cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its Effect on Gametogenesis and Early Pregnancy

SARS-CoV-2 infection and pregnancy has been the topic of hundreds of publications over the last several months; however, few studies have focused on the implications of infection in early pregnancy and reproductive tissues. Here, we analyzed available evidence pertaining to SARS-CoV-2 infection, in early pregnancy, and in reproductive tissues. We searched PubMed and Embase databases in accordance with guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) for publications from inception to June 4, 2020. Four reviewers screened titles and abstracts and obtained full-text articles for analysis. Sixty-two studies were included in the review. Biological plausibility for infection with SARS-CoV-2 exists in testis, ovaries, and placenta as they express ACE2 receptor activity. In males, SARS-CoV-2 infection could lead to functional abnormalities leading to spermatogenic failure and male infertility. In females, an alteration of the ACE2 cascade via SARS-CoV-2 infection could lead to impairment in important follicular and luteal processes. There is also evidence of significant placental pathology in SARS-CoV-2 infection, but it is unclear what effects there may be for early pregnancy, though available data suggest less severe effects compared to other respiratory virus outbreaks. Further investigation is needed regarding SARS-CoV-2 in reproductive function and early pregnancy.
ETHICAL REVIEW BOARDS AND PERVASIVE DATA RESEARCH: GAPS ANDOPPORTUNITIES

The growing prevalence of data-rich networked information technologies—such as social media platforms, smartphones, wearable devices, and the internet of things —brings an increase in the flow of rich, deep, and often identifiable personal information available for researchers. More than just “big data,” these datasets reflect people’s lives and activities, bridge multiple dimensions of a person’s life, and are often collected, aggregated, exchanged, and mined without them knowing. We call this data “pervasive data,” and the increased scale, scope, speed, and depth of pervasive data available to researchers require that we confront the ethical frameworks that guide such research activities. Multiple stakeholders are embroiled in the challenges of research ethics in pervasive data research: researchers struggle with questions of privacy and consent, user communities may not even be aware of the widespread harvesting of their data for scientific study, platforms are increasingly restricting researcher’s access to data over fears of privacy and security, and ethical review boards face increasing difficulties in properly considering the complexities of research protocols relying on user data collected online. The results presented in this paper expand our understanding of how ethical review board members think about pervasive data research. It provides insights into how IRB professionals make decisions about the use of pervasive data in cases not obviously covered by traditional research ethics guidelines, and points to challenges for IRBs when reviewing research protocols relying on pervasive data.
True T-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a morphologic and immunophenotypic study of 25 cases.

We studied 25 T-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (T-CLL) cases collected over a 15-year period. Immunophenotypic analysis was performed in each case; 12 cases were evaluated by cytogenetics, and gene rearrangement studies were performed in 14 cases. The median age was 57 years with a male predominance (M:F, 15:10). The median presenting lymphocyte count was 36.3 x 10(9)/L (range, 3.9 to 438 x 10(9)/L). Fourteen patients (56%) had shotty adenopathy and ten (40%) had mild-to-moderate splenomegaly at presentation; four (16%) had erythematous skin lesions. The lymphocytes were predominantly small; some cases had a minor component of medium-sized cells (< 10%). The nuclear: cytoplasmic ratios were uniformly high with round to oval nuclei; however, a wide spectrum of nuclear outlines could be found, ranging from minimally to markedly convoluted. Nucleoli were either absent or small and inconspicuous. These lymphocytes did not have the morphology of prolymphocytes and did not contain cytoplasmic granules. Bone marrow infiltration was generally in an interstitial pattern; the degree of involvement ranged from 15% to 90%. Immunophenotyping showed that the lymphocytes were mature T-cells with a predominant CD4+ immunophenotype. Three cases displayed a CD8+ immunophenotype. The patients were treated with a variety of chemotherapeutic regimens with only a minimal response observed in two of 20 patients. We conclude that T-CLL is an uncommon chronic lymphoproliferative disorder (CLPD) that can be morphologically similar to B-CLL, is distinct from T-prolymphocytic leukemia, and has an aggressive clinical course that is refractory to therapy. It may also be difficult to distinguish T-CLL from other T-CLPD, especially the leukemic phase of peripheral T-cell lymphoma and some cases of Sezary syndrome.
Emergency Medicine Clerkship Director Experience Adapting Emergency Remote Learning During the Onset of COVID-19 Pandemic.

Objectives: The recent outbreak of the COVID-19 altered the traditional paradigm of clinical medical education. While individual clerkships have shared their curricular adaptations via social and academic networking media, there is currently no organizational standard in establishing a non-clinical, Emergency Medicine (EM) virtual rotation (VR). The primary objective of this study was to describe EM clerkship directors' (CDs) perspectives on their experience adapting an EM VR curriculum during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A 21-item survey with quantitative and qualitative questions was disseminated between June and August 2020 to EM CDs via the Clerkship Director of Emergency Medicine (CDEM) Listserv to describe their experience and perspectives in adapting a VR during the spring of 2020. Results: We analyzed 59 out of 77 EM clerkship survey responses. Among respondents, 52% adapted a VR while 47.5% did not. Of those who adapted a VR, 71% of CDs had 2 weeks or less to develop the new curriculum, with 84% reporting usual or increased clinical load during that time. Clerkships significantly diversified their asynchronous educational content and utilized several instructional models to substitute the loss of clinical experience. Reflecting on the experience, 71% of CDs did not feel comfortable writing a standardized letter of evaluation for students based on the VR, with the majority citing inability to evaluate students' competencies in a clinical context. Conclusion: A crisis, such as COVID-19 necessitates change in all facets of medical education. While EM educators demonstrated the ability to create emergency remote learning with limited time, this was not equivalent to the formal development of pre-planned VR experiences. Future faculty development and curriculum innovation are required to fully transition an in-person immersive experience to a non-inferior virtual experience.
Progressive and predictive markers of disease evolution: platelet transcriptome in chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms

Abstract Predicting disease natural history remains a particularly challenging endeavor in chronic degenerative disorders and cancer, thus limiting early detection, risk stratification, and preventive interventions. Here, profiling the spectrum of chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), as a model, we identify the blood platelet transcriptome as a generalizable strategy for highly sensitive progression biomarkers that also enable prediction via machine learning algorithms. Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), we derive disease-relevant gene expression and alternative splicing in purified platelets from 120 peripheral blood samples constituting two independently collected and mutually validating patient cohorts of the three MPN subtypes – essential thrombocythemia, ET (n=24), polycythemia vera, PV (n=33), and primary or post ET/PV secondary myelofibrosis, MF (n=42), as well as healthy donors (n=21). The MPN platelet transcriptome discriminates each clinical phenotype and reveals an incremental molecular reprogramming that is independent of patient driver mutation status or therapy. Leveraging this dataset, in particular the progressive expression gradient noted across MPN, we develop a machine learning model (Lasso-penalized regression) predictive of the advanced subtype MF at high accuracy (AUC-ROC of 0.95-0.96) with validation under two conditions: i) temporal - with training on the first cohort (n=71) and independent testing on the second (n=49) - and ii) 10-fold cross-validation on the entire dataset. Lasso-derived signatures offer a robust core set of Highlights Leveraging two independent and mutually validating MPN patient cohorts, we identify progressive transcriptomic markers that also enable prediction in MPNs. Our platelet RNA-Seq data identifies impaired protein homeostasis as prominent in MPN progression and offers putative targets of therapy.
Ending the Reign of Slot Machine Justice

Federal appellate courts employ a random assignment system to select the circuit judges who will serve on any particular three-judge panel. The premise of this system is that random assignment is the fairest way of selecting judges, in light of resource constraints that make the use of full-circuit panels for every case impracticable. This paper contends that the random assignment system, while perhaps efficient, is certainly not fair. Winning a case in the U.S. courts of appeals hinges too much on luck, and not enough on the merits. This system produces slot machine justice, in which the outcome crucially turns on the three judges selected to hear the case. Aside from problems of basic fairness, the random selection of judges creates other serious problems for the judiciary as well. These include the decreased predictability of the law and extreme ideological results. As the circuit courts' caseload has increased, these problems have become even worse. Prominent jurists have noted that "there is an increasing likelihood that aberrant precedents will be influential" and that courts have become "less predictable and more quirky." These problems, to a large extent, can be traced to the random assignment system. For this reason, the random assignment system should be replaced with a system in which the judges are assigned on the basis of the parties' preferences. Such a system will fundamentally improve the justice of the federal judiciary's decisions, as every federal appellate decision will reflect, as closely as possible, what the "average" three-judge panel on that federal circuit would decide. It will also mean that there is less variation between decisions made by the same circuit, enabling each court of appeals to develop more coherent and consistent, as well as less ideologically driven, bodies of jurisprudence.
An unusual case report of stress-induced cardiomyopathy presenting as ventricular fibrillation cardiopulmonary arrest and third-degree atrioventricular block

Background Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) can clinically present as an acute coronary syndrome; however, the former has regional wall motion abnormalities that extend beyond a single coronary vascular territory without any plaque rupture. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy classically involves apical ballooning of left ventricle (LV). It is uncommon for TCM to present as cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) along with third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block. Case summary A 63-year-old female, underwent a ventricular fibrillation (VF) CPA. She was defibrillated three times and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved after 37 min. Her post-ROSC electrocardiogram showed non-specific ST-segment changes and T-wave inversions and soon progressed to third-degree AV block. Patient had a transvenous pacemaker placed to pace her heart. Echocardiogram showed an LV ejection fraction of 15-20% with akinesis of the apex and anteroseptum. An echocardiogram repeated 4 days after the cardiopulmonary arrests showed an ejection fraction of 60-65% with hypokinesis of mid anterior and antero-apical hypokinesis. However, the patient still continued to require a pacemaker and hence eventually received a dual-chamber pacemaker/implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for her AV block and ventricular arrhythmia. Discussion Most commonly TCM presents with chest pain and symptoms of acute myocardial infarction. We present a very rare presentation of TCM associated with VF and CPA along with third-degree AV block. There have handful of case reports documenting TCM causing CPA in some patients and other case reports showing TCM causing high degree AV block. In our patient, TCM was associated with both VF and CPA along with third-degree AV block.
Moderating Roles of Resilience and Social Support on Psychiatric and Practice Outcomes in Nurses Working During the COVID-19 Pandemic

IntroductionStaff and equipment shortages and an easily transmissible virus make working in the COVID-19 pandemic demanding physically and psychologically. Nurses on the frontlines are particularly...
Atomic insights into ML-SI3 mediated human TRPML1 inhibition.

Summary Transient receptor potential mucolipin 1 (TRPML1) regulates lysosomal calcium signaling, lipid trafficking, and autophagy-related processes. This channel is regulated by phosphoinositides and the low pH environment of the lysosome, maintaining calcium levels essential for proper lysosomal function. Recently, several small molecules specifically targeting the TRPML family have been demonstrated to modulate channel activity. One of these, a synthetic antagonist ML-SI3, can prevent lysosomal calcium efflux and has been reported to block downstream TRPML1-mediated induction of autophagy. Here, we report a cryo–electron microscopy structure of human TRPML1 with ML-SI3 at 2.9-A resolution. ML-SI3 binds to the hydrophobic cavity created by S5, S6, and PH1, the same cavity where the synthetic agonist ML-SA1 binds. Electrophysiological characterizations show that ML-SI3 can compete with ML-SA1, blocking channel activation yet does not inhibit PI(3,5)P2-dependent activation of the channel. Consequently, this work provides molecular insight into how ML-SI3 and native lipids regulate TRPML1 activity.
Evaluation of the GEANT4 transport algorithm and radioactive decay data for alpha particle dosimetry.

Abstract A Fano cavity test was implemented in GEANT4 Monte Carlo code to evaluate the alpha particle transport algorithm. GEANT4 alpha emission data for 212Pb, 223Ra, 227Th, and 225Ac was compared with the MIRD and RADAR decay databases. Optimal electromagnetic transport parameters (dRover of 0.1 and final range of 1 μm) were recommended since the calculated results with the default parameters differed up to 4.7% from the theoretical results. Good agreement was found between the three decay databases besides a few discrepancies.
A Systematic Analysis of Post-Protocol Therapy in First Line Checkpoint Inhibitor Trials

Although first-line approvals of checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) are often preceded by approval in the relapsed setting, many control patients in trials evaluating upfront CPI, do not receive a CPI upon disease progression. In this systematic analysis, we reviewed trials evaluating upfront use of CPI in metastatic tumors to evaluate the amount of control arm patients that receive CPI upon disease progression and the timing difference between FDA approval for a CPI in the relapsed setting and enrollment periods for first-line trials. We used the FDA website to review approvals for PD1/PD-L1 inhibitors in metastatic solid tumors through September 2021 and identified instances where a first line trial was preceded by a trial in the relapsed setting. We found 28 FDA approvals for a PD1 or PD-L1 inhibitor in the first line, with 23 instances of a first line trial preceded by a trial of the same or similar drug in the relapsed setting. We reviewed summary data from the correlating randomized trials for these approvals and found that first line trial start of accrual preceded approval of a same/similar drug by a mean of 5.4 months, median 9 months and ended accrual by a mean of 11.3, median of 14 months after approval in the relapsed setting. A mean of 53% of patients in the control arm received subsequent therapy in first-line CPI trials, with a mean of 34% of control arm patients receiving a CPI. This systematic analysis shows that many control arm patients in trials evaluating first line CPI are not exposed to CPI with known efficacy at disease progression, highlighting a need to standardize post-protocol approach to reflect evolving standards of care. This analysis is limited by a lack of individual patient level data and heterogeneity of trials. This analysis was not registered with PROSPERO. Funding Information: No external funding was provided for this analysis. Declaration of Interests: The authors do not have any conflicts of interest to report.
Molecular Characterization of the Poly-ß-Hydroxybutyrate Biosynthetic Pathway of Alcaligenes Eutrophus H16

The poly-s-hydroxybutyrate biosynthetic pathway of Alcaligenes eutrophus H16 has been cloned into Escherichia coli, where it has been the subject of a series of molecular analyses. The DNA sequence of the pathway has been determined and analyzed for open reading frames and secondary structure. In vivo transcription/translation studies have identified the size of the gene products and these have been aligned with specific open reading frames. A putative promoter has been located approximately 300 bases upstream from the start of translation on the basis of deletion mutants and consensus sequence comparisons. PHB is made to levels approaching 90% of the cell weight, in large part due to the gene dosage effect of the multicopy plasmid on which the pathway resides. PHB production varies considerably in response to media alterations.
Too Weak to Govern: Majority Party Power and Appropriations in the US Senate

List of figures List of tables Preface Acknowledgments 1. The limited-influence theory of the Senate 2. Testing expectations 3. The first wave (1979-87) 4. Back to the regular order 5. The second wave (1995-2012) 6. Conclusion.
Clinical Pharmacodynamics of Quinolones

Over the past two decades, the quinolones have been the class of anti-infective agent for which the most pharmacodynamics relationships have been elucidated. Relationships for clinical and microbiological outcomes have been developed for patients with Hospital-acquired and Community-acquired infections. Advances in the use of Monte Carlo simulation have allowed the adequacy of dose choice for specific pathogen MIC distributions to be calculated.
The Process for the Formulation of the International Telehealth Position Statement for Occupational Therapy

The World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) consists of 84 member organizations representing over 420,000 occupational therapists internationally (WFOT, 2014). In 2014, WFOT published the WFOT Telehealth Position Statement on the use of telehealth in occupational therapy. The process for the formulation of the official document involved reviewing WFOT member organizations' telehealth position statements and data collected from a survey sent to member organizations' delegates in April 2014. Qualitative data from 39 countries yielded factors to consider in five key areas: licensure/registration requirements, the cost of technology, privacy and security, reimbursement/payment models, and other issues (e.g., need for collaboration/transfer of knowledge, client selection, provider competencies, standard of care). The WFOT Telehealth Position Statement addressed each of these areas. The collaborative effort resulting in the development of the WFOT Telehealth Position Statement serves as a model for other international organizations.
Variations in the age of Arctic sea‐ice and summer sea‐ice extent

[1] Three of the past six summers have exhibited record low sea-ice extent on the Arctic Ocean. These minima may have been dynamically induced by changes in the surface winds. Based on results of a simple model that keeps track of the age of ice as it moves about on the Arctic Ocean, we show that the areal coverage of thick multi-year ice decreased precipitously during 1989–1990 when the Arctic Oscillation was in an extreme “high index” state, and has remained low since that time. Under these conditions, younger, thinner ice anomalies recirculate back to the Alaskan coast more quickly, decreasing the time that new ice has to ridge and thicken before returning for another melt season. During the 2002 and 2003 summers this anomalously younger, thinner ice was advected into Alaskan coastal waters where extensive melting was observed, even though temperatures were locally colder than normal. The age of sea-ice explains more than half of the variance in summer sea-ice extent.
Influence of simulated microgravity on the sympathetic response to exercise

Rats exposed to simulated conditions of microgravity exhibit reductions in aerobic exercise capacity that may be due to an impaired ability of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) to mediate an increase in cardiac output and to redistribute blood flow. The purpose of this study was to quantify the sympathetic response to exercise in rats after exposure to 14 days of simulated microgravity or control conditions. To achieve this aim, rats were exposed to 14 days of head-down suspension (HDS) or cage control (CC) conditions. On day 14, norepinephrine (NE) synthesis was blocked with alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine, and the rate of NE depletion after synthesis blockade was used to estimate SNS activity in the left ventricle, spleen, and soleus muscle during treadmill exercise at 75% of maximal oxygen uptake. When compared with CC rats, the sympathetic response to exercise in HDS rats was characterized by a lower rate of NE depletion in the left ventricle (-82%) and spleen (-42%). The rate of NE depletion in the soleus muscle was 47% higher. These differences could contribute to the decrement in aerobic capacity of HDS rats by impairing their ability to augment cardiac output and to redirect blood flow to actively contracting skeletal muscle during exercise.
Design and implementation of a switched-beam smart antenna for an 802.11b wireless access point

This paper focuses on the design and implementation of beam forming network components for use at 2.4 GHz. The beam forming network (BFN) is designed to utilize a dual metric beam-selection algorithm. The first metric uses analog power detection and is incorporated in the switch matrix. A digital metric is performed off-board to update the switch states when necessary. The design and measured results of the 8-way Butler matrix and switch matrix are presented. The array factor is simulated to establish the radiation pattern of the BFN. Theoretical calculations of SNR improvement are modified to include the loss of the network for overall system performance.
Measurement of the effects of surface roughness on flashover

Insulators in various environments are susceptible to surface degradation due to environmental factors. For example, in space, insulators are subject to constant bombardment by particles such as debris and micrometeoroids. Experiments were conducted to determine how the surface flashover voltage of the insulator is affected by such surface degradation. Ten roughness groups were tested. The various roughness groups were obtained by preparing the sample surfaces with sandpaper and polishing compounds of varying degrees of coarseness, ranging from Hash 80 grit sandpaper to .05 micron polishing powder. Results are presented on Lucite and Celcon samples. A definite correlation between flashover voltage and roughness is shown. In the case of Lucite, roughness seems to increase the flashover voltage, although the unusual characteristics of the flashover voltage vs. roughness curve hint at the influence of unknown factors. >
Cortical interneurons, immune factors and oxidative stress as early targets for schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a common disorder in which strong genetic predisposition is combined with environmental factors. Despite the widely recognized developmental nature of the disease, symptoms do not emerge until late adolescence. Current therapeutic approaches are therefore employed too late, as brain alterations may have been present earlier than symptom onset. Here I review the developmental trajectory of the cortical circuits responsible for excitation–inhibition balance, which are at the center of current pathophysiological views, and propose that oxidative stress in cortical interneurons may be a final common pathway by which several different etiological factors can yield the cortical dysfunction characteristic of schizophrenia. If this scenario is correct, redox modulators may be beneficial for the disease. It is critical that the developmental trajectories of the factors yielding oxidative stress are taken into account for those approaches to succeed.
The Internalization of Transactions

This chapter addresses a critical problem for the entrepreneur: whether to “make or buy”; that is, the question of the internalization of transactions. This topic appears in the economic literature under the various headings of transaction costs, the theory of the firm, organization theory, vertical integration and the theory of contracts.40 This chapter offers a new approach to the question of the internalization of transactions which depends the endogenous costs of contracting internally and over markets. However, the issue of internalizing transactions immediately raises the questions of what is a firm and what distinguishes internal transactions from market transactions.41
Arginine Control of Transcription of argECBH Messenger Ribonucleic Acid in Escherichia coli

The level of messenger ribonucleic acid specific for the argECBH gene cluster (arg-mRNA) of Escherichia coli was measured by deoxyribonucleic acid-ribonucleic acid hybridization in a number of strains. During the first 10 min after removal of arginine (derepression), the rate of arg-mRNA accumulation was six to ten times greater than that found in arginine-repressed argR+ cells. In the absence of arginine, l-canavanine (200 μg/ml) repressed arg-mRNA synthesis to a level only 20 to 30% lower than that found after arginine deprivation. High levels of arg-mRNA were produced by argR− strains with or without added arginine. Within about 2 min after arginine addition to argR+ cells, the rate of synthesis of arg-mRNA reached the repressed level. Likewise, 2.5 min after rifampin addition, all transcription of arg-mRNA was completed. These data are consistent with the view that arginine signals repression by inhibiting the initiation of transcription of arg-mRNA mediated in some way by the argR gene. The kinetics of arg-mRNA accumulation and the kinetics of completion of transcription together with the profile of hybridizable arg-mRNA in sucrose density gradients (major component 16S) suggest that the argECBH gene cluster is transcribed in short pieces rather than as a single unit.
Frequency-agile CO2 DIAL for environmental monitoring

SRI International has designed and developed a fully automated frequency-agile CO2 DIAL (differential absorption lidar) system. The system sensor head consists of a single, frequency- agile, CO2, TEA laser; a 10-inch receiver telescope, a liquid-nitrogen-cooled HgCdTe detector; and a transmit energy monitor. The sensor head and its auxiliary equipment (including the data acquisition and processing system, laser power supply, and water cooler) are mounted in a Grumman-Olson 11-ft step van. The self-contained, mobile system can be used to detect and quantify many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at parts per million sensitivities over open-path ranges to 5 km. Characterization and demonstration of the system is ongoing. However, data collected on benzene, toluene, xylene, methanol, ethyl acetate, acetic anhydride, and other VOCs will be described herein. The system could be used by industry and government agencies in stand-off monitoring to map VOC emission sources and transport patterns into surrounding communities. A single mobile system could be used for several locations to verify compliance with environmental regulations such as the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Tax Increment Financing and Property Value: An Examination of Business Property Using Panel Data

This paper examines the impact of tax increment financing (TIF) on business property value. Using parcel-level data from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from 1980 to1999, a semilog econometric model is estimated using fixed effects regression. A two-stage estimation process is also used to test and correct for potential self-selection bias and endogeneity associated with TIF implementation. The findings suggest that the provision of public services offered within TIF districts is capitalized into business property value over time. The magnitude of this effect is the largest of all factors considered. The analysis also reveals that self-selection bias is likely associated with TIF implementation. The endogenously determined probability that a property will be placed within a TIF district is positively correlated with the property's value. Finally, the analysis reveals that the impact of TIF might be underestimated in the absence of corrections for self-selection bias and endogeneity.
Noradrenergic regulation of α1-receptors during the postnatal development of the guinea pig

Abstract In guinea pig brain, α1-noradrenergic receptor concentrations undergo region-specific fluctuations during the first weeks of postnatal life. However, the factors involved in the regulation of these receptors have yet to be identified. In this study, the ontogeny of one possible regulatory factor, norepinephrine, was examined in relation to postnatal changes in α1-receptor levels in several different regions of guinea pig brain. Results from these studies showed that while the activity of the noradrenergic system increased throughout the first weeks of postnatal development in each brain area examined, the concentration of α1-receptors decreased in preoptic area and hypothalamus and increased in cortex. In subsequent experiments, the effects of noradrenergic lesions with 6-hydroxydopamine on α1-receptor levels were assessed to examine the possibility that α1-receptors are differentially sensitive to noradrenergic stimulation in cortex and preoptic area/hypothalamus in immature guinea pigs. Noradrenergic lesions which reduced norepinephrine levelsby 87–94% resulted in significant elevations in α1-receptors in all regions examined. These results are discussed with reference to the anatomical distribution of α1-receptors and their regulation by norepinephrine.
Piezoelectric properties of lithium borosilicate glass ceramics

Glass ceramics in the system Li2O‐SiO2‐B2O3 with oriented crystallites were prepared by crystallizing the glasses in a temperature gradient. Piezoelectric and electromechanical properties of the glass ceramics are reported. Some of the compositions exhibit low temperature coefficient of resonance, comparable to LiTaO3 single crystals. Advantages of fabricating glass‐ceramic piezoelectric resonators are described and the possibility of using them in surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices is suggested.
Beyond Exotization and Likeness: Alterity and the Production of Sense in a Colonial Encounter

The scene that unfolded in the plaza of Cajamarca on Saturday, 16 November 1532, is one of the most loaded in the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. That day the Inca Atahualpa, head of an empire of several million extending from present day Ecuador to Chile, surrounded by his powerful army, was captured by 168 men. The attack took place after the exchange of a book and words in the middle of the plaza, between the Inca and fray Vicente de Valverde, head clergyman of the conquest party lead by Francisco Pizarro. The scene has been the object of much debate, both in the sixteenth century, when it rapidly became part of Europeans' colonial imagination, and in the present. This essay's goal is to offer an alternative interpretation of Cajamarca, which addresses a simple, under-explored question: Why did the meeting occur in the way it did? Why was Atahualpa there, exposing himself to some dangerous looters, why did the Spanish not attack directly if the ambush was ready? To anticipate my conclusion, I argue that Cajamarca happened as it did because it was the necessary final act of a long chain of improvised moves, which responded to culturally specific political dilemmas. Its dynamic reflected a radical uncertainty common to contact processes, but left aside by most scholarship. Recovering this, I suggest, speaks not only to the case in point, but to the mechanics of power and coloniality across space and time.
Origin and evolution of endemic Galápagos Varronia species (Cordiaceae)

Abstract Four endemic Varronia species (Cordiaceae) occupy the Galapagos archipelago. Three comprise the V. leucophlyctis complex (V. anderssonii, V. leucophlyctis, V. scouleri), whose species’ limits are not well defined but that is morphologically distinct from the fourth endemic species, V. revoluta. Sequence data from the nuclear rDNA ITS region and the cpDNA ndhF gene were gathered from 49 accessions of Varronia from five Galapagos islands in order to test the evolutionary relationships of endemic Varronia species, determine the number of immigration events to the islands and estimate their age of origin. All endemic species nest within the clade of species belonging to Varronia, which is an entirely American genus. We find little evidence of phylogenetic structuring of the V. leucophlyctis complex but divergent phylogenetic signals from nuclear and chloroplast genomes regarding its relationship to V. revoluta. Results are consistent with a hybridization event involving ancestral Galapagean lineages, with chloroplast and nuclear data suggesting one or two dispersal events from the Americas to the Galapagos, respectively. Fossil-based divergence time estimates indicate endemic species diverged from American continental species as early as 4.5 Myr ago and radiated 1.12 Myr, which coincides with ages of exposed and subsided Galapagos islands.
Dimensionality of space, bound-state postulate and the conservation of baryons and leptons

By demanding that the laws of nature be such that the three-dimensionality of space can be deduced from them, it is shown within the framework of general relativity that gravity should be attractive and that there should be stable bound states. There is a discussion of the consistency with this requirement of the conservation of baryons and leptons. It is also proposed that some new gravitational behaviour limits the formation of black holes which would violate baryon and lepton conservation.
High Rydberg atoms: newcomers to the atomic physics scene.

A description is given of high Rydberg atoms which have a greatly increased size due to their having been perturbed in certain ways. The production, detection, and research on these atoms are considered. The motivation for such studies, apart from their intrinsic interest, includes laser development, laser isotope separation, energy deposition in gases, plasma diagnostics, and radio astronomy. (JFP)
Adult obesity prevalence and state policymaking in the United States: Is problem severity associated with more policies?

Abstract This study explores the relationship between adult obesity prevalence and obesity-related state policymaking in the United States. We examine whether 2009 obesity prevalence and the change in prevalence between 2000 and 2009 are associated with obesity-related state laws and regulations introduced or enacted between 2009 and 2011. Policies that exclusively target youth are eliminated from our analysis. Adult obesity prevalence increased in all 50 states over the decade studied, with a slight decrease in Washington, DC. Increases in prevalence are significantly associated with fewer policies in the South and Midwest Census regions and the East North Central and South Atlantic Census divisions. Findings suggest the need for greater advocacy and an opportunity for obesity to rise on state policy agendas.
Assessment of MODIS aerosol optical depth over oceans using one-year data from maritime aerosol network

We apply recent (2009-2010) level 2.0 MAN-based AODs for assessing those from two MODIS sensors aboard Terra and Aqua satellites with morning and afternoon equatorial crossing times, respectively. To compare correctly the MAN- and MODIS-based AODs (550 nm), considerable attention is given to match ship tracks and satellite overpasses both temporally (within ±1.5h) and spatially (within 10 km). Overall, analysis of collocated and coincident satellite and shipboard data reveals capabilities of two MODIS sensors to capture the strong spatial and temporal variations of AOD quite well, although a better agreement between the MAN- and MODIS-based AODs is observed for Aqua instrument. Our results further highlight the importance of unique MAN AODs for assessment of over-ocean satellite retrievals.
What difference reveals about similarity

Detecting that two images are different is faster for highly dissimilar images than for highly similar images. Paradoxically, we showed that the reverse occurs when people are asked to describe how two images differ--that is, to state a difference between two images. Following structure-mapping theory, we propose that this disassociation arises from the multistage nature of the comparison process. Detecting that two images are different can be done in the initial (local-matching) stage, but only for pairs with low overlap; thus, "different" responses are faster for low-similarity than for high-similarity pairs. In contrast, identifying a specific difference generally requires a full structural alignment of the two images, and this alignment process is faster for high-similarity pairs. We described four experiments that demonstrate this dissociation and show that the results can be simulated using the Structure-Mapping Engine. These results pose a significant challenge for nonstructural accounts of similarity comparison and suggest that structural alignment processes play a significant role in visual comparison.
Photoelectron spectroscopy of nitric oxide between threshold and 972 Å

Abstract A number of photoelectron spectra have been recorded from nitric oxide at discrete lines in the wavelength region between threshold (1338 A) and 972 A. In this range the ground X 1Σ+ state of NO+ is the only ionic state accessible. In the region above 1130 A, the vibrational intensity distribution within the X 1Σ+ state agrees with that predicted by Franck—Condon factors from the ground state of neutral nitric oxide but all spectra recorded between 1130 A and 972 A disagree with the Franck—Condon factors and show all energetically allowed vibrational levels populated. These spectra are discussed in relation to the published photoionization cross section of nitric oxide in this wavelength range. In addition, the spin—orbit splitting of the ground state of neutral nitric oxide has been partially resolved in a spectrum recorded at 1216 A.
Engagement of Academic Libraries and Information Science Schools in Creating Curriculum for Sustainability: An Exploratory Study

In 2010, the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education released, “Sustainability curriculum in higher education: A call to action,” encouraging infusion of sustainability topics into universities' teaching and research. Since then, academic programs and research related to social, economic, and environmental sustainability have enriched university curricula. An exploratory study was conducted to determine the position and engagements of academic libraries and information science schools in their contributions to scholarly sustainability activities and curricular initiatives. This article presents the results of the study which reveals a number of engagements by library professionals in the areas of sustainability, such as increasing open access to research, building sustainability-related collections and research guides, and incorporating sustainability content into information literacy. While academic libraries and information science schools are engaged in a broad spectrum of initiatives that support their institutions' sustainability research and curricular functions, this study indicates that such activities require a more targeted approach.
SU‐E‐T‐121: Determination of MLC QA Criteria for Non‐Split IMRT Fields Based On Clinical Quantification

Purpose: To identify clinically‐driven MLC performance criteria for non‐split step‐and‐shoot IMRT fields by quantifying the dosimetric impact of Varian MLC leaf abutment miscalibration on the delivered dose. The maximum tolerable leaf gap that can be used as a criterion for MLC leaf gap QA will be determined. Methods: Ten IMRT plans with large (X > 15 cm), non‐split fields were selected, 5 whole pelvis and 5 head and neck. All were planned using Pinnacle v9.0. The delivered dose for each plan was calculated using Monte Carlo simulations assuming leaf abutment gaps from 0 to 3 mm, in 0.5 mm increments. All calculations were done with 1 mm resolution. Three dimensional dose difference maps (ΔD) were calculated by subtracting the 0 mm dose matrix from each non‐zero one. Cumulative ΔD histograms were constructed to determine the maximum tolerable gap where 5% volume received ΔD >= 3%. Results: The gap where % volume received ΔD >= 3% ranged from 0.7 to 2.2 mm (average 1.0 mm). For 8/10 plans this gap was >= 1.0 mm. The head and neck plans showed more sensitivity to gaps than the whole pelvis plans (p = 0.08). Increasing gap size did not adversely affect target coverage. Maximum OAR dose increased with increasing gap; a 3 mm gap led to a 4% dose increase. Conclusion: Non‐split fields should be used for IMRT with caution. This method of treatment is acceptable as long as MLC leaves abut within 0.5 mm. Standard IMRT QA using a 4 mm calculation grid and gamma of 3%/3mm is not sensitive enough to detect dose differences from leaf abutment miscalibration. If treating this way, leaf abutment should be checked as part of weekly QA with a 0.5 mm criterion in addition to the TG‐142 recommended MLC QA.
Belief and Introspective Knowledge in Treatise 1.3.7

Hume argues that the difference between belief and mere conception consists in a difference in the manner of conception. His argument assumes that the difference between belief and mere conception must be a function of either the content conceived or of the manner of conception; however, it is unclear what justifies this assumption. I argue that the assumption depends on Hume’s confidence that we can know immediately that we believe when we believe, and that we can only have such knowledge of intrinsic features of our perceptions. I then claim that Hume’s argument against the view that the difference between belief and mere conception is a function of the content conceived faces a difficulty, because it relies on an apparently implausible view about mental representation. I propose an interpretation of the argument that avoids the difficulty and explains Hume’s puzzling claim that his account of belief answers “a new question unthought of by philosophers.”
Why the Serbs Fought: Motives and Misperceptions

When the Serbs started the war in Bosnia, their chief motive was not a Hider-like desire for domination or conquest. It was fear. The Serbs of Bosnia mainly feared that if they remained a minority in Bosnia they would be persecuted by a coalition of diabolical enemies. The Serbs of Serbia, shocked by Yugoslavia's disintegration, feared continuing weakness in a dangerous world. Both feared continuing national disunity of both Serbs and Yugoslavs. In addition, there was some desire for power (domination) as an end in itself, and for revenge. Several misperceptions also contributed: a diabolical enemy image (leading to exaggerated fear), an innocent self-image (not seeing that their own actions were aggressive and therefore would be perceived by others as aggression), overconfidence based on lack of empathy with the potential fighting spirit of both victims and onlookers, and failing to see a promising alternative to violence. Their Manichean world-picture was in turn supported by continual selective inatten...
Molecular recognition between a biotinylated polythiophene copolymer and phycoerythrin utilizing the biotin-streptavidin interaction

Abstract The interaction of photoactive proteins with an electroactive matrix is valuable in leading to potential technological applications in opto-electronic signal transduction for optical displays, color mimicking, biosensor, and protein research applications. In this study, the Langmuir-Blodgett technique is used to couple these components through the well-known biotin-streptavidin complexation. Biotinylated copolymers of 3-substituted thiophenes have been synthesized both to enhance mechanical film integrity and to provide the electroactive matrix for attachment of the antennae protein, phycoerythrin. It has been determined that biotinylation of the thiopene copolymers improves their film forming properties and results in stable monolayers. Pressure-area isotherms indicate that protein interaction with the polymer monolayer is occuring with the streptavidin and phycoerythrin proteins. Fluorescene spectroscopy of transferred films confirms the presence of phycoerythrin in the final molecular assemblies. Each stage of protein binding to the biotinylated copolymer monolayer could be monitored through fluorescence microscopy at the air-water interface. These results suggest that this copolymer system is a promising material for integrating virtually any biotinylated macromolecular system to an electroactive matrix. In addition, this copolymer system may be “fine tuned” to maximize protein integration by varying the distance between biotin functionalities and/or the length of the biotin spacer arm.
A pilot trial of pentoxifylline in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.

OBJECTIVES Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) contributes to liver damage and insulin resistance among patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Pentoxifylline inhibits TNF alpha production. We therefore conducted a 12-month pilot trial to assess the efficacy and safety of pentoxifylline (1,600 mg/day) among 20 patients with NASH. METHODS Patients had biopsy-confirmed NASH with other causes of liver disease and secondary causes of NASH excluded. Patients who drank more than 40 gm of ethanol weekly were also excluded. Pentoxifylline (400 mg q.i.d.) was given for 12 months. Liver enzymes and adverse events were monitored every 3 months until completion. RESULTS The 20 patients had a mean age of 50 +/- 11 yr. Eleven (55%) were female, 14 were obese (body mass index > or =30 kg/m(2)), and 7 (35%) were diabetic. At baseline, median steatosis grade was 2 (range 1-3), median necroinflammatory grade was 1 (1-2), and median fibrosis stage was 2 (0-4). Nine patients withdrew from the study, primarily because of nausea. No serious adverse events occurred. Alanine and aspartate aminotransferase levels were significantly lower at 12 months compared to baseline (84 +/- 64 vs 138 +/- 76, p= 0.002 and 58 +/- 37 vs 102 +/- 62, p= 0.003, respectively). Bilirubin did not change significantly from baseline (0.8 +/- 0.4 vs 0.8 +/- 0.3, p= 0.95), nor did alkaline phosphatase (193 +/- 68 vs 180 +/- 53, p= 0.62) or albumin (4.0 +/- 0.2 vs 4.2 +/- 0.3, p= 0.41). CONCLUSIONS Aminotransferase levels among patients with NASH improve with administration of pentoxifylline. Strategies to overcome side effects will be needed for future trials.