cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accurate, ultra-low coverage genome reconstruction and association studies in Hybrid Swarm mapping populations

Abstract Genetic association studies seek to uncover the link between genotype and phenotype, and often utilize inbred reference panels as a replicable source of genetic variation. However, inbred reference panels can differ substantially from wild populations in their genotypic distribution, patterns of linkage-disequilibrium, and nucleotide diversity. As a result, associations discovered using inbred reference panels may not reflect the genetic basis of phenotypic variation in natural populations. To address this problem, we evaluated a mapping population design where dozens to hundreds of inbred lines are outbred for few (e.g. five) generations, which we call the Hybrid Swarm. The Hybrid Swarm approach has likely remained underutilized relative to pre-sequenced inbred lines due to the costs of genome-wide genotyping. To reduce sequencing costs and make the Hybrid Swarm approach feasible, we developed a computational pipeline that reconstructs accurate whole genomes from ultra-low-coverage (0.05X) sequence data in Hybrid Swarm populations derived from ancestors with phased haplotypes, modeling genetic variation from the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel as well as variation from neutral simulations encompassing a range of diversity levels. Next, we compared the power and precision of GWAS using the Hybrid Swarm, inbred lines, recombinant inbred lines (RILs), and highly outbred populations across a range of effect sizes and genetic architectures. Our simulations show that these different mapping panels vary in their power and precision, largely depending on the architecture of the trait. Notably, both the Hybrid Swarm and RILs outperform inbred lines for quantitative traits, but not for monogenic ones. Taken together, our results demonstrate the feasibility of the Hybrid Swarm as a cost-effective method of fine-scale genetic mapping.
Spectral signatures of recursive magnetic field reconnection

We use 2.5D Magnetohydrodynamic simulations to investigate the spectral signatures of the nonlinear disruption of a tearing unstable current sheet via the generation of multiple secondary current sheets and magnetic islands. During the nonlinear phase of tearing mode evolution, there develops a regime in which the magnetic energy density shows a spectrum with a power-law close to $B(k)^2\sim k^{-0.8}$. Such an energy spectrum is found in correspondence of the neutral line, within the diffusion region of the primary current sheet, where energy is conveyed towards smaller scales via a ``recursive'' process of fast tearing-type instabilities. Far from the neutral line we find that magnetic energy spectra evolve towards slopes compatible with the ``standard'' Kolmogorov spectrum. Starting from a self-similar description of the nonlinear stage at the neutral line, we provide a model that predicts a reconnecting magnetic field energy spectrum scaling as $k^{-4/5}$, in good agreement with numerical results. An extension of the predicted power-law to generic current sheet profiles is also given and possible implications for turbulence phenomenology are discussed. These results provide a step forward to understand the ``recursive'' generation of magnetic islands (plasmoids), which has been proposed as a possible explanation for the energy release during flares, but which, more in general, can have an impact on the subsequent turbulent evolution of unstable sheets that naturally form in the high-Lundquist number and collisionless plasmas found in most of the astrophysical environments.
Treatment of Chronic Major Depression Using the Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP)

This article presents data from an ABAB single case design study of a 60-year-old Caucasian male diagnosed with chronic major depressive disorder. The Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP) was utilized throughout treatment, and both BDI scores and diagnostic interviews revealed states of partial, and ultimately full remission during the course of treatment. A focus was ultimately placed on generalizing what the patient learned in-session to his outside life. Additionally, the unique design of this case illustrated that the patient experienced a moderate reduction in depressive symptoms, prior to the long-term alteration of his coping style. A stable change in his coping style was necessary before full and sustained recovery was evidenced.
Narcissus and Melancholy: René d’Anjou’s Book of the Love-Smitten Heart

This chapter treats narcissism and selfhood, through the lens of melancholy, in Rene d’Anjou’s Book of the Love-Smitten Heart (c. 1457). Wounded by Love’s arrow upon seeing his beloved, Rene remains melancholic, incapable of satisfying his longing. Melancholy works to keep this wound open, creating a space where Rene can fixate upon his “loss” as fulfillment seems attainable. This chapter examines through text and illuminations the scenes where Rene’s heart (1) is removed by Love, (2) encounters the Fountain of Fortune, a spring of melancholic bile that allows him to fixate upon his beloved’s image, and (3) discovers he must submit to Love before the Diamond Mirror, a double of Narcissus’s fountain, realizing his selfhood is forever wounded by frustrated desires which, nonetheless, appear achievable.
The exercise pressor reflex and active O2 transport in peripheral arterial disease.

It is unclear if the exaggerated exercise pressor reflex observed in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) patients facilitates Oxygen (O2 ) transport during presymptomatic exercise. Accordingly, this study compared O2 transport between PAD patients and healthy controls during graded presymptomatic work. Seven PAD patients and seven healthy controls performed dynamic plantar flexion in the bore of a 3T MRI scanner. Perfusion, T2 * (an index of relative tissue oxygenation), and SvO2 (a measure of venous oxygen saturation) were collected from the medial gastrocnemius (MG) during the final 10 seconds of each stage. Blood pressure was also collected during the final minute of each stage. As expected, the pressor response to presymptomatic work (4 kg) was exaggerated in PAD patients compared to controls (+14 mmHg ± 4 and +7 mmHg ± 2, P ≤ 0.034). When normalized to changes in free water content (S0 ), T2 * was lower at 2 kg in PAD patients compared to controls (-0.91 Δms/ΔAU ± 0.3 and 0.57 Δms/ΔAU ± 0.3, P ≤ 0.008); followed by a greater increase in perfusion at 4 kg in the PAD group (+18.8 mL/min/100g ± 6.2 vs. -0.21 mL/min/100g ± 3.2 in PAD and controls, P ≤ 0.026). Lastly, SvO2 decreased at 4 kg in both groups (-13% ± 4 and -2% ± 4 in PAD and controls, P ≤ 0.049), suggesting an increase in O2 extraction in the PAD group. Based on these findings, O2 transport appears to be augmented during graded presymptomatic work in PAD patients, and this may be partially mediated by an exaggerated pressor response.
Monomeric Flavanols Are More Efficient Substrates for Gut Microbiota Conversion to Hydroxyphenyl-γ-Valerolactone Metabolites Than Oligomeric Procyanidins: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Human Intervention Trial.

Scope The majority of ingested flavanols reach the colon where they are catabolized by the microbiota to form hydroxyphenyl-γ-valerolactones (HGVLs). It is not known if the HGVLs are catabolic products of monomeric (epi)catechins (EPC), oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs), or both. Using data from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial the relative contributions of catechins and OPC to the bioavailable pool of HGVLs are estimated. Methods and results Participants ingested an apple extract once daily for 28 days that delivered the following: i) 70 mg EPC and 65 mg OPC (low dose EPC), ii) 140 mg EPC and 130 mg OPC (high dose EPC), iii) 6 mg EPC and 130 mg OPC (OPC), and iv) a placebo control. Urine is collected over a 24-h period before and after treatments. The median urinary excretion of HGVLs after ingestion of the high dose EPC is tenfold higher than that excreted after ingestion of the OPC that provided an equivalent dose of PC. Approximately 22% of catechins are converted to HGVLs in contrast to PC, for which there is limited conversion. Conclusion Monomeric catechins are efficiently converted to derived HGVLs that are absorbed and excreted in human urine, whereas oligomeric PCs are much less efficiently converted.
Chapter 3 – Catalyst Deactivation

This chapter discusses solid-supported catalyst deactivation. It introduces the concept of catalytic active site and presents the various mechanisms causing active site deactivation. This chapter also defines and describes spatially dependent catalyst deactivation and temporally dependent catalyst deactivation and provides methods for distinguishing between the two.
The State as the “Ultimate Parent”: The Implications of Family for Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Juvenile Justice System:

Racial and ethnic disparities permeate juvenile justice processing. Research attempting to explain these disparities has superficially considered the role of family measures in the differential tre...
Why did Firms Draw Down their Credit Lines during the COVID-19 Shutdown?

The economic shutdown associated with the COVID-19 pandemic witnessed a surge in drawdowns on pre-existing credit lines. This paper examines how this liquidity was used by firms. Drawdowns were associated with an immediate accumulation of liquid assets followed by a depletion of this liquidity as the U.S. economy stabilized after the spring of 2020. Drawdowns were generally not associated with greater levels of physical investment or employment either immediately after the drawdowns or several months later. Rather, the depletion of liquidity is simultaneous with an increase in the equity to assets ratio, consistent with repayments of the drawdowns. These facts are consistent with the idea that firms drew down their credit lines due to a precautionary motive to mitigate future liquidity risk until the economy started to stabilize. However, we find evidence that firms in industries that were less affected by the shutdown, such as professional services that can be performed remotely, were relatively more likely to use drawdowns to maintain investment rather than accumulate liquidity. On the intensive margin, this is especially true for firms in such industries that drew a relatively small amount of funds.
Labyrinth weir outlet ramps: managing flow instability and discharge efficiency

The installation of a labyrinth weir as the crest of a stepped chute significantly influences the downstream chute inflow conditions relative to published design standards for more traditional cres...
Does Gender Matter: A Multi-Institutional Analysis of Viscoelastic Profiles for 1565 Trauma Patients With Severe Hemorrhage.

Background Viscoelastic tests including thromboelastography (TEG) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) are being used in patients with severe hemorrhage at trauma centers to guide resuscitation. Several recent studies demonstrated hypercoagulability in female trauma patients that was associated with a survival advantage. The objective of our study was to elucidate the effects of gender differences in TEG/ROTEM values on survival in trauma patients with severe hemorrhage. Methods A retrospective review of consecutive adult patients receiving massive transfusion protocol (MTP) at 7 Level I trauma centers was performed from 2013 to 2018. Data were stratified by gender and then further examined by TEG or ROTEM parameters. Results were analyzed using univariate and multi-variate analyses. Results A total of 1565 patients were included with 70.9% male gender (n = 1110/1565). Female trauma patients were older than male patients (43.5 ± .9 vs 41.1 ± .6 years, P = .01). On TEG, females had longer reaction times (6.1 ± .9 min vs 4.8 ± .2 min, P = .03), increased alpha angle (68.6 ± .8 vs 65.7 ± .4, P .05). Multivariate analysis showed no survival difference for female patients (OR 1.11, 95% CI .83-1.50, P = .48). Conclusions Although a difference between male and females was found on TEG/ROTEM for certain clotting parameters, no difference in mortality was observed. Prospective multi-institutional studies are needed.
The effect of data provenance on estimates of gestation length in African and Asian colobines.

OBJECTIVES It seems to be commonly accepted that gestation length within the subfamily Colobinae lasts several weeks longer in the African tribe (Colobini) than in the Asian tribe (Presbytini) even though closely related taxa of similar body mass should have similar life histories. Suspecting problems with data provenance to cause the difference, we revisited the published records expecting similar gestation lengths in both tribes if based on vetted, accurate data. MATERIALS AND METHODS We compiled published gestation length data for Colobini and Presbytini, labeling them as "unspecified" (n = 16) if the primary reference could not be located, methods were not described, and/or conceptions, the beginning of gestation, were determined based on sporadic observations of mating. If conceptions were determined based on changing hormone levels or patterns of daily mating records, we labeled the data as "accurate" (n = 12). We analyzed the ln transformed data in a phylogenetic framework in relation to adult female body mass. RESULTS In the unspecified dataset, gestation length in the two tribes overlapped extensively and did not differ significantly. However, in the accurate dataset, gestation length was significantly shorter in Colobini (not longer, as previously assumed). DISCUSSION Data provenance had a strong impact on the comparison, reversing the relationship in gestation length in the two sister tribes. It remains to be determined why gestation lengths differ, whether, relative to the other primates, Colobini have a shortened gestation or Presbytini a lengthened gestation, and whether similar differences exist in other closely related taxa. Addressing these questions will require additional, broader, comparative analyses.
In Vitro Selection of Short DNA Aptamers that Can Inhibit or Alleviate Cocaine and MK-801 Inhibition of Muscle-Type Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors.

Ligands of high specificity and selectivity have been selected for biological molecules of interest including nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) using combinatorial libraries of nucleic acids. The nAChR belongs to a group of structurally related proteins that regulate signal transmission between ~ 1012 cells of the mammalian nervous system. It is inhibited by both therapeutic agents and abused drugs, including cocaine. A mechanism-based approach to alleviating noncompetitive inhibition of the mucle-type nAChR, including Torpedo, resulted in the selection of very short DNA aptamers only seven nucleotides long. By transient kinetic measurements, these DNA aptamers, which displaced cocaine from its binding site on the muscle-type nAChR, were classified into two groups based on their effects on the nAChR: Class I aptamers inhibit agonist-induced current in the muscle-type nAChR and Class II molecules alleviate inhibition by MK-801 [(+)-dizocilpine] without affecting the receptor function. The most potent Class I DNA aptamer, which inhibits the muscle-type nAChR, has an apparent dissociation constant (KIapt) of 5 μM, while the most efficient Class II DNA aptamer, which alleviates MK-801-induced inhibition, has an apparent dissociation constant (KApt) of 1.8 μM. An innovative aspect of the work is the identification of very short DNA aptamers with these properties that makes them attractive for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
Early onset of aging phenotype in vascular repair by Mas receptor deficiency.

Aging is associated with impaired vascular repair following ischemic insult, largely due to reparative dysfunctions of progenitor cells. Activation of Mas receptor (MasR) was shown to reverse aging-associated vasoreparative dysfunction. This study tested the impact of MasR-deficiency on mobilization and vasoreparative functions with aging. Wild type (WT) or MasR-deficient mice (MasR−/− or MasR+/−) at 12–14 weeks (young) or middle age (11–12 months) (MA) were used in the study. Mobilization of lineage-negative, Sca-1-positive cKit-positive (LSK) cells in response to G-CSF or plerixafor was determined. Hindlimb ischemia (HLI) was induced by femoral artery ligation. Mobilization and blood flow recovery were monitored post-HLI. Radiation chimeras were made by lethal irradiation of WT or MasR−/− mice followed by administration of bone marrow cells from MasR−/− or WT mice, respectively. Nitric oxide (NO) generation by stromal-derived factor-1α (SDF) and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mitoROS) levels were determined by flow cytometry. Effect of A779 treatment on mobilization, blood flow recovery, and NO and ROS levels were determined in young WT and MasR+/− mice. Circulating LSK cells in basal or in response to plerixafor or G-CSF or in response to ischemic injury were lower in MasR−/− mice compared to the WT. Responses in MasR+/− mice were similar to the WT at young age but at the middle age, impairments were observed. Impaired mobilization to ischemia or G-CSF was rescued in WT → MasR−/− chimeras. NO levels were lower and mitoROS were higher in MasR−/− LSK cells compared to WT cells. A779 precipitated dysfunctions in young-MasR+/− mice similar to that observed in MA-MasR+/−, and this accompanied decreased NO generation by SDF and enhanced mitoROS levels. This study shows that mice at MA do not exhibit vasoreparative dysfunction. Either partial or total loss of MasR precipitates advanced-aging phenotype likely due to lack of NO and oxidative stress.
Hilbert quasimodular forms and vector bundles

Hilbert quasimodular forms are quasimodular forms of several variables. We construct vector bundles over a Hilbert modular variety whose sections can be identified with Hilbert quasimodular forms.
The Postwar Setting

The geographical area of controversy which is the major concern of this study is the Ruhr industrial district of Germany, an area of some 2,000 square miles bounded on the south by the Ruhr River. Most of it is included in the old Prussian provinces of Rhineland and Westphalia and extends from the Dutch border on the west to Hamm in the east. It lies mainly between the Ruhr and the Lippe rivers. Aside from the fact that it is the major industrial region of Germany, with approximately 20 per cent of the population, 20 per cent of the people in industry, and 40 per cent of the installed power from all sources, it is one of the world’s densest and most important industrial concentrations. The area produces 80 per cent of the coal of Germany as well as 80 per cent of the pig iron and steel. The basis of its industries has been its huge anthracite basin which supplies coal not only for the heavy industries of the Ruhr itself but also for those of France and other countries. The major industry is steel production, which relies heavily on imports of iron ore from the Lorraine Basin and from Sweden. Coal, tar, and chemicals are major by-products.1
Picturing the people: Kiowa, Comanche, and Plains Apache postcards

This paper examines the presentation of Southern Plains Native people through the medium of postcards. Postcards became an international phenomenon in the twentieth century, generally associated with tourism, but they also offer scholars and community members an opportunity to view selected moments in Native American cultural history. This paper considers the development of postcards, their presentation of Native Americans in general, and how they can contribute to an understanding of Kiowa, Comanche, and Plains Apache people at different moments in time.
An Improved Algorithm for Approximating the Radii of Point Sets

We consider the problem of computing the outer-radii of point sets. In this problem, we are given integers n, d, k where k ≤ d, and a set P of n points in R d . The goal is to compute the outer k -radius of P, denoted by R k (P), which is the minimum, over all (d-k)-dimensional flats F, of max p ∈ P d(p,F), where d(p,F) is the Euclidean distance between the point p and flat F. Computing the radii of point sets is a fundamental problem in computational convexity with significantly many applications. The problem admits a polynomial time algorithm when the dimension d is constant [9]. Here we are interested in the general case when the dimension d is not fixed and can be as large as n, where the problem becomes NP-hard even for k=1.
Are There Any Hydrogen-Rich, Cool White Dwarfs?

We have calibrated the Balmer decrement as a He/H abundance ratio diagnostic for cool degenerates. Using a detailed treatment of neutral collision broadening, we find that the sensitivity of the decrement to composition is far greater than to surface gravity, and thus the problem of the ambiguity between those parameters is avoided. This calibration confirms the suggestion of several earlier authors that steep Balmer decrements in cool DA’s indicate significant helium dilution of the hydrogen in the outer layers. The He/H ratios obtained with this method have been combined with our He/H ratio results for the DZ class of stars from the MMT Atlas, and with other published model atmosphere results, to yield an overall view of the He/H ratio in white dwarfs cooler than 20,000 K.
Chapter 19. Estrogen Receptor Modulators: Effects in Non-Traditional Target Tissues

Publisher Summary Till date a variety of steroidal and nonsteroidal compounds that interact with the estrogen receptor (ER) have been developed as contraceptives and for the treatment of breast cancer, uterine dysfunction, and other disorders of the female reproductive system, and they have been recently reviewed. This chapter discusses primarily the effects of these estrogen receptor (ER) modulators in nonmammary tissue. The discussion here has been divided into four segments and classified compounds on the basis of their ability to mimic the effects of estrogen in skeletal and/or cardiovascular tissue and to induce uterine stimulation. This classification is consistent with the recently proposed classification on the basis of distinct DNA transcriptional profiles observed for the different classes. By far, the most investigated of the nonsteroidal ER modulators are the triphenylethylenes (TPEs). Originally investigated as contraceptives, compounds, such as tamoxifen, have been developed for the treatment of breast cancer on the basis of strong antagonism of estrogen action in mammary tissue. Only recently, the estrogen agonist activities of these compounds in the skeletal and cardiovascular systems have been researched. Although they partially antagonize the effects of estrogen on the uterus, evidence till date suggests that in the absence of estrogen the members of this structural class also tend to induce some level of uterine stimulation, hence they are classified here as partial agonists.
Efficient computation of the Grünwald-Letnikov fractional diffusion derivative using adaptive time step memory

Computing numerical solutions to fractional differential equations can be computationally intensive due to the effect of non-local derivatives in which all previous time points contribute to the current iteration. In general, numerical approaches that depend on truncating part of the system history while efficient, can suffer from high degrees of error and inaccuracy. Here we present an adaptive time step memory method for smooth functions applied to the Grunwald-Letnikov fractional diffusion derivative. This method is computationally efficient and results in smaller errors during numerical simulations. Sampled points along the system's history at progressively longer intervals are assumed to reflect the values of neighboring time points. By including progressively fewer points backward in time, a temporally 'weighted' history is computed that includes contributions from the entire past of the system, maintaining accuracy, but with fewer points actually calculated, greatly improving computational efficiency.
Construct validity of laboratory aggression paradigms: A response to tedeschi and quigley (1996)

Abstract The purpose of this article is to present a response to a paper recently published in this journal by Tedeschi and Quigley (1996) in which the authors criticized the validity of laboratory aggression paradigms. Tedeschi and Quigley debated the construct validity of the teacher/learner paradigm, essay evaluation procedures, the bobo doll modeling paradigm, and the competitive reaction time paradigm (which will be referred to herein as the Taylor Aggression Paradigm; TAP). The present article will focus primarily on the TAP, its modified versions, and the Point Subtraction Aggression Paradigm (PSAP). Although it is one of the two most frequently employed laboratory measures of aggression, the PSAP was not discussed by Tedeschi and Quigley. These authors stated that laboratory aggression paradigms “under-represent the construct of aggression because they deal only with situations of retaliation which have been sanctioned by a third party legitimate authority (the experimenter) and because research participants are given no choice other than physical forms of harm-doing as a means of responding to attacks” (p. 163). It is our intent to rebut this and other criticisms that Tedeschi and Quigley have marshaled against laboratory aggression paradigms. The present article will provide a brief definition of construct validity, the manner in which it is assessed, and a description of pertinent laboratory measures of aggression. This will be followed by a delineation of our responses to Tedeschi and Quigley’s criticisms and a comprehensive review of studies that have directly and indirectly contributed to the construct validity of laboratory aggression paradigms.
D. Z. Phillips on God and Evil

This paper notes and discusses some key arguments in Part One of The Problem of Evil and the Problem of God by D. Z. Phillips. With an eye on some texts of Thomas Aquinas, I reject Phillips's view that belief in divine omnipotence leads to absurd claims concerning God, but I defend his rejection of anthropomorphism when it comes to talk of God, and, with qualifications, I defend and elaborate on his suggestion that God is not a moral agent. I also commend his critique of certain well-known theodicies (e.g. that provided by Richard Swinburne), although I challenge his appeal to what he calls “the grammar of God.”
Radiofrequency ablation of accessory pathways in children and congenital heart disease patients: impact of a nonfluoroscopic navigation system.

Background:We sought to assess the impact of routine use of a nonfluoroscopic navigation system in the procedural aspects of radiofrequency ablation of accessory pathways (APs) in pediatric and congenital heart disease (CHD) patients and the reduction of fluoroscopy in different pathway locations. Methods:This was a retrospective review of 192 patients, divided in two groups: group A (76 patients, fluoroscopic only ablation) and group B (116 patients, combined use of fluoroscopy and a nonfluoroscopic system (NavX™). Comparison of procedural aspects (procedure time, fluoroscopy time, success, complications, and recurrences) was performed. Results:The two groups were comparable in terms of age, AP location, and presence of CHD. The mean age was 11.34 ± 4.65 years in group A versus 10.91 ± 3.68 years in group B. The procedure duration was significantly shorter in group B than in group A (177.06 ± 62.18 vs 242.45 ± 99.07) (P < 0.001). There was a significant reduction in the fluoroscopy time in group B compared to group A (8.27 ± 8.23 vs 39.77 ± 32.65 minutes) (P < 0.001). The difference between the two groups was statistically significant in all categories of APs. The success rate was 97.4% in group A and 96.6% in group B. There were no complications directly related to the use of the nonfluoroscopic system. There was no difference in the recurrence rate. Conclusions:The use of a nonfluoroscopic system for catheter navigation resulted in significant reduction of total procedure and fluoroscopy time during catheter ablation of APs in pediatric and CHD patients, regardless of the location of the pathway, without a compromise in safety and efficacy. (PACE 2011; 34:1288–1296)
Sacred Arts of Haitian Vodou UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History

SACRED ARTS OF HAITIAN VODOU. UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History (October 22- July 14, 1995), Center for the Fine Arts, Miami (Fall 1996), The Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago (February 1-April 13,1997), Museum of African American History, Detroit (Fall 1997), National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC (Fall 1998), New Orleans Museum of Art (January-April 1998), Baltimore Museum of Art (June-August 1998)
Early Graft Function After Laparoscopically Procured Living Donor Kidney Transplantation

Purpose: We determined predictors of poor early graft function after laparoscopic living donor kidney transplantation.Materials and Methods: We performed an institutional review board approved review of the living donor kidney transplantation database at our institution.Results: Seven of the 510 transplants (1%) were excluded from study due to immediate graft nephrectomy for vascular complications. Of the remaining 503 transplants 48 (9.5%) and 18 (3.6%) had slow and delayed graft function, respectively. Recipient male gender (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.05–3.91, p = 0.035), black ethnicity (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.08–2.34, p = 0.020) and donor age (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00–1.05, p = 0.021) emerged as independent predictors of poor early graft function in multivariate logistic regression models. Poor early graft function strongly redisposed patients to acute rejection during year 1 (HR 3.43, 95% CI 2.04–5.77, p <0.0001) while grafts from genetically related donors conferred a protective effect (HR 0.40, 95% CI 0.24–0.66, p <...
Mandibular reference positions

An overview is presented of the mandibular reference positions of centric occlusion, centric relation and centric relation occlusion, and the position of rest. Clinical applications of the different positions are discussed on the basis of the physiology of the mandibular locomotor system.
Principles for the ethical analysis of clinical and translational research

Statistical analysis is a cornerstone of the scientific method and evidence-based medicine, and statisticians serve an increasingly important role in clinical and translational research by providing objective evidence concerning the risks and benefits of novel therapeutics. Researchers rely on statistics and informatics as never before to generate and test hypotheses and to discover patterns of disease hidden within overwhelming amounts of data. Too often, clinicians and biomedical scientists are not adequately proficient in statistics to analyze data or interpret results, and statistical expertise may not be properly incorporated within the research process. We argue for the ethical imperative of statistical standards, and we present ten nontechnical principles that form a conceptual framework for the ethical application of statistics in clinical and translational research. These principles are drawn from the literature on the ethics of data analysis and the American Statistical Association Ethical Guidelines for Statistical Practice.
Characteristics of women who sought emergency contraception at a university-based women's health clinic

Objective The purpose of this study was to identify unique characteristics for seeking emergency contraception (EC) among sexually active unmarried women who attended a university-based women's health clinic (WHC). Study Design Three hundred nine consecutive women who attended the women's health clinic for 3 months of the 2006 spring semester completed an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. Fisher exact and Student t tests were used to assess bivariate associations, and step-wise regression was used to determine independent associations. Results Women who requested EC were more likely to have previously used EC ( P P P = .009), and to perceive the need for EC use in the next 3 months ( P P Conclusion Our findings support the need for increased education that would include the use of and access to effective primary contraceptive methods in conjunction with EC awareness.
Class Actions in the U.S. Experience: An Economist's Perception

This paper, presented at a University of the Piedmont (Italy) conference in January 2007, analyzes several features of the U.S. experience with class action litigation, emphasizing suits alleging antitrust law violations. It observes that despite the trebling of damages under U.S. antitrust law, deterrence has been less than completely successful, as shown by the large number of important price-fixing conspiracies proven in recent years. It argues too that many class action suits are brought with insubstantial evidence of violation. An important motivator is the significant share of settlement damages realized by entreprenurial law firms organizing the class actions. The retention by judges of neutral economic experts can help sort out the evidentiary complexities of class action suits, but the approach is far from a panacea.
Biomechanical design of extensive cavity preparations for cast gold

Fundamental principles that uphold the concepts of preventive dentistry are presented for the design of cavity preparations for large single-unit cast gold restorations. Fundamental principles are presented for the design of cavity preparations for large single-unit cast gold restorations with the exception of the crown. Variations in outline form and internal form are related to the strength of the tooth, the strength of the restorative material, the occlusion, and to periodontal health. Correct placement of supporting pins is related to the restoration of extensively broken-down teeth.
Hazard zones and eye protection requirements for a frosted surgical probe used with an Nd:YAG laser

Detailed radiometric analyses are reported on selected frosted-style laser surgical probes that are in use in laser surgical procedures. These measurements were performed in order to determine their nominal hazard zone (NHZ) and the requirement for protective eyewear. All measurements were conducted under worst-case conditions using a 30-W Nd:YAG laser. The results show that for the style of probe tested, the NHZ can be considered a spherical volume of 1.3 m and will require eye protection devices having a maximum optical density rating of 4.3 at 1.06 microns for all personnel who may come within that range.
A 12-Week Weight Reduction Intervention for Overweight Individuals Taking Antipsychotic Medications

People taking antipsychotic medications are at increased risk for obesity, diabetes, and early mortality. Few weight loss interventions have targeted this population. Thirty-six individuals were randomized to an evidence-based 12-week weight loss intervention (PREMIER with DASH diet, n = 18) or to usual care (n = 18) in this feasibility trial. Average attendance was 8.6 of 12 sessions. Intent-to-treat analyses of covariance, adjusted for baseline weight, showed significant changes in weight: Mean weight in intervention participants declined from 213.3 to 206.6 pounds, while control participants’ weight was unchanged. It is possible to recruit, assess, intervene with, and retain participants taking antipsychotic medications in a dietary and exercise lifestyle change trial. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the intervention.
Frequency monitoring a LIDAR transmitter for pulse‐by‐pulse analysis and control

An electronic technique is described whereby the heterodyne mixing frequency of a pulsed LIDAR transmitter is displayed on a color‐coded linear bar graph. The technique is of great utility for manually fine tuning the laser output frequency when the use of conventional frequency counters and spectrum analyzers is impractical in a rapidly firing system.
The Role Of Thermography In The Breast Cancer Screening Programs

Thermography may be a helpful modality in the detection of breast cancer. Utilizing agreed upon criteria for the evaluation of breast thermograms, approximately 15-20% of women will have a positive or abnormal thermogram. Some results suggest that this group may contain as many as 80% of breast cancer patients. (2) If these subjective impressions prove to be true over the next few years, thermography may be extremely useful in the future as a screening method.© (1976) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Exploring the source of the mid-level hump for intensity discrimination in quiet and the effects of noisea)

Intensity discrimination Weber fractions (WFs) measured for short, high-frequency tones in quiet are larger at mid levels than at lower or higher levels. The source of this “mid-level hump” is a matter of debate. One theory is that the mid-level hump reflects basilar-membrane compression, and that WFs decrease at higher levels due to spread-of-excitation cues. To test this theory, Experiment 1 measured the mid-level hump and growth-of-masking functions to estimate the basilar membrane input/output (I/O) function in the same listeners. Results showed the initial rise in WFs could be accounted for by the change in I/O function slope, but there was additional unexplained variability in WFs. Previously, Plack [(1998). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 103(5), 2530–2538] showed that long-duration notched noise (NN) presented with the tone reduced the mid-level hump even with a temporal gap in the NN. Plack concluded the results were consistent with central profile analysis. However, simultaneous, forward, and backward NN were not examined separately, which may independently test peripheral and central mechanisms of the NN. Experiment 2 measured WFs at the mid-level hump in the presence of NN and narrowband noise of different durations and temporal positions relative to the tone. Results varied across subjects, but were consistent with more peripheral mechanisms.
Non-canonical glycosyltransferase modulates post-hypoxic cardiac myocyte death and mitochondrial permeability transition

O-linked beta-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is a dynamic, inducible, and reversible post-translational modification of nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins on Ser/Thr amino acid residues. In addition to its putative role as a nutrient sensor, we have recently shown pharmacologic elevation of O-GlcNAc levels positively affected myocyte survival during oxidant stress. However, no rigorous assessment of the contribution of O-GlcNAc transferase has been performed, particularly in the post-hypoxic setting. Therefore, we hypothesized that pharmacological or genetic manipulation of O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), the enzyme that adds O-GlcNAc to proteins, would affect cardiac myocyte survival following hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). Adenoviral overexpression of OGT (AdOGT) in cardiac myocytes augmented O-GlcNAc levels and reduced post-hypoxic damage. Conversely, pharmacologic inhibition of OGT significantly attenuated O-GlcNAc levels, exacerbated post-hypoxic cardiac myocyte death, and sensitized myocytes to mitochondrial membrane potential collapse. Both genetic deletion of OGT using a cre-lox approach and translational silencing via RNAi also resulted in significant reductions in OGT protein and O-GlcNAc levels, and, exacerbated post-hypoxic cardiac myocyte death. Inhibition of OGT reduced O-GlcNAc levels on voltage dependent anion channel (VDAC) in isolated mitochondria and sensitized to calcium-induced mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) formation, indicating that mPTP may be an important target of O-GlcNAc signaling and confirming the aforementioned mitochondrial membrane potential results. These data demonstrate that OGT exerts pro-survival actions during hypoxia-reoxygenation in cardiac myocytes, particularly at the level of mitochondria.
Impact of aerosol particles on the structure of an atmospheric pressure microwave plasma afterglow

Several novel ceramic processing technologies (e.g. oxide ceramic melting and spheroidization) using an atmospheric pressure microwave plasma torch were recently developed in our lab. Understanding the processes and optimization requires complete characterization of the plasma as a function of operating condition. As a first step, a non-intrusive spectroscopic method was employed to map rotational (gas), electron and excitation temperatures and electron densities of the afterglow region of microwave generated atmospheric plasmas with and without alumina particle aerosol. Two-dimensional spatially resolved mapping of rotational (gas), excitation and electron temperatures and electron densities as a function of operating conditions during material processing were developed. It was shown that the passage of an aerosol dramatically changes the structure of the afterglow. Also the non-equilibrium nature of microwave generated atmospheric argon plasma was confirmed, suggesting that only multi-temperature models are capable of modelling this region of the plasma.
Against Epistemology - Comment

REGARDING PAUL KREs's "Against Epistemology" (May, 1979): Perhaps I misunderstand him; certainly I am simplifying his argument; yet what Kress recommends (in large part) is that political theorists return from the vita contemplative (specifically their current obsession with epistemology) to the critical study of politics, of public speech, action, policy, institution. I applaud. I should like only to footnote that the lament that political theorists have lost their way-this time to epistemology-is quite like the lament that political theorists had lost their way in the 30s and 40s-that time to the history of political theory. Cobban, cited by Kress on page 526, made just this argument as did, e.g., Pennock and Strauss and Easton and others in the early 50s. Of course their contention was as exaggerated (though not altogether unfounded) then as it is now, and it is unfortunate that Kress fails to recognize those theorists whose concern for public affairs surpasses their interest in epistemology. To footnote the footnote: Given the recurring theme and spectacle of theorists losing their way, sociological explanations do seem requisite, just as Kress at times suggests. The culprits seem to me to be the "professional" academy (recipe for constricted imaginations and intellectual freedom) and the liberal state (recipe for either complacency or resignation depending on one's tastes).
q-ary Bent Functions Constructed from Chain Rings

A chain ring is a finite local principal ideal ring.q-ary bent functions are constructed from chain rings which are freeZ"q-modules. A construction combining such bent functions is also given.
Effects of sympathectomy on a rat model of peripheral neuropathy

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of sympathectomy on our previously developed animal model for neuropathic pain. The neuropathy was produced by a unilateral tight ligation of the L5 and L6 spinal nerves in 81 rats, all of which showed a marked increase in frequency of paw lifting in response to innocuous mechanical stimuli and a shortened latency of paw withdrawal in response to noxious radiant heat stimuli on the affected limb. We interpreted these as behavioral signs of mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia. Surgical sympathectomy was performed by removing the sympathetic chain bilaterally from the L2 to L6 levels at 1 week prior to and 1, 3 and 5 weeks after nerve injury. In addition, the effect of sympathetic block was tested by systemically injecting guanethidine or phentolamine. Surgical sympathectomy relieved the signs of both mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia. The effect of sympathectomy for mechanical allodynia is estimated to be almost fully expressed within 30 min after the operation. Sympathetic block by chemical agents reversibly relieved the mechanical allodynia. These data suggest that the rats in our model exhibit behavioral signs of neuropathic pain that are sympathetically maintained.
Mechanical Properties, Fracture Behavior, and Grainboundary Chemistry of B-Doped Nial

This paper summarizes the results of our work aimed at overcoming the intrinsic grainboundary weakness of NiAI by microalloying with boron. In previous work we have shown that 300 wppm boron is very effective in suppressing intergranular fracture in NiAI [1]. It does this by segregating strongly to the grain boundaries and strengthening them. Despite this dramatic effect on the fracture mode, however, boron is unable to improve ductility because it is a potent solid solution strengthener, more than doubling the yield strength relative to that of undoped NiA1. The present work attempts to decrease this deleterious hardening effect by lowering the bulk concentration of boron in NiA1. Our results show that if the boron concentration in the bulk is lowered to 30 wppm, the yield strength of boron-doped NiA1 is only about 30% higher than that of undoped NiAI. In addition, there is enough boron at the grain boundaries of this alloy to suppress intergranular fracture. Under these conditions, boron-doped NiAI has a tensile ductility of 2%, which is essentially identical to that of undoped NiA1. This result, namely that the strengthening of grain boundaries by boron does not by itself improve ductility, indicates that although grain boundaries might well be the weakest links in NiAI, cleavage planes are not much stronger. In other words, even though boron additions serve to strengthen the grain boundaries and suppress intergranular fracture, ductility is not improved, because the next brittle fracture mode, namely transgranular cleavage, takes over before significant plastic deformation can occur.
ULCERATIVE COLITIS AND THE COMMUNICATION PROCESS

Psychosexual hypotheses about dynamics of psychosomatic conditions are reexamined in light of medical facts. It is proposed that these hypotheses have value in that they communicate about the experience of being ill with these conditions—in terms of effect on the patient's self-image and the environmental responses stimulated by his symptoms.
Error analysis techniques for perfluorocarbon tracer derived multizone ventilation rates

Abstract Several mathematical schemes for calculating ventilation flows and their associated errors using the multiple perfluorocarbon tracer (PFT) method developed at Brookhaven National Laboratory are presented and methods are suggested for their implementation on microcomputer systems. A first order error analysis method is described along with a matrix method which yields identical results but is computationally much faster. Both methods are compared to the Monte Carlo error analysis technique. The computation of an optimal condition number is suggested as a means of gauging the sensitivity of the flow solutions.
Therapeutic Apheresis for the Renal Complications of Multiple Myeloma and the Dysglobulinemias

Disordered immunoglobulin synthesis can result in a variety of different types of renal pathology. Multiple myeloma is often associated with the overproduction of light chains which may result in toxicity to the renal tubules and acute renal failure. Patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia will have renal involvement which is most often in the form of a membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Renal involvement in macroglobulinemia is relatively uncommon, but IgM thrombi can be so voluminous as to occlude the glomerular capillary lumen. In each of these examples, therapeutic plasma exchange has been found to be a useful adjunct to the eventual chemotherapy required for the definitive treatment of these disorders.