cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Law Reform Act 1945 and Breaches of Contract

The almost complete judicial silence concerning the application of the Law Reform (Contributory Negligence) Act 1945 ('The 1945 Act') to breaches of contract has been broken in the last few years by a handful of cases. Whilst an attempt has been made at a systematic breakdown of the types of breach to which the 1945 Act should apply, it seems that it has not been completely accepted, and it is a pity that in the two most recent Court of Appeal cases on the subject Forsikringsaktiselskapet Vesta v Butcher' and Tennant Radiant Heat v Warrington District Council2 the House of Lords has not been called upon to consider the matter. There can be no doubt that the 1945 Act should apply in a contractual context at least to some extent, and that it does so. Given that the received view is that there is no common law defence of contributory negligence to a breach of contract,3 its application is necessary to avoid the iniquitous situation whereby a negligent plaintiff can avoid his partial liability by electing to sue in contract rather than in tort, reminiscent of Mrs Letang's attempt to circumvent the Limitation Act by suing in trespass rather than in negligence.4 On the other hand, the language of the 1945 Act does not lend itself to the view that the defence of contributory negligence is open to all breaches of contract; it calls for 'fault' on both sides,5 and so is unsuitable for non-negligent breaches of contract. Thus, two different situations arise, each calling for different applications of the 1945 Act: when the contract is breached in such a way as to render it tortious, it should be treated as such for the purposes of the 1945 Act; where, however, the breach has occurred without fault by the defendant, he cannot plead that the damages should be reduced by the plaintiff under the 1945 Act. This leads to the illogical situation whereby the greater the culpability of the contract-breaker, the less he may have to pay the party injured (albeit partly through this own fault): innocent breaches may cost the defendant dear, notwithstanding the plaintiff's own negligence. However, this is the only means of reconciling the wording of the 1945 Act with the situation, although a solution may be forthcoming from other branches of the rules as to damages.6 Hobhouse J, sitting at first instance in Vesta v Butcher,7 was the first English judge to lay down categories of case for the purpose of applying the 1945 Act to breaches of contract:8
Dynamics of a Natural Circulation Loop: Analysis and Experiments

A dynamic one-dimensional model of a simple rectangular natural circulation loop with tube bundles in the two vertical legs has been simulated. A supporting experimental study using water at atmospheric pressure as the working fluid has been conducted to obtain data to verify the model. Good agreement was obtained between the predicted and measured mixed-mean fluid temperatures and surface temperatures of the tube bundle as well as the loop piping and insulation temperatures at several locations around the system. A number of different simulations and tests have been performed and are discussed. In general, at steady state there was less than 7% deviation between the model predictions and the test data, which indicates that the one-dimensional model is capable of predicting the transient temperature response of the loop structural components and of the circulating fluid.
Controlling Aflatoxin and Fumonisin in Maize by Crop Management

Maize is a vital food and feed grain worldwide. Aflatoxin and fumonisin, mycotoxins produced primarily by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus Speare, and Fusarium moniliforme J. Sheld, respectively, are very potent carcinogens in both humans and livestock and can readily contaminate maize grain in the field and in storage. Stress on developing maize, particularly during reproductive growth, facilitates infection by the fungi, production of mycotoxins and contamination of the grain. Drought, excessive heat, inadequate plant nutrition, insect feeding on developing kernels, weeds, excessive plant populations, and other plant diseases can produce plant stress and facilitate the infection of maize grain by mycotoxin producing fungi. Timely planting of adapted hybrids, proper plant nutrition, irrigation, and insect control either by insecticides or the use of transgenic hybrids all assist in curbing mycotoxin contamination. Production practices that produce high yields are basically the sam...
Association of Pain and Itch With Depth of Invasion and Inflammatory Cell Constitution in Skin Cancer: Results of a Large Clinicopathologic Study

Importance This study highlights a simple bedside evaluation of itch and pain for suspicious skin lesions. Objective To examine the correlation of pain and itch with histologic features of skin cancers. Design, Setting, and Participants This large, prospective, clinicopathologic study enrolled patients who filled out questionnaires that assessed itch and pain intensity of their skin tumors at the time of excision. Study participants were from the patient population presenting to the Department of Dermatology surgical unit at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center from July 1, 2010, through March 31, 2011. Study participants included 268 patients, representing 339 histopathologically confirmed cutaneous neoplasms. The following skin cancer subtypes were represented in this analysis: 166 basal cell carcinomas, 146 squamous cell carcinomas, and 27 melanomas. Main Outcomes and Measures Itch and pain associated with skin cancer at the time of excision ranked on an 11-point (score range, 0-10) numerical visual analog scale and histopathologic analysis for each neoplasm (assessment of the amount and type of inflammation, ulceration, perineural invasion, and depth of invasion). Results The prevalence of itch and pain across all skin cancers was 36.9% and 28.2%, respectively. However, these symptoms were mostly absent in melanomas. Pain intensity was significantly associated with the degree of inflammation (mild or none vs moderate or marked; P P = .003), presence of eosinophils (present vs absent; P = .007), ulceration (yes vs no; P = .003), perineural invasion (yes vs no; P P = .001), and largest diameter length of skin lesion ( P P = .001) and the presence of eosinophils (present vs absent; P = .02). Conclusions and Relevance These findings support the theory that itch emanates from the upper layers of the skin, whereas pain is associated with deeper processes. This study also reports that a simple bedside assessment for the presence and intensity of pain or itch is an easily implementable tool for physicians evaluating suspicious skin lesions.
Hemodynamic Determinants of Doppler Pulmonary Venous Flow Velocity Components: New Insights From Studies in Lightly Sedated Normal Dogs

Abstract Objectives. We sought to define the hemodynamic determinants of pulmonary venous (PV) flow velocities to assess how these are affected by respiration, heart rate and loading conditions. Background. Pulmonary venous flow velocity (PVFV) recorded with pulsed wave Doppler technique is currently used in the noninvasive evaluation of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function and filling pressures. Although previous studies in both animals and humans have shown that PV flow is pulsatile, the hemodynamic determinants of the individual components of this flow remain controversial. Understanding the physiologic mechanisms should help to better define the clinical utility of these Doppler techniques. Methods. PV flow velocities obtained with transesophageal pulsed wave Doppler imaging were recorded together with PV, left atrial (LA) and LV pressures in 10 sedated, spontaneously breathing normal dogs. PVFV and hemodynamic data were analyzed during apnea, inspiration and expiration, at atrial paced heart rates of 60, 80, 100 and 120 beats/min and mean LA pressures of 6, 12, 18 and 24 mm Hg. Results. The data showed that 1) PV pressure varied depending on recording site, resembling pulmonary artery pressure closer to the pulmonary capillary bed and LA pressure closer to the venoatrial junction; 2) PVFV qualitatively followed changes in the PV–LA pressure gradient; 3) four PVFV components exist under normal conditions—three of which follow phasic changes in LA pressure and one of which (the late systolic component) is more influenced by RV stroke volume and the compliance of the pulmonary veins and left atrium; 4) normal respiration and changes in heart rate significantly alter PVFV variables—in particular, reverse flow velocity at atrial contraction; and 5) increasing LA pressure results in larger PV A wave and PV early systolic flow velocities, as well as an earlier peak in PV late systolic flow velocity and a more prominent velocity minimum before PV diastolic flow. Conclusions. Using transesophageal pulsed wave Doppler technique, four PVFV components are identifiable and determined by PV–LA hemodynamic pressure gradients. These gradients appear to be influenced by a combination of physiologic events that include RV stroke volume, the compliance of the pulmonary vasculature and left atrium and phasic changes in LA pressure. PV flow velocity components are significantly influenced by heart rate, respiration and LA pressure. These findings have implications for the interpretation of LV diastolic function and filling pressures by current Doppler echocardiographic techniques but require further clinical investigation.
Greater potency of IGF-I than IGF-I/BP-3 complex in catabolic parenterally fed rats.

We compared the anabolic effects of recombinant human insulin-like growth factor I (rhIGF-I, 2.5 mg/kg) and equimolar amounts of rhIGF-I prebound to rhIGF binding protein-3 (rhIGF-I/BP-3) coinfused...
Characterization of Third Order Distortion in InGaAsP Optical Phase Modulator Monolithically Integrated with Balanced UTC Photodetector

We demonstrate a novel, dynamic characterization technique for measuring third order distortion products in an InGaAsP phase modulator. The phase modulator exhibits an output phase IP3 of 4.4?.
Teaming up: from motors to people

When I reflect on how I became a cell biologist and why I love being one today, one thing that comes to mind is the many terrific collaborations I have had. The science I am most proud of from my graduate and postdoctoral training would not have been possible without working in teams with other scientists. Now, in my own group, much of our best work is being done collaboratively, both within the lab and with other labs. In this essay, I will highlight my experiences working in teams as a trainee, the role teamwork has played in my own research group, and how important I think collaborative science is for the future of biological research.
Effect of Interaction of Aluminum Hydroxycarbonate Gel and Magnesium Hydroxide Gel on Acid Neutralization

Acid neutralization by mixtures of aluminum hydroxycarbonate gel and magnesium hydroxide gel differs from the sum of the acid neutralization of each gel. Acid neutralization by magnesium hydroxide gel in the mixture is not observed until after a substantial portion of the aluminum hydroxycarbonate gel has reacted with acid, even though magnesium hydroxide gel is the faster reacting of the two gels. It is hypothesized that amorphous aluminum hydroxycarbonate forms a coating on the crystalline magnesium hydroxide particles due to electrostatic attraction. This coating prevents protons from reaching the highly reactive magnesium hydroxide until the coating is dissolved by the acid neutralization of aluminum hydroxycarbonate.
Endocytosis of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases

Endocytosis is the major regulator of signaling from receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). The canonical model of RTK endocytosis involves rapid internalization of an RTK activated by ligand binding at the cell surface and subsequent sorting of internalized ligand-RTK complexes to lysosomes for degradation. Activation of the intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity of RTKs results in autophosphorylation, which is mechanistically coupled to the recruitment of adaptor proteins and conjugation of ubiquitin to RTKs. Ubiquitination serves to mediate interactions of RTKs with sorting machineries both at the cell surface and on endosomes. The pathways and kinetics of RTK endocytic trafficking, molecular mechanisms underlying sorting processes, and examples of deviations from the standard trafficking itinerary in the RTK family are discussed in this work.
ml‐relate: a computer program for maximum likelihood estimation of relatedness and relationship

Genetic data are useful for estimating the genealogical relationship or relatedness between individuals of unknown ancestry. We present a computer program, ml - relate that calculates maximum likelihood estimates of relatedness and relationship. ml - relate is designed for microsatellite data and can accommodate null alleles. It uses simulation to determine which relationships are consistent with genotype data and to compare putative relationships with alternatives. ml - relate runs on the Microsoft Windows operating system and is available from www.montana.edu/kalinowski.
Navigating the System: How Transgender Individuals Engage in Health Care Services.

Purpose Transgender individuals (TIs) experience a number of healthcare disparities that result in compromised access to health care, placing them at high risk for poor health outcomes. Despite their unique health concerns, there is little known about how they engage in health care. The purpose of this grounded theory study was to construct a theoretical framework that depicts the process by which transgender individuals engage in health care. Methods In this grounded theory study, data from interviews with 25 individuals who self-identified as transgender were used to develop a theoretical framework that depicts the process by which TIs engage in health care. Data analysis included open coding, category formation, and theoretical coding. Constant comparative analysis was used to facilitate theory generation. Conclusions The central phenomenon of how TIs engage in health care was the core process of navigating the system. The core process involves four subprocesses: needing to move forward, doing due diligence, finding loopholes, and making it work. Clinical Relevance The theoretical framework of navigating the system can provide healthcare providers with a way to understand how TIs engage in health care as they move through the subprocesses of moving forward, doing due diligence, finding loopholes, and making it work in order to get their healthcare needs met. With a better understanding of the healthcare journeys of TIs, healthcare providers can provide better care for this population and advocate for change in policies that contribute to the health disparities TIs experience.
Bypass surgery for the prevention of ischemic stroke: current indications and techniques

Abstract Introduction Although most ischemic strokes are thromboembolic in origin and their management is endovascular or medical, some are haemodynamic in origin and their management may be surgical. We reviewed bypass indications, patient selection and surgical techniques used in our current practice. Methods Extracranial-intracranial (EC-iC) bypass with superior temporal artery-to-middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass, high-flow interposition grafts and reconstructive techniques were used to treat patients with symptomatic ischemia. Results During a 13-year period, 152 bypasses were performed for ischemia in 129 patients. Specific diagnoses included: (1) internal carotid artery (iCA) occlusion (58 bypasses); (2) MCA occlusion and, rarely, high-grade MCA stenosis (22 bypasses); (3) vertebrobasilar atherosclerotic steno-occlusive disease (2 bypasses); (4) moyamoya disease (65 bypasses); and (5) ischemic complications after aneurysm treatment (5 bypasses). of the 152 bypasses, 137 were conventional STA-MCA bypasses. fourteen patients had high-flow bypasses that included 4 “double-barrel” STA-MCA bypasses, 6 bypasses with interposition grafts to the cervical carotid artery, 2 subclavian artery-to-MCA bypasses, 1 MCA-to-posterior cerebral artery (PCA) bypass and 1 aorto-carotid bypass. The bypass patency rate was 96.1%. Conclusions Bypass surgery for the prevention of ischemic stroke is safe and elegant techniques have been developed. Patients with athero-occlusive disease, ischemic symptoms and haemodynamic insufficiency have significant risk of stroke if managed medically or left untreated. However, surgical intervention lacks supporting evidence from the recent Carotid occlusion Surgery Study (CoSS). Patients will be caught in a difficult position between a dismal natural history and an unproven surgical intervention. Clinicians must individualise their management until additional data are published or further consensus develops.
Batch effects and pathway analysis: Two potential perils in cancer studies involving DNA methylation array analysis

Background: DNA methylation microarrays have become an increasingly popular means of studying the role of epigenetics in cancer, though the methods used to analyze these arrays are still being developed and existing methods are not always widely disseminated among microarray users. Methods: We investigated two problems likely to confront DNA methylation microarray users: 1) batch effects; and 2) the use of widely available pathway analysis software to analyze results. First, DNA taken from individuals exposed to low and high levels of drinking water arsenic were plated twice on Illumina's Infinium 450K humanmethylation array, once in order of exposure and again following randomization. Second, we performed simulations in which random CpG sites were drawn from the 450K array and subjected to pathway analysis using Ingenuity's IPA software. Results: The majority of differentially methylated CpG sites identified in Run One were due to batch effects; few sites were also identified in Run Two. In addition, the pathway analysis software reported many significant associations between our data, randomly drawn from the 450K array, and various diseases and biological functions. Conclusions: Data from our own laboratory illustrate the pitfalls of not properly controlling for chip-specific batch effects as well as using pathway analysis software created for gene expression arrays to analyze DNA methylation array data. Impact: We present evidence that 1) chip-specific effects can simulate plausible differential methylation results; and 2) popular pathway analysis software developed for expression arrays can yield spurious results when used in tandem with methylation microarrays.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Regulation of Diurnal Transcription in Chlamydomonas

We analyzed global transcriptome changes during synchronized cell division in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The Chlamydomonas cell cycle consists of a long G1 phase, followed by an S/M phase with multiple rapid, alternating rounds of DNA replication and segregation. We found that the S/M period is associated with strong induction of ∼2300 genes, many with conserved roles in DNA replication or cell division. Other genes, including many involved in photosynthesis, are reciprocally downregulated in S/M, suggesting a gene expression split correlating with the temporal separation between G1 and S/M. The Chlamydomonas cell cycle is synchronized by light-dark cycles, so in principle, these transcriptional changes could be directly responsive to light or to metabolic cues. Alternatively, cell-cycle-periodic transcription may be directly regulated by cyclin-dependent kinases. To distinguish between these possibilities, we analyzed transcriptional profiles of mutants in the kinases CDKA and CDKB, as well as other mutants with distinct cell cycle blocks. Initial cell-cycle-periodic expression changes are largely CDK independent, but later regulation (induction and repression) is under differential control by CDKA and CDKB. Deviation from the wild-type transcriptional program in diverse cell cycle mutants will be an informative phenotype for further characterization of the Chlamydomonas cell cycle.
Recent Progress in Bed Bug Management

The world-wide resurgence of the bed bug, Cimex lectularius L., has prompted new investigations into their control. In part the resurgence may be explained by the evolution and spread of resistance to pyrethroids, which have been a mainstay for controlling bed bugs and other indoor pests. The magnitude, distribution, and mechanisms of resistance will be presented and discussed here. Pyrethroid resistance has necessitated a switch to other classes of insecticides and control tactics, some of which we have studied. Heat treatments have proven to be effective, but only when reintroduction of bed bugs can be prevented. Direct control with steam, freezing, and vacuuming can kill or remove insects that are within the limited range of these laborious techniques. Chlorfenapyr and neonicotinoids, the latter being marketed as combination products with pyrethroids, have thus far been effective in killing pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs. Desiccants and other insecticidal dusts often have a role to play in multifaceted control programs. DDVP, a volatile organophosphate insecticide could help to eliminate bugs and their eggs from difficult to treat items. Many insecticides will kill bed bugs if they are directly sprayed with the formulated insecticides. Bed bug control is made much more difficult by the surreptitious behaviors of the insects. There is an acute need for insecticides with residual activity that can be safely used in this sensitive setting so that host and harborage seeking bugs will be exposed. Integration of chemical and non-chemical methods is recommended, because no single approach, other than specialized applications such as fumigation or area-wide heat treatment, has been shown to be consistently effective. Perhaps the greatest need for the pest management industry is a way to detect less obvious infestations and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment programs. Well-trained dogs can be effective in detecting bed bugs under certain conditions, but are expensive to train and maintain. There is a plethora of traps on the market, including those that take advantage of the inherent responses of bed bugs to heat and CO2, and other host odors. The unusual mating behavior in which the male introduces sperm directly into the female’s body cavity is a possible vulnerability for future applications.
GSK-3α Is a Novel Target of CREB and CREB-GSK-3α Signaling Participates in Cell Viability in Lung Cancer

Overexpression or activation of cyclic AMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) has been known to be involved in several human malignancies, including lung cancer. Genes regulated by CREB have been reported to suppress apoptosis, induce cell proliferation, inflammation, and tumor metastasis. However, the critical target genes of CREB in lung cancer have not been well understood. Here, we identified GSK-3α as one of the CREB target genes which is critical for the viability of lung cancer cells. The CREB knockdown significantly reduced the expression of GSK-3α and the direct binding of CREB on the promoter of GSK3A was identified. Kaplan-Meier analysis with a public database showed a prognostic significance of aberrant GSK-3α expression in lung cancer. Inhibition of GSK-3α suppressed cell viability, colony formation, and tumor growth. For the first time, we demonstrated that GSK-3α is regulated by CREB in lung cancer and is required for the cell viability. These findings implicate CREB-GSK-3α axis as a novel therapeutic target for lung cancer treatment.
Toward an Anthropology of Landmines: Rogue Infrastructure and Military Waste in the Korean DMZ

Drawing on research in the borderlands of South Korea near the Korean Demilitarized Zone, this essay analyzes the heterogeneous life of landmines in postconflict militarized ecologies. Humanitarian narratives typically frame mines as deadly remnants of war, which aligns with postcolonial critiques viewing them as traces of imperial power and ongoing violence. Given that landmines and other unexploded ordnance can remain live for up to a hundred years, I suggest that mines and minefields become infrastructural when their distributed agency is redistributed over time, bringing into view nonhuman agencies and affordances that might otherwise go undetected in humanitarian or postcolonial critiques. I offer the framework of rogue infrastructure to capture the volatile materiality of mines and their multiple natural, cultural, technical, and political entanglements with the humans who exist alongside them.
Development Status,Existing Problems and Countermeasures of Aquaculture Industry in China

As aquatic products are the main source of animal protein for urban and rural residents,they are of great importance in production and living.With the rapid growth of demand for aquatic products,as the main form of aquatic production,aquaculture is of great significance to safeguard and increase the effective supply of aquatic products in China.Based on analyzing the current development status of the aquaculture industry,the industrial development problems were analyzed,and several corresponding countermeasures to promote the development of the aquaculture industry in China were put forward.
Genetic sequence analysis of circumsporozoite protein of Plasmodium vivax from Henan Province

Aim: To explore circumsporozoite protein( CSP) genotypes structure of Plasmodium vivax( P. vivax) in Henan. Methods: Blood samples of 34 malaria patients from Henan Province in 2011 were collected to extract DNA,and amplified using nested PCR technique,and the product was sequenced and analyzed. Results: The results showed that the 24 specimens from Henan indigenous cases all belonged to PV-Ⅰ; amino acid homology analysis showed that the specimens could be divided into two genotypes: A and B,the sequence of type A showed 90. 6%- 94. 2% homology to VK210,while type B showed 71. 6%. Conclusion: The P. vivax CSP genotype of Henan all belongs to PV-Ⅰ,and it can be further divided into two genotypes,which is significantly different from other countries.
Primary Discussion of Classification and Evaluation of EC Web Station

Electronic commerce is a new topic of commerce. It is the biggest gold reef of the 21st century. It is a new model of commerce building on the economy of network. It is changing our life mode. thought mode. and commerce mode. This paper starts to analyze EC web station from the conception of EC web station. Trough the analyzing of the conception of EC web station, we spread out the evaluation of EC web station and its classification, then attain purpose of comprehending the EC and EC web station in the essence.
Numerical simulation of structural parameters of large section pillarless sublevel caving of Jinshandian Ore Mine

Aiming at the problem of pillarless sublevel caving structural parameters of the third period mining area of Jinshandian Ore Mine,the possible structural parameters are simulated and analyzed by using sublevel caving simulation system –SLS which is developed by Northeastern University of China and the geotechnical engineer software-FLAC3D which is developed by ITASCA Inc.The numerical experiment indicates that independent advance of ore breaking influences the recovery index evidently,and the independent advance of ore breaking of 3.5-4.5 m has more advantage in recovery index.Also considering the rock blasting effect,the independent advance of ore breaking of 3.5 m is recommended.The numerical simulation of sequential excavation of tunnel groups in a mine block is also carried out.By analyzing the displacements,stresses and plastic zone of excavation simulation,it is concluded that the tunnel groups have satisfactory stability with the designed structural parameters.To sum up,sublevel height of 14 m,drift interval of 16 m,tunnel width of 3.6 m and tunnel height of 3.2 m are reasonable for both the recovery index and the surrounding rock stability.
Probing Ca 2+ -Binding Capability of Viral Proteins with the EF-Hand Motif by Grafting Approach

Ca(2+) is implicated in almost every step of the life cycle of viruses, including virus entry into host cells, virus replication, virion assembly, maturation, and release. However, due to the lack of prediction algorithms and rigorous validation methods, only limited cases of viral Ca(2+)-binding sites are reported. Here, we introduce a method to predict continuous EF-hand or EF-hand-like motifs in the viral genomes based on their primary sequences. We then introduce a grafting approach, and the use of luminescence resonance energy transfer and Ca(2+) competition assay for experimental verification of predicted Ca(2+)-binding sites. This protocol will be valuable for the prediction and identification of unknown Ca(2+)-binding sites in virus.
Asbestosis and the serratus anterior muscle

Twenty-seven patients with a history of asbestos exposure were reviewed at the UCLA Medical Center in December 1981. All patients were referred by the United States Department of Labor. The patients were told they had asbestosis on the basis of their history of exposure and chest radiographs taken at a local asbestos screening program and initially interpreted by a "B" reader. None of the 27 patients reviewed were found to have evidence of asbestosis either clinically or radiographically. The false-positive radiographic interpretations were due to the extrathoracic musculature (serratus anterior) mimicking intrathoracic disease. Since the study described here was done, an additional 330 patients have had their radiographs reviewed.
Evaluation and Treatment of the Swimming Athlete

This chapter focuses on the swimming athlete and covers each of the four competitive swimming strokes including biomechanics and swim stroke phases, muscle activation, and existing normative values. Additionally, movement errors and how these contribute to pain and injury are reviewed. We discuss injury incidence and prevalence in the swimming athlete and thorough review treatment and rehabilitation of these injuries.
Body Size-Specific Organ and Effective Doses of Chest CT Screening Examinations of the National Lung Screening Trial.

OBJECTIVE. We calculated body size–specific organ and effective doses for 23,734 participants in the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) using a CT dose calculator. MATERIALS AND METHODS. We collected participant-specific technical parameters of 23,734 participants who underwent CT in the clinical trial. For each participant, we calculated two sets of organ doses using two methods. First, we computed body size–specific organ and effective doses using the National Cancer Institute CT (NCICT) dosimetry program, which is based on dose coefficients derived from a library of body size–dependent adult male and female computational phantoms. We then recalculated organ and effective doses using dose coefficients from reference size phantoms for all examinations to investigate potential errors caused by the lack of body size consideration in the dose calculations. RESULTS. The underweight participants (body mass index [BMI; weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters] < 18.5) received 1.3-fold g...
Examining the Alternative Media Ecosystem Through the Production of Alternative Narratives of Mass Shooting Events on Twitter

This research explores the alternative media ecosystem through a Twitter lens. Over a ten-month period, we collected tweets related to alternative narratives — for example, conspiracy theories — of mass shooting events. We utilized tweeted URLs to generate a domain network, connecting domains shared by the same user, then conducted qualitative analysis to understand the nature of different domains and how they connect to each other. Our findings demonstrate how alternative news sites propagate and shape alternative narratives, while mainstream media deny them. We explain how political leanings of alternative news sites do not align well with a U.S. left-right spectrum, but instead feature an anti-globalist (versus globalist) orientation where U.S. Alt-Right sites look similar to U.S. Alt-Left sites. Our findings describe a subsection of the emerging alternative media ecosystem and provide insight in how websites that promote conspiracy theories and pseudo-science may function to conduct underlying political agendas.
Dependence of the Bremsstrahlung Spectral Temperature in Minimum-B Electron Cyclotron Resonance Ion Sources

The spectral temperature $T_{s}$ obtained from bremsstrahlung spectra emitted from electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) ion sources (ECRISs), in which the plasma is confined in a minimum-B magnetic field, is used as a relative indication of the temperature of the plasma hot electrons. Past bremsstrahlung measurements taken on ECRISs indicate that $T_{s}$ is strongly dependent on the magnetic field gradient at the resonance zone or $({B_{\mathrm{ min}}}/{B_{\mathrm{ ECR}}})$ . However, this dependence was never fully proven or explained. To further our understanding a more detailed study of the bremsstrahlung radiation for X-rays above 10 keV is underway using VENUS, a third-generation ECRIS at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Initial analysis of previous and new data has revealed that $T_{s}$ appears to be dependent solely on the minimum magnetic field $B_{\mathrm{ min}}$ rather than $({B_{\mathrm{ min}}}/{B_{\mathrm{ ECR}}})$ and the microwave frequency $\omega$ . Decoupling $T_{s}$ from $({B_{\mathrm{ min}}}/{B_{\mathrm{ ECR}}})$ , mainly $B_{\mathrm{ ECR}}$ , implies that $T_{s}$ does not depend on the magnitude of the heating frequency $\omega$ . While it certainly appears to be true that plasma density $n_{e}(\propto \omega ^{2}\propto B^{2})$ increases with heating frequency, as was postulated by Geller in 1987, a more careful consideration into the heating mechanism of the plasma electrons is warranted. The disassociation of $T_{s}$ from the heating frequency $\omega$ , while an interesting discovery, implies that we must change the way we understand how ECRISs operate. This paper presents new bremsstrahlung measurements, analyses, and discussions of the results.
Helium accumulation effects using a benchmarked zero-dimensional model

Multidimensional transport simulations using the BALDUR code have been used to examine the correlation between the effective global helium particle confinement time and the edge recycling coefficie...
Abstract 1088: Prevention of Connexin 43 (Cx43) Dephosphorylation is Associated with Reduced Ventricular Tachycardia in Cardiac-Specific Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Overexpression Mice

Introduction: Connexin 43 (Cx43) is a major component of the ventricular gap junctional complex, which provides a low resistance pathway for electrical conduction between myocytes. Reduction of Cx43 amount of phosphorylation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of ventricular tachycardia (VT) and fibrillation. Cardiac-specific angiotensin converting enzyme overexpression mice (ACE 8/8) have slow conduction, show conduction blocks, are prone to VT and sudden death, and show profound reductions in Cx43 levels and phosphorylation. Therefore, we hypothesized that reversal of Cx43 changes, by preventing the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activation, would reduce the arrhythmic risk in these animals. Methods: Prevention of RAS activation was accomplished by one of three methods: ACE 8/8 receiving an ACE inhibitor (captopril), ACE 8/8 mice treated with a specific angiotensin receptor type-1 blocker (losartan), and ACE 8/8 mice crossed with homozygote angiotensinogen null mice. Pooled results were compared to untreated ACE 8/8 littermates. Surface electrocardiography and invasive electrophysiological study with programmed ventricular stimulation were performed on ten-week old mice, and the hearts were extracted for immunoblotting. Results: VT was induced in 10 out of 12 untreated ACE 8/8 mice, but only in 3 out of 11 treated mice (p Discussion: Unexpectedly, disruption of RAS signaling did not increase total Cx43 levels in ACE 8/8 mice. On the other hand, the treatments increased phospho-Cx43, suggesting that RAS controls Cx43 phosphorylation but not total amount. Even in the presence of significantly depressed levels of Cx43, small changes in Cx43 phosphorylation were associated with a significant reduction in VT inducibility.
Black-White Disparities in Breast Cancer Subtype: The Intersection of Socially Patterned Stress and Genetic Expression

Hormone receptor negative (HR-) breast cancer subtypes are etiologically distinct from the more common, less aggressive, and more treatable form of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. Numerous population-based studies have found that, in the United States, Black women are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop HR- breast cancer than White women. Much of the existing research on racial disparities in breast cancer subtype has focused on identifying predisposing genetic factors associated with African ancestry. This approach fails to acknowledge that racial stratification shapes a wide range of environmental and social exposures over the life course. Human stress genomics considers the role of individual stress perceptions on gene expression. Yet, the role of structurally rooted biopsychosocial processes that may be activated by the social patterning of stressors in an historically unequal society, whether perceived by individual black women or not, could also impact cellular physiology and gene expression patterns relevant to HR- breast cancer etiology. Using the weathering hypothesis as our conceptual framework, we develop a structural perspective for examining racial disparities in breast cancer subtypes, integrating important findings from the stress biology, breast cancer epidemiology, and health disparities literatures. After integrating key findings from these largely independent literatures, we develop a theoretically and empirically guided framework for assessing potential multilevel factors relevant to the development of HR- breast cancer disproportionately among Black women in the US. We hypothesize that a dynamic interplay among socially patterned psychosocial stressors, physiological & behavioral responses, and genomic pathways contribute to the increased risk of HR- breast cancer among Black women. This work provides a basis for exploring potential alternative pathways linking the lived experience of race to the risk of HR- breast cancer, and suggests new avenues for research and public health action.
Breaking the mold: structures of the RNA polymerase I transcription complex reveal a new path for initiation.

While structures of the RNA polymerase (Pol) II initiation complex have been resolved and extensively studied, the Pol I initiation complex remained elusive. Here, we review the recent structural a...
Temptations for The Expert Witness.

For a considerable length of time, we have been leading workshops on testifying in court for forensic mental health professionals, many of whom offer stories of anguish and humiliation on the stand. These workshops have largely been based on our own experiences, both positive and negative. We advise
Ostomy in continuity: A novel approach for the management of children with complex short bowel syndrome.

Abstract Introduction Despite medical and surgical management, a subset of children with short bowel syndrome (SBS) who have discrepancy between proximal small bowel and distal colon have persistent feeding intolerance. We propose the use of an Ostomy in Continuity (OIC) (Bishop-Koop or Santulli) as a salvage procedure to decompress the proximal bowel while still maintaining maximal intestinal length, in these patients. Methods A retrospective chart review of 104 SBS patients identified sixteen patients who underwent an OIC. Measures of reliance on parenteral nutrition (PN), growth, intestinal failure associated liver disease, the rate of central venous catheter infections and enterocolitis were collected. These parameters were compared before and after the placement of OIC in the same patients at a median follow-up period of 24months (range 3–52months). Outcome measures include intestinal autonomy and survival without intestinal and liver transplant. Results All 16 patients showed significant improvement in their enteral tolerance after OIC. The mean PN caloric requirement decreased from 95% to 21% (p=0.0001). The median weight Z score improved from −1.18 to 0.20 (p=0.0006) and the median height Z score improved from −2.74 to −1 (p=0.0001). The mean conjugated bilirubin decreased from 10.3mg/dl to 0.3mg/dl (p=0.0001) in nine patients with hyperbilirubinemia. There was no decrease in central venous catheter infections (CVCI) but there was a decrease in the rate of enterocolitis. None of the patients required intestinal or liver transplant. There was one minor skin excoriation complication in one patient with a Bishop-Koop stoma. Conclusions The application of an ostomy in continuity within a comprehensive intestinal rehabilitation program is a novel approach in the treatment of refractory short bowel syndrome that improves intestinal autonomy and decreases the rate of enterocolitis. Type of Study Case Series. Level of evidence IV (Cohort Study).
Folate Nutrition Status in Mothers of the Boston Birth Cohort, Sample of a US Urban Low-Income Population

Objectives. To examine maternal folic acid supplementation and plasma folate concentrations in the Boston Birth Cohort, a predominantly urban, low-income, minority population in Boston, Massachusetts.Methods. This report includes 7612 mothers with singleton live births (3829 Black, 2023 Hispanic, 865 White, and 895 others) enrolled in the Boston Birth Cohort at the Boston Medical Center, during 1999 to 2014. Folic acid supplementation during preconception and each trimester was obtained via interview questionnaire. In a subset (n = 2598), maternal plasma folate concentrations were measured in blood samples drawn within a few days of delivery.Results. The percentage of mothers taking folic acid supplementation almost daily during preconception and the first, second, and third trimesters were 4.3%, 55.9%, 59.4%, and 58.0%, respectively. Most striking, we observed a wide range of maternal plasma folate concentrations, with approximately 11% insufficient ( 45.3 nmol/L).Conclu...
Reproducing past subduction and mantle flow using high‐resolution global convection models

Plate subduction drives both the internal convection and the surface geology of the solid Earth. Despite the rapid increase of computational power, it remains challenging for geodynamic models to reproduce the history of Earth-like subduction and associated mantle flow. Here, based on an adaptive approach of sequential data assimilation, we present a high-resolution global model since the mid-Mesozoic. This model incorporates the thermal structure and surface kinematics of tectonic plates based on a recent plate reconstruction to reproduce the observed subduction configuration and Earth-like convection. Introduction of temperature- and composition-dependent rheology allows for incorporation of many natural complexities, such as initiation of subduction zones, reversal of subduction polarity, and detailed plate-boundary dynamics. The resultant present-day slab geometry well matches Benioff zones and seismic tomography at depths < 1500 km, making it possible to hindcast past subduction dynamics and mantle flow. For example, the model produces a flat Farallon slab beneath North America during the Late Cretaceous to Early Cenozoic, a feature that has been geodynamically challenging to reproduce. This high-resolution model can also capture details of the 4-D evolution of slabs and the ambient mantle, such as temporally and spatially varying mantle flow associated with evolving slab geometry and buoyancy flux, as well as the formation of shallow slab tears due to subduction of young seafloors and the resulting complex mantle deformation. Such a geodynamic framework serves to further constrain uncertain plate reconstruction in the geological past, and to better understand the origin of enigmatic mantle seismic features.
Experimental investigation of in situ and injection fluid effect on hydraulic fracture mechanism using acoustic emission in Tennessee sandstone

Abstract Hydraulic fracture propagation and associated rock failure mechanism is dependent on multiple factors including the reservoir pore fluid and its interaction with the rock and the fracturing fluid. This dependence of rock failure on in situ pore fluid could affect the stimulated volume and could manifest itself in the hydraulic fracturing diagnostics such as treatment pressure and microseismic. Therefore, it would be beneficial to an engineer designing, planning or interpreting a fracturing treatment to be aware of expected differences in hydraulic fracture responses in formations having different reservoir fluids, i.e. fracturing a gas or oil bearing formation. We investigate this effect by way of laboratory hydraulic fracturing experiments on triaxially stressed samples of Tennessee sandstone. The acoustic response during rock failure was monitored using 16 P-wave transducers and the waveforms were acquired using a continuous acoustic monitoring system. The effects of pore pressure, water weakening and viscosity of the injection fluids on hydraulic fracture propagation and associated damage are investigated using six experiments on dry, brine saturated and dodecane saturated Tennessee sandstone, fractured with either water (1 cP) or oil (50 cP). Significant rock weakening was observed in fluid saturated samples (breakdown pressures exhibited a reduction of 15–40% from dry state breakdown pressures); the presence of more polar fluid (water) in the pore space resulted in more weakening (800–900 psi lower breakdown pressures when water saturated vs. dodecane saturated). The effect of injection fluid viscosity is observed to be suppressed for fluid saturated samples as breakdown pressures for samples which were saturated with either fluid (brine and dodecane) were observed to be almost same. Acoustic event distributions, continuous stream monitoring, failure mechanisms and permeability measurements on fractured cores all seem to suggest a more complex fracture network in dry rock and more conventional tensile type failure in brine saturated rock. Continuous acoustic stream energy variation with time offers insight into the induced fracture complexity and should be used along with microseismic cloud distributions to assess the stimulated reservoir volume.
The Common Integument (Skin)

From anatomical and physiological aspects, it is appropriate to consider the skin in a review of the pathophysiological consequences of exposure to RF/MW energy. Because the skin covers the entire body, it has the greatest potential for most immediate exposure; it also contains the nerve endings for thermal sensation of microwave energy and plays an important part in thermal regulation of animals.
Average level of a fuzzy set

In this paper the average level set of a fuzzy set is defined on the basis of the Kudo-Aumann integral of a set-valued mapping. Some properties of the average level as well as its particularization for some special cases are analyzed.