cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Outcomes of Free Gracilis Muscle Transfer for Smile Reanimation in Children

Objective To evaluate long-term outcomes of free gracilis muscle transfer (FGMT) for smile reanimation on smile excursion, facial symmetry, and quality of life in a cohort of children with facial palsy. Study design A retrospective analysis of 40 pediatric patients who underwent FGMT for facial palsy at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Facial Nerve Center was performed. Preoperative and postoperative photography and videography were used to quantify smile excursion and facial symmetry. Preoperative and postoperative quality of life was assessed with the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) survey, a validated, patient-based instrument for evaluating facial impairment and disability. Results Of the 40 patients who underwent FGMT for facial palsy, 38 patients had complete data including preoperative and postoperative photography and videography from 3 months to 10 years following surgery; 13 cases had >5 years of follow-up. FGMT resulted in significant improvements in smile excursion within several months, with continued improvements in smile excursion and symmetry demonstrated more than 5 years later. Fifteen patients completed preoperative and postoperative FaCE surveys, which demonstrated significant improvement in quality of life scores following FGMT. Conclusions FGMT significantly improves smile, facial asymmetry, and quality of life for years after this surgery for facial palsy.
Engineering DNA vaccines against infectious diseases

Engineering vaccine-based therapeutics for infectious diseases is highly challenging, as trial formulations are often found to be nonspecific, ineffective, thermally or hydrolytically unstable, and/or toxic. Vaccines have greatly improved the therapeutic landscape for treating infectious diseases and have significantly reduced the threat by therapeutic and preventative approaches. Furthermore, the advent of recombinant technologies has greatly facilitated growth within the vaccine realm by mitigating risks such as virulence reversion despite making the production processes more cumbersome. In addition, seroconversion can also be enhanced by recombinant technology through kinetic and nonkinetic approaches, which are discussed herein. Recombinant technologies have greatly improved both amino acid-based vaccines and DNA-based vaccines. A plateau of interest has been reached between 2001 and 2010 for the scientific community with regard to DNA vaccine endeavors. The decrease in interest may likely be attributed to difficulties in improving immunogenic properties associated with DNA vaccines, although there has been research demonstrating improvement and optimization to this end. Despite improvement, to the extent of our knowledge, there are currently no regulatory body-approved DNA vaccines for human use (four vaccines approved for animal use). This article discusses engineering DNA vaccines against infectious diseases while discussing advantages and disadvantages of each, with an emphasis on applications of these DNA vaccines. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This review paper summarizes the state of the engineered/recombinant DNA vaccine field, with a scope entailing "Engineering DNA vaccines against infectious diseases". We endeavor to emphasize recent advances, recapitulating the current state of the field. In addition to discussing DNA therapeutics that have already been clinically translated, this review also examines current research developments, and the challenges thwarting further progression. Our review covers: recombinant DNA-based subunit vaccines; internalization and processing; enhancing immune protection via adjuvants; manufacturing and engineering DNA; the safety, stability and delivery of DNA vaccines or plasmids; controlling gene expression using plasmid engineering and gene circuits; overcoming immunogenic issues; and commercial successes. We hope that this review will inspire further research in DNA vaccine development.
Influencing medical student choice of primary care worldwide: international application of the four pillars for primary care physician workforce.

Primary care is a crucial part of a functional health care system, though in many parts of the world there are current or projected gaps in the primary care physician workforce. The academic family medicine organizations in the United States (US) developed the “Four Pillars for Primary Care Physician Workforce,” a model built on decades of research, highlighting four main areas of emphasis for increasing primary care physician output: 1) pipeline; 2) process of medical education; 3) practice transformation; and 4) payment reform. This commentary proposes that this model, although developed in the US context, is applicable in other medical education settings, including Israel, based on the recently reported findings of Weissman and colleagues in this journal.
Concurrent Inhibition of Vesicular Monoamine Transporter 2 Does Not Protect Against 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy) Induced Neurotoxicity.

3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a hallucinogenic amphetamine derivative. The acute effects of MDMA are hyperthermia, hyperactivity, and behavioral changes, followed by long-term serotonergic neurotoxicity in rats and primates. However, the underlying mechanisms of MDMA neurotoxicity remain elusive. We reported that pretreatment of rats with Ro 4-1284, a reversible inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), reduced MDMA-induced hyperactivity in rats, abolished the hyperthermic response, and the long-term neurotoxicity. Current studies focused on the effects of co- and/or postinhibition of VMAT2 on the acute and chronic effects of MDMA and on the dose-response relationship between MDMA-induced elevations in body temperature and subsequent reductions in indolamine concentrations. Sprague Dawley rats were treated with MDMA (20, 25, or 27.5 mg/kg sc), and either co- and/or posttreatment with the VMAT2 inhibitor (10 mg/kg ip). Rats simultaneously treated with Ro 4-1284 and MDMA exhibited a more rapid increase in body temperature compared to just MDMA. However, the duration of the elevated body temperature was significantly shortened (approximately 3 h vs approximately 8 h, respectively). A similar body temperature response was observed in rats posttreated (7 h after MDMA) with Ro 4-1284. Despite decreases in the area under the curve (Δtemp X time) of body temperature caused by Ro 4-1284, there were no significant differences in the degree of indolamine depletion between any of the MDMA-treated groups. The results suggest that the neuroprotective effects of VMAT2 inhibition is likely due to the indirect monoamine depleting effects of the Ro 4-1284 pretreatment, rather than by the direct inhibition of VMAT2 function.
A large scale synthesis of 3-chloro-5-methoxypyridazine

A large scale synthesis of 3-chloro-5-methoxypyridazine was developed (18 moles) that relies on the protection of the pyridazinone nitrogen of 4,5-dichloro-3(2H)-pyridazinone as the tetrahydropyranyl derivative 2. The 5-chloro position of the protected pyridazinone was selectively displaced with methoxide to give 3 followed by catalytic hydrogenation of the 4-chloro group to give 4. Removal of the protecting group with acid followed by phosphorous oxychloride treatment gave the target compound 6 in good yield. This route is superior to the previously described synthesis of this compound.
Juvenile parkinsonism: Differential diagnosis, genetics, and treatment

Juvenile parkinsonism is arbitrarily defined as parkinsonian symptoms and signs presenting prior to 21 years of age. Levodopa-responsive juvenile parkinsonism that is consistent with diagnostic criteria for Parkinson's disease is most often caused by mutations in the PARK-Parkin, PARK-PINK1, or PARK-DJ1 genes. However, many other genetic and acquired parkinsonian disorders presenting in childhood or young adulthood are being reported, often with atypical features, such as presence of other movement disorders, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms. The genetic landscape of juvenile parkinsonism is rapidly changing with the discovery of new genes. Although the mainstay of treatment remains levodopa, other symptomatic therapies such as botulinum toxin for focal dystonia, supportive medical therapies, and deep brain stimulation in select cases, may also be used to provide the most optimal long-term outcomes. Since the topic has not been reviewed recently, we aim to provide an update on genetics, differential diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of juvenile parkinsonism.
Cytology of Normal Pancreas

Pancreatic neoplasms represent a diagnostic dilemma for clinicians, surgeons, and pathologists alike. With the increasing use of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), pancreatic cytopathology is at the forefront in the diagnosis and management of patients with a pancreatic mass. In addition, as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths, pancreatic adenocarcinoma continues to be a significant burden on health care with increasing overall mortality despite advancing surgical and chemotherapeutic efforts. Therefore, early definitive diagnosis is an integral step in the management of these patients. One cannot delve into the complexities of the neoplastic pancreas without a complete and vital discussion on benign pancreatic cytology. An awareness of the approach for pancreatic fine-needle aspiration and regional anatomy is also important to avoid common (and potentially catastrophic) pitfalls and to ensure an accurate and timely diagnosis.
Prolonging coal's sunset: Local demand for local supply

Abstract The share of U.S electricity generated by coal has fallen from nearly 50% to 33%. This transition offers social environmental benefits but spatially concentrated costs as coal miners and their local communities have suffered. Coal states have responded to shifting demand conditions by introducing incentives for local power plants to purchase coal from local mines. We document that power plants in areas with mining activity are more likely to be coal-fired and to purchase more coal from mines which they share a political boundary even after controlling for the distance from power plants to mines. While politically-motivated coal purchases do result in improved conditions in coal-mining counties in some regions of the country, these benefits are likely to be small compared to the additional carbon costs.
Examination of clinical and laboratory measures of static and dynamic balance in breast cancer survivors

Objectives: Balance in breast cancer survivors is understudied. Increased understanding of how postural control is affected when the body is stationary, moving, or engaged in a concurrent cognitive...
Advancing Radiative Heat Transfer Modeling in High-Temperature Liquid Salts

Liquid salts have become more attractive as coolants for low-carbon power generation due to needs for high-temperature heat and affordable energy storage. Of particular interest are halide salts ut...
Tuning magnetization compensation and Curie temperatures in epitaxial rare earth iron garnet films

An ab initio effective Hamiltonian is developed and used to reveal the effect of misfit strain on magnetic properties of epitaxial (001) films made of a prototypical rare earth iron garnet: Gadolinium iron garnet. It is found that both the magnetization compensation temperature (${T}_{\mathrm{M}}$) and the Curie temperature (${T}_{\mathrm{C}}$) can be significantly and linearly enhanced when varying the strain from tensile to compressive values. Consequently, ${T}_{\mathrm{M}}$ can be designed to coincide with room temperature, and the magnitude of the magnetization can be optimized at around 300 K when choosing the appropriate substrate. The microscopic origins of these technologically promising effects are further revealed.
Automatic identification and lumping of high-temperature fuel decomposition pathways for chemical kinetics mechanism reduction

Abstract The predictive capabilities of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for combustion systems rely on a proper description of the fuel chemistry. The growing interest in accurately capturing the combustion behavior of multi-component fuel mixtures creates additional challenges in developing reduced-order chemical kinetics mechanisms small enough to be used in CFD. Among the suite of chemistry reduction approaches available, lumping techniques appear especially suited to handle the complex nature of multi-component combustion chemistry. In particular, published literature provides very strong evidence that the lumping of non-rate-limiting pathways, and more specifically, the high-temperature fuel decomposition reactions, is a powerful avenue for multi-component mechanism reduction. In this work, we present a novel algorithm to identify and lump high temperature fuel decomposition reactions from detailed kinetic mechanisms. The lumping strategy is fully automatic, and relies exclusively on information available in the detailed mechanism. The performance of the technique is assessed for both a single-component fuel, n-dodecane, and its mixture with iso-octane. Results show that replacing the fuel decomposition sub-mechanism by a small number of reactions involving a single equivalent fuel component introduces very limited changes in the prediction of laminar flame speeds, ignition delay curves, and species profiles. This establishes a clear potential for the proposed algorithm to become a valuable addition to existing multi-stage mechanism reduction software.
Added Benefit and Risk of an Additional Biopsy or Targeting With Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound for Patients With Renal Transplants.

OBJECTIVES To determine whether renal transplant diagnoses substantially change when 2 biopsy sites are chosen and whether contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has value for targeting the second site. METHODS We prospectively enrolled 40 patients undergoing ultrasound-guided renal transplant biopsy within 2 years of transplant: 20, surveillance; and 20, for cause. A CEUS examination was performed to identify cortical regions with subjectively altered flow. One biopsy was performed at the operator-preferred (primary) site regardless of CEUS findings. Another biopsy was done at a second location, either targeted to an area in which CEUS perfusion findings differed from the primary site (targeted) or at a random location (secondary) if no other area differed. Specimens were randomly labeled A or B; pathologists were blinded to the CEUS result and biopsy location. Location-specific CEUS assessments were recorded. Pathologic results were compared, including acute and chronic Banff scores and any new findings from the targeted or secondary biopsy. RESULTS Forty patients were enrolled between January 2016 and December 2018. No location-specific pathologic differences correlated with differences in CEUS assessments. The second biopsy provided additional information that changed management in 4 of 40 patients (10.0% [95% confidence interval, 2.8%-23.7%]). Major bleeding complications occurred in 3 of 40 (7.5%) patients. CONCLUSIONS Contrast-enhanced ultrasound targeting was not useful. Major bleeding complications were higher than expected, possibly due to the additional biopsy away from the operator-preferred location. Obtaining a second renal transplant biopsy from a substantially different area than the initial operator-preferred location provided additional clinically useful information in 10% of patients.
A Review of Clinical and Laboratory Predictors of Severe COVID-19 Disease.

Introduction: In late December 2019, the coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan, China. It quickly spread and emerged as a global pandemic with far-reaching impacts on society. As clinical research on this novel virus emerges, there is a limited amount of data that review clinical and laboratory predictors of severe disease. We present a case of a patient with severely elevated inflammatory markers who remained clinically stable during his hospital course. Case discussion: A 53-year-old male presented to the emergency room with 11 days of persistent fevers and new-onset anterior chest tightness. He was admitted to the hospital due to a reported oxygen desaturation at home to 87% (taken by his spouse, a healthcare professional) and ambulatory oxygen desaturation down to 87%. He was noted to have severely elevated inflammatory markers, lymphopenia, and computed tomography pulmonary angiograph findings consistent with COVID-19. He remained on room air and clinically stable throughout his 3-day hospital course. While his C-reactive protein levels improved, his ferritin and erythrocyte sedimentation rate continued to elevate. He was discharged home and was symptom-free within 4 days of hospital discharge. Discussion: COVID-19 has proven to be a viral disease with a high transmission rate, that has caused over 100,000 deaths in the United States, thus far. The decision to admit a patient must balance the risks of transmission with the benefit of being readily available to provide urgent supportive care should the patient develop complications. Thus, there is a significant benefit to being able to predict poor outcomes. We performed a targeted review of the literature, focusing on clinical and laboratory predictors of poor outcomes in COVID-19. Our case report and narrative review outline these findings within the context of our case.
Using Digital Play in Teaching Early Childhood Education

عندما تصبح الأجهزة الرقمية جزءا من الحياة اليومية ، يختبر الأطفال الصغار فرصا جديدة للعب (O'Mara & Laidlaw,2011)،في عام 2008 ، کانت ثورة التعليم الرقمي دافعا لتحويل التدريس والتعلم من خلال التعليم الرقمي ورکزت على جميع جوانب التعليم من تدريب المعلمين والتعلم المهني إلى الموارد الرقمية وتصميم المناهج الدراسية والمشارکة المجتمعية (المجموعة الاستشارية للتعليم الرقمي ، 2012). تعتبر التقنيات الرقمية حاليا جانبا ضروريا للتعليم في مرحلة الطفولة المبکرة(NAEYC,2012)،وفقا لإدواردز (2013) ، زادت مستويات مشارکة الطلاب من خلال استخدام التطبيقات التعليمية والکتب الإلکترونية التي تم العثور عليها ليس فقط لتقديم المعلومات بطريقة مفيدة ولکن أيضا بطرق مثيرة للاهتمام. على الرغم من تأثير استخدام التکنولوجيا في التعلم القائم على اللعب في مرحلة الطفولة المبکرة في تحسين تعلم الأطفال ، إلا أن الأبحاث توثق أن معلمي الطفولة المبکرة هم العامل الرئيسي في تعلم الأطفال عندما يستخدمون التکنولوجيا في التعلم القائم على اللعب. As digital devices become part of everyday life, young children experience new playing opportunities (O'Mara & Laidlaw, 2011). In 2008, the Digital Education Revolution was a driver for transforming teaching and learning through digital education and focused on all aspects of education from teacher training and professional learning to digital resources, curriculum design and community engagement (Digital Education Advisory Group, 2012). Currently digital technologies are now considered a necessary aspect of early childhood education (NAEYC, 2012). According to Edwards (2013), the students’ engagement levels have increased through the use of educational applications and E-books which have been found to not only present information in a meaningful way but also in interesting ways. Despite the impact of using technology in play-based learning in early childhood to children’s learning improvement, research documents that early childhood teachers are the main factor in children's learning when they use technology in play based-learning.
Das Rechnungswesen als Maßstab des Erfolgs der Betriebsleitung

Das Streben nach wirkungsvollem Kapitaleinsatz ist eine der Hauptaufgaben der Geschaftsleitung. Das Kapital ist in Form von produktiven Anlagen wie Fabriken, Maschinen, Geraten, Werk- und Hilfsstoffen sowie in flussigen Geldmitteln investiert. Die Nutzung dieses Kapitals ergibt sich aus den Planen, die von der Geschaftsleitung fur das nachste Jahr oder sogar fur die nachsten drei bis funf Jahre aufgestellt werden. Planung wird immer aus den tatsachlichen Gegebenheiten jeder Unternehmung heraus entwickelt. Inner- und auserbetriebliche Einflusse bestimmen Strategie und Taktik des Planungsteams. Das Budget erscheint als das Resultat der Planung und spielt eine wichtige Rolle bei der Kontrolle der Geschaftsvorgange.
Tissue-specific determinants of human atrial natriuretic factor gene expression in cardiac tissue.

Abstract Elements controlling tissue-specific expression of the human atrial natriuretic factor gene have been examined in primary cultures of neonatal rat cardiocytes. When a 68-base pair fragment from human atrial natriuretic factor (hANF) 5'-flanking sequence (positions -400 to -333) was placed upstream from the herpes simplex thymidine kinase promoter linked to a bacterial reporter gene (chloramphenicol acetyltransferase), a tissue-specific positive regulatory effect was observed in atrial as well as ventricular cardiocytes but not in nonmyocardial cells. The cis-acting element in this fragment was orientation- and position-dependent. Examination of nuclear protein extracts for the presence of factors capable of interacting with the 5'-flanking sequence of the hANF gene revealed a cardiocyte-specific factor which bound to the 68-base pair fragment. This association was both tissue- and sequence-specific. These findings indicate that a cis-acting element present in the proximal 5'-flanking sequence confers tissue-specific expression upon the hANF gene, possibly through association with a cardiac-specific nuclear protein.
A Christian Integrative Perspective on Nurturing Civic Development Among Emerging Adults

This article explores civic development and its roles in the lives of emerging adults, and the ways in which college contexts—particularly Christian colleges and universities—may foster adaptive civic development. First, the article presents an argument for the importance of fostering civic development as rooted in historic truths of the Christian faith and integrated with a Christian worldview. Second, several exemplary programs at Christian colleges and universities that are successfully engaged in promoting civic development among students are described. Finally, a number of specific practical suggestions for Christian higher educational professionals who work with emerging adult students and who are concerned with encouraging positive civic formation are proposed.
Enhanced VCSEL performance by optical injection locking for analog and digital applications

In this paper, we have thoroughly investigated the locking phenomena within the entire locking range and useful injection regimes are identified for communication applications. The enhanced laser performance can be attained in a wide injection parameter space, demonstrating the robustness of this technique. An upper bound of the resonance frequency improvement was found also using rate equation analysis. And a direct measurement on chirp confirms the usefulness of this technique for large signal modulation. In conclusion, we have demonstrated the frequency response enhancement with the injection locking technique. A flat, enhanced S21 can be achieved with a high injection power and large wavelength detuning. This is highly desirable for both analog and digital modulation. Furthermore, the direct chirp measurement of the VCSEL confirms that injection-locking technique can effectively reduce the laser chirp and can be readily applied to digital modulation applications.
Cascade Models of Turbulence and Mixing

This note describes two kinds of work on turbulence. First it describes a simplified model turbulent energy-cascades called the GOY model. Second it mentions work on a model of mixing in fluids derived as an extension of this very same GOY model. In addition to a brief historical discussion, I include a some mention of our own work carried on at the University of Chicago by Jane Wang, Detlef Lohse, Roberto Benzi, Norbert Schorghofer, and Scott Wunsch. Our own studies are in large measure the outgrowth of a paper by M. H. Jensen, G. Paladin, and A. Vulpiani[l]. I mention this connection with some sadness because I recall Paladin’s recent death in a mountain accident.
ON-BOARD SYSTEM IDENTIFICATION OF SYSTEMS WITH UNKNOWN INPUT NONLINEARITY AND SYSTEM PARAMETERS

Input nonlinearities, or actuator nonlinearities, can be seen in a lot of systems and have significant effects on the system performance. From the controller design point of view, accurate yet simple model of input nonlinearities is essential to compensate their effects and to achieve high level control performance. Unfortunately, most input nonlinearities are neither known nor easy to characterize, especially when the input nonlinearities and unknown system parameters are present simultaneously in the system dynamics. Off-board calibration may be possible yet it is very time consuming and requires additional calibration systems. This paper focuses on a class of systems with unknown input nonlinearities and system parameters and proposes an on-board system identification process to model the unknown nonlinearities. The input nonlinearities are decomposed into localized orthogonal basis and then estimated together with the system parameters. The proposed method is applied to model the nonlinear flow mapping of cartridge valves. Simulation and experimental results are obtained to illustrate the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed method.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Language as Investment, Capital, and Economics: Spanish-Speaking English Learners' Language Use and Attitudes

Drawing on the notion of investment in language and identity, the concept of language as capital, and the theory of language as part of economics, this study explores California high-school Spanish-speaking English learners’ use of Spanish and English at home, at school, and in the ESL class, and their perceptions on these two languages. Analysis of 37 survey responses reveals that the participants did not have an either-or attitude toward the languages they spoke and concurrently claimed frequent use of and even fluency in the societal language and their heritage language. They did not have a simplistic notion of linguistic identity and simultaneously claimed the English-speaking identity, the Spanish-speaking identity, and the bilingual identity. The results indicate that, rather than a sign of second language insufficiency, bilingual language use in and outside of the ESL class served as an intentional investment in language development and maintenance, identity construction, and preparation for participation in the multilingual marketplace in the internationalized new economy. ESL instructors are encouraged to recognize and acknowledge the role of bilingual language use in class and to create a supportive classroom environment that builds on the linguistic and cultural capital of English learners and fosters the development of both languages into literate, academic and professional capacity.
Linear constraint graph for floorplan optimization with soft blocks

In this paper, we propose the linear constraint graph (LCG) as an efficient general floorplan representation. For n blocks, an LCG has at most 2n+3 vertices and at most 6n+2 edges. Operations with direct geometric meanings are developed to perturb the LCGs. We apply the LCGs to the floorplan optimization with soft blocks to leverage its advantage in terms of the sizes of the graphs, which will improve the efficiency of solving a complex mathematical program in the inner loop of the optimization that decide the block shapes without introducing overlaps to the non-slicing floorplans. Experimental results confirm that the LCGs are effective and efficient.
Rare structural variation of synapse and neurotransmission genes in autism

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) comprise a constellation of highly heritable neuropsychiatric disorders. Genome-wide studies of autistic individuals have implicated numerous minor risk alleles but few common variants, suggesting a complex genetic model with many contributing loci. To assess commonality of biological function among rare risk alleles, we compared functional knowledge of genes overlapping inherited structural variants in idiopathic ASD subjects relative to healthy controls. In this study we show that biological processes associated with synapse function and neurotransmission are significantly enriched, with replication, in ASD subjects versus controls. Analysis of phenotypes observed for mouse models of copy-variant genes established significant and replicated enrichment of observable phenotypes consistent with ASD behaviors. Most functional terms retained significance after excluding previously reported ASD loci. These results implicate several new variants that involve synaptic function and glutamatergic signaling processes as important contributors of ASD pathophysiology and suggest a sizable pool of additional potential ASD risk loci.
MembershipMap: data transformation cased on membership aggregation

We propose a new data-driven transformation that facilitates many data mining, interpretation, and analysis tasks. Our approach, called MembershipMap, strives to extract the underlying sub-concepts of each raw attribute, and uses the orthogonal union of these sub-concepts to define a new space. The sub-concept soft labels of each point in the original space determine the position of that point in the new space. Since sub-concept labels are prone to uncertainty inherent in the original data and in the initial extraction process, a combination of labeling schemes that are based on different measures of uncertainty are presented. In particular, we introduce the CrispMap, SoftMap, and PossibilisticMap. We show that the MembershipMap can be used as a flexible pre-processing tool to support such tasks as: sampling, data cleaning, and outlier detection.
Interacting solute flows in permeability studies on the sand dollar egg.

Abstract Equations are derived from the thermodynamics of irreversible processes which show that the flow of any permeable component across a semipermeable membrane may depend on the simultaneous flows of all other such components through solute-solute interactions. Experiments were performed on the sand dollar egg in an attempt to demonstrate such effects through their influence on classical swelling curves. Initial indications were obtained for the presence of such effects. Reflection coefficients determined individually for ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and acetamide are compared with similar data for human erythrocytes.
Fabrication and characterization of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microsphere/amorphous calcium phosphate scaffolds.

Although hydroxyapatite (HAP) and β-tricalcium phosphate have been used extensively as osteoconductive minerals in biomaterial scaffolds for bone regeneration, they lack the capacity to stimulate osteoblastic differentiation of progenitor cells. In contrast, amorphous calcium phosphates (ACPs), which convert to HAP under aqueous conditions, have the potential to facilitate osteoblastic differentiation through the transient local release of calcium and phosphate ions. Therefore, in this study ACPs were synthesized using zinc and zirconia divalent cations as stabilizers (denoted ZnACP and ZrACP, respectively) and compared to HAP. Analysis of ion release into serum-containing cell culture medium revealed transiently elevated levels of calcium and phosphorous, consistent with the enhanced solubility of ZrACP and ZnACP relative to HAP. In addition, X-ray diffraction analysis revealed partial conversion of ZrACP to HAP but no conversion of ZnACP after 96 h. Next, scaffolds were fabricated by sintering mixtures of 300–500 µm poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres and 0.5 wt% calcium phosphate mineral (HAP, ZrACP or ZnACP) at 70 °C for 24 h. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a porous microsphere matrix with calcium phosphate particulates clinging to the microsphere surfaces both prior to and after 14 days in culture medium. Finally, the incorporation of calcium phosphate resulted in a lower compressive modulus in the range 127 to 74–89 MPa. Taken together, these results indicate that ZrACP, ZnACP and HAP minerals exhibit very different properties, and therefore may elicit different osteoblastic responses in vitro. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of authority in the interpretation of science

If we look at science as a human enterprise as we look at art, religion, or politics, we notice two facts which seem difficult to re concile with each other. On the one hand, science is a doctrine which is based on experience about sense observations. It can be applied to technology, and becomes in this way the basis of all advances in industry and warfare. If a doctrine of science is successful in these respects, we say that it is 'Valid"; in the opposite case we call it ''false". In this way and only in this way science can distinguish between right and wrong. But, on the other hand, the history of old and new times has shown that authorities, organized or unorgan ized, have tried to direct the way in which the results of science have been formulated, taught in schools, or presented in print. As the results of science can be checked by their technical failure or success, it is difficult to understand how any authority can modify or influence these results. We shall not speak in this paper about the influence of power ful groups upon the financial or moral support which is given to scientific research from public and private funds. It is obvious that he who holds the purse strings can favor some fields of research and prevent research in other fields. This can be done, not only by government and industry, but also by public opinion. Some field of research is fashionable in some country in some period, while some research may even be ostracized. But all these social powers can only divert research work from one field to another one, they cannot have an influence upon the results of a given type of research. We may call the results of science that can be checked by sense, observation, and technical application the "technical results" of science. It is obvious that no authority can alter these technical results. When the Roman Church condemned the Copernican system, the computation of the position of planets on the sphere was not
Multifunctional nanoarchitectures from DNA-based ABC monomers

The ability to attach different functional moieties to a molecular building block could lead to applications in nanoelectronics, nanophotonics, intelligent sensing and drug delivery. The building unit needs to be both multivalent and anisotropic, and although many anisotropic building blocks have been created, these have not been universally applicable. Recently, DNA has been used to generate various nanostructures or hybrid systems, and as a generic building block for various applications. Here, we report the creation of anisotropic, branched and crosslinkable building blocks (ABC monomers) from which multifunctional nanoarchitectures have been assembled. In particular, we demonstrate a target-driven polymerization process in which polymers are generated only in the presence of a specific DNA molecule, leading to highly sensitive pathogen detection. Using this monomer system, we have also designed a biocompatible nanovector that delivers both drugs and tracers simultaneously. Our approach provides a general yet versatile route towards the creation of a range of multifunctional nanoarchitectures.
Mode-wave equivalence and other asymptotic problems in tsunami theory

Abstract A study is conducted of the asymptotic behavior of the gravity modes of an incompressible spherical oceanic layer, surrounding a rigid Earth, as its radius goes to infinity. The flat-layered Earth dispersion relation c= gh for the phase velocity of the tsunami wave is derived, and the existence of only one branch of tsunami modes is proved, a result fundamental for the use of mode theory in marigram synthesis. Studied further are the influence of such parameters as finite incompressibility in the ocean, and finite rigidity of the ocean floor, on the dispersion of tsunami modes, both theoretically and numerically for a number of models. It is concluded that for all physically acceptable models of both the ocean and its floor, tsunami dispersion is not significantly affected by either. This includes in particular the case of a sedimentary layer, which is found to have no effect on tsunami propagation. The maximum (and extremely small) rigidity allowed in the fluid before the tsunami modes disappear is also derived.
Solubility and Leachability of Fishwaste Compost Phosphorus in Soilless Growing Media

Knowledge of solubility and leachability of fishwaste compost P is needed to effectively use fishwaste compost as a P source in soilless growing media. The fishwaste compost contained 3.6 g P kg⁻¹ compost on a dry weight basis and had high P solubility, with 64.4% of the total P in the compost extractable by six successive extractions with 0.01 M NaCl. In the dilute salt solution, the Ca release from the compost paralleled that of P. The sequential extraction did not substantiate that Ca-P was the predominant P form in the compost, because substantial amounts of P solubilized in 0.01 M NaCl were from the labile P (NH₄Cl-P) and potentially labile P (Fe- and Al-P) pools. High solubility of the compost P resulted in elevation of P concentrations in leachates and cumulative amounts of P leached over 10 wk when the growing media containing 25% or more compost was irrigated with overhead sprinkler irrigation. Young rhododendron (Rhododendron fortunei ‘Scintillation’) did not significantly (P > 0.05) reduce P leaching from the 50% or higher compost treatments because the amount of P accumulated in the plant leaves represented 3 ± 0.9 (SD)% of P in the compost and P fertilizer combined. To reduce P leaching and minimize nonpoint P pollution, additions of P fertilizer to the soilless growing media containing the fishwaste compost should be restricted. Otherwise, the proportion of the compost in the media should be limited to 25% or less, unless it is used in conjunction with controlled drip irrigation. Scientific Paper 9705-19, Dep. of Crop and Soil Sciences, College of Agriculture and Home Economics Research Center, Washington State Univ., Pullman, WA 99164.
Effects of eddy-current damping on satellite attitude stability.

linear membrane value of J, as was conjectured at the start. The quantities w and Ne, however, have values within the boundary layer which differ substantially from their respective linear theory values. First-, second-, and third-order approximations for N^(l) and Ne(l) are shown in Fig. 3 and demonstrate the asymptotic nature of the solution as r increases. The details of the third approximation are omitted for brevity,
Contrarian and momentum returns on Iran's Tehran Stock Exchange

Abstract This paper studies Iran's emerging Tehran Stock Market. Potential foreign investors, who have been able make direct investments since 2003, should study the recent history of the exchange in order to understand the risks that accompany the high returns. Using data on stock prices and volume over the period 1997–2002, this study looks at the crucial question of pricing efficiency, examining the relation of current prices and volumes to future returns. We apply the analyses of Jegadeesh and Titman [Jegadeesh, N., Titman, S., 2001. Profitability of momentum strategies: an evaluation of alternative explanations. Journal of Finance 61, 699–720], Conrad et al. [Conrad, J. S., Hameed, A., and Niden, C., 1994. Volume and autocovariances in short-horizon individual security returns. Journal of Finance 99, 1305–1329], Cooper [Cooper, M., 1999. Filter rules based on price and volume in individual security overreaction. The Review of Financial Studies 12, 901–935], and Gervais et al. [Gervais, S., Kaniel, R., and Mingelgrin, D. H., 2001. The high-volume return premium. Journal of Finance 61, 877–919] to this developing market. There is no evidence of “contrarian” behavior. Standard tests of autocorrelation and pricing efficiency find no evidence of anomalies in the short run. There is, however, evidence of “momentum” where past high performers have above-average return over an intermediate (3–12 month) horizon.
The polarization of auroral radio emissions

Ground level observations using two vertical loop antennas oriented at 90° to each other reveal the sense of polarization of several types of auroral radio emissions in the frequency range 30-5000 kHz. Auroral hiss is observed to be right elliptically polarized (RP) with respect to the local magnetic field, consistent with theoretical expectation for the whistler mode and with earlier measurements. Two less well-understood auroral emissions, are found to be left elliptically polarized (LP). This polarization is inconsistent with their generation in the X-mode as suggested by some theories.
Partially B-Regular Optimization and Equilibrium Problems

This paper introduces a concept termed partial B-regularity for a feasible solution to a bivariate constraint system and shows that this condition leads to the equivalence between the B-stationarity of a pair of lifted and unlifted programs. In particular, for an optimization problem with a univariate pseudoconvex objective function constrained by such a nonconvex bivariate system, partial B-regularity provides a sufficient condition for a B-stationary point to be globally optimal. Applications of partial B-regularity to several classes of optimization and equilibrium problems are presented; these include a lexicographic optimization problem, a nonconvex mathematical program with equilibrium constraints (MPEC) that arises from a convex implicit value-function optimization problem, and a Nash equilibrium program with equilibrium constraints.
Resonance Raman and EPR investigations of the D251N oxycytochrome P450cam/putidaredoxin complex.

We have performed resonance Raman and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies on the dioxygen bound state of the D251N mutant of cytochrome P450cam (oxy-P450cam) and its complex with reduced putidaredoxin (Pd). The D251N oxy-P450cam/Pd complex has a perturbed proton delivery mechanism and shows a significantly red-shifted UV−visible spectrum as observed in Benson et al. [Benson, D. E., Suslick, K. S., and Sligar, S. G. (1997) Biochemistry 36, 5104−5107]. The red shift has been interpreted to indicate a major perturbation of the electronic structure of the oxy-heme complex. However, we find no evidence that electron transfer has occurred from Pd to the heme active site of D251N oxy-P450cam. This suggests that both electron and proton transfer are perturbed by the D251N mutation and that these processes may be coupled. Three oxygen isotope sensitive Raman features are identified in the Pd complex, and occur at 1137, 536, and 399 cm-1. These values are not significantly different from those for WT or D...
Media Coverage of Biotech Foods and Influence on Consumer Choice

In the last two decades, few issues in the global agrifood sector have attracted as much media attention as biotechnology. Thousands of brief and in depth articles have been written focusing on diverse issues—from the spectacle of ecological disasters to the promise of feeding a burgeoning world population. Among those, accounts of alleged health risks could influence consumer perceptions and behavior directly. Indeed, reporters across the globe have continued to draw parallels between biotechnology and other known food hazards, such as mad cow disease and chemical contaminants such as dioxin; they have also continued to raise the possibility of “unknown” long-term health effects—essentially framing biotechnology as a food safety risk (Marks and Kalaitzandonakes, Marks et al.). There is evidence that this broad and often negative media coverage of biotechnology has raised public awareness, influenced public perceptions, and altered the public agenda on biotech foods in Europe and elsewhere (Bauer; Durant, Bauer, and Gaskell). This is not surprising as over 90% of consumers receive information about agrifood biotechnology primarily through the popular press and television (Hoban and Kendall). Despite the apparent influence of media coverage on public perceptions, however, the question of whether such coverage has also affected consumer purchasing behavior has not been answered. The answer to this question is broadly relevant. With less than 2% of the U.S. population now engaged in agricultural production, the average food consumer has diminishing personal experience and knowledge of agriculture
Multimodality imaging of a neonatal wandering spleen

Wandering spleen, a rare entity, is caused by the absence or laxity of the normal anchoring splenic ligaments. Only three neonatal cases have been reported in the English-language literature. We present the clinical and multimodality imaging findings of a newborn with laceration and hemorrhage of a wandering spleen. The course was complicated by the concurrent diagnosis of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, which confused the clinical picture when a falling hematocrit raised the question of rebleeding several days after presentation.
Time-correlated photon counting: differential methods applied to anisotropy decay

A method is described that makes it possible to measure luminescence decays for both parallel and perpendicular excitation geometries in a single experimental run. The rotational diffusion of oxazine 725 in five solvents of different viscosities is characterized using the new procedure. The measurements are challenging in that the rotational diffusion times are close to the excited state lifetime. The advantage of the new procedure lies in the increased confidence that comes with measuring both polarizations under the same conditions. The same principle is applicable in any circumstance involving the comparison of two or more samples.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Anticoagulation in Hypercoagulable Conditions: Special Considerations in the Treatment and Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism

Patients with hypercoagulable conditions, including malignancy, are at increased risk of recurrent venous thromboembolic events (VTE). The general approach to treatment and prevention of VTE in patients with thrombophilia is similar to that of patients who present with VTE associated with transient risk factors, including immobility, trauma, and surgery. However, several important issues must be considered in the initial management of acute VTE, in the long-term prevention of VTE following an initial event, and in VTE prophylaxis in patients with hypercoagulable conditions. Patients with antithrombin deficiency are prone to heparin resistance and may require concurrent antithrombin concentrates or anticoagulation with direct thrombin inhibitors for adequate treatment of acute VTE. In patients with malignancy, low-molecular-weight heparins have been found to be more effective than unfractionated heparin for the initial treatment of VTE. Long-term prevention is preferred for most patients with hypercoagulab...