cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interleukins, signal transduction, and the immune system-mediated stress response.

The interleukins (ILs) comprise a group of small proteins or polypeptides with molecular weights in the 15–25 kD range. These polypeptides possess pleiotropic biological activities on immune as well as non-immune cells and can be produced by either cell type. At the present time, recombinant forms for at least IL-lα and β through IL-7 are available for investigative use, and these ILs possess certain overlapping biological activities. The use of the term interleukin is somewhat archaic and limiting since a variety of non-leukocytic cell types produce these molecules or others with similar biological activities. Designations for the ILs, based on cell type of origin, include monokines, lymphokines, and cytokines if they are derived from monocytes, lymphocytes, and non-lymphoid cells, respectively. Finally, there is a trend to refer to all of the above mentioned molecules as cytokines, and an appreciation of the multitude of biological effects induced by the cytokines can be found in several recent reviews (1,2,3,4).
The Gradual Acceptance of the Existence of the Secular Acceleration During the 1740s

The 1740s saw a major shift in the way that solar, lunar, and planetary theories were formulated. Continental mathematicians applied the calculus as interpreted by Leibniz in an attempt to solve the three-body problem of the gravitation forces in the Earth–moon–sun system to compute the perturbations in the lunar orbit, and eventually extended this procedure to the planets. Celestial mechanics shifted from being an astronomical problem to a mathematical one, and the locus of its study moved from England to continental Europe and from astronomers to mathematicians. Consideration of the mechanics of the orbits of the bodies in the solar system led mathematicians such as Leonard Euler back to the question of whether the heavenly bodies were retarded in their motion by the aether. The secular accelerations of the sun, moon and planets therefore took on a new significance and by the end of the 1740s the existence of these accelerations was generally accepted, although the size of the accelerations remained unsolved. The decade began, however, with a challenge to Halley’s discovery of the lunar secular acceleration.
Radiogenomics and Radiomics in Liver Cancers

Radiogenomics is a computational discipline that identifies correlations between cross-sectional imaging features and tissue-based molecular data. These imaging phenotypic correlations can then potentially be used to longitudinally and non-invasively predict a tumor's molecular profile. A different, but related field termed radiomics examines the extraction of quantitative data from imaging data and the subsequent combination of these data with clinical information in an attempt to provide prognostic information and guide clinical decision making. Together, these fields represent the evolution of biomedical imaging from a descriptive, qualitative specialty to a predictive, quantitative discipline. It is anticipated that radiomics and radiogenomics will not only identify pathologic processes, but also unveil their underlying pathophysiological mechanisms through clinical imaging alone. Here, we review recent studies on radiogenomics and radiomics in liver cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and metastases to the liver.
Introduction: The Early Modern Womb

The introduction outlines the humoral concept of the womb disseminated in medical tracts, domestic manuals, diaries, and pamphlets, specifically interrogating how it was crucial to the larger socio-political discourse surrounding women’s bodies in early modern England. Women were considered porous, polluting, and susceptible to the environment. At the center of the divergent female anatomy was the womb, which was considered a virtually independent force and necessitated containment because of its influential role in reproduction. The book begins by providing a medical framework for the literature analysis that occupies the remaining chapters. The purpose, structure, and function of the womb are explored in a variety of texts to demonstrate a broad overview of how people theorized female anatomy when Shakespeare wrote his plays.
Changes in under-shoe traction and fluid drainage for progressively worn shoe tread

Abstract Shoe wear is known to increase slipping risk, but few studies have systematically studied this relationship. This study investigated the impact of progressive shoe wear on the available coefficient of friction (ACOF) and under-shoe fluid dynamics. Five different slip-resistant shoes were progressively worn using an accelerated, abrasive, wear protocol. The ACOF and fluid forces (the load supported by the fluid) were measured as shoes were slipped across a surface contaminated with a diluted glycerol solution. As the shoes became worn, an initial increase in ACOF was followed by a steady decrease. Low fluid forces were observed prior to wear followed by increased fluid forces as the worn region became larger. Results suggest that traction performance decreases particularly when the heel region without tread exceeds a size of 800 mm2. This study supports the concept of developing shoe replacement guidelines based upon the size of the worn region to reduce occupational slips.
Technology Assessment as a Critique of a Civilization

My concern with Technology Assessment is born out of my larger concern with Philosophy of Technology. What is Philosophy of Technology ? It is a systematic reflection on the nature of contemporary technology, its role and function in society and civilization at large. It may be said without exaggeration that technology is the major force shaping the destiny of the present western civilization: thus shaping the destiny of Society, and therefore, to a large degree, shaping the destiny of its individuals. It is quite obvious that technology is not a collection of tools, but a vital social and cultural force determining our future. It is not an assembly of gadgets, but a part of our world view, indeed an intrinsic part of the western mentality: whenever we westerners think technology, we invariably think ‘manipulation’ and ‘control.’ The primary locus of Philosophy of Technology is not a simple accumulation of insights, a merely analytical and dispassionate inquiry, but an attempt to find some answers to the most urgent social, moral and human dilemmas of our times — the dilemmas which have largely been caused by the relentless unfolding of technological progress. In short, Philosophy of Technology is the philosophy for our times.
Service innovation: a service-dominant logic perspective

In this article, we offer a broadened view of service innovation--one grounded in service-dominant logic--that transcends the tangible--intangible and producer--consumer divides that have plagued extant research in this area. Such a broadened conceptualization of service innovation emphasizes (1) innovation as a collaborative process occurring in an actor-to-actor (A2A) network, (2) service as the application of specialized competences for the benefit of another actor or the self and as the basis of all exchange, (3) the generativity unleashed by increasing resource liquefaction and resource density, and (4) resource integration as the fundamental way to innovate. Building on these core themes, we offer a tripartite framework of service innovation: (1) service ecosystems, as emergent A2A structures actors create and recreate through their effectual actions and which offer an organizing logic for the actors to exchange service and cocreate value; (2) service platforms, which enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of service exchange by liquefying resources and increasing resource density (facilitating easy access to appropriate resource bundles) and thereby serve as the venue for innovation; and (3) value cocreation, which views value as cocreated by the service offer(er) and the service beneficiary (e.g., customer) through resource integration and indicate the need for mechanisms to support the underlying roles and processes. In discussing these components, we consider the role of information technology--both as an operand resource and as an operant resource--and then examine the implications for research and practice in digitally enabled service innovation.
pH-dependent adsorption of α-amino acids, lysine, glutamic acid, serine and glycine, on TiO2 nanoparticle surfaces

Abstract TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) are widely used in different applications, and potential exposure to these NPs raises concerns about their impact on human health. In contact with biological fluids, proteins adsorb onto NPs to create a protein corona. Protein adsorption is highly dependent on the affinity between exterior amino acid residues and the NP surface. Thus, studying amino acids adsorption onto NPs can provide insight into protein corona formation. Herein, the pH-dependent adsorption of α-amino acids onto TiO2 NPs in buffered solutions is described. Methods include attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy to analyze molecular interactions and dynamic light scattering (DLS) to measure changes in size and zeta-potential upon adsorption. Depending on the predominant speciation and TiO2 NP surface charge, adsorption involves a combination of carboxylate and amine group interactions. Gly and Lys reveal a similar trend of higher adsorption with increasing pH. In contrast, Glu adsorption decreases with increasing pH. Ser adsorption onto TiO2 NPs surfaces is the highest around pHIEP. These differences are attributed to the different speciation of the functional groups within the amino acids and the TiO2 surface charge at each pH. Under our experimental conditions, multiple surface species coexist at different pH values. Protonated surface species are present for all amino acids at pH 2. At pH 9, Lys and Glu adsorbate spectra have new peaks at 1740 cm−1 and 1744 cm−1, respectively. This is a possible result of surface-induced deprotonation of the amine group and proton transfer to the carboxylate. Analyzing the pH-dependent adsorption of amino acids can provide a better understanding of biomolecule-surface interactions in in vivo and different biological milieu.
Trajectory prediction of cylinders freely dropped into water in two dimensions based on state space model

Abstract Experiments show that the behavior of dropped cylindrical objects may be stochastic if small disturbances exist at the initial moment. An envelope of various trajectories can be obtained from experimental tests. In addition, numerical results also indicate that small changes of initial states, e.g., drop angle, rolling frequency, and the selection of drag coefficient, affect the trajectory greatly. If the initial state follows the Gaussian distribution,it can be considered as a nonlinear prediction problem. Then the Unscented Transformation (UT) method, as a deterministic sampling method, can be used to predict the trajectory. In this paper, we firstly present a systematic formulation of the cylinder's three-degree-of-freedom (3DOF) of motions as a state space model. Secondly, the UT method and the interval estimation method are employed to solve this prediction problem. Finally, the predicted trajectories will be compared with the experimental data. Meanwhile, two performance parameters are first proposed to evaluate the accuracy of predicted trajectory. Both parameters can be directly applied to the salvage and recovery of dropped objects in the offshore operations. In addition, the numerical results also show that the UT method is an efficient way to predict the trajectory of cylinders freely dropped into water.
Refusal of Intramuscular Vitamin K by Parents of Newborns: A Review.

In 2019, the American Academy of Pediatrics made public education about intramuscular vitamin K administration at birth a public health priority, partly in response to reports of refusal of intramuscular vitamin K by parents of newborns that led to vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). We reviewed the literature on the frequency of, reported reasons for, and factors associated with refusal of intramuscular vitamin K, incidence of VKDB in newborns who did not receive intramuscular vitamin K, and use of oral vitamin K to prevent VKDB. Without prophylaxis, estimates of the incidence per 100 000 births of VKDB range from 250 to 1700 for early VKDB and from 10.5 to 80 for late VKDB. The frequency of refusal of intramuscular vitamin K by parents ranged from 0% to 3.2% in US hospitals, up to 14.5% in home births, and up to 31.0% in birthing centers. Reported reasons for refusal were concern of harm from the injection, a desire to be natural, and a belief in alternative methods of prophylaxis. Parents who refused intramuscular vitamin K were more likely to refuse immunizations. Many different regimens were used for orally administered vitamin K; it is not clear which is best, but all are less effective than intramuscular vitamin K. VKDB is rare but can result in either neurologic sequelae or death. In addition to continued surveillance of the frequency of both refusal of intramuscular vitamin K and VKDB, a renewed focus on education of and collaboration with parents is needed to address this major public health threat.
Mycoplasma genitalium and Trichomonas vaginalis: addressing disparities and promoting public health control of two emerging sexually transmitted infections

Purpose of review Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) and Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis), sexually transmitted infections that remain non-reportable in the United States, may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and adverse pregnancy outcomes if left untreated. Prevalence estimates have highlighted socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities in rates of infection. This review summarizes the recent literature on M. genitalium and T. vaginalis with a focus on the epidemiology, screening, and treatment of M. genitalium and T. vaginalis. Recent findings The burden of T. vaginalis testing remains on women. Antimicrobial resistance is of great concern for M. genitalium. Comprehensive screening and treatment guidelines present an opportunity to address these public health concerns. Summary M. genitalium and T. vaginalis infections disproportionately affect sexual and racial/ethnic minorities and those facing socioeconomic disparities. The availability of nucleic acid amplification test testing has facilitated accurate diagnosis of both disorders. Safe and efficacious treatments are available for treatment of both disorders. Integrating macrolide resistance testing into treatment algorithms for M. genitalium and dual antibiotic therapy may prove a useful strategy for future US-based guidance. Public health reporting and increased public awareness campaigns are key next steps to addressing the observed reproductive health disparities.
Effect of gap size on composition and structure of regeneration 19 years after harvest in a southeastern bottomland forest, USA

Following timber harvests in bottomland mixed-oak (Quercus L.) stands, desirable oak advance regeneration can be overgrown by shade-intolerant pioneer species. We investigated the effects of group ...
Reference for neo-Fregeans

Neo-Fregeanism (NF) is a family of positions in the philosophy of mathematics that combines a certain type of platonism about mathematical abstracta with a certain type of logicism about the foundations and epistemology of mathematics. This paper addresses the following question: what sort of theory of reference can/should NF be committed to? The theory of reference I propose for NF comes in two parts. First, an alethic account of referential success: the fact that a term ‘a’ succeeds in referring to something depends on facts about truth. Second, a deflationary account of referential specification: given that ‘a’ refers to something, the fact that ‘a’ refers to b specifically follows from the disquotational schema for reference (‘a’ refers to x iff x = a) together with the fact that b = a. In the first section of the paper I argue that NF should be committed to the first part of this theory. This a point on which there is already (some) agreement. The bulk of the paper is therefore devoted to arguing that NF should be committed to the second part, given that it is committed to the first part. I close the paper by indicating some significant implications and a possible problem for this theory of reference.
PTSD as a Risk Factor Predicting Polydrug Use: A Dual Systems of Self-Control Mediation Model:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with increased risk for polydrug use. Low self-control is a key characteristic of the disorder and is predictive of polydrug use. However, there ...
E-wave asymmetry elucidates diastolic ventricular stiffness-relaxation coupling: model-based prediction with in vivo validation.

Although diastolic stiffness and relaxation are considered independent chamber properties, the cardio-hemic inertial oscillation that generates E-waves obeys Newton’s law. E-waves vary with heart r...
X-Ray Variability Coherence: How to Compute it, What it Means, and How it Constrains Models of Cyg X-1 and GX 339-4

We describe how the coherence function, a Fourier frequency-dependent measure of the linear correlation between time series measured simultaneously in two energy channels, can be used in conjunction with energy spectra, power spectra, and time delays between energy channels to constrain models of the spectrum and variability of x-ray binaries. Here we present a procedure for estimating the coherence function in the presence of counting noise. We apply this method to the black hole candidates Cyg X--1 and GX 339--4, and find that the near perfect coherence between low and high energy x-ray photons rules out a wide range of models that postulate: spatially extended fluctuating emission, thermal flares, and overlapping shot-noise.
MAPT subhaplotypes in corticobasal degeneration: assessing associations with disease risk, severity of tau pathology, and clinical features

The microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) H1 haplotype is the strongest genetic risk factor for corticobasal degeneration (CBD). However, the specific H1 subhaplotype association is not well defined, and it is not clear whether any MAPT haplotypes influence severity of tau pathology or clinical presentation in CBD. Therefore, in the current study we examined 230 neuropathologically confirmed CBD cases and 1312 controls in order to assess associations of MAPT haplotypes with risk of CBD, severity of tau pathology (measured as semi-quantitative scores for coiled bodies, neurofibrillary tangles, astrocytic plaques, and neuropil threads), age of CBD onset, and disease duration. After correcting for multiple testing (P < 0.0026 considered as significant), we confirmed the strong association between the MAPT H2 haplotype and decreased risk of CBD (Odds ratio = 0.26, P = 2 × 10−12), and also observed a novel association between the H1d subhaplotype and an increased CBD risk (Odds ratio = 1.76, P = 0.002). Additionally, although not statistically significant after correcting for multiple testing, the H1c haplotype was associated with a higher risk of CBD (Odds ratio = 1.49, P = 0.009). No MAPT haplotypes were significantly associated with any tau pathology measures, age of CBD onset, or disease duration. Though replication will be important and there is potential that population stratification could have influenced our findings, these results suggest that several MAPT H1 subhaplotypes are primarily responsible for the strong association between MAPT H1 and risk of CBD, but that H1 subhaplotypes are unlikely to play a major role in driving tau pathology or clinical features. Our findings also indicate that similarities in MAPT haplotype risk-factor profile exist between CBD and the related tauopathy progressive supranuclear palsy, with H2, H1d, and H1c displaying associations with both diseases.
Selection of Reference Genes for RT-qPCR Analysis in the Monarch Butterfly, Danaus plexippus (L.), a Migrating Bio-Indicator

Reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is a powerful technique to quantify gene expression. To facilitate gene expression study and obtain accurate results, normalization relative to stably expressed reference genes is crucial. The monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus (L.), is one of the most recognized insect species for its spectacular annual migration across North America. Besides its great voyages, D. plexippus has drawn attention to its role as a bio-indicator, ranging from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to natural ecosystems. In this study, nine reference genes from D. plexippus genome were selected as the candidate reference genes. The expression profiles of these candidates under various biotic and abiotic conditions were evaluated using the four readily available computational programs, BestKeeper, Normfinder, geNorm, and ΔCt method, respectively. Moreover, RefFinder, a web-based computational platform integrating the four above mentioned algorisms, provided a comprehensive ranking of the stability of these reference genes. As a result, a suite of reference genes were recommended for each experimental condition. Specifically, elongation factor 1α (EF1A) and ribosomal protein 49 (RP49) were the most stable reference genes, respectively, under biotic (development, tissue, and sex) and abiotic (photoperiod, temperature, and dietary RNAi) conditions. With the recent release of a 273-million base pair draft genome, results from this study allow us to establish a standardized RT-qPCR analysis and lay a foundation for the subsequent genomic and functional genomic research in D. plexippus, a major bio-indicator and an emerging model for migratory animals.
Experimental chemical weathering of various bedrock types at different pH-values: 1. Sandstone and granite

Abstract Experimental chemical weathering of the so-called Old Rag Granite and Massanutten Sandstone, Virginia, U.S.A., has produced a comparison with the natural environment, and prediction of the effect of acid precipitation. The experimental results of the release of elements, dissolution of minerals, total rock weathered and the degree of weathering as function of volume of leachate were plotted. These data were compared with the natural environment. The use of the plots to predict the effect of high levels of rain acidity on weathering of these rocks is demonstrated. A nonexpandable 14-A clay was developed from the alteration of biotite during the experimental chemical weathering of the granite at pH 4. This interstratified Al(OH)—mica clay resembles those of the soil developed on the granite and sandstone. Hydroxy-Al may be precipitating between the mica interlayers and producing a 14-A spacing. Development of this clay by chemical alteration of biotite may change the current hypotheses about its origin in the soils of northeastern U.S.A. While Al-hydroxide seems to regulate Al concentrations in stream waters at the present level of rain acidity, it was found that at lower pH and in the presence of high sulfate concentrations, Al solubility may be controlled by Al-sulfate phase(s).
Host range of conjugation and replication functions of the Escherichia coli sex plasmid Flac: Comparison with the broad host-range plasmid RK2

Abstract The Escherichia coli conjugative plasmid F lac has a restricted host range, in that transfer to Pseudomonas aeruginosa is not detectable. The molecular basis for this host-range restriction was studied by a separate comparison of the replication and conjugation systems of F lac with those of the broad host-range plasmid RK2. The origin of transfer of F lac ( ori T F ) was cloned onto a small RK2 replicon. The hybrid plasmid, pDG2906, could be transferred efficiently by both the F lac and RK2 conjugation systems to an E. coli recipient. The F lac conjugation system was able to transfer pDG2906 to P. aeruginosa , but only at a frequency of 10 −4 of that of the RK2 conjugation system. A second hybrid plasmid, containing the replication region of F lac with the transfer region of RK2, could not be established in P. aeruginosa . These results show that F lac is able to mediate low frequency transfer to P. aeruginosa , and that the lack of replication in Pseudomonas is ultimately responsible for the restricted host range.
Dentin–Enamel Junction of Human Teeth

The Dentin–enamel junction (DEJ) is a natural junction that unites two mechanically dissimilar calcified tissues: hard, brittle enamel and the subjacent softer, tougher dentin. The DEJ structure, an effective obstacle for enamel-initiated crack propagation, is generally described as a series of 25–100-μm-diameter scallops with their convexities directed toward the dentin. In addition, microscallops seem to be housed within each scallop and a finer nanolevel structure within each microscallop. The DEJ is also characterized by parallel 80–120-nm-diameter collagen fibrils that merge with the interwoven fibrillar network of the dentin collagen matrix and directly insert into the enamel mineral. The fibrils, however, extend only a few hundred nanometers into the enamel. Keywords: teeth; dentin–enamel junction; crack propagation
Applying Twitter to EFL reading and writing in a Taiwanese college setting

This study is an exploration of the potential language learning value of applying Twitter as a tool for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) reading and writing in a college setting in Taiwan. The Twitter-assisted learning approach was based on Vygotsky’s framework of social learning theories in which learners experience social collaboration, peer-modeling and a peer-monitoring process. Twitter, a microblogging social network website, provides learners an asynchronous platform and facilitates motivation for discussion. Participants were randomly assigned to two equal-size groups: a Twitter and non-Twitter group. Participants completed pretests and posttests to assess reading and writing. During this two-month investigation, both of the groups experienced the same learning materials and teaching methods, but the non-Twitter group engaged in free-writing activities while the Twitter group used Twitter for major course writing exercises. The students’ pretest and posttest results were analyzed by independent and dependent sample t-tests. The analysis indicated that different learning approaches did not make a significant impact on the learners’ reading and writing performance. However, the dependent sample t-test revealed that writing scores from the pretest to posttest in each group were significantly different. The learners were also given a Motivated Strategy Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) to measure whether their learning attitudes changed after the experiment. Comparison of the mean scores of the MSLQ from these two groups, as well as an examination of the t values through an independent sample t-test analysis, indicated that Twitter-assisted learning had a significant positive influence on the experimental group’s learning attitude.
Old and new paradigms in the measurement of R&D

Various countries have been collecting RD secondly, studies on the generation and distribution of knowledge show that the concept of ‘full-time equivalent’ for measuring the quantity and quality of work done by professionals engaged in R&D is less and less tenable. Copyright , Beech Tree Publishing.
Tracking temporal changes of bacterial community fingerprints during the initial stages of composting

The initial phase of composting is the most dynamic part of the process and is characterized by rapid increases in temperature, large swings in pH, and the degradation of simple organic compounds. DNA samples were taken from an active compost system to determine the microbial 16S rRNA gene sequences that were present during this phase. We observed two significant shifts in the composition of the microbial community, one between 12 and 24 h and the other between 60 and 72 h into the process using automated 16S–23S rRNA intergenic spacer amplification (ARISA). The 16S rRNA gene sequences adjoining the most common ARISA fragments at each time point were determined. We found that sequences related to lactic acid bacteria were most common during the first 60 h and Bacillus-type sequences were most common between 72 and 96 h. While the temperature increased steadily over the first 96 h, the pH dropped after 12 h and increased after 60 h correlating with the shift from Bacillus to lactic acid sequences and the later return to Bacillus-type sequences.
Cutaneous Radiation-Associated Angiosarcoma of the Breast: Poor Prognosis in a Rare Secondary Malignancy

Cutaneous radiation-associated angiosarcoma of the breast (CRAASBr) is a rare complication of radiation therapy (RT) administered for primary breast cancer treatment. Although case series have provided clinical and histological descriptions of this disease, to our knowledge, none have identified trends in presentation and treatments that may contribute to outcomes. Demographic, clinical, histopathologic, and outcomes data for all patients presenting with CRAASBr for treatment or consultation at our institution from 1987 to 2009 were reviewed. We identified 33 patients (median age at CRAASBr presentation 71.3 years, range 43.1–87.2 years; median latency period 73.5 months, range 39.6–148.5 months). The most common presentation was breast skin ecchymosis (55 %). In four patients, initial biopsy demonstrated atypical vascular lesions suspicious for, but not diagnostic of, angiosarcoma. All patients underwent mastectomy. Median local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and overall survival (OS) rates were 18.2, 13.0, and 48.5 months, respectively. Patients who underwent resection of all irradiated breast skin as part of the mastectomy trended toward a better median LRFS (80.8 vs. 10.0 months, p = 0.065), RFS (72.6 vs. 10.0 months, p = 0.098), and OS (not achieved vs. 29.0 months, p = 0.054). CRAASBr is a potentially devastating consequence of RT for breast cancer, with poor LRFS, RFS, and OS rates. Patients with ecchymotic skin lesions require biopsy. Atypical vascular lesions require careful evaluation to rule out CRAASBr. If the diagnosis is confirmed, radical surgery encompassing both the breast parenchyma and the at-risk radiated skin should be performed.
ABNORMAL SLEEP EEC IN IDIOPATHIC SHORT STATURE

Polysomnographic recordings were obtained in six patients with idiopathic short stature (ISS), aged 4-10/12 to 16-1/2 yrs and seven patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) aged 6-3/12 to 10-5/12 yrs. ISS patients had GH levels ≥ 10 ng/ml and GHD patients had GH levels ≤ 7 ng/ml during provocative testing. Both groups had growth velocities below the 50th percentile and all patients were euthyroid. The results of the polysomnographic recordings (mean ± SD) are shown below for ISS, GHD and normals aged 6-13 yrs. ISS and GHD patients had identical percentages of stages of 1-4 and REM sleep. Both groups had significantly less REM and more stage 1 and 3 sleep (%) than normals. ISS patients had qualitatively, poorer sleep with an average of 66.7 minutes of wake-time during the sleep period as compared with <10 min. in GHD and normals. There was no correlation between wake-time and mean GH concentrations or secretory rates, although some ISS patients had very low mean GH range (2.0-9.5 ng/ml). Conclusions: Sleep architecture is abnormal in ISS and is indistinguishable from that seen in GHD. Coupled with low mean GH seen in some ISS patients, these abnormalities may be the cause(s) for the growth retardation in ISS.
"Pray before you step out": describing personal and situational blind navigation behaviors

Personal navigation tools have greatly impacted the lives of people with vision impairments. As people with vision impairments often have different requirements for technology, it is important to understand users' ever-changing needs. We conducted a formative study exploring how people with vision impairments used technology to support navigation. Our findings from interviews with 30 adults with vision impairments included insights about experiences in Orientation & Mobility (O&M) training, everyday navigation challenges, helpful and unhelpful technologies, and the role of social interactions while navigating. We produced a set of categorical data that future technologists can use to identify user requirements and usage scenarios. These categories consist of Personality and Scenario attributes describing navigation behaviors of people with vision impairments. We demonstrate the usefulness of these attributes by introducing navigation-style personas backed by our data. This work demonstrates the complex choices individuals with vision impairments undergo when leaving their home, and the many factors that affect their navigation behavior.
A Response to "How to Sacrifice Academic Quality"

Abstract Editors' Note: The above article is a re-joinder to “How to Sacrifice Academic Quality,” which appeared in the Spring 1979 issue of Improving College and University Teaching. The editors welcome thoughtful responses to any article appearing in the journal.
Plain film diagnosis of common cardiac anomalies in the adult.

Most serious congenital cardiac lesions become manifest in infancy or early childhood and are treated at that time. Others are clinically silent during early development and may escape detection until adult life. Clinical findings in this latter group, when they do appear, are often nonspecific and resemble those associated with acquired heart disease. Many of the lesions, however, produce characteristic changes in the heart and pulmonary vasculature that are recognizable on chest films even before the appearance of symptoms. Thus, the radiologist may be the first not only to recognize the presence of congenital heart disease, but also to identify correctly the specific diagnosis. Although the incidence of cardiac anomalies has not increased, the number of adults with congenital heart disease has steadily grown over the past few decades because of a marked decrease in the mortality rate of the disease in children. Dramatic improvements in both cardiac diagnosis and surgery have meant that many of these patients survive into the fifth and sixth decades. Because the chest film is an integral part of their follow-up, the radiologist is seeing more and more of these patients. Sometimes the appearance of the heart and great vessels returns to normal postoperatively, but often not. When there are delayed postoperative complications or where the repair has been complex, a reasonable interpretation of the chest films is almost impossible unless the original lesion and the mode of treatment are indicated on the request form. Nevertheless, some postoperative appearances are rather characteristic and should be recognized by the radiologist even in the absence of other information.
Structural equation modeling made difficult

In his target article (Barrett, 2007), Paul Barrett argues persuasively against continued use of approximate fit indices in SEM in relation to current thresholds for acceptable fit, given recent research that has cast doubt on the generality of these thresholds. He proposes greater use of the chi-square test of exact fit as an alternative, except in special circumstances. Apart from the problems with current fit thresholds, a further problem with fit indices is the lack of any direct relationship between the value of an index and the degree of misspecification in the model. In response to these problems, a procedure for using fit indices in the absence of thresholds is outlined here. The approach requires the investigator to specify acceptable levels of misspecification a priori, and then uses this information in a simulation procedure to develop a decision for retaining versus rejecting the model. It is argued that this approach is preferable to exclusive reliance on the chi-square test of exact fit. Comments on other points made in the target article are given.
Direct measurement of human cervical tissue permeability

The mechanical integrity of the uterine cervix is critical for the full-term success of a pregnancy. It must be strong to retain the fetus throughout gestation and then undergo a remodeling and softening process before labor to allow dilation and delivery. We hypothesize that the preterm birth (PTB) condition known as cervical insufficiency (CI) is related to a weak or soft cervix. Such PTBs are responsible for infant developmental problems and in severe cases, infant mortality. To understand the etiologies of CI, our overall research goal is to investigate the mechanical behavior of the cervix. As a foundation for future in-vivo tools to assess cervical softness, we aim to quantify cervical structure-material property relationships for nonpregnant (NP) and pregnant (PG) tissue from women with different obstetric backgrounds, including women with a previous history of CI. The goal of this study is to characterize cervical tissue as a poroelastic (biphasic) material. Here we present the results of two mechanical experiments on NP and PG hysterectomy cervical tissue samples: first, confined compression and second, direct measurement of permeability by a custom strain-adjustable permeation rig.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Postnatal development of gait behaviour and functional allometry in the domestic cat (Felis catus)

The gaits of domestic kittens between one week and six months of age were analysed according to the methods of Hildebrand (1976, 1977) to determine how gait preference and performance changes during normal ontogeny. Allometric growth of the limb segments was measured so that mechanical effects on gait behaviour could be described. Gait behaviour during ontogeny follows a pattern of increasing precision and diversity that parallels the attainment of neuromuscular maturity: one- and two-week old kittens use very slow, stable walking gaits. By three weeks of age, walking patterns are more diverse and kittens begin to trot. At four weeks, animals are trotting more readily and begin to use slow gallops. Neuromuscular maturity is attained by about six weeks of age and these animals use all of the gaits common to adults. Evidence that the ontogeny of behaviour reflects a recapitulation of neural evolution is discussed. Important mechanical changes occur in the posture and limb proportions of kittens during ontogeny that markedly affect their gait performance. Until six weeks of age, kittens are plantigrade or semiplantigrade, resulting in functionally shortened limbs. The foot segments were found to be relatively long in kittens up to 12 weeks of age. While plantigrade, these long feet provide large bases of support, but are awkward to move heel-to-toe, and may contribute to the need for the most stable footfall patterns in young kittens. With fully digitigrade posture achieved between six to eight weeks of age, the long foot segments result in relatively longer limbs. At eight weeks, this is reflected in their preference for the pace while walking to avoid interference between ipsilateral limbs. These behavioural modifications of gait patterns in response to transient mechanical constraints support a facultative view of neural control.
Possible significance of new target tissues for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3☆

Abstract A sensitive sucrose gradient procedure provided evidence for specific 3.6S 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 [1,25(OH) 2 D 3 ] receptor-like binding components with low affinity for 25(OH)D 3 in several reproductive target tissues in the rat, inclucling testis, uterus and probably epididymis. Thus, the presence of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 receptors in non-vitamin D endocrine tissues is not restricted to the hormone secreting glands. Estrogen-stimulated uterine growth paralleled increased levels of the putative 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 receptors, provicling in vivo evidence for the concept of a relationship between these phenomena. However, a similar correlation was not observed in the growing testis (prepubertal vs mature rats). Whether this result stems from receptor localization in a cell type prevalent in the adult or a true dissociation between testis growth and receptor levels is unclear. Finally, significant levels (10.3 ± 1.0% vs intestinal mucosa) of the putative 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 receptors were found in the heart, an organ in which calcium mediates many specialized functions. Taken collectively, these observations on new target tissues of quite different overall function suggest that 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 and its receptors may play a role in intracellular calcium homeostasis and possibly in regulating specialized intracellular functions of calcium.
Insulin-related material extractable from brain and other tissues of rat: Possible biologic and methodologic variables.

Abstract Insulin, the amount and its source, in brain and other extrapancreatic tissues remains a subject of disagreement. One major obstacle in understanding the source of the disagreement is the wide range of variations in methods used in the extraction and processing of the tissue insulin. In the present study we showed that glass homogenizers, in our hands, are superior to the Waring blender; that storage of the acid ethanol supernatants (at −80°C) before processing or evaporation to dryness during early stages may be deleterious; gel filtration of extracts results in significant losses. Losses with hydrophobic (C18) chromatography were less severe than we had noted earlier with this method. With paired samples from controlled hypoinsulinemic (fasted), and hyperinsulinemic (fasted-refed) animals, we showed that insulin concentrations in brain, lung and probably liver are unaffected by changes in plasma insulin, whereas kidney insulin is directly related to plasma insulin concentrations. These findings confirm the essential data of previous studies. The unresponsiveness of brain insulin and most other tissue insulin compartments to fluctuations in plasma insulin, whether due to local synthesis or transport from extracellular sources followed by intracellular storage, needs to be incorporated into any overall conceptualization of tissue insulin.
Chromatin and transcriptional activity in earlyXenopusdevelopment

Abstract Experiments with Xenopus oocytes and embryos have determined a direct biochemical relationship between chromatin structure and transcription. Nucleosomes within specific nucleoprotein architectures can either activate or repress transcription. Developmentally regulated changes in chromosomal composition direct the dominant repression of specific genes. Reconstruction of chromatin templates in vivo establishes that replication-coupled chromatin assembly both represses basal transcription and facilitates a full range of inducible gene activity. Chromatin structure emerges as a major contributory factor to the regulation of genes.
Challenges to Monetary Policy in the Czech Republic: An Integrated Monetary and Fiscal Analysis

This paper uses the Global Integrated Monetary and Fiscal Model (GIMF), a New Keynesian open-economy general equilibrium model suitable for an integrated evaluation of monetary and fiscal policies, to analyze monetary policy challenges facing the Czech Republic. In the context of the recent rising inflation pressures, we analyze how the authorities' fiscal reform package and the planned reduction in the inflation target in 2010 would weigh on the conduct of monetary policy.
Radiochemical plasma salicylamide assay using ring-labeled tritiated salicylamide.

Abstract A rat plasma salicylamide assay was developed using ringlabeled tritiated salicylamide, synthesized by reacting salicylamide with tritium oxide in the presence of heptafluorobutyric acid. The reaction yielded 3 H-salicylamide of specific activity up to 8.41 mCi/mmole, 60% yield. Plasma containing 3 H-salicylamide and its metabolites was extracted with a toluene-based scintillation fluid, which was subsequently counted. Specificity for free salicylamide was demonstrated by radiochemical and standard fluorescence plasma salicylamide level-time curves. Specificity resulted from nonextraction of the salicylamide sulfate and glucuronide metabolites. Sulfatase and β -glucuronidase treatment allowed the analysis of plasma sulfate and glucuronide conjugates as free salicylamide. This procedure should be effective for the analysis of salicylamide and its metabolites in the presence of similar phenolic compounds.
On the compactification of strongly pseudoconvex surfaces

A complete answer to the following question is given: When is an algebraic surface M a compactification of some strongly pseudoconvex surface? In particular, we show this will not be the case if M is either P2, a quadric, an abelian surface, or a hyperelliptic surface. On the other hand, by constructing specific examples, we show that this will be the case for all other algebraic surfaces. Furthermore, we prove that any compactifiable strongly pseudoconvex surface is quasi-projective. In [10] we showed that a compactification of a strongly pseudoconvex surface is either an algebraic surface or a (highly) nonalgebraic surface, namely some Inoue surface. Moreover, we exhibited an example showing that indeed those two alternatives did occur (even simultaneously). Here we would like to further pursue our investigation in that direction. In the first part of this paper, we explore what algebraic surfaces really do (or do not) occur as compactifications of some strongly pseudoconvex surfaces. In the second part, we study the algebraic structure of compactifiable strongly pseudoconvex surfaces. Throughout we shall freely use the definitions and notations introduced in [10]. In particular, all C-analytic surfaces (compact or noncompact) are assumed to be minimal. 1. The algebraic compactification. DEFINITION 1 [4]. Let X be a C-analytic manifold. Then X is said to be strongly pseudoconvex if (i) X is holomorphically convex, (ii) there exists a compact analytic subvariety E C X with dim. E > 0 for any x C E such that T C E for any positive-dimensional and irreducible compact analytic subvariety T in X. REMARK. One can check that this definition for strongly pseudoconvex manifolds is equivalent to the one given in [10] (see e.g. [4]). Furthermore, E is called the Received by the editors March 15, 1983. 1980 Mathematics Subject Classification. Primary 14J10, 32J05, 32J15; Secondary 32E05, 32F10.
The kinetics of hydrolysis of rutheniumnitrosyltrichloride

Abstract Kinetic data are presented for the displacement of the three chloro ligands seriatim from [RuNOCl3(H2O)2] in buffered aqueous solutions. The release of three chloride ions per mole of the reacting ruthenium salt occurs at a decreasing logarithmic rate. The NO ligand is not displaced under these conditions. A kinetic model is formulated for the stepwise replacement of thr chloro ligands in this nitrosylruthenium complex at millimolar concentrations in aqueous solution. Experimental data support this formulation. Rate constants and estimates of error associated with these rate constants are presented for each of the three chloro ligand replacement reaction steps in solutions with pH ranging from 4 to 11. The variation of the rate constants over the range 5°–65°C was studied and results are presented. Activation energies are estimated for the successive chloro ligand replacement reactions. The effect of some other experimental factors on the rate of hydrolysis was also studied and found to be small.
Exploring the factors influencing the travel motivations of US medical tourists

Medical tourism (also called medical travel, health tourism, or global health care) is a term initially coined by travel agencies and the mass media to describe the rapidly growing practice of travelling across international borders to obtain health care. In the past decade, the attempt to achieve better health while on holiday through relaxation, exercise, or visits to spas has been taken to a new level with the emergence of developing countries as destinations for medical tourism. It has grown dramatically in recent years primarily because of the high costs of treatment in rich countries, long waiting lists, the relative affordability of international air travel, favourable economic exchange rates, and the availability of well-qualified doctors and medical staff. Keeping in mind the rapid growth of this industry, a study was conducted to shed light on the importance of different factors that influence the travel motivations of US medical tourists to international destinations.