cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New prostate MRI techniques and sequences

Prostate MRI has seen increasing interest in recent years and has led to the development of new MRI techniques and sequences to improve prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis which are reviewed in this article. Numerous studies have focused on improving image quality (segmented DWI) and faster acquisition (compressed sensing, k-t-SENSE, PROPELLER). An increasing number of studies have developed new quantitative and computer-aided diagnosis methods including artificial intelligence (PROSTATEx challenge) that mitigate the subjective nature of mpMRI interpretation. MR fingerprinting allows rapid, simultaneous generation of quantitative maps of multiple physical properties (T1, T2), where PCa are characterized by lower T1 and T2 values. New techniques like luminal water imaging (LWI), restriction spectrum imaging (RSI), VERDICT and hybrid multi-dimensional MRI (HM-MRI) have been developed for microstructure imaging, which provide information similar to histology. The distinct MR properties of tissue components and their change with the presence of cancer is used to diagnose prostate cancer. LWI is a T2-based imaging technique where long T2-component corresponding to luminal water is reduced in PCa. RSI and VERDICT are diffusion-based techniques where PCa is characterized by increased signal from intra-cellular restricted water and increased intracellular volume fraction, respectively, due to increased cellularity. VERDICT also reveal loss of extracellular-extravascular space in PCa due to loss of glandular structure. HM-MRI measures volumes of prostate tissue components, where PCa has reduced lumen and stromal and increased epithelium volume similar to results shown in histology. Similarly, molecular imaging using hyperpolarized 13C imaging has been utilized.
Goblet Cell Hyperplasia Increases SARS-CoV-2 Infection in COPD

SARS-CoV-2 has become a major problem across the globe, with approximately 50 million cases and more than 1 million deaths and currently no approved treatment or vaccine. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the underlying conditions in adults of any age that place them at risk for developing severe illness associated with COVID-19. We established an airway epithelium model to study SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthy and COPD lung cells. We found that both the entry receptor ACE2 and the co-factor transmembrane protease TMPRSS2 are expressed at higher levels on nonciliated goblet cell, a novel target for SARS-CoV-2 infection. We observed that SARS-CoV-2 infected goblet cells and induced syncytium formation and cell sloughing. We also found that SARS-CoV-2 replication was increased in the COPD airway epithelium likely due to COPD associated goblet cell hyperplasia. Our results reveal goblet cells play a critical role in SARS-CoV-2 infection in the lung.
Recent Measurements of Heavy Quarkonium Production in Au+Au, p+Au and p+p Collisions at STAR

Abstract Heavy quarkonia are useful probes of the quark-gluon plasma, where quarkonium dissociation is expected at high enough temperature. Indeed, such a suppression is clearly present in the latest STAR measurements of J / ψ production in Au+Au collisions. The suppression is observed to have little dependence on p T , although cold-nuclear matter (CNM) effects, such as shadowing, anti-shadowing and nuclear absorption can play a significant role at low p T . Measurements of the J / ψ production in p+A collisions can help us to disentangle the CNM effects from the hot medium effects in A+A collisions. In these proceedings, we will present the measurement of J / ψ production in p+Au collisions at s N N = 200 GeV by the STAR experiment. In addition, we will present recent STAR measurements of J / ψ and ϒ production in p+p collisions including their dependence on the charged-particle multiplicity at mid-rapidity. These measurements are important for understanding the mechanism of the heavy quarkonium production in elementary nucleon-nucleon collisions and the interplay of soft and hard processes.
ε-Aminocaproic acid versus tranexamic acid in children undergoing complex cranial vault reconstruction for repair of craniosynostosis.

Complex cranial vault reconstruction (CCVR) for pediatric craniosynostosis is a high blood loss surgery, for which antifibrinolytic agents have been shown to reduce bleeding and transfusion requirements. The relative efficacy of e-aminocaproic acid (EACA) versus tranexamic acid (TXA) has not yet been evaluated in this population. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare perioperative blood loss and transfusion in CCVR patients receiving EACA versus TXA. In a CCVR cohort of 95 children, 47 received EACA and 48 received TXA. We found no differences in demographics, adverse outcomes, calculated blood loss (CBL), or transfusion requirements between the two antifibrinolytic groups.
Gender Differences in Sex Secret Disclosure to a Romantic Partner

This research investigated whether there are gender differences in revealing sex secrets to a romantic partner, including the number and type of secrets kept; method of disclosure; and outcome of that disclosure. Analysis of data from a 39-item Internet questionnaire completed by 195 undergraduate students revealed that over a third (36%) of respondents reported having one or more sex secrets, with gendered differences in the type of sex secrets being kept. Analyses revealed that women hid being the victim of sexual assault and/or that they had practiced or were interested in BDSM/kink play significantly more often than men. Men, by contrast, kept secret that they had engaged in sex with multiple partners at the same time (i.e., a ‘threesome’) significantly more often than women. Women hid their sex secrets because they feared their partners would not understand their past actions; men worried that their romantic partner would disapprove of their secret behaviors, whether understanding such experiences or not. Overall, both genders reported that disclosing sex secrets to their romantic partners had a positive outcome, individually and interpersonally.
Unveiling the relationships among adolescents’ persistent academic possible selves, academic self-concept, self-regulation, and achievement: A Longitudinal and Moderated Mediation Study

This study investigates adolescents’ persistent academic possible selves (PAPS), academic self-concept, self-regulation, and achievement in a longitudinal and interactive context (N = 113). The PAP...
Population model of Temnothorax albipennis as a distributed dynamical system II: secret of "chemical reaction" in collective house-hunting in ant colonies is unveiled by operator methods

The collective intelligence of animal groups is a complex algorithm for computer scientist and a many-body problem for physics of living system. We show how the time evolution of features in such a system, like number of ants in particular state for colonies, can be mapped to many-body problems in non-equilibrium statistical mechanics. There exist role transitions of active and passive ant between distributed functions, including exploration, assessing, recruiting and transportation in the house-hunting process. Theoretically, such a process can be approximately described as birth-death process where large number of particles living in the Fock space and particles of one sub-type transfer to a different sub-type with some probability. Started from the master equation with constrain of the quorum criterion, we express the evolution operator as a functional integral mapping from operators acting on Fock space in number representation to functional space in coherent state representation. We then read out the action from the evolution operator, and we use least action principal equations of motion, which are the number field equations. The equations we get are couple ordinary differential equations, which can faithfully describe the original master equation, and hence fully describe the system. This method provides us differential equation-based algorithm, which allow us explore parameter space with respect to more complicated agent-based algorithm. The algorithm also allows exploring stochastic process with memory in a Markovian way, which provide testable prediction on collective decision making.
Exploring Arab Folk Literature

Foreword The Transcription Of Arabic Part I: Fact Finding 1. Arabic Literatures, "Elite" and "Folk" - Junctions and Disjunctions 2. The Egyptian Mawwal: its Ancestry, its Development, and its Present Forms 3. The Nahda's first stirrings of interest in Alf Layla 4. The Career of Mustafa Ibrahim 'Ajaj Part II: Texts 5. The Prophet's Shirt: three Versions of an Egyptian Narrative Ballad 6. An Uncommon Use of Nonsense Verse in Colloquial Arabic 7. An Early Example of Narrative Verse in Colloquial Arabic 8. An Incomplete Egyptian Ballad on the 1956 War 9. Three Versions of an Egyptian Narrative Ballad 10. Pulp Stories in the Repertoire of Egyptian Folk Singers 11. Karam il-Yatim 12. Of Loose Verse and Masculine Beauty 13. A Zajal on the Mi<raj attributed to al-Xubari Part III: Cultural and Social Implications 14. The 'Other' in Egyptian Folk Literature 15. Cultural Cross-Currents in Maltese Idioms 16. Social Values Reflected in Egyptian Popular Ballads 17. Folk Themes in the Works of Najib Surur 18. Elite treatment of Honour crimes in modern Egypt.
A Review of The Expert Witness

The Expert Witness is a very basic monograph concerning the conduct of the qualified exPert witness in the courtroom. All areas concerning deposition, courtroom testimony, pretrial preparation (including fees), and determination of a qualified witness are presented in a somewhat general manner with some areas such as “Trick Questions” given a very superficial treatment.
Sports Illustrated's African American Athlete Series as Socially Responsible Journalism

Abstract In July 1968, Sports Illustrated magazine published a series of articles titled “The Black Athlete: A Shameful Story,” that ran for five consecutive weeks. Up until that year, and contrary to popular opinion and mainstream journalistic accounts, collegiate and professional athletic teams had discriminated against African Americans. SI's series was the first to appear in a national periodical that comprehensively investigated and “indicted” the American sports establishment for its treatment of African Americans. The series was the first controversial investigative analysis of a social sports topic that SI had undertaken during its history, and it was printed despite opposition from its own upper management team. This research investigates the findings of the series as well as the resulting reader feedback that exceeded any SI has received on an article(s) it has published. It argues that the series played a role in bringing the civil rights movement to the locker room by raising public awareness....
On the delay limited capacity of ad hoc networks

The problem of capacity of a wireless ad hoc network in the presence of a uniform end-to-end delay constraint is explored. A general model for the random motion of the nodes is used. An approximate expression for the capacity as a function of the maximum allowable delay is obtained, and the asymptotic optimality of the proposed transmission strategy in a certain class is shown.
Sensory rhizotomy for the treatment of childhood spasticity.

Publisher Summary Selective functional, dorsal (or posterior) rhizotomy (SDR) has become an increasingly popular means of treating children with congenital spastic diplegic and quadriplegic cerebral palsy. SDR is a deafferentation procedure that supposedly alters the modulating milieu of the interneuronal pool responsible for controlling the excitability of α-motoneurons. One of this pool's primary functions is to modulate the pattern and reactivity of the spinal cord's reflex circuitry. The pool receives inhibitory innervation from Ia afferents, flexor reflex afferents, and high-threshold afferents. Selective dorsal rhizotomies reliably reduce spasticity and that this reduction is permanent. There is increasing evidence to suggest that this reduction also translates into improvement in function. A common way to measure the impact of treatment on children with cerebral palsy is to record the available range of passive motion at a given joint (goniometric measurement). Another way to measure the functional impact of SDR is to analyze the children's gait pattern before and after surgery using computerized gait analysis systems.
MWIR lasers employing GaInSb/InAs broken-gap superlattice active regions and superlattice cladding layers

Substantial progress has been made recently in the development of room temperature MWIR semiconductor lasers. InAs/GaInSb broken-gap superlattices (BGSLs) are attractive candidates for MWIR laser active regions because they possess sufficient degrees of freedom to tailor the valence band structure while keeping the strain low enough to prevent the formation of misfit dislocations. The valence band structure can be optimized to suppress Auger recombination as well as other non-radiative recombination, thereby reducing laser threshold and increasing the maximum operating temperature. Here we report improved MWIR MQW laser diodes with Ga/sub 0.75/In/sub 0.25/Sb/InAs BGSL quantum wells. The laser structures employ Ga/sub 0.75/In/sub 0.25/As/sub 0.22/Sb/sub 0.78/ barrier layers, and InAs/AlSb superlattice cladding layers. The Ga/sub 0.75/In/sub 0.25/As/sub 0.22/Sb/sub 0.78/ barriers yield a type-I MQW with the BGSL active region, confining both electrons and holes, as well as enhancing the optical confinement factor of the structure due to their relatively large refractive index. The thicknesses of the Ga/sub 0.75/In/sub 0.25/Sb/InAs superlattice constituent layers have been varied to tune the emission wavelength of the devices, and a range of laser wavelengths has been demonstrated.
Immunomodulatory actions of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3

Abstract The sterol, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 (1,25(OH) 2 D 3 ), has immunosuppressive activity. The hormone inhibits the production of lymphokines (IL-2, IFN-γ) and monocyte-derived cytokine (IL-12) leading to inhibition of helper T cell subset type 1 (Th 1 ). When given in vivo , the hormone prevents the development of spontaneous and induced models of autoimmunity. Analogs of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 , with reduced hypercalcemic effects, display an enhanced activity in autoimmunity compared to the sterol and prolong graft survival in experimental transplantation. This paper reviews our understanding of the cellular actions of the hormone and the therapeutic application of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 and analogs in autoimmunity and transplantation.
Aminoacyl-tRNA synthesis in archaea: different but not unique.

Summary Accurate aminoacyl-tRNA synthesis is essential for correct translation of the genetic code in all organisms. Whereas many aspects of this process are conserved, others display a surprisingly high level of divergence from the canonical Escherichia coli model system. These differences are most pronounced in archaea where novel mechanisms have recently been described for aminoacylating tRNAs with asparagine, cysteine, glutamine and lysine. Whereas these mechanisms were initially assumed to be uniquely archaeal, both the alternative asparagine and lysine pathways have subsequently been demonstrated in numerous bacteria. Similarly, studies of the means by which archaea insert the rare amino acid selenocysteine in response to UGA stop codons have helped provide a better understanding of both archaeal and eukaryal selenoprotein synthesis. Most recently a new co-translationally inserted amino acid, pyrrolysine, has been found in archaea although again there is some suggestion that it may also be present in bacteria. Thus, whereas archaea contain a preponderance of non-canonical aminoacyl-tRNA synthesis systems most are also found elsewhere albeit less frequently.
Association of neutral objects with rewards: Effect on verbal evaluation and eye movements

Abstract Three experiments were reported concerning the conditioning of verbal evaluation and eye movements in children. Conditioning was obtained with various payoff games in which neutral stimuli (nonsense syllables and geometrical forms) were paired with rewards (pennies and candy). In the three experiments, conditioning days ranged from 3 to 7 Dependent measures were verbal evaluation and eye movements. The former was measured with adjective checklists, in which the S was required to assign each of a list of adjectives either to the payoff stimulus or to one or more nonpayoff stimuli. Eye movements were measured photographically. Groups of stimuli were presented at a short distance from the S. The amount of time spent looking at the payoff stimulus was compared with the amount of time spent looking at nonpayoff stimuli. Although procedures varied in the three studies, there was at least one measure of verbal evaluation for each conditioning session. In two studies eye movements were measured only at the end of acquisition; in the third, eye movements were measured for each conditioning session. Very strong effects were obtained for verbal evaluation: positive evaluation of the payoff stimulus increased as a function of conditioning. One study provided evidence that the effect is relatively enduring. Less marked, but statistically significant effects were found for eye movements. After conditioning, children looked at payoff stimuli more than nonpayoff stimuli. The results from these studies and related studies were discussed with respect to a stimulus-stimulus conditioning model.
Prediction of Asphalt Pavement Temperature Profile with Finite Control Volume Method

The accurate prediction of the pavement temperature profile and history is critical for the calculation of the viscoelastic response of asphalt concrete pavements under traffic and thermal loadings. An accurate prediction is also essential in the estimation of the asphalt binder oxidative aging. A sound alternative approach is proposed to predict the pavement temperature profile with the finite control volume method in a fully implicit scheme. The model for the finite control volume method provides a fundamental and clear understanding of the heat energy balance, including the incoming and outgoing thermal energies, in addition to the dissipated heat in the system. Also, the variability in the materials' thermal properties in a multilayered pavement structure can be remedied by assigning appropriate thermal properties to each control volume or cell. The fully implicit scheme improved the time efficiency of the calculation significantly. Moreover, enhancements were made by defining the accurate heat balanc...
Form factors for core electrons useful for the application of quantum crystallography (QCr) to organic molecules.

Form factors are calculated for the core electrons of the first-row atoms B, C, N, O and F. The form factors are presented in an analytical form, as appears in International Tables for X-ray Crystallography [Ibers & Hamilton (1974), Vol. IV, pp. 103–145. Birmingham: Kynoch Press; present distributor Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht]. Having such form factors for the core electrons reduces the number of parameters to be determined by the methods of quantum crystallography (QCr). It is shown that the form factors obtained are quite accurate. Thus, when they are used in QCr, they are expected to be consistent with accurate charge densities.
Municipal Government Financial Reporting: Administrative and Ethical Climate

This article examines financial disclosure in U.S. cities. It considers factors that affect the level of municipal financial disclosure, in particular the effect of administrative factors. It finds that participation in the Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting program, and the Chief Financial Officer's familiarity with the activities of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board are positively associated with more disclosure. These latter factors are interpreted as measures of professionalism and are furthered by the adoption of municipal codes of ethics which stress openness and responsiveness to stakeholder interests. Such general policies are indirectly associated with heightened levels of financial disclosure. Financial disclosure is also associated with city size and demands from capital markets.
Local spectral and temporal characterizations of a wave

Many waves exhibit characteristics that depend on time and/or frequency. For example, the frequencies of a pulse propagating in a dispersive medium travel at different velocities. This kind of dependency gives rise to the need for joint time- frequency analysis and methods for describing the local temporal and spectral nature of waves, particularly pulses and transients. Useful concepts arising for this description from time-frequency theory are the average frequency at each time of a wave, and the spread about that average. These quantities are obtained as conditional moments of a time-frequency density (TFD). We explore the conditional variances of some common TFDs, and determine when these are positive (which isn't always the case). We also investigate local characteristics of a wave, in terms of these conditional moments, and show through experimental results that they robustly characterize the time-frequency behavior of transients and pulses.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Physician Assistants in Academic Radiology: The Harborview Experience

We describe a model of how physician assistants can be used in an academic medical center to expand radiologist productivity, and to enhance the departmental academic and educational missions. At Harborview Medical Center, following a training program and graduated responsibility under supervision, physician assistants provide initial interpretation of radiology studies, consultation to referring physicians, and perform less complicated interventional procedures. Acceptance of physician assistants by the radiologists, radiology residents, and referring physicians has been high. Although the impact of physician assistants on departmental clinical productivity is difficult to measure, our data suggest that radiologists are more efficient when physician assistants are assigned to service, both in terms of numbers of studies interpreted, and timeliness of reporting and billing. As a result of the success of our program, we believe that physician assistants can have an important role in radiology practice.
Vibrational zeeman effect for the v4 mode of haloforms (HCX3) determined by magnetic vibrational circular dichroism

The magnetic vibrational circular dichroism (MVCD) spectra of the E-symmetry, ν 4 modes of HCCl 3 , HCBr 3 , HCI 3 , and DCCl 3 are presented. In each case, an MVCD ν 4 term indicating a first order vibrational Zeeman effect is observed. The vibrational g values for the ν 4 mode of these haloforms were determined for the first time by moment analysis of the MVCD and absorption spectra. A partially charged «elastic bar» model is proposed to qualitatively explain the observed MVCD A terms
On the determination of the piezoelectric shear coefficient,d15, in a PZT ceramic

Abstract The polarization obtained in the direction of an arbitrary uniaxial stress is derived by applying tensor transformations to the polarization-stress relation: Pi , = dijkσjk . Two- and three-dimensional plots of the results are shown. The experimental work described includes the preparation of discs poled uniformly at 90° to their thickness and the measurement of d 333 as a function of orientation. Very good agreement with the calculated results was obtained. The effect of electrodes on the measurement of d 333 (d 33) and the use of a d 311 (d 31) parameter measurement to permit a d 113 (d 15) determination are also demonstrated. The d 333 measurements as a function of stress orientation permitted determination of the d 15 value with a resolution of ±8%. Its average value was within 5% of d 15 values derived from other techniques.
Cost and Performance Goals for Commercial Active Solar Absorption Cooling Systems

Economic and thermal performance analysis is used to determine cost goals for typical commercial active solar cooling systems to be installed between the years 1986 and 2000. Market penetration for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems depends on payback period, which is related to the expected return on investment. Postulating a market share for solar cooling systems increasing to 20% by the year 2000, payback and return on investment goals as a function of year of purchase are established. The incremental solar system cost goal must be equal to or less than the 20 year present value of future energy savings, based on thermal performance analysis, at the desired return on investment. The methodology is applied to determine the allowable incremental solar system cost for commercial-scale, 25 ton absorption cooling systems based on the thermal performance predicted by recent simulation analysis. Methods for achieving these cost goals and expected solar cooling system costs will be discussed.
Data Fusion of Real-Time Location Sensing and Physiological Status Monitoring for Ergonomics Analysis of Construction Workers

AbstractPrevious research and applications in construction resource optimization have focused on tracking the location of material and equipment. There is a lack of studies on remote monitoring for improving safety and health of the construction workforce. This paper presents a new approach for monitoring ergonomically safe and unsafe behavior of construction workers. The study relies on a methodology that utilizes fusion of data from continuous remote monitoring of construction workers’ location and physiological status. To monitor construction workers activities, the authors deployed nonintrusive real-time worker location sensing (RTLS) and physiological status monitoring (PSM) technology. This paper presents the background and need for a data fusion approach, the framework, the test bed environment, and results to some case studies that were used to automatically identify unhealthy work behavior. Results of this study suggest a new approach for automating remote monitoring of construction workers safet...
The shape of atmospheric particles in Pittsburgh air

Abstract Suspended particulate matter was sampled at a location on the roof of the Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania by means of a horizontal elutriator. Particles in the equivalent diameter range 1.5μM to 16μM were classified according to the ratio Projected area diameter (d p acrodynamic equivalent diameter (d p ) and also according to particle shape. The value of ( d p d e )varied from 0.5 to 3.0. Estimates of the size frequency weight distribution of particles based on dp was demonstrated to differ by as much as 500 per cent from the distribution derived from de. These results suggest that de must be used to estimate weight distributions of atmospheric aerosols. Size distributions based on microscopic sizing (dp) cannot be utilized for this purpose. The average range of occurrence of ( d p d e ) for different particle shapes was determined. Daily variations in ( d p d e ) were large, due to the large daily variations in the occurrence of particles of different shapes. The particle size distribution was compared to the theoretical distributions proposed by Junge and by Friedlander (“self-preserving” distribution) for the atmospheric aerosol. The data adhered more closely to the Friedlander distribution, but either could be utilized as a satisfactory first approximation in the particle size range 1.5–10μm equivalent diameter.
WE‐C‐103‐05: CT Scanning Protocol Quality Control Program: Development, Implement and Initial Experiences

Purpose: Frequent review of CT scanner protocols has been recognized as an important component to any CT quality control (QC) program, yet manual review is extremely labor‐intensive and prone to human errors. The purpose of this study was to develop, implement and evaluate a software system to automatically monitor protocols on our CT scanners. Methods: A software system written in Matlab (MathWorks) and Excel Visual Basic (Microsoft) was developed to automatically check scanner CT protocols and notify designated users of changes on a weekly basis. The development team included medical physicists and lead technologists. Abdomen and pelvis protocols were monitored between December 2012 and February 2013 on two representative CT scanners for adult and pediatric, single‐and dual‐energy protocols. A total of 78 and 89 protocols were monitored on scanners 1 and 2, respectively. The overall workflow and number of errors identified were evaluated. Results: During the 2+ months monitoring period, 89 scanning protocols were modified on scanner 1, of which 20 were identified to be inappropriate (22%). 40 protocols were modified on scanner 2, of which 5 were identified to be inappropriate (13%). While the most frequent inappropriate modification was to the series description, errors were also found in changes to mAs, kernel, and reconstruction direction, increment and slice width. Conclusion: In routine clinical practice, CT protocols were found to be changed quite frequently. Thus, an automated protocol QC program is essential to ensure protocol accuracy and consistency. Use of access controls to limit the number of users able to modify protocols may help reduce the number of changes, but does not guarantee the accuracy of changes by authorized users. We successfully developed and implemented a software system to automatically monitor CT protocols that can be easily applied to a wide range of practices with negligible impact on workload.
Fragmentation of electrospray-produced oligodeoxynucleotide ions adducted to metal ions

In this article, we describe the unique fragmentations of oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) whose phosphate groups are completely depleted of protons and replaced with metal ions. The production of the ubiquitous [a n — base] ions still occurs, but no longer by transfer of an acidic phosphate proton to an adjoining 3′ base. Nor is the extent of the reaction determined by the proton affinity of that base. Rather, the reaction now occurs via a cleavage 3′ to both pyrimidines and purines; cleavage 3′ to pyrimidine is more favorable than that 3′ to purine. We also demonstrate that an ODN is more stable in the gas phase when its phosphate groups are bound to metal ions than when its phosphate groups are attached to hydrogens. This study also provides further evidence for the ODN fragmentation mechanism that involves H transfer to a nucleobase. To establish the structural utility of this new fragmentation, we applied it to distinguishing small ODNs containing a photomodified cis,syn-cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer from the parent ODNs, a system that cannot be distinguished by collisional activation of precursor species that do not contain metal ions.
Rapid and Progressive Venous Thrombosis After Occlusion of High-Flow Arteriovenous Fistula

Background Cerebral venous thrombosis developing after surgical or endovascular obliteration of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a rare but devastating complication that has not been adequately reported. Case Description Two patients presenting with AVF (1 pial, 1 dural) and large venous pouches were successfully treated by surgical and endovascular means and were neurologically intact postoperatively. Rapid neurologic deterioration was seen on postoperative day 5 in the first patient and postoperative day 2 in the second patient. Both patients had massive cerebral venous thromboses on brain imaging and surgical exploration. One patient died and the other was severely disabled. Conclusion Rapid occlusion of a high-flow AVF resulting in significant venous stasis can precipitate thrombosis of the venous system distal to the fistulous point. In the presence of large venous pouches and significant venous stasis, strict therapeutic anticoagulation may be required to prevent cerebral venous thrombosis. Therapeutic anticoagulation, though feasible following endovascular treatment, may prove particularly challenging after open surgical interventions given the risk of hemorrhagic complications.
Laser Beam Characterization with use of a Second Order moments: An overview

The method of second order moments applied to laser beam characterization and beam propagation is reviewed.
Early-stage epigenetic modification during somatic cell reprogramming by Parp1 and Tet2

Somatic cells can be reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by using the pluripotency factors Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc (together referred to as OSKM). iPSC reprogramming erases somatic epigenetic signatures—as typified by DNA methylation or histone modification at silent pluripotency loci—and establishes alternative epigenetic marks of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Here we describe an early and essential stage of somatic cell reprogramming, preceding the induction of transcription at endogenous pluripotency loci such as Nanog and Esrrb. By day 4 after transduction with OSKM, two epigenetic modification factors necessary for iPSC generation, namely poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (Parp1) and ten-eleven translocation-2 (Tet2), are recruited to the Nanog and Esrrb loci. These epigenetic modification factors seem to have complementary roles in the establishment of early epigenetic marks during somatic cell reprogramming: Parp1 functions in the regulation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) modification, whereas Tet2 is essential for the early generation of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) by the oxidation of 5mC (refs 3,4). Although 5hmC has been proposed to serve primarily as an intermediate in 5mC demethylation to cytosine in certain contexts, our data, and also studies of Tet2-mutant human tumour cells, argue in favour of a role for 5hmC as an epigenetic mark distinct from 5mC. Consistent with this, Parp1 and Tet2 are each needed for the early establishment of histone modifications that typify an activated chromatin state at pluripotency loci, whereas Parp1 induction further promotes accessibility to the Oct4 reprogramming factor. These findings suggest that Parp1 and Tet2 contribute to an epigenetic program that directs subsequent transcriptional induction at pluripotency loci during somatic cell reprogramming.
Racial Bias in the NBA: Implications in Betting Markets

Recent studies have documented the existence of an own-race bias on the part of sports officials. In this paper we explore the implications of these biases on betting markets. We use data from the 1991/92 - 2004/05 NBA regular seasons to show that a betting strategy exploiting own-race biases by referees would systematically beat the spread.
Diel patterns of nitrogenase activity associated with macrophytes in a Eutrophic Lake

Abstract Nitrogenase activity (NA) (acetylene reduction) occurring in the phyllosphere of macrophyte-epiphyte complexes was investigated in situ, from June to September 1985, in East Twin Lake, Ohio, U.S.A. The epiphytic flora of every macrophyte species examined contained active diazotrophs capable of reducing acetylene at rates of up to 41 682 nM g−1 h−1 during midday incubations. The general diel nitrogenase activity (NA) pattern shared by Heteranthera dubia (Jacq.) MacM., Najas guadalupensis (Spreng.) Morong and Lemna minor L. was unimodal and reproducible throughout the summer: ethylene evolution was low in the morning, peaked around midday (11.00–14.00 h), then declined to a nocturnal minimum. Peaks in NA were generally coincident with light intensity maxima. However, rates of ethylene evolution by the Myriophyllum spicatum L. epiphytes studied had low NA which exhibited an atypical diel pattern. Epiphyte nocturnal NA ranged from 5 to 46% of a day's total activity. Dark (foil-wrapped) bottle NA was constant on a diel basis and was not dependent on preceding light history.
The stability of transition metal dolomites in carbonate systems: a discussion

Abstract The instability of transition metal dolomites [CaR 2+ (CO 3 ) 2 where R 2+ is Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, or Zn] and the limited substitution of transition metal cations for Mg in the dolomite structure can be accounted for by the effect of octahedral distortion. For example, trigonal elongation of the Fe octahedron, due to the Jahn-Teller effect, observed in siderite and ankerite, results in elongation of the Ca octahedron which is sensitive to distortion because the radius of Ca 2+ is close to the upper limit for octahedral coordination. Co, Ni, Cu, Zn octahedra are also thought to be deformed, relative to Mg octahedra, in carbonates. The free energy of formation (ΔG o f ) of R 2+ CO 3 becomes more positive with increasing octahedral distortion. Estimated ΔG o f(dolomite) as well as stabilities and solubility limits of R 2+ in natural and synthetic dolomites suggest a series in order of decreasing stability: Mg > Mn > Zn > Fe > Co > Ni > Cu . ΔG o f(est.) for the terminal Fe-dolomite solid solution [72 mol% CaFe(CO 3 ) 2 ] in the system CaCO 3 -MgCO 3 -FeCO 3 may represent an empirical threshold value for dolomite stability which lies between ΔG o f for Mn- and Zn-dolomites. While Zn-dolomite is probably not a stable phase, very extensive solid solution toward CaZn(CO 3 ) 2 is to be expected in the system CaCO 3 -MgCO 3 -ZnCO 3 . The tendency for transition metal dolomites to contain excess CaCO 3 can also be accounted for in terms of octahedral distortion and AG o f .
The role of Jak3 in lymphoid development, activation, and signaling

Abstract Mutations in a number of lymphoid signaling molecules lead to immunodeficiencies in mice and humans. Among these, one very pleiotropic syndrome results from deficiencies in an array of cytokine signaling pathways utilizing a cytokine receptor common γ chain, γc, and the tyrosine kinase Jak3. Recent advances in our understanding of the role of γc and Jak3 in lymphocyte development and function highlight the importance of cytokine receptor signaling pathways in regulating lymphoid homeostasis and responsiveness.
Spectra of Argon in the Extreme Ultraviolet

A simple method for the excitation of spectra of higher stages of ionization of rare gases is described. Applied to argon, the method has yielded spectra of all stages of ionization from A III to A IX. Classified lines in the extreme ultraviolet and term tables for the ions V to IX are given. Some minor additions and corrections to previous analyses of Cl V and Cl VI are pointed out.
Residual effects of LSD on ego functioning: an exploratory study with the Rorschach test.

Summary.-The Rorschach test was administered to three groups: Ss having taken LSD many times (30+), few times (1 to 5) and no times. The test protocols were scored for ego disturbance. The two LSD groups had significantly more indicators thn the non-LSD group but were not significantly different from each other. Indicators in these two groups were concentrated in areas of relation to reality and defensive operations. In recent years psychodiagnosticians have been called upon to examine patients with histories of LSD usage, particularly adolescents and young adults. The task of examining such patients is increasing at an accelerated rate as indicated by a recent Gallup poll (1972) which reports great increase in use of LSD among college students. (One percent of students tried LSD in 1967; 18% have tried it or a similar dmg in 1971.) If LSD produces ego-Zismption, in as yet unspecified ways, there are major implications for both diagcosis and treatment. Traditional categories of mental disorder may not be applicable because of new etiological factors. The psychodiagnostician needs to know whether LSD experiences produce residual effects in psychological test performance. Many studies show ego-disruption on psychological tests from the immediate influence of LSD (Hollister, 1969; Jarvik, 1967; Klee & Weintraub, 1959; Icornenky, et al., 1967; Linton & Langs, 1962, 1964; Von Felsinger, et al., 1956; Wikler, 1957). The results of these studies have only indirect bearing on the psychodiagnostician's task since, almost always, psychological testing occurs after the LSD experience. Few studies have utilized psychological tests to investigate long-term residual effects of LSD; and they are too specific with regard to measures used and functions tapped to be of much practical value in the global assessment of individuals (Cohen & Edwards, 1969; Duncan, 1970; McGlothlin, et al., 1969). The present research investigated residual effects of LSD on ego functioning. "Ego functioning" is a molar concept which is deemed appropriate for an exploratory investigation where fidelity is sacrificed for bandwidth. This study uses Weiner's (1966) Ego Disturbance Model which taps a wide range of ego functions. The Rorschach test is utilized because of its broad bandwidth, because it has been heavily relied upon by Weiner, and because it is a method of choice of practicing clinicians. METHOD A checklist of 33 ego-disturbance indicators on the Rorschach test were
Total parenteral nutrition-induced apoptosis in mouse intestinal epithelium: modulation by keratinocyte growth factor

Abstract Background. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) induces epithelial cell (EC) apoptosis. Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) increases EC growth; however, little is known of its effect on apoptosis. This study aimed to determine the effect of recombinant human KGF (rHuKGF) on small bowel EC apoptosis. We further determined mRNA expression of Bcl-2 family members (major mediators of epithelial cell apoptosis) with TPN and whether KGF administration influences Bcl-2 family expression in EC. Methods. C57BL/6J mice (n = 6/group) received oral feeding (Control); TPN; or TPN plus daily intravenous rHuKGF (TPN+KGF). After 7 days, intestines were harvested and EC isolated. Villus height was determined by microscopy and EC proliferation by immunohistochemistry using incorporation of 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). Apoptosis was identified by Annexin V as well as by TUNEL staining. EC mRNA expression of Bcl-2 family members was measured by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and Bcl-2 protein level by immunoblot analysis. Results. Villus height in Controls was 310 ± 42 μm. This decreased with TPN to 210 ± 45 μm; however, villus height was preserved in TPN + KGF mice (273 ± 39 μm). EC proliferation rates decreased significantly in TPN mice, and this decline was prevented by administration of rHuKGF. EC apoptotic rate in Controls was 14.4 ± 5.1%; TPN administration resulted in doubling of largely prevented TPN-induced EC apoptosis (29.4 ± 11.3%) rHuKGF administration largely prevented TPN-induced EC apoptosis (17.2 ± 5.6%). Proapoptotic Bcl-2 members changed minimally with TPN or rHuKGF; however, the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 changed significantly: Control 0.78 ± 0.24; TPN 0.10 ± 0.13; rHuKGF administration prevented the decline in Bcl-2 expression observed with TPN (0.76 ± 0.36). EC Bcl-2 protein levels were: Control 0.16 ± 0.13; TPN 0.18 ± 0.16; and TPN+KGF 0.47 ± 0.19. Conclusion. TPN-induced apoptosis was associated with decreased Bcl-2 mRNA expression. rHuKGF decreased TPN-induced EC apoptosis and increased Bcl-2 expression. rHuKGF administration may have benefit in patients on TPN.
Inhibition of Metastable Alumina Formation on Fe–Cr–Al–Y Alloy Fibers at High Temperature Using Titania Coating

Fe–Cr–Al–Y fine fibers suffer from intensive whisker formation, which is due to fast-growing meta-stable phases such as gamma or theta alumina at about 800–900°C. To inhibit the fast growth of meta-stable alumina phases, a thin layer of sol–gel titania was deposited on the fibers. The oxidation kinetics were recorded and compared between uncoated and coated samples. The scale morphology was studied by Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM). The scale cross section were examined using focused-ion beam (FIB). The phases of the titania coating were examined by Raman spectroscopy. It was found that at 915°C, titania greatly inhibits the formation of meta-stable alumina. No whiskers were found on the surface of the fibers compared to uncoated samples. The weight gain for titania coated sample is almost one half during the first 50 hr compared to the uncoated sample at 915°C. The scales on the coated sample is much thinner and fewer cracks were found at the scale and alloy interface. The inhibition mechanism is discussed briefly.
Gelatin carriers for drug and cell delivery in tissue engineering

The ability of gelatin to form complexes with different drugs has been investigated for controlled release applications. Gelatin parameters, such as crosslinking density and isoelectric point, have been tuned in order to optimize gelatin degradation and drug delivery kinetics. In recent years, focus has shifted away from the use of gelatin in isolation toward the modification of gelatin with functional groups and the fabrication of material composites with embedded gelatin carriers. In this review, we highlight some of the latest work being performed in these areas and comment on trends in the field. Specifically, we discuss gelatin modifications for immune system evasion, drug stabilization, and targeted delivery, as well as gelatin composite systems based on ceramics, naturally-occurring polymers, and synthetic polymers.
Differential response of collard and kale cultivars to preemergence application of metolachlor

Abstract The feasibility of using preemergence application of metolachlor for weed control in direct-seeded collard and kale was assessed by determining the response of eight collard and three kale cultivars to the herbicide in greenhouse and field experiments. The lowest doses tested, 0.75 and 1.5 kg ha−1 caused injury and reduced the seedling weights of some cultivars in the greenhouse and field; however, yield was reduced in the field only at doses of 3.0 kg ha−1 and only when seedling injury and weight reduction were severe. There were differences between cultivars in injury ratings and seedling weight reduction in the greenhouse and field. Shoot weights of one of the most tolerant cultivars, ‘Flash’ were not reduced at metolachlor doses that reduced the weights of one of the least tolerant cultivars, ‘Georgia’. These studies indicate the metolachlor at 1.5 kg ha−1 or lower can be used safely for weed control in direct-seeded collard and kale if susceptible cultivars are avoided.
Resisting the Neo‐liberal Poverty Discourse: On Constructing Deadbeat Dads and Welfare Queens

This article describes the impact of both neo-liberal and conservative discourse upon poverty policy and welfare reform. In it, I summarize the discursive construction of welfare queens and deadbeat dads and the influence upon welfare reform while incorporating globalization in the discursive critique. This paper also describes the resistance to the discourse evidenced by those most affected by the poverty or welfare reform discourse. I suggest ways of critically examining our own discourse as well as the welfare reform discourse and our participation in it or resistance to it. The conclusion questions assumptions about dependency, welfare receipt and justice.
Sport as a Moral Practice: An Aristotelian Approach

Sport builds character. If this is true, why is there a consistent stream of news detailing the bad behavior of athletes? We are bombarded with accounts of elite athletes using banned performance-enhancing substances, putting individual glory ahead of the excellence of the team, engaging in disrespectful and even violent behavior toward opponents, and seeking victory above all else. We are also given a steady diet of more salacious stories that include various embarrassing, immoral, and illegal behaviors in the private lives of elite athletes. Elite sport is not alone in this; youth sport has its own set of moral problems. Parents assault officials, undermine coaches, encourage a win-at-all costs mentality, and in many cases ruin sport for their children.