cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differences in dehydration tolerance among populations of a gametophyte-only fern.

PREMISE OF THE STUDY For many plant species, historical climatic conditions may have left lasting imprints that are detectable in contemporary populations. Additionally, if these historical conditions also prevented gene flow among populations, these populations may be differentiated with respect to one another and their contemporary environmental conditions. For the fern, Vittaria appalachiana, one theory is that historical conditions during the Pleistocene largely shaped both the distribution and lack of sporophyte production. Our goals-based on this theory-were to examine physiological differences among and within populations spanning the species' geographic range, and the contribution of historical climatic conditions to this differentiation. METHODS We exposed explants from five populations to four drying treatments and examined differences in physiological response. Additionally, we examined the role of historical and current climatic conditions in driving the observed population differentiation. KEY RESULTS Populations differ in their ability to tolerate varying levels of dehydration, displaying a pattern of countergradient selection. Exposure to historical and contemporary climatic conditions, specifically variation in temperature and precipitation regimes, resulted in population divergence observed among contemporary populations. CONCLUSIONS Historical conditions have shaped not only the distribution of V. appalachiana, but also its current physiological limitations. Results from this study support the hypothesis that climatic conditions during the Pleistocene are responsible for the distribution of this species, and may be responsible for the observed differences in dehydration tolerance. Additionally, dehydration tolerance may be the driving factor for previously reported patterns of countergradient selection in this species.
Build orientation optimization for additive manufacturing of functionally graded material objects

Additive manufacturing (AM) of functionally graded material (FGM) objects has garnered significant research interest in the last decade. FGM parts printed using a 3D printer are finding innovative usages in numerous applications. To move from research sample and prototypes to commercially viable functional FGM parts, it is necessary to develop an integrated approach for modeling, optimization, and process planning for AM fabricated FGM parts. While solid modeling of FGM objects has been studied in detail, the build orientation optimization and process planning for AM fabricated FGM objects remain largely unaddressed. The build orientation of FGM object can significantly influence overall print quality and cost. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach for build orientation optimization (BOO) of additively fabricated FGM parts. The formulated BOO cost function encapsulates material error and geometric error as primary factors. The geometric error considers volumetric stair-case error and the material error accounts for errors due to the discretization of material composition across the cross-section of the toolpath. A novel multi-scale material error computation approach has been proposed to effectively and efficiently compute the material error. Since the build orientation cost function cannot be explicitly defined, and an expansive parametric sweep is too computationally expensive to implement, a surrogate model-based global optimization was implemented to solve the formulated BOO problem. The proposed optimization framework has been assessed using various test objects to illustrate the overall methodology and demonstrate its effectiveness.
Interference Analysis for Finite-Area 5-G mmWave Networks Considering Blockage Effect

With the overcrowded sub-6-GHz bands, millimeter wave (mmWave) bands offer a promising alternative for the next-generation wireless standard, i.e., 5-G. However, the susceptibility of mmWave signals to severe pathloss and shadowing requires the use of highly directional antennas to overcome such adverse characteristics. Building a network with directional beams changes the interference behavior, since, narrow beams are vulnerable to blockages. Such sensitivity to blockages causes uncertainty in the interfering node locations and not all of the potential interfering nodes actively contribute to the interference power level at a certain location of the network. Configuration uncertainty may also manifest in the spectral domain while applying dynamic channel and frequency assignment to support 5-G applications. In this paper, we first propose a blockage model considering mmWave specifications. Subsequently, using the proposed blockage model, we derive a spatial-spectral interference model for dense finite-area 5-G mmWave networks. The proposed interference model considers randomness of node configuration in both spatial and spectral domains. Finally, the error performance of the network from an arbitrarily located user perspective is calculated in terms of bit error rate and outage probability metrics. The analytical results are validated via Monte Carlo simulations. It is shown that considering mmWave specifications and also randomness in both spectral and spatial node configurations leads to a noticeably different interference profile.
Fusion of epicardial surfaces from CTCA with PET perfusion data

533 Objectives: Our current approach to the fusion of CTCA and PET perfusion images aligns and warps the CT coronary arteries onto the epicardial surface detected from nuclear data. This work was undertaken to improve the alignment and display realism by using the CT epicardial boundary. Methods: PET and CTCA images from a combined scanner were used. Based on the location of the LV detected from PET during perfusion quantitation, the site of the LV chamber in the CT was identified, and Hounsfield units were used to define the exact endocardial surface. Based on the endocardial surface, the epicardium was detected, again using Hounsfield units, or when that failed, by estimating its position from the detected endocardium. Coronary arteries were segmented using a commercial program; then, the epicardial surface was warped to lie congruent with the detected artery centerlines. The epicardial boundary points were nonlinearly filtered; surface points suspected to be erroneous, as defined by local properties, were replaced with values interpolated from the nearest points deemed more accurate. The resulting epicardial surface was linearly aligned to the epicardial boundary detected from the PET, and the CT boundaries were color-coded based on the PET perfusion. Improvements in alignment with the new approach were measured by comparing the mean distance that coronary arteries needed to be warped to match the PET surface (the old method) to the mean distance that the CT epicardial surface had to be warped to lie congruent with the arteries. Results: Resulting surfaces were more realistic than those created using PET epicardial boundaries. Forcing the CT epicardial surface to lie on the detected coronary arteries eliminated problems seen with the warping of coronary arteries onto a PET surface. The mean distance that the coronary arteries had to be warped to match the PET epicardium was 11.8mm. The mean distance that the CT epicardial surface had to be warped to lie congruent with the coronary arteries was 1.4mm. Conclusions: Use of epicardial surfaces from CTCA improves the fusion and visualization of CTCA and perfusion data.
Explaining reductions in FDA drug review times: PDUFA matters.

ABSTRACT: Yale professor Mary Olson responds to the paper titled “Approval Times for New Drugs: Does the Source of Funding for FDA Staff Matter?” by Daniel Carpenter and colleagues ( Health Affairs...
The Effect of Intimate Partner Violence and Probable Traumatic Brain Injury on Mental Health Outcomes for Black Women.

Severe intimate partner violence (IPV) including loss of consciousness from head injuries and/or strangulation can result in traumatic brain injury (TBI), a brain pathology characterized by altered...
A guideline for appropriate application of vertically-integrated modeling approaches for geologic carbon storage modeling

Abstract Mathematical modeling is an essential tool for answering questions related to geologic carbon storage (GCS). The choice of modeling approach depends on the type of questions being asked. In this paper we discuss a series of approaches with a hierarchical complexity including vertically-integrated single-phase flow approaches, vertically-integrated multi-phase flow approaches (with and without vertical equilibrium assumption), three-dimensional multi-phase flow approaches, and fully-coupled multi-phase flow approaches that couple flow with geochemistry and/or geomechanics. Three spatial scales are used to categorize the questions to be addressed by modeling: regional scale (encompasses CO2 plume extent and majority of area of pressure impact of one or more injection operations), site scale (includes the CO2 plume extent and some of the area impacted by the pressure increase of a single injection site), and well scale (the immediate vicinity of an injection well). A set of guidelines is developed to help modelers choose the most appropriate modeling approach, and show when simpler modeling approaches may be the better choice. Vertically-integrated single-phase flow models are the most appropriate choice at both the site and regional scales, if the pressure impact outside of the CO2 plume is of interest. Vertically-integrated multi-phase flow models should be chosen at the regional scale, if the locations of CO2 plumes are of interest, and at the site scale if vertical segregation of CO2 and brine is fast or vertical heterogeneity in properties can be presented by distinct, continuous layers. Three-dimensional multi-phase flow models are the appropriate choice at the well and site scales for cases with significant vertical flow components of CO2 and brine. Fully-coupled multi-phase flow models should only be chosen if pore-space alteration through geochemistry or geomechanics feeds back to fluid flow.
Analytic and Translational Genetics

Understanding the influence of genetics on human disease is among the primary goals for biology and medicine. To this end, the direct study of natural human genetic variation has provided valuable ...
Integral Reinforcement Learning-Based Multi-Robot Minimum Time-Energy Path Planning Subject to Collision Avoidance and Unknown Environmental Disturbances

In this letter, we study the online multi-robot minimum time-energy path planning problem subject to collision avoidance and input constraints in an unknown environment. We develop an online adaptive solution for the problem using integral reinforcement learning (IRL). This is achieved through transforming the finite-horizon minimum time-energy problem with input constraints to an approximate infinite-horizon optimal control problem. To achieve collision avoidance, we incorporate artificial potential fields into the approximate cost function. We develop an IRL-based optimal control strategy and prove its convergence. The theoretical results are verified through simulation studies.
Anchor-Based Femoral Fixation for Physeal-Sparing Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A Time-Zero Biomechanical Comparison With Tenodesis Screw Fixation:

Background:Open physes and trochlear/notch geometries in pediatric patients limit the safe corridor for femoral interference screw graft fixation during medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) recons...
Characteristics associated with parental estimates of sleep duration in children with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract Background Sleep problems are common in individuals with ASD. This study examined the relationships between bedtime consistency, cognitive functioning, comorbid diagnoses, intervention, demographics and sleep duration in children with ASD. Method Cross-sectional data from 1683 children with ASD in the 2016 and 2017 National Survey of Children's Health were analyzed. The sample was 80 % male, 46 % non-Hispanic white, and mean age was 10.5 (SD 4.1) years. All data were parent report. Multiple linear regression was performed. Results ASD severity was associated with shorter sleep duration, and bedtime consistency was associated with longer sleep duration. Age moderated the effects of both bedtime consistency and ADD/ADHD on sleep duration. Both the positive effect of bedtime consistency and the negative effect of ADD/ADHD on sleep duration became less pronounced with age. Conclusion Although the challenges related to sleep and behavior may differ by age of the child, bedtime consistency could be a good target to improve sleep duration for all children with ASD. Future studies, especially longitudinal studies, on sleep habits and sleep hygiene, in conjunction with other measures of sleep patterns (e.g., night wakings) and correlates of sleep problems, may provide further evidence for the importance of good sleep practices and guide sleep treatment in children with ASD.
Incarcerated Activism During COVID-19

Incarcerated people have a notoriously difficult time advocating for themselves. Like other authoritarian institutions, prisons severely curtail and often punish speech, organizing, and self-advocacy. Also like other authoritarian institutions, prison administrators are inclined to suppress protest rather than respond to the grounds for protest. Yet, despite impediments to their participation, incarcerated people have organized during the pandemic, advocating for themselves through media channels, public forums, and the courts. Indeed, a dramatic increase in prisoner activism correlates with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Just as the COVID-19 pandemic highlights injustice in other areas of criminal legal practice, it reveals both the dangers of silencing prisoner speech and the potential for prisoner self-advocacy. This Essay first discusses silencing and speech in carceral spaces during the pandemic using a theory of political philosophy called epistemic injustice. The theory of epistemic injustice addresses how disfavored social groups are excluded from sharing knowledge in public conversations. The stifling of prisoner speech occurs in part because incarcerated people are deliberately separated from the outside world. But it also reflects their status as a stigmatized—and thus discredited—group. Even when their speech is heard, it is discounted as manipulative and untrustworthy. Second, this Essay argues that the self-advocacy efforts made by incarcerated people during the pandemic demonstrates the democratic value of their participation. Among the necessary predicates to meaningful change in criminal legal practices is the democratic participation of the targets of those practices, including suspects, criminal defendants, and prisoners. Their participation in the political sphere serves a vital democratic function the absence of which is felt not only in the authoritarian structure of prisons, but in the society-wide failure to enact widespread change to criminal legal practices.
Transfusion management for children supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Due to the patients' underlying illness, in combination with circuit-induced coagulopathy, as well as PLT dysfunction, children supported by ECMO are a risk of receiving large volumes of blood components. Given the increasing use of modified blood products and newer biologics, it is unknown whether these products have equal efficacy and safety, in ECMO. The majority of guidance for transfusion therapy is based on expert opinion alone, and research on indications for RBC, plasma, and PLT transfusions for children on ECMO should be a priority.
Geostatistical significance of differences for spatial subsurface phenomenon

Abstract Optimum subsurface development decision-making depends on uncertainty models that integrate all information, data, and interpretations. Failure to account for the spatial context of subsurface data may lead to naive and overconfident estimations of uncertainty. These assumptions negatively impact the optimality of subsurface development decision-making and, ultimately, the economics of subsurface projects. An essential component is determining the significance of observed local differences in spatial datasets. New and practical methods are required to assess the significance of the difference in local expectation of spatial measures. Then, to determine if the difference is geostatistically significant, we introduce significance measures that account for the spatial context. Demonstrations of applications with geostatistical significance cover three unique spatial applications. The demonstrations use realistic synthetic data to account for stationary (i.e., statistics of interest are invariant under translation) and geological trends of a spatial feature, porosity. All examples utilize random function fields constrained by the histogram, two-point semivariogram, local conditioning data, and expert-mapped secondary information. The proposed workflow performs spatial bootstrap to empirically assess the null distribution and uncertainty in the difference in means based on the spatial context for the locally unconditional and conditional cases. The resulting empirically derived uncertainty distributions are applied to calculate p-values for the spatial version of null hypothesis significance testing. Nevertheless, decisions based solely on p-values suffer from misinterpretation and lack of reproducibility. To address this problem, we propose an alternative workflow that computes the Bayes factor bound and estimation graphics to comprehensively analyze the results and provide evidence to support decision making. The suggested workflow for geostatistical significance supports other subsurface applications such as trend modeling, stress testing decisions of stationarity checking, and model accuracy against input spatial statistics checks. While presented for subsurface porosity modeling, the proposed workflow is compatible with a wide range of spatial/subsurface settings: soil erosion monitoring, groundwater contamination mitigation, sustainable forestry, mining grade control, design of well pads, etcetera. Furthermore, the proposed workflow offers an improved assessment of uncertainty and robust standards to conclude whether an observed difference over spatial sample data is meaningful.
The opportunistic intracellular bacterial pathogen Rhodococcus equi elicits type I interferons by engaging cytosolic DNA sensing in macrophages

ABSTRACT Rhodococcus equi is a major cause of foal pneumonia and an opportunistic pathogen in immunocompromised humans. While alveolar macrophages constitute the primary replicative niche for R. equi, little is known about how intracellular R. equi is sensed by macrophages. Here, we discovered that that in addition to previously characterized pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., Tnfa, Il6, Il1b), macrophages infected with R. equi induce a robust type I IFN response, including Ifnb and interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), similar to the evolutionarily related pathogen, Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Follow up studies using a combination of mammalian and bacterial genetics, demonstrated that induction of this type I IFN expression program is largely dependent on the cGAS/STING/TBK1 axis of the cytosolic DNA surveillance pathway, suggesting that R. equi perturbs the phagosomal membrane and causes DNA release into the cytosol following phagocytosis. Consistent with this we found that a population of ~12% of R. equi phagosomes recruited the galectin-3, −8 and −9 danger receptors. Interesting, neither phagosomal damage nor induction of type I IFN required the R. equi’s virulence-associated plasmid. Importantly, R. equi infection of both mice and foals stimulated ISG expression, in organs (mice) and circulating monocytes (foals). By demonstrating that R. equi activates cytosolic DNA sensing in macrophages and elicits type I IFN responses in animal models, our work provides novel insights into how R. equi engages the innate immune system and furthers our understanding how this zoonotic pathogen causes inflammation and disease. IMPORTANCE Rhodococcus equi is a facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen of horses and other domestic animals, as well as an opportunistic pathogen of immunocompromised and rarely immunocompetent humans. In human patients, Rhodococcus pneumonia bears some pathological similarities to pulmonary tuberculosis, and poses a risk for misdiagnosis. In horses, R. equi infection has a major detrimental impact on the equine breeding industry due to a lack of an efficacious vaccine and its ubiquitous distribution in soil. Given the prevalence of subclinical infection and high false positive rate in current screening methods, there exists a critical need to identify factors contributing to positive patient outcomes. Our research identifies innate immune sensing events and immune transcriptional signatures that may lead to biomarkers for clinical disease, more accurate screening methods, and insight into susceptibility to infection.
Optimizing Tip Diameter in Phacoemulsification of Varying Lens Sizes: An in vitro Study.

Purpose We assessed the effect of two lens cube sizes, three tip sizes, and two ultrasound (US) approaches on phacoemulsification efficiency and chatter. Methods After porcine lens nuclei were soaked in formalin, we divided them into cubes measuring 2.0 mm or 3.0 mm. We collected efficiency and chatter data for 30-degree bent 19 G, 20 G, and 21 G tips with a continuous torsional US system; and for straight 19 G, 20 G, and 21 G tips with a micropulse longitudinal US system. Results The average time needed for removal was always higher for the 3.0 mm lens cube than for the 2.0 mm lens cube. Statistically significant differences were observed between the 19 G and 21 G tips with micropulse longitudinal US using a 2.0 mm cube and a 3.0 mm cube, and with continuous transversal US using a 2.0 mm lens cube and a 3.0 mm cube. We did not observe significant differences between 19 G and 20 G tips with either cube size in either US system. However, we noted identical trends for both cube sizes with both US approaches; 19 G tips performed better than 20 G and 21 G tips. Conclusion Regardless of the lens size, 19 G needles were the most efficient, and had both the fewest outliers and the smallest standard deviations.
Takings Law and the Regulatory State: A Response to R.S. Radford

In the Winter 1994 issue of the Fordham Urban Law Journal, R.S. Radford reviewed Dennis Coyle’s book “Property Rights and the Constitution.” Radford’s theory relies on the idea that property rights deserve greater constitutional protection than they have received in the 60 years since the Supreme Court accepted the legitimacy of the regulatory state. This article reviews Radford’s interpretation and criticism of Coyle’s theory, analyzes Radford’s theories in light of recent cases, and discussed the constitutional implications of Radford’s analysis and how they relate to the economic regulations that they empower.
Sleep in traumatic brain injury.

Abstract Sleep disturbances affect more than half of survivors of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and have the potential to undermine rehabilitation, recovery, and outcomes. Normal sleep architecture has been well-described and the neurophysiology of sleep is becoming better understood in recent years, though this complex process continues to be dissected for better appreciation. There are numerous types of sleep disorder, most of which fall under two categories: dyssomnias and parasomnias. In more challenging scenarios patients may be plagued with more than one dyssomnia and/or parasomnia simultaneously, complicating the diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Objective and subjective methods are used to evaluate sleep disorders and help distinguish them from psychiatric and environmental contributors to poor sleep. There are several pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments options for sleep disturbances after TBI, many of which have been particularly helpful in restoring adequate quantity and quality of sleep for survivors. However, to date no consensus has been established regarding how to treat this entity, and it may be that a multimodal approach is ultimately best.
A Continuum of Male Controls and Violence against Women: A Teaching Model

Abstract The prevalence and severity of violence against women is a critical issue for social work educators to address. This article describes a teaching model that educators can use to educate social work students and professionals about the widely existing, severe, subtle and overt forms of male controls and violence against women. Forms of male controls and violence against women discussed include: sexist language, gender-biased research, differential treatment, street hassling, sexist media, pornography, sexual harassment, battering, sexual assault, and femicide. Results presented are from an evaluation of a three hour workshop for professionals and from a qualitative analysis of student comments after a weekend class which used this model. Evaluation of this model suggests that participants found the content to be useful and relevant to their social work practice and education. Resource lists are provided to give educators a starting point for learning more about male controls and violence against w...
The polymeric immunoglobulin receptor

IgA is the primary immunoglobulin found in a wide range of epithelial and mucosal secretions, including milk, saliva, intestinal secretions, bile, respiratory secretions, and tears [1]. Over 30 years ago it was observed that IgA isolated from such secretions contains an extra polypeptide of about 70 kDa, known as secretory component (SC) [2]. SC is synthesized by the epithelial cell and associates with dimeric IgA (dIgA) as it is transported across the epithelial cell. It was subsequently discovered that SC is a proteolytic fragment of an integral membrane protein, known as the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) [3]. The basic model for the transepithelial transport of dIgA by the pIgR is shown in Figure 5.1. The pIgR is synthesized as an integral membrane protein in the rough endoplasmic reticulum and then travels to the Golgi apparatus. In the last station of the Golgi, known as the trans-Golgi network (TGN), the pIgR is sorted into vesicles that deliver it to the basolateral surface of the epithelial cell. At that surface the pIgR can bind to dIgA that is produced by plasma cells in the lamina propria underlying the epithelium. The pIgR and bound dIgA are then endocytosed and delivered to endosomes. The receptor and ligand move through a series of endocytotic and transcytotic vesicles and are ultimately delivered to the apical plasma membrane. There the extracellular, ligand binding portion of the pIgR is cleaved and released together with the dIgA into external secretions. This cleaved fragment is the SC.
Simultaneous multislice multiband parallel radiofrequency excitation with independent slice‐specific transmit B1 homogenization

Purpose To develop a new parallel transmit (pTx) pulse design for simultaneous multiband (MB) excitation in order to tackle simultaneously the problems of transmit B1 (B1+) inhomogeneity and total radiofrequency (RF) power, so as to allow for optimal RF excitation when using MB pulses for slice acceleration for high and ultrahigh field MRI. Methods With the proposed approach, each of the bands that are simultaneously excited is subject to a band-specific set of B1 complex shim weights. The method was validated in the human brain at 7T using a 16-channel pTx system and was compared to conventional MB pulses operating in the circularly polarized (CP) mode. Further numerical simulations based on measured B1 maps were conducted. Results The new method improved B1+ homogeneity by 60% when keeping the total RF power constant and reduced total RF power by 72% when keeping the excitation fidelity constant, as compared to the conventional CP mode. Conclusion A new pTx pulse design formalism is introduced targeting slice-specific B1+ homogenization in MB excitation while constraining total RF power. These pulses lead to significantly improved slice-wise B1+ uniformity and/or largely reduced total RF power, as compared to the conventionally employed MB pulses applied in the CP mode. Magn Reson Med 70:630–638, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nutritional status and nutritional management in children with cancer

Malnutrition is often seen at the point of diagnosis in childhood malignancy or may develop during the course of treatment. Strategies for optimal diagnosis and management of nutritional problems in children with cancer are limited in the published literature. Identification of children who may be malnourished or at nutritional risk can be achieved through improved approaches for risk stratification and classification. Once recognised, various strategies have been demonstrated to reduce malnutrition, minimise side effects of treatment and improve survival. Novel approaches in vivo and adult oncology populations provide future avenues for investigation.
Atenolol is Associated With Lower Day-of-Surgery Heart Rate Compared to Long- and Short-Acting Metoprolol

Objectives The authors analyzed the association between outpatient β-blocker type and day-of-surgery (DOS) heart rate in ambulatory surgical patients. They further investigated whether differences in DOS heart rate between atenolol and metoprolol could be explained by once-daily versus twice-daily dosing regimens. Design Retrospective observational study. Setting Veterans Administration hospital. Participants Ambulatory surgical patients on long-term atenolol or metoprolol. Interventions None. Measurements and Main Results Using a propensity-score-matched cohort, DOS heart rates were compared in patients prescribed atenolol versus metoprolol. Then, once-daily and twice-daily metoprolol formulations were differentiated and DOS heart rates were compared within a general linear model. DOS heart rates in patients prescribed atenolol versus any metoprolol formulation were slower by a mean of 5.1 beats/min (66.6 v 71.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] of difference, 1.9-8.3; p = 0.002), a difference that was not observed in preoperative primary care visits. The general linear model showed that patients prescribed atenolol (typically once-daily dosing) had a mean DOS heart rate 5.6 beats/min lower compared with patients prescribed once-daily metoprolol succinate (68.9 v 74.5; 95% CI of difference, −8.6 to −2.6; p Conclusions Atenolol is associated with a lower DOS heart rate versus metoprolol. The heart rate difference is specific to the day of surgery and is not explained by once-daily versus twice-daily dosing regimens.
The Proximal Tubule in Cystinosis: Fight or Flight?

Although rare, nephropathic cystinosis is a devastating monogenic disorder leading to renal failure in the second decade of life. Fanconi syndrome, the initial renal manifestation of cystinosis in the young child, established the proximal tubule as a primary target of injury now recognized as the
Winning is Not Enough: Sport and Politics in East Asia and Beyond

Avery Brundage, once head of the International Olympic Committee, described politics as ‘a savage monster’ always trying to disrupt sport. But Brundage was defending the decision not to withhold the 1936 Olympic Games from Nazi Germany. Thus, defending the sanctity of sport can itself be political. Sport is especially political in Asia. In the run-up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the Chinese ran a gauntlet of political causes ranging from corporate boycotts of the Games over China's policies in Darfur to an Olympic torch procession attacked by demonstrators in London, Paris, San Francisco and Seoul. By comparison, London had virtually no politics associated with it – unless you read deep political messages in the story of Mary Poppins or the reunion of the Spice Girls. This article makes three key points. First, the Olympics and international sport for that matter are intensely political. Second, sport is most intensely political in this region of the world. Third, the lessons we learn about the politics ...
Spores of Bacillus subtilis: their resistance to and killing by radiation, heat and chemicals

A number of mechanisms are responsible for the resistance of spores of Bacillus species to heat, radiation and chemicals and for spore killing by these agents. Spore resistance to wet heat is determined largely by the water content of spore core, which is much lower than that in the growing cell protoplast. A lower core water content generally gives more wet heat-resistant spores. The level and type of spore core mineral ions and the intrinsic stability of total spore proteins also play a role in spore wet heat resistance, and the saturation of spore DNA with alpha/beta-type small, acid-soluble spore proteins (SASP) protects DNA against wet heat damage. However, how wet heat kills spores is not clear, although it is not through DNA damage. The alpha/beta-type SASP are also important in spore resistance to dry heat, as is DNA repair in spore outgrowth, as Bacillus subtilis spores are killed by dry heat via DNA damage. Both UV and gamma-radiation also kill spores via DNA damage. The mechanism of spore resistance to gamma-radiation is not well understood, although the alpha/beta-type SASP are not involved. In contrast, spore UV resistance is due largely to an alteration in spore DNA photochemistry caused by the binding of alpha/beta-type SASP to the DNA, and to a lesser extent to the photosensitizing action of the spore core's large pool of dipicolinic acid. UV irradiation of spores at 254 nm does not generate the cyclobutane dimers (CPDs) and (6-4)-photoproducts (64PPs) formed between adjacent pyrimidines in growing cells, but rather a thymidyl-thymidine adduct termed spore photoproduct (SP). While SP is formed in spores with approximately the same quantum efficiency as that for generation of CPDs and 64PPs in growing cells, SP is repaired rapidly and efficiently in spore outgrowth by a number of repair systems, at least one of which is specific for SP. Some chemicals (e.g. nitrous acid, formaldehyde) again kill spores by DNA damage, while others, in particular oxidizing agents, appear to damage the spore's inner membrane so that this membrane ruptures upon spore germination and outgrowth. There are also other agents such as glutaraldehyde for which the mechanism of spore killing is unclear. Factors important in spore chemical resistance vary with the chemical, but include: (i) the spore coat proteins that likely react with and detoxify chemical agents; (ii) the relative impermeability of the spore's inner membrane that restricts access of exogenous chemicals to the spore core; (iii) the protection of spore DNA by its saturation with alpha/beta-type SASP; and (iv) DNA repair for agents that kill spores via DNA damage. Given the importance of the killing of spores of Bacillus species in the food and medical products industry, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of spore resistance and killing may lead to improved methods for spore destruction.
Psychology at the University of Nevada-Reno: a retrospective account.

The University of Nevada was founded in 1874. First located in Elko, it was moved to Reno in 1886. The initial curriculum included psychology as a required course for seniors. For some years psychology was taught by professors primarily trained in other disciplines, but in 1909 George Ordahl, a G. Stanley Hall Ph.D., joined the faculty and set up a psychology laboratory. He was succeeded by James Young, who was followed by Ralph Irwin, and later by Paul Secord. During Secord's tenure doctoral programs were developed in experimental psychology, social psychology (jointly with sociology), and clinical psychology.
Melting of carbon cages

We simulate the melting of carbon fullerenes by molecular dynamics using an accurate tight-binding model. The melting temperatures are obtained for fullerness ranging from C20 to C84. For small cages (n≤58), We found that the melting temperature increases almost linearly with the cluster size. However, the melting temperature of the larger fullerenes (n=60 and n≥70) is fairly constant and does not change much with cluster size.
Preoperative steroid treatment does not improve markers of inflammation after cardiac surgery in neonates: Results from a randomized trial

Objective Neonatal cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass results in a heightened inflammatory response. Perioperative glucocorticoid administration is commonly used in an attempt to reduce the inflammatory cascade, although characterization of the cytokine response to steroids in neonatal cardiac surgery remains elusive because of highly variable approaches in administration. This randomized trial was designed to prospectively evaluate the effect of specific glucocorticoid dosing protocols on inflammatory markers in neonatal cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods Neonates scheduled for cardiac surgery were randomly assigned to receive either 2-dose (8 hours preoperatively and operatively, n = 36) or single-dose (operatively, n = 32) methylprednisolone at 30 mg/kg per dose in a prospective double-blind trial. The primary outcome was the effect of these steroid regimens on markers of inflammation. Secondary analyses evaluated the association of specific cytokine profiles with postoperative clinical outcomes. Results Patient demographics, perioperative variables, and preoperative indices of inflammation were similar between the single- and 2-dose groups. Preoperative cytokine response after the 2-dose methylprednisolone protocol was consistent with an anti-inflammatory effect, although this did not persist into the postoperative period. Premedication baseline levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-8, interleukin-10, and tumor necrosis factor α were predictive of postoperative intensive care unit and hospital length of stay. Only interleukin-8 demonstrated a postoperative response associated with duration of intensive care unit and hospital stay. Conclusions The addition of a preoperative dose of methylprednisolone to a standard intraoperative methylprednisolone dose does not improve markers of inflammation after neonatal cardiac surgery. The routine administration of preoperative glucocorticoids in neonatal cardiac surgery should be reconsidered.
Distribution of cocaine and metabolites in the pregnant rat and fetus in a chronic subcutaneous injection model.

We examined the distribution of cocaine and its metabolites benzoylecgonine (BE) and norcocaine (NOR) in pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats and fetuses following twice-daily subcutaneous (s.c.) injections of 20 mg/kg cocaine HCl from gestational day (GD) 8 through GD 20. On GD 21, the animals received a single injection and maternal trunk blood, fetal blood, fetal brains, and amniotic fluid were collected 5 min, 15 min, 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, 8 h, or 12 h later for cocaine and metabolite analyses by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection. The highest concentrations of cocaine and BE were detected in maternal plasma at 1 h and 4 h respectively. Cocaine peaked at 2 h and BE at 4 h in both fetal plasma and brain. In amniotic fluid, cocaine levels peaked at 2 h, but the highest BE levels were found at 8 h postinjection. An additional group of chronically treated dams was given both cocaine injections on GD 21 and sacrificed 2 h later. Benzoylecgonine concentrations were increased in fetal plasma, fetal brain, and amniotic fluid when compared with the 2-h results following a single cocaine treatment. Moreover, NOR, which had not been previously detected, was now measurable in the amniotic fluid.
Extracellular osmolarity modulates G protein-coupled receptor-dependent ATP release from 1321N1 astrocytoma cells.

We previously reported that ATP release from 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells could be stimulated either by activation of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) or by hypotonic stress. Cheema et al. (Che...
Dystonic tics in patients with Tourette's syndrome

Dystonic tics, in contrast to clonic tics, are relatively slow and temporarily sustained twisting, pulling, or squeezing movements producing briefly maintained abnormal postures. Because dystonic tics often present diagnostic difficulties, we studied these motor tics in 156 patients with Tourette's syndrome (TS). In addition to clonic motor and vocal/phonic tics, seen in all patients, 89 (57%) of them exhibited one or more dystonic tics. The most common dystonic tics were oculogyric deviations (43 patients), blepharospasm (23), and dystonic neck movements (11). Blinking (110) and facial twitching (86) were the most common clonic tics. Except for possibly a greater familial occurrence, a higher frequency of previous head trauma, and associated attention deficit disorder, the group of patients with dystonic tics did not significantly differ in any of the major clinical variables from those TS patients without dystonic tics. We conclude that dystonic tics are typical motor manifestations of TS and that patients with these motor tics are not different from those with more typical clonic tics.
On profinite completions and canonical extensions

We show that if a variety V of monotone lattice expansions is finitely generated, then profinite completions agree with canonical extensions on V. The converse holds for varieties of finite type.
Does length of labor vary by maternal body mass index

MARA GREENBERG, YVONNE CHENG, NAOMI STOTLAND, AARON CAUGHEY, University of California, San Francisco, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, San Francisco, California OBJECTIVE: To examine the lengths of first and second stages of labor among women of varying body mass indices (BMI), to see if different norms should be established. STUDY DESIGN: This is a retrospective cohort study of all term, singleton, vertex, vaginal deliveries at a single institution. The length of first and second stages of labor were compared between four subgroups stratified by prepregnancy body mass index: low (BMI !19.5 kg/m), normal (19.5-25.9 kg/ m), high (26.0-29.9 kg/m), and obese (O30 kg/m). Length of labor was examined using Kaplan-Meier survival curves for each BMI subgroup and stratified by parity and epidural anesthesia use. RESULTS: Of the 17,218 women examined, there were no differences in length of first or second stages of labor by BMI. For nulliparas, the median lengths of first stage ranged between 8.3 and 9.4 hours (p=0.42) and of second stage ranged between 1.2-2.3 hours among BMI subgroups (p=0.63). When stratified by epidural use, the lengths of labor also did not differ (Figure). Similar results were observed for multiparas, except for those with epidural anesthesia when a small difference in the length of first stage of labor was seen.
Parasitology, Virology, and Serology of Free-Ranging Coyotes (Canis latrans) from Central Georgia, USA

We examined 31 free-ranging coyotes (Canis latrans) from central Georgia, USA, for select parasites and viral agents. Sixteen coyotes had adult heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis). Serum samples from 27 animals revealed antibodies against canine parvovirus (100%), canine distemper virus (48%), canine adenovirus (37%), and Trypanosoma cruzi (7%); none were detected against Leishmania spp. Twenty-two of 24 (92%) coyotes were positive for Toxoplasma gondii. Real-time PCR of feces revealed 32% of coyotes were shedding canine parvovirus, and sequencing revealed type 2b and 2c. Because coyotes could be a spillover host of domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) pathogens, studies of the transmission of pathogens between coyotes and domestic dogs are warranted.
Deposition of colloidal particles in monolayers and multilayers

Abstract Preliminary observations are reported on the deposition of alumina, silica, zinc sulfide and gold colloidal particles on solid surfaces. The alumina, which is positively charged, can induce subsequent deposition of the other colloids (which are negative) onto glass, as pointed out by Iler in 1966. However, more uniform, reproducible and rapid deposition occurs on two monolayers of docosylamine sulfate applied to the glass by the Langmuir-Blodgett technique. The zinc sulfide sol, which is not stable to flocculation, deposits as three-dimensional aggregates. The deposition of colloidal gold was followed by optical absorption measurements, and layers containing a substantial fraction of the close-packed limit were obtained.
Zinc sulfate and wound healing

The assumption that wounds heal at a constant rate over time, when measured by volume or area, was questioned. Data from two studies indicate that healing rate changes over time. When this bias was taken into consideration, the conflicting findings of studies of zinc sulfate and wound healing support the hypothesis that zinc therapy is effective for patients with low serum zinc. It was concluded that in order to study the effect of zinc therapy, lesion size and zinc intake should be controlled and serum zinc should be monitored.
Public relations and journalism educators’ perceptions of media relations

Abstract A complex relationship exists between journalists and public relations practitioners. A number of researchers claim that prejudice against public relations is not due to negative personal experiences, but is rooted in journalism culture. This study explores if academic programs may be in part responsible for perpetuating stereotypes and contributing to negative perceptions of public relations, and whether journalism and public relations programs belong in the same academic department. A web-based survey was completed by 187 journalism and public relations educators. Both samples had professional experience, which allows the assumption that attitudes and perceptions measured in the survey would reasonably apply to practitioners as well as educators. The study found journalism educators do not differ as substantially and negatively in their opinions of public relations as previous literature suggests.
Absence of μ opioid receptor mRNA expression in astrocytes and microglia of rat spinal cord

Cumulating evidence has demonstrated that μ opioid receptor (MOR) agonists promote spinal glial activation, lead to synthesis and release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and contribute to opioid-induced hyperalgesia and development of opioid tolerance and dependence. However, whether these MOR agonists directly or indirectly act on spinal cord astrocytes and microglial cells in vivo is unclear. In the present study, by combining the techniques of in-situ hybridization of MOR mRNA with immunohistochemistry of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP; an astrocyte marker) and Iba1 (a microglial marker), we examined expression and distribution of GFAP, Iba1, and MOR mRNA in the spinal cord of rats under chronic morphine tolerance conditions. Intrathecal injections of morphine twice daily for 7 days reduced morphine analgesic effect and increased both GFAP and Iba1 immunostaining densities in the spinal cord. Surprisingly, neither GFAP nor Iba1 colocalized with MOR mRNA in spinal cord cells. Our findings indicate that MOR expression is absent from spinal cord astrocytes and microglia, suggesting that these cell types are indirectly activated by MOR agonists under chronic opioid tolerance conditions.
Redistricting reformulated: A maximum interaction/minimum separation objective

Abstract Alternative objective functions to the population centroid type commonly employed in computerized political districting algorithms are suggested and discussed. Districtings based on maximum overlap of individuals' “action spaces” or on minimum aggregate length of interpersonal separations better represent the spatio-political notion of “compactness” than do those based on centroid measures. The traditional analogy between the warehouse location problem and the optimal districting problem may thus be an inappropriate one. The proposed reformulated optimal districting problem with a spatial interaction or interpersonal separation objective may be formally stated as a quadratic integer program. The solution to the program is seen, however, to be only one of several possible “optimal” political partitionings. Regardless of the specific compactness measure chosen, separate “mean” and “modal” districtings may exist.