cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protection from experimental endotoxemia by a recombinant adeno-associated virus encoding interleukin 10.

Background Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is a homodimeric cytokine that shows considerable clinical promise. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors appear increasingly useful for in vivo gene-transfer applications. Methods A recombinant AAV type 2 vector encoding human IL-10 (rAAVhIL10) was constructed by using an adenoviral-free, three-plasmid co-transfection. Cytokine production was measured by using an enzymelinked immunosorbent assay. Endotoxic shock was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection. Results As media from rAAVhIL10-infected COS cells caused a dosedependent blockade of IL-12 secretion from spleen cells of IL-10 knockout (KO) mice challenged with Brucella abortus, it was clear that vector-derived hIL-10 was biologically active in vitro. Intravenous or intramuscular administration of relatively modest levels of rAAVhIL10 (10 10 genomes) to IL-10 KO mice resulted in hIL-10 secretion into the bloodstream, which, at 8 weeks, gave median serum levels of 0.9 and 0.45 pg/ml, respectively. Acute endotoxic shock led to a 33% mortality rate, and severe morbidity, in control IL-10 KO mice, whereas no mortality and little morbidity were seen in IL-10 KO mice given rAAVhIL10 7 weeks earlier. Conclusions The findings demonstrate that a modest dose of rAAVhIL10 administered in vivo provides long-term protection against LPS-induced endotoxic shock in a murine model. Thus, this vector may be useful for clinical applications requiring sustained IL-10 expression, for example in the treatment of several autoimmune diseases. Copyright # 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inherited human collagen lysyl hydroxylase deficiency: Ascorbic acid response

A patient is described with congenital hypotonia, lax joints, friable skin, hemorrhagic scars, high-arched palate, and borderline microcornea. Acid hydrolyzed whole skin collagen had a reduced hydroxylysine content of 0.5 residues per 1,000 as compared to 5.1±0.7 in control skin. Collagen lysyl hydroxylase in dialyzed subcellular fractions of cultured skin fibroblasts required L-ascorbate as a principal cofactor. Activity of this enzyme in cultured skin fibroblasts derived from this patient, his father, and mother were 17%, 66%, and 39% of control values, respectively. Collagen prolyl hydroxylase activity was normal. Pharmacologic amounts of oral vitamin C (4 gm/day) produced an increase and withdrawal resulted in abrupt diminution of urinary excretion of hydroxylysine. Over a two-year period the patient's wound healing and muscle strength improved and corneal diameter increased. Hydroxylysine content of the skin did not increase.
“IL SOLITO È SEMPRE QUELLO, L'INSOLITO È PIÙ NUOVO”: LI BUFFONI E LE PROSTITUTE DI MARGHERITA COSTA FRA TRADIZIONE E INNOVAZIONE

La poco conosciuta sebbene prolifica scrittrice professionista Margherita Costa (1600c–1657c), trascende lo spazio privato riservato alla donna nella societa patriarcale e riesce ad imporsi con successo in un contesto socio-culturale prevalentemente maschile. Costa s'inserisce nelle corti italiane del diciassettesimo secolo come cantante, attrice, poetessa e meretrice. Oggetto d'analisi del presente articolo e la sua commedia Li buffoni del 1641. Essa illustra i processi d'interazione tra la voce femminile e l'universo simbolico della rappresentazione teatrale e mostra come, una volta entrata nel contesto maschile del teatro, la donna assume il controllo della “rappresentazione.” La mia analisi si pone l'obiettivo di evidenziare la maniera in cui la scrittrice si appropria, modificandoli, di modelli maschili istituzionalizzati come dominanti. Attraverso la rappresentazione di personaggi ai margini della societa (buffoni e prostitute), Margherita Costa rompe con le convenzioni letterarie e sociali dell'epo...
Excision of a mediastinal parathyroid gland with use of video-assisted thoracoscopy, intraoperative 99mTc-sestamibi scanning, and intraoperative monitoring of intact parathyroid hormone.

Objective: To report the complementary use of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and intraoperative 99mTc-sestamibi scanning for persistent secondary hyperparathyroidism due to a mediastinal supernumerary parathyroid gland. Methods: We describe a patient with recurrent secondary hyperparathyroidism attributable to a mediastinal parathyroid gland who underwent parathyroidectomy with use of VATS, intraoperative 99mTc-sestamibi scanning (gamma probe), and intraoperative monitoring of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH). Results: A 32-year-old man with chronic renal failure who had undergone a 4-gland parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation 14 years previously presented with symptomatic hypercalcemia. A preoperative single-photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT) sestamibi scan revealed a focus of mediastinal uptake, suggestive of an intrathymic gland. The patient underwent a cervical exploration, and the previously reimplanted parathyroid gland and the thymus were resected. iPTH levels failed t...
Yeast Researchers Consider Hailey–Hailey Disease

In the past, if dermatology researchers considered yeasts at all, it was usually with the intention of eradicating them. Yet the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has proven to be a workhorse in many types of research, due to the ease with which its genome can be manipulated. Two reports in this issue detail how experiments using yeast mutants can reveal the cell biology of proteins common to yeast and mammalian cells.
Quantification of Various Factors Affecting Emulsion Stability: Watercut, Temperature, Shear, Asphaltene Content, Demulsifier Dosage and Mixing Different Crudes

This paper discusses problems related to emulsions that have been encountered in a large Saudi Arabian field. This is a unique field lying both onshore and offshore and is producing from seven different reservoirs. These oils range in viscosities from 2 cP to over 10 cP (@ 22°C) and API gravities range from 28 to 40. The n-pentane asphaltene content varies from 0.2% to over 7% and watercut for producing wells ranges from dry wells (0% watercut) to over 70%. These properties provide an interesting case of operational problems in oil-water separation. The problems include increased incidents of shorting in the separator, tripping of equipment and increased demulsifier consumption. This paper presents the results of a comprehensive study that was initiated to understand the main causes of emulsion formation in the field. The factors investigated were watercut, temperature, shear, asphaltene content, demulsifier dosage and mixing different crudes. These factors were quantified with a new water-oil separation index that was developed to measure emulsion stability. The results show a strong correlation of asphaltene content in the crude oil with the water-oil separation index or emulsion tightness. Photomicrographs of high asphaltenic crude oil also shows the presence of organic particulate and a generally lower water drop size. These emulsions were videotaped at high magnification using a novel flow-through cell and the visual information has helped our understanding of how emulsions are stabilized by the organic films or skin on the water droplets. Recommendations are made for reducing and optimizing demulsifier dosage by adding chemical additives. Many lessons learned are applicable to any crude oil treating facilities.
Synaptotagmin VII as a Plasma Membrane Ca2+ Sensor in Exocytosis

Abstract Synaptotagmins I and II are Ca 2+ binding proteins of synaptic vesicles essential for fast Ca 2+ -triggered neurotransmitter release. However, central synapses and neuroendocrine cells lacking these synaptotagmins still exhibit Ca 2+ -evoked exocytosis. We now propose that synaptotagmin VII functions as a plasma membrane Ca 2+ sensor in synaptic exocytosis complementary to vesicular synaptotagmins. We show that alternatively spliced forms of synaptotagmin VII are expressed in a developmentally regulated pattern in brain and are concentrated in presynaptic active zones of central synapses. In neuroendocrine PC12 cells, the C 2 A and C 2 B domains of synaptotagmin VII are potent inhibitors of Ca 2+ -dependent exocytosis, but only when they bind Ca 2+ . Our data suggest that in synaptic vesicle exocytosis, distinct synaptotagmins function as independent Ca 2+ sensors on the two fusion partners, the plasma membrane (synaptotagmin VII) versus synaptic vesicles (synaptotagmins I and II).
Complex wall effect on fading and MIMO capacities for wireless communication environments

The two-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method is used to calculate the electric field distributions in an indoor communication environment with realistic floor plan. Power and fading characteristics (e.g., the Rician K-factor), and MIMO capacities are then calculated. Three different wall structures, i.e., the simple slab structure, the complex structure, and the effective slab wall of the complex structure, are considered and the corresponding K-factors and MIMO capacities are compared. It is found that the mean values of K-factors of the complex wall cases are larger than that of the slab walls by around 3 to 5 dB, while the K values of effective walls are larger than those of the complex wall cases by as much as 7 dB. It is also shown that the complex wall structures give larger MIMO capacities in most cases and the effective wall structures give the lowest MIMO capacities in all cases. Based on these results, it may be concluded that the complex wall effect on the propagation characteristics and the MIMO capacity may not be appropriately approximated by those estimated based on effective wall structures.
Pharmacological characterization of the 6 Hz psychomotor seizure model of partial epilepsy

Originally described as a model of 'psychomotor seizures' (J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. (1953) 107-273), the 6 Hz corneal stimulation model was abandoned shortly after its description because of its lack of sensitivity to phenytoin. This observation is the basis for the present study designed to validate the 6 Hz seizure as a model of therapy-resistant epilepsy. The pharmacological profile of the 6 Hz seizure was determined at varying current intensities using seven established AEDs (phenytoin, carbamazepine, clonazepam, phenobarbital, ethosuximide, trimethadione, valproic acid) and five second-generation AEDs (lamotrigine, levetiracetam, felbamate, tiagabine, topiramate). The immediate early gene c-Fos was used as a marker of seizure-induced neuronal activation to help define those brain structures that were activated by 6 Hz corneal stimulation. At the current intensity required to produce a seizure in 97% of the population (CC97=22 mA), the 6 Hz seizure did not discriminate between clinical classes of AEDs tested. Increasing the current intensity by 50% (i.e. 32 mA) decreased the sensitivity of the 6 Hz seizure to phenytoin and lamotrigine. At a current intensity of 2 x CC97 (i.e. 44 mA), only two AEDs, levetiracetam and valproic acid, displayed complete protection against the 6 Hz seizure, though the efficacy of these drugs was reduced when compared to the lower stimulation intensities. Intense c-Fos staining from 6 Hz seizures induced by 22 and 32 mA stimulus intensities remained localized to the amygdala and piriform cortex. Increasing the stimulus intensity to 44 mA resulted in additional heavy staining of the dentate gyrus. This recruitment of the dentate gyrus may account for the decrease in potency of levetiracetam and valproic acid at 44 mA. The pharmacological results combined with the c-Fos immunohistochemistry suggest that the 6 Hz stimulation may provide a useful model of therapy-resistant limbic seizures.
Benefitting InfoVis with Visual Difficulties

Many well-cited theories for visualization design state that a visual representation should be optimized for quick and immediate interpretation by a user. Distracting elements like decorative "chartjunk" or extraneous information are avoided so as not to slow comprehension. Yet several recent studies in visualization research provide evidence that non-efficient visual elements may benefit comprehension and recall on the part of users. Similarly, findings from studies related to learning from visual displays in various subfields of psychology suggest that introducing cognitive difficulties to visualization interaction can improve a user's understanding of important information. In this paper, we synthesize empirical results from cross-disciplinary research on visual information representations, providing a counterpoint to efficiency-based design theory with guidelines that describe how visual difficulties can be introduced to benefit comprehension and recall. We identify conditions under which the application of visual difficulties is appropriate based on underlying factors in visualization interaction like active processing and engagement. We characterize effective graph design as a trade-off between efficiency and learning difficulties in order to provide Information Visualization (InfoVis) researchers and practitioners with a framework for organizing explorations of graphs for which comprehension and recall are crucial. We identify implications of this view for the design and evaluation of information visualizations.
Uptake and depletion of plasma 17α-methyltestosterone during induction of masculinization in muskellunge, Esox masquinongy: Effect on plasma steroids and sex reversal

Oral administration of 17α-methyltestosterone (MT) was used to induce masculinization of sexually undifferentiated muskellunge, Esox masquinongy. Three groups of muskellunge (mean weight, 2.5 ± 0.6 g) were submitted to MT treatment (15 mg of MT/kg) for 60 days. An additional one group was used as a control (hormone-free diet). Food was distributed over a 10-h period by using automatic belt feeders. Blood was sampled in both control and treated fish at different intervals during and after feeding: before (0 h), at 3 h, 6 h, and cessation of feeding (10 h), and after a fast of 22 h (32 h). MT had no significant effect on growth and survival in muskellunge 6 months after the treatment. Concentrations of plasma MT increased during the feeding period and reached their maximum levels 6 or 10 h after starting feeding. This rapid increase of MT indicated a rapid absorption of this steroid. Plasma MT levels then declined and reached a radir by 22 h after cessation of feeding, suggesting that MT is rapidly metabolized and excreted. The profiles of plasma testosterone during the MT treatment did not differ significantly between control and MT-treated groups. During and after the MT treatment, the concentration of plasma testosterone did not differ significantly between control and MT-treated groups. Moreover, no sexual dimorphism of testosterone levels was observed. Six months after treatment, the sex ratio in MT-treated groups (33% males, 62% females, and 5% intersex) was opposite to control (70% and 30%, respectively) and differed significantly. This suggests that at 15 mg of MT/kg over 60 days, a paradoxical feminization took place.
Taguchi method for solving the economic dispatch problem with nonsmooth cost functions

This paper presents a new algorithm that applies the Taguchi method to solve the economic dispatch problem with nonsmooth cost functions. In our approach, we employ the Taguchi method that involves the use of orthogonal arrays in estimating the gradient of the cost function. The Taguchi method has been widely used in experimental designs for problems with multiple parameters where the optimization of a cost function is required. The use of the Taguchi method for the economic dispatch problem is a novel idea, and it leads to efficient algorithms that can find a satisfactory solution by minimizing the cost function in a few iterations. Simulation results show that the Taguchi method is less sensitive to initial values of parameters and is more effective than other previously developed algorithms. In addition, our algorithm is suitable for parallel implementations.
Mechanisms maintaining sympatric distributions of two ladyfish (Elopidae: é) morphs in the Gulf of Mexico and western North Atlantic Ocean

Two morphs of ladyfish exist in the western North Atlantic and adjacent waters: Elops saurus, a high-count morph (79‐87 myomeres or vertebrae) in the north, and Elops sp., a low-count morph (73‐78 myomeres or vertebrae) in the south. It has been proposed that these morphs are two allopatric species, but significant questions about their ecology remain. We examined 4,597 specimens and found that E. saurus was distributed principally in the western North Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, whereas Elops sp. was distributed principally in the Caribbean Sea. Mixing of both morphs occurred along the east coast of the United States and the gulf coast of Mexico. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that these meristic differences arise from latitudinal differences in temperature between spawning areas (i.e., Jordan’s rule). Dispersal via the Gulf Stream System and associated mesoscale features appear sufficient to explain all areas of sympatric distribution. Elops larvae were found nearly year-round in Florida estuaries, but E. saurus larvae were dominant in winter and spring collections, and Elops sp. larvae were dominant in summer and autumn. Thus, juvenile Elops sp. experience a shorter growing season and a different suite of estuarine conditions than juvenile E. saurus. The low initial abundance and high mortality of Elops sp. reduce the potential for interbreeding with E. saurus where they are sympatric. Such ecological data uphold the postulation that the two morphs are different species and support the existence of macroscale biotic connectivity between the Caribbean region and North America. Many marine larvae are capable of dispersing widely throughout the global oceans, affecting the zoogeographic patterns and population dynamics of marine species. Large
Direct healthcare costs of hip, vertebral, and non-hip, non-vertebral fractures.

Abstract Limited data exist regarding the cost of non-hip, non-vertebral (NHNV) fractures. Although NHNV fractures may be less expensive than hip and vertebral fractures, they have a higher incidence rate. The objective of this study was to quantify first-year healthcare costs of hip, vertebral, and NHNV fractures. This was a claims-based retrospective analysis using a case-control design among patients with commercial insurance and Medicare employer-based supplemental coverage. Patients were ≥ 50 years old with a closed hip, vertebral, or NHNV fracture between 7/1/2001 and 12/31/2004, and continuous enrollment 6 months prior to and 12 months after the index fracture. Adjusted mean first-year healthcare costs associated with these fractures were determined. Six cohorts were identified. Patients 50–64 years: NHNV (n = 27,424), vertebral (n = 3386) and hip (n = 2423); patients ≥ 65 years: NHNV (n = 40,960), vertebral (n = 11,751) and hip (n = 21,504). The ratio of NHNV to hip fractures was 11:1 in the 50–64 cohort and 2:1 in the ≥ 65 cohort. Adjusted mean first-year costs associated with hip, vertebral, and NHNV fractures were $26,545, $14,977, and $9183 for the 50–64 age cohort, and $15,196, $6701, and $6106 for patients ≥ 65 years. After taking prevalence rate into account, the proportion of the total fracture costs accounted for by NHNV, hip, and vertebral fractures were 66%, 21% and 13% for the 50–64 age cohort, and 36%, 52% and 12% for the ≥ 65 age cohort. Limitations included the exclusion of the uninsured and those covered by Medicaid or military-based insurance programs. The results of this study demonstrate that osteoporotic fractures are associated with significant costs. Although NHNV fractures have a lower per-patient cost than hip or vertebral fractures, their total first-year cost is greater for those 50–64 because of their higher prevalence.
Effects of a Lubricin-Containing Compound on the Results of Flexor Tendon Repair in a Canine Model in Vivo

Background: Tendon surface modification with a synthetic biopolymer, carbodiimide-derivatized hyaluronic acid and gelatin with the addition of lubricin (CHL), has been shown to reduce gliding resistance after tendon repair in an in vitro model. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether CHL would reduce adhesion formation and improve digital function after flexor tendon repair in a canine model in vivo. Methods: Sixty dogs were randomly assigned to either a biopolymer-treated group (n = 30) or an untreated control group (n = 30). The second and fifth flexor digitorum profundus tendons from each dog were lacerated fully at the zone-II area and then repaired. Passive synergistic motion therapy was started on the fifth postoperative day and continued until the dogs were killed on day 10, day 21, or day 42. The repaired tendons were evaluated for adhesions, normalized work of flexion, gliding resistance, repair strength, stiffness, and histological characteristics. Results: The normalized work of flexion of the repaired tendons treated with CHL was significantly lower than that of the non-CHL-treated repaired tendons at all time points (p < 0.05), and the prevalence of severe adhesions was also significantly decreased in the CHL-treated tendons at day 42 (p < 0.05). However, the repair failure strength and stiffness of the CHL-treated group were also significantly reduced compared with those of the control group at days 21 and 42 (p < 0.05) and the rate of tendon rupture was significantly higher in the treated group than in the control group at day 42 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Treatment with the lubricin-containing gel CHL appears to be an effective means of decreasing postoperative flexor tendon adhesions, but it is also associated with some impairment of tendon healing. Future studies will be necessary to determine if the positive effects of CHL on adhesion formation can be maintained while reducing its adverse effect on the structural integrity of the repaired tendon.
Immunoglobulin Somatic Hypermutation

The immunoglobulin (Ig) repertoire achieves functional diversification through several somatic alterations of the Ig locus. One of these processes, somatic hypermutation (SHM), deposits point mutations into the variable region of the Ig gene to generate higher-affinity variants. Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) converts cytidine to uridine to initiate the hypermutation process. Error-prone versions of DNA repair are believed to then process these lesions into a diverse spectrum of point mutations. We review the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms and regulation of SHM, and also discuss emerging ideas which merit further exploration.
Modelling spatial intensity for replicated inhomogeneous point patterns in brain imaging

Summary. Pharmacological experiments in brain microscopy study patterns of cellular activ- ation in response to psychotropic drugs for connected neuroanatomic regions. A typical ex- perimental design produces replicated point patterns having highly complex spatial variability. Modelling this variability hierarchically can enhance the inference for comparing treatments. We propose a semiparametric formulation that combines the robustness of a nonparametric kernel method with the efficiency of likelihood-based parameter estimation. In the convenient framework of a generalized linear mixed model, we decompose pattern variation by kriging the intensities of a hierarchically heterogeneous spatial point process. This approximation entails discretizing the inhomogeneous Poisson likelihood by Voronoi tiling of augmented point patterns. The resulting intensity-weighted log-linear model accommodates spatial smoothing through a reduced rank penalized linear spline. To correct for anatomic distortion between subjects, we interpolate point locations via an isomorphic mapping so that smoothing occurs relative to common neuroanatomical atlas co-ordinates. We propose a criterion for choosing the degree and spatial locale of smoothing based on truncating the ordered set of smoothing covariates to minimize residual extra-dispersion. Additional spatial covariates, experimental design factors, hierarchical random effects and intensity functions are readily accommodated in the linear predictor, enabling comprehensive analyses of the salient properties underlying replicated point patterns. We illustrate our method through application to data from a novel study of drug effects on neuronal activation patterns in the brain of rats.
Characterization of switching parameters and multilevel capability in HfO x /AlO x bi-layer RRAM devices

HfO x /AlO x bi-layer RRAM devices were fabricated with the atomic layer deposition (ALD) method. Compared with the single-layer HfO x devices, the bi-layer devices showed less variation of the switching voltages and resistances. Inspired by the fact that varying reset stop voltage in a DC sweep can achieve multilevel high resistance state, two equivalent pulse programming schemes were proposed: one linearly increases the reset pulse amplitudes; the other exponentially increases the reset pulse width. The transient current response waveform measurement suggests the former scheme is a more energy efficient programming method.
Use of first-order tributaries by brown trout (Salmo trutta) as nursery habitat in a cold water stream network

Many investigators have examined the importance of suitable in-stream habitat and flow regime to salmonid fishes. However, there is much less known about the use of small (< 5ls � 1 discharge) first-order streams within a larger stream network by salmonids. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of small headwater streams by juvenile brown trout Salmo trutta in the Emmons Creek stream network in Wisconsin, USA, and to determine whether abundance was related to habitat variables in these streams. Fishes in eight spring-fed first-order streams were sampled during a 7-month period using a backpack electroshocker and measured for total length. Habitat variables assessed included stream discharge, water velocity, sediment composition and the abundance of cover items (woody debris and macrophytes). Densities of YOY trout ranged from 0 to 1 per m 2 over the course of the study and differed among first-order streams. Stepwise multiple regression revealed discharge to be negatively associated with trout density in spring but not in summer. All other habitat variables were not significantly related to trout density. Our results demonstrate the viability of small first-order streams as nursery habitat for brown trout and support the inclusion of headwater streams in conservation and stream restoration efforts.
MULTIPLIERS OF BERGMAN SPACES INTO LEBESGUE SPACES

Let U be the open unit disk in the complex plane endowed with normalized Lebesgue measure m. will denote the usual Lebesgue space with respect to m, with 0<p<+∞. The Bergman space consisting of the analytic functions in will be denoted . Let μ be some positivefinite Borel measure on U. It has been known for some time (see [6] and [9]) what conditions on μ are equivalent to the estimate: There is a constant C such thatprovided 0<p≦q.
A multidisciplinary approach to the management of breast cancer, part 2: Therapeutic considerations

New approaches to breast cancer treatment have enhanced clinical outcomes and patient care. These approaches include advances in breast irradiation and hormonal and systemic adjuvant therapies. In addition to the identification of new drug targets and targeted therapeutics (eg, trastuzumab), there is renewed reemphasis in the development of biomarkers for the prediction of response to therapy. One example is the pharmacogenetics of tamoxifen metabolism and the individualization of hormonal therapy. The current treatment of breast cancer continues to evolve rapidly, with new scientific and clinical achievements constantly changing the standard of care and leading to substantial reductions in breast cancer mortality. The goal of this article is to provide clinicians who care for women with breast cancer a multidisciplinary, state-of-the art approach to the treatment of these patients.
Cooling Limit Approach for Single-Pulse Thermal Therapies

Based upon the commonly used Sapareto-Dewey thermal dose formula, a thermal treatment is divided into four periods: 1) period-1 is from 37°C to 43°C, 2) period-2 is from 43°C to Tpeak , 3) period-3 is from Tpeak to 43°C, and 4) period-4 is 43°C to 38°C. A recent study derived a closed form thermal dose formula based on a combined term, the “effective cooling frequency,” revealed that one can determine the best performance of a thermal therapy by concentrating on the cooling periods: period-3 and period-4. As an extension, this study used a closed-form temperature solution to investigate the influences from both cooling terms (perfusion and thermal conduction) separately. The results determined the upper bound of the peak temperature for pulses with different focal sizes under different blood perfusion values. Under practical settings, no pulse should introduce peak temperature higher than 67°C to avoid overdosing when the desired thermal dose is 240CEM43°C. It also showed that pulses with focal size smaller than or equal to 4 mm benefit the perfusion independence for the following quantities: the upper bound on the peak temperature, the treatment size, and the time/temperature for which 90% thermal dose is accumulated. Thus the conduction dominates the cooling process for each single pulse heated by the highly focused SFUS applicators when the pulses are properly isolated temporally. Results from this study further provide an estimation of the closest distance between two pulses and the time/temperature to re-activate the consecutive pulses. Thus the results can guide the researchers to design more efficient treatment protocol for multiple-pulse thermal therapies.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
On the Sub-Exponential Decay of Detection Error Probabilities in Long Tandems

We consider the problem of decentralized binary hypothesis testing in a network of sensors arranged in a tandem. We show that the rate of error probability decay is always sub-exponential, establishing the validity of a long-standing conjecture. Under the additional assumption of bounded Kullback-Leibler divergences, we show that for all d > 1/2, the error probability is Omega(e-cnd), where c is a positive constant. Furthermore, the bound Omega(e-c(logn)d), for all d > 1, holds under an additional mild condition on the distributions. This latter bound is shown to be tight.
Exclusion techniques reveal significant biotic mortality suffered by Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) populations in Florida citrus

Management of ‘huanglongbing’ (HLB) or the Asian form of citrus greening disease caused by the bacterium, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, and spread by Diaphorina citri Kuwayama depends largely on the management of the vector insect. Seventeen experiments conducted during 2006–2007 included D. citri colonies initiated with eggs or first instar nymphs on young shoots protected with sleeve cages, sticky barriers or left unprotected through adult emergence to assess the relative impact of abiotic and biotic factors on psyllid populations. Temperatures dropped to 0 C and killed most of the shoots and nymphs in February 2007. Spiders (Araneae) and insects in the families Coccinellidae, Blattellidae, Chrysopidae, Formicidae, Syrphidae, Anthocoridae and Miridae were observed on colonies or caught in sticky barriers. The ladybeetles Olla v-nigrum, Curinus coeruleus, Harmonia axyridis, and Cycloneda sanguinea, the cockroach Blattella asahinai, lacewings, Ceraeochrysa sp. and Chrysoperla sp., and spiders were most often encountered. Parasitism by Tamarixia radiata provided 1–3% nymphal mortality in relation to adult emergence although a maximum of about 25% was observed. Net reproductive rate (R0), based on observed survivorship and temperature-dependent fecundity data was estimated to be 5- to 27-fold higher in the colonies protected with full cages compared to the unprotected colonies except during the freeze. At the extreme, R0 was estimated in caged colonies at 125–285 in Jun 2006 whereas all nymphs disappeared in the unprotected colonies. Intermediate results were observed in colonies protected with sticky barriers or coarse mesh cages. These findings suggest that biotic factors play a vital role in regulating populations of D. citri. Their elimination through reckless pesticide use could increase pest pressure and enhance the spread of the disease. Therefore, integrated control programs based on conservation of natural enemies of D. citri through judicious use of insecticides and releases of new parasitoids are needed for sustainable management of pest and disease.
The evolution of higher education in law enforcement: Preliminary findings from a national study

The preliminary results are reported in a national study of police education. All state police agencies, all municipal agencies serving populations greater than 50,000, and all sheriff's departments with more than 100 sworn officers were surveyed to obtain data on the level of higher education in the departments, policies in support of college education, and the effect of higher education on policing. The survey was followed by indepth site visits to San Diego, San Jose, and Sacramento, California; Kansas City, Missouri; New York City; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Largo, Florida. Significant findings showed that the average educational level of police officers has risen steadily over the past two decades; that only a small proportion of police departments formally require college for employment of promotion; that the great majority, however, have educational support policies and an “informal” criterion of college for selection and promotion or officers. The data also show that minorities are being recruited effec...
Violent Video Games, Mass Shootings, and the Supreme Court: Lessons for the Legal Community in the Wake of Recent Free Speech Cases and Mass Shootings

The issue of video game violence continues to attract attention from the legal and policy communities, particularly in the wake of mass shootings. However, focusing on video game violence has generally not resulted in successful legal or public policy. In part this is because the science upon which beliefs of “harm” in video game violence are based remains inconsistent and heavily disputed. The current article examines several issues. First, the article examines the current evidence about video game violence influences on negative outcomes in players. Second, the article concerns itself with the application of video game science to several recent legal cases, involving both criminal prosecutions and attempted regulation/censorship of video game violence in the United States. Finally, the manuscript addresses several common talking points used in legal cases and by policy makers and examines whether these talking statements survive careful scientific scrutiny. It is advised that, consistent with the legal decisions and government reviews in the United States, Sweden, Australia, and elsewhere, current evidence does not support the regulation of violent video games, and legal or policy attempts to connect video game violence to specific crimes are unlikely to survive careful scrutiny.
Interfacial dynamics of thin viscoelastic films and drops

Abstract We present a computational investigation of thin viscoelastic films and drops on a solid substrate subject to the van der Waals interaction force, in two spatial dimensions. The governing equations are obtained within a long-wave approximation of the Navier–Stokes equations with Jeffreys model for viscoelastic stresses. We investigate the effects of viscoelasticity, Newtonian viscosity, and the substrate slippage on the dynamics of thin viscoelastic films. We also study the effects of viscoelasticity on drops that spread or recede on a prewetted substrate. For dewetting films, the numerical results show the presence of multiple secondary droplets for higher values of elasticity, consistently with experimental findings. For drops, we find that elastic effects lead to deviations from the Cox–Voinov law for partially wetting fluids. In general, elastic effects enhance spreading, and suppress retraction, compared to Newtonian ones.
Milgram’s shock experiments and the Nazi perpetrators: A contrarian perspective on the role of obedience pressures during the Holocaust

In contrast to many scholars who believe that Milgram’s studies of obedience provide an incisive understanding of the Holocaust perpetrators, this article argues that pressures to obey authority ha...
CREATION OF UNISCOPE: A MODEL FOR REWARDING ALL FORMS OF SCHOLARSHIP

On March 24, 1998, a small group of faculty and administrators at the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) formed a learning community to engage in a deliberative dialogue about recognizing and documenting outreach scholarship in the University. We chose UniSCOPE, University Scholarship and Criteria for Outreach and Performance Evaluation, as a title to encapsulate our mission. Our goal was to consider the meaning of scholarship in the contemporary university and to consider the role of outreach therein. We did this in the context of the Penn State promotion and tenure system to gain a better understanding of its effect on scholarship. We quickly learned that outreach scholarship cannot be examined in isolation, and we broadened our deliberations to consider the full range of scholarship. This report articulates a multidimensional model of scholarship in general, of which outreach scholarship is a key component and presents our recommendations for action.
Novel use of the pipeline embolization device for reperfusion of the middle cerebral artery post surgical aneurysm clipping

We describe a case in which elective surgical clipping of an internal carotid artery terminus aneurysm resulted in compromised flow through the ipsilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA). Reperfusion was salvaged the following day with novel use of the pipeline embolization device to buttress open the MCA. We believe that mechanical properties unique to the pipeline device facilitated the success of the procedure.
Classification agreement analysis of Cross-Battery Assessment in the identification of specific learning disorders in children and youth

The Cross-Battery Assessment (XBA) approach to identifying a specific learning disorder (SLD) is based on the postulate that deficits in cognitive abilities in the presence of otherwise average general intelligence are causally related to academic achievement weaknesses. To examine this postulate, we conducted a classification agreement analysis using the Woodcock-Johnson III Tests of Cognitive Abilities and Achievement. We examined the broad cognitive abilities of the Cattell-Horn-Carroll theory held to be meaningfully related to basic reading, reading comprehension, mathematics calculation, and mathematics reasoning across age groups. Results of analyses of 300 participants in three age groups (6–8, 9–13, and 14–19 years) indicated that the XBA method is very reliable and accurate in detecting true negatives. Mean specificity and negative predictive value were 92% and 89% across all broad cognitive abilities and academic domains. Mean sensitivity and positive predictive values, however, were generally q...
Stability of tiagabine in two oral liquid vehicles

The stability of tiagabine hydrochloride in two extemporaneously prepared oral suspensions stored at 4 and 25 degrees C for three months was studied. Tiagabine is used for adjunctive therapy for the treatment of refractory partial seizures. It is currently available in a tablet dosage form, which cannot be used in young children who are unable to swallow and given doses in milligrams per kilogram of body weight. No stability data are available for tiagabine in any liquid dosage form. Five bottles contained tiagabine 1 mg/mL in 1% methylcellulose:Simple Syrup, NF (1:6), and another five bottles had tiagabine 1 mg/mL in Ora-Plus:Ora-Sweet (1:1). Three samples were collected from each bottle at 0, 7, 14, 28, 42, 56, 70, and 91 days and analyzed by a stability-indicating high-performance liquid chromatographic method (n = 15). At 4 degrees C, the mean concentration of tiagabine exceeded 95% of the original concentration for 91 days in both formulations. At 25 degrees C, the mean concentration of tiagabine exceeded 90% of the original concentration for 70 days in Ora-Plus:Ora-Sweet formulation and for 42 days in 1% methylcellulose:syrup formulation. No changes in pH or physical appearance were seen during this period. The stability data for two formulations would provide flexibility for compounding tiagabine. Tiagabine hydrochloride 1 mg/,mL in extemporaneously prepared liquid dosage forms and stored in plastic bottles remained stable for up to three months at 4 degrees C and six weeks at 25 degrees C.
Predictors of uterine volume reduction in women with myomas treated with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist *

A retrospective analysis of 104 women with leiomyomata uteri treated with LA for at least 12 weeks demonstrated a negative correlation between the percent reduction in uterine volume and serum E2 concentration at treatment week 12. The patient's age, height, or pretreatment uterine volume were not correlated with the degree of uterine shrinkage.
A Case Study of Behaviour and Performance of Confined or Pastured Cows During the Dry Period

The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of the dry cow management system (pasture or confined) on: (1) lying behaviour and activity; (2) feeding and heat stress behaviours; (3) intramammary infections, postpartum. Non-lactating Holstein cows were assigned to either deep-bedded, sand freestalls ( n = 14) or pasture ( n = 14) using rolling enrollment. At dry-off, cows were equipped with an accelerometer to determine daily lying time (h/d), lying bouts (bouts/d), steps (steps/d) and divided into periods: far-off (60 to 15 d prepartum), close-up (14 to 1 d prepartum), calving (calving date) and postpartum (1 to 14 d postpartum). Respiration rates were recorded once weekly from dry off to calving from 1300 to 1500 h. Feeding displacements were defined as one cow successfully displacing another from the feed bunk and were recorded once per week during the 2 h period, immediately after feeding at 800 h. Pastured cows were fed a commercial dry cow pellet during far-off and total mixed ration during close-up, with free access to hay and grazing. Freestall housed cows were fed a total mixed ration at far-off and close-up. Cows housed in freestalls were moved to a maternity pen with a mattress at commencement of labour. Pastured cows calved in pasture. After calving, all cows were commingled in a pen identical to the freestall housing treatment. Cows housed in freestalls laid down for longer during far-off and close-up periods, had fewer lying bouts during the calving period and took fewer steps throughout the study period when compared to pastured cows. Freestall housed cows experienced more displacements after feeding than did pastured cows. Respiration rates increased with an increasing temperature humidity index, more in pastured cows than in freestall housed cows. Pastured cows altered their lying behaviour and activity, suggesting a shift in time budget priorities between pastured and confined dry cows. Pastured cows also experienced less aggression around feeding but may be more susceptible to heat stress.
Sir Edward Coke and the Elizabethan Age

Sir Edward Coke (1552-1634), the first judge to strike down a law, gave us modern common law by turning medieval common law inside-out. Through his resisting strong-minded kings, he bore witness for judicial independence. Coke is the earliest judge still cited routinely by practicing lawyers. This book breaks new ground as the first scholarly biography of Coke, whose most recent general biography appeared in 1957, and draws revealingly on Coke's own papers and notebooks. The book covers Coke's early life and career, to the end of the reign of Elizabeth I in 1603 (a second volume will cover Coke's career under James I and Charles I). In particular, this book highlights Coke's close connection with the Puritans of England; his learning, legal practice, and legal theory; his family life and ambitious dealings; and the treason cases he prosecuted.
FINAL RESULTS OF A MEASUREMENT OF ann FROM THE REACTION π−d → 2nγ†

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the measurement of the neutron–neutron S-wave scattering length in the determination of the exact role of direct and indirect electromagnetic effects in breaking strong interaction symmetries. As free neutron–neutron scattering events are not available in useful quantities, the knowledge of ann comes from final-state interactions that involves two and more nucleons. The chapter discusses an experiment performed at the LBL 184” synchrocyclotron in which all three final-state particles were detected and the energy of the neutrons were measured by time-of-flight techniques. This allowed a three-constraint fit to the hypothesis of π–d → 2nγ with a reconstructed photon energy resolution of better than 50 MeV or 0.05%. The experiment was performed with negative pions captured at rest by deuterons; therefore, the lab and c–m system were the same, and there were two independent variables neglecting the orientation of and rotations in the 2nγ plane. In the result of the experiment, an average of the two Monte Carlo hypotheses was chosen.
Localization of premature ventricular contractions from the papillary muscles using the standard 12-lead electrocardiogram: a feasibility study using a novel cardiac isochrone positioning system.

Aims The precise localization of the site of origin of a premature ventricular contraction (PVC) prior to ablation can facilitate the planning and execution of the electrophysiological procedure. In clinical practice, the targeted ablation site is estimated from the standard 12-lead ECG. The accuracy of this qualitative estimation has limitations, particularly in the localization of PVCs originating from the papillary muscles. Clinical available electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) techniques that incorporate patient-specific anatomy may improve the localization of these PVCs, but require body surface maps with greater specificity for the epicardium. The purpose of this report is to demonstrate that a novel cardiac isochrone positioning system (CIPS) program can accurately detect the specific location of the PVC on the papillary muscle using only a 12-lead ECG. Methods and results Cardiac isochrone positioning system uses three components: (i) endocardial and epicardial cardiac anatomy and torso geometry derived from MRI, (ii) the patient-specific electrode positions derived from an MRI model registered 3D image, and (iii) the 12-lead ECG. CIPS localizes the PVC origin by matching the anatomical isochrone vector with the ECG vector. The predicted PVC origin was compared with the site of successful ablation or stimulation. Three patients who underwent electrophysiological mapping and ablation of PVCs originating from the papillary muscles were studied. CIPS localized the PVC origin for all three patients to the correct papillary muscle and specifically to the base, mid, or apical region. Conclusion A simplified form of ECGi utilizing only 12 standard electrocardiographic leads may facilitate accurate localization of the origin of papillary muscle PVCs.
Safe Drilling Paths in the Distal Femoral Epiphysis for Pediatric Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction

Background:Anatomic surgical reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) has been popularized for the treatment of recurrent patellar instability in the skeletally immature populati...