cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metal-ion responsive reversible assembly of DNA origami dimers: G-quadruplex induced intermolecular interaction

We present a novel metal-ion stimulated organization of DNA origami nanostructures by employing G-quadruplexes as stimuli-responsive bridges. The reversible assembly process of DNA origami was the result of conformational changes between the G-quadruplex and its single-strand state induced by monovalent cations. This study might stimulate a new design of responsive DNA-based intelligent nanomaterials.
An Update on the Management of Anaphylaxis

To highlight the latest evidence supporting management recommendations in anaphylaxis and discuss the implications for further research in anaphylaxis management. The acute management of anaphylaxis is largely centered on resuscitation and administration of epinephrine. There is little evidence to support the use of antihistamines and corticosteroids in the acute management of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an acute, systemic, potentially life-threatening reaction caused by the release of mast cell and basophil mediators that could lead to distributive shock. Anaphylaxis is associated with increased healthcare utilization and costs. The definition of anaphylaxis is largely based on clinical criteria with no validated biomarker confirming the diagnosis. Long-term follow-up is recommended to identify triggers and co-factors of anaphylaxis. Further, this helps to establish a plan for trigger avoidance and emergency action plan to manage subsequent episodes. Given the significant morbidity and mortality associated with this diagnosis, high quality randomized controlled studies are lacking to support management decisions in anaphylaxis.
Design of Routers for Diversified Networks

There is a growing recognition in the networking research community, that the protocols and services at the heart of the Internet have become so rigid and difficult to change, that they represent an impediment to the continuing evolution of the Internet. This poses a serious problem as the demands on the Internet continue to grow, making the limitations of current systems more and more evident.
On Boundaries and Boundary Crack-Codes of Multidimensional Digital Images

An asymmetric, anisotropic relation on the boundary elements of a binary image, due to Gordon and Udupa (Gordon, D., Udupa, J.K. (1989). Fast surface tracking in three-dimensional binary images, Computer Vision, Graphics and Image Processing 45, pp. 196–214.), is used to generalize the 2-D concept of a difference crack-code to crack-codes that represent boundaries in higher-dimensional binary images. For an n-dimensional binary image where n ≥ 3, it is shown how each connected component of the boundary (with respect to Gordon and Udupa’s relation) can be represented by a “crack code” consisting of a single pair of sequences. It is also shown that the amount of memory required to store such a crack code for each component of the boundary does not exceed (4 + [log(n − 1)])(1−1/n) bits per boundary element. In particular, the memory requirement is no more than 3 1/3 bits per boundary element for 3-D images, and no more than 4 1/2 bits per boundary element for 4-D images.
Understanding the language and communicative impairments in autism

Publisher Summary This chapter explains the language and communicative impairments in autism. Children with autism show delays and deficits in the acquisition of language that range from the almost complete absence of functional communication to adequate linguistic knowledge, but impairments in the use of that knowledge in conversation or other discourse contexts. Clinical documentation of suprasegmental aspects of the speech of children with autism has described their voice quality and intonation patterns as strikingly atypical and these problems appear to persist through adulthood. Prosodic deficits may also be related to the difficulties in planning and producing complex utterances that require the integration of phonological, morphosyntactic, semantic, and discourse-level information. The findings suggest that for the child with autism word meanings are acquired in a highly systematic and constrained way. The data are consistent with the view that lexical development in autism, as in typically developing and other children with developmental disorders, is constrained by a set of developmental operating principles.
Techniques and Applications of Fuzzy Theory in Quantifying Risk Levels in Occupational Injuries and Illnesses

Publisher Summary The creation of predictive models for occupational injuries and illnesses is often hampered by the variability associated with human anthropometry and performance, because traditional modeling techniques often experience difficulties, when trying to identify the onset of injuries and illnesses—particularly with cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs). This chapter provides an overview of the applicability of fuzzy set theory to modeling risks of occupational injuries and illnesses. The techniques presented in this chapter represent an evolution in the modeling of occupational injuries. The ability to model these injuries in a manner that is commensurate with their occurrence is attainable with the tools of fuzzy set theory. Fuzzy modeling is a very appropriate tool because of its ability to accommodate the variability, use linguistic variables, and provide quantitative outputs. However, future application and evaluation of these guidelines will be useful in determining the long term usefulness of this methodology.
Blockchain technology and its relationships to sustainable supply chain management

Globalisation of supply chains makes their management and control more difficult. Blockchain technology, as a distributed digital ledger technology which ensures transparency, traceability, and sec...
Comparison of electrodeposition and precipitation for the preparation of samples for iodine analysis by AMS

Abstract Sample preparation for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) analysis of 129I from environmental samples typically involves isolation and purification of the iodine followed by precipitation as silver iodide. The silver iodide is mixed with silver or niobium powder as a binder and medium for electrical conductivity and approximately 3 mg of the mixture pressed into a cathode for AMS analysis. Electrodeposited silver iodide on a silver clad niobium 50 µm diameter wire provides an attractive alternative to precipitation. Six inches of wire and electrodeposited silver iodide are easier to handle when pressing cathodes and minimizes possible cross contamination between samples. Although electrodeposition onto pure silver wires has been recently reported, the usage of silver clad niobium wires could offer an additional advantage. The use of niobium in the silver iodide matrix has been reported to result in higher intensity and long term stability of the iodide ion current. This paper presents a comparison of electrodeposition methods using silver and silver clad niobium wires to the traditional precipitated silver iodide mixed with silver and niobium powders. The comparison was done using materials with 129/127I ratios having nominal values of 5 × 10−10 and 5 × 10−11. For each 129/127I ratio material, eight samples were analyzed for each preparation method on three days, with seven replicate AMS measurements per sample. For each ratio, the measurements of the separate days were combined for each method, yielding 168 measurements per method. An analysis of variance indicated minor statistical differences between the precipitated and electro-deposited materials, with the pooled standard error of the means being 0.2% for both ∼5 × 10−10 and ∼5 × 10−11 ratios.
Implementing Project-Based Learning in Your Course

BRIEF SESSION DESCRIPTION:This presentation focuses on problem-based learning (PBL) methodology and how a multi-disciplinary team is using it to create a new course combining global health and engineering.AÂ Course design considerations and strategies for managing PBL are discussed. Attendees will work on materials that will help them decide if this methodology is appropriate for their course. Participants will be able to define PBL, determine whether PBL is appropriate for their course and will develop a PBL activity using principles of backward design.AÂ Participants will also be able to apply strategies that facilitate PBL._______________________________________________________________FULL ABSTRACT:Project-based learning (PBL) is a high impact teaching methodology that allows students to gain knowledge and skills by actively engaging in investigating and responding to real-world questions, problems or challenges. Courses of this type allows students to work on meaningful issues, meeting MasonA¢â¬â¢s goal of transforming the Mason Student into the Mason Graduate A¢â¬â an engaged citizen and well-round scholar who is prepared to act.AÂ Knowledge of this methodology will be particular beneficial for faculty seeking to redesign courses as the University moves toward implementing M-Pact, MasonA¢â¬â¢s commitment to offering every student a transformative learning experience.AÂ AÂ AÂ The presenters, an interdisciplinary team of faculty members from Global and Community Health and Engineering attended the 2017 Institute on Project-Based Learning at Worcester Polytechnic Institute to learn about best practices regarding this methodology. The team will describe how they are using PBL methodology to create an undergraduate Engineering Global Health course. Team will then facilitate a workshop focused on implementation of PBL across a variety disciplines.AÂ Presenters will:A¢â¬Â¢Define project-based learningA¢â¬Â¢Discuss design approaches with an emphasis on using backward design principlesA¢â¬Â¢Suggest strategies for managing PBL, including handling team dynamicsA¢â¬Â¢Lead participants in small group discussion and activities to brainstorm ideas for implementing PBLAÂ Participants will brainstorm challenges and potential solutions to implementing PBL through facilitated small group discussion. Participants will apply PBL methodology using backward design principles to begin to create a PBL experience for a course.AÂ AÂ Attendees will be able to define PBL, determine whether PBL is appropriate for their course and will develop a PBL activity using principles of backward design.AÂ It is hoped that faculty engaged in this session will move on to form a community of practice around PBL at Mason.
Spline density estimation and inference with model-based penalties

ABSTRACTIn this paper we propose model-based penalties for smoothing spline density estimation and inference. These model-based penalties incorporate indefinite prior knowledge that the density is ...
The Korean War in Asia: A Hidden History. Edited by Tessa Morris‐Suzuki. (Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2018. Pp. x, 226. $35.00.)

Specialists will appreciate the design and sophistication of Tessa Morris‐Suzuki's edited volume. If Korea is the “forgotten war” in the United States, this volume demonstrates that there is also a...
The Electrochemical Mechanisms of Solid–Electrolyte Interphase Formation in Lithium-Based Batteries

In lithium-based batteries, the solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) is a layer of material that forms between the negative electrode and the liquid electrolyte; it is produced spontaneously by the b...
Rhythm, Diasporas, and the National Popular State

Ideas regarding sound and place shaped the work of Mario de Andrade and Alejo Carpentier in the 1930s. Central to their respective approaches to race and nationalism is the tension between Afro-diasporic traditions and their relevance as the foundations of a national, popular culture. This chapter examines their differing approaches to this tension and to the roles each saw in rhythm in defining its characteristics. It explores Carpentier’s Parisian journalism with descriptions of Cuban son performances in Montmartre venues in light of the marks Mario made in his personal copy of the Cuban author’s first novel iEcue-Yamba-O! Mario’s ideas regarding the influx of “Cuban” rhythms into Brazilian popular music provide an opportunity to reflect upon sonic phenomena and national boundaries, as well as how their movements were theorized in the context of their thought as gendered distinctions.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Pediatric and Adult Intracranial and Spinal Ependymomas.

Objective/Background: We report efficacy and toxicity outcomes with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for intracranial and spinal ependymoma. Methods: We analyzed adult and pediatric patients with newly diagnosed or recurrent intracranial or spinal ependymoma lesions treated with SRS at our institution. Following SRS, local failure (LF) was defined as failure within or adjacent to the SRS target volume, while distant failure (DF) was defined as failure outside of the SRS target volume. Time to LF and DF was analyzed using competing risk analysis with death as a competing risk.Overall survival (OS) was calculated from the date of first SRS to the date of death or censored at the date of last follow-up using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: Twenty-one patients underwent SRS to 40 intracranial (n = 30) or spinal (n = 10) ependymoma lesions between 2007 and 2018, most commonly with 18 or 20 Gy in 1 fraction. Median follow-up for all patients after first SRS treatment was 54 months (range 2–157). The 1-year, 2-year, and 5-year rates of survival among patients with initial intracranial ependymoma were 86, 74, and 52%, respectively. The 2-year cumulative incidences of LF and DF after SRS among intracranial ependymoma patients were 25% (95% CI 11–43) and 42% (95% CI 22–60), respectively. No spinal ependymoma patient experienced LF, DF, or death within 2 years of SRS. Three patients had adverse radiation effects. Conclusions: SRS is a viable treatment option for intracranial and spinal ependymoma with excellent local control and acceptable toxicity.
Creativity in Digital Reality / Creatividad en la realidad digital

Digital environments — simulations, games and realities — have been gaining more attention in behaviour research as the relevant technology has become more advanced and affordable. This increased a...
Growing Up and Waking Up: A Conversation With Ken Wilber About Leaving Transpersonal to Form Integral Psychology:

Although he formally departed from the transpersonal psychological community in the 1990s, Ken Wilber was, and continues to be, one of the most important and influential theoreticians in this subdi...
Experimental investigation of energy harvesting behind a bluff body

The effect of base suction on flapping and energy harvesting through the piezoelectric membrane in the wake of a cylindrical bluff body is studied in this paper by carrying out a series of wind tunnel experiments. The effect of S/D (ratio of the distance between the cylinder and membrane to the cylinder diameter), L/D (ratio of the membrane length to the cylinder diameter), and flow speed on the flapping dynamics and energy generation from the polyvinylidene fluoride membrane placed behind the bluff body was studied. Different flapping modes were found from optimal coupling to fully deformed. The flapping motion of the membrane was determined by using a high-speed camera, and an oscilloscope was used for the measurement of the generated voltages. Also, the flapping dynamics and output voltages were extensively studied in the sub and post-critical regions by varying the S/D ratio, L/D ratio, and flow velocity. An increase of 38% in energy harvesting is observed when the piezomembrane was placed at L/D = 1 and S/D = 2 with free stream velocity U = 10 m/s. An increase or decrease in voltages is attributed to the observation that the amount of harvested energy changes by varying the stated parameters. Optimum energy can be harvested by fine-tuning of flow and geometrical parameters and adjusting the piezoelectric flag in the specified range.
Crisscrossing the University and Public School Contexts as Professional Development School Boundary Spanners.

P-12 and university educators who prepare pre-service teachers need tools to facilitate mutual understanding and bridge differences. The concept of a boundary spanner is such a tool. In schools, boundary spanners bridge discourses, provide cultural guidance, and act as change agents (Buxton, Carlone, & Carlone, 2005). This inquiry explored the perceptions and experiences of boundary spanners involved in professional development school teacher preparation initiatives from the university and the school perspectives. Three themes evident in their work were (a) their strengths at understanding the other, (b) their attempts to juxtapose support, dialogue, and recognition of power relationships, and (c) their ability to draw on prior knowledge.
Automated preparation for identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing: evaluation of a research use only prototype, the BD Kiestra IdentifA/SusceptA system

Abstract Objective The current BD Kiestra™ total laboratory automation (TLA) system automates specimen inoculation, incubation, and digital visualization of cultures prior to initiation of manual or semi-automated identification (ID) and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). The current study aimed to compare the performance, in a clinical setting, of a fully automated research-use-only prototype, BD Kiestra™ IdentifA/SusceptA (automated system), to our current BD Kiestra™ TLA which utilizes manual or semi-automated IDs and ASTs (current system). Methods Clinical samples yielding significant growth after processing by the BD Kiestra™ TLA were tested in parallel for ID and AST by both systems. IDs and ASTs were determined by Bruker matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry and BD Phoenix, respectively, with data stored and managed in the BD EpiCenter™. The automated system used a common inoculum preparation for both tests, whereas the current system used separate inocula. Results were compared to assess agreement between the systems. Results On initial testing, 89% of IDs (466/523) and 92.4% of IDs (484/523) for the automated and current ID systems, respectively, yielded acceptable MALDI-TOF log scores of ≥1.7. On repeat testing, the respective acceptable scores were 97.1% (508/523) and 98.1% (513/523). For initial ASTs, the automated and current systems yielded 97.5% categorical agreement for 7325 drug–organism tests. After omitting discrepant MICs that differed by only one dilution and categorical discrepancies that were not reproducible, 0.2% unresolved discrepancies remained thus (99.8% categorical agreement). Conclusions The automated prototype is suitable for development into technology that will provide clinical microbiology laboratories with significant advantages such as improved efficiency, standardization, reproducibility, reduced technical error and greater safety.
Non-orthogonal dual-objective light-sheet microscopy for subcellular imaging of cleared tissues

Light-sheet microscopy (LSM) has emerged as the technique of choice for many biologists imaging large cleared tissues due to its speed and optical efficiency, which make it possible to generate massive datasets of large specimens at high resolution. Here, we build on several recent innovations in LSM to present a non-orthogonal dual-objective (NODO) LSM system with axial sweeping in an open-top configuration. This system is specifically designed to image large cleared brain tissues, such as for axonal connectomics, and provides subcellular resolution (0.3 µm lateral, 2 µm axial) of large cleared samples up to 8 mm thick.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Bronchiolitis Complicated by Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Case Series

In rare instances, severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections of the lower respiratory tract can cause life-threatening extrapulmonary complications. In this report, we describe 4 previously healthy, term and late-preterm infants admitted to the PICU with respiratory failure due to RSV bronchiolitis who developed necrotizing enterocolitis shortly after admission. All infants exhibited progressive abdominal distention, had typical radiographic findings, and developed simple or complex ascites. In addition to being managed with broad-spectrum antibiotics and bowel rest, 1 infant was treated with colon resection and ileostomy, 2 had peritoneal drainage procedures for ascites, and one of those later developed small bowel strictures treated with delayed resection and anastomosis. Three were discharged from the hospital without further complications; 1 died of septic shock. In this case series, we describe development of necrotizing enterocolitis in otherwise healthy neonates with severe RSV disease in the absence of traditional risk factors. We hypothesize that a dysregulated proinflammatory response associated with severe RSV disease may alter intestinal blood flow and compromise barriers to bacterial translocation. Enteral feeding intolerance, septic ileus, and/or complex ascites may represent important clinical corollaries in these patients.
Cross cultural research: experiences in sundanese wayang golek of West Java

Studying the performing art of wayang golek in the late 1970s requiredlearning how to learn a complex art in a local language from village practitionerswhose practice did not correspond to the model expounded by the local academic.Language, music, culture, dance, spiritual dimensions, and complex stories neededto be absorbed and became building blocks toward performing this rich art of theSundanese dalang of West Java.Keywords: Wayang Golek. Sundanese rod puppetry. Dalang.
In-situ capillary pressure and wettability in natural porous media: Multi-scale experimentation and automated characterization using X-ray images

Abstract Hypothesis Geometrical analyses of pore-scale fluid-fluid-rock interfaces have recently been used for in-situ characterization of capillary pressure and wettability in natural porous media. Nevertheless, more robust techniques and multi-scale, well-characterized experimental data are needed to rigorously validate these techniques and enhance their efficacy when applied to saturated porous media. Experiments and Image analysis We present two new techniques for automated measurements of in-situ capillary pressure and contact angle, which offer several advancements over previous methodologies. These approaches are methodically validated using synthetic data and X-ray images of capillary rise experiments, and subsequently, applied on pore-scale fluid occupancy maps of a miniature Berea sandstone sample obtained during steady-state drainage and imbibition flow experiments. Findings The results show encouraging agreement between the image-based capillary pressure-saturation function and its macroscopic counterpart obtained from a porous membrane experiment. However, unlike the macroscopic behavior, the micro-scale measurements demonstrate a nonmonotonic increase with saturation due to the intermittency of the pore-scale displacement events controlling the overall flow behavior. This is further explained using the pertinent micro-scale mechanisms such as Haines jumps. The new methods also enable one to generate in-situ contact angle distributions and distinguish between the advancing and receding values while automatically excluding invalid measurements.
The Prognostic Value of Signet-Ring Cell Histology in Resected Gastric Adenocarcinoma

Conflicting data exist on the prognostic implication of signet-ring cell (SRC) histology in gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC). All patients who underwent curative-intent resection of GAC from the seven institutions of the U.S. Gastric Cancer Collaborative between 2000 and 2012 were included. Primary end points were recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Stage-specific analyses were performed. A total of 768 patients met the inclusion criteria. SRC was present in 40.6 % of patients and was associated with female sex (52.9 vs. 38.6 %; p < 0.001), younger age (61 vs. 67 years; p < 0.001), poor differentiation (94.8 vs. 50.3 %; p < 0.001), perineural invasion (PNI) (41.4 vs. 23 %; p < 0.001), microscopically positive resection margins (R1, 24.7 vs. 8.6 %; p < 0.001), distal location (82.2 vs. 70.1 %; p < 0.001), receipt of adjuvant therapy (63 vs. 51.2 %; p = 0.002), and more advanced stage (stage 3: 55.2 vs. 36.5 %; p < 0.001). SRC was associated with earlier recurrence (56.7 months vs. median not reached; p = 0.009) and decreased OS (33.7 vs. 46.6 months; p = 0.011). When accounting for other adverse pathologic features, PNI (hazard ratio [HR] 1.57; p = 0.016) and higher stage (HR 2.64; p < 0.001) were associated with decreased RFS, but SRC was not. Although PNI (HR 1.52; p = 0.007), higher stage (HR 2.11; p < 0.001), greater size (HR 1.05; p = 0.016), and adjuvant therapy (HR 0.50; p < 0.001) were associated with OS, SRC was not. Similarly, when accounting for adverse pathologic factors on multivariate analysis, stage-specific analyses showed no association between SRC and RFS or OS. SRC histology is associated with adverse pathologic features including poor differentiation, higher stage, and microscopically positive resection margins but is not independently associated with reduced RFS or OS. Identification of signet-ring histology during preoperative evaluation should not, in isolation, dictate treatment strategy.
42. Challenges in thermo-mechanical stress modeling

Structural integrity in cryopreservation by vitrification is most significantly affected by the coupled phenomena of heat transfer, solid mechanics, and the kinetics of ice crystallization.Structural integrity may be hampered in one of two primary ways:(i) by changes to the physical properties of the tissue, resulting from a sequence of events triggered by ice crystallization, and (ii) by irreversible structural changes due to mechanical stress—the focus of the current presentation.Structural damage may be expressed in the form of plastic deformation, where the material is undergoing irreversible changes of shape in response to applied forces.Structural damage may also be expressed in the form of fractures, which may be more relevant to cryopreservation by means of vitrification.The current presentation reviews the key mechanisms leading to thermo-mechanical stress.In particular to classic cryopreservation, this presentation highlights inconsistencies in using commercial codes to simulate thermo-mechanical stress at the freezing front.The application of such commercial codes may lead to ironic simulations results not only around the freezing front but in the entire frozen region.While the underlying principles have been identified as early as in 1963 by Weiner and Boley, and the specific inconsistencies in the context of cryobiology in 1997 by Rabin and Steif, occasional scientific publications appear to be oblivious to those fundamental aspects.In particular to cryopreservation by vitrification, the current presentation reviews stress-relaxation aspects, which can be harnessed to reduce the likelihood of fracture.Whether in the context of classical cryopreservation or in the context of vitrification, this presentation highlights why fractures often occur at the onset of rewarming rather than during cooling.While such fracture occurrences are often perceived as counter-intuitive, they are consistent with experimental observations. Acknowledgments This project is supported by Award Number R21EB011751 from the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering , Award Number R21RR026210 from the National Center for Research Resources , and Award Number R21GM103407 from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences .
Adaptive Model Generation

Data mining-based intrusion detection systems (IDSs) have significant advantages over signature-based IDSs since they are designed to generalize models of network audit data to detect new attacks. However, data mining-based IDSs are difficult to deploy in practice due to the complexity of collecting and managing audit data to train the data mining-based detection models. In this paper, we present Adaptive Model Generation (AMG), a real time architecture for implementing data mining-based intrusion detection systems. This architecture solves the problems associated with data mining-based IDSs by automating the collection of data, the generation and deployment of detection models, and the real-time evaluation of data. It is a distributed system with general classes of components that can be easily changed within the framework of the system. We also present specific examples of system components including auditing sub-systems, model generators for misuse detection and anomaly detection, and support for visualization and correlation of multiple audit sources.
The Concept of Immortality in Chinese Thought

In this lecture, I shall attempt to present a historical study of the development of the conceptions of immortality or human survival after death as they have been evolved in China throughout the various stages of Chinese religious and philosophical history.
Local dynamics in bargaining networks via random-turn games

We present a new technique for analyzing the rate of convergence of local dynamics in bargaining networks. The technique reduces balancing in a bargaining network to optimal play in a randomturn game. We analyze this game using techniques from martingale and Markov chain theory. We obtain a tight polynomial bound on the rate of convergence for a nontrivial class of unweighted graphs (the previous known bound was exponential). Additionally, we show this technique extends naturally to many other graphs and dynamics.
Weed Management Strategies in Soybean

The purpose of this study was to evaluate preemergence and post-emergence applied herbicides for weed efficacy and crop phytotoxicity in a glyphosate-resistant soybean variety.
Adjustable zone microwave ablation

According to The National Cancer Institute, over 1.6 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in the United States in 2015. Of those diagnosed, more than 50% of patients experience liver metastasis. Only 30% of patients with liver metastasis tumors will have disease amenable to surgical resection due to high surgical risk or unfavorable anatomy. One successful treatment technique for the removal of tumors formed in the liver has been Radio Frequency (RF) ablation in the last two decades. Recently, microwave (MW) ablation emerged as a new technology with potential to eliminate the problems associated with RF ablation. Some of the problems associated with RF ablation include high power requirements (up to 200W), the use of ground pads and associated skin burns, and the small zone of ablation (∼mm). In contrast to RF ablation, MW ablation uses higher frequencies (915 MHz and 2.4 GHz) and work on an electromagnetic energy propagation principle. When the microwave power is turned on, an antenna on the MW probe radiates electromagnetic energy into the tissue creating the ablation zone. As a result, besides the heart, MW ablation can be used for many organs such as lung and bones with higher impedance values where RF ablation would fail. Despite many advantages, there are still major problems associated with the current MW ablation systems. These problems are mainly due to the narrowband nature of the antennas used in these systems.
Specimen size effects in the off-axis compression test of unidirectional carbon fiber tow composites

Specimen size effects in the off-axis compression test for unidirectional carbon fiber tow composites were studied by subjecting coupon specimens of different lengths and widths to off-axis compression under static and low velocity impact loading. Specimens were cut such that the fibers are at angles of 15, 30, 45 and 60° to the direction of loading. A modified compression fixture with anti-buckling side supports was used to carry out the tests. Static tests were carried out on a hydraulically activated MTS loading frame, where specimens were subjected to displacement controlled loading. Low velocity impact tests were conducted on a drop tower facility. A three strain gage rosette was used to measure global strains. Load was measured using a load cell. Due to the unique microstructure of the specimens, a modified three parameter orthotropic plasticity characterization of the plastic response was used and the constants associated with this characterization were determined uniquely. It is shown that the orthotropic plastic response of the material is affected by specimen size primarily due to the mechanism of load introduction in the off-axis test and load transfer through the fiber tow/matrix interface that is prevalent in the material.
Critical Social Theory and the Contemporary World

The far-reaching historical transformations of recent decades, including the decline of the Keynesian/Fordist organization of polity and economy in the West, the collapse of party-state command economies in the East, and the emergence of a neo-liberal capitalist global order, suggest that contemporary critical theory must be centrally concerned with historical dynamics and large-scale structural changes. The paper argues that these broad developments can best be apprehended by a theory premised on the Marxian theory of capital, but only if that category is fundamentally reconceptualized in ways that distinguish it from its usage in traditional Marxist interpretations.
Incorporation of 9-β-d-arabinofuranosyl-2-fluoroadenine into HL-60 cellular RNA and DNA☆

The incorporation of 9-beta-D-arabinofuranosyl-2-fluoroadenine (F-ara-A) into HL-60 cellular nucleic acids was monitored by cesium sulfate gradient centrifugation. The results demonstrated that F-ara-A incorporated into both RNA and DNA. These findings are in contrast to those previously obtained with 1-beta-D-arabinofuranosylcytosine (ara-C) and 9-beta-arabinofuranosyladenine (ara-A) which demonstrated incorporation of these nucleosides only in DNA. F-ara-A inhibited HL-60 proliferation, and the incorporation of F-ara-A into both DNA and RNA correlated with loss of clonogenic survival. Furthermore, cytostatic concentrations of F-ara-A resulted in the appearance of a more mature phenotype, a finding consistent with the effects of other inhibitors of DNA synthesis. The incorporation of F-ara-A into RNA and DNA should provide new insights regarding the mechanism of action of this agent.
Statistical analysis of primary and secondary atmospheric formaldehyde

Regression models coupled with time series data were used to analyze the contribution of primary and secondary sources to formaldehyde (HCHO) concentrations,as determined by statistical analogy to primary (carbon monoxide, CO) and secondary (ozone,O 3) compounds measured simultaneously in Houston,TX. Time series analyses substantiated the need for statistical methods of analysis,given the complexity of the data and the rapid fluctuations that occur in atmospheric concentrations. A positive relationship was found for both the auto-correlation function (ACF) and partial auto-correlation function (PACF) of HCHO with either CO or O3. Regression models used to distinguish primary and secondary contributions included a simple linear regression of the three compounds (one lag unit of time,5 min) on current HCHO concentrations,resulting in a ratio of secondary formation to primary emission of 1.7. A second,more robust model utilized auto-correlated error processes to approximate the true nature of the linear regression; this model also indicates the ratio of secondary to primary contribution at 1.7 as the mean of ten model simulations. From the error processes model,one lag unit of time was most significant for CO predicting HCHO, while simultaneous measurements (lag 0) were most significant for O3 predicting HCHO. Outlying O3 and HCHO concentrations were shown not to affect the results. r 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
The height of 9.1 cm solar emission from latitude shift

Active regions that are sources of microwave solar emission should appear displaced in latitude relative to the associated optical feature and from this displacement it should be possible to deduce the height. Although the displacement is only about one-third of a min of arc at the most, it was found possible, in an investigation based on 1264 cases in 1970, to obtain a height with a precision as good as or better than has generally been achieved in previous studies based on the rate of motion in longitude. This success could be due to the possibility of using large quantities of data or to tolerance of the method to both terrestrial atmospheric refraction and proper motion in heliographic longitude. The result obtained for 1970 was 18000 ± 5000 km (standard deviation). Application of the latitude method at other wavelengths would be desirable.
Physeal-sparing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with iliotibial band.

The knee is the most common site of injury in the skeletally immature athlete. Recent stimates prove that 6.7% of total anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and 30.8% of outh knee injuries occur in the pediatric population. There are controversies as to hether ACL injuries are truly on the rise because of increased participation and demands t a younger age or if it is a combination of heightened awareness and increased iagnostic imagery. Treatment of ACL injuries within this subpopulation is controversial s well. Whereas operative treatment places risk to the physis, nonoperative manageent may lead to functional instability, which predisposes the athlete to potential eniscal and/or chondral damage. Surgeons must also consider skeletal maturity, hysiologic age, desired goals, patient compliance, associated injuries, and relative urgical risk. By performing physeal-sparing intraarticular and extraarticular iliotibial (IT) and reconstruction of the ACL, risk of physeal injury is reduced and stability of the knee s restored. This article reviews the indications for IT band reconstruction of the ACL in the keletally immature athlete, surgical technique, pitfalls, and results of treatment.
Optically induced spin gates in coupled quantum dots using the electron-hole exchange interaction

Abstract : We propose a fast optically induced two-qubit C-PHASE gate between two resident spins in a pair of coupled quantum dots. An excited bound state which extends over the two dots provides an effective electron-electron exchange interaction. The gate is made possible by the electron-hole exchange interaction, which isolates a single transition in the system. When combined with appropriate single-qubit rotations, this gate generates an entangled state of the two spins.
Development of a toxicity evaluation program for dental materials and products. II. Screening for systemic toxicity

A series of systemic toxicity tests for various types of compounds are presented with illustrative data and discussed in regard to their relevance as potential screening tests for dental compounds and products. In developing and marketing a new dental material, it is important not only to ensure safety for the patient but also for the dentist, dental assistant, and laboratory worker who routinely handles and uses the product. Data are presented on a number of commercially available dental products as well as various chemical entities, which were tested by one or more of the methods described.
Relationship of varicocele grade and testicular hypotrophy

Purpose Surgical indications for correcting adolescent varicocele have included high varicocele grade and testicular hypotrophy. To date, these findings have not been correlated with semen parameters. The objective of our study was to examine the relationship between unilateral, left varicocele grade or testicular volume differential and semen parameters in adolescents. Material and methods Semen analyses were obtained in 57 Tanner Stage V adolescent males, ages 14 to 20 years (mean = 18, SD = 1.6). Varicocele grade was determined by the attending urologist. Testicular volumes were determined by scrotal ultrasound performed by an attending sonologist. Analysis of the data was performed using nonparametric statistical methods. Results Boys with testicular volume differentials >10% versus those with differentials 20% these decreases were more dramatic. Percent motile sperm was significantly lower for boys with volume differentials >20% versus those in the 20% volume differential category, 59% had very low total motile sperm counts ( Conclusions Sonographically derived volume differentials >10% between normal and affected testes correlate with significantly decreased sperm concentration and total motile sperm count. This finding may serve as a marker to identify those adolescents with unilateral, left varicocele at greatest risk for future infertility. At the very least, a semen analysis and close annual follow-up of these adolescents seems warranted.
Workshop report: the first ACM international workshop on multimedia databases (MMDB 2003) at ACM CIKM 2003

The motivation for organizing a workshop on “Multimedia Databases” at ACM International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management (ACM CIKM 2003) was the fact that more and more multimedia data are now available and effective management of these multimedia data is becoming a critical need. As a consequence, multimedia databases have emerged as an important research area. A multimedia database management system must provide the support for managing text, video, audio and image data, and it must also manage multimedia data types. In addition, the relationships between the objects and the representation of the spatial and/or temporal relationships may involve the extensions to the database management system.
Assessing cause and effect of multiple stressors on marine systems

An operational framework is developed to serve as a guideline for investigating causal relationships between environmental stressors and effects on marine biota. Because of the complexity and variability of many marine systems, multiple lines of evidence are needed to understand relationships between stressors and effects on marine resources. Within this framework, a weight of evidence approach based on multiple lines of evidence are developed and applied in a sequential manner by (1) characterizing the study system which involves determining if target biota are impaired, assessment of food and habitat availability, and measuring contaminant levels in the environment, (2) assessing direct effects of contaminant exposure on target biota using biomarkers and assessing indirect effects of exposure using suites of bioindicators, and (3) applying standard causal criteria based on epidemiological principles and diagnostic health profiling techniques to assess potential causes. Use of multiple lines of evidence should also reduce the risk of false positives (Type I error or falsely concluding that there is a causal relationship when there is none) and false negatives (Type II error or falsely concluding there is not a causal relationship when there actually is). Understanding causal relationships and the mechanistic processes between environmental stressors and effects on biota is important in the effective management and restoration of impaired marine ecosystems.
Bird's feather as a potential source of human fungus infection in bedding manufacture.

Summary: Feathers from 650 domestic birds representing 3 species namely chicken, geese, and ducks were examined mycologically for the presence of keratinophilic fungi. The percentage of isolates reached 40.4 % in chicken, 34.6 % in ducks, and 23.5 % in geese feathers. The isolated fungi were classified as Chrysosporium keratinophilum, Chr. indicum, Chr. sp., Trichophyton terrestre and Microsporum gypseum. The role of the contaminated feathers in bedding manufacture as a potential source of human skin fungus infection is thoroughly discussed. Furthermore, some suggestions have been proposed as to avoid such possible infections. Zusammenfassung: Federn von 650 Stuck Hausgeflugel, namlich Huhnern, Enten und Gansen, wurden auf keratinophile Pilze mykologisch untersucht. Die isolierten Pilze gehorten den Gattungen Chrysosporium, Trichophyton und Microsporum an. Positive Kulturen wurden bei 40,4 % der Huhnerfedern, 34,6 % der Entenfedern und 23,5 % der Gansefedern erhalten. Die Rolle der kontaminierten Federn als potentielle Infektionsquelle fur Hautpilzerkrankungen bei der Fabrikation von Bettzeug wird ausfuhrlich diskutiert. Auserdem werden einige Vorschlage zur Vermeidung derartiger moglicher Infektionen gemacht.
Microbiological studies of a ‘virgin’ salt-fresh water transect at North Point, James Bay II. Mycological aspects

Numbers of fungi were determined in water and sediment samples from a ‘virgin’ salt-fresh water transect at North Point, James Bay. Fungal densities in the water samples showed an approximately linear increase from 28–70 CFU/100 ml, at the salt water extremity of the transect, to 13–16,000 CFU/100 ml at the freshwater extremity. Sediment fungal densities were also higher in the inland samples. There was no apparent difference between the numbers of fungi estimated using enumeration media prepared with distilled or saline water. Data are discussed in relation to the physical, chemical and organic status of the water, the nature of the surrounding vegetation and possible sources of the enumerated fungi.
Solvent-induced EPR anisotropy change of the non-heme chromophore of spinach ferredoxin.

Reversible changes in the EPR magnetic anisotropy of spinach ferredoxin due to small amounts of CH3OH and n-propanol in pH 7.4 tris buffer suggest a weak perturbation of the native conformation of the 2Fe2S group and the protein to which it is bonded. The optical absorption, circular dichroism and average g-value of the 2Fe2S chromophore are conserved in this transformation, while the g-value anisotropy changes are relatively large. These solvent induced variations in the g-values are shown to be consistent with the relative variations of g-values between other non-heme iron proteins, which are of the 2Fe2S type.
Detecting black-hole attack in mobile ad hoc networks

The paper presents a general approach for detecting black-hole attacks in mobile ad hoc networks, which, due to their mobility and being broadcast in nature, are particularly vulnerable to attacks compared to traditional wired networks. In particular, black-hole attacks can be easily deployed by an adversary. To defend against this attack, we devise a neighborhood-based method to detect whether a black hole attack exists and a routing recovery protocol to set up a correct path to the true destination. Our methods have the remarkable advantage that the number of encryption/decryption operations for authentication is much reduced compared to those methods completely relying on cryptography-based authentication, thus saving many system resources (e.g. reducing energy consumption). Through simulation, we evaluate these methods in terms of packet throughput, routing control overhead, detection probability, false positive probability and false negative probability. Simulation results show that our methods can effectively detect black hole attacks in the sense that detection probability (the probability that one attacker might be detected) in most cases is above 93%. At the same time, it does not introduce much routing control overhead. With the routing recovery mechanism, the packet throughput can be improved by at least 15% and the false positive probability of the detection approach is very low (less than 1.7%).
Corrosion behavior of TiN Ion Plated M-50 Bearing Steel

In the present investigation the pitting corrosion behavior of TiN ion plated M-50 bearing steel was studied. Ion plated TiN thin films were produced in an activated plasma containing Ar and N2 gases at 500 °C. Titanium was evaporated into the reactive atmosphere. The films averaged 2.6 μm thickness. The chemical state of the resultant film was evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) using Cu-Kα and Mg-Kα X-ray radiation, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to characterize the film morphology and the characteristic of the surface corrosive action during testing. Corrosion testing was carried out potentiodynamically in a deaerated, 3.5 pct NaCl aqueous solution at 25 °C. Test results indicated that TiN ion plated samples had as much as five orders of magnitude lower corrosion current density than control (uncoated) samples.