cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Painful Mouth: Mucositis, Gingivitis, and Stomatitis

SUMMARY The oromucosal manifestations of infection and painful mouth have important implications for both medical and dental profes- sionals. The immunocompromised patient presents a particular chal- lenge because clinical signs and symptoms may be minimal, and prompt and appropriate treatment is critical to prevent life-threat- ening complications. Effective control of infection and oral symptoms are both important, and this can be achieved by judicious use of top- ical and systemic agents. Prevention of mucosal breakdown, suppres- sion of microbial colonization, control of reactivating viral infections, and effective management of severe xerostomia are all critical steps to reduce the overall morbidity and mortality of oromucosal infec- tions in the severely immunocompromised patient.
Computational Proof as Experiment: Probabilistic Algorithms from a Thermodynamic Perspective

A novel framework for the design and analysis of energy-aware algorithms is presented, centered around a deterministic Bit-level (Boltzmann) Random Access Machine or BRAM model of computing, as well its probabilistic counterpart, the RABRAM. Using this framework, it is shown for the first time that probabilistic algorithms can asymptotically yield savings in the energy consumed, over their deterministic counterparts. Concretely, we show that the expected energy savings derived from a probabilistic RABRAM algorithm for solving the distinct vector problem introduced here, over any deterministic BRAM algorithm grows as \(\Theta \left( {n\ln \left( {\frac{n} {{n - \varepsilon \log \left( n \right)}}} \right)} \right)\), even though the deterministic and probabilistic algorithms have the same (asymptotic) time-complexity. The probabilistic algorithm is guaranteed to be correct with a probability \(p \geqslant \left( {1 - \frac{1} {{n^c }}} \right)\) (for a constant c chosen as a design parameter). As usual n denotes the length of the input instance of the DVP measured in the number of bits. These results are derived in the context of a technology-independent complexity measure for energy consumption introduced here, referred to as logical work. In keeping with the theme of the symposium, the introduction to this work is presented in the context of “computational proof” (algorithm) and the “work done” to achieve it (its energy consumption).
GLOBAL LONGITUDINAL STRAIN AMONG PATIENTS WITH IMMUNE CHECKPOINT INHIBITOR-INDUCED CARDIOTOXICITY: A CASE SERIES

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are novel antineoplastic agents that have revolutionized the treatment of a wide variety of malignancies, but they have also been associated with cardiovascular adverse events. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is increasingly being used for early detection of
Miniaturizing stimulated Raman scattering microscopy for human subject investigation (Conference Presentation)

Compared with conventional histology, Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy provides high specificity, fast speed and label-free histopathological analysis of the lesions by mapping their chemical compositions. However, benchtop SRS microscopy is limited to its bulky size to access the tissues of interest in-vivo inside the human body. To enable SRS in-vivo label-free histology, here, we develop an implantable fiber-scanning SRS endoscope. The endoscope is capable of providing hyperspectral Raman images at C-H and C-D regions. We use a double-clad single-mode fiber to deliver the pump and Stokes femtosecond pulses through the core and collect back-scattering signals through the outer cladding. To remove the nonlinear background induced by the pulse interactions in the fiber, we temporally separate the two pulses by tuning a delay line. We custom-design a micro-objective made of high-dispersive ZnSe glass which enables a simultaneously focusing and recombining the two pulses at spatial and time domains on the sample for excitation. A piezo actuator is designed to resonantly scan the fiber cantilever with spiral patterns. By establishing this technology, we expect the SRS endoscope to have great potential in medical applications such as label-free image-based diagnosis and surgical guidance.
Trends in the Lethality of American Violence

Research on homicide trends has not adequately considered trends in interpersonal disputes. Aggregate homicide rates partly reflect the extent to which less serious forms of interpersonal violence ...
China's Restructured Commercial Banks: Nomenklatura Accountability Serving Corporate Governance Reform?

The ongoing reform of China's state-owned commercial banks has long included a significant corporate governance reform component, with: formal "corporatization" from the mid-1990s, the establishment of separate boards of directors and shareholders' meetings at newly-corporatized entities, a new Company Law in 2006, foreign and Chinese strategic investment, and public listings on foreign and Chinese markets. This article reveals the parallel phenomena of formal corporatization and corporate governance reform, on one side, and the persistence of Chinese Communist Party Committees in the direction of corporatized PRC state-owned enterprises, on the other, and speculates on the extent to which the pre-existing nomenklatura (Party personnel appointments) system might nonetheless operate in support of management accountability -- even in cases where the public float is exceedingly thin and minority or public shareholders have few real protections or legal remedies.
Cellular internalization of bystander nanomaterial induced by TAT-nanoparticles and regulated by extracellular cysteine

Entry into cells is necessary for many nanomaterial applications, and a common solution is to functionalize nanoparticles (NPs) with cell-penetrating ligands. Despite intensive studies on these functionalized NPs, little is known about their effect on cellular activities to engulf other cargo from the nearby environment. Here, we use NPs functionalized with TAT (transactivator of transcription) peptide (T-NPs) as an example to investigate their impact on cellular uptake of bystander cargo. We find that T-NP internalization enables cellular uptake of bystander NPs, but not common fluid markers, through a receptor-dependent macropinocytosis pathway. Moreover, the activity of this bystander uptake is stimulated by cysteine presence in the surrounding solution. The cargo selectivity and cysteine regulation are further demonstrated ex vivo and in vivo. These findings reveal another mechanism for NP entry into cells and open up an avenue of studying the interplay among endocytosis, amino acids, and nanomaterial delivery.
The big eight foods: clinical and epidemiological overview.

Peanuts, tree nuts, cow’s milk, soy, wheat, hen’s egg, fish, and crustaceans are considered the “Big Eight” foods in discussions of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated or -associated food allergy both internationally and in the United States. These foods account for approximately 90% of food allergies in the best-studied group in the United States: children with atopic dermatitis. Although the Big Eight foods account for about 90% of clinical reactions in children with atopic dermatitis in referral centers, the pattern of foods causing reactions prompting emergency department visits is somewhat different in the United States. However, the Big Eight foods remain highly useful for labeling rules because the vast majority of individuals with food allergy will be helped, and specific fruits or vegetables are easier to avoid once the allergy is identified and the patient receives appropriate education on avoidance. The chapter reviews the eight dominant foods associated with food allergic reactions along with sesame. Cow's milk allergy is the most common food allergy in infants reported from developed Western nations. Most infants with IgE-mediated or IgE-associated allergy to cow’s milk protein will do well on isolated soy protein-based formula and that there is no need to spend money on more expensive, less-palatable formulas.
Clinical impact of molecular identification of rare yeasts and nonsporulating molds recovered in culture from clinical specimens.

Abstract Uncommon fungi can cause opportunistic infections and are often unidentifiable using phenotypic methods. Molecular techniques, like DNA sequencing, may permit species-level identification but results may be challenging to interpret. To determine the clinical impact of molecular identification in this setting, we performed a retrospective review of fungal isolates referred for molecular identification. Seventy-five distinct fungal species were identified from 93 referred isolates, 31 (41%) of which are not known to be human pathogens. DNA sequencing prompted change in anti-infective therapy in only 3 (3.5%) cases but significantly delayed culture turnaround time (40 ± 31 vs. 30 ± 13 days, P
A Critique of an Illegal Conduct Limitation on the Reporters' Privilege Not to Testify

Accompanying police is a traditional way for reporters to get colorful stories about crime and law enforcement.(note 1) Police, in turn, have used the opportunity to boost their public image by having journalists witness and publish stories of their deeds.(note 2) Real-life drama television shows, featuring footage of law enforcement officers and other emergency workers on their jobs, are unsurprising extensions of this tradition. Because government agencies do not want an unfavorable appearance of secrecy,(note 3) these shows are able to pressure agencies to permit journalists to tag along.(note 4)
Optical modeling of periodic nanostructures in ultra-thin CdTe solar cells with an electron reflector layer

Abstract CdTe solar cells have become a competitive player in the commercial photovoltaic market competing with CIGS and Si wafers. Considerable research attention has been devoted to increasing the overall conversion efficiency of CdTe which reached 22%. Among the challenges facing this technology is the scarcity of Te. In this paper, we investigated the use of an ultra-thin CdTe layer, which would result in a substantial decrease in Te consumption by almost 90%. However, this substantial decrease in the absorber thickness must be accompanied by some embedded nano-light-trapping structures. The purpose of these nanostructures is to increase the light absorption of the UV-VIS and NIR wavelengths which leads to an increase in the generated photo-current. Also, an electron reflector layer must be added between the metallic contact and the thin absorber layer to mitigate the high recombination rate. Additionally, three different metallic contacts were explored: Au, Ag, and Al. The absorption in the CdTe layer which is responsible for the photo-generated current and the parasitic absorption in the metallic back contact, as well as the short circuit current densities, were determined and analyzed. The numerical Wave optics finite element method and the analytical transmission line theory were utilized. It was noted that these nanostructures showed a substantial increase in the absorption in the CdTe absorber layer in the visible and NIR ranges. A net increase in the short circuit current density of 36% has been realized with the top nano-structured CdTe layer comparing to the flat reference cell of the same absorber volume. Furthermore, the Ag metallic back-contact outperforms both Al and Au and achieved the highest short circuit current density and the lowest parasitic absorption. These findings would open a new route to integrate optimized light trapping nano-structures into the commercial CdTe solar cells to further enhance their material utilization and efficiency.
Technical Measures to Improve Voltage Stability

Power system voltage stability is related to many factors, and different accident mechanisms may lead to voltage collapse accidents with different dynamic characteristics. Therefore, there are variable measures to prevent voltage instability, with different emphasis according to different voltage instability modes.
Obesity adversely affects serum anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in Caucasian women.

Objective Previous studies regarding the effect of obesity on serum anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels have been conflicting. Our aim was to determine the effect of obesity on serum AMH levels among women from different racial backgrounds.
Quantitative Reasoning in Stem

In Chapter 1 we introduced our framework for quantitative reasoning, which includes the components of the act of quantification, quantitative literacy, quantitative interpretation, and quantitative modelling. Here we want to provide specific examples within science contexts of elements of QR within each of these components.
The influence of tidal channels on the distribution of salt marsh plant species in Petaluma Marsh, CA, USA

Tidal channels influence the distribution and composition of salt marsh vegetation in a San Francisco Bay salt marsh. Two channel networks in the Petaluma Marsh, Sonoma County, CA, were mapped and characterized using global positioning and geographic information systems. Plant species abundance was sampled on transects placed perpendicular to and extending away from the channel banks. The vegetation showed significant increases in species richness along channel banks and larger areas of effect which increased approximately linearly with channel size. Composition of species assemblages varies with distance from the channel bank and channel size. These results demonstrate that salt marsh plant assemblages, composed of both major and minor species, are distributed with respect to the channel network in Petaluma Marsh.
Human chromosomal heteromorphisms: nature and clinical significance.

Publisher Summary The heteromorphic chromosomes of the human genome can be classified by size, position, staining intensity, or any combination of these types using various banding techniques, such as QFQ (Q-bands by fluorescence using quinacrine), CBG (C-bands by barium hydroxide using Giemsa), and RFA (R-bands by fluorescence using acridine organe). The classification of different types of heteromorphisms is based on estimation rather than actual measurements. Moreover, variation is continuous rather than discrete. However, several attempts are made to classify them on the basis of arbitrary scales and different codes (levels) are assigned. Chromosomal heteromorphisms found in human chromosomes provide a useful tool for several studies because they are inherited in a Mendelian fashion, are stable, and are presumed to have a low mutation rate. By using heteromorphic markers of chromosome 21, the origin of the extra chromosome in Down syndrome can be determined. Applications of heteromorphisms as markers is in elucidating the chromosomal mechanisms involved in the production of mosaics, in studying chimeras, and in following the fate of transfused or transplanted cells.
Pilot performance during flight simulation with peripherally presented visual signals

The increasing complexity of modern aircraft systems places a substantial information processing load on the pilot. This complexity has created a need for alternative methods of non-obtrusive instrument displays. Recent studies indicate dual, independent systems for focal and peripheral vision. In view of non-conscience processing by the far periphery, it follows that the far peripheral visual field would be a possible location for alternate instrument displays.This report is a culmination of two experiments, involving 48 male pilot trainees, that investigated the effectiveness of 3 types of instrument displays during flight in a GAT-1 simulator. Both experiments showed that there was no decrement in pilot performance during a complex instrument maneuver, involving normal and peripheral displays. Subjects were less prone to deviate from a given compass heading using the peripheral display (P < .001). A secondary task (digit canceling) used to simulate secondary tasks involved in actual flight also did not...
Randomized data allocation in scalable streaming architectures

IP-networked streaming media storage has been increasingly used as a part of many applications. Random placement of data blocks has been proven to be an effective approach to balance heterogeneous workload in multi-disk steaming architectures. However, the main disadvantage of this technique is that statistical variation can still result in short term load imbalances in disk utilization. We propose a packet level randomization (PLR) technique to solve this challenge. We quantify the exact performance trade-off between PLR approach and the traditional block level randomization (BLR) technique through both theoretical analysis and extensive simulation. Our results show that the PLR technique can achieve much better load balancing in scalable streaming architectures by using more memory space.
Fast Parallel Algorithms for Cographs

In this paper we propose a new way of looking at cographs and show how it affords us a fast parallel recognition algorithm. Additionally, should the graph under investigation be a cograph, our algorithm constructs its unique tree representation. Next, given a cograph along with its tree representation we obtain a fast parallel coloring algorithm. Specifically, for a graph G with n vertices and m edges as input, our parallel recognition algorithm runs in O(logn) EREW time using \(O(\frac{{n^2 + mn}}{{\log n}})\) processors. Once the cotree of a cograph is available, our coloring algorithm runs in O(log n) EREW time using \(O(\frac{n}{{\log n}})\) processors.
Decomposition of a bandpass signal and its applications to speech processing

We have developed a novel approach to speech feature extraction based on a modulation model of a band-pass signal. Speech is processed by a bank of band-pass filters. At the output of the band-pass filters the signal is subjected to a log-derivative operation which naturally decomposes the band-pass signal into analytic (called /spl alpha//spl dot/(t)+j/spl alpha//spl dot//spl circ/(t)) and antianalytic (called /spl beta//spl dot/(t)-j/spl beta//spl dot//spl circ/(t)) components. The average instantaneous frequency (AIF) and average log-envelope (ALE) are then extracted as coarse features at the output of each filter. We indicate how further refined features may also be extracted from the analytic and antianalytic components. We then evaluated the feature extraction procedure on the Aurora 2 task where noise corruption is synthetic. For clean training, (compared to the mel-cepstrum front end, with 5 mixture HMM back-end) our AIF/ALE front end achieves an average improvement of 13.97% with set A and 17.92% improvement with set B and -31.72% (negative) 'improvement' with set C. The overall improvement in accuracy rates for clean training is 7.97%. Although the improvements are modest, the novelty of the front-end and its potential for future enhancements are our strengths.
Falling through the cracks: The paradox of post-release services for unaccompanied child migrants

Abstract Immigrant children who enter the United States unaccompanied by a parent or guardian and without legal status are defined by the US legal system as unaccompanied alien children (UAC). Limited data from advocacy organizations has found that UAC are leaving their countries of origin because of threats of violence and privation, but virtually no research examines how they integrate into their communities and families once they settle in the US. Drawing on interview data with UAC and case studies of four programs contracted to provide services for them, this exploratory study explores UAC's unique barriers to integration and the effectiveness of these programs to help them adapt. Findings emphasize the impact of geography and the uneven safety net in immigrant new destinations, such as suburbs and the American southeast. Implications for social work practitioners and policymakers are discussed.
The DSM and the Professional Counseling Identity: Bridging the Gap

Many of the values, assumptions, and philosophies inherent in the DSM diagnostic system conflict with those of the mental health counseling profession.This article describes these conflicts; provides clinical practice suggestions for addressing these issues when using the DSM system; and offers strategies for bridging the divide between mental health counseling's professional identity, and the DSM system of conceptualization.
Organic Donor−π-Acceptor Salts: A New Type of Probe for Monitoring Photopolymerization Processes1

Organic salts consisting of an organic cation, composed of an alkylated pyridinium ion linked to a dimethylamino group by a π-system, and an inorganic anion were incorporated in polymeric networks formed by photopolymerization of dimethacrylates of different size and polarity. The response of the probe's emission to changes in its environment during photopolymerization was determined and compared with the response of 4-(dimethylamino)-4‘-nitrostilbene, a typical charge transfer probe. Emissions in solvents of low viscosity but with different polarities are also reported. A mechanism to explain the probe's response is presented.
Hydrologic and wetland characteristics of a piedmont bottom in South Carolina

A four hectare mixed bottomland hardwood site on Ninety Six Creek in the Piedmont of South Carolina near Ninety Six, SC was studied for two years to characterize wetland traits. The soils were thermic Fluventic or Fluvaquentic Dystrochrepts predominantly Shellbluff series and well drained. Overbank flooding occurred on the average of 4 times per year and 1.5 times during the growing season for a 13 year period. High water table levels during the early growing season were related to rainfall events. A hydrologic model (WATRCOM-2D), soils, water table levels, and GIS techniques were used to estimate the portion of the bottom that met wetland criteria similar to those defined in the 1987 and 1989 federal wetland delineation manuals. Less than one hectare met these criteria. The wetland “status” of the vegetation within the bottom and adjacent slope was not correlated with water table levels, predicted wetland areas, or landforms. Wetland traits of the site were closely related to hydric soil traits within the upper 25 cm of the Chewacla and Chenneby soils and landform characteristics. Wetlands in this bottom were primarily driven by local precipitation and not by overbank flooding as originally suspected. Songbirds and small mammals were relatively abundant in the small bottom during the spring and summer of 1992. Protection of only the jurisdictional wetlands in this bottom would not be adequate to sustain riverine functions (conveyor) and to provide wildlife travel corridors between adjacent forested areas.
Replace the NOAEL and LOAEL with the BMDL01 and BMDL10

Although benchmark-dose methodology has existed for more than 20 years, benchmark doses (BMDs) still have not fully supplanted the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) and lowest-observed-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) as points of departure from the experimental dose–response range for setting acceptable exposure levels of toxic substances. Among the issues involved in replacing the NOAEL (LOAEL) with a BMD are (1) which added risk level(s) above background risk should be targeted as benchmark responses (BMRs), (2) whether to apply the BMD methodology to both carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic toxic effects, and (3) how to model continuous health effects that aren’t observed in a natural risk-based context like dichotomous health effects. This paper addresses these issues and recommends specific BMDs to replace the NOAEL and LOAEL.
A Theoretical and Methodoloical Critique of the Principle of Relative Constancy

This article revisits the theoretical assumptions of the principle of relative constancy (PRC). This principle, or hypothesis, holds that consumers spend a constant fraction of their income on mass media over time (constancy assumption), although they are expected to alter their spending patterns within mass media categories in response to the introduction of new mass media products or services (functional equivalence assumption). But application of demand theory to the PRC reveals that whereas the functional equivalence assumption can be phrased in economic terms, there is no such validation for the constancy assumption. That assumption was found to be inconsistent with the Engel law/curve in that this traditional microeconomic model of consumer choice does not posit, as does the PRC, a proportional relationship between expenditures on mass media and income. Furthermore, the empirical literature reviewed here suggests mixed support for the PRC, casting more doubts on the validity of the PRC as a theoretically grounded, empirically determined hypothesis. The article identifies and discusses five methodological factors that may explain why PRC studies offer conflicting evidence. Finally, it proposes a series of theoretical and methodological recommendations for conducting future research on consumer mass media expenditures.
Lack of association of BRAF mutation with negative prognostic indicators in papillary thyroid carcinoma: the University of California, San Francisco, experience.

Importance Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common endocrine neoplasm. B-type raf kinase (BRAF) V600E mutation has been proposed as a negative prognostic indicator in PTC, and patients harboring it should receive more aggressive initial therapy. Objective To assess the significance ofBRAFV600E mutation in PTC in the largest US sample to date. Design We identified patients from our institution’s pathology archives diagnosed as having PTC and meeting criteria forBRAFmutation testing. Medical records were analyzed forBRAFstatus (positive or negative) and a list of standardized clinicopathologic features. Participants A total of 429 patients with PTC at an academic medical center. Main Outcomes and Measures Clinicopathologic features in patients with PTC with and withoutBRAFmutation. Results Of 429 cases with PTC, 314 (73.2%) were positive for theBRAFmutation and 115 (26.8%) tested negative.BRAFmutation was significantly associated with tumor margin positivity (P = .03) and lymph node metastasis (P = .002) on univariate analysis but not on multivariate study.BRAFmutation was a predictor of male sex (odds ratio [OR], 3.2; 95% CI, 1.4-7.2), total thyroidectomy (OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.1-6.2), and a negative predictor of follicular variant PTC (OR, 0.1; 95% CI, 0.1-0.4). There was no significant association betweenBRAFpositivity and tumor multicentricity, lymphovascular invasion, extranodal extension, central neck involvement, advanced stage (stage III or IV), and distant metastasis. Conclusions and Relevance BRAFV600E mutation has been extensively studied in relation to negative prognostic indicators in PTC, with no consistent relationship emerging. Two recent meta-analyses showed an overall association betweenBRAFstatus and aggressive disease features and called for tailoring treatment plans in patients accordingly. In this, the largest US study to date,BRAFstatus was not significantly associated with most clinicopathologic features suggestive of more aggressive disease.
Dynamic maximum urethral closure pressures measured by high-resolution manometry increase markedly after sling surgery

The premise of midurethral sling (MUS) surgery is to apply a tension-free vaginal tape in the midurethra that does not constrict the urethra at rest but stabilizes the urethra and prevents downward descent and opening of the urethra during stress maneuvers, but current technology has limitations in measuring urethral pressures during dynamic conditions. Our objective was to describe the change in maximum urethral closure pressures (MUCPs) after MUS surgery using an 8F high-resolution manometry (HRM) system that can measure urethral pressures during cough and strain maneuvers (ManoScan® ESO; Covidien) without migration or withdrawal limitations. We measured rest, cough, and strain MUCPs in 26 women before and after retropubic or transobturator MUS for stress urinary incontinence using the HRM system. The objective success rate after MUS was 92.3 % based on postoperative cough stress testing. Mean resting MUCPs measured by HRM did not change after surgery (59.3 before vs. 59.7 cm H2O after surgery; p = 1.0). Mean cough MUCPs measured by HRM increased from 36.9 to 100.7 cm H2O (p < 0.001), and strain MUCPs increased from 35.0 to 92.7 cm H2O (p < 0.001). Advanced HRM technology to measure MUCPs under cough and strain conditions without withdrawal techniques provides new insights into the continence mechanism after tension-free MUS: MUCPs do not change at rest but do increase significantly during cough and strain maneuvers.
Biophysical Studies on Glua2 Ligand-Binding Domain Dimerization in Solution

AMPA receptors (GluAs) are essential neuronal ligand-gated ion channels involved in learning and memory. The dimeric conformation of the GluA2 ligand-binding domain is involved in the coupling of agonist binding to channel gating. The desensitized state conformation has been shown to be disrupted along the dimer interface, however little is known about the dynamic equilibrium of the resting or activated states. A simple dimerization model is solely dependent on protein concentration, while the addition of allosteric modulator shifts the equilibrium of dimerization. By binding to the dimer interface and increasing the interface contacts, allosteric modulators enhance the stability of the dimer. using small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), we screened both protein and allosteric modulator concentrations to develop an equilibrium model for modulator dependent dimerization. Depending on the specific interacting allosteric modulator, the symmetrical dimer interface can be occupied by one or two bound molecules. Both one-site per dimer (R2L) and two-site per dimer (R2L2) models are explored. In addition, dimerization led to characteristic chemical shift changes along the dimer interface as well as the ligand binding pocket. These changes have also been detected on the ligand and support that dimerization modulates the multiple conformational states involved in ligand binding. Our aim is to further understand the mechanism by which the activation process is enhanced by allosteric modulators.
Charge variants in serum and urine hCG

Abstract Background: All serum and urine pregnancy tests sold in the United States are calibrated against the WHO 3rd and 4th International Standards (3rd and 4th I.S.) of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG). These standards have been isolated from pregnancy urine; however, they are used to calibrate, and generate antibodies used in both urine and serum hCG tests. hCG molecules may vary in sialic acid content; this changes the acidity of the molecule. Published studies have shown that these carbohydrate elements may alter recognition of hCG in different serum and urine hCG tests. We investigated the charge variants of hCG in serum and urine samples, and in hCG standards. Methods: Samples were analyzed by preparative isoelectric focusing. Charge variants of hCG were quantitated using the DPC Immulite hCG assay. Results: A difference was observed in the proportion of charge variants in urine and serum samples. There was a significantly higher proportion of more-acidic variants in the urine samples. Conclusions: Urine-derived standards may not be representative of serum hCG and therefore may not be appropriate for calibrating serum assays. Variation among hCG test results when using different immunoassays has been a persistent problem for years. Additional studies are needed to focus on the molecular dissimilarity of urine and serum hCG, as well as other factors, to determine their significance and contribution to the problem of interassay variation when comparing hCG results.
Applications of Correlation Models for Biserial Data

Abstract This article is addressed mainly to applied workers, and is devoted to giving as complete a picture as possible of the techniques and assumptions involved when correlations are estimated from biserial data. The exposition is nontechnical in the sense that mathematical proofs are omitted and numerous examples are given. The related theoretical material is contained mainly in two recent articles by the author [11, 12].
Rotating Cylinder Electrode for Velocity Sensitivity Testing

Abstract Fluid flow can affect the rate of corrosion. The problem has been to determine when this effect occurs in equipment, especially before the equipment is designed. A new velocity sensitivity...
Crystallographic Orientation of the ε → α ′ Martensitic (Athermal) Transformation in a FeMnAlSi Steel

The presence of athermal e- and α-martensite (α′) in the as-cast structure of a Fe-0.08C-1.95Si-15.1Mn-1.4Al-0.017N alloy has been revealed by electron backscattered diffraction analysis. The alloy exhibited two athermal martensitic transformations described by γ → α′ and γ → e → α′. The Shoji–Nishiyama orientation relationship was observed between γ-austenite and e-martensite, while α-martensite nucleated from γ-austenite exhibited a Kurdjumov–Sachs orientation relationship. Six crystallographic variants of α-martensite consisting of three twin-related variant pairs were observed in e-bands. A planar parallelism of {0001}e || {110}α′ and a directional relation of $$ \left\langle {1\bar{1} 1} \right\rangle \alpha ' $$ lying within 1 deg of $$ \left\langle {\bar{1} 2\bar{1} 0} \right\rangle \varepsilon $$ existed for these variants.
Serum Hormonal Changes and Testicular Response to LH during Puberty in Bulls

Concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, androstenedione and prolactin were measured in serum collected at 20 mm intervals during the same 24 h period from bulls 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 or 9 months of age. This experimental design was adopted to allow measurement of endocrine changes due to age, independent of changes in temperature and photoperiod. Testicular tissue from these bulls was incubated in vitro with 0, 5 and 50 ng of LH/ml of media to measure testosterone and androstenedione production. Concentrations of LH in serum and frequency of episodic peaks of LII were greater in 4-monthold bulls than in bulls 1, 5, 7 or 9 months of age. Concentrations of testosterone were greatest at 5 months, 1 month after LH concentrations had increased, whereas concentrations of androstenedione were greatest in 4-month-old bulls. Serum FSH concentrations did not change with age and no episodic peaks were detected. However, prolactin increased in serum from bulls 1-5 months of age whereas frequency of prolactin peaks increased in serum from bulls 1-4 months of age. When averaged over all doses (0, 5, 50 ng LH/ml), testicular tissue from bulls 4, 5 or 7 months of age produced more testosterone than tissue from 1 or 3-month-old bulls. In addition, androstenedione secretion was greater in bulls 1, 3 or 4 months of age than in bulls 5, 7 or 9 months of age. Inclusion of LH in the culture medium stimulated testosterone and androstenedione secretion. However, stimulation of androgen secretion by LH was similar among age groups. Increased frequency of episodic peaks of LH at 4 months of age may be involved in increased testosterone production in 5-month-old bulls.
Two-photon bremsstrahlung in electron-atom collisions☆

Recently there have been several new experiments in two-photon bremsstrahlung in electron-atom collisions which point to the need for inclusion of polarizational or “atomic” bremsstrahlung (PB) in the theory of two-photon emission. Experiments with 9–15 keV electrons in the 90° geometry are found to disagree with the Born approximation but agree well with the nonrelativistic Coulomb theory for higher radiated photon energies. However, there is a significantly higher two-photon rate for lower radiated photon energy. An experiment with 70 keV electrons in the 90° geometry resolves the two order-of-magnitude discrepancy with theory reported in the 1985 experiment at 75 keV, and is in good agreement with the relativistic first Born approximation. On the other hand, while experiments with 70 keV electrons in the ±45° geometry find order-of-magnitude agreement with the first Born approximation for some photon energies, there is a discrepancy with the simple Z2 dependence predicted by the Born approximation. A significant discrepancy with the Born theory is also seen for Fe and Cu when one of the two radiated photons has an energy near the K X-ray energy of the target atom. None of the available calculations include PB effects, which might be expected to lead to photon energy dependent enhancements.
New Insights into the Structural Mechanisms of the COPII Coat

In eukaryotes, coat protein complex II (COPII) proteins are involved in transporting cargo proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi apparatus. The COPII proteins, Sar1, Sec23/24, and Sec13/31 polymerize into a coat that gathers cargo proteins into a coated vesicle. Structures have been recently solved of individual COPII proteins, COPII proteins in complex with cargo, and higher-order COPII coat assemblies. In this review, we will summarize the latest developments in COPII structure and discuss how these structures shed light on the functional mechanisms of the COPII coat.
Estimation of cyanobacterial pigments in a freshwater lake using OCM satellite data

Abstract Cyanobacteria represent a major harmful algal group in fresh to brackish water environments. Lac des Allemands, a freshwater lake of 49 km2 southwest of New Orleans, Louisiana on the upper end of the Barataria Estuary, provides a natural laboratory for remote characterization of cyanobacterial blooms because of their seasonal occurrence. The Oceansat-1 satellite Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) provides measurements similar to SeaWiFS but with higher spatial resolution, and this work is the first attempt to use OCM measurements to quantify cyanobacterial pigments. The satellite signal was first vicariously calibrated using SeaWiFS as a reference, and then corrected to remove the atmospheric effects using a customized atmospheric correction procedure. Then, empirical inversion algorithms were developed to convert the OCM remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) at bands 4 and 5 (centered at 510.6 and 556.4 nm, respectively) to concentrations of phycocyanin (PC), the primary cyanobacterial pigment. A holistic approach was used to minimize the influence of other optically active constituents on the PC algorithm. Similarly, empirical algorithms to estimate chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentrations were developed using OCM bands 5 and 6 (centered at 556.4 and 669 nm, respectively). The best PC algorithm (R2 = 0.7450, p
Flow stress of OFE copper at strain rates from 10−3 to 104s−1: Grain-size effects and comparison to the mechanical threshold stress model

Abstract The results of electromagnetically launched expanding-ring experiments and conventional compression tests with 10- to 200-μm-grain-sized oxygen-free electronic (OFE) copper are reported and analyzed in terms of the mechanical threshold stress (MTS) model. The activation energy for slip and the strain-rate pre-exponential are taken from the literature, but other model parameters are derived from the present data. We find that the work hardening, dσ/dϵ, varies significantly with the strain rate but is independent of the grain size. This implies that the grain-size dependence, which is well described by a Hall-Petch relationship, must be assigned to the structure independent, or “athernal,” component of the MTS description of the flow stress. The model parameters associated with dynamic recovery are critical to the description of the high-temperature, high-strain-rate ring data, and we find values slightly different from those in the literature. Overall, however, the MTS model provides an excellent description of the material behavior over a wide range of grain size, strain rate, and temperature. In particular, it successfully reproduces the interplay between temperature and strain rate that occurs during ring expansion.
Instrumentation for monitoring energy usage in buildings at Twin Rivers

Abstract The measurement systems used at Twin Rivers for determining energy usage are described. These include a weather station, three different systems for the measurement of temperatures and energy-related events in a house, automated devices to measure the air infiltration rate, and infrared thermography. Each of these systems played a role in assessing the actual usage of energy in individual buildings, in identifying the factors that determine energy consumption, and in checking the accuracy of theoretical models for predicting the energy performance of dwellings.
Keratinocyte Gene Therapy

Background: Gene therapy is currently being used in clinical trials to treat a variety of diseases. In keratinocyte gene therapy, the gene that will correct the disease by expressing the normal protein or enzyme is inserted and expressed in keratinocytes. Keratinocytes have significant potential, as a target cell of gene therapy, in the treatment of both systemic diseases as well as skin diseases caused by a genetic defect in keratinocytes. Observations: Although keratinocyte gene therapy is not yet being tested in clinical trials, animal models do exist where keratinocytes are being used to secrete factors such as human growth hormone and factor IX (for hemophilia) into the systemic circulation. Genetic diseases of the skin such as recessive epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica or xeroderma pigmentosum have not yet been treated with keratinocyte gene therapy in animal models. Conclusions: Keratinocytes have many advantages as a target cell in gene therapy, and progress has been made using animal models. However, the sustained and efficient delivery of factors to the bloodstream by keratinocytes expressing a transgene has not yet been accomplished. Future goals are to obtain adequate levels of the desired factors, hormones, or enzymes for sustained periods of time, either in keratinocytes or in the vascular system. ( Arch Dermatol. 1993;129:1478-1483)
Airborne Virus Survivability During Long-Term Sampling Using a Non-Viable Andersen Cascade Impactor in an Environmental Chamber

In order to evaluate the survivability of airborne viruses and the sampling performance of an eight-stage non-viable Andersen impactor in typical indoor environments featuring low viral aerosol concentrations, aerosols of a male-specific bacteriophage (MS2), human adenovirus type 1 (HAdV-1), and avian influenza virus (AIV) were sampled size-selectively using the impactor in an environmental chamber. Live virus titer, total virus RNA or DNA concentration, and intensity of a fluorescein tracer were measured to calculate relative virus recovery and virus survival. Viral aerosols were first sampled for 1 and 6 h at 25°C and 50% relative humidity (RH). Virus inactivation and plate overloading were found to be significant in the impactor. Viral aerosols were then sampled at different temperature and humidity levels. MS2 and AIV showed higher survival at lower temperature. Absolute humidity (AH) was found to be a better predictor of virus survival than RH, and the interaction between AH and temperature was not s...
Dissenting participation: unofficial politics in the 2007 Saharawi General Congress

Despite its constitutional assertion that the Polisario Front is the sole political voice of the Saharawi, the Saharawi state-in-exile (SADR) witnessed an expansion in political participation apart from official channels prior to the 2007 Polisario General Popular Congress. This report explores a key example of this phenomenon: the rise in prominence of one militant nationalist organisation in the Saharawi refugee camps, Khat as-Shahid. In the run-up to the 2007 Congress, growing debate among Saharawis about government reform and a possible return to war with Morocco brought camp residents into the public sphere through alternative channels to governmental mass-based organisations. Through a discussion of the political climate in the refugee camps during the Congress, this report considers the impacts of unofficial politics on the Polisario movement.
Carbon and oxygen isotope zoning around Carlin-type gold deposits: a reconnaissance survey at Twin Creeks, Nevada

Abstract This study was undertaken to determine whether wallrocks around the Twin Creeks Carlin-type gold deposits exhibit oxygen isotope haloes similar to those found around other types of hydrothermal deposits. Mineralization at Twin Creeks is hosted by Ordovician Sequence shales containing some carbonate minerals and by Pennsylvanian–Permian Etchart Formation limestone. Analysis of orthophosphate-soluble carbonate from these rocks shows that oxygen isotope haloes are detectable in Ordovician Sequence shales but not in Etchart Formation limestone. The soluble fraction of Ordovician Sequence shales at Twin Creeks has δ18O values of 12 to 24‰ and δ13C values of 0 to −10‰. Most samples fall along a poorly defined trend that extends from δ18O of about 24‰ and δ13C values of about 0, which are typical of unaltered limestones, toward lower values for both isotope systems, which are typical of rocks that have undergone alteration by hydrothermal fluids. Plots of these values along two sections through the ore body show that δ18O values of wallrocks are lowest in the ore zone and increase outward, forming a halo several hundred meters in size. In the same plots, δ13C values of the wallrocks do not show systematic spatial variations. The soluble fraction of Etchart Formation limestones at Twin Creeks have δ18O values of 25 to 5‰ and δ13C values of 4 to −10‰, but do not show any systematic spatial variation relative to mineralization at the scale of our samples. Failure of the Etchart Formation samples to show detectable haloes is probably related to deposition of post-ore carbonate minerals or lower ore fluid : rock ratios. Material balance calculations used to model the isotopic composition of average Ordovician Sequence shales indicate that changes in temperature and water : rock ratio were probably not sufficient to account for the wide range of isotope compositions observed in these rocks. The most likely additional factor contributing to this range of values was a change in the composition of the altering fluid, probably by mixing of the ore fluid with surrounding meteoric water. These results suggest that Carlin-type gold deposits are surrounded by haloes of low δ18O values, but that detection of these haloes could be complicated by local compositional variations and post-ore modification of the wallrocks.
Metabolomics-based discovery of diagnostic biomarkers for onchocerciasis.

Background Development of robust, sensitive, and reproducible diagnostic tests for understanding the epidemiology of neglected tropical diseases is an integral aspect of the success of worldwide control and elimination programs. In the treatment of onchocerciasis, clinical diagnostics that can function in an elimination scenario are non-existent and desperately needed. Due to its sensitivity and quantitative reproducibility, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based metabolomics is a powerful approach to this problem.
Lithium-ion batteries for stationary energy storage

The use of Li-ion batteries for stationary energy storage systems to complement the renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power has recently attracted great interest. Currently available Li-ion battery electrode materials suitable for such stationary applications have been discussed, along with optimum cathode and anode combinations, limitations, and future research directions.