cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prostate Cancer and Vitamin D: What Does the Evidence Really Suggest?

The optimal approach to vitamin D supplementation for the average healthy person is debatable. In patients with cancer, the role of vitamin D supplementation, possibly in treatment, is even less clear. Vitamin D is shown to play a role in prostate cancer biology; however, the clinical data have not consistently demonstrated a link. Additional studies are needed to determine if higher doses of vitamin D supplements could benefit selected populations (ie, the elderly or patients with cancer) even if they may not be beneficial for the general population.
Photoionization mass spectrometric studies of the methylsilanes Si(CH3)nH4−n (n=0-3)

Abstract Photoionization efficiency curves for the low energy fragment ions (M - H)+, (M - H2)+, (M - CH3)+, and (M - CH4)+ for the series of methyl substituted silanes Si(CH3)nH4−n (n= 0-3) are reported. The molecular ions were undetectable except SiH+4. (M - H2)+ and (M - CH4)+ ions show sharp appearance onsets compared with (M - H)+ ions, which have distinct threshold curvature. (M - H2)+ ions are ascribed to silylene positive ions, SiR+2. The alternative silaethylene positive ion structure, CH2SiHR+, is unlikely because the fragmentation process yielding CH2SiD+2 with loss of HD is not observed in the photoionization mass spectrum of CH3SiD3. Thresholds are interpreted in terms of the thermochemistry of the various ionic and neutral silicon species and afford accurate calculation of hydride affinities of the silylene positive ions. The calculated hydride affinities for silylene positive ions are 263.4, 244.3 and 230.6 kcal mol−1 for SiH+2, SiMeH+ and SiMe+2, respectively. Within experimental error, the hydride affinities of the silylene positive ions are identical to those of the silicenium ions with the same number of methyl groups. The present results, combined with other available thermochemical data, lead to the critical assessment of the SiH and SiCH3 bond energies of the neutral and ionic fragments of methylsilanes, as well as ionization potentials of they silyl radicals and silylenes.
Inference of tree grammars using negative samples

Abstract This paper considers the problem of grammatical inference of tree grammars as a general problem. It is shown that the problem does not have a unique solution, and that there is a very large number of solutions. It is also shown that all inference algorithms must have the same logical structure, and that all proposed inference algorithms are, in this way, equivalent and equally correct. The paper reviews the use of negative samples in the process of grammatical inference, and emphasizes the fact that negative samples are needed to narrow down the large number of valid solutions, and to guarantee the convergence of any inference algorithm. To accomplish these purposes, an algorithm is presented to modify an inferred grammar so that it does not recognize any tree from a given negative sample. Furthermore, all the results are applicable to tree languages in which any symbol may appear in a tree with an arbitrary number of descendants.
The effects of air transportation on the movement of labor

The effects of the deregulation of airlines markets and the new technologies that have been introduced into air transportation have been heavily studied. Much of this analysis has been on the impacts on the industry and the immediate welfare implications for passengers and, to a lesser extent, cargo consignors. This study looks at the longer-term effects of the modern air transportation system on labor markets and labor migration. The growth of the service sector, the emergence of more flexible manufacturing techniques, the reduction in trade-barriers, and the creation of more sophisticated financial markets have led to greater mobility in production and in capital movement. This has been explored to some extent. Labor is, however, also more mobile - for example, since the admission of Poland to the European Union some 465,000 Polish workers have joined the UK labor market. Air transportation facilitates easier migration, makes short-term, long-distance migration viable, and allows migrants to maintain contact with their home country. Within larger countries, such as the US, there has also been a growth in long distance “week-day” migration as spouses work in different parts of the country to be reunited at weekends. The study makes use of aggregate data to look at trends in international labor movements particularly concerning the European situation, and, to a lesser extent, at recent developments within the US. It is concerned both with what is going on in terms of the use being made of air transportation by migrants and the light that this may shed on migration theory.
DIFFERENTIAL ESTIMATION OF GAMMA-BUTYROLACTONE AND GAMMA-HYDROXYBUTYRIC ACID IN RAT BLOOD AND BRAIN.

A sensitive and specific gas chromatographic technique for estimating concentrations of the anesthetic adjuvants, γ-butyrolactone and γ-hydroxybutyrate, in tissues has been developed. These substances do not appear to occur endogenously in either the blood or the brain of common laboratory animals. The onset and duration of anesthesia caused by the administration of either compound is correlated with the concentration of γ-hydroxybutyrate in the brain, rather than with that of the corresponding lactone.
TAG-1 can mediate homophilic binding, but neurite outgrowth on TAG-1 requires an L1-like molecule and β1 integrins

Summary Subsets of axons in the embryonic nervous system transiently express the glycoprotein TAG-1, a member of the subfamily of immunoglobulin (Ig)-like proteins that contain both C2 class Ig and fibronectin type III domains. TAG-1 is attached to the cell surface by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol linkage and is secreted by neurons. In vitro studies have shown that substrate-bound TAG-1 promotes neurite outgrowth. We have examined the nature of axonal receptors that mediate the neurite-outgrowth promoting properties of TAG-1. Although TAG-1 can mediate homophilic binding, neurite out-growth on a substrate of TAG-1 does not depend on the presence of TAG-1 on the axonal surface. Instead, neurite outgrowth on TAG-1 is inhibited by polyclonal antibodies directed against L1 and, independently, by polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against β1-containing integrins. These results provide evidence that TAG-1 can interact with cell surfaces in both a homophilic and heterophilic manner and suggest that neurite extension on TAG-1 requires the function of both integrins and an L1-like molecule.
Using multimedia modules to better prepare students for introductory physics lecture

It is known that introductory physics students rarely, if ever, read the textbook prior to coming to lecture. In this study, we report results from a curriculum intervention in a large enrollment introductory physics class that addresses this problem. In particular, we introduced web-based multimedia learning modules (MLMs) as a ``prelecture assignment'' designed to better prepare students before coming to lecture. We used student performance on ``preflight questions'' that they answer prior to lecture as a measure of their before-lecture understanding of the physics concepts. We found significant improvement in student performance and on the vast majority of these preflight questions as compared to that from previous semesters in which MLMs were not available. We found significant improvement for all students, independent of their background or ability level.
Oxygen isotopic studies of the interaction between xenoliths and mafic magma, Voisey’s Bay Intrusion, Labrador, Canada

Abstract Sulfide mineralization in the Voisey’s Bay Intrusion, Labrador, Canada, is closely associated with country rock xenoliths that have extensively reacted with basaltic magma. In order to better understand the processes that control the assimilation of country rocks by mafic magma, a detailed study of oxygen isotope systematics related to magma-country rock interaction in the Voisey’s Bay area was undertaken. Protracted interaction of the xenoliths with magma produced refractory mineral assemblages in the xenoliths (2–10 cm in diameter) composed of Ca-rich plagioclase, corundum, hercynite, and minor magnetite. Overgrowth rims of plagioclase and biotite that surround most xenoliths separate the restites from the enclosing igneous matrix. The δ18O values of minerals from regionally metamorphosed pelitic and quartzofeldspathic protoliths are: plagioclase (8.7–12.3‰), orthoclase (9.5–9.8‰), biotite (5.2–8.7‰), garnet (8.3–10.8‰), pyroxene (8.0–10.1‰), and quartz (9.6–14.0). The δ18O values of minerals from the hornfels in the contact aureole of the intrusion are consistent with modeling which indicates that as a result of essentially closed system contact metamorphism oxygen isotope values should differ only slightly from those of the protoliths. Hercynite, plagioclase, and corundum separates from the xenoliths have δ18O values that vary from 2.9‰ to 10.5‰, 5.6‰ to 10.9‰, and 2.0‰ to 6.8‰, respectively. Although a siliceous 18O-enriched melt has been lost from the xenoliths, corundum, and feldspar δ18O values are significantly lower than expected through melt loss alone. The relatively low δ18O values of minerals from the xenoliths may be a function of incomplete isotopic exchange with surrounding mafic magma which had a δ18O value of ∼5.5‰ to 6.0‰. The high-18O melt that was released from the xenoliths is partially recorded in the plagioclase overgrowth on the margin of the xenoliths (δ18O values from 6.2‰ to 10.7‰), and in hercynite that replaced corundum. However, mass balance calculations indicate that a portion of the partial melt must have been transferred to magma that was moving through the conduit system. δ18O and δD values of biotite surrounding the plagioclase overgrowth range from 5.0‰ to 6.2‰ and −58‰ to −80‰, respectively. These data suggest that the outermost rim associated with many xenoliths has closely approached isotopic equilibrium with uncontaminated mafic magma. The current gabbroic to troctolitic matrix of the xenoliths shows no evidence for contamination by the high-18O partial melt from the xenoliths. The feldspar and biotite overgrowths on the xenoliths that formed after the motion of the xenoliths relative to the magma had stopped prevented further isotopic exchange between the xenoliths and final magma. The minerals within the xenoliths are not in oxygen isotopic equilibrium with each other, due in part to rapid thermal equilibration, partial melting, and partial exchange with flow through magma.
Expression of Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 and Distribution of Immune Cell Populations in the Bovine Corpus Luteum Throughout the Estrous Cycle

This study characterizes the expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and the relative distribution of immune cell populations in the bovine corpus luteum throughout the estrous cycle. Immunodetectable MCP-1 was evident in corpora lutea of cows at Days 6, 12, and 18 postovulation (Day 0 = ovulation, n = 4 cows/stage). Day 6 corpora lutea contained minimal MCP-1 that was confined primarily to blood vessels. In contrast, relatively intense staining for MCP-1 was observed in corpora lutea from Days 12 and 18 postovulation. MCP-1 was again most evident in the cells of the vasculature, but it was also observed surrounding individual luteal cells, particularly by Day 18. An increase in immunohistochemical expression of MCP-1 on Days 12 and 18 postovulation corresponded with increases in MCP-1 mRNA and protein in corpora lutea as determined by Northern blot analysis and ELISA. Monocytes and macrophages were the most abundant immune cells detected in the bovine corpus luteum, followed by CD8+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes. In all instances, Day 6 corpora lutea contained fewer immune cells than corpora lutea from Days 12 and 18. In conclusion, increased expression of MCP-1 was accompanied by the accumulation of immune cells in the corpora lutea of cows during the latter half of the estrous cycle (Days 12-18 postovulation). These results support the hypothesis that MCP-1 promotes immune cell recruitment into the corpus luteum to facilitate luteal regression. These results also raise a provocative issue, however, concerning the recruitment of immune cells several days in advance of the onset of luteal regression.
Large-Eddy Simulation of Turbulent Boundary Layer Interaction with an Oblique Shock Wave

Large eddy simulations (LES) of an incident shockwave interacting with a supersonic turbulent boundary layer have been performed via a new high-order Monotonicity-Preserving scheme. The LES results with four subgrid-scale (SGS) models, namely, the modified Smagorinksy model, the hybrid scale-similarity model, the modified kinetic energy viscosity model and the dynamic Smagorinsky model, are compared with the direct numerical simulation (DNS) results. The shock strength is strong enough to induce a small separation region in the vicinity of shock impingement location. However, all SGS models are shown to overpredict the length of separation region and LES and DNS predictions of flow statistics are shown to differ more near this region. Overall, LES with the dynamic Smagorinsky model is in agreement with DNS and is able to reproduce main features of the flow.
Methylisothiazolinone: A Case of Perianal Dermatitis Caused by Wet Wipes and Review of an Emerging Pediatric Allergen

Methylisothiazolinone (MI) is a preservative found in cosmetic, personal hygiene, and industrial products. It has been characterized as a moderate to strong sensitizer and is an emerging allergen in the pediatric population. We discuss a case of perianal dermatitis in a child caused by contact allergy to MI-containing wet wipes.
A distributed source coding technique for highly correlated images using turbo-codes

According to the Slepian-Wolf theorem [1], the output of two correlated sources can be compressed to the same extent without loss, no matter if they communicate with each other or not, provided that the decompression takes place at a common decoder having both compressed outputs available. In this paper, as an application of the Slepian-Wolf theorem, an advanced distributed source coding scheme for correlated images is presented. Assuming that the correlated image is a noisy version of the original, the scheme involves modulo encoding of the pixel values and encoding (compression) of the resulting symbols with binary and nonbinary turbo-codes, so that rate savings are achieved practically without loss.
GaAs-based microelectromechanical waveguide switches monolithically integrated with lasers and detectors

In this paper, the monolithic integration of edge-emitting lasers and detectors with MEMS waveguide switches is demonstrated. Fabrication issues, such as choice of materials and critical design dimensions are discussed. Details of device performance are also given.
Factors Controlling Carbon Metabolism and Humification in Different Soil Agroecosystems

The aim of this study was to describe the processes that control humic carbon sequestration in soil. Three experimental sites differing in terms of management system and climate were selected: (i) Abanilla-Spain, soil treated with municipal solid wastes in Mediterranean semiarid climate; (ii) Puch-Germany, soil under intensive tillage and conventional agriculture in continental climate; and (iii) Alberese-Italy, soil under organic and conventional agriculture in Mediterranean subarid climate. The chemical-structural and biochemical soil properties at the initial sampling time and one year later were evaluated. The soils under organic (Alberese, soil cultivated with Triticum durum Desf.) and nonintensive management practices (Puch, soil cultivated with Triticum aestivum L. and Avena sativa L.) showed higher enzymatically active humic carbon, total organic carbon, humification index (B/E3s), and metabolic potential (dehydrogenase activity/water soluble carbon) if compared with conventional agriculture and plough-based tillage, respectively. In Abanilla, the application of municipal solid wastes stimulated the specific β-glucosidase activity (extracellular β-glucosidase activity/extractable humic carbon) and promoted the increase of humic substances with respect to untreated soil. The evolution of the chemical and biochemical status of the soils along a climatic gradient suggested that the adoption of certain management practices could be very promising in increasing SOC sequestration potential.
Clinicopathologic Features of Osteosarcoma in Patients With Rothmund-Thomson Syndrome

Purpose Patients with Rothmund-Thomson syndrome (RTS) and RECQL4 gene mutations have an increased risk of developing osteosarcoma (OS). Because RTS is considered a genomic instability syndrome, patients may experience increased toxicity with chemotherapy. The purpose of this study was to summarize the clinical features and response to therapy of OS in patients with RTS. The results of this analysis will help to define treatment guidelines for this complex and rare condition. Patients and Methods An international cohort of patients with RTS and OS was enrolled in an institutional review board–approved study at Baylor College of Medicine (Houston, TX). Medical records were reviewed, and the following information was extracted: clinical features, treatment, pathologic findings, and clinical outcome. Results The median age at diagnosis of OS for the 12 patients was 10 years. The most common primary tumor sites were the long bones (femur, tibia); the most frequent histologic subtype was conventional OS. Histol...
A Spectral Unmixing Approach to Leaf Area Index (LAI) Estimation at the Alpine Treeline Ecotone

The objective of this research was to develop methods for mapping arboreal leaf area index (LAI) at the alpine treeline ecotone in Glacier National Park, Montana using Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) imagery. A three-stage approach was tested for addressing the problem of mixed pixels in biophysical value estimation. This paper illustrates a proof of concept for this method. First, spectral unmixing was used to obtain estimates of the percentage of each pixel that was composed of tree, tundra, bare rock and shadow. Spectral signatures obtained through image interpretation were used for mixture modeling. The second step involved adjusting the pixel vegetation index (VI) values so that they represented the VI of the tree-only portion of the pixel, assuming an average VI for background components. Finally, the adjusted VI was regressed against leaf area index (LAI) measured in the field using a LiCor LAI-2000 and spatially referenced through differential GPS. Results using the adjusted VI values were compared with unadjusted VI, as were the results obtained using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and the simple ratio (SR).
A Random Walk to Fundamental Measure Theory—A Mini-review at a Personal Level. Mini-review at a Personal Level

An interpretation is presented of the path that might be regarded as underlying the development of Fundamental Measure Theory as an offshoot of a little known observation some decades prior.
Thrombin generation in trauma patients.

BACKGROUND: Trauma patients are at risk of developing an acute coagulopathy of trauma (ACT) related to tissue injury, shock, and hemodilution. ACT is incompletely understood, but is similar to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and is associated with poor outcome. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Thrombin generation assays were used to evaluate plasma hemostasis in 42 trauma patients, 25 normal subjects, and 45 patients on warfarin and in laboratory-prepared factor reduced plasma. RESULTS: Prolonged prothrombin time (PT), more than 18 seconds, or an international normalized ratio of greater than 1.5 was present in 15 trauma patients indicating possible ACT. Native thrombin generation (no activator added, contact activation blocked) showed that Trauma with ACT patients had lag times 68% shorter and peak thrombin generation threefold higher than normal patients indicating the presence of circulating procoagulants capable of initiating coagulation systemically. Trauma patients had lower platelet counts and fibrinogen and Factor (F)II levels putting them at increased risk of bleeding. In laboratory-prepared isolated factor-reduced samples and in patients with vitamin K–dependent factor deficiency due to warfarin, thrombin generation decreased in direct proportion to FII levels. In contrast, in diluted plasma and in trauma patients with reduced factor levels, thrombin generation was increased and associated with slower inhibition of thrombin generation (prolonged termination time) and decreased antithrombin levels (43% of normal in Trauma with ACT). CONCLUSIONS: Thrombin generation studies indicate that Trauma with ACT patients show dysregulated hemostasis characterized by excessive non–wound-related thrombin generation due to a combination of circulating procoagulants capable of activating coagulation systemically and reduced inhibitor levels allowing systemic thrombin generation to continue once started.
Phenylethylamine: Possible Role in Depression and Antidepressive Drug Action

The well-chosen title of this conference implies that emotional behavior can be coded in a simple alphabet consisting of a relatively small number of neuromodulators and synaptic transmitters0 One of the main difficulties in deciphering this code is that we know only a few of its “letters” [catecholamines (CA), serotonin (5HT), acetylcholine, etc,]. Toman and Sabelli (cf. Sabelli, 1964) proposed that not only is there a multiplicity of transmitters of various presynaptic origins, but there are also many endogenous chemicals that regulate neural function by modulating synaptic transmission mediated by other chemicals and by acting upon extrasynaptic membranes. 2-Phenylethyl amine (PEA) may represent one example of this concept of neuromodulators.
"Hey You C'me Here!": Subjectivization, Resistance, and the Interpellative Violence of Self-Generated Police-Citizen Encounters

Legal research is not limited to court decisions andappellate reviews. Since police work determines whichcases enter the justice system, police work,especially street patrol, is essentially theembodiment of criminal law. In this paper, usingconversation transcriptions from police-citizenencounters as my data, and applying Lacan's Theory ofFour Discourses, I examine how subjectivities arerepressed and expressed by the police through controlof the situational definition. I provide thelimitations of ``mainstream'' methods of police researchand suggest how a critical semiotic analysis mightovercome some of the deficiencies.
The Climate of Pangaea: A Review of Climate Model Simulations of the Permian

The continental configuration of the Late Paleozoic is in marked contrast to the present day. Continental size and aggradation were at a maximum, with considerable exposed land area and a supercontinent which stretched nearly from pole to pole. A single world ocean, Panthalassa, with a semi-enclosed Tethyan Sea, dominated the marine environment. The large differences in continental configuration would be expected to yield perhaps extreme climatic conditions, very different from the present climate. In addition the Permian climate itself is far from static. The differences within the 41 million year duration of the Permian are also indicative of profound change.
Effect of Accelerator Type on Brass-Rubber Adhesion

Abstract A natural rubber compound accelerated with tetramethylthiuram disulfide (TMTD) was studied and compared to an N-oxydiethylene-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide (MBS) accelerated compound in order...
Electroresponsive properties of rat central medial thalamic neurons

The central medial thalamic (CMT) nucleus is a poorly known component of the middle thalamic complex that relays nociceptive inputs to the basolateral amygdala and cingulate cortex and plays a crit...
Resource Efficient Privacy Preservation of Online Social Media Conversations

On today’s online social networks (OSNs), users need to reveal their content and their sharing patterns to a central provider. Though there are proposals for decentralized OSNs to protect user privacy, they have paid scant attention to optimizing the cost borne by users or hiding their sharing patterns. In this paper, we present Hermes, a decentralized OSN architecture, designed explicitly with the goal of hiding sharing patterns while minimizing users’ costs. In doing so, Hermes tackles three key challenges: 1) it enables timely and consistent sharing of content, 2) it guarantees the confidentiality of posted private content, and 3) it hides sharing patterns from untrusted cloud service providers and users outside a private group. With extensive analyses of Hermes using traces of shared content on Facebook, we estimate that the cost borne per user will be less than $5 per month for over 90% of users. Our prototype implementation of Hermes demonstrates that it only adds minimal overhead to content sharing.
What if many follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinomas are not malignant? A review of follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma and a proposal for a new classification.

ABSTRACT Objectives To review the relevant literature concerning follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC) with an emphasis on the heterogeneity of this disorder and to propose a new classification for FVPTC on the basis of molecular diagnostics and apply the classification to a typical case. Methods English-language articles pertaining to FVPTC published between January 1990 and December 2010 were reviewed. Results FVPTC is particularly vexing. The criteria for diagnosing FVPTC appear to have changed over the years. Pathologists often disagree about the diagnosis of FVPTC. The clinical behavior of these tumors is variable. Molecular diagnostic studies suggest that FVPTC represents a heterogeneous group of disorders rather than a single entity. Conclusions On the basis of the available data, it is proposed that individual cases of FVPTC be reclassified as papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular thyroid carcinoma, or follicular adenomas, after appropriate molecular biologic studies have been completed. Long-term followup studies to validate this classification are necessary. (Endocr Pract. 2011;17:768-787)
Ultrasound transmission attenuation tomography using energy-scaled amplitude ratios

Ultrasound attenuation of breast tumors is related to their types and pathological states, and can be used to detect and characterize breast cancer. Particularly, ultrasound scattering attenuation can infer the margin properties of breast tumors. Ultrasound attenuation tomography quantitatively reconstructs the attenuation properties of the breast. Our synthetic-aperture breast ultrasound tomography system with two parallel transducer arrays records both ultrasound reflection and transmission signals. We develop an ultrasound attenuation tomography method using ultrasound energy-scaled amplitude decays of ultrasound transmission signals and conduct ultrasound attenuation tomography using a known sound-speed model. We apply our ultrasound transmission attenuation tomography method to a breast phantom dataset, and compare the ultrasound attenuation tomography results with conventional beamforming ultrasound images obtained using reflection signals. We show that ultrasound transmission attenuation tomography complements beamforming images in identifying breast lesions.
Toxicological Effects Produced by Some 1,3-Benzodioxoles, Catechols, and Quinones in Culex Mosquito Larvae

A variety of substituted 1,3-benzodioxoles, catechols, and quinones were examined for larvicidal activity against 3rd-instar Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus Say. Several compounds were quite effective larvicides, showing activity comparable to or greater than that demonstrated by Monsanto larvicide MON-0585 (2, 6-di- tert-butyl -4-(α, α-dimethylbenzyl) phenol. These compounds appear to inhibit the development of larvae into pupae or adults. Symptoms of intoxication paralleled those obtained from the treatment of mosquito larvae with farnesoic acid or MON-0585.
Factors Associated With Regular Aerobic Exercise In An Elderly Population

Background: Little is known regarding the characteristics of elderly persons who do not regularly exercise. This lack of knowledge limits the design and marketing of exercise programs to persons who could benefit from regular exercise. Methods: We compared characteristics of regular exercisers and nonexercisers among 561 randomly selected persons aged 65 years and older who were enrollees of a health maintenance organization. Baseline data were obtained on sociodemographics, health attitudes, and medical conditions. Results: Of the 561 persons studied, 192 (34 percent) were regular exercisers. Exercisers were slightly younger than nonexercisers and reported more positive health perceptions. Nonexercisers tended to report lower incomes and lower educational levels than did exercisers. Exercisers were less likely to report hypertension, arthritis, or two or more of the following medical conditions: heart disease, hypertension, arthritis, and emphysema (odds ratio 0.49; confidence interval 0.28 to 0.86). Sex differences were present. In logistic regression analysis, higher reported income, better perception of current health, and fewer than two medical conditions were associated with regular exercise status. Conclusions: Specific characteristics are present in persons who regularly exercise compared with those who do not. These findings may prove useful in understanding the dynamics of exercise behavior in this age group and in designing exercise interventions for this population.
Studies on mid-IR gain characteristics of Er~(3+)-doped chalcogenide glass photonic crystal fibers

1wt% Er3+-doped 75GeS2-15Ga2S3-10CsI(GGSI) chalcogenide glasses are fabricated and the properties of these glasses are investigated.The mode field distribution in mid-infrared(IR) region of the designed photonic crystal fiber(PCF) is worked out by the multipole method.Based on the rate equations and light propagation equations,the numerical simulations on mid-infrared gain versus the fiber length,pump power and signal power for the Er3+-doped GGSI chalcogenide glass PCF are presented in this paper,which are compared with those of conventional fiber amplifiers.Effects of energy transfer between Er3+ levels due to cross-relaxation and cooperative up-conversion are considered here.It is shown that the average signal gain of the Er3+-doped GGSI chalcogenide glass PCF exceeds 40 dB in the region of 2 750-2 950 nm,which presents a bigger signal mid-infrared gain than conventional fibers with 20 dB.
Application of MRI in Diagnosis of Palpable Breast Masses

Objective To evaluate the diagnositic value of low field MRI in the diagnosis of palpable breast masses.Methods 34 cases with palpable breast masses were scanned by conventional MRI and 4 cases of them by contrast-enhanced MRI.The shap,boundary and signal intensity of breast masses on MRI were analyzed and compared with operative and pathological findings.Results There was significant difference between breast carcinoma and benign breast masses in their shap,margin(P0.01).There was not characteristic signal intensity on T_1WI between breast carcinoma and fibroadenoma(P0.05),but had significant difference on T_2WI and STIR(P0.01).Cysts of breast had characteristic signal intensity on T_1WI,T_2WI and STIR.Compared with the pathological results,the sensitivity and the accuracy of MRI were 94.1% and 82.4% respectively.The contrast-enhanced MRI images on 1.5,3,5,7,10 min can be obtained when the scanning parameter adjusted.Conclusion Low field MRI can objectively express the pathological changes of breast masses,and it is a effective medical imaging method in the diagnosis of palpable breast masses.
Effects of group size and the male-to-female ratio on the sexual performance and aggressive behavior of bulls in serving capacity tests.

The purpose of the following study was to determine the effects of group size and the male-to-female ratio on the sexual and aggressive behaviors of bulls in the context of serving capacity tests. Tests were administered to two groups of 13 and 14 polled Hereford bulls, respectively, under four test conditions in which the number of bulls and the ratio of males to females was varied. The test conditions were as follows: 1) individual tests (single males were exposed to single females), 2) small-group tests (three or four bulls:three females), 3) large-group tests (13 or 14 bulls:3 females), and 4) male-only test (13 or 14 bulls were placed in the test area in the absence of females). In addition, the sexual performance of 44 Hereford and 12 Angus bulls was compared when competing (small-group tests) vs not competing (individual tests) for females. Ejaculation rate (serving capacity) was similar in individual and small-group tests in which a male-to-female ratio of approximately 1:1 was maintained. Increasing the male-to-female ratio to approximately 4.5:1 enhanced levels of aggression and reduced overall sexual performance. Angus bulls were more aggressive than their Hereford counterparts when competing for females and exhibited lower (P less than .05) ejaculation rates in small-group tests than when evaluated individually. We concluded that the sexual performance of polled Hereford bulls can be reliably evaluated when tested in small groups as long as a 1:1 male-to-female ratio is approximated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Applications of Core Theory to Market Exchange

Let a group of traders own stocks of certain goods that they may exchange among themselves in any mutually agreeable way. Assume that every trader seeks maximum gain by exchange. The result is a redistribution of the initial stock among that group of traders who can agree on the terms of trade. It is as if such traders form a coalition that allocates or imputes the goods to its members. The freedom to trade with anyone is the same as the freedom to join any coalition. Therefore, a trader will join that coalition offering him the best terms. The forming and the dissolving of coalitions is equivalent to contracting and recontracting. The process continues until no one can make himself better-off by trade. The resulting set of coalitions and the allocations they prescribe constitute the core of the market. Thus, the core of the market contains all possible competitive equilibria including the particular version familiar as the intersection of supply and demand schedules, the classical competitive equilibrium. The core is the outcome of a competitive process which does not always result in the classical competitive equilibrium.
Reproducibility of Remanent Magnetization Changes and Volumetric Strain with Multiple Stress Cycles

A series of experiments have been conducted to determine the relationships between stress, volumetric strain and remanent magnetization of rocks. These parameters have been measured simultaneously at confining pressures up to 1.5 kbar and differential stress up to failure of the samples. The purpose of the experiments was to determine whether or not stress induced porosity changes in rocks could be correlated with variations in remanent magnetization. It is important to determine how inelastic strain behavior, such as dilatancy and creep, affects remanent magnetization in rocks because such behavior may occur in the earth before seismic or aseismic movements on faults. It is also of interest to relate mechanisms causing non-linear strain behavior (crack opening, growth or interaction) in rocks to the changes observed in remanent magnetization. If these phenomena are related, then magnetic changes may provide a means for monitoring rock deformation in tectonic regions. Furthermore, since most rocks in the focal regions of earthquakes have experienced many stress cycles, it is important to investigate the effect of multiple cycles to high stress levels (∼85 to 90% failure stress) on remanent magnetization of rocks.
India: Issues for Sustainable Growth/Innovation for Sustainability

In the last two decades, India has witnessed rapid economic growth, which has changed the social structure of the country, resulting in a new “middle class.” This emerging class has had a big influence in transforming India into one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world. This rapid economic growth has not only increased the purchasing power in urban and rural areas, but also changed the consumption habits of consumers. Traditionally, the country had a culture of need base consumption, but increased urbanization and influences of westernization are influencing consumer behavior, leading to unsustainable levels of consumption. Consequently, unsustainable levels of production and consumption are putting enormous pressures on the carrying capacity of the natural resource system, as well as the ability of the environment to absorb the waste by-products. This chapter outlines the role of end users, communities, entrepreneurs, and the government in encouraging green innovations, some of the existing socioeconomic issues that encumber the success of such innovations, and potential for change and innovation in India.
Age and sex alone are insufficient to predict human rib structural response to dynamic A-P loading

Thoracic injuries from motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) are common in children and the elderly and are associated with a high rate of mortality for both groups. Rib fractures, in particular, are linked to high mortality rates which increase with the number of fractures sustained. Anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs) and computational models have been developed to improve vehicle safety, however these tools are constructed based on limited physical datasets. To-date, no study has explored variation of rib structural properties across the entire age spectrum with data obtained using the same experimental methodology to allow for comparison. One-hundred eighty-four ribs from 93 post mortem human subjects (PMHS) (70 male, 23 female; ages 4-99) were subjected to dynamic bending tests simulating a frontal impact to the thorax. Structural mechanical properties were calculated and a multi-level statistical model quantified the sample variance as explained by age and sex. Displacement (δX), peak force (Fpeak), linear structural stiffness (K), energy absorption to fracture (Utot), and plastic properties including post-yield energy absorption (UPl), plastic displacement (δPl), and the ratio of elastic to secant stiffness (K-ratio) all showed negative relationships with age, while only Fpeak, K, and Utot were dependent on sex. Despite these relationships being statistically significant, only 7-39% of variance is explained by age and only 3-17% of variance is explained by sex. This demonstrates that variability in bone properties is more complex than simply chronological age- and sex-dependence and should be explored in the context of biological mechanisms instead.
Clambake, Talks, Exhibits Mark Celebration: 50th Anniversary at Harvard

(1985). Clambake, Talks, Exhibits Mark Celebration: 50th Anniversary at Harvard. Rocks & Minerals: Vol. 60, No. 6, pp. 274-277.
HEALTH SURVEY OF FREE-RANGING RACCOONS (PROCYON LOTOR) IN CENTRAL PARK, NEW YORK, NEW YORK, USA: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN AND DOMESTIC ANIMAL HEALTH

Abstract We conducted health assessments on 113 free-ranging raccoons (Procyon lotor) in Central Park, New York City, US, in February 2010, September 2010, and November 2011 in conjunction with a trap-vaccinate-release program to control a raccoon rabies epizootic. Five individuals were sampled at two time points for 118 raccoon examinations in total. We tested 13 of 13 and 8 of 13 euthanized raccoons for rabies and canine distemper virus (CDV), respectively, by antigen testing on brain tissue; all were negative for both viruses. Endoparasitism was the most common necropsy finding, with definitive identification of Baylisascaris procyonis in six of eight (75%) necropsied raccoons. Multiple intestinal parasites were detected in feces of living raccoons, including ascarid-type ova in 25 of 80 (31%) raccoons, with B. procyonis confirmed in one sample. Median blood lead level was 7.3 μg/dL (n=104). Rabies virus neutralizing antibody titer was ≥0.5 IU/mL in 9 of 88 (10%) raccoons naive to rabies vaccination an...
Are there patients with T1 to T2, lymph node-negative breast cancer who are "high-risk" for locoregional disease recurrence?

BACKGROUND Indications for postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) in patients with T1 to T2, lymph node-negative (N0) breast cancer with “high-risk” features are controversial. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) 22922 and National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group MA20 trials reporting improved 10-year disease-free survival with lymph node irradiation included patients with high-risk N0 disease, but, to the authors’ knowledge, benefits in patients receiving modern systemic therapy are uncertain. METHODS The authors retrospectively identified patients with T1 to T2N0 disease who were treated with mastectomy from January 2006 through December 2011. High-risk features included age <40 years, multifocality/multicentricity, lymphovascular invasion, medial/central tumor location, and high nuclear grade. RESULTS Among 672 eligible patients, only 15 received PMRT and were excluded. Of the remaining 657 patients, 187 (28%) had 1 high-risk feature and 449 patients (68%) had ≥ 2 high-risk features. A total of 36 patients with unknown tumor grade were excluded from risk analysis. Approximately 98% of patients underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy alone and 86% received adjuvant systemic therapy. At a median of 5.6 years of follow-up, the locoregional disease recurrence (LRR) rate was 4.7% (31 patients). Increasing tumor size was found to be associated with LRR (hazard ratio, 1.70; P = .006), whereas other high-risk features were not (all P > .05). Receipt of systemic therapy decreased the LRR rate (hazard ratio, 0.40; P = .03). Although crude LRR rates increased from 3.8% to 9.4% with 1 versus ≥ 4 high-risk features, the number of risk factors was not found to be significantly associated with LRR (P = .54). CONCLUSIONS In the current study, a low crude LRR rate (4.7%) was observed in a large unselected cohort of patients with T1 to T2N0 breast cancer with high-risk features who were treated with mastectomy and systemic therapy without PMRT. Although increasing tumor size and the omission of systemic therapy were found to be predictive, other features did not confer a higher LRR risk either independently or together, and do not by themselves mandate the use of PMRT in this patient population. Cancer 2017;123:2626-33. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Atomic configuration effects in electromigration

Abstract We investigate the effects of atomic configuration on the driving force for electromigation. The validity of the pseudo-atom picture is discussed. General pseudopotential expressions are used to calculate the configuration-dependent force for lattice distortion fields around impurities as well as the force appropriate to the interstitialcy-translation-rotation mechanism for fast-diffusion. Lattice-distortion fields typically give rise to a 10–30% change in the electron-wind force. Substantial reduction in the wind-force was found to occur during the rotation phase of fast diffuser migration, in agreement with a conjecture by Hsieh et al . The effects of grain-boundary structure were considered and found to be small within the pseudoatom picture. Finally, we show how configurational effects may lead to the observed isotope separation in liquid metals (Haffner effect).
Abstract 519: Increased Renal Angiotensinogen Expression in Non-clipped Kidneys of 2-Kidney 1-Clip Hypertensive Rats

In 2-kidney 1-clip (2K1C) hypertension, intrarenal angiotensin II (Ang II) levels are increased in both kidneys but the mechanisms for augmentation of Ang II may be different. We recently reported that urinary angiotensinogen (AGT) is increased only in the non-clipped kidneys. However, it has not been determined if these changes are accompanied by augmentation of intrarenal AGT mRNA synthesis in the non-clipped kidneys of 2K1C hypertensive rats. Experiments were performed on male Sprague-Dawley rats (n=11) subjected to left renal arterial clipping (.25 mm gap) and followed for 18-21 days prior to anesthesia and separate measurements of renal function. Systolic arterial pressure increased to 180±3 mmHg compared to 126±4 mmHg in sham operated rats. There were no significant differences in water intake, body weights, and 24 hour urine volume and sodium excretion in awake rats. Separate measurements of renal function showed that renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration rate were similar in clipped and non-clipped kidneys and not different from those in sham rats. However, urine flow, sodium excretion and urinary AGT (uAGT) excretion were significantly greater in non-clipped kidneys compared to clipped and sham kidneys. While kidney AGT protein levels were not increased significantly, AGT transcript measured by real time RT-PCR revealed that the AGT mRNA levels in the cortex were 2.15 fold significantly greater in the non-clipped kidneys than in sham (1.0±.1) or clipped kidneys (.98±.15). The results support the hypothesis that in the non-clipped kidneys of 2K1C rats there is an augmentation of intrarenal AGT mRNA synthesis which explains increased uAGT excretion rates and intrarenal Ang II levels.
Wat zijn de beste cone beam CT-instellingen voor orthodontische beeldanalyse?

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) wordt steeds vaker gebruikt in de orthodontie, ofwel om de conventionele rontgenopnamen te vervangen ofwel als toevoeging. Het is echter belangrijk dat met de stralingsdosis rekening wordt gehouden, temeer daar het om een meestal jonge patientenpopulatie gaat. In dit onderzoek werd een menselijk kadaver gebruikt in het Accuitomo 170 (Morita®) CBCT-apparaat. In totaal werden er 24 verschillende opnamen gemaakt, met verschillende bestralingsparameters (combinaties van drie verschillende amperages, vier verschillende voltages en twee verschillende tijden). De geanonimiseerde scans werden vervolgens gestandaardiseerd en door tien orthodontisten onafhankelijk beoordeeld op verschillende orthodontische meetpunten. Uit de resultaten bleek dat de stralinsgdosis gemakkelijk gehalveerd kan worden voor orthodontische doeleinden, door middel van het halveren van de bestralingstijd of door het halveren van het milliamperage, zonder dat dit significante invloed had op de gemeten referentiepunten. Met andere woorden, de stralingsdosis kan, voor beelden die voor orthodontische doeleinden worden gemaakt, gemakkelijk gehalveerd worden met de Accuitomo 170 (Morita®).