cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adaptive ordering of code transformations in an optimizing compiler

It has long been known that the quality of the code produced by an optimizing compiler is dependent upon the ordering of transformations applied to the code. In this dissertation, we show that the best orderings vary in unpredictable ways according to the properties of the input code and performance objectives, making adaptation a necessity to obtain the best results. We further demonstrate the most practical techniques to search the spaces of transformation orderings. Our analysis of six exhaustively enumerated subspaces of limited size determines the choice and parameters of search algorithms described and implemented in this work: random sampling, greedy methods, variations of the stochastic hillclimber, and genetic algorithms. We then apply the search algorithms to the full spaces of all available transformations, which are too big to enumerate. We evaluate the performance and cost of running these algorithms and discuss the tradeoffs between the quality of discovered orderings and an effort to find them. Stochastic hillclimbers discover effective orderings within approximately 500 evaluations. Compared to a fixed ordering of transformations, they result in 5%–40% improvements for a variety of input programs and performance objectives. To reduce the computational overhead in finding these orderings, we introduce and analyze a novel approach to precise static estimation of runtime frequencies of basic blocks. Termed “Estimated Virtual Execution”, this approach reduces the search time by 40%–60%.
Health Behavior in the Elderly

The primary objective of this chapter is to suggest ideas that may be helpful for integrating the literatures of behavioral and psychosocial epidemiology, in the broader context of the study of health-related behaviors in older adulthood. The chapter is organized into four sections. The first section discusses the importance of understanding the health-related behaviors of older persons. The section reviews studies from the domain of behavioral epidemiology, which link lifestyle habits with the outcomes of mortality and morbidity. The topic of patterns among, and correlates of, health behaviors is also discussed.
Combining supervised run interval training or moderate-intensity continuous training with the diabetes prevention program on clinical outcomes

The present study was designed to evaluate the 16 weeks diabetes prevention program (DPP) combined with instructed run sprint interval training (INT) or moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on glycemic control, body composition, fitness, exercise adherence, and perceived exercise enjoyment in sedentary, adults with prediabetes. Participants completed three weekly supervised sessions of INT (4–10 bouts of 30 s maximal sprints followed by a 4 min active recovery) or MICT (30–60 min at 45–55% HRR) exercise coupled with the DPP for 16 weeks. At baseline, 8 and 16 weeks, participants completed fitness and clinical assessments as well as questionnaires to assess group and time differences. Twenty-nine study participants (INT n = 17, MICT n = 12) were randomized, however, significantly (p = 0.024) more participants withdrew from the INT (n = 11) than MICT (n = 4) treatment. There was no significant difference between groups in perceived exercise enjoyment, but, the MICT group significantly improved their perceived exercise enjoyment (10.8 ± 14.2; p = 0.021) from baseline to 16 weeks. Both INT and MICT groups decreased their body weight (2.0 ± 0.8 vs. − 5.5 ± 1.4 kg; p < 0.001), BMI (− 0.6 ± 0.3 vs. − 2.1 ± 0.5 kg/m2; p < 0.001), body fat mass (1.4 ± 0.6 vs. − 4.2 ± 1.0 kg; p < 0.001), fasting glucose (− 0.09 ± 0.01 vs. − 0.18 ± 0.02 mmol/L; p = 0.020), and HbA1c (− 0.21 ± 0.09 vs. − 0.12 ± 0.12%; p = 0.001), respectively, however, the MICT had greater reductions (GxT: p ≤ 0.05) in body weight, BMI, and body fat than the INT group. Sixteen weeks of MICT is adhered to better and elicits greater improvements in body composition than INT. Nevertheless, both interventions similarly reduced fasting glucose and HbA1c in adults with prediabetes, suggesting either treatment could be effective for T2D prevention.
Configurable Tendon Routing in a 3D-printed Soft Actuator for Improved Locomotion in a Multi-Legged Robot

Soft robots struggle with terrestrial locomotion due to their inherent lack of rigidity, specifically along axes not in line with the direction of actuation (side loads). We present a method for improved stiffness in a 3D printed, tendon-driven soft actuator. We show, both mathematically and experimentally, that our method leads to improved stiffness to these side loads. Additionally, we demonstrate the use of complex tendon routing schemes to achieve various trajectories with a single actuator morphology. Finally, we demonstrate that these two tendon routing strategies lead to improved locomotion speed and gait efficiency in a 3-legged, 3D printed, soft robot.
Going Vertical: The Future of Electronics

This special issue provides an overview of the foundational advances enabling 3-D monolithic systems, reports on exciting new advances, and identifies open opportunities and challenges.
Chapter Six – Gas Compressors

Publisher Summary This chapter provides a method and a procedure for selecting compressors for air and gas drilling. The gases used in air and gas drilling include air, natural gas, and nitrogen. Gas drilling becomes mist or unstable foam drilling when water and foaming agents are added to the stream of injection gas to increase the cutting-carrying capacity of the gas. Most wells drilled with gas in the oil and gas industry are vertical wells. The percentage of deviated and horizontal wells has been increasing rapidly since the 1980s. It is generally believed that in gas drilling the fluid flow in the annulus falls into the complete turbulent flow regime. In this flow regime, the friction factor is a strong function of the relative roughness and a weak function of the Reynolds number. It is preferable to have a subsonic flow of gas through the drill bits for pressure communication between the annular space and the standpipe so the pressure changes due to solid accumulation in the annulus can be identified by reading the standpipe pressure gauge.
A meta-analysis comparing therapeutic outcomes for anti-EGFR monotherapy to targeted therapy combinations for non-small cell lung cancer.

e21570Background: Small molecule inhibitors of epidermal growth factor receptor kinase (EGFR) are approved for EGFR-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Targeted therapies include agents th...
Reconstruction of spinal stability for intra-and extra-spinal tumor in operation

Objective To investigate the preservation and reconstruction of spinal stability for intro-and extra-spinal tumor in operations.Methods Clinical data of 26 patients with intra-and extra-spinal tumor were retrospectively studied.The bone was destroyed by tumor severely in 16 patients,the bone was not destroyed by tumor or destroyed not so severely in 10 patients,but the facetectomy was needed for the removal of tumor.Hemilaminectomy and facetectomy was performed in 20 cases,and laminectomy and facetectomy was performed in 6 cases.The tumor was excised through the posterior approach in 23 patients,and through the posterior approach combined with the anterior approach in 3 patients.The pedicular screw fixation was performed in all the vertebral body except cervical 3 to 7 in which the lateral mass screw fixation was performed.Results All patients began exercising with the support of a simple external brace within 3 weeks postoperatively,there was no displacement or fracture of the instrumentation of internal fixation,and no spinal spondylolisthesis and deformity were observed.Conclusions The spinal stability was destroyed in operation because of facetectomy and laminectomy; sometimes,the spinal stability can be destroyed by the tumor because of bone erosion pre-operatively.Internal fixation should be performed for the reconstruction of spinal stability. Key words: Intra-and extra-spinal tumor; Spinal stability; Internal fixation
Liminal Space, Sexuality, and the Language of #MeToo

#MeToo has advanced the way that we think and speak of sexual abuses of power by creating a powerful social platform in which victims can function as a group, symbolizing what as psychoanalysts we ...
Electrical and electrothermal properties of few-layer 2D devices

While two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as a new platform for nanoelectronic devices with improved electronic, optical, and thermal properties, and their heightened sensitivity to electrostatic and mechanical interactions with their environment has proved to be a bottleneck. Few-layer (FL) 2D devices retain the desirable thinness of their monolayer cousins while boosting carrier mobility. Here, we employ an electrothermal model to study FL field-effect devices made from transition metal dichalcogenides MoS2 and WSe2 and examine the effect of both electrical and thermal interlayer resistances, as well as the thermal boundary resistance to the substrate, on device performance. We show that overall conductance improves with increasing thickness (number of layers) at small gate voltages, but exhibits a peak for large gate voltages. Joule heating impacts performance due to relatively poor thermal conductance to the substrate and this impact, along with the location of the hot spot in the FL stack, varies with carrier screening length of the material. We conclude that coupled electrothermal simulation can be employed to design FL 2D devices with improved performance.
Leveraging TCGA gene expression data to build predictive models for cancer drug response

Machine learning has been utilized to predict cancer drug response from multi-omics data generated from sensitivities of cancer cell lines to different therapeutic compounds. Here, we build machine learning models using gene expression data from patients’ primary tumor tissues to predict whether a patient will respond positively or negatively to two chemotherapeutics: 5-Fluorouracil and Gemcitabine. We focused on 5-Fluorouracil and Gemcitabine because based on our exclusion criteria, they provide the largest numbers of patients within TCGA. Normalized gene expression data were clustered and used as the input features for the study. We used matching clinical trial data to ascertain the response of these patients via multiple classification methods. Multiple clustering and classification methods were compared for prediction accuracy of drug response. Clara and random forest were found to be the best clustering and classification methods, respectively. The results show our models predict with up to 86% accuracy; despite the study’s limitation of sample size. We also found the genes most informative for predicting drug response were enriched in well-known cancer signaling pathways and highlighted their potential significance in chemotherapy prognosis. Primary tumor gene expression is a good predictor of cancer drug response. Investment in larger datasets containing both patient gene expression and drug response is needed to support future work of machine learning models. Ultimately, such predictive models may aid oncologists with making critical treatment decisions.
Pupil function design for multifocal confocal, STED, and isoSTED microscopy

Point scanning super-resolution microscopy techniques such as stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy are powerful tools to observe biological samples at sub-diffraction limited resolution in three dimensions. However, scanning the sample with only a single beam limits the imaging speed in these microscopes. Here, we propose a concept to increase this speed by introducing highly flexible multifocal illumination and detection. We introduce phase patterns in the objectives' pupil planes to create arrays of foci in the sample plane with negligible loss of laser power. High uniformity of these foci's intensities is achieved by iteratively applying a weighted Gerchberg-Saxton phase retrieval algorithm. We characterize the performance of this iterative approach numerically and present simulation results that demonstrate the high quality of the focus arrays for future implementations in laser-scanning STED and isoSTED microscopes. The same approach can also be applied in diffraction-limited confocal laser scanning microscopy.
Abstract 39: CT Perfusion Selection May Lead to Better Clinical Outcomes Following Endovascular Therapy in Large Vessel Occlusion Stroke

Background and Purpose: Different imaging paradigms have been used to select patients for endovascular therapy (ET) in large vessel occlusion stroke (LVOS). We sought to determine whether CT perfus...
Predictive Accuracy of The American College of Surgeons Risk Calculator in Patients Undergoing Major Lower Extremity Amputation.

Abstract Background: The American College of Surgeons Risk Calculator (ACS-RC) provides an assessment of a patient's risk of thirty-day postoperative complications. The Surgeon Adjusted Risk (SAR) parameter of the calculator allows for ad hoc adjustment of risk based on risk factors not considered by the model. This study aims to evaluate the predictive accuracy of the ACS-RC in vascular surgery patients undergoing major lower-extremity amputation (LEA) and identify additional risk factors that warrant use of the SAR parameter. Methods: This is a retrospective study of 298 sequential amputations at a single institution. At the population level, the mean of predicted thirty-day outcomes from the ACS-RC with a SAR score of 1 (no adjustment necessary) and 2 (risk somewhat higher than estimate) were compared to the rate of observed outcomes. Predictive accuracy at the individual level was completed using receiver operating curve area under the curve (AUC). Logistic regression with respect to mortality was performed over variables not considered by the ACS-RC. Efficacy of selectively utilizing the SAR parameter in predicting mortality was analyzed with a stratified analysis in which patients with risk factors significant for mortality were assigned increased risk. Results: At the population level, ACS-RC grossly underpredicted serious complications, SSI, VTE, and unplanned RTOR, while overpredicting mortality and cardiac complications. At the individual level, SAR1 was more predictive for serious complications (AUC = 0.624), SSI (AUC = 0.610), and unplanned RTOR (AUC = 0.541). Conversely, SAR2 was more predictive for mortality (AUC=0.709), cardiac complications (AUC = 0.561), and VTE (AUC = 0.539). Logistic regression identified history of CVA with a residual deficit (OR = 4.61, p=0.033) and ischemic rest pain without tissue loss (OR= 4.497, p=0.047) as independent risk factors for postoperative mortality. Stratified analysis with utilization of the SAR2 based on the two independent risk factors improved AUC in predicting mortality (AUC 0.792 from 0.709). Conclusions: Major LEAs are associated with high perioperative morbidity and mortality. In a veteran population, the ACS-RC showed mixed predictability at the population level and fair predictability at the individual level with regards to postoperative outcomes. Rest pain without tissue loss and history of CVA with residual deficit were identified as risk factors for postoperative mortality. Although ad hoc adjustment with the subjective SAR modifier based on the presence of these two risk factors increased the calculator's accuracy, this study highlights some potential limitations of the ACS-RC when applied to vascular surgery patients undergoing major LEA.
A vacuum ultraviolet atomic emission detector

Abstract Vacuum ultraviolet atomic emission detection of effluent gases from a chromatographic column is a very sensitive and selective method for qualitative and quantitative elemental analysis of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur compounds. A low pressure microwave discharge through helium, with added trace amounts of molecular oxygen, produced complete fragmentation of all compounds used and generated intense atomic emissions in the vacuum ultraviolet. Photometric measurement of these monochromator-isolated atomic emissions was successfully used to establish absolute concentration calibrations for the elements carbon, sulfur and nitrogen in various compounds. This detection method is sensitive, highly selective, and has a range of linearity greater than four decades.
Fully-Automated White Matter Hyperintensity Detection with Anatomical Prior Knowledge and without FLAIR

This paper presents a method for detection of cerebral white matter hyperintensities (WMH) based on run-time PD-, T1-, and T2-weighted structural magnetic resonance (MR) images of the brain along with labeled training examples. Unlike most prior approaches, the method is able to reliably detect WMHs in elderly brains in the absence of fluid-attenuated (FLAIR) images. Its success is due to the learning of probabilistic models of WMH spatial distribution and neighborhood dependencies from ground-truth examples of FLAIR-based WMH detections. These models are combined with a probabilistic model of the PD, T1, and T2 intensities of WMHs in a Markov Random Field (MRF) framework that provides the machinery for inferring the positions of WMHs in novel test images. The method is shown to accurately detect WMHs in a set of 114 elderly subjects from an academic dementia clinic. Experiments show that standard off-the-shelf MRF training and inference methods provide robust results, and that increasing the complexity of neighborhood dependency models does not necessarily help performance. The method is also shown to perform well when training and test data are drawn from distinct scanners and subject pools.
Effects of Structural Error on the Estimates of Parameters of Dynamical Systems

In this paper, the notion of "near-equivalence in probability" is introduced for identifying a system in the presence of several error sources. Following some basic definitions, necessary and sufficient conditions for the identifiability of parameters are given. The effects of structural error on the parameter estimates for both the deterministic and stochastic cases are considered.
Optimal Pacing Mode for Sick Sinus Syndrome

To the Editor: I read with interest the article on the treatment of patients who have sick sinus syndrome (SSS) with single-chamber atrial pacing by Anderson et al.1 However, their finding of the annual risk of second- or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block of only 0.6% per year contrasts somewhat with the reported findings that abnormal AV conduction was demonstrated in 57% to 67% of patients with SSS using invasive electrophysiologic techniques.2 3 4 Therefore, although Anderson et al1 demonstrated that abnormalities of AV conduction cause clinical problems only infrequently, it should be clear that a significant number of patients with SSS cannot be treated with atrial pacing alone. In these …
Control theoretic sensor deployment approach for data fusion based detection

In this paper, we study the sensor deployment problem in a value fusion based distributed sensor network (DSN) detection system. More specifically, we study the problem of determining the positions at which a fixed number of sensors can be deployed in order to minimize the squared error (SE) between achieved and required detection probabilities while satisfying false alarm requirements. We show that this deployment problem can be modeled as a linear quadratic regulator problem (LQR). Subsequently, we develop two deployment algorithms; an optimal control based and a suboptimal deployment algorithm. We compare the performance of the proposed algorithms to that of a greedy deployment algorithm. Results indicate that the proposed algorithms have a faster SE convergence rate than that of the greedy algorithm. As a result, the proposed algorithms can use as much as 25% fewer number of sensors than the greedy algorithm to satisfy the same detection and false alarm requirements.
Scattered-Wave Theory of the Chemical Bond

Publisher Summary The limitations of applying an ab initio linear combination of atomic orbitals (LCAO) methods to complex molecules and solids are the size of the basis sets and the number of multicenter integrals or equivalent Hartree-Fock matrix elements. In the self-consistent field (SCF)-Xα scattered-wave model that is also a first-principle technique, there is no basis-set problem because Schrodinger's equation for an Xα potential is numerically integrated. There are no multicenter integrals and the model is practicable in both spin-restricted and spin-unrestricted forms for polyatomic systems of considerable stereochemical complexity. The SCF-Xα scattered-wave technique uses only a small fraction of the computer time required by an ab initio Hartree–Fock LCAO method. The applications of the scattered-wave method to polyatomic molecules and crystals are concerned with the generation of one-electron energy and wave functions. While an SCF-Xα one-electron analysis leads to an accurate quantitative description of many chemical and physical properties, it is also very important to determine the total many-electron energy. As the present method leads to a rapidly convergent numerical representation of the orbital wave functions, the accuracy of the theoretical model can easily be improved via perturbation theory, when necessary. Finally, the original theoretical formalism can be extended to more general forms of superposed-atom Xα potentials by means of the generalized scattered-wave theory.
Photorefractive Properties Of KTa 1-x Nb x O 3 In The Paraelectric Phase

We report the growth of doped Potassium Tantalate Niobate (KTN) crystals, and the characterization of their photorefractive properties L. the paraelectric region. First the Top Seeded Solution Growth Method is reviewed and the growth process of a KTN:Cu,V crystal is described. Results of diffraction efficiency measurements of photorefractive gratings in these crystals at the paraelectric phase, are then presented. These experiments show high diffractio- efficiencies, and indicate the possibility of amplitude modulation of the gratings by an external field. Results showing fixation of the gratings when the sample is close to the phase transition temperature are also described.
Timed relational abstractions for sampled data control systems

In this paper, we define timed relational abstractions for verifying sampled data control systems. Sampled data control systems consist of a plant, modeled as a hybrid system and a synchronous controller, modeled as a discrete transition system. The controller computes control inputs and/or sends control events to the plant based on the periodically sampled state of the plant. The correctness of the system depends on the controller design as well as an appropriate choice of the controller sampling period. Our approach constructs a timed relational abstraction of the hybrid plant by replacing the continuous plant dynamics by relations. These relations map a state of the plant to states reachable within the sampling time period. We present techniques for building timed relational abstractions, while taking care of discrete transitions that can be taken by the plant between samples. The resulting abstractions are better suited for the verification of sampled data control systems. The abstractions focus on the states that can be observed by the controller at the sample times, while abstracting away behaviors between sample times conservatively. The resulting abstractions are discrete, infinite-state transition systems. Thus conventional verification tools can be used to verify safety properties of these abstractions. We use k-induction to prove safety properties and bounded model checking (BMC) to find potential falsifications. We present our idea, its implementation and results on many benchmark examples.
Traditional serological tests

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the traditional serological tests for several viruses. Serological tests have the dual capacity to be used for diagnosing recent infection or determining a patient's immunity status. Both structural and nonstructural components of viruses usually induce antibodies during infection. Over the past 30 years, many traditional techniques have been developed and applied for several viruses. Neutralization, complement fixation, hemagglutination inhibition, single radial hemolysis, particle agglutination with latex or labeled erythrocytes, immunodiffusion, counter immunoelectrophoresis are considered traditional. Some of these have been replaced as routine tests by immunoassays, but they are still often used as reference tests.
The Synthesis of Racemic Ambrox

(±)-Ambrox (10), the racemic form of (−)-Ambrox®, the commercially most important ambergris odorant has been synthesized from a readily available bicyclic keto ester in five steps. The racemic ether retains the characteristic scent of fine-quality ambergis, and the odor threshold of the racemate and the (−)-enantiomer prepared from natural sclareol were found to be essentially identical.
Management of limited small-cell lung cancer

An important prognostic factor of SCLC is stage (limited vs extensive). Limited disease is confined to the hemithorax, although the presence of malignant pleural effusion will affect the outcome adversely. Whether negative cytology of the pleural effusion affects the outcome is controversial in SCLC. Extensive disease is disease beyond the hemithorax, such as disease in bilateral lungs or extension beyond the chest, often to the brain, bone, bone marrow, or upper abdomen. Patient factors influencing outcome are performance status and sex. Age is not a significant prognostic variable in patients with limited SCLC. Continuation of smoking will adversely affect the outcome. Other prognostic factors are elevated lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and alkaline phosphatase, low sodium, and, possibly,
Analysis of solar X-ray emission line profiles

The high spatial and spectral resolution solar X-ray observations of an active region in which an X-ray and radio gradual rise and fall was in progress are reported. The correlations of highly collimated X-ray scans with the magnetic data indicate the presence of a hot localized region of X-ray emission near the end of the magnetic neutral line. A thermal interpretation of the continuum observed from this region is consistent with an emission temperature of 3 x 10 to the 48th/cu cm and an electron temperature of 10 to the 7th K. A model of the temperature distribution of the X-ray emitting material within the collimator field of view is derived using the resonance lines of Ne X, Ne IX, and Fe XVII. Most of the emission measure is at temperatures less than 2,000,000 K, but some high-temperature material with an electron temperature between 5,000,000 K and 7,000,000 K is required.
Mutations in U6 snRNA that alter splice site specificity: implications for the active site

What determines the precise sites of cleavage in the two transesterification reactions of messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing is a major unsolved question. Mutation of the invariant G (guanosine) at position 5 of 5' splice sites in Saccharomyces cerevisiae introns activates cleavage at nearby aberrant sites. A genetic approach was used to test the hypothesis that a base-pairing interaction between the 5' splice site and the invariant ACAGAG sequence of U6 is a determinant of 5' splice site choice. Mutations in U6 or the intron (or both) that were predicted to stabilize the interaction suppressed aberrant cleavage and increased normal cleavage. In addition, a mutation in the ACAGAG sequence suppressed mutations of the 3' splice site dinucleotide. These data can fit a model for the spliceosomal active site comprised of a set of RNA-RNA interactions between the intron, U2 and U6.
Predicting Arterial Flow and Pressure Dynamics Using a 1D Fluid Dynamics Model with a Viscoelastic Wall

This paper combines a generalized viscoelastic model with a one-dimensional (1D) fluid dynamics model for the prediction of blood flow, pressure, and vessel area in systemic arteries. The 1D fluid dynamics model is derived from the Navier–Stokes equations for an incompressible Newtonian flow through a network of cylindrical vessels. This model predicts pressure and flow and is combined with a viscoelastic constitutive equation derived using the quasilinear viscoelasticity theory that relates pressure and vessel area. This formulation allows for inclusion of an elastic response as well as an appropriate creep function allowing for the description of the viscoelastic deformation of the arterial wall. Three constitutive models were investigated: a linear elastic model and two viscoelastic models. The Kelvin and sigmoidal viscoelastic models provide linear and nonlinear elastic responses, respectively. For the fluid domain, the model assumes that a given flow profile is prescribed at the inlet, that flow is c...
Obstructive sleep apnea during rapid eye movement sleep, daytime sleepiness, and quality of life in older men in Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Sleep Study.

Study Objectives:Assess the association between REM predominant obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), sleepiness, and quality of life in a community-based cohort of men ≥ 65 years-old.Design, Intervention...
Coulomb excitation of the even-A cadmium nuclei

Abstract Coulomb excitation of the first 2+ states of the even-A cadmium nuclei was produced by 2.7 and 3.0 MeV protons to obtain accurate B(E2, 0 → 2) values (absolute error ±4%). The B(E2, 0 → 2) obtained for 114Cd is (0.576±0.023)e2b2 and agrees well with the value of (0.567±0.018)e2 · b2 by Glenn and Saladin but disagrees with the recent value of (0.509±0.009) e2 · b2 by Simpson et al. obtained in the course of their measurement of the static quadrupole moment of the 2+ state. Ge(Li) detectors have been used to measure the angular distribution of γ-rays following Coulomb excitation with 11 MeV 4He ions in 106–116Cd. The angular distributions of the γ-rays from the 2′ → 2 transition by direct E2 Coulomb excitation have been obtained with an accuracy sufficient to establish the magnitude and sign of δ ≡ 〈2‖ M ( E 2)‖2′〉/ 〈2‖ M ( M 1)‖2′〉 . The values for δ are near −1.5 for 108,110,114,116Cd, −(8.4−4.7+100) or −(0.6±0.2) and −(3.5−0.8+0.9) or −(0.87±0.10) for 106Cd and 112Cd, respectively. The B(M1 2′ → 2) are large, being between (0.4 and 3) × 10 −2 (e h /2 Mc) 2 . In addition, the angular distributions of the γ-rays from the 2″ → 2 transitions in 112Cd and 114Cd were determined and are consistent with two positive values of δ. Improved values for the branching ratio of cascade/ crossover transitions for the decay of the 2′ and 2″ states have been obtained. With this information the ratios B(E2, 2′ → 2)/B(E2, 2 → 0) have been revised downward 10 to 40% from those given in a previous paper. The 2′ state in 106Cd and 108Cd is above the 4+ state in energy.
Three-year assessment of advanced pharmacy practice experience student and faculty change requests at a college of pharmacy

Abstract Objective Experiential education is a critical component of the curriculum of all colleges of pharmacy. Thus, having access to quality and adequate numbers of Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) is essential. This study examines APPE change requests from preceptor faculty and students over a three-year period. Such requests are the primary reason to obtain an excess of APPEs. The objective was to determine whether class size influences the excess percentage needed. Methods Data were collected from student records regarding APPE change requests and granted requests for the graduating classes of 2011–2013 at the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy. Percentages of change requests and granted requests were calculated. ANOVA was conducted to assess differences in change requests and granted requests over the study period. Results There were 660 APPE change requests in 2011, 331 in 2012, and 232 in 2013. The percentage of granted requests calculated from total APPEs was 29% in 2011, 15.8% in 2012, and 12.1% in 2013. The number of change requests and granted requests were significantly higher for the Class of 2011, which had 203 students, compared to 2012 and 2013 ( p Conclusion To conduct a viable experiential program, a public college of pharmacy should maintain a 12–20% excess in APPEs for class sizes of 140 or more. As class size increases to 200 or more, excess percentage of APPEs needed also increases considerably.
pCMBS-induced swelling of dogfish (Squalus acanthias) rectal gland cells: role of the Na+,K(+)-ATPase and the cytoskeleton.

Abstract (1) 0.1–1.0 mM p -chloromercuribenzene sulfonate (pCMBS) and some other organic mercurials produce a swelling of slices of dogfish shark ( Squalus acanthias ) rectal glands, with an uptake of cell Na + and a loss of K + . In contrast, 1 mM N -ethylmaleimide (NEM) does not swell rectal gland cells (RGC), while affecting cell cations. (2) The slow entry of [ 203 Hg]pCMBS is linearly related to its external concentration (10 μ-1 mM) and a small accumulation of pCMBS (apparent gradient about 3) in the cells occurs in 2 h. Cell 203 Hg rapidly washes out of the cells (fast rate constant 0.153 · min −1 ; slow rate constant 0.0067 · min −1 ), and this efflux is accelerated by 1 mM dithiothreitol. Thus, a major portion of pCMBS inter-acts rather loosely with cell components. (3) pCMBS and NEM share: (a) a negligible effect on the efflux of 86 Rb + and of [ 14 C]urea; (b) a gradual inhibition of the cell Na + ,K + -ATPase activity. (4) NEM as well as agents lowering cell glutathione accelerate and increase the pCMBS-induced cell swelling. Conditions inhibiting the Na + ,K + -ATPase (ouabain, absence of Na + ) have the same effect. (5) pCMBS, but not NEM produce a disappearance of the F-actin-phalloidin fluorescence independent of cell volume changes, particularly at the basolateral RGC membrane. (6) The data are consistent with the following set of events: (a) pCMBS (but not NEM) affects the cell membrane by increasing the efflux of the cell osmolyte taurine (Ziyadeh et al. (1988) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 943, 43–52 and unpublished data); (b) on entry into the cells, pCMBS and NEM interact with cell -SH, including those of the Na + ,K + -ATPase; this action produces the observed changes in cell cations. Also, pCMBS, but not NEM, decrease F-actin at the membrane; (c) the inhibition of the Na + ,K + -ATPase activity together with the decreased resistance of the cell membrane to stretch (absence of F-actin) produces the observed pCMBS-induced cell swelling by osmotic forces (intracellular non-diffusible anions).
Giant Pigment Granules in Biopsy Specimens From Cafe au Lait Spots in Neurofibromatosis

• Cafe au lait spots from eight patients presumed to have neurofibromatosis were evaluated for giant pigment granules (GPGs) by light microscope examination of dihydroxyphenylalanine (dopa)-incubated epidermal whole-mount specimens and by light microscope examination of tissue sections. Giant pigment granules were found in six of eight of the dopa-incubated epidermal whole-mount specimens and in all eight of the paraffin-embedded specimens sectioned and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Our findings suggest that routine biopsy preparations can be used to identify GPGs. This should facilitate studies of the incidence and significance of GPGs in cafe au lait spots. ( Arch Dermatol 1982;118:385-388)
Inorganic thiophosphate effects on chromaffin cell structure and function.

Abstract The effect was determined of replacing medium inorganic phosphate with thiophosphate on the structure and function of cultured bovine chromaffin cells. Cell cultures were incubated in normal medium containing fetal bovine serum, phosphate free medium or similar medium supplemented with inorganic phosphate or thiophosphate. In contrast to the other media, cells cultured with thiophosphate medium for 3–4 days showed seriously compromised structure and functions. The cells lost 75% of their catecholamine content and their ability to secrete remaining catecholamines in response to nicotine stimulation. Radio-labelled thiophosphate was rapidly taken up by the cells and, in long-term experiments, was incorporated largely into a 97–121 kDa protein band on SDS-PAGE. Additional minor bands were found to a lesser, variable extent. Transmission electron micrographs of cells treated with thiophosphate showed extensive depletion of chromaffin vesicles and disruption of mitochondria, suggesting that the functional damage noted with these cells could be associated with damage to mitochondria. Analysis of general cell metabolic activity by conversion of the dye (3-[3,4-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-3,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) to its formazan derivative indicated increased metabolic activity at early stages of exposure to thiophosphate followed by a decline with continued exposure, supporting the argument for an overall depression of cell metabolism. Uptake of the dye neutral red, which is avidly accumulated by chromaffin cells, was also reduced for cells exposed to thiophosphate. The data suggest that thiophosphate enters chromaffin cells and disrupts energy dependent cell functions, including catecholamine storage and secretion.
Phase II study of irinotecan plus capecitabine in anthracycline- and taxane- pretreated patients with metastatic breast cancer

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of combined treatment with irinotecan (I) and capecitabine (X), we conducted a phase II study of the IX combination in anthracycline- and taxane-pretreated patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Patients received 80 mg/m2 I on days 1 and 8 and 1,000 mg/m2 X twice daily on days 1–14 of 21-day cycles until disease progression. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate (ORR), and the secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety. Thirty-six patients were enrolled between September 2006 and April 2008. The median follow-up was 47.6 months. The ORR was 58.3 % (95 % CI, 42.2–72.9), with 3 complete responses and 18 partial responses. The median PFS was 7.6 months (95 % CI, 5.0–10.2), and the median OS was 20.0 months (95 % CI, 11.6–28.4). Neutropenia was the most common adverse event (grade 3, 30.6 %; grade 4, 27.8 %) with febrile neutropenia in 2 patients (5.6 %). Three patients (8.3 %) had grade 3 diarrhea, 3 patients (8.3 %) had grade 3 asthenia, and 1 patient (2.8 %) had grade 3 hand-foot syndrome. The IX combination was effective and tolerable for anthracycline- and taxane-pretreated patients with MBC. A phase III trial of this combination is ongoing.
Spectrum and phase characteristics of an (apparently) broad-band continuous-wave mode-locked oscillator

The author analyzes and describes the signal and spectrum of a somewhat idealized regenerative phase swept wideband oscillator. The signal is consistent with observations reported in several references but has a character not previously reported. A pulse train with a changing precession (crawl) of phase within the pulses and a sweeping of the spectrum components at a rate determined bv the sweeping phase (fixed frequency offset) and loop delay is presented. At least seven parameters are necessary to define the signal, and they all are significant to multiple pulse interferometry. Continuous waves, even continuous spectrum components, are not supported in a phase shifting oscillator. >
Value of adjuvant whole-pelvis irradiation after Wertheim hysterectomy for early-stage squamous carcinoma of the cervix with pelvic nodal metastasis: A matched-control study

Abstract In a retrospective study, 185 patients with previously untreated stage IB or IIA (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix were found to have pelvic nodal metastasis at the time of Wertheim hysterectomy and bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy. Of these patients, 103 received adjuvant whole-pelvis irradiation and 82 received no adjuvant therapy. Median dose of pelvic irradiation was 5000 cGy. Among the irradiated patients, in 75% the dose was 5000 cGy or greater. Matching irradiated and nonirradiated patients according to stage, tumor size, and number and location of positive nodes yielded 60 pairs. Mean length of follow-up was 3.9 years for the 60 irradiated patients and 5.8 years for the nonirradiated patients. Kaplan-Meier overall and cancer-specific survival estimates for the two groups were not significantly different ( P > 0.30). During the follow-up period, 21 surgery-only patients and 22 patients treated with adjuvant radiotherapy had recurrence, but adjuvant radiotherapy decreased the proportion of recurrences occurring in the pelvis alone—27% compared with 67% in the surgery-only group ( P = 0.01).
Lived meanings: what teachers mean when they say they are learner‐centered

While the term ‘learner‐centered’ is invoked in many curriculum standards documents, packaged curriculum materials, mission statements and criticisms of educational practice, there is little agreement on its meaning. Shallow understandings and conflicting practices abound. And rarely do the meanings ascribed to the term take into account the meanings of thoughtful teachers who live learner‐centered approaches daily in their work. Here we introduce lived meanings of learner‐centeredness found in the personal and professional histories of experienced teachers. Data were gathered in interviews that took the form of focused conversations which yielded elaborated stories and reflections that suggest that learner‐centeredness is a concept that cannot be captured in finite, static, unquestioned definitions. The teachers’ lived meanings are expressed in fine‐grained detail, are embedded in particular settings and the teachers’ own personal and professional histories, go beyond surface features of practice and are...
The case for therapeutic proteostasis modulators

A functional ubiquitin proteasome pathway (UPP) is vital for all eukaryotic cellular systems and therefore any alteration in this critical component of proteostasis machinery has rpotential pathological consequences. A proteostasis imbalance can be induced by environmental pollutants, age or genetic factors. Though the exact underlying mechanisms are unclear, a decrease in proteasome activity weakens the homeostatic cellular capacity to remove proteins that are either misfolded or need to be replenished, which favors the development of neurodegenerative, cardiac and other conformational diseases. In contrast, induction of proteasome activity is an attribute of many diseases including muscle wasting, sepsis, cachexia and uraemia. In the case of misfolded protein disorders, higher degradation of a single protein leads to the pathophysiological consequences due to the absence of functional protein. Therefore, selective proteostasis inhibition is a potential treatment strategy for misfolded protein disorders,...
Preference for predictable vs. controllable shock

Preference for predictable vs. controllable shock was assessed through use of a symmetrical changeover procedure. Rats chose between a predictable/uncontrollable situation (CER) and an unpredictable/controllable situation (VI punishment). Consistent preference for the CER situation was found, with animals spending most of their time in that component. It was suggested that control over aversive contingencies, in the absence of predictable feedback regarding safety, is less preferable to a situation in which periods of shock and safety are well-defined.
No-Reflow Phenomenon Persists Long-Term After Ischemia/Reperfusion in the Rat and Predicts Infarct Expansion

Background— No-reflow after reperfusion therapy for myocardial infarction is a strong predictor of clinical outcome. But its fate on a long-term basis and potential significance for infarct healing are not yet known. Methods and Results— Twenty-nine female Fisher rats were subjected to 60 minutes of coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion. At 4 weeks, 15 survivors were euthanized after measurement of regional myocardial blood flow (radioactive microspheres) and in vivo staining of perfused tissue (0.5 mL 50% Uniperse blue IV). Infarct size (34.3±3.4%), scar thickness (1.19±0.10 mm), and infarct expansion index (0.51±0.04) were assessed from histological sections (2 additional exclusions because of failed occlusion). Regional myocardial blood flow in the reperfused infarct was reduced significantly compared with noninfarcted tissue (1.98±0.47 versus 4.55±0.86 mL · min−1 · g−1, P<0.003, apical slice, and 1.77±0.44 versus 5.34±0.38 mL · min−1 · g−1, P<0.0001, second slice), accompanied by a striking reduc...
Influence of the hydrologic regime on resource availability in a semi-arid stream-riparian corridor.

The hydrologic regime of an ecosystem directly affects ecological processes by controlling water availability, but may also have indirect effects by influencing resource availability. To clarify interactions between the hydrologic regime and resource availability, we quantified the timescales over which precipitation and discharge correlated with abundance of dissolved carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in the stream-riparian corridor of the San Pedro River, a large desert river. We hypothesized that the hydrologic regime drives regimes of resource availability during flushing events caused by variation in source areas of run-off generation. We also hypothesized that seasonal droughts may result in accumulation of resources within the catchment. Such accumulations would contribute to high solute concentrations in receiving waters following dry periods. To test these hypotheses, we compiled seasonal datasets over 4-6 years and used regression analyses to determine the temporal extents at which solute concentrations and transformations were correlated with precipitation and stream discharge. Concentrations of most biologically reactive solutes were unrelated to precipitation or discharge, suggesting overlapping influences of myriad biological and transport processes probably operating on event or shorter timescales. Concentration of phosphate [soluble reactive phosphate (SRP)], NO 3 - : SRP, and NO 3 - : NH 4 + in the stream were positively correlated with precipitation abundance over weeks and up to 2 months, supporting the flushing hypothesis. Microbial processes in floodplain soils responded to precipitation and discharge, suggesting that biological processes may mediate relationships between hydrology and resource availability. In this large, semi-arid catchment, resource availability is linked to hydrology via hydrologic transport, flowpath characteristics, and biotic processing.
Growth of Single-Crystal Double-Directional Tellurium Nanoneedles from CdTe Nanocrystals in Solution

Single-crystal double-directional tellurium (Te) nanoneedles were grown by a facile route of air oxidation of CdTe nanocrystals in aqueous solution containing ammonia. The as-synthesized Te nanoneedles with a relatively high yield and uniformity grew along the [001] crystalline direction with lengths of 2−4 μm and stem diameters of 80−120 nm, and gradually becoming thinner to form sharp tips of sub-5 nm. The double-directional nanoneedles were straight, with high purity, well-crystallized, and dislocation-free, according to range of methods such as X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission microscopy, and selected area electron diffraction. The detailed transformation process from CdTe nanocrystals to single-crystal double-directional Te nanoneedles was studied. It is expected that the single-crystal double-directional Te nanoneedles would be a very promising new member of field emitters, pro...