cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ethical or unethical persuasion?: The rhetoric of offers to participate in clinical trials

Based on a sample of 22 oncology encounters, this article presents a discourse analysis of positive, neutral, or negative valence in the presentation of three elements of informed consent—purpose, benefits, and risks—in offers to participate in clinical trials. It is found that physicians regularly present these key elements of consent with a positive valence, perhaps blurring the distinction between clinical care and clinical research in trial offers. The authors argue that the rhetoric of trial offers constructs and reflects the complex relationships of two competing ethical frameworks—contemporary bioethics and professional medical ethics—both aimed at governing the discourse of trial offers. The authors consider the status of ethical or unethical persuasion within each framework, proposing what is called the best-option principle as the ethical principle governing trial offers within professional medical ethics.
The Decay of Norms and the Production of Social Order: Conceptual and Empirical Models

This note explores the decay of social norms using a model of the production of social order in the context of ‘rules’ employed by cities/municipalities to ‘govern’ activities during Halloween. The empirical results suggest that population homogeneity, the upper class’ scope for ‘purchasing’ norm conformity from middle and lower classes, the abundance of social capital and the cohesiveness of family units are all important determinants of the likelihood that a city or locale will employ formal order-producing mechanisms during the Halloween period. The results are supportive of the seminal work on norms by Becker (1996) and others.
Renal reabsorption and excretion of horseradish peroxidase.

Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was introduced as a tracer protein in 1957 to study the role of "hyaline droplets" in the reabsorption of proteins by kidney cells [1]. The work on hyaline droplets was inspired by Jean Oliver who had made a detailed histologic investigation of these cell granules. Since the beginning of the century, it had been a matter of controversy among pathologists as to whether the "hyaline droplets" of kidney cells were signs of secretion, absorption, or of cellular degeneration [2]. Oliver concluded from his observations that the "droplets" function in the reabsorption and disposal of proteins [3–7]. Similar granules had been shown previously by Gerard and Cordier [8] and by Lambert [9] to be involved in the reabsorption of proteins in kidney cells of amphibians. Even earlier, von Mollendorff [10] had studied the storage ("athrocytosis", "Speicherung") of colloidally dispersed dyes by granules of a similar type in kidney cells.
Performance of an active control system with piezoelectric actuators

Piezoelectric actuators are used to control the structural vibrations of flexible beams, and a modified independent modal space control method is employed to select the optimal location, control gains, and excitation voltage of the piezoelectric actuators. The method minimizes both the vibration amplitudes of the beams to which these actuators are bonded and the input control effort needed to suppress these vibrations. The effects of the actuators and the bonding layers on the elastic and inertial properties of the composite flexible beams is taken into account.
Introduction: School-Based Interventions to Promote Social and Emotional Competence in Students with Reading Difficulties

Elias and his colleagues (1997) define social and emotional competence as follows: the ability to understand, manage, and express the social and emotional aspects of one's life in ways that enable ...
Social Networking and Mobility: A Data Management Perspective

In the first part, we start by giving a quick overview of social networking services (e.g., Facebook, Twitter), their evolution, and how they impact the society. Similarly, we explain, through examples and case studies, how the widespread of mobile devices changed the computing paradigm in a way that impacted our daily life. In the second part, we present state-of-the-art research that lies within the intersection of both social networking and mobility, from the following perspectives: 1) geosocial queries; 2) geosocial recommendation; 3) geosocial analytics; 4) geosocial visualization; and 5) geosocial crowdsourcing.
A mathematical method for extracting cell secretion rate from affinity biosensors continuously monitoring cell activity

Our laboratory has previously developed miniature aptasensors that may be integrated at the site of a small group of cells for continuous detection of cell secreted molecules such as inflammatory cytokine interferon gamma (IFN-γ). In a system such as this, the signal measured at the sensor surfaces is a complex function of transport, reaction, as well as of cellular activity. Herein, we report on the development of a mathematical framework for extracting cell production rates from binding curves generated with affinity biosensors. This framework consisted of a diffusion-reaction model coupled to a root finding algorithm for determining cell production rates values causing convergence of a predetermined criterion. To experimentally validate model predictions, we deployed a microfluidic device with an integrated biosensor for measuring the IFN-γ release from CD4 T cells. We found close agreement between secretion rate observed theoretically and those observed experimentally. After taking into account the differences in sensor geometry and reaction kinetics, the method for cell secretion rate determination described in this paper may be broadly applied to any biosensor continuously measuring cellular activity.
The transsphenoethmoid approach to the sphenoid sinus and clivus.

Abstract Surgical access to the sphenoid sinus and clivus for the resection of benign and malignant disease is difficult and is often associated with significant morbidity. The transsphenoethmoid approach, an extension of a familiar otolaryngological procedure, with or without a limited medial maxillectomy, allows access to this region with little morbidity and excellent cosmetic results. Since 1988, the transsphenoethmoid approach has been used in 15 patients at our institution for resection of primary and recurrent chordomas, chondrosarcomas, pituitary macroadenomas, repair of cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and drainage of petroclival cysts. In most instances, an ipsilateral approach is most satisfactory. When necessary, a contralateral transsphenoethmoid approach is used when the tumor is posterolateral to the internal carotid artery and as far lateral as the abducens nerve.
Influence of rock composition on kinetics of silica phase changes in the Monterey Formation, Santa Barbara area, California

The diatomaceous deposits of the Monterey Formation along the Santa Barbara coast were subjected to temperatures and burial depths that increased westward after deposition. As a result, the silica phase in originally similar, laterally equivalent strata generally changed westward from biogenous opal-A to diagenetic opal-CT to diagenetic quartz. In individual beds at the same stratigraphic level, however, silica phases changed at various temperatures, producing a transformation—or kinetic—sequence related to variations in the ratio of silica to detrital minerals. Compared to silica in rocks with minor detrital minerals, in rocks with progressively more abundant detrital minerals: (1) opal-CT formed progressively later, (2) the initial d-spacing of opal-CT was progressively smaller, and (3) quartz formed progressively earlier. Comparison of associated calcareous, dolomitic, and carbonate-free rocks with equal silica/detrital ratios shows that carbonates did not significantly affect rates of silica diagenesis in the vast majority of rocks. In carbonate-bearing rocks with silica/detrital ratios ≥8, however, some (2% to 10%) quartz formed early in diagenesis, probably prior to opal-CT formation. In addition, atypical quartz cherts formed locally in carbonate-bearing strata by pore filling and replacement early in diagenesis, possibly before widespread opal-CT formation.
Unit operations of enzyme purification

The successful purification of an enzyme from a bacterial or tissue source usually follows a general separation flowsheet consisting of the following general processing steps: (1) Starting material preparation and cell harvesting, which includes tissue removal, grinding, cellular disruption and centrifugation to produce a crude extract; (2) Crude extract separation, which includes DEAE, or other charged support, either fractional or total product precipitation, or product separation by size, gel exclusion, or membrane sizing; (3) Secondary separation of the partially purified product, which usually is a combination of the above separation steps; (4) Pre- and post-treatment of the product (e.g. salt removal, water removal, and pH adjustment) to prepare for the next separation operation, which is frequently time-consuming and results in a possibility of product loss.
Efficient Synthesis of a New Series of Piperidine Ring–Modified Alcohol and Methyl Ether Analogs of (±)-threo-Methyl Phenyl(piperidin-2-yl)acetate

Abstract A series of novel piperidine ring–modified alcohol and methyl ether analogs of (±)-threo-methyl phenyl(piperidin-2-yl)acetate was synthesized. This series of methyl phenyl(piperidin-2-yl)acetate analogs was developed by piperidine ring alkylation and/or acylation followed by lithium aluminum hydride reduction to give alcohol derivatives. Methylation of the alcohol analogs by extension of standard literature procedures gave the corresponding methyl ether derivatives. The chemical structure of these compounds was established based on mass and 1H NMR spectral data and CHN elemental analysis data. Several significant modifications to the literature methodologies made the reaction more efficient, and good yields were generally obtained.
Intra-subunit flexibility underlies activation and allosteric modulation of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors

Allosteric modulation is a general feature of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, yet the structural components and movements important for conversions among functional states are not well understood. In this study, we examine the communication between the binding sites for agonist and the modulator morantel (Mor) of neuronal α3β2 receptors, measuring evoked currents of receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes with the two-electrode voltage-clamp method. We hypothesized that movement along an interface of β sheets connecting the agonist and modulator sites is necessary for allosteric modulation. To address this, we created pairs of substituted cysteines that span the cleft formed where the outer β sheet meets the β sheet constituting the (−)-face of the α3 subunit; the three pairs were L158C-A179C, L158C-G181C and L158C-K183C. Employing a disulfide trapping approach in which bonds are formed between neighboring cysteines under oxidation conditions, we found that oxidation treatments decreased the amplitude of currents evoked by either the agonist (ACh) or co-applied agonist and modulator (ACh + Mor), by as much as 51%, consistent with the introduced bond decreasing channel efficacy. Reduction treatment increased evoked currents up to 89%. The magnitude of the oxidation effects depended on whether agonists were present during oxidation and on the cysteine pair. Additionally, the cysteine mutations themselves decreased Mor potentiation, implicating these residues in modulation. Our findings suggest that these β sheets in the α3 subunit move with respect to each other during activation and modulation, and the residues studied highlight the contribution of this intramolecular allosteric pathway to receptor function.
The determinant of random power series matrices over finite fields

Abstract We consider matrices whose entries are power series over a finite field. The coefficients of the power series are chosen independently and uniformly over the elements of the finite field. We are interested in the probability distribution of the coefficients of the determinants of such matrices.
Cine magnetic resonance imaging: evaluation of persistent airway obstruction after tonsil and adenoidectomy in children with Down syndrome.

Objective/Hypothesis: Although usually successful, not all obstructive sleep apnea is cured by removal of the tonsils and adenoids (T&A). This is particularly true in children with Down syndrome and craniofacial anomalies. This is because of the multiple levels of obstruction in their airways, with obstruction present not only at the level of the tonsils and adenoids but also from base of tongue obstruction, soft palate collapse, and hypopharyngeal collapse. The cine magnetic resonance image (MRI) is useful in evaluating the upper airway in those patients who have not achieved a normal polysomnogram after T&A surgery. Study Design: Prospective case series. Methods: Fifteen children with Down syndrome who had previously undergone a T&A but continued to have abnormal postoperative polysomnograms underwent a cine MRI with fast gradient cine MRI images. Results: The cine MRI identified different areas and levels of obstruction that ultimately affected the children's treatment courses. Recurrent adenoid tissue, glossoptosis, soft palate collapse, hypopharyngeal collapse, and enlarged lingual tonsils were identified. The results as well as several illustrative cases are presented. Conclusion: Cine MRI evaluates upper airway obstruction in children who may have multiple sources of obstruction causing their obstructive sleep apnea. This is particularly helpful in children with Down syndrome and craniofacial anomalies. This technology is useful in all children with complex upper airway obstruction.
Neuronal interleukin-16 (NIL-16): a dual function PDZ domain protein.

Interleukin (IL)-16 is a proinflammatory cytokine that has attracted widespread attention because of its ability to block HIV replication. We describe the identification and characterization of a large neuronal IL-16 precursor, NIL-16. The N-terminal half of NIL-16 constitutes a novel PDZ domain protein sequence, whereas the C terminus is identical with splenocyte-derived mouse pro-IL-16. IL-16 has been characterized only in the immune system, and the identification of NIL-16 marks a previously unsuspected connection between the immune and the nervous systems. NIL-16 is a cytosolic protein that is detected only in neurons of the cerebellum and the hippocampus. The N-terminal portion of NIL-16 interacts selectively with a variety of neuronal ion channels, which is similar to the function of many other PDZ domain proteins that serve as intracellular scaffolding proteins. Among the NIL-16-interacting proteins is the class C α1 subunit of a mouse brain calcium channel (mbC α1). The C terminus of NIL-16 can be processed by caspase-3, resulting in the release of secreted IL-16. Furthermore, in cultured cerebellar granule neurons undergoing apoptosis, NIL-16 proteolysis parallels caspase-3 activation. Cerebellar granule neurons express the IL-16 receptor CD4. Exposure of these cells to IL-16 induces expression of the immediate-early gene,c-fos, via a signaling pathway that involves tyrosine phosphorylation. This suggests that IL-16 provides an autocrine function in the brain. Therefore, we hypothesize that NIL-16 is a dual function protein in the nervous system that serves as a secreted signaling molecule as well as a scaffolding protein.
Repeatability and validity of cell and fluid‐phase measurements in nasal fluid: a comparison of two methods of nasal lavage

Background There is little information on the repeatability of cell counts and fluid-phase measurements in nasal fluid obtained by different methods of nasal lavage. Objective To compare the repeatability and validity of total and differential cell counts and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) in nasal secretions obtained by two methods of nasal lavage. Patients and methods Twelve healthy subjects and twelve subjects with clinically stable allergic rhinitis were randomly assigned to two nasal lavages (separated by 48 h), by one of two methods in the first week and by the second method in the following week. One method was a modification of the method described by Greiff et al. and Grunberg and coworkers and the other was that described by Naclerio and coworkers. Results Both methods of nasal lavage gave poorly repeatable eosinophil counts and ECP in normal subjects but better repeatability in subjects with rhinitis. The modified Greiff/Grunberg method gave higher and more repeatable total cell count and, in subjects with rhinitis, more reproducible ECP levels compared with the Naclerio method. Both methods were able to discriminate between healthy and rhinitic subjects: mean ± SD eosinophil percentage count and eosinophil cationic protein differences were 4.5 ± 4% (P < 0.05) and 24.5 ± 46.9 µg/L (P < 0.05), respectively, with the modified method and 7.0 ± 4% (P < 0.05) and 26.9 ± 68 µg/L (P < 0.05), respectively, with the Naclerio method. Conclusion Both methods are valid and discriminate between normal and rhinitic subjects. In subjects with rhinitis, although the repeatability of eosinophil counts is similar by both methods, the modified Greiff/Grunberg method gives more reproducible ECP measurements, compared with the Naclerio method.
Recent developments in brachytherapy source dosimetry

Application of radioactive isotopes is the treatment of choice around the globe for many cancer sites. In this technique, the accuracy of the radiation delivery is highly dependent on the accuracy of radiation dosimetry around individual brachytherapy sources. Moreover, in order to have compatible clinical results, an identical method of source dosimetry must be employed across the world. This problem has been recently addressed by Task Group 43 (TG43) from the American Association of Medical Physics (AAPM) with a protocol for dosimetric characterization of brachytherapy sources. This new protocol has been further updated using published data from international sources, by a new Task Group from the AAPM. This has resulted in an updated protocol known as TG43U1 that has been published in March 2004 issue of Medical Physics. The goal of this presentation is to review the original TG43 protocol and associated algorithms for brachytherapy source dosimetry. In addition, the shortcomings of the original protocol that has been resolved in the updated recommendation will be highlighted. I am sure that this is not the end of the line and more work is needed to complete this task. I invite the scientists to join this task and complete the project, with the hope of much better clinical results for cancer patients. Iran. J. Radiat. Res., 2004; 2 (3): 97-105
Limb/pelvis hypoplasia/aplasia with skull defect (Schinzel phocomelia): distinctive features and prenatal detection.

Schinzel phocomelia syndrome is characterized by limb/pelvis hypoplasia/aplasia: specifically, intercalary limb deficiencies and absent or hypoplastic pelvic bones. The phenotype is similar to that described in a related multiple malformation syndrome known as Al-Awadi/Raas-Rothschild syndrome. The additional important feature of large parietooccipital skull defects without meningocele, encephalocele, or other brain malformation has thus far been reported only in children with Schinzel phocomelia syndrome. We recently evaluated a boy affected with Schinzel phocomelia born to nonconsanguineous healthy parents of Mexican origin. A third-trimester fetal ultrasound scan showed severe limb deficiencies and an absent pelvis. The infant died shortly after birth. Dysmorphology examination, radiographs, and autopsy revealed quadrilateral intercalary limb deficiencies with preaxial toe polydactyly; an absent pelvis and a 7 x 3-cm skull defect; and extraskeletal anomalies including microtia, telecanthus, micropenis with cryptorchidism, renal cysts, stenosis of the colon, and a cleft alveolar ridge. A normal 46,XY karyotype was demonstrated, and autosomal recessive inheritance was presumed on the basis of previously reported families. This case report emphasizes the importance of recognizing severe pelvic and skull deficiencies (either post- or prenatally) in differentiating infants with Schinzel phocomelia from other multiple malformation syndromes that feature intercalary limb defects, including thalidomide embryopathy and Roberts-SC phocomelia.
Efficient priority-first search maximum-likelihood soft-decision decoding of linear block codes

The authors present a novel and efficient maximum-likelihood soft-decision decoding algorithm for linear block codes. The approach used here converts the decoding problem into a search problem through a graph that is a trellis for an equivalent code of the transmitted code. A generalized Dijkstra's algorithm, which uses a priority-first search strategy, is employed to search through this graph. This search is guided by an evaluation function f defined to take advantage of the information provided by the received vector and the inherent properties of the transmitted code. This function f is used to reduce drastically the search space and to make the decoding efforts of this decoding algorithm adaptable to the noise level. For example, for most real channels of the 35 000 samples tried, simulation results for the (128,64) binary extended BCH code show that the proposed decoding algorithm is fifteen orders of magnitude more efficient in time and in space than that proposed by Wolf (1978). Simulation results for the (104, 52) binary extended quadratic residue code are also given. >
Concurrent Validity Study of the Oasis Aptitude Survey

The concurrent validity of the Occupational Aptitude Survey and Interest Schedule (OASIS) was investigated by correlating OASIS Aptitude Survey scores with General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB) scor...
The Logic of History and Leadership: Anselm's Analogs

Sweeney (2003) has stated that Anselm of Canterbury produced a paradoxical understanding: God is both inaccessible and obvious (p. 17). The current article proceeds analogically from Anselm's works to a consideration of whether Leadership Studies and the Social Sciences in general can access the obvious omnipresence of History. Finding that neither Leadership Studies nor the other Social Sciences can access that which is obvious, it then extends, in an Anselmian paradox, to discuss the inevitable use of History in Leadership Studies.
Derivation of the Small Signal Response and Equivalent Circuit Model for a Separate Absorption and Multiplication Layer Avalanche Photodetector

A small signal analysis for a separate-absorption-charge-multiplication (SACM) avalanche photodetector (APD) is presented for the general case when the electrons and the holes have different ionization coefficients and different velocities. The analytic expressions for the impedance and frequency response are given and a simplified equivalent circuit (including an inductance with a series resistance in parallel with a capacitance) for the APD is obtained. The calculation and experimental results show that the impedance of the APD operated at high bias voltages has a maximal value at a certain frequency due to the resonance of the LC-circuit, and this is the origin for a peak-enhancement of the frequency response.
Novel Dual-Side Thermal Interfacing of IPM for Elevated-Temperature Applications

Novel double-side cooling for integrated power modules (IPM) is developed for elevated-temperature applications. It can reduce the p-n junction temperature rise of the power devices inside by 20% at an equivalent load, thus increasing operating ambient temperatures, which is desirable for integrated motors and elevated-temperature applications. The size and volume associated with conventional cooling mechanism can be reduced. This approach applies and improves commercially off-the-shelf products of IPM without significantly changing the original packaging design and manufacture process.
EXPENSIVE DRUG USE AND ILLEGAL INCOME: A TEST OF EXPLANATORY HYPOTHESES*

Although the empirical association of heroin use and income-generating crime is well established in past research, the magnitude of the association after control of other factors such as legal income is not known. The relationship between the use of cocaine and income-generating crime has not received adequate attention. Moreover, the explanatory basis for the expensive drug use/income-generating crime association is not well understood. This article tests the robustness of the heroin use/income-generating crime relationship and examines the same question for cocaine use. Hypotheses derived from two explanatory perspectives (the compulsion/demand and life-style models) are tested. Data were collected from more than 3,500 individuals who were interviewed at the time they entered publicly funded drug abuse treatment programs in 1979. Regression analyses show that daily use of heroin and weekly and daily use of cocaine are strongly associated with illegal income. Theoretical interpretation of the findings suggest: (1) the addiction/compulsion explanatory model is an insufficient explanation, (2) the life-style concept is useful for understanding the expensive drug use/income-generating crime relationship, and (3) the concept of addiction needs refinement and elaboration.
Blood and cardiovascular disease: the promise and limitations of gene expression analysis.

Developments in the fields of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics have modified the definition of complex diseases in recent years. To have increasingly precise protein, genomic, and gene expression signatures would further define disease, advance treatment, and enhance the field of personalized medicine. In the area of cardiovascular disease, these specific areas have not followed parallel courses; a fact primarily driven by technology. Although proteomics holds the promise of large-scale identification of individual proteins from biological samples, the current technology is hampered by significant limitations, including the cost of truly high-throughput analysis and difficulty in the identification of low-abundant proteins.1 At the other end of the spectrum, human genome-wide association studies have analyzed 500 000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the human genome in large numbers of subjects and genetically redefined many common diseases and risk factors.2–4 Genome-wide association studies have also enabled investigation of the genetic contribution to specific heritable phenotypes and biomarkers.5 Article p 31 Large gene expression profiling studies have not yet been completed in epidemiological cohorts focused on risk factors for atherothrombotic disease but have been reported in large oncological trials.6–9 These trials have been shown to predict oncological prognosis and classify precancerous disease states.10 Expression patterns from peripheral blood cells demonstrate B-cell differentiation that predicts specific stages of lymphoma.11 Although there are more limited data in vascular disease, gene expression from leukocytes in patients with sickle cell disease is consistent with increased oxidation and inflammation.12 Aortic samples have been analyzed for gene expression from patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm and arterial …
Silicon Photonic Crystal Modulation Device: Based On Horizontally Activated MOS capacitor

A MOS-capacitor-based silicon photonic crystal modulation device is proposed to achieve active transmission control with ultra-low gate capacitance and simplified fabrication processes. Optical and electrical simulation results confirm the enhanced modulation efficiency.
Heat Shock Protein-70 Expressed on the Surface of Cancer Cells Binds Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein in Vitro

Recent studies have shown that the functions of PTH-related protein (PTHrP) and its derived peptides cannot be attributed solely to PTH/PTHrP receptor binding. The present study focused on the identification of other proteins that might bind PTHrP at the cell surface. Using affinity chromatography, we applied extracts of cell-surface biotinylated proteins from cancer and normal cell lines over Sepharose beads coupled with different PTHrP-derived peptides. Elution with the corresponding free peptide revealed a major protein of about 70 kDa that was present in all of the PTHrP peptide eluates from cancer cell extracts but not from normal breast cell extracts. Mass spectroscopy analysis and immunoblotting identified this PTHrP-binding protein as heat shock protein-70 (HSP70). Using a recently published algorithm that predicts HSP70 binding sites within proteins, we found that all four PTHrP peptides used in these studies contain amino acid motifs with high probabilities for HSP70 binding in vivo. Cell culture studies in the presence of a polyclonal anti-HSP70 antibody demonstrated increased PTHrP secretion, decreased total cellular protein, and differentially regulated proliferation. Taken together, these studies demonstrate a novel and biologically relevant interaction between cell surface-expressed HSP70 and PTHrP in cancer.
Frequency of UL97 Phosphotransferase Mutations Related to Ganciclovir Resistance in Clinical Cytomegalovirus Isolates

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) isolates from subjects who received ganciclovir therapy were tested for susceptibility to ganciclovir by a plaque reduction assay. Results were correlated with restriction enzyme and sequence analysis of the CMV UL97 phosphotransferase gene. Of the 30 isolates, 20 had one or more mutations in UL97 affecting amino acid encoding at codons 460, 520, or 591-596. All 20 were resistant to ganciclovir, with an IC50 of > 6.0 microM (range, 6.7-50.0). The remaining 10 isolates had no mutations at these loci; 8 were susceptible to ganciclovir while the other 2 were borderline resistant (IC50s, 6.6 and 7.2 microM). None of 40 control CMV isolates from untreated subjects contained any amino acid changes at these loci. The three most common mutations at codons 460, 594, and 595 were detected by restriction digest analysis in 16 (80%) of 20 isolates and in 16 (73%) of 22 isolates with ganciclovir IC50s > 6.0 microM. These results indicate that the majority of ganciclovir-resistant clinical isolates contain diagnostically useful mutations in UL97.
Pre-Stall Behavior of a Transonic Axial Compressor Stage Via Time-Accurate Numerical Simulation

CFD calculations using high-performance parallel computing were conducted to simulate the pre-stall flow of a transonic compressor stage, NASA compressor Stage 35. The simulations were run with a full-annulus grid that models the 3D, viscous, unsteady blade row interaction without the need for an artificial inlet distortion to induce stall. The simulation demonstrates the development of the rotating stall from the growth of instabilities. Pressure-rise performance and pressure traces are compared with published experimental data before the study of flow evolution prior to the rotating stall. Spatial FFT analysis of the flow indicates a rotating long-length disturbance of one rotor circumference, which is followed by a spike-type breakdown. The analysis also links the long-length wave disturbance with the initiation of the spike inception. The spike instabilities occur when the trajectory of the tip clearance flow becomes perpendicular to the axial direction. When approaching stall, the passage shock changes from a single oblique shock to a dual-shock, which distorts the perpendicular trajectory of the tip clearance vortex but shows no evidence of flow separation that may contribute to stall.
Application of computational statistical physics to scale invariance and universality in economic phenomena

This paper discusses some of the similarities between work being done by economists and by computational physicists seeking to contribute to economics. We also mention some of the differences in the approaches taken and seek to justify these different approaches by developing the argument that by approaching the same problem from different points of view, new results might emerge. In particular, we review two such new results. Specifically, we discuss the two newly-discovered scaling results that appear to be “universal”, in the sense that they hold for widely different economies as well as for different time periods: (i) the fluctuation of price changes of any stock market is characterized by a probability density function (PDF), which is a simple power law with exponent 4 extending over 10 2 standard deviations (a factor of 10 8 on the -axis); this result is analogous to the Gutenberg‐Richter power law describing the histogram of earthquakes of a given strength; (ii) for a wide range of economic organizations, the histogram that shows how size of organization is inversely correlated to fluctuations in size with an exponent 0 2. Neither of these two new empirical laws has a firm theoretical foundation. We also discuss results that are reminiscent of phase transitions in spin systems, where the divergent behavior of the response function at the critical point (zero magnetic field) leads to large fluctuations. We discuss a curious “symmetry breaking” for values of above a certain threshold value ;h e r e is defined to be the local first moment of the probability distribution of demand —the difference between the number of shares traded in buyer-initiated and seller-initiated trades. This feature is qualitatively identical to the behavior of the probability density of the magnetization for fixed values of the inverse temperature. 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
Piecing Together the 20th Century: An Interdisciplinary Unit on Principles of Collage in Modern Music, Art, and Poetry (Grades 4-8)

This theory-to-practice article focuses on interdisciplinary classroom activities based on principles of collage in modern music, art, and poetry. A two-lesson sequence was designed for an inner-city Grade 4 and 5 general classroom of English language learners, where the unit was taught, assessed, and documented by the authors. Included in the article is a detailed teaching script for use by classroom teachers, music teachers, and related arts specialists for Grades 4 to 8. Readers are guided through lesson materials, instructions, interactive hands-on activities, and assessments appropriate for young students with little or no background in music and other arts.
Properties for modulation spectral filtering

A two-dimensional representation, the "modulation spectrum", where the modulation frequency exists jointly with a regular Fourier frequency or other filter channel index, has previously been investigated. Accurate modulation filters offer, for example, new approaches for signal separation and noise reduction. However, a filtering operation on modulation frequency components has yet to be carefully defined. Most previous studies on modulation filtering assumed that the amplitude modulation envelope is real and non-negative, which has recently been shown to be incorrect. Distortions appear when the non-negative envelope assumption fails. Beginning with a more appropriate envelope assumption that allows the envelope to go negative, we propose three properties which modulation filtering systems should satisfy. Any modulation filtering method which satisfies these properties yields distortion-free results. An implementation of modulation filtering, based on a short-time Fourier transform followed by independent coherent demodulation for each frequency channel, is then proposed. Satisfaction of the properties is confirmed and an example result of modulation filtering on a speech signal is illustrated.
Stability and Static Noise Margin Analysis of Low-Power SRAM

To overcome the read data destruction and to gain stability at Iow-VDD a seven-transistor (7T) SRAM cell is implemented and compared with the conventional six-transistor (6T) SRAM cell. To illustrate the robust performance of an 8-bit SRAM statistical simulation and data analysis by considering the process variations and mismatch was conducted for every operation of the 8-bit SRAM. The measurement results show that the static noise margin (SNM) of the 7T SRAM cell is better than that of the 6T SRAM cell. The stability of the 8-bit 7T SRAM at low-VDD is also proved by testing the SRAM at 720 mV.
Experimental approaches for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells

Derivation of autologous induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) through direct reprogramming of easily accessible somatic cells holds the potential to transform the field of regenerative medicine. Since Takahashi and Yamanaka's groundbreaking study describing the generation of iPSCs by retroviral-mediated delivery of defined transcription factors, substantial progress has been made to improve both the efficiency and safety of the method. These advances have provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms of reprogramming and promise to accelerate the clinical translation of iPSC technology. Here, we summarize current reprogramming methodologies with a focus on the production of transgene-free or genetically unmanipulated iPSCs and highlight important technical details that ultimately may influence the biological properties of pluripotent stem cells.
Mortality of mature third-instar caribbean fruit fly (Diptera : Tephritidae) exposed to microwave energy

Our investigation estimates time–temperature relationships and demonstrates the effect of rapid heating on mortality of Caribbean fruit fly, Anastrepha suspensa (Loew). Mature larvae (third instars) in water were exposed to each of seven temperatures (44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, and 50 °C) and each of five power levels (11, 27.5, 55, 88, and 122 W) in a research-quality microwave oven. Controls were immersed in water for 30 min and not exposed to microwave energy. Data were analyzed by a probit model with three explanatory variables. The variables were time to reach target temperature, power, and final temperature. Temperature needed to control the larvae increased as power increased. Of the power–temperature levels, the only combinations that resulted in > 99% mortality were the lowest power (16 W) at 49 or 50 °C and 30 W at 50 °C. Time required for > 99% mortality decreased with increased power. Thus, as power delivered to larvae increased and time needed to reach exposure temperature deceased, percent mortality decreased. We conclude that rapid heating imposes serious constraints on the use of heat-induced mortality; this result raises important questions that must be addressed because quarantine security may be jeopardized.
Impact of Test-Taking Behaviors on Full-Scale IQ Scores from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV Spanish Edition.

Research on children’s counterproductive test behavior supports a three-factor model for behaviors: inattentiveness, avoidance, and uncooperative mood. In this study, test behaviors measured by the Guide to the Assessment of Test Session Behaviors (GATSB) are rated on a sample of 110 Hispanic Spanish-speaking children included in the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—IV (WISC-IV) Spanish standardization to further understand the relationship of test behavior to test performance in Spanish-speaking children tested in their native language. GATSB scores generally are within the average range. Correlations between WISC-IV Spanish Full-Scale IQ and GATSB Total Score are significant for the total group, females and males, and ages 13-16 but not for ages 6-8 or 9-12. The amount of variance accounted for by the GATSB score is substantially less than in prior studies of Hispanic children tested in English with the WISC-III. Possible reasons for these discrepant findings are discussed.
Inhibition of cellular division of a murine macrophage tumor by macrophage-activating agents.

Although the murine reticulum cell sarcoma M5076 is highly malignant in vivo, in vitro it displays many of the functional characteristics of an activated macrophage, such as phagocytosis and tumor cytotoxicity. This study was designed to determine what effect macrophage-activating agents would have on the function and growth of M5076 cells. Exposure of M5076 tumor cells to substances that activate normal macrophages to the tumoricidal state rapidly and irreversibly induced cessation of cellular division. The treated tumor cells, however, retained the same characteristics as those of untreated M5076 cells in vitro with respect to viability and the activated macrophage functions of phagocytosis and tumor cytotoxicity. Even after a short exposure to lipopolysaccharide, the ability of M5076 cells, injected i.v. into syngeneic mice, to form tumor nodules was greatly reduced. These results indicate that a highly malignant tumor of macrophage origin, M5076, can be induced to cease cellular division while retaining the functional attributes of an activated macrophage. We speculate that the exposure of M5076 to macrophage-activating agents results in the induction of terminal differentiation of this tumor.
Exploring the Principal Perspective: Implications for Expanded School Improvement and School Mental Health

Principals are critical to school improvement efforts, yet few studies aim to elicit their perspectives on what contributes to teaching, learning, and broader school improvement. The purpose of this mixed-methods case study was to elicit principals' perspectives on (a) teacher and school staff needs, and (b) student needs, in an effort to uncover whether these perspectives are reflective of priorities emphasized in current expanded school improvement models, such as mental health, family engagement, out-of-school time opportunities, and other youth development and learning supports. Twenty principals from one school district participated in the study. Data were collected through an online survey and a follow-up phone interview. RESULTS indicate that principals identified and described a range of both academic and nonacademic needs faced by their students, teachers, and school staff. In particular, mental health was identified by principals as one of the greatest student, teacher, school staff needs. These findings suggest that principals' perspectives in this study were reflective of broadening priorities emphasized within current expanded school improvement models. The article concludes with implications for school social work research and practice, particularly in relation to school improvement and school mental health. Language: en
Early Antibody Response Following Vasectomy is Related to Fertility after Vasovasostomy in Glucocorticoid-Treated and Untreated Lewis Rats

The influence of treatment with a glucocorticoid on antisperm antibodies and fertility after vasectomy and vasovasostomy was studied in Lewis rats. Animals received a bilateral vasectomy followed 4 weeks later by bilateral vasovasostomy. Treatment with methylprednisolone for two months beginning at the time of the vasovasostomy resulted in a decrease in antisperm antibodies compared with nontreated vasovasostomized animals, but there was no difference in fertility between treated and nontreated vasovasostomized groups. However, when fertile vasovasostomized animals from treated and nontreated groups were compared with infertile vasovasostomized animals, antisperm antibodies were found to be significantly lower in fertile rats 2, 4 and 8 weeks after vasectomy, while antibodies did not differ between fertile and infertile animals at the end of the study (12 weeks). The observation that differences in antisperm antibodies appeared shortly after vasectomy, preceding either vasovasostomy or treatment, suggests that changes occurring very early after vasectomy have far-reaching effects and are among the factors that influence future fertility after vasovasostomy.
Ventricular Square-Wave Response Case Illustrating the Role of Invasive Hemodynamics in the Management of Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Dysfunction

First described in 1704, the Valsalva maneuver is a well-established noninvasive approach to assessing volume status and ventricular filling pressures in a patient with heart failure.1,2 During phase I of the Valsalva maneuver intrathoracic pressure increases and blood pressure rises. Phase II is associated with increased intrathoracic pressure and reduced left ventricular (LV) preload, which reduces arterial pressure. Intrathoracic pressure decreases with release of the strain phase (phase III), and blood pressure overshoots and returns to baseline (phase IV). In a patient with congestive heart failure, the strain phase of the Valsalva maneuver does not exhibit the typical declining slope of arterial pressure and is recognized as the square wave response. No reports have described the effect of the Valsalva maneuver in patients with a durable LV assist device (LVAD). We describe a case illustrating the potential use of the Valsalva maneuver in a LVAD patient who had developed an outflow graft stenosis. A 35-year-old man with long-standing stage D dilated, nonischemic cardiomyopathy with a LV ejection fraction of 15% and body mass index of …
Herpes simplex virus infections: New treatment approaches make early diagnosis even more important

PREVIEWHerpes simplex virus infections, ranging from cold sores to severe genital lesions, affect more than 40 million people in the United States. Both ther initial episode and recurrent disease can cause devastating problems. However, appropriate treatment can decrease medical and psychosocial consequences in many patients. This article explains the characteristics of herpes simplex infections and outlines treatment options that hold promise for a greatly improved quality of life for many patients.
Effect of the Suboccipital Musculature on Symptom Severity and Recovery after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Neck musculature mass has been suggested as a biomechanical contributor to injury severity in mild traumatic brain injury. We sought to determine how the cross-sectional areas of the suboccipital muscles affect symptom severity, neurocognitive performance, and recovery time in patients with mild traumatic brain injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four consecutive patients with mild traumatic brain injury underwent MR imaging and serial neurocognitive testing with the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Test. Cross-sectional areas of the rectus capitis posterior musculature were retrospectively obtained at C1, and cross-sectional areas of the remaining 7 suboccipital muscles were measured at C2. Cross-sectional area reproducibility was evaluated. Overall and individual muscle cross-sectional areas were correlated with symptom severity, neuropsychological testing, recovery time, and headache. RESULTS: Sixty-four patients with mild traumatic brain injury had imaging through C1, and 43 had imaging through C2. Reproducibility of cross-sectional area measurements was substantial (correlation coefficients = 0.9517–0.9891). Lower cross-sectional area of the rectus capitis posterior minor was correlated with greater symptom severity (r = 0.596, P CONCLUSIONS: In mild traumatic brain injury, the rectus capitis posterior minor is the only suboccipital muscle whose cross-sectional area is associated with symptom severity and worse outcome. Given the unique connection of this muscle to the dura, this finding may suggest that pathology of the myodural bridge contributes to symptomatology and prognosis in mild traumatic brain injury.