cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Taliban’s Real Challenge Begins Now

The Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan has marked another chapter in the country’s turbulent history. The military triumph, while unexpected and fragile, is the easy part of the battle for Afghanistan. The group faces a more formidable challenge: the battle for the hearts and minds of the people. The Taliban must now demonstrate that they have learned from history and are willing and able to govern in a way that garners legitimacy at home and abroad. A decentralized and inclusive political system, sound governance, and building upon the progress of the last 20 years are vital to avert regression into the country’s dark and violent past. As history has shown, such backsliding will not merely afflict Afghans.
Evaluation of Incident 7-Day Infection and Sepsis Hospitalizations in an Integrated Health System.

RATIONALE Pre-hospital opportunities to predict infection and sepsis hospitalization may exist, but little is known about their incidence following common healthcare encounters. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the incidence and timing of infection and sepsis hospitalization within 7 days of living hospital discharge, emergency department discharge, and ambulatory visit settings. METHODS In each setting, we identified patients in clinical strata based on the presence of infection and severity of illness. We estimated number needed to evaluate values with hypothetical predictive model operating characteristics. RESULTS We identified 97,614,228 encounters including 1,117,702 (1.1 %) hospital discharges, 4,635,517 (4.7%) emergency department discharges, and 91,861,009 (94.1 %) ambulatory visits between 2012 and 2017. The incidence of 7-day infection hospitalization varied from 37,140 (3.3%) following inpatient discharge, 50,315 (1.1%) following emergency department discharge, and 277,034 (0.3%) following ambulatory visits. The incidence of 7-day infection hospitalization was increased for inpatient discharges with high readmission risk (10.0%), emergency department discharges with increased acute or chronic severity of illness (3.5% and 4.7%, respectively), and ambulatory visits with acute infection (0.7%). The timing of 7-day infection and sepsis hospitalizations differed across settings with an early rise following ambulatory visits, a later peak following emergency department discharges, and a delayed peak following inpatient discharge. Theoretical number needed to evaluate values varied by strata, but following hospital and emergency department discharge, were as low as 15 to 25. CONCLUSIONS Incident 7-day infection and sepsis hospitalizations following encounters in routine healthcare settings were surprisingly common and may be amenable to clinical predictive models.
Abstract 848: Galectin-1 mediates radiation-related lymphopenia in non-small cell lung cancer and attenuates tumor radiation response

Decreased circulating lymphocytes after tumor irradiation has been linked to worse outcomes in several cancers treated with fractionated radiotherapy. The mechanism underlying radiation (RT)-induced lymphopenia is not well understood. Here, we show that lymphopenia also occurs after stereotactic ablative radiotherapy for early stage non-small cell lung cancer, and that it is associated with reduced survival. We provide evidence that RT-induced secretion of Galectin-1 (Gal-1), a b-galactoside binding protein, can potentially explain for this phenomenon. Using matched Gal-1 wild type and null mice together with Lewis lung carcinoma cells stably knocked-down of Gal-1 or scramble control, we show that irradiation of Gal-1 expressing tumor increases Gal-1 secretion in the blood and that it is linked to decreased circulating T-lymphocytes. This was ablated by either genetic down regulation of Gal-1 in the tumor or inhibition of Gal-1 activity by TDG. Moreover, Gal-1 down regulation resulted in enhanced radiation sensitivity in vitro as well as less intratumoral T cell apoptosis and angiogenesis in vivo, resulting in marked tumor growth delay and reduced spontaneous lung metastases when combined with radiotherapy. Similar results were noted when Gal-1 function was inhibited with TDG in vivo. Together, our data identify Gal-1 as an important mediator of RT-related lymphopenia and its proangiogenic and T cell proapototic effect may explain for the poorer outcome associated with RT-related lymphopenia. Gal-1 is therefore a new potential therapeutic target to combine with radiotherapy. Citation Format: Peiwen Kuo, Scott Bratman, David Shultz, Rie von Eyben, Cato Chan, Ziwei Wang, Carmen Say, Aparna Gupta, Bill W. Loo, Amato Giaccia, Albert Koong, Maximilian Diehn, Quynh-Thu Le. Galectin-1 mediates radiation-related lymphopenia in non-small cell lung cancer and attenuates tumor radiation response. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 848. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-848
Using the least squares estimator in Chebyshev estimation

This note investigates the advantage of using the least squares estimator as a starting point in Barrodale and Phillip's L -algorithm
Technology and education

Produced by the Research Center for Educational Technology at Kent State University, the CD ROM, "Technology and education: the research on where we have been-a vision of where we are going", is designed for staff developers in a K-12 environment, university faculty working with preservice educators, and practicing teachers. The purpose of this session is to demonstrate the use of an interactive CD-ROM that was developed to actively engage teachers in reflective dialogue regarding best practice research, their teaching philosophies, and instructional practices.
A perceptual-motor development program's effect on visual perception and reading readiness of first-grade children.

Abstract It was the purpose of this investigation to conduct a program in perceptual-motor development and to determine changes in, and assess relationships between, changes in perceptual-motor development on visual perception and reading readiness of first-grade children. Four classes were equated on the variables age, height, sex, and weight. Two of the classes (experimental) were exposed to the perceptual-motor program for 12 weeks and the other two classes (control) took part in the conventional physical education program. All students participated in their regular classroom activities. All subjects were evaluated in perceptual-motor development, visual perception, and reading readiness prior to and immediately following the research program. The difference scores (pre- and post-test) were evaluated by two-way ANOVA to determine if there were any significant differences between groups. F ratios for the three variables tested were all significant beyond the .01 level in support of the perceptual-motor ...
Digital homeomorphisms in deformable registration

A common goal in deformable registration applications is to produce a spatial transformation that is diffeomorphic, thereby preserving the topology of structures being transformed. Because this constraint is typically enforced only on the continuum, however, topological changes can still occur within discretely sampled images. This work discusses the notion of homeomorphisms in digital images, and how it differs from the diffeomorphic/homeomorphic concepts in continuous spaces commonly used in medical imaging.We review the differences and problems brought by considering functions defined on a discrete grid, and propose a practical criterion for enforcing digital homeomorphisms in the context of atlas-based segmentation.
Quadratic weighted median filters for noisy image sharpening

Quadratic Volterra filters are shown to be very effective in image sharpening applications. The linear combination of polynomial terms, however, yields poor performance in noisy environments. Weighted median filters, in contrast, are well-known for their outlier suppression and detail preservation properties. The weighted median sample selection methodology is naturally extended to the polynomial sample case, yielding a filter structure referred to as quadratic weighted median (QWM), that exploits the higher order statistics of the observed samples while simultaneously being robust to outliers arising in the higher order statistics of environment noise. The robustness of QWM filter to higher order statistics of noise is analyzed through the determination of breakdown probability. The simulation results show that the proposed method can successfully suppress the noise and enhance the image details simultaneously. Compared with the finite-impulse response (FIR) Quadratic Volterra sharpener, the QWM filter exhibits superior performance.
Faraday Modulation Spectroscopy of Nitric Oxide at 5.33 μm with an External Cavity Quantum Cascade Laser

The selection of the specific molecular transition is of great importance to achieve best sensitivity with Faraday rotation spectroscopy. Application of broadly-tunable external-cavity quantum cascade laser allowed targeting the optimum NO-Q(3/2) transition at 1875.8 cm-1.
Detection of Seismic Signals Using Seismometers and Strainmeters

Using data from borehole and long‐base strainmeters and from borehole and surface seismometers, we compare the seismic‐wave detection capability of strainmeters and seismometers. We use noise spectra to determine the relative signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) on different sensors, as a function of the phase velocity and frequency of a signal. For the instruments we analyze, signals with frequencies from 10−3 to 10 Hz and phase velocities typical of (or higher than) surface and body waves will have lower SNRs on the strainmeters than on broadband seismometers. At frequencies from 0.1 to 10 Hz the borehole (short‐period) seismometers have better SNRs than strainmeters for typical phase velocities; at lower frequencies strainmeter data signals would have higher SNRs. Online Material: Station description, seismic noise, and LSM signal detection.
A NEW APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING OXYGEN CONSUMPTION IN RATS

An apparatus is described which can be easily constructed for student or research use and which gives excellent results in measuring the oxygen consumption of rats. Results obtained with the apparatus are similar to those reported elsewhere. Holtkamp et al. (1) have described an apparatus for measuring the oxygen consumption of groups of rats in a single experiment. The basic idea is sound but the apparatus is not satisfactory because it requires constant attendance, does not give permanent records, and is cumbersome to operate in removing and replacing animals. We have redesigned this apparatus in such a manner that all of these difficulties are avoided. The apparatus is presented in Figure 1. It was constructed of readily available materials and can be made by any competent shop man. The instrument is constructed of plastic for easy assembly and for complete vision.
The role of hybrid computers in simulation and control

This paper discusses the present atzd futtsre of hybrid computation: Has it reached its zenith, or will it continue to develop as a powerful but specialized technique? The minicomputer has made current hybrid systems practical by providing a low-cost digital component. Unless the cost of the analog computer is reduced, the increasing power and decreasing cost of the minicomputer may severely limit future hybrid computer usage by providing an economic all-digital alternative. However, problems with alternative solution techniques indicate that for some important applications the hybrid computer will be the most cost- effective approach.
Comparison of the Permeability of Metoprolol and Labetalol in Rat, Mouse and Caco-2 Cells: Use as a Reference Standard for BCS Classification

The purpose of this study was to investigate labetalol as a potential high permeability reference standard for the application of Biopharmaceutics Classification Systems (BCS). Permeabilities of labetalol and metoprolol were investigated in animal intestinal perfusion models and Caco-2 cell monolayers. After isolating specific intestinal segments, in situ single-pass intestinal perfusions (SPIP) were performed in rats and mice. The effective permeabilities (Peff) of labetalol and metoprolol, an FDA standard for the low/high Peff class boundary, were investigated in two different segments of rat intestine (proximal jejunum and distal ileum) and in the proximal jejunum of mouse. No significant difference was found between Peff of metoprolol and labetalol in the jejunum and ileum of rat (0.33 ± 0.11 × 10–4 vs 0.38 ± 0.06 × 10–4 and 0.57 ± 0.17 × 10–4 vs 0.64 ± 0.30 × 10–4 cm/s, respectively) and in the jejunum of mouse (0.55 ± 0.05 × 10–4 vs 0.59 ± 0.13 × 10–4 cm/s). However, Peff of metoprolol and labetalol...
The use of inverse sine transformations in the analysis of non‐metric cranial data

In recent years osteologists have frequently used non-metric (dichotomous) cranial data to measure biological distance between skeletal samples of Homo sapiens. Applying methods used earlier by biologists, these workers begin by attempting to stabilize the variance of the measures used by transforming the observed trait frequencies using some type of inverse sine transformation. The frequently used Grewal-Smith transformation doesn't work well for small samples of the size often considered by osteologists. As a consequence the mean measure of divergence between populations determined by this method is strongly influenced by a bias which depends on sample size. This paper compares several transformations in terms of how close the actual variance of the transformed frequency corresponds to its nominal value. It is suggested that the traditional (Grewal-Smith) inverse sine transformation not be used, and several alternatives are considered.
On the movements of sole (Solea solea) and dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) tracked off the east anglian coast

Abstract Acoustically tagged sole ( Solea solea L.) and dogfish ( Scyliorhinus canicula L.) were tracked off the East Anglian coast using sector scanning sonar. When displaced from their normal grounds for the time of year both fish showed selective tidal stream transport, a semi-diurnal pattern of activity. However, a sole released in the right position for the time of year showed a diurnal pattern of activity.
Emotional Connotation in Speech Perception: Semantic Associations in the General Lexicon

Lexical access of emotion words has been shown to depend on three underlying dimensions (Evaluation, Activity, and Potency). The importance of these dimensions of emotional connotation was assessed during on-line speech perception of words drawn from the general lexicon. Lexical decision times were significantly predicted by main effects of Evaluation and Potency, as well as by an Evaluation Activity interaction and an Evaluation Potency interaction. An evolutionary account is proposed to explain the differential processing of words in the general and affective lexica. Whereas the affective lexicon seems to be structured to avoid threats to the individual, the general lexicon appears to be designed for obtaining scarce but valuable resources.
ON THE ISOLATION, CULTIVATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF THE SO-CALLED INTRACELLULAR "SYMBIONT" OR "RICKETTSIA" OF PERIPLANETA AMERICANA

In Periplaneta americana , the large American roach, bacteriocytes are found in both sexes. These bacteriocytes are scattered throughout the fat tissue and their cytoplasm is filled with microorganisms. Evidence is presented to show that the intracellular forms are diphtheroidal bacilli. These diphtheroids are transmitted from one generation to another through the ova. A method is described whereby tissues, free from contaminants, may be obtained from Periplaneta . A medium and a new method, the "spotting technique," are described, by means of which initial cultures of the parasites were obtained from eggs within capsules, from ova and fat tissue bacteriocytes. Two conditions appear necessary, one to initiate adaptation to the new environment, the other to bring its complete realization to fruition. When development has been properly initiated, further adaptation occurs with successive transfers until finally certain other media appear suitable. Approximately 14 per cent of the isolation and cultivation attempts succeeded. All of the isolations were studied and it was found that three morphologically distinct types had been cultivated. In general one host yielded only one type, but one female revealed three types and another two. One type was also isolated once from a fecal emulsion. The probable reason for this result is discussed. The three types isolated were diphtheroidal bacilli resembling one another closely enough to be considered a single species but invariably offering distinct minor differences to warrant a separation into three distinct types. These three types have remained true to their original forms and sizes through 52 transfers. The sizes, general morphology, and tinctorial reactions of the three types cultivated correspond to the intracellular parasites of Periplaneta americana . The cultural and biochemical activities of the strains did not reveal any sound characters for differentiating types. Serologically, however, useful distinctions were found. Some additional evidence along immunological lines is offered to show that the microorganism cultivated is a representative of the identical species parasitic within Periplaneta americana . The evidence appears sound to the writer that the Periplaneta parasite has been isolated and cultivated over 20 times and that it is a bacterium belonging to the genus Corynebacterium (the diphtheroids). For the species the name Corynebacterium periplanetae nov. sp. variety americana is proposed. The three cultural types did not produce forms small enough to pass through the pores of Berkefeld "N" candles.
FGF signaling antagonizes cytokine-mediated repression of Sox9 in SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells.

Abstract Objective : The Sox9 transcription factor has emerged as an important determinant of chondrocyte differentiation, including the regulation of type II collagen (Col2) and aggrecan gene expression. We sought to identify a human cell line model that conserves the Sox9 regulatory pathways identified in the mouse. Design : The SW1353 chondrosarcoma cell line was considered to be a candidate for Sox9 studies. The activity of a Sox9 regulated Col2a1 enhancer reporter gene was analyzed in response to treating cells with known regulators of murine Sox9 expression/activity. The effect of treatment on expression of the endogenous Sox9 gene was analyzed by real-time PCR and Western blot. Results : Col2 enhancer activity was stimulated by fibroblast growth factors (FGF-1 and -2) and repressed by inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNFα) in SW1353 cells. These effects correlated with changes in Sox9 mRNA and protein levels. In addition, FGF-9 was shown to stimulate enhancer activity and Sox9 expression. Cotreatment studies demonstrated that FGFs functionally antagonize the cytokine-mediated repression of Sox9 expression and Col2 enhancer activity. Conclusions : SW1353 cells represent a useful human cell model as they conserve many Sox9 signaling pathways previously demonstrated in mouse chondrocytes. We identify FGF-9 as a particularly potent Sox9 agonist. The antagonism between FGFs and cytokines on Sox9 expression and Col2 enhancer activity suggests that Sox9 integrates the opposing activities of FGFs and cytokines. We also find that SW1353 cells respond to very low doses of IL-1 with Col2 enhancer activation, while increasing doses lead to repression.
"Washington is a Long Way Off": The "Round Valley War" and the Limits of Federal Power on a California Indian Reservation

In 1887 the Office of Indian Affairs requested that the Army evict the handful of white trespassers who claimed over 90 percent of the Round Valley Reservation in Northern California. The trespassers turned to local courts to block their evictions, and a county judge dispatched the Mendocino County sheriff to arrest the federal officer who persisted with his orders. The ensuing "Round Valley War" shows that, although elites associated with Indian affairs took federal supremacy on Indian Reservations for granted, and while historians have also tended to treat the West, and "Indian Country" in particular, as a domain where federal prerogatives reigned supreme, in the aftermath of the Civil War anti-statism and Democratic localism presented effective counterclaims to the coercive power of the federal state.
Infrared spectroscopic study of the chemical displacement of hydrocarbon monolayers from a Cu(100) surface

Abstract Recent studies have demonstrated that the chemical displacement of adsorbed molecules from solid surfaces is often quite facile at low temperatures where the rate of displacement is faster than the rate at which the displaced molecules desorb from the multilayer. In the present work, infrared spectroscopy is applied to monitor the chemical displacement of a cyclohexane monolayer from a Cu(100) surface by cyclohexene- d 10 . The results show that displacement occurs readily at 110 K, which is the expected result if thermodynamic equilibrium is achieved in this system.
Craniocerebral trauma: Practical considerations for the general surgeon

Abstract 1. 1. Intracranial fluid dynamics in relation to acute elevations of intracranial pressure are briefly presented for the benefit of the general surgeon who is compelled to treat craniocerebral traumas. 2. 2. A chart of acute intracranial pressure reactions which served well, in the writer's experience, in the evaluation of clinical signs in relation to cerebrospinal fluid pressure is incorporated. 3. 3. Traumatic cerebral pathology is discussed in relation to clinical signs, and indications for specific types of treatment: cerebrospinal fluid drainage, dehydration, and surgical intervention. 4. 4. Post-traumatic sequelae are considered in relation to their underlying pathology, their treatment, and their prevention.
In Search of Women of Color in the Social Work Journal Literature (1998–2007):

This article reports secondary analysis findings that categorized the content on women of color in 17 selected social work journals over 10 years. Included are the number of articles per journal co...
Families of Individuals With Intellectual Disability and Comorbid Mental Health Problems

This review focuses on the families of individuals dually diagnosed with intellectual disability (ID) and comorbid mental health problems. The review examines the impact of caring for individuals with ID and comorbid mental health problems on family well-being, the impact of the family on these individuals, and intervention and support needs of these families. There continues to be a strong need for additional research on and education for families of individuals with ID and comorbid mental health problems. Research limitations and directions for research and practice are also reviewed.
Development of Load Analysis System using Customer Load Profile Data

The multiple participants of the electricity market need new business strategies for surviving in competitive environments. Thus they need the accurate customer information of the electricity demand for providing value added services to customer. Demand characteristic is the most important one for analyzing customer information. In this study the load profile data, which can be collected through the Automatic Meter Reading System, are analyzed for getting demand patterns of customer. The load profile data include electricity demand in 15 minutes interval. An algorithm for clustering similar demand patterns is developed using the load profile data. As results of classification, customers are separated into several groups. And the representative curves for the groups are generated. The number of groups is automatically generated. And it depends on the threshold value for the distance to separate groups. Also a demand analysis system is developed using the properties of the classified groups. Many functions of the system are described in this paper. It is expected that the demand characteristics of the system will be used for tariff design, load forecasting and load management. Also it will be a good infrastructure for making value added services related to electricity industry.
Selection of a desirable chaotic phase using small feedback control.

It is common for nonlinear dynamical systems to exhibit behaviors where orbits switch between distinct chaotic phases in an intermittent fashion. A feedback control strategy using small parameter perturbations is proposed to stabilize the trajectory around a desired chaotic phase. The idea is illustrated by using an intermittent chaotic time series generated by model dynamical systems in parameter regimes after critical events such as the interior crisis. Relevance to biological situations is pointed out.
Long ascending projections from substantia gelatinosa Rolandi and the subjacent dorsal horn in the rat

Small neurons of the substantia gelatinosa Rolandi and the subjacent dorsal horn of the spinal cord have been thought to exert a direct modulatory effect only on neurons located within a distance of a few spinal segemnts. By using the technique of retorograde transport of horseradish peroxidase, however, it has been found that in the rat a significant number of these cells, particularly those of the subjacent dorsal horn, ascend many spinal segments to the lateral cervical nucleus and to the lower brainstem. These data provide an anatomic basis for a role of substantia gelatinosa Rolandi and subjacent dorsal horn cells in madulating or contributing to sensory information transmission not only in nearby segments but in far distant structures.
Older adults’ attitudes and preferences regarding a multifunctional wellness tool: A pilot study

Objective: To examine older adults’ attitudes toward multifunctional technology tools and specific preferences and expectations that would maximize their utility and usability. Methods: We held three focus group sessions for this pilot study to determine perceptions of older adults toward multifunctional wellness tools, including usefulness and barriers to use. Areas discussed included features that would be wanted or unwanted, form factor and context of use. Recordings were transcribed and qualitative content analysis was performed. Results: Fourteen older adults participated in the focus group sessions. Participants viewed potential uses for wellness tools with regard to their health and health information positively, as they felt currently available tools were lacking. In addition, participants felt that a single-user, smaller, portable device would be more useful than a non-portable multi-user device. Concerns were expressed toward technologies that were difficult to use with aging-related changes, pr...
Neuronal zinc stores are modulated by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs : An optical analysis in cultured hippocampal neurons

Zinc chelation and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been explored as potential neuroprotective agents. However, it remains unknown whether NSAIDs and zinc chelation may converge on a similar cellular process. Using two-photon microscopy to observe hippocampal neurons labeled with a zinc-sensitive dye, we provide evidence that three chemically unrelated NSAIDs, niflumic acid, ibuprofen, and naproxen, acutely increase intracellular zinc stores from extracellular metal pools. Phospholipase A2 inhibitors triggered similar responses, suggesting that NSAIDs likely control zinc stores by their activity as cyclooxygenase inhibitors. These results provide evidence for a new link between cyclooxygenase metabolites and the mechanisms controlling neuronal zinc pools.
Flow profiles in a tube rheometer using magnetic resonance imaging

The velocity profiles of non-Newtonian fluids have been measured in a tube rheometer using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This experimental method of flow visualization is a non-invasive and non-destructive means to characterize flow behavior. The fluids examined in this paper are carboxymethylcellulose solution (CMC) and tomato juice. The velocity profiles obtained experimentally for the CMC solution by MRI were in good agreement with the analytical predictions. Velocity profiles obtained by imaging for tomato juice showed much greater dispersion of velocity than expected in the laminar flow regime
Pilocytic Astrocytoma of the Optic Nerve with Hemorrhage and Extreme Cystic Degeneration

Juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma of the optic nerve (glioma of childhood) usually grows slowly. Rapidly evolving proptosis is rare and reflects the accumulation of mucinous or hemorrhagic material within the tumor. Rapid proptosis is more common in those patients beyond the first two decades of life who have long-standing tumors. We studied a 26-year-old woman with rapid proptosis caused by a large blood-filled cyst in a pilocytic astrocytoma of the optic nerve. The cyst was surgically removed along with the intraorbital portion of the optic nerve.
On the syntactic structures of unrestricted grammars II. Automata

We define a generalization of the finite state acceptors for derivation structures and for phrase structures. Corresponding to the Chomsky hierarchy of grammars, there is a hierarchy of acceptors, and for both kinds of structures, the type 2 acceptors are tree automata. For i = 0, 1, 2, 3, the sets of structures recognized by the type i acceptors are just the sets of projections of the structures of the type i grammars, and the languages of the type i acceptors are just the type i languages. Finally, we prove that the set of syntactic structures of a recursively enumerable language is recursive.
The Treated Natural History of High Risk Superficial Bladder Cancer: 15-year Outcome

AbstractPurpose: The long-term outcome of patients with high risk superficial bladder cancer is unknown. We report the results of 15 years of followup of high risk patients treated initially with aggressive local therapy, including transurethral resection alone or combined with intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guerin.Materials and Methods: Between 1978 and 1981, 86 high risk patients enrolled in a randomized study of transurethral resection alone or with intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guerin for superficial bladder cancer. Of these patients 81% had diffuse carcinoma in situ and 44% had stage T1 tumors before entry into the study. Patients were followed until death (61%) or until the present time (median followup 184 months).Results: Disease stage progressed in 46 patients (53%) and 31 (36%) eventually underwent cystectomy for progression reference 28 or refractory carcinoma in situ reference 3, while 18 (21%) had upper tract tumors at a median of 7.3 years. The 10 and 15-year disease specific survival rates...
Wolves at the door (and bears, and lynx)

Bears, wolves and lynx were once widespread across Europe--including the British Isles--but centuries of hunting. persecution and habitat destruction took their toll. Reliable numbers are hard to come by, but by the mid-20th century, the big three had effectively been exterminated everywhere except for small, precarious populations on the continent's wildest fringes. In the 1970s, however, there was a U-turn in attitudes. The environmental movement raised awareness of the predators' plight and laws protecting them came into force. Wolves in particular continue to recolonize former territories. Here, Nicholls reveals that one of the challenges of counting large carnivores is their secretive and mainly nocturnal nature.
A Description of Two New Species of Ectinorus (Siphonaptera: Rhopalopsyllidae) from Laguna Blanca National Park, Neuquén Province, Argentina

Two new species of rhopalopsyllid fleas: Ectinorus lareschiae, n. sp. and Ectinorus morenoi, n. sp. are described from Laguna Blanca National Park, Neuquen Province, Argentina. Ectinorus lareschiae was collected from the sigmodontid rodents Phyllotis xanthopygus (Waterhouse) and Reithrodon auritus (Fischer), while E. morenoi was also collected from P. xanthopygus in addition to the sigmodontid rodent Abrothrix longipilis (Waterhouse) and the didelphid marsupial Thylamys pallidior (Thomas). The female sex of E. lareschiae is unknown. During these studies, it was noted that Beaucournu and Gonzalez (2005) did not include Ectinorus alejoi Hastriter, 2002 (in Hastriter et al. 2002) in their diagnosis of Ectinorus lagidium. A diagnostic character is therefore provided to distinguish males of E. alejoi from males of E. lagidium. A listing of all known species of Ectinorus is included to facilitate future work.
Spatial connectivity moderates the effect of predatory fish on salamander metapopulation dynamics

In predator-prey metapopulations, persistence of prey in patches with predators may depend on the rescue effect in which immigration from nearby sources prevents local extinction. Thus, constraints on spatial connectivity may have important implications for predator-prey coexistence. We tested the hypothesis that metapopulation dynamics of Ambystoma tigrinum (tiger salamander) depend on combined effects of predatory fish and spatial connectivity. Because matrix heterogeneity can influence dispersal, we also considered how a proximate constraint on amphibian dispersal—desiccation risk—scales up to influence metapopulation dynamics for A. tigrinum. Occupancy and subsequent turnover patterns were quantified in a network of 90 wetlands for three years in an agricultural landscape in Illinois. Our previous field experiments demonstrated that desiccation risk varies among matrix habitats, and that individuals orient movements towards habitat with low desiccation risk. We used cost-distance modeling to generate a connectivity metric that accounted for desiccation risk. Occupancy and colonization probabilities were related negatively to fish occupancy and positively to connectivity. Matrix structure had a strong influence on colonization, and the connectivity metric based on desiccation risk was a better predictor of colonization than alternative metrics. The positive effect of desiccation-informed connectivity on colonization was strongest in wetlands with fish, indicating matrix composition can moderate the effects of predation on amphibians. We detected a rescue effect in which extinction probability was related negatively to connectivity, and this effect was strongest in sites with fish. The matrix did not have a strong effect on occupancy or extinction probabilities, and we discuss why matrix effects may vary for different aspects of population turnover. Our results suggest effects of fish predators on metapopulation dynamics of amphibians depend on spatial connectivity, and that immigration may be essential for maintaining persistence of amphibians in systems with fish. This study also demonstrates that the mechanisms underlying dispersal limitation for A. tigrinum may include desiccation risk.
Gangliosides of human cerebral astrocytomas.

: Ganglioside content and composition were examined in a series of 25 human gliomas, which were graded histologically by the criteria of Kerno-han. The concentration of total gangliosides (lpid-bound sialic acid [LBSA]) was decreased with respect to normal brain tissue in nearly all tumors and the extent of reduction correlated with the stage of tumor anaplasia. The distribution of individual gangliosides was altered in glial tumor tissue with an increase in proportion of the structurally simple gangliosides and reduction of polysialogangliosides. The most consistent and significant difference was the elevation of proportion of ganglioside GD3 from 4–5% of total LBSA in normal brain to 20% in the astrocytoma grade IV. The proportions of gangliosides GM2 and GD2 were also found to be elevated in all grades of the tumors. The simplification of ganglioside composition seems to be associated with transformation of the astrocyte with the accumulation of the simpler gangliosides, since the changes resemble those reported with in vitro transformation rather than those of analyses of preparations of purified glial cells.
Ontogenetic changes in waste purines from eggs of two species of insects

Abstract 1. 1. Waste purines, proteins and carbohydrates were measured in the eggs of Heliothis virescens Fab. (a lepidopteran that lays cleidoic eggs) and Lygus hesperus Knight (a hemipteran that lays non-cleidoic eggs). 2. 2. As development progressed, total purines increased in both species with greater amounts present in the cleidoic eggs. 3. 3. Protein concentrations changed according to a “U” shaped pattern in L. hesperus but showed only a slight, but non-significant decrease in the cleidoic eggs of H. virescens . 4. 4. Glycogen decreased continuously throughout development of both species while free sugars increased in L. hesperus eggs and decreased in H. virescens eggs. 5. 5. A possible pattern of water uptake from surrounding plant tissues is suggested for the non-cleidoic eggs of L. hesperus .
COMMENT ON SINGLE-TRIAL ACQUISITION

Rats exhibited differential instrumental responding in a straight alleyway as a function of size of reward following a single reinforced trial.
Unraveling heavy oil desulfurization chemistry: targeting clean fuels.

The sulfur removal chemistry of heavy oils has been unraveled by systematically investigating several heavy oils with an extremely wide range of properties. The heavy oil feed and product properties have been characterized by advanced analytical methods, and these properties have been related to the sulfur conversion data observed in pilot hydrotreating units. These studies coupled with kinetic treatment of the data have revealed that the desulfurization chemistry of heavy oils is essentially controlled by the strongly inhibiting three and larger ring aromatic hydrocarbon content and surprisingly not by the content of the “hard-to-remove” sulfur compounds. Such enhanced understanding of the heavy oil sulfur removal is expected to open new avenues for catalyst/process optimization for heavy oil desulfurization and thereby assist the efficent production of clean transporation fuels.
Refining methylation-targeting therapies for pancreatic cancer-focusing on DNMT1.

Commentary to:Pancreatic cancer DNMT1 expression and sensitivity to DNMT1 inhibitorsAng Li, Noriyuki Omura, Seung-Mo Hong and Michael Goggins
Dynamics of solidification in 2% corn starch-water mixtures : Effect of variations in freezing rate on product homogeneity

Directional solidification studies of gelatinized corn starch-water mixtures were undertaken in order to examine, in situ, the freezing behavior of this food model. The solidification rate was controlled by varying sample cell velocity as it moved from a 25°C hot stage to a - 25°C cold stage. While freezing at cell velocities ≤7.5 μm/sec, starch granules were alternately pushed or entrapped by the advancing solid-liquid interface producing a segregated structure consisting of alternating high-starch and low-starch bands. At a cell velocity of 10 μm/sec, the frozen product was homogeneous. The relationship between the solid-liquid interface velocity and segregation behavior was quantified and compared to an existing model of particle-interface interactions.
Age Differences in Alcohol and Cocaine Expectancies and Attitudes

Positive and negative expectancies regarding the behavioral effects of alcohol and cocaine were assessed and used to predict attitudes toward their use across four age groups (5–7, 8–10, 11–14, and 18–25, N = 121). Regardless of gender and minority status, children and early adolescents appeared to overgeneralize their beliefs about alcohol to a less familiar drug, cocaine, perceiving the effects of the two drugs similarly. Only college students differentiated between drugs, perceiving cocaine as less likely than alcohol to produce drunkenness and more likely to have stimulant and elation/empowerment effects. With age and other expectancies controlled, expectancy of drunkenness was the best predictor of disapproval of alcohol use; attitudes toward cocaine use were unrelated to expectancies but became more negative with age. Drug prevention programs should rest on data regarding children's preexisting beliefs about the consequences of drug use and should help them understand that different drugs (for examp...
Transitions and level lifetimes in Ne II, III, Ar II, III, Kr II, III and Xe II☆

Ne, Ar, Kr and Xe ionized states transition and level lifetimes from photographically recorded beam foil spectra, discussing particle energies
Overcoming the problem of locking in linear elasticity and poroelasticity: an heuristic approach

In this paper, we examine heuristically the reasons for locking in poroelasticity. As a first step, we first reexamine the problem of locking in linear elasticity. From this, we discover how the problem arises in the poroelasticity setting and how the problem might be overcome.
Absence of magnetic field dependence of the cyclotron effective masses of electrons on the Fermi surface of Pd

The de Haas-van Alphen effect was used to search for a field-dependent many-body enhancement of the cyclotron effective mass in palladium, an effect suggested by experiments observing a depression of the electronic specific heat by a magnetic field. Sixteen orbits on the open hole, $\ensuremath{\Gamma}$- centered electron, and $X$-centered hole sheet of the Fermi surface of Pd were studied with the field-modulation technique in fields up to 15 T and at temperatures as low as 0.5 K. For the heavy-mass $\ensuremath{\beta}$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ orbits on the open hole sheet we find effective masses approximately 15% higher than reported earlier, while results for the other orbits confirm earlier work. Within experimental error no field dependence in the cyclotron effective mass was found for any orbit, implying that a large reduction in the linear term of the specific heat by a magnetic field is not due to a suppression of spin fluctuations. In addition, the field dependence in the argument of the spin-splitting factor in the Lifshitz-Kosevich expression for the amplitude of the de Haas-van Alphen effect was measured for the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ orbit on the open hole sheet. The small field dependence observed is inconsistent with a large suppression of spin fluctuations, but is consistent with high-field magnetization measurements.
Age and sun exposure-related widespread genomic blocks of hypomethylation in nonmalignant skin.

Background Aging and sun exposure are the leading causes of skin cancer. It has been shown that epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, are well established mechanisms for cancer, and also have emerging roles in aging and common disease. Here, we directly ask whether DNA methylation is altered following skin aging and/or chronic sun exposure in humans.
The effect of ionizing radiation on insects.

Methods are outlined for the elimination of insects from grain and foods by exposure to ionizing radiation. (C.H.)
Bilinear Bethe-Salpeter Equation and Conditions for a Bound on a Two-Particle Reducible Part of the Elastic Scattering Amplitude

A high-energy bound is obtained for the full two-particle reducible amplitude in the crossed channel, provided that the Froiasart bound is satisfied by the full off-mass-shell amplitude, and the Gribov finite-mass hypothesis is correct for asymptotic amplitudes. Implications of this bound are discussed. (auth)
Counting lattice vectors

We consider the problem of counting the number of lattice vectors of a given length. We show that problem is @?P-complete resolving an open problem. Furthermore, we show that the problem is at least as hard as integer factorization even for lattices of bounded rank or lattices generated by vectors of bounded norm. Next, we discuss a deterministic algorithm for counting the number of lattice vectors of length d in time 2^O^(^r^s^+^l^o^g^d^), where r is the rank of the lattice, s is the number of bits that encode the basis of the lattice. The algorithm is based on the theory of modular forms.
Mental Health Disparities and Social Justice in the US-Mexico Border Region

Mental health services in the border region lag behind the nation. The situation is aggravated by a difference in the type of treatment individuals from different ethnic groups receive. Although the border is a minority majority region, minorities have less access to mental health services. This chapter discusses mental health disparities prevalent on the US-Mexico border which include access to mental health services, lack of mental health providers, and underutilization rates. Data are presented from major studies on the prevalence of mental health disorders and utilization of mental health services by Hispanics, more specifically Mexican Americans. A discussion is provided about the role of culture in mental health service utilization. The chapter concludes with recommendations for addressing mental health disparities on the US-Mexico border, considering the political context of the region.
Abstract 3383: Role of BHLHB3 regulation of p53 and c-Jun during the induction of cancer cell dormancy in a model of HNSCC

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive cancer for which survival rates have improved marginally over the last 30 years. Majority of cancer patients will die of metastases that develop from disseminated tumor cells (DTCs). Using computational tools and the experimental model, HEp3 (HNSCC) cells, we have identified p53 and BHLHB3 as critical genes transcriptionally induced by p38α/β signaling and required for the induction of HEp3 cells quiescence in vivo. BHLHB3 is a transcriptional repressor and a regulator of the circadian rhythm. We have demonstrated that BHLHB3 upregulation is required for the quiescence of D-HEp3 cells. We further showed that overexpression of BHLHB3 in T-HEp3 cells inhibits proliferation and correlates with increase levels of p21 (cell cycle arrest marker and p53 target gene) in vivo. We next tested the possibility that BHLHB3 regulates p53 expression/activity. Our results show that overexpression of BHLHB3 in T-HEp3 cells induced p53 transcriptional activity of a p53-luciferase reporter construct and increased p53 protein levels in vitro. In addition, downregulation of BHLHB3 using RNA interference in D-HEp3 cells also reduced p53 protein levels in vitro. We had also demonstrated that p53 upregulation in dormant HNSCC D-HEp3 cells is dependent on c-Jun downregulation by p38α. Accordingly, BHLHB3 downregulation via RNAi in D-HEp3 cells correlates with an increase in c-jun expression in vitro, suggesting that BHLHB3 regulation of p53 may be mediated through c-Jun. We propose that induction of tumor cell quiescence by BHLHB3 may be mediated through p53 regulation, suggesting a strong crosstalk between both pathways for growth suppression. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3383.