cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Use of the YAG laser in laparoscopic gynecologic procedures.

SUMMARY The YAG laser with the contact sapphire probe has definite advantages over other laser systems. Compared with CO2 lasers, its flexible fiber delivery system can be more easily used. Moreover, the laser can be used within a liquid environment with the production of little or no smoke. The probes allow a contact technique with discrete transfer of energy that can be modulated by the probes chosen and the wattage used. Unlike with the CO2 laser, energy delivery to unintended targets downstream is rarely a problem. As with other lasers, the initial purchase of a YAG laser is expensive. The YAG laser, however, has been used widely in lower generative tract surgery to the cervix and vulva and within the uterus itself for ablation procedures. It is also used with increasing frequency by other subspecialty groups performing urologic procedures, ophthamologic procedures, and even general surgery. Therefore, its overall cost-effectiveness within an institution is probably excellent.
Abstract 281: Long-Term Therapy with a Partial Adenosine A1-Receptor Agonist Upregulates mRNA and Protein Expression of Glucose Transporters in Left Ventricular Myocardium of Dogs with Chronic Heart Failure

Background: Recruitment of glucose transport proteins GLUT-1 and -4 is a mechanism by which the heart increases glucose transport for metabolism in response to increased energy demands. In the failing LV, mRNA and protein levels of GLUT-1 and -4 are down-regulated and the response to increased demands is met by increased dependence on fatty acid oxidation. We previously showed that treatment with the partial adenosine A1-receptor agonist capadenoson (CAP) improves LV systolic function in dogs with advanced heart failure (HF). This study examined the effects of CAP on the regulation of GLUT-1 and -4 in LV myocardium of dogs with chronic HF. Methods: Studies were performed in LV tissue from 12 HF dogs randomized to 3 months oral therapy with the CAP (7.5 mg twice daily, n=6) or to no therapy at all (Control, n=6). LV tissue from 6 normal (NL) dogs was used for comparison. mRNA expression of GLUT-1 and -4 was measured in LV tissue homogenate using real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Protein levels of GLUT-1 and -4 and calsequestrin (CSQ), a sarcoplasmic reticulum protein that does not change in HF (internal control), were measured in SDS-extract using Western blotting coupled with chemiluminescent method. Band intensity was quantified in densitometric units (du). Results: Compared to NL dogs, Control HF dogs showed a 3.6 fold decrease in mRNA expression of GLUT-1 and a 2.7 fold decrease in the expression of GLUT-4. CAP-treatment in HF dogs improved mRNA expression of GLUT-1 (1.38 fold decrease) and GLUT-4 (0.8 fold decrease). Similarly, compared to NL dogs, Control HF dogs showed a significant decrease of protein levels of GLUT-1 (0.64 ± 0.04 vs. 0.26 ± 0.04 du, p<0.05) and GLUT-4 (1.42 ± 0.06 vs. 0.40 ± 0.05 du, p<0.05). CAP treatment significantly increased protein levels of both GLUT-1 (0.49 ± 0.03 du) and GLUT-4 (0.82 ± 0.03) compared to Control HF dogs (p<0.05). CSQ levels were similar in all study groups. Conclusions: In dogs with chronic HF, long-term therapy with CAP improves mRNA and protein expression of GLUT-1 and -4. This improvement in expression of glucose transport proteins is likely to restore partial dependency of the failing heart to more efficient glucose metabolism, and therefore, lead to improved myocardial energetics and pump function.
Analytical failure probability model for generic gravity dam classes

Risk analysis of concrete dams and quantification of the failure probability are important tasks in dam safety assessment. The conditional probability of demand and capacity is usually estimated by numerical simulation and Monte Carlo technique. However, the estimated failure probability (or the reliability index) is dam-dependent which makes its application limited to some case studies. This article proposes an analytical failure model for generic gravity dam classes which is optimized based on large number of nonlinear finite element analyses. A hybrid parametric–probabilistic–statistical approach is used to estimate the failure probability as a function of dam size, material distributional models and external hydrological hazard. The proposed model can be used for preliminary design and evaluation of two-dimensional gravity dam models.
Conclusion: The Chinese State, the Law, Labor Relations, and Hegemony

This chapter summarizes the major arguments of this book. It highlights the characteristics of legal hegemony in China, as well as factors contributing to its fragilities. Finally, it points to different directions for future research about capitalist hegemony in China.
Platelet adenosine diphosphate receptor inhibition provides no advantage in predicting need for platelet transfusion or massive transfusion.

Background Thrombelastography platelet mapping is a useful assay to assess antiplatelet therapy. Inhibited response to the adenosine diphosphate receptor on platelets occurs early after injury, but recent work suggests this alteration occurs even with minor trauma. However, the utility of thrombelastography platelet mapping, specifically the percent of adenosine diphosphate receptor inhibition, in predicting outcomes and guiding platelet transfusion in trauma-induced coagulopathy remains unknown We assessed the role of percent of adenosine diphosphate-inhibition in predicting survival, requirement for massive transfusion or platelet transfusion in patients at risk for trauma-induced coagulopathy. Methods Thrombelastography platelet mapping was assessed in 303 trauma activation patients from 2014–2016 and in 89 healthy volunteers. Percent of adenosine diphosphate-inhibition is presented as median and interquartile range. We compared the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of percent of adenosine diphosphate-inhibition, platelet count, and rapid thrombelastography maximum amplitude for in-hospital mortality, massive transfusion (>10 red blood cells or death/6 hours), and platelet transfusion (>0 platelet units or death/6 hour). Results Overall, 35 (11.5%) patient died, 27 (8.9%) required massive transfusion and 46, platelet transfusions (15.2%). Median percent of adenosine diphosphate-inhibition was 42.5% (interquartile range: 22.4–69.1%), compared with 4.3 % (interquartile range: 0–13.5%) in healthy volunteers (P Conclusion Adenosine diphosphate receptor inhibition did not add predictive value to predicting mortality, massive transfusion, or platelet transfusion. Thus, the role of thrombelastography platelet mapping as a solitary tool to guide platelet transfusions in trauma requires continued refinement.
Generalized Adjustment Under Confounding and Selection Biases

Selection and confounding biases are the two most common impediments to the applicability of causal inference methods in large-scale settings. We generalize the notion of backdoor adjustment to account for both biases and leverage external data that may be available without selection bias (e.g., data from census). We introduce the notion of adjustment pair and present complete graphical conditions for identifying causal effects by adjustment. We further design an algorithm for listing all admissible adjustment pairs in polynomial delay, which is useful for researchers interested in evaluating certain properties of some admissible pairs but not all (common properties include cost, variance, and feasibility to measure). Finally, we describe a statistical estimation procedure that can be performed once a set is known to be admissible, which entails different challenges in terms of finite samples.
Ray Allen Billington (1903–1981)

nO n March 7, 1981, Ray Allen Billington died quietly in his sleep. That morning the mail delivered to the Huntington Library included an edited copy of the fifth edition of Westward Expansion, his magisterial text on the American frontier. It was only one of several projects that he brought to fruition this year. Earlier he published Land of Savagery, Land of Promise: The European Image of the American Frontier. In the press were two books-a new edition of The Diary of Charlotte Forten and Limericks: Historical and Hysterical. He was also preparing to revise his classic America's Frontier Heritage so as to incorporate the international context that stemmed from his recent research. His typewriter on the morning of his death held page twenty-seven of an essay intended for presentation to the Los Angeles Westerners. His correspondence indicated that he was scheduled to write a book review for the Washington Post and prepare a critique of an essay in preparation for the National Geographic. When he left his office at the Huntington Library at 4: 00 P.M. the day before his death, he announced good naturedly that he was going to play hookey: his daughter Anne had come from France for a brief visit, and his wife wanted to go shopping. As always, Ray Billington demonstrated that remarkable energy and enthusiasm for what he was about. Ray Billington was born in Bay City, Michigan, and reared in Detroit. He recalled that city in the early days of the automobile as a community of streets paved with wooden blocks and lined with almost identical frame bungalows. He liked to say that he was not a promising student but early in his life he showed an active interest in science and a genuine flair for writing. When he was sixteen he began publishing poems, essays, editorials, and short stories in his school paper, sometimes anonymously but often over his own signature. During a three-year period in high school, he published twenty-five pieces. This was sound training
Nuclear Power Contracts and International Cooperation: Analyzing Innovation and Social Distribution in Russian Foreign Policy

What is the role of nuclear contracts in Russian foreign policy? This chapter analyzes the political economy of nuclear power regulation in Russia and its implications for Russian foreign policy when it comes to international cooperation in the advanced and the developing world. Complementarities between the civil and military uses of nuclear power may explain its extensive adoption by states defined by high electricity demand, market interventionism, and great power status. Now that nuclear technology focuses primarily on civil rather than military applications, sustainable development fueled by sufficient growth rates is part of the core logic of nuclear investment. In that regard, is it possible to argue that international business activity in the nuclear sector may have positive domestic implications for social welfare? The latter includes all those policy instruments that guarantee the provision of a distributive minimum to the median citizen of the middle- and lower-class continuum price subsidies on energy commodities, social peace-preserving employment rates, and the provision of adequate health and education services form a set of energy-induced distributive rents for middle- and low-income citizens (Roemer 1993; World Energy Outlook 2006). Low electricity prices have been more important than nuclear weapons for governmental survival since the end of the Cold War; nuclear innovation reduces the marginal cost of electricity production and thus allows higher consumption rates for the median citizen. This first-order assumption implies that nuclear innovation is expected to exert positive welfare influence at the domestic level; international nuclear power contracts are less likely to occur when, despite their high sunk costs, they are not linked with social peace and public opinion.
Low-Overhead Microarchitectural Patching for Multicore Memory Subsystems

In this work, we present µMemPatch, a comprehensive, efficient patching solution to overcome escaped design flaws in multicore memory subsystems at runtime. Unlike conventional microcode patching, µMemPatch strives to accurately pinpoint bug-prone microarchitectural states at runtime, by using a small programmable-logic fabric. µMemPatch comprises two main components: a bug-anticipation module and a bug-elusion module. The bug-anticipation module tracks, at runtime, the progress of microarchitectural events related to memory operations. Specifically, we model event sequences as finite state machines (FSM), where some of the FSM states represent bug-prone microarchitectural states. Upon detection of a bug-prone state, the bug-elusion module limits reorderings of instructions or memory accesses, so as to avoid falling into the bug state. We propose a few different bug-elusion methods, including squashing instructions, delaying cache evictions, and dynamically inserting fence operations. We implemented µMemPatch in a cycle-accurate full-system simulator. We then embedded eleven design bugs that span a wide range of bug types, which had been disclosed in product errata documents. Our evaluation with an in-house micro-benchmark suite and the SPLASH-2 suite shows that µMemPatch's bug-elusion methods successfully bypass all bugs at a performance impact of less than 1% on average (SPLASH-2). The area overhead in our setup is approximately 6% for an ARM Cortex-A9 core on average, over all bugs we considered.
Gold‐Catalyzed Annulation of 2‐Alkynyl Benzaldehydes with Vinyl Ethers: Synthesis of Dihydronaphthalene, Isochromene, and Bicyclo[2.2.2]octane Derivatives.

Various mechanisms of the very mild reactions of acyclic and cyclic vinyl ethers are discussed.
Critical Latinx Indigeneities: Unpacking Indigeneity from Within and Outside of Latinized Entanglements

This article engages an important, but difficult conversation about the erasure of indigeneity in narratives, curriculum, identities, and racial projects that uphold settler colonial logics that fall under the rubric of Hispanic, Latina/o/x, and Chicana/o/x. These settler colonial logics include violence by these groupings against Indigenous people, or indios, that has been part of Mexican and U.S. history in the Southwest. We examine Hispanic, Latina/o/x, and Chicana/o/x settlers’ complicity with myths that support white settler futurity, including through social studies curricula and contemporary discourses of the U.S. as a nation of immigrants. The problematics of Hispanidad and Latinidad are also engaged as part of officialized U.S. state regulation and as an expression of mestizaje based on indigenism (indigenismo). Indigenismo worked hand-in-hand with mestizaje and functioned not so much as a celebration of racial mixture, but as state eugenicist programs of Indigenous erasure throughout Latin America, and by extension in Latino communities in the U.S. Finally, we provide diverse examples of how this process works to advance a theory and praxis of Critical Latinx Indigeneities to decolonize Latinidad and mestizaje in order to envision Indigenous futurities within and outside of the Latinized entanglements of the present.
The CHARGE study: an assessment of parental occupational exposures and autism spectrum disorder

Objectives The aim of this study is to determine if parental occupational exposure to 16 agents is associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods Demographic, health and parental occupational data were collected as part of the CHildhood Autism Risks from Genetics and Environment study. The workplace exposure assessment was conducted by two experienced industrial hygienists for the parents of 537 children with ASD and 414 typically developing (TD) children. For each job, frequency and intensity of 16 agents were assessed and both binary and semi-quantitative cumulative exposure variables were derived. Logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to assess associations between parental occupational exposures 3 months pre-pregnancy until birth. Results The OR of ASD in the children of mothers exposed to any solvents was 1.5 times higher than the mothers of TD children (95% CI=1.01–2.23). Cumulative exposure indicated that the OR associated with a moderate level of solvent exposure in mothers was 1.85 (95% CI=1.09, 3.15) for children with ASD compared with TD children. No other exposures were associated with ASD in mothers, fathers or the parents combined. Conclusion Maternal occupational exposure to solvents may increase the risk for ASD. These results are consistent with a growing body of evidence indicating that environmental and occupational exposures may be associated with ASD. Future research should consider specific types of solvents, larger samples and/or different study designs to evaluate other exposures for potential associations with ASD.
Orthorigami: Implementing Shape-Memory Polymers for Customizing Orthotic Applications

Previous work in 3D printing of hand orthotic devices has shown that patients prefer a 3D-printed design over traditional orthotic splints. Despite the possibility to incorporate self-expression when designing for 3D printing, further customization post-printing is not possible. This creates a design iteration process that may require multiple 3D-printed customized orthosis to obtain the final product. Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are unique materials for design due to their "origami" nature; that is, their ability to bend when heated. This paper looks at how to harness this ability to create what we propose as Orthorigami: orthotics made using folding techniques. Specifically, the paper explores how to design an aesthetically pleasing, lightweight, simple, easily adjustable, personally customizable Orthorigami device. This paper presents three design cases using Orthorigami. These cases are used as a means to explore the design process of Orthorigami and see if the process provides an improvement on design iteration over its 3D-printed counterparts. The outcome of case studies is used to propose a process that the end-user may use to create a tailored Orthorigami device in a DIY setting.
Synthetic Biology: What's In It for Electrical Engineers?

On the surface, electrical engineering and the genetic engineering of bacteria may appear to be disparate fields with little in common. The former concerns the assembly of electronic components to build systems that sense and compute in the electrical domain. Bacterial genetic engineering, on the other hand, involves modifying the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of bacterial cells to arrive at organisms that have new, altered behavior.
Hidden representations in deep neural networks: Part 2. Regression problems

Abstract Deep neural networks are an important class of machine learning models useful for representing complex input-output relationships. While their recent success is unparalleled, so is the inability to explain their internal representations. In this second part of a two-part series, we focus on understanding the hidden representations of deep neural networks and the underlying mechanisms for regression problems. We highlight challenges associated with deep neural networks with simple models that help us gain insight into the functioning of the hidden layers and the mechanism of the operation of the network. The article is structured in a tutorial-like fashion for the benefit of new practitioners so that they can appreciate nuances and the pitfalls involved in developing a deep neural network models for regression problems.
Geographical Variation in Traumatic Brain Injury Mortality by Proximity to the Nearest Neurosurgeon

Abstract Background Trauma mortality disproportionately affects populations farther from potentially lifesaving trauma care, and traumatic brain injury (TBI) is no exception. Previous examinations have examined proximity to trauma centers as an explanation for trauma mortality, but little is known about the relationship between proximity to neurosurgeons specifically in TBI mortality. Materials and methods In this cross-sectional study, county-level TBI mortality rates from 2008 to 2014 were examined in relation to the distance to the nearest neurosurgeon and trauma facility. The locations of practicing neurosurgeons and trauma facilities in the United States were determined by geocoding data from the 2017 Medicare Physician and Other Supplier and Provider of Services files (respectively). The association between TBI mortality and the distance from the population-weighted centroid of the county to a closest neurosurgeon and trauma facility was examined using multivariate negative binomial regression. Results A total of 761 of the 3108 counties (24.5%) in the continental United States were excluded from the analysis because they had 20 or fewer TBI deaths during this time, producing unstable estimates. Excluded counties accounted for 1.67% of the US population. Multivariate analysis revealed a county's mortality increased 10% for every 25 miles from the nearest neurosurgeon (adjusted incident rate ratio: 1.10 [95% confidence interval: 1.08-1.12]; P Conclusions These findings suggest that proximity to neurosurgeons may influence county-level TBI mortality. Further research into this topic with more granular data may help to allocate scarce public health resources.
Industrial energy assessment training effectiveness evaluation: An eye-tracking study

It is essential to understand the effectiveness of any training program so it can be improved accordingly. Various studies have applied standard metrics for the evaluation of visual behavior to recognize the areas of interest that attract individuals' attention as there is a high correlation between attentional behavior and where one is focusing on. However, through reviewing the literature, we believe that studies that applied eye-tracking technologies for training purposes are still limited, especially in the industrial energy assessment training field. In this paper, the effectiveness of industrial energy assessment training was quantitatively evaluated by measuring the attentional allocation of trainees using eye-tracking technology. Moreover, this study identifies the areas that require more focus based on evaluating the performance of subjects after receiving the training. Additionally, this research was conducted in a controlled environment to remove the distractions that may be caused by environmental factors to only concentrate on variables that influence the learning behavior of subjects. The experiment results showed that after receiving the training, the subjects' performance in energy assessment was significantly improved in two areas: production, and recycling and waste management, and the designed training program enhanced the knowledge of participants in identifying energy-saving opportunities to the knowledge level of experienced participants.
Real-time trace of riser profile and stress with numerical inclinometers

Abstracts In this paper, the methodology for the real-time tracing of riser profile and bending moment by multiple inclinometers along the riser is presented with the assumption that its top (by GPS; global positioning system) and bottom (anchoring) points are known. The riser is modelled as a series of slender-beam segments and at each time step, the riser nodal points are progressively traced. For riser x-y-z displacement and bending-moment tracing, quadratic and cubic interpolation functions for each line element between two neighboring bi-axial inclinometers are employed with respect to the global and generalized coordinate systems. Analytical solutions are derived for the instantaneous riser profile and bending moment at each line's mid-point. To validate the developed riser-monitoring algorithms, a FPSO (floating production storage offloading) system with SCR (steel catenary riser) or SLWR (steel lazy wave riser) was simulated for 1-yr and 50-yr collinear wind-wave-current storm conditions with 45-deg heading and the corresponding numerical sensor signals were inputted to the algorithms for reproducing the real-time riser profiles and bending stresses. Based on the comparisons between the algorithm-predicted and actual values, the developed method is validated. The methodology can be applied to any kinds and shapes of lines and cables too.
Prospective, Single-blind, Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Digital Exercise Therapy Application Compared With Conventional Physical Therapy for the Treatment of Nonoperative Knee Conditions

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effectiveness and adherence of a home exercise therapy program using a digital exercise therapy application (DETA) compared with conventional physical therapy (PT). Design Parallel group, randomized controlled trial. Setting Two clinics in a tertiary care academic center. Participants Participants (N=60) were enrolled within 1 week after a provider visit for knee pain. Inclusion criteria: age 18-75 years, knee pain diagnosis, and clinician-prescribed PT. Interventions Participants were randomized to complete either an 8-week intervention of conventional PT (enrolled n=29; complete n=26) or the DETA (enrolled n=31; completed n=24). Main Outcome Measures Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pain Interference (PI) and Physical Function (PF) scores implemented via computer adaptive tests; number of exercise sessions completed per week (adherence). Results Compared with the PT group, the DETA group reported significant decreases in PROMIS-PI scores (−6.1±6.7 vs −1.5±6.6, P .05). Conclusions Use of this DETA resulted in greater pain and functional improvements compared with PT, with no differences in adherence. It is possible this application may be a viable alternative to conventional PT in certain cases. A larger sample from various geographic locations is needed to improve generalizability and for subgroup analysis. Further investigation is warranted to determine the factors responsible for the differences observed between the groups.
Elder abuse

Elder abuse is an under-recognised cause of morbidity in the elderly. The frail elderly with multiple physical and psychiatric problems living with a relative who may also have a physical or psychiatric problem are particularly at risk. Although increased awareness of the problem and a high index of suspicion are necessary factors to diagnose the condition, clinical pointers towards diagnosis are available. Treatment for both victim and “carer” should be on the basis of multi-disciplinary assessment, and may result in admission of the elderly patient to an extended-care facility.
An MCTS Program to Play EinStein Würfelt Nicht

EinStein Wurfelt Nicht! is a game that has elements of strategy, tactics, and chance. Reasonable evaluation functions can be found for this game and, indeed, there are some strong mini-max based programs for EinStein Wurfelt Nicht! We have constructed an MCTS program to play this game. We describe its basic structure and its strengths and weaknesses with the idea of comparing it to existing mini-max based programs and comparing the MCTS version to a pure MC version.
Staff investments for high performance teams

Purpose – This is a regular thought-provoking column. Design/methodology/approach – Thoughts with suggested references for more information. Findings – Lots more to learn. Originality/value – New thoughts this quarter.
USE OF CYCLOIDAL ARCS FOR ESTIMATING DITCH SAFETY

A method of analysis is presented for estimating the factor of safety of ditches and similar excavations taking into account the unit weight and shearing strength of the soil. The method is based on the theory that the shear failure, if it occurs, will occur along a surface which is cycloidal in shape. Equations for shear stress and strength are derived from Coulomb’s shear strength equation and the equation for safety factor developed and results presented in tabular form. For cases where a soil will not stand vertically and must be sloped, a definition for critical slope is presented and the equation to determine critical slope is derived and presented in tabular form.
A cell surface glycoprotein of rat basophilic leukemia cells close to the high affinity IgE receptor (Fc epsilon RI). Similarity to human melanoma differentiation antigen ME491

A monoclonal antibody (mAb), AD1, was isolated that recognized a cell surface protein on rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3). At high concentration, this antibody inhibited IgE-mediated but not calcium ionophore-induced histamine release (49% inhibition at 100 micrograms/ml). The mAb AD1 did not inhibit the binding of IgE or of several antibodies directed to the high affinity IgE receptor (Fc epsilon RI). Likewise, IgE did not inhibit mAb AD1 binding. However, several anti-Fc epsilon RI antibodies did inhibit mAb AD1 binding as intact molecules but not as Fab fragments. Therefore, the sites on the cell surface to which mAb AD1 binds are close to Fc epsilon RI. The mAb AD1 immunoprecipitated a broad, 50-60-kDa band from 125I-surface-labeled RBL-2H3 cells that upon peptide N-glycosidase F treatment was transformed into a sharp 27-kDa band. A similar 27-kDa protein was immunoprecipitated from surface-radiolabeled cells after culture with tunicamycin. Thus, the protein recognized by mAb AD1 is highly glycosylated with predominantly N-linked oligosaccharides. The N-terminal sequence of 43 amino acids was found to be different from any subunit of Fc epsilon RI but nearly identical to that of the human melanoma-associated antigen ME491. Therefore, mAb AD1 binds to a surface glycoprotein on RBL-2H3 cells sterically close to the Fc epsilon RI but distinct from the recognized subunits of the receptor.
A Fragile State: Canadian Federal Public Administration in the Twentieth Century

This paper describes the evolution of the administrative apparatus of Canada's federal government throughout the twentieth century, and describes the economic, social and political considerations that influenced its development.
Sulfur-Containing Compounds

Sulfur, in its various forms, is important to the yeast in protein biosynthesis as well as vitamins and coenzymes. Formation of volatile sulfur compounds plays an important role in sensory properties of wines. These compounds may be variously described as rubbery, onion, garlic, cabbage, kerosene-like, and skunky. The somewhat undefined, but objectionable character arising from interaction of sulfur-containing compounds and wine components is sometimes described as “reductive tone.” Wines exhibiting this property lack (or are deficient in) focused fruit and complexity attributes and are described as “reduced.” Sulfur is available as sulfate (SO 4 2− ), sulfite (SO 3 2− ), amino acids (methionine, cysteine, and cystine), the tripeptide glutathione, as well as the vitamins biotin and thiamine (B1), and acetyl-CoA and lipoic acid.
Chapter 10 Lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase

Publisher Summary This chapter highlights lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) enzyme that is responsible for the removal of an acyl chain from lecithin and its transfer to free cholesterol. LCAT is synthesized by the liver and is secreted into plasma where it is present either free or in association with lipoproteins. Its preferred substrates are high-density lipoproteins (HDL), especially in nascent disc form or as the smaller subclasses of spherical HDL particles. Apolipoproteins of HDL (particularly apolipoprotein A-I, apoA-I) activate LCAT, and the HDL core initially stores the cholesterol ester products of the enzymatic reaction. Through its action on HDL, LCAT has the general effect of reducing the free (or unesterified) cholesterol content of lipoproteins and of cell plasma membranes; thus, LCAT participates in the maturation of HDL, changes the distribution of HDL subclasses and their composition, and modifies the lipid composition and overall structure of other lipoproteins. In decreasing the free cholesterol content of lipoproteins, LCAT affects the cholesterol content of membranes, and is involved in the maintenance of membrane structure, and indirectly in determining the levels of total cellular cholesterol.
Book Review: 'Let's Get Free: A Hip-Hop Theory of Justice,' by Paul Butler (The New Press, 2009)

For the first time in a generation, real reform in the criminal justice system seems within reach. Five bills were introduced in Congress in 2009 to address the 100-to-1 sentencing disparity between crack and powder forms of cocaine. The proposed Justice Integrity Act would "address any unwarranted racial and ethnic disparities in the criminal process." Many states are re-examining their strategies of mass incarceration, if for no other reason than the gigantic and growing expenses they must shoulder to lock up so many of their own citizens. Paul Butler's "Let's Get Free: A Hip-Hop Theory of Justice" is the right book for these times: a clear, fresh, straightforward look at all of the most difficult issues we must try to remedy in the criminal justice system. The idea, according to Butler, is not to be tough on crime, but to be smart on crime.
Microcolinearity and genome evolution in the AdhA region of diploid and polyploid cotton (Gossypium)

Genome sizes vary by several orders of magnitude, driven by mechanisms such as illegitimate recombination and transposable element proliferation. Prior analysis of the CesA region in two cotton genomes that diverged 5-10 million years ago (Ma), and acquired a twofold difference in genome size, revealed extensive local conservation of genic and intergenic regions, with no evidence of the global genome size difference. The present study extends the comparison to include BAC sequences surrounding the gene encoding alcohol dehydrogenase A (AdhA) from four cotton genomes: the two co-resident genomes (A(T) and D(T)) of the allotetraploid, Gossypium hirsutum, as well as the model diploid progenitors, Gossypium arboreum (A) and Gossypium raimondii (D). In contrast to earlier work, evolution in the AdhA region reflects, in a microcosm, the overall difference in genome size, with a nearly twofold difference in aligned sequence length. Most size differences may be attributed to differential accumulation of retroelements during divergence of the genome diploids from their common ancestor, but in addition there has been a biased accumulation of small deletions, such that those in the smaller D genome are on average twice as large as those in the larger A genome. The data also provide evidence for the global phenomenon of 'genomic downsizing' in polyploids shortly after formation. This in part reflects a higher frequency of small deletions post-polyploidization, and increased illegitimate recombination. In conjunction with previous work, the data here confirm the conclusion that genome size evolution reflects many forces that collectively operate heterogeneously among genomic regions.
Management of Skeletal Metastases in Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients

Patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to the skeleton are evaluated by the orthopedic surgeon either directly because of unknown cause of skeletal pain or by referral from primary physicians, medical oncologists, or urologists after a lesion of bone is identified. Often a cancer diagnosis is well appreciated and the patient may have already had a nephrectomy and/or ongoing adjuvant therapy. Because of bone pain or a positive bone scan, the orthopedic surgeon is requested to evaluate and assess the structural integrity of long bones and the spine. In situations where a lytic lesion is visualized and the actual diagnosis is unknown, the surgeon embarks upon the differential diagnostic workup. Although all orthopedic surgeons are trained to diagnose and surgically manage metastatic disease, metastatic tumor cases can be just as challenging as primary sarcomas of bone and are often referred to orthopedic surgical oncologists, who are well versed in the complexity and management pitfalls of these lesions.
Read-write and content-addressable holographic data storage

Recent progress made towards two variants of holographic data storage is summarized. For fast-access read-write systems, the extension of high density to high capacity using phase-conjugate readout, and signal processing to relieve alignment and distortion constraints are described. For content-addressable systems, massively parallel correlators and associated fidelity issues are discussed. The paper concludes with the prospects for the gated nonvolatile holographic storage media that both variants require.
Effects of establishment method and fall stocking rate of wheat pasture on forage mass, forage chemical composition, and performance of growing steers

Stocking rate is a fundamental variable for managing pastures, and there is a distinct relationship between stocking rate and animal performance for each forage type. This research was conducted to determine the effects of fall stocking rate (SR) and method of establishment of wheat pasture planted into dedicated crop fields on animal performance during the fall and subsequent spring. There was a factorial arrangement of tillage methods used in the establishment of wheat pasture and fall stocking rates. Tillage treatments included 1) CT, seed sown into a prepared seedbed, 2) RT, a single pass with a light disk followed by broadcasting of seed, or 3) NT, direct seeding into the undisturbed stubble of the grazed-out wheat pasture from the previous year. The fixed SR during the fall were 1.9, 2.5, and 3.7 growing beef steers (Bos taurus L.)/ha. In the spring all pastures were grazed at the same fixed SR by steers for graze out. Data were analyzed using the mixed procedure of SAS as a randomized complete block design with field as the experimental unit and year as the block. Forage mass, forage nutritive composition, and animal performance during the fall or spring were not affected (P ≥ 0.14) by tillage method. During the fall grazing season, with increasing SR there were linear (P < 0.01) decreases in BW of steers upon removal from pasture, BW gain per steer, and ADG, whereas grazing-day per hectare and BW gain per hectare increased linearly (P < 0.01) with increasing SR. The carryover effects of fall SR into the spring grazing season decreased (P< 0.01) grazing-day per hectare and tended (P ≤ 0.09) to produce quadratic changes in BW upon removal from pasture and BW gain per hectare. Across the fall and spring grazing seasons, grazing-day per hectare increased linearly (P < 0.01) with greater SR, and BW gain per hectare increased quadratically (P = 0.02) with increased fall SR. A tillage treatment by fall SR interaction (P = 0.10) indicates that although there was no difference (P ≥ 0.12) due to tillage treatment in BW gain per hectare at 1.9 or 2.5 SR, NT fields produced (P ≤ 0.04) more BW gain per hectare than CT or RT at the 3.7 SR. Although increasing SR of growing steers leads to reduced animal performance in the fall and reduced carrying capacity in the spring, NT appears to be capable of withstanding greater fall SR with less impact on total production per hectare than CT or RT.
Mechanical loss mechanisms for polymers at very low temperatures

Results of dynamic mechanical investigations for various polymers in the temperature region from 4.2–77°K. or above are reviewed, and the mechanisms believed to be responsible for the various loss maxima are discussed. Dynamic mechanical data, obtained at ∼104 cps with a longitudinal vibrational apparatus, are presented for an un-annealed polypropylene sample, for a commercial poly(methyl methacrylate) specimen, for a sample of purified poly(methyl methacrylate) containing 1% water, for three poly(vinyl toluene) samples (in the 200–300°K. range), and for a 76% styrene-24% acrylonitrile copolymer.
An experience in acidizing sandstone reservoirs : A scientific approach

Several sandstone fields were recently developed in Saudi Arabia. Various treatments were performed on damaged water injection wells in these fields, however, the performance of treated wells declined over a period of a few months such that these wells required re-acidizing treatments. A thorough investigation was undertaken to identify the damaging mechanism, recommend suitable acid formulae, assess the effectiveness of the treatment in the field and identify methods to minimize well damage. Laboratory and field investigations were conducted simultaneously to address formation damage and associated problems. These investigations included determining rock mineralogy, coreflood tests to screen various acid formulae, and collecting field samples to identify the damaging mechanism. Based on the results of these studies, two acid formulae were selected and applied in the field. More than forty damaged wells were treated with these acid formulae. Because of the low reservoir pressure, these treatments were conducted using a coiled tubing unit and the spent acid was lifted using nitrogen gas. Chemical analysis of acid returns (spent acid) was used to determine the type and concentration of acid additives. As a result of this study the success rate of acidizing jobs in these fields has increased to more than 85%. The target injection rate was met without drilling additional wells. No secondary precipitation was noted after the treatments. In addition, damage prevention procedures, which were implemented in the field, have resulted in a significant reduction in the frequency of performing acid jobs in these fields. This paper describes laboratory and fieldwork done to enhance the performance of damaged wells. Furthermore, it discusses the application of various damage prevention procedures in the field.
Comparative Parasitology of Squamate Reptiles Endemic to Scrub and Sandhills Communities of North-central Florida, U.S.A

Abstract The comparative parasitology of endemic, primarily fossorial squamate reptiles of xeric habitats in Florida, U.S.A., is described, largely based on live-trapping studies in Ocala National Forest, Marion County, Florida, from 1992 through 1998. Nineteen new host records (*) are reported, and a new species of Isospora is described. Neoseps reynoldsi (Scincidae) is host to Eimeria egregia*, Isospora neosepsorum n. sp.*, probably 2 species of Hartmannella, Parapharyngodon ocalaensis, and Eutrombicula* sp.; Eumeces egregius onocrepis (Scincidae) is parasitized by Proteromonas lacertaeviridis*, Monocercomonas colubrorum*, Retortamonas saurarum, E. egregia, Hartmannella spp.*, P. ocalaensis*, and Eutrombicula* sp.; Tantilla relicta relicta (Colubridae) is host to P. lacertaeviridis*, M. colubrorum*, R. saurarum*, Hartmannella spp., Eimeria pleistocenensis, E. amphorae, Eimeria sp., Isospora wilsoni, Caryospora tantillae, C. relictae, Kalicephalus inermis*, and P. ocalaensis*; Sceloporus woodi (Phrynosom...
Internet use, videogame playing and cell phone use as predictors of children's body mass index (BMI), body weight, academic performance, and social and overall self-esteem

In this research we examined the prediction of children's body mass index (BMI), body weight, academic performance, social self-esteem and overall self-esteem from their IT (information technology) use, specifically, their Internet use, cell phone use and videogame playing, after controlling for the effects of gender, race, age and household income on these measures. Participants were 482 children whose average age was 12years old. One-third was African American and two-thirds were Caucasian American. Results indicated that IT use did not predict BMI or body weight, contrary to one previous survey and the widespread belief that screen time is responsible for the obesity epidemic among our nation's children. Instead, BMI and body weight were higher for African Americans, older children and children from lower income households. The sole and strong positive predictor of visual-spatial skills was videogame playing, which also predicted lower grade point averages (GPAs). Gender and Internet use predicted standardized test scores in reading skills. Females and children who used the Internet more had better reading skills than did males and children who used the Internet less, respectively. Implications of these findings for future research on the benefits and liabilities of IT use are discussed.
Flexible assembly scheduling using a knowledge-based approach

Abstract This paper presents a knowledge-based scheduling system that generates a detailed production schedule for jobs in a flexible assembly system (FAS) by exploiting routing and operation flexibilities. Past research in flexible manufacturing did not take into account the flexibilities of such environments that allow alternative sequencing and routing of operations presumably to avoid the computational overhead that would result from these added dimensions of complexity. Moreover, jobs in an FAS require both machining and assembly operations. In our system, the resulting computational burden is reduced by using (1) a two-level hierarchical scheduling approach, (2) a search strategy that uses knowledge from the knowledge base to control the amount of search required, and (3) a computationally efficient post analysis of the schedule that often results in local improvements and is based on knowledge about solution structures stored in the knowledge base. The system has been implemented and tested using Common Lisp on a Macintosh SE/30 with 4 MB main memory. Computational experience with the system is reported.
Drawing Bodies and Spaces in Telecollaboration: A View of Research Potential in Synaesthesia and Multimodality, from the Outside.

While much scholarship on the multisensory and transmodal phenomenon of synaesthesia seeks to uncover its psychophysiological and neurological bases, recent research in multimodal literacy and language acquisition addresses it largely in terms of agentive processes of meaning-making and design. This paper takes as its starting point the latter’s concern with socially situated learning, but examines data from a university-based, distance French learning project in order to suggest that such research may need to look further. Content and narrative analyses of students’ reflective drawings illustrate their awareness of the complexities of learning and expression in hypermediated environments, where geographic and virtual spaces, mediated and interpersonal relations and embodied and on-screen actions converge – all seeming contradictions that may, when viewed together, offer a new vantage point on the nature of synaesthesia, from the outside.
Transport of Ionizing Radiation in Terrestrial-like Exoplanet Atmospheres

Abstract The propagation of ionizing radiation through model atmospheres of terrestrial-like exoplanets is studied for a large range of column densities and incident photon energies using a Monte Carlo code we have developed to treat Compton scattering and photoabsorption. Incident spectra from parent star flares, supernovae, and gamma-ray bursts are modeled and compared to energetic particles in importance. Large irradiation events with fluences of 10 6 –10 9 erg cm −2 at the conventional habitable zone can occur at a rate from many per day (flares from young low-mass parent stars) to ∼100 per Gyr (supernovae and gamma-ray bursts). We find that terrestrial-like exoplanets with atmospheres thinner than about 100 g cm −2 block nearly all X-rays, but transmit and reprocess a significant fraction of incident γ -rays, producing a characteristic, flat surficial spectrum. Thick atmospheres (≳100 g cm −2 ) efficiently block even γ -rays, but nearly all the incident energy is redistributed into diffuse UV and visible aurora-like emission, increasing the effective atmospheric transmission by many orders of magnitude. Depending on the presence of molecular UV absorbers and atmospheric thickness, up to 10% of the incident energy can reach the surface as UV reemission. For the Earth, between 2×10 −3 and 4×10 −2 of the incident flux reaches the ground in the biologically effective 200–320 nm range, depending on O 2 /O 3 shielding. For atmospheres thicker than ∼50 g cm −2 in the case of pure Rayleigh scattering and ∼100 g cm −2 in the case of O 2 /O 3 absorption, the UV reemission exceeds the surficial transmitted ionizing radiation. We also discuss the effects of angle of incidence and derive a modified two-stream approximation solution for the UV transfer. Finally, we suggest that transient atmospheric ionization layers can be frequently created at altitudes lower than the equilibrium layers that result from steady irradiation and winds from the parent star. We suggest that these events can produce frequent fluctuations in atmospheric ionization levels and surficial UV fluxes on terrestrial-like planets.