cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pregnane X receptor promotes ethanol-induced hepatosteatosis in mice

The pregnane X receptor (PXR, NR1I2) is a xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptor that modulates the metabolic response to drugs and toxic agents. Both PXR activation and deficiency promote hepatic triglyceride accumulation, a hallmark feature of alcoholic liver disease. However, the molecular mechanism of PXR-mediated activation of ethanol (EtOH)-induced steatosis is unclear. Here, using male wildtype (WT) and Pxr-null mice, we examined PXR-mediated regulation of chronic EtOH–induced hepatic lipid accumulation and hepatotoxicity. EtOH ingestion for 8 weeks significantly (1.8-fold) up-regulated Pxr mRNA levels in WT mice. The EtOH exposure also increased mRNAs encoding hepatic constitutive androstane receptor (3-fold) and its target, Cyp2b10 (220-fold), in a PXR-dependent manner. Furthermore, WT mice had higher serum EtOH levels and developed hepatic steatosis characterized by micro- and macrovesicular lipid accumulation. Consistent with the development of steatosis, lipogenic gene induction was significantly increased in WT mice, including sterol regulatory element–binding protein 1c target gene fatty-acid synthase (3.0-fold), early growth response-1 (3.2-fold), and TNFα (3.0-fold), whereas the expression of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor α target genes was suppressed. Of note, PXR deficiency suppressed these changes and steatosis. Protein levels, but not mRNAs levels, of EtOH-metabolizing enzymes, including alcohol dehydrogenase 1, aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1, and catalase, as well as the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, involved in regulating lipid output were higher in Pxr-null than in WT mice. These findings establish that PXR signaling contributes to ALD development and suggest that PXR antagonists may provide a new approach for ALD therapy.
Shifting the Conversation: Colbert's Super PAC and the measurement of satirical efficacy

Stephen Colbert’s announcement in 2011 that he was starting his own Super PAC oneupped The Colbert Report’s already substantial commitment to boundary muddling. By raising real money, producing commercials, and exploring the nuances of campaign finance regulations, Colbert acted out his critique of current law in tangible form. The novelty of the experiment created anticipation amongst fans and commentators that the project would have a direct effect on attitudes about campaign finance, or that Colbert would veer into clear advocacy work. Indeed, expectations matched the standard assumptions about satire: that efficacy should be gauged by measurable influence on individual opinions. In reality, the PAC’s commercials likely did not influence many outside his existent fan group. However, the project as a whole did work to license journalistic attention and to impact the wider debate about campaign finance. The example demonstrates that the more grandiose expectations of political entertainment are often misdirected, as they are premised on the prospect of instant audience malleability. Rather the most interesting possibilities involve more incremental shifts in the public conversation. The Colbert Report has, from the beginning, been remarkable for its slipperiness of form. Stephen Colbert, as double-voiced host, invites viewers both to ridicule the political reasoning of his character, and to eagerly engage in his fan challenges and contests, while the show itself bounces between trenchant political satire, in-joke character-based comedy, and playful fan hijinks. Colbert’s announcement in early 2011 that he was starting his own political action committee (or super PAC) oneups this boundary muddling, further blurring lines between entertainment television and political reality, between comedy and activism. A major part of the appeal of both The Colbert Report and its sister
The Role of Physical Educators as Allies for Students Who Self-injure

The intentional injury of one's own body, otherwise known as self-injury, is a relatively common phenomenon among adolescents today. Although many students self-injure, physical educators should no...
The psychology of offering an apology: Understanding the barriers to apologizing and how to overcome them.

After committing an offense, a transgressor faces an important decision regarding whether and how to apologize to the person who was harmed. The actions he or she chooses to take after committing a...
PREOP as a tool to increase student retention in CS

The demand for computer scientists is expected to continue to increase irrespective of the current state of the economy. Unfortunately, the supply is not expected to match the demand as the number of computer science majors has decreased substantially since the year 2000. As a result, universities and colleges are attempting to identify new ways to attract and retain prospective students into the field of computer science in order to increase the number of majors. In this paper we describe our approach to increase participation and retention through the use of PREOP (Providing Robotic Experiences through Object-Based Programming), an approach that combines the Alice interface and robots for a CS1 Laboratory. PREOP is an interactive 3D animation programming environment, that allows students to program real robots using a drag-and-drop, syntax-free interface. The goal is to foster student motivation and increase student understanding of the fundamental concepts within the first-year curriculum. Initial results indicate that the students in the PREOP Lab who are eligible for CS2 are more likely to rate their skills and knowledge above average than the students in the non-PREOP Labs, and more likely to be registered for the CS2 course than the students in the non-PREOP Labs.
GaAs FET Amplifiers and Microwave Monolithic Integrated Circuits

One of the most important applications of GaAs FETs is in small signal amplifier components. High-frequency low-noise GaAs FETs are used in phase-array radars, signal processors, space based electronic detection systems, tracking devices, and digital transmitter-receivers. In particular, GaAs low-noise amplifiers are used in communication equipment for the 3.7–4.2-GHz television receive-only (TVRO) band and for the 12-GHz direct broadcast satellite (DBS) band. The DBS receivers represent a large potential market for GaAs components.
Predictive Accountability for Development, Implementation and Evaluation of Prevention Programs

Both Darwin and Lamarck were right. In isolation each theory provides part of the total picture. Darwin was correct that organisms are changed by their environment; Lamarck, equally so, in the sense that changes are indeed caused by organisms — by changing their environment. Evolution is both repetitive and cumulative. Thus, it is not totally random. Blind chance alone cannot work in an environment that is being pressured by the organisms in it, just as an “objective” scientific experiment has no meaning if the experimentor continually modifies its environment. The “randomness” of evolution can be compared to the process of “brainstorming” for ideas. Although a large number of random combinations occur, we subject them to the criteria of our ever changing environment to decide which to select.
Computer Applications in Fermentation Research

Computers have been introduced extensively into all areas of biotechnology research. In the field of fermentation technology complete computerized systems are available for the routine operation of equipment. There is, however, a lack of both hardware and software for the optimal use of computers in evaluating both fermentation and bioconversion processes. An overview of the field will be given along with a presentation of some important integrated approaches to the use of computers which have been put into place in our laboratory.
Regulation of Cell Division in Aging Mouse Mammary Epithelium

The subject of cellular aging is a matter of considerable importance in comtemporary biology. The characteristics and parameters of these aging processes, as well as the mechanisms which underlie them, are currently investigated by a variety of techniques. At present the most widely used methodology is that of continuous cell culture, in which normal diploid tissue cells, even though provided with every known requirement and stimulus, for growth, nevertheless display an inevitable decline in proliferative capacity, followed by senescent changes and eventual loss of the culture.
Information technology as a facilitator of results-based management in government

The most widely accepted normative model of "good" public management is often called results-based management. It encourages planning and target setting to make the organization more proactive; an emphasis on outcomes to make the organization better focused on its mission; quick performance feedback to make the organization more responsive; and continuous process improvements to make the organization better able to serve its clients. These changes are possible only with supporting information technology. This chapter discusses ways that IT, including GIS, EIS, and intranets, can support the new management model. However, IT can increase management effectiveness only if its role has been carefully designed. Before implementing major IT changes, top public managers must begin by determining such policy issues as what information would best guide upcoming major decisions; what balance the agency wishes between internal information accessibility versus security; and how best to balance frontline worker empowerment versus the need for organizational uniformity.
Reducing workload in systematic review preparation using automated citation classification.

Objective: To determine whether automated classification of document citations can be useful in reducing the time spent by experts reviewing journal articles for inclusion in updating systematic reviews of drug class efficacy for treatment of disease. Design: A test collection was built using the annotated reference files from 15 systematic drug class reviews. A voting perceptron-based automated citation classification system was constructed to classify each article as containing high-quality, drug class–specific evidence or not. Cross-validation experiments were performed to evaluate performance. Measurements: Precision, recall, and F-measure were evaluated at a range of sample weightings. Work saved over sampling at 95% recall was used as the measure of value to the review process. Results: A reduction in the number of articles needing manual review was found for 11 of the 15 drug review topics studied. For three of the topics, the reduction was 50% or greater. Conclusion: Automated document citation classification could be a useful tool in maintaining systematic reviews of the efficacy of drug therapy. Further work is needed to refine the classification system and determine the best manner to integrate the system into the production of systematic reviews.
Abstract 2237: Diclofenac as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase and aldo-keto-reductase 1B10 inhibits pancreatitis-enhanced carcinogenesis in LSL-KrasG12D-Pdx-1-Cremice

Diclofenac is one of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and is recently identified as a competitive inhibitor of aldo-keto reductase family 1B10 (AKR1B10). AKR1B10 is an NADPH-dependent enzyme that exhibits lipid substrate specificity, especially for farnesyl and geranylgeranyl involved in protein prenylation (such as for Kras) and plays an oncogenic role in pancreatic carcinogenesis. In the present study, we determined the chemopreventive effects and mechanism of diclofenac on inhibiting pancreatitis-carcinogenesis in LSL-Kras G12D /Pdx1-Cre mice (called Pan kras mice), particularly on Kras prenylation. Pancreatitis was induced by single i.p. injection of Cearulein (250ug/Kg body weight) for 5-week old mice, and one week after caerulein treatment, Pan kras mice were fed an AIN-93M diet or a diet with 5 or 20ppm diclofenac (n=12 mice/group) for 7 months. The results showed that Diclofenac significantly reduced the severity of chronic pancreatitis, as measured by the extent of acini loss, inflammatory cell infiltration and stromal fibrosis. The progression of low-grade mPanIN I to high-grade mPanIN II/III and to invasive carcinoma was significantly suppressed and the tumor incidence significantly reduced to 50% and 17% in the mice treated with either 5ppm or 20 diclofenac compared to 86% in Pan kras mice. Inhibition of membrane-bound mutant Kras (prenylated) and its transmitted phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase9s kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinases were demonstrated in pancreatic tissues by western blot assay. Analysis of the eicosanoid profile revealed a significant reduction of prostaglandin E2. These results indicate that diclofenac is a highly potential agent for preventing chronic pancreatitis and carcinogenesis, mainly via targeting mutant Kras and inflammation (Supported by NIH R01 CA164041). Citation Format: Jie Liao, Leyu Sun, Haonan Li, Rong Xia, Xiaoming You, Dandan Xu, Guang-Yu Yang. Diclofenac as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase and aldo-keto-reductase 1B10 inhibits pancreatitis-enhanced carcinogenesis in LSL-Kras G12D -Pdx-1-Cre mice [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2237.
Impact of composition on the heat treatment response of additively manufactured 17–4 PH grade stainless steel

Abstract Precipitation hardened (PH) martensitic grade stainless steels are commonly used in additive manufacturing (AM) processes, but the heat treatment response can vary depending upon the powder feedstock composition. As-built AM 17–4 PH grade stainless steel fabricated using argon and nitrogen atomized feedstocks in separate powder bed fusion systems responded differently to standard heat treatment cycles. Materials fabricated from argon atomized feedstocks, containing low levels of nitrogen (0.01 wt%) and retained austenite (
Aiming Beyond: A Pharmacist Impact on 90-Day Readmissions and Clinical Outcomes Within a Family Medicine Service:

Previous studies have shown pharmacists positively impact 30-day readmission rates. However, there is limited data regarding the effect of clinical pharmacist (CP) follow-up on 90-day readmission o...
Stromal hyaluronan accumulation is associated with low tumor grade and nodal metastases in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

Summary Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is an aggressive malignancy characterized by abundant desmoplastic stroma. Hyaluronan is a prominent stromal component of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and is associated with unique clinical-pathological profiles in other tumor types. The current study aimed to delineate clinical and pathological features associated with hyaluronan accumulation in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using a novel hyaluronan-binding assay currently being used in a clinical trial targeting hyaluronan. Sixty-four formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas from 49 patients treated at a single tertiary care hospital were stained. Fifty-two percent of tumors had high levels of hyaluronan. High levels were associated with low tumor grade and lymph node metastases, novel associations not previously seen in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This study has elucidated a novel clinical-pathological profile in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas using a new assay, suggesting hyaluronan may act as a biomarker for a subset of pancreatic tumors that could be targeted by hyaluronan-degrading agents.
New Approaches to Microbiome-Based Therapies

Over the last decade, our understanding of the composition and functions of the gut microbiota has greatly increased. To a large extent, this has been due to the development of high-throughput genomic analyses of microbial communities, which have identified the critical contributions of the microbiome to human health. Consequently, the intestinal microbiota has emerged as an attractive therapeutic target. The large majority of microbiota-targeted therapies aim at engineering the intestinal ecosystem by means of probiotics or prebiotics. Recently, a novel therapeutic approach has emerged which focuses on molecules that are secreted, modulated, or degraded by the microbiome and act directly on the host. Here, we discuss the advantages and challenges associated with the metabolite-based "postbiotic" approach, highlighting recent progress and the areas that need intensive attention and investigation over the next 5 years. The time is ripe for postbiotic therapies to be developed in the near future.
Observed Interhemispheric Meridional Heat Transports and the Role of the Indonesian Throughflow in the Pacific Ocean

AbstractThe net surface energy flux is computed as a residual of the energy budget using top-of-atmosphere radiation combined with the divergence of the column-integrated atmospheric energy transpo...
What’s the Point? The Missing Piece of Criminal Justice Reform through Consensus and Compromise

Criminal justice reform has had a firm place in news headlines for more than a decade. Reform has mainly been sought through two approaches: consensus through ballot initiative or legislative compromise. But these modes of reform share a fundamental failure: both often lack a clear articulation of the purpose of criminal sentencing. In other words, “What’s the point?” Without an agreement on the underlying purpose of criminal punishment, neither method of pursuing changes in the criminal justice system can ever produce meaningful, long-standing reform. Our usual way of understanding criminal justice reform is through legislative compromise. The moves from the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 to the Fair Sentencing Act of 2010 to the First Step Act of 2018 were the result of this slow legislative mechanism. However, the resulting sentencing changes were not due to an effort to study the effects of drug sentencing or to any work toward agreement about what purpose Congress was actually trying to fulfill through drug sentencing. The same problem exists when it comes to consensus reform through ballot initiative – a move that has taken place in many areas of the country—from the passing of recreational marijuana laws in places like Michigan to the attempt to pass sweeping drug sentencing reform through Ohio’s Ballot Issue. When examined, these efforts at reform consensus show that agreement on the need for reform does not show agreement on the purpose of reform. This lack of true, deep consensus can ultimately defeat efforts at large-scale reform through consensus.
Clinical risk prediction with random forests for survival, longitudinal, and multivariate (RF-SLAM) data analysis.

Clinical research and medical practice can be advanced through the prediction of an individual’s health state, trajectory, and responses to treatments. However, the majority of current clinical risk prediction models are based on regression approaches or machine learning algorithms that are static, rather than dynamic. To benefit from the increasing emergence of large, heterogeneous data sets, such as electronic health records (EHRs), novel tools to support improved clinical decision making through methods for individual-level risk prediction that can handle multiple variables, their interactions, and time-varying values are necessary. We introduce a novel dynamic approach to clinical risk prediction for survival, longitudinal, and multivariate (SLAM) outcomes, called random forest for SLAM data analysis (RF-SLAM). RF-SLAM is a continuous-time, random forest method for survival analysis that combines the strengths of existing statistical and machine learning methods to produce individualized Bayes estimates of piecewise-constant hazard rates. We also present a method-agnostic approach for time-varying evaluation of model performance. We derive and illustrate the method by predicting sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in the Left Ventricular Structural (LV) Predictors of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) Registry. We demonstrate superior performance relative to standard random forest methods for survival data. We illustrate the importance of the number of preceding heart failure hospitalizations as a time-dependent predictor in SCA risk assessment. RF-SLAM is a novel statistical and machine learning method that improves risk prediction by incorporating time-varying information and accommodating a large number of predictors, their interactions, and missing values. RF-SLAM is designed to easily extend to simultaneous predictions of multiple, possibly competing, events and/or repeated measurements of discrete or continuous variables over time.Trial registration: LV Structural Predictors of SCD Registry (clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01076660), retrospectively registered 25 February 2010
Active Learning with Visual Representations in College Science

Visual representations play an important role in chemistry. They provide opportunities to engage students actively in individual and collaborative sense-making of complex concepts. In this chapter, we review research on learning with visual representations in individual and collaborative activities. We then describe how we implemented the lessons learned from this research to design activities that combine individual and collaborative sense-making activities with visual representations. We provide concrete examples of these activities for an advanced general chemistry course. To evaluate the effectiveness of these activities, we conducted a quasi-experiment as part of this course. Our results suggest that individual sense-making in self-study activities prior to collaborative sense-making activities in class yield higher learning outcomes than traditional lecture-centric instruction.
Scrybe: A Second-Generation Blockchain Technology with Lightweight Mining for Secure Provenance and Related Applications

The recent popularity of cryptocurrencies has highlighted the versatility and applications of a decentralized, public blockchain. Blockchain provides a data structure that can guarantee both the integrity and non-repudiation of data, as well as providing provenance pertaining to such data. Our novel Lightweight Mining (LWM) algorithm provides these guarantees with minimal resource requirements. Our approach to blockchain-based data provenance, paired with the LWM algorithm, provides the legal and ethical framework for key classes of provenance to be managed. Contributions of this paper include the following: first, we describe the Scrybe system, including the Lightweight mining algorithm. We then note principles of secure provenance and explain how to adapt Scrybe to a series of practical use cases, such as academic integrity, forensic management of evidence, and secure logging. Finally, we explain the key features of the Scrybe system that enable secure provenance for these use cases, and we describe resilience of the system to denial of service attacks and repudiation.
Semantic Foundations for Deterministic Dataflow and Stream Processing

We propose a denotational semantic framework for deterministic dataflow and stream processing that encompasses a variety of existing streaming models. Our proposal is based on the idea that data streams, stream transformations, and stream-processing programs should be classified using types. The type of a data stream is captured formally by a monoid, an algebraic structure with a distinguished binary operation and a unit. The elements of a monoid model the finite fragments of a stream, the binary operation represents the concatenation of stream fragments, and the unit is the empty fragment. Stream transformations are modeled using monotone functions on streams, which we call stream transductions. These functions can be implemented using abstract machines with a potentially infinite state space, which we call stream transducers. This abstract typed framework of stream transductions and transducers can be used to (1) verify the correctness of streaming computations, that is, that an implementation adheres to the desired behavior, (2) prove the soundness of optimizing transformations, e.g. for parallelization and distribution, and (3) inform the design of programming models and query languages for stream processing. In particular, we show that several useful combinators can be supported by the full class of stream transductions and transducers: serial composition, parallel composition, and feedback composition.
Safety and feasibility of same-day discharge after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection.

Background and Aims Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is used for treating early luminal GI cancers. ESD is the standard of care in Asia, where it results in multiday admissions for observation. The goal of our study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of same-day discharge (SDD) after ESD. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study of adults who underwent similar esophageal ESD with a Clutch Cutter device (DP2618DT; Fujifilm) at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn, USA) from 2017 to 2019 with a single endoscopist. The primary end point was postprocedural adverse events within 7 days of ESD. Results Of 96 patients (75% male, mean age, 70 ± 10.3 years) undergoing a total of 140 ESDs, 85 were SDD versus 55 admissions. Of the 55 admits, 53 were discharged within 24 hours, whereas 2 were admitted for 2 to 3 days for reasons unrelated to the ESD procedure. Admissions were more likely to have a history of antiplatelet/anticoagulant use (56.4% vs 34.1%; P = .01) and higher mean American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score (3.2 vs 2.9; P = .007). Admissions had larger resections (28.6 vs 20.1 mm; P Conclusions SDD after esophageal ESD is safe and feasible. An experienced endoscopist can determine if SDD can be considered in patients with ASA physical classification status ≤2 who undergo resections off antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy and do not experience intraprocedural adverse events.
Control Theory in Biomedical Engineering: Applications in Physiology and Medical Robotics

Some quick data regarding this text, to set the stage for the review: This text consists of 12 chapters overviewing “Control theory in biomedical engineering”; these comprise six chapters highlighting “Applications in physiology” and six chapters sampling “Applications in medical robotics.” Forty contributors to the text are named, and these individuals hail from ten different countries. The purported audience for the text from the publishers’ website consists of “Researchers and graduate students in both control engineering and biomedical engineering fields. Medical students and practitioners who want to enhance their understanding of physiological processes and medical robotics. Professionals in medical industries including those of industry of medical robotics, of artificial devices, of artificial organs, and rehabilitation devices.”
Quantity of phenibut in dietary supplements before and after FDA warnings

Phenibut is used to treat anxiety, insomnia, alcohol withdrawal and other conditions in Russia. The drug, however, has abuse potential and may cause lethargy, delirium, psychosis and coma. In the U...
Transition Metal Mobility in Oceanic Ridge Crest Hydrothermal Systems at 350°C–425°C

Experimental investigations of basalt-solution reactions at conditions inferred for generation of high temperature oceanic ridge crest hydrothermal solutions indicate the importance of pressure, solution-rock ratios, and rock composition for formation of these metal-bearing solutions. At temperatures above 350°C. 400 bars pressure. and under rock dominated conditions. Ca and Na-metasomatism results in acid pHs and significant transition metal mobility. For Fe, Mn, and H+, the concentrations are exponential functions of temperature. while Zn and Cu reach maximum concentrations at ~400°C. Variations in rock chemistry and mineralogy result in consistent variations in metasomatic reactions, aqueous SiO2 concentration, and thereby, pH and dissolved metal concentrations. At 425°C. Na and Cl are also effected by a separate process which results in their depletion in solution by up to ~40%. Silicate alteration minerals formed during these experiments include smectite/chlorite, tremolite-actinolite, clinozoisite, and possibly albitic plagioclase. Pyrite, growing from pyrrhotite, and magnetite were also observed, consistent with phase stability predicted from H2S and H2 compositions of the solutions. Solution compositions from sampled East Pacific Rise hydrothermal systems for metals. H2S, H2, pH, minor and major elements are best modeled by our experimental data as the result of reaction of olivine-normative diabase at ~400°C, 400 bars. Higher or lower temperatures and variations in rock composition (e.g., to ferrobasalt) produce significant variations in the solution chemistry which may be observed elsewhere.
Mechanical Stress Effects on Vascular Endothelial Cell Growth

Surgery is extensively used in the treatment of vascular disease as a procedure for restoring blood flow to ischemic areas. An example of this is coronary bypass surgery which has become widely used as a treatment for heart disease, with the surgical implantation of multiple bypasses being quite common. In this procedure native vessels, either the mammary artery or the saphenous vein, are generally employed as the vascular graft, i.e. the substitute blood vessel. The use of artificial blood vessels made of synthetic biomaterials also has been investigated.
SU-E-T-375: Evaluation of a MapCHECK2(tm) Planar 2-D Diode Array for High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy Treatment Delivery Verifications

Purpose: Despite improvements of HDR brachytherapy delivery systems, verification of source position is still typically based on the length of the wire reeled out relative to the parked position. Yet, the majority of errors leading to medical events in HDR treatments continue to be classified as missed targets or wrong treatment sites. We investigate the feasibility of using dose maps acquired with a two-dimensional diode array to independently verify the source locations, dwell times, and dose during an HDR treatment. Methods: Custom correction factors were integrated into frame-by-frame raw counts recorded for a Varian VariSource™ HDR afterloader Ir-192 source located at various distances in air and in solid water from a MapCHECK2™ diode array. The resultant corrected counts were analyzed to determine the dwell position locations and doses delivered. The local maxima of polynomial equations fitted to the extracted dwell dose profiles provided the X and Y coordinates while the distance to the source was determined from evaluation of the full width at half maximum (FWHM). To verify the approach, the experiment was repeated as the source was moved through dwell positions at various distances along an inclined plane, mimicking a vaginal cylinder treatment. Results: Dose map analysis was utilized to provide the coordinates of the source and dose delivered over each dwell position. The accuracy in determining source dwell positions was found to be +/−1.0 mm of the preset values, and doses within +/−3% of those calculated by the BrachyVision™ treatment planning system for all measured distances. Conclusion: Frame-by-frame data furnished by a 2 -D diode array can be used to verify the dwell positions and doses delivered by the HDR source over the course of treatment. Our studies have verified that measurements provided by the MapCHECK2™ can be used as a routine QA tool for HDR treatment delivery verification.
Socio-economic Factors in the Great Awakening: The Case of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia

Perry Miller's long ascendancy as an authority on religion in colonial New England still has many ramifications for present scholarship in the field. Not the least of these is that the Great Awakening is still treated in general histories as an intellectual crisis rather than a manifestation of underlying social tensions in colonial society. Miller's masterly analysis of Jonathan Edwards, his carefully argued case, rooted in his unsurpassed familiarity with Puritan theology, that the Awakening was most significant for its adaptation of a European-originated theology to American conditions, have been the twin bases upon which rests the interpretation of the Awakening as primarily an intellectual watershed in colonial life. Summarising his position in 1949, Miller wrote that "the hysterical agonies of the Great Awakening [meant] the end of the reign over the New England and American mind of a European and scholastical conception of an authority put over men because men were incapable of recognizing their own welfare . . . . Americans . . . were discovering, especially on the frontier . . . that they rejected imported European philosophies of society". In 1967 Professor Alan Heimert re-emphasized this interpretation of the Awakening by repeating that the revivals of 1739-42 "marked America's final break with the Middle Ages and her entry into a new intellectual age in the church and in society" and put the case even more concisely, if somewhat crudely, by concluding that "what was awakened in 1740 was the spirit of American democracy". In adopting this approach to the Awakening Miller, and later Heimert, rejected the possibility that other more materialistic interpretations of the revivals might be possible. Miller explicitly dismissed social analyses of revivalism, insisting that social historians if they keep "strictly within the limits of [their] commitment, [have] difficulty in dealing with the Great Awak-
Integrating Technology Into an Intermediate Literacy Methods Course

In recent years, the definition of literacy has evolved to include not only print materials, but visual sign systems and symbols that are easily represented with technology (Harris & Hodges, 1995; Leu & Kinzer, 1999; Valmont, 2003). With this changing definition of literacy comes the challenge of teaching literacy using technology as a tool for student engagement and meaningful learning. As preserv ice teachers take literacy methods courses, it seems essential that they have experiences using technology for content knowledge development and for application to school settings. This article describes and illustrates how three instructors infuse technology throughout an intermediate literacy methods course.
THE BECOMING OF AGE: CINEMATIC VISIONS OF MIND, BODY AND IDENTITY IN LATER LIFE. By Pamela H. Gravagne. Jefferson, NC: McFarland, 2013. 205 pp. $45.00 paper.

THE BECOMING OF AGE: CINEMATIC VISIONS OF MIND, BODY, AND IDENTITY IN LATER LIFEBy Pamela H. Gravagne. Jefferson, NC: McFarland, 2013. 205 pp. $45.00 paper.The subject of aging in cinema has drawn ...
Cognoscenti of Cannabis I

Portrait of Moreau in 1845, by N.E. Maurin, Library of the Academy of Medi-cine, Paris, France.Ethan Russo, MD, is a neurologist with Montana Neurobehavioral Specialists inMissoula. In addition, Dr. Russo is Clinical Assistant Professor, Department ofMedicine, Univeristy of Washington and Adjunct Associate Professor, Univeristy ofMontana.Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, Vol. 1(1) 200185 2001 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.
The Economics of Litigation and Arbitration: An Application to Franchise Contracts

If we define the deterrence benefits from contract enforcement as avoided harms net of avoidance costs, we should expect contracting parties to choose the dispute resolution forum that provides the greatest difference between deterrence benefits and dispute resolution costs for every type of dispute. We apply this general framework to franchise contracts and conduct an empirical analysis of the determinants of arbitration agreements among franchising parties. Although it is obvious that contracting parties have an incentive to choose arbitration in order to reduce dispute-resolution costs, there have been no studies of the importance of deterrence concerns. We examine the deterrence hypothesis here and find a great deal of support for it. Indeed, our results suggest that deterrence factors generally outweigh litigation costs in the design of dispute resolution agreements. We find that the probability of arbitration is significantly higher when the parties are likely to rely on implicit contract terms for governance and compliance with those terms is difficult to ensure.
Growth and development after oesophageal atresia surgery: Need for long-term multidisciplinary follow-up

Survival rates in oesophageal atresia patients have reached over 90%. In long-term follow-up studies the focus has shifted from purely surgical or gastrointestinal evaluation to a multidisciplinary approach. We reviewed the literature on the long-term morbidity of these patients and discuss mainly issues of physical growth and neurodevelopment. We conclude that growth problems - both stunting and wasting - are frequently seen, but that sufficient longitudinal data are lacking. Therefore, it is unclear whether catch-up growth into adolescence and adulthood occurs. Data on determinants of growth retardation are also lacking in current literature. Studies on neurodevelopment beyond preschool age are scarce but oesophageal atresia patients seem at risk for academic problems and motor function delay. Many factors contribute to the susceptibility to growth and development problems and we propose a multidisciplinary follow-up schedule into adulthood future care which may help improve quality of life.
Transport Mechanisms in Electrokinetic Nanoscale Channels

We investigate electrokinetic transport in nanometer-scale fluidic channels. Our study includes numerical studies of nanofluidic transport of both charged and uncharged analytes in conditions of finite Debye layer thickness and high zeta potentials. The models are based on continuum mass transport and field theory. We also perform an experimental parametric study using etched nanoscale channels. Experimental results agree with model predictions and show that bulk electrokinetic transport in nanoscale channels depends strongly on the shape and size of the EDL and on the effects of transverse electrophoretic migration.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Use of atom codes for the classification of chemical shifts of benzenoid hydrocarbons

Abstract Atomic codes which enumerate the first, second, third, etc., nearest neighbors are considered as the basis of a systematic search for regularities in available molecular data. Specifically, benzenoid conjugated hydrocarbons are considered and proton chemical shifts are reviewed in an effort to detect trends among the observed values and features characterizing the atomic environment.
Invited Review: Immunologic Structure and Function of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Host defenses within the gastrointestinal tract exclude bacteria and other intraluminal substances, which if released into the systemic circulation, would be toxic to the body. This is accomplished via complex interactions between these external pathogens and local immune responses and nonimmunologic processes. In addition to the mechanical and chemical barriers of the nonimmunologic defense system within the gastrointestinal tract, there is an effective immunologic barrier composed of aggregated and nonaggregated lymphoid cells. Gut-associated lymphoid tissue protects the intestinal mucosa from invading pathogens by intricate pathways of antigen processing. Gut-associated lymphoid tissue also transfers protection to other secretory sites within the body through the common mucosal immune system. The integrity of both the immunologic and nonimmunologic barriers may be affected by any number of pathologic insults as well as by nutritional influences. This article reviews the structural and functional characteristics of this complex and critically important host defense system. Specific nutrient requirements of the immunologic processes are discussed.
Time-harmonic and time-dependent radiation by bifractal dipole arrays

The potential utility of fractal concepts in designing antenna arrays is explored. In particular, whereas the time-harmonic far-field response of a bifractal array of hertzian dipoles is also a bifractal, its time-dependent far-field response is shown to be a unifractal.
Media synergy: The next frontier in a multimedia marketplace

The changing media landscape of the 21st century is requiring marketers and media organizations to rethink their forms of media planning. This paper reviews the development of marketing communication planning and moves into the current and future multimedia marketplace. Today there are more media forms and more consumer interaction; this, coupled with the increased consumer knowledge, requires new methodologies far different from the traditional media planning approaches. This paper presents a new media consumption model as a potential solution and urges others to respond to the changes.
Lymphopoiesis and lymph node histogenesis in the embryonic and neonatal rabbit.

The thymus represents the first lymphocytic organ to exhibit lymphopoietic activity in the fetal rabbit with lymphoblastic transformation beginning by 17 days of gestation, and lymphocytes appearing by 18 days, one to two days before vascularization. Lymphocytes are first evident in lymph nodes at 18 days of fetal development, in the spleen on the twenty-third day, and in the appendix just prior to birth. Medium-sized lymphocytes and rare blast-like cells represent the first lymphocytic cells found in the lymph node anlage. Both of these cell forms appear simultaneously and are distributed randomly. Lymphocytes remain relatively sparse increasing gradually in number until several days prior to birth when their numbers increase rapidly. Coincident with the augmentation in lymphocyte population, lymphocytes tend to cluster near the vascular channels, and are present within the lumina and walls of the smaller veins in the node. Morphological gradations between mesenchymal cells and medium-sized lymphocytes provide suggestive evidence that the initial population of lymphocytes within the node arise by the direct transformation of the stromal cells into medium-sized lymphocytes. Less frequently, deeply basophilic blast-like cells may provide an intermediate stage in lymphocyte differentiation. These cells differ from typical lymphoblasts because of their smaller size and irregular cellular contour. It is postulated that the initial population of lymphocytes formed in the lymph node anlage is derived from the transformation of mesenchymal cells and subsequent homoplastic lymphocyte proliferation and that during later fetal life this population of lymphocytes is complemented by the colonization and proliferation of blood-borne lymphocytes.
Multicomponent Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Analysis of Inland Water and Sediment

Many polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exhibit considerable carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic activity. Methods for reliable identification and quantification of PAHs in the aqueous environment are important for assessment of the potential environmental impact of processes releasing such compounds in aqueous discharges. This paper reports the development of multicomponent PAH analytical methods for inland water and sediment.
On auditing audit trails

It is incumbent upon us to examine our own auditing practices for their intrinsic vulnerabilities.
Computers: An answer to engineering student learning styles at the community college

Abstract Computer utilization in the engineering curriculum at a community college is discussed. Special emphasis is placed on meeting the needs of student learning styles.
DOXORUBICIN/B.C.N.U. CHEMOTHERAPY FOR MULTIPLE MYELOMA IN RELAPSE

Abstract A combination of doxorubicin ('Adriamycin') and B.C.N.U. (1,3 di[2-chloroethyl]-1-nitrosourea) (30 mg/m 2 of each drug intravenously every 3-4 weeks) was used to treat thirteen multiple-myeloma patients who did not respond or were in relapse after remission produced by alkylating-agent/ prednisone therapy. All cases were staged according to total-body myeloma-cell number and followed quantitatively for response to therapy. Seven of the thirteen patients responded (54%). Two had complete clinical remissions and a greater than 75% reduction in tumour-cell mass lasting 12 and 16 months. Five others had partial remissions with lesser degrees of tumour-mass reduction and bone pain and improved haemoglobin and serum-albumin concentrations. Toxicity was limited to occasional myelo-suppression, mild alopecia, and nausea. The results indicate the usefulness of doxorubicin/B.C.N.U. for myeloma patients who have relapsed during previously effective alkylating-agent therapy.
Human pulmonary dirofilariasis presenting as a solitary pulmonary nodule: A case report and a brief review of literature.

Human pulmonary dirofilariasis (HPD) is an uncommon disease in the United States. Dirofilaria is commonly known as “heartworm” based on the false belief that the worm resides in the heart which was based on findings from early necropsy reports. The first case was reported as an incidental autopsy finding in 1941. Since then only 87 more cases have been reported so far. We present an interesting case of this rare zoonotic disease affecting an elderly gentleman who presented with a rapidly growing lung nodule. We present a brief review of literature concerning the diagnosis and management of this disease.
Political Convergence: An Empirical Assessment

When detente emerged as the focal point of American foreign policy in the early 1970's, the issue of whether or not communist political systems were becoming more like Western democracies over time (i.e., “converging”) was raised. This paper assesses political scientists' efforts to analyze such a hypotheses, particularly the implication that socioeconomic changes called “development” and “modernization” co-vary with fundamental political change. After identifying three components of the convergence hypothesis—pluralism, nationalism, and legitimacy—the author examines published research for empirical evidence regarding these phenomena. He stresses the similarities and differences of political change among communist states. Convergence theory is found to be inadequate in most respects for understanding the relationships between socioeconomic and political changes, although various political trends (such as pluralization) are evident.
New World Hasidim: Ethnographic Studies of Hasidic Jews in America

New World Hasidim: Ethnographic Studies of Hasidic Jews in America. JANET S. BELCOVE-SHALIN. Albany: State University of New York Press, 1995. xv + 285 pp., figures, notes, contributors, references, index.
Measurement of a 2D electric dipole field using the acousto-electric effect

Conventional methods for mapping cardiac current fields have either poor spatial resolution (e.g. ECG) or are time consuming (e.g., intra-cardiac catheter electrode mapping). We present a method based on the acousto-electric effect (AEE) and lead field theory for minimally-invasive mapping of 2D current distributions. The AEE is a pressure-induced conductivity modulation in which focused ultrasound can be used as a spatially-localized pressure source. As a proof of principle we generated a 2D dipole field in a thin bath of 0.9% NaCl solution by injecting 28 mA through a pair of electrodes. A 7.5 MHz transducer was focused on the bath from below. A recording electrode was rotated along the boundary of the bath in 20° steps. For each angle, the transducer was swept over the bath in a raster scan. A pulse-echo and an AEE voltage trace were acquired at each point. The AEE traces were combined in post-processing as if coming from a multi-electrode circular array. The direction and magnitude of the current field at each point in the plane was estimated from the AEE and compared to simulation. The potential field was independently mapped using a roving monopolar electrode. The correlation coefficient between this map and the simulated field was 0.9957. A current source density analysis located the current source and sink to within 1±2 mm of their true position. This method can be extended to 3 dimensions and has potential for use in rapid mapping of current fields in the heart with high spatial resolution.
Classically Conditioned Discrimination in the Planarian, Dugesia dorotocephala

Planarians have been trained in a Pavlovian way with one conditioning stimulus followed by another. Extinction trials followed, and the results indicate that the animals can differentiate between the two conditioning stimuli and respond appropriately.