cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Power Flow in a Magnetically Insulated Recyclable Transmission Line for a Z -Pinch-Driven Inertial-Confinement-Fusion Energy System

Power flow in a recyclable transmission line (RTL) for a z-pinch-driven inertial-confinement fusion energy (IFE) system is studied. In a magnetically insulated transmission line, plasma forms by explosive emission on the cathode but emission from the anode does not occur. However, in an RTL, the large linear current density that flows in the electrodes at small radius near the load resistively heats the anode surface, leading to anode plasma formation and ion emission. If the impedance of the RTL is too small, large ion current losses can occur and large electron flow currents can be launched into the z-pinch load region. If only the boundary current drives the z-pinch load, then these large electron flow currents can introduce a polarity effect with more bound current in the anode than the cathode. While being mindful of the IFE system requirement to maintain a small RTL inductance, these problems are avoided by choosing the line impedance at the load end of the RTL to be well above the effective impedance of the imploding load. In this case, the ion current losses are tolerable and the electron flow current is negligibly small. For the present baseline design with a peak current of 60 MA driving a 100-ns implosion, these power flow constraints require a gap of order 2 mm or more at the load end of the RTL
Empirical Evidence of Volterra-Lotka Dynamics in United States Metropolitan Areas: 1940–1977

The subject of non-linear urban ecology is emerging as a distinct area of study in the field of urban and regional science and geography. Extending the previous work of the Chicago School on Urban Ecology, the new line of research is grounded in empirical studies and the mathematical theory of ecology and population dynamics. Recent work on United States cities by Berry and Kasarda (1977) drew from ecological and economic theory and made use of metropolitan data, at both the intra- and the inter-urban levels. As early as 1971, Samuelson (1971) had proposed the integration of economics and ecology, a suggestion that seems as promising today as it looked then.
A hybrid variable penalty method for nonlinear programming

The paper describes a hybrid variable penalty method (in which the penalty functions are finite on the boundary of the constrained set) for solving a general nonlinear programming problem. The method combines two types of variable penalty functions to obtain a hybrid formulation in such a way that the error in the approximation of the Hessian matrix resulting from using only the first derivatives of the constraints, are minimized both in the feasible and infeasible domains. The hybrid algorithm poses a sequence of unconstrained optimization problems with mechanism to control the quality of the approximation for the Hessian matrix. The unconstrained problems are solved using a modified Newton's algorithm. The hybrid method is found to exhibit the following characteristics: (i) Admit small values of the penalty weight r to start SUMT (i.e. r = 1 × 10−3 or smaller) with no apparent ill-conditioning; (ii) Stimulate faster rate of convergence for a single r; (iii) Permit feasible or infeasible initial starting points. The numerical effectiveness of the algorithm is demonstrated on a relatively large set of test problems.
The steady-state transcriptome of the four major life-cycle stages of Trypanosoma cruzi

Chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy is a debilitating and frequently fatal outcome of human infection with the protozoan parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi. Microarray analysis of gene expression during the T. cruzi life-cycle could be a valuable means of identifying drug and vaccine targets based on their appropriate expression patterns, but results from previous microarray studies in T. cruzi and related kinetoplastid parasites have suggested that the transcript abundances of most genes in these organisms do not vary significantly between life-cycle stages. In this study, we used whole genome, oligonucleotide microarrays to globally determine the extent to which T. cruzi regulates mRNA relative abundances over the course of its complete life-cycle. In contrast to previous microarray studies in kinetoplastids, we observed that relative transcript abundances for over 50% of the genes detected on the T. cruzi microarrays were significantly regulated during the T. cruzi life-cycle. The significant regulation of 25 of these genes was confirmed by quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR). The T. cruzi transcriptome also mirrored published protein expression data for several functional groups. Among the differentially regulated genes were members of paralog clusters, nearly 10% of which showed divergent expression patterns between cluster members. Taken together, these data support the conclusion that transcript abundance is an important level of gene expression regulation in T. cruzi. Thus, microarray analysis is a valuable screening tool for identifying stage-regulated T. cruzi genes and metabolic pathways.
VEGF-Mediated STAT3 Activation Inhibits Retinal Vascularization by Down-Regulating Local Erythropoietin Expression

Avascular, hypoxic retina has been postulated to be a source of angiogenic factors that cause aberrant angiogenesis and intravitreal neovascularization (IVNV) in retinopathy of prematurity. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an important factor involved. However, VEGF is also required for normal retinal vascular development, which raises concerns about inhibiting its activity to treat IVNV in retinopathy of prematurity. Therefore, understanding the effects that VEGF has on other factors in the development of avascular retina is important to prevent aberrant angiogenesis and IVNV. Here, we show that STAT3 was activated by increased retinal VEGF in the rat 50/10 oxygen-induced retinopathy model. Phospho-STAT3 colocalized with glutamine synthetase-labeled Muller cells. Inhibition of STAT3 reduced avascular retina and increased retinal erythropoietin (Epo) expression. Epo administered exogenously also reduced avascular retina in the model. In an in vitro study, hypoxia-induced VEGF inhibited Epo gene expression by STAT3 activation in rat Muller cells. The mechanism by which activated STAT3 regulated Epo was by inhibition of Epo promoter activity. Together, these findings show that increased retinal VEGF contributes to avascular retina by regulating retinal Epo expression through Janus kinase/STAT signaling. Our results suggest that rescuing Epo expression in the retina before the development of IVNV may promote normal developmental angiogenesis and, therefore, reduce the stimulus for later pathologic IVNV.
Plasmon dispersion in electron liquid

Abstract We present a calculation of the density-fluctuation spectrum of an electron liquid including the local-field correction and the back-flow of the quasiparticles. We use exact sum-rules to determine the q -dependent “effective-mass” of quasiparticles and the response function of the system. The theory gives a plasmon dispersion coefficient which agrees very well with experiment and a good overall description of the excitation spectrum in A1 in the wave-vector range 0 q k F , as determined by recent precision inelastic electron scattering experiments.
Homoeolog-specific retention and use in allotetraploid Arabidopsis suecica depends on parent of origin and network partners

Allotetraploids carry pairs of diverged homoeologs for most genes. With the genome doubled in size, the number of putative interactions is enormous. This poses challenges on how to coordinate the two disparate genomes, and creates opportunities by enhancing the phenotypic variation. New combinations of alleles co-adapt and respond to new environmental pressures. Three stages of the allopolyploidization process - parental species divergence, hybridization, and genome duplication - have been well analyzed. The last stage of evolutionary adjustments remains mysterious. Homoeolog-specific retention and use were analyzed in Arabidopsis suecica (As), a species derived from A. thaliana (At) and A. arenosa (Aa) in a single event 12,000 to 300,000 years ago. We used 405,466 diagnostic features on tiling microarrays to recognize At and Aa contributions to the As genome and transcriptome: 324 genes lacked Aa contributions and 614 genes lacked At contributions within As. In leaf tissues, 3,458 genes preferentially expressed At homoeologs while 4,150 favored Aa homoeologs. These patterns were validated with resequencing. Genes with preferential use of Aa homoeologs were enriched for expression functions, consistent with the dominance of Aa transcription. Heterologous networks - mixed from At and Aa transcripts - were underrepresented. Thousands of deleted and silenced homoeologs in the genome of As were identified. Since heterologous networks may be compromised by interspecies incompatibilities, these networks evolve co-biases, expressing either only Aa or only At homoeologs. This progressive change towards predominantly pure parental networks might contribute to phenotypic variability and plasticity, and enable the species to exploit a larger range of environments.
Abnormal deposition of radiostrontium in lungs.

A report of unusual deposition of radiostrontium in the lungs is presented. There was clear visualization of both lungs. The possible mechanism is mentioned. The observation may further stimulate investigators to find the exact reason for this.
G2 Arrest in Response to Topoisomerase II Inhibitors The Role of p53

We have previously found that the overexpression of p53 causes G 2 arrest and represses the synthesis of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 and cyclin B1, two proteins required for cells to traverse from G 2 into M. G 2 arrest occurs in response to DNA damage caused by a variety of agents and treatments. Here, we investigate the role of p53 in the G 2 arrest that occurs in response to the topoisomerase inhibitors etoposide and merbarone. In HT1080 cells expressing a dominant-negative form of p53, treatment with etoposide still caused G 2 arrest, but the arrest could be overcome by additional treatment with caffeine, which inhibits the damage-responsive kinases ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and atm and rad3-related (ATR). However, caffeine could not overcome etoposide-induced G 2 arrest in HT1080 cells with functional p53. We conclude that etoposide activates two pathways, one of which depends on p53 and the other of which is sensitive to caffeine, and that either pathway is sufficient to activate G 2 arrest. Etoposide inhibits topoisomerase II by trapping the enzyme in a complex with cleaved DNA. Inhibition of topoisomerase II with merbarone, which does not stabilize a cleavage complex, causes G 2 arrest by a checkpoint that monitors the decatenation of chromatin. We find that caffeine can abrogate merbarone-induced G 2 arrest even in cells with functional p53, indicating that p53 does not contribute to the decatenation-sensitive response. Thus, p53 has a differential role in effecting G 2 arrest in response to topoisomerase II inhibitors, depending upon the mechanisms of action of the inhibitors tested.
NO-HN03 Exchange System for Production of 14N Highly Depleted of 15N

Abstract The isotopic exchange reaction between NO and HNO3 was used to prepare 14N highly depleted 15N. This required an efficient reflux system of low holdup to convert oxides of nitrogen to nitric acid by reaction with oxygen and water. A study of the characteristics of the one constructed showed that less than 1 part in 32,000 of the nitric acid was lost from the refluxer as oxides of nitrogen. 14N with an atom fraction of less than 0.00004 of 15N was prepared at the rate of 46.0 g/day. The application of the refluxer to a system for producing 15N is discussed.
Locating cryptotephra in lake sediments using fluid imaging technology

We report a new approach to locate and quantify cryptotephra in sedimentary archives using a continuously-imaging Flow Cytometer and Micro- scope (FlowCAM). The FlowCAM rapidly photo- graphs particles flowing in suspension past a microscope lens and performs semi-automated ana- lysis of particle images. It has had primarily biological applications, although the potential sedimentological applications are numerous. Here we test the ability of this instrument to image irregularly shaped, vesicular glass shards and to screen sediment samples for the presence of cryptotephra. First, reference samples of basalt and rhyolite tephra (sieved \63 lm) were analyzed with the FlowCAM, demonstrating the ability of the instrument to photograph individual tephra shards. The highest-quality images were used to create a reference library of tephra particles, against which other particle morphologies could be automat- ically compared. Lake sediment samples with known concentrations of tephra were then analyzed. The tephra image library was used to perform pattern recognition calculations, automatically distinguishing tephra-like images from other particles in the sediment samples. The number of tephra shards identified by the FlowCAM technique was compared to manual count- ing using a polarizing light microscope, demonstrating that this rapid approach is capable of determining the relative concentrations of tephra in a given sediment sample. However, the FlowCAM systematically underestimates tephra concentrations relative to man- ual counts. We conclude that with a well-developed image library, the FlowCAM can be an effective tool for cryptotephra and sedimentological applications, but it may be inappropriate for large volume samples or if particle morphologies are outside the range of the image library.
Objective determination of global ocean surface mixed layer depth

Upper oceans are characterized by the existence of vertically quasi-uniform layer of temperature (T, isothermal layer) and density (ρ, mixed layer). The thickness of the mixed layer determines the heat content and mechanical inertia of the layer that directly interacts with the atmosphere. Objective and accurate determination of the mixed layer depth is crucial in ocean dynamics and climate change. This paper describes recently developed optimal linear fitting, maximum angle, and relative gradient methods to determine mixed layer depth from profile data. Profiles from the Global Temperature and Salinity Profile Program (GTSPP) during 1990–2010 are used to demonstrate the capability of these objective methods and to build up global mixed (isothermal) layer depth datasets. Application of the data in climate study is also discussed.
A role for sonic hedgehog signaling in the pathogenesis of human tracheoesophageal fistula.

Abstract Background/Purpose: Many theories of the pathogenesis of esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF) have been proposed, but no specific mechanism has been demonstrated. The authors previously reported data suggesting a respiratory origin of the fistula tract in the rat model and in humans. Sonic hedgehog ( Shh ) "knockout" mice have the VACTERL association, and thus it was hypothesized that defects in Shh signaling may exist in the human neonatal EA/TEF fistula tract. Methods: With IRB approval, human proximal esophageal pouch and distal fistula samples were removed at the time of standard repair of EA/TEF in accordance with what the surgeons deemed appropriate in preparation for anastomosis. Tissues were processed for HE, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and immunohistochemistry. Normal embryonic lung cDNA was used as a positive control for the RT-PCR reactions. Results: As expected, Shh was present by immunohistochemistry in the proximal esophageal pouch, but was specifically absent in the distal fistula tract. Gli-1 , - 2 , and - 3 (all intracellular mediators of Shh signaling) were present in the proximal pouch and distal esophagus by RT-PCR. Conclusions: The absence of Shh signaling in the developing fistula tract of the human neonate was surprising given that Shh normally is present in esophagus and other gut components. These results support the conclusion that the fistula tract is not an esophaguslike structure, despite both its histologic appearance and its use as an esophageal replacement. Also, like in Shh -null mutant mice, aberrant Shh signaling may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of EA/TEF in humans. J Pediatr Surg 38:465-468. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Correlation of Remaining Patellar Tendon Width with Quadriceps Strength After Autogenous Bone-patellar tendon-bone Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

One hundred twenty-one patients were prospectively studied to determine whether the different remaining patellar tendon widths after central 10-mm bone- patellar tendon-bone graft harvest influenced the rate and level of quadriceps strength achieved during reha bilitation. Size of the patellar tendon width, measured at the same location in each patient, ranged from 24 to 35 mm. For this study, patients were grouped according to their remaining tendon size into small (14 to 17 mm; mean, 15.8), medium (18 to 20 mm; mean, 19.2), and large (21 to 25 mm; mean, 22.5) widths. Postopera tively, the patient's isokinetic quadriceps scores were determined at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. At 6 weeks, the small- and medium-width tendon groups were significantly weaker than the large-width tendon group. At 3 months, only the small-width tendon group continued to be significantly weaker than the large- width tendon group. At and beyond 6 months, no sta tistically significant differences were seen between re m...
Prisons in the Last Ten Years

Abstract Prisons in the first decade of the twenty-first century face both a wide range of age-old challenges as well as newly emerging ones. Five major developments of the decade have significantly influenced prison operations and introduced important changes in both day-to-day and ongoing institutional management. Two developments arise from internal changes—increasing populations and an ever-growing emphasis on security. The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) represents an externally imposed development. New security/management technologies represent both a challenge and an opportunity for corrections. Finally, the increasing costs of corrections, arising from both internal and societal forces, are a major challenge for prisons.
The Nonprosecution of Sexual Abuse and Informal Justice

Within recent years, considerable attention has focused upon the appropriate criminal justice response to cases of child sexual abuse. The present article examines prosecutorial discretion for sexual abuse under the domain of a recent mandatory district attorney reporting law (Massachusetts Chapter 288). Utilizing case files for one metropolitan jurisdiction, this research analyzes the reasons cited for the screening decision not to prosecute sexual abuse and the related use of informal dispositions in these cases. The study found that 45% of the cases referred to this prosecutor's office resulted in a nonprosecution decision. The primary reasons given were witness noncooperation and evidentiary problems, which were cited in over two-thirds of the cases. For all but two of these nonprosecuted cases, some informal disposition took place. For most, the alleged perpetrator was out of the victim's home, with another third involving a restraining or no visitation order against the accused offender, or the remo...
The mechanism of shape instability for a vesicle in extensional flow

When a flexible vesicle is placed in an extensional flow (planar or uniaxial), it undergoes two unique sets of shape transitions that to the best of the authors’ knowledge have not been observed for droplets. At intermediate reduced volumes (i.e. intermediate particle aspect ratio) and high extension rates, the vesicle stretches into an asymmetric dumbbell separated by a long, cylindrical thread. At low reduced volumes (i.e. high particle aspect ratio), the vesicle extends symmetrically without bound, in a manner similar to the breakup of liquid droplets. During this ‘burst’ phase, ‘pearling’ occasionally occurs, where the vesicle develops a series of periodic beads in its central neck. In this paper, we describe the physical mechanisms behind these seemingly unrelated instabilities by solving the Stokes flow equations around a single, fluid-filled particle whose interfacial dynamics is governed by a Helfrich energy (i.e. the membranes are inextensible with bending resistance). By examining the linear stability of the steady-state shapes, we determine that vesicles are destabilized by curvature changes on its interface, similar to the Rayleigh–Plateau phenomenon. This result suggests that the vesicle’s initial geometry plays a large role in its shape transitions under tension. The stability criteria calculated by our simulations and scaling analyses agree well with available experiments. We hope that this work will lend insight into the stretching dynamics of other types of biological particles with nearly incompressible membranes, such as cells.
Control of Human Viral Infections by Natural Killer Cells

Natural killer (NK) cells are effector cells of the innate immune system and are important in the control of viral infections. Their relevance is reflected by the multiple mechanisms evolved by viruses to evade NK cell-mediated immune responses. Over recent years, our understanding of the interplay between NK cell immunity and viral pathogenesis has improved significantly. Here, we review the role of NK cells in the control of four important viral infections in humans: cytomegalovirus, influenza virus, HIV-1, and hepatitis C virus.
Vascular Calcification, Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Disease: Connecting the Dots

Vascular calcification has long been a major area of interest in cardiovascular medicine. A great deal of data has emerged, ranging from descriptions of the extent of vascular calcification in ancient Egyptian mummies to intricate dissections of complex molecular signaling pathways ([1,2][1]).
Graduate Students' Perceptions of the Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Discussion Tools

With an increase in the number of online classes being taught at the university level, professors are exploring ways to create collaboration in the online environment. One such strategy is through using online discussion tools. The purpose of this qualitative research study was to explore students' beliefs about the benefits of using a variety of discussion tools in online classes. In analyzing students' responses to four open-ended questions, five key themes emerged that highlighted four benefits and one drawback to the use of online discussion tools. Online discussions helped build relationships, led to students hearing others' perspectives and feeling their perspectives were respected, led to students reflecting on the content and developing a deeper understanding, and helped groups coordinate projects and manage teamwork. In contrast, online discussions did not allow the same authenticity of dialogue in face-to-face discussions.
Implementing a Viable Restorative Justice Procedural Framework in Reconciliatory Cases of Domestic Violence that Responds to Feminist Concerns

This Comment explores the potentiality of implementing a post-ajudication restorative justice model in reconciliatory cases of domestic violence. In order to effectively evaluate the viability of a model that deviates away from the traditional retributive approach, it is necessary to examine the development of the modern domestic violence legal structure and increasing use of restorative justice practices. One of the greatest criticisms of integrating restorative justice into the domestic violence arena stems from feminist concerns. This Comment tailors a restorative justice model that adequately responds to these criticisms, while evaluating the strengths and deficiencies of the current and proposed legal frameworks.
Rare but numerous serious complications of acute otitis media in a young child

Acute otitis media is a very common disease in children. Most children recover with symptomatic therapy like potent analgesics, but occasionally serious complications occur. We present a 3-year-old girl who suffered from acute otitis media for already 2 weeks and presented with fever, abducens nerve palsy of her left eye and vomiting. She was finally diagnosed with an acute otitis media complicated by a mastoiditis, sinus thrombosis, meningitis and cerebellar empyema. Fusobacterium necrophorum was cultured from cerebrospinal fluid. The girl recovered following appropriate antibiotic and anticoagulation treatment.
Reliability analysis of the orbiter docking system external airlock frame structure

This paper presents the results of a quantitative reliability analysis performed to estimate the reliability of the orbiter docking system external airlock frame structure. The paper also describes the existing features of the Finite-ElementBased Reliability (FEBREL'") computer program, the docking system external airlock assembly and its frame structure, and the reliability model. An extended analysis is recommended. Introduction FEBREL, the finite-element-based reliability computer program, was developed at the Space Systems Division of Rockwell International Corporation as part of a multiyear research project now in its fourth year. In this computer program, the reliability methods provide the basis for modeling and analysis of uncertainties, as well as computation of probabilities, while the ANSYS finite-element package provides the necessary computational framework for analyzing complex structures. In this approach, the uncertain structural quantities, such as loads, material properties, and geometries, are modeled as basic random variables, x. Given the joint probability density function of these random variables, fx(x), the probability of failure can be formulated as in which F is the failure domain defined by SAFE DOMAIN
Asymptomatic memory CD8+ T cells: from development and regulation to consideration for human vaccines and immunotherapeutics.

Generation and maintenance of high quantity and quality memory CD8+ T cells determine the level of protection from viral, bacterial, and parasitic re-infections, and hence constitutes a primary goal for T cell epitope-based human vaccines and immunotherapeutics. Phenotypically and functionally characterizing memory CD8+ T cells that provide protection against herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) infections, which cause blinding ocular herpes, genital herpes, and oro-facial herpes, is critical for better vaccine design. We have recently categorized 2 new major sub-populations of memory symptomatic and asymptomatic CD8+ T cells based on their phenotype, protective vs. pathogenic function, and anatomical locations. In this report we are discussing a new direction in developing T cell-based human herpes vaccines and immunotherapeutics based on the emerging new concept of “symptomatic and asymptomatic memory CD8+ T cells.”
Monitoring Adult Pecan Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Emergence with a Malaise Trap

Malaise traps in the first crotch angle of improved cultivar pecan trees (ca. 60 years old) collected more pecan weevil (PW), Curculio caryae (Horn), adults per trap than cone emergence traps with either open or closed type collecting devices when 6 traps per tree were placed on the soil surface. Beginning, peak, and end of the PW emergence period were determined on the same dates by both trap types. Malaise traps captured more PW than cone traps during the peak emergence period relative to numbers of PW captured during beginning and end of emergence. Trap types were tested and compared in experimental and commercial orchards with improved cultivars.
Serum Magnesium Changes in Cold-Exposed Mammals

Hibernation and hypothermia have been subjects of increasing interest in recent years, yet there is a dearth of observations on the biochemistry of these states. High levels of magnesium in serum have been related by several investigators to hibernation and cold ex-posure1,2,3. In the present studies an active rise in the serum level of magnesium was found with hibernation or winter rest in three orders of mammals. Serum magnesium and hematological data were obtained on two species of bats, thirteen-lined ground squirrels and golden hamsters, and the black bear. Hibernating and non-hibernating conditions were included. Magnesium levels as determined by the method of …
Electron Beam Induced Carbon Depositionand Etching

Electron induced carbon deposition and etching was investigated by Auger electron spectroscopy in a custom designed vacuum system. The Auger electron spectrometer was used to provide a high flux electron beam to induce reactions and to monitor surface composition. During the e-beam induced deposition or etching, the gas phase pressure was 10 -4 to 10 -5 Torr. Several carbon precursors: benzene, cyclohexane and propane were used for deposition. The deposition rate depended on the precursor sticking coefficient and bonding structure. Among the three precursors tested, the deposition rate of carbon was cyclohexane > benzene > propane. The e-beam induced etching of carbon films was carried out in 1 × 10 -4 torr oxygen ambient and the carbon film was prepared by reactive physical vapor deposition. The etching process can be divided into three stages: bulk film, interface, and substrate. For the bulk carbon film, the decrease of film thickness varies linearly with the e-beam flux, while at the interface, the film thickness shows an exponential decay with the electron flux. For the C in the Si substrate, a very slow etching rate was observed. The etching rate for bulk carbon film was ∼ 0.1 nm/min under the experimental conditions, which is equivalent tp 2.4 × 10 -27 cm 3 /electron. At the interfacial region, the cross section of carbon removal by electrons was ∼ 4.6 × 10 -21 cm 2 . Based on the change of the carbon line shape at the interface, we concluded that the etching rate is related to the chemical nature of the carbon species.
Integrated Risk Assessment of Biomass Gasified Fire and Explosion Accidents

In order to reduce the occurrence of fire and explosion accidents,a risk assessment approach integrating Bayesian network and bow-tie analysis was proposed. Firstly,the fault tree is established and transformed into Bayesian network. Then the weak points which might lead to accidents can be pinpointed by calculating the importance of each basic event. The bow-tie analysis is given on the weak points to work out the precautions and control measures,and the reduction of accident frequency is calculated after taking control measures for the weak points.The reasons for such accidents can be found accurately by this approach,which helps to take appropriate precautions and control measures so as to effectively reduce the occurrence of biomass gasified fire and explosion accidents.
Enhanced Histopathology Evaluation of Lymphoid Organs

Enhanced histopathology is a tool that the pathologist can use as a screening test to identify -immunomodulatory compounds. This assessment is based on the assumption that chemically induced alterations may result in qualitative or quantitative changes in the histology of the lymphoid organs. It involves the histological evaluation of various lymphoid organs and their respective tissue compartments to identify specific cellular and architectural changes. Although this methodology cannot directly measure immune function, it does have the potential to determine whether or not a specific chemical causes suppression or enhancement of the immune system. As with all screening tests, evaluation of, and comparison with, control tissues are crucial in order to establish the range of normal tissue changes for a particular group of animals. Laboratory animals include species other than rat and mouse; therefore, recognition of species differences in the structure and function of the immune system should be noted as well as identification of which differences are biologically relevant for the endpoint being considered. Consideration should also be given to the nutritional status, antigen load, age, spontaneous lesions, steroid hormone status, and stress for each strain and group of animals. General guidelines for the examination of each of the lymphoid organs are provided in this chapter.
Proximal Foundations of Jealousy: Expectations of Exclusivity in the Infant’s First Year of Life

In this synthesis, we summarize studies that yielded evidence of jealousy in young infants. To shed light on this phenomenon, we present evidence that jealousy's foundation rests on history of dyadic interactions with caregivers which engender infants' expectations of exclusivity, and on maturation of sociocognitive capacities that enable infants to evaluate whether an exchange between their caregiver and another child represents a violation of that expectation. We conclude with a call for greater study of the antecedents and sequelae of both normative and atypical presentations of jealousy. In addition, we recommend approaches that address jealousy across a range of relationships, both within and beyond those which include attachment figures.
Stress-Induced Premature Senescence of Endothelial and Endothelial Progenitor Cells

This brief overview of premature senescence of dysfunctional endothelial and endothelial progenitor cells provides information on endothelial cell differentiation and specialization, their ontogeny, and controversies related to endothelial stem and progenitor cells. Stressors responsible for the dysfunction of endothelial and endothelial progenitor cells, as well as cellular mechanisms and consequences of endothelial cell dysfunction are presented. Metabolic signatures of dysfunctional endothelial cells and senescence pathways are described. Emerging strategies to rejuvenate endothelial and endothelial progenitor cells conclude the review.
Epidemic Models With and Without Mortality: When Does It Matter?

We use an agent-based computer simulation designed to model the spread of the 1918 influenza pandemic to address the question of whether, and if so, when disease-related mortality should be included in an epidemic model. Simulation outcomes from identical models that differ only in the inclusion or exclusion of disease-related mortality are compared. Results suggest that unless mortality is very high (above a case fatality rate of about 18 % for influenza), mortality has a minimal impact on simulation outcomes. High levels of mortality, however, lower the percentage infected at the epidemic peak and reduce the overall number of cases because epidemic chains are shortened overall, and so a smaller proportion of the population becomes infected. Analyses also indicate that high levels of mortality can increase the chance of oscillations in disease incidence. The decision about whether to include disease-related mortality in a model should, however, take into account the fact that diseases such as influenza, that sicken a high proportion of a population, may nonetheless lead to high numbers of deaths. These deaths can affect a real population’s perception of and response to an epidemic, even when objective measures suggest the impact of mortality on epidemic outcomes is relatively low. Thus, careful attention should be paid to the possibility of such responses when developing epidemic control strategies.
A Multi Foci Closed Curve: Cassini Oval, its Properties and Applications

Cassini ovali, duzlem uzerindeki sabit iki noktaya olan mesafelerinin carpimi yine bir sabit olan noktalar kumesinin olusturdugu kuadratik bir egri olarak tanimlanabilir. Benzersiz ozellikleri ve geometrik profili, bu ovalleri pek cok askeri ve ticari alanda kullanilmasina imkan taniyan ustun bir arac haline getirmis, ayrica analitik geometriye ve genel elips konseptinin otesindeki matematik teorisiyle iliskili diger konulara yeni bir boyut kazandirmistir. Bu calisma kapsaminda, Cassini ovallarinin cesitli ozellikleriyle ilgili analitik ifadeler gelistirilmis ve farkli alanlardan ornekler kullanilarak soz konusu ovallerin uygulama alanlarina iliskin ozet bilgi verilmistir.
Comparing the employment-output elasticities of migrants and nationals: the case of the Gulf Cooperation Council

ABSTRACTMany countries have large or increasing migrant populations. We estimate the elasticity of private-sector employment to nonoil GDP for nationals and migrants using a Seemingly Unrelated Error Correction (SUREC) model. We use data from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which have a particularly large share of foreign workers. Our results indicate that the employment response is statistically significantly lower for nationals, who have an estimated short-run elasticity of only 0.15 and a long-run response of 0.7, than for migrants, where the short- and long-run elasticities are 0.35 and almost unity. Lower elasticities could signal higher labour market adjustment costs. In the context of low oil prices, forecasts imply a significant jobs shortfall for nationals in the coming years.
Visual field influence on manual roll and pitch stabilization.

Human control performance in nulling perceived tilt angles was investigated for combinations of pseudo-random vestibular disturbances and different waveforms of low frequency wide visual field motions. For both roll and pitch axes, subjects tilted the trainer in which they were seated in the direction of field rotation. This visual bias was much stronger for pitch backwards with upward field rotation. Frequency response analysis showed the dominance of visual cues at low frequencies (below 0.06 Hz) and the reliance on vestibular information in the high frequency range for both axes. Models suggest that operator balancing responses at high frequencies are mainly processed by the semicircular canals rather than the otolith organs. The results also suggest that the subject tends to rely less on the otolith organs for pitch perception than for roll.
Conjugated Linoleic Acids (CLA) and Insulin Resistance: Differential Effects of CLA Isomers on Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Stress

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), the naturally occurring fatty acids prevalent in dairy products, are being used by the general public for potential health benefits, including weight loss, and canc...
Intraoperative Spermatic Venography During Varicocele Surgery in Adolescents

Intraoperative internal spermatic venography performed immediately following varicocele ligation in the adolescent has been touted as reducing varicocele persistence rates. Previously published data corroborate this statement with low persistence rates. Other series in which venography was not performed report a failure rate of 9 to 30%. During a 5-year period a total of 64 varicocele ligations was performed in 62 male adolescents at our institution. Followup postoperatively revealed an overall varicocele persistence rate of 9%. All patients had intraoperative internal spermatic venography on the affected side. Of 64 venograms 16% had shown collateral drainage that, if not ligated, may have resulted in varicocele persistence. These cases accounted for only 1 of the persistent varicoceles. Additionally, venograms had demonstrated filling of the ipsilateral external iliac vein in 8% of the cases. Despite the fact that no attempt was made to ligate these collaterals, none of these patients had a persistent varicocele. After varicocele ligation 30 of 62 patients were followed long enough to evaluate for testicular catch up growth. Of these 30 patients 24 demonstrated an average relative increase in left testicular volume of 17%. These data support routine intraoperative internal spermatic venography while performing varicocele ligation in the adolescent.
From Behind the Scenes to Facing an Audience in Self-Revelatory Performance

Self-revelatory performance, a form of drama therapy and theatre, involves the creation of an original theatrical piece based on current personal issues in need of investigation, healing or transformation. This chapter extends previous published work by examining the process leading up to the performance of a Self-Rev, including intensive self-exploration and creative collaboration between performer and director. As the Self-Rev journey culminates in a live performance, the chapter analyzes the interaction with an audience, along with the role the audience plays in such intimate theatrical productions. Finally, the author addresses the potential pitfall in Self-Rev of self-indulgence, and also articulates the ways in which the personal translates into the universal, and sociocultural dimensions intersect with the personal.
Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy:: Study of two American families with predominant dementia

Few European families have been reported with cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL). We describe four patients from two independent American families. All four cases underwent comprehensive clinical, neuropsychological and pathological examination. Pathological data were correlated with clinical features. Dementia was a prominent and constant feature in all subjects. The families differed in phenotypical presentation and we analyzed possible pathological substrates that may account for the differences. Autopsy showed multiple ischemic infarcts in the white matter, abnormal vasculature with thickening and degeneration of the vessel wall. The clinical course in the first family was characterized by early dementia without stroke-like episodes; however, autopsy demonstrated strokes in the basal ganglia and thalamus. The members of the second family developed dementia later and had history of several clinically evident strokes. Pathological examination showed only widespread degeneration of the white matter. Our study of two American families with CADASIL suggests that involvement of the basal ganglia and thalamus is important for early development of dementia and clinically can present as a gradual dementia, resembling a neurodegenerative process. Selective damage of the white matter and central gray matter provides further insight to the pathogenesis of vascular dementia.
Spinal cord stimulation trial, patient and device selection, and implantation technique

Abstract Proven to be a successful treatment modality for several chronic pain conditions including Failed Back Surgery Syndrome, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has many benefits as both a cost-effective and reversible technique. Prior to permanent implantation technique of the device, trial placement is performed to establish expected benefit. Lead location, stimulation parameters, and power source selection are optimized on a case-by-case basis. A recent addition to the growing field of neuromodulation, SCS is a promising new technology with many additional applications yet to be fully elucidated.
On spatial dependency in molecular distributed detection

This paper explores in vivo disease detection by nanomachines sensing signature biomarkers in an aqueous medium via the principles of molecular distributed detection from a theoretical perspective. The biomarker propagation model is based on solutions to the Fokker-Plank equation, where comparisons in model accuracy between one-dimensional and three-dimesional variants are compared and contrasted. The impact of biomarker absorption by the nanomachines and the subsequent nonlinear spatial dependence induced will also be discussed relative to optimal distributed detection performance.
Analysis of a covert communication method utilizing non-coherent DPSK masked by pulsed radar interference

In this paper, a covert communication method is proposed that embeds a digital communication signal onto the radar return of a pulse Doppler radar. The interfering radar signal at the receiver is estimated and coherently subtracted from combined signal prior to demodulation of the communications signal to baseband and symbol detection. The robustness of the communication method to various estimation errors is investigated for several phase shift keying digital communication modulations through Monte Carlo simulations. It is demonstrated that differential encoding systems with non-coherent detection perform best in the presence of frequency estimation errors. However, it was also demonstrated that the system is not very robust to phase estimation errors. The performance of non-coherent differential phase shift keying and differential quaternary phase shift keying are investigated to determine the impact of varying different parameters upon symbol error rate.
Molecular dynamics for near melting temperatures simulations of metals using modified embedded-atom method

Abstract Availability of a reliable interatomic potential is one of the major challenges in utilizing molecular dynamics (MD) for simulations of metals at near the melting temperatures and melting point (MP). Here, we propose a novel approach to address this challenge in the concept of modified-embedded-atom (MEAM) interatomic potential; also, we apply the approach on iron, nickel, copper, and aluminum as case studies. We propose adding experimentally available high temperature elastic constants and MP of the element to the list of typical low temperature properties used for the development of MD interatomic potential parameters. We show that the proposed approach results in a reasonable agreement between the MD calculations of melting properties such as latent heat, expansion in melting, liquid structure factor, and solid-liquid interface stiffness and their experimental/computational counterparts. Then, we present the physical properties of mentioned elements near melting temperatures using the new MEAM parameters. We observe that the behavior of elastic constants, heat capacity and thermal linear expansion coefficient at room temperature compared to MP follows an empirical linear relation (α±β × MP) for transition metals. Furthermore, a linear relation between the tetragonal shear modulus and the enthalpy change from room temperature to MP is observed for face-centered cubic materials.
Regulation of granulocyte colony stimulating factor by Fli-1, a novel transcriptional activator of inflammatory mediators (CCR3P.213)

The Fli-1 transcription factor plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Fli-1 expression is significantly increased in patients with lupus nephritis and lupus-prone mice with reduced Fli-1 expression (Fli-1 +/- ) live longer and have significantly less nephritis compared to wild type controls. Recently, Fli-1 has emerged as a critical regulator of inflammatory mediators, including MCP-1, CCL5, and IL-6. The cytokine, granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) regulates neutrophil precursor maturation and survival, and activates mature neutrophils. In clinical settings, G-CSF increases the inflammatory response and worsens tissue damage. Previously, a significant decrease in neutrophil infiltration into the kidneys of Fli-1 +/- lupus-prone mice was observed. In this study, a significant decrease in G-CSF protein expression was detected in stimulated endothelial cells transfected with Fli-1 specific siRNA. The murine G-CSF promoter contains numerous putative Fli-1 binding sites and five regions within the proximal promoter were found to be significantly enriched for Fli-1 binding. Transient transfection assays indicate that Fli-1 drives transcription from the G-CSF promoter and mutation of the Fli-1 DNA binding domain resulted in a 94% loss of transcriptional activation. In conclusion, we have discovered that Fli-1 plays a major role in the regulation of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and inflammatory disease pathogenesis.
Respiratory Failure, Mechanisms of Abnormal Gas Exchange, and Oxygen Delivery

Patients with respiratory failure may have abnormal gas exchange based on a number of mechanisms. Each of these mechanisms may indicate a different underlying pathology and thus suggest different therapeutic interventions. In addition, the ability to monitor changes in physiologic function can be complicated but is achievable when proper protocols are followed. It should be clear that an adequate understanding of the underlying physiology is crucial to the successful management of these very difficult patients.