cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
O legado de Paulo Freire nos Estados Unidos da América: entrevista com Ira Shor

Ira Shor is one of the first academics to translate conceptually the critical pedagogy of Paulo Freire to a North American context. However, as will be made clear in the interview, the context in which Shor first developed his critical pedagogy was, and remains, very different then Freire’s context in Brazil. Instead of educating illiterate rural folk in Brazil, Shor has worked primarily with students in New York City’s public university system--the City University of New York (CUNY)--who come from some of the poorest neighborhoods of the city. Frequently, these students are immigrants or children of immigrants for whom English is not their first language. And the English that they do speak is formed by the local dialects and idioms found throughout the five boroughs of New York City. In high school, these students have become accustomed to an authoritative education. While other students in the city, who live in more affluent neighborhoods, with better public schools or whose parents can afford to pay for private schools, often have a generally pleasant experience with teachers who show interest in their development, the students whom Shor generally teachers at the College of Staten Island have had an educational experience full of rules, imperatives, orders, and threats of sanction placed upon them by authoritative education. Insead of being a role model, or even a friend, the teachers of these students more often than not play the role of educational cop: they are in the classroom to catch their linguistic errors “in the act” and punish them with a complex system of grading that is difficult to comprehend. Because of this pedagogical tendency, lots of students, by the time they arrive at CUNY already incorporated a defense strategy against the authoritarian classroom: it’s better if the teacher doesn’t know my name. That way I can pass the class and “survive.”
Chapter 29 – Functional Nucleic Acid-Directed Assembly of Nanomaterials and Their Applications as Colorimetric and Fluorescent Sensors for Trace Contaminants in Water

Publisher Summary This chapter highlights some of the major strengths of combining nucleic acids with nanotechnology: Nucleic acids provide a general class of molecules that can be selected to recognize a variety of different contaminants; In vitro selection can be utilized to tailor the sensitivity and specificity of the nucleic acid for the contaminant, so as to obtain better sensors; Functional nucleic acids can be readily labeled with fluorophores and inorganic nanoparticles to obtain sensors with tunable dynamic ranges; The sensors can be assembled into dipstick tests and devices for ease of use, longer shelf life, and regeneration. In spite of the generality of nucleic acid sensors, there still exist challenges in selecting nucleic acids for certain kinds of analytes, such as anions like perchlorate or nitrate, which are negatively charged and thus are repelled by the negatively charged backbone of nucleic acids. It is important to explore newer selection strategies to overcome these and further expand the repertoire of analytes recognized.
Brain metastasis secondary to hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the lung

Abstract Hepatoid adenocarcinoma (HAC) of the lung is a rare type of extrahepatic adenocarcinoma that is very similar in cellular morphology to hepatocellular carcinoma. HAC can be found in various organs within the peritoneal and retroperitoneal cavities, but is most commonly seen in the stomach, and least commonly in the lung. A review of the literature revealed only 29 previously documented cases of HAC of the lung. Of the 29 reported cases, only 2 of those patients had known brain metastases. This case report discusses the initial presentation, diagnostic data, treatment, and follow up of the thirtieth reported patient with HAC, and only the third with associated brain metastases. HAC of the lung can initially be mistaken for lung metastases from hepatocellular carcinoma. The molecular and genetic rearrangements of these tumors are of particular significance, as the particular expressions will vary based on the site of origin. As there is a scarcity in the available literature on this rare disease, it is imperative to utilize imaging, morphological, and immunohistochemical studies to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of HAC of the lung.
Renal Recovery and Mortality Risk among Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Receiving Chronic Maintenance Dialysis

Background Kidney replacement therapy is controversial for patients with hepatorenal syndrome who may not be liver transplant candidates. Data surrounding the likelihood of recovery of kidney function and mortality after outpatient dialysis initiation in patients with dialysis-requiring hepatorenal syndrome could inform discussions between patients and providers. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with hepatorenal syndrome who were registered in the United States Renal Data System between 1996 and 2015 (n=7830) as receiving maintenance dialysis. We characterized patients with hepatorenal syndrome by recovery of kidney function using Fine and Gray models. We also examined hazard of recovery of kidney function and death among those with hepatorenal syndrome versus those with acute tubular necrosis (n=48,861) using adjusted Fine–Gray and Cox models, respectively. Results Of the patients with hepatorenal syndrome, 11% recovered kidney function. Those with higher likelihood of recovery were younger, non-Hispanic White, and had a history of alcohol use. Compared with patients with acute tubular necrosis, patients with hepatorenal syndrome as the attributed cause of kidney disease had a lower hazard of recovery (HR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.24) and higher hazard of death within 1 year (HR, 3.10; 95% CI, 2.99 to 3.23) in fully adjusted models. Conclusions Patients with hepatorenal syndrome receiving chronic maintenance dialysis had a lower likelihood of recovery of kidney function and higher mortality risk compared with patients with acute tubular necrosis. Among patients with hepatorenal syndrome, those most likely to recover kidney function were younger, had a history of alcohol use, and lacked comorbid conditions. These data may inform prognosis and discussions surrounding treatment options when patients with hepatorenal syndrome need chronic maintenance dialysis therapy.
Old teachers: a feminist research agenda

This essay proposes a feminist research agenda on the history of women teachers’ experiences in the latter stages of their career and life. Drawing on extant histories of white women elementary and...
Reduced Uterine Tissue Damage during Chlamydia muridarum Infection in TREM-1,3-Deficient Mice.

Genital infections with Chlamydia trachomatis can lead to uterine and oviduct tissue damage in the female reproductive tract. Neutrophils are strongly associated with tissue damage during chlamydial infection, while an adaptive CD4 T cell response is necessary to combat infection. Activation of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1) on neutrophils has previously been shown to induce and/or enhance degranulation synergistically with Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling. Additionally, TREM-1 can promote neutrophil transepithelial migration. In this study, we sought to determine the contribution of TREM-1,3 to immunopathology in the female mouse genital tract during Chlamydia muridarum infection. Relative to control mice, trem1,3-/- mice had no difference in chlamydial burden or duration of lower-genital-tract infection. We also observed a similar incidence of hydrosalpinx 45 days postinfection in trem1,3-/- compared to wild-type (WT) mice. However, compared to WT mice, trem1,3-/- mice developed significantly fewer hydrometra in uterine horns. Early in infection, trem1,3-/- mice displayed a notable decrease in the number of uterine glands containing polymorphonuclear cells and uterine horn lumens had fewer neutrophils, with increased granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). trem1,3-/- mice also had reduced erosion of the luminal epithelium. These data indicate that TREM-1,3 contributes to transepithelial neutrophil migration in the uterus and uterine glands, promoting the occurrence of hydrometra in infected mice.
A Summary and Analysis of Warrantless Arrest Statutes for Domestic Violence in the United States

In the United States in 2005, more than 60% of the more than 564,000 nonfatal, violent incidents perpetrated by intimate partners were reported to the police. Whether police arrested the alleged perpetrators of domestic violence in response to these reports varied widely, based in part on state law governing the ability or duty of an officer to make a warrantless arrest. Although all 50 states and the District of Columbia currently allow officers to make warrantless arrests for domestic violence, state laws differ from one another in multiple, important ways. This article details, compares, and analyzes differences between state domestic violence warrantless arrest laws.
Association of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and COVID-19 in a pediatric patient

Cases of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and its hyperacute form, acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis (AHLE), have been reported in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients as rare, but most severe neurological complications. However, histopathologic evaluations of ADEM/AHLE pathology in COVID patients are extremely limited, so far having only been reported in a few adult autopsy cases. Here we compare the findings with an ADEM-like pathology in a pediatric patient taken through a biopsy procedure. Understanding the neuropathology may shed informative light on the autoimmune process affecting COVID-19 patients and provide critical information to guide the clinical management.
Time-Domain Scattering

The wave equation, a classical partial differential equation, has been studied and applied since the eighteenth century. Solving it in the presence of an obstacle, the scatterer, can be achieved using a variety of techniques and has a multitude of applications. This book explains clearly the fundamental ideas of time-domain scattering, including in-depth discussions of separation of variables and integral equations. The author covers both theoretical and computational aspects, and describes applications coming from acoustics (sound waves), elastodynamics (waves in solids), electromagnetics (Maxwell's equations) and hydrodynamics (water waves). The detailed bibliography of papers and books from the last 100 years cement the position of this work as an essential reference on the topic for applied mathematicians, physicists and engineers.
A survey of physical methods for studying nuclear mechanics and mechanobiology

It is increasingly appreciated that the cell nucleus is not only a home for DNA but also a complex material that resists physical deformations and dynamically responds to external mechanical cues. The molecules that confer mechanical properties to nuclei certainly contribute to laminopathies and possibly contribute to cellular mechanotransduction and physical processes in cancer such as metastasis. Studying nuclear mechanics and the downstream biochemical consequences or their modulation requires a suite of complex assays for applying, measuring, and visualizing mechanical forces across diverse length, time, and force scales. Here, we review the current methods in nuclear mechanics and mechanobiology, placing specific emphasis on each of their unique advantages and limitations. Furthermore, we explore important considerations in selecting a new methodology as are demonstrated by recent examples from the literature. We conclude by providing an outlook on the development of new methods and the judicious use of the current techniques for continued exploration into the role of nuclear mechanobiology.
Photosynthetic symbiotic therapeutics - An innovative, effective treatment for ischemic cardiovascular diseases.

Abstract Ischemic heart disease is a major cause of global morbidity and mortality, affecting over 15 million patients in the United States. Recent advances in research and innovation have greatly broadened clinicians' ability to treatment ischemic heart disease and associated heart failure using various preventive, pharmacologic, and surgical strategies. Specifically, innovative photosynthetic symbiotic systems using Synechococcus elongatus has gained significant attention. S. elongatus is a unicellular cyanobacterium that can carry out oxygenic photosynthesis. Photosynthetic therapies have been developed to rescue ischemic tissue by taking up tissue-derived carbon dioxide and in turn releasing oxygen for sustained aerobic metabolism during ischemia. In this article, we review the application of cyanobacteria, specifically S. elongatus, in the field of biotechnology, ischemic heart disease, and other clinical applications in ischemic diseases. We also address the motivation for innovation and current limitations in the field of S. elongatus photosynthetic therapeutics for ischemic cardiovascular disease interventions.
Stress Analysis of Cracks

Elastic stress analyses of cracked bodies represented by stress intensity factor method - fracture mechanics
A Research Note on the Relationship between Regulation and Audit Firm Size on Audit Fees

This study represents an initial attempt to examine some specific factors that might lead to large firms' economies of scale. Multiple regression analysis is used to test hypotheses concerning scale opportunities conferred on large CPA firms in dealing with regulatory complexity faced by the client. An analysis of interaction between audit firm size and variables measuring client regulatory complexity shows that audit fees are lower for all firms in regulated industries compared to nonregulated industries—the difference being much greater, however, for Big Eight (now Big Six) firms, and audit fees charged by Big Eight firms are much lower when the auditor is involved with client security registrations. This relationship does not hold true for non-Big Eight firms involved with client registration statements. Based on these results, it appears that client regulatory complexity confers greater scale opportunities to larger audit firms compared to smaller ones.
Diagnosis of Faults in Process Instrumentation

If the fault modes of a process instrumentation system can be related to the coefficients in the mathematical model of the system, then isolation of causes of system malfunction may be possible. We describe a procedure for fault diagnosability in the design of instrumentation and indicate the circumstances under which complete diagnosis is possible, namely that the model parameters are uniquely (globally) identifiable. An example of a feedback control system is used to illustrate the basic concepts.
A theory of temporal-spatial flow control: the case of single bottleneck link

This paper presents a theory of spatial-temporal flow control, the case of a single bottleneck link, for a network with dynamic available bandwidth. For this class of flow control, when the sources receive the feedback from the network, they schedule their rates considering both the amount of available resources as well as a timely allocation of these resources. With the theory developed in this paper, a protocol which ensures maximal utilization of the bandwidth, minimal queue size in the link and fairness among the sources is proposed. With this protocol, the sources estimate the amount of congestion they are producing at the bottleneck and the queue size at the bottleneck can be remotely controlled.
Decision Rightness and Emotional Responses to Abortion in the United States: A Longitudinal Study

Background Arguments that abortion causes women emotional harm are used to regulate abortion, particularly later procedures, in the United States. However, existing research is inconclusive. We examined women’s emotions and reports of whether the abortion decision was the right one for them over the three years after having an induced abortion. Methods We recruited a cohort of women seeking abortions between 2008-2010 at 30 facilities across the United States, selected based on having the latest gestational age limit within 150 miles. Two groups of women (n=667) were followed prospectively for three years: women having first-trimester procedures and women terminating pregnancies within two weeks under facilities’ gestational age limits at the same facilities. Participants completed semiannual phone surveys to assess whether they felt that having the abortion was the right decision for them; negative emotions (regret, anger, guilt, sadness) about the abortion; and positive emotions (relief, happiness). Multivariable mixed-effects models were used to examine changes in each outcome over time, to compare the two groups, and to identify associated factors. Results The predicted probability of reporting that abortion was the right decision was over 99% at all time points over three years. Women with more planned pregnancies and who had more difficulty deciding to terminate the pregnancy had lower odds of reporting the abortion was the right decision (aOR=0.71 [0.60, 0.85] and 0.46 [0.36, 0.64], respectively). Both negative and positive emotions declined over time, with no differences between women having procedures near gestational age limits versus first-trimester abortions. Higher perceived community abortion stigma and lower social support were associated with more negative emotions (b=0.45 [0.31, 0.58] and b=-0.61 [-0.93, -0.29], respectively). Conclusions Women experienced decreasing emotional intensity over time, and the overwhelming majority of women felt that termination was the right decision for them over three years. Emotional support may be beneficial for women having abortions who report intended pregnancies or difficulty deciding.
Confounded Coefficients: Accurately Comparing Logit and Probit Coefficients across Groups

The logit and probit models are critical parts of the management researcher's analytical arsenal. We often want to know if a covariate has the same effect for different groups, e.g., foreign and domestic firms. Unfortunately, many attempts to compare the effect of covariates across groups make the unwarranted assumption that each group has the same residual variation. If this is not the case, comparisons of coefficients can reveal differences where none exist and conceal differences that do exist. This article explains the statistical and substantive implications of this assumption, introduces approaches to comparing coefficients that avoid making it, and uses simulations to explore the practical significance of the assumption and the power of approaches introduced to avoid it. As a practical example, I show that an apparent dramatic new insight into the technology strategy of Japanese computer manufacturers is actually just a manifestation of this problem. I close with implications for the practice of research.
Apoptosis-induced cancer cell fusion: a mechanism of breast cancer metastasis

Although cancer cell fusion has been suggested as a mechanism of cancer metastasis, the underlying mechanisms defining this process are poorly understood. In a recent study, apoptotic cells were newly identified as a type of cue that induces signaling via phosphatidylserine receptors to promote fusion of myoblasts. The microenvironment of breast tumors is often hypoxic, and because apoptosis is greatly increased in hypoxic conditions, we decided to investigate whether the mechanism of breast cancer cell fusion with mesenchymal stem/multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) involves apoptosis. We used a powerful tool for identification and tracking of hybrids based on bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and found that breast cancer cells fused spontaneously with MSCs. This fusion was significantly enhanced with hypoxia and signaling associated with apoptotic cells, especially between nonmetastatic breast cancer cells and MSCs. In addition, the hybrids showed a significantly higher migratory capacity than did the parent cells. Taken together, these findings describe a mechanism by which hypoxia-induced apoptosis stimulates fusion between MSCs and breast tumor cells resulting in hybrids with an enhanced migratory capacity that may enable their dissemination to distant sites or metastases. In the long run, this study may provide new strategies for developing novel drugs for preventing cancer metastasis.
Teenage Pregnancy: A Family Systems Approach.

Abstract Concern over the incidence of teenage pregnancy has led to efforts to explain reasons for teens putting themselves at risk for getting pregnant. Most explanations offered look at individual characteristics, focusing on self-esteem or related variables. Other explanations focus on cultural factors such as the availability of sex education or contraceptives. Family factors are recognized as contributing to teenage pregnancy, but specific variables have not been clearly demonstrated to be salient. This paper utilizes concepts from family systems theory to explain pregnancy in late adolescence as a family dysfunction. In particular, concepts from Minuchin's structural family therapy and the “leaving home” concept of Haley are related to the problem. An illustrative case is presented and implications for service providers are discussed.
Profit, entry and changes in concentration

Abstract The simultaneity between profit, entry, and changes in concentration is examined. The sample includes 481 observations on 4-digit industries over the years 1972–1977 and 1977–1982. Results show that profits respond positively to entry barriers and initial concentration. Net entry responds positively to initial profits and responds negatively to entry barriers. Concentration moves toward its steady-state level, but the rate of adjustment is very slow. The competitive process, left on its own, does not seem to move quickly toward equilibrium.
Relations Among Ethnicity, Gender, Beliefs, Attitudes, and Intention to Pursue a Career in Information Technology

Using data from 159 African Americans and 98 Anglo Americans, we examined relations among ethnicity, gender, information technology (IT) self-efficacy, occupational stereotypes, attitudes toward IT, and IT career intentions. Results revealed that IT self-efficacy and occupational stereotypes were related to attitudes toward IT jobs, and these attitudes were positively related to career intentions. In addition, there were ethnic and gender differences in IT self-efficacy and occupational stereotypes. In particular, African American men reported higher levels of IT self-efficacy, whereas Anglo American women reported lower levels of IT self-efficacy than did members of all other groups. Furthermore, Anglo Americans had more negative stereotypes of IT professionals than did African Americans. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Von Willebrand factor: looking back and looking forward

Looking back at the last thirty years of studies on von Willebrand factor is a lesson on the importance of combining clinical observations with basic research. Most of what we know today originates from the perceptive evaluation of patients with congenital disorders of haemostasis such as haemophilia and von Willebrand disease. Understanding the causes of these diseases was akin to the current approach of using mutagenesis in animal models to get insights into the function of specific gene products.The information generated to date has been detailed and comprehensive, but looking into the future one sees that much remains to be done to understand how the role of von Willebrand factor and its primary platelet receptor, glycoprotein Ib, is integrated into the complex responses to vascular injury. Many challenges remain, along with the hope of translating the knowledge acquired into new and efficacious treatments for arterial thrombosis.
Dexamethasone suppression test in borderline personality disorder--effects of posttraumatic stress disorder.

Summary Background Divergent findings of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis functioning in borderline personality disorder (BPD) may be caused by a different degree of comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in which alterations of the HPA axis are well known. Here we investigate alterations of the HPA axis in BPD patients with and without comorbid PTSD compared to healthy controls. Considering previous findings current major depression (MDD) was taken into account as a confounding variable. Methods Apart from clinical assessment the 0.5 mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST) was performed in 21 female borderline patients and 23 healthy controls. Results Twelve BPD patients suffered from comorbid PTSD. Relative suppression (%) did not differ between healthy controls and the total BPD group, but BPD patients with comorbid PTSD showed increased suppression compared to those without. Comorbid MDD was not associated with suppression. Conclusions Our results do not indicate a dysfunction of the HPA axis in BPD. However, comorbid PTSD seems to be associated with a relative hypersuppression in the 0.5 mg DST.
Effect of the RelA gene on the synthesis of individual proteins in vivo.

Abstract We have shown that the rel A gene can affect the rates of synthesis of many nonribosomal proteins in E. coli. We used rel − and rel A strains that contain a temperature-sensitive valyl tRNA synthetase. Upon transfer from a permissive temperature (30°C) to a semi-restrictive one (36.5°C), these strains continue to grow, although underoing a partial deprivation of valyl tRNA. In the rel + strain, the concentration of ppGpp increases immediately, and the accumulation of RNA ceases abruptly but temporarily. In contrast, in the rel A strain, the concentration of ppGpp falls, whereas the rate of accumulation of RNA increases. As judged by gel electrophoresis, the rates at which individual polypeptides are synthesized by the strains after their transfer to 36.5°C depend to a large extent upon the allelic state of the rel A gene. In both strains, the concentration of ppGpp changes soon enough to have altered the synthesis of some of the proteins by affecting the transcription of their genes.
The response of dietary stressedPeriplaneta americana to chronic intake of pure aflatoxin B1

In general these studies seem to indicate that adult maleP. americana are not particularly sensitive, toxicologically, to aflatoxin B1, even when maintained on a marginally inadequate diet containing a low level of sucrose and no protein. Also they may be capable of detecting low levels of aflatoxin B1 in their diet (12μg/ml) and seem not to concentrate aflatoxin B1 in their bodies. Even in dietary stressed conditions adult male American cockroaches showed a very limited potential as a bioassay organism for this toxin. Actually it appears that they may be quite resistant to the toxin. Currently there is no definite answer as to the advantages or disadvantages of insufficient dietary proteins or even carbohydrates providing protection against this toxin.
Nonuniform Approach to Terminal Velocity for Single Mode Rayleigh-Taylor Instability

The temporal development of a single mode Rayleigh-Taylor instability consists of three stages: the linear, free fall and terminal velocity regimens. The purpose of this paper is to report on new phenomena observed in the approach to terminal velocity. Our numerical study shows an unexpected nonuniform approach to terminal velocity. The nonuniformity applies especially to the spikes, which are fingers of heavy fluid falling into the light fluid, but it also applies to the rising bubblesof light fluid. For spikes especially, our results call into question the meaningfulness of a terminal velocity for moderate values of the Atwood number A. After a short time period of pseudo-terminal plateau, the spike velocity increases to a significantly higher maximum, followed by a decrease. This phenomena appears to be due to a slow evolution in the shape of the spike and bubble. We find a relation between the spike (bubble) acceleartion and the tip curvature. In correlation with an increase in the spike velocity, the main body of the spike becomes narrower and the tip curvature increases. Our numerical results are by the Front Tracking method. The very late time simulations considered here required stabilization by a small value for the viscosity, so that the compressible Navier-Stokes equations govern the dynamics.
Up Front With Valerie and Joe: Fair Game and Other Stories of Reprisal

The movie Fair Game (Butterworth et al., 2010) is a fact-based political thriller that calls attention to a process of turning respectable members of established institutions, who are performing their roles properly, into excluded deviants. The result of this transformation may be the creation of a new group initiating its own subculture. The story of Robin Hood offers an example of the way such a new subculture can become traditional lore in a modern society.
Broadband and Wide Field-of-view Plasmonic Metasurface-enabled Waveplates

Quasi two-dimensional metasurfaces composed of subwavelength nanoresonator arrays can dramatically alter the properties of light in an ultra-thin planar geometry, enabling new optical functions such as anomalous reflection and refraction, polarization filtering and wavefront modulation. However, previous metasurface-based nanostructures suffer from low efficiency, narrow bandwidth and/or limited field-of-view due to their operation near the plasmonic resonance. Here we demonstrate plasmonic metasurface-based nanostructures for high-efficiency, angle-insensitive polarization transformation over a broad octave-spanning bandwidth. The structures are realized by optimizing the anisotropic response of an array of strongly coupled nanorod resonators to tailor the interference of light at the subwavelength scale. Nanofabricated reflective half-wave and quarter-wave plates designed using this approach have measured polarization conversion ratios and reflection magnitudes greater than 92% over a broad wavelength range from 640 to 1290 nm and a wide field-of-view up to ±40°. This work outlines a versatile strategy to create metasurface-based photonics with diverse optical functionalities.
Recent developments in the treatment of panic disorder.

-The focus of this paper is the treatment of panic disorder with alprazolam. Drug treatments alone are sometimes not sufficient by themselves, to adequately control all of the symptoms or components of this disorder. In the typical case we can identify four targets of treatment: The first target is the biological core of the condition, that is characterized by the unexpected, unprovoked attacks of anxiety. This responds best to medication. The second target is the phobic avoidance behaviour. It appears to be a conditioned or learned complication of the biological core, and appears to follow the laws of learning theory. Unlearning treatments, like behaviour therapy (notably in vivo exposure) are usually necessary to make a full impact against the phobic avoidance behaviour. Thirdly, there is no drug that reverses the psycho-social problems these patients have. Not all of them have such problems, but those that do may need psychotherapy to deal with their conflicts and stresses. Finally, the evidence in several chronic studies, suggest that this is a chronic relapsing disorder in the majority of cases. It is not enough to treat these patients acutely. They must be followed chronically and monitored carefully over many years, if they are to be protected against relapse.
Decompression of multiple pneumatoceles in a premature infant by percutaneous catheter placement.

Pneumatoceles due to acquired localized overinflation as a form of pulmonery interstitial emphysema are complications of advanced bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Different ventilation modes, selective bronchial intubation, ballon obstruction of the affected bronchus and steroids have been reported with success. Lobectomy has also been used. We present a premature infant with multiple large pneumatoceles causing respiratory compromise. In our case percuteneous decompression under fluoroscopy guidance resulted in a permanent cure.
Liquid-gas transition in concentrated polymer solutions: Crossover effects.

This is a continuation of our previous work [Phys. Rev. B 40, 2477 (1989)] on the liquid-gas transition for systems ranging from simple fluids through polymer solutions and microemulsions. We provide here the crossover calculations for various measurable quantities of the magnetic type defined in the text. Our calculations performed with the help of the field-theoretic methods reproduce, in the case of simple fluids, the results of Nelson and Rudnick [Phys. Rev. B 13, 2208 (1976)], who used the Wilson-Fisher style of renormalization. In the case of polymers, the results obtained are in very good agreement with available Monte Carlo and experimental data.
Automated sequence screening of the entire dystrophin cdna in Duchenne dystrophy: Point mutation detection

This is the first report of direct sequencing of the complete 11 kb coding sequence of the dystrophin gene affording high sensitivity for all types of mutations of both coding sequence and splicing. Direct automated capillary gel sequence analysis of dystrophin reverse-transcribed polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) products was carried out in 15 Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patient muscle biopsies (170,000 bp sequenced). We identified mutations in 67% of patients tested (10/15); including premature stop codons (n = 5) and small deletions/duplications (n = 5). Mutation-negative patients (n = 5) were also negative for promoter mutations. All were tested for the possibility of transcription abnormalities using quantitative multiplex fluorescence polymerase chain studies (QMF-PCR), however, equal ratios of mRNA transcripts were identified at the 5'and 3' regions, with mild reduction in overall quantity, suggesting that transcription abnormalities were less likely. We suggested that such patients might have a problem with the 3.5 kb 3' UTR, polyA site or undetected stop codons. It is also possible that splicing defects could result in addition of intron sequence which could lead to preferential amplification of low level residual normal transcript skipping.
Evidence for Singlet-Oxygen Generation and Biocidal Activity in Photoresponsive Metallic Nitride Fullerene−Polymer Adhesive Films

The adhesive properties, as measured by bulk tack analysis, are found to decrease in blends of isomerically pure Sc3N@I(h)-C80 metallic nitride fullerene (MNF) and polystyrene-block-polyisoprene-block-polystyrene (SIS) copolymer pressure-sensitive adhesive under white light irradiation in air. The reduction of tack is attributed to the in situ generation of 1O2 and subsequent photooxidative cross-linking of the adhesive film. Comparisons are drawn to classical fullerenes C60 and C70 for this process. This work represents the first demonstration of 1O2 generating ability in the general class of MNFs (M3N@C80). Additional support is provided for the sensitizing ability of Sc3N@I(h)-C80 through the successful photooxygenation of 2-methyl-2-butene to its allylic hydroperoxides in benzene-d(6) under irradiation at 420 nm, a process that occurs at a rate comparable to that of C(60). Photooxygenation of 2-methyl-2-butene is found to be influenced by the fullerene sensitizer concentration and O2 flow rate. Molar extinction coefficients are reported for Sc3N@I(h)-C80 at 420 and 536 nm. Evaluation of the potential antimicrobial activity of films prepared in this study stemming from the in situ generation of 1O2 led to an observed 1 log kill for select Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Factors leading to progression of valvular aortic stenosis

The rate of progression of aortic stenosis (AS) in adults is variable. To determine whether clinical or echocardiographic variables are associated with more rapid hemodynamic progression, we identified 91 AS patients (initial valve area or = 6 months. From the first study, left ventricular dimensions and AS severity were measured by standard Doppler-echocardiographic methods. Each aortic valve was graded for severity of calcification and degree of restricted leaflet motion; the sum of these grades provided a severity index reflecting leaflet pathology. Clinical and electrocardiographic variables were abstracted from medical records. Mean age was 68 years (range 29 to 89) and 61 were women. Initial AS severity ranged from an aortic valve area of 0.6 to 2.0 cm2 (median 1.3 cm2). During a mean follow-up of 1.8 years the aortic valve area decreased 0.04 cm2/year. The patient group with more rapid progression (decrease in aortic valve area > or = 0.1 cm2/year) had a larger proportion of men (p <0.01) and patients with an elevated serum creatinine (p = 0.04), a higher left ventricular mass index (p = 0.01), and a higher severity index (p <0.001). Multivariable regression analysis identified the severity index (direct relation) and the initial aortic valve area (inverse relation) as the only independent variables associated with more rapid progression. In conclusion, the rate of AS progression, although highly variable, is more rapid when leaflet calcification is more marked.
Electronic effect on oxidation of formic acid on supported Pd–Cu bimetallic surface

Abstract Vapor deposition method is used to prepare layered Pd–Cu bimetallic model catalytic surfaces, with different thickness of Pd, supported on glassy carbon. Charge transfer from Pd to Cu produces a positive binding energy (BE) shift for the overlayer Pd 3d and an opposite shift for Cu 2p as measured by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Similarly, the d-band center moves away from the Fermi level as the thickness of Pd decreased for these bimetallic materials. This electronic perturbation of the Pd–Cu systems results in a drastic increase in current density and an improved stability for formic acid electro-oxidation. Our findings indicate that layered Pd–Cu bimetallic surfaces with Pd layers thicker than 1 nm do not form a surface alloy at room temperature and are better electrocatalytic materials than Bulk Pd and could be used to enhance direct formic acid fuel cell (DFAFC) performance.
Derrida and the Heidegger controversy: Global friendship against racism

Author(s): Bevir, Mark | Abstract: This essay explores the ethical import of deconstruction through a reading of Derrida on Heidegger. In Of Spirit, Derrida traces through Heidegger’s writings the interplay of “spirit” and spirit. Spirit denotes an involvement with the question of Being, and in thus pointing towards a positive content, it embodies a metaphysical gesture in which a spiritual mission becomes the human essence. In Heidegger’s entanglement with National Socialism, he tied this spiritual mission to German self-assertion. “Spirit” is a concept under erasure that calls our attention to the absent Other. It reminds us of an ethical responsibility that is prior to ontology; it sets up a “cosmopolitanism” that precedes all particular identifications and so avoids spiritual racism. Derridean “cosmopolitanism” differs importantly from liberal universalism. From a Derridean perspective, liberal universalism remains insufficiently attune to the Other; it retains a metaphysical gesture, and so imperialistic and exclusionary tendency, akin to that found in Heidegger.
Surface Raman scattering of organic thin films on transition metal surfaces

Recent advances in detector technology have enabled sensitivity limitations inherent in surface Raman scattering from thin organic films on metal surfaces to be overcome. The application of both surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and normal Raman scattering of organic monolayer films on metal surfaces in electrochemical and ambient environments is an area of active research in this laboratory. The use of surface selection rules for the development of detailed molecular pictures of these interfaces is discussed in this report. The application of these rules for determination of the orientation of self-assembled monolayers on Ag and Au surfaces in both electrochemical and ambient environments is used to demonstrate the approach. In addition, extension of surface Raman methods to the study of monolayer organic films on Pt surfaces is reported.
Ethanol treatment alters the ultrastructure and permeability of PAN-PVC hollow fiber cell encapsulation membranes

Abstract Using membrane transport characterization and imaging analysis, we describe a series of studies that indicate that ethanol exposure permanently alters the ultrastructural morphology and the transport properties of PAN-PVC hollow fiber membranes (HFM). In particular, hydropermeability and solute diffusive permeability of ethanol treated sample groups displayed significant increases when compared to that of the untreated controls. Atomic force microscopic analysis revealed significant changes in the morphology of the permselective layer following HFM exposure to ethanol. The results call into question the mechanism by which cell encapsulation HFM confer immune protection when utilized in various transplantation sites in vivo.
Engineered Fibrillar Microenvironments With Controllable Architecture and Mechanics for Studying Cellular Stiffness Sensing

The mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) have emerged as fundamental players in numerous basic cellular functions such as spreading, migration, proliferation and differentiation, thus impacting many biological processes including embryonic development, adult tissue homeostasis, and disease pathogenesis such as fibrosis and cancer [1,2,3]. Synthetic matrices have been crucial to studying the effect of mechanics on cell behavior, as they allow for precise control of mechanical properties over a wide stiffness range, unachievable in vivo or in many naturally derived material systems. Seminal work employing polyacrylamide hydrogels of varying stiffness to direct the differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells concluded that the bulk modulus, a measure of the material’s resistance to uniform deformation, is a defining parameter influencing cell function [4]. While much current effort aims to shed light on the molecular mechanisms governing stiffness sensing, existing knowledge is limited by the dissimilarity between the simple hydrogel surfaces employed in these studies and the topographically and mechanically more complex ECM cells routinely reside within in vivo. In contrast to the flat expanse of cell adhesive ligand and linear elastic, continuum behavior of typical gel systems, within the body, cell-scale mechanics and ligand availability are entwined, as both are defined by the presence and organization of the proteins that compose the surrounding ECM. The structure of native ECMs vary but largely are fibrillar, given that collagen comprises approximately 25% of the human body by mass. Thus, there remains a significant need for engineered fibrillar materials that afford precise and independent control of architectural features and resulting mechanical properties for application in cell biology. In this work, we establish a novel material system towards this end.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Descriptive Epidemiology of Voice Disorders in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Quality of Life Burden.

Summary Objectives Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease which may adversely affect phonatory function. This study aimed to establish the prevalence, risks, and quality of life effects of voice disorders in RA. Study Design This is a cross-sectional, descriptive epidemiology study. Methods One hundred individuals with RA underwent a telephone interview to determine the frequency, severity, risks associated with, and quality of life burden of voice disorders. The results were analyzed using summary statistics, frequencies, chi-square tests, regression analysis, and risk ratios ( P Results Thirty-five percent of participants with RA reported a current voice disorder which was chronic and long-standing in most cases. The prevalence of a current voice disorder did not significantly differ across age, sex, medication use, voice use patterns, medical history, or RA severity. These chronic voice disorders produced significant adverse effects on both voice-related quality of life and short form 36 health-related quality of life scales. Specific voice symptoms such as "voice-related discomfort" and "chronic throat dryness" contributed disproportionately to the quality of life burden. Of those participants with a voice disorder, only 37% had ever sought professional help to improve their voice. Conclusions These results indicate that voice disorders are common in RA and produce significant adverse effects on quality of life. Further research is necessary to better understand the origin of these disorders and their potential response to treatment.
Carnap Ponders Canberra: Creating a Theory of Meaning Based on Carnap's Criteria of Cognitive Significance and the Canberra Plan

Although logical positivism has fallen out of favor within many philosophical circles, one might remain sympathetic to the logical positivists’ critique of the meaningfulness of philosophical terms. In an attempt to address this open problem, I will propose an updated theory of meaning by combining the Canberra Plan methodology and Carnap’s four criteria of cognitive significance as explicated in “The Elimination of Metaphysics Through Logical Analysis of Language”. I will argue that of Carnap’s original criteria, the notion of protocol sentences (C2) and verification (C4) remain problematic. I will further argue that protocol sentences can be replaced by step-one of the Canberra Plan. This shift towards Lewis’ more robust conception of O-terms as any known/old terms will still limit the types of terms that are meaningful yet proven to be less problematic than Carnap’s notion of observation terms. Additionally, I will argue for the replacement of verification with a modified version of step-two of the Plan. Due to the emphasis of locating a unique realizer within the Canberra Plan, I will propose two types of meaningful terms: meaningful with a located unique realizer (MLR), and meaningful but an absent unique realizer (MAR).
Induction of the acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa by a fraction of human follicular fluid

Human ejaculated spermatozoa were washed through a Percoll gradient, preincubated for 10 hr in a defined medium containing serum albumin, and then induced to undergo rapid acrosome reactions by addition of human follicular fluid or a Sephadex G-75 column fraction of the fluid. Induction by follicular fluid did not occur when the spermatozoa were preincubated for only 0 or 5 hr. The reactions were detected by indirect immunofluorescence using a monoclonal antibody directed against the human sperm acrosomal region. The percentage of acrosomal loss counted by transmission electron microscopy agreed with that counted by immunofluorescence. The apparent molecular weight of the Sephadex G-75 fraction containing the peak of acrosome reaction-inducing activity was 45,000 ± 4,200 (SD). The occurrence of physiological acrosome reactions was supported by: assessing motility (no significant loss of motility occurred during the treatment period when sperm were preincubated with bovine serum albumin), transmission electron microscopy (the ultrastructural criteria for the acrosome reaction were met), and zona-free hamster oocyte binding and penetration (spermatozoa pretreated with the active fraction of follicular fluid, then washed and incubated with oocytes, showed significantly greater binding to and penetration of oocytes). The stimulation of the acrosome reaction by follicular fluid is apparently not due to blood serum contamination; treatment of preincubated spermatozoa with sera from the follicular fluid donors had no effect on the spermatozoa. The nature of the active component(s) in that fraction is currently being investigated.