cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Early exploration in the management of acute scrotum in children

Objective: Acute scrotal conditions are a common clinical setting that present with pain and swelling of the hemiscrotum. The aim of our study has been to evaluate the findings in boys operated on acute scrotum. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted on 100 patients with acute scrotum admitted to Mofid Children's Hospital from March 1993 to March 2007. Data included history, age, primary symptoms, definite diagnosis, side involvement, paraclinical tests, imaging modalities, medical or surgical management and type of the surgery. Findings : Diagnosis was made mainly by clinical signs and symptoms and surgical exploration. Torsion of testis (n=31) was the most common cause of acute scrotum followed by incarcerated inguinal hernia (n=30), torsion of testicular appendage (n=27), epididymo-orchitis (n=7), idiopathic scrotal edema (n=4) and hematocele (n=1). Most (34%) of the patients were in the first year of life and the mean age was 5.4 years. The commonest signs were pain and swelling (62%) followed by pain, swelling and redness (21%) and pain alone (16%). 83 patients consisting of 31 with torsion of testis, 14 with torsion of testicular appendage, 30 with incarcerated hernia and 7 with epididymo-orchitis underwent surgical exploration after careful physical examination. 10 of 31 patients with torsion of testis had orchiectomy and orchiopexy of contra-lateral testis and the rest had detorsion and bilateral orchiopexy. 80% of patients were referred to the hospital after 12 hours of clinical onset of symptoms. Conclusion: Early exploration of scrotum based on careful physical examination excludes the risk of misdiagnosis by diagnostic procedures and unnecessary delay by diagnostic techniques. Exploration of scrotum is a relatively safe and simple procedure with good cosmetic results, it also allows an accurate diagnosis to be made.
Multisegmented ankle-foot kinematics during gait initiation in ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability

Abstract Background Individuals with lateral ankle sprain and chronic ankle instability have impaired postural control and altered motor strategies during walking. However, little is known regarding foot mechanics during gait. The purpose of this study was to compare three-dimensional multisegmented ankle-foot kinematics during stance phase following gait-initiation in acute lateral ankle sprain (Ankle-sprain), chronic ankle instability (Chronic-instability), Coper, and Control groups. Methods 80 recreationally-active individuals (Control: n = 22, Coper: n = 21, Ankle-sprain: n = 17, Chronic-instability: n = 20) participated. Three-dimensional kinematics of the hallux, medial forefoot, lateral forefoot, medial midfoot, lateral midfoot, and rearfoot on shank were collected during the stance phase following gait initiation using an electromagnetic motion capture system. The average joint excursions of 10 steps were normalized to 101 points and analyzed using Statistical Parametric Mapping ANOVA and post hoc t-tests comparing Coper, Ankle-sprain, or Chronic-instability versus Control groups. Secondary analysis was performed comparing Chronic-instability versus Coper groups. Findings The Ankle-sprain group had up to 4.1° more rearfoot inversion during midstance (mean difference: 3.1°) from 42 to 49% of stance phase compared to healthy controls. The Chronic-instability group had up to 5.3° more rearfoot inversion (mean difference: 3.6°) from 34% to 91% of stance phase compared to controls. There were no further statistical differences found between Chronic-instability and Copers, other planes, or segments of the ankle-foot complex. Interpretation Ankle-sprain and Chronic-instability groups demonstrated more rearfoot inversion compared to controls with no differences in midfoot or forefoot mechanics. Clinicians and researchers should include interventions that control inversion and increase eversion following lateral ankle sprain.
Development and regulation of breathing rhythms in embryonic and hatchling birds.

Abstract For many, if not all, air-breathing vertebrates, breathing-like movements begin while the embryo is still ensconced in an aqueous environment. This is because primordial regions of the CNS become spontaneously active during early gestation and then must functionally transform and specialize once air breathing commences. The degree to which the embryonic ventilatory control system is established and competent at birth is variable, however, even between different components of the respiratory system. Moreover, the embryological experiences of an individual can also affect the outcomes and responsiveness of ventilation to respiratory stimuli and these details have major clinical implications. The broad field of respiratory neurobiology still has much to learn about the ontogeny of breathing control systems, and the oviparity of birds provides a unique model to examine how early rhythms transform day-to-day as they become functional. This hybrid review and research article will highlight the contributions of birds to the study of breathing control during early development. We will detail what is currently known about the onset and maturation of respiratory rhythm generation and also provide novel data about the development of central chemosensitivity. Finally, we will review data regarding the development of peripheral afferent inputs during early development and discuss whole-animal reflex responsiveness to common respiratory stimuli, both chronic and acute, during the incubation period and following hatching.
“How”: The connection between acoustics and perception

Speech is both the most important and the most frequent sound that we hear. We have so much experience perceiving speech that it often seems relatively effortless. However, when one examines the speech signal a bit more closely, several severe challenges are evident such as considerable acoustic complexity and extreme acoustic variability across sounds, utterances, talkers, and environments. Given these challenges, how does speech perception work? In this talk, we will consider how speech sounds are produced and observe some of their prevailing acoustic characteristics in American English. We will then embark on a brief tour of the auditory system. We will see how speech sounds are transduced into action potentials in the cochlea and then how the neural representation of speech evolves as one travels up the central auditory system toward the brain. This tour will conclude with the discussion of speech processing in the brain, including cortical pathways for processing different aspects of the speech signal. Understanding speech acoustics and processing can directly inform efforts to provide speech privacy.
Analysis of Melanoma in African American Patients in the United States.

BACKGROUND/AIM To characterize the demographics, tumor staging and treatment of African American (AA) patients diagnosed with melanoma in the United States. PATIENTS AND METHODS The National Cancer Database was used to extrapolate data from patients with melanoma between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2015. The patients were then further divided based on ethnicity (AAs vs. Caucasians) to compare patient efficacy of treatment. RESULTS The mean time for AA patients to receive treatment was 20.37 days compared with 11.25 days for Caucasians (p<0.001), while time to surgery was 38.86 days compared to 31.12 days for Caucasians (p<0.001). Moreover, AA race was a predictor of American Joint Committee on Cancer stage greater than II, tumor diagnosed at autopsy, presence of ulceration, and distribution in the extremities. CONCLUSION AA patients with melanoma are more likely to have worse tumor staging, treatment delay, treatment at an Integrated Cancer Program, and diagnosis at autopsy.
Information retrieval system

Abstract An uncomplicated data retrieval system is described. The mechanics include a commercial unit, Acme Visible Records Electrofile. The unit has a keyboard and cards adapted for use in a gynecologic oncology service. This sytem enables the physician to record and retrieve information on a specific patient or group of patients quickly, without the time-consuming necessity for obtaining complete medical records or files. The system occupies less floor space than a standard filing cabinet.
Colorimetric sensors: taking merits of nanofibrous membrane for volatile toxicants detection with ultra-high sensitivity

Abstract Due to the fast development of human culture, environmental issues including water pollution, air pollution, and natural resources abuse present severe impacts on human life. The development of versatile and personal use sensors has become one of the most popular ways to improve personal protection from exposures to different types of environmental threats. The ultra-high-specific surface area and porosity of micromaterials or nanomaterials, and the easy operation of color signals make nanofibrous membrane-based colorimetric sensors highly attractive in sensitively monitoring environmental toxicants. In this chapter, we highlight recent progresses in developments of colorimetric sensors, which are mainly based on the use of nanofibrous membranes for toxic vapors by taking its merits of ultra-high specific surface areas, light weight, and flexibility. Different sensors targeting on volatile organic compounds, vaporous pesticides, volatile nerve agents, and corrosive gases are included. It is expected to provide guidance for the development of colorimetric sensors not only present remarkable sensitivity and selectivity but also are suitable to be embedded into the next generation of smart textiles.
Comparing unbalanced and balanced ratios of blood products in massive transfusion to pediatric trauma patients: effects on mortality and outcomes

The utilization and impact of various ratios of transfusions for pediatric trauma patients (PTPs) receiving a massive transfusion (MT) are unknown. Therefore, we sought to determine the risk for mortality in PTPs receiving an MT of ≥ 6 units of packed red blood cells (PRBC) within 24 h. We compared PRBC: plasma ratio of > 2:1 (Unbalanced Ratios, UR) versus ≤ 2:1 (Balanced Ratios, BR), hypothesizing decreased risk of mortality with BR. The Trauma Quality Improvement Program was queried (2014–2016) for PTPs receiving a MT. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine risk of mortality. From 239 PTPs receiving an MT, 98 (41%) received an UR, whereas 141 (59%) received a BR. The median ratios, respectively, were 2.7:1 and 1.2:1. Compared to BR patients, UR patients had no differences in injury severity score (ISS), hypotension on admission, and intensive care unit stay (all p > 0.05). The mortality rates for BR and UR were similar (46.1% vs. 52.0%, p = 0.366). Controlling for age, ISS, and severe head injury, UR demonstrated similar risk of mortality compared to BR (p = 0.276). Additionally, ≥ 4:1 ratio versus ≤ 2:1 showed no difference in associated risk of mortality (p = 0.489). In contrast to adult studies, this study demonstrated that MT ratios of > 2:1 and even ≥ 4:1 were associated with similar mortality compared to BR for PTPs. These results suggest pediatric MT resuscitation may not require strict BR as has been shown beneficial in adult trauma patients. Future prospective studies are needed to evaluate the optimal ratio for PTP MT resuscitation. III; Retrospective Care Management Study.
Research on the evaluation index system of the quality basic ability of intelligent energy meter industry

In order to solve the problem that it is difficult to evaluate and quantify the technical ability of each enterprise in China's intelligent electricity meter industry. In this study reviewed the quality and technical development and quality technical foundation ability evaluation index system on the basis of related research, combined with the intelligent watt-hour meter eight business links, the quality of the building is suitable for the intelligent watt-hour meter industry technical foundation ability evaluation index system, and from five dimensions to verify the scientific rationality of index system building, will verify the results combined with the actual research found that the evaluation results coincided basically with the actual market performance with the manufacturers, proved that the set of the rationality of the index system and evaluation method is scientific and the applicability of the method of this research. It is of great significance to promote the quality development of electricity meters and support industrial optimization and upgrading.
Pedagogies of Possibilities: Liberating Moral Imagination by Practicing Pastoral Aesthetics.

The author integrates her clinical ethics training, pastoral theology teaching, and postcolonialism research with concepts of experience-distant and experience-near found in self psychology to illumine pedagogies of possibilities. The article affirms Nathan Carlin’s call in Pastoral Aesthetics for pastoral theology to inform bioethics in paying more attention to living human experiences in order to liberate more expansive practices of moral imagination. Seeing human experiences of suffering and healing as a common text in both pastoral theology and bioethics, the author considers how students, caregivers, and all people might look back at learning encounters (including clinical encounters) and know that learning happened and that it supported well-being.
Non-canonical Amino Acid Substrates of E. coli Aminoacyl-tRNA Synthetases

In this comprehensive review, I focus on the twenty E. coli aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and their ability to charge non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) onto tRNAs. The promiscuity of these enzymes has been harnessed for diverse applications including understanding and engineering of protein function, creation of organisms with an expanded genetic code, and the synthesis of diverse peptide libraries for drug discovery. The review catalogues the structures of all known ncAA substrates for each of the 20 E. coli aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, including ncAA substrates for engineered versions of these enzymes. Drawing from the structures in the list, I highlight trends and novel opportunities for further exploitation of these ncAAs in the engineering of protein function, synthetic biology, and in drug discovery.
Soccer participation is associated with benefits in tibial bone cross-sectional geometry and strength in young women.

BACKGROUND Soccer has been hypothesized to be an ideal sport to stimulate favorable changes in bone properties due the high-intensity, multidirectional movements performed during play. The purpose of this study was to determine if participation in soccer is associated with enhanced bone properties such as volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD), cross-sectional geometry, and estimated strength in the tibias of young, healthy women. METHODS Twenty female soccer players (20±1 yr) and twenty mass- and height-matched healthy women (21±1 yr) participated in this cross-sectional study. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (XCT 3000; Stratec Medizintechnik, Pforzheim, Germany) was used to assess bone characteristics, including vBMD, cross-sectional moments of inertia (CSMI), and strength/strain index (SSI) at 14%, 38%, and 66% of the tibial length proximal to the distal end plate. One-way multivariate analysis of variances was run to determine the influence of soccer training history on tibial properties. RESULTS Compared to healthy controls, soccer players had approximately 1.5% - 3% lower cortical vBMD but 18.5% - 30% greater CSMI and 16.5% -19% greater SSI at the three cross-sectional sites along the tibial diaphysis (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that soccer participation is associated with favorable bone cross-sectional geometry and estimates of bone strength. However, randomized controlled intervention trials are needed to confirm whether soccer participation results in favorable bone adaptations in young, healthy adults.
Estimation of Return Levels for Extreme Skew Surge Coastal Flooding Events in the Delaware and Chesapeake Bays for 1980–2019

Extreme storm surges can overwhelm many coastal flooding protection measures in place and cause severe damages to private communities, public infrastructure, and natural ecosystems. In the US Mid-Atlantic, a highly developed and commercially active region, coastal flooding is one of the most significant natural hazards and a year-round threat from both tropical and extra-tropical cyclones. Mean sea levels and high-tide flood frequency has increased significantly in recent years, and major storms are projected to increase into the foreseeable future. We estimate extreme surges using hourly water level data and harmonic analysis for 1980-2019 at 12 NOAA tide gauges in and around the Delaware and Chesapeake Bays. Return levels (RLs) are computed for 1.1, 3, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100-year return periods using stationary extreme value analysis on detrended skew surges. Two traditional approaches are investigated, Block Maxima fit to General Extreme Value distribution and Points-Over-Threshold fit to Generalized Pareto distribution, although with two important enhancements. First, the GEV r-largest order statistics distribution is used; a modified version of the GEV distribution that allows for multiple maximum values per year. Second, a systematic procedure is used to select the optimum value for r (for the BM/GEVr approach) and the threshold (for the POT/GP approach) at each tide gauge separately. RLs have similar magnitudes and spatial patterns from both methods, with BM/GEVr resulting in generally larger 100-yr and smaller 1.1-yr RLs. Maximum values are found at the Lewes (Delaware Bay) and Sewells Point (Chesapeake Bay) tide gauges, both located in the southwest region of their respective bays. Minimum values are found toward the central bay regions. In the Delaware Bay, the POT/GP approach is consistent and results in narrower uncertainty bands whereas the results are mixed for the Chesapeake. Results from this study aim to increase reliability of projections of extreme water levels due to extreme storms and ultimately help in long-term planning of mitigation and implementation of adaptation measures.
Therapy of hematopoietic disorders with recombinant colony-stimulating factors.

Publisher Summary This chapter presents an Overview of Normal Hematopoiesis and discusses pharmacologic principles of colony-stimulating factor therapy. The production of blood cells takes place through a complex interaction between hematopoietic precursor cells and their supporting stromal network within the microenvironment of the bone marrow. This process results in the formation of all of the elements of the blood cells that are eventually released from the bone marrow compartment into the peripheral blood. The study of the control of this process required the development of in vitro assay systems using semisolid media, such as methylcellulose, to detect the growth of these precursor cells. The successful isolation and cloning of several of the colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) by recombinant DNA technology has led to the production of sufficient quantities of these substances to pursue clinical trials. The chapter also discusses the clinical uses of colony-stimulating factors. The CSFs have been utilized to treat patients with a variety of disorders in an effort to enhance both the number and activity of mature neutrophils. The clinical effects of these agents have largely been predicted by the in vitro studies with respect to the lineages stimulated. The chapter discusses the clinical studies of these agents.
Speech: A Special Code

On the spectrogram as a visible display of speech finding the cues categorical perception an early attempt to put it all together a mid-course correction the revised motor theory some properties of the phonetic module more about the function and properties of the phonetic module auditory vs. phonetic modes reading/writing are hard just because speaking/listening are easy.
Assessment of amyloid β-protein precursor gene mutations in a large set of familial and sporadic Alzheimer disease cases

A genetic locus associated with familial Alzheimer disease (FAD) and a candidate gene, APP, encoding the amyloid protein precursor have both been assigned previously to chromosome 21, and, in a few FAD families, mutations of APP have been detected. However, obligate crossovers between APP and FAD have also been reported in several FAD pedigrees, including FAD4, a large kindred showing highly suggestive evidence for linkage of the disorder to chromosome 21. In case the apparent APP crossover in FAD4 actually represented an intragenic recombination event or segregation of different mutations in different family branches, we have performed a more detailed assessment of APP as a candidate gene in this family. The entire coding region of the APP gene was sequenced for FAD4 and for FAD1, a second large kindred. No mutations were found, indicating that, in at least one chromosome 21-linked FAD pedigree, the gene defect is not accounted for by a mutation in the known coding region of the APP gene. A total of 25 well-characterized early- and late-onset FAD pedigrees were typed for genetic linkage to APP, to assess the percentage of FAD families predicted to carry mutations in the APP gene. None of the FAD families yielded positive lod scores at a recombination fraction of 0.0. To estimate the overall prevalence of FAD-associated mutations in the beta A4 domain of APP, we sequenced exons 16 and 17 in 30 (20 early- and 10 late-onset) FAD kindreds and in 11 sporadic AD cases, and we screened 56 FAD kindreds and 81 cases of sporadic AD for the presence of the originally reported FAD-associated mutation, APP717 Val----Ile (by BclI digestion). No APP gene mutations were found in any of the FAD families or sporadic-AD samples examined in this study, suggesting that the mutations in exons 16 and 17 are a rare cause of FAD. Overall, these data suggest that APP gene mutations account for a very small portion of FAD.
Effect of polarization of shell-model states in reaction calculations for 40Ca(16O, 15N)41Sc1f72

Abstract The reaction 40 Ca( 16 O, 15 N) 41 Sc g.s. has been investigated in the context of a model where the final single-particle state in 41 Sc was modified or polarized due to the proximity of the other nucleus. Calculations, performed with the finite-range distorted waves Born approximation code KUNDRY, using two-centre shell model wavefunctions, demonstrate that this polarization produces effects on the cross section which indicate a resolution to some discrepancies between previous DWBA predictions and experiment.
Independent Black Institutions in America A Rejection of Schooling, an Opportunity for Education

Since the genesis of independent Black institutions in the United States, during the period of African enslavement, they continue to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds to educate African minds. The mere existence of these self-reliant institutions is in direct contrast to spurious notions that suggest African Americans do not value education. This article contends that Blacks do not value schooling-the process that trains them to maintain White hegemonic control-but that they hold in high regard education-the process that leaves them more capable of expressing who they are as defined by their culture and community. This assertion finds support in the communal struggle to develop, erect, and sustain independent Black institutions, and in the historical discourse concerning the consciousness that laid the foundation for their existence.
Morphology and distribution of fossil soils in the Permo-Pennsylvanian Wichita and Bowie Groups, north-central Texas, USA: implications for western equatorial Pangean palaeoclimate during icehouse-greenhouse transition

Analysis of stacked Permo-Pennsylvanian palaeosols from north-central Texas documents the influence of palaeolandscape position on pedogenesis in aggradational depositional settings. Palaeosols of the Eastern shelf of the Midland basin exhibit stratigraphic trends in the distribution of soil horizons, structure, rooting density, clay mineralogy and colour that record long-term changes in soil-forming conditions driven by both local processes and regional climate. Palaeosols similar to modern histosols, ultisols, vertisols, inceptisols and entisols, all bearing morphological, mineralogical and chemical characteristics consistent with a tropical, humid climate, represent the Late Pennsylvanian suite of palaeosol orders. Palaeosols similar to modern alfisols, vertisols, inceptisols, aridisols and entisols preserve characteristics indicative of a drier and seasonal tropical climate throughout the Lower Permian strata. The changes in palaeosol morphology are interpreted as being a result of an overall climatic trend from relatively humid and tropical, moist conditions characterized by high rainfall in the Late Pennsylvanian to progressively drier, semi-arid to arid tropical climate characterized by seasonal rainfall in Early Permian time. Based on known Late Palaeozoic palaeogeography and current hypotheses for atmospheric circulation over western equatorial Pangea, the Pennsylvanian palaeosols in this study may be recording a climate that is the result of an orographic control over regionalscale atmospheric circulation. The trend towards a drier climate interpreted from the Permian palaeosols may be recording the breakdown of this preexisting orographic effect and the onset of a monsoonal atmospheric circulation system over this region.
Numerical modeling of looped C-V Characteristics in Ap+n junction containing mid-bandgap electron traps

Abstract The capacitance of p+n junctions containing traps or deep centers depends on the time variation of the applied reverse voltage. Capacitance changes results from the time dependent variation of the density of traps filled with electrons within the depletion region. If a cyclical reverse voltage in applied to the junction, capacitance hysteresis due to the time-dependent charge variation within the depletion region should be observed. The hysteresis loops, as a function of the bias drive rate, temperature, and total concentration of traps provide some information on the characteristics of the traps. This paper presents a numerical analysis of looped C-V characteristics in a p+n junction containing midbandgap electron traps and also discusses the variation of loops as a function of the bias drive rate, dV/dt, total concentration of traps, NT, and emission rates of electrons and holes, en and ep, based on our numerical modeling.
Measured-Mile Principles

AbstractChange is any addition, deletion, or revision to the general scope of a contract. It may cause an adjustment to the contract price or contract time of a design or construction project. Many disputes arise out of change, and successful resolution of those disputes requires that three elements be evaluated: liability, causation, and resultant injury (damages). One specific type of damage that is frequently alleged on changed projects is loss of labor productivity. One way to evaluate and quantify loss of labor productivity damages is through use of the measured-mile technique. Problems exist with the measured-mile approach, however, because the guidelines for developing and applying it are unclear. Based on a review and synthesis of project management literature and court and appeal board decisions, this paper presents guidelines for development and application of the measured-mile methodology. The intent is to help contractors, owners, consultants, and other parties step through a logical process f...
Radiation response of thin oxides grown by rapid thermal oxidation and rapid thermal annealing techniques

High quality, 20 to 30 nm thick SiO/sub 2/ films were grown using rapid thermal oxidation techniques. Metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitors formed with these oxides were characterized electrically using low and high frequency capacitance measurements. The effects of post oxidation annealing (POA) ambient, temperature and duration on the initial oxide properties and the radiation response of the MOS capacitors were determined. The addition of a small amount of O/sub 2/ to the POA ambient significantly reduced the radiation induced hole trapping and interface state creation, particularly for the higher POA temperatures. In addition, annealing and reirradiation experiments were carried out and showed that both the trapped charge and interface state buildup were completely reversible after anneals at 400/sup 0/C. This repeatability argues against interface state creation models which involve irreversible changes in the atomic arrangements near the interface. 31 refs. 3 figs.
Some tricks for ameliorating the trace-conditioning deficit

Trace procedures, with a gap between the conditioned stimulus (CS) and the unconditioned stimulus (US), often produce weaker conditioning than procedures with contiguous CS and US. Such deficits were found in this experiment using rat subjects and conditioned suppression techniques to assess the strength of fear conditioning. But the deficit was greatly reduced either by filling the CS-US gap with a second “filler” stimulus or by adding a brief “safety signal” at the start of the intertriai interval.
BCG prophylaxis against cancer: Methodological evaluation of a continuing controversy

A possible protective effect of tuberculosis against cancer, together with the known immune-stimulating properties of BCG, have motivated 14 investigations of BCG prophylaxis against cancer. The results have been conflicting: 3 studies found high levels of protection, 8 found no effect, and 3 suggested that BCG may actually raise the risk of cancer. To assess whether the inconsistent results could have a methodological basis, we analyzed each study according to several basic criteria necessary for scientific validity in cause-effect research. The analyses showed two major problems: (1) None of the studies used safeguards against detection bias by ensuring that the diagnosis of cancer in vaccinees and non-vaccinees was made with equal follow-up and surveillance procedures, and in an accurate and unbiased fashion; (2) Studies alleging that BCG is carcinogenic were weakened by the inappropriate use of cancer mortality data, by the analysis of multiple BCG-cancer associations without appropriate statistical adjustment, and by post hoc creation of new cancer risk categories after inspection of the data. Since these methodologic inadequacies preclude any firm conclusions about the role of BCG in preventing cancer, a resolution of the controversy will require new research, designed and conducted with greater attention to methodologic principles necessary to ensure scientific validity.
Comparing the squared multiple correlation coefficients of non-nested models: An examination of confidence intervals and hypothesis testing

The performance of the asymptotic method for comparing the squared multiple correlations of non-nested models was investigated. Specifically, the increase in a given regression model's R2 when one predictor is added was compared to the increase in the same model's R2 when another predictor is added. This comparison can be used to determine predictor importance and is the basis for procedures such as Dominance Analysis. Results indicate that the asymptotic procedure provides the expected coverage rates for sample sizes of 200 or more, but in many cases much higher sample sizes are required to achieve adequate power. Guidelines and computations are provided for the determination of adequate sample sizes for hypothesis testing.
Tribology of Monolayer Films: Comparison between n-Alkanethiols on Gold and n-Alkyl Trichlorosilanes on Silicon

This Article presents a quantitative comparison of the frictional performance for monolayers derived from n-alkanethiolates on gold and n-alkyl trichlorosilanes on silicon. Monolayers were characterized by pin-on-disk tribometry, contact angle analysis, ellipsometry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Pin-on-disk microtribometry provided frictional analysis at applied normal loads from 10 to 1000 mN at a speed of 0.1 mm/s. At low loads (10 mN), methyl-terminated n-alkanethiolate self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) exhibited a 3-fold improvement in coefficient of friction over SAMs with hydroxyl- or carboxylic-acid-terminated surfaces. For monolayers prepared from both n-alkanethiols on gold and n-alkyl trichlorosilanes on silicon, a critical chain length of at least eight carbons is required for beneficial tribological performance at an applied load of 9.8 mN. Evidence for disruption of chemisorbed alkanethiolate SAMs with chain lengths n ≤ 12 is shown through EIS analysis of tribology wear tr...
Gastroduodenal ulcers on CT: forgotten, but not gone

Objective To estimate the incidence of missed gastroduodenal ulcers on routine abdominal computed tomography (CT) and identify findings and methods to improve sensitivity of CT interpretation for peptic ulcers.
PARP inhibition improves the effectiveness of neural stem cell transplantation in experimental brain trauma.

Abstract Neural stem cell transplantation is a promising new treatment of ischemic or traumatic brain injury. We have now investigated the involvement of the peroxynitrite - poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (ONOO- - PARP) activation cascade in brain trauma and neural stem cell transplantation. The forelimb motor cortex of adult male rats was exposed to cold lesion (-60 degrees C) and motor function was monitored. Neural stem cells isolated from E14 rat embryos were labeled with brome deoxyuridine (BrDU) and injected into the injured cortex 6 days after the lesion. After another 6 days, the survival and differentiation of the grafted cells were investigated with immunohistochemistry. Increased production of ONOO- revealed by tyrosine nitration was seen in the lesion 2 days after transplantation. Animals treated with the ONOO- decomposition catalyst FP15 or the PARP inhibitor PJ34 had a significantly improved motor score, when compared to vehicle-treated controls. The neurological score further improved following stem cell grafting in the PJ34 treated, but not in the control animals. Six days after transplantation, differentiated BrDU positive cells were found in the cortical penumbra. The majority of these differentiated cells expressed an astrocyte marker and some of the cells expressed oligodendrocyte or neuronal markers. The number of surviving transplanted cells was significantly higher in the PJ34 treated group. Inhibition of the ONOO- - PARP activation cascade significantly improves the effectiveness of neural stem cell transplantation and promotes rapid functional recovery.
Sedimentary processes in the formation of a submarine canyon

Abstract A seismic reflection profile recorded on the continental margin off Barcelona, Spain, shows active development of a submarine canyon by three processes: downcutting of the axial valley by submarine erosion, upbuilding of the canyon walls by levee construction, and widening of the canyon by oversteepening and slumping. The profile apparently intersects the canyon near the transition from canyon to fan valley, and shows the coordination of the processes in canyon evolution.
Altered DNA methylation and genome instability: A new pathway to cancer?

DNA methylation is a mechanism for changing the base sequence of DNA without altering its coding function. As a heritable, yet reversible, epigenetic change, it has the potential of altering gene expression and has profound developmental and genetic consequences. The methylation reaction itself is mechanistically complex and involves the flipping of the target cytosine out of the intact double helix, so that the transfer of the methyl group from S -adenosylmethionine can occur in a cleft in the enzyme (1). Cytosine methylation is inherently mutagenic, which presumably has led to the 80% suppression of the CpG methyl acceptor site in eukaryotic organisms, which methylate their genomes. It contributes strongly to the generation of polymorphisms and germ-line mutations, and to transition mutations that inactivate tumor-suppressor genes (2). Despite a 10- to 40-fold increase in the rate of transitions at methylated versus unmethylated cytosines (3), methylation is not only tolerated in several eukaryotes, but is actually required for the embryonic development of mammals (4). The reasons 5-methylcytosine is essential for development remain obscure, but most probably relate to the well documented ability of methylation, particularly the methylation of CpG-rich promoters, to block transcriptional activation. Indeed, there is growing evidence that methylation plays a pivotal role in key developmental processes such as genomic imprinting and stabilization of X-chromosome inactivation. It therefore is not surprising that alterations in this essential epigenetic system might play a role in carcinogenesis (see Fig. 1 for examples). Models for the role of 5-methylcytosine in cancer. [1] Signature mutations in the form of C → T transitions at methylated CpG sites are the hallmark of hydrolytic deamination of 5-methylcytosine and commonly produce mutations in tumor suppressor genes such as p53 . [2] Abnormal silencing of tumor suppressor genes can occur through the epigenetic effects of DNA methylation at CpG …
A highly active glutathione peroxidase in red blood cells of normal and acatalasemic mice.

The activities of catalase (E.C.1.11.1.6) and glutathione peroxidase (E.C.1.11.1.9) were compared in red blood cells from humans, ducks and normal and acatalasemic mice. In the cells from both strains of mice, an equally high activity of GSH-Px was found which could be inhibited completely by iodoacetate but was not sensitive to N-ethylmaleimide.
Microscale heat transfer in thermally stimulated nonlinear optical materials

The significance of microscale heat transfer mechanisms during short pulsed laser radiation of thermally stimulated nonlinear optical material is investigated. Significant differences occur between the temperature predictions of the diffusion equation and microscale model. The temperature response effects the index of refraction gradient and results in large differences in the predicted instantaneous transmittance values of the laser beam. The results show that the percentage difference error in the calculated average transmittance value for the two models will decrease from over 30% initially, to less than eight percent after four times the material relaxation time, (tau) , has passed. The material relaxation time is related to the sonic velocity in the material. The results demonstrate that the microscale heat transfer mechanism dominates for times less than 4(tau) . The diffusion or Fourier heat transfer mechanism should be used only when the laser pulse duration is much longer than the material relaxation time.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Enacting Engagement: Theatre as a Pedagogical Tool for Human Rights Education

This article examines the parallels between human rights education (HRE) and theatre/theatre education in terms of curricular goals and learning outcomes in an effort to add to the literature used by arts educators who engage in HRE and human rights educators who are interested in employing the arts in their pedagogy. The author reflects on her reiterative curricular development of upper-level/graduate courses focused on the integration of theatre/theatre education into HRE to offer readers insight into this emerging pedagogical intersection.
Trichoderma virens-Inoculated Composted Chicken Manure for Biological Weed Control

Abstract The fungus Trichoderma ( Gliocladium ) virens produces a broad spectrum of antibiotic compounds, including the phytotoxin viridiol. However, to be used as a mycoherbicide, an economical substrate must be developed that supports the growth of the fungus and production of viridiol. Composted chicken manure (CCM) is an abundant, renewable resource that could serve as a substrate for field delivery of T. virens for weed control. This research investigated the conditions necessary for the production and stabilization of viridiol, mycoherbicidal activity of viridiol, and production of viridiol on a CCM substrate. Although produced at basic pH, viridiol was more phytotoxic at acidic pH. The EC 50 of viridiol for inhibition of seed germination of Setaria viridis and Amaranthus retroflexus was 312 and 764 μM, respectively. The EC 50 of viridiol for the inhibition of root growth of S. viridis and A. retroflexus roots was 56.3 and 1.3 μM, respectively. Growth of T. virens and production of viridiol up to 170 μg/g were supported on a CCM substrate supplemented with nutrients. Viridiol production was detected 10 days after incorporation into field soil. In greenhouse tests, T. virens -inoculated CCM medium mixed with field soil reduced weed emergence and weed dry weight 77 and 68%, respectively, 8 weeks after incorporation compared to controls. In conclusion, CCM supported T. virens growth and viridiol production at levels capable of controlling weed emergence and growth in greenhouse trials.
Tridymite-like Crystals in Cristobalitic “Cherts”

Weaver and Wise1 have shown that deep sea cristobalitic “cherts”, presumed to be precursors of quartz cherts, are composed in large part of blade-shaped crystals comprising microspheres 3–10 µm in diameter; these crystals were thought to be cristobalite. I have synthesized similar microspheres by hydrothermal crystallization of silica gel; however, the crystal habit of this synthetic material resembles that of tridymite rather than cristobalite. I suggest that both the synthetic microspheres and the deep sea microspheres may be composed of hybrid crystals of interlayered cristobalite and tridymite.
Local-density-functional approach to the isostructual γ-α transition in cerium using the self-consistent linearized-augmented-plane-wave method

The isostructural $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\alpha}$ phase transition of Ce which occurs at 8 kbar has been studied by means of fully self-consistent (non-muffin-tin potential) linearized-augmented-plane-wave energy band calculations carried out for five different values of the lattice constant. In contradiction to the $4f$ electron promotional model of the transition, the results yield essentially one $4f$ electron to be occupied in each phase but with the $4f$ wave function somewhat less localized, and therefore more bandlike, in the "collapsed" $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ phase. A singly occupied $4f$ state is shown to be consistent with the available experimental data. These results strongly support the picture of a $4f$ localized \ensuremath{\leftrightarrow} itinerant transition at the $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\alpha}$ transition and conflict with the promotional model in which some fraction of $4f$ electrons are transferred to the $\mathrm{sd}$ conduction bands. The weaker bonding of the $4f$ electrons, compared to that of the $6s\ensuremath{-}5d$ valence electrons, accounts for $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-Ce appearing to have 3.5-3.7 bonding electrons in some respects. Calculation of the superconducting transition temperature ${T}_{c}$ suggests that a small spin-fluctuation contribution detrimental to superconductivity is necessary to account for the very low value of ${T}_{c}$ in $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-Ce. Comparison with specific-heat data also suggests a spin-fluctuation contribution to the effective mass; susceptibility data point to a moderate exchange enhancement in $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-Ce. We calculate a spin-susceptibility (\ifmmode \acute{S}\else \'{S}\fi{}toner) enhancement that increases with temperature, in agreement with experiment up to 150 K, and which tends to diverge at higher temperatures. Certain experiments are suggested which could help greatly in understanding further some important characteristics of the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ phase.
Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Milk Synthesis. I. A Co60 Irradiator, “Bossy Nova—Mark 1”

Abstract A Co 60 device was designed especially for irradiating the mammary glands of lactating cows and goats. It consists basically of two lead spheres, each containing 340 curies Co 60 , and an electric control panel. Under normal operating conditions it can deliver 1,200 r /hr to the center of a cow's udder. Because of unique design, distribution of radiant energy throughout exposed tissue is more uniform than with more conventional devices, especially X-ray machines, and environmental background radiation is lower.
Expression of c-kit encoded at the W locus of mice in developing embryonic germ cells and presumptive melanoblasts.

Abstract The W locus of mice encodes the c-kit tyrosine kinase receptor. In embryos homozygous for severe W mutations, the number of germ cells does not increase after 8 days of development, melanocytes do not appear, and production of erythrocytes and mast cells is deficient. To gain some insight into the role of the c-kit receptor, we have used in situ hybridization to explore the time period of expression of c-kit transcripts in early germ cells and melanoblasts. At 6 1 2 days of development, expression was not seen in the embryonic cylinder, but did appear in parietal endoderm. Germ cells displayed a low level of c-kit transcripts from their first appearance in the 7 1 2 - day embryo, continuing through early proliferation and migration to the gonad. During migration, surrounding tissues also expressed c-kit . Expression increased in gonia and then ceased as they became nonproliferative. Expression in presumptive melanoblasts was first seen in the cervical region of 10-day embryos and continued as they spread over the surface of the body, entered the epidermis, and differentiated in hair follicles after birth. The effects of mutations of c-kit on germ cells and melanoblasts can be interpreted as an absence of a proliferative signal shortly after their segregation from other cell types. This signal may be required throughout the proliferative phase of early germ cells [and also in postnatal stages of germ cell development (Manova et al. (1990). Development 110, 1057–1069]. In melanoblasts, c-kit may play a role during both proliferation and differentiation.
A simple colorimetric method for the quantification of Au(III) ions and its use in quantifying Au nanoparticles

A simple and sensitive method, based on the redox reaction between 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine and Au3+, for the quantification of Au3+ ions was developed. The method was successfully applied to the rapid and accurate quantification of Au-based nanoparticles.
Hydrodeoxygenation of pyrolysis oil in a microreactor

Abstract Use of a packed bed microreactor for the first stage hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of pyrolysis oil was investigated. The effects of various processing conditions such as temperature, hydrogen partial pressure, and residence time on Extent of HDO, hydrogen consumption, and space-time-consumption were investigated using reduced sulfided NiMo/Al 2 O 3 catalyst. External and internal mass transfer resistances were examined in the microreactor. High hydrogen consumption along with small oxygen removal suggests that in hydrodeoxygenation of pyrolysis oil hydrogenation cannot be avoided. Reactor plugging at 543 K due to coke formation/polymerization shows that first stage HDO at a temperature below 543 K was required to convert highly reactive compounds so that second stage HDO at higher temperature can be conducted to remove oxygen completely. Hydrogen consumption and percent oxygen removed for this first stage HDO are comparable to literature values; however, it is found that in a microreactor these values are attainable at much lower pressure and residence time.