cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonic Measurement of Formability in Thin Ferritic Steel Sheet

The formability of rolled sheet metal is strongly influenced by the texture of the polycrystalline metal. For steel sheet, it is desirable to have high drawability to make automobile body parts, etc. In addition, material homogeneity is desired; that is, material cut from different parts of a rolled sheet should have the same plastic deformation when subjected to deep drawing.
Satellite Images in Raster Graphics: A New Methodology

We introduce a new methodology: line-to-line-conformal mapping, which applies raster graphics to reproduce digitized satellite images. We discuss five different phases: 1) receiving images, 2) clipping images in the area of interest, 3) correcting distortions, 4) projecting images into different geometries, and 5) transmitting images to screen. We present an algorithm to map a satellite image scanline to a curve which is represented as a chain code of directions; provide a complete solution for reconstructing multiple images in real-time; and pose some new problems.
Aldosterone Exposure Causes Increased Retinal Edema and Severe Retinopathy Following Laser-Induced Retinal Vein Occlusion in Mice

Purpose To determine the effects of aldosterone exposure on retinal edema and retinopathy in a mouse model of retinal vein occlusion (RVO). Methods RVO was induced immediately following intravenous injection of Rose bengal (66 mg/kg) using a 532-nm wavelength laser to place three to seven applications at 80 mW and 50-μm spot size directed at the superior retinal vein one disc diameter away from the nerve. Negative control consisted of placing an equal number of laser spots without targeting the vein. Male and female C57BL/6J mice aged 7 to 9 months with confirmed absence of Crb1rd8 were used. Aldosterone pellets releasing a daily dose of 0.83 μg/day were implanted subcutaneously 4 weeks prior to RVO. Retinal imaging by optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed using a Micron IV rodent imaging system. Retinas were analyzed by immunohistochemistry using standard techniques. Retinal imaging and tissue analysis were performed 2, 4, and 7 days following RVO. Comparisons were made using Student's t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson's χ2. Results RVO caused retinal edema in the form of cystic spaces and retinal thickening detectable by both OCT and histology. RVO also caused Muller glia (MG) dysfunction manifest as upregulated glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and altered localization of aquaporin 4 (AQP4) and Kir4.1. Treatment with aldosterone caused a significant increase in retinal edema and more severe retinopathy manifest as retinal whitening and extensive intraretinal hemorrhage. MG dysfunction was more severe and persistent in aldosterone-treated mice. Finally, aldosterone greatly increased the number of infiltrating mononuclear phagocytes following RVO. Conclusions Systemic aldosterone exposure causes a more severe RVO phenotype manifest as increased severity and duration of retinal edema and more severe retinopathy. The effects of aldosterone may be mediated by MG dysfunction and increased infiltration of mononuclear phagocytes. This suggests that small increases in aldosterone levels may be a risk factor for severe RVO.
Using patients’ and oncologists’ voices to shape a communication skills trial.

e18161Background: Goals of Care (GoC) discussions, while emotionally and practically challenging for advanced cancer patients and their oncologists, can help clarify patient values and ease decisio...
Reaction pathways for HCN on transition metal surfaces.

The adsorption and decomposition of HCN on the Pd(111) and Ru(001) surfaces have been studied with reflection absorption infrared spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations. The results are compared to earlier studies of HCN adsorption on the Pt(111) and Cu(100) surfaces. In all cases the initial adsorption at low temperatures gives rise to a ν(C–H) stretch peak at ∼3300 cm−1, which is very close to the gas phase value indicating that the triple CN bond is retained for the adsorbed molecule. When the Pd(111) surface is heated to room temperature, the HCN is converted to the aminocarbyne species, CNH2, which was also observed on the Pt(111) surface. DFT calculations confirm the high stability of CNH2 on Pd(111), and suggest a bi-molecular mechanism for its formation. When HCN on Cu(100) is heated, it desorbs without reaction. In contrast, no stable intermediates are detected on Ru(001) as the surface is heated, indicating that HCN decomposes completely to atomic species.
The cost of smoking in California, 1993

The aim of the study was to develop estimates of the economic impact of smoking in each of California’s 58 counties. Estimates are presented in 1993 dollars. Three measures of the economic impact of smoking were estimated. Direct cost represents the amount spent on hospital admissions, physician services, nursinghome care, medications, and other services used due to smoking- related illness. Morbidity cost is the value of lost productivity resulting from smoking-related loss of work days and days not spent in other productive activity. Mortality loss results from premature death due to smoking-related illness and represents the value of productivity loss. The methodology for estimating cost involved three steps. First the smoking attributable fraction (SAF), that is, the proportion of cases or deaths that results from smoking, was estimated for each region of California for each smoking related disease. Second, the SAF was applied to the number of deaths, days lost from work or productive activity (disability), or health care expenditures. Finally, smoking related deaths or disability were valued using the human capital approach. The total cost of smoking in California was estimated to be $10.0 billion, amounting to $314 per Californian and $2014 per smoker.
Effect of HF Pressure on Thermal Al2O3 Atomic Layer Etch Rates and Al2O3 Fluorination

Thermal Al2O3 atomic layer etching (ALE) can be accomplished using sequential fluorination and ligand-exchange reactions. HF can be employed as the fluorination reactant, and Al(CH3)3 can be utilized as the metal precursor for ligand exchange. This study explored the effect of HF pressure on the Al2O3 etch rates and Al2O3 fluorination. Different HF pressures ranging from 0.07 to 9.0 Torr were employed for Al2O3 fluorination. Using ex situ spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) measurements, the Al2O3 etch rates increased with HF pressures and then leveled out at the highest HF pressures. Al2O3 etch rates of 0.6, 1.6, 2.0, 2.4, and 2.5 A/cycle were obtained at 300 °C for HF pressures of 0.17, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0, and 8.0 Torr, respectively. The thicknesses of the corresponding fluoride layers were also measured using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Assuming an Al2OF4 layer on the Al2O3 surface, the fluoride thicknesses increased with HF pressures and reached saturation values at the highest HF pressures. Fluori...
Tri-methoxy benzylidene substituted 1, 3-dihydro-indol-2-one analogs as anti-proliferative and anti-microtubule agents

3438 Compounds that contain 2-indolinone moieties have been reported to exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. We have recently reported an indoline 2-one containing compound [3-(3-Hydroxy-benzylidene)-6-methoxy-1, 3-dihydro-indol-2-one (OSU 111)] with anti-proliferative, anti-mitotic, apoptosis inducing activities. It displayed potent cytotoxicity with IC50 = 0.5-0.9 μM against human hormone- independent prostate and breast carcinoma cell lines. The inhibition of proliferation correlated with in vitro tubulin polymerization inhibiting activity and cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase of prostate carcinoma cells. The compound was identified to be a colchicine site binder on tubulin. In our continuing research for potent anti-tumor 2-indolinone agents, a series of di- and tri-methoxy benzylidene substituted 1, 3-dihydro-indol-2-one analogs were synthesized. Several tri-methoxy benzylidene substituted analogs exhibited anti-proliferative activity with IC50 values in low nanomolar range against hormone- independent prostate cancer cells. Structures, synthesis, biological activities and modeling studies of the tri-methoxy benzylidene substituted 1, 3-dihydro-indol-2-one analogs will be presented.
Clinicopathological characteristics of surgically treated localized renal masses in patients previously exposed to chemotherapy.

ABSTRACT Purpose: To explore the potential association between renal mass characteristics and a history of chemotherapy. Materials and methods: A retrospective review of records of patients surgically treated for a localized renal mass between 2000 and 2012 was undertaken following an institutional review board approval. Patients age and sex, renal mass clinical characteristics (radiological size and mode of presentation) and pathological characteristics (diagnosis, renal cell carcinoma subtype, Fuhrman grade and stage) were compared between patients with and without a history of chemotherapy, using Fisher's exact test, Student's t-test and Wilcoxon rank sum test. A multivariate logistic analysis was performed to evaluate the independent association of chemotherapy and tumor pathology. Results: Of the 1,038 eligible patients, 33 (3%) had a history of chemotherapy. The distribution of clinical stage, renal mass diagnosis, renal cell carcinoma subtype, Fuhrman grade, pathological stage, sex and median age were similar between the general population and the chemotherapy group. However, the latter had a higher rate of incidental presentation (P = 0.003) and a significantly smaller median radiological tumor size (P = 0.01). In a subset analysis of T1a renal cell carcinoma, the chemotherapy group presented an increased rate of high Fuhrman grade (P = 0.03). On multivariate analysis adjusted for radiological tumor size, sex and age the chemotherapy cohort had a 3.92 higher odds for high Fuhrman grade. Conclusion: Patients with a history of chemotherapy typically present with smaller renal masses that, if malignant, have higher odds of harboring a high Fuhrman grade and thus may not be suitable for active surveillance.
Socio-Economic and Clinical Factors Are Associated with In-Hospital Mortality in Patients Admitted for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.

Clinical, pathologic, and molecular predictors of prognosis and survival in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) are well-described. Factors associated with differences in in-hospital mortality for patients admitted with a diagnosis of DLBCL, however, are less well understood. The objectives of this study were to assess the demographic and socio-economic factors associated with death in patients hospitalized with DLBCL. Data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project for patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of DLBCL during the years 2001 through 2002 were analyzed. Simple and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify patient and admission characteristics associated with in-hospital mortality. 12,296 admissions and 1504 in-hospital deaths (12.2%) were included in our sample. In unadjusted analyses, patient's age, insurance status, and co-morbid conditions in addition to the hospital type (rural versus urban versus teaching), urgency of admission, and source of admission were all significantly associated with in-hospital mortality (p Selected Data and Association with In-Hospital Mortality Adjusted OR 95% C.I. Adjusted OR 95% C.I. Age (p=0.020) Insurance (p=0.001) 18-35 Ref. Private Ref. 36–45 1.05 0.65–1.70 Medicare 0.78 0.62–0.98 46–55 1.35 0.88–2.07 Medicaid 0.89 0.63–1.26 56–65 1.57 1.04–2.38 Self-pay 1.10 0.71–1.71 66–75 1.94 1.25–3.02 No charge 1.18 0.32–4.33 76–85 1.81 1.15–2.84 Other 2.03 1.32–3.12 >85 2.05 1.23–3.40 Race (p=0.067) Zip Code Median Income (p=0.334) White Ref. $1–24,999 Ref. Black 1.22 0.93–1.61 $25,000–34,999 1.09 0.76–1.63 Hispanic 0.89 0.64–1.23 $35,000–44,999 1.26 0.87–1.84 Asian/Pacific Islander 1.23 0.65–2.42 >$45,000 1.09 0.87–1.34 Native American 4.21 1.40–12.73 Other 0.83 0.48–1.44
Clonal hematopoiesis in human aging and disease

As people age, their tissues accumulate an increasing number of somatic mutations. Although most of these mutations are of little or no functional consequence, a mutation may arise that confers a fitness advantage on a cell. When this process happens in the hematopoietic system, a substantial proportion of circulating blood cells may derive from a single mutated stem cell. This outgrowth, called "clonal hematopoiesis," is highly prevalent in the elderly population. Here we discuss recent advances in our knowledge of clonal hematopoiesis, its relationship to malignancies, its link to nonmalignant diseases of aging, and its potential impact on immune function. Clonal hematopoiesis provides a glimpse into the process of mutation and selection that likely occurs in all somatic tissues.
Using TheraBracelet as an Adjunct to Pediatric Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy in Cerebral Palsy

Date Presented 04/05/19 Primary Author and Speaker: Turki Aljuhani Additional Authors and Speakers: Amanda Vatinno Contributing Authors: Alison Fluharty, Catilyn Taylor, Eli Schuster, V. Ramakrishnan, Patty Coker-Bolt, Na Jin Seo
Counseling alone or in combination with nicotine replacement therapy for treatment of black non-daily smokers: a randomized trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS One-third of US tobacco users are non-daily smokers (NDS). Black NDS have strikingly high levels of nicotine and carcinogen exposure. No smoking cessation studies have been conducted with this high-risk group. This study compared the effectiveness in black NDS of smoking cessation counseling alone or in combination with the participant's choice of nicotine replacement therapy. DESIGN Two-arm parallel-group individually randomized clinical trial (allocation ratio of 2 : 1 intervention to control) SETTING: Academic medical and federally qualified health centers in three US cities. PARTICIPANTS Non-Hispanic black adult NDS receiving counseling with nicotine replacement therapy (C + NRT, n = 185) or counseling alone (C, n = 93). INTERVENTIONS Twelve weeks of in-person and telephone smoking cessation counseling in combination with nicotine replacement therapy (NRT; C + NRT) or counseling alone (C). All participants received five sessions of counseling; those randomized to C + NRT received their choice of nicotine gum, patch and/or lozenge after a 9-day product trial period. The target quit day was set at 2 weeks post-baseline for both groups. MEASUREMENTS Primary outcome was biochemically verified 30-day abstinence at week 12. Secondary outcomes were change in nicotine and carcinogen exposure [4-(methynitrosamino)-1-(3) pyridyle-1-butanol; NNAL] and tobacco consumption patterns. FINDINGS Abstinence was 11.4% in C + NRT and 8.6% in C [odds ratio (OR) = 1.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.6, 3.2, P = 0.48]. Both groups experienced significant reduction in NNAL (C + NRT: 53% reduction, C: 50% reduction, within-group P < 0.0001) but non-significant changes in cotinine (P = 0.69). C + NRT reported more days abstinent (P < 0.001) and fewer total cigarettes (P = 0.002) compared with C. There was no evidence of compensation with other tobacco products. CONCLUSIONS Among black non-daily smokers in the United States, there was no difference in abstinence between nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and counseling alone. NRT led to greater increase in days abstinent and reduction in cigarettes, with no evidence of compensation from other sources of nicotine.
Rapid Probe Engagement and Withdrawal With Force Minimization in Atomic Force Microscopy: A Learning-Based Online-Searching Approach

In this article, the problem of rapid probe engagement and withdrawal in atomic force microscopy (AFM) is addressed. Probe engagement and withdrawal is needed in almost all AFM operations, ranging from imaging to nanomanipulation. However, due to the highly nonlinear force–distance relation, large probe–sample interaction force can be induced during the probe engagement and withdrawal process, resulting in sample deformation and damage and measurement errors. Rapid probe engagement and withdrawal is needed to achieve high-speed AFM operations, particularly, to capture and interrogate dynamic evolutions of the sample. We propose an online-searching-based optimization approach to minimize both the engagement (and withdrawal) time and the interaction force. The force–displacement profile of the probe is partitioned and then optimized sequentially, by immersing optimal trajectory design and iterative learning control into the Fibonacci search process. The proposed approach is illustrated through experimental implementations on two different types of polymer species, a polydimethylsiloxane sample, and a dental silicone sample, respectively.
Walzer’s Soldiers: Gender and the Rights of Combatants

In Just and Unjust Wars, Michael Walzer defends the conventional theory of discrimination in war: Combatants are legitimate targets of deliberate attack and noncombatants are not. Most commentators have focused on the argument in defense of this position that appeals to liability to attack. But the focus on the liability argument fails to appreciate the full picture of Walzer’s view of the combatant/noncombatant distinction. A more expansive view of Walzer’s approach reveals a more sophisticated theory of discrimination. This alternative theory has a number of strengths. However, the theory presupposes a particular view of the social role of the military and soldiers which Walzer sums up with Napoleon’s quip, “soldiers are made to be killed.” In other words, a soldier’s singular social purpose is to engage in self-sacrificial violence for the state. This is ultimately why it is permissible to deliberately target them in war. This view of soldiers and the military has been endorsed for centuries. However, many theorists struggle to defend it by appeal to standard liberal principles. Instead, theorists such as Grotius, Hobbes, Pufendorf, and Vattel appeal directly to gender norms, particularly the norms of masculinity, to defend it. This essay shows that Walzer’s theory of discrimination has not been purged of these gender-based presumptions and argues that doing so will require endorsing a much more restrictive theory of discrimination.
A Case Study of Lessons Learned from a Decade of Success in Preparing and Supporting Quality School Leadership Through District–University Partnerships:

The purpose of this case study was to explore the context and key features of a successful decade-long district and university principal preparation program. Despite the importance of such partners...
Experimental Study on Electrochemical Softening for Cooling Circulating Water in Converter Station

In this study, the electrochemical softening method was used to treat the simulated drainage of the converter station, and the treatment effect under different water inlet conditions was investigated. The results show that the hardness removal rate is from 10% to 80% when the residence time is from 0.5h to 4h, and the longer the residence time is, the higher the removal rate is. The maximum scale removal capacity reached 2.67g/h/m2 when residence time was 1h. Through the formula fitting of several groups of tests, it is concluded that the removal effect can be expressed by the formula C0/C=0.9627e(17.73at/V) under different water intake (residence time).
Rigorous evaluation of a substance use and teen pregnancy prevention program for American Indian girls and their female caregivers: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Background Early sexual initiation is associated with higher risk for sexually transmitted infection, teen pregnancy, domestic violence and substance use in later adolescence and early adulthood. Native American adolescents are more likely to have early sexual initiation compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Few programs designed with and for Native adolescents to delay sexual initiation and substance use have been tested through rigorous evaluations. This is the protocol for the randomized controlled trial of the Asdzaan Be'eena' program, a teen pregnancy and substance use prevention program for young Native girls and their female caregivers. Methods N = 410 female adolescents ages 10-14 and their female caregivers will be enrolled in the study and randomized to the intervention or control arm. The intervention consists of the 11-session Asdzaan Be'eena' program. The control arm consists of mailed non-monetary incentives. All participants will complete evaluations at baseline and 3 follow-up timepoints (immediate, 6 and 12 months post intervention). Evaluations include measures to assess protective factors associated with delayed sexual initiation and substance use. Discussion This is one of the first rigorous evaluations of a gender-specific, culturally tailored teen pregnancy and substance use primary prevention program for Native girls and their female caregivers. If proven efficacious, Native communities will have a culturally appropriate program for promoting protective factors associated with delayed substance use and sexual risk taking. Trial registration NCT04863729 ; April 27, 2021.
Experimental analysis of supercritical-assisted atomization

Supercritical CO2 is used in supercritical-assisted atomization (SAA) systems to promote the atomization of nanoparticle suspensions in powder generation in pharmaceutical, electronics, and coating applications. Due to the sensitivity of the mixture properties to the operational conditions, the SAA process is not fully resolved to date. This study experimentally investigates the underlying mechanisms behind SAA utilizing CO2 or N2 as the assisted-atomization fluid (CO2-A or N2-A) using high-speed imaging and laser diffraction techniques. The effects of injection temperature, pressure, and gas-to-liquid ratio (GLR) are explored, and empirical droplet size models are developed. It is found that the primary breakup of CO2-A is governed by the emergence of the near-nozzle gas bubbles originated from the dissolved CO2, which expand radially and squeeze the liquid due to the inertial forces. As a result, the edges of the liquid core become thinner and deform into relatively long ligaments that further break up into droplets. CO2-A exhibited a shorter liquid length, wider spray angle, and smaller droplet size compared to N2-A. The discrepancies observed in the breakup process are mainly attributed to the higher solubility of CO2 in water and lower surface tension of the CO2–water system. The smallest droplet size distribution and the narrowest droplet size distribution are detected for CO2-A injected at the critical pressure of the CO2–water binary system where the solubility of CO2 in water significantly rises. Linear instability analysis indicates that both shear and acceleration that indirectly incorporate the experimentally observed bubble expansion are the main factors driving the instabilities.
Tax Reform, Company Value, and Biden Proposals

Federal income tax legislative reforms impact both investors and companies. It is prudent to understand these legislative effects before the next round of tax legislation. This article examines whether announcements regarding the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) affected the value of publicly traded companies. The authors use a multiple-date event study methodology to analyze whether abnormal returns were present for companies in the S&P 500 Index after various announcements of the TCJA’s passage by the US Congress. Results on many of the event dates provide support that the TCJA had a positive impact on company value. They also analyze differences among companies based on dividend practices, multinationality, revenue growth, and effective tax rates. Their findings provide valuable insight as US companies and investors prepare for the possibility of corporate tax changes from the Biden administration. TOPICS:Quantitative methods, statistical methods, legal/regulatory/public policy, performance measurement Key Findings ▪ Positive and significant cumulative abnormal returns indicate that investors considered the impact of the TCJA to be beneficial for the value of the average S&P 500 company. ▪ Dividend-paying companies, domestic companies, and companies with high effective tax rates fared better than their counterparts as the TCJA made its way through Congress. ▪ These findings can help investors and companies navigate the tax legislation proposals of the Biden administration.
Altruism: Giving and Receiving Help

The people in this situation were faced with an option to help someone in distress, and they did not choose to offer aid. This is a dramatic example of a situation that people face every day. An encounter with a beggar on the street, a request to give blood, or a call from a friend who is lonely or depressed—each is a situation in which someone can do something to benefit someone else. Such activity may be termed positive social action. Such acts as donating money or goods to charity, cooperating with others in carrying out a project, and doing favors for a person in need are typical examples of positive social action. Behavior of this kind may be contrasted with antisocial action, such behavior as aggression, destruction, and selfishness. Some theorists use the term prosocial behavior to stress the contrast with antisocial behavior. Other theorists prefer to use the term altruism, to emphasize the element of selflessness that exists in many helping situations. Altruism is action that benefits other people and is carried out with no expectation of external reward. Whatever words are used and with whatever emphasis, however, such action is worth investigating because it is deemed morally admirable and also contributes to the survival of society (Poplawski, 1985). Most people admire the individual who makes sacrifices so that others may benefit, and probably everyone agrees that society would be better off if everyone were less self-centered.
TRMM LIS Climatology of Thunderstorm Occurrence and Conditional Lightning Flash Rates

AbstractThe Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) on the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite has previously been used to build climatologies of mean lightning flash rate across the global tropics and subtropics. This new work explores climatologies of thunderstorm occurrence as seen by LIS and the conditional mean flash rates when thunderstorms do occur. The region where thunderstorms are seen most often by LIS extends slightly farther east in central Africa than the corresponding region with the highest total mean annual flash rates. Presumably this reflects a difference between more frequent thunderstorm initiation in the east and upscale growth as storms move westward. There are some differences between locations with the greatest total lightning flash counts and those where thunderstorms occur most often. The greatest conditional mean flash rates—considering only those TRMM orbits that do have lightning in a given grid box—are found in subtropical regions. The highest values are in Argentina...
Unit initial public offerings

Abstract Units are bundles of common stock and warrants. By selling initial public offerings (IPOs) of units, firms precommit to sell more stock in the future at the warrant's exercise price. Sequential offerings of this type reduce the agency costs of giving management a potential free cash flow at the IPO. Consistent with this theory, firms that choose unit IPOs are smaller, have less income and assets in relation to their IPO proceeds, and are less likely to survive than firms that issue shares.
On Toyota's Misstep in Advertising Its Land Cruiser SUV in Beijing

Abstract Multinational corporations' attempt to combine advertising creativity with local cultures is examined in the case of Toyota's 2004 Land Cruiser SUV advertising campaign in Beijing. Within a sociolinguistic framework, the paper identifies characteristics of a multinational corporation's advertising mistakes that distorted Chinese consumers' sociolinguistic system. We encourage multinational corporations to recognize the important role of socio-linguistic systems indigenous to targeted consumers in international markets. The challenge to global marketing researchers is to engage in bicultural and bilingual ethnographic studies outside the Western cultural dominance so that greater understanding of international marketing behaviors can be sustained.
Morphology of High Redshift Galaxies with HST

The identification of the population of primeval galaxies, namely the first galaxies to form stars in the Universe, is essential to provide the much needed observational underpinning to modern theories of galaxy formation and evolution. Despite decades of intensive search, primeval galaxies have not been identified and, thus, the epoch and the early physics of galaxy formation are still substantially unknown.
Addendum to: A new numerical method for obtaining gluon distribution functions G(x,Q2)=xg(x,Q2), from the proton structure function \(F_{2}^{\gamma p}(x,Q^{2})\)

An exact expression for the leading-order (LO) gluon distribution function G(x,Q2)=xg(x,Q2) from the DGLAP evolution equation for the proton structure function \(F_{2}^{\gamma p}(x,Q^{2})\) for deep inelastic γ*p scattering has recently been obtained (Block et al., Phys. Rev. D 79:014031, 2009) for massless quarks, using Laplace transformation techniques. Here, we develop a fast and accurate numerical inverse Laplace transformation algorithm, required to invert the Laplace transforms needed to evaluate G(x,Q2), and compare it to the exact solution. We obtain accuracies of less than 1 part in 1000 over the entire x and Q2 spectrum. Since no analytic Laplace inversion is possible for next-to-leading order (NLO) and higher orders, this numerical algorithm will enable one to obtain accurate NLO (and NNLO) gluon distributions, using only experimental measurements of \(F_{2}^{\gamma p}(x,Q^{2})\) .
Thermal modeling and analysis of a quasi-poloidal stellarator modular coil

A computer model of the Racetrack coil of a quasi-poloidal stellarator is used to investigate thermal transient behavior when pulsed with high-ampere currents to generate magnetic field. The analysis was carried out to determine hotspots and collect temperature data in the process. The rate of cooling under natural convective boundary conditions is determined. Also fluid cooling using liquid nitrogen is investigated. The optimal design location of the cooling lines in the Racetrack is confirmed. Experiments have also been carried out to determine the property data for the copper-glass-epoxy composite conductor coil, which is used in the computational analysis.
Pharmaceutical applications of ion mobility spectrometry

The applications of ion mobility methods (e.g., ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), differential mobility spectrometry (DMS), and field asymmetric waveform IMS (FAIMS)) to quality assurance and process monitoring by the pharmaceutical industry have been burgeoning. Specifically, the uses of IMS and FAIMS for cleaning verification of manufacturing equipment, direct analysis of formulations, and maintenance of worker health and safety can help save money and increase overall efficiency of production. We review ion mobility methods currently employed in pharmaceutical companies and research that could further these methods.
Mitochondrial rejuvenation after induced pluripotency.

Background As stem cells of the early embryo mature and differentiate into all tissues, the mitochondrial complement undergoes dramatic functional improvement. Mitochondrial activity is low to minimize generation of DNA-damaging reactive oxygen species during pre-implantation development and increases following implantation and differentiation to meet higher metabolic demands. It has recently been reported that when the stem cell type known as induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs) are re-differentiated for several weeks in vitro, the mitochondrial complement progressively re-acquires properties approximating input fibroblasts, suggesting that despite the observation that IPSC conversion “resets” some parameters of cellular aging such as telomere length, it may have little impact on other age-affected cellular systems such as mitochondria in IPSC-derived cells. Methodology/Principal Findings We have examined the properties of mitochondria in two fibroblast lines, corresponding IPSCs, and fibroblasts re-derived from IPSCs using biochemical methods and electron microscopy, and found a dramatic improvement in the quality and function of the mitochondrial complement of the re-derived fibroblasts compared to input fibroblasts. This observation likely stems from two aspects of our experimental design: 1) that the input cell lines used were of advanced cellular age and contained an inefficient mitochondrial complement, and 2) the re-derived fibroblasts were produced using an extensive differentiation regimen that may more closely mimic the degree of growth and maturation found in a developing mammal. Conclusions/Significance These results — coupled with earlier data from our laboratory — suggest that IPSC conversion not only resets the “biological clock”, but can also rejuvenate the energetic capacity of derived cells.
New insights in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by skin barrier defects and increased interleukin (IL)-4/IL-13 expression. Recent evidence also suggests the involvement of innate immunity including Toll-like receptors, IL-33, IL-25, and innate lymphoid cells in the pathogenesis of AD. This article reviews these innate immune components and how they may become an integral part of prognostic factors and therapeutic targets in the treatment of AD.
Chlorophyll Destruction in Lemon Fruit by Light and 2′,4’Dichloro 1-Cyanoethane-sulphonanilide

Chlorophyll content decreased when excised lemon fruits were exposed to light. A quantitative model for the photodestruction of chlorophyll exhibited reasonable agreement with data on in vivo destruction of chlorophyll. Photodestruction of chlorophyll was enhanced by treating fruit with 2′,4′-dichloro-l-cyanoethane-sulphonanilide (R33417). Measurable enhancement of chlorophyll destruction was observed with concentrations of R33417 as low as 10 μg/l. Maximum activity was achieved at approximately 600 μg/1. R33417 treatment enhanced photodestruction of chlorophyll to a greater extent at higher photon flux densities.
Shear band propagation from a crack tip

Results are reported for pressure-shear plate impact experiments designed to study the competition between dynamic shear fracture and dynamic shear band formation for a crack subjected to plane wave loading in Mode III. Experiments showing the propagation of a shear band ahead of the main crack are analyzed by using methods developed previously by others for the diffraction of an elastic shear wave by a semi-infinite crack. Based on measured, room-temperature flow stresses, the predicted speed of propagation of the tip of the band is found to be substantially less than that corresponding to the measured extension of the shear band in the experiments. Possible reasons for differences between predicted and measured shear band speeds are discussed. Reduced shearing resistance in the shear band, presumably due to thermal softening, is viewed as the likely explanation for the relatively long shear bands observed.
Trichoblastic carcinoma: a report of two cases of a deeply infiltrative trichoblastic neoplasm

Background. Trichoblastoma is a benign neoplasm with primitive hair follicle differentiation. The tumor is characterized by nests and cords of epithelial cells in an organized relationship with stroma. Some of the epithelial cells resemble follicular germ and other cells show follicular sheath differentiation. The neoplasm is symmetrical and well circumscribed. In addition, cytologic examination shows no atypia. Concept of its malignant counterpart is poorly understood. Objective. We report two trichoblastic neoplasms that show histologic features of malignancy. Methods. Skin biopsies from the lip region of a 53-year-old female and a 74-year-old male who had presented with the neoplasms in that location for several years were reviewed. Excised specimens measured 2 × 1 × 1 cm and 1.6 × 0.7 × 0.8 cm respectively. Results. The histologic sections revealed locally aggressive neoplasms showing prominent differentiation towards hair germ and follicular sheath with formation of papillary mesenchymal bodies, follicular bulb-like structures, small keratin cysts and rare malformed hair shaft. The neoplasm showed asymmetry of architecture and massive subcutaneous and muscular infiltration. Conclusion. With demonstration of these two cases and references of few other reported cases we raise the possibility of existence of trichoblastic carcinoma that is distinct from basal cell carcinoma.
The selective toxicity of medications used in the treatment of AIDS on the CEM human leukemic CD4+ T-cell line.

ABSTRACTEleven medications used in the treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus or subsequent opportunistic infections were tested to determine their toxicity to the growth of the CEM line of transformed CD4+ T-cells. A selectivity ratio (IC50/EC50) for each agent against its target pathogen was calculated as an in vitro indication of the therapeutic value of that agent. Among the anti-HIV agents tested in this study, 2′,3′-dideoxyinosine (ddI) had the highest in vitro selectivity ratio, 2.5 times higher than that of 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine (AZT). Dapsone had the highest selectivity ratio of the four agents used in the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia that were tested. Ketoconazole had a very low selectivity ratio for Candida spp. due to its very high toxicity to CD4+T-cells.
Retrogradational Shelf Sequence--Upper Cretaceous (Campanian-Maestrichtian) Cape Sebastian Sandstone, Southwestern Oregon: ABSTRACT

In the tectonically active Circum-Pacific belt, thick retrogradational ("transgressive") sequences are not uncommon, in contrast with the Cretaceous of the Western Interior. Retrogradational sediment packages reflect rapid sedimentation rates but even more rapid rates of relative sea-level rise. A well-exposed and convincingly documented example is the Cape Sebastian Sandstone, a 250-m-thick, fining-upward sequence representing foreshore to offshore accumulation. Progressively increasing depth of deposition is reflected in both physical and biogenic sedimentary structures in the Cape Sebastian Sandstone. The basal, shelly boulder conglomerate is overlain by trough-cross-bedded pebbly sandstones, plane-laminated coarse-grained sandstones, and graded conglomerates. A single, subvertical trace-fossil type is locally abundant. These sediments represent foreshore to nearshore depositional environments. The middle and bulk of the formation comprises hummocky cross-stratified sandstones. Grain size, frequency of pebble lenses, and thickness of hummocky laminae decrease upward. Burrowed zones, diversity of burrows, plane-laminated zones, plant debris, and oscillation-ripple preservation increase upward. These sediments reflect storm-influenced, inner-shelf sedimentation. The uppermost part of the formation consists of alternating laminated, fine-grained sandstones and progressively thicker, burrowed sandy siltstones. Increased trace-fossil size and diversity, as well as abundant plant debris, characterize these sediments, which represent an outer-shelf sedimentary environment. Modern examples of the described structures have been observed off the Oregon and California coasts, corroborating the hypothesis that the Cape Sebastian Sandstone represents a retrogradational shelf sequence. Also, evidence for Late Cretaceous faulting in southwestern Oregon supports the proposition that thick, retrogradational sequences may be deposited in tectonically active regions. End_of_Article - Last_Page 422------------
Dinuclear tungsten and molybdenum complexes with fulvalene ligands: Assignment of their 1H and 13C NMR spectra by one‐dimensional heteronuclear noe difference spectroscopy

One-dimensional heteronuclear NOE difference spectroscopy was used to assign 1H and 13C NMR spectra of dinuclear fulvalene complexes with tungsten and molybdenum. It was found that metal-metal bonded complexes show 1H chemical shifts which are the inverse of those in non-metal—metal bonded complexes, whereas the relative 13C chemical shifts are not affected by the metal—metal bond.
Tuberculosis recurrence in Africa: true relapse or re-infection?

HIV-seropositive patients respond to rifampicin-containing anti tuberculosis (TB) regimens as well as HIV-seronegative patients. In Nairobi Kenya 90% of HIV-positive patients who suffered a recurrence of TB first received a non-rifampicin-containing regimen. The overall unadjusted recurrence rate for HIV-positive patients was 16.7% while it was .5% for HIV-seronegative patients. An earlier similar study in Zaire also showed a higher recurrence rate in HIV positive patients. A study in the US found a low recurrence rate among HIV-positive patients on rifampicin-containing regimens. A possible explanation for the higher recurrence rates may be that the thiacetazone-containing regimen is not as potent as the rifampicin containing regimen. Another possible explanation may be that no one knows the optimum duration of therapy for HIV-infected patients. 70% of HIV-positive patients in nairobi who suffered a recurrence of TB experienced a cutaneous-hypersensitivity reaction resulting in a change in therapy and maybe affecting compliance. The researchers of the Nairobi study used DNA fingerprinting to determine whether the patients truly relapsed or were reinfected (cultures were available from only 3 HIV-positive patients). 1 patient was reinfected by a different strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. 4 of 17 AIDS patients in New York City were reinfected with a different multidrug resistant strain of M. tuberculosis. Reinfection is more likely to happen in sub-Saharan Africa where TB an HIV are very prevalent. Physicians cannot accurately determine a treatment regimen in HIV-infected patients in an area of high prevalence of TB. Thus we need to determine reinfection rates in HIV infected patients to plan a response.
Invited Commentary: A Challenge for Physical Activity Epidemiology

Numerous epidemiologic studies report an inverse association between increasing levels of regular physical activity and reductions in major morbidity and mortality. Clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of specific amounts of regular physical activity, yet the majority of US adults do not meet these recommended levels. There are comparatively less data on nonexercise, or lifestyle, physical activity that may occur throughout the day in an unstructured setting with variable duration and frequency. In this issue (Am J Epidemiol 2007;165:1343-1350), both regular exercise and other forms of nonexercise physical activity are examined in relation to total and cause-specific mortality in Chinese women. This work illustrates several important issues in physical activity epidemiology regarding the identification, measurement, and analysis of nonexercise components of physical activity. Unlike semiquantitative food frequency questionnaires for studies of individual foods and nutrients, physical activity epidemiology lacks a prevailing measurement tool and analytical technique by which to examine nonexercise physical activity. Our challenge is therefore to more accurately and consistently measure these more subtle components of nonexercise physical activity to better understand its potential clinical effects and role in disease prevention.
Practical synthesis of biaryl colchicinoids containing 3′,4′-catechol ether-based A-rings via Suzuki cross-coupling with ligandless palladium in water☆

Abstract Eight new biaryl colchicinoids containing 3′,4′-methylene or benzodioxy ether bridges were synthesized. The key synthetic step employed a ligandless, aqueous Suzuki cross-coupling reaction catalyzed by Pd(OAc)2 with tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) and potassium carbonate (K2CO3). The biaryl Suzuki products were typically formed in 5–30 min and always in less than 1 h.
The criminal justice system and its impact on Latinas(OS) in the United States

Hispanics are disproportionately represented in numbers of arrests, numbers of convictions and by numbers of inmates in correctional institutions. They fail to receive appropriate support services while incarcerated and as a result have one of the highest recidivism rates among any ethnic groups. Homer F. Broome Jr., National Hispanic Conference on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice.
Blacks, Jews and the racial imagination in the writings of Sephardim in the long seventeenth century ∗

This essay explores facets of the Sephardic racial imagination. Early Modern Catholic Iberian discourse generally scorned Jews and linked them, implicitly and sometimes explicitly, with denigrated Africans, or Blacks. Marginalized and often persecuted, conversos and Sephardim of the sixteenth through the eighteenth century resorted to hegemonic discourse about Blacks to construct their own identity. Central to Sephardic discourse about Blacks was its redemptive logic. In both Iberian Catholic and northwest-European Protestant colonial spheres, conversos and Sephardim sought through anti-Blackness to identity themselves (and hopefully for others to identify them) as members of the dominant White culture and ruling class, their religious otherness aside.
Donor levels and impurity-atom relaxation in nitrogen- and phosphorus-doped diamond

New fabrication techniques have generated interest in the use of impurity-doped diamond as an active material in electronic devices. In this paper we study the properties of the n-type impurities nitrogen and phosphorus in diamond, using a first-principles cluster approach based on the local-density approximation. We determine impurity-donor-level positions of 0.75 and 1.09 eV, respectively, for C:N and C:P, measured relative to the bottom of the conduction band. We also study the energetics of impurity-atom relaxation along the 〈111〉 direction in the diamond lattice. While experimental observations indicate a trigonal distortion about the impurity site, we find the on-center position for both impurity atoms to be stable against simple off-center relaxation.