cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stress responses across the scales of life: Towards a universal theory of biological stress.

Although biological systems are more complex and can actively respond to their environment, an effective entry point to the development of a universal theory of biological stress are the physical concepts of stress and strain. If you apply stress to the end of a beam of steel, strain will accumulate within that steel beam. If the stress is weak, that strain will disappear when the force is removed and the beam will return to its original state of form and functionality. If the stress is more severe, the strain becomes permanent and the beam will be deformed, potentially losing some degree of functionality. In extremely stressful situations, the beam will break and lose most or all of its original functional capabilities. Although this stress-strain theory applies to the abiotic, stress and strain are also rules of life and directly relate to the form and function of living organisms. The main difference is that life can react and adjust to stress and strain to maintain homeostasis within a range of limits. Here, we summarize the rules of stress and strain in living systems ranging from microbes to multicellular organisms to ecosystems with the goal of identifying common features that may underlie a universal biological theory of stress. We then propose to establish a range of experimental, observational, and analytical approaches to study stress across scales, including synthetic microbial communities that mimic many of the essential characteristics of living systems, thereby enabling a universal theory of biological stress to be experimentally validated without the constraints of timescales, ethics, or cost found when studying other species or scales of life. Although the range of terminology, theory, and methodology used to study stress and strain across the scales of life presents a formidable challenge to creating a universal theory of biological stress, working towards such a theory that informs our understanding of the simultaneous and interconnected unicellular, multicellular, organismal, and ecosystem stress responses is critical as it will improve our ability to predict how living systems respond to change, thus informing solutions to current and future environmental and human health challenges.
Advancing health through research: A scoping review of and model for adjunctive psychosocial interventions to improve outcomes for perinatal women with bipolar disorder.

Abstract Background: We aimed to identify randomized clinical trials (RCTs) which evaluated the efficacy of adjunctive psychosocial interventions to improve outcomes during the perinatal period for women with bipolar disorder (BD). Methods: We scanned the literature to identify RCTs evaluating the efficacy of adjunctive psychosocial therapies or interventions provided during the perinatal period to women with BD. We searched from 1946 to July 2020 using Embase, Ovid Medline, PsycINFO, and Scopus. We then searched for future, current, and recently completed RCTs described on www.ClinicalTrials.gov . Results: This scoping review (1946 - July 2020) revealed no published RCTs for this population. The findings expose an important gap in research and knowledge, as well as a health disparity. Conclusion: We heuristically tied a mechanistic stress reduction model to relevant findings. The initial hypotheses are informed by effective stress reducing psychosocial interventions for: a) people with BD outside the perinatal period and b) perinatal women with major depressive disorder (MDD may improve the health of perinatal women with BD). We hypothesize that the perinatal trajectory of health for women with BD will improve by adding psychosocial interventions or therapies to treatment as usual. We propose maternal stress reduction as a potential mediator/mechanism. Limitations: Findings reported are limited to the methods of a scoping review. Reproductive status tends to be a missing variable; we highlight the need for its inclusion. Interdisciplinary, collaborative research to improve the treatment outcome for perinatal women with BD is warranted and ripe for advancement.
Preparing for the Wrong Emergency: Visions of Generation Changing Events

Crises that stem from the coronavirus pandemic suggest what may be sweeping changes in social, economic, political, and cultural patterns. Requirements of lockdown and social distancing aimed at limiting consequences of the disease for public health may foreshadow lasting transformations in deeply rooted expectations, practices, and institutions as well as their material frameworks. For example, the kinds of office work now typically done in large, urban buildings could be permanently reconfigured as online tasks managed in people’s homes and apartments. Will Covid-19 become a generation-shaping event, an occasion for world societies to question and reform their basic arrangements? Or will the experience be remembered as a mere bump in the road, a brief detour on a pathway that leads to restoration of familiar (although admittedly problematic) features of modernity?
Interleaved Flyback based micro-inverter for residential photovoltaic application in remote areas

This paper presents a design of a solar micro-inverter. Solar panels are connected through an Interleaved Flyback Converter(IFC), with a flyback transformer playing the role of isolation, and integrated with a full-bridge inverter to provide a 60 Hz, 120 V ac voltage to home loads in remote areas. The proposed interleaved flyback converter for a solar micro-inverter has four stages and is regulated using the voltage loop control and phase shift control. In the proposed interleaved flyback converter, the Resistor, Capacitor, and Diode (RCD) snubber circuit is used for each stage. The Direct-Quadrature (D-Q) rotating frame control is considered for the full-bridge inverter, since it provides good performance. The simulation and experimental results reported in this paper verify the functionality of the designed topology for a solar micro-inverter.
Measurement of the Thick-Target 9Be(p,n) Neutron Energy Spectra

The thick-target neutron energy spectra of the 9Be(p,n) reaction were measured at several angles for proton-bombarding energies of 3.0, 3.4, 3.7, 4.0, and 5.0 MeV. Time-of-flight techniques were us...
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF NEUTRINOS IN SHAPING THE UNIVERSE

I review various aspects of the role neutrinos have played in shaping various cosmological observables: the nature of large scale structure, observed fluctuations in the CMB, the nature of matter, and the shape of things to come. (Invited review lecture III International Workshop on NO-VE, Venice, 2006)
L-ARABINOSE NEGATIVE MUTANTS OF THE L-RIBULOKINASE STRUCTURAL GENE AFFECTING THE LEVELS OF L-ARABINOSE ISOMERASE IN ESCHERICHIA COLI.

Genetic and enzymatic analysis of 17 L-arabinose nonutilizing mutants of Escherichia coli B/r, together with eight previously analyzed mutants of the B gene, show no relationship between the location of a mutant site in the B gene and its effect on the level of inducib1e L-arabinose isomerase, the product of the adjacent structural A gene. The results of reciprocal three-factor crosses were used to estab1ish the linear genetic order of most arabinose negative mutants. Other mutants could not be ordered by this method because of high negative interference or close linkage. Recombination distances were used to establish the probable order of most of these mutants. (auth)
Examining the influence of the European Convention on Human Rights in Northern Ireland courts

Abstract This article examines the influence of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) on the legal culture of litigants and judges in Northern Ireland. The results show that there has been a dramatic increase in the number of judicial review cases based upon the ECHR in the years immediately following implementation of the treaty through the Human Rights Act. However, while there has been an increase in the number of ECHR claims by litigants, judges in Northern Ireland have thus far been reluctant to issue declarations of incompatibility pursuant to the Human Rights Act. Furthermore, a multivariate analysis of the likelihood of Northern Irish judges to rule against the government shows that, controlling for other factors, judges are not more willing to rule against the government when the ECHR is invoked. Overall, it appears that the early influence of the ECHR on Northern Irish law has been greatest in the willingness of litigants to bring judicial review cases based upon the treaty—a development that may portend larger changes in UK jurisprudence in the future.
Spectral irradiance responsivity calibration of InSb radiometers using the improved IR-SIRCUS at NIST

The spectral irradiance responsivity calibrations of InSb radiometers measured on the tunable-laser based Infrared Spectral Irradiance and Radiance Responsivity Calibration with Uniform Sources (IR-SIRCUS) facility are discussed. This work describes the following changes undertaken to reduce the uncertainties of the calibrations: improve the spatial uniformity, reduce the laser-induced speckle from the gold-coated integrating spheres between 1 μm and 5 μm, improve the stability of the optical parametric oscillator (OPO) tunable laser, reduce the noise from the signal-to-monitor ratio, increase the repeatability of measurements, and reduce the stray light and fringe problems of the radiometer under test. Measurements of the spatial uniformity with the use of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and gold-coated integrating spheres at different wavelengths have been performed. Different approaches for generating a uniform source, removing the speckle, stabilizing the laser, and improving the signal-to-monitor ratio are also described. The spatial nonuniformity after using these approaches has been shown to be reduced to < 1 %. The uncertainty budget of spectral irradiance responsivity calibrations is discussed, and is found to be mainly due to the measurement repeatability uncertainty component of 1 %. Calibrated radiometers are tested against a source-based scale from the calculated spectral irradiances obtained using a precision aperture and a blackbody (BB) with a known temperature.
Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors in human prostate cancer.

Abstract Objectives. We recently reported the expression and cytokine regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in human prostate cancer (PCa). VEGF exerts its angiogenic and pro-tumorigenic properties by way of two high affinity receptors, fms -like tyrosine kinase 1 (FLT-1) and fetal liver kinase 1 (FLK-1). We hypothesized that these receptors are expressed and control VEGF functions in the PCa microenvironment. Herein, we evaluate the expression of these receptors in ex vivo PCa tissue, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) tissue, and cultured PCa cell lines. Methods. Ex vivo PCa specimens were obtained from patients undergoing radical retropubic prostatectomy. Specimens were selected to contain both PCa and BPH tissue (n = 15). Immunohistochemical analysis using antihuman FLT-1 and FLK-1 was performed and specimens were analyzed to characterize the expression and distribution of both receptors. Immunocytochemical analysis for FLT-1 and FLK-1 was also performed on cultured PCa cell lines (DU-145 and LNCaP). Results. PCa cells expressed the VEGF receptor FLT-1 in 100% of specimens evaluated. Expression of FLK-1 was variable and related to tumor grade; high-grade tumors displayed little or no FLK-1 expression. Vascular endothelial cells (VECs) within areas of PCa consistently expressed both FLT-1 and FLK-1 receptors. FLT-1 and FLK-1 were both expressed in BPH tissue. FLT-1 was expressed in the glandular epithelial cells in BPH, but in most cases FLK-1 was localized specifically to the basal cell layer of hypertrophic glands. FLT-1, but not FLK-1, was expressed by the DU-145 and LNCaP cell lines. Conclusions. Although they are differentially expressed, both FLT-1 and FLK-1 are present in PCa and BPH. Expression of receptors on VECs of tumor vessels supports the well-established role of VEGF in paracrine stimulation of VECs in the tumor microenvironment. The expression of FLT-1 and FLK-1 on tumor cells themselves suggests a potential autocrine function for VEGF (such as regulating tumor cell proliferation). These findings imply that a novel dual role may exist for VEGF, such that it is involved in tumor cell activation (autocrine), in addition to paracrine actions whereby it regulates endothelial cell functions and subsequent neovascular development.
THE EFFECT OF FAULT SLIP ON PERMEABILITY AND PERMEABILITY ANISOTROPY IN QUARTZ GOUGE

Abstract The effects of fault slip on permeability and permeability anisotropy have been investigated during large displacement shearing of quartz bare surfaces and 1 mm thick artificial quartz gouge at a normal stress of 25 MPa. Within the first 10 mm of shear displacement, grain size reduction occurred nearly uniformly within the fault zone. Permeability decreased by 2–3 orders of magnitude and the permeabilities perpendicular and parallel to the fault plane remained approximately equal. With further increasing shear displacement up to 200 mm, deformation was localized within a band of Y shears where strong grain comminution occurred. Permeability decreased further by 1–2 orders of magnitude and the permeability perpendicular to the fault showed larger reduction than parallel to it. A permeability anisotropy of about one order of magnitude developed. The permeability anisotropy is a result of heterogeneous deformation within the fault zone; flow perpendicular to the fault zone is impeded by the fine-grained band of Y shears, but flow parallel to the fault zone can occur in the less-deformed adjacent gouge. Our results suggest that fluid flow in natural faults depends on the degree of shear localization and the permeability contrast between the localized zone and the rest of the fault zone.
Context Effects for Attributions of Ability

Subjects watched a videotape of an actor engaged in a game of billiards and then made inferences about the actor's billiards ability. The level of skill demonstrated in the billiards performance and the situational demands (context) surrounding the performance were systematically varied. Results indicated that inferences based upon a skillful performance were less affected by situational demands than were inferences based upon an unskillful performance. Ratings of observers' uncertainty were also consistent with these findings.
Sustained Care Intervention and Postdischarge Smoking Cessation Among Hospitalized Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance Health care systems need effective models to manage chronic diseases like tobacco dependence across transitions in care. Hospitalizations provide opportunities for smokers to quit, but research suggests that hospital-delivered interventions are effective only if treatment continues after discharge. Objective To determine whether an intervention to sustain tobacco treatment after hospital discharge increases smoking cessation rates compared with standard care. Design, Setting, and Participants A randomized clinical trial compared sustained care (a postdischarge tobacco cessation intervention) with standard care among 397 hospitalized daily smokers (mean age, 53 years; 48% were males; 81% were non-Hispanic whites) who wanted to quit smoking after discharge and received a tobacco dependence intervention in the hospital; 92% of eligible patients and 44% of screened patients enrolled. The study was conducted from August 2010 through November 2012 at Massachusetts General Hospital. Interventions Sustained care participants received automated interactive voice response telephone calls and their choice of free smoking cessation medication (any type approved by the US Food and Drug Administration) for up to 90 days. The automated telephone calls promoted cessation, provided medication management, and triaged smokers for additional counseling. Standard care participants received recommendations for postdischarge pharmacotherapy and counseling. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was biochemically confirmed past 7-day tobacco abstinence at 6-month follow-up after discharge from the hospital; secondary outcomes included self-reported tobacco abstinence. Results Smokers randomly assigned to sustained care (n = 198) used more counseling and more pharmacotherapy at each follow-up assessment than those assigned to standard care (n = 199). Biochemically validated 7-day tobacco abstinence at 6 months was higher with sustained care (26%) than with standard care (15%) (relative risk [RR], 1.71 [95% CI, 1.14-2.56], P = .009; number needed to treat, 9.4 [95% CI, 5.4-35.5]). Using multiple imputation for missing outcomes, the RR for 7-day tobacco abstinence was 1.55 (95% CI, 1.03-2.21; P = .04). Sustained care also resulted in higher self-reported continuous abstinence rates for 6 months after discharge (27% vs 16% for standard care; RR, 1.70 [95% CI, 1.15-2.51]; P = .007). Conclusions and Relevance Among hospitalized adult smokers who wanted to quit smoking, a postdischarge intervention providing automated telephone calls and free medication resulted in higher rates of smoking cessation at 6 months compared with a standard recommendation to use counseling and medication after discharge. These findings, if replicated, suggest an approach to help achieve sustained smoking cessation after a hospital stay. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT01177176
Mood crossover and relational reciprocity

Purpose – Building on reciprocity and crossover theory, this paper aims to examine how mood crossover from one partner in a relational dyad influences the likelihood of reciprocal mood crossover from the other partner.Design/methodology/approach – Using a survey sample of 180 dual‐career married couples, the paper explores this phenomenon for both positive and negative mood crossover from husbands to wives and wives to husbands.Findings – The data supported the paper's four hypotheses. Mood crossover was found to operate in a similar fashion for both husbands and wives after controlling for negative and positive affectivity, work and home demands, work autonomy, and support from the organization, non‐work friends, and spouse. Specifically, when wives (husbands) reported positive (negative) mood crossover from their husbands (wives), their husbands (wives) also reported positive (negative) mood crossover from them.Research implications/limitations – The findings suggest positive and negative mood crossover...
Application of the Probabilistic Dynamic Synthesis Method to Realistic Structures

The Probabilistic Dynamic Synthesis method is a technique for obtaining the statistics of a desired response engineering quantity for a structure with non-deterministic parameters. The method uses measured data from modal testing of the structure as the input random variables, rather than more "primitive" quantities like geometry or material variation. This modal information is much more comprehensive and easily measured than the "primitive" information. The probabilistic analysis is carried out using either response surface reliability methods or Monte Carlo simulation. In previous work, the feasibility of the PDS method applied to a simple seven degree-of-freedom spring-mass system was verified. In this paper, extensive issues involved with applying the method to a realistic three-substructure system are examined, and free and forced response analyses are performed. The results from using the method are promising, especially when the lack of alternatives for obtaining quantitative output for probabilistic structures is considered.
Karyotype and Chromosome Morphology of Parthenium argentatum.

The genus Parthenium contains plants which produce latex, although only P. argentatum produces the commercially important product, rubber, in sufficiently large quantities. Parthenium forms a natural polyploid series (Stebbins and Kodani 1944, Bergner 1944) and although many meiotic studies have been conducted, little mitotic karyological data has been published. This paper presents the first mitotic karyotype and idiogram of Parthenium argentatum (2n=36). In addition, a technique for production of well spread mitotic chromosome squashes is outlined.
Localized immunosuppression in the cardiac allograft induced by a new liposome-mediated IL-10 gene therapy.

Abstract Background Overexpression of interleukin 10 (IL-10) in the donor heart prolongs allograft survival in animals. Interleukin-10 has many immunosuppressive effects; however, the mechanism(s) of its protective effect on allograft rejection remains unknown. Methods Recently, we optimized an ex vivo, intracoronary infusion of the GAP:DLRIE, liposome-mediated, IL-10 gene method using a rabbit, cervical, heterotopic heart transplant model. Results The efficiency of this new-generation, liposome-mediated, IL-10 gene transfer to the donor hearts was 15% in hypothermic conditions, which represents a 30% increase from the efficiency of other liposomes, such as DOSPA/DOPE, DOGS/DOPE, and DMRIE/DOPE. Cardiac allograft survival was prolonged from 6.0 ± 0.7 days to 14.3 ± 1.8 days. Infiltrating lymphocyte sub-populations CD3 + , CD4 + , and CD8 + decreased significantly in the gene therapy group compared with the control group. Local IL-10 overexpression correlated significantly with decreased CD4 + and CD8 + responsiveness and Type-1 helper (Th1) cytokine gene (IL-2, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor α) expression level and correlated inversely with the allograft rejection grade. In the gene therapy group, the cytotoxic activity of infiltrating T cells in the allograft decreased greatly, but the time course of this decrease did not parallel the rejection process. Conclusion We conclude that GAP:DLRIE is the best cationic liposome for ex vivo gene transfection in hypothermic conditions. The effects of IL-10 gene therapy on antigen-specific T-lymphocyte proliferation and Th1-cytokine expression may play an important role in localized immunosuppression and tolerance induction.
Antagonistic pleiotropy and genetic polymorphism: a perspective

Antagonistic pleiotropy, in which reproduction and viability counter each other, appears to be widely thought of great significance in life history theory and the evolution of senescence. However, the conditions for maintenance of polymorphism by antagonistic pleiotropy are quite restrictive. This is particularly so when there is no reversal of dominance for different traits, sex-limited expression of fitness components, finite population size or inbreeding. Furthermore, when antagonistic pleiotropy is compared with other mechanisms of balancing selection, it appears to have more restrictive conditions for the maintenance of polymorphism. Although these theoretical findings do not preclude the presence of loci that exhibit antagonistic pleiotropy, because it appears so unlikely that antagonistic pleiotropy is an important factor maintaining polymorphism, empirical evidence suggesting antagonistic pleiotropy as the factor maintaining polymorphism should be carefully scrutinized.
Meeting report: International Childhood ALL Workshop: Memphis, TN, 3–4 December 1997

The cure of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was a momentous achievement in the history of medicine. It demonstrated that widely disseminated cancers can be eradicated with cytotoxic drugs, and it illustrated the power of systematic laboratory studies and randomized clinical trials applied to a single disease. As ALL cure rates edge towards 80%, several key challenges are apparent. First, it will be important to devise more effective therapies for the high-risk patients who continue to relapse on contemporary protocols. Second, better methods of disease assessment and treatment are needed to avoid relapses that still occur in so-called low- and intermediate-risk groups. Third, the persistence of late adverse effects due to radiation and certain genotoxic agents, such as the anthracycline compounds and the epipodophyllotoxins, mandates the development of alternative therapies that are both safe and effective in children. The International Childhood ALL Workshop, held 3–4 December 1997, at St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, brought together leading experts in leukemia therapy to discuss progress in meeting these and other challenges, and to suggest directions for future studies. The participants, from 12 co-operative study groups and two individual centers, were welcomed by Dr A Nienhuis (St Jude Director), who provided the historical context for the workshop, and by Drs W Evans and C-H Pui, the meeting co-organizers.
Curriculum Change: Bold Thrusts or Timid Extensions

With the accelerated impact of external forces on business school academic programmes, a key question that faculty and administrators must address is whether to continue to pursue incremental curriculum extensions (the traditional approach) or to undertake large‐scale reform and innovation efforts. A case is made that bold thrusts at large‐scale change are more likely to enhance educational relevance, invigorate faculty, and draw the B‐school closer to its primary customer‐the corporate community. Offers a propositional framework, built on seven principles of change applied directly to the process of curriculum change. Each proposition is supported with one or two mini cases drawn from experience within a large, publicly‐assisted university. By building on a series of bold, curriculum thrusts that include constituencies as active partners, a school will transform its character and strengthen quality.
OXIDATIVE HYDROLYSIS OF PHOSPHORUS(V) ESTERS OF THIOLS BY PEROXYMONOSULFATE ION. REACTIONS OF PEROXYMONOSULFATE ION WITH PHOSPHORUS(V) ESTERS OF THIOLS

Peroxymonosulfate ion, HSO−5, as Oxone, readily converts phosphorus(V) esters of thiols into the phosphorus(V) and sulfonic acids. The esters were Ph2PO·SC6H4R(p) with R=MeO (1a), Me (1b), H (1c), Cl (1d) and NO2 (1e), (EtO)2PO · SPh (2), Ph2OI · SEt (3) and PhPO(OEt)SEt (4). Reactions are first order in each reactant and second-order rate constants, k2, for 1a–e fit the Hammett equation with ρ=−0.46. The rate constants increase markedly with increasing water content of H2O–MeCN, the activation enthalpies are low and the entropies are negative. Despite the low value of −ρ, these esters are much less reactive than thiol ethers, but the rate constants of reactions of these compounds and acyl thiols qualitatively follow the ionization potentials of the ethers and the esters. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Sequence of Polynomials for Approximating Arctangent

(2006). A Sequence of Polynomials for Approximating Arctangent. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 113, No. 2, pp. 156-161.
A Transmission-Line-Type Model for Lightning Return Strokes with Branches

Abstract We examine the effect of channel branching on electric field waveforms produced by first return strokes in negative cloud-to-ground lightning using a modified transmission line model. From computed return stroke electric field waveforms it is found that the presence of an ungrounded branch results in sharper initial peak and a secondary peak in the falling part of the return stroke waveform. The time interval between the primary and secondary peaks depends upon the height of the branching point above ground and the speed at which the incident current wave moves upward from the ground. The presence of branch serves to slightly decrease the magnitude of the opposite polarity overshoot. The effects of the height of the branching point above ground, fraction of total channel current flowing to the branch, and current reflections from the branch unconnected end are illustrated.
Mutational analysis of C-lobe ligands of human serum transferrin: insights into the mechanism of iron release.

Each homologous lobe of human serum transferrin (hTF) has one Fe3+ ion bound by an aspartic acid, a histidine, two tyrosine residues, and two oxygens from the synergistic anion, carbonate. Extensive characterization of these ligands in the N-terminal lobe has been carried out. Despite sharing the same set of ligands, there is a substantial amount of evidence that the N- and C-lobes are inequivalent. Studies of full-length hTF have shown that iron release from each lobe is kinetically distinguishable. To simplify the assessment of mutations in the C-lobe, we have created mutant hTF molecules in which the N-lobe binds iron with high affinity or not at all. Mutations targeting the C-lobe liganding residues have been introduced into these hTF constructs. UV−visible spectral, kinetic, and EPR studies have been undertaken to assess the effects of each mutation and to allow direct comparison to the N-lobe. As found for the N-lobe, the presence of Y517 in the C-lobe (equivalent to Y188 in the N-lobe) is absolutel...
Global dynamics of epidemic spread over complex networks

In this paper we study the global dynamics of epidemic spread over complex networks for both discrete-time and continuous-time models. In this setting, the state of the system at any given time is the vector obtained from the marginal probability of infection of each of the nodes in the network at that time. Convergence to the origin means that the epidemic eventually dies out. Linearizing the model around the origin yields a system whose state is an upper bound on the true state. As a result, whenever the linearized model is locally stable, the original model is globally stable, with the origin being its fixed point. When the linearized model is unstable the origin is not a stable fixed point and we show the existence of a unique second fixed point. In the continuous-time model, this second fixed point attracts all points in the state space other than the origin. In the discrete-time setting we consider two models. In the first model, we show that the second fixed point attracts all points in the state space other than the origin. In the second model, however, we show this need not be the case. We therefore give conditions under which the second fixed point attracts all non-origin points and show that for random Erdos-Renyi graphs this happens with high probability.
Gynecologic robotic laparoendoscopic single-site surgery: prospective analysis of feasibility, safety, and technique.

Objective Multiple reports suggest that laparoendoscopic single-site surgery is technically feasible, safe, and effective in treating a variety of gynecological disease processes. The study purpose was to assess the feasibility and safety of a novel robotic single-site platform (R-LESS) for the surgical treatment of benign and malignant gynecological conditions. Study Design A single-institution, prospective analysis of 40 women treated with R-LESS on the gynecology and gynecological oncology services from June 2013 through March 2014. Women undergoing hysterectomy or adnexal surgery for either a benign or malignant gynecological condition were offered robotic single-site surgery during the study period of June 1, 2013, through April 1, 2014. Patients underwent surgery through a single 2.5-3.0 cm umbilical incision with a multichannel port and utilizing the da Vinci robotic single-site platform. Two surgeons with extensive laparoendoscopic single-site experience participated. Results Forty patients had R-LESS performed. Procedures included total laparoscopic hysterectomy, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy, ovarian cystectomy, excision of endometriosis, and a combined case of total laparoscopic hysterectomy and cholecystectomy. Median age and body mass index were 42 years and 28.2 kg/m 2 , respectively. Median operating time, defined as the interval between incision start to closure, was 134 minutes (range, 84–311 minutes). Median vaginal cuff closure was 21 minutes (range, 9–77 minutes). Overall, there appeared to be a linear relationship between vaginal cuff closure time, console time, and operating time with number of cases performed. Procedures were successfully performed via R-LESS in 92.5% of cases; 2 cases required 1 additional port and there was 1 conversion to traditional multiport robotic surgery. There was 1 major postoperative complication (2.5%) and 1 readmission (2.5%). After a median follow-up period of 230 days (range, 61–256), there have been no postoperative hernias diagnosed. Conclusion We present one of the first series of robotic laparoendoscopic single-site surgery for the treatment of various gynecological conditions. When performed by experienced minimally invasive surgeons, R-LESS is feasible and safe in select patients. Further studies are needed to better define the ideal gynecological procedures to perform using robotic single-site surgery and to assess the benefits and costs of R-LESS compared with multiport robotic and conventional laparoscopic approaches.
Compensatory and Remedial Programs: What School Leaders Should Know.

If managed correctly, there are sufficient program options in today'sgreatly expanded curriculum to pro vide appropriate educational opportunities for virtually all students.
Mineral balance and bone turnover in adolescents with anorexia nervosa

We evaluated seven female adolescents with anorexia nervosa to determine whether calcium metabolism was affected by their disorder. We measured calcium absorption, urinary calcium excretion, and calcium kinetics, using a dual-tracer, stable-isotope technique during the first weeks of an inpatient nutritional rehabilitation program. Results were compared with those from a control group of seven healthy adolescent girls of similar ages. The percentage of absorption of calcium was lower in subjects with anorexia nervosa than in control subjects (16.2% +/- 6.3% vs 24.6% +/- 7.2%; p < 0.05). Urinary calcium excretion was greater in subjects with anorexia nervosa than in control subjects (6.4 +/- 2.5 vs 1.6 +/- 0.7 mg.kg-1 x day-1; p < 0.01) and was associated with bone resorption rather than calcium hyper-absorption. Calcium kinetic studies demonstrated a decreased rate of bone formation and an increased rate of bone resorption. These results suggest marked abnormalities in mineral metabolism in patients with anorexia nervosa. From these results, we hypothesize that improvement in bone mineralization during recovery from anorexia nervosa will require resolution of hormonal abnormalities, including hypercortisolism, in addition to increased calcium intake.
Solutions for the kinetic analysis of 45calcium uptake curves

Abstract The classic solutions based on specific activity curves for the kinetic analysis of 45Ca movements in three compartment cellular systems cannot be used when the extracellular compartment is one to two orders of magnitude larger than the cellular or tissue compartments. However if the relative radioactivity curve (tracer uptake curve) is analyzed it is possible to calculate all the relevant kinetic parameters. This paper offers the solutions based on relative radioactivity measurements for the calculation of exchange rates, rate constants and compartment sizes of three compartment systems, for series and parallel cases, for closed and open systems.
Formation of acute pulmonary toxicants following thermal degradation of perfluorinated polymers: evidence for a critical atmospheric reaction.

Abstract In some small-scale tests of combustion-product toxicity, perfluorinated polymers (FP) have been shown to be much more toxic than other common materials. These studies were conducted to determine the conditions under which highly toxic decomposition products of FP are formed. A modification of the National Bureau of Standards exposure system (Levin et al. National Bureau of Standards 1982, NBS IR 82-2532) was used, in which materials could be heated either in a cup furnace or above a small methane flame. At 700°C, the approximate lethal concentrations (ALCs) of the products formed from polytetrafluoroethylene (pTFE) and from hexafluoropropylene/tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (FEP) in the CH4 flame (applied for 1 min) are approximately 850 times higher than the ALCs of the products formed in the cup furnace. Analytically, the major products formed initially from pTFE at 700°C under either condition (flame or cup furnace) are similar but they disappear rapidly in the presence of continuous heat. When the cup furnace is removed 1 min after pTFE is added (a procedure temporally similar to the use of the flame) the toxicity of the products is again low. However, when heat from either the cup furnace or from a small secondary flame is applied continuously (for up to 30 min) to the initial products formed from pTFE in the flame, high toxicity is observed. These observations are supported by pathological evaluation of the respiratory tracts of exposed rats. Thus, the inhalation toxicity of FP thermal decomposition products is related to a heat- and time-dependent atmospheric reaction. Such mechanisms should be considered in estimating the fire hazard of these materials in use.
Accounting For Diffuse Irradiance On Reference Reflectance Panels

Measurements of surface reflectance factors in the field are usually made under conditions of total (direct and diffuse) irradiance. However, the reference panel reflectance factor R(r/e) used to convert the target measurement to reflectance is frequently determined using only direct irradiance. A method for determining the diffuse-irradiance reflectance factor, 11,1.4(0°,/e), of a calibrated field-reference panel from a knowledge of the direct-irrA.ance reflectance factor, Rd.,(0°,/0), is described. The magnitude of the error involved if only the direct irradiance reflectance factor is known, usually from laboratory calibration, was found to vary from -2% to +5%, depending on zenith angle, atmospheric conditions, and the particular reflectance panel used.
Allocation to industry portfolios under Markov switching returns

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of parameter uncertainty in the returns process with regime shifts on optimal portfolio choice over the long run for a static buy-and-hold investor who is investing in industry portfolios. Design/methodology/approach – This paper uses a Markov switching model to model returns on industry portfolios and propose a Gibbs sampling approach to take into account parameter uncertainty. This paper compares the results with a linear benchmark model and estimates without taking into account parameter uncertainty. This paper also checks the predictive power of additional predictive variables. Findings – Incorporating parameter uncertainty and taking into account the possible regime shifts in the returns process, this paper finds that such investors can allocate less in the long run to stocks. This holds true for both the NASDAQ portfolio and the individual high tech and manufacturing industry portfolios. Along with regime switching returns, this paper exa...
Analysis of Sans from Controlled Pore Glasses

Small angle neutron scattering measurements have been performed on several samples of silica controlled pore glasses with pore sizes ranging from roughly 7 to 30 nm. The scattering intensity is strongly peaked at small Q and shows approximate Porod law behavior at large Q. Contrast variation measurements have shown that the pore space in these samples is entirely interconnected and thus forms a bicontinuous microstructure. The scattering data have been analyzed using the leveled wave method based on an early scheme for representing two-phase microstructures resulting from spinodal decomposition. In this approach interfaces are modeled by the contours of a stochastic standing wave composed of plane wave components propagating in random directions with random phases and having wave numbers distributed according to a given probability density, P(k). We have determined model P(k) functions by fitting the SANS data with the leveled wave scattering function and then used these to construct leveled wave images of the corresponding porous structures. The average pore sizes obtained by measuring chord lengths in the computer models turn out to agree with the values determined for these glasses by mercury porosimetry.
Sex differences in [123I]β‐CIT SPECT measures of dopamine and serotonin transporter availability in healthy smokers and nonsmokers

Nicotine and other constituents of tobacco smoke elevate dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) levels in brain and may cause homeostatic adaptations in DA and 5-HT transporters. Since sex steroids alter DA and 5-HT transporter expression, the effects of smoking on DA and 5-HT transporter availability may differ between sexes. In the present study, DA and 5-HT transporter availabilities were quantitated using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging approximately 22 h after bolus administration of [123I]β-CIT, an analog of cocaine which labels DA and 5-HT transporters. Forty-two subjects including 21 pairs of age-, race-, and gender-matched healthy smokers and nonsmokers (12 female and 9 male pairs) were imaged. Regional uptake was assessed by the outcome measures, V3″, which is the ratio of specific (i.e., ROI-cerebellar activity) to nondisplaceable (cerebellar) activity, and V3, the ratio of specific to free plasma parent. Overall, striatal and diencephalic [123I]β-CIT uptake was not altered by smoking, whereas brainstem [123I]β-CIT uptake was modestly higher (10%) in smokers vs. nonsmokers. When subgrouped by sex, regardless of smoking status, [123I]β-CIT uptake was higher in the striatum (10%), diencephalon (15%), and brainstem (15%) in females vs. males. The sex*smoking interaction was not significant in the striatum, diencephalon, or brainstem, despite the observation of 20% higher brainstem [123I]β-CIT uptake in male smokers vs. nonsmokers and less than a 5% difference between female smokers and nonsmokers. The results demonstrate higher DA and 5-HT transporter availability in females vs. males and no overall effect of smoking with the exception of a modest elevation in brainstem 5-HT transporters in male smokers. Although these findings are preliminary and need validation with a more selective 5-HT transporter radiotracer, the results suggest that brainstem 5-HT transporters may be regulated by smoking in a sex-specific manner. Synapse 41:275–284, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Minimally invasive atlantoaxial fusion.

BACKGROUND: C1-C2 fusion has significantly advanced from predominantly wiring/cable modalities to more biomechanically stable screw-rod techniques. Minimally invasive surgical techniques represents the most recent modification of atlantoaxial fixation. The indications, rationale, and surgical technique of this novel procedure are described. METHODS: Six patients requiring C1-C2 fusion (5 type II odontoid fractures and 1 os odontoideum) underwent minimally invasive C1-C2 fusion over a 2-year period. The cohort consisted of 5 men and 1 woman with a mean age of 51 years (age range, 39-64 y). All 6 patients underwent bilateral segmental atlantoaxial fixation using an expandable tubular retractor. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 32 months (age range, 24-46 mo) There were no intraoperative complications, and the mean estimated blood loss was 100 mL. Solid fusion was achieved in all 6 patients, without pathological motion on dynamic studies. Postoperative computed tomographic images showed no hardware malposition in the scanned patients (4 of the 6 patients). CONCLUSIONS: Placement of C1 and C2 instrumentation using minimally invasive techniques is technically feasible. Because the instrumentation and the means of obtaining arthrodesis do not differ substantively from the standard approach, we would not anticipate long-term results to be different from those of an open procedure, apart from the approach-related morbidity.
A Markov-Nikolskii type inequality for absolutely monotone polynomials of order K

A function Q is called absolutely monotone of order k on an interval I if Q(x) ≥ 0, Q′(x) ≥ 0, …, Q(k)(x) ≥ 0, for all x e I. An essentially sharp (up to a multiplicative absolute constant) Markov inequality for absolutely monotone polynomials of order k in L p [−1, 1], p > 0, is established. One may guess that the right Markov factor is cn 2/k, and this indeed turns out to be the case. Similarly sharp results hold in the case of higher derivatives and Markov-Nikolskii type inequalities. There is also a remarkable connection between the right Markov inequality for absolutely monotone polynomials of order k in the supremum norm and essentially sharp bounds for the largest and smallest zeros of Jacobi polynomials. This is discussed in the last section of the paper.
A versatile apparatus for simple and complex learning

Abstract A versatile and flexible apparatus is described for use in simple and complex learning research with children. The apparatus automatically or manually presents any of a number of stimuli, programs reinforcements for three problems independently, concurrently allows for variation of all relevant intervals, e.g., stimulus presentation time, delay of reinforcement, ITI, and automatically prints out latencies and correct or incorrect responses. This programming is especially suitable for studies in such areas as discrimination learning, learning set, operant conditioning, instrumental conditioning, and concept formation.
Phospholipase C Activation by Prostacyclin Receptor Agonist in Cerebral Microvascular Smooth Muscle Cells

The mechanism through which iloprost permits cerebral vasodilation induced by specific stimuli is incompletely understood. Previous study suggests there might be interplay between the adenylyl cyclase and phospholipase C (PLC) systems. Coupling of the prostacyclin receptor with the PLC pathway system was investigated. Iloprost, a stable prostacyclin analog, was used as a prostacyclin receptor agonist. We investigated the effects of iloprost (10-12-10-6 M) on inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) production by piglet cerebrovascular smooth muscle cells in primary culture. Iloprost caused concentration- and time-dependent increases in IP3 production in control cells and in cells pretreated with LiCl (to prevent further IP3 metabolism). Iloprost treatment (10-12 M) of cerebrovascular smooth muscle cells, in the absence and presence of 20 mM LiCl, resulted in 2-fold and 4-fold increases in the formation of IP3, respectively. In contrast, 10-10 M to 10-6 M iloprost, either in the presence or absence of LiCl, induced moderate or no increase in IP3 formation. Iloprost (10-10-10-12 M) strongly stimulated diacylglycerol (DAG) generation, whereas higher concentrations (10-8 M) did not induce an increase. In conclusion, the results suggest that prostacyclin receptors on cerebromicrovascular smooth muscle can couple to PLC, generating the second messengers, IP3 and DAG.
Actively cooled plasma facing components for long pulse high power operation

Abstract This paper reviews the development of heat removal technology for plasma facing components (PFCs) and focuses on water-cooled PFCs for near term, high power applications and the use of the tungsten (W), carbon (C), and beryllium (Be) as the preferred armor materials. There are also brief summaries of developments in helium-cooled PFCs and applications of free liquid surfaces. Water-cooled PFCs with C armor have been developed for Tore Supra, ITER, LHD and W7-X. W or Be armor is of interest for ITER and other devices. W-coatings on graphite have been tried, and mockups with “W brush” armor, developed in the USA for ITER and emulated elsewhere, have withstood thermal cycling at 25 MW/m2. Reliably joining of the armor has been a significant challenge. A shorter version of this paper was published previously in the International Toki Conference on Plasma Physics and Controlled Nuclear Fusion (ITC-10), Toki, Japan, January 18–21, 2000.