cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Image reconstruction in peripheral and central regions-of-interest and data redundancy

Algorithms have been developed for image reconstruction within a region-of-interest (ROI) from fan-beam data less than that required for reconstructing the entire image. However, these algorithms do not admit truncated data. In this work, we investigate exact ROI-image reconstruction from fan-beam data containing truncations by use of the so-called fan-beam backprojection-filtration (BPF) algorithm. We also generalize the fan-beam BPF algorithm to exploit redundant information inherent in the truncated fan-beam data. Because the parallel-beam scan can be interpreted as a special case of the fan-beam scan, based upon the fan-beam BPF algorithm, we derive a parallel-beam BPF algorithm for exactly reconstructing ROI images from truncated parallel-beam data. Furthermore, we investigate image reconstruction within two types of distinctive ROIs, which are referred to as the peripheral and central ROIs, respectively, from fan-beam data containing truncations and discuss their potential clinical applications. The results can readily be generalized to reconstructing 3D ROI images from data acquired in circular and helical cone-beam scan. They can also be extended to address ROI-image-reconstruction problems in parallel-, fan-, and cone-beam scans with general trajectories. The work not only has significant implications for clinical and animal-imaging applications of CT, but also may find applications in other imaging modalities.
Influence of Andean uplift on climate and paleoaltimetry estimates

article i nfo Article history: Recent elevation reconstructions of the Andean Plateau suggest a rapid 2.5±1.0 km rise of the central Andes between ~10 and 6 Ma. This rapid rise has been attributed to a catastrophic removal of a dense lithospheric mantle root beneath the Andes. However, these findings are based on the assumption that climate did not change during deposition of paleoaltimetry proxies. Here we evaluate South American climate change due to Andean uplift and its influence on interpretations of plateau elevation from climate-sensitive paleoaltimetry data. A series of experiments are presented using the RegCM3 regional general circulation model (RCM) to characterize changes in Andean precipitation amount, surface temperature, and wind direction (vapor source) as a function of changing plateau elevation. Results indicate that South American and Andean climate changed significantly in response to plateau growth. More specifically, rising of the plateau results in up to a 900 mm increase in rainy season (December-January-February) precipitation over the plateau. Plateau uplift also results in a decrease in non-adiabatic surface temperature of up to 6.5 °C (in addition to adiabatic cooling directly related to elevation change through the lapse rate). Finally, the prevailing wind direction and the vapor source for precipitation switches from the South Pacific Ocean to the equatorial Atlantic as plateau elevation increases above ½-¾ of its present-day elevation. Taken together, these changes in paleoclimate would have substantially depleted the oxygen isotopic concentration of paleoprecipitation through the Cenozoic. Unless this climatic effect is taken into consideration, paleoaltimetry reconstructions based on stable isotope methods may overestimate the rapid rise of the Andes by up to several kilometers. We conclude that some or all of the apparent rapid rise of the Andean Plateau from paleoaltimetry data could be an artifact of large changes in paleoclimate.
The value of nonuniform margins for six-field conformal irradiation of localized prostate cancer

Abstract Purpose: Evaluate the hypothesis that by combining nonuniform margins with a technique for limiting the possible extent of posterior motion of the prostate during the delivery of six-field conformal radiotherapy (SFCRT) of the prostate,it is possible to adequately treat the clinical target volume (CTV) and minimize dose to normal structures. Methods and Materials: Serial computed tomography (CT) scans of prostate patients were taken at 0.5 cm intervals for treatment planning purposes. The initial treatment planning scans were performed with the rectum empty and the bladder full. Subsequent scans were taken at the end fo the first week of treatment with the bladder full, but with no attempt to empty the rectum, to mimic the typical treatment situation. The gross tumor volume (GTV), consisting of the prostate and seminal vesicles, as well as the CTV, were defined on teh CT images with the aid of a urethrogram to define the inferior border (apex) of the prostate. Variable blocking margins were designed around the CTV using the University of Michigan three dimensional (3D) treatment planning system (UM-PLAN). Isodose distributions displayed on axial, sagittal, coronal, and oblique slices were used to evaluate the adequacy of the various margins applied. Nonuniform margins varying from 0.75 cm posteriorly to 2.0 anteriorly and inferiorly were compared to uniform margins of 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 cm for each patients. Dose volume histograms (DVH) were used to compare doses to the GTV, CTV, rectum, and bladder. Results: In a series of 10 patients scanned with the above protocol, treatment plans with nonuniform margins were compared with uniform margins of 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 cm. Dose-volume histograms showed that nonuniform and 1.0 cm uniform margins deliver the lowest doses tot eh rectum and bladder, but the use of 1.0 cm uniform margins resulted in inadequate coverage of the CTV in 40% of the cases. The 1.5 and 2.0 cm uniform margins adequately covered the CTV but resulted in significantly higher doses to the bladderd and rectum. Conclusion: The use of nonuniform margins, when combined with CT scans performed with the rectum empty and bladder full, can improve tumor control probability while minimizing the risk of morbidity to adjacent critical structures.
Sphenoid septations and their relationship with internal carotid arteries: anatomical and radiological study.

Objectives/Hypothesis: We sought to investigate the anatomical relation of the intrasphenoid septations to the internal carotid artery (ICA). Methods: Twenty-seven preoperative high-resolution computed tomography angiographic (CTA) scans with 1 mm of separation acquisition were examined. In addition, an endoscopic endonasal approach and high-resolution computed tomography were done on 27 fresh-frozen cadaveric heads. The number of intrasphenoid septa and their relation to the ICAs were analyzed endoscopically and radiologically. Complete and incomplete septations were included in the analysis. A total of 54 sphenoid sinuses were studied. Results: Out of 27 sphenoid sinuses radiologically studied from real patients, 23 (85%) and 11 (41%) had at least one or two septa, respectively, touching one of the ICA. Out of 27 sphenoid sinuses endoscopically examined from cadavers (excluding one conchal type), 24 (89%) had at least one septation inserted in the ICAs. Two or more septations were inserted in the carotid prominence in 48% of sphenoid sinuses. The radiological examination of the anatomical specimens revealed similar results, with discrepancy in just one case (1/27) where it did not identify an incomplete septation inserting at ICA. No significant differences were found between the groups. From a total of 54 sphenoid sinuses studied, 47 (87%) had at least one septum related to the ICA, and only 13% presented a typical isolated midline septation. Conclusions: As demonstrated both radiographically and endoscopically, most intrasphenoidal septa insert at the parasellar or paraclival carotid prominence. As such, extreme care should be taken when identifying and removing these septations intraoperatively. Laryngoscope, 2009
The Influence of Nursing Home Culture on the Use of Feeding Tubes

Background:Nationwide,manynursinghome(NH)residentswithadvancedcognitiveimpairmentaretubefed,despite no demonstrable benefits of this intervention in this population.Studiessuggestthatorganizationalfeaturesof NHs are associated with this practice, but underlying reasons for these associations are poorly understood. Methods:We conducted a focused ethnographic study of 2 NHs in South Carolina, 1 with a high tube-feeding rate (41.8%) in patients with advanced dementia, and 1withalowrate(10.7%).Datawerecollectedaboutphysical environment, mealtime and decision-making processes, and explicit and implicit values using 80 hours of direct observation, semistructured interviews with 30 key facility personnel, and abstraction of publicly available material describing the facilities. Data were analyzed using qualitative methods.
Performance analysis of optical nonlinear morphological correlation under unknown illumination conditions

We investigate the performance of morphological correlation under different illumination conditions. The morphological correlation is shown to be invariant to uniform input-image illumination when the input-image illumination is higher than that of the reference. Accordingly, illumination- independent pattern recognition can be realized using morphological correlation provided the reference is multiplied by a proper number less than unity or the input image is multiplied by a number greater than unity before threshold-decomposition. In addition, the correlation peak tends to get broader when illumination of the input is different from that of the reference. Computer simulation results are provided.
High-dynamic-range x-ray imager employing CdZnTe detector arrays

We have designed and fabricated an x-ray linear scanner based on monolithic CdZnTe arrays. The arrays are 1.0 inch long with 16 detectors each. To increase the x-ray stopping power of the arrays, they are operated with the x-ray photons incident normal to the E-field direction. A photon-counting pulse mode read-out is utilized to produce high dynamic range images at low incident flux rates. Our read-out electronics are composed of independent 16-channel modules including charge pre-amplification, pulse shaping discriminated scaler, and buffered I/O. The linear packing density for the electronics is 16 channels per inch, commensurate with the array pitch. Results from measurements of spatial response generated by scanning a fine beam of gamma rays across the arrays, and x-ray images produced in a linear-scan mode are presented.
Clinical trials of WR-2721 with radiation therapy

The radioprotector with clinical potential, S-2-(3 aminopropylamino)-ethylphosphorothioic acid (WR-2721) is undergoing two Phase I trials. The objectives of these trials are 1) to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of WR-2721 in a single dose and 2) to determine the highest dose of WR-2721 that can be tolerated daily in the greatest number of fractions per week. A total of 65 patients have been treated. The single maximum tolerated dose has not yet been reached, though 740 mg/m2 is well tolerated. A single dose of 910 mg/m2 has been successfully administered to one patient. The multiple dose MTD is at an early stage with patients currently receiving 170 mg/m2 four times a week. Among the toxicities noted in both trials are hypotension, hypertension, emesis and somnolence. In addition, in the multiple dose trial there have been three patients who have had allergic reactions including one which was life-threatening. Phase II studies are planned and will begin when the maximum tolerated dose is established from each Phase I trial.
Hiring Practices in Finance Education: Linkages Among Top‐Ranked Graduate Programs

The top-ranked graduate programs in finance, based on a national survey of deans and top administrators, were linked to one another by hiring one another's graduates. It is suggested that this linkage helps these programs to maintain and enhance their prestige.
Hepatic breakthrough thresholds for parathion and paraoxon and their implications to toxicity in normal and DDE-pretreated rats.

Abstract Systemic exposure to parathion and paraoxon in normal and DDE-pretreated amle Sprague-Dawley rats was investigated by means of blood analyses following oral parathion doses and continuous parathion infusion into the perfused liver. Not only parathion, but paraoxon was also shown to undergo chromatographic translobular migration. As predicted from this, perfusion experiments, blood analyses, and autoradiography substantiated the existence of two discrete hepatic breakthrough thresholds for influent parathion, one for parathion and the other for paraoxon generated from parathion in the liver. In control rats, the former was slightly higher than the latter, resulting in systemic exposure to paraoxon without parathion exposure at sublethal toxic doses. Toxic symptoms correlated with the appearance of paraoxon in the jugular vein blood. In DDE-pretreated rats, both thresholds were substantially elevated, but enzyme induction had a greater impact on paraoxon breakthrough than on parathion release. Thus, significant amounts of parathion survived metabolism during migration through the lobules to appear in systemic blood, even at subtoxic doses. In contrast, paraoxon did not emerge from the liver under acute intoxication, although paraoxon was detected in the jugular vein. These results indicated that in DDE-pretreated rats paraoxon affecting the neural target was extrahepatically generated whereas the target is attacked by paraoxon originating in the liver in the control rats.
Trichloroethylene (TCE) and toluene effects on the structure and function of the soil community

Abstract The effects of trichloroethylene (TCE) and toluene on indigenous soil communities were examined in soil microcosms, with special emphasis on community structure and function. Soil communities were exposed to TCE (1, 30 and 60 μg ml−1) plus toluene (20 μg ml−1), TCE only (1, 30 and 60 μg ml−1), and toluene only (20, 60, 100 and 200 μg ml−1) (all concentrations given as μg ml−1 soil solution after taking into account sorption and volatilization). Soil microbial populations exposed to 30 or 60 μg TCE ml−1 plus 20 μg toluene ml−1, or to toluene concentrations greater than 60 μg toluene ml−1, exhibited different sole carbon source utilization patterns than control soils, as revealed by Biolog Gram negative (GN) plates. These differences remained even 30 days after all the TCE and toluene had been removed from the system. Exposure to TCE alone did not alter Biolog patterns to the same degree as TCE combined with toluene. Thirty and 60 μg TCE ml−1, either in the presence or absence of 20 μg toluene ml−1, slightly reduced basal respiration after 28 days of incubation, whereas substrate induced respiration was not affected. Total culturable heterotrophs were not sensitive to TCE and toluene, and were only slightly reduced after exposure to 200 μg ml−1 toluene for 45 days. Most protozoa were insensitive to TCE and toluene, but TCE was toxic to flagellates. Significant decreases in numbers of nematode types occurred after exposure to 30 or 60 μg TCE ml−1. The nematode maturity index (MI), an index of diversity based on trophic groupings, was not sensitive to TCE or to TCE combined with toluene in an agricultural soil, whereas the MI in a riparian soil was reduced by concentrations of 30 μg TCE ml−1. These results indicate that TCE and toluene adversely affect the biota of the soil ecosystem, sometimes for prolonged periods.
Modeling transport in transient ground-water flow: an unacknowledged approximation

. During unsteady or transient ground-water flow, the fluid mass per unit volume of aquifer changes as the potentiometric head changes, and solute transport is affected by this change in fluid storage. Three widely applied numerical models of two-dimensional transport partially account for the effects of transient flow by removing terms corresponding to the fluid continuity equation from the transport equation, resulting in a simpler governing equation. However, fluid-storage terms remaining in the transport equation that change during transient flow are, in certain cases, held constant in time in these models. For the case of increasing heads, this approximation, which is unacknowledged in these models’documentation, leads to transport velocities that are too high, and increased concentration at fluid and solute sources. If heads are dropping in time, computed transport velocities are too low. Using parameters that somewhat exaggerate the effects of this approximation, an example numerical simulation indicates solute travel time error of about 14 percent but only minor errors due to incorrect dilution volume. For horizontal flow and transport models that assume fluid density is constant, the product of porosity and aquifer thickness changes in time: initial porosity times initial thickness plus the change in head times the storage coefficient. This formula reduces to the saturated thickness in unconfined aquifers if porosity is assumed to be constant and equal to specific yield. The computational cost of this more accurate representation is insignificant and is easily incorporated in numerical models of solute transport.
Nitrate’s Effect on Activity Tolerance in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction Trial Rationale and Design

The prevalence of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is increasing.1 In patients with HFpEF, the burden of symptoms, functional decline, and mortality is high,2 and health-related quality of life is poor.3 Physicians caring for these patients currently have limited therapeutic options beyond diuresis and management of comorbid conditions. Hence there remains an immediate and critical need for therapies to alleviate symptoms and meaningfully improve quality of life for patients with HFpEF. Long-acting nitrates are used as the cornerstone of antianginal therapy and have demonstrated beneficial effects for treatment of patients with HF and reduced EF (HFrEF). In randomized studies, sustained increases in treadmill exercise time4,5 and peak oxygen consumption6 have been observed at 3 months after initiation of nitrate therapy in patients with HFrEF, including those already treated with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors.5 Attenuation of pathological left ventricular (LV) remodeling and improved LV systolic function have also been reported.5 Although no study has directly examined the effects of nitrate monotherapy on survival in HF, symptom relief is a key management goal in patients with HFpEF, whose primary chronic symptom is often exercise limitation.7 Practice guidelines for the management of chronic HF from the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association8 and Heart Failure Society of America9 advocate a potential role for nitrates in diminishing symptoms in HFpEF but acknowledge the lack of supportive data and the risk of excessive nitrate–induced hypotension in elderly patients with HFpEF. Therefore, it is desirable that a randomized, controlled evaluation of the efficacy and tolerance of nitrate therapy in HFpEF is performed to support its therapeutic applications. To address this lack of data and current clinical equipoise for nitrate therapy in HFpEF, the Nitrate’s Effect on Activity Tolerance in Heart Failure …
Quick kill passivation integrity study

This passivation integrity study was initiated as part of a submicron integration development program. New processes were developed which reflect a shrink in the device geometry's and significant changes in processes and equipment used. An immediate concern was the effect of these changes on the passivation integrity. To investigate these effects a series of passivation integrity tests were performed. Passivation failures were quantified via optical inspection and failure sources were identified by SEM analysis. The majority of the tests were performed on short flow processes (i.e. backend process flows consisting of 2 and 3 layer metal patterned structures). Full flow processes (integrated frontend and backend processes) were investigated on BiCMOS and CMOS technologies.
Minimal energy fixed-priority scheduling for variable voltage processors

To fully exploit the benefit of variable voltage processors, voltage schedules must be designed in the context of work load requirement. In this paper, we present an approach to finding the least-energy voltage schedule for executing real-time jobs on such a processor according to a fixed priority, preemptive policy. The significance of our approach is that the theoretical limit in terms of energy saving for such systems is established, which can, thus, serve as the standard to evaluate the performance of various heuristic approaches. Two algorithms for deriving the optimal voltage schedule are provided. The first one explores fundamental properties of voltage schedules while the second one builds on the first one to further reduce the computational cost. Experimental results are shown to compare the results of this paper with previous ones.
A Case of Streptococcus Intermedius Empyema

Objective:To report a case of empyema caused by Streptococcus intermedius as a complication of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).Case Summary:An 85-year-old woman with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, heart failure, and hypothyroidism developed empyema as a result of 2 episodes of CAP and an acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis within the past 2 months. Therapy with intravenous levofloxacin 750 mg every 48 hours was initiated. Culture results of the empyema fluid yielded pure growth of a rarely encountered microorganism, S. intermedius. Intravenous piperacillin/tazobactam 3.375 g every 6 hours was added to the antimicrobial therapy at that time. However, cultures continued to show S. intermedius. Surgical decortication was unsuccessful, and the patient died after a 30 day hospital stay.Discussion:Early, appropriate antimicrobial therapy is the mainstay of CAP treatment. Although rare, empyema or thoracic abscess can occur despite this therapy, due to mucosal changes caused ...
Tree Reduction and Debris From Mastication of Utah Juniper Alter the Soil Climate in Sagebrush Steppe

Juniper (Juniperus spp.) trees are masticated to reduce canopy fuel loads and the potential for crown fire. We determined the effects of tree reduction and soil cover in the forms of tree mounds and masticated debris on hourly soil water potential and soil temperature at 1–30 cm soil depth. Measurements were made in masticated and untreated areas at three sites in the western Utah portion of the Great Basin. Cumulative seasonal-response variables included wet days (>� 1.5 MPa), degree days (>0 C), and wet degree days (>� 1.5 MPa and >0 C). Masticated areas had 27 more wet days (P < 0.001), 32 more degree days (P = 0.007), and 311 more wet degree days (P < 0.001) than untreated areas across soil depths and seasons. Soil cover had less influence on these soil climate variables than tree reduction. Most importantly, tree reduction increased wet days (P < 0.001) by an average of 44.5 days during the spring and summer growing seasons at depths of 13–30 cm. Managers are advised to masticate trees while desired understory cover remains high in order to minimize water available to weeds.
Water solubility of flavor compounds influences formation of flavor inclusion complexes from dispersed high-amylose maize starch.

High-amylose maize starch, with and without native lipid, was used to make inclusion complexes with flavor compounds to investigate the effect of water solubility of flavor compounds on inclusion complex formation. Two pairs of terpenes, having high and low water solubility, were used. Aqueous starches were dispersed by heat before adding the flavor compound. The amounts of starch, native lipid, and flavor compound in precipitates were determined, and inferences about the physical state were made using data from X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. The water solubility of the flavor compound was related to the extent of inclusion complexation. For the higher water solubility flavor compounds, starch yield and flavor entrapment were higher, producing precipitates with the V7 pattern. Complex formation with the low-solubility flavor compounds was most effective in the presence of native lipid, producing precipitates with the V6 pattern. The lipid in native highamylose maize starch may enhance complexation with low-solubility compounds by forming ternary coinclusion complexes of starch-lipid-flavor.
A review of sitaxsentan sodium in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life threatening, progressive condition which eventually leads to fatal right heart failure. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, is increased in the pulmonary arteries of patients with pulmonary hypertension. Endothelin-1 acts through the stimulation of 2 subtypes of receptors (endothelin receptor subtypes A (ET A ) and B (ET B )). In PAH patients, ETRAs block the deleterious vasoconstrictor effects of ET-1, and ETRA treatment in PAH patients has been shown to be safe and efficacious. Sitaxsentan is an orally active, highly ET A selective ETRA that, in clinical trials, has demonstrated improvements in exercise capacity, functional class and hemodynamics in PAH patients. Sitaxsentan has been shown to be safe, well tolerated, and associated with a lower incidence of liver toxicity than other approved ETRAs.
The online audience as gatekeeper: The influence of reader metrics on news editorial selection

This study provides a snapshot of the hierarchy-of-influences model in the new media environment through examining the effects of audience web metrics on editors. Surveying 318 gatekeepers, the study found that audience metrics influence editors in gatekeeping. Editors’ likelihood to monitor web metrics is affected by their journalism training. Gatekeepers who attach the importance of high readership to economic benefits are more likely to have different news decisions based on web metrics. The study suggests a revision of the hierarchy-of-influences model with more emphasis being placed on the role of the audience.
Loss of NHE3 alters gut microbiota composition and influences Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron growth

Changes in the intestinal microbiota have been linked to diabetes, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and Clostridium difficile (C. difficile)-associated disease. Despite this, it remains unclear...
On-chip cytometry using lensless digital holography

We illustrate a high-throughput on-chip cytometry platform that records the holographic diffraction pattern of cells/bacteria without using any lenses. These digital in-line holograms contain finger-print information of each cell/bacteria type enabling unambiguous recognition of different micro-objects using pattern recognition.
Increasing Preservice Curriculum Accountability to Rural Handicapped Populations

Alarming inadequacies of the quantity and quality of rural special education personnel have become an increasing concern of the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs and the U.S. Congress. Although many difficulties of serving rural handicapped children may remain for years, appropriate preservice training for rural special educators can begin to address serious recruitment and retention problems while training potentially better quatified personnel. Promising initiatives described in this article are data-based, use existing resources of higher education institutions, and involve collaboration among a national consortium of special educatlon training programs. Fotential benefits for rural handicapped populations are noteworthy.
Defining extensible markup language standards for electromyography data transmission across the world‐wide web

Different electromyography (EMG) machines store their data in different formats that vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and even between different EMG machines from the same manufacturer. As advanced as these machines are today, it is necessary in most cases to use faxes, scanners, or a common interface such as Adobe's file format to exchange data between them. A possible solution to this problem is to translate the EMG machine's data output into a common format that can be read (and displayed) by commonly available programs or, even better, by a Web browser. We describe an EMG-extensible markup language (XML) translation program that takes proprietary data from an EMG machine and translates the data into XML, a common language format. Predefined extensible stylesheet language (XSL) style sheets allow the display of the data in user-defined formats for EMG machines, personal digital assistants such as Palm Pilots, and even cellular phones.
Anterolateral approach for total hip arthroplasty

The anterolateral approach in total hip arthroplasty offers superb exposure that can be easily extended for complicated primary and revision surgery. In addition, it can be adapted for small incision surgery. The advantages of this approach include a significantly lower dislocation rate compared with other approaches while allowing for excellent acetabular visualization. The purported disadvantages include heterotopic ossification and limp.
Assessment of Ability of Murine and Human Anti-lipid A Monoclonal Antibodies to Bind and Neutralize Lipopolysaccharide

The use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed to lipid A for the therapy of gram-negative sepsis is controversial. In an attempt to understand their biologic basis of action, we used a fluid-phase radioimmunoassay to measure binding between bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and two IgM mAbs directed to lipid A that are being evaluated for the treatment of gram-negative bacterial sepsis. Both antibodies bound 3H-LPS prepared from multiple strains of gram-negative bacteria when large excesses of antibody were used, although binding was modest and only slightly greater than control preparations. We also studied the ability of each anti-lipid A antibody to neutralize some of the biological effects of LPS in vitro. Despite large molar excesses, neither antibody neutralized LPS as assessed by the limulus lysate test, by a mitogenic assay for murine splenocytes, or by the production of cytokines interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, or tumor necrosis factor from human monocytes in culture medium or in whole blood. Our experiments do not support the hypothesis that either of these anti-lipid A mAbs function by neutralizing the toxic effects of LPS.
Effect of ethylene on quality of fresh fruits and vegetables

Ethylene is a naturally occurring plant growth substance that has numerous effects on the growth, development and storage life of many fruits, vegetables and ornamental crops at m ll 1 concentrations. Harvested fruits and vegetables may be intentionally or unintentionally exposed to biologically active levels of ethylene and both endogenous and exogenous sources of ethylene contribute to its biological activity. Ethylene synthesis and sensitivity are enhanced during certain stages of plant development, as well as by a number of biotic and abiotic stresses. Exposure may occur inadvertently in storage or transit from atmospheric pollution or from ethylene produced by adjacent crops. Intentional exposure is primarily used to ripen harvested fruit. The detrimental effects of ethylene on quality center on altering or accelerating the natural processes of development, ripening and senescence, while the beneficial effects of ethylene on quality center on roughly the same attributes as the detrimental effects, but differ in both degree and direction. Care must therefore be taken to insure that crops sensitive to the effects of ethylene are only exposed to the desired atmosphere. A number of techniques to control the effects of ethylene are discussed in relation to their application with commercially important fruits and vegetables. Examples of general and specific beneficial and detrimental ethylene effects are given. © 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Abstract 560: Association of Female Gender with Arterial Stiffness in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease

Objectives: Cardiovascular mortality remains disproportionately high in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and arterial stiffness is a strong risk factor for death in these patients. Recent studies have shown that women are at increased risk for death in this population. We explored whether arterial stiffness differed by gender in a diverse cohort of patients on hemo- or peritoneal dialysis. Methods: Stable patients on hemo- or peritoneal dialysis (N=86) underwent arterial stiffness testing by radial tonometry (SphygmoCor, AtCor Medical). Patients were studied on Tuesday or Wednesday mornings (for patients on hemodialysis, the day after the first dialysis session of the week). Central aortic augmentation index (AIx) was calculated at a standardized heart rate of 75 bpm using a generalized transfer function.[[Unable to Display Character: ]] Results: The mean±SD age was 54±12 years, 30% were women, 36% were African American, and 38% had diabetes. The median(IQR) years on dialysis was 4(1.8...
Intersex and Intrasex Debates: Building Alliances to Challenge Sex Discrimination

Intersex activist organizations are relative newcomers to the social justice movement. In the short time since their formation, they have effectively educated society and the legal and medical communities about their concerns. Until recently, the fight for intersex rights has been limited to disputes between physicians and intersex rights activists about the appropriateness of the dominant treatment protocol. Now, potentially divisive debates are erupting within the movement and between some intersex activist groups and other groups seeking an end to sex and gender discrimination, namely feminists and LGBT organizations. This paper explores the nature of these tensions and compares them to disputes that have plagued other social justice movements. It proposes that groups seeking an end to discrimination based upon gender nonconformity form coalitions around this unifying goal to help these organizations avoid the divisiveness that has hampered the progress of other social justice movements.
Why the Ninth Circuit Decided Everex as if Every Patent Licensee in America Were Destined for Bankruptcy

A patent licensee that declares bankruptcy will often want to assign its rights under the license to another party in exchange for cash. The Bankruptcy Code generally allows a debtor to assign an executory contract, including a patent license, even if it contains a provision expressly forbidding assignment (a "no-assign" provision). But there is an exception: The Code will defer to certain kinds of otherwise applicable non-bankruptcy law that would normally prevent the contract from being assigned. Two bodies of non-bankruptcy law speak to the assignment of patent licenses. State contract law generally permits assignment unless the license says otherwise, while a longstanding rule of federal common law bars assignment unless the license says otherwise. As it turns out, the federal common-law rule is the type of non-bankruptcy © 2004 Matt Siegel. All Rights Reserved. Associate at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP. The ideas expressed in this Article are the author's, and do not represent the views of Debevoise & Plimpton. " The initial drafts of this Article were written when I was enrolled in the Innovation Policy Colloquium at the New York University School of Law. I would like to thank Professors Rochelle Dreyfuss and Harry First, who taught the colloquium that year, and the Engelberg Center on Innovation Law and Policy, which sponsors the colloquium. I would also like to extend special thanks to Professor Barry Adler of NYU and John DiPaolo, Executive Director for Partnership Schools at Temple University, both of whom gave me thoughtful advice on various drafts of the Article. I am grateful to Susan Hansen, a freelance journalist and friend, for helping me simplify and clarify the setup of the legal problem, and to the bankruptcy group at Debevoise & Plimpton, which has introduced me to the practice of bankruptcy law at an unusually high level of intellectual rigor.
A Piece of the Annuitization Puzzle: The Role of Plan Rules in Annuitization Decisions in DB and CB Plans

In spite of the valuable longevity insurance annuities provide, actual annuitization rates of retiree wealth remain low. Previous studies investigating what economists term the “annuity puzzle” have focused on workplace pension plans because they offer a choice between an annuity and a lump-sum distribution. These studies found large variations in annuitization rates among employer-provided defined-benefit (DB) and cash-balance (CB) plans but did not provide a concise explanation. This article does provide an explanation—in particular, variations in plan rules can explain the variation in annuitization rates. The rates vary directly with the degree of restriction imposed on lump-sum distributions. Plans with no option for a lump-sum distribution have annuitization rates of close to 100%, whereas plans with no restrictions on lump-sum distributions have annuitization rates of between 20% and 40%. Given an unrestricted choice, only a minority of plan participants choose an annuity.
Suppression of erythropoiesis in the plethoric rat by antierythropoietin.

SummaryProduction of plethora in rats by transfusion does not completely abolish erythropoiesis as measured by the uptake of radioiron into red blood cells, although a marked suppression of erythropoiesis occurs. This remaining erythropoietic activity can be abolished if rabbit antierythropoietin immune serum is injected.
Diffusion of Gold into Silicon. W-Shaped Concentration Profiles of Gold

Diffusion of gold atoms into silicon crystals was considered. It was shown that W-shaped gold profiles in silicon can be explained in the framework of both the dissociative and the kickout mechanisms.
Efficacy and Safety of ECT for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD): A retrospective chart review

Abstract Objective Much of the functional disturbance in patients with dementia reflects the presence of non-cognitive behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Agitation is among the most distressing symptoms for patients, clinicians and caregivers. Currently no pharmacotherapy has clearly been shown to be of value for this condition. This study used a chart review method to examine the safety and efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with dementia receiving ECT for agitation. Method A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients with dementia presenting with symptoms of aggression or agitation and who received ECT treatments. Aggression and agitation were measured by pre- and post-ECT Pittsburg Agitation Scale (PAS) scores. Detailed history of the use of psychotropic medications as well as other clinically relevant variables were analyzed. Findings Sixty elderly patients (45 women and 15 men, 75% female, mean age 77.5 +/- 8.0) were included in the analysis. Most patients were treatment resistant to multiple psychotropic medications prior to ECT (mean number 6.1+/-1.5). The baseline PAS total was 9.3+/-3.7 and it decreased significantly after three (2.5+/-2.8) and six (1.5+/-2.3,) ECT treatments. No significant ECT-related medical complications were observed except transient confusion. A decrease in the number of psychotropics prescribed along with an increase in the global assessment of function (GAF) score was observed after the ECT treatment course. Conclusions ECT was safe in this sample of patients who had co-morbid medical conditions. ECT was associated with the following observations: (1) a reduction in agitation (2) a reduction in psychotropic polypharmacy; and (3) an improvement in global functioning level. Further research evaluating the effects of ECT in the setting of dementia is warranted.
Aminoaciduria in Japanese workers in the lead and cadmium industries.

Amino acid excretion in urine from workers in the lead and cadmium industries in Japan was measured and compared with other parameters of intoxication. Mean alpha amino nitrogen excretion by lead workers exceeded that of control individuals ( p < 0.05). Whereas all lead workers had excessive urinary lead excretion and nine of 10 had elevated d-ala excretion, only two lead workers had severe aminoaciduria. Only three workers in the cadmium industry had elevated urinary amino acids, protein excretion, or both. The cadmium worker with the most severe aminoaciduria was also thought to be a carrier of cystinuria. Conclusions are that aminoaciduria is a less sensitive index of lead and cadmium intoxication than other biochemical parameters, and second, that individuals who are carriers for a genetic abnormality of renal tubular transport may have enhanced susceptibility to the adverse renal effects of heavy metals.
A Bronze Bust by Hans Multscher

The bust of a female saint formerly in the Pierpont Morgan, now in the Frick Collection (Figs. 1 and 2)1 was attributed to Veit Stoss by Bode in his catalogue of the Morgan bronzes.2 This amazing attribution evidently was not based on any stylistic consideration, but on the assumption that the work had been found in a village near Cracow. The present attribution in the Frick Collection—“Netherlandish, fifteenth century”—seems justified by a certain similarity to dinanderies: the bust was used as a reliquary3 and might therefore be regarded as a utensil like the aquamaniles of Flemish and North German workmanship. The metal is of a light color, between yellowish brown and green; it is not, however, the brass used for dinanderies, but the light bronze of the bell foundries. If there is thus no reason why the bust should be connected with the Low Countries on technical grounds, its style offers even less reason for such an attribution. Indeed, the well-rounded outline and forceful plasticity of the bust, as ...
Is Alloplastic Temporomandibular Joint Reconstruction a Viable Option in the Surgical Management of Adult Patients With Idiopathic Condylar Resorption

Purpose Idiopathic condylar resorption (ICR) presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges to practitioners because of the rarity of the condition, progressive deformity, and simultaneous involvement of skeletal, occlusal, and articular disorders. The objective of this study was to report clinical outcomes after prosthetic replacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) for the management of ICR. Patients and Methods A retrospective analysis of patients with ICR managed by bilateral total TMJ replacement and concomitant mandibular advancement with or without maxillary surgery was performed using data gathered from medical records. The primary treatment outcomes of interest were 1) correction of anterior open bite malocclusion, 2) mandibular advancement, and 3) increase in posterior facial height. Secondary outcomes included subjective assessment of pain, dietary restrictions, and functional disability and objective evaluations of TMJ sounds, occlusal relation, mandibular range of motion, cranial nerve VII injury, and objectionable scarring. Radiographs were used to measure surgical change and relapse. Results Twenty-one patients met the inclusion criteria for this retrospective study. The average patient age was 25.6 years (range, 22 to 32 yr) and mean follow-up was 6.2 years (range, 5 to 12 yr). Mean mandibular advancement at the B point was 24.3 mm and mean change in occlusal plane was −10.2°. Sixteen patients (76%) underwent maxillary orthognathic surgery for posterior downgrafting with rigid fixation and grafting. Long-term follow-up showed excellent stability of surgical movements with a decrease in TMJ and myofascial pain, headaches, and dietary restrictions. Conclusions Patients with ICR can be effectively treated using total TMJ prostheses with maxillary orthognathic surgery when indicated for the correction of an associated dentofacial deformity. Use of alloplastic joint prostheses allows for the execution of large mandibular advancements in a predictable and accurate manner with a meaningful decrease in symptoms of TMJ dysfunction.
Distress and Suicidality in Higher Education: Implications for Population-Oriented Prevention Paradigms

ABSTRACTCollege students respond to stressful experiences along a continuum of distress and suicidality. This study investigated, from students’ perspectives, the contributors to stress, nature of stress, coping strategies used, and role of drugs and alcohol during stressful periods—all with particular relevance for suicidality. Undergraduate and graduate students were sampled on an online survey from 73 institutions, totaling 26,292 respondents. The pervasiveness of stressful experiences students endorse appears to be more than traditional clinical interventions can manage on their own. Recommendations are, therefore, made about how to utilize population-based prevention to reduce students’ distress and suicidality and improve their mental health.
World Heritage, urban design and tourism: three cities in the Middle East

This is a good book for those interested in the World Heritage designation offered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), specifically as it pertains to ...
Embryonic and early fetal loss.

Karyotypic abnormality reaches 60 per cent among early abortuses and occurs in 6 per cent of stillborn infants. Study of fetal syndromes should lead to improved reproductive counseling and ultimately to a better understanding of the etiology and control of preventable fetal wastage.
Teaching Language Skills to Preschool Students with Developmental Delays and Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Language for Learning.

Language intervention using Direct Instruction (DI) has shown positive results. There is a growing body of investigation of Language for Learning (LL), a DI program, on the performance of students ...
TU-FG-201-08: Investigation of Systematic Low RPC Calibration Result for Tomotherapy

Purpose: Independent IROC (formally RPC) TLD-based output checks have found a ∼−3% systematic calibration difference for our (and general) Tomotherapy treatment machines. The purpose of this study is to identify source of this bias. Methods: The entire Tomotherapy calibration process is analyzed. Unlike conventional linacs, Tomotherapy unit absolute dose calibrations are based on calibration plans (tomoPhant plans on a tomocheese phantom) created at the time of commissioning. Two main areas in this process are investigated. First, the accuracy of the dose computation for the original calibration plan. Second, whether the historic commissioning plan can be relied upon for current calibrations. Dose calculations were performed with an updated local HU-density table and an updated MLC latency curve. Machine output adjusted based on our findings was verified via a helical plan delivery to an ion chamber in real water. Results: The vendor provided phantom image and HU-density table over-estimated the phantom electron density by 2%, which results in a −1% systematic dose error. In addition, the dose calibration is affected by the MLC latency curve. For the two machines in our site, the change in MLC latency affected the dose calibration by −1% and −2% respectively. After correcting the phantom density and re-compute the dose, we found that the reference dose increased by 2.5–3.0% indicating our machines were previously calibrated low by the same amount. After increasing the output by 3.0%, the measured dose in real water agrees with the TPS prediction. Conclusion: We identified the problem with the absolution calibration for our Tomotherapy units. The same calibration issues likely exist for other tomotherapy units. Tomotherapy users should ensure that their MLC latency curve is current and should re-compute reference dose with the correct phantom density before they perform absolute dose calibration.
Graphical models via joint quantile regression with component selection

Abstract A graphical model is used for describing interrelationships among multiple variables. In many cases, the multivariate Gaussian assumption is made partly for its simplicity but the assumption is hardly met in actual applications. In order to avoid dependence on a rather strong assumption, we propose to infer the graphical model via joint quantile regression with component selection, since the components of quantile regression carry information to infer the conditional independence. We demonstrate the advantages of our approach using simulation studies and apply our method to an interesting real biological dataset, where the dependence structure is highly complex.