cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fact sheet to act sheet

Recent changes and future changes to Fertility and Sterility are discussed. These changes are based on the requirements of the baby boomers and generation X and have been made to satisfy the desires of various reader groups. Change is important and allows us to maintain our leadership position.
Phase transitions in RhTi

Abstract The phase transitions of the intermetallic compound RhTi were studied between room temperature and 1000 °C by powder X-ray diffraction. The high-temperature cubic structure was found to transform to tetragonal at 845 ± 20 °C and to monoclinic at 83 ± 5 °C. The transitions appear to occur continuously.
Cytochrome c Heme Lyase Activity of Yeast Mitochondria

Abstract A highly efficient in vitro system was established for measuring by high performance liquid chromatography the formation of holocytochrome c by yeast mitochondria. Holocytochrome c formation required reducing agents, of which dithiothreitol was the most effective. With biosynthetically made, pure Drosophila melanogaster apocytochromec and Saccharomyces cerevisiae mitochondria, the activity of cytochrome c heme lyase amounted to about 800 fmol min−1 mg−1 mitochondrial protein. The kinetics were typical Michaelis-Menten (K m ∼1 nm), as were those of mitoplasts with broken outer membranes (K m ∼3 nm). As tested with mitoplasts, holocytochromes c from a range of species were found to be competitive inhibitors of heme lyase at physiological concentrations, providing a mechanism for controlling this concentration in vivo. Apocytochrome cassociated with yeast mitochondria in two phases ofK d ∼2 × 10−10 and 10−8 m, respectively, whereas mitoplasts had lost the high affinity binding. A site-directed mutant of apocytochromec (lysines 5, 7, and 8 replaced by glutamine, glutamic acid, and asparagine) was found to be converted to holocytochromec (K m ∼3.3 nm; maximal activity unchanged), even though the mutations completely eliminated the high affinity binding. Thus, the high affinity binding of apocytochrome c to mitochondria is not directly related to holocytochrome c formation.
Horizontal integration in the neocortex

Abstract From the classical work of Golgi anatomists and the discovery of columnar functional architecture, the cortex came to be thought of as a structure containing independent modular units (the columns), with most of the internal circuitry involving vertical connections within the modules (across cortical layers) and little horizontal communication between modules. However, the development of new techniques for tracing neuronal pathways has revealed the existence of extensive communication between distant cortical modules within each cortical area and considerable convergence in the projection from one cortical area to another. These discoveries have importance in understanding the way the cortex analyses the sensory environment, and are likely to be general features for all the operations the cortex performs.
Progress towards finding genes for alcoholism in mice

Abstract Alcoholism is a debilitating disease that affects one in 13 adults in the US. It is a complex genetic disorder, influenced by multiple genes of small effect. The purpose of this review is to discuss how studies of mice have been used to search for the genes that underlie alcoholism. Features of alcoholism, such as alcohol dependence, tolerance, and impaired control over alcohol drinking have been successfully modeled in mice. Comparisons across strains that differ in genetic makeup have shown that these traits have a genetic component. Standard inbred strains are particularly useful for this purpose, because genetic uniformity within the strains increases power to detect differences among strains. Three approaches have been used to find specific genes that underlie an alcohol trait: genetic engineering, gene expression profiling, and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each, but emphasize QTL. QTL mapping is designed to detect multiple genes of small effect, has the potential to find new genes related to alcoholism, and is useful for inferring a cause and effect relationship between a gene and a trait. The initial result of a QTL analysis identifies a region of a chromosome that harbors at least one gene affecting the trait. The long-term goal is to narrow the size of the chromosomal region until it contains a small number of genes that can be directly tested for their role in the disorder. The furthest progress has been made for alcohol withdrawal where a region harboring only 18 genes or gene-related sequences was identified. A strong candidate gene, Mpdz, was subsequently identified in this region. Mpdz codes for a protein that functions to couple ligands to their receptors. Current work is investigating the possible function of Mpdz in alcohol withdrawal. Ultimately this research might lead to the development of new diagnostic tools and pharmacotherapies to treat alcoholism.
No Answer (for the Economic Dynamism and Civic Freedoms of post-WWII Western Europe)

Given the uncivil reception that Uncivil Society has received from the academic establishment, the worry expressed in this forum that my analysis might be assigned in classrooms or even “become definitive” could be seen as witty. The dominant civil-society and dissident-centric interpretation of 1989 strikes me as far too congenial to the worldview and sentiments of scholars to ever be displaced. Still, a debate is a welcome turn. For the honor of organizing a discussion of my book and challenging me with substantive criticisms and questions, I thank the editors of East Central Europe and the four contributors. Please allow me to take them in order.
Relation between degree of polarization and Pauli color coded image to characterize scattering mechanisms

Polarimetric image classification is sensitive to object orientation and scattering properties. This paper is a preliminary step to bridge the gap between visible wavelength polarimetric imaging and polarimetric SAR (POLSAR) imaging scattering mechanisms. In visible wavelength polarimetric imaging, the degree of linear polarization (DOLP) is widely used to represent the polarized component of the wave scattered from the objects in the scene. For Polarimetric SAR image representation, the Pauli color coding is used, which is based on linear combinations of scattering matrix elements. This paper presents a relation between DOLP and the Pauli decomposition components from the color coded Pauli reconstructed image based on laboratory measurements and first principle physics based image simulations. The objects in the scene are selected in such a way that it captures the three major scattering mechanisms such as the single or odd bounce, double or even bounce and volume scattering. The comparison is done between visible passive polarimetric imaging, active visible polarimetric imaging and active radio frequency POLSAR. The DOLP images are compared with the Pauli Color coded image with |HH-VV|, |HV|, |HH +VV| as the RGB channels. From the images, it is seen that the regions with high DOLP values showed high values of the HH component. This means the Pauli color coded image showed comparatively higher value of HH component for higher DOLP compared to other polarimetric components implying double bounce reflection. The comparison of the scattering mechanisms will help to create a synergy between POLSAR and visible wavelength polarimetric imaging and the idea can be further extended for image fusion.
Using Quality Improvement Science to Implement a Multidisciplinary Behavioral Intervention Targeting Pediatric Inpatient Airway Clearance

Objective The objective of this study was to use quality improvement science methodology to develop a multidisciplinary intervention improving occurrence of best-practice airway clearance therapy (ACT) in inpatient adolescents with cystic fibrosis during routine clinical care. Methods The model for improvement was used to develop and implement interventions. Primary outcomes were quality of ACT (% ACT meeting criteria for best practice) and quantity of ACT (% of hospital days patients received ACT four times/day). Annotated control charts were used to document the impact of the interventions. Results Quality of ACT significantly improved from 21% best practice ACT at baseline to 73%. Quantity of ACT significantly improved from 41% days with ACT four times/day at baseline to 64%. Conclusions A multidisciplinary, evidence-based intervention was effective for improving occurrence of best-practice ACT. Pediatric psychology can make valuable contributions to improving the quality of care provided in the medical setting.
Timing and petroleum sources for the Lower Cretaceous Mannville Group oil sands of northern Alberta based on 4-D modeling

The Lower Cretaceous Mannville Group oil sands of northern Alberta have an estimated 270.3 billion m3 (BCM) (1700 billion bbl) of in-place heavy oil and tar. Our study area includes oil sand accumulations and downdip areas that partially extend into the deformation zone in western Alberta. The oil sands are composed of highly biodegraded oil and tar, collectively referred to as bitumen, whose source remains controversial. This is addressed in our study with a four-dimensional (4-D) petroleum system model. The modeled primary trap for generated and migrated oil is subtle structures. A probable seal for the oil sands was a gradual updip removal of the lighter hydrocarbon fractions as migrated oil was progressively biodegraded. This is hypothetical because the modeling software did not include seals resulting from the biodegradation of oil. Although the 4-D model shows that source rocks ranging from the Devonian–Mississippian Exshaw Formation to the Lower Cretaceous Mannville Group coals and Ostracode-zone-contributed oil to Mannville Group reservoirs, source rocks in the Jurassic Fernie Group (Gordondale Member and Poker Chip A shale) were the initial and major contributors. Kinetics associated with the type IIS kerogen in Fernie Group source rocks resulted in the early generation and expulsion of oil, as early as 85 Ma and prior to the generation from the type II kerogen of deeper and older source rocks. The modeled 50% peak transformation to oil was reached about 75 Ma for the Gordondale Member and Poker Chip A shale near the west margin of the study area, and prior to onset about 65 Ma from other source rocks. This early petroleum generation from the Fernie Group source rocks resulted in large volumes of generated oil, and prior to the Laramide uplift and onset of erosion (58 Ma), which curtailed oil generation from all source rocks. Oil generation from all source rocks ended by 40 Ma. Although the modeled study area did not include possible western contributions of generated oil to the oil sands, the amount generated by the Jurassic source rocks within the study area was 475 BCM (2990 billion bbl).
ENTROPY MINIMIZATION: A DESIGN PRINCIPLE FOR SENSORY PERCEPTION?

We speculate on how computational strategies suggested by Information theory could be useful for knowledge acquisition in sensory systems. The focus of our exploration is the idea that perception is a data reduction problem and as such sensory transformations should be predictable from the data reduction problem and as such sensory transformations should be predictable terms of variational principles involving the minimization of two types of entropy. The analysis suggests a scheme in which the two can be combined to produce a predictive design principle for sensory pathways.
Low-power high-performance nand match line content addressable memories

Content addressable memory (CAM) is used in fully associative VLSI lookup circuits for cache memory, translation lookaside buffers (TLBs), and in Internet Protocol (IP) address comparison. In this paper, the use of dynamic nand match lines is investigated and compared to conventional nor match lines in cache applications. To achieve high speed, a hierarchical match line is used. The dynamic stack charge-sharing noise immunity, speed, and actual power savings over a conventional nor match line are investigated using benchmark data. While random patterns are often used when benchmarking CAM match line power, it is shown to be optimistic compared to address trace data, since addresses are highly correlated. It is also shown that proper address input ordering can provide additional power savings. A simple model for the power in dynamic circuit stacks is derived and compared to power simulation data. Additionally, impact on cache tag area and the scaling of the nand stack to future processes is described
A finite-difference transmission line matrix method incorporating a nonlinear device model

A variable-mesh combination of the expanded-node transmission line matrix (TLM) and finite-difference-time-domain (FD-TD) methods for solving time-domain electromagnetic problems is described. It retains the physical process of wave propagation and the numerical stability of the former and it has the computational efficiency of the latter. This full-wave finite-difference transmission line matrix (FD-TLM) method utilizes transmission lines of differing impedances to implement a three-dimensional variable mesh, which makes practical the simulation of structures having fine details, such as digital integrated circuits (ICs). Circuit models for lumped resistors, capacitors, diodes, and MESFETs have been developed and included for use in simulating digital and microwave ICs. The validity of the variable mesh implementation is verified by comparing an FD-TLM simulation of a picosecond pulse generator structure with electrooptical measurements, and the validity of the device model implementation is verified by comparing an FD-TLM simulation of a MESFET logic inverter with a SPICE simulation. >
Limits of conditional expectations

Convergence of conditional expectations is considered. The convergence results for conditional expectations are shown to be the same as when the absolutely continuous change of measure can be made directly. A filtering application is examined. If the approximating model uses noise increments with a density which must have compact support, conditions are given which ensure the expected convergence of the conditional expectations. >
Library marketing: moving between traditional and digital strategies

Purpose – The purpose of this column is to provide several discussion themes on which to muse regarding the strategy of library marketing in today’s technology-rich environment. Design/methodology/approach – It involves literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by professionals, researchers and practitioners. Findings – Moving between the traditional model of library marketing to the cutting-edge model is occurring through the numerous digital communication tools used everyday. Not only must the library rely on these modes of marketing they must also recognize that their patrons share that space with them and the many contacts each one of those patrons has as well, thus potentially expanding the library audience and therefore positively expanding its user base. Originality/value – The value in addressing this issue is to examine approaches to marketing library services in an effort to present the reader with several discussion points on the topic.
Torture and the Christian conscience: a response to Jeremy Waldron

In remarks offered in 2006 at a conference at Princeton Theological Seminary, inaugurating a National Religious Campaign against Torture, the legal philosopher Jeremy Waldron observed that Christian leaders have contributed relatively little to the recent debate over the use of torture. This is regrettable, in his view, because secular morality does not have resources sufficient to address the question of torture, and a Christian perspective emphasising the absoluteness and divine character of the relevant moral norms would represent an important contribution to our reflections on this question. This article offers a response to Waldron's timely and important challenge, setting forth a Christian theological argument that the practice of torture is categorically prohibited. The basis for this prohibition does not rest, however, on the absoluteness of moral norms as such – rather, it rests on the distinctive character of torture as an egregious assault on the human person regarded as image of God.
Frequent detection of Merkel cell polyomavirus DNA in sera of HIV-1-positive patients

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), human polyomavirus-6 (HPyV6), and human polyomavirus-7 (HPyV7) were identified as viruses shed from the skin. Serological analysis revealed that these viruses are common among the general population. However, there is little information about the presence of MCPyV, HPyV6, and HPyV7 in the sera and tissues of immunocompromised individuals. The aims of this study are to know if immune status affects the presence of MCPyV, HPyV6, and HPyV7 in the serum, and to reveal the presence of these viruses in diseased tissues of unknown etiology. Sera from HIV-1-positive and -negative patients were examined by real-time PCR and nested PCR detecting MCPyV, HPyV6 and HPyV7. In addition, diseased tissue samples of unknown etiology were examined. Nine out of 23 serum samples (39.1%) from HIV-1-positive patients who had not received anti-retroviral therapy were positive for MCPyV, which is significantly higher than HIV-1-negative patients (6/110, 5.5%, P < 0.01, Chi-square test). MCPyV DNA was detected in tissue samples of Merkel cell carcinoma (22/30 [73%]), encephalitis (4/19 [21%]), pneumonia (3/17 [18%]), and myocarditis (8/14 [57%]). With the exception of Merkel cell carcinoma samples, MCPyV-positive tissues showed low copy numbers of MCPyV DNA by real-time PCR and no expression of the MCPyV large T antigen by immunohistochemistry. HPyV6 and HPyV7 were rarely detected in serum and tissue samples. These results suggest that MCPyV viremia is associated with host immunity, and that circulation of HPyV6 and HPyV7 in the serum is rare.
InMnAs magnetoresistive spin-diode logic

Electronic computing relies on systematically controlling the flow of electrons to perform logical functions. Various technologies and logic families are used in modern computing, each with its own tradeoffs. In particular, diode logic allows for the execution of logic with many fewer devices than complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) architectures, which implies the potential to be faster, cheaper, and dissipate less power. It has heretofore been impossible to fully utilize diode logic, however, as standard diodes lack the capability of performing signal inversion. Here we create a binary logic family based on high and low current states in which the InMnAs magnetoresistive semiconductor heterojunction diodes implement the first complete logic family based solely on diodes. The diodes are used as switches by manipulating the magnetoresistance with control currents that generate magnetic fields through the junction. With this device structure, we present basis logic elements and complex circuits consisting of as few as 10% of the devices required in their conventional CMOS counterparts. These circuits are evaluated based on InMnAs experimental data, and design techniques are discussed. As Si scaling reaches its inherent limits, this spin-diode logic family is an intriguing potential replacement for CMOS technology due to its material characteristics and compact circuits.
Thermal considerations of SWIFT XRT radiator at 35/spl deg/C or colder in low Earth orbit

The X-Ray Telescope (XRT) is an instrument on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) SWIFT spacecraft. The thermoelectric cooler (TEC) for the charge coupled device (CCD) of the XRT requires a radiator temperature of -35/spl deg/C or colder, and a goal of -55/spl deg/C to minimize the damage by radiation. The waste heat rejected from the TEC to the radiator is in the 8 W to 20 W range. In the Phase A baseline design, the XRT radiator is mounted to the rear end of the XRT telescope tube and is very close to the bottom closeout of the spacecraft bus. The bottom closeout is multi-layer insulation (MLI) blankets. At sun angles between 90/spl deg/ and 180/spl deg/, there is direct solar impingement on the bottom closeout. When the roll is /spl plusmn/5/spl deg/, the XRT radiator is exposed to direct solar radiation. The radiator also has a view factor to the solar arrays. The results of thermal analysis showed that the flight temperature prediction of the radiator exceeds the temperature requirement of -35/spl deg/C substantially at sun angles from 110/spl deg/ to 180/spl deg/. A new location on the anti-sun side of the spacecraft is proposed for the radiator. It requires a heat pipe to couple the TEC and the radiator thermally. The results of thermal analysis show that the flight temperature prediction of the proposed radiator meets the temperature requirement at all sun angles.
DroidChameleon: evaluating Android anti-malware against transformation attacks

Mobile malware threats have recently become a real concern. In this paper, we evaluate the state-of-the-art commercial mobile antimalware products for Android and test how resistant they are against various common obfuscation techniques (even with known malware). Such an evaluation is important for not only measuring the available defense against mobile malware threats but also proposing effective, next-generation solutions. We developed DroidChameleon, a systematic framework with various transformation techniques, and used it for our study. Our results on ten popular commercial anti-malware applications for Android are worrisome: none of these tools is resistant against common malware transformation techniques. Moreover, the transformations are simple in most cases and anti-malware tools make little effort to provide transformation-resilient detection. Finally, in the light of our results, we propose possible remedies for improving the current state of malware detection on mobile devices.
Abnormal Hepatic Transport of Indocyanine Green in Gilbert's Syndrome

The plasma fractional disappearance rate of indocyanine green (kICG min-1) and theabsolute hepatic ICG removal rate (V{in{scicg}}, mg per kg per min) were determined in 26 patients with Gilbert's syndrome (GS) and 19 normal control volunteers following intravenous administration of doses of 0.5, 2.0, 3.5, and 5.0 mg per kg of dye. The diagnosis of GS was based on studies of radiobilirubin kinetics in all cases and liver biopsy in 22 of 26 cases. The patients were further classified into 3 subgroups, based on patterns of sulfobromophthalein (BSP) kinetics, as follows: GS I (15 patients) had normal BSP metabolism; GS II (5 patients) had a defect in BSP metabolism beyond the stage of initial hepatic uptake; and GS III (6 patients) had a defect in the initial hepatic uptake of BSP (Gastroenterology 63:472-481,1972). Both kICG, and VICG were significantly reduced, compared to normal controls, in the GS III group with defective BSP uptake, but did not differ significantly from normal in the GS I and GS II groups. Michaelis-Menten analysis of the data indicated that V{in{scmax}} for ICG uptake in the GS III group (1.2 ± 0.6 mg per min per kg) was significantly reduced compared to the previously established normal value of 3.6 ± 0.6 mg per min per kg; (P
Lobosporangium, a new name for Echinosporangium Malloch, and Gamsiella, a new genus for Mortierella multidivaricata

Lobosporangium is proposed as a new name for Echinosporangium Malloch, a later homonym of Echinosporangium Kylin. Lobosporangium transversale was isolated from arid soils on three occasions between 1964 and 1968 but has not been reported again. Observations on sporangium development in culture revealed rapid sporangiospore germination, rapidly growing hyphae forming anastomoses, threefold dichotomously branching aerial sporangiophores and formation of clusters of eight sporangia. The sporangia of L. transversale are illustrated, and the placement of Lobosporangium in the Mortierellaceae is discussed. A new genus, Gamsiella, is proposed that is based on Mortierella multidivaricata. Sporangial ontogeny of Gamsiella is compared with that presented here for Lobosporangium.
The Role of Frizzled-1 and Frizzled-3 in Olfactory Sensory Neuronal Targeting

THE ROLE OF FRIZZLED-1 AND FRIZZLED-3 IN OLFACTORY SENSORY NEURONAL TARGETING. Mina G. Safain. Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. While most areas of the brain do not exhibit profound neurogenesis or continuing synaptogenesis in the adult, there are notable exceptions which include the olfactory and hippocampal regions of the nervous system. In the olfactory system the olfactory sensory neurons continually turn over and extend their axons into the olfactory bulb in a highly precise manner. Some preliminary data exists that suggests the presence of Wnt and Frizzled (Fz) family members in the primary olfactory pathway. Recent evidence has suggested that these proteins could function as guidance cues but these proteins have not been studied in the olfactory system. Therefore this family of proteins, including Fz-1 and Fz-3, could have a role in olfactory sensory neuron targeting. This study proposes to test the hypothesis that the expression pattern and temporal regulation of Fz-1 and Fz-3 is consistent with a role in olfactory sensory neurons axon targeting. Mouse embryos at ages E10, 10.5, 11, and 13 (E0 is the day of conception) were removed, fixed, sectioned on a cryostat, and then thaw mounted onto slides. Immunohistochemistry was performed on the sections and labeled with antibodies for either Fz-1 or Fz-3 and a variety of other antibodies that labeled mature and immature olfactory sensory neurons (GAP 43, NCAM, PSA-NCAM, OCAM, s-Tubulin). Nuclear staining was accomplished by using DRAQ-5. Stained sections were analyzed with a confocal microscope. Fz-1 and Fz-3 were present as early as embryonic day 10-10.5 and expression increased dramatically over the next 3 days of development. These receptors also colocalized with both markers of mature and immature olfactory sensory neurons. These proteins seem to be upregulated and expressed more heavily on olfactory sensory neurons during the onset and throughout the period that is essential for proper glomerular targeting. It is therefore likely that these proteins are involved in some aspect of olfactory sensory neurons intricate navigation from the olfactory epithelium into the glomerular layer of the developing olfactory bulb.
Trap Capture of Brown and Dusky Stink Bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) as Affected by Pheromone Dosage in Dispensers and Dispenser Source

Brown, Euschistus servus (Say), and dusky, E. tristigmus (Say), stink bugs (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) readily respond to traps baited with the Euschistus spp. aggregation pheromone methyl (E, Z) -2,4-decadienoate. Previous studies examining trap capture of these stink bugs have used either laboratory-prepared dispensers or commercial dispensers with various known and unknown pheromone doses. We compared trap captures of E. servus and E. tristigmus using yellow pyramid traps baited with a range of pheromone doses (20 - 120 μL) loaded onto rubber septa and when baited with 2 commercially available pheromone dispensers. These baited traps were located primarily in or alongside pecan orchards with one exception being alongside a peach/plum orchard. Traps were monitored weekly for 4 wk during 2008 and 2009. Dispensers were either replaced weekly or the same dispenser remained in use for the entire study. All pheromone doses tested resulted in a numerical increase of both E. servus and E. tristigmus captured i...
Insights on Key Conflict of Laws Concepts: The Federal Government's Role and Judgment Recognition and Enforcement

Key themes weave throughout the history and current relevance of Conflict of Laws. As the second installment of a two part compilation of essays, this paper presents many of these themes in the form of “Notes,” offering expository explanation, received wisdom, and new insights. These essays will appear in an upcoming book Conflict of Laws to be published in the Aspen Casebook Series by Wolters Kluwer. The essays cover global, jurisprudential topics as well as doctrinal, fundamental concepts. They should be useful to both novices seeking an overview of core conflict of laws themes as well as well-seasoned experts seeking pithy insights into the key debates in the field. This installment focuses on the role of the federal government as well as judgment recognition and enforcement.The global, jurisprudential topics in this installment are:(1) The Domestic and International Forum-Shopping System; (2) Choice of Law Methodology for Federal Courts; (3) Tools for Handling Duplicative Litigation; (4) Theories of Stare Decisis and its Role in Federal Litigation; (5) Intersection of Full Faith and Credit with Preclusion Principles; (6) Private Incentives in Judgment Recognition and Enforcement; (7) The Theoretical Kinship between Judgments and Marriage; and(8) Libel TourismSpecific doctrinal topics include: (1) The Substance/Procedure Dichotomy (2) Same Sex Marriage: Constitutional Restrictions on Same Sex Marriage Laws;(3) The Significance and Limitations of Klaxon v. Stentor; (4) Claim and Issue Preclusion; and (5) SPEECH ACT of 2010
Tyrosinase Immunoreactivity in Fine-Needle Aspiration Samples of Metastatic Malignant Melanoma Fixation Methods Yield Variable Results

BACKGROUND. Tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme in melanin synthesis, is a melanoma associated antigen that is recognized by both CD4+ and CD8+ T-ceIls in an HLA-restricted fashion. Peptides derived from the tyrosinase antigen currently are being utilized as a target for T-ceIls in several immunotherapy protocols for metastatic malignant melanoma (MMM) at the National Institutes of Health/ National Cancer Institute. Serial fine-needle aspirations of metastatic lesions are performed to monitor the antigen expression of tyrosinase during treatment by immunostaining cytologic preparations with the monoclonal antibody T311.METHODS. In the current study, 62 samples of MMM were evaluated for tyrosinase immunoreactivity on air-dried, acetone fixed cytospins and the corresponding formalin fixed, paraffin embedded cell block using an avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase method.RESULTS. Positive immunoreactivity revealed a granular cytoplasmic staining in melanocytic cells. The current study results showed that 92% of samples (57 of 62) were T311 immunoreactive on cell block preparations, whereas only 61% (38 of 62) were immunoreactive on cytospin preparations. In 66% of samples (41 of 62) immunoreactivity for T311 was greater in the cell block sample than in the corresponding cytospin, whereas in only 3% of samples (2 of 62) was it greater in the cytospins. In 31% of samples (19 of 62) there was no significant difference in immunoreactivity between the 2 sample types.CONCLUSIONS. The results of the current study show that tyrosinase is a sensitive marker for the detection of MMM; however, the optimal method of sample preparation for immunoperoxidase staining appears to be formalin fixation and paraffin embedding as tyrosinase immunoreactivity is diminished significantly in air-dried cytospin samples despite subsequent acetone fixation. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2000;90:252-7, (C) 2000 American Cancer Society.
Wound size measurement of lower extremity ulcers using segmentation algorithms

Lower extremity ulcers are one of the most common complications that not only affect many people around the world but also have huge impact on economy since a large amount of resources are spent for treatment and prevention of the diseases. Clinical studies have shown that reduction in the wound size of 40% within 4 weeks is an acceptable progress in the healing process. Quantification of the wound size plays a crucial role in assessing the extent of healing and determining the treatment process. To date, wound healing is visually inspected and the wound size is measured from surface images. The extent of wound healing internally may vary from the surface. A near-infrared (NIR) optical imaging approach has been developed for non-contact imaging of wounds internally and differentiating healing from non-healing wounds. Herein, quantitative wound size measurements from NIR and white light images are estimated using a graph cuts and region growing image segmentation algorithms. The extent of the wound healing from NIR imaging of lower extremity ulcers in diabetic subjects are quantified and compared across NIR and white light images. NIR imaging and wound size measurements can play a significant role in potentially predicting the extent of internal healing, thus allowing better treatment plans when implemented for periodic imaging in future.
Dynamic Portfolio Theory and Management

In this section, the recently published book Dynamic Portfolio Theory and Management is reviewed.
Correction of Frequency Parameters for China's First 750 kV Double-Circuit Transmission Lines on the Same Tower

On the basis of theoretical calculations,measurements of on-site parameters,as well as a large number of measured data and waveforms in the process of system debugging,corrections are made on the power frequency parameters of the 750 kV double-circuit transmission line to generate the actual power frequency parameters more in conformity with to the actual situation,so that reliable power frequency parameters for the power grid control and follow-up studies are thus provided.
Engineering single Cys2His2 zinc finger domains using a bacterial cell-based two-hybrid selection system.

Synthetic Cys2His2 zinc finger domains with novel DNA-binding specificities can be identified from large randomized libraries using selection methodologies such as phage display. It has been previously demonstrated that a bacterial cell-based two-hybrid system is at least as effective as phage display for selecting zinc fingers with desired specificities from these libraries. In this chapter the authors provide updated and detailed protocols for performing zinc finger selections using the bacterial two-hybrid system.
140: Intracellular interferon lambda 4 (IFN-λ4) induces apoptotic cell death in human hepatic cells

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs12979860 located upstream of the IFNL3 ( IL28B ) gene as a genetic variant strongly predictive of spontaneous and treatment-induced HCV clearance. Further genetic and genomic studies showed that rs12979860 is located in the intronic region of a novel gene, IFNL4 , and is in linkage disequilibrium (LD) with an IFNL4 exonic frame-shift polymorphism rs368234815-TT/ΔG. The rs368234815-ΔG allele, which creates an open reading frame for a novel human interferon, IFN-λ4, is strongly associated with decreased HCV clearance. The rs368234815-ΔG allele is a major allele in individuals of African ancestry (70%), while it is less common in Europeans (30%) and Asians (0–5%). Primary human hepatocytes are the only currently known cell type where IFN-λ4 expression can be induced by stimulation with Poly(I:C) or by infection with HCV. In contrast with other interferons, IFN-λ4 is poorly secreted. Using live quantitative fluorescence microscopy we show that a significant proportion of IFN-λ4 transiently overexpressed in HepG2 cells remains intracellularly retained, consistent with its poor secretion. We show that intracellular retention of IFN-λ4 is associated with increased cell death. Treatment with the pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD but not with the caspase-1 inhibitor Y-VAD decreased the IFN-λ4-induced cell death. We also observed increased caspase 3 activation in both primary human hepatocytes and HepG2 cells, transiently overexpressing IFN-λ4, suggesting apoptosis as a mechanism of cell death. In conclusion, we propose a novel mechanism associated with pathogenic effect of IFN-λ4 in human hepatic cells through induction of apoptotic cell death. Induction of IFN-λ4 in HCV-infected hepatocytes leading to cell death and tissue repair in the liver, may result in hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis, which are relevant factors affecting clearance of HCV and, possibly progression to hepatocellular carcinoma.
Mechanism of Frost Crack Formation in Trees—A Review and Synthesis

Mise au point des connaissances sur les mecanismes de formation des fentes dues a l'action du gel, dans le bois des arbres forestiers
Science Education In Developing Countries: Access, Equity, And Ethical Responsibility

AbstractThe goal of this paper is to stimulate critical reflection among science educators with respect to issues relating to science and teaching and learning in the developing countries and our ethical responsibility to future generations. First and foremost, I believe we ought to ensure that all members of society have access to an equitable education. All includes educating the millions of children who struggle to achieve while living their lives on the boundary; all includes affording educational opportunities to all members of society throughout their lifetime under the auspices of a “Social Justice for All Vision of Education” (See Appendix 1). Second, as we strive for such a desired state of education, we must acknowledge that social, cultural, political, and economic issues are linked intrinsically to the process of education. I would assert, however, that it is easier to transform our image of the educational process when such issues frame the discourse. This contrasts with much of the history o...
Motility of the Pathogen and Intestinal Immunity of the Host in Experimental Cholera

Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that motility is an important virulence factor for V. cholerae. Guentzel and Berry (1) observed that fully toxigenic and prototrophic, non-motile mutants were less able to cause disease following oral challenge in suckling mice than wild type parental strains. Moreover, motile organisms penetrated in larger numbers into intervillous spaces and crypts of Lieberkuhn than did nonmotile strains (2). Nonmotile strains were also less virulent for adult mice infected intraperitoneally with the organisms suspended in hog gastric mucin than parental strains (3). In studies of isolated ileal loops of adult rabbits Williams et al. (4) observed that motile vibrios penetrated into the crypts of Lieberkuhn more readily than did nonmotile strains.
High-valent copper in biomimetic and biological oxidations

A long-standing debate in the Cu–O2 field has revolved around the relevance of the Cu(III) oxidation state in biological redox processes. The proposal of Cu(III) in biology is generally challenged as no spectroscopic or structural evidence exists currently for its presence. The reaction of synthetic Cu(I) complexes with O2 at low temperature in aprotic solvents provides the opportunity to investigate and define the chemical landscape of Cu–O2 species at a small-molecule level of detail; eight different types are characterized structurally, three of which contain at least one Cu(III) center. Simple imidazole or histamine ligands are competent in these oxygenation reactions to form Cu(III) complexes. The combination of synthetic structural and reactivity data suggests (1) that Cu(I) should be considered as either a one or two electron reductant reacting with O2, (2) that Cu(III) reduction potentials of these formed complexes are modest and well within the limits of a protein matrix and (3) that primary amine and imidazole ligands are surprisingly good at stabilizing Cu(III) centers. These Cu(III) complexes are efficient oxidants for hydroxylating phenolate substrates with reaction hallmarks similar to that performed in biological systems. The remarkable ligation similarity of the synthetic and biological systems makes it difficult to continue to exclude Cu(III) from biological discussions.
The Role of NFkB in Drug Addiction: Beyond Inflammation

Aims Nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NFkB) is a ubiquitous transcription factor well known for its role in the innate immune response. As such, NFkB is a transcriptional activator of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines. It has recently been demonstrated that alcohol and other drugs of abuse can induce NFkB activity and cytokine expression in the brain. A number of reviews have been published highlighting this effect of alcohol, and have linked increased NFkB function to neuroimmune-stimulated toxicity. However, in this review we focus on the potentially non-immune functions of NFkB as possible links between NFkB and addiction. Methods An extensive review of the literature via Pubmed searches was used to assess the current state of the field. Results NFkB can induce the expression of a diverse set of gene targets besides inflammatory mediators, some of which are involved in addictive processes, such as opioid receptors and neuropeptides. NFkB mediates complex behaviors including learning and memory, stress responses, anhedonia and drug reward, processes that may lie outside the role of NFkB in the classic neuroimmune response. Conclusions Future studies should focus on these non-immune functions of NFkB signaling and their association with addiction-related processes.
Rulers, Religion, and Riches: Why the West Got Rich and the Middle East Did Not

For centuries following the spread of Islam, the Middle East was far ahead of Europe. Yet, the modern economy was born in Europe. Why was it not born in the Middle East? In this book Jared Rubin examines the role that Islam played in this reversal of fortunes. It argues that the religion itself is not to blame; the importance of religious legitimacy in Middle Eastern politics was the primary culprit. Muslim religious authorities were given an important seat at the political bargaining table, which they used to block important advancements such as the printing press and lending at interest. In Europe, however, the Church played a weaker role in legitimizing rule, especially where Protestantism spread (indeed, the Reformation was successful due to the spread of printing, which was blocked in the Middle East). It was precisely in those Protestant nations, especially England and the Dutch Republic, where the modern economy was born.
Monthly hydroclimatology of the continental United States

Abstract Physical/semi-empirical models that do not require any calibration are of paramount need for estimating hydrological fluxes for ungauged sites. We develop semi-empirical models for estimating the mean and variance of the monthly streamflow based on Taylor Series approximation of a lumped physically based water balance model. The proposed models require mean and variance of monthly precipitation and potential evapotranspiration, co-variability of precipitation and potential evapotranspiration and regionally calibrated catchment retention sensitivity, atmospheric moisture uptake sensitivity, groundwater-partitioning factor, and the maximum soil moisture holding capacity parameters. Estimates of mean and variance of monthly streamflow using the semi-empirical equations are compared with the observed estimates for 1373 catchments in the continental United States. Analyses show that the proposed models explain the spatial variability in monthly moments for basins in lower elevations. A regionalization of parameters for each water resources region show good agreement between observed moments and model estimated moments during January, February, March and April for mean and all months except May and June for variance. Thus, the proposed relationships could be employed for understanding and estimating the monthly hydroclimatology of ungauged basins using regional parameters.
Crowdsourcing for forensic disaster investigations: Hurricane Harvey case study

A critical prerequisite of risk prevention measures for natural hazards is from the results of forensic disaster investigations (FDIs). The current studies of the FDIs are limited by data issues including data availability and data reliability. The applications of crowdsourcing method in natural disasters indicate the potential to provide data support for the FDIs. However, there is very limited existing research on the use of crowdsourcing data for the FDIs. Following the requirements published by the Integrated Research on Disaster Risk program for FDIs, this paper establishes the process map for conducting the FDIs by scenario analysis approach with the crowdsourcing and crowdsensor data. Hurricane Harvey is used as the case study to implement the process map. The results show that the use of crowdsourcing data for the FDIs is feasible. Though this paper takes practical measures for improving the reliability of crowdsourcing data (i.e., little data size) in the case study, future research can focus on the development of advanced algorithm for the crowdsourcing data quality validation.
Articular Cartilage Repair Strategies in the Ankle Joint

Osteochondral lesions of the talus represent a significant source of disability to those affected. An understanding of the common mechanisms of injury and a high index of suspicion leads to early diagnosis and treatment. Most osteochondral lesions are a sequel of trauma; the exact etiology of others is unclear and may be multifactorial and related to microtrauma, genetic predisposition, or metabolic factors. Definitive imaging of osteochondral lesions consists of imaging with magnetic resonance, which is useful for qualitative analysis of the bony changes and the condition of the overlying cartilage. Just over half of patients with symptomatic osteochondral lesions of the talus will improve with nonoperative treatment. Failure of conservative therapy mandates operative treatment; surgical options include arthroscopy with debridement, drilling or microfracture of the lesion, mosaicplasty or osteochondral autografting, or autologous chondrocyte transplantation. The future for treating cartilage defects in the ankle is likely to involve implants that allow cartilage regrowth and are positioned by minimally invasive surgical techniques.
The impact of early life shocks on human capital formation: evidence from El Niño floods in Ecuador.

This paper investigates the persistent effects of negative shocks in utero and in infancy on low-income children's health and cognitive outcomes and examines whether timing of exposure matters differentially by skill type. Specifically, I exploit the geographic intensity of extreme floods in Ecuador during the 1997-1998 El Nino phenomenon, which provides exogenous variation in exposure at different periods of early development. I show that children exposed to severe floods in utero, especially during the third trimester, are shorter in stature five and seven years later. Also, children affected by the floods in the first trimester of pregnancy score lower on cognitive tests. Additionally, I explore potential mechanisms by studying health at birth and family inputs (income, consumption, and breastfeeding). I find that children exposed to El Nino floods, especially during the third trimester in utero, were more likely to be born with low birth weight. Furthermore, households affected by El Nino suffered a decline in income, total consumption, and food consumption in the aftermath of the shock. Falsification exercises and robustness checks suggest that selection concerns such as selective fertility, mobility, and infant mortality do not drive these results.
Chronic opioid use after spine surgery: what is the prescription for reducing opioid dependence?

In recent years, there is increasing recognition of the risks of perioperative opioids including acute tolerance and persistent opioid use. Further complicating this issue, is the non-scientific prescription of opioids at discharge which significantly increases the risks of unused opioids in the community and diversion. Investigating perioperative factors associated with persistent opioid use is critical and timely due to the current opioid epidemic.