cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Textures and traction: how tube-dwelling polychaetes get a leg up.

By controlling the traction between its body and the tube wall, a tube-dwelling polychaete can move efficiently from one end of its tube to the other, brace its body during normal functions (e.g., ventilation and feeding), and anchor within its tube avoiding removal by predators. To examine the potential physical interaction between worms and the tubes they live in, scanning electron microscopy was used to reveal and quantify the morphology of worm bodies and the tubes they produce for species representing 13 families of tube-dwelling polychaetes. In the tubes of most species there were macroscopic or nearly macroscopic (~10 μm–1 mm) bumps or ridges that protruded slightly into the lumen of the tube; these could provide purchase as a worm moves or anchors. At this scale (~10 μm-1 mm), the surfaces of the chaetal heads that interact with the tube wall were typically small enough to fit within spaces between these bumps (created by the inward projection of exogenous materials incorporated into the tube wall) or ridges (made by secretions on the interior surface of the tube). At a finer scale (0.01–10 μm), there was a second overlap in size, usually between the dentition on the surfaces of chaetae that interact with the tube walls and the texture provided by the secreted strands or microscopic inclusions of the inner linings. These linings had a surprising diversity of micro-textures. The most common micro-texture was a “fabric” of secreted threads, but there were also orderly micro-ridges, wrinkles, and rugose surfaces provided by microorganisms incorporated into the inner tube lining. Understanding the fine structures of tubes in conjunction with the morphologies of the worms that build them gives insight into how tubes are constructed and how worms live within them.
Persian loanwords in English

A survey of terms inherited from Persian, often through intermediate languages. ENGLISH may be considered a typical case of a European language indebted to Persian, often through the intermediary of another language, a point with which this survey seeks to deal. A comprehensive list of such loanwords, direct and indirect, can be found in Cannon and Kaye (2001), to which the reader is referred for the full list of the 811 items, including their etyma. One hundred and thirty three of these are distant loans, as with the word azure (‘a light purplish blue’), which comes into English through Old French, probably through Old Spanish azur ∼ azul, which comes in turn from Arabic lazaward ∼ lazuward, and ultimately from Persian lajuvard (‘azure; cobalt blue’). This thematically-organized article provides a general review of the field.
Recession of both horizontal rectus muscles in Duane syndrome with globe retraction in primary position

Abstract Introduction: Duane syndrome is characterized by abduction deficiency, narrowing of the palpebral fissure on adduction, and globe retraction, which can bethe most prominent aspect of the motility disorder. Recession of both horizontal rectus muscles was investigated for treatment of severe globe retraction. Methods: Three patients with Duane syndrome were operated on for severe globe retraction. The medial rectus muscles were recessed from between 5.5 to 6.5 mm and the lateral rectus muscles 7.0 to 9.0 mm simultaneously. The recessions were asymmetric, as evidenced by amount of esotropia and face turn. Preoperative Hertel measurements were made in primary gaze, 30-degree left gaze, and 30-degree right gaze. The measurements were repeated at 6 months and 1 year after the operation. Results: All three patients had improvement in globe retraction. The 6-month Hertel readings in primary position were improved by a mean of 3.0 mm (range 2.5 to 3.5 mm) measured in primary gaze. Hertel measurements were stable at 1 year after the operation. No complications were encountered. Conclusions: Recession of both horizontal rectus muscles is effective in the treatment of significant globe retraction in Duane syndrome.
Between Amyloids and Aggregation Lies a Connection with Strength and Adhesion.

We tell of a journey that led to discovery of amyloids formed by yeast cell adhesins and their importance in biofilms and host immunity. We begin with the identification of the adhesin functional amyloid-forming sequences that mediate fiber formation in vitro. Atomic force microscopy and confocal microscopy show 2-dimensional amyloid “nanodomains” on the surface of cells that are activated for adhesion. These nanodomains are arrays of adhesin molecules that bind multivalent ligands with high avidity. Nanodomains form when adhesin molecules are stretched in the AFM or under laminar flow. Treatment with anti-amyloid perturbants or mutation of the amyloid sequence prevents adhesion nanodomain formation and activation. We are now discovering biological consequences. Adhesin nanodomains promote formation and maintenance of biofilms, which are microbial communities. Also, in abscesses within candidiasis patients, we find adhesin amyloids on the surface of the fungi. In both human infection and a Caenorhabditis elegans infection model, the presence of fungal surface amyloids elicits anti-inflammatory responses. Thus, this is a story of how fungal adhesins respond to extension forces through formation of cell surface amyloid nanodomains, with key consequences for biofilm formation and host responses.
Solar center-to-limb infrared intensity from the Halogen Occultation Experiment

Data from the Halogen Occultation Experiment (HALOE) provide the first opportunity to examine solar center-to-limb relative intensity measured exoatmospherically at wavelengths from 2.4 to 10 μm. The data were obtained from limb-to-limb scans across the solar equator on days of very low activity in May 1994. Coefficients for a function describing limb darkening are obtained at eight infrared wavelengths using a nonlinear least-squares fitting technique. Relative intensities produced by the limb-darkening functions are precise to 0.1% (2σ). From the limb-darkening coefficients, it is possible to calculate temperature information about the photosphere. At each of the eight HALOE wavelengths, the brightness temperature from the flux, T b disk(λ), and the temperature as a function of monochromatic optical depth, T(τλ), are determined and normalized using Kondratyev et al. (1965) and calibrated Pierce (1954) central intensity measurements. The two temperature quantities are compared with the predictions of Vernazza, Avrett, and Loeser's (1976) model M, and in general there is good agreement. The largest differences occur between 2.4 and 3 μm and suggest that the central intensities used in this spectral region are low.
Gastroduodenal polyps in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis.

A review of the endoscopy reports and pathology results from esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) of all patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) undergoing such an examination was performed. Two hundred fortyseven patients were identified, with an overall prevalence of duodenal adenomas of 66 percent and of fundic gland polyps of 61 percent. Analysis of our more recent experience (1986 to 1990) shows the prevalence to be 88 percent and 84 percent, respectively. A normal-appearing papilla was adenomatous in 50 percent of cases. No case of periampullary carcinoma developed in patients under surveillance. Routine EGD is indicated for patients with FAP. Duodenal adenomas and fundic gland polyps will occur in the majority of patients.
Monitoring changing virulence patterns of Uromyces appendiculatus in the resistant pinto bean cultivar Olathe by rep-PCR

Corresponding molecular markers associated with avirulence or virulence genes in the bean rust pathogen are currently unknown, although host resistance genes have been linked to molecular markers in bean. The changing virulence patterns in pathotypes of Uromyces appendiculatus collected over a 14-year period after the release of the Ur-6 resistance gene on the USA high plains were therefore analyzed using rep-PCR molecular markers. Isolates from two neighbouring pathotype groups from Colorado and Nebraska were screened using the rep-PCR primer Box-AIR. The PCR fragment Box 475 was cloned and sequenced and a specific primer set ATA-2 was designed. This primer yielded 10 polymorphic products which allowed separation of these isolates into two distinct groups and will be useful for future analysis of the population genetics of this organism.
Poverty Regimes and the Constraints on Urban Democratic Politics Lessons from Toulouse, France

Do policy communities designed to manage urban poverty (poverty regime) constrain the democratic opportunities found in cities? Recent investigations have targeted urban civil societies as particularly strategic arenas for generating democratic opportunities. In particular, the associational sector of cities has been viewed as a strategic site for forming citizens in relative autonomy of market and state forces, and for sustaining a plural set of voices; both crucial for generating opportunities for democratic activities such as dissent, debate, and claim making. Moreover, some scholars suggest that the city's placement at the juncture of globalization, transnational migration flows, and alternative identity networks has worked to reinforce the autonomy and radical plurality of urban civil societies. While sympathetic to these views, this article suggests that the emergence of poverty regimes across European cities and their tendencies for incorporating third-sector associations as policy `partners' signi...
FTIR spectra and normal-mode analysis of a tetranuclear manganese adamantane-like complex in two electrochemically prepared oxidation states: relevance to the oxygen-evolving complex of photosystem II.

The IR spectra and normal-mode analysis of the adamantane-like compound [Mn4O6(bpea)4]n+ in two oxidation states, MnIV4 and MnIIIMnIV3, that are relevant to the oxygen-evolving complex of photosystem II are presented. Mn-O vibrational modes are identified with isotopic exchange, 16O->18O, of the mono-(mu)-oxo bridging atoms in the complex. IR spectra of the MnIIIMnIV3 species are obtained by electrochemical reduction of the MnIV4 species using a spectroelectrochemical cell, based on attenuated total reflection [Visser et al. Anal Chem 2001, 73, 4374-4378]. A novel method of subtraction is used to reduce background contributions from solvent and ligand modes, and the difference and double-difference spectra are used in identifying Mn-O bridging modes that are sensitive to oxidation state change. Two strong IR bands are observed for the MnIV4 species at 745 and 707 cm-1 and a weaker band at 510 cm-1. Upon reduction, the MnIIIMnIV3 species exhibits two strong IR bands at 745 and 680 cm-1, and several weaker bands are observed in the 510 - 425 cm-1 range. A normal mode analysis is performed to assign all the relevant bridging modes in the oxidized MnIV4 and reduced MnIIIMnIV3 species. The calculated force constants for the MnIV4 species are = 3.15 mdynAngstrom, = 0.55 mdyn/Angstrom, and = 0.20 mdyn/Angstrom. The force constants for the MnIIIMnIV3 species are = 3.10 mdyn/Angstrom, = 2.45 mdyn/Angstrom, = 0.40, and = 0.15 mdyn/Angstrom. This study provides insights for the identification of Mn-O modes in the IR spectra of the photosynthetic oxygen-evolving complex during its catalytic cycle.
Applied Behavior Analysis and Learning Disabilities Part II: Specific Research Recommendations and Suggestions for Practitioners

Included in Part I of this report was an explanation of the ABA research method and how this method could be used to investigate general curricular topics. In Part II, the focus is on specific curricular areas of importance to learning disabled youngsters: reading, spelling, penmanship, writing, and arithmetic. In each area, the specific variables that have been studied by other applied behavior analysts are briefly mentioned. A statement as to which behaviors have been measured and which interventions have been arranged is included. Next, there is a short description of the research conducted at the Curriculum Research Classroom. Following this is mention of some research that should be conducted. This part of the report concludes with some considerations for teaching, derived from ABA research, that practitioners can implement in their current instructional situations.
Radiographic and Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Liver Diseases in Dogs and Cats

Various techniques utilized for the clinical investigation of small animal patients with signs of liver disease are discussed. The author reviews the evaluation of survey radiographs and selected radiographic contrast techniques, such as cholecystography. The author also outlines the basic principles of hepatic ultrasonography and includes examples of normal and abnormal hepatic ultrasonograms to demonstrate the application of this new imaging modality to the diagnosis of liver diseases.
Medicolegal issues in multiple pregnancy

Any discussion of multiple pregnancy figures prominently in the consideration of the medicolegal aspects of placental pathology. Multiple gestations are common and becoming more so with assisted reproductive techniques, and multiples are associated with a disproportionate share of complications that may result in disputes over quality of care. Higher rates of intrauterine growth retardation, prematurity, stillbirth, morbidity, mortality, cerebral palsy, anomalous development, and malformation as compared with singletons are well documented in multiple pregnancy and should be anticipated. Monochorionic placentation and complications of vascular anastomosis are important factors contributing to poor outcome. Other factors, although occurring in all gestations, are relevant because they are more common in multiple gestations.
Randomized greedy: new variants of some classic approximation algorithms

We consider the performance of two classic approximation algorithms which work by scanning the input and greedily constructing a solution. We investigate whether running these algorithms on a random permutation of the input can increase their performance ratio. We obtain the following results:1. Johnson's approximation algorithm for MAX-SAT is one of the first approximation algorithms to be rigorously analyzed. It has been shown that the performance ratio of this algorithm is 2/3. We show that when executed on a random permutation of the variables, the performance ratio of this algorithm is improved to 2/3 + c for some c > 0 This resolves an open problem of Chen, Friesen and Zhang [JCSS 1999]. (See also the paper by Poloczek and Schnitger in these proceedings for related results on this algorithm and its variants).2. Motivated by the above improvement, we consider the performance of the greedy algorithm for MAX-CUT whose performance ratio is 1/2. Our hope was that running the greedy algorithm on a random permutation of the vertices would result in a 1/2 + c approximation algorithm. However, it turns out that in this case the performance of the algorithm remains 1/2. This resolves an open problem of Mathieu and Schudy [SODA 2008].
Descent from Privilege: A Researcher's Memoir of the National Archives of Zimbabwe, 1984–1993

When I first arrived at the National Archives of Zimbabwe in July of 1984, I was flattered and even a little embarrassed by the cosseting I got just for being a visiting researcher. The Archives' staff took a personal interest in me that extended beyond research and into the realm of creature comfort. The daily routine had more in common with a spa than a work place: tea was put on for researchers every morning and afternoon in the Archives' back garden, and the reading room closed early enough in the afternoon to make the first round of gin and tonics at the sun-downer. In other words, doing research at the National Archives was living a privileged existence. That sort of privilege was replaced by a growing sense of professionalism and mainstreaming between 1985 and 1993. Morning and afternoon tea no longer played such an important role in the daily routine, and everything seemed busier. This was a change in tone, not a change in the physical or professional excellence of the institution: the grounds were still beautiful, the facilities were still clean and comfortable, and the staff were still friendly and helpful. But in 1989, and even more so in 1993, a feeling of intensity had replaced the sense of luxury and ease I had felt in 1984 and 1985. The National Archives had been transformed from a spa to a work place. And, in the process, researchers had also been transformed from guests to workers. This brief note is an admittedly personal-perhaps even idiosyncraticrecollection of this transformation at the National Archives of Zimbabwe. Simply having the gall to write this piece demonstrates conceit on my part, but I am neither so foolish nor so arrogant as to suppose that my experiences were strikingly unique or entirely representative. In fact, my goal is not to speak for colleagues, but to ask them to critique this facile memoir of mine, either by correcting my overt mistakes or by sharing their own experiences with (and questions about) the National Archives. Taken together, this note and my colleagues' criticisms will become the sources for a more scholarly (and certainly less egocentric) investigation that Michael West and I plan to make into the social history of the National Archives of Zimbabwe. And so, without further apology, my reminiscence.
Meta-analysis: On the road to synthesis of knowledge?

Abstract The future of meta-analysis is considered following an overview of its methodological procedures and the trends in their application to the psychotherapy outcome literature. Methodological issues, such as quality selection and the potential moderating effects of methods on outcomes, are addressed. Proposals for future meta-analysis reports are offered. The need for normative comparisons and the assessment and quantification of the quality of therapy are specifically recommended.
Ionic and protein concentration changes during the molt cycle of Penaeusduorarum

Abstract 1. 1. Sodium, potassium, calcium and protein concentrations were determined throughout the molt cycle of Penaeus duorarum . 2. 2. Sodium, potassium, and calcium concentrations are greatest at molting and fall to a relatively stable level during the intermolt period. 3. 3. Protein concentration rises during the premolt phase, falls at molt and rises to an intermediate level during intermolt. 4. 4. Electrophoresis of P. duorarum hemolymph produces two distinct bands (slow hemocyanins) and five faint bands on acrylamide gel.
Hearing and Report Examine Measures to Reform Energy Department's National Laboratories

A new report that calls for reorganizing the management of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) national laboratory system generally received a favorable response during an 11 July hearing of the Subcommittee on Energy of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. The department is already moving forward with measures to address several recommendations, Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz stated in a 10 July letter to the subcommittee, which was released at the hearing.
Modelling cellular automata with partial differential equations

A system of 10 coupled nonlinear partial differential equations is exhibited which simulates an arbitrary two-dimensional, nine-neighbor, square-lattice cellular automata. A number of theoretical implications of the result and the techniques used in its construction as well as possible practical consequences are discussed.
Cyst fluid composition in human autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease.

Sirs, Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common monogenic renal disorder and frequently progresses to renal failure [1]. Because of its relative prevalence, it is the most well-characterized of the genetic cystic renal diseases. Histopathologically, the cysts are derived from all segments of the nephron, yet they “bud off” and separate from the tubule from which they are derived [1]. Cystic expansion is thought to be related to multiple biological processes including Na, Cl, and fluid secretion into cysts, processes that would tend to enlarge a discrete cyst and compress surrounding normal renal tissue [1]. Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is less common than ADPKD with an incidence of ~1 in 20,000 live births [1, 2]. Phenotypically, infants and children with ARPKD frequently present with hypertension, which generally appears well in advance of renal insufficiency [3]. Histologically, ARPKD is associated with ectasia and dilatation of renal collecting ducts and intra-hepatic bile ducts, and therefore does not retain the classic ADPKD “blind loop” sac-like cystic pattern [1]. We have previously examined the transepithelial Na transport properties of human ARPKD cystic epithelial cells in culture and reported that these cells absorb Na, as did normal age-matched counterparts. However, we showed, unexpectedly, that ARPKD cyst-lining cells reabsorbed Na at a rate ~50% greater than that of controls [4]. The Na absorptive flux in ARPKD cells was only modestly inhibited by high doses (100 mM) of amiloride, an inhibitor of the epithelial Na channel (ENaC) and Na-H antiporter [4]. Similar investigations of collecting duct epithelial cells derived from orpk mice, a murine model of ARPKD, suggested that these cells, like their human ARPKD counterparts, absorb Na at a higher rate than controls [5]. Based on these laboratory investigations, we were interested to determine if the in vitro studies could be validated in vivo. With institutional review board approval, we sought to characterize cyst fluid composition from ARPKD nephrectomy specimens at the time of renal transplantation. Cyst fluid (~0.1–0.3 ml samples, 8–11 samples per kidney) was collected in the operating room from freshly harvested pediatric ARPKD kidneys. Analysis of fluid aspirated from cysts within the renal parenchyma from three separate end-stage ARPKD kidney specimens revealed a low Na concentration and an osmolality similar to that of serum (Table 1). We speculate that the urine osmolality of ~300 mosmol/kg is due to the presence of urea, which was not measured. The cyst fluid R. Rohatgi Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
Generation of ferromagnetic bonds in disordered antiferromagnetic spin-1 chains with biquadratic couplings

Abstract The interplay between effects of disorder and correlation often gives rise to interesting new physics. In this paper we demonstrate that in a disordered spin-1 chain with both Heisenberg and biquadratic couplings, effective ferromagnetic couplings can be generated even if all the original couplings are antiferromagnetic , an effect that would not occur without randomness. Microscopic origin as well as the physical consequences of this effect are discussed.
Who adopts MIND/FIND in INTERPOL’s fight against international crime and terrorism?

This article determines the key factors inducing INTERPOL countries to institute MIND/FIND, a technology which facilitates systematic searches of people, motor vehicles, and documents at international transit points. This integrated solution assists countries in curbing international crime and terrorism. Based on discrete-choice models, the analysis identifies income per capita, population, democratic freedoms, and anticipated searches for suspects as the key determinants of whether INTERPOL countries install MIND/FIND. Ethnic diversity, international arrivals, cost proxies, and arrests prior to adoption are not important considerations in decisions to install MIND/FIND. External financial support is an essential factor identifying likely non-adopters who installed MIND/FIND.
Native Spanish-speaking children reading in English : Toward a model of comprehension

A structural equation model of second language (L2; English) reading comprehension was tested on a sample of 135 Spanish-speaking 4th-grade English-language learners (ELLs). The model included 2 levels: decoding and oral language. English decoding measures included alphabetic knowledge and fluency. English oral language measures included vocabulary knowledge and listening comprehension. The model had reasonable goodness of fit. Decoding skills played a less predictive role than oral language proficiency. L2 listening comprehension made an independent, proximal contribution to L2 reading comprehension, whereas L2 vocabulary knowledge assumed both proximal and distal relationships with L2 reading comprehension. Results suggest that, given adequate L2 decoding ability, L2 vocabulary knowledge is crucial for improved English reading comprehension outcomes for Spanish-speaking ELLs.
Parent pain responses as predictors of daily activities and mood in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: the utility of electronic diaries.

The present study used electronic diaries to examine how parent responses to their child's pain predict daily adjustment of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Nine school-aged children with JIA along with one of their parents completed thrice-daily assessments of pain-related variables, activity participation, and mood using handheld computers (Palm® pilots) for 14 days, yielding a potential of 42 child and parent assessments for each dyad. Children provided information on current pain level, mood, and participation in social, physical, and school activities. Parents independently rated their own mood as well as their behavioral responses to their child's pain at the same time points using a separate handheld computer. Results of multilevel modeling analyses demonstrated that use of “protective” pain responses by parents significantly predicted decreases in child activity and positive mood, with an even stronger inverse relationship between protective pain response and positive mood observed in children with higher than average disease severity. Protective pain responses were not found to be significantly predictive of daily negative mood in children. The use of “distracting” responses by parents significantly predicted less child activity restrictions but only in children having higher disease severity. There also was an unexpected trend in which parent use of more distracting pain responses tended to be associated with lower child positive mood. These preliminary findings suggest the importance of the parent in influencing adjustment in children with JIA and lend support to the incorporation of parents into comprehensive pain management approaches. The potential benefits of using electronic daily diaries as a strategy to examine pain and adjustment in children with JIA pain are discussed.
A deeper look at oral health and malnutrition in Nepal

Background: Tea workers have the risk of being exposed to agro chemicals. Farm workers engaged in pesticide spraying reported symptoms potentially associated with exposures to pesticides. Diverse morbid conditions and deviation in blood parameters have been reported. Effect of pesticide exposure and safety precaution among farm workers is alarming in developing countries. Aim: To find out health problems and level of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), haemoglobin, white blood cells, creatinine, blood sugar and acetyl cholinesterase among tea workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done to enroll voluntarily participated 262 tea workers of Haldibari, Danabari and Kanyam tea estates of Nepal They were interviewed by using semi-structured questionnaire. General health check-up and measurement of blood pressure, height and weight were done. Laboratory investigations comprised acetyl cholinesterase, alanine transaminase, asparate transaminase, haemoglobin, white blood cell, creatinine and blood sugar. Data was analyzed in SPSS V 16.0. Findings: Among 262 workers, maximum number of workers (60.7%) had work experience of more than 10 years. Most common personal protective equipment used by the workers (10.3%) was simple cloth masks. Eye irritation (34.4%), headache (30.9%), nausea (15.6%), low back pain (32.4%), gastritis and duodenitis (17.6%), arthralgia (14.9%), injury (14%), underweight (11.1%), mild anaemia (31.9%) and leucopenia (9.3%) were prevalent. The difference in means of creatinine level between directly exposed group of workers and those who were not was statistically significant. The ALT level or AST level between directly exposed group of workers and those who were not was statistically significant. The difference in means of acetyl cholinesterase level between directly exposed group of workers and those who were not was statistically non-significant. Interpretation: Workers reported symptoms potentially associated with exposures to pesticides. Musculoskeletal problems, gastritis and duodonitis, injury and anaemia were common among tea workers. Pesticides might have affected liver and kidney function of the workers. Abnormal liver function of the workers might be a hint to guess the effect of organophosporus or carbamates pesticides in the workers exposed to the pesticides. A worker with history of exposure to pesticides and abnormal alanine aminotranferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferease level (AST) might be looked with suspicion as a case suffering from adverse effect of pesticides Effect of organophosphates or carbamates on cholinesterase activity could not be shown among tea workers. We could not ignore falsely depressed blood parameters which could have happen because of co-morbid conditions. However, the possible effect of pesticides on health was shown in this study. Funding: SEAM-Nepal. Abstract #: 02SEDH032
A minority of men with spinal cord injury have normal semen quality--can we learn from them? A case-control study.

OBJECTIVES To determine factors that may help predict normal semen quality in this unique population of male patients, we examined our large database of men with spinal cord injury (SCI). Most men with SCI have abnormal semen quality; however, a small minority retain normal semen parameters. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed on semen retrieval procedures administered between 1991 and 2009 in 500 men with SCI. From those men, we selected subjects who underwent at least 1 penile vibratory stimulation, electroejaculation, or masturbation procedure resulting in antegrade ejaculation (n = 400). Cases were defined as men who, according to World Health Organization criteria, had normal semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility. Control subjects (CR) were defined as all remaining subjects. Risk factors for normal semen parameters were evaluated by conditional logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Of the 400 subjects evaluated, only 30 had normal semen parameters. These 30 CS subjects were matched to 120 CR subjects. Analysis of risk factors revealed that incomplete lesion of the spinal cord (ASIA B to D) was significantly associated with the presence of normal sperm parameters (odds ratio 2.6 [95% confidence interval 1.1-6.1], P = .028). CS subjects were also more likely to be able to collect their samples via masturbation (odds ratio 2.7 [95% confidence interval 1.1-7.1], P = .037). Other risk factors evaluated were not predictive of normal semen parameters. CONCLUSIONS This retrospective, case-control study, performed on a large group of subjects, showed that completeness of SCI is an important risk factor influencing semen quality.
Comparison of intragastric infusion with conventional mechanical bowel preparation

Intragastric infusion of 9000 cc of body temperatue normal saline solution over a three-hour period cleaned the colon equally as well as cleasing for three days with clear liquid diet, purges and enemas. When appropriate antibiotics were added to the solution, suppression of intestinal bacteria was similar to that method using the three-day prep.
Characterization of SU-8 as a photoresist for electron-beam lithography

Electron beam lithography (EBL) is widely used for patterning of sub-micron and nano-scale patterns. Patterns in the order of tens of nano meters have been successfully realized using EBL. There are increasing needs in high aspect ratio structures in sub-micron and nano scales for microelectronics and other applications. Traditionally, high aspect ratio structures in sub-micron and nano scales have been realized by precision lithography techniques and subsequent dry etch techniques. In this work, we present commercially available SU-8 as a potential resist that can be used for direct resist patterning of high aspect ratio structures in sub-micron and nano scales. Such resist pattern can be used as a polymeric mold to create high aspect ratio metallic sub-micron and nano scales structures using electroplating technology. Compared to the most commonly used EBL resist, PMMA (poly methylmethacrylate), SU-8 requires a factor of 100~150 less exposure doses for equal thickness. It results in a significant reduction of EBL processing time. In this paper, characterization results on the patterning of up to 4:1 aspect ratio SU-8 structures with minimum feature size of 500 nm is reported. In addition, preliminary results on high aspect ratio metallic sub-micron structures using electroplating technology are also reported.
The protean actions of neurotrophins and their receptors on the life and death of neurons

At vanishingly low concentrations, factors of the neurotrophin family (NGF, BDNF, NT3 and NT4/5) can promote neuronal survival or death. Many investigations indicate that the survival-promoting signals of neurotrophins are generated by activation of Trk tyrosine kinase receptors and that their death-promoting signals are generated by activation of p75 neurotrophin receptors (p75 NTR ). Despite this, a body of work indicates that p75 NTR can promote cell survival and Trk receptors can adversely affect neuron health. The potential mechanisms by which these receptors could have such diverse and antipodal effects are considered here.
The Power of Swahili Porcelain, Beads and Pottery

This ethno-archeological case study presents an emic view of the meaning of Swahili artifacts. Porcelain, beads and pottery have been deposited by generation of Swahili people, but only recently has symbolic and structuring social meaning of these items become of interest to archeologists working on the East African coastal sites. The emic perspective also revealed an unconscious belief that pottery decoration has a “protective” function within the Swahili culture.
New Oral Anticoagulants in Elderly Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

The prevalence of atrial fibrillation increases with age, augmenting the risk of embolic stroke in elderly individuals. Clinical practice guidelines recommend the long-term use of oral anticoagulation in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation to reduce risk of stroke. Until recently, vitamin K antagonists (eg, warfarin) were the only oral anticoagulants available, but using warfarin in elderly patients can be challenging. Newer oral anticoagulants may offer specific benefits and increased convenience for elderly patients, because they have predictable pharmacologic profiles, a rapid onset of action, a wide therapeutic window, no requirement for routine coagulation monitoring, and fewer and better-defined food and drug interactions compared with warfarin. This review highlights the benefits and challenges of warfarin use in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation and discusses potential efficacy and safety benefits for newer oral agents in these patients. The potential for increased rates of major bleeding in the elderly, particularly those with numerous concomitant medications or renal impairment, also is discussed. Practical considerations for the use of long-term anticoagulation in elderly patients also are discussed.
The effect of increased serotonergic neurotransmission on aggression: a critical meta-analytical review of preclinical studies

The role of serotonin (5-HT) on aggression has been extensively studied; nonetheless, the role of this neurotransmitter in aggression is still inconclusive. The current meta-analytical review investigated the role of increased 5-HT neurotransmission in aggression. Preclinical studies using serotonin reuptake inhibitors, 5-hydroxytryptophan, l-tryptophan, or serotonin (5-HT) to increase 5-HT levels were included in this meta-analysis. An overall effect of serotonin on aggression was calculated, and the role of several moderator variables was analyzed. A total of 218 effect sizes revealed that increased 5-HT had an overall significant inhibitory effect on aggression (r = 0.3). The results showed that increased 5-HT had the strongest inhibitory effect on aggression when (1) a specific strain or species (e.g., Long Evans) was used; (2) aggression was offensive or predatory and/or induced by administration of 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine or p-chlorophenylalanine; (3) zimelidine, sertraline, l-tryptophan, citalopram, or 5-HT were used to increase 5-HT; (4) treatment was acute; (5) long chronic treatment durations were used; and (6) time between last injection and behavior testing was within 8 h before or after peak plasma concentration of drug. In contrast, the results revealed that increased-5-HT-facilitated aggression could be predicted when (1) Wistar rats, (2) social isolation or stress to induce aggression, and/or (3) animals treated for less than 3 weeks were used. Although 5-HT has an overall inhibitory effect on aggression, the animal's genetic background, drug, treatment time, aggression inducing paradigm, and aggression type are critical variables that influence and modify this effect.
Free fatty acids and type 2 diabetes mellitus

Acute elevation of plasma free fatty acids (FFAs) is necessary for insulin secretion. Sustained elevation, however, leads to apoptosis of pancreatic beta-cells and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and sudden death in patients with insulin resistance or a family history of diabetes mellitus, as well as in individuals with normal glucose tolerance. Data suggest that reduction of FFA plasma levels may reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease in these at-risk patients. Thiazolidinediones have been shown not only to improve insulin sensitivity but also to reduce FFA plasma levels. Consequently, endothelial function is maintained, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration are minimized, elevated blood pressure and microalbuminuria are reduced, and high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol particle sizes are improved.
Determination of synthetic by-products and an intermediate in the colour additives D&C Red Nos 27 and 28 (phloxine B) and their lakes using conventional HPLC

Specifications in the US Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) for the colour additives D&C Red No. 27 (R27) and D&C Red No. 28 (R28) limit the levels of the synthetic by-products 2,3,4,5-tetrachloro-6-(3´,5´-dibromo-2´,4´-dihydroxybenzoyl)benzoic acid (SBBA) and “brominated resorcinol” and of the intermediate 3,4,5,6-tetrachlorophthalic acid (TCPA). The present study reports the development and application of a conventional HPLC method for the quantitative determination of these impurities in R27, R28 and their lakes. Because the CFR-listed “brominated resorcinol” refers to a group of synthetic by-products, six variously brominated resorcinols were examined as possible impurities. Due to their rapid decomposition in the presence of the dye, the existence of any brominated resorcinols in R27 and R28 is highly unlikely, and this supposition is supported by the results obtained in this study. SBBA, 2,4,6-tribromoresorcinol (Br3R, the brominated resorcinol most likely to be found as an impurity) and TCPA were qu...
Acute Effect of 9α-Fluoroprednisolone Acetate (9α FFA) on Blood Leukocytes and Somatic Cell Content of Milk

Abstract Lactating Holstein cows received 0 (saline), 5, or 10 mg 9α FFA immediately following morning milking. Thereafter blood samples were collected hourly until completion of the evening milking 10 hours later. Treatment with 9α FFA resulted in a linear increase in plasma glucose during post-treatment (P 0.10). Direct microscopic measurements of somatic cell content of fore, primary and residual milk revealed no significant (P > 0.10) effect of 9α FFA on number of total somatic cells, granulocytes, agranulocytes, or epithelial cells. These results suggest that corticoid-induced leukocytosis of blood is not reflected by increased somatic cell numbers in milk.
Holographic diffraction in photoanisotropic organic materials

A theoretical study is presented that describes the recording and the readout of transmission volume holograms in dynamic photoanisotropic organic materials. The stationary coupled differential equations of two recording beams that are polarized perpendicular to the plane of incidence are derived and solved analytically for the beam intensities and the phase changes. These equations self-consistently satisfy the recording dynamics of the hologram formation including the effects of fringe curvature and energy transfer. Analytic formulas for the diffraction efficiency are obtained from the readout equations under the assumption of a Bragg-matched weak probe beam of arbitrary polarization and in the small fringe curvature regime. Previously measured parameters of Methyl Orange–polyvinyl alcohol holograms indicate that the optimal hologram thickness is approximately 0.2 mm and predict the decrease of diffraction efficiency with an increase of beam ratio.
Urethral hyperthermia: an alternative to urethrectomy.

Abstract Nine male dogs were subjected to cystoprostatectomy, ileal loop diversion, and urethral hyperthermia. Five of the 9 dogs survived six weeks. Three of the 5 surviving dogs had complete destruction of the urethral epithelium, and the other 2 dogs had 95 per cent and 50 per cent destruction with the proximal urethral end incompletely destroyed. Complete urethral destruction may have been obtained with resection of the proximal urethra post-irrigation. The irrigation added no extra time to the surgical procedure and was accompanied by few complications. Complications may have been averted with a dorsal slit and meatotomy.
Cement kiln dust and coal filters treatment of textile industrial effluents

Abstract Effluent discharge from textile industries to neighbouring water bodies and wastewater treatment systems is currently causing significant health concerns to environmental regulatory agencies. This study records lab scale experiments to test efficiency of cement kiln dust (CKD) and CKD + Coal filters in removing a colour, turbidity, and organic substances (BOD and COD) and heavy metals from textile wastewater. The results showed that the negligible difference between the CKD filter at hydraulic loading 0.5 and 1.0 m3/m2 h in the removal efficiency COD and colour and increasing of seed germination for treated of textile industrial effluents. The higher efficiency of CKD + Coal than CKD filters for COD and colour removal of textile wastewater at hydraulic loading of 1.0 m3/m2 h. CKD + Coal filter could remove about 97% of colour, 76% of turbidity, 84% of COD, 77% of BOD and 94% of PO4−3 from raw textile wastewater and it's increased in seed germination of cress (Lepidium sativum) to 100%. The experimental results confirmed that CKD + Coal filter can be adopted as a decolorization and heavy metals of textile industrial effluents.
The relationship of selected vocal characteristics to personality perception

(1968). The relationship of selected vocal characteristics to personality perception. Speech Monographs: Vol. 35, No. 4, pp. 492-503.
Shielding effects of metallic encapsulations and radiographic contrast agents for catheter-based intravascular brachytherapy.

Abstract Purpose/Objective: Both photon- and beta-emitting radionuclides for intravascular brachytherapy (IVB) are under active investigation for prevention of restenosis following conventional angioplasty with or without stents. High atomic number materials are usually present in the coronary vessels undergoing treatment in the form of metallic encapsulations, stents, calcified plaque, or radiographic contrast agent. The high atomic number materials are likely to interfere with the photons and betas and, thus, change the dosimetry in the treatment volume. The purpose of this study is to investigate the shielding effects caused by the presence of high atomic number materials in IVB. Materials and Methods: Dose rates at various distances in water, with and without the presence of various high atomic number materials, were calculated using Monte Carlo simulation techniques for photon and electron transport in extended media. The high atomic number materials investigated included titanium, stainless steel, calcified plaque, Hypaque, and Omnipaque. A wide range of monoenergetic photon and electron sources and several photon- and beta-emitting radionuclides, which have been under consideration for IVB, were used. The energy of the monoenergetic photon sources was in the range from 10 keV to 1 MeV, and that of the monoenergetic electron sources in the range from 0.5 to 2 MeV. Photon-emitting radionuclides 192 Ir, 125 I, and 103 Pd and beta-emitting radionuclides 90 Y, 32 P, and 188 Re were also considered. Results: It was found that the high atomic number materials interfere considerably with the transport of photons of relatively low energies (below 40 keV) and all electron sources. When the energy of photon exceeds 100 keV, the interference becomes minimum for the high atomic number materials that are likely to be present in clinical situations. The shielding correction factors (SCFs) for dose rate at 2 mm from center were essentially 1.00 for photon energies above 100 keV; as the energy decreased below 100 keV, the SCF became smaller reaching a value of almost 0 for the lowest energy studied, 10 keV. For the photon source of 192 Ir, the SCF was essentially 1.00; while for the photon sources of 125 I and 103 Pd, shielding corrections were considerably lower than 1.00 depending on the type and thickness of the high atomic number material. For the beta emitting sources, the shielding effect can be expressed as a loss in effective penetration depth. This loss depends both on the material and its thickness. For titanium and stainless steel, the loss of range was about two and four times the thickness of the metal. Conclusions: The effects of high atomic number materials, such as metallic stents, calcified plaque, and contrast agents are minimal for high energy photon emitters, such as 192 Ir. The effects are pronounced for beta emitters and low energy photon emitters, and must be included in dosimetry planning.
Origin of Kern's arc.

With the aid of computer-simulated halo patterns, we show that Kern’s arc, as seen on the latitude of the circumzenithal arc and on the other side of the zenith, is produced by double-plate ice crystals with a vertical principal axis. Light rays that contribute to Kern’s arc are demonstrated by geometric ray tracing. We also discuss the condition under which an arc that is opposite a circumhorizontal arc can appear.
Estimation of the mean and standard deviation from normally distributed singly‐censored samples

This article is concerned with the estimation of the mean μ and standard deviation σ utilizing a singly-left-censored sample of normally distributed data having a known detection limit (DL). A new computer algorithm for obtaining the Cohen (1959) maximum likelihood estimates of μ and σ is provided which does not require auxiliary tables. The algorithm utilizes S-PLUS or R languages. Closed form estimates of the mean and standard deviation obtained under a new replacement method are given for normally distributed left-censored samples, which appear to be superior to existing replacement method estimates. The replacement method estimates are based on replacing the left-censored observations by a non-constant value. The performances of these methods are compared utilizing many simulated data sets. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.