cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Academic Grit Scale

This study aims to develop and to validate a academic domain-specific construct of grit, the academic grit. In this paper, an explanation is provided why there is a need to stratify the construct and why the proposed construct needs to adopt constructs. The researcher seeks to develop and validate an instrument that measures academic grit which, in turn, a more precise predictor of academic success.
Whole-body PET Imaging of T-cell Response to Glioblastoma.

Purpose: Immunotherapy is a promising approach for many oncological malignancies, including glioblastoma, however, there are currently no available tools or biomarkers to accurately assess whole-body immune responses in patients with glioblastoma treated with immunotherapy. Here, the utility of OX40, a costimulatory molecule mainly expressed on activated effector T cells known to play an important role in eliminating cancer cells, was evaluated as a PET imaging biomarker to quantify and track response to immunotherapy. Experimental Design: A subcutaneous vaccination approach of CpG oligodeoxynucleotide, OX40 mAb, and tumor lysate at a remote site in a murine orthotopic glioma model was developed to induce activation of T cells distantly while monitoring their distribution in stimulated lymphoid organs with respect to observed therapeutic effects. To detect OX40-positive T cells, we utilized our in-house–developed 89Zr-DFO-OX40 mAb and in vivo PET/CT imaging. Results: ImmunoPET with 89Zr-DFO-OX40 mAb revealed strong OX40-positive responses with high specificity, not only in the nearest lymph node from vaccinated area (mean, 20.8%ID/cc) but also in the spleen (16.7%ID/cc) and the tumor draining lymph node (11.4%ID/cc). When the tumor was small ( Conclusions: The results highlight the promise of clinically translating cancer vaccination as a potential glioma therapy, as well as the benefits of monitoring efficacy of these treatments using immunoPET imaging of T-cell activation.
Role of entrained droplet oil on the bioavailability of petroleum substances in aqueous exposures

Abstract Bioavailability of petroleum substances is a complex issue that is affected by substance composition, the physicochemical properties of the individual constituents, and the exposure preparation system. The present study applies mechanistic fate and effects models to characterize the role of droplet oil on dissolved exposure and predicted effects from both neat and weathered crude oils, and refined fuel oils. The main effect from droplet oil is input of additional dissolved hydrocarbons to the exposure system following preparation of the initial stock solution. Toxicity was characterized using toxic units (TU) and shows that replenishment of bioavailable hydrocarbons by droplets in toxicity tests with low droplet content (e.g.,
Editorial Commentary: Challenges and potential of DSM‐5 and ICD‐11 revisions

Frances (2009) concluded that: ‘it would be wisefor us all to accept that descriptive psychiatry is‘a tired old creature’ and that a paradigm shift isessential. Neither ICD-10 nor DSM-IV is ﬁt forpurpose. Accordingly, the criterion that anyproposed changes must include justiﬁcations ismisleadingly one-sided. It is equally necessary tojustify why an outmoded system should beretained. … More well-thought-through work isgoing into revisions necessary for DSM-5 andICD-11 than was the case with any of the previ-ous changes. In particular, there has been muchmore effort to sort out where neuroscience standsin relation to classiﬁcation and, in the case ofICD-11, also what are the public health impera-tives. It would be nai¨ve to suppose that neithereconomic issues nor bureaucratic rigidities andsilliness will affect distortion on sensible decisionmaking. Rutter (2011a)
Pathologic Variants of the Mitochondrial Phosphate Carrier SLC25A3: Two New Patients and Expansion of the Cardiomyopathy/Skeletal Myopathy Phenotype With and Without Lactic Acidosis

Variants in the SLC25A3 gene, which codes for the mitochondrial phosphate transporter (PiC), lead to a failure of inorganic phosphate (Pi) transport across the mitochondrial membrane, which is required in the final step of oxidative phosphorylation. The literature described two affected sibships with variants in SLC25A3; all cases had skeletal myopathy and cardiomyopathy (OMIM 610773). We report here two new patients who had neonatal cardiomyopathy; one of whom did not have skeletal myopathy nor elevated lactate. Patient 1 had a homozygous splice site variant, c.158-9A>G, which has been previously reported in a Turkish family. Patient 2 was found to be a compound heterozygote for two novel variants, c.599T>G (p.Leu200Trp) and c. 886_898delGGTAGCAGTGCTTinsCAGATAC (p.Gly296_Ser300delinsGlnIlePro). Protein structure analysis indicated that both variants are likely to be pathogenic. Sequencing of SLC25A3 should be considered in patients with isolated cardiomyopathy, even those without generalized skeletal myopathy or lactic acidosis.
Efficient delaunay mesh generation from sampled scalar functions

Many modern research areas face the challenge of meshing level sets of sampled scalar functions. While many algorithms focus on ensuring geometric qualities of the output mesh, recent attention has been paid to building topologically accurate Delaunay conforming meshes of any level set from such volumetric data.
Association of Consulting Psychologists (ACP)

The Association of Consulting Psychologists (ACP) was the second professional organization to represent applied interests. Although the American Association of Clinical Psychologists had been establishment in 1917 as the first organization to represent clinical psychologists, it dissolved in 1919 in favor of the creation of the American Psychological Association's (APA) first section, the Clinical Section (renamed “Division” after the 1945 reorganization). The APA Clinical Section, however, did not meet the needs of clinical psychologists. The ACP, reorganized in 1930 from the 1921 New York State Association of Consulting Psychologists, addressed early professionalization issues such as professional standards, requirements for postgraduate training, certification and licensure issues, membership requirements, and codes of ethics. It eventually merged with other regional associations to form the American Association for Applied Psychology in 1937. Keywords: American Association of Applied Psychologists (AAAP); American Association of Consulting Psychologists (AACP); American Psychological Association (APA); Coxe, Warren W; Fryer, Douglas H; testing in psychology; ethics; training
A Commentary on: Forests in a Warming World: A Time for New Policies

As human habitation, cattle ranching, logging and other forms of development rapidly engulf the remaining wild areas in the tropics, it may be time to reassess the adequacy of existing tropical forest conservation measures. George Woodwell presents a compelling argument for the need to develop new national and international policies that treat stands of natural forest like other critical resources such as clean air and water (Woodwell, 1991).
A fuse control paradigm for demand side management: Formulation and stochastic pricing analysis

We consider a novel paradigm for demand side management that is based on the so called fuse control concept. We assume that an aggregator communicates with a household only at the meter, imposing a fuse limit, i.e. a restriction in the total consumption level within a given time frame. Consumers are then responsible to adjust the set-points of the individual household devices accordingly to meet the imposed fuse limit. We formulate the problem as a stochastic household management program, with stochasticity arising due to local photovoltaic generation. We show how a demand bidding curve for fuse increments can be constructed as a by-product of the developed problem and provide a rigorous pricing analysis that results in a probabilistic envelope around the “shadow” prices of the deterministic variant of the considered problem, inside which the “shadow” prices of the stochastic one are confined to lie. To evaluate the efficacy of the proposed approach we compare it with an idealized set-up that involves tracking of real-time market price signals.
Examination on Time-Dependent Soil Models in One-Dimensional Consolidation

This paper reviews the performance of two time-dependent constitutive models in predictions of one-dimensional consolidation. The Soft-Soil Creep model [1] is an example of an elastic-viscoplastic formulation that incorporates a time-dependent state variable to estimate viscoplastic deformation. We show that the SSC model is equivalent to the isotache formulation proposed by Imai [2], as both are based on a unique relationship between stress, void ratio and the viscoplastic component of void ratio rate. Simulations of 1-D consolidation confirm that both models represent Hypothesis B behavior, where the axial strain at the End of Primary (EOP) consolidation is dependent on the depth of the clay layer. The effects of specimen thickness and the phenomenon of pore pressure increase at the start of consolidation are discussed in detail. Our interpretation highlights the importance of assumptions regarding the initial strain rate on the behavior observed at different scales under a given applied increment of loading.
University of New Mexico Libraries’ Indigenous Nations Library Program (INLP): Reaching out and serving the UNM American Indian community and New Mexico American Indians

Le projet Indigeneous Nations Library Program a ete mis en place par l'Universite du Nouveau Mexique (UNM) pour repondre aux besoins specifiques des etudiants et de la communaute amerindienne, qui represente presque 10% de la population de l'etat. Le programme, qui offre une serie de conferences autour de themes divers, vise notamment a creer un environnement plus accueillant pour les usagers amerindiens, a soutenir les bibliotheques tribales et a developper les opportunites professionnelles pour les etudiants de l'UNM et la communaute amerindienne.
At the centre: influenza A virus ribonucleoproteins

Influenza A viral ribonucleoprotein (vRNP) complexes comprise the eight genomic negative-sense RNAs, each of which is bound to multiple copies of the vRNP and a trimeric viral polymerase complex. The influenza virus life cycle centres on the vRNPs, which in turn rely on host cellular processes to carry out functions that are necessary for the successful completion of the virus life cycle. In this Review, we discuss our current knowledge about vRNP trafficking within host cells and the function of these complexes in the context of the virus life cycle, highlighting how structure contributes to function and the crucial interactions with host cell pathways, as well as on the information gaps that remain. An improved understanding of how vRNPs use host cell pathways is essential to identify mechanisms of virus pathogenicity, host adaptation and, ultimately, new targets for antiviral intervention.
Nested gene fusions as markers of phylogenetic branchpoints in prokaryotes

Phylogenetic trees for prokaryotic microorganisms are being assembled at a rapid pace, primarily through sequence comparisons of ribosomal RNA genes. For lineages that diverged from the ancestral stem at nearly the same time, the order of branching may be uncertain. The problem applies both to minor branches that separated very recently and to major branches that diverged long ago. Bifunctional proteins produced by gene fusion provide the clarity of a plus-or-minus character state, and analysis of the distribution of genefusion patterns can reveal the order of phylogenetic branching.
Racial-Ethnic Biases, Time Pressure, and Medical Decisions

This study examined two types of potential sources of racial-ethnic disparities in medical care: implicit biases and time pressure. Eighty-one family physicians and general internists responded to a case vignette describing a patient with chest pain. Time pressure was manipulated experimentally. Under high time pressure, but not under low time pressure, implicit biases regarding blacks and Hispanics led to a less serious diagnosis. In addition, implicit biases regarding blacks led to a lower likelihood of a referral to specialist when physicians were under high time pressure. The results suggest that when physicians face stress, their implicit biases may shape medical decisions in ways that disadvantage minority patients.
Dynamic Modeling of Cell-Free Biochemical Networks Using Effective Kinetic Models

Cell-free systems offer many advantages for the study, manipulation and modeling of metabolism compared to in vivo processes. Many of the challenges confronting genome-scale kinetic modeling can potentially be overcome in a cell-free system. For example, there is no complex transcriptional regulation to consider, transient metabolic measurements are easier to obtain, and we no longer have to consider cell growth. Thus, cell-free operation holds several significant advantages for model development, identification and validation. Theoretically, genome-scale cell-free kinetic models may be possible for industrially important organisms, such as E. coli, if a simple, tractable framework for integrating allosteric regulation with enzyme kinetics can be formulated. Toward this unmet need, we present an effective biochemical network modeling framework for building dynamic cell-free metabolic models. The key innovation of our approach is the integration of simple effective rules encoding complex allosteric regulation with traditional kinetic pathway modeling. We tested our approach by modeling the time evolution of several hypothetical cell-free metabolic networks. We found that simple effective rules, when integrated with traditional enzyme kinetic expressions, captured complex allosteric patterns such as ultrasensitivity or non-competitive inhibition in the absence of mechanistic information. Second, when integrated into network models, these rules captured classic regulatory patterns such as product-induced feedback inhibition. Lastly, we showed, at least for the network architectures considered here, that we could simultaneously estimate kinetic parameters and allosteric connectivity from synthetic data starting from an unbiased collection of possible allosteric structures using particle swarm optimization. However, when starting with an initial population that was heavily enriched with incorrect structures, our particle swarm approach could converge to an incorrect structure. While only an initial proof-of-concept, the framework presented here could be an important first step toward genome-scale cell-free kinetic modeling of the biosynthetic capacity of industrially important organisms.
Graphic Novels in the Secondary Classroom and School Libraries

The author examines the rise in popularity of graphic novels, the sales of which have steadily increased as their influence expands into adolescent culture. This article also includes an overview of current research results supporting the use of graphic novels within the classroom and school library; graphic novels support English-language learners and those students with reading disabilities. Finally, graphic novels are changing the language we use to frame our knowledge about literacy, text, and image.
M 2 -m 2 Beamforming for Virtual MIMO Broadcasting in Multi-Hop Relay Networks

The emerging demand for multi-hop relay networks requires significant improvement of the end-to-end throughput through the development of a more advanced transmission technology. Research on multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) has been actively pursued for achieving channel throughput improvements for cellular networks. In a multi-hop ad-hoc network, it is difficult for each sensor node to have multiple transmit antennas, therefore, virtual MIMO has been introduced as an extended version of cellular MIMO. The conventional virtual MIMO scheme requires additional complexity in order to implement the same functionality used for cellular systems. Therefore, we propose a new framework for the broadcast virtual MIMO system (BVMS) by developing an innovative max-min/min-max (M2-m2) beamforming technology optimized for the multi-hop relay network. Compared to the conventional singular value decomposition (SVD)-based or random beamforming technologies, M2-m2 beamforming significantly improves the end-to-end channel throughput up to the optimal bound for the BVMS over a multi-hop relay network.
Examination of laryngoesophageal dysfunction‐free survival as an endpoint in nonsurgical treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the larynx and hypopharynx

BACKGROUND: A recently published consensus guideline suggested a new endpoint for clinical trials involving cancer of the larynx and hypopharynx: laryngoesophageal dysfunction-free survival (LEDFS). The authors of this report examined LEDFS in the context of definitive radiotherapy alone (RT) or with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT). METHODS: Patients with a stage III to IVB squamous cell carcinomas of the larynx or hypopharynx who received definitive radiotherapy were included. Consensus guidelines also suggested analysis of the following: tumor classification, lymph node status, pretreatment tracheotomy, pretreatment swallowing dysfunction, and subsite. LEDFS was assessed using Kaplan-Meier survival analyses. RESULTS: Eighty-five patients (73.9%) received CRT, and 30 patients (26.1%) received RT. For the entire cohort, the 3-year LEDFS rate was 28.9%. CRT was associated with an improved LEDFS at 3 years (32.2% vs 20%; P = .02). Pretreatment dysphagia (P = .06) and N2 or N3 lymph node status (P = .09) demonstrated a trend toward poorer LEDFS, but patients who had T4 tumors had an LEDFS similar to that of patients who had T2 and T3 tumors. CONCLUSIONS: LEDFS was superior in patients who received CRT compared with patients who received RT alone. T4 status was not associated with a worse LEDFS. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Solvent dependence of the thallium nuclear magnetic resonance in alkyllthallium compounds

Abstract The solvent dependence of the 205 Tl NMR chemical shift, the 205 Tl-H coupling constant, and the 13 C chemical shift and 205 Tl- 13 C coupling constant for (CH 3 ) 2 TIClO 4 and (CH 3 ) 2 TlNO 3 are reported. The 205 Tl chemical shift solvent dependence is over 200 ppm. The shift correlated linearly with the 205 TI-H coupling constant. The shift also correlates linearly with the p K a of the solvent, demonstrating the importance of the solvent basicity. The effect of ion pairing on the shift is demonstrated and discussed. Binary solvent mixtures were investigated to obtain data on relative solvating abilities. The results are discussed in terms of models of the thallium-solvent interaction.
A simple and reliable landmark for identification of the supraorbital nerve in surgery of the forehead: An in vivo anatomical study

Purpose In this in vivo study, we set out to determine the reliability of the medial margin of the iris as a landmark for the course of the supraorbital neurovascular bundle at the supraorbital rim. Patients and methods Seventy-five patients (73 women and 2 men) undergoing endoscopic brow lift procedures were enrolled, for a total of 150 sides. With the patient focused on a distant point, a line was constructed preoperatively along the mid-sagittal plane, tangential to the medial iris. After general anesthesia and initial dissection, a 27-gauge needle was placed (without the aid of the endoscope) through this line, parallel to the mid-sagittal plane at the orbital rim. Measurements were then taken following creation of the optical cavity. Measurements were taken from the course of the deep (lateral) branch of the supraorbital nerve to the needle. In addition, measurements were taken from the course of the supraorbital nerve to the course of the supratrochlear nerve. Results In 84 sides, the needle was at the nerve; in 48 sides, the needle was less than 1 mm to the nerve; and in 18 sides, the needle was 2 mm from the edge of the nerve. Overall, the nerve was an average of 0.56 ± 0.7 mm from the needle, and in no case was the nerve course greater than 3 mm from the landmark. The supratrochlear nerve was located medial to the supraorbital nerve an average of 9.0 ± 1.0 mm. Conclusions Based on our findings, the medial iris, as opposed to the mid-pupil line, serves as a reliable topographical landmark for the course of the supraorbital nerve at the supraorbital rim.
TOWARDS COMPUTING AS A UTILITY VIA ADAPTIVE MIDDLEWARE: AN EXPERIMENT IN CROSS-PARADIGM EXECUTION

Rapid advances in cloud computing have made the vision of utility computing a near-reality, but only in certain domains. For science and engineering parallel or distributed applications, on-demand ...
An NMR study of the photoconducting glass systems CdOB2O3GeO2 and CdOB2O3SiO2

Abstract 11 B and 113 Cd NMR were employed to determine structural aspects of the cadmium borogermanate and cadmium borosilicate glass-forming systems. The fraction of four-coordinated borons, N 4 , and the role of network modifying and network forming cadmium cations have been determined as a function of glass composition. A linear increase of the fraction of covalently bonded cadmium, i.e. network formers, with the molar fraction of CdO has been found to be consistent with both the N 4 data and the 113 Cd isotropic chemical shift.
Osteosarcoma of the jaw in children and young adults.

Background Pediatric jaw osteosarcoma is uncommon, and data are scarce regarding clinical presentation, prognostic factors, and outcome. Methods A single-institution medical record review from 1983 to 2008 for 12 patients age ≤21 years was undertaken for this study. Results Median diagnosis age was 16.3 years (range, 6.3–21.9). Nine patients had mandible tumors. Osteoblastic subtype was most common (4 patients). Most tumors were large (ie, T2; n = 8) and high-grade (n = 8). Treatment characteristics were varied. Median follow-up was 27.1 months (range, 8–252 months). Five patients had tumor necrosis <80% after chemotherapy. No deaths were observed. Conclusion Jaw osteosarcoma outcome is better compared to extremity osteosarcoma, but further study is required regarding clinical prognostic factors. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Awareness of methylmercury in fish and fish consumption among pregnant and postpartum women and women of childbearing age in the United States

In 2004, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reissued joint advice recommending that pregnant women, nursing mothers, young children, and women who may become pregnant not consume fish high in mercury such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, and not consume more than 12 ounces (340.2g) of other lower mercury fish per week. These groups were encouraged to eat up to 12 ounces (340.2g) of low mercury fish per week to get the health benefits of fish. Using a survey of 1286 pregnant women, 522 postpartum women, and a control group of 1349 non-pregnant/non-postpartum women of childbearing age, this study evaluated awareness of mercury as a problem in food and examined fish consumption levels across groups using regression analysis. We also compared awareness of mercury as a problem in food to awareness of Listeria, dioxins and PCBs. We found that the majority of all 3 groups of women were aware of mercury and that nearly all women in all 3 groups limited consumption consistent with the advice; they ate less than 340.2g (12 oz) of fish per week and no high mercury fish. Compared with the control group, pregnant and postpartum women were more likely to be aware of mercury as a problem in food, and pregnant women ate less total fish and were less likely to eat fish, to eat more than 340.2g (12 oz) of fish, and to eat high mercury fish. However, all groups ate much less than the recommended 340.2g (12 oz) of low mercury fish per week for optimum health benefits. Among women who ate fish, the median intake of total fish was 51.6 g/wk (1.8 oz/wk), 71.4 g/wk (2.5 oz/wk), and 85.3 g/wk (3.0 oz/wk) for the pregnant, postpartum, and control groups, respectively. Thus, it appears that the targeted groups of women were more aware of mercury and were eating fish within the FDA/EPA guidelines, but these women may be missing the health benefits to themselves and their children of eating a sufficient amount of fish.
Circular dichroism of polypeptide monolayers

Abstract The circular dichroism (CD) spectra of Langmuir—Blodgett monolayers and collapsed films of poly-γ-methyl- l -glutamate (PMG) and poly- l -alanine (PA) collected from the air-water interface of a Langmuir film balance have been determined. The polypeptide films were formed by spreading from a variety of solvents, followed by transfer to quartz plates for CD spectrophotometry. When all plates were aligned identically in the light beam of the spectropolarimeter, films of PMG and PA exhibited linear dichroism which could be used to determine the orientation of the polymer chains on the surface of the film balance. True CD spectra, free of linear component, were obtained on films oriented at numerous angles around the axis of the incident light beam. The CD spectra of films of PA and PMG in the α-helical conformation were consistent with the optical properties expected of polypeptides which have the helix axis perpendicular to the direction of propagation of light. PMG films gave spectra characteristic of the α-helix or β-conformation, depending on the spreading solvent used to form the monolayers. The pressure-area and surface potential curves, as well as the interpretation of the CD spectra of PMG and PA films, were all consistent with the results of previous investigations employing infrared spectroscopy. Details of preparing and mounting polypeptide monolayers for CD spectroscopy are given.
A study of the anthelmintic activity of some lactones and peroxides.

Several lactones and peroxides were compared to santonin and ouabain for their in vitro anthelmintic activity. An unsuccessful attempt was made to correlate anthelmintic activity of the lactones and peroxide-forming ability. At a 1:1,000 concentration, tertiary-butyl hydroperoxide was the most active compound tested.
Hydromagnetic spin-up of a fluid confined by two flat electrically conducting boundaries

The prototype linear spin-up problem consisting of a homogeneous viscous electrically conducting fluid confined between two infinite flat rotating electrically conducting plates in the presence of an applied axial magnetic field is studied in an effort to understand better the strength and nature of the coupling between a fluid and its rotating conducting container. It is assumed that the response time of the bounding plates to a magnetic perturbation is much less than the fluid spin-up time and that the plate conductivity is an arbitrary function of distance from the fluid-plate interface. The general Laplace transform solution is inverted and discussed for three special cases: magnetic diffusion regions thick compared with fluid depth during spin-up, arbitrary magnetic field strength and boundary conductance; magnetic diffusion regions thin, weak conductance, arbitrary field; magnetic diffusion regions thin, strong conductance, arbitrary field. In each case conductance of the boundary strengthens the coupling between fluid and boundary, thereby decreasing the spin-up time. The corresponding single plate analysis of Loper (1970a) is found to predict spin-up accurately only if the boundary conductance is much smaller than that of the fluid. The fluid possesses an oscillatory mode of spin-up if the magnetic diffusion regions are thin and boundary conductance is large. That is, the inviscid current-free core of fluid rotates significantly faster than the boundaries during a portion of the spin-up process.
Argon Ion Laser Induced Tissue Fluorescence: Clinical Spectroscopic Studies

In conjunction with our project in laser angiosurgery, our group has demonstrated that laser-induced auto-fluorescence can be a reliable means of distinguishing normal artery from atherosclerotic plaque. Recently a number of groups have become interested in this technique as a means of directing ablation of arterial obstructions in vivo. However, until now, diagnostic spectroscopy has been conducted almost solely on excised cadaveric tissues. As a result, questions still remain about 1) the validity of correlating cadaveric tissue fluorescence spectra with those collected in vivo, and 2) the ability to collect reliable florescence spectra from a subject as dynamic as a living patient.
The Teaching of Primary Prevention: Concluding Thoughts and a Call to Action

Commentary is provided on the papers in this special issue on the teaching of primary prevention. We present further thoughts on prevention curricula, and we conclude with the need to elevate the importance of prevention training within our professional organizations.
Epidemiology of myelodysplastic syndromes.

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) comprise a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell malignancies with significant morbidity and high mortality. The incidence of MDS increases markedly with age, and the disease is most prevalent in individuals who are white and male. It is conservatively estimated that >10,000 new cases of MDS occur in the United States annually, and that ≥60,000 individuals with MDS currently reside in the country. With an aging population and an improving awareness of the disease, the documented disease burden is expected to escalate in the near future. Recent studies have identified new or inconsistent etiologic factors that warrant further research. Given the poor survival of individuals with MDS, it is important to identify prognostic factors to better risk-stratify patients for more effective treatment. The relevance of different comorbidities to MDS prognosis and the potential interaction between various comorbidities represents an interesting area of research.
Fuzzy complex analysis II: integration

Abstract This paper continues the author's research in fuzzy complex analysis where we now define, and study the basic properties of, a fuzzy contour integral for fuzzy mappings which map a rectifiable curve in the complex plane into fuzzy complex numbers.
A modified radioisotopic assay for measuring glutamine synthetase activity in tissue extracts

A radioisotope assay for the measurement of glutamine synthetase activity has been developed in which tandemly arranged ion-exchange columns of Dowex 1-acetate and Amberlite CG-50 (H/sup +/) are used to separate the product, (/sup 14/C)glutamine, from unreacted (U-/sup 14/C)glutamate and other labeled compounds, particularly ..gamma..-aminobutyrate, that are formed by competing reactions. The technique is sensitive, reproducible, and suitable for multiple determinations. The assay has been used successfully to measureglutamine synthetase activity in neural and nonneural tissues which contain appreciable amounts of glutamate decarboxylase activity.
Recognition of High-level Group Activities Based on Activities of Individual Members

The paper describes a methodology for the recognition of high-level group activities. Our system recognizes group activities including group actions, group-persons interactions, group-group (i.e. inter-group) interactions, intra-group interactions, and their combinations described using a common representation scheme. Our approach is to represent various types of complex group activities with a programming language-like representation, and then to recognize represented activities based on the recognition of activities of individual group members. A hierarchical recognition algorithm is designed for the recognition of high-level group activities. The system was tested to recognize activities such as 'two groups fighting', 'a group of thieves stealing an object from another group', and 'a group of policemen arresting a group of criminals (or a criminal)'. Videos downloaded from YouTube as well as videos that we have taken are tested. Experimental results shows that our system recognizes complicated group activities, and it does it more reliably and accurately compared to previous approaches.
Alkali aluminosilicate-saturated aqueous fluids in the earth's upper mantle

Abstract The solubility in aqueous fluids of peralkaline alkali aluminosilicate components has been determined in the 0.8 to 2.0 GPa and 1000 to 1300°C pressure and temperature range, respectively. Compositions were along the haploandesite join, Na2Si4O9–Na2(NaAl)4O9, with 0, 3, and 6 mol.% Al2O3, denoted NS4Ax, where x represents the mol.% Al2O3. The silicate solubility in aqueous fluid is in the 3 to 20 mol.% range for NS4, 2 to 13 mol.% for NS4A3, and 1.5–8 mol.% for NS4A6 with a linear and positive temperature-dependence and a nonlinear and positive pressure-dependence. The silicate solubility decreases with increasing Al2O3 content. From stepwise regression, the pressure-, temperature-, and Al2O3-dependence of the solubility can be described with the expression: Xsilicate(mol.%)=1.9−1.3XAl2O3(mol.%)+0.008T(°C)+13P(GPa)+7.3P2. Partial molar volume of H2O in the silicate-saturated fluids, VH2Ofluid, is in the range 17 to 25 cm3/mol. The VH2Ofluid was calculated with the assumption that the activity of dissolved silicate in aqueous fluid equals the mol fraction of dissolved silicate. Compared with the molar volume of pure H2O, V°H2O, the VH2Ofluid values are 10 to 15% lower at 0.8 GPa and as much as 15% higher than V°H2O at 2.0 GPa. This volume difference diminishes as the system become more aluminous. For all compositions, the VH2Ofluid is a linear and negative function of pressure with β[= −1/V0(∂VH2Ofluid/∂P)T] ∼ 0.125 GPa−1 for NS4. The βNS4A3 increases from 0.141 to 0.172 in the 1000° to 1300°C range, whereas βNS4A6 increases from 0.193 to 0.213 GPa−1. The VH2Ofluid is a positive and linear function of temperature with thermal expansion coefficients in the range 3–8 × 10−4 K−1. This thermal expansivity resembles that of pure H2O although the exact values and the range in values for pure H2O differ from 1/V0(∂VH2Ofluid/∂T)P of silicate-saturated aqueous solution.
Asymmetry correction in the irradiated breast: outcomes of reduction mammaplasty and mastopexy after breast-conserving therapy

Background There is relatively scant evidence concerning radiation effects on reduction mammaplasty and mastopexy, two procedures which are often used in the irradiated breast to restore symmetry following breast-conserving therapy (BCT). Objective The purpose of this study is to further examine outcomes of reduction mammaplasty and mastopexy in breast cancer patients previously treated with BCT and radiation. Methods A retrospective search at Baystate Medical Center (Springfield, MA) identified 12 patients who had received external beam radiation and either reduction mammaplasty or mastopexy. Overall radiation doses, including tumor bed boost, ranged from 5000 to 6600 cGy. The mean time between completion of radiation therapy and asymmetry correction was 63 months (range, 5 to 169 months). An overall average of 910 g of tissue was removed from the irradiated breast (range, 180 to 2925 g). The average length follow-up after asymmetry correction was 9 months (range, 1 to 44 months). Results In our patients, there were no major complications such as flap loss, tissue necrosis, heavy scarring, infection, or severe deformity. Minor complications in the irradiated breast occurred in 25% of patients and included prolonged edema (n = 1), delayed wound closure (n = 1), and minor scarring (n = 1). Histopathology was unremarkable except for one patient who was found to have recurrent ductal carcinoma in situ. Conclusions In the cases reviewed, we did not observe any complications commonly associated with operating in an irradiated field. Good cosmesis and acceptable symmetry were achieved in all patients. Our data suggest that reduction mammaplasty and mastopexy after radiation therapy are relatively safe procedures with risks not significantly higher than either operation performed in patients without radiation. ( Aesthetic Surg J 2009;29:106–112. )
Predicting course of treatment in a rehabilitation hospital: A Markovian model

Abstract This study presents an application of discrete time Markov processes to the course of treatment and length of stay in a rehabilitation hospital. In this model a patient's hospitalization is more accurately and more usefully described as a sequence of treatment patterns rather than by one set of totals for treatments and services. The Markovian model reproduces well the shape of the data. The methodology in this study can be readily applied to other long-term and extended care facilities.
The archipelago tumor suppressor gene limits rb/e2f-regulated apoptosis in developing Drosophila tissues.

Summary Background The Drosophila archipelago gene ( ago ) encodes the specificity component of a ubiquitin ligase that targets the cyclin E and dMyc proteins for degradation. Its human ortholog, Fbw7 , is commonly lost in cancers, suggesting that failure to degrade ago / Fbw7 targets drives excess tissue growth. Results We find that ago loss induces hyperplasia of some organs but paradoxically reduces the size of the adult eye. This reflects a requirement for ago to restrict apoptotic activity of the rbf1 / de2f1 pathway adjacent to the eye-specific morphogenetic furrow (MF): ago mutant cells display elevated de2f1 activity, express the prodeath dE2f1 targets hid and rpr , and undergo high rates of apoptosis. These phenotypes are dependent on rbf1 , de2f1 , hid , and the rbf1 / de2f1 regulators cyclin E and dacapo but are independent of dp53 . A transactivation-deficient de2f1 allele blocks MF-associated apoptosis of ago mutant cells but does not retard their clonal overgrowth, indicating that intact de2f1 function is required for the death but not overproliferation of ago cells. Epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR ) and wingless ( wg ) alleles also modify the ago apoptotic phenotype, indicating that these pathways may modulate the underlying sensitivity of ago mutant cells to apoptotic signals. Conclusions These data show that ago loss requires a collaborating block in cell death to efficiently drive tissue overgrowth and that this conditional phenotype reflects a role for ago in restricting apoptotic output of the rbf1 / de2f1 pathway. Moreover, the susceptibility of ago mutant cells to succumb to this apoptotic program appears to depend on local variations in extracellular signaling that could thus determine tissue-specific fates of ago mutant cells.
The impact of CHADS2 score on late stroke after the Cox maze procedure.

Objective The Heart Rhythm Society, European Heart Rhythm Association, and European Cardiac Arrhythmia Society jointly recommend indefinite warfarin anticoagulation in patients with CHADS2 (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age, diabetes, and stroke) score of at least 2 who have undergone ablation for atrial fibrillation. This study determined the impact of CHADS2 score on risk of late stroke or transient ischemic attack after the performance of a surgical Cox maze procedure. Methods A retrospective review of 433 patients who underwent a Cox maze procedure at our institution was conducted. Three months after surgery, warfarin was discontinued regardless of CHADS2 score if the patient showed no evidence of atrial fibrillation, was off antiarrhythmic medications, and had no other indication for anticoagulation. A follow-up questionnaire was used to determine whether any neurologic event had occurred since surgery. Results Follow-up was obtained for 90% of the study group (389/433) at a mean of 6.6 ± 5.0 years. Among these patients, 32% (125/389) had a CHADS2 score of at least 2, of whom only 40% (51/125) remained on long-term warfarin after surgery. Six patients had late neurologic events (annualized risk of 0.2%). Neither CHADS2 score nor warfarin anticoagulation was significantly associated with the occurrence of late neurologic events. Among the individual CHADS2 criteria, both diabetes mellitus and previous stroke or transient ischemic attack were predictive of late neurologic events. Conclusions The risk of stroke or transient ischemic attack in patients after a surgical Cox maze procedure was low and not associated with CHADS2 score or warfarin use. Given the known risks of warfarin, we recommend discontinuation of anticoagulation 3 months after the procedure if the patient has no evidence of atrial fibrillation, has discontinued antiarrhythmic medications, and is without any other indication for systemic anticoagulation.
Bronchoscopic Localization of Radiographically Occult Lung Cancer

During the initial 18 months of the Mayo Lung Project for detection and localization of early bronchogenic carcinoma, 13 patients were identified who had roentgenographically occult tumors. A specific protocol for investigation emphasizing continuous reevaluation and repeated bronchoscopic examinations has identified the site of the cancer in each case. Although the number of cases is small and the time since treatment short, initial results are encouraging and suggest that curable lung cancer can be detected by a carefully designed and applied screening program.
The physics of ice sheets

The great ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland are vast deposits of frozen freshwater that contain enough to raise sea level by approximately 70 m if they were to completely melt. Because of the potentially catastrophic impact that ice sheets can have, it is important that we understand how ice sheets have responded to past climate changes and will respond to present climate changes, so that we can predict the effect global warming will have on sea level rise in the coming centuries. The purpose of this article is to introduce students to some of the basic concepts of glaciology, the physical variables that control the evolution of ice sheets, and how changes in these parameters may affect the long-term evolution of ice sheets.
Tomato productivity and the associated composition of the hydroponic or soil solution

Abstract The concentration and balance of nutrients in both the hydroponic or soil solution has been evaluated with relevance to tomato productivity. Yields of 200 mt/ha have been produced in greenhouse, hydroponic culture in a 9 to 10 month period. Yields of more than 100 mt/ha of field grown tomatoes have been produced in Florida in a 4 to 5 month period. Within the limitations of either culture, it is possible per unit of time to provide the nutrients required to produce equivalent yields. It is most significant that field grown tomatoes in Florida can be grown with minimal management and at a fraction of the cost of those grown hydroponically. The validity of the Florida fresh market tomato industry is based on the production efficiency of the field culture. There are annually 16,000 ha of tomatoes grown in Florida, perhaps less than 40 ha grown in hydroponic cultures.
Clinical Relevancy of Deep Body Temperature, Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate in the Goat1

Summary The deep body temperature, heart rates (pulse) and respiratory rates (TPR) taken from healthy goats bi-weekly during a two-year period at constant environmental temperatures were analyzed and discussed. The means, standard deviations and ranges for TPR were: 39.8 ± 0.5 °C (39.0 °C—40.8 °C), 83 ± 6 (50–115) beats per minute and 29 ± 5 (15–50) breaths per minute. All three parameters displayed great variability within the same subject and still greater fluctuations from subject to subject on both daily and yearly bases. Zusammenfassung Die klinische Bedeutung der Korperkerntemperatur, Herzfrequenz und Atmungsfrequenz bei der Ziege Bei gesunden Ziegen wurden wahrend zweier Jahre alle 14 Tage bei konstanter Umgebungstemperatur die Korperkerntemperatur, die Pulsfrequenz und Atmungsfrequenz bestimmt. Ergebnisse (Mittelwerte und Schwankungsbreiten): Korpertemperatur 39,8 ± 0,5 °C (39,0 °C–40,8 °C); Pulsfrequenz/min 83 ± 6 (50–115), Atmungsfrequenz/min 29 ± 5 (15–50). Alle drei Parameter wiesen sowohl beim gleichen Tier als auch von Tier zu Tier grose Schwankungen auf. Resume Signification clinique de la temperature du corps, de la frequence cardiaque et respiratoire chez la chevre On determine tous les 14 jours, pendant deux ans, a temperature ambiante constante, la temperature du corps, la frequence cardiaque (pouls) et la frequence respiratoire chez des chevres saines. On indique les resultats avec valeurs moyennes et deviations standards: temperature du corps 39,8 ± 0,5 °C (39,0 °C–40,8 °C), frequence du pouls/min. 83 ± 6 (50–115), frequence respiratoire/min. 29 ± 5 (15–50). Les trois parametres presentent de grandes variations pour un meme animal, ainsi que d'un animal a l'autre. Resumen El significado clinico de la temperatura corporal interior, frecuencia de los latidos cardiacos y frecuencia respiratoria en la cabra En cabras sanas se analizo durante dos anos, cada 14 dias, con temperatura ambiente constante, la temperatura corporal interna, la frecuencia del pulso y la frecuencia respiratoria. Los resultados (valores medios, desviaciones normales y amplitudes) fueron los siguientes: temperatura corporal 39,8 ± 0,5 °C (39,0 °C–40,8 °C), frecuencia del pulso/min 83 ± 6 (50–115), frecuencia respiratoria 29 ± 5 (15–50). Todos los tres parametros ofrecieron oscilaciones considerables tanto en el propio animal como de cabra a cabra.
Evaluation of three techniques (follicular aspiration, follicular aspiration and flushing and slicing of the ovaries) for recovery of equine oocytes from excised ovaries

Summary The objective of this study was to compare three different methods of oocyte recovery from equine ovaries obtained from an abattoir. The techniques used were a) aspiration of follicles, b) aspiration plus flushing of the follicles and c) slicing of the ovaries in a grid pattern. The number of oocytes recovered from each of the three methods was different (P
Use of Bessel beams and position-sensitive detectors in scanning photon microscope for improved field depth and contrast

The scanning photon microscope technique is a method of microscopic image formation that employs a laser beam focused on a sample, while non-imaging detector receives the scattered light. The scans are achieved by means of a galvanometer based scanning mirror and a motorized micrometer. The system produces images analogous to the scanning electron microscopy with three-dimensional effects of shadowing and reflection. Compared to a conventional wide-field imaging system, the method allows for a greater ease of operation and flexibility, as the image quality is dependent upon the characteristics of the laser beam, rather than imaging optics. The image resolution on the order of a micron is demonstrated. A further gain in terms of resolution and the depth of focus by employment of Bessel rather than Gaussian beams is discussed. Additionally, we used a position-sensitive quadrant photodiode detector to highlight the overall spatial orientation of the imaged surface as well as its roughness. This concept can be useful in many areas, such as coherence imaging and fluorescence.
Putin's Economic Record: Is the Oil Boom Sustainable?

The economic system of Russia has undergone such rapid changes that it is impossible to obtain a precise and accurate account of it … Almost everything one can say about the country is true and fal...
Serum isoamylase changes following endoscopy.

Hyperamylasemia occurred in 24 (66.7%) of 36 patients in whom endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed. The rise was predominantly of pancreatic (P-type) isoamylase in 20 (83.3%) of the 24 with hyperamylasemia and of salivary (S-type) in the remaining 4 (16.7%). In patients in whom the pancreatic duct was visualized, alone or together with the common bile duct, 81.8% displayed hyperamylasemia. Isoamylase analysis revealed that the rise in this particular group was predominantly in P-type isoamylase. By contrast, only 1 of 23 patients with normal pre-examination Amylase values who underwent esophogogastroduodenoscopy without attempted cannutation of either the bile or pancreatic ducts; displayed hyper-amylasemia. It is concluded that hyperamylasemia developing after ERCP in which the pancreatic duct had been opacified probably reflects induced pancreatic alteration.