cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Radiographic and clinical outcomes of silicate-substituted calcium phosphate (SiCaP) bone grafts in spinal fusion: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract Pseudarthrosis continues to affect a nontrivial proportion of spine fusion patients. Given its ties to poorer patient outcomes and high reoperation rates, there remains great interest in interventions aimed at reducing the rates of nonunion. Recently, silicate-substituted calcium phosphate (SiCaP) bone grafts have been suggested to improve fusion rates, yet there exists no systematic review of the body of evidence for SiCaP grafts. Here, we present the first such review along with a meta-analysis of the effect of SiCaP bone grafts on fusion rates. Using the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, we queried the English-language literature for all studies examining the effect of SiCaPs on spinal fusion. Primary endpoints were: 1) radiographic fusion rate at last follow-up and 2) postoperative improvements in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at last follow-up. Meta-analyses were performed for each endpoint using random effects. Ten articles (694 patients treated with SiCaP bone grafts) were included. Among SiCaP-treated patients, 93% achieved radiographic fusion (range: 79–100%), with comparable rates across subgroups. Meta-analysis of the three randomized controlled trials demonstrated no difference in fusion rates between SiCaP-treated patients and patients receiving grafts with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) (OR: 1.11; p = 0.83). Patients treated with SiCaP bone grafts experienced significant improvements in VAS back pain (-3.3 points), VAS leg pain (-4.8 points), and ODI (-31.6 points) by last follow-up (p
Dick Francis (1920–2010), 1962: Dead Cert

Unlike many of his crime writer colleagues, Dick Francis’ series develops not around a common detective but around a common theme, namely the world of horse-racing. In his forty-plus racing thrillers, he focuses on various elements of the world of horse-racing. These novels combine Francis’ in-depth familiarity from his experiences as a champion jump jockey with thorough research into the specialty explored in each novel. Three of his novels, Blood Sport (1967), In the Frame (1976) and Twice Shy (1981), were adapted to film in 1989, by Deirdre Friel and Harvey Hart.
A Rare Case of Uterine Torsion in a Nongravid Uterus: A Case Report and Literature Review

Background: Uterine torsion in a nongravid uterus is an extremely rare gynecologic emergency. Diagnosis is crucial as any delay could potentially lead to severe implications on future fertility or ...
Hif1α is required for Wnt regulated gene expression during Xenopus tropicalis tail regeneration

Regeneration of complex tissues is initiated by an injury-induced stress response, eventually leading to activation of developmental signaling pathways, such as Wnt signaling. How early injury cues are interpreted and coupled to activation of these developmental signals and their targets is not well understood. Here, we show that Hif1α, a stress induced transcription factor, is required for tail regeneration in Xenopus tropicalis. We find that Hif1α is required for regeneration of differentiated axial tissues, including axons and muscle. Using RNA-sequencing, we find that Hif1α and Wnt converge on a broad set of genes required for posterior specification and differentiation, including the posterior hox genes. We further show that Hif1α is required for transcription via a Wnt-responsive element, a function that is conserved in both regeneration and early neural patterning. Our findings indicate a regulatory role for Hif1α in Wnt mediated gene expression across multiple tissue contexts.
Tasselyzer, a machine learning method to quantify anther extrusion in maize, based on PlantCV

Summary Male fertility in maize is controlled by development and genetic programming and is directly impacted by environmental factors such as light, temperature, water, and nutrient availability; the control of this trait has substantial agronomic utility. Maize anthers emerge from male florets, which are clustered to form the tassel at the top of the plant separated from the female ear. Quantification of anther extrusion is one important aspect in the determination of male fertility. To address the lack of an automated method to measure anther extrusion on a large scale, we developed ‘Tasselyzer’, a quantitative, image-based color trait analysis pipeline for tassel image segmentation, based on the existing PlantCV platform, and we applied it to determine the proportion of anther extrusion. We evaluated Tasselyzer in maize during the seven-day period of pollen shedding as well as in the temperature-sensitive male sterile mutant dcl5. With tassel images obtained with a smart phone camera, we show that the anther scores positively correlate with anther extrusion, and such methods can be used to measure environmental impacts on the dcl5 mutant. Altogether, this work establishes an automated and inexpensive method to quantify anther extrusion in maize, which would be useful for research and breeding. Significance Statement Tasselyzer is a novel image-based segmentation tool, to address the lack of an automated method to measure anther extrusion, and the impact of genetic and environment variation on male fertility in maize.
Transplantation and Arch Repair in Fontan 3 Years after HeartMate 3: Technical Considerations

We previously reported the first successful implantation of the Heartmate 3TM in a Fontan patient. We now report his successful transplantation after 1,104 days of support, the longest reported bridge to transplantation of a Fontan patient. We describe our operative technique complicated by not only the Fontan anatomy and ventricular assist device (VAD) explanation but also a >10cm ascending and aortic arch aneurysm. Additionally, the post-transplant hemodynamics of this patient appear to demonstrate that effective VAD support may induce reversal of chronic effects of the failing Fontan circulation, which in this case was the elimination of his aorto-pulmonary collateral burden.
Analysis and mitigation of interactions between PFC converters and the AC source

Converter-source interaction is a common phenomenon in power electronic systems and can lead to deteriorated performance or even system instability. Experimental results are first presented in this paper to demonstrate that such interactions also exist in AC systems involving single-phase PFC converters and can lead to significantly increased harmonic distortion. Mathematical models and experimental measurement techniques are then presented for the prediction and analysis of such interactions. A mitigation method based on damping of the PFC converter input filter is also presented. Emphasis of the work is applications in future airborne power systems where undesirable converter-source interactions are likely to occur due to limited system capacities and the use of large number of PFC converters
The greatest defender of truth shall remain in the eye of a poet

It has been created within the larger realm culture , in that " Black methodology differs from mostcolonial differences by members of a minority community who reside within a nation of cultural biases ."
When a clear strong voice was needed: A retrospective review of Watson's (1924/1930) behaviorism

Despite the attention given John B. Watson during the century since he introduced behaviorism, there remain questions about what he really contributed. He is still appropriately criticized for his arrogant self-promotion and especially for his perceived emphasis on a simple S-R reflexology. However, we argue that the former was necessary at the time and that criticism of Watson on the second count only diverts attention from the genuine contributions that he did make. In support of these contentions we examine several aspects of his contributions that warrant clarification, namely, his promotion of applied comparative psychology, his views on the nature of mind, his originality, criticism from and respect afforded by contemporaries, his relation to recent interest in "the embodiment of mind," his treatment of thinking, and his appreciation of Freud's work. We organize our discussion around specific chapters of the two editions of Behaviorism, but in support of our arguments we include publications of Watson that are less well known. Those works develop some important points that are only briefly treated in both editions of Behaviorism.
Charge‐Carrier Mobility Requirements for Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells with High Fill Factor and External Quantum Efficiency >90%

To increase the efficiency of bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells beyond 15%, 300 nm thick devices with 0.8 fill factor (FF) and external quantum efficiency (EQE) >90% are likely needed. This work demonstrates that numerical device simulators are a powerful tool for investigating charge-carrier transport in BHJ devices and are useful for rapidly determining what semiconductor pro­perties are needed to reach these performance milestones. The electron and hole mobility in a BHJ must be ≈10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1 in order to attain a 0.8 FF in a 300 nm thick device with the recombination rate constant of poly(3-hexyl­thiophene):[6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM). Thus, the hole mobility of donor polymers needs to increase from ≈10−4 to ≈10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1 in order to significantly improve device performance. Furthermore, the charge-carrier mobility required for high FF is directly proportional to the BHJ recombination rate constant, which demonstrates that decreasing the recombination rate constant could dramatically improve the efficiency of optically thick devices. These findings suggest that researchers should prioritize improving charge-carrier mobility when synthesizing new materials for BHJ solar cells and highlight that they should aim to understand what factors affect the recombination rate constant in these devices.
Experimental study of interfacial area transport in air–water two phase flow in a scaled 8 × 8 BWR rod bundle

Abstract In order to accurately predict nuclear reactor behavior, the ability to predict the transfer of mass, momentum and energy between the phases in two-phase flows, whether in the Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV) or steam generator, is essential. A significant component of this prediction is the area available for transfer per unit volume, called the interfacial area concentration. Current thermal-hydraulic system analysis code predictions use empirical models to predict the interfacial area concentration; however accuracy and reliability can be improved through the use of an Interfacial Area Transport Equation (IATE). The IATE requires rigorously developed models for sources and sinks due to bubble interactions or phase change and an extensive database to validate those models. To provide this database, experiments using electrical conductivity probes to measure the interfacial area concentration at several axial positions have been performed in an 8 × 8 rod bundle which was carefully scaled from an actual BWR rod bundle.
The equivalency of computerized and conventional MMPI administration: A critical review☆☆☆

Abstract Research that has examined computer versus conventional administration of the MMPI is evaluated in light of the criteria necessary to establish that two test formats are parallel. It is concluded that studies have not adequately demonstrated that computer administration meets these criteria, and it is premature to assume that the two formats yield equivalent scores. Methodological problems in past research and directions for future research are discussed.
Carbonaceous meteorites: source or substrate for life's origin on Earth?

Carbonaceous meteorites are relics of ancient parent bodies from the time of formation of our solar system, approximately 4.5 billion years ago. They provide the best direct evidence for the organic inventory of the solar system prior to the evolution of habitable conditions for life on Earth and/or Mars and are often speculated as being a possible source of the organic matter from which life eventually emerged. Whether the residual organic matter in carbonaceous meteorites was derived in part from ancient extraterrestrial organisms or was entirely prebiotic in origin remains the topic of lively debate. Clearly, however, impact histories during the early stages of planet development logically point to some type of involvement of this material with respect to life's proliferation, either as a source or substrate. The compositions of CI and CM cabonaceous meteorites are assessed with respect to these two alternative scenarios.
A supply-side approach to energy policy

Abstract Existing energy policy proposals are approached from a demand-side perspective to solve the immediate problem of meeting existing demands defined by existing technologies. However, a constructive forward-looking policy requires a supply-side perspective. The purview of energy policy is ultimately the efficient allocation of our scarce supply of available energy for ‘exergy’. The authors outline a proposal for efficient exergy management. This supply-side orientation is based upon basic thermodynamic principles, thus offering a foundation for formation of consistent criteria for policy-oriented decision making.
Fiber-Optic Strain Gauge Calibration and Dynamic Flexibility Transfer Function Identification in Magnetic Bearings

Historical attempts to measure forces in magnetic bearings (MBs) have experienced limited success as a result of relatively high uncertainties. Recent advances in strain-gauge technology have provided a new method for measuring MB forces. Fiberoptic strain gauges (FOSGs) are roughly 100 times more sensitive than conventional strain gauges and are not affected by electromagnetic interference. At the Texas A&M University (TAMU) Turbomachinery Laboratory, installing FOSGs in MBs has produced force measurements with low uncertainties. Dynamic flexibility transfer functions (DFTFs) exhibiting noticeable gyroscopic coupling have been identified and compared with finite element predictions. Comparison has verified the effectiveness of using MBs as calibrated exciters in rotordynamic testing. Many applications including opportunities for testing unexplained rotordynamic phenomena are now feasible.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
The test‐retest reliability and stability of the WAIS‐R in a sample of mentally retarded adults

. Fifty mentally retarded adults were administered the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) on two separate occasions, with the mean amount of time between testings being 2 years, 8 months. The data were examined in an effort to study the test-retest reliability and stability of the WAIS-R with the mentally retarded. Based on correlational, t-value and percentage of scale score change information, the authors concluded that the WAIS-R IQs appeared to possess good test-retest reliability and stability over an approximate 2–5 year period for the present sample of mentally retarded adults.
Hadamard matrices of Williamson type

Let p be a prime ≡ 1 (mod 4) and put v = p(p + 1)/2. It is proved in this paper that there exist four symmetric circulant matrices A, B, C, D of order υ such that where Iv is the identity matrix of order υ. This result is used to construct Hadamard matrices of order 4υ that are of the type originally prescribed by Williamson.
On the nature of M 28 V7.

It has recently been suggested that V7 in NGC 6626 (M28) may be one of the few known cataclysmic variables in a globular cluster. The authors have obtained the spectrum of the object, and find it instead to be near type M5 III, and thus probably a normal Mira variable. However, if V7 is indeed a member of the cluster (which is far from certain), then it proves to be very interesting for an entirely different reason: it would represent the first high-amplitude Mira variable in a moderately metal-poor cluster.
Metabolism of carbon-14-labeled benzene and tolueue in avocado fruit.

The method of exposing avocado fruit to /sup 14/C labeled benzene or toluene was as follows. Fuerte variety avocado fruit was used. It was exposed to the vapor of the hydrocarbons which were circulated in a container. Three mature preclimacteric fruit were used in each experiment. The nonvolatile metabolites from both hydrocarbons were separated into classes of compounds by their solution in water, separation of lipids, and passage of the aqueous solution through ion exchange columns. The results indicate that in avocados the relatively inert hydrocarbons benzene and toluene are metabolized to a series of compounds, toluene to a greater extent than benzene. Both are metabolized to a small but significant extent to CO/sub 2/. 7 references, 2 tables.
Case studies and generalization in information systems research: A critical realist perspective

Abstract The status of case study research as a legitimate scientific method in IS research is often challenged by the view that case findings are not readily generalizable. Positivist and interpretivist perspectives have typically dominated discussions of this important methodological issue. I provide an alternative perspective by presenting a critical realist view of generalizing from case findings. I show that critical realism represents a very different view than either positivism or interpretivism. Critical realism recognizes the role of case study research in empirical generalization, theoretical generalization, and theory testing. In contrast, the role of case study research in empirical generalization and theory testing is either ignored or neglected by interpretivism and positivism. Embracing critical realism would therefore enable researchers to more fully explore the potential for case finding generalization.
Oxygen isotope exchange in a two-layer model of oceanic crust

Abstract A numerical model is presented for the transport and exchange of oxygen isotopes in an idealized two-layer oceanic crust (basalt-carbonate) that is saturated with a non-advecting pore fluid open to the overlying ocean. The model allows for time-varying sedimentation rate, porosity, chemical diffusivity, and temperature-dependent 18O fractionation factors. Reaction is modeled as solution-precipitation of calcite in the carbonate sediment and as modified solution-precipitation (basalt dissolves, smectite precipitates) in the basalt layer. Generic models, using input parameters that are typical of those measured in DSDP-ODP cores, and constant sedimentation rates, illustrate the behavior of the system sufficiently well to allow first-order effects to be discerned that have important implications for paleotemperature and ocean floor weathering studies. The solution-precipitation reactions allow oxygen to be exchanged between the low-δ18O basalt layer and the high-δ18O carbonate sediment through the medium of the pore fluids. This results in δ18O increasing upwards in the basalt and decreasing downwards in the sediment. Pore fluid δ18O values decrease with depth from zero to values of −1 to −3‰ at the basalt-sediment interface, and to values of −7 to −15‰ within the basalt. Because reaction rates are slow relative to diffusion in the pore fluid, high-frequency δ18O variations in the solid are preserved indefinitely, but the amplitude of the variations decreases as e−Rt where R is the reaction rate (fraction reacted per unit time). The results suggest that the diagenetic shifts of the δ18O values of benthic and high-latitude planktonic foraminifera samples younger than Oligocene age are typically negligible. For samples older than 50 Ma, diagenetic effects are typically significant, and generally cause estimates of bottom and high-latitude surface ocean temperatures in the Cretaceous and early Tertiary to be too high. On the other hand, the model suggests that diagenesis will shift the δ18O values of low-latitude planktonic foraminifera to higher values, and that paleotemperature estimates of low-latitude surface waters, particularly in the Eocene and Oligocene, may be too low. Using a synthetic δ18O record for DSDP Site 167, we demonstrate how numerical models can be used to correct specific measured records for diagenesis. This approach could provide a means of extracting paleotemperature information from heavily altered Late Cretaceous and older samples, and for quantifying the subtle effects of diagenesis on the δ18O record at all sites.
Hydrogen peroxide production in marine bathing waters: Implications for fecal indicator bacteria mortality

Abstract Hydrogen peroxide concentrations [H 2 O 2 ] have been measured over the last two decades in multiple studies in surface waters in coastal, estuarine and oceanic systems. Diurnal cycles consistent with a photochemical production process have frequently being observed, with [H 2 O 2 ] increasing by two orders of magnitude over the course of the day, from low nM levels in the early morning to 10 2 nM in late afternoon. Production rates range from −1 for near-shore coastal and estuarine environments. Slow night-time loss rates ( −1 ) have been attributed to biological and particle mediated processes. Diurnal cycles have also frequently been observed in fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) levels in surf zone waters monitored for microbial water quality. Measured peak peroxide concentrations in surface coastal seawaters are too low to directly cause FIB mortality based on laboratory studies, but likely contribute to oxidative stress and diurnal cycling. Peroxide levels in the surf zone may be increased by additional peroxide production mechanisms such as deposition, sediments and stressed marine biota, further enhancing impacts on FIB in marine bathing waters.
Adenosquamous carcinoma in Barrett's esophagus presenting as pseudoachalasia

A case of pseudoachalasia resulting from adenosquamous carcinoma arising from the mucous epithelium of a Barrett's esophagus is presented. This case represents an unusual combination of Barrett's esophagus giving rise to an esophageal carcinoma with squamous as well as glandular features, rather than the usual adenocarcinoma and pseudoachalasia.
Privacy Preserving Portable Health Record (P^3HR)

Personal health records (PHRs) offer significant potential to stimulate transformational changes in health care delivery and self-care by patients. There is a gap between today’s personal health records (PHRs) and what patients say they want and need from this electronic tool for managing their health information. Current barriers to PHR adoption among patients include cost, concerns that information is not protected or private, inconvenience, design shortcomings, and the inability to share information across organizations. We propose a novel architecture to bridge the gap based on Privacy Preserving Portable Health Record(P3HR), a device that incorporates a smart card into a USB flash drive which provides encrypted flash memory for secure mobile data storage. The salient features of the proposed Privacy Preserving Portable Health Record (P3HR) include: strong multifactor authentication using biometrics, public key infrastructure to verify the credentials of the applicants, SSL based authentication protocol suite for authorization and secure online updates, local backup to store patient data which ensures that the patient will have access to data in case of P3HR theft, lost device, hardware failure, software failure or a Computer virus.
Monetary and central banking problems of mini states

Abstract This paper surveys the economic raisons d'etre for a central bak in a mini state. The economic characteristics of a mini state are shown to be such that monetary policy is more circumscribed than in the conventional open economy model. In view of the inherent ineffectiveness of monetary policy and the need to hold substantial foreign exchange reserves, the paper considers whether the mini state should: (a) enact a currency cover requirement; (b) adopt the currency of a major country as legal tender; or (c) join a monetary union, as well as whether central banking functions should be incorporated within the finance ministry.
Atomistic Modeling of Metal-Nanotube Contacts

The scaling-down of devices to the atomistic scale lets them operate close to their ballistic limit. At these dimensions the resistance of the entire system is dominated by the contacts. In this paper we describe a simulation tool by which the metal-nanotube heterostructure is modeled atomistically in its entirety, so that contact properties and the associated contact resistances can be explored for different contact materials. We show results for a self-consistently calculated current-voltage (I-V) for an armchair tube with its open ends contacted to gold-[111] surface.
Comparison and integration of optical and quadpolarization radar imagery for land cover/use delineation

With the recent increase in the availability of multiple polarization radar data, the need to assess the relative usefulness of these data for land cover/use classification and other applications is important and is the premise of this study. The primary methodology employed is spectral signature extraction and use of Transformed Divergence (TD) separability measures to evaluate the relative utility of multiple radar bands and polarizations (Shuttle Imaging Radar-C), optical imagery (Landsat Thematic Mapper) and texture derived information for a study site in Bangladesh. Variance texture measures at a 7x7 window size are used in an evaluation of improving the overall separability among classes. SIR-C L-band provided slightly better results than C-band but no single polarization provided consistently higher TD values. Texture greatly improved separability for all SIR-C bands but did not assist TM separability. This study also indicated the value of combining TM and SIR-C and particularly the TM original data and SIR-C texture.
Dynamical criticality during induction of anesthesia in human ECoG recordings

In this work we analyze electro-corticography (ECoG) recordings in human sub- jects as they are anesthetized. We hypothesize that the decrease in responsiveness that defines anesthesia induction is concomitant with the stabilization of neuronal dynamics. To test this hypothesis, we performed a moving vector autoregressive analysis and quantified stability of neuronal dynamics using eigenmode decompo- sition of the autoregressive matrices, independently fitted to short sliding temporal windows. Consistent with the hypothesis we show that while the subject is awake, many modes of oscillations of neuronal activity are found at the edge of instabil- ity, but as the subject becomes anesthetized the fitted dynamics becomes more damped. Analysis of eigenmode distributions in the awake and anesthetized brain revealed statistically significant stabilization not present in surrogate data. Sta- bility analysis thus offer a novel way of quantifying changes in neuronal activity that characterize loss of consciousness induced by general anesthetics. Specifically, our analysis suggests that the effect of the anesthetic procedure is to damp out high frequency activity while still allowing for low frequency modes to perform a function.
Physical and particle flow modeling of jointed rock block behavior under uniaxial loading

Abstract Laboratory experiments and numerical simulations, using Particle Flow Code (PFC3D ), were performed to study the behavior of jointed blocks of model material under uniaxial loading. The effect of joint geometry parameters on the uniaxial compressive strength of jointed blocks was investigated and this paper presents the results of the experiments and numerical simulations. The fracture tensor component in a given direction is used to quantify the combined directional effect of joint geometry parameters including joint density, orientation and size distributions, and the number of joint sets. The variation of the uniaxial compressive strength of the jointed blocks of the model material with the fracture tensor component was investigated. Both the laboratory experiments and the numerical simulations showed that the uniaxial block strength decreases in a nonlinear manner with increasing values of the fracture tensor component. It was observed that joint geometry configuration controls the mode of failure of the jointed blocks and three modes of failure were identified, namely (a) tensile splitting through the intact material, (b) failure by sliding along the joint plane and/or by displacement normal to the joint plane and, (c) mixed mode failure involving both the failure mechanisms in (a) and (b). It has also been shown that with careful parameter calibration procedures, PFC3D could be used to model the strength behavior of jointed blocks of rock.
Biomass and carbon storage of the North American deciduous forest

Field measures of tree and shrub dimensions were used with established biomass equations in a stratified, two-stage cluster sampling design to estimate above-ground ovendry woody biomass and carbon storage of the eastern deciduous forest of North America. Biomass averaged 8.1 ± 1.4 (95% C.I.) kg/m2 and totaled 18.1 ± 3.1 (95% C.I.) gigatons. Carbon storage averaged 3.6 ± 0.6 (95% C.I.) kg/m2 and totaled 8.1 ± 1.4 (95% C.I.) gigatons. These values are lower than previous estimates commonly used in the analysis of the global carbon budget which range from 17.1 to 23.1 kg/m2 for biomass and 7.7 to 10.4 kg/m2 for carbon storage. These new estimates for the deciduous forest, together with earlier work in the boreal forest begin to reveal a pattern of overestimation of global carbon storage by vegetation in analyses of the global carbon budget. We discuss reasons for the differences between the new and earlier estimates, as well as implications for our understanding of the global carbon cycle.
Multicoil Telemetry System for Compensation of Coil Misalignment Effects in Implantable Systems

Inductive coupling-based wireless power transfer (WPT) is commonly used for near-field power and data transfer to implanted electronics. Some implanted coils undergo relative motion during device operation causing variation in magnetic coupling from their normal position. To ensure stable power transfer efficiency and frequency bandwidth, these WPT systems should have high tolerance with coupling variation. In this letter, a multicoil-based WPT system is utilized to achieve high tolerance for system power transfer efficiency and data bandwidth. It is demonstrated that a multicoil WPT system can reduce variation by half in power transfer efficiency (PTE) and by one third in frequency bandwidth compared to a two-coil WPT system with the same dimensions and operating conditions.
Identification of an active ID-like group of SINEs in the mouse.

The mouse genome consists of five known families of SINEs: B1, B2, B4/RSINE, ID, and MIR. Using RT-PCR we identified a germ-line transcript that demonstrates 92.7% sequence identity to ID (excluding primer sequence), yet a BLAST search identified numerous matches of 100% sequence identity. We analyzed four of these elements for their presence in orthologous genes in strains and subspecies of M. musculus as well as other species of Mus using a PCR-based assay. All four analyzed elements were either identified only in M. musculus or exclusively in both M. musculus and M. domesticus indicative of recent integrations. In conjunction with the identification of transcripts, we present an active ID-like group of elements that is not derived from the proposed BC1 master gene of ID elements. A BLAST of the rat genome indicated that these elements were not in the rat. Therefore, this family of SINEs has recently evolved, and since thus far has mainly been observed in M. musculus, we then refer to this family as MMIDL.
Improving diagnostic pathology capacity for global cancer care: where to start.

In this issue of the Journal , Dayal and colleagues1 report their findings on benign uterine tumors removed from women in north India. The study they conducted was straightforward: determine the type and incidence of a set of tumors from one geographic area at one point in time. As an observational study, it was designed and conducted well. The underlying question, however, was far more important and highlights one of the most vexing issues facing global health: how to diagnose and treat cancer. For those of us trained in America, Europe, or former Commonwealth countries, we often forget that much of what we know, what we do, and how we affect patient care simply does not exist in many parts of the world. At the most fundamental level, many regions and countries lack health statistics and epidemiologic data to such a degree that it is not possible for governments to rationally allocate resources and develop large-scale cancer diagnosis and treatment programs. This is particularly true for cancer epidemiology: there just are no data for many areas, and where data exist, the findings are often patchy in distribution, based on older classification schemes, and do not take into account substantial changes in demographics, movement of populations, emergence of new diseases, and changes in diagnostic methods. For too many regions and countries we do not know what cancers occur there, the relative prevalence of each cancer type, how these malignancies behave clinically and pathologically, how they affect morbidity and mortality for populations living in those areas, response to treatment, or prognosis. The effect of cancer on populations as a whole is even less well understood in terms of …
Effect of taurine supplementation on hepatic function during short-term parenteral nutrition in the premature infant

To evaluate the potential role of taurine deficiency in the pathogenesis of parenteral nutrition-induced cholestasis, 20 premature (less than 34 weeks AGA) infants were randomized to receive parenteral nutrition with and without taurine (10.8 mg/kg/day) during the first 10 days of life. Birth weight, gestational age, and protein and caloric intake were similar in both groups. Plasma taurine levels and hepatic function were assessed before the study began (3 +/- 1 days of age), at 5 +/- 1 days of age, and at 9 +/- 1 days of age. Although plasma taurine levels were significantly greater at 5 +/- 1 and 9 +/- 1 days of age (p = 0.009) in the group receiving supplementation, no differential effect on hepatocellular function could be detected during this short period of time. A decrease in plasma ammonia (p = 0.001), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p = 0.036), gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGTP) (p = 0.05), 5'-nucleotidase (5'N) (p = 0.001), and bile salt concentrations was noted in both groups, indicating the rapid maturation of hepatic function even in the presence of parenteral nutrition during the first 10 days of life.
A Model of Spiritual Transformation of Baalei Teshuvah

Abstract Baalei teshuvah are Jewish men and women who strengthen their religious-spiritual observances of Judaism and become Orthodox. The authors undertook a qualitative research study comprised of individual interviews with 48 baalei teshuvah, two focus groups, and interviews with 10 key informants. From these data, the authors inductively derived a model of baalei teshvuvahapos;s spiritual transformation over time. Seven non-linear processes are described-Spiritual Eclipse of the Soul, Spiritual Imprints, Existential Vacuum, Spiritual Reactivity, Spiritual Immersion, Movement toward Qedushah (Holiness), and Living the Commitment. Unique features of this model, similarities with other models, and implications for social work practice are discussed. doi:10.1300/J377v26n02_02
Can the periphery control the center? Indian politics at the crossroads

(1996). Can the periphery control the center? Indian politics at the crossroads. The Washington Quarterly: Vol. 19, No. 4, pp. 115-127.
The generalization of behavior modification procedures: A review‐with special emphasis on classroom applications

Reports of the use of behavior modification in the classroom are reviewed, with special attention given to the question of whether or not generalization of the effects of the behavior modification programs was obtained. Those programs in which generalization across time, settings, or behaviors was observed were found to differ from other programs in several important ways. These differences were utilized in formulating a set of 15 proposed “rules” for obtaining generalization of the effects of behavior modification procedures. It is suggested that these “rules” be used to make behavior modification more effective, both clinically and practically.
Tibial nerve decompression: reliable exposure using shorter incisions

Background: Patients and surgeons recognize the value of procedures that minimize scarring and tissue dissection, but technical standards do not exist with regards to incision lengths needed for tibial nerve decompression. This article introduces reproducible techniques that reliably provide exposure for release of known anatomical compression points of the tibial nerve, while minimizing the length of required skin incisions. Methods: The senior author’s approach to decompression of the tibial nerve at the soleus arch and the tarsal tunnel is presented. Typical incision lengths and surgical exposure are demonstrated photographically. The safety of using this technique is examined by review of the medical records of all patients undergoing this procedure from 2003 to 2011, looking for technical complications such as unintentional damage to nerves or adjacent structures. Results: 224 consecutive patients undergoing 252 total procedures underwent release of known anatomical compression points of the tibial nerve at either the tarsal tunnel, inner ankle, or the soleus arch. Typical incision lengths used for these procedures were 5 cm for the proximal calf and 4.5 cm for the tarsal tunnel. Review of medical records revealed no incidences of unintentional injury to nerves or adjacent important structures. Functional and neurological outcomes were not assessed. Conclusions: Tibial nerve decompression by release of known anatomical compression points can be accomplished safely and effectively via minimized skin incisions using the presented techniques. With appropriate knowledge of anatomy, this can be performed without additional risk of injury to the patient, making classically-described longer incisions unnecessarily morbid. V V C 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 32:533–538, 2012. Compression neuropathy of the tibial nerve results mainly from entrapment at two major anatomical compression sites: the soleus arch in the proximal calf, 1–5 and distally in the tarsal tunnel at the medial ankle. 6,7 Consequences of tibial neuropathy range from early symptoms of plantar foot and calf paresthesias and pain to plantar numbness, weakness of plantar flexion, and a propensity towards the formation of pressure ulcers in advanced disease. When unexplained symptoms of tibial compression neuropathy persist beyond 3–6 months despite conservative management and optimization of medical comoborbidities, and a Tinel’s sign or tenderness is elicited over compression sites on physical exam, surgical decompression may be warranted to prevent further deterioration and encourage neural repair. 7–10 If these symptoms occur immediately following surgery or trauma, decompression may be indicated more urgently.
Glutamine attenuates endotoxin-induced lung metabolic dysfunction: Potential role of enhanced heat shock protein 70

Abstract Objective Septic shock leads to derangement of cellular metabolism. Enhanced heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70) can preserve cellular metabolism after other forms of cellular stress. Glutamine (GLN) can enhance lung HSP-70 expression after lethal endotoxemia. However, it is unknown whether GLN can enhance HSP-70 expression and attenuate lung metabolic dysfunction after sublethal endotoxemia. Our aim was to determine whether GLN could upregulate HSP-70 and attenuate metabolic dysfunction in lung tissue after sublethal endotoxemia. Methods Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to one of five groups. The first two groups were treated with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 1 mg/kg intravenously). GLN (0.75 g/kg intravenously) or balanced salt solution as a control was administered 5 min after LPS administration. The next two groups of rats were treated with quercetin (HSP-70 inhibitor; 400 mg/kg intraperitoneally) 6 h before LPS administration. The final group received no treatment. Lung tissue was harvested 24-h after LPS and analyzed with immunofluorescence and western blot for HSP-70. Tissue metabolites were quantified by 1 H and 31 P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Results GLN compared with balanced salt solution (BSS) administration in LPS-treated animals led to significant increases in lung HSP-70. Increased HSP-70 expression was observed in lung epithelial cells and macrophages. GLN significantly improved the ratio of adenosine triphosphate to adenosine diphosphate in the lung after LPS. Quercetin inhibited a GLN-mediated increase in lung HSP-70 and blocked a beneficial effect of GLN on the ratio of adenosine triphosphate to adenosine diphosphate after LPS. Conclusions A single dose of GLN can enhance HSP-70 in pulmonary epithelial cells and macrophages after sublethal endotoxemia. Further, GLN can attenuate endotoxin-induced lung metabolic dysfunction. GLN's beneficial effect on lung tissue after metabolic dysfunction caused by sublethal endotoxemia may be mediated in part by enhanced HSP-70.
Hierarchical phosphorylation of the TNF-alpha receptor, TNF-R1, by p42Mapk/Erk at basic Pro-directed kinase sites.

Phosphorylation of the TNF-α receptor TNF-R1 has been shown to differentially regulate receptor signaling and function and promote changes in its subcellular localization. Previous studies have sho...
Europe, Africa, and international migration: An uncomfortable triangle of interests

Abstract Arguing that research on migration and the state has focused primarily on receiving states, this article places sending and receiving states in a dynamic historical context within which states strive to protect political, economic, and socio‐cultural interests. This framework is applied to the Euro‐African migration system and leads to three primary findings. First, migration flows from Africa have diversified in terms of origins and destinations and no longer necessarily follow patterns of colonial relations. Such a trend calls into question the efficacy of bilateral responses. Second, African states have clearly demonstrated interests in managing emigration and return migration and need to be considered as partners in policy responses. Third, African migrant communities are exerting greater independence vis‐a‐vis sending and receiving states. This diversification and growing independence poses interesting challenges for sending and receiving state policy in the Euro‐African migration system.
Influence of γ-glutamylhydrazide on protein synthesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Abstract Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATC 9027) is stimulated to produce increased amounts of protein by the presence of low concentration of γ-glutamylhydrazide (γ-GH). Previously this phenomenon has been reported only with two types of neoplasms, SX and ED strains of ascites lymphosarcoma (1). Protein synthesis of P. aeruginosa as measured by U14C- l -valine incorporation is stimulated 227% by the presence of 10−6 m γ-GH in the medium. This organism has been found to possess a relatively low level of glutamine synthetase. Protein synthesis is stimulated in P. aeruginosa at lower levels of γ-GH than is required for stimulation in SX or ED lymphosarcomas. The appearance of 14C-glutamic acid in addition to 14C-γ-GH in the protein of P. aeruginosa exposed to 14C-γ-GH indicates that this organism is capable of converting the analog to glutamic acid at least to a slight extent.
THE HERBIG BE STAR V1818 ORI AND ITS ENVIRONMENT

The little-studied Herbig Be star V1818 Ori is located in the direction of the southern L1641 cloud and the Mon R2 star-forming complex, and is most likely associated with the latter at a distance of ~900 pc. A high-resolution spectrum is consistent with a spectral type around B7 V, with lines of Hα, the red Ca ii triplet, and several forbidden lines in emission. An All Sky Automated Survey V-band light curve spanning 9 yr reveals major variability with deep absorption episodes reminiscent of the UX Orionis stars. We have searched for additional young stars clustering around V1818 Ori using grism images and the 2MASS and Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer catalogs, and have found almost two dozen fainter stars with evidence of youth. Direct images show that the bright star IRAS 05510–1025, only about 3 arcmin from V1818 Ori, is surrounded by a reflection nebula, indicating its association with a molecular cloud. A spectrum of the star shows no emission-lines, and it is found to be a close binary with late B and early G type components. Its radial velocity indicates that it is an interloper, accidentally passing through the cloud and not physically associated with V1818 Ori.
Ethanol and Food Pellet Self-Administration by Baboons

During daily 23-h sessions, baboons had concurrent access to food pellets and an oral ethanol/dextrose solution. The effect of increasing the fixed-ratio or "cost" for pellets on pellet and fluid intake was examined when baboons had access to 2%, 4%, or 8% (w/v) ethanol. Increasing the response requirement for a pellet decreased pellet intake. The rate of decrease in pellet intake with increasing pellet cost was unaffected by the availability of ethanol solutions, which were either self-administered or given in investigator-planned doses. Increasing the response cost for pellets significantly increased self-administration of 4% ethanol. The effect of increasing the cost for fluid on fluid and pellet intake was examined when baboons had access to vehicle, 4% or 8% (w/v) ethanol. Although the total daily number of fluid deliveries was significantly greater when 4% ethanol was available, compared to vehicle, increasing the cost for a fluid delivery to 32 responses and above decreased intake of all three fluids similarly. Increasing the cost of ethanol did not affect food intake.
Resonant Oscillations of a Beam-Pendulum System

The resonance phenomena and energy transfer associated with a set of coupled nonlinear differential equations are analyzed using asymptotic methods. The equations describe the motion of a beam-pendulum system which exhibits autoparametric excitation. Precise conditions under which resonant or nonresonant oscillations arise, are obtained. These conditions not only depend upon the physical parameters of the system but also upon the energy of the oscillations (i.e., initial conditions). In general, the envelopes of the resonant oscillations are periodic of long period and there is intermittent energy transfer between the pendulum and beam modes.