cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT OF THE PRESIDENTE RIVERA OIL SPILL, DELAWARE RIVER1

ABSTRACT On June 24, 1989, the Uruguayan merchant marine tanker Presidente Rivera, loaded with 19 million gallons of No. 6 fuel oil, ran aground in the Delaware River near Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania, spilling between 200,000 and 300,000 gallons of oil. Currents spread the oil over approximately 29 miles of shoreline in New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania, reaching upstream as far as Little Tinicum Island, a wildlife refuge near Philadelphia, and downstream as far as Reedy Island, south of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. Natural resources under the trusteeship of New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (U.S. Department of Commerce) were affected by the spill, including shoreline parks, fisheries, marshes, birds, and wildlife. Additionally, portions of the river were closed to vessel traffic and nearby creeks were boomed off, preventing access to marinas and boat ramps. After three years of damage assessment, pretr...
PMD and PDL monitoring of traffic-carrying transatlantic fibre-optic system

For the first time the direct monitoring of polarisation mode dispersion (PMD) and polarisation-dependent loss (PDL) in a traffic-carrying transatlantic fibre-optic system without the requirement of looping-back is reported. The impact of transmitter polarisation scrambling in the measured results is analysed and verified by the measured results.
Calcite dissolution and the modification of planktonic foraminiferal assemblages

Abstract The results of an in situ experiment in the Panama Basin allow us to determine the way in which planktonic foraminiferal assemblages are modified by calcite dissolution. Pre-weighed planktonic foraminiferal samples of known species composition were attached to a deep-sea mooring at various water depths between 665 m and 3791 m for a period of 123 days. Weight loss due to dissolution during this period ranged from less than 5% for the shallowest samples to slightly over 30% for the deepest samples. In terms of change in foraminiferal number, this is equivalent to decreases of between 1% and 26%. Only in the samples placed at the two deepest levels (3769 m and 3791 m) was there a significant loss in the total number of foraminifera. The magnitude of change in the abundance of individual species in early related to their different susceptibilities to dissolution. Species such as Hastigerina pelagica, Globigerinella aequilateralis and Candeina nitida, which are very susceptible to dissolution, exhibited the largest decreases in frequency percentage while the more resistent species (Sphaeroidinella dehiscens, Pulleniatina obliquiloculata and Globorotalia truncatulinoides) had minimal changes. From these results a solution-susceptibility ranking for planktonic foraminifera is established that is quite similar to those derived from previous laboratory experiments and sea-floor studies.
Reducing delays in Fi-Wi networks

Fi-Wi (Fiber- Wireless) is the combination of optical networking technology and wireless networks. Fi-Wi networks are very cost effective, gives high capacity bandwidth and the best solution to full fill the demand of bandwidth hungry applications like quad play, online gaming etc. Our goal is to reduce the delays in Fi-Wi networks. In this paper we proposed most nearest most used routing algorithm (MNMU-RA) to overcome the delays in wireless (front end of Fi-Wi). Our algorithm shows the significant improvement in Delay and throughput of the network.
Calcium and Cardiac Electrophysiology: Some Experimental Considerations

Electrophysiologic experiments in cardiac tissue suggest that Ca2+ is involved in generation of the action potential, the pacemaker potential, and conduction of the slow wave of depolarization. For instance, removal of Ca2+ inhibits the slow inward current and prolongs the action potential and suppresses the slow diastolic depolarization. Divalant cations Mn2+, Co2+, Cd2+, Mg2+, Mock the slow inward current and suppress pacemaker activity, but shorten the action potential. NF specifically blocks the slow inward current and prolongs the action potential. Ca2+ also plays a central role in generation of diastolic depolarization. Cd2+ inhibits the diastolic depolarization and the upstoke of the action potential in SA nodal cells, while blocking the time-dependent inward current in the pacemaker potential range and file time-dependent outward current. A variety of molecular transport systems ranging from the Ca-channel to a Ca2+-Na+ or Ca2+-K+ exchanges to Ca2+-induced activation of the K+ current have been postulated to expain the effects of Ca2+ on cardiac electrophysiologic processes.
NUCLEAR RESONANCE ABSORPTION OF GAMMA RAYS AT LOW TEMPERATURES

Recent experiments by Mossbauer have shown that nuclear resonance absorption of gamma rays can take place when both source and absorber are placed at liquid nitrogen temperature. The source used in his measurements was Os/sup 191/ which decays to Ir/sup 191/with a 16-day haif life. This beta decay populates a 4.9-sec isomeric state which cascades through the 129-kev excited state of this nucleus. The present experiment was designed to measure the lifetime of this excited state. (W.D.M.)
Demonstration of central nervous mediation of acute pulmonary edema produced by intravenously administered epinephrine.

SummaryFifteen rats with severed spinal cords, kept alive on a respirator, were given massive doses of epinephrine, that on controls produced consistently an intense acute pulmonary edema. None of these rats developed the usual acute edema, and in 10 cases the lungs had normal weight. This result is interpreted as a proof of the central nervous mediation of the acute pulmonary edema produced by administration of epinephrine.
The Management of Breastfeeding

: The physiology of engorgement, its etiology and methods to avoid it are discussed. The mechanics of milk ejection and nursing are described. Treatment for sore nipples includes frequent nursing, changing the position of the baby's mouth on the nipple, increased sun and air exposure, and pain medication as necessary. The management of other related nursing problems is covered.
Purification and characterization of enterocin 62-6, a two-peptide bacteriocin produced by a vaginal strain of Enterococcus faecium : Potential significance in bacterial vaginosis

A bacteriocin produced by a vaginal isolate of Enterococcus faecium strain 62-6, designated enterocin 62-6, was characterized following purification and DNA sequence analysis and compared to previously described bacteriocins. Enterocin 62-6 was isolated from brain heart infusion (BHI) culture supernatants using ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by elution from a Sepharose cation exchange column using a continuous salt gradient (0.1-0.7 M NaCl). SDS-PAGE of an active column fraction resulted in an electrophoretically pure protein, which corresponded to the growth inhibition of the sensitive Lactobacillus indicator strain in the gel overlay assay. Purified enterocin 62-6 was shown to be heat- and pH-stable, and sensitive to the proteolytic enzymes a-chymotrypsin and pepsin. Results from mass spectrometry suggested that it comprised two peptides of 5206 and 5219+-1 Da, which was confirmed by DNA sequence analysis. The characteristics of enterocin 62-6 as a small, heat- and pH-stable, cationic, hydrophobic, two-peptide, plasmid-borne bacteriocin, with an inhibitory spectrum against a broad range of Gram-positive but not Gram-negative bacteria, were consistent with its classification as a class IIc bacteriocin. Furthermore, its wide spectrum of growth inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria of vaginal origin including lactobacilli, and stability under the acidic conditions of the vagina, are consistent with our hypothesis that it could have potential significance in disrupting the ecology of the vaginal tract and pave the way for the establishment of the abnormal microbiota associated with the vaginal syndrome bacterial vaginosis. This is the first class IIc bacteriocin produced by a strain of E. faecium of vaginal origin to be characterized. Key words: Bacterial vaginosis, bacteriocin, Enterococcus faecium, vaginal lactobacilli, microbial interactions
Record-Breaking Earthquakes

A record-breaking earthquake has a larger magnitude than any previous earthquake in the study region; a starting date and minimum magnitude must be specified. The first earthquake to satisfy this condition is, by definition, a record-breaking earthquake. The next record-breaking earthquake has a larger magnitude than the first and so forth. In this article we utilize the global Centroid Moment Tensor Project (CMT) catalog for the years 1977 to 2006. We consider earthquakes with moment magnitudes greater than 5.5. We determine the number of record-breaking earthquakes n rb during 15 specified two-year intervals. We then average the n rb at specified subintervals of time. We compare the results with the predictions for a random independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) process. The expected number of record-breaking earthquakes n rb in a specified period is independent of the statistical distribution of magnitudes. Good statistical agreement between the observations and the predictions is obtained. We carry out the same process for the magnitudes of the record-breaking earthquakes. We again compare the results with the predictions for a random (i.i.d.) process and find good agreement. For our analyses to be valid, it is necessary that the global earthquakes occur randomly, that is, they are not correlated. Thus, aftershocks and foreshocks will be sources of error. Studies of record-breaking temperatures have shown a sensitivity to global warming. A future direction for research is to apply the approach used here to regional earthquake catalogs. Aftershocks are expected to strongly influence the results.
Observed magnetic resonance imaging changes in pediatric patients treated with stereotactic radiosurgery for intracranial tumors.

Purpose This study seeks to characterize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes following stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) of pediatric brain malignancies.
Isolation in three-dimensional integrated circuits

The necessity for high-density integrated-circuit (IC) design makes the issue of circuit isolation a critical one. In multilayer structures, surface waves excited by planar discontinuities induce parasitic currents on adjoining interconnects, therefore, causing a parasitic coupling, which becomes a limiting factor as density increases and size reduces. This paper presents a study of those proximity effects on interconnect geometry for X- and W-bands. Various configurations of finite ground microstrip lines, finite ground coplanar (FGC) waveguides, and transitions have been analyzed for silicon and Duroid substrates. The results included in this paper illustrate the implications of parasitic coupling associated with interconnects printed in parallel or perpendicular configurations, lines located in close proximity to open-end discontinuities, vias etched near FGC lines, and finally vertical transitions through wafers. Theoretical and experimental results, in terms of reduced isolation, are provided, showing the advantages of the use of FGC lines over conventional microstrip lines since, in the cases investigated, they offer 8 dB higher isolation. Additionally, open-end effects are demonstrated to increase coupling by as much as 6 dB, while vertical transitions through wafers cause a parasitic coupling in the order of 3 dB. The results presented in this study can be employed in order to reduce parasitic interference between interconnects.
The Application Process

The culmination of the experiences that the student gains while they are progressing through the system will be represented in their application to the professional or graduate school. As such, this step is a crucial one and requires much thought, planning, and effort. There is no shortage of schools to apply to, so efforts must be expended as to where to apply and why, how many is the right number, and, just like the importance of individualization with regards to mentoring, each individual school should offer something that “works” for each individual, whether it be something as straightforward as the weather/climate to the school’s reputation (as long as it is based on “legitimate history” such as students from the person’s school being successful there). Moreover, it could be the type of curriculum that is offered, which is especially relevant to medical education with the change in recent years or the research being conducted or the type of programs offered, e.g., specific PhD discipline vs. the “umbrella biomedical sciences” degree. The point is that the student must make a sincere effort to identify those parameters that are most important to them as an individual in choosing the schools to apply to and being able to indicate that as part of the application including the interview process. Input from experienced mentors is crucial at this stage and for this reason.
Murine and Human Myogenic Cells Identified by Elevated Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Activity: Implications for Muscle Regeneration and Repair

Background Despite the initial promise of myoblast transfer therapy to restore dystrophin in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients, clinical efficacy has been limited, primarily by poor cell survival post-transplantation. Murine muscle derived stem cells (MDSCs) isolated from slowly adhering cells (SACs) via the preplate technique, induce greater muscle regeneration than murine myoblasts, primarily due to improved post-transplantation survival, which is conferred by their increased stress resistance capacity. Aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) represents a family of enzymes with important morphogenic as well as oxidative damage mitigating roles and has been found to be a marker of stem cells in both normal and malignant tissue. In this study, we hypothesized that elevated ALDH levels could identify murine and human muscle derived cell (hMDC) progenitors, endowed with enhanced stress resistance and muscle regeneration capacity.
Mitochondrial criticality: A new concept at the turning point of life or death

A variety of stressors can cause the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsi(m)), but the events leading up to this catastrophic cellular event are not well understood at the mechanistic level. Based on our recent studies of oscillations in mitochondrial energetics, we have coined the term "mitochondrial criticality" to describe the state in which the mitochondrial network of cardiomyocytes becomes very sensitive to small perturbations in reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in the scaling of local mitochondrial uncoupling and DeltaPsi(m) loss to the whole cell, and the myocardial syncytium. At the point of criticality, the dynamics of the mitochondrial network bifurcate to oscillatory behavior. These energetic changes are translated into effects on the electrical excitability of the cell, inducing dramatic changes in the morphology and the threshold for activating an action potential. Emerging evidence suggests that this mechanism, by creating spatial and temporal heterogeneity of excitability in the heart during ischemia and reperfusion, underlies the genesis of potentially lethal cardiac arrhythmias.
Continuous Light-Scattering Profiles and Suspended Matter Over Nitinat Deep-Sea Fan

During September 1971 and June 1972, a total of 65 light-scattering profiles were recorded in the waters over Nitinat Fan by means of a self-contained, continuously recording nephelometer. All profiles extend from the sea surface to a point 20 m above the sea floor (maximum depth 2400 m) and as many as 5 prominent scattering layers are observed within the water column at a given station. Some scattering layers can be traced over wide areas of the fan and appear on records from both cruises. The most persistent feature of the profiles, and the only one found on every record, is a bottom nepheloid layer (BNL) of steadily increasing light scattering immediately below a layer of relatively clearer water and immediately above the sea floor. Over short lateral distances the vertical extent and scattering intensity of the BNL (normalized to the scattering levels of the overlying clearer waters) change markedly in a manner apparently related to fan topography. In general, the BNL thickens to > 300 m and intensifies to > 2.5 times normal over the topographic lows, being most prominent above Cascadia Valley (the major valley crossing the fan) as well as above the steep non-channelled northern flank of the fan. Over the levees separating the smooth northern flank from Cascadia Valley to the south and over the foot of the continental slope which forms the eastern border of the fan, the BNL thins to < 50 m and the scattering intensity is < 1.5 times normal.
Depression in Older Americans with Urinary Incontinence (UI)

Abstract This study uses interview responses from 986 Medicare beneficiaries with urinary incontinence (UI) to investigate the effects of behavioral responses to UI on depression in community-dwelling adults. Behavioral responses included limitations in ADLs, and avoidance of routine activities such as bending, reaching and stooping. Logistic regression models included depression in the past 3 years and “feeling blue” in the past year as proxies for depression. Avoiding 2 or more activities increased the odds of “feeling blue” and depression. ADL limitations were associated with depression, but not “feeling blue.” Implications for depression and independent living in older adults are discussed.
Ethical Issues Experienced by HIV-Infected African-American Women

The epidemic of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has led to many ethical problems. Most studies have focused on the ethical issues faced by nurses who provide care to persons with AIDS (PWA), rather than the ethical issues faced by PWAs themselves. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to explore the ethical issues faced by five HIV/AIDS-infected African-American women. An analysis of interview data revealed that these women deal with four broad categories of ethical issues: diagnosis; disclosure; treatment by, and of, others; and future pregnancies. The results of this study provide an initial description of the ethical issues faced by HIV/AIDS-infected African-American women, and begin to lay the foundation necessary for nurses appropriately to facilitate and support their decisions.
Egocentric social network analysis of pathological gambling.

Aims To apply social network analysis (SNA) to investigate whether frequency and severity of gambling problems were associated with different network characteristics among friends, family and co-workers is an innovative way to look at relationships among individuals; the current study was the first, to our knowledge, to apply SNA to gambling behaviors. Design Egocentric social network analysis was used to characterize formally the relationships between social network characteristics and gambling pathology. Setting Laboratory-based questionnaire and interview administration. Participants Forty frequent gamblers (22 non-pathological gamblers, 18 pathological gamblers) were recruited from the community. Measurements and Findings The SNA revealed significant social network compositional differences between the two groups: pathological gamblers (PGs) had more gamblers, smokers and drinkers in their social networks than did non-pathological gamblers (NPGs). PGs had more individuals in their network with whom they personally gambled, smoked and drank than those with who were NPG. Network ties were closer to individuals in their networks who gambled, smoked and drank more frequently. Associations between gam- bling severity and structural network characteristics were not significant. Conclusions Pathological gambling is associated with compositional but not structural differences in social networks. Pathological gamblers differ from non-pathological gamblers in the number of gamblers, smokers and drinkers in their social networks. Homophily within the networks also indicates that gamblers tend to be closer with other gamblers. This homophily may serve to reinforce addictive behaviors, and may suggest avenues for future study or intervention.
Time-to-Corrosion Initiation of Chloride-Exposed Reinforced Concrete Considering Time Dependence of the Diffusion Coefficient

Previous research reported an equation whereby the fraction of electrochemically independent, identically exposed reinforced concrete elements for which corrosion initiation has resulted after a gi...
Light- and Electron-Microscopic Localization of Primary Dental Afferents to Medullary Dorsal Horn (Pars Caudalis)

Light-microscopic (LM) and ultrastructural (electron-microscopic, or EM) identification of primary dental afferents to medullary dorsal horn (MDH) was demonstrated in the cat following injections of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) into pulpal chambers of unilateral maxillary and mandibular posterior teeth, including the cuspids. Use of a new osmication protocol improved and simplified the EM localization of reaction product within the brain stem terminals. LM examination showed that the projection pattern varied between the different levels of MDH. At caudal levels, the labeling was primarily confined to a narrow band consisting of a dense projection to the dorsomedial portion of laminae I and superficial II and a less intense projection to lamina V. The pattern to rostral levels became increasingly more dense and extensive within these same laminae. LM examination of the tooth apex region showed that a limited spread to the periodontal ligament occurred in some cases. EM investigation of the ipsilateral MDH demonstrated reaction product in terminals with synaptic vesicles that are presynaptic to small and medium-sized dendrites. Labeled axonal endings in close association with cell bodies were also observed. No labeled structures were identified in the contralateral MDH. Some of the reaction product found with EM was below the LM limit of resolution, and thus ultrastructural investigation is necessary for a complete analysis of any pathway when using HRP.
Accuracy of the earth's gravity field models

Abstract Accuracy tests on the most recent GEM (Goddard Earth Model) gravity models for the representation of the Earth's gravity field, using specially devised statistical techniques of comparative evaluation, show that there is steady improvement in these models with time. On this comparative basis, the accuracy of determination for the spherical harmonic coefficients of the Earth's gravity field is ∼ 100% for n = 2–6, 90–99% for n = 7–10, 55–80% for n = 11–14 and ⪡ 50% for n ⩾ 15, deteriorating rapidly with increasing n . The higher degree coefficients corresponding to n ≥ 15 do not seem to be determined accurately enough to be useful from a geophysical standpoint, though their cumulative contribution is undoubtedly useful for specific orbital computations. The estimated errors are 0.3 mGal for n = 2–6, 1.5 mgal for the frequency range n = 2–10, 3 mGal for n = 2–14 and 5–6 mGal for n = 2–22. These error estimates, especially the ones for the higher frequency range, may have been affected by possible errors in the comparison standards used for this evaluation. Consequently, some of the higher degree coefficients of recent GEM models may be more accurate than predicted by these tests. Due to the inherent deficiency of the comparison standards, the errors given in this paper should be treated as error estimates. The steady and progressive improvement, shown by the various GEM gravity models when tested against comparison standards 10E and WGS 72, i.e. the more recent a gravity model, the better it tests against the comparison standards in contrast to its predecessors, is remarkable, as the comparison standards themselves are several years older than the gravity models tested here. This clearly validates our choice of comparison standards, as well as the premises and predictions of our evaluation techniques. It also demonstrates the power and potential of these techniques, which only seem to be limited by the level of accuracy of the available standard of comparison.
Scales of regional income disparities in the USA, 1955–2003

This article examines multiple dimensions of regional per capita income disparities in the USA between 1955 and 2003 with a particular focus on scalar effects. It combines various exploratory analytical tools of spatial disparities, including inequality indices, mobility indices, kernel density estimation, spatial autocorrelation statistics and scale variances, to analyse regional average per capita income distributions at multiple spatial scales, ranging from counties to multi-state regions. The analysis reveals previously unrecognised systematic patterns of cross-scalar dynamics, whereby spatial income disparities are increasingly more pronounced at smaller scales in the last few decades.
EVALUATION OF BILINGUAL SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY '

The purpose of this study was to explore how past students of the Fordham University Bilingual School Psychology Program perceived that program regarding acquired psycholinguistic skills, cross-cultural expertise, and assessment/intervention competencies. A thorough assessment of additional areas, such as field work/internship, support system, financial aid, and training approaches was discussed. Analyses suggest that proficiency in all competencies developed as expected. Using this evaluation model appears useful in assessing the effectiveness of training programs.
Alignment by Agreement

We present an unsupervised approach to symmetric word alignment in which two simple asymmetric models are trained jointly to maximize a combination of data likelihood and agreement between the models. Compared to the standard practice of intersecting predictions of independently-trained models, joint training provides a 32% reduction in AER. Moreover, a simple and efficient pair of HMM aligners provides a 29% reduction in AER over symmetrized IBM model 4 predictions.
Estimating Average Causal Effects Under General Interference

This paper presents randomization-based methods for estimating average causal effects under arbitrary interference of known form. Conservative estimators of the randomization variance of the average treatment effects estimators are presented, as is justification for confidence intervals based on a normal approximation. Examples relevant to research in environmental protection, networks experiments, “viral marketing,” two-stage disease prophylaxis trials, and stepped-wedge designs are presented.
Elimination of 1/ƒ Noise in Gradiometers for SQUID-Based Ultra-Low Field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Superconducting wire may trap magnetic flux after being exposed to strong magnetic fields, for example when used as gradiometer material in a SQUID-based ultra-low field nuclear magnetic resonance system. In this work we investigated noise caused by the dynamics of trapped flux in superconducting gradiometers made from different materials. Niobium (Nb), niobium-titanium (NbTi), and tantalum (Ta) wires were tested. Small wire-wound gradiometers were connected to a SQUID sensor. Nb and NbTi wires showed increasing 1/f noise after exposure to magnetic fields of 5 mT and above. A larger second-order gradiometer made of Ta wire was tested inside a magnetically shielded room. A heating wire was placed on the outside of the Ta wire. Thermo-cycling of the Ta gradiometer significantly decreased the 1/f noise caused by its exposure to a magnetic field.
Evaluating Iatrogenic Complications of the Total-Contact Cast: An 8-Year Retrospective Review at Cleveland Clinic.

Background: Total-contact casting is an effective method to treat various pathologic abnormalities in patients with diabetic neuropathy, but its use is frequently associated with iatrogenic complications. Methods: The largest retrospective review to date of iatrogenic complications of total-contact casts was conducted over an 8-year period at Cleveland Clinic. Results: In the past 8 years, 23% of patients developed complications, and the most common complication was a new heel ulcer formation. Of these complications, 92.1% resolved, 6.4% were lost to follow-up, and 1.4% resulted in a partial foot amputation. Mean cast duration was 10.3 days for patients who developed a total-contact cast iatrogenic complication. The most common indication for the use of a total-contact cast was a neuropathic foot ulceration. Conclusions: The results of this study support the use of total-contact casting in the insensate patient with diabetes. However, adequate staff training in total-contact cast application is recommende...
Program for developing leadership in pharmacy residents

Purpose An innovative, structured approach to incorporating leadership development activities into pharmacy residency training is described. Summary The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) has called for increased efforts to make leadership development an integral component of the training of pharmacy students and new practitioners. In 2007, The Nebraska Medical Center (TNMC) took action to systematize leadership training in its pharmacy residency programs by launching a new Leadership Development Series. Throughout the residency year, trainees at TNMC participate in a variety of activities: (1) focused group discussions of selected articles on leadership concepts written by noted leaders of the past and present, (2) a two-day offsite retreat featuring trust-building exercises and physical challenges, (3) a self-assessment designed to help residents identify and use their untapped personal strengths, (4) training on the effective application of different styles of communication and conflict resolution, and (5) education on the history and evolution of health-system pharmacy, including a review and discussion of lectures by recipients of ASHP’s Harvey A. K. Whitney Award. Feedback from residents who have completed the series has been positive, with many residents indicating that it has stimulated their professional growth and helped prepared them for leadership roles. Conclusion A structured Leadership Development Series exposes pharmacy residents to various leadership philosophies and principles and, through the study of Harvey A. K. Whitney Award lectures, to the thoughts of past and present pharmacy leaders. Residents develop an increased self-awareness through a resident fall retreat, a StrengthsFinder assessment, and communication and conflict-mode assessment tools.
Comparison on physical activity among adolescents with different weight status in Shandong, China

The present study examined the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity among adolescents and compared the attitudes and behaviors of physical activity (PA) among adolescents with different weight status in Shandong, China. A total of 19 523 students (9784 boys and 9739 girls) aged 13-18 years participated in this study. Height and weight of all subjects were measured, body mass index of adolescents was calculated from their height and weight, and the prevalence of overweight and obesity were obtained according to the International Obesity Task Force cut-offs. The prevalence of underweight were also obtained by the international cut-offs. PA status was assessed by a standardized questionnaire. The overall prevalence rates of underweight, overweight and obesity were 2.0, 13.9 and 4.7% in boys and 3.3, 8.3 and 1.2% in girls, respectively. Overweight/obese adolescents had a poor PA status compared with underweight/normal-weight adolescents. These observations highlight the importance of PA in the prevention of overweight and obesity in adolescents.
Neurotoxicity of Star Anise Tea

Seven cases of adverse neurologic reactions associated with the home administration of star anise tea to young infants, aged 2 to 12 weeks, and identified over a 2-year period, are reported from the Miami Children’s Hospital, FL.
Stochastic representations of isotropic vector random fields on spheres

ABSTRACTA stochastic representation is derived for a vector random field that is stationary, isotropic, and mean square continuous on a sphere or unit circle. The established stochastic representation is an infinite series involving the sequence of ultraspherical or Gegenbauer's polynomials, looks like a mimic of the series representation of the covariance matrix function of the isotropic vector random field, but differs from the spectral representation in terms of the ordinary spherical harmonics. It is also shown in this paper that some isotropic and continuous covariance matrix functions on the real line or , if they are compactly supported, can be adopted as covariance matrix functions on the unit circle or .
Experimental researches on the cytotoxic effects of a PNP-TK fusion suicide gene on hepatoma cells

Objective To investigate the cytotoxic effects of a PNP-TK chimeric gene on the basis of PNP suicide gene on HepG2 hepatoma cells and explore the potential mechanism of their killing effects.Methods A fusion suicide gene,PNP-TK,was produced by site-directed mutagenesis technique. And then it was inserted into pcDNA3.0 to construct a vector harboring a chimeric gene,pcDNA3.0/PNP-TK. The recombinant was identified by recombinant enzyme,PCR and sequencing. Then it was transfected into HepG2 cells by liposome-mediated method. The cellular clone stably transfected with pcDNA3.0/PNP-TK was established with G418 selection. The expression of PNP-TK gene was also detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting method. The growth curve of cellular clone was determined by trypan blue exclusion test. The sensitivity of the cell clone to its corresponding prodrugs and the caused bystander effects were assayed by MTT method.Results The PNP-TK fusion gene was inserted into pcDNA3.0 successfully,and its stable expression in HepG2 cells was confirmed. The cellular clone with the stable expression of PNP-TK gene was sensitive to its corresponding prodrugs,MeP-dR and GCV. It was demonstrated that the bystander effects derived from pcDNA3.0/PNP-TK after the synergetic treatment of MeP-dR and GCV were mighty.Conclusion The killing effects of the bi-functional suicide gene vector,pcDNA3.0/PNP-TK,on hepatoma cells are satisfactory. It was promising to apply pcDNA3.0/PNP-TK to gene therapy for hepatoma in vivo.
alpha-Tocopherol enhances the peroxidase activity of hemoglobin on phospholipid hydroperoxide.

SummaryWe have used direct separation of phospholipid hydroperoxide and phospholipid hydroxide by high performance liquid chromatography to examine the phospholipid hydroperoxide peroxidase activity of hemoglobin (Hb) in the presence of hydrogen donors. Hb exhibits phospholipid hydroperoxide peroxidase activity and rapidly breaks down phospholipid hydroperoxide to thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances. However, in the presence of α-tocopherol, some phospholipid hydroperoxide is converted to phospholipid hydroxide, which is more stable than the hydroperoxide and is much less reactive with thiobarbituric acid. Other electron donors such as glutathione and ascorbate are less effective than α-tocopherol. Free cysteine also shows some ability to reduce phospholipid hydroperoxides to corresponding hydroxides, but cys-93β of Hb did not participate in the reaction, as shown by N-ethylmaleimide modification. Hemin alone catalysed the reaction, in the absence of protein. The results therefore show that Hb catalys...
Information Bottleneck Learning Using Privileged Information for Visual Recognition

We explore the visual recognition problem from a main data view when an auxiliary data view is available during training. This is important because it allows improving the training of visual classifiers when paired additional data is cheaply available, and it improves the recognition from multi-view data when there is a missing view at testing time. The problem is challenging because of the intrinsic asymmetry caused by the missing auxiliary view during testing. We account for such view during training by extending the information bottleneck method, and by combining it with risk minimization. In this way, we establish an information theoretic principle for leaning any type of visual classifier under this particular setting. We use this principle to design a large-margin classifier with an efficient optimization in the primal space. We extensively compare our method with the state-of-the-art on different visual recognition datasets, and with different types of auxiliary data, and show that the proposed framework has a very promising potential.
The Neurovascular Bundle: Wide Excision

In select cases of high-volume prostate cancer, a wide excision of the neurovascular bundle is the best option. The decision can be made in part, based upon digital rectal examination, extent of disease on prostate biopsy, and possible staging MRI examination. This technique may avoid a positive surgical margin, but at the expense of reduced recovery of erectile function. In this chapter, we will consider the selection criteria for non-nerve sparing technique, relevant anatomy, and outcomes.
Unique properties of multiple tandem copies of the M26 recombination hotspot in mitosis and meiosis in Schizosaccharomyces pombe.

Abstract The M26 hotspot of the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe is one of the best-characterized eukaryotic hotspots of recombination. The hotspot requires a seven bp sequence, ATGACGT, that serves as a binding site for the Atf1-Pcr1 transcription factor, which is also required for activity. The M26 hotspot is active in meiosis but not mitosis and is active in some but not all chromosomal contexts and not on a plasmid. A longer palindromic version of M26 , ATGACGTCAT, shows significantly greater activity than the seven bp sequence. Here, we tested whether the properties of the seven bp sequence were also true of the longer sequence by placing one, two, or three copies of the sequence into the ade6 gene, where M26 was originally discovered. These constructs were tested for activity when located on a plasmid or on a chromosome in mitosis and meiosis. We found that two copies of the 10 bp M26 motif on a chromosome were significantly more active for meiotic recombination than one, but no further increase was observed with three copies. However, three copies of M26 on a chromosome created an Atf1-dependent mitotic recombination hotspot. When located on a plasmid, M26 also appears to behave as a mitotic recombination hotspot; however, this behavior most likely results from Atf1-dependent inter-allelic complementation between the plasmid and chromosomal ade6 alleles.
Point of view: posterior cervical lamino-foraminotomy-safe, viable and cost effective non-fusion technique.

Cervical radiculopathy is a well-known cause for significant neck pain and disability, with a reported annual incidence of 83.2 cases per 100,000 population (1). Although a majority of patients recover with non-operative management, surgical intervention may eventually be needed in those who respond poorly to conservative treatment or develop neuro-deficit (2).
CHILDHOOD MENTAL HEALTH: AN ECOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS OF NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTERISTICS

Research on childhood mental illness traditionally examines risk factors most proximal to the child. However, current trends reflect growing interest in how broader contextual factors contribute to psychopathology risk. In this study, we examined neighborhood-level indicators as potential sources of chronic strain in a sample of 156 mother–child dyads; children were 8 to 12 years old. For most neighborhood indicators, data were collected at the level of census tracts using publicly available data sets. We hypothesized that these indicators would be both associated with greater overall mental health symptoms and specifically predictive of childhood symptoms of depression. We also examined potential mediators (maternal functioning and family cohesion) and moderators (maternal depression). Neighborhood indicators correlated with parents’ ratings of children's overall mental health problems, but did not correlate with children's self-report of depression symptoms. Maternal functioning mediated neighborhood effects on children's overall mental health problems. Implications and directions for future research are presented.
LIVED ABSTRACTIONS: ‘Sikh philosophy’ as a practice of everyday life

This paper is part of a series of connected essays that examine the conceptual formation called ‘Sikh Philosophy’. The essay seeks to understand why ‘Sikh Philosophy’ may have been marginalized or excluded in conventional Sikh studies, and explores ways of expanding the boundaries of Sikh studies to include it as a valid mode of inquiry. The essay begins by positing some possible objections to the viability of ‘Sikh philosophy’ including a reconsideration of the notion of lived experience or the lived aspect of Sikhism in relation to the phenomenological doctrine of the ‘living present’ that holds sway in religious studies. The second part of the paper sets the ground for a more detailed future inquiry by presenting a loosely formulated thought-experiment on the initial task of ‘Sikh philosophy’, which would be to revitalize the Sikh concepts as the basic temporal components of a Sikh lifeworld.
Percutaneous femoral artery access strategies in patients undergoing peripheral vascular intervention: trends of use and in-hospital outcomes

Background: The efficacy of common femoral artery (CFA) access in preventing access site complications (ASC) in patients undergoing peripheral vascular intervention (PVI) by palpation alone, with fluoroscopy guidance (FG) or with ultrasound guidance (UG) remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate trends
A Tool for Managing Elderly Volunteering Activities in Small Organizations

This paper describes a pilot application developed by the authors within a project in the area of elders assistance. Specifically, the work addresses the problem of assigning scheduled activities to a set of volunteers by means of an interactive tool that considers both users’ needs/preferences and constraints posed by the organization that manages the volunteers. Particular emphasis is given to the problem of assigning a group of seniors to the “right task” so as to obtain a positive outcome of the services offered by the volunteering association while maximizing the volunteers’ level of satisfaction perceived, in this domain, as a relevant requirement. This paper describes the design of a complete application for supporting this process focusing, in particular, on the back-end functionalities where a formalization as a generic optimization problem and a heuristic, developed to serve the time constants required in the domain, have been integrated. Experimental results, conducted with realistic data, support the particular design of the solution and encourage future work.
Multi-center clinical evaluation of the Access AMH assay to determine AMH levels in reproductive age women during normal menstrual cycles

AMH is widely used for assessing ovarian reserve, and it is particularly convenient, because it is thought to have minimal variability throughout the menstrual cycle. However, studies assessing the stability of AMH over the menstrual cycle have been conflicting. The purpose of this study is to determine whether AMH levels vary across the normal menstrual cycle. A multi-center, prospective cohort study conducted at three US centers. Fifty females with regular menstrual cycles aged 18–45 underwent serial venipuncture every 3–5 days starting in the early follicular phase and lasting up to 10 collections. AMH was tested using the Access 2 immunoassay system. Age-adjusted mixed-effect models utilizing data from 384 samples from 50 subjects demonstrated a within subject standard deviation of 0.81 (95% CI 0.75–0.88) with a coefficient of variation of 23.8% across the menstrual cycle and between subject standard deviation of 2.56 (95% CI 2.13–3.21) with a coefficient of variation of 75.1%. Intra-class correlation (ICC) of AMH across the menstrual cycle was 0.91. Overall, AMH levels, using the automated Access AMH assay, appear to be relatively stable across the menstrual cycle. Fluctuations, if any, appear to be small, and therefore, clinicians may advise patients to have AMH levels drawn at any time in the cycle.
Heterogeneously Integrated InP Widely Tunable Laser and SiN Microring Resonator for Integrated Comb Generation

Optical microresonator frequency combs are inherently compact but require an external pump laser. We demonstrate heterogeneous assembly of an InP high power tunable laser and SiN microring resonator with an eye towards integrated comb generation.
Introducing electrical engineering through characterization of a handheld moisture meter: A research experience case study:

Concepts from electrical engineering can be introduced to nonmajor engineering students through lectures, laboratories, or even research experiences. Often the purpose of introducing nonmajors to t...
Level of interobserver variability estimation as a valuable tool: assessment of tumour budding in colon cancer

Aims Tumour budding is considered to be a good marker for progression and prognosis in colorectal carcinomas. A uniform classification system has been established recently. The natural element of uncertainty in the practice of human medicine is also exhibited in the assessment of tumour budding. We tested the hypothesis that interobserver variability can be estimated during the assessment process and investigated its potential clinical implication. Methods and results Six investigators with different levels of experience could perceive different levels of difficulty (LOD) and estimated different levels of interobserver variability (LOIV) (Li1, lower than average; Li2, average; Li3, higher than average) during the assessment of tumour budding in 244 cases of colon cancer (pT3/4). In total, the LOIV showed following distribution: Li1: 36.1%, Li2: 43.9% and Li3: 20.0%. The LOIV was correlated significantly with the LOD given by the investigator. In total, the agreement rates with the final consensus classification were: Li1: 93.4%, Li2: 78.5% and Li3: 58.4%. The relative risk of disagreement with the final consensus classification was more than six times higher when a case was estimated to have a high rather than a low interobserver variability. Conclusion Our data show that the investigator can estimate the interobserver variability during the ongoing rating process in pT3/4 colon cancer. The LOIV/LOD seems to be a valuable parameter of the assessment quality. For Li3 cases further measures seem mandatory.
Mini-Exon Epitope Tagging for Analysis of the Protein Coding Potential of Genomic Sequence

A novel approach to gene discovery and analysis is described. A small exon flanked by consensus 3′ and 5′ splice sites was synthesized. The exon contains open reading frames encoding 43 amino acid ...
Echocardiography in transcatheter aortic (Core)Valve implantation: Part 2—Transesophageal echocardiography

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) plays a significant role during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVR). 2DTEE allows assessment of anatomy of the aortic valve, aortic root, left ventricular (LV) outflow tract, severity of the aortic valve stenosis (AS), and the presence and severity of other valve stenosis and regurgitation. Left and right ventricular size and global function as well as cardiac hemodynamics pre and post TAVR and LV regional wall motion can be assessed. Three-dimensional (3D) imaging adds significantly via accurate measurement of aortic annulus that helps select the appropriate valve size. Biplane imaging allows simultaneous assessment of target cardiac structure in two orthogonal views and provides a rapid assessment during and immediately post valve deployment by evaluating stent height, leaflet motion, and the presence and severity of paravalvular leak (PVL). 2DTEE and 3DTEE allow evaluation of mechanism of PVL that helps guide the decision regarding need for balloon post dilation of the implanted valve or valve in valve implantation.