cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optical Processing Architecture For Radiotelescope Data

Fourier transform post processing of radiotelescope visibility function data is reviewed with emphasis on basic data properties important to optical processing architecture.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Validity of similarity relations over the Gulf Stream

Observations obtained from aircraft, buoys, ships and vertical soundings made on 9, 10 and 22 February, 1986 during the Genesis of Atlantic Lows Experiment (GALE) are used to study the mean marine boundary-layer (MBL) structure over the cold coastal waters and the warm Gulf Stream. Different synoptic conditions prevailed on each day. The synoptic setting was characterized by prestorm conditions on 9 February and meso-low development on 10 and again on 22 February. Two convergence zones, one near the Gulf Stream and the other close to the coast were observed on both the days of cyclogenesis causing different stability conditions in the MBL near the coast and the Gulf Stream. The boundary-layer on 9 February was however well mixed. Temperature and humidity variances during prestorm conditions (9 February) generally followed the free convection relations. But on 10 and 22 February, in the presence of a meso-low, similarity relations do not appear to be valid for temperature and humidity variances and fluxes. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0870.1996.t01-2-00002.x
Inhibition of Nitric Oxide Synthesis Reduces Intravenous Cocaine Self-administration in the Rat

Abstract The effects of a blockade of nitric oxide synthesis were studied in rats trained to self-administer cocaine intravenously. Pretreatment with Ng-nitro-1-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME; 10–50 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, twice daily for 4 days), significantly and dose-dependently suppressed the maintenance of intravenous cocaine self-administration and the absolute reward magnitude of cocaine. These results suggest that nitric oxide may play a role in cocaine abuse and dependence. © 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Rapid prototyping methodology in action: A developmental study

This study investigated the use of rapid prototyping methodologies in two projects conducted in a natural work setting. It sought to determine the nature of its use by designers and customers and the extent to which its use enhances traditional instructional design (ID). With respect to describing rapid prototyping use, the results pertain to designer tasks performed, the concurrent processing of those tasks, and customer involvement. With respect to describing the enhancements facilitated by rapid prototyping, the results pertain to design and development cycle-time reduction, product quality, and customer and designer satisfaction. In general, the two projects studied show ID efforts that created products that were usable for a conveniently long period of time without revision; delivered in a shorter period of time than would have been expected using traditional techniques; and received by satisfied customers who had been involved throughout their development. In other words, the rapid prototyping methods lived up to their promised benefits.
Influence of nitrate and ammonium on the growth and 2,4‐diaminobutyric acid composition of flatpea (Lathyrus sylvestris L.)

Abstract. Presence of 2.4-diaminobutyric acid (A2bu), a neurotoxin, in tissues of flatpea (Lathyrus sylvestris L.) necessitates a thorough understanding of the regulation of this nonprotein amino acid before the species can be recommended to livestock producers for forage applications. To determine how different concentrations and ratios of NO3 and NH+4 in growth media influence the levels of A2bu and other free amino acids in the ‘Lathco’flatpea cultivar, plants were grown hydroponically in controlled environments. The concentration of A2bu was highest in tissues when the NO3 to NH+4 ratio in the nutrient solution was low. Responses of amides and other nonprotein amino acids, especially in the roots, followed a similar trend. Free protein amino acids in leaves and stems were generally unaffected by changes in NO3 to NH+4 ratios. In roots, protein amino acids increased as the NO3 to NH+4 ratio in the growth medium increased. Ammonium inhibited shoot and root growth; NO3 alleviated the toxic effects of NH+4. Soluble protein concentrations were higher in the shoots of NO3-fed plants and in the roots of plants supplied with NH+4. These results suggest that accumulation of A2bu and other nonprotein amino acids, as well as asparagine and glutamine, plays a role in detoxification of NH+4 and storage of N.
Use of fast neutrons for assessing sarcopenia by measuring body phosphorus: relevance to health and quality of life of the elderly

ABSTRACT Sarcopenia, defined as theloss ofskeletal muscle with age, may lead to frailty, fractures due to falls, and reduced immunity to disease.Byunderstanding the causes ofmuscle loss with age we will be able to develop ways ofmaintaining functional capacity and qualityoflile for the elderly. ElementalPartitionAnalysis (EPA) is a new approach to body composition assessment A major element of thebody is measured and then, by means ofother measurements, is partitioned to the contributing body compartments. We developed a model for measuring total body muscle by applying the EPA method to total body phosphorus (TBP). We measure TBP (headexcluded) by in vivo fast neutron activation analysis using the reaction 31P(n,a)M The main contributors to TB? are bone and skeletal muscle. Adipose tissue and the liver contribute less than 3%. We use dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (1)XA) to evaluatethe coniribution ofbone to TBP. Corrections are applied for the small contributions ofthe liver and adipose tissue to TBP to derive
Finding Where and Saying Where: Developmental Relationships Between Place Learning and Language in the First Year

The relationship between emergent spatial understanding in different cognitive domains, including navigation and language, has rarely been studied using methods that allow for the examination of individual differences. In this study the authors explored emergent place learning and its relationship to early spatial language, namely prepositions, in 16- to 24-month-old children. Children were tested using a spatial task adapted from the Morris water maze, and the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory. In the place-learning task, children were placed in a circular enclosure and a puzzle was hidden under the floor at one location. Before each trial, children were disoriented and placed in the maze at a different starting position. Their search types and success at finding the puzzle were coded. As expected, older children demonstrated more spatial searches and better place-learning skills (finding the goal), as well as greater overall expressive vocabulary. Place learning and language did not correlat...
Obesity and its measurement in a community-based sample of women with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Objective To determine the prevalence of obesity and evaluate how accurately standard anthropometric measures identify obesity among women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), height, weight, and waist and hip circumference measurements were collected from 145 women with SLE. Three anthropometric proxies of obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m2, waist circumference [WC] ≥88 cm, and waist:hip ratio [WHR] ≥0.85) were compared with a DXA-based obesity criterion. Correspondence between measures was assessed with Cohen's kappa. Receiver operating characteristic curves determined optimal cut points for each anthropometric measure relative to DXA. Framingham cardiovascular risk scores were compared among women who were classified as not obese by both traditional and revised anthropometric definitions, obese by both definitions, and obese only by the revised definition. Results Of the 145 women, 28%, 29%, 41%, and 50% were classified as obese by WC, BMI, WHR, and DXA, respectively. Correspondence between anthropometric and DXA-based measures was moderate. Women misclassified by anthropometric measures had less truncal fat and more appendicular lean and fat mass. Cut points were identified for anthropometric measures to better approximate DXA estimates of percent body fat: BMI ≥26.8 kg/m2, WC ≥84.75 cm, and WHR ≥0.80. Framingham risk scores were significantly higher in women classified as obese by either traditional or revised criteria. Conclusion A large percentage of this group of women with SLE was obese. Substantial portions of women were misclassified by anthropometric measures. Utility of revised cut points compared with traditional cut points in identifying risk of cardiovascular disease or disability remains to be examined in prospective studies, but results from the Framingham risk score analysis suggest that traditional cut points exclude a significant number of at-risk women with SLE.
Exploring homeowner diffusion of yard care knowledge as one step toward improving urban ecosystems.

Urban ecosystems are increasingly influenced by residential yard care decisions. This had led researchers to focus on homeowner education programs when it comes to yard care. Typically, the success of programs designed to influence yard care is based on whether the target subject changes his or her behavior in a more environmentally conscious manner. This threshold, however, fails to consider if individuals share this information with their friends and neighbors, thus having a possible spillover effect. In this paper, we focus on the transmission of new lawn management information among neighbors and consider (1) if individuals discuss information they learned in a short-term educational program, (2) what factors are associated with diffusion, (3) what information individuals share, and (4) what barriers to transmission exist. In the Minneapolis–St. Paul metropolitan area, we used data from a mailed survey, group discussions, and mailed information exchanges. Results indicate that best management practices for yards can diffuse through the neighborhood (approximately 34 % shared information with their neighbors in a one-month period). In addition, factors such as (1) attending a group discussion, 2) individual social connectedness, (3) length of home ownership, and (4) the presence of children in the household were found to be positively related to increased sharing of information. Also, for lawns, the content of information shared tended to be about increasing grass height and reducing fertilizer applications. Finally, we find barriers to sharing ideas based on spatial, temporal, or perception factors but overcoming some of these barriers is possible.
Correlated physical and mental health summary scores for the SF-36 and SF-12 Health Survey, V.1

Background: The SF-36 and SF-12 summary scores were derived using an uncorrelated (orthogonal) factor solution. We estimate SF-36 and SF-12 summary scores using a correlated (oblique) physical and mental health factor model. Methods: We administered the SF-36 to 7,093 patients who received medical care from an independent association of 48 physician groups in the western United States. Correlated physical health (PCSc) and mental health (MCSc) scores were constructed by multiplying each SF-36 scale z-score by its respective scoring coefficient from the obliquely rotated two factor solution. PCS c 12 and MCS c -12 scores were estimated using an approach similar to the one used to derive the original SF-12 summary scores. Results: The estimated correlation between SF-36 PCSc and MCSc scores was 0.62. There were far fewer negative factor scoring coefficients for the oblique factor solution compared to the factor scoring coefficients produced by the standard orthogonal factor solution. Similar results were found for PCSc-12, and MCSc-12 summary scores. Conclusion: Correlated physical and mental health summary scores for the SF-36 and SF-12 derived from an obliquely rotated factor solution should be used along with the uncorrelated summary scores. The new scoring algorithm can reduce inconsistent results between the SF-36 scale scores and physical and mental health summary scores reported in some prior studies. (Subscripts C = correlated and UC = uncorrelated)
Transumbilical laparoscopic-assisted appendectomy is associated with lower costs compared to multiport laparoscopic appendectomy

article i nfo Background/Purpose: Single-incision laparoscopic appendectomy has been associated with improved cosmetic benefits, and decreased postoperative pain. Less is known about costs and other outcomes. Our aim was to evaluate the costs and outcomes between transumbilical laparoscopic-assisted appendectomy (TULAA) and multiport laparoscopic appendectomy (MLA). Methods: IRB-approved retrospective review (September 2010-July 2013) of institutional medical records identified 372 pediatric patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy. Outcomes included costs, LOS and readmission. Costs were fully loaded operating costs from the hospital's cost accounting database. Generalized linear regression was used to assess costs of MLA and TULAA. A subgroup analysis was performed using only patients with non-perforated appendicitis. Results: There were 132 patients (35.5%) that underwent TULAA while 240 patients (65.5%) underwent MLA. Compared to MLA, TULAA was associated with decreased operative time (0.6 vs. 1.0 h, p b 0.0001), used in comparable proportions of interval appendectomies, but was performed less often for perforated appendicitis (9.8% vs. 22.9%, p = 0.002). Readmission and postoperative complications were similar between both groups. In the setting of non-perforated appendicitis, TULAA was associated with lower costs of $1378 relative to MLA (p = 0.009). Conclusions: In non-perforated appendicitis, TULAA is associated with lower costs and comparable rates of readmission and postoperative complications.
A Bayesian Approach for Policy Learning from Trajectory Preference Queries

We consider the problem of learning control policies via trajectory preference queries to an expert. In particular, the agent presents an expert with short runs of a pair of policies originating from the same state and the expert indicates which trajectory is preferred. The agent's goal is to elicit a latent target policy from the expert with as few queries as possible. To tackle this problem we propose a novel Bayesian model of the querying process and introduce two methods that exploit this model to actively select expert queries. Experimental results on four benchmark problems indicate that our model can effectively learn policies from trajectory preference queries and that active query selection can be substantially more efficient than random selection.
Radioulnar synostosis after the two-incision biceps repair: A standardized treatment protocol

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of a 1-incision posterolateral surgical approach with concomitant irradiation (700 rad) for early resection of synostosis after a 2-incision biceps repair. Between 1992 and 2000, 8 patients with radioulnar synostosis after a 2-incision biceps repair were evaluated and treated, with a mean age of 38 years (range, 29-47 years). The mean time between tendon repair and resection of the synostosis was 7 months (range, 4-14 months). The mean follow-up was 27 months (range, 13-36 months). All patients had 0 degrees of forearm rotation preoperatively. Postoperatively, all patients underwent postoperative radiotherapy in two divided doses for a total of 700 cGy. At a mean follow-up of 27 months, the rotation arc of the forearm improved to 155 degrees (range, 140 degrees -170 degrees ). The strength of supination was 80% (range, 70%-90%) of the contralateral limb. Seven of the eight patients had no pain after activities of daily living or work. One had mild pain after prolonged activity. No radiographic or clinical evidence of synostosis recurrence was seen at final follow-up. We believe that resection of most radioulnar synostoses after 2-incision biceps repair can be achieved safely and efficaciously through one posterolateral incision.
Community Pharmacists' Assessments and Recommendations for Treatment in Four Case Scenarios

OBJECTIVE:To evaluate community pharmacists' interpersonal skills, ability to make appropriate assessment of a patient's drug-related problems, and ability to propose an appropriate therapeutic plan.DESIGN:A disguised shopper design was used. Four different case scenarios were designed, with input from a five-member community/primary care pharmacist advisory committee. Two different cases were assigned to each of two shoppers. One hundred and one pharmacies were shopped twice, totaling 202 shopping experiences. A three-member evaluation committee made up of clinical faculty members in ambulatory care and internal medicine assessed the appropriateness of the recommendations.SETTING:The study was conducted in 101 randomly selected community pharmacies in the Pittsburgh area, including both chain and independent pharmacies.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Main outcome measures included the quality of the pharmacists' interpersonal skills, patient assessment skills, and recommendations.RESULTS:The majority of pharmacist...
Intracardiac Wegener's granulomatosis.

A healthy 22-year-old woman presented with acute ventricular tachycardia. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass in the left ventricular cavity. On the basis of these findings, a provisional diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma was made and the patient was scheduled to undergo an immediate cardiac surgical procedure. During intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography, the anterolateral papillary muscle (PM) was found to have an abnormal consistency and appeared thickened in the midesophageal (Fig 1A, Fig 1B) and transgastric mid–short axis (Fig 1C) views. The PM was excised, and the patient underwent a mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve. Gross exam-
Major urinary protein and immunoglobulin allotypes of recombinant inbred mouse strains.

Serum and urine samples from seven recombinant inbred mouse strains, derived from a cross between BALB/c and C57BL/6, were examined to determine the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgC H ) and the major urinary protein (MUP) allotypes. CXBG and CXBJ exhibited the same IgC H alleles as did BALB/c; the others resembled C57BL/6, thus providing no evidence of crossover types. Comparison of the Mup and brown coat colour ( b ) alleles (both on linkage group VIII) revealed that three of the strains resemble BALB/c and two resemble C57BL/6, whereas the CXBE and CXBI strains are crossover types.
Relative red blood cell enzyme levels as a clue to the diagnosis of pyruvate kinase deficiency.

Evaluation of two patients with transfusion dependent anemia revealed RBC pyruvate kinase to be 33% and 41% of the mean normal value, with normal or high values of other RBC enzymes. Parental PK activities were just below normal in three of four of the parents. Subsequent DNA analysis revealed both patients to be compound heterozygotes for PKLR gene mutations, two of which are previously undescribed. Borderline low pyruvate kinase activities with increased in other RBC enzyme activities should prompt consideration of measurement of parental enzyme activities, and confirmation by DNA analysis if available. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:819–821. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
High-density CMOS ROM arrays

A single transistor cell and a precharge signal are used to reduce the memory cell area in bulk CMOS ROM arrays to 1.12 mil/SUP 2//bit. Use of SOS/CMOS technology further reduces the memory cell area to 0.38 mil/SUP 2//bit and makes possible CMOS ROMs of up to 32768 bits. Operation of both the array and the decoders is controlled by a precharge signal which is generated internally in a way which is transparent to the user. The CMOS ROMs thus produced are competitive with NMOS ROMs in both density and speed, yet retain all of the advantages of static CMOS circuits such as 1-/spl mu/W power dissipation, full 2.8-15 V voltage operating range, and full -55/spl deg/C-125/spl deg/C temperature range.
CrowdLabs: social analysis and visualization for the sciences

Managing and understanding the growing volumes of scientific data is one of the most challenging issues scientists face today. As analyses get more complex and large interdisciplinary groups need to work together, knowledge sharing becomes essential to support effective scientific data exploration. While science portals and visualization Web sites have provided a first step towards this goal, by aggregating data from different sources and providing a set of predesigned analyses and visualizations, they have important limitations. Often, these sites are built manually and are not flexible enough to support the vast heterogeneity of data sources, analysis techniques, data products, and the needs of different user communities. In this paper we describe CrowdLabs, a system that adopts the model used by social Web sites, allowing users to share not only data but also computational pipelines. The shared repository opens up many new opportunities for knowledge sharing and re-use, exposing scientists to tasks that provide examples of sophisticated uses of algorithms they would not have access to otherwise. CrowdLabs combines a set of usable tools and a scalable infrastructure to provide a rich collaborative environment for scientists, taking into account the requirements of computational scientists, such as accessing high-performance computers and manipulating large amounts of data.
EXPLOITING TEMPORAL VARIABILITY TO UNDERSTAND TREE RECRUITMENT RESPONSE TO CLIMATE CHANGE

Predicting vegetation shifts under climate change is a challenging endeavor, given the complex interactions between biotic and abiotic variables that influence demographic rates. To determine how current trends and variation in climate change affect seedling establishment, we analyzed demographic responses to spatiotemporal variation to temperature and soil moisture in the southern Appalachian Mountains. We monitored seedling establishment for 10 years in five plots located along an elevational gradient of five dominant tree species: Acer rubrum, Betula spp., Liriodendron tulipifera, Nyssa sylvatica, and Quercus rubra. A hierarchical Bayes model allowed us to incorporate different sources of information, observation errors, and the inherent variability of the establishment process. From our analysis, spring temperatures and heterogeneity in soil moisture emerge as key drivers, and they act through nonlinear population demographic processes. We found that all species benefited from warmer springs, in particular the species found on dry slopes, N. sylvatica, and those dominant at higher elevations, Betula spp. and Q. rubra. This last species also benefited from dry environments. Conversely, L. tulipifera, which is abundant on mesic sites, experienced highest establishment rates at high moisture. The mechanisms behind these results may differ among species. Higher temperatures are apparently more important for some, while dry conditions and reduced pathogenic attacks on their seeds and new seedlings have a large impact for others. Our results suggest that only communities found at higher elevations are in danger of regional extinction when their habitats disappear given the current climatic trends. We conclude that the recruitment dynamics of the communities where these species are dominant could be affected by minor changes in climate in ways that cannot be predicted using only climate envelopes, which use different variables and miss the nonlinearities.
Collecting Health History Information: The Accuracy of a Patient Self-administered Questionnaire in an Orthopedic Outpatient Setting

Background and Purpose. The utility of patient self-administered health history questionnaires has been extensively studied in physician practice settings, but little such research has been done in populations germane to physical therapist practice. The purpose of this study was to document the accuracy of a self-administered questionnaire for collecting patients' history of illness, surgery, and medication use. Subjects. Outpatient orthopedic surgery candidates (n=100, 54% female, 46% male; mean age=46.9 years) with common orthopedic disorders were recruited. Methods. Using the same form, patient health history information was recorded separately by patient self-report and by an experienced health care practitioner. Patient questionnaire responses were compared for accuracy with responses generated by the practitioner and those found in the medical record. Results. The mean percentage of agreement across questionnaire items was 96% (range=57%–100%); the mean kappa value was .69 (range=.154–1.0). Of the total questionnaire responses across all patients (n=9,436), 2.55% (n=241) of the responses were noted “yes” on the practitioner questionnaire, but not on the patient questionnaire; 1.8% of the items (n=174) were noted “yes” on the patient questionnaire, but not on the practitioner questionnaire. Discussion and Conclusion. The results support the accuracy of patient self-administered health history questionnaires in reporting important health history information.
Creating an Inclusive Early Childhood Professional Development System in New Mexico, USA.

Creating a state comprehensive professional development system for the preparation of early childhood personnel in the USA requires a development framework that is inclusive and responsive to diversity. Over the past few years, states from around the country have begun to embark on journeys towards the development of such a system. The purpose of this article is to share New Mexico's experience and lessons learned from its work in the creation of a professional development system in early childhood that is culturally and linguistically responsive.
Darwin's Invention: Inheritance & the "Mad Dream" of Pangenesis

This article recounts the story of the development of pangenesis, a principle proposed by Charles Darwin to describe the rules of inheritance and the source of new variation, two concepts vital to his proposal of evolution by natural selection. Historical accounts such as this are infrequently included in texts and classroom discussions but can serve a number of useful proposes. Pangenesis was ultimately shown to be an inaccurate idea, and one of Darwin's few errors, but this account is an interesting case study to illustrate both how science itself works and a rare glimpse into Darwin's thinking and personality.
A Study on the Role of Human Resource Management in Terms of Employee Perspective

The Human Resource Management (HRM) deals with managing people within the organization, there are number of responsibilities that come with this title of HRM (Handy, 1999).
Patient preferences for attributes of multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapies: development and results of a ratings-based conjoint analysis.

Background: Timely individualized treatment is essential to improving relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patient health outcomes, yet little is known about how patients make treatment decisions. We sought to evaluate RRMS patient preferences for risks and benefits of treatment. Methods: Fifty patients with RRMS completed conjoint analysis surveys with 16 hypothetical disease-modifying therapy (DMT) medication profiles developed using a fractional factorial design. Medication profiles were assigned preference ratings from 0 (not acceptable) to 10 (most favorable). Medication attributes included a range of benefits, adverse effects, administration routes, and market durations. Analytical models used linear mixed-effects regression. Results: Participants showed the highest preference for medication profiles that would improve their symptoms (β = 0.81–1.03, P < .001), not a proven DMT outcome. Preventing relapses, the main clinical trial outcome, was not associated with significant preferences (P =...
Fly-Ash-Stabilized Gypsiferous Soil as an Embankment Material

A highway expansion project was proposed at the boundary of Texas and New Mexico State, where gypsum deposits are overlaid almost the entire construction area. In order to use the local gypsiferous soil as a suitable embankment material, soil stabilization using fly ash as an admixture was proposed. Even though the application of fly ash as a soil stabilizer started around 1950s, there are not many case histories related to the stabilization of gypsiferous soils using fly ash. In this study, a series of laboratory testing on gypsiferous soils before and after the addition of fly ash is presented. Analysis is done on the physical and mechanical properties of the stabilized soils as well as the chemical processes involved in the stabilization.
Application of flexible glass to prevent PID in PV modules

Potential induced degradation (PID) has recently been recognized by the industry as a critical PV module durability issue. Many methods to prevent PID have been developed at the cell and module levels in the factory and at the system level in the field. This paper presents a potential method for eliminating or minimizing the PID issue either in the factory during manufacturing or in the field after system installation. The method uses commercially available, thin and flexible Corning Willow™ glass sheets or strips on the glass superstrates of PV modules, disrupting the current leakage path from the cells to the grounded frame.
Monochorionic Diamniotic Twin Pregnancy Timing and Duration of Sonographic Surveillance for Detection of Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome

Objective Twin-twin transfusion syndrome complicates up to 15% of monochorionic diamniotic gestations. Current recommendations for sonographic surveillance in monochorionic diamniotic pregnancies for detection of twin-twin transfusion syndrome vary. Our objective was to determine an appropriate frequency of sonographic surveillance to optimize detection of twin-twin transfusion syndrome in monochorionic diamniotic gestations. Methods A retrospective cohort analysis of all nonanomalous monochorionic diamniotic twins delivered at the University of North Carolina over a 9-year period was performed. The rate and gestational age of twin-twin transfusion syndrome onset were calculated. The time to the diagnosis of twin-twin transfusion syndrome was evaluated by a Kaplan-Meier survival curve; clinical factors at initial sonography were examined for their use in prediction of twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Results Of the 577 twin deliveries, 145 (25%) were monochorionic diamniotic and included for analysis. The rate of twin-twin transfusion syndrome was 17.93% (n = 26). The mean frequency of surveillance ± SD before diagnosis of twin-twin transfusion syndrome was 3.1 ± 2.1 weeks. The mean gestational age at diagnosis of twin-twin transfusion syndrome was 21.3 ± 3.4 weeks (range, 15–29 weeks). Both a discordant maximum vertical amniotic fluid pocket (>65% difference) and a discordant estimated fetal weight (>25% difference) at initial sonography showed a significantly shorter time to diagnosis of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (P < .0001). Conclusions Evaluation for twin-twin transfusion syndrome should begin in the second trimester. Weekly surveillance for those pregnancies with estimated fetal weight or maximum vertical pocket discordance is recommended. For those with a concordant estimated fetal weight and maximum vertical pocket, sonographic evaluation every 2 weeks is warranted to 28 to 30 weeks. After that, development of twin-twin transfusion syndrome is less likely, and a different paradigm of antenatal testing may be reasonable.
Tumor Necrosis Factor - Alpha Is Essential for Angiotensin II-Induced Ventricular Remodeling: Role for Oxidative Stress

The functional crosstalk between angiotensin II (Ang II) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α has been shown to cause adverse left ventricular remodeling and hypertrophy in hypertension. Previous studies from our lab showed that mice lacking TNF-α (TNF-α-/-) have attenuated hypertensive response to Ang II; however, the signaling mechanisms involved are not known. In this study, we investigated the signaling pathways involved in the Ang II and TNF-α interaction. Chronic Ang II infusion (1μg/kg/min, 14 days) significantly increased cardiac collagen I, collagen III, CTGF and TGF-β mRNA and protein expression in wild-type (WT) mice, whereas these changes were decreased in TNF-α-/- mice. TNF-α-/- mice with Ang II infusion showed reduced myocardial perivascular and interstitial fibrosis compared to WT mice with Ang II infusion. In WT mice, Ang II infusion increased reactive oxygen species formation and the expression of NADPH oxidase subunits, indicating increased oxidative stress, but not in TNF-α-/- mice. In addition, treatment with etanercept (8 mg/kg, every 3 days) for two weeks blunted the Ang II-induced hypertension (133±4 vs 154±3 mmHg, p<0.05) and cardiac hypertrophy (heart weight to body weight ratio, 4.8±0.2 vs 5.6±0.3, p<0.05) in WT mice. Furthermore, Ang II-induced activation of NF-κB, p38 MAPK, and JNK were reduced in both TNF-α-/- mice and mice treated with etanercept. Together, these findings indicate that TNF-α contributes to Ang II-induced hypertension and adverse cardiac remodeling, and that these effects are associated with changes in the oxidative stress dependent MAPK/TGF-β/NF-κB pathway. These results may provide new insight into the mechanisms of Ang II and TNF-α interaction.
Fatty acid nitroalkenes induce resistance to ischemic cardiac injury by modulating mitochondrial respiration at complex II.

Nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FA) are metabolic and inflammatory-derived electrophiles that mediate pleiotropic signaling actions. It was hypothesized that NO2-FA would impact mitochondrial redox reactions to induce tissue-protective metabolic shifts in cells. Nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO2) reversibly inhibited complex II-linked respiration in isolated rat heart mitochondria in a pH-dependent manner and suppressed superoxide formation. Nitroalkylation of Fp subunit was determined by BME capture and the site of modification by OA-NO2 defined by mass spectrometric analysis. These effects translated into reduced basal and maximal respiration and favored glycolytic metabolism in H9C2 cardiomyoblasts as assessed by extracellular H+ and O2 flux analysis. The perfusion of NO2-FA induced acute cardioprotection in an isolated perfused heart ischemia/reperfusion (IR) model as evidenced by significantly higher rate-pressure products. Together these findings indicate that NO2-FA can promote cardioprotection by inducing a shift from respiration to glycolysis and suppressing reactive species formation in the post-ischemic interval.
Macnab's Backache. 4th ed.

David A. Wong and Ensor Transfeldt. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2007. 430 pages. $129.00. ISBN: 978-0-7817-6085-0. This fourth rendition of the classic work by Ian Macnab, one of the fathers of modern spinal surgery and of the diagnostic thinking that has come to be associated with the art, is just as relevant and well done as the first edition with regard to elegance, simplicity, and practicality. The two authors, disciples of the larger Canadian progeny emanating from the Macnab-Toronto group, have done justice to …
Final Report fir DE-SC0005507 (A1618): The Development of an Improved Cloud Microphysical Product for Model and Remote Sensing Evaluation using RACORO Observations

We proposed to analyze data collected during the Routine Aerial Facilities (AAF) Clouds with Low Optical Water Depths (CLOWD) Optical Radiative Observations (RACORO) in order to develop an integrated product of cloud microphysical properties (number concentration of drops in different size bins, total liquid drop concentration integrated over all bin sizes, liquid water content LWC, extinction of liquid clouds, effective radius of water drops, and radar reflectivity factor) that could be used to evaluate large-eddy simulations (LES), general circulation models (GCMs) and ground-based remote sensing retrievals, and to develop cloud parameterizations with the end goal of improving the modeling of cloud processes and properties and their impact on atmospheric radiation. We have completed the development of this microphysical database. we investigated the differences in the size distributions measured by the Cloud and Aerosol Spectrometer (CAS) and the Forward Scattering Probe (FSSP), between the one dimensional cloud imaging probe (1DC) and the two-dimensional cloud imaging probe (2DC), and between the bulk LWCs measured by the Gerber probe against those derived from the size resolved probes.
Mapping the Journal of Homosexuality: A Preface.

This article serves as a Preface to the supplementary section of this special issue on “Mapping Queer Bioethics,” in which we take a solipsistic turn to “map” the Journal of Homosexuality itself. B...
Renal Angiography and Embolization

In order to safely and effectively perform renal arterial interventions, a fundamental understanding of the normal and variant renal vascular anatomy is essential. The renal arteries most commonly originate from the aorta approximately 1 cm distal to the origin of the superior mesenteric artery, at the level of the lower 1st and upper 2nd lumbar vertebrae. In a majority of patients (approximately 70 %), there is a single renal artery to each kidney. The left renal artery is shorter than the right, given its proximity to the aorta. The kidney is composed of five segments: apical, upper, middle, lower, and posterior. The posterior division artery is usually the first branch of the main renal artery and supplies the posterior segment of the kidney. The anterior division splits into three terminal segmental arteries: superior to the upper segment, middle or medial to the middle segment, and inferior to the lower segment. The vascular supply to the apical segment is usually provided by the anterior division artery but in approximately 10 % of cases may have supply from the posterior division. There are also smaller branches supplying the renal pelvis and proximal ureter which can originate from the main renal artery and its branches.
Synthesis and preclinical evaluation of two new 18F-labeled PSMA inhibitors prepared via click chemistry

110 Objectives Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is over-expressed in the epithelium of prostate cancer and non-prostate solid tumor neovasculature, making it an excellent target for cancer imaging and therapy. Here we report the synthesis of two new low-molecular-weight PSMA-based imaging agents, [18F]YC-88 and [18F]YC-71, utilizing copper-catalyzed click chemistry and a comparison of the effect of the presence of a linker between the triazole and the PSMA targeting urea on radiotracer pharmacokinetics. Methods [18F]YC-88 and [18F]YC-71 were synthesized from 2-[18F]fluoroethyl azide ([18F]FEA) and the corresponding alkyne precursors. [18F]YC-71 contains a lysine-suberate linker between the fluoroethyltriazole moiety and the targeting urea. Biodistribution and PET imaging were performed in immunocompromised mice bearing PSMA+ PC3 PIP and PSMA- PC3 flu xenografts. Results YC-88 and YC-71 exhibited high affinity for PSMA as evidenced by Ki values of 12.9 and 0.6 nM, respectively. [18F]FEA was prepared in 29-47% yield (non-decay-corrected) and reacted with alkyne precursors to give [18F]YC-88 and [18F]YC-71 in 36-40% and 21-25% yields, respectively, after HPLC purification. [18F]YC-88 and [18F]YC-71 clearly visualized PSMA+ PC3 PIP prostate tumor xenografts via PET imaging. The PSMA+ PC3 PIP tumor uptake was 41.8 ± 3.2 %ID/g and 41.7 ± 8.2 %ID/g for [18F]YC-88 and [18F]YC-71, respectively, at 60 min post-injection, the time of highest uptake for each compound. Unlike [18F]YC-88, which exhibits rapid normal organ clearance, [18F]YC-71 had higher liver retention (21.5 ± 3.8 %ID/g for [18F]YC-71;1.5 ± 0.1 %ID/g for [18F]YC-88) at 60 min. Conclusions [18F]YC-88 and [18F]YC-71 were synthesized using click chemistry and both demonstrated high PSMA+ tumor uptake in mouse tumor xenografts. Because of its rapid non-target organ clearance and relatively simple two-step radiosynthesis, [18F]YC-88 is a viable new PET agent for imaging PSMA-expressing tissues. Research Support CA134675
Combination of Power and Non-power Management Classes Strategies

The influence of teacher in class management can be divided into power and no power.The impact of power refers to that teacher uses powers,rules and regulations to manage students;the influence of non-power means that teacher uses force of personality,skills,knowledge,emotion and behavior to make students sentiment,so students will consciously accept management.Previous understanding of that power management is the most important recent conventional wisdom was that the most important is non-power.These two views are one-side,the right management strategy is combing the advantages of the two effects.Teacher not only achieve the right class of control,but also use personal charm to guide students to learn to live,which requires the combination of power and non-power.
An algorithm for hyperspectral remote sensing of aerosols

An algorithm for the hyperspectral remote sensing of the aerosol particle's optical properties will be presented. The talk will cover the theoretical development and real applications for this algorithm.
Anticoagulants: Major Advances Without Clear Consensus

Therapeutics for thrombosis were discovered because of observations made nearly one hundred years ago. The mainstays of these treatments have been either heparin or warfarin, with the latter being preferred for long-term anticoagulation. In the last six years, newer agents with antigoagulant activities have been approved for clinical use. These agents have advantages and disadvantages over warfarin and consensus for their use is still being formed, as is the manner in which the more traditional agents, such as warfarin, should be used and monitored.
Association of prostate volume with incidence and aggressiveness of prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the possible correlation between prostate volume and aggressiveness and incidence of prostate cancer (PCa). PATIENTS AND METHODS A chart review of a cohort of 448 consecutive prostate biopsy-naive men was performed. These men underwent at least a 12-core biopsy at our institution due to increased prostate-specific antigen serum levels (>4 ng/mL) and/or suspicious findings on digital rectal examination during the period between 2008 and 2013. Transrectal ultrasound was used to determine the prostate volume. RESULTS The positive biopsy rate was 66% for patients with a prostate volume of ≤35 cc and 40% for patients with a prostate volume of ≥65 cc (P<0.001). Of the 110 patients testing positive on biopsy with a volume of ≤35 cc, 10 patients (9.1%) had a Gleason score of ≥8. Of the 27 patients testing positive on biopsy with a volume of ≥65 cc, only 1 patient (3.7%) had a Gleason score of ≥8. CONCLUSION These results suggest that there may be an association between prostate volume and the incidence and aggressiveness of PCa. The larger the prostate, the lower the positive biopsy rate for PCa and the lower the Gleason score.
Calcium Sensitive Ring-Like Oligomers of Synaptotagmin 1: Implications for Neurotransmitter Release

The synaptic vesicle protein, Synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1) is required to couple Ca2+ influx to the membrane fusion machinery. However, the structural mechanism underlying this process is unclear. Using negative stain electron microscopy, we find that the Syt1 assembles into ring-like oligomeric structures on lipid monolayers under physiological ionic strength and lipid composition in the absence of free Ca2+. These rings oligomers vary in diameter between 19 - 42 nm (with an average size of 30 ± 5 nm), corresponding to 12- 25 molecules of Syt1. The ring-like oligomers are sensitive to Ca2+ and are disrupted rapidly by the physiological concentrations of free Ca2+. Analogous ring-like oligomers assemble from the C2AB domains of other Syt isoforms (Syt2, Syt7, Syt9) as well as related C2 domain containing protein, Doc2B and extended Synaptotagmins (E-Syts). Evidently, the circular oligomerization is a general and conserved structural aspect of many C2 domain proteins, including Synaptotagmins. Further, we find that both Syt1 ring formation and its disruption by Ca2+ principally involve well-established functional surfaces of the C2B domain which are important for neurotransmission. This includes the Ca2+ -independent binding of the polybasic motif of C2B domain with phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) as a prerequisite for rings to assemble. This suggests that ring formation may be triggered at a very early step in synaptic vesicle docking, as C2B-PIP2 interaction is required for docking in vivo. Ca2+ binding to the C2B domain and re-orientation/insertion into the membrane, both required for triggering synaptic transmission, disrupts the ring oligomers. We advance a simple and novel mechanism wherein Syt1 ring oligomer act as reversible washer/spacer to synchronize neurotransmitter release to Ca2+ influx. Supporting this hypothesis, we find mutations in Syt1 that specifically disrupt the ring oligomer formation results in dysregulation neuroexocytosis in PC12 cells.
Cost, Returns and Profitability under Coconut Based Different Irrigation Methods

The coconut grower incurred Rs. 106014, Rs. 151754 and Rs. 153071 per hectare on cost of cultivation in FM, MSM and DM irrigation structures. Realized the per hectare total returns worked out to Rs. 121136, of which 71.84 per cent from coconut (Rs. 87020) and 28.16 per cent (Rs.34116) from other intercrops. In sprinkler and drip irrigation methods total returns worked out to Rs.179600 and Rs.202400, respectively. In sprinkler irrigation method share of coconut was found to be 70.55 per cent (Rs.126700) and that of other intercrops came to 29.45 per cent (Rs.52900). In drip irrigation method, per cent share of coconut and other intercrops worked out to the extent of 71.94 per cent (Rs.145600) and 28.06 per cent (Rs.56800). Coconut equivalent yield per palm per year was found to be 107.95 nuts, 159.21 nuts and 199.79 nuts in FM Group, MSM Group and DM Group, respectively. The coconut equivalent yield in FM Group, MSM Group and DM Group was 14142, 22450 and 24175 nuts, respectively. The input output ratio estimated in different irrigation methods was 1:1.1 in FM, 1:1.2 in MSM and 1:1.3 in DM correspondingly per nut cost of coconut was Rs. 7.00, Rs. 6.75 and Rs. 6.05 in the same order.Analysis and return structure indicated that in terms of absolute value and also coconut equivalent yield modern method of irrigation (MSM and DM) gives higher return over traditional method (FM). These returns are higher to the extent of 50 per cent in MSM and about 71 per cent in DM group. This showed the superiority of modern method over traditional method in terms of returns.