cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rapid coloration changes of manta rays (Mobulidae)

Changes of body coloration have not been described in manta rays (genus Manta) so far; therefore, their natural body coloration is used to distinguish species and their ventral spot markings are used to identify individuals worldwide to estimate their population size or seasonal migration. The present study describes the first evidence of rapid coloration changes of manta rays based on observations of captive individuals. Body coloration changes were observed most intensely on the dorsal surface and on the head, which occurred within minutes prior to feeding and during intense social interactions. The coloration intensity drastically changed for the white markings of the shoulder bars, the chevron-shaped marking on the back, the dorsal side of fin tips, the area around the eyes, the upper margin of mouth, and the inner side of cephalic fins. Three out of five of the captive specimens have been identified as a putative third manta ray species, and detailed description about their rapid coloration changes is provided. The present observational study confirms the ability of manta rays to rapidly change body coloration during exposure to certain environmental stimuli. Understanding the dynamics of these rapid coloration changes is essential for accurate species identification and to perhaps gain insight into more advanced forms of communication. © 2014 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2014, 113, 180–193.
Cultural Differences in Mathematical Concept Learning

THE purposes of this paper are two. The first is to examine the acquisition of certain mathematical concepts by young children in two different cultures. The data from a concept formation experiment performed with children in California will be compared with data from the same type of experiment performed with children of the same age level in Accra, Ghana.' The concepts to be acquired in these experiments are two fundamental concepts in mathematics, identity of sets and identity of ordered sets. The second purpose is to apply mathematical learning theory, and in particular a learning model, to the data from both experiments. The model has proved to be a reasonably good first approximation to actual response behavior in a variety of experimental situations. One objective here is a further application of the theoretical model in a widely different cultural context. Specifically,. my interest is in a comparison of the fit of the model to data from two experimental situations which are, with one major exception, almost identical. The cultural backgrounds of the subjects are widely disparate. The two purposes are in a sense complementary: On the one hand, we can identify differences or similarities across cultures in children's formation of mathematical concepts. From the standpoint of the teaching of mathematics these culturally determined differences are of utmost significance. On the other hand, we assume that the basic behavioral processes involved in learning are the same, and a general learning theory should deal with, represent, or analyze these fundamental processes. We should expect a theoretical model to go beyond what are perhaps adventitious differences in its prediction of actual response behavior. Therefore, we should expect the model to fit the data from two dissimilar cultures equally well when the experimental situations are in other respects comparable. Before going on to a description of various aspects of the experiments, I should like to comment on the immediate relevance of comparisons of children's concept learning in different cultures. The revolution in the teaching of mathematics or in curriculum in mathematics is spreading throughout the world. In particular, many new programs and methods developed in one country are being adopted or adapted in other countries. With this exchange of ideas, materials, curricula, methods, etc., in mathematics teaching, any evidence concerning cultural differences in the concepts, children already possess, or their manner of acquiring new concepts, or the background of experience and language necessary to the formation of fundamental mathematical ideas is essential. The experiments to be described were performed primarily to provide evidence for just such a purpose. They were carried out in connec-
Vascular Calcification: In Vitro Evidence for the Role of Inorganic Phosphate

Uremic patients are prone to widespread ectopic extraskeletal calcification resulting from an imbalance of systemic inorganic phosphate (Pi). There can be serious consequences of this process, particularly when it results in the calcification of the vasculature. A recent study examined the response of cultured human aortic smooth muscle cells to varying levels of extracellular Pi. Cells that were exposed to Pi levels similar to those seen in uremic patients (>1.4 mmol/L) showed dose-dependent increases in cell culture calcium deposition. The results of this study also defined the role of elevated phosphate in transforming the vascular phenotype of these cells to an osteogenic phenotype, such that a predisposition for calcification was created. Pi-induced changes included increased expression of the osteogenic markers osteocalcin and core-binding factor-1 genes, the latter of which is considered a "master gene" critical for osteoblast differentiation. These changes occur early after exposure to high phosphate levels and seem to be mediated by a sodium-dependent phosphate co-transporter, Pit-1 (Glvr-1). Calcification of vascular cells also seems to occur in the absence of a mineral imbalance but in the presence of platelet-derived growth factor, a potent atherogenic factor. Taken together, these data suggest that calcification of vascular cells can occur early in a phosphate-rich environment similar to that seen in patients with renal failure and in a platelet-derived growth factor-rich atherosclerotic region under normal phosphorus conditions. From a clinical viewpoint, it seems that early control or prevention of hyperphosphatemia may reduce coronary calcification and its associated morbidity and mortality for patients on dialysis.
T-cell activation Rho GTPase-activating protein expression varies with inflammation location and severity in Crohn's disease.

Background: The T-cell activation Rho GTPaseeactivating protein (TAGAP) gene has a regulatory role in T cell activation. We have previously suggested a correlation between the TAGAP-associated single nucleotide polymorphism rs212388 and protection from anal sepsis in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients. The present study sought to evaluate TAGAP’s expression in colonic tissue of CD patients with varying disease severity and location. Materials and methods: Five transverse, 17 left, and five sigmoid colectomy specimens from 27 CD patients with varying disease severity (16 male, mean age at diagnosis 26.4 � 2.2 y) were evaluated for TAGAP messenger RNA expression. Fisher exact, ManneWhitney, and Welch two-sample t-tests were used for statistical evaluation. Immunohistochemistry confirmed results. Results: Patients with tissue demonstrating lower TAGAP messenger RNA expression (less than the overall mean) were younger at diagnosis (mean age 21.1 � 6.3 versus 32.5 � 13 y, P ¼ 0.009). Increased TAGAP expression was seen in moderate or severely diseased tissue versus tissue with no or mild disease (RQ ¼ 1.3 � 0.34 versus 0.53 � 0.09, P ¼ 0.050). This was the most dramatic in the sigmoid colon (P ¼ 0.041). TAGAP expression was increased in more distal tissue with a significant difference seen when comparing transverse versus sigmoid colon with moderate or severe disease (0.51 � 0.14 versus 1.9 � 0.37, P ¼ 0.049). Conclusions: Colonic expression of TAGAP in CD patients varied according to disease severity and location, being the most elevated in patients with severe disease in the sigmoid colon. Whether changes in TAGAP expression are a result of disease response or inherent to the disease pathophysiology itself remains to be determined. This gene warrants further investigation for its role in CD.
Simulation of MOS circuit performance degradation with emphasis on VLSI design-for-reliability

A framework for a reliability simulation tool to assess the hot-carrier-induced degradation of MOS circuits is presented, and the major components of this framework are examined. A method is introduced for dynamic simulation of hot-carrier-induced transistor degradation within the circuit environment. The approach accounts for the gradual degradation of terminal voltage waveforms of MOS transistors during long-term operation. It is demonstrated that the estimation of individual device lifetimes is not sufficient for circuit reliability assessment. The critical transistors that are most likely to cause circuit performance failures are identified by combining the long-term degradation estimates with the corresponding circuit performance sensitivities. >
Case Management: Lessons from Integrated Delivery to Promote Quality Care to the Elderly

The elderly population has specific needs that include coordination of complex chronic disease, diverse social services, and non-health care assistance. However, the Medicare program, the primary insurance program for the elderly, only provides incentives for disjointed, uncoordinated care that results in inappropriate, inefficient, and potentially risky conditions being shouldered by its vulnerable beneficiaries. Case management in integrated delivery systems has been shown to be effective in coordinating elderly clinical and non-clinical needs. These include acute care clinical requirements, chronic disease(s) management, long term care services, and home health as well as end of life services. Medicare, however, does not currently cover case management providers for these purposes. Case management should be a covered service under the traditional Medicare individual provider payment scheme to improve the efficiency of the Medicare program, and, more importantly, to move the Medicare program to a true patient-centered model that respects and empowers the elderly to allow them independence and function for the duration of their lives.
Periodic Processes for in situ and On-Site Bioremediation of Leachates and Soils

Investigators at the University of Notre Dame9s Center for Bioengineering and Pollution Control have conducted research and development studies since 1980 in the broad area of hazardous waste management. These efforts have been primarily directed at the use of periodic processes. Many of the findings have been applied to the construction and operation of full scale bioreclamation facilities. Early research and development activities were directed at the suspended growth, Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR). The SBR is an activated sludge-like, periodic process that has been used effectively for the treatment of both domestic and industrial wastewaters (Irvine and Busch, 1979; and Irvine and Ketchum, 1989). Due to the time-oriented nature of the SBR, simple operational modifications have allowed for nutrient removal (Alleman and Irvine, 1980a; Alleman and Irvine, 1980b; Ketchum et. al. , 1987; Irvine et. al. , 1979; Manning and Irvine, 1985; and Palis and Irvine, 1985) and the control of bulking sludge (Brenner et. al. , 1992; Chiesa and Irvine, 1985; Chiesa et. al. , 1985; and Dennis and Irvine, 1979). The SBR has been shown to be a cost effective and energy efficient means of removing hazardous organic compounds found in industrial wastes and leachates from landfills (Brenner et. al. , 1992; Herzbrun et. al. , 1985; Irvine et. al. , 1984; Irvine and Wilderer, 1988; Smith and Wilderer, 1987; and; Ying et. al. , 1987). The Soil Slurry-Sequencing Batch Reactor (SS-SBR) described by Irvine et. al. , (1993) and the Sequencing Batch Biofilm Reactor (SBBR), a fixed film periodic system that can be used in conjunction with granular activated carbon (Chozick and Irvine, 1991), were developed in the late 19809s and early 19909s. Recent efforts have been directed at periodically operated in situ bioremediation systems. This paper provides a brief overview of how such systems can be used to bioremediate contaminated leachates and soils.
A Perspective on Two Decades of Cleanup Efforts in Commencement Bay

From the initial Superfund listing in 1983 through completion of final dredging and capping efforts expected to occur by 2005 – this paper surveys the author’s perspective of two decades of cleanup efforts in Commencement Bay. When construction is completed almost three million cubic yards of dredged material will be addressed, directly aiding redevelopment. Capping and monitored natural recovery will also be employed to improve environmental conditions. Costs are projected to exceed two hundred million dollars for source control actions and sediment cleanup. Key motivators in the process are offered that are making the cleanup a success for a wide range of stakeholders. Obstacles and opportunities in the cleanup process are discussed along with solutions that keep the process moving. A reflection on cleanup efforts is provided in light of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) emerging national policy for dealing with contaminated sediments. Also, a hindsight view of the cleanup effort is offered. Did the cleanup really need to take twenty years?
Plague like Cats

Although many scholars have acknowledged the dark thread interwoven into William Baldwin’s playful narrative Beware the Cat, they have largely ignored the role of plague in heightening the work’s sense of impending danger. Baldwin intensifies our sense of peril by including at every level of his narrative references to plague. In Beware the Cat, contagious disease symbolically melds with other kinds of divine punishment. These include bestial transformations, farcical exposure, and painful afflictions, especially the startling appearances of and painful biting, scratching, strangling, and suffocation by cats. All are ways that God punishes his creatures for their abominations. Baldwin’s emphasis on plague as God’s vengeance for sin becomes one of the cats’ most significant meanings and a key to our understanding of the protagonist Gregory Streamer’s strange quest.
A good start, but miles to go

Young people are learning that asking the right question is the essence of creative science.
Nursing Perspectives: The Education of Neonatal Nurse Practitioners—Do We Understand Where We Are Going?

With the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in 2010 came heightened recognition of the vital role that nurses play in health care. That same year the Institute of Medicine published a report on the future of nursing that called for nurses to practice to the full scope of their education and for nurses, along with other health care professionals, to redesign health care provision. In the neonatal intensive care unit, the role of the highly specialized advanced practice registered nurse, the neonatal nurse practitioner, is well established. Neonatal nurse practitioners provide a large portion of patient care in the neonatal intensive care unit nationwide and offer a proven model of interprofessional practice that works well in today’s health care environment. This article discusses the need for such interprofessional teamwork, nursing’s role in the team, the evolution of distinctive advanced practice nursing education for neonatal advanced practice registered nurses, and concerns about continued success.
Reshaping Migrant Labour Market Geographies: Local Regularisations and the Informal Economy

Regularisation remains a strategic site for studying the political economy of migrant socio-economic incorporation. Research suggests that immigrant regularisation policies improve labour market opportunities for undocumented migrant workers in host societies – particularly those engaged in the informal economy. However, research on regularisation remains focused on national-level policy efforts, despite increased political activity by sub-national levels of government on immigration issues across migrant-receiving societies. This article identifies and examines local migrant labour market regularisations – a new political geography of labour market regulation – and explores the potential of these policies to influence labour market mobility and opportunity for irregular migrants in the US. Using data on 5,528 policy ordinances across 3,067 city, counties, and states, implementation trends across four local migrant labour market regularisation policy domains were analysed for the time period 2001–2014. Case studies of local-level government activism within each policy domain are also presented. Findings indicate that the implementation of local migrant labour market regularisations in the US has become increasingly unfavourable towards migrant workers and that within these new political geographies, local governments are emerging as central actors in shaping migrant labour market opportunities. The article concludes by reflecting on the implications these new political geographies present for the economic incorporation of irregular migrants and their role in constructing a new scalar reality of migrant labour market regulation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Soluble material secreted from Penicillium chrysogenum isolate exhibits antifungal activity against Cryphonectria parasitica- the causative agent of the American Chestnut Blight.

The American chestnut (Castanea dentata) was once the dominant canopy tree along the eastern region of the United States. Cryphonectria parasitica, the causative agent of chestnut blight, was introduced from Asia in the early 1900’s, and obliterated the chestnut population within 50 years. We sought to identify environmental microbes capable of producing factors that were fungicidal or inhibited growth of C. parasitica in the hopes developing a biological control of chestnut blight. We isolated a filamentous fungus that significantly inhibited the growth of C. parasitica upon co-cultivation. Extracellular fractions of this fungal isolate prevented C. parasitica growth, indicating that a potential fungicide was produced by the novel isolate. Sequence analysis of 18S rRNA identified this inhibitory fungus as Penicillium chrysogenum. Furthermore, these extracellular fractions were tested as treatments for blight in vivo using chestnut saplings. Scarred saplings that were treated with the P. chrysogenum extracellular fractions healed subjectively better than those without treatment when inoculated with C. parasitica. These data suggest that material secreted by P. chrysogenum could be used as a treatment for the American chestnut blight. This work may assist the reclamation of the American chestnut in association with breeding programs and blight attenuation. Specifically, treatment of small groves under the right conditions may allow them to remain blight free. Future work will explore the mechanism of action and specific target of the extracellular fraction.
Nursing Care of The Pectus Excavatum children by Nuss surgery

Objective: To summarize the pectus excavatum children Nuss surgery perioperative care experience.Methods: Nuss funnel chest on 106 cases and 45 cases of sternal surgery to raise children with children with care and surgery,and from the operative time,blood loss,hospital stay,complications and so comparison.Results: Nuss funnel chest surgery operation time,blood loss,hospital stay,postoperative complications was significantly less than the control group there was significant difference(P0.05).Conclusion: Nuss funnel chest surgery,shorter hospital stay,less blood loss,and reduced postoperative complications,can be used clinically.
Sphincter-preserving operations for rectal cancer.

Until 1980, the greatest advances in the management of rectal cancer were technical ones. Whereas in the past most patients with rectal cancer underwent an abdominoperineal resection, it became possible in the 1980s to maintain intestinal continuity in the majority of patients with a low anterior resection and colorectal anastomosis and, more recently, with a low anterio resection and coloanal anastomosis. These advances were due, in part, to the development of stapling devices, which allowed surgeons to perform anastomoses that were technically difficult to perform by hand. More importantly, it became clear that in tumors identified at a relatively early stage, retrograde tumor spread was uncommon, and a 2-cm distal margin was generally adequate.
Civil rights extended to disabled

Largely unnoticed for more than a quarter century, disabilities groups have waged a fight to extend equal rights and opportunities protection to an estimated 43 million Americans with disabilities. On July 26, 1990, President Bush signed landmark legislation dear to the disabled into law. To ensure an easier and smoother transition and compliance for their organizations, physician executives should have a general understanding of the law and its ramifications.
YouTube Enhanced Case Teaching in Health Management and Policy

Abstract Purpose Case teaching is a popular method of health management and policy education but its relationship with technology is outdated. While several major publishers of case teaching materials have recently incorporated internet videos and other multimedia and online content into their offerings, these video case teaching materials are mostly on the manufacturing industry and not on the health care services industry. This project aims to expand existing case teaching materials with YouTube videos, and to report preliminary findings on learning outcomes. Method YouTube videos were selected to enhance course topics and materials found in traditional text based materials. Original videos were created in the style of Khan Academy, to prerecord short lectures promoted in the literatures on case teaching and flip format learning. Online course evaluations measured student progress on learning objectives. Results Online course evaluations were completed by 48 of 93 students. All responding students reported making progress on “acquiring skills in working with others as a member of a team” and “developing skill in expressing myself orally or in writing”. For both objectives, most of the students reported making “exceptional progress”. Discussion YouTube videos can be a valuable source of content to supplement existing case teaching materials in health management and policy. More research is needed to distinguish the effects of YouTube videos from other case teaching materials and flipped format aspects of course design. The general method of YouTube enhanced case teaching might be expanded beyond health management and policy to other topics in health professions education.
Responsive Eyes: Urban Logistics and Kinetic Environments for the 1968 Mexico City Olympics

Responsive Eyes: Urban Logistics and Kinetic Environments for the 1968 Mexico City Olympics looks closely at a series of temporary designed environments created for the organizing committee of the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Integrating architecture, visual communication, and mass media, the design team created kinetic environments, or spaces that estranged user-beholders’ visual and spatial perceptions, inviting immersion and interaction to produce a holistic image of a thoroughly modern, socially integrated Mexico at a time when this view of Mexico was not necessarily held by audiences at home or abroad. The team’s design choices demonstrated cosmopolitan awareness of global aesthetics and discursive currents, including optical and kinetic art as well as recent advances in scientific investigation that inspired new modes of urban vision and engagement, part of an international renewal of modernist techniques and aspirations. These environments also responded to more local concerns, including Mexico City’s ongoing capitalist urbanization and reticulation of the modernist architect’s professional and social purchase in Mexico in light of increasing globalization. By situating the Olympic environments within the larger context of exhibitions of kinetic art and art happenings from the period, George F. Flaherty highlights the possibilities and limits of transformation envisaged by Mexico 68’s kinetic environments, arguing that their design provides a window through which to assess Mexican architects’ claim to act as expert mediators between the city and state, architecture and art, and Mexico and the wider world.
Decline in Adolescent Pregnancy in the United States: A Success Not Shared by All.

The author discusses the difficulties in pregnancy prevention programs for vulnerable youth groups. Topics include the need to develop programs specifically designed for these groups, the correlation between unsafe sex and other risky behaviors, and the need for rigorous evaluation of these programs.
Numerical analysis on the effect of thickness on biaxial tension limits0

Abstract Forming limit curve is the plot between major and minor strain of a critical element during sheet metal forming. This curve provides the indication on how particular metal in a particular deformation mode can form safely. This knowledge further provides the input to design the tools which can form the safe product. As this method only follows the two principal strains it is mostly applicable to plane stress components. To accommodate complex deformation paths, researcher devised the biaxial machine which is designed specifically to provide biaxial stress components using multiple and varying loading condition. In this paper the cruciform shape specimen which has 4 arms can be pulled in positive displacement to provide tension in the material. With changing the displacement or rate on individual axis multiple deformation paths can be created. In this paper the limits of material in a biaxial tension was investigated with varying the thickness of a specimen. The conventional route to create the equi-biaxial tension is hemispherical dome test which is also investigated for different thickness. It was found that the thickness has negligible influence on biaxial results but does changes the strains in arm. It was also found that due to pressure effect, the limit in hemispherical dome test is higher than in biaxial test.
Game Changers: Detecting Shifts in Overdispersed Count Data

In this paper, I introduce a Bayesian model for detecting changepoints in a time series of overdispersed counts, such as contributions to candidates over the course of a campaign or counts of terrorist violence. To avoid having to specify the number of changepoint ex ante, this model incorporates a hierarchical Dirichlet process prior to estimate the number of changepoints as well as their location. This allows researchers to discover salient structural breaks and perform inference on the number of such breaks in a given time series. I demonstrate the usefulness of the model with applications to campaign contributions in the 2012 U.S. Republican presidential primary and incidences of global terrorism from 1970 to 2015.
Genomic and transcriptomic comparison of allergen and silver nanoparticle-induced mast cell degranulation reveals novel non-immunoglobulin E mediated mechanisms

Mast cells represent a crucial cell type in host defense; however, maladaptive responses are contributing factors in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. Previous work in our laboratory has shown that exposure to silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) results in mast cell degranulation via a non-immunoglobulin E (IgE) mechanism. In this study, we utilized a systems biology approach to identify novel genetic factors playing a role in AgNP-induced mast cell degranulation compared to the classical activation by antigen-mediated FceRI crosslinking. Mast cell degranulation was assessed in bone marrow-derived mast cells isolated from 23 strains of mice following exposure to AgNPs or FceRI crosslinking with dinitrophenyl (DNP). Utilizing strain-dependent mast cell degranulation, an association mapping study identified 3 chromosomal regions that were significantly associated with mast cell degranulation by AgNP and one non-overlapping region associated with DNP-mediated degranulation. Two of the AgNP-associated regions correspond to genes previously reported to be associated with allergic disorders (Trac2 on chromosome 1 and Traf6 on chromosome 2) and an uncharacterized gene identified on chromosome 1 (Fam126b). In conjunction, RNA-sequencing performed on mast cells from the high and low responder strains revealed 3754 and 34 differentially expressed genes that were unique to DNP and AgNP exposures, respectively. Select candidate genes include Ptger4, a gene encoding a G-protein coupled receptor in addition to a multifunctional adaptor protein, Txnip, that may be driving mast cell degranulation by AgNP. Taken together, we identified novel genes that have not been previously shown to play a role in nanoparticle-mediated mast cell activation. With further functional evaluation in the future, these genes may be potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of non-IgE mediated mast cell-linked disorders.
Historical Examination of United States Intentional Mass School Shootings in the 20 th and 21 st Centuries: Implications for Students, Schools, and Society

The deadliest U.S. school shooting to date, occurring on February 14, 2018 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida serves as a powerful reminder that school violence is ever present. Addressing school violence, however, has been an elusive endeavor. The purpose of this review is to provide a historical examination of United States intentional mass school shootings in the 20th and 21st centuries. In addition, implications for students, schools, and society are discussed in light of policy and legislative initiatives as well as school-based prevention and intervention tiered models of support, such as positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS).
Holliday's Model

In 1964, Robin Holliday proposed that genetic recombination is initiated by nicking of like strands on two homologous DNA molecules, followed by unwinding from the nicks and reannealing with the other molecule by complementary base pairing. The structure formed, a Holliday junction, can be resolved either to form a crossover (flanking markers reciprocally recombined) or to form a noncrossover (flanking markers in the parental configuration). Gene conversion results from mismatch correction in the heteroduplex molecules formed by the exchange.
Legitimacy and Survival among Uerhavn’s Fishermen

Uerhavn is a fishing community of approximately 390 people constituting 150 households. It is located on the north-western coast of Norway in Nordvestland county1. The community lies on the outmost tip of a headland facing the open sea. The land is weather-beaten and barren, and nearness to the fishing grounds has been the only reason for settling here. Today the community has 60 registered fishermen, 36 of whom are registered as full-time fishermen. The number of registered fishermen has decreased by about 40 per cent over the past 15 years and the population has dropped by approximately 20 per cent. The part-time fishers are mostly retired full-time fishermen, which explains why the relative share of part-timers has doubled over this period. In addition to the harvesting sector, the community has a fish processing plant, which is owned by investors outside the community. It employs almost 30 people, 21 of whom are from Uerhavn.
Science-The Goal of Generality

The second important criterion of a scientific theory is its generality. To put it simply, the more it can explain, the better.
Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy in Localized Carcinoma of The Prostate: Interim Report of A Phase 1 Dose-Escalation Study

AbstractAcute morbidity, late complications and tumor response were evaluated in 324 prostate cancer patients treated with 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy in a phase I dose-escalation study. This radiotherapy technique targeted the prostate and seminal vesicles but effectively excluded the surrounding normal tissues. The minimum tumor dose was 64.8 to 66.6Gy. in 87 patients, 70.2Gy. in 138, 75.6Gy. in 69 and 81.0Gy. in 30. The treatment was well tolerated with minimal acute morbidity, observed in 15% of the patients who required medication for relief of rectal symptoms and in 34% for urinary symptoms. Two patients (0.6%) to date have had grades 3 and 4 late complications (Radiation Therapy Oncology Group morbidity grading system). The 3-year actuarial probability of survival with a normal serum prostate specific antigen level was 97% for patients with stages T1c and T2a, 86% with stage T2b, 60% with stage T2c and 43% with stage T3 disease. A multivariate analysis demonstrated that initial prosta...
Pathologic Gigantism in Middle Carboniferous Cephalopods, Southern Midcontinent, United States

Giant genera and species occur in virtually every phylum of the Kingdom Animalia. For the most part, their existence has been viewed as an illustration of Cope’s Rule: the tendency toward phylogenetic size increase among groups of organisms. Giant Mesozoic ammonites are frequently cited examples of this trend, and the giants are typically treated as discrete taxonomic entities. In contrast, pathologic gigantism is a rare condition that results in abnormal growth of an individual beyond the normal size limits of its species, and does not reflect Cope’s Rule. That condition is little known among invertebrates, although pathologic gigantism has been reported in prosobranch and pulmonate gastropods, where it is associated with infestation by larval trematodes that caused parasitic castration.
Complications of the Non-Refluxing Colon Conduit

Abstract The non-refluxing colon conduit has been offered as a superior alternative to the ileal conduit for long-term supravesical urinary diversion. The main advantage would seem to be that the upper tracts can be protected by the formation of a ureterocolic anastomosis without reflux, thereby preventing the deterioration associated with ileal conduits, which is presumably secondary to reflux and ascending infection. Although a colon operation is potentially more hazardous than a small bowel operation the short-term complication rates are not significantly different. We report 2 cases of stenosis of the ureterocolic anastomosis to emphasize that this serious complication continues to be a potential problem with any procedure of this type. With long-term followup its present incidence in 8 to 10 per cent of the patients may exceed the incidence of conduits with reflux. In our 2 cases severe stenosis of the ureter within the tunnel was encountered at reoperation. Techniques that may help prevent stenosis include preservation of periureteral adventitia, careful formation and closure of the submucosal tunnel, forming an anastomosis free of tension and tapering the ureters, when necessary, adequately but not excessively. Correction of this complication may require lysis of surrounding adhesions, a ureterocolic anastomosis with reflux, transureteroureterostomy, transureteropyelostomy, replacement of the ureter with small bowel or nephroureterectomy.
Convergence of Cluster Properties Towards Bulk Behavior: How Large is Large?

Recent progress in experimental techniques has made it possible to explore properties of clusters containing hundreds or thousands of monomers from two different venues: Preparing ever smaller particles in solution, or growing ever larger particles in the gas phase. Results obtained through these approaches will be used to illustrate the evolution of bulk properties in clusters with increasing size. In many cases, properties approximately scale as the inverse cluster radius and, hence, will have converged to the bulk limit within about 10% when the cluster size exceeds 103 monomers, equivalent to a radius of 1 to 2 nm. However, there are several properties that do not exhibit a simple 1/r dependence.
Differences in muscle oxygenation between young and middle-aged recreationally active men during high-volume resistance exercise

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare muscle oxygenation of the vastus lateralis during a high volume, isokinetic resistance exercise protocol (HVP) between young adult (YA) and middle-aged adult (MA) men.Methods: Twenty recreationally trained men were assigned to either the YA (21.8±2.0 y, 90.7±11.6 kg, 179±4.7 cm) or MA (47.0±4.4 y, 96.1±21.6 kg, 177±7.7 cm) group. The HVP consisted of eight sets of 10 repetitions of unilateral isokinetic concentric knee extension and eccentric knee flexion at 60°·sec-1. Changes in tissue hemoglobin saturation index (TSI), tissue oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (O2Hb), deoxygenated hemoglobin (HHb), and muscle oxidation index (O2Hb-HHb) were measured during the exercise session using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Data were analyzed using two-way mix factorial analyses of variance. Results: Prior to exercise, TSI was significantly greater for YA compared to MA (73.2±3.4% vs. 68.6±4.8%, p=0.024). For both groups, significant decreases in O2Hb and O2Hb-HHb, and increases in HHb were observed during each of the eight sets relative to the rest periods (p<0.05). However, the average change during the eight sets of the HVP revealed a significantly higher (p=0.036) level of HHb (7.8±0.5μM vs. 5.3±3.1μM) and a lower (p=0.029) level of O2Hb-HHb (-11.3±1.4μM vs. -7.1±5.5μM) for MA compared to YA.Conclusions: During a high volume, resistance exercise protocol, middle-aged adults experienced reduced muscle oxygen saturation levels compared to younger, recreationally active adults. These results suggest that age-related changes in muscle oxygenation appear to occur in middle-aged adults, regardless of recreational exercise training experience.
Changes in Sport Nutrition Knowledge, Attitudes/Beliefs and Behaviors Following a Two-Year Sport Nutrition Education and Life-Skills Intervention among High School Soccer Players.

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a sport nutrition education and life-skills intervention on sport nutrition knowledge (SNK), attitudes/beliefs and dietary behaviors relevant to sport nutrition among high school (HS) soccer players. Three assessments were done over the 2-year intervention (baseline = time 1, end year 1 = time 2, end year 2 = time 3). Participants (n = 217; females = 64%; Latino = 47.5%; 14.9 ± 0.9-year; 46.5% National School Breakfast/Lunch Program) were assigned to an intervention group (IG, n = 153; 9 schools) or comparison group (CG, n = 64; 4 schools) based on geographical location. Differences over time were examined based on group, sex, socioeconomic status (SES) and race/ethnicity. The IG increased SNK scores by ~10% (time 1 = 51.6%; time 3 = 60.9%; p ≤ 0.001), with the greatest change in the female IG vs. CG and no differences in male IG vs. CG. Daily breakfast consumption was 53.7% in both groups. IG players were 3 times more likely (95%CI = 2.59, 7.77) to report trying to eat for performance (IG = 48.7% vs. CG = 30.2%). By time 3, IG players were less likely to report that ‘diet met nutritional requirements’ (31.6%) compared to CG (47.6%). For IG, the consumption of lunch (≥5-days/week) did not change (92.2–93.4%), but declined in the CG (90.6%) (p = 0.04). No other differences by sub-population (race/ethnicity, SES) were observed. Our findings indicate that HS athletes are motivated to learn and improve diet behaviors, and benefit from team-based nutrition interventions. Future interventions should consider delivery of curriculum/experiential learning during a defined training period, with messages reinforced with supports at home, school and athletic settings.
Simultaneous transmission and absorption photometry of carbon-black absorption from drop-cast particle-laden filters

Simultaneous transmissivity and absorptivity measurements were carried out in the visible at a laser wavelength of 532 nm on drop-cast, carbon-black-laden filters under ambient (laboratory) conditions. The focus of this investigation was to establish the feasibility of this approach to estimate the mass absorption coefficient of the isolated particles and compare results to earlier work with the same carbon-black source. Transmissivity measurements were carried out with a laser probe beam positioned normal to the particle-laden filter surface. Absorptivity measurements were carried out using a laser-heating approach to record in time the sample temperature rise to steady-state and decay back to the ambient temperature. The sample temperature was recorded using a fine-wire thermocouple that was integrated into the transmission arrangement by placing the thermocouple flush with the filter back surface. The advantage of this approach is that the sample absorptivity can be determined directly (using laser heating) instead of resolving the difference between reflectivity (filter surface scattering) and transmissivity. The current approach also provides the filter optical characteristics, as well as an estimate of filter effects on the absorption coefficient due to particle absorption enhancement or shadowing. The approach may also be incorporated into other filter-based techniques, like the particle/soot absorption photometer, with the simple addition of a thermocouple to the commercial instrument. For this investigation, measurements were carried out with several blank uncoated quartz filters. A range of solution concentrations was prepared with a well-characterized carbon black in deionized water (i.e., a water-soluble carbonaceous material referred to as a surrogate black carbon or 'carbon black'). The solution was then drop cast using a calibrated syringe onto blank filters to vary particle loading. After evaporation of the water, the measurements were repeated with the coated filters. The measurement repeatability (95% confidence level) was better than 0.3 K for temperature and 3 × 10-5 mW for laser power. From the measurements with both the blank and coated filters, the absorption coefficient was determined for the isolated particles. The results were then compared with an earlier investigation by You et al. and Zangmeister and Radney, who used the same carbon-black material. The measurements were also compared with Lorenz-Mie computations for a polydispersion of spherical particles dispersed throughout a volume representative of the actual particles. The mass absorption coefficient for the polydispersion of carbon-black particles was estimated to be about 7.7 ± 1.4m2 g-1, which was consistent with the results expected for these carbon black particles.
Why believe? The promise of research on the role of religion in entrepreneurial action

Abstract Religion is one of the most pervasive and central topics in society. However, its relative neglect by entrepreneurship research leads to an insufficient understanding of entrepreneurial action. To address this gap, we build on boundary theory and the psychology of religion to develop a sketch of the role of religion in entrepreneurial action, including its antecedents and outcomes. Finally, we suggest a number of theoretical perspectives (identity, sensemaking, and boundary) and research questions that may further advance research on religion and entrepreneurship.
D2d - No Defense against Diabetes.

The benefits of vitamin D on myriad health outcomes have been much debated.1,2 Although vitamin D sufficiency is crucial for skeletal health (Table 1), the relation between vitamin D and other heal...
Correlation Between Cerebral Blood Flow Velocities Measured By Magnetic Resonance and Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound in Children with Sickle Cell Anemia

Abstract Background Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography is the standard stroke screening test for children with sickle cell anemia (SCA). However, approximately 10% of children have inadequate ultrasonographic windows for a successful TCD study, and some clinical sites may lack the equipment or personnel to perform TCDs in children. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques can also measure blood flow velocities and could substitute for TCD in these clinical scenarios. We tested the hypothesis that MRI-derived middle cerebral artery (MCA) blood flow velocities would correlate with TCD-derived MCA blood flow velocities in children with SCA. Methods Children age 6 years and up with SCA at their baseline state of health underwent TCD and MRI as part of a prospective clinical study. Imaging TCD of the bilateral MCAs to determine time-average mean of maximum blood flow velocities (TCD-CBFV) were performed using clinical ultrasound equipment. MRIs were performed at 3T without sedation. MRI cerebral time-averaged mean blood flow velocities (MR-CBFV) were measured in the MCAs using phase contrast sequences without cardiac cycle gating to shorten acquisition time and reduce ghosting artifacts. TCD- and MR-CBFV of each hemisphere were compared. Silent cerebral infarctions (SCIs) were categorized as present or absent in each hemisphere. Non-parametric tests were used with a level of significance of Results Twenty hemispheres from 15 children had both TCD-CBFV and MR-CBFV measurements. Median age was 9 years (IQR 6.25-10). In these children, two hemispheres had unobtainable TCDs due to skull thickness, and eight hemispheres had MR-CBFV excluded due to patient motion or poor positioning. The median TCD-CBFV was 116 cm/sec (IQR 90.25-124) and none of the included hemispheres had arterial stenosis or TCD-CBFV in the conditional or abnormal range. Eight included hemispheres were from children receiving chronic blood transfusion therapy for primary or secondary stroke prevention. There was a linear relationship between TCD-CBFV and MR-CBFV (Spearman correlation, ρ=0.781, p Conclusions In this small cohort of children with SCA, MR-CBFV correlated significantly with TCD-CBFV, but MR-CBFV values were approximately 30% lower than TCD-CBFV. This may be due to the method of acquiring MR-CBFV via non-gated methodology, which is known to produce lower blood flow velocity estimates. Further work is needed to determine a threshold for high-risk MR-CBFV values before this modality could be used as a substitute for TCD screening. Lower MR-CBFV was associated with SCIs, suggesting a potential role for MR-CBFV in predicting SCI risk. The relationship between MR-CBFV and SCIs should be explored further. Download : Download high-res image (105KB) Download : Download full-size image Disclosures Hulbert: Pfizer, Inc.: Other: spouse employment. Fields: NeuroPhage Pharmaceuticals: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.
Effects of Restricting High Alcohol Content Beverages on Crime in California

Background: Policy restrictions on malt liquor sales have been adopted in several cities throughout the United States in an effort to reduce crime around off-premise alcohol outlets. Although California has implemented the most restrictions on malt liquor sales, no studies in the published literature have evaluated the effects of these policies on reducing crime. Objectives: We evaluated the effectiveness of malt liquor restrictions on reducing crime around off-premise alcohol outlets in six California cities. We hypothesized that adoption of malt liquor policies would be significantly associated with decreases in crime within areas surrounding targeted outlets. Methods: We used an interrupted time-series design with control areas to examine the relationship between malt liquor policies and crime reduction. We compared crime rates three years prior and following adoption of malt liquor policies. Results: Malt liquor policies were associated with modest decreases in crime, largely Part II or less serious crimes such as simple assaults. The effectiveness of malt liquor policies varied by city, with reductions in crime greatest in Sacramento where policies were more restrictive than in other cities. Malt liquor policies were also associated with small increases in nuisance crime, especially in San Francisco. Conclusion: Results suggest that malt liquor policies may have modest effects on reducing crime when they include strong restrictions on the sale of malt liquor products. Results may be informative to other cities considering whether to maintain or change their malt liquor policies as well as cities considering placing restrictions on other high content beverages.