity. These results suggest that there is a well-organized pontomedullary pattern generator for respiratory-like activity ...
Some useful approximations to generalized ray theory for regional distance seismograms

Summary. Seismograms recorded at regional distances (2°–12°) are quite complicated due to the waveguide nature of the crust. Generalized ray theory can be used to model the body waves in this distance range but a very large number of rays is required. Here I present a series of approximations to streamline generalized ray theory for the waveguide problem. If a layer over a half-space is used for the structure, then the de Hoop contour for a given ray is most strongly dependent on the fastest velocity of any leg of the ray. This results in analytic approximations to locate the contour. Each ray has two body wave arrivals (a headwave and a reflected arrival) so the displacement response of the ray need only be evaluated at a few points in time about the two arrival times and interpolated in between. A change in structure (increasing crustal thickness or Pn velocity) most strongly affects the relative timing of the headwave and the reflected arrival, so it is possible to ‘stretch’ or ‘squeeze’ the waveform of a representative model to simulate a whole suite of models. Also discussed is the applicability of a single layer over a half-space structure for modelling the observed regional distance waveforms for shallow earthquakes. At periods greater than a few seconds crustal layering can be replaced by a single layer having the appropriate average velocities. Lateral variations in crustal thickness with scale lengths of less than about 100 km can also be modelled with a simple horizontal layer of appropriate average thickness.
A survey of California plant species with a portable VOC analyzer for biogenic emission inventory development

Abstract An accurate estimate of the magnitude of biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) emissions in California's airsheds is critical for formulating effective strategies to reduce concentrations of fine particles, ozone, and other secondary air pollutants which affect human health and reduce yields of agricultural crops. However, California's natural and urban landscapes contain more than 6000 species, and the BVOC emissions from only a small fraction of these species have been characterized by quantitative measurements. A taxonomic method has been proposed to assign BVOC emission rate measurements to unmeasured species, but data are needed for additional plant families and genera to further develop and test this taxonomic approach. In the present study, BVOC emissions from more than 250 plant species were measured through a semi-quantitative method employing calibrated portable analyzers with photoionization detectors (PID). Replicate samples of live foliage were placed in plastic bags, in both light and darkened conditions, and the BVOC emissions categorized as low, medium or high. To validate our approach, for 63 plant species we compared our PID-measured BVOC emissions with published values, based on gas chromatography (GC) or GC–mass spectrometry, and found them to be well correlated. The method employed was more suited for detecting compounds with relatively higher emission rates, such as isoprene, than compounds with low emission rates, which could include monoterpenes and oxygenated compounds. For approximately 200 plant species not previously measured, the results provide further evidence that plant taxonomy can serve as a useful guide for generalizing the emissions behavior of many, but not all, plant families and genera.
Planimetric Studies of Mandibles in A/Jax Mice Born With Cortisone-Induced Cleft Palates

Mouse fetuses with cortisone-induced cleft palates had shorter than normal mandibles when compared with lengths in vehicle-treated or untreated groups. The posterior and anterior heights of the mandibles were significantly less than those in an untreated group but not in a vehicle-treated group.
„Nie na to przecież jesteście stworzeni, byście pędzili żywot jak bydlęta, lecz dążyć macie do wiedzy i cnoty!”

Zacytowana fragment „Boskiej Komedii” doskonale oddaje idee przewodnią filmu Maurizia Scaparro pt. „L'ultimo Pulcinella” („Ostatni Pulcinella”). Film opowiada o procesie odkupienia pewnej grupy mlodych ludzi, ktorzy, mimo znalezienia sie w szponach dyskryminacji i przemocy, poprzez muzyke, taniec i teatr dązą do tego, by sie z nich wyzwolic. W ten sposob teatr, w swojej najdoskonalszej formie, staje sie sposobem na przywrocenie nadziei na przyszlośc. Poprzez teatr czlowiek uczy sie, jak ma siebie postrzegac, znajdując w sobie sile do tego, aby uciec od brutalności i przemocy.
Decreased histone deacetylase 2 impairs Nrf2 activation by oxidative stress

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a crucial role in cellular defence against oxidative stress by inducing the expression of multiple anti-oxidant genes. However, where high levels of oxidative stress are observed, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Nrf2 activity is reduced, although the molecular mechanism for this defect is uncertain. Here, we show that down-regulation of histone deacetylase (HDAC) 2 causes Nrf2 instability, resulting in reduced anti-oxidant gene expression and increase sensitivity to oxidative stress. Although Nrf2 protein was clearly stabilized after hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stimulation in a bronchial epithelial cell line (BEAS2B), Nrf2 stability was decreased and Nrf2 acetylation increased in the presence of an HDAC inhibitor, trichostatin A (TSA). TSA also reduced Nrf2-regulated heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression in these cells, and this was confirmed in acute cigarette-smoke exposed mice in vivo. HDAC2 knock-down by RNA interference resulted in reduced H2O2-induced Nrf2 protein stability and activity in BEAS2B cells, whereas HDAC1 knockdown had no effect. Furthermore, monocyte-derived macrophages obtained from healthy volunteers (non-smokers and smokers) and COPD patients showed a significant correlation between HDAC2 expression and Nrf2 expression (r = 0.92, p < 0.0001). Thus, reduced HDAC2 activity in COPD may account for increased Nrf2 acetylation, reduced Nrf2 stability and impaired anti oxidant defences.
Laser-chemical modification of nucleation barriers for area-selective thin film growth

Abstract The use of laser radiation to locally modify nucleation barriers to thin film growth is discussed. Examples are described in which UV laser photodeposition is used to directly pattern surface-altering monolayer or submonolayer films. The surface-altering films can then be used to promote or both physical condensation as well as surface chmistry. A qualitative is made of two kinds of processes: those relying on physical, and those relying on chemical, barriers. A figure of merit is defined and discussed, which measures the selectivity of a given process for patterned growth.
The Practice of Interferometry

A brief review of the several types of interferometer is given. Four specific forms of instrument which are routinely used for interferometric testing at Perkin-Elmer are illustrated and described. A number of examples of interferograms obtained with each form of instrument are presented. The relationship of recent advanced developments to the actual practice of interferometry is indicated.
Role of Chemical Ordering on Phononic Transport in Binary Alloys

Many random substitutional solid solutions (alloys) will display a tendency to chemically order given the appropriate kinetic and thermodynamic conditions. Such order-disorder transitions will result in major crystallographic reconfigurations, where the atomic basis, symmetry, and periodicity of the alloy change dramatically. Consequently, phonon behavior in these alloys will vary greatly depending on the type and degree of ordering achieved. To investigate these phenomena, the role of the order-disorder transition on phononic transport properties of Lennard-Jones type binary alloys is explored via non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations. Particular attention is paid to regimes in which the alloy is only partially ordered. It is shown that, through exploitation of the long-range order parameter, thermal conductivity of binary alloys can be effectively tuned across half an order of magnitude at low-to-moderate temperatures.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Very high temperature, moderate pressure metamorphism in the New Russia gneiss complex, northeastern Adirondack Highlands, metamorphic aureole to the Marcy anorthosite: Discussion

Alcock and Muller (1999) assert four inferences regarding Grenville gneisses near New Russia, N.Y. (named “New Russia gneiss complex” by them) and the adjacent ca. 1130 Ma Marcy anorthosite massif. These four inferences follow: (1) metamorphism and anatexis of the New Russia complex were due to contact effects in the thermal aureole of the ca.1130 Ma Marcy anorthosite; (2) pressure estimates in the gneiss suggest anorthosite emplacement pressures of ∼750 MPa; (3) heat from intrusion of the Marcy anorthosite and coeval anorthosite–mangerite–charnockite–granite (AMCG) plutons caused regional granulite-facies metamorphism of the Adirondack Highlands; and (4) the Marcy anorthosite massif, which commonly is only mildly deformed in its core, is a postkinematic intrusion, thus implying that the Adirondacks experienced no post-Marcy, Ottawan orogenesis at ca. 1090–1030 Ma. We consider all four assertions to be seriously flawed, and we address these and related issues, beginning with inference (4), above, which is critical to their entire argument. Alcock and Muller ignore or misrepresent two critical pieces of widely reported data based upon field relations and U–Pb zircon geochronology. In addition, their own most recent geochronological results contradict the model that they propose. These critical issues are discussed below under three separate headings. 1. Alcock and Muller cite the existence of only “younger undeformed or mildly deformed granites” following the ca. 1150–1130 Ma AMCG plutonism of the Adirondack Highlands. This ignores the existence of the well-established Hawkeye granitic suite of the Highlands that is closely related to Buddington’s (1939) “younger hornblende granite” and has been dated (six samples from across the region), by U/Pb zircon, at 1095 ± 13 Ma (Chiarenzelli and McLelland 1991; McLelland et al. 1996, in press). The Hawkeye suite commonly exhibits intense ductile strain (Fig. D1) and, therefore, predates high grade, granulite-facies ( T ≈ 700–850°C) metamorphism and penetrative deformation of the Ottawan Orogeny (ca. 1090–1030 Ma) the age of which has …
Towards a FAST-CARS anthrax detector: CARS generation in a DPA surrogate molecule

Coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) has been investigated as a detection method for the identification of dipicolinic acid (DPA), a marker molecule for bacterial spores of anthrax. The laser dye molecule DCM was used as a surrogate molecule for DPA. In preliminary experiments, a molecular sensitivity was achieved in DCM that is projected to be sufficient to detect the DPA in bacterial spore clumps as small as 5.5 μm in diameter, small enough to be of interest in practical detection scenarios.
Evaluation of an endoscopic suturing device for transoral outlet reduction in patients with weight regain following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Background and study aims: A dilated gastrojejunal anastomosis (GJA) is thought to be associated with weight regain in patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Due to a high rate of perioperative morbidity, surgical revision is not generally performed. The aim of this study was to assess the technical feasibility, safety, and early outcomes of a procedure using a commercially available endoscopic suturing device to reduce the diameter of the GJA. Patients and methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 25 consecutive patients who underwent transoral outlet reduction (TORe) for dilated GJA and weight regain. An endoscopic suturing device was used to place sutures at the margin of the GJA in order to reduce its aperture. On chart review, clinical data were available at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results: Patients had regained a mean of 24 kg from their weight loss nadir and had a mean body mass index of 43 kg/m 2 at the time of endoscopic revision. Average anastomosis diameter was 26.4 mm. Technical success was achieved in all patients (100 %) with a mean reduction in anastomosis diameter to 6 mm (range 3 – 10 mm), representing a 77.3 % reduction. The mean weight loss in successful cases was 11.5 kg, 11.7 kg, and 10.8 kg at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. There were no major complications. Conclusion: This case series demonstrated the technical feasibility, safety, and efficacy of performing gastrojejunostomy reduction using a commercially available endoscopic suturing device. This technique may represent an effective and minimally invasive option for the management of weight regain in patients with RYGB.
Thyroid Microcarcinoma: Prevalence, Prognosis, and Management

Objective: To review the usual course of thyroid microcarcinoma (TMC) and the associated prognosis and treatment of affected patients. Methods: We discuss predisposing factors in the formation of T...
Does respect for human rights vary across ‘civilizations’? A statistical reexamination:

The cultural content of international human rights standards has inspired much discussion and debate, but cross-cultural levels of compliance with these standards remains understudied. Using Samuel Huntington’s controversial ‘clash-of-civilizations’ thesis as a point of departure, this article analyzes whether human rights practices differ systematically across dominant cultural and religious traditions, with a focus on two sets of rights: bodily integrity and civil/political. Net of standard political, social, economic, and demographic factors, countries identified as Western countries and Japan generally have better rated practices than other countries, but differences are especially pronounced with respect to Buddhist, Catholic/Latin, Islamic, and Orthodox nations. These countries are closely scrutinized by watchdogs such as Amnesty International, which might account for their lower human rights scores. Variation in human rights scores also tends to be durable over time; in contrast with Huntington’s t...
Extremely preterm birth outcome: a review of four decades of cognitive research.

Premature birth incidence and survival rates are increasing steadily due to advances in obstetric and neonatal intensive care. Those born at the limits of viability are highly at-risk of adverse neurocognitive function over their lifespan, leading to current controversy regarding aggressive resuscitation efforts for these extremely preterm children. However, data from earlier generation cohorts who were born in substantially different eras of neonatal intensive care cannot be relied on to predict outcome of today’s newborn. Our review by the crucial variable of birth cohort year shows a changing developmental trajectory in which today’s extremely preterm survivor is likely to have fewer severe medical complications, better neurological outcomes, and fewer adverse cognitive late effects. Such data further underscore the importance of concurrently considering medical, familial, socioenvironmental, and neurobiological factors in combination with individual neonatal intensive care center protocols when studying outcomes of the preterm child. This complex, interrelated range of factors directly affects the immature, rapidly developing premature brain. However, ongoing surveillance to detect subsequent delay or impairment and to apply interventional strategies early in the developmental course holds promise for further enhancement of functional outcome.
Mutagenic potential of O4-methylthymine in vivo determined by an enzymatic approach to site-specific mutagenesis

Abstract O4-Alkylthymine-DNA adducts have been implicated as causative lesions in chemical mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. To directly assess the mutagenic potential of these adducts in vivo, we have designed an enzymatic technique for introducing nucleotide analogues at predetermined sites of biologically active DNA. Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I was used in vitro to incorporate a single O4-methylthymine residue at the 3' terminus of an oligonucleotide primer opposite the adenine residue of the amber codon in bacteriophage phi X174 am3 DNA. After further extension of the primer with unmodified nucleotides, the partial-duplex product was transfected into E. coli spheroplasts. Replication of the site-specifically methylated DNA in E. coli deficient in O4-methylthymine-DNA methyltransferase (ada-) yielded 10-fold more mutant progeny phage than replication of nonmethylated DNA; no increase in mutation frequency was observed after replication in repair-proficient (ada+) E. coli. The DNA from 20 independently isolated mutant plaques all contained A.T----G.C transitions at the original site of O4-methylthymine incorporation. These data demonstrate that O4-methylthymine induces base-substitution mutations in E. coli and suggest that this adduct may be involved in mutagenesis by N-nitroso methylating agents. This enzymatic technique for site-specific mutagenesis provides an alternative to the chemical synthesis of oligonucleotides containing altered bases.
Permanent versus interim regulations: A game-theoretic analysis☆

Abstract When a regulator anticipates learning about the benefits or costs of regulations over time, questions can be raised about the appropriate regulatory policy. This paper compares permanent and interim regulations in a setting with initially uncertain pollution damages, a fixed capital input, and costly enforcement. The analysis shows that neither policy is first-best. Conditions under which one policy dominates the other are identified with the help of a simulation. The results indicate that permanent regulations may be preferable to interim regulations even when there is substantial uncertainty about damages.
Autoantibodies to the δ-opioid receptor function as opioid agonists and display immunomodulatory activity

In this report, we show that affinity purified human anti-delta opioid receptor (DOR) autoantibodies from IVIG are specific to DOR and possess agonistic properties displayed by their ability to dramatically decrease forskolin stimulated cAMP accumulation. Anti-DOR autoantibody also caused phosphorylation of the opioid receptor. Anti-DOR autoantibody treatment showed a significant reduction in CXCR4 gene expression as well as surface protein expression. In contrast, anti-DOR autoantibody treatment significantly upregulated CCR5 gene and protein expression. The presence of anti-DOR autoantibodies in IVIG and their potent immunomodulatory activity is further evidence to support the cross-talk between the neuroendocrine and immune systems.
Characterization of a subclone (D10S) of the D10.G4.1 helper T-cell line which proliferates to attomolar concentrations of interleukin-1 in the absence of mitogens.

Most studies have shown that interleukin-1 (IL-1) acts as a helper or co-stimulator in T-lymphocyte activation and proliferation by mitogens or antigens. We describe here a stable subclone (D10S) of the murine D10.G4.1 helper T-cell which proliferates to subfemtomolar (attomolar) concentrations of IL-1 beta or alpha in the absence of mitogens. D10S cells have been maintained in culture for over two years without splenic cell feeder layers nor antigen stimulation. Detection of proliferation can be made by either uptake of tritiated thymidine at 72 h or in 48 h by a colorimetric assay which measures mitochondrial dehydrogenases; the latter assay is rapid and inexpensive. D10S cells are distinct from the parent clone D10.G4., which requires mitogens for IL-1 activity. IL-1-induced proliferation is independent of the elaboration of IL-2, IL-4, or IL-6, although these cells proliferate to these lymphokines at considerably higher concentrations when compared to IL-1. The D10S cells proliferate in direct correlation to the duration of IL-1 presence in the culture. We found no evidence that IL-1 induced more IL-1 in these cells. The subclone is highly specific for IL-1: proliferation was not observed to endotoxin, human or murine interferon-gamma (IFN gamma), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), lymphotoxin, or granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). There was no suppressive effect of transforming growth factor (TGF beta). Only at high concentrations (100 ng/ml) did IL-6 induce proliferation. We conclude that this stable, feeder layer-free cell line is highly sensitive to IL-1 which acts as a direct stimulant for these cells; they are also useful for bioassays as well as the study of IL-1 receptors as described in the accompanying paper.
Visual context does not promote concurrent sequence learning

Concurrent sequence learning (CSL) of two or more sequences refers to the concurrent maintenance, in memory, of the two or more sequence representations. Research using the serial reaction time task has established that CSL is possible when the different sequences involve different dimensions (e.g., visuospatial locations versus manual keypresses). Recently some studies have suggested that visual context can promote CSL if the different sequences are embedded in different visual contexts. The results of these studies have been difficult to interpret because of various limitations. Addressing the limitations, the current study suggests that visual context does not promote CSL and that CSL may not be possible when the different sequences involve the same elements (i.e., the same target locations, response keys and effectors).
Retropharyngeal calcific tendinitis: Report of five cases and review of the literature

Retropharyngeal calcific tendinitis is an inflammation of the longus colli muscle tendon, which is located on the anterior surface of the vertebral column extending from the atlas to the third thoracic vertebra. Five cases of acute retropharyngeal calcific tendinitis seen in the emergency department (ED) over a 15-month period are reported. In addition, a retrospective review of four cases diagnosed as retropharyngeal abscess and admitted to the hospital revealed that two of these cases actually represented retropharyngeal calcific tendinitis. A review of the literature and potential differential diagnoses are presented. For those primary care physicians who must evaluate patients with acute cervical pain, sore throat, or odynophagia, an x-ray study of the neck revealing retropharyngeal calcium deposition should raise the question of the diagnosis of acute retropharyngeal tendinitis. Clinical characteristics of this entity include a painful condition which is treatable and is often mistaken for retropharyngeal abscess, pharyngitis, or peritonsillar abscess. In our opinion, this condition may be more prevalent than the literature suggests.
A Multitrait-multimethod examination of Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI)

Recently, certain Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI) scales have seen increasing usage for the measurement of DSM-III personality disorders. The current study sought to identify the convergent and discriminant validity of these two sets of scales for this purpose. In general, the results indicated significant convergence across the two instruments. However, better convergent validity was found for scales representing those DSM-III disorders which are most consistent with the typology upon which the MCMI was based. In particular, convergent and discriminant validity results were poorest for Compulsive, Antisocial, and Passive-Aggressive personality scales.
Sexy from the Start: Anticipatory Elements of Second Wave Feminism

In the 1990s, what has come to be called a “third wave” of feminism emerged in the United States. Like their predecessors in the first and second waves of feminism, who fought for suffrage and then...
A new systolic realization for the discrete Fourier transform

A systolic array for the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) is proposed. In comparison with previous schemes, the proposed scheme reduces the number of multipliers required almost by half and thus saves a considerable amount of hardware. >
Does adjunctive family therapy enhance recovery from bipolar I mood episodes

Background: Family therapy is sometimes used as adjunctive treatment to pharmacotherapy to help patients recover from mood episodes of bipolar I disorder. However, the efficacy of this practice is not known. Methods: Ninety-two patients meeting criteria for a current bipolar I mood episode were randomly assigned to family therapy plus pharmacotherapy, multifamily psychoeducational group therapy plus pharmacotherapy, or pharmacotherapy alone. Time to recovery was analyzed with survival analysis. Results: The proportion of subjects within each treatment group who recovered did not significantly differ, nor did time to recovery. Limitations: The analyses did not include other outcomes such as psychosocial functioning, prophylaxis against recurrences of mood episodes, or compliance with pharmacotherapy. Conclusions: Neither adjunctive family therapy nor adjunctive multifamily psychoeducational group therapy significantly improves the rate of recovery from mood episodes of bipolar I disorder, compared to treatment with pharmacotherapy alone.
Pancreatoduodenectomy with preservation of the stomach and pylorus: a safe and effective alternative in children.

Abstract The time-honored surgical approach to resectable tumors of the head of the pancreas or distal common bile duct has been a Whipple operation for adults and children. In recent years, pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy has been used for adults. The postoperative physiological advantages may be enhanced in children, and for this reason the pylorus-sparing approach was used in a 15-year-old girl with a tumor of the distal common duct. The pyloruspreserving pancreatoduodenectomy was safe and effective in this patient and should be considered for children with resectable tumors of the distal common bile duct and pancreatic head.
Multiband E/O color fusion with consideration of noise and registration

Sensor fusion of up to three disparate imagers can readily be achieved by assigning each component video stream to a separate channel any standard RBG color monitor such as with television or personal computer systems. Provided the component imagery is pixel registered, such a straightforward systems can provide improved object-background separation, yielding quantifiable human-factors performance improvement compared to viewing monochrome imagery of a single sensor. Consideration is given to appropriate dynamic range management of the available color gamut, and appropriate color saturation in the presence of imager noise.
Progress with the desalination and water purification technologies US roadmap

Abstract The worldwide need for fresh sources of drinking water continues to outstrip supply while the resources necessary to develop new supply remain limited. The best solution to this dilemma is the coordination of research efforts on an international basis. The Desalination and Water Purification Roadmap presents a summary of the water supply challenges facing the United States, and suggests areas of research and development that may lead to technological solutions to these challenges. These solutions have international application at the same time that innovation is occurring internationally. This Roadmap is a living document—updates to the Roadmap may be made on a regular basis to ensure that it remains current and relevant. The Roadmap is also complemented by a series of additional documents, created as a result of meetings to be held, focused on: • Defining discrete research projects and priorities based on the information contained within this Roadmap; • Identifying regulatory issues related to the implementation of desalination and water purification technologies, and developing potential solutions where conflicts are found; • Identifying, evaluating, and quantifying the impaired water resources to better assess the impact that desalination and water purification technologies may have on water supplies; • Generating plans to accelerate the commercialization of desalination and water purification technologies developed as a result of this Roadmap. This Roadmap cannot exist in a vacuum—technology development must be undertaken with the context of the product’s end-use in mind. The goal of this process is to: • Develop a consensus and direction to guide investments for the creation of new water purification technologies; • Identify the roles that various sectors of the economy (e.g., national government agencies, the private sector, educational and non-profit organizations) can play in the creation of new water purification technologies; and • Develop an expert group to review alternative water purification technologies.
Cultural variations in the use of marketing signals: a multilevel analysis of the motion picture industry

Movies are experiential products that include a myriad of cultural cues, and their box office performance varies across countries with different cultural backgrounds. The profusion of studies on the motion picture industry notwithstanding, this aspect has been largely ignored in the literature. Drawing on signaling theory, this study examines how a country’s cultural fabric moderates the impact of movie-related signals on the opening weekend box office performance. We test our hypotheses using a multilevel model and a comprehensive dataset of 1,116 movies released in 27 countries between 2007 and 2011. Results reveal that the impact of star power on box office performance is amplified in high uncertainty avoidance and indulgent cultures, while it is attenuated in high power distance cultures. Moreover, the positive relationship between sequels and performance wanes in individualist cultures. Movies with high production budgets perform better in culturally open countries, while critics’ reviews are more instrumental in high uncertainty avoidance cultures.
LIFE HISTORY AND HABITS OF THE WILLOW BEAKED GALL MIDGE, MAYETIOLA RIGIDAE (DIPTERA: CECIDOMYIIDAE), IN MICHIGAN

The willow beaked gall midge, Mayetiola rigidae (Osten Sacken), is univoltine in Michigan. Adults emerge from bud galls on Salix discolor Muhl. and other willows on mornings of warm days in early April. Eggs are laid singly on or near the buds of the host. Head capsule measurements indicate three larval instars. The last two instars each possess a spatula. The first-instar larva emerges in late April and penetrates the soft bud tissues. The gall begins to develop at the beginning of the second instar in mid-May. The third instar appears in early July and continues to enlarge the gall until fall. Prior to overwintering, the larva lines the inner chamber of the gall with silk and constructs one to seven silken septa across the passageway. Pupation occurs in mid-March. The gall deforms the stem and occasionally a galled branch dies or breaks off.